The Woman Today - October/November 2023

WOMANthe

today

Passionate about animals

All-female

leadership team guides Lake Superior Zoo into its next 100 years

•Duluthian’s goal: Increase pancreatic cancer awareness

• Woman works to improve rural health care access

•New home in Hermantown puts family first

•Learn how to make a Thanksgiving Tree

Dr.Ali Jaffery St. Luke’sInter nal Medicine Associates

Lindsay Johnson, APRN,CNP MountRoyal Medical Clinic

Lisa Zallar,APRN,CNP Lester RiverMedical

WOMAN the today

PROFILES

6 Jacque Volk

Moose Lake woman balances work, family and improving rural access to health care

12 Cindy Fritze

Tapping toward balanced energy

16 Ashley Hall

North Carolina native finds community, opportunity in International Falls

FEATURES

30 One-woman powerhouse raises awareness for pancreatic cancer

34 All-female leadership team is passionate about Lake Superior Zoo

ENTERTAINMENT/ARTS

24 Arts and Events Calendar

INSURANCE ADVICE

27 Let’s navigate Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period

HEALTH/MEDICINE

22 St. Luke’s

A career in corrections medicine

28 Essentia

Mammograms: Don’t put it off HOME TOUCHES

38 New build in Peyton Acres puts family first

DIY

50 Thanksgiving Tree encourages an attitude of gratitude

KIDS KORNER

52 Sloane's Suggestions/Kids Korner

FOOD/NUTRITION

54 Autumn Celebration

THE WOMAN YESTERDAY

58 Frances Skinner (1918-1994)

WOMAN the today

GROUP PUBLISHER

Neal Ronquist

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Rick Lubbers

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Ali Carlson

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Kim Quinones

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Renae Ronquist

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Julie Schulz

CONTRIBUTORS

TO OUR READERS

Hello, Woman Today readers!

Ideas for the stories you read in The Woman Today come from a variety of sources — including the editors and reporters, and the advertising and design staff. But many of those story ideas come directly from you, our loyal readers.

We enjoy hearing about the women, trends and events that you feel are newsworthy. And while we can’t promise that every story you pitch will end up on the pages of The Woman Today, we will consider them all and publish stories from the best ideas we receive.

The best way to get in touch with us is through our email address at magazines@duluthnews.com.

Thanks for being our extra sets of eyes and ears in the Northland! And don’t be shy about pitching us your story ideas.

Abigail Blonigen

Amy Carlson

Andrea Busche

Ashley Hall

Cindy Fritze

Heidi Beal

Jacque Volk

Janna Goerdt

Laura Jean Media Services

Molly Milroy

Pamela Marshall

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®, 424 West First Street, Duluth, MN 55802

Here are some of the stories you will read in this issue (some of which came directly from you!):

• Our cover story centers on the all-female leadership team at the Lake Superior Zoo, and their passion for the animals they care for and teaching visitors all about them.

• Meet Pamela Marshall, who strives to increase awareness of pancreatic cancer, and whose efforts have led to “Lighting Duluth Purple for Pancreatic Cancer.”

• Home Touches features an innovative new home in Hermantown, where the design is built around the busy, young family it houses.

• Kick off the season of thanks by making a Thanksgiving Tree for your home and family.

Thanks for spending some of your valuable time reading The Woman Today. Your loyal readership is always greatly appreciated.

Rick Lubbers Executive Editor, Duluth Media Group

ON THE COVER:

Tundra the brown bear is one of many animals housed at the Lake Superior Zoo, which is led by an all-female leadership team of (from top) Haley Hedstrom, Lizzy Larson, Samantha Halligan, Sarah Wilcox and Heidi Beal. Photos courtesy of the Lake Superior Zoo

CORRECTION:

The Companies to Classrooms story that ran on Page 30 of the August/September issue of The Woman Today contained an error. It should have been noted that Companies to Classrooms is a 100% volunteerrun organization. The Woman Today regrets the error.

publisher.

balancing ACt

~ Jacque Volk ~

Moose Lake woman juggles work, family and improving rural access to health care

By Janna Goerdt

The Volk family is pictured at the open house celebration at Northern Lakes Surgery Center in Moose Lake in early 2023. Pictured, from left, are daughters Jessica and Kendall, Jacque Volk, son Austin, husband Dallas, daughter Maddie, and Jacque's brother Jordan.

Jacque Volk didn’t have much choice in the matter — it was 4 a.m., and there were animals that needed to be tended.

Volk grew up on an off-the-grid family farm in Wrenshall, and when the horses needed fresh water in the winter, or the pigs needed to be fed in the morning, or the generator needed to be fired up in the middle of the night, Volk pitched in with everyone else.

Today, Volk credits that upbringing for building her strong work ethic. With a background as a surgical nurse, ultimately compiling a decade of surgical leadership, Volk was recently named director of the new state-of-the-art, multi-milliondollar Northern Lakes Surgery Center in Moose Lake.

That also happens to be where Volk lives (with electricity) these days, with her husband and four children. Volk’s experience and drive to improve rural Minnesota’s access to health care made her a natural fit to oversee the new surgery center.

“This has been one of the highlights of my career,” Volk said. “I am passionate about community health care and rural health

Continued on page 8

Jacque Volk at her graduation ceremony for her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Chamberlain University in Illinois. She also recently graduated with a 4.0 GPA with her doctorate in nursing degree, the highest nursing degree one can earn.

There's always time for ice fishing, even though the Volk family has a packed schedule. Jacque Volk likes to hit area lakes in the winter in the family's Ice Castle.

Jacque Volk and son Austin catch a ride on the Mont du Lac ski lift in Wisconsin.

care. Living in this community has pulled me towards this job.”

Volk said she loves the variety of her new position at Northern Lakes Surgery Center. The center had a soft opening in late March, and recently Volk worked with health industry surveyors to allow Northern Lakes Surgery Center to accept Medicare insurance payments. Once that step is complete, “We should be fully up and running,” Volk said.

Volk also serves as St. Luke’s director of ambulatory surgery, overseeing operations at St. Luke’s Pavilion Surgery Center in Duluth as well as Mariner Outpatient Surgery Center in Superior. She typically spends one or two days a week at each center.

At Northern Lakes Surgery Center, Volk oversees day-to-day operations of surgery, quality initiatives and patient experience. She hired all the staff at the new surgery center and instituted the electronic medical records system, among many other tasks.

“I can juggle a lot of things at one time,” Volk said. “I’ve always been like that.”

Volk sees great value in the new surgery center being located outside of the Duluth-Superior city limits. Ambulatory surgery generally includes outpatient surgery like colonoscopies, some podiatric surgery, and cataract surgeries that don’t require lengthy hospital stays.

“There are patients in rural areas who want that health care to be in their local area,” Volk said. “A lot of people can’t drive to the (Twin) Cities or to Duluth.”

Volk said that staffing the new surgery center hasn’t been too challenging, given that ambulatory surgery, with its scheduled appointments and regular hours, is an attractive option for health care workers.

She also works hard to make her employees feel valued, and that they are an essential part of the surgery center team. She works toward a collaborative environment, taking all employees’

Continued on page 10

suggestions into account, and making sure to thank employees for their input and contributions.

“Happy employees make for good, positive patient care,” Volk said. “I see that trickle-down effect.”

St. Luke’s officials recognize that effort.

“Jacque is an excellent leader who puts our patients and her employees at the center of everything she does,” said Chris Johnson, St. Luke’s vice president of strategy and finance. “St. Luke’s Northern Lake Surgery Center and the communities we serve benefit greatly from Jacque’s knowledge and her commitment to excellent medical care.”

Volk is also involved in several Moose Lake civic organizations, such as the Legacy of Excellence board of Moose Lake, a booster club for the Moose Lake Public Schools. This fall, the group raised all the funds needed to buy back-toschool supplies for every student at the school, Volk said.

Volk’s children belong to a number of sports teams, and she spends quite a bit of time traveling to games and events, as well as juggling her schedule of overseeing operations at the three surgery centers, teaching a nursing class through Lake Superior College, and continuing her own education. Volk recently earned her doctorate in nursing practice from Chamberlain

The Volk family enjoys traveling and having fun together. Pictured from left are Dallas Volk, Jacque Volk, and their children, Austin, Jessica, Maddie and Kendall, on a trip to Cancun, Mexico.

University in Illinois, graduating with honors and a 4.0 GPA.

“I don’t like dull moments,” Volk said, “but I do know how to relax.”

That includes taking the Volk family Ice Castle — a combination camper and ice fishing house — to campgrounds around the area. This summer the Volks spent time at the new Lake Vermilion State Park in Soudan, fishing, boating and hiking. When one vacation day turned out a little drizzly, the family pivoted and drove to Ely for the first time for a little sightseeing in town.

That kind of easy pivot comes naturally to Volk, which she again credits to her upbringing on the family farm, with plenty of responsibility and plenty of interesting challenges.

“I’m very flexible,” Volk said. “I adapt very easily — I’m pretty calm and always positive.” D

Jacque Volk and her family are active on softball teams in the area. The Moose Lake-Willow River Varsity girls softball won conference to head to the state tournament for 2023. Pictured, from left, are Dallas, Kendall, Maddie, Jessica, Austin and Jacque Volk.

Janna Goerdt is an Iron Range farmer and freelance writer.

Cindy Fritze recently took up creating pottery as a hobby. She enjoys each piece's imperfections and character.

Tapping toward balanced energy

Retired nurse helps clients change their energy flow, promoting health and healing

By Janna Goerdt

Cindy Fritze knew that the tapping was working when she simply forgot to smoke her cigarettes.

Fritze, a retired nurse, had wanted to stop smoking for years. She would buy a pack, smoke two, throw the rest away — and buy another pack the next day.

Then she met someone who told her about Emotional Freedom Technique, or EFT. Also called “tapping,” the alternative medicine technique is used to smooth energy flow throughout the body, and address emotional and physical issues. Fritze learned the technique, which includes light tapping with your fingertips on certain points on your body, and began practicing on herself. Her goal was to quit cigarettes for good.

Within a few weeks, Fritze found that she was forgetting about smoking.

“I just didn’t think about it anymore,” Fritze said. And she had found a new career.

Today, through her practice at Healing Shores, Fritze works with clients who want to use EFT to access and reframe painful or troubling memories, and clients who want to visualize their health improving. Fritze said the technique works on psychological pain as well as physical pain.

Continued on page 14

Cindy Fritze started Healing Shores to help people improve their emotional and physical traumas. Fritze, a retired nurse, enjoys helping people.

want my patients to know that we're on the same team."

Dr. Carly Ritchie Family Medicine

accepting new patients. Call 218-879-1271 to schedule an appointment.

Raiter Family Clinic

The technique is reminiscent of acupuncture, which focuses on “meridian points” that are thought to restore balance to your body’s energy flow. While acupuncture uses tiny needles to apply pressure to these points, EFT uses fingertip pressure to achieve similar results over time.

“I’ve tried it on a painful knee, on anxiety, on fears,” Fritze said. “It works on pretty much everything.”

But she cautions that her work is not a substitute for a physician or a psychotherapist.

“There’s no way to tap on the points and make anything worse,” Fritze said. “Things can only improve. It’s very, very safe to do. If it didn’t change anything, that means we didn’t hit your problem.”

Fritze describes her work as an “adjunct” for those seeking alternative treatments and therapies.

“I will work with anyone who wants to make their trauma less,” she said. “I work with grief. There is definitely a place for this, but people should not replace their psychotherapist with me.”

Barb Bottger of Grand Marais has been working with Fritze for several years.

Bottger had recently been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She and Fritze met on a plane bound for Zihuatanejo, Mexico, where both were headed for a retreat to practice spring forest qigong, a combination of meditation and movements meant to improve the body’s energy flow.

“I was filled with anxiety, and a fear of the unknown,” Bottger said. Fritze offered to do an EFT session with Bottger once they were in Mexico, and Bottger said she noticed a difference immediately.

“It was very profound,” Bottger remembers. “That whole fear of the unknown, the anxiety — it shifted. … What Cindy did was magical.”

In the years since, Bottger has continued to work with Fritze, and the two have become friends, Bottger said.

“Cindy is so highly gifted,” Bottger said. “She is so highly intuitive; she can read into whatever emotion is going on. She will start tapping, and she is spot-on.”

Fritze said her desire to help people was what drew her into nursing, and then into becoming an EFT practitioner.

“My last job was as a hospice nurse,” Fritze said. “You get to spend time with patients, and the families want you there. I loved that job; it’s the idea of caring for people. I still carry that in this work.”

Fritze offers free 30-minute consultations if people are interested in learning if EFT might work for them. She schedules initial sessions for a 90-minute block of time, usually meeting clients over Zoom.

Cindy Fritze enjoys hiking with her husband, David, and their daughter, Sara Glanville.

Cindy Fritze, far right, enjoys being surrounded by family: husband David, granddaughter Zoe Johnson, daughter Sara Glanville, son-in-law Terry Glanville holding puppy Suki Jones, and grandson Chase Johnson.

“You need that much time to dig,” Fritze said. “You tap on the surface stuff,” and continue to delve beneath those initial feelings and emotions, Fritze said. She often focuses on the meridian point along the collarbone, which Fritze refers to as “the gateway.”

“That’s where you go back to the memories from your childhood,” Fritze said.

She asks clients to focus on a specific feeling, a sense, or a vision from the time the traumatic incident first occurred. As they tap on the meridian points, they may, for instance, focus on replacing the painful memory with a positive memory.

“This works beautifully for something in your life that you want to happen, but you just can’t get there,” Fritze said.

Bottger has continued practicing EFT with Fritze, as she seeks non-traditional treatments for her MS diagnosis.

“I can feel it, emotionally, as this treatment progresses,” Bottger said. “It’s like it dives down deep into your emotions, and turns things in a new way, and your emotions shift.”

When she isn’t working with clients, Fritze enjoys heading out of her front door to hike along Duluth’s trails, or to slip her gray kayak into the water for a serene paddle. She and her husband love to kayak together, as well as go fishing. The couple enjoys towing their camper to new places, including warmer destinations during Duluth winters. Since the majority of her EFT work is conducted over Zoom, Fritze said she can work anywhere she has access to good Wi-Fi.

Another new passion for Fritze has been pottery. She began experimenting with pottery just a year ago. She calls her clay creations “caveman” dinnerware, she said with a laugh. “It’s sturdy,” Fritze said. Her plates and bowls may not be elegant and smooth, but Fritze said she loves their character.

“Its imperfection is perfection to me,” she said.

Learn more about Cindy Fritze’s practice at www. healingshoresllc.com. D

This diagram shows the "tapping points" Cindy Fritze uses during her Emotional Freedom Technique sessions. Similar to acupuncture, light fingertip tapping on these points is thought to restore the body's energy flow.

Janna Goerdt is an Iron Range farmer and freelance writer.

By Abigail Blonigen

Ten years ago, if you would have told Ashley Hall that today she would be living in International Falls, Minnesota with her wife and kids, serving as the executive director of Koochiching County Food Access, she might not have believed you.

Hall is from Wilmington, North Carolina, and grew up on the beach in the southeastern part of the state. In her early 20s, she married a man who was serving in the Marine Corps. The couple had two children and lived all over the United States and the world.

During this period of her life, Hall lived in places such as Washington, D.C., a small village in Japan (where her daughter was born), and Joshua Tree, California, before she made the move to International Falls in 2012.

“This is the longest I've ever lived anywhere since the town I grew up in, since I was 18,” Hall said. “Every place I’ve lived has impacted me differently. Living outside of D.C., it's crazy and it's busy, but it's exciting. There's always events and stuff going on. But I also adored the desert. We actually went back and went on vacation there this winter. I've definitely learned from every place I've lived.”

Not long after settling in International Falls, Hall met her future wife, and she and her husband separated. Hall and her wife both have a passion for fitness and had opened a gym together, Evolve U Fitness & Wellness.

Fitness has always been a constant in Hall’s life. Growing up, she played volleyball and basketball. Her first job out of college was at a gym, and she has worked various roles in the industry ever since — from the juice bar, to child care, to group fitness classes, to management. Hall became a certified personal trainer in 2004 and is also a certified yoga instructor.

Evolve U offers a variety of programs and classes, from youth empowerment and cardio drumming to circuit training and senior fitness.

“In rural Minnesota, you have to serve everybody,” Hall said. “I like it because I don't get bored teaching one thing over and over. It's always a variety of classes we're teaching and we're always having to change it up to keep people coming in the door.”

Hall’s passion for wellness extends far beyond the gym and into her community. In 2020, she became the executive director of Koochiching County Food Access (KCFA), the county’s primary food shelf.

Under Hall’s leadership, KCFA expanded its staff, added food shelf locations at every school in the county and purchased its own building — a first for the organization in its 35-year history.

“I feel like neither one of my jobs are work oftentimes,” Hall said. “Sometimes I feel guilty even getting paid for either one of them.”

Continued on page 18

Ashley Hall and her wife, Erin, smile at the Duluth-Superior Pride Festival.

Ashley Hall and her family enjoy the outdoors: fishing, hunting, boating, camping, and sports — particularly hockey.

In addition to her paid positions, Hall volunteers extensively in the International Falls community and beyond. She is on the board of Second Harvest North Central Food Bank, which serves seven counties in north central Minnesota and supplies the majority of the food to KCFA.

Hall is also on the board of trustees for the Northland Foundation, which serves northeast Minnesota “through grantmaking, an operating program, business lending and technical assistance, and special initiatives,” according to their website.

Previously, Hall was deeply involved with the Rotary Club

of International Falls. The Rotary is an international humanitarian organization with regional districts and local clubs. She served first in a marketing and public relations role, then as a board member and eventually as president for a year. She became involved with local Rotary District 5560, which allowed her to travel all over the United States attending conferences and meeting people.

“I feel like (The Rotary) definitely opened a lot of doors and opportunities for me and probably gave me a lot of confidence

Continued on page 20

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Ashley Hall poses with members of Evolve U Fitness and Wellness.

I wouldn't have had living up here,” she said.

Hall said that her family, particularly her grandmother, inspired her volunteerism and passion for community. Hall’s grandmother was a nurse who had helped countless people throughout her life, but before she passed, she said she wished she could have helped more.

“That's always just been in my mind … that we're here to help other people,” she said. “We're all so intertwined and interconnected. … The more we can help each other, the better it's going to make our communities and our world, and the better it's going to be for our kids and future generations. It's just always been a part of what I do.”

When not working or volunteering, she and her family enjoy the outdoors: fishing, hunting, boating, camping and sports — particularly hockey.

Hall said the sense of community and opportunities she has had access to in International Falls is what keeps her in the small northern town.

“I've lived in big cities my whole life,” she said. “This is the first time I've ever lived in a small town or even an area that's isolated away from everything. And I do feel very fortunate of all the opportunities that have come out of being here and living here. … I don't know that I would have the same opportunities if I was living anywhere else.” D

Ashley Hall and her wife, Erin Hall, share a passion for fitness, opening Evolve U together in 2013.

Ashley Hall, second from left, and her family smile for a photo at the Mall of America. From left: Wife Erin Hall, Noah Shikowsky (18), Grae Shikowsky (15), Lola Wade (16), and Channing Wade (13).

Abigail Blonigen is a Minnesota-based freelance writer.

Ashley Hall has lived all over the United States and internationally, but International Falls holds a special place in her heart.

Ashley Hall and her wife, Erin, met in International Falls, Minnesota.

A career in corrections medicine

How one

By Felicia Schneiderhan

Celka, RN, never envisioned herself working in corrections medicine. However, two years ago she stumbled upon a job posting at the St. Louis County Jail. Intrigued, she decided to take a leap of faith and apply for the nurse supervisor position there — a decision she would not regret.

“Jail has such a bad stigma,” she said. “Everyone thinks you’re walking into a place with awful people, that it’s unsafe or dirty. But that’s not true. Everyone who works here is like one big family. We’re all watching out for each other.”

From her very first week at the jail, Celka knew she had found her place. She was happy to find that, despite the negativity associated with correctional facilities, her work was engaging and fulfilling. To this day, she enjoys a fast-paced environment that’s filled with variety.

The best part of her work, in her opinion, is the opportunity to help vulnerable people who really need it.

Breaking down stereotypes

“A lot of people in the jail have just made mistakes, or they’re suffering from a mental health crisis or an addiction that led to them making a wrong choice,” Celka explained with compassion and understanding. “We’re able to see past the stereotypes. They’re just people who need care.”

In addition, Celka was struck by how many of the inmates have

been deprived of access to health care for some time before their incarceration. She loves the opportunity to help these individuals get healthy again.

“Maybe they couldn’t afford medical care, or they had a warrant out for their arrest, so they weren’t going to the doctor’s office,” she said. “Whatever was keeping them from getting the health care they need, we’re here to help them get back on track.”

Enjoying fast-paced, meaningful work

Celka appreciates that working as a nurse in the jail is far from routine.

“There is no typical day,” she said. “It’s always fast-paced with a lot of variety.”

The nursing team is responsible for the health of each inmate throughout the facility. They perform medical assessments on every new inmate, monitor those going through alcohol or drug withdrawal, arrange appointments for pregnant women, and attend to current inmates who need care.

Much of their efforts set the stage for ongoing care beyond incarceration. This has become even more seamless since St. Luke’s became the health care partner for the St. Louis County Jail and Northeast Regional Corrections Center (NERCC).

Partnering with St. Luke’s

Since the partnership with St. Luke’s began in fall 2022, Celka has noticed a significant improvement in providing continuous care.

St. Luke’s RN found her calling in an unexpected place

Celka, RN, loves caring for inmates at the St. Louis County Jail.

“It’s so much easier,” she said. “We can schedule future appointments for them within the St. Luke’s system. We’re able to easily share records and information. Also, if we have a medical emergency and have to send someone to the hospital, that’s a lot easier, too."

St. Louis County Jail Administrator Jessica Pete also appreciates the continuous care provided by St. Luke’s. “The partnership with a local provider has been a nice added bonus for people while they are at the jail and when they leave because it creates a smoother transition,” she said. “Overall, it’s a feeling of better care knowing they have a connection to care once they’re out in the community.”

St. Luke’s also offers a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program for inmates grappling with opioid addiction. This offers them support and a pathway to recovery.

Find

your calling in corrections medicine

Celka’s journey in corrections medicine had taken her to unexpected places of compassion and understanding. Her commitment to providing care to those often marginalized and misunderstood had brought new purpose to her nursing career. Overall, she’s grateful for her role and wants to see her team grow.

“This is a great job for those who want to help others in a very impactful way,” she said. “People are incarcerated for a number of reasons, but every one of them is going through a really difficult time when they arrive at the jail. They need compassion and care, same as anyone.”

With the goal of expanding the program to further enhance inmate care, Celka and her colleagues are eager to welcome new nurses and medical assistants to their team. As they embark on this mission together, they invite compassionate and motivated health care professionals to join them in making a difference within the walls of the St. Louis County Jail and NERCC.

For more information about joining the corrections health care team, visit slhduluth.com/CorrectionsMedicine. D

Felicia Schneiderhan is a Duluth-based freelance writer.

Arts & Events Calendar

The West Theatre Events

Thursdays in Oct/Nov

Oct. 5Alasdair Fraser and Natalie Haas;

Oct. 12 - Joyann

Parker Sings Patsy Cline; Oct. 14 - Paula Poundstone; Oct. 15 - Adrian Legg; Oct. 27-29 - Rocky Horror Picture Show with Zenith City Horror; Nov. 2 - Song for the Wild; Nov. 9 - The Jimmys; and Nov. 15 - The Looney Lutherans; Nov. 30 - Them Coulee Boys. Visit thewesttheatre/events.com.

Catalyst Contest Festival

Oct. 4-7

Catalyst is a worldwide community of actors, writers, directors, producers, executives, agents and fans discovering the best new programming created on independent budgets. This festival showcases new shows and discovers new talent. Visit catalystories.org.

Duluth Superior Film Festival

Oct. 5-8

Duluth Superior Film Festival screens numerous independent films, produces music performances, and hosts receptions, Q&A sessions after screenings and panel discussions at various local venues. Visit dsfilmfest.org.

Three Dog Night

7:30 p.m. Oct. 6

Presented by Emporium, the 1970’s American rock band Three Dog Night will perform with special guest Chris Trapper at the DECC’s Symphony Hall. Visit decc.org.

Bayfield Apple Festival

Oct. 6-8

Browse through more than 60 orchard

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.

and food booths, nearly 100 arts and crafts booths, and a kids carnival with games and rides. Enjoy a grand parade, apple peeling and pie contests, raffles and street entertainment. Visit bayfield.org/bayfieldapple-festival.

Misery

Oct. 12-21

The Duluth Playhouse Underground opens its season with this suspenseful play by William Goldman based on the novel by Stephen King. Location TBD. Visit duluthplayhouse.org.

Oh What A Night!

2 p.m. Oct. 14

This musical tribute to Frankie Valli and Four seasons will be held at the DECC’s Symphony Hall. Visit decc.org.

GO Show 2023

9 a.m. Oct. 17

Featuring exhibitors, live entertainment, seminars, services and samples, the Senior Go Show is for adults 55 and older who are planning ahead for retirement (or already retired) but still going strong. Visit goshowexpo.com.

The Dropkick Murphys Fall Tour

7 p.m. Oct. 17

Dropkick Murphys put down their acoustic guitars for a full electric show, joined by The Interrupters and opener Jesse Ahern, at Amsoil Arena. Visit decc.org.

Chum’s Golden Gala

7 p.m. Oct. 17

Honoring Chum’s 50 years of service in the Northland, this fundraiser marks the golden

anniversary with a gourmet dinner, silent and live auctions, stories and awards. Visit chumduluth. org.

The Vampire Circus

Oct. 18-19

A mix of circus cabaret and theater, The Vampire Circus pushes physical boundaries with acrobatics, contortionists, jugglers, and theater at the DECC’s Symphony Hall. Visit decc.org.

Mania: The ABBA Tribute

8 p.m. Oct. 20

Presented by Emporium, this tribute concert recreates one of ABBA’s most memorable concerts from the flamboyant 1970s, at the DECC’s Symphony Hall. Visit decc.org.

Buckcherry

8 p.m. Oct. 26

Buckcherry will bring a high-energy performance and catchy, anthemic songs to the DECC’s Symphony Hall. They’re considered one of the most exciting rock bands of their generation. Visit decc.org.

Anything

Oct. 27-29

Goes: Youth Edition

Opening the Duluth Playhouse Youth Theatre season is this toe-tapping classic, a one-hour adaptation of the Broadway favorite with music and lyrics by Cole Porter. Visit duluthplayhouse. org.

EEK! The Depot

11 a.m. Oct. 28

There will be something to Eek! About around every corner of the Depot at this not-so-scary afternoon of free family fun. Wear your costumes! Visit experiencethedepot.org/ events.

Knotty Carvers of the North

10 a.m. Oct. 28

This 13th annual wood carving event will be held at St. Luke’s Sports and Event Center in Proctor featuring displays, demonstrations and sales of wood carvings. Admission is free. Visit facebook. com/groups/Knottycarvers.

The Fab Four Performs The Beatles ‘Rubber Soul’

7:30 p.m. Oct. 29

The 2023 tribute tour brings an all new performance of The Beatles’ “Rubber Soul” in its entirety, as well as the Beatles’ greatest hits, at the DECC’s Symphony Hall. Visit decc.org.

Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation

40-Year Celebration

4 p.m. Nov. 3

Donors, community partners, visionary leaders, staff and board members past and present are all invited to attend at Clyde Iron Works to raise a glass in honor of four decades of building a lasting legacy. Visit dsacommunityfoundation.org.

MW3: Nordic Images

7 p.m. Nov. 4

The Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra commissions a new work from Duluth composer Wendy Durrwachter; concertmaster Erin Aldridge will join for Violin Concerto No.2 by Henryk Wieniawski; and by popular demand, the DSSO brings back Sibelius’s Symphony No.2. Visit dsso. com/concert/nordic-images.

Lewis Black: Off the Rant

8 p.m. Nov. 5

Known as the Kind of Rant, Lewis Black comes to the NorShore Theatre with his trademark style of comedic yelling and fingerpointing to expose absurdities of life. Visit norshortheatre.com.

Blippi The Musical

2 p.m. Nov. 5

The energetic and loveable character Blippi comes to DECC’s Symphony Hall in this world-class production, featuring audience engagement, amazing music and innovative teaching lessons. Visit decc.org.

Sal Vulcano

7 p.m. Nov. 16

Presented by Outback, comedian Sal Vulcano is best known for creating and starring in the long-running hits “Impractical Jokers” and “The Misery Index.” He’ll perform at the DECC’s Symphony Hall. Visit decc.org.

Christmas City of the North Parade

6:30 p.m. Nov. 17

This annual holiday tradition begins in front of Fitger's Brewing Complex at Sixth Avenue East and marches on Superior Street to Fourth Avenue West.

Cooking & Kitchen Show

10 a.m. Nov. 18

Enjoy a day of cooking demonstrations and food-centric conversations starring Chef Martin Yan, and Chef Justin Sutherland! Shop a wide selection of vendors at the DECC’s City Side Convention Center. Visit decc.org.

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

Bentleyville Tour of Lights Opening Night

5 p.m. Nov. 18

Duluth's mega Christmaslight spectacular -- the largest walk-through display of lights in America -- opens for the holiday season. Visit www.bentleyvilleusa.org.

The Sound of Music

Dec. 1-17

The Duluth Playhouse presents the iconic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical at the NorShor Theatre. Visit duluthplayhouse. 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

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By Mike Lewis

Crisp mornings, bonfire evenings, leaves changing, and apples and pumpkins everywhere are just some of the things we love about the fall season. Like it or not, autumn is fast approaching. And with it comes the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, or AEP.

AEP begins Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. This is the time set aside to make changes to your current Medicare coverage. Because of the importance of having a good individual health care plan, some Medicare recipients get anxious or even dread this time period, wondering if they need to make any changes or if they already have the best coverage possible. Have no fear! We’ve put together a checklist and timeline to help you navigate the upcoming AEP.

1. Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter

Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) letter should arrive by mail near the end of September from your current insurance provider. It will outline any changes to your current coverage as well as changes to your premium, deductible, copay or coinsurance. It is very important to review this document carefully to help you decide if you would like to stay with the current plan or look at the possibility of making a change for the upcoming year. Alternatively, there is no need to make changes if your current plan best fits your needs, as long as it is

Let’s navigate Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period

going to be available in your service area again. Making no change will result in a passive renewal for the next year. However, if you do intend to make changes, be aware of some important dates. First off, any change made during the AEP will result in the new coverage becoming effective Jan. 1 of the next year. Second, you can do as many applications as you need to during the AEP, however, the last application submitted during this time frame will be the coverage you have for the upcoming year.

2. Plan changes are unveiled Oct. 1

The day that plan information can be shared with you, the client, is Oct. 1. We as agents are unable to share any plan details prior to this date.

3. Drug plan / new plan applications begin Oct. 15

The first day you can complete an application for a new plan or prescription drug plan is Oct. 15. You must complete all changes by Dec. 7. Whatever changes you’ve made between Oct. 15 and Dec. 7 will take effect Jan. 1 and will be your Medicare plan for the upcoming year.

4. Be prepared

Have the following items on hand and completed to help prepare you for AEP:

• Your Medicare Card (red, white and blue card).

• A list of your providers, and/or any specialists to whom you need access.

• A comprehensive list of your current prescription Medications,

including drug names and dosages.

• In some cases, your ANOC letter. Whether you do your own enrollment or meet with a licensed agent, it is important to know that these decisions are time sensitive. In some cases, acting quickly is necessary to ensure that all change requests are completed in time.

If you need assistance during this year’s AEP, feel free to reach out to Reliable Insurance Agency at 218-8794663 and ask to speak to a life and health agent. With staff conveniently located in Cloquet, Hermantown and Superior, we can meet with you in person or virtually. D

Mike Lewis graduated from Esko High School. He has a Bachelor of Arts in applied economics with a minor in finance from the College of St. Scholastica. Mike obtained his Life and Health Insurance License in January 2016. Prior to joining the team at Reliable Agency, Mike was a sales manager at Broadridge Financial Solutions. He enjoys working with clients to find the best policies to fit each individual’s situation.

Outside of work, Mike spends time at the cabin, golfing, or running. But what Mike enjoys most is exploring the beautiful hiking trails in the Northland with his wife, Shannon; daughters Blakely and Alexa; and their two dogs, Addie and Benji.

You can contact Mike at 218-6553378 or mike@reliablemn.com.

‘Don’t put it off’

By Anthony Matt

"You have breast cancer” can be one of the hardest phrases for a woman to hear. That was certainly true for then-49year-old Amy Wold of Duluth, who received her diagnosis in 2019.

“It felt like a paralyzing gut punch,” Wold said. “My brain was going a million different directions and I was scared.”

That May, Wold felt a lump on her breast. She called the Breast Center at Essentia Health and scheduled an appointment. Several tests later, it was confirmed that she had estrogen and progesterone-negative, Her2-positive breast cancer, which had spread to a lymph node.

“It was the worst phone call ever,” she said. “I felt like the room was spinning. I had so many questions that I couldn’t ask them fast enough.”

The support for Wold was swift. She learned things from others who had a similar diagnosis and survived, which gave her hope. She said separating herself from negativity and focusing on the positive made all the difference.

That support system included Dr. Daniel Nikcevich, an oncologist at Essentia who established a plan to treat Wold.

“The first thing he said to me was, ‘You have curable breast cancer,’” Wold said. “He said the right things to help me get through this, and from that initial appointment with him I had a gut feeling I’d be OK.”

“Wold’s cancer had a chance to be more aggressive,” Dr. Nikcevich said. “Fortunately, we have made significant advances in the treatment. Therapy with multiple monoclonal antibodies combined with chemotherapy has been, in my opinion, the single greatest advance in the treatment of early-stage breast cancer such as Wold’s.”

She started treatment in July 2019 with chemotherapy drugs and Herceptin, a targeted therapy; in October, doctors were able to scale back her infusions and use only Herceptin, which would continue until June 2020.

“Dr. Nikcevich is really great at what he does,” Wold said. “He would give me all the facts and did it in such a way that I always felt hopeful about the future.”

She would often spend time throwing rocks into Lake Superior at Brighton Beach, a place of solace.

“I’d throw them pretty aggressively,” Wold said with a smile. “I spent a lot of time there praying for help getting through this.”

Wold said that halfway through chemo she knew it was working. She no longer felt the lump after her third round.

“The nurses at the infusion center were amazing,” said Wold. “It was a calming and comfortable environment with amazing views of Lake Superior, and everyone there seemed to care about me and made connections with me.”

She had a double mastectomy the day before Thanksgiving in 2019.

Amy Wold relaxes at Brighton Beach, which she calls “a place of solace.”

Why one Duluth woman is so insistent about mammograms

“They served their purpose of feeding babies and now were trying to kill me, so it was time for them to go,” Wold said. “I mourned their loss afterward, but I knew I made the right decision.”

Once the results of the mastectomy came in, Dr. Nikcevich delivered the news – Wold had a pathological cure.

“I just sat there and cried tears of relief,” she said. “I had been through so much and I couldn’t believe the day was

Early detection is key

Essentia Health recommends having a clinical breast exam performed every year. Between these appointments, physicians recommend self-breast awareness, which is knowing how your breasts normally look and feel.

According to the American Cancer Society, on average, early detection of Stage 1 breast cancer has a 99% five-year relative survival rate.

You should see a provider if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Changes in the size or shape of the breast.

• A painful or itchy nipple.

• Discharge from the nipple without squeezing.

• Swelling, redness, warmth or darkening of the breast.

• Lumps or thickening in the breast or underarm area.

• A change in skin texture.

• A changing of the nipple position or shape.

• New pain in one spot that does not go away.

Essentia recommends women get a screening mammogram every year once they turn 40. Essentia offers digital 2D and 3D mammograms. Additionally, ultrasounds and breast MRIs can be used if further imaging is needed.

Essentia also offers a High-Risk Breast Cancer Program. This focuses on identifying and helping patients understand their risk for developing breast cancer.

Those who should consider this

finally here when I was hearing those words.”

Wold started daily radiation therapy in January 2020. The regimen lasted five weeks, a standard practice since the cancer had spread to a lymph node.

Before her diagnosis, Wold had routine mammograms. This lump happened to show up between annual visits. So, she urges women to pay attention to their bodies and get checked regularly. She also

encourages routine self-checks.

“Breast cancer is a curable disease, and screening mammograms performed at the appropriate age and intervals for a woman can be very helpful in identifying earlystage breast cancer, which offers the best opportunity to cure this disease,” Dr. Nikcevich said.

“I was really happy with my care,” Wold said. “My husband and I said at the beginning, ‘If we aren’t happy with the care, we’ll go elsewhere.’ But we never had that thought.”

program are women who have any of the following:

• Several close relatives on the same side of the family with breast cancer.

• A mother, sister or daughter with breast cancer at age 50 or younger.

• Two first-degree relatives with breast cancer at any age.

• A close male relative with breast cancer.

Essentia also offers genetic testing and counseling to work with patients whose families have a history of cancer, genetic diseases or medical disorders and who are concerned about the risk of developing medical conditions or passing them on to their children.

Patients can lower their breast cancer risk by doing some of the following:

• Maintain a healthy weight.

• Exercise regularly.

• Limit alcohol intake.

• Limit hormone use.

• Breastfeed if possible.

• Don’t smoke.

Essentia is known for its high-quality, evidence-based breast care. Our breast health programs in Brainerd, Duluth and Fargo are accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. This accreditation is granted to programs that are committed to providing the best possible care to patients with breast diseases.

You can make an appointment by calling 844-663-1068 (or 218-786-1019 if you are in the Duluth area) or schedule a virtual visit online at essentiahealth.org/ services/breast-health.

Three years removed from the day she was proclaimed to be cancer-free, Wold said she’ll wait another two years before fully celebrating with a well-deserved family vacation. Until then, you can find her now gratefully throwing stones into Lake Superior on Brighton Beach.

“I throw them much more softly now,” Wold said with a chuckle. “Right now, I’m grateful to be alive, and I throw each rock with a prayer of gratitude.” D

Saturday, December 9, 2023 9:00 am

Seating begins at 8:20 am

Duluth Holiday Inn Great Lakes Ballroom Program – Lucia Processional Scandinavian Buffet Brunch

Adults $25 • Children 5-10 years $15 4 and under are free Tickets available October 15 – November 30 Call 218-727-4416

www.swedishculturalsociety.org

Anthony Matt is the media relations specialist at Essentia Health.

Sankta Lucia Celebration presented by the Swedish Cultural Society of Duluth

ONE-WOMAN POWERHOUSE Raises awareness for pancreatic cancer

Enger Tower glows purple for World Pancreatic Cancer Day, which falls on the third Thursday of November. This year, “Lighting Duluth Purple for Pancreatic Cancer” will be Nov. 16.

~ Pamela Marshall ~

By Andrea Busche

On Nov. 16, 2023, Duluth’s Enger Tower will be lit purple once again in honor of World Pancreatic Cancer Day. The woman behind this initiative, Duluth resident Pamela Marshall, has a deeply personal connection to pancreatic cancer. Her father, Gordon Marshall, lost his battle to the disease in 2016.

Since her father’s death, Marshall has become a one-woman powerhouse, working with Duluth’s mayors to get Enger Tower lit purple for one special day each year. Every November, she also hosts a fundraiser/silent auction. The event helps support pancreatic cancer patients and their families, and funds research supporting early detection.

“I want to continue to raise awareness,” Marshall said. “I’d like to keep growing the silent auction, and do more purple lighting in Duluth to honor my dad and all pancreatic cancer patients.”

Gordon’s story

Gordon Marshall was born in Pennsylvania in 1942 and grew up in New York. He served in the Air Force, and later, when he relocated to Duluth, worked for the Duluth School Board. He also founded the Duluth East Girls Hoops Club, where he coached and mentored the young athletes.

Gordon and his wife, Janet, had four daughters. Upon his death at age 73, he had 10 grandchildren and one greatgranddaughter.

Pamela Marshall explained a bit about her dad’s illness.

“On Aug. 12, 2015, my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 inoperable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma,” she said. “His tumor was inoperable because it was wrapped around an artery, and by the time it was discovered, had metastasized.”

Gordon’s doctors initially gave him just 30-90 days to live, but he fought; ultimately surviving well past his doctors’ prognosis. He died Jan. 30, 2016 — 172 days after being diagnosed.

Symptoms

According to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (Pancan.org), pancreatic cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. The five-year survival rate is dismal, at just 12%. In many cases this is because the disease is simply caught too late. Symptoms of pancreatic cancer can include:

• Pain (usually in the abdomen or back).

• Weight loss.

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and/or eyes).

• Loss of appetite.

• Nausea.

• Change in stool.

• Pancreatitis.

• Recent-onset diabetes.

Gordon Marshall had several of these symptoms, including loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea when eating, and jaundice.

Additionally, several risk factors are thought to play a part in the disease, including:

• Family history.

• Inherited genetic mutations.

• Obesity.

• Smoking.

• Diet.

• Diabetes.

• Race (Black Americans have a higher incidence of pancreatic cancer than people of Asian, Hispanic or Caucasian descent. Ashkenazi Jews also have a higher incidence of pancreatic cancer, possibly because the BRCA2 gene mutation is higher in people in this group).

• Heavy alcohol use.

• Gum disease.

• Chemical and heavy metal exposure.

Gordon also had a few of these risk factors. He was overweight and diabetic.

Treatment for pancreatic cancer can include chemo, radiation and surgery — depending on whether the disease is caught in time, and where it is located. Gordon endured two chemo treatments, each resulting in serious complications.

The prognosis for pancreatic cancer continues to be grim.

“There are some new clinical trials, but they will only extend life a little or make the patient more comfortable,” Marshall said. “There is currently no cure on the horizon.”

Fighting back

Marshall decided to fight back in honor of her dad. She reached out to then-Mayor Don Ness to discuss the cause. Ness proclaimed Nov. 16, 2015 World Pancreatic Cancer Day in the city of Duluth. Enger Tower was also lit purple to help draw attention to the cause. These efforts have continued under

Gordon Marshall

Mayor Emily Larson’s leadership.

In 2017, Marshall took on a volunteer position with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in the Twin Cities. While she did this work for a time, ultimately, she decided to keep her efforts local.

“I really wanted to cater to people in need here,” she said. “So, I took things out on my own.”

In 2018, she hosted her first Lighting Duluth Purple for Pancreatic Cancer silent auction at Clyde Iron Works. Since then, the event has been held every November.

Marshall receives support from a variety of businesses and individuals, who make the silent auction possible. For instance, Benna Ford in Superior makes a significant donation each year in honor of their late owner Pat Ringold, who died from pancreatic cancer in 2022. Other generous sponsors/ donors include Security Jewelers, Super One Liquor, Twin Ports Dermatology, The Skin Care Center of Northland Plastic Surgery, Clyde Iron Works (who donates the space), and many more.

The annual events this year will include the lighting of Enger Tower on November 16 at sundown, and the silent auction fundraising/awareness event on November 19 at Clyde Iron Works. All are welcome to attend both events.

Marshall suggested that interested parties can find updates by locating her on Facebook (under the name Pam Marshall), or by emailing yogawithpam21@yahoo.com. Those who wish to support the cause are encouraged to donate, attend or hang purple lights at their home or business.

Life lessons

After watching her father become ill and ultimately lose his battle to such a frightening disease, Pam Marshall has taken away a few powerful life lessons.

“It has definitely made me more aware of the symptoms,” she said. “I’m not sure if I’d choose to have the genetic testing (to find out if she’s more susceptible to getting the disease), but I’m definitely more in tune with my body, and don’t take any symptoms lightly.”

Marshall, who works at Twin Ports Dermatology and has children and grandchildren of her own, is also enjoying a new-found passion for volunteering and helping others. In addition to her efforts for pancreatic cancer awareness, she also hosts a school supply drive at her office every year.

While her father’s experience has been understandably difficult for Marshall and her entire family, there have been a few hidden blessings.

“The connections I’ve made have been very rewarding,” she said. “I’m blown away by how many people there are with ties to pancreatic cancer. As much as I wish I didn’t have this disease as part of my journey, it’s been a beautiful journey.” D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

In November 2015, Pamela reached out to then-Mayor Don Ness, who proclaimed World Pancreatic Cancer Day in Duluth.

Duluth resident Pamela Marshall is fighting to increase awareness for pancreatic cancer, in honor of her father, Gordon Marshall, who died from the disease on January 30, 2016.

Pamela Marshall organizes the annual Lighting Duluth Purple for Pancreatic Cancer Silent Auction, which takes place every November at Clyde Iron Works, as a fundraiser and awareness event for the disease.

All-female leadership team is passionate about

By Andrea Busche

Leaders at Duluth’s Lake Superior Zoo have much that they are proud of.

They say their many species of animals are happy and thriving.

A giant milestone — its centennial anniversary — is being celebrated in 2023.

Several initiatives are underway, improving accessibility for all zoo guests. And the organization proudly operates under an all-female leadership team.

The Woman Today recently had the opportunity to visit with all five of LSZ’s senior leaders, including:

• Haley Hedstrom, CEO.

• Heidi Beal, director of business operations & staff photographer.

• Lizzy Larson, director of animal management.

• Sarah Wilcox, education/preschool director.

• Samantha Halligan, director of guest experience.

The “women of the zoo” shared what they enjoy about working at the LSZ. We also got a sneak peek of LSZ’s new initiatives, which they say will help make the zoo more welcoming to all guests.

Zoozee is a critically endangered red panda.

100 years

The Lake Superior Zoo is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Hedstrom shared some thoughts about this milestone:

“Though the zoo has certainly had its fair share of challenges over the last 100 years, we have always persevered thanks to the commitment, passion and creativity of our team,” she noted. “The zoo’s mission has guided our growth for the last several decades, and our vision of a future where all living things thrive together will be a catalyst for the next century of evolution.

“We celebrated our centennial anniversary with Zoo La Palooza on July 21 of this year and welcomed over 3,200 guests to the party. Our historical exhibit will open in phases throughout the rest of 2023, featuring interactive experiences, life-size statues of some of the animals that have called the LSZ home over the years, and so much more.”

New initiatives

LSZ is looking ahead to its next century with some new initiatives.

“I like to think of this year as a step into our future,” Hedstrom said. “We recently opened our brand-new trail, which immerses guests in nature and tells the story of native flora and fauna, providing conversation topics that are relevant to our area. This trail also features a land acknowledgement and the indigenous names of highlighted species.

“And during the last legislative session, we were awarded funding for our new snapping turtle exhibit and for renovations to large habitats along our northwest hillside, which will soon be home to caribou. The completion of this project will fill the last remaining empty exhibit on zoo grounds, which is quite a milestone and an accomplishment.”

Hedstrom also highlighted LSZ’s accessibility programs, which include:

• Zoo for All — A program for people and families who want to visit, but are experiencing financial barriers.

https://lszooduluth.org/zoofor-all/

• Museums for All — This program gives eligible visitors the ability to unlock $3 admission tickets by presenting their SNAP EBT card. https:// museums4all.org/about/

• Blue Star Museum — This program offers free zoo admission to active-duty military members and their families. The program starts on Armed Forces Day and ends on Labor Day. https://www.arts. gov/initiatives/blue-starmuseums

• Community Access Program

— Duluth Public Library cardholders can check out a zoo day pass (for up to four people) for free.

Women in leadership

As noted, LSZ has the distinct privilege of being led by an allfemale team. This is a notable point of pride for the women in charge.

“This is something that we are truly proud of for many reasons,” Hedstrom said. “We are only one of two facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums that has an all-woman leadership team.

“I am so grateful to be a part of our amazing and capable team,” she added. “We each bring a wealth of knowledge in our individual skill set, with a combined 58 years of LSZ experience. We harness those skills and years of experience to strategically position our organization for success.”

Beal and Wilcox agreed.

“I am continually honored to be part of this team of women who serve the mission of the zoo with integrity, grit and determination,” Beal said. “Each person on the leadership team has committed to improving the zoo for the animals, staff and guests, and has overcome challenges in every facet of our industry. Also of note, all of us and much of our teams weathered the pandemic with the zoo, and were committed to staying the course through the shutdowns and unknowns that characterized our daily lives.”

“These women are the most resilient, dedicated and resourceful people I've ever known,” Wilcox said. “It's easy coming to work every day knowing that I can trust and rely on them, and that we all have the same tireless passion for the zoo's mission.”

Continued on page 36

Haley Hedstrom is the CEO at Lake Superior Zoo.

Heidi Beal is Director of Business Operations and staff photographer at Lake Superior Zoo.

Lizzy Larson is Director of Animal Management at Lake Superior Zoo.

Sarah Wilcox is Education/Preschool Director at Lake Superior Zoo.

Samantha Halligan is Director of Guest Experience at Lake Superior Zoo.

As the newest member of the leadership team, Larson said she has felt encouraged by the others in the group.

“I am so incredibly lucky to be a part of this team,” Larson said. “These women have all been directors longer than me, and each one of them has helped support me in my new role this last year. There is a sense of compassion and respect that we bring to our meetings. Every one of us is heard. There are no egos to compete with; we are all on the same side pushing each other and the zoo forward.”

Halligan concurred.

“It's inspiring to have so many knowledgeable, compassionate, strong and creative women leading the team,” she said. “Our leadership also speaks to our commitment to empowering our staff, and creating an environment that encourages diversity, equity and inclusion for all.”

Rewarding work

The women in LSZ leadership find their work incredibly fulfilling.

“I have always felt a connection to animals, and believe in my core that humans have the responsibility to care for the creatures of the world,” Beal said. “When people can see a tiger up close, they can make a connection to them and develop a passion for tiger conservation thousands of miles away.

“And, as staff photographer, the rewards come in several

Black Crested Mangabey mother Kiwi holds baby Taami.

The newest cotton-top tamarin, Echo, enjoys watching zoo photographer Heidi Beal take photos.

ways,” she added. “I’ve spent 10 years observing the animals, staff, grounds and buildings evolve, grow and change. I love showing the sides of the animals that quick, casual visits can miss. The relationships built between staff and animals are not always apparent to zoo visitors, but I am privileged to watch these relationships blossom and grow. Photographing these connections is deeply meaningful to me, as is catching the moments of magic that occur every day.”

Wilcox said she finds it rewarding to watch children light up with joy at the zoo.

“I'm tied to my computer a lot, so when I get to escape my office and watch children learn, it reminds me how important my work is,” Wilcox said. “Whether it's seeing the surprise on a

child's face during a tortoise training demonstration or watching a preschool student help their friend solve a problem — those are special moments for me. Another rewarding aspect of this job is that I've been here long enough to have former students join our team. Lizzy, Sam and I have all hired staff who were in the zoo's teen program when they were younger. It's so cool that they work here now.”

Halligan and Larson, too, noted the rewards they pull from their LSZ work.

“The most rewarding aspect of this job is that as a nonprofit zoological society we are committed to animal welfare and conservation,” Halligan said. “The work we accomplish every day makes a difference not only in our community, but in the world. It's rewarding to have a place on a team that

Tehama is a gray wolf at Lake Superior Zoo.

is so passionate and dedicated to the mission and to the animals in our care.”

“The most rewarding part of my job is watching people form relationships with the animals,” Larson said. “I have a zookeeper background and I still love working with the animals on an almostdaily basis. These animals are intelligent and we are a big part of their day. We may be a smaller-sized zoo, but what we do here in Duluth makes a lasting impact on animals around the world. We are protecting species that may go extinct in our lifetime without us. There is no better job than that.

“And as a side note,” Larson continued, “I met my now-husband here at the zoo back in 2009. He worked in the education department and I was a brand-new keeper. Fast-forward 14 years, and we are married with three kids! My husband no longer works for the zoo, but our shared passion for animals and conservation brought us together and helps keep us together.”

Hedstrom wrapped up with a special note of gratitude.

“We are so thankful for every member of our team: from leadership and animal care specialists, to custodians and beyond,” Hedstrom said. “We couldn’t accomplish our mission without each and every person who works at the zoo!”

For more information, please visit lszooduluth.org. D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

Peyton Acres New build in puts family first

By Amy Carlson

Anew Hermantown home checks all the boxes for a busy family of five.

Upon walking into their modern prairie-style home, the welcoming and spacious main living area and views to the forested backyard immediately capture the eye. With modern, yet comfortable, surroundings full of beautiful details like wood beams supporting the vaulted ceilings; crisp, blacktrimmed windows and fixtures; and subtle complementary shades of gray and white throughout the home, this space is welcoming, yet polished and functional. Built for a local couple with three children and their dogs, designing a home to support their busy, active lifestyle was important, as was finding the right location.

The home as seen from front and above. Note that the gym is not visible at all from the front, and blends seamlessly into the back of the house. At one point, the garage and gym were placed on the other side, but the contractor and designer agreed that flipping both to the current position made better use of the topography of the lot.

The front entry is simple and welcoming, highlighting the different materials and colors used in the exterior finish. Kelsey Hiner worked with the homeowners to get just the right look: “The goal of this home was a modern style, but the homeowners wanted the style to remain timeless.” The stonework was completed by Split Rock in Graphite Falls, and the LP Smart Side was done in Cavern Steel, Cedar, and Desert Stone.

Peyton Acres: Building a neighborhood

Situated in Peyton Acres in Hermantown, the homeowners purchased the property in 2020. The developer and builder of this home, Gary Gilbert, purchased the land in 2019.

“There isn’t another piece of land in Hermantown that compares,” Gilbert said. “It’s beautiful up and down, rolling hills, beautiful soil and old growth forest. It’s just going to be a fantastic neighborhood for families to raise kids, for people to retire and kick back and enjoy the beautiful landscape.”

Nailing the design process

After purchasing their lot, the homeowners began planning right away. Both the husband and wife were very involved in the process from start to finish and were generally drawn to new construction.

“We kind of had some photographs that were like the style of this house that we were really drawn to that looked different than typical houses you see in the area,” the wife said. And when they began working with Heather Hiner of Hiner Home Designs, “She kind of listened, and she … turned it into a house!”

The husband added that they had some goals with the

Continued on page 40

architectural design.

“(We wanted) the big see-through windows in the front and the back, and a big open space like this with a big island, and then (Heather) went to work and came up with the drawing,” he said. “I think literally she made three changes to it after we saw it the first time. She kind of nailed it.”

The homeowners also worked with Kelsey Hiner, an interior designer at Hiner Home Designs, to fine-tune the kitchen, exterior and other areas of the house. Heather Hiner said she enjoyed collaborating on this project with Kelsey, her daughter-in-law.

“She had some ideas that improved the flow and function of the kitchen and worked in detail with the homeowner to create a beautiful space,” Heather said.

They started building with Gilbert Contracting in summer 2021, and moved in just over a year later in autumn 2022. Gilbert was pleased with both the process and the end result, saying Hiner “did an outstanding job in the design in working through the details. It is a spectacular home.”

The homeowners sourced the lighting, the fixtures, and even some of the tiling and flooring themselves, but for the finishing touches they chose Tidy Details, who staged a “reveal” of sorts for the homeowners once their work was complete.

The wife explained, “You come home to your house that feels like yours, only better, you know? They just did a really nice job.”

Functional family spaces

The kitchen is a true focal point in the main living space, complete with a

Continued on page 44

With easy access to the backyard, and plenty of shade on hot days, the backyard, covered deck, and patio provide several options for relaxing for the whole family. The high stone columns center the space and create interest, blending in with the landscaping.

The mudroom was designed to accommodate the family's dogs as well as all the gear the family uses every day. The homeowner says she “really loves the built-in dog kennels. It makes it feel more tidy not to see the kennels when I walk in the door. The dog wash is super convenient and comes in handy when we end up with messy dogs.” At the other end of the room is a complete laundry system that is organized and tidy.

The main living area has vaulted ceilings with hardwood beams and a soaring gas fireplace and open shelving flanking each side. Plenty of windows on both sides add extra light to keep the space bright, even on cloudy days.

The main entry opens up to the open living spaces that center the home, as well as to the covered deck in the private and wooded backyard. The dining room table is made of hackberry wood and resin, and was custom built for the homeowners by Midwest Woodturners, who personally came out and put it together.

With large spaces between the countertops and the island, there is plenty of room for everyone to gather and work together in the kitchen. With black fixtures and hardware, as well as both white and gray countertops and cabinetry, the kitchen is both beautiful and functional.

The center island and kitchen sink area are favorites of interior designer Kelsey Hiner. The large window at the sink and the large kitchen island … really open the space and create room to gather. All the millwork in the kitchen and throughout the home was done by Mindy Sonneman.

The butler’s pantry is full of both enclosed storage and open shelving with plenty of counter space, allowing for a perfect coffee and breakfast station, as well as keeping clutter out of the kitchen. The homeowner said, “I never even close the door, it’s nice because [the shelving] is enclosed so you can’t see the Doritos, they’re in a cabinet.”

gorgeous white quartz center island with gray millwork, and coordinating gray countertops, white tile backsplash, and white cabinetry in the rest of the kitchen and butler’s pantry.

“The clients were fun to work with because they were open to ideas and changes to the kitchen floor plan,” Kelsey said, “and open to exploring and trusting in the process of design.”

The living room is anchored by a gas fireplace and high ceilings, leading to a covered deck and down to the backyard.

The master suite also has a gas fireplace, a bright and spacious walk-in closet, and an ensuite master bathroom with simple, modern lines.

The flooring throughout the main level is vinyl plank hickory, which looks and feels exactly like wood but shows zero evidence of wear after nearly a year. The wife said she lost sleep over this floor.

“We went into it thinking we will only do a wood floor because we just thought that was what we wanted, and they were just pushing the vinyl because it’s just that much more durable,” she said. “And the look of it — everyone seems surprised when we tell them it’s vinyl.”

Behind the kitchen is an office and guest room with a built-in Murphy bed. To avoid wasted space, they combined the husband’s office into a guest room by using a sleek, built-in Murphy bed and putting a shower in the main floor powder room.

“So that leaves us space that is functional,” said the homeowner.

The master bedroom is on the main floor, complete with a gas fireplace, TV, and views to the backyard. With a large and bright walk-in closet and a welcoming en suite bathroom, it is the ultimate retreat for the homeowners.

Off the three-car garage is a custom laundry, mudroom and pet area, with stairs leading directly to the lower level.

“Heather had the idea that (the kids) can come in from the garage or outside and go straight to the gym without coming through our house and dropping all their stuff in the kitchen, grabbing all the food and things along the way,” the wife said.

With bright, open space for the laundry, a full-size dog wash, and two built-in kennel spaces for the dogs, they also have built-in closet space and cubbies to keep everything organized and clean. This area is built to handle everything a busy family can dish out, and the entire space is functional.

The gym: Space for everyone

Tucked completely behind the garage and hidden from the front is a large gym with high ceilings, hardwood flooring, space to play basketball, and pickleball and volleyball nets that can be added at a moment’s notice. This space is the ultimate escape for kids and parents

alike.

“The gym gives the kids (and dogs) a nice place to burn energy (and shoot pucks) in the winter,” the wife said. “We’re happy to be the house to host our kids’ friends.”

One challenge was to prevent the gym from dominating the home.

“It’s well hidden,” the husband said. “We didn’t want anything that looked unusual, so it was tucked back there perfectly.”

“I knew that to some extent that would be the driving force behind the design,” Heather Hiner said. “As large as it is, it isn’t the focal point of the exterior.”

Trust the process

Being first-time homebuilders, there was a learning curve. The husband recalled Gary Gilbert telling them to “‘trust the process’ and it did just kind of work out.”

The wife agreed, adding there were

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The black open-tread stairwell leads to the lower level, where family members and friends can head outside, relax on the sectional sofa, play pool, or hang out at the bar area.

The office is also a guest room and fitted with a murphy bed to make effective use of the space. With views both outside and down to the gym, it is a welcoming space for guests. A full bathroom is just across from the office, providing privacy for guests.

times it felt like the home went “from spacious to tight and then working out. Trust the process, Heather Kiner knows how big a living room should be,” she said with a laugh.

They also learned to plan for some overages.

“The things you forget to factor in, you want new furniture in your house. … There are things that when you’re in it and you feel like, well now’s the time to do it, the upgrades are very tempting,” the wife said. “So you’re probably going to go over budget, but plan a little cushion. I would totally do it again.”

Nearly a year after moving in, the homeowners are still thrilled with their new home. With thoughtful, modern design and beautiful, useful spaces for all ages, this is a home that is truly built for a family. D Amy Carlson is a Duluth freelance writer.

The gym has excellent lighting from both the overhead lights as well as the windows placed up high and is large enough to accommodate everyone. The dedicated exercise room is just off the gym, and the stairs leading to the laundry room and outside are easily accessible without walking through the whole house.

are extra deep to allow for plenty of storage. With an epoxy finish that is carried partway up the walls and the stairs into the house, the homeowners can easily clean up messes without ruining the drywall.

The spacious garage has three stalls that

Thanksgiving Tree encourages an attitude of gratitude

By Molly Milroy

Making a Thanksgiving tree is a fun and thoughtful way to decorate for the autumn season. Also known as a thankful or gratitude tree, this craft is a way to showcase thankfulness and it’s done by writing something you are grateful for on one of the cutout leaves and then hanging it on the tree branch. This simple DIY craft is easy to make and can incorporate the whole family, plus visitors who stop in will be able to participate, too. It’s the perfect decor, whether you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner or having people over at another time.

PHOTOS BY MOLLY MILROY

Materials needed

You will need a glass vase, smooth rocks, tree branches, autumn-colored cardstock, twine, paper hole punch, scissors and pencil.

Creating the tree

The first thing to do is to create the gratitude leaves. These cutouts are where you will eventually write messages of thanks. Either draw leaves or find a download on the internet of sample leaves that you can either print out or trace. Next, draw or trace the leaves on orange, brown, yellow and green paper. Then cut out the leaves. Depending on the children’s ages, you can have them help cut out the different shapes. If you don’t want to spend time cutting each leaf out and you have a Cricut, you can use that instead, as it will streamline the process and provide a smoother, crisp finish on each leaf.

Once the leaves are cut out, punch a hole toward the bottom of each leaf. Next, loop a bit of twine through the hole and tie the ends together. After making the leaves, fill the bottom of a clear vase with smooth rocks.

Then the adventure begins! Go outside and locate a tree branch or multiple small branches, preferably ones with many side branches that fit easily into your vase. Using twine, bundle and tie the branches together at the end. Finally, place the bundled branches inside the vase, using the rocks to keep it sturdy. Now your tree and leaves are ready. Each person can write something they are grateful for on one of the leaves and then hang it up on the tree.

Making memories

With a Thanksgiving Tree, you are not only creating a ritual of giving thanks and practicing an attitude of gratitude, but you are also making memories. If you want to spice it up, you can have a small ceremony where each person reads their words of gratitude out loud and then places it on the tree.

Leave a pen and the extra blank leaves in a bowl next to the Thanksgiving tree. Watch your tree become more decorated each day as additional leaves with words of appreciation are hung. Encourage the kids to write a gratitude each day and hang it on the tree; when family and friends visit, they can add to it, too.

This cute home decor will foster a spirit of thankfulness. As you read what others appreciate in their lives, it may remind you of things as well. This craft can also become an annual tradition and serve as a reminder to yourself and others of all the things to be thankful for. D

Molly Milroy is a Duluth freelance writer.

k i d skorner

By Ali Carlson

Sponsored by:

Summer seems to have come to a quick end! Sloane has been outside soaking up as much as she can before the snow flies. This last month her daycare class took a field trip to the aquarium and I am pretty sure she enjoyed the time with her friends there more than when I bring her :)

SLOanE’s Suggestions

Let’s bust out those sweatshirts and boots and enjoy some of the fall beauty the Northland has to offer!

At the Depot

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.

At the Zoo

Boo at the Zoo

Join us for Boo at the Zoo on Saturdays, Oct. 14, 21 and 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Members only from 9-10 a.m. Tickets are available now, online or at the door.

Let’s Skate

FRIDAY

5:00-8:00 pm*

Super Glow Skate Party!

*Free light stick with each paid admission!!

Fun For All Ages!

8:30-11:00 pm

Adult Night Ages 18+ Only!

College Rate With ID

$8.99 + Rental $9.95 + Rental $8.95 + Rental

At the Aquarium

Scarium at the Aquarium

Join us Oct. 24, 25 and 26 from 4-7 p.m. for Scarium at the Aquarium! Children 12 and under are FREE. Pre-registration is required for entry. Visit www. glaquarium.org/ scarium.

Autumn Celebration

-Autumn Celebration Pretzel Bun Sliders

-Farmer’s Market Veggie and Brie Tartlets

-Game Day Taco Wonton Kickers

By Kim Quinones

The Woman Today

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KIM QUINONES

Autumn Celebration Pretzel Bun Sliders

1 pound Ground beef

1 small Onion, chopped

Salt and pepper To taste

1 package Pretzel buns for sliders (found in deli and/or bakery section)

4-6 slices Favorite melting cheese for burgers

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place a length of parchment paper on two cookie sheets.

Kitchen Tip for speedy cooking of slider patties (works great to prepare meatballs too)

Mix ground beef, chopped onion and seasoning.

Pat out into a rectangle on a prepared cookie sheet.

Using a pizza cutter or knife, slice through, although don’t separate, ground beef into desired number of squares.

Bake at 375 for 20 minutes or until the food thermometer reads 165 degrees. Remove from the oven and drain off any fat.

On the second cookie sheet, place the pretzel buns and open.

Place meat on pretzel buns, top with cheese and close each bun.

Heat in the oven until the cheese is melted, approximately 3-5 minutes.

Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite burger fixings and sides.

Farmer’s Market Veggie and Brie Tartlets

1 box Ready-to bake-Puff Pastry (found in freezer section near pie crusts)

1 Egg, whisked

1 Pastry brush for egg application

1 bunch Asparagus, trimmed

1 Bell Pepper, sliced thin

1 Carrot, shredded

1 Zucchini, sliced into thin ribbons

6 Cherry tomatoes, sliced thin

1 wedge Brie cheese, sliced thin

2 Tbsp. Maple syrup

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Prepare a cookie sheet with one length of parchment paper.

Defrost puff pastry at room temperature per box directions, approximately 30-40 minutes.

Once defrosted, slice a sheet into six rectangles.

Prep vegetables and place each into a dish or in line on a board for speedy assembly.

Whisk egg in a small dish and place pastry brush along side.

Assembly:

Place rectangles of puff pastry onto the prepared cookie sheet.

With a knife, cut around the inside of the puff pastry approx ¼’’ inside the edge (this allows the pastry to ‘’puff’’ around the ingredients. Place veggies of choice and a slice of brie cheese in the center.

Brush the edges with whisked egg. Drizzle maple syrup over top. Bake in a 400-degree oven for 20 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Remove from the oven and cool for 2 minutes.

Tip: If not using the maple syrup, mist or brush the veggies with olive oil to keep them moist during baking.

UPSIDE DOWN BAKING METHOD

On a prepared cookie sheet, drizzle maple syrup in a circle on parchment paper. Directly on top, place cheese and veggies of choice. Place the puff pastry rectangle over top of the mound of ingredients and press all edges down with a fork. Brush with egg. Bake for 20 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven and cool for 2 minutes before turning over.

Game Day

Taco Wonton Kickers

1 pound Ground beef

1 small White onion, chopped

3 Tbsp. Taco seasoning

½ cup Water

6 oz. Queso Quesadilla cheese cut into small cubes

1 package Wonton wrappers - found in the produce section

3 Tbsp. Water

1 Tbsp. Olive oil (or mist), to brush on wontons

Dipping Sauce

16 oz. Sour cream

3-5 Tbsp. Taco seasoning

1 Tbsp. Chives, fresh or freeze dried, chopped

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare a cookie sheet with a length of parchment paper. Brown ground beef with chopped onion then add taco seasoning and ½ cup of water and bring to a simmer until sauce thickens. Place mixture in a bowl and set aside.

Assemble wontons: Place a wonton wrapper on the parchment paper and spoon one tablespoon of meat mixture just below center. Add a cube of cheese on top. Brush all edges of the wonton wrapper with water and fold the wrapper over corner to corner (triangle shape). Wet finger and press all edges together. Lightly mist or brush the wonton with olive oil. Repeat for remaining wontons. Bake for 12-15 minutes at 375 degrees. Check at 12 minutes for browning in your oven. Recipe will make approximately 30 wonton appetizers.

Dipping sauce

Mix all ingredients together and let rest at least 15 minutes before serving.

The Woman Yesterday

Frances Skinner (1918-1994)

By Abigail Blonigen

Frances “Fran” Skinner was born in 1918, growing up in Topeka, Kansas. According to Zenith City Online, she received a degree in teaching from Eastern Michigan University and masters from the University of Michigan and the University of Minnesota.

Skinner worked in social work in the Twin Cities for 10 years before moving to Duluth to serve as executive director of the International Institute around 1951. Ten years later, she left the Institute for the University of Minnesota Duluth, where she taught sociology and helped create the School of Social Development.

She retired in 1979, but continued to serve the community in various roles. According to Zenith City Online, Skinner served as president of the Duluth Community Action board, the North East Minnesota Housing Partnership and the Duluth Housing Trust Fund. She was also involved in the Low Income Housing Consortium, the Northern Community Land Trust Fund and the Minnesota Housing Trust Fund advisory board.

Skinner also helped found the Duluth Whole Foods Co-op in 1970, remaining deeply involved in the organization throughout the remainder of her life, from serving on the board, to management and inventory. The Co-op has a memorial fund in her honor.

Minnesota Gov. Rudy Perpich recognized Skinner’s social work career in 1990 with an economic and social justice award. Her passion for housing access was memorialized when the Toverilla Hotel (102 E. First St., Duluth) was converted into low-income housing and renamed the Frances Skinner Apartments.

Some of her other volunteer pursuits included coordinating the International Folk Festival at Leif Erikson Park, working at the Peace Center, and helping with the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.

Skinner passed away Feb. 6, 1994 at the age of 76. D

Duluthians of Scottish heritage wear traditional Scottish tartans and garments and dance at the 1955 Folk Festival. YWCA and A. M. Chisholm Children's Museum collaborated to provide the annual Folk Festival in Leif Erikson Park to celebrate cultures and community. Frances Skinner coordinated the event, held annually at Leif Erikson Park, for 10 years.