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girlfriends

Southern Minnesota’s Leading Women’s Magazine

SPRING 2014

a lifestyle {newborn.kids.family.senior.wedding} photography

www.bschrohtdesigns.com

DESIGN B.Schroht Design | Photography | Print | Web

OWATONNA, MINNESOTA

a

Lauran Rott

FROM THE PUBLISHER — Lauran Rott is the pubisher of Girlfriends magazine.

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Let us know what you think... and we’ll print what’s trending in our May Edition. We reserve the right to edit comments for space and clarity.

A

s I write this, Mother Nature is playing a cruel joke on us, this April Fool’s day. Snow on April 1st? It certainly can be hard to put together an issue on Spring Fashion with snow and grey clouds. Where is the inspiration I need to get me to summer? Luckily, all I have to do is look in the pages of my own magazine. Cute shoes (I am LOVING the leopard print Sperry shoes from Owatonna Shoe!), adorable spring dresses, and long, flowy pants just begging for a romantic walk on the beach. I envision my perfectly dressed summer life: summers at the cabin with great big campfires, boat rides down the St. Croix, eating cheeseburgers on rooftop decks, all in my new, stylish summer wardrobe playing the role of wingman to my witty personality and perfectly placed hair. *sigh* Spring and summer are really about the simple things that I look forward to every year.

That campfire? It’s got my best friends laughing around it while drinking a summer shandy. The boat ride? My children are behind it waterskiing and tubing with their friends. The cheeseburger on the rooftop deck? Ok, that’s all that is, but it’s an amazing freaking cheeseburger stuffed with American cheese and topped with Cheddar, maybe a little bacon, maybe a little avocado.

Who knows? That’s the unpredictability of the cheeseburger!

So here I sit at my computer in my office and stare at the snow falling while I’m off in dreamland. You know, at the end of the day I’m grateful to have four seasons. I don’t know that I would appreciate each one without the other. That, plus I get to look forward to fall fashion! Cozy sweaters, knee high boots, blue jeans….

Girlfriends are loyal. They are honest, supportive and loving. And they are irreplaceable.

We at Girlfriends magazine want to celebrate your friendships by sharing your photos and few words about what your best buds mean to you.

Just send us a photo and a short paragraph to Editor Brenda Ward at bward@southernminn. com and we’ll do our best to fit it in an upcoming issue.

Here’s to your enduring friendships ... may you celebrate your girlfriends every day!

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contents

15 SPRING 2014

22 15

girlfriends About Us Volume 6, Issue 2

Copyright © Girlfriends 2014 Published April 2014 by: Southern Minn Media 115 W 5th Street Northfield, MN 55057 507-645-1110 Send releases and story ideas to:

Brenda Ward at Girlfriends magazine, bward@southernminn.com

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Publisher:

Features

Editor & Senior Writer:

SPRING FASHION | 5

Lauran Rott Brenda Ward

Contributing Writers:

Kari Berit Myrna Mibus Darcy Coulter Elizabeth Jacobs

Multimedia Consultants:

Beth Barrett Kristie Biehn Kathleen Davies Lisa Dwyer Rachel Ebbers Debbie Ensley Stephanie Hill Diane Gengler Aaron Louks Mark Nelson Catherine Olson Lauran Rott Sherry Wilmes David Weeks

Graphic Designer:

Kate Townsend-Noet Ad Designers:

Mary Jo Blanchard Nicole Gilmore Naomi Kissling Keeley Krebsbach Jenine Kubista Kelly Kubista Kate McGillen Kayla McMullen Paul Ristau Jennifer Schoenbauer Jordan Taylor Photographer:

Brooke Schroht

12

24 PROFILE: Kuoth weil | 20

Time to put the heavy sweaters away.

Spring is finally here!

Acting in a Hollywood film is close to heart for a local Sudanese actor.

FABULOUS FINDS! | 10

CUrative canines | 24

Spring Clean your clutter | 12

Canines have a way of inveigling their way into our hearts – and us into their hearts. For one man that bond has been incredibly therapeutic.

Take your space from chaos to order with tips from our professionals.

Candida: what to know | 26

Need help finding the perfect gift?

Is your “inner ecology” off balance?

THE STORYTELLERS | 15 Stories of women’s history are sewn into Jewell Wolk’s story quilts.

JUST FOOD COLUMN | 27 Co-ops ROCK!.

Accessories FROM THE PUBLISHER | 3 From the Kitchen | 22 WE TIME | 23 Unexpected Caregiver | 28 GIRLFRIEND GUIDE | 29

} ON THE COVER: Spring Fashion!

Standing; Cara Steward is wearing a Gramicci eyelet shirt ($48), Woolrich tee ($39), IT! denim jacket ($88) and Frye boots ($379). Ellington purse ($99).

Shelly Whiteman is wearing Mia & Moss jeans ($99), Gramicci shirt ($45) and TOMS shoes ($69); All jewelry by 31bits.

RARE PAIR 401 Division Street Northfield www.rarepair.com

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t’s the season to open the windows for an inviting breath of fresh air and tuck away the heavy sweaters that were ever so useful during the long winter we endured. Yes, it is spring. As nature once again brings forth color and life, there’s no better time than now to refresh and re-energize your personal style!

Pantone Fashion Color Report Spring 2014

(www.Pantone.com) “Designers take a modern twist on the traditional for spring 2014 by pairing soft pastels with vivid brights to create a colorful equilibrium. Inspired by a mixture of blooming flowers, travels abroad and strong, confident women, designers use color to refresh, revive and defy conventional wisdom.”

fashion SPRING 2014 |

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Jackie Hubers is wearing a light and airy sleeveless blouse by “M” and her embossed skinny jeans by Free People.

Jackie’s mom, Verna Poquette is modeling a spring outfit by “M”.

Their sandals are by Minnetonka Moccasin and assortment of Jewely is also found @ the Rare Pair.

RARE PAIR 401 Division Street Northfield www.rarepair.com

“Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.”

– Doug Larson

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Rachel Johnson is wearing a Rue 21 tank with built-in necklace ($7), Vanity longsleeved shirt ($6), Faded Glory jeans, ($8), and Montego Bay Club platform shoes ($10).

Seth Grabow is wearing an American Eagle short-sleeved button-up shirt ($8), Tommy Hilfiger T-shirt ($6), Rock Revival jeans ($70), belt, $4; Puma shoes ($16); and Adidas watch ($10).

PLATO’S CLOSET 1878 Madison Avenue Mankato www.platoesclosetmankato.com

“April hath put a spirit of youth in everything.”

– William Shakespeare

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Kelly Jerrow is wearing white capris by Miss Me ($89), yellow lace tank

by M-Rena ($25), green zig zag ruffle tank by Tulle ($32), studded denim jacket by Buffalo ($138), silver necklace ($20), earrings by Bella Soul Design ($21), handbang by Melie Bianco ($82) and navy flip flops

by Passion footwear ($26).

Jackie Carlander is wearing a dress by Miss Me Couture ($68), pink adjustable belt by New Prospects ($30), long strand pearls by Le Glitz ($42), cubic diamond studs by Le Glitz ($18) and black lace tote by Buco ($150).

CREATING A RUCKUS TOO 408 Central Avenue Faribault www.creatingaruckustoo.org

“Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!’”

– Robin Williams

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“A little madness in the spring; is wholesome even for the King.”

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– Emily Dickinson

1 Caslynn Lizzie Clark wedge, comes in royal blue and coral. Fabric in Nubuck Leather ($120).

3

2 Santa Cruz Leather from Keen for Men; stone-wash leather, at just above the ankle level ($100).

3 Maderas Oxford sneaker from Keen. Comes in grey, white, and pool green floral ($60).

4 Youth Leopard Sperry

Top-Sider with a hot pink sole. Comes in sizes 31/2 - 7 ($55).

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OWATONNA SHOE 121 N Cedar Avenue Owatonna www.owatonnashoe.com

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OUR MARK Y ARS! D CALEN

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Adorable scenes and colorful art make these a joy to put together for ages 2 and up.

The Sketchy Artist, Downtown Northfield, thesketchyartist.com.

A variety of piece assortments and sizes starting at $7.50

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Starting

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Spring Clean your

Inundated with stuff? Take your space from chaos to order with tips from professional organizers.

By Elizabeth Jacobs

E

nvelopes lay strewn across end tables, cards mounded on bookcase shelves, and papers randomly piled on the floor. In the midst of it stands Father Henry Doyle pondering what to do with it all.

“This whole thing is overwhelming,” said Fr. Doyle, Alumni Relations and Outreach at Shattuck-Saint Mary’s School, who is moving out of his home of 22 years. “It has gotten so bad I don’t even have company!”

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Fr. Doyle is referring to disorganization, a problem that many run into at one point or another. So what do you do when your closets are cluttered and you can’t find, well, anything?

According to Penny Hammond, owner of Outta Space Organizing in Waseca (outtaspaceorganizing.com), the first step is to pause.

Next, plan. Then, plunge in!

Organizing is all about processing the stuff that comes into your home, says Hammond.

If something is not convenient or easy, people

tend to avoid it. But, if you designate a place for things where you will be able find it, you are more likely to use it.

Hammond suggests taking a look at your belongings and asking yourself: • Why should I keep it?

• Where would I keep it?

• Who will be upset or even notice if you get rid of it?

“People keep Cool Whip containers for 50 years, because why?” asks Hammond. “You are not just getting rid of that stuff, you are

releasing it into the world for some one else to use.”

Once you’ve sorted and decided what to keep, give away, donate or sell and make a plan. Decide how you want to use the space to best suit your family.

“Designate a home for everything. If you put categories of items together, like batteries, then you can quickly find and choose which one you need,” says DeeDee Welles of Details, Organizing It All of St. Paul (www.detailstwincities.com). “This saves money, as well as time, since you won’t purchase something you already own.”

Target, Ikea and many others stores have storage sections with containers available in which to store most any kind of item. Stylish baskets, for example, not only help hide the bathroom clutter, but also keep things together and look great.

If your home has small spaces, look to the

Save the Date

walls for solutions. Many things can be stored on shelves or racks rather than on tables or countertops. Putting up shelves in closets makes a huge difference in added storage space.

Label bins used for seasonal and less often needed items before tucking them away, to make things easier to find when you are ready to use them.

Once everything has a home, keep it organized.

“Be vigilant about what you buy and what you keep,” says Welles. “Ask yourself: Do I really need this or will I wear this?”

Make the effort to remove clutter regularly by keeping on hand a basket, bin or box into which you put things you no longer need.

And, if something only takes a few minutes to accomplish, like sorting the mail, don’t push it aside for another time; take care of it right away. That’s just what Fr. Doyle is plan-

Save the Date

GIR LS NITE OUT

Downtown Northfield

Friday, May 9, 2014 An Evening of Shopping & Dining

ning to do after he moves out of his cluttered apartment into a new home.

“My goal for my new place is that everything has a place, no piles,” he said. “People are going to come in!”

Spring is in the air – a perfect time to organize and refresh your home. Go ahead, take the plunge!

Elizabeth Jacobs is a freelance writer based in Plymouth.

TIPS

• Categorize your stuff and designate a place for it • Use baskets or storage containers to keep things together • Add shelves on walls and in closets for extra storage space • Remove clutter regularly • Spend a few minutes each day to sort mail or put things away

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Women’s Health Center physicians see patients at our clinic on the Northfield Hospital campus. Call 507-646-1478 for an appointment.

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507-646-1478 : NorthfieldHospital.org/WomensHealthCenter 2000 North Avenue, Northfield

a classmate from their one-room schoolhouse days and their sk Jean classmate said, Wakely “Do you know of why I always Northhated you girls?” field about her “Sensing a late mother, good story was Jewell Wolk, and about to be she will invite told, my mother you to sit at her grabbed the cofkitchen table. fee pot, pushed “Mother was a the plate of storyteller,” Jean cookies forward says as she pours and said, ‘No. you a cup of cofStories of women’s history are sewn into Jewell Wolk’s story Do tell!’” fee. “Mother was Jewell’s a creator and a quilts and kept alive by storytelling daughter, Jean Wakely. childhood friend designer and she explained that was an infinitely she was jealcurious woman.” drawn to women’s history. But, says Jean, ous of the lunches Jewell and her siblings Jean joins you at the table, pushes a plate her mother noticed that history books were brought to school, which often included of cookies in your direction and says, “Here, written about men, by men, yet she knew chicken and cake. Her own dinner pail was have one.” that it was women who had domesticated filled with little more than a sandwich made You take two and settle in because it’s the west. of bread and huckleberry syrup. The syrup clear that Jean shares her mother’s knack “She was fascinated with that,” Jean says, would seep through the bread and make for telling a story and you can’t wait to hear her voice gathering energy. Jewell believed the sandwich purple, Jean says, and all the more. women’s stories were important and wanted neighbor girl had was a “purple sandwich.”

Those who met Jewell knew right off that to share them. But how?

Jean said her mother knew that she she was an extraordinary woman. Raised Jean slips into storytelling mode and beabsolutely had to share the purple sandwich on a ranch near Cut Bank, Mont., Jewell gins. One day after her seven children were story. She thought about writing it down had great stories to share of growing up in grown, Jewell and her sister were talking to but that didn’t seem quite right. Then it hit the west in the early 1900s. She was also

By Myrna CG Mibus

A

The

Storytellers

uuu

Large Photo: “Women of the Plains” This story-telling quilt was designed to give proper recognition to the Plains women and the role they played. Photo by Paul Hartley Small Photos: Close up detail of teepee that has flaps to open and see the details inside.

Photo by Paul Hartley SPRING 2014 |

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Jewell Wolk, storeyteller and quilt maker. Story Quilt Project

Jean Wakely established theJewell Wolk Stroy Quilt Project in honor of her mother Jewell. Story Quilt Project

tion, launching Jewell on a research adventure.

Jewell - she could quilt it! The idea for Jewell’s It would take one to three years for her to fully first story quilt - The Purple Sandwich Quilt - was develop each quilt’s theme. born.

Over 20 years, Jewell made nine story quilts.

Jewell meticulously drew patterns of a school Each one depicts a different story of women’s lives house, outbuildings, children, animals, trees and work. Word of Jewell’s quilts spread and soon and clouds. Then she chose fabrics and embelshe was invited to share them at storytelllishments from her stash of scraps and ing conferences and other events. bric-a-brac and supplemented that She also helped found the Monwith fabric she found on sale at tana Storytellers Roundup in the five-and-dime store. With 1994 so that she and other needle and thread, Jewell storytellers could share used a technique she intheir stories. vented called “Appli-J” to As years went by, Jewstitch hundreds of pieces ell slowly lost her eyesight of fabric to a background to macular degeneration. and give dimension and Eventually, she had to the feeling of movement to pack away her fabric, thread her fabric scenes. She creand needles and stop making ated flaps to open so a person her story quilts. Then, in 2011 could find hidden scenes inside, – Jean Wakely at age 86, after a life rich with blessand she drew on faces and other ings and full of stories listened to and details too small to depict with thread. told, Jewell passed away.

After hundreds of hours of work, Jewell had “In my mother’s will she said the quilts have a Purple Sandwich Quilt that depicted her to stay together,” says Jean, the oldest of Jewell’s memories of attending a one-room schoolhouse seven children. “As long as I’m able to keep the combined with those her mother told of her days quilts together and tell their stories, I will.” as a schoolmarm.

Jean established the Jewell Wolk Story Quilt Jewell continued to plan, design and sew.

Project and launched a website (www.storyquiltEach new quilt she made started with a ques-

“Mother was a storyteller. Mother was a creator and a designer and she was an infinitely curious woman.”

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project.com) to showcase the quilts. She’s working with Paul Krause of Dancing Sun Multimedia to create a documentary film about her mother, and she plans to create a booklet with pictures of her mother’s quilts.

Now Jean has found her own voice as a storyteller. She takes Jewell’s quilts to

storytelling roundups, quilt groups and other events. She shares her mother’s stories of women’s history, of the purple sandwich, of life on the plains. But Jean adds her own story each time she speaks. She talks about an amazing woman who grew up in Montana and raised seven children, and she

explains how this woman used her creativity and curiosity to make extraordinary “story quilts” that she shared far and wide.

“My mother was a storyteller,” Jean says when she starts her talks. “Her name was Jewell.”

LEFT: Close up of The Purple Sandwich Quilt of girls with their dinner pails in a schoolhouse.

The girl in the yellow dress is holding her purple sandwich. Photo by Paul Hartley RIGHT: Jean Wakely telling stories of The Purple Sandwich Quilt to school children as part of the Montana Storytelling Roundup in 2013. Story Quilt Project

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Profile

Kuoth A Weil

By Brenda K.M. Ward

Acting in a Hollywood film is close to heart for a local Sudanese actor

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cting alongside topnotch Hollywood celebrities and jetting across the world to film on location was not what Kuoth Weil had envisioned for her life. Until recently, the last time she was in character was while performing in a play at Trinity Lutheran School in Faribault, back in eighth grade. But after a friend told Kuoth that Sudanese actors were being sought for a movie, the 24-year-old model decided to give it a shot – where

she landed was smack alongside Reese Witherspoon for the filming of a movie titled “The Good Lie” due to be released in September.

Kuoth was cast as the character of Abital, one of four children who escapes Southern Sudan during the Sudanese Civil War and treks 1,000 miles to the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya. Fast forward 10 years, and the four young adults emigrate to the United States with the help of the United Nations Refugee Relocation Program.

For Kuoth, taking on this role was an experience closer to heart than most could imagine.

At age 3, she lost her father, a medic and aide for the United Nations, as a result of the war.

Her older brother later became a real life “lost boy” who settled in Minnesota, thanks to the United Nations’ Refugee Relocation Program, and ultimately brought his family – including Kuoth – from Sudan to Faribault in 1998.

In May 2013, Kuoth graduated from Augsburg College and is now living in Hollywood, Calif., where she is in the process of starting a business helping to employ women in third world countries. From losing family and friends in a war-torn country to being given unexpected, life-changing opportunities, Kuoth Weil has every intention of giving back.

GF: What was your first movie experience like?

KW: To be on a movie set was definitely something that I couldn’t fathom at first. When I got to Atlanta I wanted to keep an open mind about everything, so I had no expectations. At first I compared it to a modeling shoot since I was already used to that world – but it was nothing like that. I arrived on set and to my astonishment I had my own trailer. When I’m modeling it’s usually just me and the photographer, stylist or make-up artist, but when it came to shooting the movie there were at least 30 people on set.

I was so terrified at first because everyone was watching me. By the third take I knew I had to just block everyone out and portray my character the way that was expected of me. I learned to adapt very quickly by observing my fellow cast members and practicing every night.

GF: How did you feel about working with Reece Witherspoon?

KW: When I first auditioned for the movie I had no idea who the cast members were going to be. A week before we rehearsed I was informed that Reese Witherspoon was going to be in it and I was thrilled! I am a big fan of Reese and to be working with her was such a privilege. From the first day that we rehearsed to the last day that we shot with her she was always up for a good laugh. I had one of my very first scenes with her and I expressed to her how nervous I was. Throughout the scenes she made me feel more comfortable. I often thought

about what a great example she was to learn from because she did it so naturally.

GF: What surprised you most about being in a movie?

KW: I think that I surprised myself. I thought about why I didn’t pursue acting earlier, but I believe that everything happens when it is supposed to. Another thing that surprised me was the amount of production that was put into the movie. Everyone was there for the same reason and because they are doing their jobs the best they could; I was also required to do the same.

GF: What was the biggest obstacle you overcame in taking on this project?

KW: My first obstacle was my education. It was my last semester at Augsburg College and I had to choose whether I was going to get my degree or take the opportunity to be in a movie. I thought about it long and hard, and in the end I chose to do the movie because of how rare it was to have that experience. Ultimately, I graduated and got my degree while filming, but it was not an easy thing to do.

The second obstacle was getting in character. Abital and I have similar beginnings and circumstances. Her story was so remarkable that I felt it was my job to show the world who she was. The most obvious thing we had in common was death – we both had family that died in the war. Portraying grief was the most challenging thing for me to do because I felt I have been desensitized to it. I often would find myself crying in my hotel room because of the things I had to bring back into memory on set. I feel that my obstacles were there for me to realize how much this movie was going to change my life.

GF: What was one of the most memorable parts of your acting experience in “The Good Lie?” KW: I will never forget the cast members that I got to work with.

We had such good chemistry that we still stay in touch today. Even though we were acting out a family, we felt as though we were family off camera. I also loved the fact that I got to go to Africa. Although it was not Sudan or Ethiopia I feel like

anywhere in Africa is home. South Africa was such a beautiful place and I will definitely go back in the future.

GF: What was the greatest gift you received from the experience, and how has it changed you?

KW: By far the experience. This is something that is not given to everybody so I feel blessed that I was chosen to do this. “The Good Lie” is the story of my country and I will be a part of the history of that story.

I will be able to reach out to more people than I ever even imagined. I now know the importance of having a dream and never letting it die.

This experience has made me more aware of who I am and what I am capable of. It has made me realize how lucky I am. My past is what makes me strong despite how negative it may be. I’m not afraid to express myself and pursue my dreams.

Inspired by true events, “The Good Lie” follows a young refugee of the Sudanese Civil War who wins a lottery for relocation to the United States with three other lost boys.

Encountering the modern world for the first time, they develop an unlikely friendship with a brash American woman assigned to help them, but the young man struggles to adjust to this new life and his feelings of guilt about the brother he left behind.

“A Good Lie” is set to be released Sept.

10, 2014.

(ComingSoon.net)

GF: What do you envision for your future self?

KW: I see a lot of things in my future. I originally wanted to work for the United Nations and still see myself doing that. I want to help refugees because I was given a chance to have a better life. I want to make this world a better place, not only for myself but for other people as well. There are a lot of things I want to do for women and girls. I feel that I can be a voice for those who are voiceless. I want to help my community and eventually go back to my country and give back. My life was given to me by those who have sacrificed to give me a better life; I have lost so much, but I feel that by being selfless and giving I will experience more peace of mind.

I am also partnering with Bulu Mango, a jewelry and accessory line that empowers women artisans in Uganda by providing them with jobs so they can sustain themselves and their families with the employment. Employing women is a crucial thing, especially in Third World countries because they are the ones who are often left with the burden of taking care of the family.

Everything takes time and I am patiently letting the pieces fall into place.

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From The Kitchen

Waseca Did You Remember to Schedule a Wellness Check for Your Retirement Savings?

Nyla Hagen, AAMS®

Financial Advisor 132 17th Ave NE Waseca, MN 56093 507-835-5207 Toll Free: 866-835-5207

Recipe compliments of The Daily Grind The Honeybee 13 oz. steamed milk 2 shots espresso ½ oz. vanilla syrup ½ oz. cinnamon syrup ½ oz. honey Combine the espresso, syrups and honey in a mug and add the steamed milk.

Give it a stir and top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey. The Honeybee can be served hot during the cooler days of spring or cold when the heat is on.

Invigorating. That’s how Jasmine Hollar, manager of The Daily Grind, describes the scent of coffee. “Each type of coffee smells so different, but so perfect.”

It’s difficult to argue with Jasmine’s logic. The art of combining coffee with just 22

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Espresso Shop

the right ingredients to form a perfectly satisfying drink is something Jasmine does each day, and she’s certainly made it work in the Honeybee, the shop’s featured coffee drink during spring and summer months.

The welcoming and unique atmosphere of The Daily Grind makes an ideal setting to sit and enjoy the refreshing beverage.

Tracy Jevning purchased the shop in 1999, moving it to a newly renovated historic building in downtown Waseca in 2005, where it remains today. The Daily Grind, featuring coffee, freshly baked pastries, and breakfast, lunch and dessert items, is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday-Friday, and 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday.

The Daily Grind Espresso Shop 100 North State Street, Waseca Facebook: The Daily Grind Espresso Shop

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

ENJOY living in your home again by first conquering your clutter.

Penny Hammond

Refresh Your Spaces ~ Reclaim Your Time ~ Renew Your Spirit

507-837-0649

We Time

Parent + child + book

= time well spent

By Darcy Coulter

R

emember the joy of being caught up in the imagination of a book as you read with mom?

Remember the excitement of learning to read and telling mom the story? Such are memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

This Mother’s Day, or any time of the year, share the gift of reading with your child through the Imagination Libraries program.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library was launched in 1996 with the intention of sharing the magic of books with children and ensuring that every child has access to books, regardless of their family’s income. Since then, the program has expanded to include 1,600 local communities, with 36 branches in Minnesota including Faribault, New Ulm, Northfield and soon Owatonna.

Jeff Conyers, executive director of the Dollywood Foundation, noted the benefits of the program for the local communities it serves.

“It offers a way for communities who are interested in providing books to their children at home a way to collectively purchase specially selected books at extremely low prices,” said Conyers.

For each child in the program, the cost per month is about $2.08

for the community organizations that sponsor the program, which includes the book and mailing costs.

The Dollywood Foundation gives communities a custom built book order system and adds enhancements to the books. Though communities certainly benefit from the program, Conyers knows that the real purpose is to create a lifelong habit of reading.

“The ultimate goal is to get children familiar with books, develop a love of reading and develop a great imagination” said Conyers.

The program lasts from birth until the child is five years old, when they graduate out of the program. While it increases an interest in reading and creativity for the children, it also develops social and emotional skills when a parent or caregiver spends oneon-one time reading with them, said Conyers. Not to mention quality time for parents to spend with their child.

Registering your child for the program is easy. Simply sign up online or fill out a form found in libraries, hospitals and other public places. A complete listing of locations and registration information is available at ImaginationLibraries.com.

Darcy Coulter is a senior at Gustavus Adolphus College studying English and Religion.

It’s Springtime at NRC! At Northfield Retirement Community, our residents are lively, energetic and vibrant. Join a fun and friendly community that has it all!

Northfield Retirement Community offers: • Multiple living options, including independent and assisted living apartments • Skilled nursing, memory care and rehabilitation • Full-time spiritual care services with on-site pastoral care • A beautiful 30-acre campus with quiet spaces and Pathways of Faith Park To learn more about NRC’s comprehensive approach to senior living, stop by or visit us online at northfieldretirement.org.

NRC Resident Val Daehlin enjoys a quiet moment outside.

507-664-3466 www.northfieldretirement.org

Find us on

Facebook

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Wellness

Kendall Iverson gives Cooper a kiss on the head during a visit to the hopital before his heart surgery.

Curative canines

By Brenda K.M. Ward

S

tories depicting the devotion of dogs are not uncommon. Perhaps you’ve seen on YouTube or Facebook clips of a brave dog rescuing its owner from an icy lake or heartwarming incidents of a faithful puppy that will not leave a toddler’s side. Canines have a way of inveigling their way into our hearts – and us into their hearts. For some people, like Kendall Iverson, that connection can be incredibly therapeutic.

Over the past couple of years, Kendall has experienced some of the most remarkably challenging moments of his life as his health faltered time and again. But thanks to a stray dog he happened to meet, Kendall has been able to heal in a way that he could not have surmised.

Following gallbladder surgery and a subsequent diagnosis of kidney failure, in 2012 Kendall was diagnosed with congestive heart failure at the age of 43. His grim diagnosis put him on a waiting list for a heart transplant, but his wait ended on Christmas Eve of that year when he received the gift of a new heart.

The surgery was an initial success, and Kendall was released from the hospital on New Year’s Day, but it was necessary for him to stay near Minneapolis for a recovery period before heading back home to Dickinson, N.D. Relatives in Faribault welcomed him into their

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home, and Kendall began volunteering at Prairie’s Edge Humane Society where he befriended a golden retriever mix named Morris. The connection was instantly fortuitous.

“I discovered that petting a dog would help me quit shaking from the medications that I have to take,” said Kendall. Petting the dog also helped to reduce his pain.

Meanwhile, Morris would lie quietly next to Kendall, enjoying his company.

Kendall soon adopted Morris, now known as Cooper, and the two returned to North Dakota with a request from Kendall’s doctor that his employer let the dog accompany Kendall to work to help keep his shaking under control.

Cooper, meanwhile, seemed to sense when to comfort his master by lying calmly next to him and when to be playful. He just understood.

Kendall’s health, however, took a turn for the worse, and he found himself back at Abbott Northwestern Hospital. While in Minnesota, Cooper stayed with Sandy Vesledahl, business operations manager at Prairie’s Edge, who had met Kendall during his volunteer time.

Sandy offered to shuttle Cooper to and from the hospital to visit his owner. During most of the 45-minute drive the patient dog would lie on the floor of Sandy’s car, but as soon as she veered the car onto the exit towards the hospital, he would begin pacing in anticipation.

“On his third trip to the hospital he led Sandy to my room. He learned the halls that

fast,” said Kendall. “He would come in, look at me to see if I was doing OK, and I would invite him onto the bed. He would just lay next to me and somehow take the stress and pain away from me.”

Another surgery repaired Kendall’s heart, but during Cooper’s first post-op visit to the ICU he hesitated to leap onto Kendall’s bed, perhaps because of the many tubes and wires to which Kendall was connected. A nurse lifted Cooper onto the bed. He sniffed at the incision area, then gently laid his head across Kendall’s chest. It was time for healing.

During his many visits Cooper became well known by the staff at Abbott Northwestern and was dubbed “Dr. Cooper, heart specialist.”

Today, Cooper and Kendall are back and home and back at work. Kendall has some good days and some bad days in regard to his health, but every day Cooper is there with him.

“We are best friends; he is very important to me. He is one that doesn’t like to be away from me for any real length of time, and we now do almost everything together,” said Kendall. “It is unbelievable how pets can help you relax and forget the stresses and the pains of normal life, let alone when someone is in such need.”

Kendall recently told his story at the Prairie’s Edge Human Society Annual Dinner and Auction for the Animals. Read more about Kendall and Cooper in Sandy Vesledahl’s blogs: northfield.patch.com/groups/sandy-vesledahls-blog.

Providing comfort to the young and the elderly

• In Northfield, volunteers like Paula Granquist bring Kendall is by no means alone in receiving their dog to spend healing from pets. The American Humane Astime with developsociation, a leader in Animal-Assisted Therapy, mentally disabled encourages the use of pets for many forms of clients at Laura therapeutic healing, whether health setbacks Baker Services. or helping children of military personnel cope The Northfield with the deployment of a parent.

Long Term Care “Animal-Assisted Therapy has been shown Center also welto help children who have experienced abuse comes pet visits. or neglect, patients undergoing chemotherapy • In or other difficult medical treatments, and Owatonna, veterans and their families who are struggling Jan Haycraft Kendall to cope with the effects of wartime military Iverson a and her dog, nd Coo per with service,” according to their website, americansome his Penny, visit the doctors on disch humane.org. arge da elderly in local care centers y.

When it comes to receiving the comfort of dogs and assisted living facilities and make weekly animals, it seems many can benefit. with the help of reading visits to elementary schools, spending At Faribault Care Center, residents have the Can Do Canines (can-do-canines.org), time with students in special education classes. opportunity to enjoy a pet visit once a week an organization based in New Hope.

• Rene Niemczyk’s dog, Rio, brings smiles when community members, as well as folks

At these facilities, puppies or young dogs to the faces of the elderly at Janesville Nursing from S.A.F.E. Sanctuary and the Faribault in training move in with minimum security Home and the Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton Animal Center, bring in dogs, cats and even a prisoners and are trained on a daily basis under Elementary School where students read aloud rabbit for residents to spend time with. the direction of program volunteers and staff. to the dog.

“It is amazing how an animal can light up a The goal is to ready them for final training as a face,” said Danielle Moldan, activities direccertified assistance dog for one of the following purposes: • Mobility Assist Dog “I truly believe that animals have the ability to know when someone is hurting, • Diabetes Assist Dog whether physically or emotionally, and they want nothing more than to help and • Hearing Assist Dog offer comfort. ... Who would have ever thought that a heart transplant patient from • Autism Assist Dog Dickinson, N.D., would cross paths with a lost dog in Rural Rice County, and end up • Seizure Response Dog with each able to ‘rescue’ the other one? One released from the hospital on New Beyond the obvious benefit to the recipients of the dogs, training these animals often Year’s to begin life with a new heart and one found lost on New Year’s in need of a dramatically changes the lives of the inmates, new home. Miracles happen every day around us and sometimes we don’t realize giving them a sense of purpose and confidence it until all of the pieces of the puzzle come together.” that wasn’t there before.

– Sandy Vesledahl, Prairie’s Edge Humane Society “In the years of working with inmates and the dogs, I am continually amazed at the difference a dog can make in the life of some of these Inmates helping others through tor at Faribault Care Center. “Even some low inmate handlers,” said Julianne Larsen, director training dogs cognitive residents who we usually have no of training at Can Do Canines. “Providing this response from light up. It brings backs somespecial gift for a person in need gives inmates a Dogs seem to also have the ability to heal thing.” chance to pay back to society and develop posiin other, unexpected ways: Healing through Hospitals, nursing homes, elementary tive reinforcement models.” purpose. schools and homes for the disabled – more Healing, happiness, purpose – the benefits Inmates at the Minnesota Department of and more establishments are utilizing animals received from companionship of a dog are farCorrections at Faribault and the Federal Corin recognition of their emotional and healing reaching. Many would not hesitate to say that rectional Institution at Waseca have the option benefits. they are even life changing. to help train canines as service or assistance

Train a dog Good Canine Citizen Classes: This training through the American Kennel Club has dogs learning to sit, lay down, stay, come, heel, greet strangers and other dogs, and navigate obstacles. Once certified, the dog and its owner can participate in pet programs in schools, nursing homes, hospitals and care centers.

Locally, Jane Fenton teaches these classes at Countryside Animal Hospital and Kennels in

Dundas. Information: AKC.org or CountrysideAnimalHospital. com.

Therapy Dog training: Therapy Dogs International is a volunteer organization that regulates, tests and registers therapy dogs and their handlers. Information: TDI-Dog.org.

Adopt a dog Prairie’s Edge Humane Society: Prairie’s Edge has numerous dogs and cats for adoption and offers puppy

and dog training classes. Information: prairiesedgehs.org.

S.A.F.E. Sanctuary (Save Animals From Euthanasia): Also in Faribault, this is a “no kill” dog and cat foster-based rescue organization that also trains dogs on the basics.

Information: safesanctuary.org.

Andrea’s Angels Rescue: Northfielders Andrea Stark and her mother, Kim Stark, rescue homeless and unwanted dogs and cats and find them new homes. As the animals await a permanent home, volunteers

foster them in homes where the animals learn to be a part of the family. Information: aangelsrescue.com.

Steele County Humane Society: Adoptable pets stay in foster homes until a permanent home is found.

Information: steelecountyhumanesociety.org.

Kind Veterinary Clinic: This clinic acts as the pound for the cities of St. Peter, Cleveland and Kasota, as well as Nicollet County. Information: kindvetclinic.com.

Waseca County Humane Society: Animals in the Waseca area are cared for here until their permanent home is secured by adoptive owners. Information: petfinder. com/shelters/wcahs.

Blue Earth/Nicollet Humane Society: Located in Mankato, this organization accepts animals from local pounds and hold them until adoption. Information: benchs. org.

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25

Wellness

Candida: What to know

Is your “inner ecology” off balance? You may be victim to a yeast overgrowth.

By Brenda K.M. Ward

A

complicated and fascinating organism, the human body is an ongoing case study of which scientists and health care professionals continue to attempt to unravel the puzzle. But sometimes the theories they arrive at are controversial. Such is true with a yeast condition known as “candida overgrowth.”

Here’s what we know: Candida is a type of yeast that is normally found in small amounts in our body. “Good” bacteria and a healthy immune system work to keep this bacteria at normal levels, but sometimes candida grows out of control, causing known conditions like thrush, vaginal yeast infections or diaper rash.

Here’s what’s in question: While conventional and alternative medicine both recognize the above conditions, some alternative practitioners believe that such symptoms are not isolated and that this yeast overgrowth can spread throughout the gastrointestinal tract and burden the immune system, resulting in several symptoms like bloating, fatigue, sugar cravings, depression and a host of others.

“Traditional medicine will recognize a vaginal yeast infection, thrush or jock itch and treat it at that moment. But what we look at in holistic health care is that yeast grows in a warm, dark environment, and you can’t limit it – it’s probably growing throughout the body,” said Lisa VanWatermulen, family nurse practitioner with Between the Bridges Healing Center in Mankato.

As the yeast infection spreads, the immune system tries to fight it off and becomes taxed, causing any number of symptoms such as recurrent colds and inflammation, says VanWatermulen. Using antibiotics to fight off these symptoms 26

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perpetuates the problem.

However, many conventional practitioners aren’t convinced that yeast overgrowth can develop into widespread problems.

“Unfortunately, there isn’t much evidence to support the diagnosis of yeast syndrome,” wrote Dr. Brent A. Bauer, director of the Mayo Clinic Complementary and Integrative Medicine Program, in a Consumer Health post on mayoclinic.com.

“And there are no clinical trials that document the efficacy of a candida cleanse diet for treating any recognized medical condition.”

And so you’re left to decide for yourself: Is candida overgrowth the cause of various ailments? Or are your symptoms due to other mysteries of the human body?

Causes Antibiotic use –The more you are exposed to antibiotics, the more likely you are to experience a yeast overgrowth, as antibiotics wipe out both the bad bacteria and the useful good bacteria.

Diet – A diet high in sugar and processed food causes yeast overgrowth, because sugar is exactly what yeast feeds on.

Alcohol – Too much alcohol kills off friendly bacteria and taxes the liver. It is also a yeast byproduct that can act as a fertilizer increasing the growth of yeast.

Other – Environmental molds or chemicals, hormone imbalance and immune deficiency or excessive stress can weaken the immune system, allowing the yeast to grow unchecked.

Symptoms Candida symptom questionnaires can easily be found on the web, most of which use a point system to determine yeast overgrowth. Some symptoms include: Skin irritations – Rash, fungus,

dandruff, ring worm, athlete’s foot, thrush, acne Digestive – Sugar cravings, allergies, diarrhea, constipation, low blood sugar, food sensitivities, indigestion, bad breath Gender specific problems – Vaginal yeast infection, endometriosis, jock itch Immune problems – Feeling cold or shaky, chronic congestion, ear infections, puffy eyes, hay fever, chronic fatigue, diabetes Mental and behavioral symptoms – Brain fog, hyperactive behaviors, lack of focus and concentration, depression, anxiety, dizziness, irritability

Diet – Remove sugar and simple carbohydrates from your diet using an “anti-candida” or “body ecology” diet for two to three months or longer. Sugar cravings typically subside after a few days.

Antifungal – While antifungal pharmaceuticals can be used, they may be hard on the liver and ongoing liver testing is necessary, says VanWatermulen. Botanical antifungals can be used more longterm and seem to be as effective, she says.

Probiotics – This supplement keeps good bacteria in the body and the overgrowth of yeast in check.

Testing

Sources:

While self-testing means are available, these tests provide more accurate results: Blood tests – To look for antibodies to candida Stool test – To determine whether abnormal levels of yeast are growing in the digestive tract

Treatment Natural treatment can last from eight weeks to a year or more, and varies per individual.

Feel

the

Between the Bridges Healing Center, Mankato: www.BridgesHealingCenters.com www.CandidaWellnessCenter.org

Read this The Yeast Connection: A Medical Breakthrough, by Dr. William Crook The Fungus Link: An Introduction to Fungal Disease, Including the Initial Phase Diet, by Doug A. Kaufmann

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Wellness

Stephanie Aman

Here’s to good health Stephanie Aman is a marketing and member services manager at Just Food Co-op in Northfield Sponsored by Just Food Co-op

Co-ops ROCK! So Just Food is this co-op that sits just off of Northfield’s downtown. There’s a rumor in town that we’re an over-priced club that collects yearly membership dues and is only open to those that are willing to buy in. And that couldn’t be further from the truth!

Just Food is a grocery store, but it’s not JUST a grocery store. Yes, we sell food; fresh delicious food is just the beginning.

The difference is in the rest of the story, the behind the scenes; the things that as staff and members we all strive for; the things many people don’t know about a co-op.

First, let’s go over the seven cooperative principles: these are the values that all cooperatives, whether it’s a food co-op, housing co-op, electric co-op or any other co-op, – hold true.

1. Voluntary, Open Membership 2. Democratic Member Control 3. Member Economic Participation 4. Autonomy and Independence 5. Education, Training and Information 6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives 7. Concern for the Community

Got that? It’s a lot of good stuff up there! Membership in a co-op means that you have a voice in the business, you vote on the board of directors that guides the co-op, and you can even run for that board! Membership means that you are supporting a business that gives back to the community; Just Food does that in

many different ways through after school programs at the elementary schools, middle school and high school, health fair events, helping non-profits with fundraising efforts, and so much more. Membership means that anyone can join. Anyone! (but you don’t have to in order to shop here!)

Last month as I was sitting in my office, over the PA system came this announcement “Just Food Co-op would like to welcome member number 2,700! We own it and you can too!” And I got goosebumps.

Two thousand, seven hundred members, households, parents, kids, moms and dads all value this place! How incredible is that?

We think it’s pretty incredible!

Every day we strive to offer you great customer service, products at a fair price to you and to our farmer and aisles that are stocked with foods that you love. Every.

Day. The staff at Just Food takes our jobs seriously and talk every day about what we can do to improve for you and everyone in this community.

As we prepare for our tenth year, our tenth birthday, our tenth anniversary, we think about our roots and honor them, and look forward to our vibrant future. It is because of our members, our shoppers and our community that we are in this place.

Invite your friends and family to join us as we embark on our next decade together!

We own it - and everyone can own it too! Ready, set, let’s GROW!

Fresh. Local.

Co-op.

Member or not, you’re always welcome at Just Food Co-op!

516 Water St S, Northfield 507-650-0106 · justfood.coop SPRING 2014 |

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Kari Berit

Unexpected CaregiveR Kari Berit (www.KariBerit.com) is the author of The Unexpected Caregiver: How Boomers Can Keep Mom & Dad Active, Safe and Independent (2007: Attainment Company) and hosts a weekly radio show on KYMNradio.net.

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I think Dad loves the dog more than me There are numerous good reasons not to have an animal as one ages, or so I’ve been told. I don’t buy it. Whether it be a dog, a cat, a bird, a fish or any other pet, when I hear older adults trying to convince themselves that they don’t want or can’t have another animal – they live in a condo that doesn’t allow pets, or they travel too much to be bothered, or they simply don’t want the responsibility, or they don’t think they can deal with the prospect of yet another loss – I can’t help asking, Why not?

I understand. Pets need attention. Every day.

Whether it’s cleaning out their litter boxes, taking them on walks, filling their food and water bowls, or just making time for them – typically on their schedule, not yours – pets rely on their owners for their daily needs. To me, that’s a good thing.

And it might be equally good for your parents.

Their home is empty. Their kids are grown, moved out and wrapped up in their own lives. Their friends are becoming fewer or less accessible. Why rule out having someone in their lives who needs them, responds to them, entertains them, makes demands on them – and loves them unconditionally?

You can just as easily take the reasons not to have a pet and turn them into the very reasons your parents may want – and even need – to have one.

Loneliness, isolation, inactivity, obesity, depression, grieving: Each in its own way can be partially, if not fully, alleviated by having a pet.

Kelly Connolly, issues specialist with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), made the case this way in the December 2005 issue of Minnesota Monthly magazine: “Emotionally, pets can bring new meaning and purpose to the life of a senior who is living far away from friends or family. The love and commitment to their owners is almost like free therapy. They can act as friends, entertainers and warm, fuzzy bundles of joy. Having a pet in an elderly person’s life can offer them a sense of well-being, a sense of

encouragement and even a reason for living. Being responsible for another life often gives new meaning to the lives of those who are living alone or far from loved ones. Caring for and providing a loving home to a companion animal also helps elderly people to remain active and stay healthy.”

HSUS has a program to help bring animals together with seniors. Many local animal shelters also offer senior programs. Shelters have a number of advantages over pet stores. For starters, the shelter is more likely to have a staff that can advise and guide the potential new pet owner. Adopting from a shelter is also more cost-effective: Adoption fees are extremely low compared with the cost of purchasing an animal from a pet store or breeder.

Know how your parents feel about their pet Of course, if your parents do have a pet, it needs to be included in any plans you’re helping them make. If I ever became ill or unable to express my wishes, I would want professional staff and family alike to know that having Eli, our current dog, near me would be essential in my recovery. Do your parents feel this way about their pets? When they can no longer care for them, what do they want done? If you don’t know, ask. Then write it down and put it in their “important documents” folder.

Then make copies – for everybody.

Similarly, if they have to move from a home where they have a pet to one where they can’t keep one, what are their wishes? Having to give up a pet at any age can be devastating. In your parents’ later years, it can be especially tough. If they can’t move with their current pet, help them make connections with visiting pets. Animals and babies…they have the uncanny ability to spread unconditional love.

And yeah, sometimes it’s easier for your parents to love the cat more than you. Or so it seems.

Girlfriends Guide

$ Financial Resources Brad L. Running CLU® Financial Advisor. A unique and disciplined approach. Today, it’s natural to have questions about your retirement, even if you’ve saved and planned for it. With our proprietary Confident Retirement® approach, we’ll find answers and take the first step toward creating a road map to the future you want. We’ll talk through the four basic principles of retirement: (1) covering essential expenses, (2) assuring your lifestyle, (3) preparing for the unexpected and (4) leaving a legacy. And I’ll help you make adjustments as needed so you can retire on your terms. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., 1850 Austin Road, Suite 104, Owatonna, MN 55060, 507-455-4070 brad.l.running@ampf.com, ameripriseadvisors@ampf.com/brad.l.running.

Sandy Wenker, CPA Conveniently located in downtown Faribault, Sandy Wenker, CPA, provides tax planning & preparation, payroll services, accounting & bookkeeping, QuickBooks assistance & training, and new business consulting. Call or stop in at 14 3rd Street NE, Faribault.

507-333-3973 www.faribaultcpa.com.

Castle Rock Bank The Castle Rock Bank has been serving the women in this community for 96 years. To answer the question, “What do women want in banking?” We believe the answer is, “To be heard, understood, respected and valued.”

27925 Danville Ave Castle Rock, 507-6457751 www.castlerockbank.net.

Food & Entertainment Legacy Golf & The Grill at The Legacy The Legacy is a championship 18-hole facility offering value-added golf and a warm friendly environment for golf outings & casual dining.

It provides a unique setting for meetings, reunions, groom’s dinners, banquets and bridal showers. The indoor Grill can accommodate 30-50 people & the open-air Pavilion can accommodate up to 170. 1515 Shumway Ave, Faribault, 507-332-7177 www.legacygolf.net.

OWATONNA COUNTRY CLUB Welcome to the Owatonna Country Club, your full service club offering everything from golf, fine dining, and catering to fun! The Owatonna Country Club has been meeting the needs of Owatonna and the surrounding comunities since 1919 — either through our numerous membership options, hosting spectacular weddings and executive meetings (OPEN TO THE PUBLIC) or by providing the most professional golf tournament venue in southern Minnesota. Please call us with any questions or visit our website at www. owatonnacc.com. 1991 Lemond Road, Owatonna, MN 55060, Main: 507-451-6120, Catering: 507-451-6120.

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Health & Wellness

Curves of Owatonna Our Curves Complete program, offers women a complete weight loss solution— exercise, meal plans, and coaching—all in one location. Curves Protein Bars (Meal & Snack size) and Spot Toning classes. All Curves staff are certified by the Cleveland Clinic in Exercise, Nutrition and Behavior Coaching. Curves - 1828 S. Cedar Ave, Owatonna 507-455-4060.

Fit for Life Fit for Life is a 24-hour Fitness Center located just off Hwy 21 N. We specialize in individual and group personal training as well as weight management and group fitness classes. State of the Art Cybex Equipment is on site for those who prefer to do it alone. 1400 Cannon Circle, Suite 6, Faribault, 507-333-5430 www.fitforlifemn.com.

Holland Family Dental Holland Family Dental is located in the Professional Building on Hillcrest Ave. in Owatonna. We have been in Owatonna since 1996 and concentrate on dentistry for the entire family. We offer services in preventive, cosmetic and comprehensive care which includes implants and up-to-date dental technology. Please visit us at 605 Hillcrest Ave. Owatonna MN. 507-451-7250.

JERILYN WIEDERHOLT, MS, MS, LP, ATR-BC Licensed Psychologist, Registered Board Certified Art Therapist, Licensed Educator K-12.

Providing mental health services (assessment, therapy, consultation, training) to adults, adolescents and children. Use of psychological techniques to improve mental and physical health. Integrative, holistic, wellness oriented. Northfield, MN. 507-321-2002.

Millstream Commons Assisted Living Millstream Commons Assisted Living is located in downtown Northfield. 44 Assisted Living apartments (studio, 1 and 2 BR) featuring three meals a day, supportive nursing care, respite care, & life enrichment activities. Pets allowed. Licensed Housing with Services provider. Part of the Three Links Community. Member of Aging Services of Minnesota. 210 8th St W, Northfield, 507-650-9627, threelinks.org .

Northfield Urgent Care Tired of waiting to see your doctor for simple problems like sore throats and earaches? We provide walk-in medical care for all ages, from infants to adults. We are open 7 days per week and no appointment is needed!

Quick, easy and efficient! 2014 Jefferson Rd Suite C, Northfield, MN 55057, 507-664-9999, northfieldurgentcare.com.

The Northfield Area Family YMCA The Northfield Area Family YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for all individuals, families, and the community to achieve their fullest potential. From summer camps, to youth sports, to preschool activities and adult wellness, we have something for everyone.

Become a member of the YMCA! 519 Division Street, Northfield 507-645-0088, www.northfieldymca.org. Scholarships are available to ensure everyone can participate.

Northfield Retirement Community Situated on a 30-acre, beautifully landscaped campus, NRC was established in 1969 to provide housing and services specifically designed to meet the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of older adults. Housing options include apartments with a minimal level of services, as well as other home settings that make increasing levels of service readily available. Options include rental and owner-occupied living spaces.

Units are available for both income-sensitive and market-rate income levels. NRC also provides a fully-staffed care center for those who desire a more traditional nursing home setting. 900 Cannon Valley Drive, Northfield, 507-645-9511, northfieldretirement.org.

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Girlfriends Guide Home & Garden Judys Floral Design Whether Your Wedding is black tie/ ballroom or barefoot on the beach or somewhere in between! Beautiful, quality flowers and great ideas start with Judy Smith. “Specializing in fresh creative and affordable blooms for all the flower moments of your life” 507645-0008, 300 Railway St. North, Dundas, judysfloraldesign.com.

Owatonna Mortgage Financing, or refinancing a home doesn’t have to be a complicated procedure if you have the right professional to guide you through the process. With Owatonna Mortgage you are guaranteed to receive supreme client care and trustworthy advice throughout the entire process. We know how valuable and precious your time is. Ryan Jirele, Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #320358, NMLS #503704.

507-676-2708, 111 W. Vine St, Owatonna, facebook.com/OwatonnaMortgage

Simon Bros Cement Co. Simon Bros Cement Co. has been serving the Northfield area since 1969. We specialize in quality concrete and masonry including foundations, driveways, epoxy garage floors.

Call for a free estimate. We will look at your project and use 40+ years of experience to share ideas and advice. Call Ray 612-3284591.

Insurance American Family Insurance Bart Jackson Agency American Family Insurance offers home, automobile, atv, motorcycle, boat, commercial business, farm and life insurance. We are available to meet with you personally to review your situation and provide recommendations as to the proper coverage’s for your needs. Bart Jackson Insurance Agency, 408 Central Ave N, Suite D, Faribault, MN 55021. 507-332-6812.

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American Family Insurance Therese Whitesong Agency American Family Insurance believes in you and your dreams. As an American Family Agent, I am here to help you find the right coverage to protect both. Whether it’s your auto, home, life, farm or business, we listen to you to determine the insurance that best protects your needs. Your dream is out there.

Go get it. We’ll protect it! Therese Whitesong Agency, 510 Washington Street South, Northfield. Business: 1-507-645-5010 or twhiteso@amfam.com.

A touch of charm A Touch of Charm is a quaint florist and gift shop in downtown Blooming Prairie, Minnesota. Leanne Hanson, owner, has been providing home accents, decorating ideas, gift and full service floral for the area since 1988.

We specialize in a mixture of traditional, cottage and countrypolitan accents for your home and a unique array of gifts that you can’t wait to give.

507-583-7637, atouchofcharmonline.com.

The Paper Petalum

Salons BLOWN AWAY SALON & SPA Blown Away Salon & Spa offers a variety of services that are perfect for any budget. The salon side offers hair cutting, styling, coloring, & perming. All of our staff is experienced and attends regular classes to keep our guests updated. On the spa side, we offer massage with therapists specializing in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Prenatal, & Reflexology. Our Esthetician does body waxing, makeup lessons/applications, lash extensions, facials, microderm, and chemical peels. Getting married? Check out our great bridal packages! 159 18th St. SW, Suite 4, Owatonna, MN 55060.www.blown-awaysalon.com.

SISTER SALON & DAY SPA Our Mission at Sisters is to provide everyone that walks through our doors with the highest level of quality services. We appreciate that you have chosen us to take care of your beauty and relaxation needs. Sisters is fortunate to have a wonderfully diverse staff with varying degrees of experience and specialties. Because each of our stylists are uniquely different, our service menu reflect these differences. Our tiered pricing system was set in place to help you, our valued guest, know that no matter which talented stylist you visit, you can rest assured that you will receive exceptional service with extraordinary products. 1293 21st Ave NW, Owatonna, Minnesota 55060, 507-451-2741. www.sistersalon.net.

507-645-1110 lrott@northfieldnews.com

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Shopping

The Paper Petalum in the historic Archer House (212 Division St.) offers friendly customer service and unique gifts for all occasions. Locally owned and operated since 1987 we specialize in Scandinavian gifts, Minnesota products, decorative napkins, Polish Pottery, Rothschild foods, and much, much more. Stop in and visit us. 507-6630565.

Transportation Community Co-op The Community Co-op is located in beautiful and historic downtown Faribault, MN. We were organized in 1925 and have been a cornerstone of this community ever since.

We specialize in fuels, lubricants, tires, and vehicle service, all for an affordable price.

Women live busy lives, our staff understands how important service and convenience are.

That is why we are the Company where our customers send their friends. 9 Central Ave, Faribault 507-334-2056, www.coopoilfblt. com.

Northfield Lines, Inc. Have your group arrive in style when you pull up in one of our luxurious motor or mini coaches. Single or multi-day sightseeing trips, shopping, girlfriend getaways, dining, concerts, weddings, receptions, casino visits – you name the event and we will get your group there safely and on time. 32611 Northfield Blvd, Northfield, 800-944-2190, www.northfieldlines.com.

You and your baby

The most important members of our team Our team of physicians and nurse practitioners provide specialized care for you before, during and after your pregnancy. We offer comprehensive services to ensure you and your baby receive the care you need, when you need it, close to home.

Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Mayo Clinic Health System in Waseca 1-877-412-7575 (toll-free) Mayo Clinic Health System in Faribault 507-333-3300 Mayo Clinic Health System in Owatonna 507-451-1120

mayoclinichealthsystem.org

Keeping your Health Care Close to Home

The Orthopaedic and Fracture Clinic, P.A., provides quality orthopaedic care to southern Minnesota through three main offices and several out-reach clinics. All of our physicians are certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and treat patients with sports injuries, pediatric and adult fractures, arthritis and related conditions, and low back and neck pain. Commonly performed surgeries: ACL reconstruction, joint replacement, knee and shoulder arthroscopies, fracture repair, and carpal tunnel.

At the Orthopaedic and Fracture Clinic our primary focus is the health and well being of our patients. Our clinical staff is comprised of surgeons, physician assistants, nurses and physical therapists. We work in an integrated and newly designed environment including Rehab One and the Back Care Center.

Office Hours: Monday thru Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm

Faribault 35 State Ave 507-334-1601

Northfield 1381 Jefferson Road 507-646-8900

www.ofc-clinic.com

Mankato 1431 Premier Drive 507-386-6600