Girlfriends May_Jun_2019

Southern Minn

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about us editor: Beth Forkner Moe

southern mn regional director of magazines | events: Ginny Bergerson

contributing writers: Kari Berit Grace Brandt Lisa Cownie Rian Dicke-Michels Carlienne A. Frisch Julie Buchwald Haley Nancy Iglesias Trent Jonas Sarah Osterbauer Marianne Radtke Terri Schlichenmeyer Sara Schlueter Isabelle Wattenberg

multimedia consultants: Kristie Biehn Nicole Brandon CariAnna Chaney Kari Clark Kathleen Davies Pam DeMorett Crystal Hobart Emily Kahnke Tim Mart Mark Nelson Jay Petsche Kyle Shaw Gayle Stelten

graphic designer: Kate Townsend-Noet Volume 11, Issue 3

Copyright© Girlfriends 2019 Published May/Jun 2019 by: Southern Minn Media 514 Central Avenue Faribault, MN 55021

southernminngirlfriends.com Send releases and story ideas to:

Beth Forkner Moe at Girlfriends magazine, bfmoe@southernminn.com

contents features

6 Funny Business

Clowning around at camp.

12 Paradise Center for the Arts A hidden gem in the heart of downtown Faribault.

14 Horsing Around

The women’s world of rough-and-tumble saddle riding.

18 Come Sail Away With Me

Riding the wave of gender equality in the sport of sailing.

20 Crossings at Carnegie An artist’s learning center and artistic paradise.

22 Working with “The Boys”

An iterview with two female first responders.

29 Bike, Hike or Paddle Your Way Into Adventure

This summer hit the path less traveled.

32 HUGE Improv Theater

Classes for adults.

36 Exploring the Art of

Adventure Some local adventures to get your heart pumping.

38 Girlfriends Travel Adventures Women hit the road for girlfriend time.

accessories

10 a man’s perspective 40 book review 46 gf directory 4 note from the editor

44 unexpected caregiver 42 wellness

24 In Northfield, Art is an Adventure

The NAG inspires its community by providing artistic opportunities to people of all ages and abilities.

26 The Joy of Outdoor

Adventures for Women

Women who can’t get enough of the outdoors.

on the cover:

Leila Kath - Working With The Boys Photo submitted See Story on PAGE 22.

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NOTE from the editor

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forkner Moe Beth Forkner Moe is the editor of Southern Minn Girlfriends magazine.

Find Southern Minn Girlfriends on Facebook

elcome to spring! This issue is all about FUN – Exploring the Art of Adventure.

What is an adventure? That is different for everyone. For some, an adventure can as simple as doing something new – a new activity, a new exercise, reading a new genre of book. For others, it can be something grand – a physical adventure like hiking a specific trail or visiting somewhere they’ve always wanted to go; a spiritual adventure like going on a retreat, exploring different churches. For yet others, it can be stepping out of your comfort zone to try something you never thought you could do.

My life motto is “seek new adventures.”

Sometimes I find an adventure simply by

keeping my eyes open to what is happening around me. Other times, it’s more intentional. Some adventures are big, some are little. Anything can become an adventure if you’re looking for it – if it’s the first time you’ve done something, the first time you’ve done it with new people. For me, looking for adventure puts a spark into my everyday life.

We bring you all types of adventures in this issue, from arts organizations where you can be creative or explore new types of events, to outdoor adventures where you can spend time with your family or your friends. We talk about women who push themselves to do new things and the wonderful joy they get out of these adventures.

Enjoy the stories of these women and of the different types of activities available (and we only scratched the surface – there are SO many ways to have adventures in our area).

THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER

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A

Disconnect

dventures are born when we allow ourselves to connect with fictional characters in a new book or show; or better yet, with family, friends; or the best, ourselves. In today’s fast-paced environment where we are connected to technology 24/7, I would ask you to disconnect to truly connect.

We are starved for nature and connection.

Certainly we have more connection than ever before through social media and the internet, but are you really connecting with your 300+ friends? My daughter zones out 100% when technology is running. Anytime a phone is out, she is looking at her lap, wanting to know what is on the screen. All of the screen time and mindless scrolling is detrimental, not only to our children, but to adults as well. Early exposure to screens and technology has shown speech delay in children.

Over-exposure to technology has been shown to increase anxiety and insomnia in adults. So how do we escape the insanity?

In the past when I’ve done media fasts (social media, television, radio, etc), I learned about freedom and adventure. I was able to

explore what my town had to offer. I was able to devour multiple books and feed my mind. I was able to hone my cooking skills to feed my body. I was able to dive deeply into my relationships (with others and self) and grow.

So imagine if you were to implement a rule for yourself - no technology after 4:00 p.m. (or 6:00) until 10:00 a.m. (or 8:00). What if you were to simply limit the time you are on Facebook or email to one hour per day? How much more time would you have on your hands?

When my family and I do this, we always find more connection, have more laughter and more adventures. We look for ways to increase our time outdoors, plan camping trips, hikes and have deeper conversations. We are happier and more affectionate. Our children benefit from more level-headed parents focused on them and their needs. They blossom and grow, and we see more of their unique perspectives and personalities. We are less anxious or worried about the day to day minutia of our lives.

Our favorite ways to connect involve playing outside, even in inclement weather. We walk barefoot in the grass or outside in general, which is actually called earthing. Earthing allows us to exchange electric charges with the earth and reboot our systems, increasing our circulation and decreasing our anxiety. We garden and watch chickens peck the ground. We soak up the sunshine on our patio while eating a homemade meal on the grill. We laugh with friends during a game night.

Fortunately, summer is just around the corner allowing for all of these wonderful adventures to take place. I encourage you to think outside the box and think of ways that you might be able to connect with your loved ones and yourself to see the beauty of everyday.

Find the adventure in living.

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“You will do foolish things, but do them with enthusiasm!” –Mooseburger motto

Priscilla Mooseburger Originals Address: 116 Division St. W., Maple Lake Phone number: (320)-963-6277 Website: www.mooseburger.com Facebook: MooseburgerCamp

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By Grace Brandt

or the past several summers, Sandy Kephart has driven to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport to pick up campers for a unique weeklong camp held in Buffalo, Minn. Kephart herself was a camper years ago, before going on to volunteer her time as a camp staff member. And while she may have trouble identifying which men and women standing outside the airport are waiting for her shuttle service, they have no trouble identifying her—thanks to her wild red hair, playful makeup, colorful clothes and, especially, her bright red nose.

Kephart—or “Maizy,” as she is sometimes called—is a clown. She’s picking up more clowns—or at least, clowns-in-training. And together, they’ve got some truly funny business at Mooseburger Clown Arts Camp.

Clowning around Mooseburger Clown Arts Camp was established in 1996 by Maple Lake resident Patricia Manuel, a clown with more than 30 years of experience on the clowning circuit. Manuel said she got her start as a clown while she was in college. During summer break, she participated as a clown in a local parade, and she was hooked ever since.

“It was a happy accident,” she said. “I fell in love with it after that one day, and 6 6

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I just knew that I… would do this the rest of my life. I didn’t understand why or how. I just knew that I loved it so much and had to keep doing it.”

Manuel said she started out teaching herself more about clowning but eventually secured a spot at the famous (and now defunct) Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College in Florida. After graduating, she was offered a contract with the “Greatest Show on Earth” and toured the circus circuit for three years.

“It was a fabulous experience to live on a circus train and travel around the country,” Manuel said. “You worked yourself to death and saw the country by rail.”

Once Manuel left the circus, she learned about “hometown” clowns, who work locally in parades, birthday parties, corporate events and health-related locations such as nursing homes and hospitals.

Manuel

realized there was a real need for high-quality clown costumes and started Priscilla Mooseburger Originals (a reference to her clown name, Priscilla Mooseburger) in 1989.

This online business sells everything clowns need for their wardrobe, including wigs, stockings, gloves and (of course) red noses.

Following the permanent closure of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College, Manuel decided to expand her business by starting Mooseburger Clown Arts Education in 1994. This school was the first of its kind, one where every style of clowning was taught and where clowns were allowed to choose their areas of focus. After two years of running her clown college, Manuel reinvented Mooseburger into a one-week summer camp, which has continued to this day.

have never clowned before but want to give it a try. Campers range from 17 to 91, and they come from around the world, including Mexico, Puerto Rico, Iceland, Japan, New Zealand and England. Camp numbers are capped at 90, and that’s usually what the camp hits every year.

Mooseburger’s schedule includes several specialized courses and more than 50 electives, and campers participate in a mix of classes and workshops. They’re able to build their schedule based on the skills they want to improve, and Manuel helps them figure out their focus through a half-hour PEP (Personal Education

Plan) talk before camp starts. Manuel uses this phone consultation to figure out what classes could most benefit the camper so she can recommend them. There’s also a Clown eWorkbook, which is given to campers and includes character work-

Want to go?

What: Mooseburger Clown Arts Camp When: July 30-August 4 Where: 612 First Ave. South in Buffalo Cost: $900-1,250 depending on package (day passes also available) For more info: www.mooseburger.com/moosecamp

sheets, a resource list, ideas for improving clown acts and other information.

[Campers] walk into camp with a plan,” Manuel said. “They’ll have a wellrounded education schedule

Make ’em laugh Mooseburger Clown Arts Camp covers all aspects of clowning, including hospital clowning, birthday parties, parades, magic, balloons, puppetry, face painting, juggling and circus clowning.

There are classes for experienced clowns who want to hone their craft and classes for people who

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come out. When you go to camp, I think it helps you discover a little bit about who you are and how you can take that person that you are and put it on steroids and let it metamorphosize into the character that’s really you in a huge way. I’ve heard people over the years say that you hide behind your clown character, but it’s the opposite of that. You just take that person inside of you and release it to play and have fun and look at things in an innocent, childlike way that we kind of lose as we grow into adults.”

Send in the clowns

CONTINUED FROM page 7

According to Manuel, there’s a pretty even split between men and women who want to become clowns—which hasn’t always been the case.

“When I started in 1968, there weren’t any women clowns on the circuit,” she said. “When they started the Clown College for Ringling, women made up a small portion, and it gradually grew.”

Kephart said women are often drawn to clowning because of their naturally caring hearts, especially after they’ve raised their own kids or grandkids.

“Women clowns have this gift with little kids,” she said.

“They’re just a lot more approachable. It may be because most of them are shorter and their voice is softer.

Most men are a little afraid of giving hugs or things but women, if little kids need a hug, are a little more approachable. The women who do it have these big hearts, and it’s

laid out for them, but the fun part of it is, they can change it. So they can really make the most out of their time with us.”

Kephart, who lives in St. Cloud, is one of about a dozen clown instructors, and she teaches the art of face painting, among other classes. She has a special fondness for face painting, since it is the reason she began clowning in the first place. While she was studying art at her university, she was required to design her face for a design class, paying special attention to her bone structure and muscles.

While Kephart took a break from clowning for a while, she got back into the clown life when she moved to Hutchinson and found some clowning clubs in the area. She first attended Moose? a name ns don’t use a in ’s burger Clown Arts Camp in 2002 t a n’t low Wh anuel, c uit, so she did ling and has come back every year g irc ing to M Accord ame” on the c he left the Rin t s a n since then, teaching, working at “clown hers until after ing as a clown cia Tri rk p “ o u t w e a k s a a th the front desk, and taking care of w m decided amed hile she Bros. W d, though, she stead, she ren been the campers. n In . d la a g y h n e Disn hich s bori Kephart said that while the urger, w wn” wa the Clo scilla Mooseb ool. ri h P camp teaches valuable clowning ave herself ame in high sc didn’t h n skills such as makeup and juggling, t I knew y not a her nick a th s n ll w f the clo le , especia the most important part is helping “Most o le type names “A lot of peop p . o d e e ll d a n c clowns discover their true characters. a re real-p rk e o e,” sh ver w last nam at it would ne r it, but it “A clown isn’t your costume,” she th e e b m m e ld m to for my explained. “The clown is the person would re t name nobody It’s been a grea y business.” . rm deep inside of you that you just let worked r and fo haracte

clown c

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something fun they’ve always wanted to do because they love kids and want to give back to the community that way.”

Kephart said another aspect of clowning that has changed is the way clowns look.

Back in the day, clowns played to huge audiences in the middle of a three-ring-circus arena, so they needed elaborate costumes, wigs and makeup to be more visible. Now, clowns usually have smaller audiences and don’t need to use excessive stage makeup or gestures.

“Costumes are becoming simpler; faces are becoming a lot simpler,” she said. “I don’t wear a wig at all anymore. You rely on your skills more.”

Kephart added that dialing back the stage makeup and costumes means that clowns are able to build more personal connections with their audiences. And that’s always been the goal, she

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with a When cause it a uniq comes to clo ue the wo way to use wning, Keph a r h trips in ld as “Maizy er skills—tra rt has found ” as a clude W v missio eling aroun she ha ales, S na d s spend visited India pain and Co ry clown. He in st r fo shows g about thre r the last se a Rica, and a e v even o t schools, in weeks each en years, n rooft church es, on time to do ops.

Accord the stre ing to et and visited K don’t t ephart, som e coun they’ve raditio trie na been e ager to lly have clow s she has “It was ns g e t t u o know h , but clownin nbelievable er anyw w g h is a ,” ay. t a s relatio nships he said. “It’s powerful to o are so so willi v l is u a l, a d n differe g to receive ifferent, and nd the n a p But wit t than if I we message. It eople are ’s n h all the a clown cha t [without m totally y b r fun an arriers were acter, for wh costume]. d were atever down. re able to W share a e played and ason, messa had ge.”

said, even if different clowns go about it differently throughout the years.

“My favorite part of being a clown is the relationships,” she said. “Sometimes, when you’ve had a busy day, the last thing you want to do is to put on your stuff and go out…

Sometimes, you just aren’t feeling it. But you go out and there’s always a person who just really needed that relationship that day. I always look for those people on the fringes. A lot of times, they just need that relationship, and the clown is able to play and help and maybe just for a little while make their day a lot better. The best part for me is, for just

a moment in time, being able to make someone’s day a lot better. I’ve met a lot of clowns over the years… [and] they just want to make people happy. They all just want to make the world a better place.”

Grace Brandt is a wandering reporter whose home base is Mankato.

Scary or sweet?

According to Manuel, clowning has gone through significant changes throughout the years she has worn the red nose. She explained that clowns often participated in birthday parties, parades and corporate events throughout the 1970’s-1990’s, but now, there has been a large shift to clown volunteerism, such as visiting nursing homes or working with schools.

This work is especially important, she notes, because of the recent popularity of “scary” clowns, stemming from the Stephen King mini-series IT, the recent big-screen remake and the abundance of “scary clown” costumes that have become more and more widespread around Halloween.

“They don’t realize the impact they’ve made on everyone,” Manuel said. “The clown community has really suffered, and the whole birthday party business has suffered. Clowns who made extra money [at birthday parties] to support their families, it’s made it

hard for them. Clowns, as a rule, tend be a little naïve. Because we love it so much, we can’t see how anyone would be afraid of us. But we’re working on that.”

To combat this, Manuel and her fellow clowns have recently founded a nonprofit group called the Red Nose Readers, which works to “promote literacy, kindness and joy through the art of clowning.”

Clowns visit classrooms, libraries and daycares to show kids what real clowns are like, often appearing without makeup to show kids that they’re regular people. Manuel is preparing a training program that will be launched at this year’s Mooseburger Camp, with the hopes of launching a nationwide program in the fall.

“We’ve done shows in schools and been really popular,” Manuel said. “[We show kids that] this isn’t scary. You don’t need to be afraid of someone who looks different. Real clowns are grandmas and grandpas, moms and dads, friends and teachers. They’re everybody. People who scare you are bullies. Clowns who scare you are actors. Real clowns don’t scare people—they make you happy.”

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A man’s perspective

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jonas Trent Jonas is a Twin Cities-based writer and divorced father of two. He is fascinated and frightened by women but is working through his issues.

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hen looking for an artful way to experience fun and adventure, head toward the Mississippi

River in Southeast Minnesota.

Southeast Minnesota is part of the Upper Midwest region known as the “Driftess Area,” which includes parts of Northeastern Iowa, Western Wisconsin, and a bit of Illinois, as well. The area is so-named because the glaciers of the last ice age did not reach it and flatten it like they did to the plains that surround the region.

Because of its deep valleys and soaring limestone cliff faces, the Minnesota portion of the Driftless is also known as “Bluff Country.” In recent decades, the area has done much to inspire artists and outdoor adventure seekers alike. And in the region’s parks and communities, you are certain to find plenty of fun.

The Upper Mississippi River National Fish and Wildlife Refuge is the artery that runs through the heart of the Driftless Area. And in Minnesota, several state parks — including Beaver Creek Valley, Whitewater, Frontenac, Forestville-Mystery Cave, and Great River Bluffs — preserve the region’s natural beauty for all to enjoy. For a gorgeous day hike, head into Carley State Park and ramble the bluffs and bottoms along the North Branch, Whitewater River.

In May, the forest on either side of the Wildflower Trail is carpeted with Virginia Bluebells.

For an adventure with art, visit the Minnesota Marine Museum in Winona (MMAM.org). This gem focuses on maritime art and artifacts, and its collection is world class. Its five galleries include works by Cezánne, Gauguin, Monet, Renoir, Degas, and J.M.W. Turner.

A guided kayak tour on the the channels and backwaters of the Mighty Mississippi is an awesome way to combine fun and adventure, while enjoying the artistry of nature’s creations.

Broken Paddle Guiding (BrokenPaddleGuiding.com) offers a number of guided tours on the waters of Minnesota’s Driftless Area, including a “flooded forest” tour that explores the trees and wildlife of the hardwood lowlands that are inundated each season, as well as a “raptor tour” that permits paddlers to enjoy the region’s many raptors in their natural habitats.

After a day of fun and adventure, you’re certain to be thirsty.

Make your way toward the Iowa border and Spring Grove, Minnesota, where you’ll find plenty to slake your throat and pep you up. The town is the home of the regionally-beloved

Cannon Valley Trail Find your “recreational treasure” just south of the Twin Cites.

Spring Grove Soda Pop (SpringGroveSodaPop. com). Pop into the Sugar Shack — the factory’s retail outlet — for a thirst-quenching Lemon Sour Soda or any of their other delicious flavors.

If you’re looking for a more adult-oriented beverage, pop into Spring Grove’s Rockfilter Distillery (RockfilterDistillery.com) and sample a flight of their Minnesota-made bourbons. Prefer a bolder whiskey? You’re in luck — they also make an organic rye.

No matter what you think of as fun or adventure, you’re sure to find an artful way to enjoy it in Driftless Minnesota.

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Paradise rts Center for the

I

A A Hidden Gem

By Sarah Osterbauer

n the heart of Historic Downtown Faribault is a building with a storied history. Built upon the ground which once held the Faribault Opera House now sits the Paradise Center for the Arts. In the 1920’s, the building saw new life as a movie theater after the 1880’s Opera House was destroyed by a fire. It was a focal point of the area which had become a cultural hot spot of the time. Located along the railroad, and a popular place for arts and entertainment, Faribault was referred to as “The Athens of the West.” During the building’s second reincarnation as a silent movie theater, it once again fell victim to fire, as film reels in the projector room caught a blaze. It was as though the bones of the building were rejecting all tenants. Regardless, the movie theater was rebuilt, and redesigned

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as two theaters instead of one. They remained open until the 1990’s.

As bigger multiplex-type theaters sprang up, they drove the small community theater out of business.

Following the 1990’s closure, the building saw little activity. It spent some time as a dance studio and karate studio, but nothing stuck. Finally, the community rallied to get the building back on its feet. A massive renovation gave the building new life and the Paradise Center for the Arts was born in 2007. Two main pillars of the Faribault arts community, the Faribault Arts Center and Faribault Community Theater, came together under the name Paradise Center for the Arts. Their collective mission is to “create a vivid, energetic cultural center for the community and the region.”

Today’s center is bustling with activities. The Center regularly hosts musical guests and theater productions. They also put on multi-faceted events such as their Annual Big Hats & Big Hearts event, a derby-themed affair complete with hat contests, live music

and other games and prizes. Their theater productions are mainly done by two local companies, but sometimes a guest company comes in. They have partnered with the Chanhassen Dinner Theater to bring some of their productions to the Paradise, which director Kristen Twichell calls “big-city theater for small-town prices.”

They also partner with local elementary schools, regularly bringing kids in to see a show at no charge. Twitchell is all too aware that many children may never get the chance to see a full stage production in person. She knows from seeing the joy the shows bring to the kids that it’s this type of work that is most vital to the community. One of the goals she has is to provide quality programming to the area and to keep it affordable. Making art accessible to all is imperative to achieving the Center’s mission.

Beyond theater productions, the Center also has classrooms, equipped to host a variety of classes, from photography to pottery, painting and textile work. Pottery rooms have their own kiln so students can see their work come together from start to finish all in one place. Those with textiles interests can learn to dye fabric on site. Classes are tailored for a variety of ages and experience levels.

Once creations are made, they can be displayed in one of the Center’s three galleries. The Corey Lyn Creger Memorial Gallery, (named in honor of a local student) is reserved for art created by local middle and high school students. The Gallery provides mentors to the students to guide them through the exhibition process.

The Lois Vranesh Boardroom Gallery displays artwork in boardroom which can be rented for events. The largest of the three, the Carlander Gallery, shows juried art exhibitions, selected by the Paradise Gallery Committee, showcasing local and regional artists both emerging and noteworthy.

As a non-profit organization, the Center works very hard to

maintain funding. They have been successful receiving some statefunded grants, but attracting those in the community to become Paradise Center members is a key component to their financial welfare. Twitchell hopes that by expanding their program offerings and finding something for everyone to participate in, it will inspire folks to become members.

Becoming a member is not the only way to support the Paradise Center. They are always on the lookout for volunteers. Whether you can commit to one night out of the year or 100 nights, the Center has many roles needing to be filled. From ticket takers, to ushers and even lighting technicians, there’s a suitable role for most ages, commitment and skill levels. When a person chooses to devote their time to the Paradise, what they back in return is better than anything money can buy. One experience in particular was memorable for Twitchell.

“One volunteer told me that walking through our doors saved her life. She had been going through some tough things and by volunteering here and building community through the relationships she made here, that saved her,” she said.

The Paradise Center for the Arts is a true symbol of art and community at work. By actively promoting the work of its residents and ensuring that everyone has access to quality arts culture, it enriches the life of the town. As the Center looks ahead, it is working on putting together theater programs that cater toward special audiences whether that’s adding more visuals for deaf audience, or sounds for a blind audience or sensory-friendly productions - they want kids and adults with different abilities to find something for them at the Center. It’s this type of inclusive forward thinking that will bring the Paradise Center success for another ten years and beyond.

Sarah Osterbauer is a freelance writer based in St. Paul.

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Horsing around

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By Grace Brandt

hen it comes to the rough-and-tumble world of saddle riding, it’s definitely not a man’s world. In fact, in most horse-related events, female riders far outnumber their male counterparts. According to the Women’s Sport and Fitness Foundation, there are eight female equestrians for every one male. This can be clearly seen while attending rodeos and horse shows, where women dominate in events such as barrel racing and reining. Across southern Minnesota and beyond, women are saddling up and riding hard. Read on for exciting stories from local arenas.

Alesha Sveen Alesha Sveen, who

lives outside of Whalan, Minn., received her first horse—Stormy— from her grandparents when she was six years old—and she hasn’t stopped riding since.

“I caught the horse bug then, and I’ve had it ever since,” she said.

Sveen said she talked her parents into letting her join 4-H when she was 12 so she could show Stormy at local fairs. From there, she joined the Southeastern Minnesota Saddle Club Association and Western Saddle Clubs Association to show her next horse, Magic. Over the years, she has competed in a variety of events, including western riding, hunting, barrel racing and reining.

By the time Sveen left to study animal science at the University of Wisconsin—River Falls, she had five horses to leave at home.

After graduating, she worked at Bluff County Equine Veterinary Hospital in Winona for six years as a veterinary technician. In 2013, she started working for pet food giant Purina as a lifestyle product specialist, eventually transitioning to a farm product consultant.

Sveen said she took a few years off from riding after college but got back into the activity when some girlfriends invited her to go barrel racing. Now, she’s in her fifth season of barrel racing, traveling across the Midwest to compete.

She and her mare Moose spend almost every weekend of the season—which lasts from April to November—at jackpots and bullsand-barrels events around the region.

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times vary depending on the size of the arena, but they’re typically between 12 and 16 seconds. She said riders usually participate in one run a day during two- or three-day events. These events are as far-flung as Oklahoma and Texas, and Sveen and her fiancé have become pros at camping out in their horse trailer.

“You haul all that way to spend as little amount of time in the arena as you can,” she said. “From first place to forty-fifth place, it might only be a tenth of a second.”

Sveen also still participates in reining competitions, which she said are actually her favorite because they’re “more precise and work on your horsemanship.” In 2018, she borrowed a mare from her fiancé, Brandon Freiheit, who trains reining horses professionally. She and “Miss Van Winkle”

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participated in the 2018 North Central Reining Horse Association show season and ended up with a National Reining Horse Association Silver Spurs Equine Rookie of the Year Top Ten placement, as well as 2018 North Central Reining Horse Association Reserve Champion in her level.

“We eat, sleep and breathe the horse world,” she said.

Sveen said she hasn’t had any nasty falls in her career, though she has been bucked off “a fair amount.”

“That goes with the territory,” she said, adding that it took her about three years to really get in sync with one of the horses she rode in competitions. “You need to be self-confident and you need to have confidence in your horse. A lot of it is a mental game. If you get in a slump, it’s really hard to overcome that. You’ve got to be a partner with your horse.”

Despite her long career in the saddle, Sveen said she still feels nervous before big competitions—but she’s learned to live with the butterflies.

“I think anybody who’s big into competition still gets nervous,” she said. “The big thing that I’ve been working on is being a better competitor. I used to get really down on myself, so it’s more trying to really stay positive and really enjoy every run. Your horses only have so many runs in them. The trick is to go into some new places, see new arenas and just make the most of it.”

Rebekah Koster Rebekah Koster always wanted to own a horse, and she got her wish six years ago when she and her sister received Scout, an Appaloosa gelding, though the relationship started off a bit rocky.

“We were at our neighbor’s house, just learning to ride,” she recalled.

“We were walking over some poles on the ground and I didn’t know that Scout liked to jump. He decided to jump over the pole, and I went flying over his head. And then he ran home. I think we’d had him three weeks. But you’ve just got get back on and keep riding.”

That’s exactly what Koster did, participating in 4-H events and then joining the area Western Saddle Clubs Association. From there, she began competing in different timed events, including barrel racing, pole weaving, jumping figure eight races and keyhole races.

Koster said Scout was already trained in racing patterns when her family bought him, but it took her a bit longer to learn the ropes.

“I had to learn it while trying to direct him as well,” she said, adding that it took about a year for her to become proficient.

Eventually, her family bought two more horses, so that she and her siblings each had their own. They all continue to compete in different events, making competitions an all-day affair. Koster said she participates in four timed events, adding that pole weaving is her personal favorite. Her best time is about 15 seconds, and she’s qualified for the Western Saddle Clubs Association Championship Show for the past three years.

Koster graduated from college last May and now works as a nurse in Madelia, but she continues to participate in area riding events. In fact, she said she’s planning on buying a new horse this summer to train for competition, since Scout is slowing down.

For Koster, what keeps bringing her back to the arena is the fun atmosphere and the friends—but also the white-knuckle excitement during a race.

“The adrenaline rush of going around the barrels at fast speeds is super fun,” she said.

Audrey Carlson Audrey Carlson may have only been riding for five or six years, but she has built up quite an impressive career in that time.

Carlson, who’s from the Andover area and is Koster’s cousin, said she became interested in horses because her best friend and neighbor had a horse when the two of them were growing up.

“She did it on the side a little bit, and I went with her a couple of times,” Carlson said.

“Then I had to have a horse.”

Carlson has had her horse, Misty, for three years now, and she said Misty already came trained to ride and compete. Even so, she said it still took some time to get used to riding her.

“It takes about a year for you and your horse to click and figure each other out,” she said.

Throughout the past few years, the two of them have done it all— they participated in 4-H, competed in timed events such as barrel races and joined the local chapter of the Western Saddle Clubs Association.

Carlson said she has participated in several types of timed speed events, but barrel racing is her favorite, and that’s the sport she still competes in—hitting speeds of up to 30 mph when she’s in the arena.

“I’ve done them all, but that’s the one that my horse is the best at,” she said.

Carlson studies equine science at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and is in the university’s Rodeo Club. There are two rodeo seasons, she said—fall and spring. Her team is made up of about 20 women and practices every week for three hours with a coach who comes in and runs drills for them. The team competes within the Intercollegiate Rodeo Association and is a part of the “Great Plains” circuit, which is made up of 16 area colleges. Carlson and teammates travel across the Midwest for different events.

Carlson said she hasn’t placed in any of her events yet, but she isn’t worried since it’s her first year and she’s still getting used to being on the team.

“I’m still figuring everything out,” she said. “We’ve had a lot of fun.

I really just love the sport. I love being with my horse, and also the friendships I’ve made through the rodeo team. I really love all of it.”

Grace Brandt is a wandering reporter whose home base is Mankato.

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Come

Away

W

By Marianne Radtke

hen I was young, I watched longingly from the dock of my grandparents’ summer lake home as my dad took my brother and male cousin sailing on his 14’ Catalina sailboat. It was the perfect little twin mast hobby boat for the idyllic little northern Minnesota lake. None of the “girls” in our family – my sisters or I, our female cousin, our mom or our aunt - were ever invited to go.

Not out of malice, but because that just wasn’t something girls did back then. As the winds of time have shifted, so have cultural norms for women in previously predominantly male activities like sailing.

According to the American Sailing Association (ASA), America’s sailing education authority and world’s largest sailing organization, women in sailing have been steadily on the uptick in recent years. As U.S. corporations, politics and the entertainment industry evolve to include greater numbers of women, the sailing industry is also riding the wave of gender equality. In 2018, one-third of all new 18

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students at ASA schools were women, and the organization expects that by 2020, at least half of all new students will be women. More work still needs to be done to get more women interested and involved in sailing.

In March, the ASA launched its “Women Wake Up Zone” campaign, designed to encourage more women to set sail by erasing stereotypes and eliminating the fear some women have that sailing is too expensive and physically demanding. Cindy Shabes, president of the ASA, said, “Although a recent market research study shows that men outnumber women seven to one as registered boat owners, many of our instructors and high-level instructor evaluators are now women, and many of our schools are now owned or managed by women. As we see more women take the wheel and thrive on our waterways, we believe that others will follow in their wake.”

While sailing has been around for centuries and was originally a means for trade, transportation and exploration, modern sailing has evolved to be more recreational. With advancements in technology, more and more women are taking up sailing as it is no longer as physically demanding. Heavy sails that used to require major upper body strength have been replaced with lighter synthetic sails. Captain Joan Gilmore, lead instructor for Sail Away Sailing School in Minneapolis and instructor evaluator for the ASA, said that “sailing is more of a thinking and problem-

solving activity than a physical one, so it is not only for men anymore.”

In fact, she said, women tend to be better problem solvers and more nimble when it comes to tying knots. Many of her students have engineering or aeronautics backgrounds, although anyone can learn. The thrill and fun for them is in analyzing and solving problems, according to Gilmore. The joy for others is the thrill of the sea spray in their face and wind in their hair, the energizing or calming feeling, sights, sounds and smells of being on the water, or the sheer joy of moving their bodies in sync with the natural world.

Whether you are a single, extroverted woman in your 30’s or a married introvert in your 60’s, Gilmore – who holds a Masters degree in adult learning styles - teaches people with all different learning styles, abilities and temperaments, cultural and professional backgrounds, and age. There are now women-only courses and sailing clubs, but most are mixed-gender and age, including courses for kids and teens.

There are as many varied motivations for learning to sail, or simply going on sailing excursions, as there are sailors. Everybody has a story. For some, it is as simple as the thrill and the fun. Other use sailing to improve themselves or prove to themselves they have what it takes. Some want to fulfill their movie-like, romantic notions of sailing. Some are in their next developmental stage of life, commonly around the age of 60, to “feel more

connected to the natural world and their bodies,” Gilmore said. Yet others are retired or empty-nesters who now have the time and freedom to pursue or discover something new.

While some are changing course in life after surviving a trauma, Gilmore noted that trauma makes it difficult to learn sailing or any new skill, but that being on the water and connecting with the natural world can be very beneficial, therapeutic and healing.

Former sailing racer (now a fine arts instructor who owns Studio 502 in downtown Northfield) Rebecca Tolle talked why she originally began racing.

“One of my friends said I was dying on the vine. I had never heard that (phrase) before and look it to heart. I wanted the challenge of learning to sail and doing it myself. (My boat) was (built for) one person, with one large sail and a very shallow hull. It (sat) close to the water, so I could dangle my hand into the water, could feel the wind and become attuned to how it was blowing and become part of it,” she said.

“Racing the boat allowed me to learn how to utilize the wind and sail to race fast. But I also loved the slower wind days. It was calming to be outside and on the water. I learned many valuable lessons. On the days when the wind was howling and unpredictable I felt not in control. So, I placed a milk jug out in the water to practice my skill when having to tie the boat up to a buoy in a limited area,” Tolle said.

“This involved letting go of the sail rope, the tiller, and quickly going to the helm of the boat to grab the buoy in the water and tie the rope onto it. All the while the sail flapped noisily in the wind and the boat on its own.

Only once did I land in the rocks on the shore struggling with the wind and boat, afraid the sail would be ripped. ‘Dying on the vine’ came to mean to me that I was succumbing to the uncontrollable elements around me. Learning to sail taught me that life is about being alive in the moment,” she said.

When I asked Captain Gilmore what her own motivation and inspiration were for leaving the corporate world and taking up sailing, she didn’t have any one particular “ah ha” moment, but considered that deep down inside it may have been a hurtful missed opportunity to join male family and friends on a sailing excursion when she was a very little girl, simply

because she was a girl.

That resonated with me. I shared with her my own youthful missed opportunity. Decades later, my husband knew how much I longed to go sailing so he bid on a sailing excursion for four in a silent auction for a cause dear to our hearts. To my sheer joy and surprise, he won. I decided to invite my dad as my “date” so that I was able to share that missed life experience with him after all those years; and we decided to invite our oldest daughter to be my husband’s “date,” so that she, too, could share in the joy of sailing with her father as a young girl. The memory of that father/daughter “double-date” is seared in my and my daughter’s hearts forever.

Sailing excursions can commemorate an anniversary, special birthday, retirement, or loss of a loved one with ash scattering ceremonies. Proposals and wedding ceremonies are also common. They can be relaxing or romantic sunset cruises or adventurous, exotic vacations. The possibilities and reasons are as deep and endless as the lakes and seas. Wherever you are on your life journey or wherever you are headed, consider leaving the safe harbor of your daily routine to chart a new course that includes sailing. Whether you take the helm or not, I wish you smooth sailing.

Marianne Radtke enjoys writing, photography, music, art, theater, travel, food, fashion, football, Fall, mountains, oceans, boating, biking, skiing and golf. She hates to cook and has a horrible green thumb.

She has written a children’s book about overcoming fears. She lives in Northfield with her husband and their four children.

About the American Sailing Association The American Sailing Association (ASA) has been the leader in U.S. sailing education for 36 years. The Association has grown to include an international network of more than 350 professionally accredited sailing schools. More than one million certifications have been awarded to over 515,000 people who have been introduced to sailing through ASA schools, clubs and programs since 1983. For more information, and to find a sailing school near you, visit www.asa.com.

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Classes

certs

R strong SEPTEMBE g skills. ourtney Arm C h it w en your drawin g th in g n w re ra st D d n st a h 10 Ju teach, refres ER is designed to ss . a R pm $128 P cl N is y Th b e h in c t Ro 15 6:30-8:30 i Griff tt ct a P -O d 0 1 n t a p ll e e Wainwrigh S on itch Tuesdays, red to Joni M ith Kim Gord a w p st. k m ti co r a o B n o e r d e sb rcolo d wax as a resi at the te te 3 a el /2 W m 0 2 & se $ u e d e in n g a Sta 13 W i rice paper m Crossings pplies ent on Kinwash . re im o er m p $28 + $10 su & Ex m es p lu 0 b :3 , lk -8 0 t fo , :3 id 6 zz pt 13 ia Schm explores ja Thursday, Se sbaugh and charisma e ic ent. vo th r o o Emily Wart o o h d m it e w th ky-s l t e a e you to experim r 3 h fo /2 W 0 e 2 & m $ ti e e e in d g vi W Sta 14 sics and pro ring/piece Band m Crossings ow you the ba pplies + $4 fi ! lice Tribute it sh o su il ll P 8 a e’ $ e n W h + ey T 8 : th 2 e , $ hin :30-9pm round vocals t in the Mac hnson ay, Sept 14 6 Sting & backg d in Lakes ri to F Tw : ss a ct b a g d with Amy Jo n in s a s en g al surface. p m in O ru rr d r a r, o E a l o it gu glass to a met name t the d a E ed 6 & er d /2 e 2 w e 2 o ff $ p o g C e 15 eatr meling: bindin pm State Th lies the art of ena rn a Le 5 + $10 supp 4 $ s m s. rd a a 1 es d in -1 n 9 tt u pt 15 New Sta udeking ws a little n Saturday, Se with Kelly L songs plus allo p re ces o p tu ff lp o u r s c o ff S o ri trio decorative pie t the d te arden a G ea 6 d cr /2 e d 2 n 2 ld a $ e d s n W e ri 120 both g ltie 29 heatr pplies $75 ($ eld, burn and h Lost Facu w su it 0pm State T to + W ! y w a o te h /d u 8 rn in b 9 a t ri $ T &/or Le ibute artis 9am-3pm Ringo Star t Ringo Starr tr n Sept 29/30 en u ger Star: A rr S t/ cu a t S es 0 b 3 e rred to as th has been refe world! at the door atre $18/20 e h T te ta S 30pm mbrota

f Rocheste o h t r o n r u o Only half h Classes

ncerts

venue, Zu A t s a E 0 2 3 MBER 1995.

SEPTEMBER library from 1908 until 5 7-732-7616 y Wainwright Roche In 2001, Marie Marvin0converted the buildgie.com 10 Just Drawingingwith Courtney Armstrong r a tc a into Crossings at Carnegie and created “ane s g has been compared to Joni Mitchell and Patti Griffin by NPR. in s s o .cr canand wrefresh weveryone This class is designed tow teach, space where comestrengthen together foryour all drawing skills. pm Crossings Stage $20/23 at the door 4 0 1 kinds of things from yoga and pottery classes to t a Tuesdays, Sept 10-Oct 15 6:30-8:30pm $128 S udia Schmidt 0-5, Th 10-8, 13 poetry 1 readings and dog obedience classes.” It is a bit art center, a F W T M : n Wine & Watercolor with Kim bit gift shop, a bit clay studio,Batik and a bit concert hall.Gordon er y opeexplores jazz, folk, blues & more. allcharisma ilky-smooth voiceGand Experiment on Kinwashi rice paper and use melted wax as a resist.

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The featured exhibit when I visited Crossings recently was pm Crossings Stage $20/23 at the door the 18th Thursday, Sept 13 6:30-8:30pm $28 + $10 supplies st in the Machine: Police

By Julie The Buchwald HaleyTribute Band Annual 14PoetWine & Wheel with Emily Wartsbaugh m guitar, drums and bass to Sting & background vocals, they nail it!

We’ll show you the basics and provide time for you to experiment.

Artist pm State Theatre $22/26 at theibraries door areOpening act:toTwin Lakes great places find adventures.

CollaboFriday, Sept 14 6:30-9pm $28 + $8 supplies + $4 firing/piece The former public library in Zumbrota is New Standards ration. no exception, though now it’s Crossings at 15TwentyCoffee & Enamel Earrings with Amy Johnson trio riffs off pop songs plus allows aCarnegie, little nuttiness. an artist’s learning center and an Learn six artiststhe art of enameling: binding powdered glass to a metal surface. pm State Theatre $22/26 at theartistic doorparadise. chose Saturday, Sept 15 9-11am $45 + $10 supplies In theLost winterFaculties of 1868 a small group of ger Star: A Ringo Star Tribute! With prose adventurous settlers in Zumbrota, Minn., 29submitWelded Garden Sculpture with Kelly Ludeking as been referred to as the best current Ringo Starr tribute artist in began gathering weekly, sharing the books &/orted Learn by 24how to weld, burn and grind and create decorative pieces world! they had brought with them from back east,30poets Sat/Sun and Sept 29/30 9am-3pm $98/day + supplies $75 ($120 both) pm State Theatre $18/20 at thequickly door forming a literary society. Once the created

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titles had all been read and reread, the group joined resources and bought new books and magazines, housing them as a small library in a room above the general store.

Zumbrota became an incorporated village in 1877, and its library became the first tax-supported library in Minnesota. In 1906, its trustees wrote to Andrew Carnegie, eventually securing funds to build a library at 320 East Avenue. It served as the town’s public

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work that visually expressed the verse using oil, watercolor, fiber, pottery, and multi-media. The collaborations of poetry and artwork viewed side-by-side, are experienced at once by

Gallery open: MTWF 10-5, Th 10-8, Sat 10-4 SPRING 2019

southernminngirlfriends.com

Only half hour north of Rochester 320 East Avenue, Zumbrota 507-732-7616 www.crossingsatcarnegie.com

both soul and senses. For someone, like me, who loves prose and art, it is an enveloping experience.

Throughout Crossings, the artwork is alive with a brilliant mix of functional (a vivid, unique bag line), practical (pottery mugs for hot tea on a cold Minnesota morning), and fun (lizard-shaped sconces) made mostly by local artists. The gallery/gift shop includes a small stage for performance art and a place for classes.

There is additional space in the lower level for a pottery studio with a dozen wheels and kilns. For those members who like to create in the wee hours of the morn, the studio has 24-hour access.

Marvin’s young granddaughter had been in the studio recently and created a gorgeous female Buddha that was set aside, waiting to be fired. She clearly inherited some of her grandma’s creativity and talent. The studio offers courses in beginning and intermediate pottery wheel, Gwine and Gnomes, and Wine and Wheel. Other classes include rosemaling, welding, drawing, woodcarving, journaling, batiking, and pour painting, to name just a few.

Nearby is the State Theater where live concerts are held.

Upcoming covers include Patsy Cline, Crosby Stills & Nash, Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash & Willie Nelson, Paul McCartney and Wings, and John Denver by musicians including Daisy Dillman, Jeff Dayton, Terry Lee Goffee, and Wings Over America. Other artists include a bluegrass band, an improv company, and a folk songstress.

For parents trying to figure out summer activities for kids, Crossings offers camps for ages 3 to 18 and includes theater, STEM, welding, robots, textiles, sculpting, cartooning, and more. Those “what did you do last summer” essays will be much easier to write after learning those new skills!

Marvin and her team have made Crossings more than simply

a special place to experience art; it is also an award-winning gallery. In 2017, Southern Minn Scene magazine named it Best Art Gallery. Marvin, an integral part of establishing Zumbrota as a center for the development and appreciation of the arts, was named Goodhue County Editorial Association 2018 Citizen of the Year.

Marvin believes that not only is everyone creative but also that the process for art and creativity is in all of us. I’ve always been a big believer in this, too.

Julie Buchwald Haley is a freelance writer and PTSD survivor who works full-time, volunteers part-time, and is a pet parent to five. She recently returned to Minnesota after a 30+year absence to make new memories with her parents.

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*Check our website, Facebook or Instagram for our opening date and other happenings at the winery.

4003 Crane Creek Rd (Old Hwy 14), Owatonna, Minnesota 1 Mile West of McDonald’s 507-451-1444 Soon Open at Skyline Plaza, Albert Lea Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-7 • Sat. 8-5 • Sun. 10-5 SPRING 2019

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Working

With

Mary Ulrich

Leila Kath

“The Boys”

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By Lisa Cownie

eila Kath’s dad taught her a lot growing up: how to ride a bike, do math problems, and drive a car. He also sparked an interest in her that stayed with her into adulthood.

“Looking back and hearing my parents talk, I can honestly say I have wanted to be a firefighter since the 3rd grade,” Kath said.

“It was something that I always grew up around and just seeing my dad, uncles and everyone else down here love what they do so much was something I knew I wanted in my life as well.”

Kath’s dad, Marlin, has served in the Owatonna Fire Department for more than 30 years. It was that influence that set Kath on her journey, which started in high school.

“Through the years I was in the Owatonna Fire Explorers. It’s kind of like junior firefighting. I started that during my freshman year of high school and was in it for the four years until I went to college. I went to Lake Superior College in Duluth and graduated there with my Fire Technology and Administration degree,” she said. “I came back here after graduating and got on the Owatonna Fire Department part-time and was part of the resident/ sleeper program here. We have six residents who live here 24/7. So the fire station was my home for 3-1/2 years.”

“The beginning of March I was promoted to full-time and I am now a Fire Equipment Operator,” she said. “These last five years on the department, and all my involvement prior, have made for the most fun and best years!”

While her dad helped ignite her passion, Kath had to forge her own path in what is predominantly a male field.

“I guess honestly the biggest challenge I had was just proving wrong the general assumption of not being able to do something just because I’m a female,” she said. “It came down to that, both physically and mentally.

Physically (I needed to be) able to do the tasks needed with all the equipment and personal protective equipment on, or bust through a wall, to the basics of driving a fire truck. I know many had their doubts but it has been fun proving them wrong and seeing them realize I can do the things they doubted me on.”

When Mary Ulrich was a little girl, dreaming of what she would be when she grew up, she knew she wanted to do something that would help others.

Officer Mary Ulrich on Maybe even become a police officer, location at a traffic accident.

ABOVE: Neil Johnson, St. Croix County sheriff’s deputy and Wisconsin state coordinator for Project Lifesaver International, trains Mary Ulrich, Steele County Sheriff’s Office investigator, and others on how to use the Project Lifesaver equipment. (Ashley Stewart/People’s Press) TOP: Leila Kath and the rest of the Owatonna fire department.

(Owatonna Fire Dept. Facebook)

although at that time there weren’t many role models for her to look up to in that occupation.

“I always knew I wanted to work in a profession that could make a difference, but when I was younger, there weren’t many women in law enforcement, and I saw that as a challenge,” Ulrich explained.

Still, she would not be deterred and eventually became the first female deputy for Steele County. That was almost 22 years ago.

“At times that was challenging, but those challenges taught me life lessons and shaped me into who I am today,” Ulrich said.

The challenges women working in male-dominated industries face have been well-documented. Some still view women in these roles as outsiders threatening the norm, stereotypes of weakness, or even work-life demands that differ from those of their male counterparts.

Also, as Ulrich noted, there are fewer mentoring opportunities for women.

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By Carlienne A. Frisch

In Northfield, Art is an Adventure

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nytime you pick up a palette brush, put your hands around a lump of clay or stand before an audience, you’re embarking on an adventure.

Most of us need encouragement and direction when we do this. If our new experience involves the arts, we can benefit from advice and direction from someone like Rachel Haider of the Northfield Arts Guild, who has guided many arts adventurers of all ages.

“Whether it’s theatre, music or sculpting, arts in general are an adventure. It’s one adventure to watch theatre and a different adventure to take part in it. People always discover something new. It’s the cliché of venturing out of your comfort zone,” Haider said.

As part of her role as the Guild’s performing arts manager, Haider serves as the artistic director of the Guild’s theatre. In 2015, she initiated the Purple Door Youth Theatre, an educational program that draws area students from grades two through 12. They receive training and hands-on experience as they work toward staging three quality productions every two years.

“Students can choose an acting role or a technical theatre experience (such as working on the set and costuming). It’s an adventure because they are using the creative side of themselves, it’s a very collaborative experience, and it increases skills in many different ways,” Haider said. “One of the really great things is that the kids are all equal backstage. They learn from one another in a safe environment. Some return year after year, developing friendships and mentoring younger students.”

For plays produced during the school year, students are interviewed and auditioned for roles. In the summer’s Young People’s Theatre Workshop, students in grades three through 12 participate on a first-come, first-served basis, with no auditions. The students write the show as well as participating in other ways.

Haider said she believes acting is as natural as breathing. She explained, “I grew up in theatre. My mother, a landscape architect and visual artist, helped start a theatre in a Milwaukee suburb. I was just naturally

fascinated by the thought-provoking aspect of it, the adventure of being taken into another world, meeting new people in new situations. There might be an issue you’ve never thought through before or another way of looking.”

She took part in every play her high school staged. She recalled, “It was engaging and always something different. Theatre people are passionate and engaged and collaborative. It improves critical thinking and makes you more observant of life, whether performing or directing.”

Haider earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Arts Management and Theatre from the University of Wisconsin-Superior and began performing and directing in the Milwaukee area. After moving to Northfield in 2004, she worked as the theatre coordinator with the Guild and served on the board. She then taught theatre for several years at Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault before returning to the Northfield Arts Guild in 2015 to help fulfill the Guild’s mission.

Now in its 59th year, the non-profit Northfield Arts Guild has a mission to inspire the community by developing, supporting and providing quality, inclusive, artistic opportunities to people of all ages and abilities. In addition to Haider, the staff includes an executive director, a visual arts manager, an education and volunteer manager, and a resident teaching artist. The Guild carries out its mission through arts education, music, theatre, visual arts and outreach programs. The main gallery features nine juried, invitational exhibits annually, as well as exhibiting the works of three emerging artists. Artists’ works also are exhibited in six satellite locations in the greater Northfield area. A concert series features regional and nationally-recognized artists offering a variety of musical styles, with

th GIFTS & HOME DECOR

each concert opened by a local musician.

Five annual theatre shows provide opportunities for multi-generational casts. The Guild recently performed “The Secret Garden” and next year plans to hold the world premiere of a play about the Younger Brothers and Jesse James, written by two Twin Cities’ news reporters who are history enthusiasts.

This summer, the Guild plans to offer a class in stage combat.

Haider explained, “Participants will learn how to stage a fight, which is very dance-like. It teaches awareness and control of the body and is appropriate for both men and women. We’ll also have an improvisation class, which is acting without a script. We also offer classes in clay works, fused glass, and painting with watercolor, acrylic and oil. We have artists’ talks and sidewalk poetry. Six poems are chosen to be permanently engraved into a sidewalk each year.”

Haider suggests that people who prefer a more passive way of taking an adventure can visit a gallery show or other exhibit. For example, a recent Community Clay Crawl included exhibits at three Northfield locations--St. Olaf College, Carleton College and the Northfield Arts Guild. The Guild also offers an Art Passport, providing a self-guided map tour of all public art permanently exhibited in Northfield--an adventure of a different sort.

Haider continues augmenting her knowledge of theatre. She said, “I take courses for graduate credits because there’s always more to learn. There’s always more adventure to experience.”

For more information online, contact northfieldartsguild.org.

Carlienne Frisch, a Mankato area writer, editor, crafter and rosemaler, believes that expressing oneself through art of any kind provides inexpensive therapy for whatever ails you.

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By Nancy Iglesias

lli Calkins is a recent graduate of Minnesota State University-Mankato.

She grew up exploring all kinds of fish, frogs, flora and fauna during her summer vacations on the Chippewa flowage in northern Wisconsin. After two summers in college working for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), she accepted a 10-month job in Juneau, Alaska working for a responsible

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salmon fish hatchery. From hiking to fishing, seeing the Northern Lights and so much more, she is loving all things outdoors in her new environment.

Calkins said, in a recent Facebook post, “Juneau has been nothing but a beautiful adventure lately. I’ve seen the Northern Lights, gone fishing, crabbing, clam and scallop digging, skied for the first time, hiked a few trails and visited the glacier. So amazing to have the opportunity to throw on my boots and get outside every day.�

Calkins is just one of numerous women of all ages who have discovered the beauty, adventures, and joys of being outdoors.

On a recent TripAdviser review, a Minnesota grandmother expounded on her winter adventure with Positive Energy Outdoors.

Among other adventures, Positive Energy

Helpful resources for women trying to make a bigger connection to the great outdoors!

DNR.state.mn.us/education/ bow Complete information on the Becoming An Outdoor Woman program in Minnesota Mywahooadventures.com With a tagline of “Get Outside and Play,” owners Kerrie, Dave and Border Collie Addy have a great mix of pre-planned trips and customizable adventures for your group. They specialize in cycling and paddling trips and will serve as both your guides and your outfitters.

provides dog sled tours with one-to-one instruction with an experienced musher. She raved that her nine-year old-granddaughter had “never experienced anything like it and was totally enamored with the dogs.”

From young girls to grandmothers and every age in between, Minnesota women are embracing the great outdoors. With so many resources available, it’s now easier than ever to learn a new outdoor activity or even hone an existing outdoor skill.

One of those resources is the Minnesota DNR’s Becoming an Outdoor Woman (B.O.W.) program.

It’s an incredible outdoor education program for women who would like to become more proficient in outdoor skills. From spearfishing to shooting a bow, trout fishing to snow shoeing or geocaching – their class list is extensive. B.O.W. provides a safe non-competitive environment for women. Whether you choose to take a class on your own, or head out with one of your best gal-pals, you’re sure to come away inspired and encouraged as an outdoor woman.

The program is modeled after a Wisconsin DNR program developed in 1991 by Professor Christine Thomas, an associate Dean and Professor of Resource Management at the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. B.O.W. hosts classes exclusively for women in more than 40 states and Canada featuring all types of outdoor skills including gun safety and basic shooting, fly fishing basics, birding, Nordic walking, evening canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, hunting water fowl, and deer hunting - just to name a few.

Their class roster includes basic classes (generally 2-3 hours long), a spring and fall week-end workshop and advanced skill workshops. A complete list

WildernessInquiry.org An amazing organization that does all the planning for you.

Their 2019 roster includes women’s trips to the Apostle Islands, Boundary Waters & St. Croix River (canoeing), Superior Hiking Trail. Most trips are 3-day adventures guided by world-class female adventure guides.

of classes, dates, times and location can be found at their website (DNR.state.mn.us/education/bow).

For glimpses of proud B.O.W participants, make sure you check out the Becoming an Outdoor Woman Facebook page administered by volunteer outdoor enthusiast and B.O.W participants.

Linda Bylander, director of the Minnesota Becoming an Outdoor Women program, is a great spokesperson for the organization. As she talked about a number of the workshops and the first-class instructors they have lined up to teach them, you couldn’t help but catch her enthusiasm. I’ve never had any desire to go duck hunting, but after listening to her describe the Ducks and Dog Class planned for later this fall, I seriously considered taking my yellow lab mix, Bailey (who has certainly never been hunting) and buying some camo!

While the classes and the spring and fall weekend workshops are held in various spots around the state of Minnesota, southeastern Minnesotans will be fortunate to host the 2019 fall week-end workshop September 13-15 to be held at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro. The Ducks and Dogs class is just one of an extensive line-up of classes for the novice or experienced outdoor enthusiast. This class will be taught by well-known instructors Tina Dokken and Simone Schara. Other classes during the fall workshop include fly fishing, beginner spin/casting fishing, shotgun and rifle shooting, turkey hunting, and a birder’s hike. Participants can also take in the Eagle Bluff high ropes course, canoeing, and a guided tour of the Mystery Cave in Preston.

In addition to the great educational work that B.O.W. provides, many outdoor sports have their

Positive Energy Outdoors www.outdooradventures.org Women Anglers of Minnesota www.womenanglersmn.com Women Hunting and Fishing www.Womenhfs.org Helpful resources for women trying to make a bigger connection to the great outdoors!

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own specialty membership groups.

The Women Anglers of Minnesota is one such organization. Its mission is to provide opportunities for women and children to participate in the sport of fishing, improve their fishing skills, and to fish for a variety of species. It just celebrated its 42nd anniversary and was recently inducted into the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame. Former Miss Minnesota U.S. International (2011) and outdoor enthusiast, Kara Wattunen, was a featured speaker at its April members meeting. Wattunen’s bio stated that “she started fishing at six months old and hunting came shortly thereafter.” She must have had some very dedicated parents.

Wattunen spent her summers at their family cabin in Ely, Minn., near the Boundary Waters. A woman of many talents, she entered and won the Miss Minnesota U.S. International pageant. In the ensuing year, she travelled the country with her platform, THINK OUTSIDE: NO BOX, geared at getting youth back in touch with nature through fishing, hunting and outdoor sports.

If you are looking for a good read, you 28

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might want to pick up a copy of K.J. Houtman’s “Why Women Hunt,” due out in June 2019.

An outdoor writer from Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota, Houtman’s 25-plus-year career and associations include American Sportfishing Association, the North American Hunting Club (and Fishing Club) as well as nine seasons running the Masters Walleye Circuit.

From pre-release promotional materials on “Why Women Hunt”: “Houtman approaches the subject by telling the stories of eighteen women. One thing readers will appreciate about the book is Houtman gives voice to women from all walks of life, ages, and backgrounds. The women featured in Why Women Hunt began to hunt for a variety of reasons. Some simply wanted to feed their family natural and healthy food. For others, it was about empowerment or an invitation from a mentor.

The ages when the women started hunting and their motivations for hunting vary, but love and respect for nature was a constant

theme through all the women’s stories.”

The book is a wonderful collection of the personal stories of female hunters, and it has gorgeous outdoor photography Now that summer is almost upon us, go grab your hiking boots, find a kayak, crossbow or fishing reel and head for the great outdoors. The adventure is waiting.

Nancy Iglesias is a freelance writer and storyteller. She is a Mid-West girl through and through with roots and stories from Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota. During the week, Nancy works for Home Instead Senior Care, finding joy in assisting families as they seek the best options for their loved ones. On the weekends, she works with preschoolers at her church. Whether she‘s chatting with someone who is four or fourscore, she loves to hear their stories.

Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental. wildmountain.com

Bike, Hike or Paddle your way into

cannonvalleytrails.com

T

By Sara Schlueter

his summer take the path less traveled and explore the beauty of Minnesota on your bike or in the water.

The opportunities to see the landscape and beauty of our great state are endless.

From hiking in Dakota County, to canoeing or kayaking down the Mississippi, there is something for everyone. Try taking it up a notch this summer and get out biking, canoeing or take a tubing adventure in one of the state’s thousands of lakes. Whatever you choose to do, adventure is out there!

Hit the Trail

Perfect for beginners, experienced bikers or any biker in between, the Cannon Valley Trail located in southeastern Minnesota, has both history and beauty. The trail has 19.7 miles of trail ready to

explore, connecting the cities of Cannon Falls and Red Wing and running along the Cannon River. It was originally opened in 1986 and was actually built along a former railroad line. Along the trail are conservation zones, prairies, an early pioneer sod house, historic military road crossings and an archaeological site. The trail offers an abundance of beautiful views, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in nature. As of last year, the trail was designated as a National Recreational Trail and is available to be enjoyed year-round.

Quick Facts: The trail is open from sunrise to 10 p.m. daily A “Wheel Pass” must be purchased to use the trail for biking during the months of April to November. Daily passes ($5) or season passes ($25) can be purchased online.

Visit cannonvalleytrail.com for more information about the trail, how to purchase wheel passes, maps, neighboring trails and contact information.

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Paddle Away The views along the St. Croix River can’t be beat, and it’s even better taking in the scenery from the water. Part of the natural boundary between Minnesota and Wisconsin, the entire St. Croix River runs 164 miles from Douglas County, Wisconsin to Prescott, Wisconsin where it joins with the Mississippi. The St. Croix is part of the National Scenic Riverway, and there are a variety of points where canoes or kayaks can take off. One of the easiest points to get to from the Twin Cities is Taylors Falls. Located about an hour from the Cities, Minnesota Interstate Park in Taylors Falls offers both canoes and kayaks for rental. The trip starts at the park, and riders can choose to end in either the Osceola Landing or William O’Brien State Park.

Paddlers will see a variety of wildlife, including birds, beavers’ otters and bald eagles.

Quick Facts: The Taylors Fall Canoe Base is open May through mid-October, seven days a week.

Reservations for canoes and kayaks are not required but recommended.

Rates for canoes start at $35, and $25 for kayaks. This price includes life jacket, paddle and the return shuttle back to the parking lot.

Visit taylorsfallscanoe.com for more information on river conditions, safety on the river, rental pricing and selecting a trip.

Float Along Enjoy a hot, summer afternoon floating lazily down the river! Rum River, located in Isanti and designated as a wild and scenic river, is an easy drive to get to for those in the Twin Cities and makes for a fun, summer day trip. Country Camping offers two-mile tubing trips and a shuttle ride back to the starting point once your trip is finished. Generally, trips last a few hours. Riders will be able to float past marshes and farmland and will be treated to a variety of wildlife.

Quick Facts: Country Camping operates daily during the summer season from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Tube rental is required; you can’t bring your own tubes.

Visit country-camping.com for more information about rentals, group booking and river conditions.

Take a Hike Located in Hastings, Spring Lake Park Reserve is an excellent place to go summer hiking not far from the Twin Cities. In the Upper Mississippi River Valley, the park has two trails—Schaar’s Bluff Trailhead and Archery Trail, where there is an area for visitors to try out archery. Both trails offer spots for picnics, playgrounds and gorgeous views along the Mississippi.

Quick Facts: Spring Lake Park Reserve is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Visit co.dakota.mn.us for more information about trail conditions, other amenities at the reserve and trail maps.

Sara Schlueter is a writer and editor in Minneapolis with a passion for storytelling, all things Minnesota, and being involved in the community.

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Don’t fall for

A

s the filing deadline has closed for the year. Along comes an increase in tax scams demanding payment on a balance due, stating that you filed your tax incorrectly.

Quick, raise your hand if you’ve received an email, phone call or text from someone from “the IRS” who is “collecting a past due tax bill”. Better yet, raise your hand if you haven’t. Most of us have, and unless you know the signs of a scam, you can fall victim to all sorts of bad outcomes.

First ruleof–thumb (repeat SPONSORED BY after me): The IRS ® Sandy Flom, CPA, CFP does NOT initi414 Central Ave., STE A ate contact with Faribault, MN taxpayers by email, 507.333.3973 text messages or Sandy@FaribaultCPA.com social media channels to request personal or financial information to verify who you are.

How to spot a scammer. The following are some specific things scammers will do to initiate their deceit: • Use of fake names and IRS badge numbers to identify themselves.

• Scammers may know the last four digits of your Social Security number.

• Scammers spoof caller ID to make the phone number appear as if the IRS or another

local law enforcement agency is calling.

• Scammers may send bogus IRS emails to victims to support their bogus calls.

• Victims hear background noise of other calls to mimic a call site.

• Scammers demand immediate payment of taxes by prepaid debit card or wire transfer.

• Scammers promise large refunds upon providing personal information.

• Call about an unexpected refund.

Now that you know how to spot Tax Scams, go out and enjoy the Summer!

Don’t fall for it! After threatening victims, with jail time or with driver’s license or other professional license revocation, scammers hang up. Other scammers will then call back pretending to be from local law enforcement agencies or the Department of Motor Vehicles, and caller ID again supports their claim.

The following is a list of things the IRS will NEVER do: • Call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer. Generally, the IRS will first mail a bill to any taxpayer who owes taxes.

• Threaten to immediately bring in local police or other lawenforcement groups to have you taxpayer arrested for not paying.

• Demand that taxes be paid without giving taxpayers the opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.

• Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.

Taxes, Investments, Business and maybe a little more Sandy Flom CPA, CFP® Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, fees and expenses before investing. For this and other important information please obtain the investment company fund prospectus and disclosure documents from your Rep/Advisor. Read this information carefully before investing. Registered Representative, Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisor Representative, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisor. Cambridge and Sandy Flom, LLC are not affiliated. Cambridge does not offer tax advice.

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F

By Isabelle Wattenberg

ourteen people stand in a circle, staring at each other with looks of expectation. Suddenly, one of them peels away from the circle, runs to the middle, gives a little hop and yells, “aww yeah.”

The rest of the group stands silently for a few seconds before jumping up and down themselves, a cascade of “aww yeahs” shouted back.

It’s the first day for class 201 at Minneapolis’s HUGE Theater, and the circle activity—prompting members to create a new movement and sound that the rest of the group then repeats—is a warm-up exercise to explore the relationship between physical movement and speech. The 201 is for graduates of HUGE’s improv basics course, but most classes welcome and encourage all experience levels.

A focus on promoting inclusion and diversity aren’t just core values at HUGE--you could say they’re the reason it exists. The theater has operated since 2010, and its performances and programs are driven by a desire to create a space where everyone feels comfortable regardless of gender orientation, race, physical ability, or age. And the art of improv naturally advances this mission, demanding both participants and viewers extricate themselves from regular thinking patterns, and rejoice in the creative and unexpected outcomes of fellow participants.

“You are enough. You are sufficient,” Jill Bernard, 201 instructor and HUGE co-founder, told the class as they took a break between exercises.

“Be yourself. Don’t over think. Just stay with it and let your imagination walk you through it.”

– Sindhusha K. Dakwale

“Jump in without thinking too much, because that is what improv 32

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Mary Barber, who is currently in a 301 course, echoed this philosophy.

“It’s an extremely safe non-judgmental place where you can be yourself,” she said. Barber said she initially joined to get out of her comfort zone and meet new people, and loves everything about the art. “I get to play games and make up stories with other people that come from so many different backgrounds,” she said. “Those two hours [of class] allow me to escape from life and not worry about how people perceive me.”

Bernard, who has been involved in Improv for 25 years, explained the key difference between improv and stand-up comedy, which she said are often lumped together. Stand-up is centered on jokes, but improv “is about being truthful and finding out what’s in funny in that.”

“Improv is not about jokes. We’d rather have the truth,” she said.

This reminder popped up periodically during class. When one participant expressed regret with one of their responses, Bernard pointed out that the participant’s answer--responding to a silly question with a very practical discussion--was delightful precisely because it was so unexpected and impossible.

“It’s never funny to be perfect,” Bernard said. “We have this impulse to fix things. But if something’s broken in improv, we should probably make it worse.”

The concept--and celebration--of failing is regularly brought up by Bernard. A common exercise for new students is called “Lose Your Ball.” Students throw an imaginary ball between each other, pretending to try and fail to catch it.

“It teaches you to be enthusiastically supportive when your friends

is. Improv is scary, I won’t lie, But with the HUGE community backing you when you try something new, you really feel like you have a HUGE second family. It’s fun, it’s scary, and it’s 100 percent worth it!”

– Deepika Pangarkar

“The instructors are great! So welcoming and every person is valued. The students are also kind

with each other. I would encourage anyone to get out of their comfort zone and try something new (and even scary) but will have a blast!”

– Brenda Leviton

“Don’t think, just do. No matter who you are you will be accepted and you will most certainly have fun!”

– Mary Barber

fail,” Bernard said. “It teaches you to find the good in failure. That’s a good attitude to go into practice with. If you set it up, there’s no way to do it wrong.”

The 201 class went through several improv exercises, pausing after each to talk about the challenges and tools each provided. During discussion, classmates and instructor were careful to avoid individual corrections, instead building a forum to highlight favorite moments and general techniques, rather than point out mistakes.

Bernard offered up improv theory, pointers and prompts throughout the class—her role, she explained, is to help participants escape the confines of normal thinking patterns.

“In your own way, you’re blocking your own creativity,” Bernard said. “The improv teacher is going to create a space where you have something to do to get out of your own way.”

The other key role of the instructor is to maintain a safe environment so participants feel supported being themselves.

One way HUGE helps establish safety and respect in the classroom, explained fellow HUGE instructor and performer Denzel Belin, is by asking each classmate to share their preferred pronoun at the beginning of class. In addition to making all individuals feel welcome and heard, it helps normalize the question and reaches those used to addressing binary genders.

“That is really rare; for someone to open that door,” Belin said. “It gives people an opportunity to talk about those things and that burden isn’t on [them].”

Sindhusha K. Dakwale said the unequivocally accepting community at HUGE is what made her fall in love with the art.

“I love the fact that I can just be me at improv,” she said.

For those interested in exploring the art before committing to a 10-week course, HUGE offers weekly jams and drop in classes every Tuesday.

Isabelle Wattenberg is a social media and data analytics specialist for MSP Communications. She spends her spare moments listening to opera, reading Alice in Wonderland, and writing about Minnesota happenings.

s to Explore Other Classe

:

Around Town

ie e at the Guthr mbat, and mor

, Stage Co Acting, Voice ul • Classes for eater, Saint Pa apolis Park Square Th at ps Theater, Minne ho ks or ion Theatre W • Adult Educat

The Way of

Wellness

Acupuncture • Herbal medicine

Contact your clinic to schedule a Child and Teen Checkup (C&TC)

Jenny Gamer has been helping people become balanced, healthy and happy using Chinese herbs, acupuncture, bodywork and lifestyle coaching since 2003.

For children, teens and young adults under 21 on Medical Assistance

Rice County Public Health 507.332.6111 Steele County Public Health 507.444.7650

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Jenny Gamer LAc, • M.OM, Dipl. CH

414 heritage place, faribault • pivotalpointom.com • 507-990-5981

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New Ulm Stop in to see what’s brewing at our one-of-a-kind shops and unique places to dine!

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Come to us for your Unique and Gorgeous Garden Items!

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Monday - SaTURday 9aM To 5pM 127 n. minnesota st • 507-233-4287 • gutentaghaus.com

November 10-16, 2019

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A

Compiled by Beth Forkner Moe

dventures are all in the eye of the beholder. Some adventures are simple and often unplanned.

Some are much more elaborate.

Some are soul-soothing; some are adrenaline-building.

Here are a few local adventures that might be heart-pounding, exhilarating, scary, fun – or a combination of all.

Glider Rides Stanton Airfield is a privatelyowned, public airport right outside Northfield. Pilots from all over the Midwest come to Stanton for the nostalgic feel, open skies, friendly atmosphere and to experience some of the greatest grass runway flying in the Midwest. It is also home to the Minnesota Soaring Club.

The Airfield has a variety of aviation services, including instruction and maintenance. You are able to

get a private pilot license, sport pilot license or tailwheel endorsement there. For a quick adventure, r try friends o e m o s b Gra and out embers family m their e new t to mak r! u o d glider a e h the res toge rides. adventu You will receive a tow to 3,000 or 4,000 feet (depending on the ride you choose), take a tour of the area around the Northfield/Cannon Falls area, and have smooth landing back at the airport. The adventure includes a cockpit familiarity and basic introduction to the Sport of Soaring. Riders must not weigh more than 250 pounds.

Rides are typically offered between May and October.

A Sightseeing Flight (3000-foot tow) lasts 20 to 30 minutes; cost is $140. The Adventure Flight (4000foot tow) lasts 30 to 40 minutes; cost is $170.

Stanton Airfield 1235 Hwy 19, Stanton, MN 507-645-4030

Exploring A the

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TRUCKING & EXCAVATING 507-685-2222 timmstrucking.com 24366 Holland Ave Morristown

Clay Target Shooting/ Trapshooting Interested in clay target shooting? Wonder what trapshooting is like?

Welcome to the Owatonna Gun club, a nonprofit club dedicated to the shooting sports. It’s friendly and low-key club, run by volunteers and open to the public. The club has 9 trap fields. Two of the fields are lighted. The club sells shells. Instruction is available upon request.

Owatonna Gun Club 10749 SE 37th Ave., Hope, MN 507-451-4498 Directions: From I-35, take exit 32 (Hope Exit). Go west one mile on County Road 414.

Turn lest and go south 1-1/2 miles on County Road 22 (37th Ave SW). The Owatonna Gun Club will be on your left.

Axe Throwing I can attest that this is a blast. Over the Christmas holidays, my family and I spent a fun afternoon throwing axes/hatchets. Establishments are set up similar to bowling alleys, with “lanes” for each group (enclosed on 3 sides).

Similar to bowling, you have 3 turns to throw and see what a high score you can get (and 10 rounds each). The axes weigh slightly more than a pound. The hardest part was figuring out what stance to take. I tried standing with one leg slightly behind the other one and throwing with one arm. That wasn’t so great, so then I tried the same stance and threw with both arms overhead. A bit better. Then I got “into my groove” with feet spread and the two-armed overhead throw. Bingo! It’s really satisfying to throw something at a target – and it’s definitely a good stress reliever. (Take that, pesky worry!)

Battle Axed 22554 Texas Ave., Lakeville, MN 952-892-1540

Bouldering/Indoor Rock Climbing This new sport is gaining popularity all across the country. My family does it fairly often and enjoys both the physical and mental challenges.

I’m not much of a climber, so I enjoy watching them and encouraging them.

Vertical walls are set with different shapes of items designed to look like rocks. Trails can be developed on a specific type of difficulty. The walls can be changed to provide more experiences for people who climb regularly. Any age can do it. We’ve seen kids as young as 5 and adults well into their 60’s.

Generally, these gyms allow either day passes or memberships. Instructors are always around to provide tips and help.

Roca Climbing & Fitness 6071 Rome Circle NW, Rochester, MN 507-218-1500

Art Adventure of

THANK YOU VETERANS Everyday, we honor the men and women whose military service protects the fabric, values and security of our great nation.

Veterans Rice County

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Girlfriends

W

By Nancy Iglesias

ho doesn’t love to travel?

Family adventures are great - whether it’s a romantic week-end at a quaint bed-and-breakfast, a longawaited getaway with the family to unwind on a lake up north, a day pedaling on your favorite bike path with a stop for pie and icecream, or seeing the look in the eyes of your children or grandchildren when they see the Grand Canyon, the fireworks at Disney or the ocean for the first time.

Each of these is pretty amazing with unique opportunities to make wonderful memories! But just as special are the memories made when a group of women hit the road together for a girlfriends’ adventure.

Whether they are old friends, new friends or the besties you grew up with, the unique dynamic of a girlfriend adventure cannot be denied.

As women, most of us are responsible for juggling a fair number of details and wearing multiple hats on any given day—wife, mother, working professional, after-school activities taxi, tutor, community volunteer, to name just a few. But there comes that point in every woman’s life where she needs to step back and take a break. And what better 38

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way to do that than with a girlfriends’ get-away!

As social creatures we were created with a deep need for relationship. And it should come as no surprise that female friendships are near the top of the list and apparently very good for one’s health.

Strong female friendships can reduce stress, extend life expectancy and even lower the chance of heart disease.

Dr. David Spiegel, the head of psychiatry at Stanford, said “among other things that one of the best things that a man could do for his health is to be married to a woman, whereas for a woman, one of the best things she could do for her health is to nurture her relationships with her girlfriends.” Women just seem to have a natural bent to provide support for each other during stressful and difficult life circumstances According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, women with early-stage breast cancer were four times more like to die from cancer if they didn’t have very many friends (Psychology Today, August 2018). Female friendships are certainly about those allimportant heart-to-heart social connections but there is also a physical component when endorphins, serotonin and the important bonding hormone oxytocin are released.

In a series of studies, psychologist William Chopik from Michigan State University found that in older adults, friendships are a stronger predictor of health and happiness than relationships with family members. “Keeping a few really good friends around can make a world of difference for our health and well-being,” he said. “So, it’s smart to invest in the friendships that make you happiest.”

So science seems to confirm what we women have known all along.

But what is it that makes a women’s trip so enjoyable? I went to a number of women in my social circle who take regular trips with their gal-pals and found a number of common themes.

You get to take off the many hats you where on any given day and just be yourself.

When you check in to your destination with just “the girls,” you can take a small break from the many roles and responsibilities of your everyday life. Even if you thoroughly enjoy each of the hats you wear, it’s healthy for your body, mind and spirit to take a little to break and “reset.”

My friend Katie, who regularly spends time with female friends said, “I really appreciate the ease in which you can just be yourself, the shared memories and inside jokes that come with long-time friendships, the laughter, the conversation, and listening and being understood means so much. When there is shared history, you can quickly enter into a comfortable and comfort-filled environment—coziness for the soul.” No big explanations needed, no judgement zone, just pure unadulterated acceptance.

One group of friends told me they meet regularly for lunch, dinner or to share a glass of wine on a Friday evening. While they certainly all appreciate their regular, yet brief, get-togethers, they also try to get together for a long week-end once a year. They choose a bed-and-breakfast only about 40 minutes from their homes. But once they check in, unload their snacks, games, music and pillows, and actually take the time to unwind a different dynamic happens.

We all need the opportunity to slow down and sharpen our own saws.

And as busy women, a girlfriends’ trip is often just what the doctor ordered.

Laughter flows freely among women I have a couple of friends from my childhood neighborhood with whom I still get together about once a year. Even though we live in different states and our lives have taken us in many directions, there are still deep common bonds. We have been there through thick and thin. We were in each other’s weddings, have been there for each other as we have raised our children, supported each other through serious illnesses and even the death of a spouse.

We have shared secret joys and sorrows and always 1000 laughs. When we’re together it seems we fall into an easy banter and laughter flows freely. There is always something that reminds us of something silly from our teenage years. And often all it takes is one word for the laughter to begin.

When we got together about a year ago, we walked from the AirB&B we were staying in to a little Mexican restaurant. Their evening special was a rhubarb margherita. Since we had grown up with lots of rhubarb in our little neighborhood, we decided to give one a try, as a nod to the backyard gardens of Clifton Street. While waiting for our server to come back with our drinks, we reminisced about sitting on the swing set, dipping rhubarb into a Dixie cup filled with sugar. Unfortunately, when the drinks came, they were served in a small mason jar not too much bigger than a Dixie cup. We all had a good giggle and the rest of the weekend, if we needed a good laugh, all we had to do was say “rhubarb.”

And what is it about a girlfriends’ weekend that brings out our inner middle school self? Friends told me about turning up the tunes and dancing like they were still 13, voting on the cutest Hollywood star, giving up their gluten-free life for a few brief moments of Cheetos and chocolate

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We find shared experiences when we take the time to share our stories with each other.

A friend and busy mom of 4, Leighann said, “taking time to be with

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BOOK REVIEW Book Review – “The League of Wives”

by Heath Hardage Lee c.2019, St. Martin’s Press $28.99 / $37.99 Canada 323 pages

Review by Terri Schlichenmeyer, The Bookworm

The League of Wives

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T

o love, honor, and cherish.

That’s what you vowed, in sickness and health, ‘til death do you part. They’re promises you’ll keep forever – especially, as in the new book “The League of Wives” by Heath Hardage Lee, when one of you fights on the other’s behalf.

When a woman married a military man in the 1960’s, she quickly learned that her life would never be the same.

There was, first of all, a book she was given to help her learn the rules she’d be expected to follow. Says Lee, “a pilot needed the right wife” if he wanted a career in the military; her actions in dress and public decorum impacted his chances for promotion, and her social standing “mirrored her husband’s rank.”

By this reckoning, Sybil Stockdale was the highest-ranking wife at her husband’s naval base in California in 1964. Highly-esteemed by other Navy wives, she was married to Commander James Stockdale and “had grown proficient at the military game.”

That familiarity helped her in months to come.

In September 1965, Jim Stockdale was shot down over the Gulf of Tonkin and captured.

He wasn’t the first U.S. pilot to be taken as a Prisoner of War, and Sybil wasn’t the first wife of a Vietnam POW, but her rank conferred leadership and as the war continued, she reached out to other POW wives in what became a “reluctant sorority.”

By latter 1966, those wives began to realize that “they were low priority on the Johnson administration agenda.” Johnson wouldn’t meet with them; “the State Department all but ignored” them, even as their numbers grew. They were told that speaking out could jeopardize their husbands’ survival. They began to think

Author Heath Hardage Lee. heathleeauthor.com

that government officials wished they’d go away.

The one exception: the liaison assigned to them, a man who later was lauded for his help.

He seemed to understand that there was one way for the women to get their husbands home, and he told them: “Organize.”

And so they did…

Somewhere on a shelf in your home, you might have a stack of thrillers you’ve read and loved and will read again. Add “The League of Wives” to that pile; it’s is as thrilling as any novel, but it’s all true.

Yes, you know how this story ends, but the getting-there’s the appeal. Author Heath Hardage Lee brings readers a real-life account of politics, espionage, and secrets, inside a tale of a changing world and an unpopular war, inside a story of one small corner of the history of women’s rights. While that might seem like a lot to take (and Lee may appear to lean a bit), it’s a comfortable read with urgent surprises – the kind you’d get if you discovered a pile of old women’s magazines in your grandmother’s attic, with espionage codes stuck among the pages.

That adds up to a tale that’s just-right-told, especially if you’re a politico, history buff, veteran, military wife, or feminist. For you, and you love a good thriller, “The League of Wives” could become a cherished story.

The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been reading since she was 3 years old and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with a mysterious man, two dogs, and 14,000 books. For more information, visit bookwormsez@gmail.com.

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WELLNESS

I

By Rian Dicke-Michels t’s dawned on me how easy it is to lose your sense of fun in life. You might have gotten caught up in the monotony of paying bills, running the family like a well-oiled machine, keeping appointments, or, like me, all of the above. Perhaps it has to do with this last winter season, trapping folks indoors with dangerously cold temperatures and multiple feet of snow.

Flash forward to the present, and each day is now growing longer. Already, the weather is shifting and I’ve observed the neighborhood kids taking laps round the block on their bicycles. Spring is here and the many doors of opportunity are opening up. So, how do we cease wearing our “busy-ness” as a badge of honor, and bring more lighthearted fun into our lives?

If you haven’t a clue where to start, it is a proven fact that a walk in the woods is just as effective as a meditation. Exposure to sunlight improves our cognitive function, and also stimulates our bare skin to generate Vitamin D. The psychology of color also tells us that blues and greens are among those to have the most calming effects on the

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brain. In addition, nature sounds are so soothing that we can even find recordings of them! Like running water, birds in the forest, or a breeze flowing through the trees, and can be listened to at any time of day.

Going for a jaunt in the woods can be done alone or with a close friend or family, and you can do it with very little planning involved.

Just strap on a comfy pair of shoes (that won’t cause stress when dirtied) and go. This is my highest recommendation because some of the most fun I ever have is when my partner and I take our daughter into the woods, and we can’t wait to get our son involved.

From an article titled This Is How Joy Affects Your Body posted by Healthline in 2018, we can read about how our brain experiences fun. “The frontal lobe (commonly known as the ‘control panel’ of the brain) monitors your emotional state, while the thalamus (an information center that regulates consciousness) participates in how your emotional responses are executed. We feel joy in our bodies because of the release of dopamine and serotonin, two types of neurotransmitters in the brain. Both of these chemicals are heavily associated with happiness (in fact, people with clinical depression often have lower levels of serotonin).”

With just a few naturally occurring chemicals, our entire body is affected. From the circulatory system down to the autonomic nervous system, and for all of these reasons, fun is as important to our health as it is to brush our teeth each day.

Having fun is truly about doing what brings us joy. What I find common is that many adults struggle to let go of control. Imagine for a moment that you’re holding not one, but a handful of little snakes.

This is a rather unpleasant image/sensory challenge, so just go with me on this one. You’re gripping tightly, because inside the knotting of snakes is a precious stone. You know that the stone is precious, but you cannot open your hands to see it. So, you go on white-knuckling it, despite feeling sickened and paralyzed with anxiety around the snakes.

What if, instead of living this way, you could face the fear with a little courage and one by one, release the little things (snakes) that cannot be controlled? Once they’ve been let go, you can then admire the precious stone that represents your life. Only then can you see it for the beauty and imperfections that make it unique to you.

Everyone has a differing opinion on what fun is. For some it’s a

day alone at the gym, for others it’s close friends laughing together on “wine night.” The only thing that truly matters is fueling our lives with the joyful moments worth living for. Don’t go overboard stressing about an itinerary for your family outing, causing it to lose its luster. Laugh at the silly things that little kids do. Avoid choosing topics that cause heated discussion and instead engage in thoughtprovoking, meaningful conversations. Take a cooking class.

A favorite quote from “Fight Club” comes to mind - “On a long enough timeline, the survival rate for everyone drops to zero.” The point here is that we don’t have forever, we have only this. Take time every single day to smile, laugh, dance, sing, kiss, or whatever it is that got put on the backburner when deadlines came closing in. You have such a precious life, and for reasons unknown it is completely and utterly yours.”

Release the snakes, and honor the stone.

CONTINUED FROM page 23

other favorite, right up with the relationships, is helping people and getting out in the public for fire prevention.”

Both women agree there is still a long road ahead before the roles they fill are considered genderless, but they also agree more and more women are following their lead.

“I do see more women getting into traditionally male roles. I think this is awesome! As I said before, it may take us a little more work and proving but at the end of the day it kind of feels good to prove the guys wrong and show them what we can do,” Kath said.

But, slowly and steadily, the tide is turning. A recent LinkedIn study shows that female representation in the public safety sector has grown by 118% over the past decade. Other industries seeing large gains are construction and agriculture.

Despite the challenges, Ulrich said she wouldn’t change her chosen profession for anything else. Starting with the Steele County Sheriff’s Office in 1998, she is currently an Investigator with the department, a position she has held for four years.

“I currently work with Minnesota Prairie County Alliance on adult and child protection cases, conduct follow-up interviews and investigations on any cases that require the Sheriff’s Office to do so, and I process any evidence that is submitted by deputies,” Ulrich said. “My duties can sometimes consist of assisting with courthouse security, patrol duties, and investigations for other law enforcement entities as well.”

“I like that my job is so dynamic. I am not the type of person that can sit still and do the same job every day,” she said. “I guess you could say I like the unknown because it challenges me push myself to be the best I can be. I also take pride in knowing that I have the opportunities to make a difference in someone else’s life.”

Kath echoes those sentiments.

“There are so many things I love about this job, but to sum all those up, I would say it’s the relationships we build down here with everyone,” she said. “We have to trust each other to have our backs when situations get tough, whether it be a car accident and we are trying to get people out, to going into a fire and trusting that person has our back and we are working Supporting together to get Women Saving the fire out. It really is a family Lives Strengthening ere We are uh.!

Families down here and for yo it’s something No agenda • No judgement • Confidential • Free I don’t think • Real Help • No pressure any of us would 18 2nd Street NW, Faribault, MN 55021 • 507-332-7644 trade for the Monday: 9:00am-6:30pm - Tuesday thur Turs. 9:00am-4:30pm world. The Fri.: Closed - Sat.: by Appointment - www.pregnancyoptionsfbo.org

Rian Dicke-Michels is a highly independent, Minnesota State University Mankato graduate and the proud mother of an earthy 5-year-old daughter and a brand-new baby boy. Although a 10-year yoga practitioner, she earned her 200RYT in 2015 from The Green Lotus Yoga and Healing center, and is continuing her education toward 500 hours. “My life is a continuous journey toward healing and self-love,” she says, “I’m honored to share it with you.”

Lisa Cownie writes from North Mankato. Her work can be found at lisacownie.com.

Assisted Living in Downtown Northfield

Honoring individuals and their interests Millstream Commons, 210 W 8th Street, Northfield 507-650-0141 · threelinks.org

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Unexpected CaregiveR

Putting Fun Into Your Caregiving Routine

Berit Kari Berit, author of The Unexpected Caregiver, is a keynote speaker who will help everyone have more fun in their caregiving journies. Follow her at www.KariBerit.net

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M

y friend sings instructions to his wife with Alzheimer’s disease. I hear her giggling and then I start laughing and before you know it, the three of us are totally in the present moment. We’re not thinking about her bowel movements or when she’ll start wandering or whether she’ll find her meds we’ve tried so hard to bury in her yogurt.

There’s a lot about giving care that is neither fun nor funny. Helping your parents and loved ones will test your balance and stamina. It will stress your spouse, your family, your work life, perhaps even your basic sense of self.

Sometimes, it will bring you a level of joy that will surprise you. Sometimes, it will bring you down.

No matter how serious things get, you owe it to yourself, and everyone who loves you, to preserve a sense of fun. It may seem simple advice to give, but odds are you’ll find it difficult to achieve as the responsibilities — and sheer amount of time — involved in caregiving begin to mount up.

We know that maintaining a sense of fun brightens your day and improves your health.

Imagine what it can do for your loved one!

When life becomes focused on negatives, when energy is harder to come by, it’s difficult to let in a sense of play. Yet, no matter how unwilling they may appear, people need to have fun.

Study after study shows that fun is good

for our health, while a lack of it contributes to everything from simple illnesses to deep depressions.

For some of our loved ones, play will be a natural and normal part of the day’s routine.

For others, it’ll be a virtually new habit to develop — or rediscover. Regardless, we need to help get rid of the barriers that don’t allow our care receivers to play.

With your parents, connecting to the past may help. What do they recall about playing as a child? About playing with their children?

Help them draw a mental picture of what play once looked like and felt like, then assist them in finding ways to experience that feeling again today.

With my best friend (who is my age and plagued by Young Onset Alzheimer’s disease) I turn the clock back to our high school days, when we’d dance at the drop of a solid 80’s hairband tune. Whatever the agitation or frustration, it melts away as we get our groove on.

When it came to visiting my maternal grandma, I used to invoke play by turning on the hi-fi and dancing to her Benny Goodman albums. Once the music started, she was transported to her younger years. There was no talk of when I’d visit next or why my mom didn’t call her more. We were simply dancing and reminiscing. We were laughing and letting go. We were solidly in the present moment.

Like my friend caring for his wife with Alzheimer’s disease, remember it’s okay to laugh, as long as you’re laughing with them.

They haven’t lost their sense of humor. When we laugh, we are playing. When we are playing, life is fun...and that makes all the difference.

Women News! in the

Do you want to share a small press release about a female staff member and their achievements/ awards? This could be an award, anniversary, a joining announcement, retirement, etc.

Dr. Elizabeth Cooper Southern Heights Dental welcomes Dr. Elizabeth Cooper. Dr Cooper attended the University of Minnesota and graduated from the U of M School of Dentistry in 1982.

Prior to joining our practice, Dr. Cooper owned a dental practice in Highland Park in St Paul for 34 years, focusing on restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

Dr. Cooper is happy to join SHDG to practice all aspects of dentistry and to be of service to the community.

She resides in St. Paul with her husband and has 2 adult children. She enjoys running, cycling, and golf, especially at her cabin in northern Minnesota.

Contact Ginny Bergerson at gbergerson@owatonna.com or call 507-444-2386 CONTINUED FROM page 39

other women is so important. Going away for the day or a whole weekend allows us to settle down, get comfortable and finally open up about the deeper things going on in our lives.

It’s a time to share our insecurities, celebrate our victories and lament the hardships. Having time to share these things leads to less isolation and the emotional spiral that happens when we feel isolated. We feel normal again.”

Leighann is also a professional life coach who has on occasion led week-end retreats. She says the extended time allows women to talk through al the surface things and move into deeper conversations allowing for greater connection and true “bearing of one another’s burdens.”

Unfortunately, I am one of those women that finds it easier to care for others than myself. I would gladly help others pack their bags and send them off with well wishes for a good time.

Fortunately, I have always had friends that have helped me break away.

Two of those friends recently planned a trip to south Florida for some much-needed sunshine.

We laughed, we shared, we enjoyed the sand, surf, and the dolphins swimming around the boat we were in. We sat on a park bench at a gulf-side marina and ate Cold Stone Creamery.

But in the end, it was the time to slow down, reconnect and be kind to ourselves and each other that nourished our souls.

Southern Minn

Girlfriends

Whether it’s a quiet retreat, enjoying a beauti- the road. ful location, a physical challenge (biking, hiking, Nancy Iglesias is a freelance writer and storyteller. She is a Mid-West girl paddling, etc.) or touring someplace new and through and through with roots and stories from Wisconsin, Illinois and Minnesota. During the week, Nancy works for Home Instead Senior Care, exciting, a women’s trip is a wonderful way finding joy in assisting families as they seek the best options for their loved to refuel, refresh and re-tool! And it’s not just ones. On the weekends, she works with preschoolers at her church. Whether about the fun, it’s good for your health too! she‘s chatting with someone who is four or fourscore, she loves to hear their So grab your “gal-pals,” start planning and hit stories.

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JUL/AUG Watch for our Summer issue, coming out in mid-July: What’s Cooking? Serving Up Food Stories From Farm To Fork.

ISSUE • Complementary medicine, including the DEADLINE A few highlights: use of herbs • A day in the life of an organic farmer • Food co-ops IS JUNE • Where do some of our favorite foods come • Healthy food to take on camping trips from in southern Minnesota?

• Food research, the Minnesota way 14TH • Unusual foods SPRING 2019

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DIRECTORY

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, 507-645-7751 www.castlerockbank.net.

EVENT RENTAL SPACE PILLSBURY COLLEGE PREP

Hold your next event at the historical campus of Camp Pillsbury. Large auditorium, dining hall, conference rooms, ample meeting space and dormitory sleeping quarters that hold up to 750 overnight guests. Perfect for corporate events, weddings, concerts, leadership retreats, youth development retreats and more. 507-214-2200.

Health & Wellness 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.

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Northfield Retirement Community

SUMMER CAMP

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.

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.

Home & Garden Judy’s 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” 507-645-0008, 1951 Division St. S., Northfield, judysfloraldesign.com.

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 612-328-4591.

CAMP PILLSBURY

Camp Pillsbury is a unique day and sleepaway summer camp, offering over 100 activities! Flying trapeze, circus arts, musical theater, sports, magic, horseback, gymnastics, dance, technology, musical instruments and waterski– all in the same day. So many activities to choose from!

Camppillsbury.com 507-214-2200.

Transportation 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.

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