River Valley Woman March 2019

BY EILEEN MADSEN Editor

can be three of the nicest words you can hear or say. It’s who’s in your home, not what’s in your home, that matters, right? Oh, who are we trying to kid. Of course we love our husbands, wives, kids, pets and significant others, but let’s get real. In fact let’s get real estate.

A home purchase is a big deal, and its contents and furnishings can make all the difference in how we feel when we open the door after a long day. We do what we can, depending upon the time in our lives. When I was first married we rented a handful of houses or parts thereof, with a hodgepodge of furnishings. Mostly from our respective parents—a dining room table here, an incredibly ugly couch there, mismatched dishes, and classic stainless steel saucepans. But we were happy to have them. And I still have some of them. I mean, nothing ever happens to stainless steel sauce pans. They are yours for life. Eventually though, there comes a time to replace that old laminate or otherwise tomato soup-stained countertop with something a bit more classy and durable. That is where Jamie Sorensen comes in as the cover feature in our annual Home & Garden issue. As market representative for Cambria, she gets in on the nitty gritty of how stone surfacing can be applied in a home in a variety of ways and seemingly endless choices of patterns. Beyond her daily job, this Minnesota River Builders Assn’s multiple award winner, is also involved in a number of design and homerelated activities. She rocks!

I am addicted to all things home and household from the mid-century modern era. Jetsons-looking home design, clocks, lamps, chairs, credenzas, you name it from the late 1940s to early 1970s and I want it, or have it. Trouble is, older items can need some TLC. Rose Rustman of Arrow Ace Hardware can help with that and then some. As manager of the store for almost 30 years, Rose knows the nuts and bolts of homeowners’ and apartment dwellers’ needs. Bonus—the St. Peter Ace store is a classic old-fashioned experience. Well worth the visit. Pick me up some upholstery cleaner while you’re there will you?

Some things in your home you simply take for granted. No, I am not talking about your spouse. I’m talking about water. Turn on the faucet and out it gushes. Flush and, well…away it goes. We have plumbers such as Marion Roessler to thank for helping us go with the flow. While being a woman is unique in the trade, Marion has encountered only mild surprise and nothing but positive responses. In fact, she says being female seems to put some customers at ease. Plus she has the advantage of fitting into smaller spaces. Now if she can only make sure the toilet lid stays down.

By the time this issue hits the stands, we hope to see some inklings of the spring to come, and can start dreaming about our gardens and landscaping. Oh, to start planting herbs and tomatoes! Oh, to attempt to plant flowers in that one spot where everything dies and only weeds thrive. Oh, if only someone could come and reveal her garden secrets. Well, expert Katie Hesse has them in spades. She can tell you how to plant, what to grow, and where to dig. She even makes house calls and will do all the dirty work whilst you do what you do best—even if that’s just sipping lemonade in the shade. Katie’s got your back(yard).

We’re house-proud of this issue! So have a seat (perhaps a nice low profile sling chair), take your time reading (vintage sunburst clock), make yourself some tea (aren’t you glad your faucet works?) turn on a lamp (with a lighted base), put your feet up (on an orange leather hassock with hairpin legs), and honey— you’re home.

By MARIE ZIMMERMAN

PHOTOS BY RHONDA MILBRETT PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHED AT CAMBRIA GALLERY

Originally from Nebraska, Jamie Sorensen’s family moved more than most. With homes varying in style and the architecture changing from state to state, it did not take long for her appreciation of nice homes to develop. In 1997, when she was a sophomore in high school, her family landed in Mankato. And she had no intention of moving again. This was home.

“I love this community with a passion,” Jamie said. “Mankato is the perfect size. It’s not too big. It’s not too little.”

She started to pursue a degree in sales and marketing at Minnesota State University, Mankato, and occasionally studied alongside her sisterin-law, who is four years older and was majoring in interior design.

Jamie was always the girl that was painting a room, arranging furniture or planning themed parties. “I was taking accounting when I realized this is not what fuels my fire. Meanwhile, Nikki was working on these fun design projects,” she said. “She truly inspired me to follow my heart.”

Since then, the home has been the focus of her career.

Right at home

A seasoned professional in Mankato’s building industry, Jamie earned her bachelor’s degree in interior design and construction management in 2006 and spent nine years in residential design with Town and Country Interiors in Mankato.

“I loved, loved, loved that job,” she said, but eventually, Jamie was looking for “something or someone to challenge me on a different level.

Four years ago, a local position opened in outside sales at Cambria—a

product she was all too familiar with. Jamie sold Cambria to her design clientele, and it was her preferred natural stone countertop. The company opened in Le Sueur in 2001 and is most often associated with its premium stone countertops. The natural stone surfaces are composed of crushed quartz processed into slabs.

Jamie was thrilled to start her new career as amarket representative for Cambria and now supports their dealers across southern Minnesota and northwest Iowa. Her business partners range from all corners of the building industry.

“We lead the stone industry in design innovation. Cambria never ceases to amaze me with what it can do. If they don’t know how to do it, they go figure it out,” Jamie said.

Beyond counters, Cambria’s 165 designs can be utilized as wall cladding, shower surrounds, fireplaces, inlays into flooring and tile, and more.

“The things they can do with our stone are amazing,” she said. “If you want beauty, performance and service, Cambria has it. It sells itself. It’s family owned and American made. Processed and fabricated right here in the heart of Minnesota and carries a full lifetime warranty. How cool is that?”

Another reason Jamie loves Cambria is its commitment to supporting communities where it does business through contributions of time, resources, and income. The company culture fuels her passion for all things community driven, including volunteering her time with several local nonprofits. 

Community commitment

Volunteering is Jamie’s hobby, and it feeds her soul. She’s a Greater Mankato Growth “Cavalier,” welcoming new businesses in the community, and serves on the board of the Minnesota Valley Action Council, which offers energy assistance, job training, housing assistance and early childhood services.

“People don’t even realize all they do. If you are in need of assistance, I urge you to reach out to MVAC, as there may be a program in place to lean on or just call me and I can guide you,” Jamie said.

Her longest-running volunteer commitment has been with the nonprofit Minnesota River Builders Association.The association includes builders, remodelers, subcontractors, suppliers, and other professionals that support the building industry in southcentral Minnesota.Sorensen has been a member for 13 years, and in that time has served on almost every MRBA committee. She has been honored with each of the three awards given to association members—Rising Star in 2008, Associate Member of the Year in 2010, and the President’s Award in 2015. Jamie began her third term on the MRBA Board of Directors last January and currently serves as the MRBA secretary. She also just accepted a seat at state level where she will serve on the Board of Directors for the Builders Association of Minnesota.

“So many words come to mind when I think of Jamie— dedicated, creative, smart, committed, loyal. Really, I could go on and on,” Amy Kolb, executive director for the MRBA, said. “The association is very fortunate this natural leader has served the MRBA so loyally for over a decade. And Jamie was our first woman president in 2014, something we take great pride in.”

Among her MRBA accomplishments, Sorensen is one of four founders of Raw Fusion, the high-energy abstract fashion show dedicated to raising awareness for the local building industry. The ensembles are comprised of raw building materials and judged for their uniqueness and flair. Now in its ninth year, Raw Fusion has donated more than $124,000 to area causes while also supporting the MRBA. It was an enormous undertaking, and has been an equally outsized success.

“Jamie is constantly thinking outside of the box and looking for ways to make each show better and unique from the previous year’s show,” Kolb said. “I believe that’s why Raw Fusion has had the success that it has for going on nine years now, Jamie strives to push the boundaries of what we’ve done before and make it a whole new experience for the audience.”

There is an application process each year for nonprofits to be considered as the beneficiary of Raw Fusion, and the organizing committee reviews all entries.

“It’s just something that speaks to our hearts,” Sorensen said about making the final decision for which organization it will be each year.

This year, they have selected the Jonathan Zierdt Cancer Fund. Founded by cancer patient and former Greater Mankato Growth president and CEO Jonathan Zierdt, the fund’s signature program is the JZ Caring Box. The boxes are designed for patients diagnosed with cancer and contain items to provide support and comfort as well as access to information and resources for patients, their families and caregivers. The JZ Cancer Fund anticipates distributing 1,200 Caring Boxes this year.

“We want to accelerate the Jonathan Zierdt Cancer Fund’s efforts to bring comfort and support to those diagnosed with cancer,” she said. “Our decision to partner with the JZ Cancer Fund comes at a pivotal time for Jonathan as he embarks on a new journey outside of Greater Mankato Growth.”

The 2019 show is Friday, May 10 at the Verizon Center, and the theme is mythology.

MRBA also puts on several other events through the year, including a tour of homes that raises funds for causes in the community.

“I am so thrilled to be a part of the Builder’s Association because of what they do,” Jamie said. “We are constantly finding ways to give back through our events. I think that’s what makes us such an intricate part of the community.”

Mankato or bust

Because she grew up moving, Jamie wants to give her family the roots she wasn’t able to put down. A mother of two young boys, she and spouse Justin both have family in the Mankato area and plan to stay put. She’s energized by the community at large, but has a few favorite places.

“I’m a sucker for Sibley Park. The first home we ever bought was in West Mankato and I love it so much there. It’s magical.” Jamie said.

She appreciates Mankato’s many entrepreneurs and the town’s “shop small” attitude. 

 “I love the support the community gives back to those community owned businesses. There’s a loyalty to one another for sure,” she said. “I love downtown and Old Town, and what local developers have done to help it thrive.”

Jamie is always thrilled to travel back to Nebraska, as well as going to California to see her brother and his family. Home is important, but it’s the people who make a place special. “Happiness is just being with the people I love. It doesn’t matter where we are. If I have free time, it’s spent with my family and friends,” Sorensen said.

For those seeking interior design inspiration this spring, Sorensen recommends Pinterest. She cautions that the endless collection of gorgeous home photos can be overwhelming. That’s when it helps to lean on a professional designer. Look to them to bring focus to your project.

So many people go into a project and just want some guidance and reassurance in their purchase,” Jamie said. “There’s an abundance of local talent in interior design. Look around for someone who fits your style and personality.”

When you’re working with a designer, don’t be afraid to speak up about pieces you love—or hate. “Ultimately, you have to live in your home,” she said.

Jamie also shared some trending design elements to get you daydreaming about an updated space.

The look of Marble [without the maintenance]. The look of marble can give a space a light and airy feel, or the opposite effect with bold color and dramatic veining. White and grey have been the colors of the moment, but dark marbles are quickly finding their way into the home, Sorensen said. Look to products like Cambria that offer the beauty of Marble, but require no upkeep.

Mid-Century Modern. Its geometric shapes, clean lines, and focus on craftsmanship dovetail with the minimalist movement that’s also on trend. This style focuses on a neutral color palette, which doesn’t have to mean bland. It harkens back to the style from the 1950s to early 1970s.

“There are so many options with patterns and textures that you can get really creative without even changing your color palette.”

Sustainability. Sorensen stresses the importance of being strategic and purposeful about your purchase. From the initial question of, ‘Who you are purchasing from and what values do they stand for?’ to ‘What type of materials are used to build each item?’. “Just know what you are buying.”

“I feel fortunate to live in a place that has such a strong building industry. And I have the pleasure to call on some of the most talented designers, builders, architects and custom cabinet makers.” RVW

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What’s Smarter – Paying Off Debts or Investing?

It probably doesn’t happen as much as you’d like, but you may occasionally have some extra disposable income. For example, perhaps you have recently received, or will soon receive, a year-end bonus. Or maybe you will get a sizable tax refund in just a few months. Wherever this money comes from, you will want to put it to good use. Should you use the cash to pay down debts or should you invest it instead?

There’s no simple answer, and everyone’s situation is different, but here are a few suggestions for helping you make a good choice:

• Evaluate your cash flow. If you already have enough cash to meet your daily living expenses, you might lean toward investing the money, but if you are just getting by, possibly due to heavy debt payments, then you might be better off using your newfound funds to reduce your debt load. Another way of possibly reducing your debt load is to build an emergency fund containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. Once you have such a fund, you could use it, instead of going into debt, to pay for unexpected costs, such as a new furnace or a major car repair.

• Evaluate your debts. Some of your debts are actually more “expensive” to you than others. This expense level doesn’t necessarily refer to the size of the debt, however. You might have a large mortgage, for instance, but because your interest payments are typically tax deductible, your “aftertax” interest rate may be relatively modest. Therefore, you might consider using your excess cash for investments, rather than paying down your mortgage. But if you have consumer loans or credit cards that carry a high interest rate and whose interest payments are not deductible, you might be better off paying down this debt.

• Evaluate your investment opportunities. You may have heard that one season or another is a “better” time to invest – but there’s really no strong evidence to support this claim. However, now that we are only a few weeks away from the tax-filing deadline on April 15, you may want to take advantage of at least one time-related investment opportunity. Specifically, you could use whatever extra money you have to fully fund your IRA, if you haven’t done so already. For the 2018 tax year, you can contribute $5,500 to a traditional or Roth IRA, or $6,500 if you are 50 or older. (Depending on your income, you may not be able to contribute the full amount to a Roth IRA.) You’ve got until the April 15 deadline to fully fund your IRA, but if you have the money sooner, why wait? The quicker it’s in your account, the faster it can go to work for you.

One final suggestion: If you have a company match as part of your 401(k) or similar retirement plan at work, consider contributing enough to get your employer’s full matching contribution before you pay down debts – don’t leave this “free money” on the table.

Your year-end bonus, tax refund or other source of beyond-the-paycheck money can help you make progress toward your financial goals – so evaluate your situation and options carefully before making any moves. It will be time well spent.

CATE GRINNEY CFP ® Financial Advisor Edward Jones

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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KARA SULLIVAN, M.D. Mankato Clinic

Besides skin cancer, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society. Statistics also show colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. It doesn’t have to be. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Here’s what you need to know.

When you turn 50, it’s time to schedule your first colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer—cancer in the colon or rectum—is found most often in people age 50 or older. That’s why the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends adults age 50 to 75 get screened for colorectal cancer every 10 years.

A colonoscopy is the best screening test available. It is the only screening that prevents colon cancer by finding and removing precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. This important screening also detects cancer early, often before people notice symptoms. Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when discovered early.

A colonoscopy is a short procedure in the Mankato Clinic Endoscopy Center. People say the prep is the worst part. The evening before your procedure, you drink a gallon of liquid laxative to clean out your bowel. We recommend altering your diet several days in advance. A colonoscopy examines the inside lining of your colon with a camera attached to a flexible tube. You will receive monitored medication so the procedure is usually quick and painless.

If results are normal, you won’t need another screening for 10 years. Depending on the number or types of polyps, a screening may be recommended in three or five years. You will receive a letter explaining your results.

Health plans are required to cover colorectal cancer screening tests, often without co-pays or deductibles. Be sure to check with your insurance company first.

Alternatives

Stool screening tests are also an option, but these are recommended annually. You provide a stool sample from the privacy of your bathroom. The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) looks for hidden blood in your stool which is a symptom of colorectal cancer. Cologuard looks for hidden blood and uses stool DNA to detect abnormal cells.

Both screenings are available by talking with your provider. If blood is detected in your stool, a diagnostic colonoscopy will be needed. FIT and Cologuard are not adequate screenings if you have family or personal history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps.

Is 50 soon enough?

At any age, talk to your health care provider immediately if you notice rectal bleeding, pain, or a change in your bowel movements. Many younger people diagnosed with colorectal cancer have rectal bleeding. Data shows colorectal cancer is affecting people younger than age 50 and incidence rates are rising. The American Cancer Society issued new recommendations to begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has not adopted this recommendation yet for people who are at average risk.

However, you may have risk factors that require earlier screenings. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, you should be screened at age 40, or 10 years before the age of the youngest case in your immediate family. If you have a personal history of cancer, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or Chrohn’s disease, talk to your primary care provider about being screened before age 50. If you are African American, please talk with their provider about being screened at age 45.

The bottom line.

Talk to your health care provider about getting screened. You have the power to prevent colorectal cancer.

Gastroenterology, Endoscopy Center Children's Health Center

Outreach worker shares inner thoughts

MARIELYNN HERRERA

Manager

Reyna Thomas, Outreach Worker at YWCA Mankato, moved to the US from Mexico at the age of 15. She lived in many locations across the US and has been settled in southern Minnesota for the last 28 years. Here is her perspective on the meaning of home and how she used her home and garden to battle depression, connect to family and friends through memories, and find herself.

As someone who has lived in many places, what does home mean to you?

In my experience I’ve had two homes. My first home was with my parents in Mexico, and my second home I created with my husband and kids in the US. When you are in this country without your parents, siblings, and extended family, friendships are very important. I have grown to value my friendships and share my home with them; they represent a second family.

To me, a home represents all memories you create. There are things that bring you back to a time when your child scraped his or her knee, had a birthday party, or something else. It houses your emotions. When I learned that my childhood home in Mexico was destroyed [in an earthquake in 2017], it really hurt me. There were so many memories from growing up there. [Now] when I talk to my siblings about our past home, we remember lots of things together. [We ask], “Remember when we slept here?” or “When this happened?” I remember memories of my mother and [late] father. It’s part of my culture to [host] large celebrations for family traditions and holidays with extended family and friends. [Because] I learned that from my own family, I want to pass that on to my children so they can begin to share their home and build those memories. You end up falling in love with your house and building a new one can be difficult. When you have the memories, though, you’ll always have your home.

At your house, you host many occasions and celebrations. What elements or space in your home is the most significant to you and why?

Overall, my garden is most significant, because it is where I feel most myself and it’s where I found my passion (besides my kids). Being outside gives me energy and motivates me. I like to figure out things about the plants, what they need, and how to cultivate them better. It’s a daily habit of mine in the summer. In the spring, I enjoy buying planters and preparing them. I become so concentrated and focused on the details. I get very excited every morning in the spring and summer to see them bloom and to use my own creativity. I experiment with different plants. I have even planted avocado, papaya, and jicama. Designing my garden is exhilarating, especially because I’m self-taught.

What do you think about when you garden and what made you want to garden?

I started gardening, more than anything, because of depression. Several years ago, I was in a deep depression. I was on medication and I honestly felt that I lost myself. I spoke with my doctor about how to cope. She told me that some people do things they are passionate about and gave me ideas. Above all, she told me to find something important to me and that fit my personality.

As I started thinking, my mother came to mind. I remembered how she enjoyed moving plants from planter to planter, collecting roses, and the rosa de castilla, which she always said was the most fragrant; I believe so too. I thought of how my father grew fruits. I remembered the fields and making crowns out of morning glories. So, I bought some flowers. They brightened my eyes and made me feel like I was in paradise. I began to feel alive. For a while, it was still a struggle, because I would get frustrated and sad when they would die. I had thought plants lasted forever and I didn’t like that I was wasting my money, so I decided to buy gardening books. I learned that gardening has rules. I learned where to plant flowers, which flowers needed shade and sunlight, how to protect them from the cold, and soil types. There were so many techniques and practices that I loved. I read all kinds of books and I learned so much, so it stuck with me.

Through the process, gardening brought back memories of my family. I think because of these memories and emotions, I take care of my garden so well. To me, gardening was my therapy and because of it I have been able to control my depression and rediscover myself. Those memories of my country brought me back to me. Gardening provided me with something positive. I felt happiness and positivity.

Reyna’s garden in Mankato.

Reyna’s parents on their land in Mexico.

Reyna Thomas

New American Families Program

With so much emphasis on the health and well-being of children, the health and well-being of mom can easily get overlooked. Moms often struggle with lack of sleep, grabbing food on the go, and finding time for physical activity—all of which can have an impact on their children.

The takeaway is simple: moms need to take care of themselves too.

I understand the balance is hard. It’s difficult to give broad recommendations for moms and kids, because overall health depends on the unique needs of each family.

Kids notice the behaviors of their caregivers—including daily activities such as sleep and nutrition—but also things like unspoken moods. Kids pick up on those vibes. If you’re happy and healthy or stressed, those feelings can also show up your kids, even if they aren’t able to articulate it.

Be your best self

Most moms tend to be mindful of their health during pregnancy, but after the baby is born, it can be hard to prioritize your own health over your child’s. Postpartum depression—which can happen to any new mom—is something health care providers look for early on, knowing it can have a long-term impact on baby and mom.

With newborn moms, we check in with an informal screening, looking for signs of postpartum depression. We want to make sure new moms have a good support system and are ready to be their best selves. This is especially important during such a big change in a woman’s life.

Create your own bedtime routine

Even though it’s hard, moms need to prioritize sleep as much as possible, suggesting that even 15 extra minutes of sleep can help.

It’s much easier to deal with a toddler having a temper tantrum when you’re well rested. Sleep helps regulate moods and allows moms to make better decisions—if your kids have a bedtime routine, why shouldn’t you?

Model healthy eating

As for nutrition, take inventory of where you are—as a mom and as a family—right now. While the goal is five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, if you are currently not eating any fruits or vegetables, start by trying to eat one or two servings per day.

In general, if you’re trying to make healthy choices for your kids, think about yourself, too. It’s also helpful to focus on making healthy choices throughout the week, instead of beating yourself up each day on what you did, or didn’t eat.

Regarding picky eaters, it’s the parent’s job to offer the food, but it’s the kids’ job to choose whether or not to eat it. It depends on the child, of course, but forcing kids to eat can often backfire. Instead, focus on modeling healthy eating.

Health care providers recognize it’s sometimes hard to know when it’s time be seek support from a professional about these or other topics. The general consensus is that parents know themselves and their kids best. There’s a difference between knowing you should adopt healthy habits and being worried about your health. If you’re worried, it’s time to reach out to your health care provider. The goal, of course, is to keep everyone in the family healthy.

KATIE HOLT

Nurse Practitioner in pediatric & adolescent medicine Mayo Clinic Health System at Eastridge, Mankato

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Findyourstyle Inspiration

Howard Haugh Connie Froehlich

Kelsey Goettlicher Cassie Winters Located in the Community Bank Building

BY CINDY HAUGLAND tidytightwads.com

As the cold winter wind blows and the sun often hides deep behind the clouds, we Minnesotans find it hard not to let our thoughts drift toward spring. As March approaches and the stores pack the isles with beach towels, swim suits, and lawn fertilizer, we allow ourselves to get excited about the season ahead. The first official day of spring is March 20 this year, but let’s get a jump on spring by formulating a plan to enjoy as much of the season as possible.

If you’re like me, you enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables. Not only do they taste better, they often offer a savings when they are locally grown and in season. Add in freezing, canning, and drying fresh produce while it’s plentiful, and you’re on your way to being an honorary tightwad like me.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. There’s still snow on the ground after all. Instead, let’s indulge in browsing through seed catalogs or day dream about planting gardens. Whether you garden, buy a membership to a local CSA, or shop at a local farmer’s market, now is the time to decide what fits your schedule and lifestyle best.

Consider a Garden

Do you plan to garden? If it’s something you have the time to do, enjoy doing, and have the space, then a garden is a great option. It’s the most economical choice, but the time and labor commitment can be considerable. A community garden plot is an option for some, if your city offers this for a small fee. If you’re sure you want to garden, then you can order seeds, find seeds you may have stashed from last year or a friend, and get your supplies ready for any plants you want to start indoors ahead of time. If you have to hire someone to till your garden, communicate that now and get on their list.

Consider a CSA

A CSA is short for community supported agriculture. It’s a popular small business model in Minnesota that connects producers directly with consumers, letting them buy a weekly membership in exchange for fruits and vegetables that are in season during that week. Some CSA’s offer additional shares such as fruit, mushroom, meat, eggs, or late fall vegetable options.

CSAs cut all the work out for the consumer, unless you join a CSA that requires or offers an option to work on the farm in exchange for part of your membership cost. This option is a wonderful option for those who love an ample supply of fresh produce but don’t have the time, space, or interest in gardening.

To find a CSA near you, ask friends, check social media, or inquire at your local Chamber of Commerce. Now is the time to identify the options closest to you, and indicate interest in memberships when they become available for purchase. Check out the days and times of pick-up and what will work best for your schedule. If you want to split a share with someone, now is the time to get that nailed down too.

Consider the Farmer’s Market

If you don’t have time to garden and a CSA share doesn’t sound right for you, check out your local farmer’s markets and local producers. Farmer’s Markets are perfect for buying specific quantities of things. It’s a great option to try new things but continue to buy exactly what you like. This option really cuts down on excess produce of gardening or items you may not eat in a CSA. In order to make it a habit of buying fresh produce on a regular basis using a Farmer’s Market, now is the time to enter the date and time reminders in your calendar throughout the growing season. Talk as a family what you loved trying last year and want to eat more of this year.

I’ve tried my hand at all three options, but right now my favorite is a CSA. A garden is a lot of work, but can be a ton of fun. Whatever you decide to do, I wish you luck and a very happy spring.

Amber and Bob Becker’s “modern farmhouse” sits on the foundation of a previous house on the property at 51981 Coventry Place in Upper North Mankato. The three-car garage was permitted as it’s away from the bluff. The Beckers were happy to save the oak tree that stands out front. Amber especially enjoys the porch and can’t wait to put a swing on it.

The Schaefer house at 1594 Sherwood features distinctive rooflines and an expressive exterior of shakes, trim, and bold colors. The shakes and dormers were builder Max DeMar’s touch, but the distinctive yellow door was Jessi’s idea. While Matt Schaefer would have preferred a larger garage, the lot size prohibited that—so he opted for a shop in the basement.

STORY BY RUTH KLOSSNER PHOTOS BY JORDAN POWERS

When the Minnesota River Builders Association held its Fall Home Tour last October, two homes tied for the Peoples’ Choice award, voted on by those visiting the eight homes on the tour. While the tour featured both new built and remodeled homes, both of the winners were “re-built homes”—but in very different manners.

Both are located in Upper North Mankato—and both have great views of the valley below.

The Matt and Jessi Schaefer home converted a one-story rambler into a one-and-a-half, 3,200 square foot, home by going down to the sub-floors and studs.

The Bob and Amber Becker home is the same footprint where the Beckers have lived since 2010—but the original house was moved away and a new house built on the existing basement.

Both were done by DeMars Construction of Mankato. 

When Amber and Bob Becker decided to build a new house on property that had long ago belonged to Bob’s grandparents, Dale and Veronica Hennek, they were limited in what they could do. The original house was located close to a ravine and zoning and variances applied.

“We had to stay with the footprint of the basement,” Amber explained. “We had to get variances and work with the county.”

The Becker family had lived in the old house since 2010. They started thinking of rebuilding about three years ago. “It took a long time to get to the point of building. It was stressful at times,” Amber admitted.

“We wanted something open with the view we have here,” she said of the home’s location on the bluff in Upper North Mankato.

Bob works for 4.0 School Services, based out of St. Peter. Amber is a speech therapist assistant for Pediatric Therapy Services in Mankato. The family includes two sons—Charlie, 17, and Wesley 11—and one daughter—Kate, eight.

The Beckers moved out of the old house in July 2017 and it was moved off the site. The family lived in a camper on the property from July to October of that year, then moved to Bob’s grandmother’s twobedroom townhouse which was vacant. “It had two bathrooms. It felt

like a luxury after the camper,” Amber said.

Amber and Bob worked with Max DeMars of DeMars Construction. Max revamped a previously drawn plan to fit the existing basement. A few rows of block were added to allow for higher ceilings in the basement.

Construction started in August 2017 and the family moved in this past August. The 4,200 square foot home has four bedrooms and threeand-a-half baths. A three-stall garage was added, opposite the ravine. Amber planned and picked out most of the interior designs, with assistance from DeMars designer Brittany Mitchell.

“Brittany and I really worked together to help see our vision come to life. Although I did have the vision, she was critical to the final say as I am not a designer,” Amber stated.

She went on, “We stuck true to the last revision of the plans. Cosmetic things changed, not the bones of it. Max tweaked the rooflines. We didn’t know what we wanted the exterior to look like.”

She added, “We’re really happy with it being kind of a modern farmhouse. It was always my husband’s dream to live on this property. It was fun to see it evolve into this. It still feels like a dream to live here with the beautiful view.”

Becker Family: A Kasota Stone fireplace anchors the living room and is a great place for photos. The Becker family includes, from left: Charlie, Amber, Wesley, Bob, and Kate.

The Becker home has a very open feel. “We wanted something really open. When someone walks in the front door, I want them to see everything including the view. And we wanted a place to gather,” Amber said. Even though they have an island with stools, the Beckers often eat at the dining room table.

The Beckers’ master bedroom is above the living room and shares the view. Amber especially likes the vaulted ceiling and describes the room as “kind of like our own little retreat.” The Kasota Stone fireplace has mantels specially made by Max DeMars’ craftsmen.

The kitchen is open to the other rooms and features a huge island with bar stools. Amber wanted “an old look” and found seven-foot porch pillars that could be cut down for the end posts. “I love the big island—I wanted a big flat surface. I can be cooking at one end while the kids are doing homework on the other end,” Amber said. The island lights are see-through so they don’t obstruct the view.

The front entry is welcoming and cozy. The saying on the print reads, “Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” Amber commented, “That’s how we feel about our space and the people we share it with.” Flooring throughout the house is quarter-sawn white oak with a custom stain. Amber enjoys neutral calm, soothing colors and used them throughout.

The loft sitting area at the top of the stairs is a cozy spot where Kate often sits to read books.

Amber describes the kids’ bathroom as having a bit of whimsy with designed tile and circle mirrors.

The master bath is a nice warm place to relax. Heated floors make it cozy on cold winter days. The bathroom also has a walk-in shower, along with a large walk-in closet.

Son Wesley’s bedroom is above the kitchen and has a great view of the valley. But, Kate’s bedroom—above the screen porch—has the best view of all. Each bedroom has built-in storage systems. The laundry room is also on the second floor.

The butler’s pantry, just off the kitchen, has a door to the screen porch that connects to the deck. It’s a good place for the kids to whip up snacks.

The screen porch was one of Bob’s priorities. Amber is eager to style it to make it an extended living space. The view is fantastic.

When Jessi and Matt Schaefer were looking to downsize several years ago, the one-story 1970s’ rambler on Sherwood in Upper North Mankato kept calling them. A year before they bought it, the Schaefers had looked at it, but were concerned that the lot size wouldn’t allow expansion of the two-car garage.

The place stayed in their minds. “I thought the garage would be a non-starter for Matt but he was as taken with the prospect as I was,” Jessi explained.

Max DeMars and designer Brittany Mitchell of DeMars Construction worked with the Schaefers to transform the rambler into their oneand-a-half story dream home. When it became apparent that it was cost inefficient to save much of the old structure, DeMars went down to the sub-floor and studs in the basement. Only the deck on the bluff side of the house is original.

Rebuilding the home took 14 months—a period that Jessi called the

perfect amount of time as she said, “We needed every minute of it.”

She added, “Max was good at tempering my tendency toward extremes. Brittany helped keep my ideas organized and helped when I didn’t know what to do.”

A second story was added to make sure that the Schaefers didn’t go “too tiny” in their efforts to downsize—and things worked out perfectly with bedrooms for their children—Lucy, 10, and Charlie, seven—upstairs. Along with a bathroom, there’s a bonus room up there, too. “It was a good compromise. We were able to give them their own space,” Jessi explained.

“We use every inch of the floor plan,” Jessi said. “There are closets everywhere. We use every spot we can.”

A TV room, workout room, Matt’s shop, storage, and the laundry room are all in the basement. A clothes chute reaches from the upstairs bedrooms. RVW

Jessi Schaefer

Matt’s office features high windows for light while preserving privacy. DeMars took the Schaefers’ ideas for a barrel ceiling and brick accents and put his own spin on them.

Of the kitchen, Jessi said, “I fought for windows and I wanted green—and I wanted double ovens, a double island, and double sinks. Everything had to have a lot of function and a lot of design.” The exposed shelving was designer Brittany Mitchell’s idea.

The distinctive yellow door easily identifies the Schaefer house. Corbels—like those on the garage—were added and make the doorway feel like its own separate part of the roofline.

Jessi found the bathroom to be the hardest to design—and had several different layouts before it was finished. She knew she wanted a trough sink, double faucets, a jetted tub, and high windows. Working with DeMars, she achieved a seamless look that’s easy to clean. She found the idea for the shower door grid on Pinterest. The poured cement countertops are a bit higher than normal.

The clean and peaceful master bedroom has windows overlooking the valley. “It’s like glitter in the valley at night,” Jessi said. All trim throughout the house is cream color, with blue for the wall color.

What a view! Looking from the fireplace toward the kitchen one can only be impressed by the view of the Mankato city skyline! Jessi credits Max DeMars and the sub-contractors for making everything go smoothly. “Max works with the best. They were very responsive,” she said.

The living room combines things that both Matt and Jessi wanted. While Matt wanted the fireplace, Jessi wanted it to be minimal. Beams in the room came from Jessi’s parents farm, with builder Max DeMars adding the shiplap and exposed shelving. The reading nook to the left was “one hundred percent stolen from Joanna Gaines of Fixer Upper.” It’s great for reading and watching TV and “eliminated the need for more furniture.”

A seating area just off the kitchen provides a beautiful view of the valley and to watch birds, including many bald eagles. “I knew I wanted big chairs by the windows. It’s a place where I can go for a cup of coffee or to read,” Jessi said.

The foyer—with its high transom windows—welcomes visitors to the home.

Daughter Lucy’s room has a lot of storage, including under the window seat that Lucy really enjoys.

POWER RECLINE

ABBY

Abby’s style is casually inspired with a classic frame and a handsomely tailored rounded arm.

WICKLOW LEATHER LIVING ROOM FEATURING POWER RECLINE & POWER HEADREST

Wicklow’s frame is highlighted with horizontal seams and puckered stitching contouring the back and seat cushions for a beautiful eyecatching effect. A power reclining mechanism lets you change angles effortlessly from an upright to a fully reclined position, and a dual power button allows you to independently adjust the headrest for custom relaxation.

PRISCILLA

This piece features petite rolled arms, nailhead trim, tapered legs and a wingback design that together, create the traditional style that makes this chair special.

SIENNA

Clean and casual appeal contoured with heavythread stitching profile delivering a sharp and chic appeal.

CARLIN

Tapered wooden legs and subtle back wings exude style and add elegance to the Carlin’s polished allure.

There is nothing on earth that Katie Hesse would rather do than get dirt under her nails.

“It’s not work, this is my passion. I could be outside from sun-up to sundown and into darkness, still trying to work. Being in the office all winter is the work,” Hesse explained

At just five years old, young Katie’s responsibility was the vegetable garden on a hobby farm outside Arlington. You could find her happily tilling, planting, and picking vegetables. She lovingly tended to her grandma’s flower garden, and helped plant the 300 to 400 trees that her dad ordered annually. That was on top of his vineyard where he made organic wine.

“It’s just a part of me. Ever since I can remember, this is what I’ve been doing,” she said.

Katie left for college to become a legal assistant in criminal and probate law but, naturally, the universe would never allow her to spend a lifetime behind a desk. Though it was unplanned—when part-time work at Schell’s came up—she applied and quickly became a head gardener—doing the designing, ordering, planting, growing, and maintenance, among many other wild adventures. The much-loved and visited Schell’s garden fell beautifully into her experienced lap, and Katie quickly became what her co-workers affectionately referred to as a “Jane of all trades.”

While furthering her education and licensures she was also growing upwards of 35,000 plants a year at the brewery—while battling with raccoons, possums, and even a bobcat. Beyond her gardening duties, this Jane of all trades found herself bottle-feeding baby deer when its mother passed away shortly after giving birth, and even raised baby peacocks when the old ones died. This, of course, meant training the newbies to stay on brewery property and bravely dodging golf balls while chasing them off the golf course. Katie even patiently—but firmly—explained to the bold male peacock canoodling with wild turkeys out in the woods that bringing them home with him to the brewery would not be tolerated.

“It was always something,” she laughed. “I loved my job at the brewery, but branching off has made me able to make even more people happy and help so many more people in different ways.”

Her newest adventure is her business, Garden Secrets, where she takes her lifetime of gardening experiences and channels them into a sustainable, viable gardening service. While many landscapers come in for a project in a sort of “one and done” fashion, Katie tailors her services to clients in a highly customizable way, where they get exactly what they need, and nothing that they don’t. Her Garden Secrets services include: design, 

BY LORI MATHIOWETZ

Are you a “by-the-book” gardener or do you like to experiment?

No way, I love to experiment. I love to try new things first with trial and error at my own home, and then I can use them with others, if they work. We are so close to the border of the different zones, and there are always new varieties coming up, so I love to experiment.

What is the best part of your job?

I love to be outside. It’s good for my soul, it makes me happy. It is hard work but I like it. My favorite is taking something from concept to completion. Taking something that was drab and overgrown into something beautiful is very enjoyable.

What is most challenging about your job?

Ironically, I don’t like bugs! They can be a challenge for me. So if you see me jumping and flailing around in your yard, that’s why. Otherwise I’m pretty go-with-the-flow; not much gets me excited.

What do you wish other people knew about gardening? That it can be enjoyable. Even men can get into the challenge of wanting to know how to grow their own flowers. I want people to be as excited about it as I am and know how much happiness and joy it can bring you.

Do you have a belief, core principles, or a work philosophy that guides how you approach your work?

Basically, it is to create a sustainable landscape for each property. I want each plant to thrive years from now. I need to craft the best aesthetic appeal for the property itself, which means I need to create something unique and different for each person.

Any words of wisdom for newbies?

Gardening is about trial and error. You really can’t make a mistake. It’s all learning—learning from the past what works, what doesn’t, and even if it is a mistake, it is always fixable. Gardening is very forgiving—challenging, but forgiving.

 installation, maintenance, garden coaching, container gardens, and seasonal décor.

For instance, if what you’re looking for is a mentor to teach you whether that weird thing popping out of your mulch is a weed or a flower, Katie’s Garden Coaching is perfect. She can come to your house, identify plants, and create plant markers for each one. She has also found that homeowners find her Secret Garden Cards very helpful. She creates a card for each of your plants with how-to’s telling you things such as what to do in fall or when to fertilize, then puts them on a key ring to hang next to your gardening tools. She will go shopping with you, teach you how to prune roses, and identify how to take care of issues that arise in your garden. And once you’ve squeezed every ounce of wisdom out of her, she’ll create your very own Garden Journal with a recap of sessions together. If, however, you inherited a black thumb and have no interest or time to deal with garden maintenance, never fear. The enjoyment and tranquility that comes along with sitting in your beautiful yard is still attainable. No need to add “gardener” to your to-do list; Katie is available to be your very own personal groundskeeper. She does routine maintenance packages for both commercial andproperties. Whether you’re in need of a one-time project, a quick garden-flip to help give your home curb appeal, an annual start-up, spring and fall cleanup, three-time-a-year seasonal maintenance, monthly, bi-weekly, or weekly care, Katie can manage your needs and take one more thing off your plate—so you can skip the yard work and go straight to enjoying your outdoor space.

It can be especially helpful to have Katie as a trusted guide when you are engaged in a larger “hardscape” landscaping project. Things like patios, concrete, and moving large truckloads of dirt are a major project to manage as a homeowner. Often landscapers don’t have the “softscapes” design experience. So when it comes to the finer details of choosing plants, designing outdoor space, etc., having Katie on your side can be a real sanity saver.

Patio pointers, go!

Pergolas. You can grow vines on it, it can give you shade, you can hang lights on it, and it creates a place to sit and entertain in shade. It also creates a division of space.

Any ideas on spending less money on plants?

One of the tips I tell my clients is when you go to the nursery to buy a perennial, many pads have more than one in them and you can divide them. Even though they look small, they’ll grow even faster dividing one into three. This is especially cost-effective when you’re looking to fill a larger space.

Why do my roses keep dying?

People often plant them too close to things, and roses need lots of room to breathe. If something is blocking it from the sunlight, they are susceptible to fungi and blights. Give them space and sun.

What are the best trees to plant in Minnesota?

There are so many good ones, but my favorite tree to plant is a birch. They give nice color contrast to other trees and add a nice pop of color.

Any 2019 trends to be on the lookout for?

Bringing the outdoors indoors. This is especially useful for businesses as it creates a great space for their clientele to feel welcome. Air plants are great for this since they don’t need soil, and you can create an entire wall of plant art with just a light misting.

Weeds! Ugh!

Certain weeds, yes, you can kill or dig them. But then there are others you’ll never get rid of without weed killer. I don’t like to use pesticides unless I’m absolutely forced to. The stuff in the foam that you can spray directly on the root is the one I would recommend as it doesn’t mist and kill everything around it. I personally don’t use anything on my lawn. A few dandelions and clover doesn’t hurt anything. Clover is actually softer than grass. And you can make dandelion wine!

“I want my clients to feel they can trust me. I’m there to help create something beautiful for them to enjoy. I want them to be thrilled with this new creation that they will know how to take care of by the time I leave,” Hesse explained.

Katie has no trouble finding inspiration when it comes to designing the perfect outdoor space. She looks no further than the homeowners themselves.

“Each property is individual. It’s not just, ‘I saw this somewhere.’ I have to be there and walk around the yard. Then I begin the creative process from what works with the home—the size, the angles, the sun, the wind. The inspiration often comes from what the homeowner wants. In the end they need to be happy, because they are going to live there and enjoy it. So it’s not about me,” she said.

Getting to know the homeowner is of the utmost importance, so when it comes to hitting the drawing board, Katie has already asked all the right questions—Does the homeowner have dogs? Kids? How do they use their yard? She also makes it a point to not automatically use the stereotypical perennials.

“They have a place, but I really like to give everyone a little bit of color,” Katie said. “So my favorite special touch is to try to come up with a plant that has the homeowner’s name in it. It’s a fun way of personalizing their space so every time they look at it they can say, ‘Hey, that’s my plant.’ It especially gives children an exciting way of feeling like they are part of their yard.”

Just because the excitement of Minnesota spring air always turns to aut umn crisp doesn’t mean we have to be deprived of the outdoors half the calendar year. Katie can customize a beautiful container for you with one of her seasonal décor packages and deliver it to your home, set it up, and then switch it out to usher in the new season and keep the outdoors fresh in your mind. Year round gardening and bringing the garden indoors, 

 especially to the home bound has become a project close to Katie’s heart, now that the very grandmother who involved her in the flower garden is in a nursing home. Air plants are the perfect solution. They are a zero-hassle, self-watering system that is perfect for millennials or retirees who prefer not to own a home, or people living in nursing homes who long for their garden. They even suction to the window so the cat can’t get at them. You can have fresh chives, thyme, basil, flowers, petunias, all year long.

“Studies show that just one indoor houseplant can reduce anger, depression, anxiety, etc. So being able to bring the outdoors indoors and making gardening accessible to anyone is a real dream of mine,” Katie said.

Her dream just might cure what ails all of us. Whether we have green fingers or black thumbs, we share the same soil. Ironically that simple pile of dirt might be the most sophisticated medicine of all. RVW

For the past 11 years, Jenn Melby-Kelley has worked tirelessly to grow her business, The Coffee Hag, into the successful coffee shop and cultural force that it is today. Against challenging economic tides, Jenn’s leadership has grown the Coffee Hag from a struggling independent to a thriving, popular, fast-paced establishment that remains true to its roots, exemplifies social responsibility and provides, in her words, “a place where people can find community and feel good about who they are the moment they walk through the door.”

Jenn Melby-Kelley is a Mankato native, a graduate of the Minnesota State University - Mankato, a second-generation entrepreneur, lead

singer/songwriter for the band Sister Gin, one of the area’s most visible LGBTQ leaders, and a well-known local advocate for arts, music, small business, entrepreneurship and positive social change.

Jenn’s work at the Coffee Hag has earned her many awards and accolades, including a Martin Luther King, Jr. Pathfinder Business Award (a recognition for businesses that strive for equal treatment, human rights and nonviolence), several Best of Mankato awards from the MNSU Reporter and the Free Press in Mankato, the 2012 Mankato Pridefest Dedication, a Lavender Community Award, the 2016 SBA Woman-owned Small Business of the Year for Minnesota and, most recently, the 2016 Greater Mankato Distinguished Business Award. Jenn participates regularly in entrepreneurial panels and is a popular keynote speaker, commentator and performer at community and business events.

Jenn lives with her wife Anna, and their two yorkies, Patterson and Emmet.

Deisy’s family immigrated from Mexico to the United States when she was a child. She had no idea what lay ahead, only that she was going somewhere much safer. She was a first-generation immigrant in a small town in rural Minnesota during the 80s and early 90s, and struggled as she tried to find a balance between her Mexican home (family) and American surroundings. Growing up an immigrant was not easy, but life was full of opportunities. She took college courses at Minnesota State University, Mankato after graduating from St. James High School.

There have been many extraordinary individuals and pivotal points in her life. While still a teenager, she was involved in Personal Growth and Career Development workshops which were offered by Lifework Planning Center and realized there was much more beyond graduation day. Preserving her Spanish language brought her into the non-profit sector where she has stayed for 15 years.

She feels privileged to be part of her church, work and community. She is encouraged daily to take action and make a difference even if it may seem insignificant. She has been involved in other projects and is currently helping with the Mankato SDA’s Pathfinder/Adventurer Club. Being a part of a non-profit like ECHO has been one of the most rewarding experiences for her. She has seen how a collaboration of many people has changed the way others think and act toward hunger insecurity. Her journey in life has been filled with many special people who have led the way. She is still learning from this journey and sharing it with those around her, including husband Adam, and children Hazel, Eyden, Micah and Liam.

Dr. Annette Parker was born and raised in Michigan where she worked for General Motors and met and married her husband of 38 years, Jeffrey, with whom she shares three children. Annette and Jeffrey enjoyed successful careers at GM, until a decline in the auto industry led the family to make a decision that would forever change their lives. At age 28, Annette would start in the 2-year drafting program at Lansing Community College, while Jeffrey continued to work and help care for their children.

While at LCC, she became a lab assistant and discovered her passion for teaching and making a difference in the lives of her students. She then completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees and became a full-time instructor and administrator. After 17 years at LCC, she accepted a leadership position with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System where she served for six years and completed her doctoral degree, while growing her reputation as an internationally respected expert in automotive, manufacturing and workforce education.

In 2013, she became the first woman and the first person of color to serve as President of South Central College, where her industry knowledge and broad higher education experience have helped build capacity to serve the college’s students and the community. Throughout her career, she has served as an inspiration particularly for minority and non-traditional students, demonstrating in her words and actions the impact education, combined with resiliency, can make in your life and the lives of others.

Nancy Zallek is the president and chief executive officer of Mankato Area Foundation (MAF) and an advocate for the local nonprofits. Nancy dedicates her work to building a community of individuals who believe in the strength of giving while supporting the work of the nonprofit sector.

Since joining MAF in 2009, Nancy has grown the foundation’s assets from $2M to $18M and annual granting from $50,000 to over $800,000. Such growth has led to large-scale community initiatives, such as It’s Time to Talk, Kiwanis Holiday Lights and the Fallenstein Playground, as well as increased scholarship opportunities for local students. Nancy also led the strategy to create and design the Shared Spaces nonprofit center, a collaborative workspace for regional organizations and their leadership teams.

What Nancy values most of all, however, is the relationships she builds with people in our community. As she puts it, “Every day I get to connect thoughtful donors with incredible organizations and causes – it doesn’t get better than that.”

The fifth generation of her family to grow up in Mankato, Nancy served as vice president of Brett’s Department Store, executive director of Mankato Ballet Company, and executive director of the United Way of St. Peter. Nancy’s volunteer work includes the Mankato Clinic Foundation, Twin Rivers Council for the Arts, E2020, First Presbyterian Church, St. Peter School District, and Gustavus Adolphus College.

She is married to her husband Mark and has three children: Taylor (wife Annika), Bailey (husband Nick), and Brett.

Kate Cox, Program Director of Project for Teens, moved to Mankato MN with her husband in 2003. Kate received her bachelor's and master degree in social work from the University of Iowa. Kate practiced as a clinical social worker for Mayo and Mayo Clinic Health Systems for 17 years and has led Project for Teens (P4T), a peer mentoring program for over 10 years. Under Kate’s leadership, P4T has grown exponentially and become a recognized and celebrated program serving close to 4000 youth in our Greater Mankato Community. Kate has a passion to cultivate a community that supports and celebrates healthy development of our youth while creating teen leaders and mentors.

Kate’s mission to be a positive influence in our community doesn’t start and end with Project for Teens. Kate serves on the board of directors for the YMCA and Minnesota Children’s Alliance. Kate’s volunteer activities include: United Way Women of Heart Committee, YWCA Gears Program, YWCA Women’s Leadership Conference Committee, LEEP, Grow Mankato, Camp Oz, Camp Sweet Life, Raw Fusion, and Dancing with the Mankato Stars. Kate has also been the recipient of the Karis Award of Excellence by Mayo Clinic, Outstanding Teens Program Award by Teenwise, Service Above Self Award by the Rotary Club, and the Spirit of Youth Award.

Kate has been married to her husband Chaun for 15 years and they have two boys Ethan (13) and Brodie (10). RVW

RIVERFRONT

HILLTOP

PAIN EASE THE

410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507-625-1107 106513

2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-9070

MARCH

HEALTH AND NUTRITION.

Nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated when you keep the following things in mind.

1. Discover the benefits of a healthy eating style.

2. Choose foods and drinks that are good for your health.

3. Include a variety of healthful foods from all of the food groups on a regular basis.

4. Select healthier options when eating away from home.

5. Be mindful of portion sizes. Eat and drink the amount that’s right for you.

6. Keep it simple. Eating right doesn’t have to be complicated.

7. Make food safety part of your everyday routine.

8. Help to reduce food waste by considering the foods you have on hand before buying more at the store.

9. Find activities that you enjoy and be physically active most days of the week.

10. Consult the nutrition experts. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists can provide sound, easy-to-follow personalized nutrition advice to meet your lifestyle, preferences and health-related needs. April Graff,

Tropical Steak Fajitas

ALL YOU NEED

1 c. Hy-Vee canned pineapple juice

1 tbsp. Hy-Vee chili powder

1 tsp. Hy-Vee garlic salt

1 tsp. Hy-Vee onion powder

3/4 tsp. Hy-Vee cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp. Hy-Vee ground cumin

1/2 tsp. Hy-Vee ground black pepper

1 (1-lbs.) skirt steak, or flat iron steak

1 tbsp. Gustare Vita olive oil

1 (1-lbs.) pkg. Hy-Vee Short Cuts fajita vegetables

1 c. Hy-Vee Short Cuts pineapple, coarsely chopped

8 fajita-size gluten-free corn tortillas, charred Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Hy-Vee Short Cuts tropical pico de gallo, for serving

ALL YOU DO

STEP 1

Whisk together pineapple juice, chili powder, garlic powder, onion salt, cayenne pepper, cumin, and black pepper in a shallow dish. Place steak in marinade; cover and allow to marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.

STEP 2

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade; discarding remaining marinade. Cook steak, about 7 to 8 minutes for medium-rare (130 degrees), or until desired doneness. Remove from skillet, tent with foil and allow to rest for 5 minutes.

STEP 3

Add fajita vegetables to skillet. Cook until crisp-tender about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in chopped pineapple.

STEP 4

To serve, cut steak across the grain into thin slices. Serve corn tortillas filled with sauteed vegetables and pineapple, top with sliced steak. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with tropical pico de gallo, if desired.

Nutrition Facts per Serving: 430 calories per serving, 20g Total Fat, 6g Saturated Fat, 1g Trans Fat, 75mg Cholesterol, 210mg Sodium, 37g Total Carbohydrates, 11g Dietary Fiber, 10g Total Sugars, 0g Added Sugars, 26g Protein.

IS NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH AND IS THE PERFECT TIME TO REFOCUS ON

BY GRACE BRANDT

Marion Roessler once stopped to think about just how many people in Minnesota Lake she had visited on the job. In doing so, she figured out that there were only four houses she had yet to enter.

Roessler has been a plumber for 23 years, working at Ron’s Appliance Service in Wells the past five. Every weekday she travels across southern Minnesota, visiting places as far away as Austin, Albert Lea, Mankato, St. Clair, New Richland, Fairmont, Welcome, and Jackson.

“In Mankato, if you’re going to be a plumber, you’re a plumber,” she said. “Down here, we can’t specialize so much, because our customers are farther apart.”

For this reason, while “plumber” is her official job description, Roessler actually handles many more situations than simply plumbing. She has training in refrigeration, heating, air conditioning, and appliance repair, making her a one-woman Ms. Fixit.

Finding a different kind of job

Roessler grew up outside Minnesota Lake and still lives on the family farm. After graduating from the former Minnesota Lake High School in 1986, she attended South Central College to study electronics.

After she and her former husband and two children moved to, and returned from Oklahoma, Roessler decided to go back to school at South Central College to study refrigeration, heating, air conditioning, and appliance repair. Her sister had gone through the program earlier and recommended it.

“I wanted a job where I got different things every day, and now I’m in plumbing,” Roessler said. “My sister said, ‘You should try this—you might like it.’ I obviously did, because I stuck with it.”

After finishing her studies, Roessler found a job at Bill’s Hardware Store in Easton, where she worked as a plumber for five years. Things changed when she started helping her mother-in-law renovate a bathroom in her new home. They needed to break through a cast iron pipe that was hooked to the toilet so that the toilet could be moved, but she didn’t want to drive all the way to Easton to borrow equipment from her work. Instead, she visited Ron’s Appliance Service to see if she could borrow theirs. They

ended up offering a lot more than equipment, however.

“When I was there, they offered me a job,” she said.

Roessler first started working in the office, where she stayed for a year. Then her boss asked her if she wanted to become the business’s bookkeeper and accountant, but she very firmly said no.

“Sitting in the office was really boring,” she said. “I don’t like sitting in the office. They asked, ‘Would you want to go back out and do the job you know?’ I’m like, ‘Yes!’”

Now, Roessler does “just about everything”—plumbing, heating, appliance repair, even basic electric work. She has repaired refrigerators, microwaves, washers, dryers, ranges, furnaces, water softeners, and freezers, as well as replacing garbage disposals. She said the most common problems she sees are broken furnaces and broken water lines/frozen pipes.

“The heat goes out in the building, and it’s just terrible,” she said. “The worst one I ever did had a water boiler system. The radiators busted upstairs, and the stairway looked like a frozen waterfall. I climbed the stairs very carefully.”

Roessler said she enjoys “finishing work” on newly constructed houses or remodels, when she goes in and installs faucets, toilets, and sinks. On the other hand, sewer work is not her favorite.

“I like going in and doing the finishing work, so you can see it done, instead of two-by-fours and studs,” she said. “If someone needs a sewer cleaning— [that’s] not my favorite job. That’s on the bottom of the list of jobs that I don’t like.”

Never a typical day

Roessler said she typically works 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during the week and is sometimes on call during weekends. But there is no real “typical” day, since it depends on what customers need. One day, she’ll spend her entire day in Minnesota Lake at St. John Catholic Church, replacing a water heater, installing faucets and a dishwasher, and repairing the refrigerator and ice maker. Another day, she’ll go from home to home repairing frozen pipes all day.

Sometimes, the job is pretty basic, but sometimes it calls for some ingenuity—such as when children try to flush toys down the toilet and they get stuck.

“One time, there was a little ball in there, and you couldn’t get a hold of it, because it was down in the hole,” Roessler said. “So I took my vacuum cleaner and sucked it up. It was kind of a pain.”

According to Roessler, the most challenging times of the year are spring and winter—especially this winter, with so many sub-zero days.

“It’s very exhausting working in [these] temperatures,” she said. “You go into the cold houses. I did a job [recently], running gas piping outside, and it was cold out and windy, and then I had snow everywhere. Winter and spring, they’re exhausting. You get tired of the dirt and the mud, and then it’s sloppy. You just roll with the punches, I guess. That’s all we can do.”

Roessler has also become used to stumbling onto a variety of surprises on the job—such as animal guests in her workspace. There have been mice and bats in furnace areas, birds in chimneys, and other animals occasionally. While she said she hates running into spider webs and especially hates bats, the rest of the critters don’t bother her.

“I carried a snake out of one lady’s basement once,” she said. “She said, ‘I don’t have any snakes,’ and I said, ‘Well, what do you call this?’ She’s like, ‘How did that get in here?’ and I’m like, ‘I do not know. I just know that it was in there.’”

One of the guys

While Roessler is definitely a minority in a male-dominated field, she said she has never had problems working with men or visiting male customers.

“Some of them are surprised, but a lot of older guys are happy they can see a woman doing this stuff,” she said. “I don’t really have too many problems. The guys are easy to get along with. They’re all easy to work with. I don’t really have any problems with any of the guys—in previous jobs either. ” 

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Located at : Pioneer Bank on Commerce Drive in

Located at : Pioneer Bank on Commerce Drive in North Mankato

Kevin is a Registered Representa�ve and Investment Advisor Representa�ve with Securian Financial Services, Inc. Securi�es and Investment Advisory Ser‐vices offered through Securian Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Securian Advisors MidAmerica is independently owned and operated. 124 East Walnut, Suite 340, Mankato, MN 56001. Neither Securian Financial Services, Inc. nor Securian Advisors MidAmerica are affiliated with Pioneer Bank. The Securian Financial name and logo are trademarks of Securian Financial Group, Inc., and have been licensed for use by Securian Advisors MidAmerica. Securi�es are not FDIC insured, not deposits or other obliga�ons of, or guaranteed by Pioneer Bank. Securi�es are subject to investment risk and may lose value, including loss of the invested principal. ADTRAX 2410229 DOFU 02/2019

 In fact, she said being a female has some distinct advantages, such as how certain customers feel more comfortable around her.

“A customer told me once, ‘You know, you’re not very intimidating,’” she said with a smile. “I think a lot of older women are more comfortable with me, just because I am a woman. I’m not scary—at all.”

Roessler said there are some challenges as a female in this line of work just because of the physical nature of it, but it’s nothing that she can’t work around.

“I ask for help when I need it,” she said. “I’m not afraid to. If I can’t lift it, I’m not going to try. I have nothing to prove. My biggest challenge is because I’m short. The guys make fun of me a lot because of it. But I also have smaller hands and smaller arms, so I can get into smaller places—which isn’t always a good thing. They used to shove me into a lot of crawl spaces when I worked for Bill.”

Roessler said she plans to continue working at Ron’s for the foreseeable future. She says starting her own company would be “too much of a headache,” And that’s a good thing, since she noted that there aren’t many new faces in the world of plumbing.

“There are no young ones,” she said, explaining that plumbing is not easy and not for everyone. “It’d be nice to see more people get into it, but it is a lot of work. You’ve got to dig, you’ve got to shovel to put pipes in the ground, you’ve got to cut pipes, you’ve got to get dirty.”

But despite the long hours, dirty work, and occasional furry intruder, Roessler said she still really enjoys her work—and she encourages other women to consider exploring it as well.

“I just like my job,” she said. “I can’t explain it. I like going and visiting people. I’d just rather be outside working than sitting in the house. I don’t think women should be afraid to try it.” RVW

From: Minnesota Lake

Lives: Minnesota Lake

Family: Husband Mark, son Chris, daughter Taylor, grandkids Emmalynn, Jace and Nolan

Other jobs: School bus driver, construction flag person

Favorite thing to repair: Anything that’s easy Least favorite part of the job: Draining sewers

According to Roessler, maintenance is the key to a well-functioning house.

“When it starts to leak, have somebody come to fix it,” she said. “Don’t wait until it’s so bad that the water won’t shut off.”

Even little things add up. One of the most common problems she deals with come from people who forget to change their furnace filters. She once visited a woman who had lived in her house for six years and never changed the filter.

“I asked, ‘When’s the last time you changed your furnace filter?’” Roessler recalled. “And she went, ‘I didn’t know it had one.’ And I went, ‘Oh— that’s why it’s not working.’”

Another problem she sees frequently? Do-it-yourself projects that didn’t quite work out.

“People put stuff together that they don’t know doesn’t go together, and you have to go back and clean it up,” she said. “They say, ‘Oh, that’s what it’s supposed to look like.’”

This lady knows hardware and paint and power equipment and grills and everything else that’s sold at Arrow Ace Hardware in St. Peter. With 27 years of experience in the business, it’s hard to stump Rose Rustman on where to find an item, or how to use it.

“It’s kind of like a big puzzle. It all fits together. We work with the products every day. We stock the shelves,” Rustman, the store manager, said. “And, we can always ask each other…‘Do we have it? Have you seen it? Where is it?’”

And she knows not only the products, but also the customers—and calls them by name.

“I love people and interacting with them,” she said. “I like my job—I’m always solving problems. They may not be big ones, but I’m helping. Sometimes our customers are having really bad days when they come in to buy something to fix the plumbing or electrical. I’m there to help.”

Arrow Ace Hardware customers appreciate Rustman’s personal attention.

“I get a lot of compliments from our customers…it’s humbling,” she said.

“People who are moving away have stopped in to say how much we’ve impacted their lives and how they’ll miss us. It blows my mind sometimes.” That response is likely due to the customer service that Rustman and the staff provide.

“I believe in leading by example,” she said. “Carol, our full time employee, has been in retail a long time. We understand. We try to always provide good customer service. We offer to order things if we don’t have them. If we can’t figure things out right away, we’ll follow up.”

The store doesn’t have to hire new employees very often—its ten part-time employees have been at the store from one to seven years—but Rustman stresses customer service to any new worker.

“I tell them that you want to treat customers the way you want to be treated. In a small store, you better notice people when they come in. We have different standards than you’ll find in larger stores,” she said.

Rustman is also willing to work side-by-side with employees, doing every job. “I believe that—if I won’t clean the toilet—nobody else should. If I

STORY AND PHOTOS BY RUTH KLOSSNER

Of all the departments at Arrow Ace Hardware, plumbing and power equipment are Rose Rustman’s favorites.

do those things, why should they?”

Rose joined the staff at Arrow Ace Hardware in 1992, starting as the department manager for clothing, shoes, and giftware. As times changed, she’s changed with them.

“We had Nike shoes and Lee jeans, along with Department 56 collectibles and Fenton glassware. The clothing vendors stated phasing out of small retailers and the collectible market fell apart. Fortunately, owner Dave Neiman was open to change. When departments weren’t feasible any more, we expanded into more hardware lines. Then the market changed again. Radio Shack wanted to be in hardware stores, so we had them for about six years. Now Radio Shack isn’t any more.”

Dave Neiman’s son Brad and his wife, Michelle, now do the buying for the store. When Michelle saw that Hallmark was interested in coming into hardware stores, she presented the idea and it’s opened a new line for the continually changing store.

“It’s going good. It fills a hole,” Rustman said. “It’s all about being openminded to change.” 

Rose (Sweiger) Rustman was born in Portsmouth, Virginia where her dad, Howard Sweiger, was career Navy. When he retired in the early 1960s, Howard and Marge moved the family back to their hometown of Mankato. Rose attended Catholic/parochial school, kindergarten through high school, graduating from Good Counsel Academy in 1979.

Rose said, “Between military discipline and the School Sisters of Notre Dame, I was raised that everything in life is black or white, with little or no gray area. And to always tell the truth. Good, bad or ugly, your answer may not be popular, but you will not get in nearly as much trouble as lying. The truth never changes, but lies do.”

With Marge being the retail manager of Lewis Eastgate’s basement area—and her dad an auto mechanic—Rose was introduced to retail work early on. “When I had free time, I’d go to sort yarn at Lewis or I’d go to the garage to hang out with my dad,” she said. “It’s ironic. In the olden days, my mother cut window shades, now I cut window shades.”

Rose thought she wanted to be an art teacher and attended Mankato State University for a year, before deciding not to continue and got married. She and husband Steve Rustman moved to St. Peter—Steve’s hometown—when their sons were about to start kindergarten. They wanted the boys to attend St Peter Public School and live in a small hometown.

From 1979 until it closed in 1989, Rose was assistant manager of The Record Shop in the downtown Mankato Mall. She then worked for Onan Corporation for several years, before moving on to Arrow Ace Hardware in 1992.

Steve and Rose have two sons, three grandchildren and one on the way.

Steve retired from CarQuest Auto when it merged. He now operates a small engine shop.

109845

The Hallmark section of greeting cards, gifts, and ornaments has been a good addition to the St. Peter Arrow Ace Hardware store. won’t

The south portion of the hardware store features yard equipment and grills and has been named “Rosie’s Backyard.”

Store manager Rose Rustman compared notes with district supervisor John Joos when he stopped by the store.

 That openness also led to Rustman being promoted to store manager in 1999. When the previous manager left for other interests the year after the St. Peter tornado, Rose was appointed interim manager. Her fellow employees wrote letters telling the owners “not to overlook Rose because she’s female.” She got the job and has been store manager since.

Rustman works 40 to 50 of the 77 total hours that the store is open each week. Store hours are 8 am to 8 pm Monday through Friday, 10 am to 6 pm Saturday, and 10 am to 5 pm Sunday. Evening and Sunday hours have always been offered.

“Sunday opening and evenings are important. We provide things that people need. If a toilet breaks or a light bulb burns out, we’re a necessity,” Rustman said. “Every day is the same but different—we can never tell what will get thrown at us. Some days it’s frozen pipes, some it’s space heaters or snow throwers. We learn a lot working here!”

The store has also been a learning experience for others. Arrow ACE Hardware has worked with MRCI and MVAC for nearly 20 years, allowing clients to feel good about a working experience. Some have had one-on-one job coaches, others have been one-on-one with store employees. One of those clients was hired afterwards and stayed on for five years before moving to the metro area.

Rose enjoys the people she’s worked with. “Working at Ace is not like work—it’s like working for family. All three Neiman children worked at the store with me and now Brad is my boss. Now that’s role reversal,” she said.

With all the departments that the store has, it might surprise some that Rustman’s favorites are power equipment and plumbing.

“To me, plumbing is like a puzzle without edges,” she quipped. The store is known for its paint department. “We can look up all brands and/or color match with our paint computer,” Rose explained. It also offers hunting and fishing licenses and is a UPS drop-off site.

“I tell people that, if we had milk and bread, we’d have everything people need. Well, we do have root beer in the pop cooler.”

The 9,000 square foot building now occupies what at one time had been five separate businesses. It even has a room dedicated to Rose. The staff named the newest store addition “Rosie’s Backyard” when the business expanded into the former Don’s Appliance business four or five years ago. That section features grills and yard equipment.

“I like to be busy. I like people, I like to fix things,” Rose said. “The day I wake up and say, ‘I have to go to work,’ will be my last day.”

That day probably won’t come for a long time as Rustman said, “I always joke that I’ll work as many years as my mother did. She retired just before she turned 85.” RVW

As a life coach whose niche is working with “Women of a Certain Age,” I am consistently amazed that no matter the lifestyle, most women have the same thoughts, feelings, and insecurities. So if you’re thinking that you are somehow “not getting it,” let me give you some examples of problems that I hear.

“I have spent so much time making sure that everyone else is happy that I don’t even know what makes me really happy.”

“My body is changing and I don’t like it. I look old—and I’m not!”

“I love my adult children, and I want them to live their own lives, but I want to feel more connected to them.”

“When I was younger I wanted to be a _______, and now that dream will never happen.”

“I’ve never been ______ or I’ve always been _______ and I don’t have any idea how to step out of my comfort zone.”

Sound familiar? I’ll bet that you’ve said very similar things to yourself and I’m here to tell you that it’s ALL a lie. Yep, big fat lies that you keep telling yourself and you’re going to have so much regret when you’re looking back on your life if you don’t step out of your own way and start telling yourself a different story! And yes, I was just shouting that!

How on earth do you stop these thoughts from going through your head, and how can you change them? Let me tell you how it works. First of all, when we are young we are influenced by the behavior of the adults around us and we pick up social and behavioral signals without even realizing it. We then mimic those behaviors in order to conform to our environment. It is a way of self-protection. So, you are normal, and you’re just repeating what you know—but you can change your mindset and that is the trick to all of this.

Let’s look at each of these topics and I’ll tell you what I tell my clients.

If you have spent your time making sure everyone is happy and you aren’t sure of what makes you happy, the first step is to understand that part of making other people happy, really makes you happy! The next step is

to spend some time writing down all the things that you are grateful for. Then extend that feeling into something that you get excited doing, or lose track of time doing. Next, stop thinking and doing all the things that others think you “should” and start giving yourself freedom to explore what makes you excited.

If the changes you see in your body don’t thrill you, well, guess who has the ability to change that? You do! Start eating better, get enough sleep, quit alcohol, exercise, meditate, quit sugar, drink more water—the list goes on and on. Pick one, watch yourself change for the better and then add another positive thing from the list. Then take a good long look in the mirror and thank your beautiful body for carrying your soul around for this long.

If you want to feel more connected to your children, do something really radical—tell them. Pick up the phone or get together with them and look them in the eye and tell them that you adore the human beings that they are and you want to have a terrific adult relationship with them. Tell them that you want to be released from the stress of having to fix things in their lives and you just want to enjoy being with them—like their friends get to. Honesty and open communication are the answers to everything. Sometimes it’s difficult, but it is worth it.

If your dream of becoming a ballerina or surgeon or circus clown seems out of reach as a career, why not try something that will bring you closer to that dream? Take a ballet class for adults, sit in as an observer in a surgery, be in a parade, and be a clown for a day. Stay connected to those childhood dreams.

Finally, just because you’ve always been an introvert, or an extrovert or a vegetarian, or whatever label you’ve given yourself, you have the ability to change your mind. Just do it. Who cares what other people think. You are the only one who is in charge of you and you are the only one who will feel the enormous amount of regret at the end of your life if you don’t start living with the most passion and conviction that you can. You have One Life, Make it Awesome.

And yes, I was just shouting at you again.

HEIDI ANNE NELSON OLMA Life Coaching One Life Make it Awesome

Marie Kondo and her “spark joy” method of organizing is all the rage since her best-seller, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, hit the shelves in 2014. Maybe you’ve seen her new Netflix docuseries Tidying Up?

She’s brought decluttering and organizing back into the forefront with her method of gathering together all of one’s belongings, one category at a time, keeping only those things that “spark joy,” and designating a home for them. As a professional organizer, I love the interest she’s ignited in people to go through their possessions and make needed changes.

If you’re looking for inspiration in organizing your surroundings, her method definitely has some great organizing strategies and outcomes: Keep what you love and say goodbye to those that you don’t or don’t “spark joy.” It’s a pretty clear, yes or no question, to answer.

Organizing by category is always a straight-forward method to decluttering whether you start with shoes, kitchen bakeware, scarves, pens and pencils, etc.

The beauty and simplicity of a decluttered and organized home makes our lives so much better in so many ways.

IS THE KONMARI METHOD OF ORGANIZING FOR YOU? Maybe. Maybe not.

Where meshing with this method is more difficult:

The majority of her advice is on the front-end decluttering phase, not so much on how to organize what remains. Clutter and organization go hand in hand. Once you’ve decluttered, it’s important to define “homes” for everything, determine any additional storage needs, and label as necessary to be organized.

Her favorite category to start decluttering is clothes. We wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time. This isn’t a bad place to start because we have excess. But maybe it’s not a priority for you? Look at the areas that slow you down or overwhelm you first. This will allow you to be successful, gain momentum, and build inspiration for more projects.

As she starts a new category, she recommends that you dump everything in one spot before starting to declutter. That can make for a very large pile of clothes, tools, holiday decorations, books, or whatever category you’ve decided to minimize. It can make the task daunting and defeating, especially if you have difficulty making decisions or are under time constraints. Be conscientious of the category you pick and how large or small it is to be successful.

Keeping only items that “spark joy” may seem a bit over the top to some. My cleaning supplies definitely don’t spark joy in me, but I still need them. Cold medicine certainly doesn’t make me feel joyful but will be needed at some point. Keep the things that you use and need, and display those things you love around your home. There is joy in that.

She also recommends you thank every item that will leave your home. It’s important to be grateful for all you have and can donate to those in need. If you resonate with this process, consider thanking on a larger scale, for example, with every load you take to be donated versus every thing to be donated.

If this isn’t the inspirational method for you, ask yourself what it will take to tackle your decluttering and organizing projects. I encourage you to reach out to a professional organizer in your area or look into other published organizers such as Julie Morgenstern’s Organizing from the Inside Out, Peter Walsh’s How to Organize Just About Everything, and Karen Kingston’s Clear Your Clutter with Feng Sui. Cheers to living with less and a more organized you!

JAYNE JENSEN

Did you know that what you eat affects your hair? That’s news to most people, especially those who are dealing with hair loss. While there are many possible causes for hair loss - stress, the environment, health problems - achieving thick, full and healthy hair ultimately starts with your diet. That’s because the nutrients you get from food and supplements provide the building blocks for your hair growth.

Research shows that certain nutrients–including iron, zinc, B vitamins, vitamin C and omega-3s–are essential to healthy-growing hair, while lack of these nutrients and certain inflammatory foods can lead to hair loss and slower-growing hair.

Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Maria Marlowe has partnered with NIOXIN, the No. 1 globally selling salon brand for thicker, fuller-looking hair, to spread the word about how nutrition contributes to achieving a beautiful mane. Here are her best tips about what to eat - and what to avoid - for optimal hair health.

WHAT TO CONSUME:

Iron

Iron helps boost circulation and carries oxygen to your hair’s roots, which helps the hair grow faster and longer. An iron deficiency can lead to hair loss. Some good sources of iron include clams, beans, lentils, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, oysters, grass-fed beef and bison.

Zinc

Zinc is involved in hair growth and keeps the oil glands around the hair shaft working properly. If you have dandruff, slow-growing hair or hair loss, low levels of zinc might be the culprit. To ensure you have enough in your diet, try oysters, white beans, chickpeas, red kidney beans, black beans, lentils and seeds.

B vitamins

Biotin is the most well-known B vitamin that helps keep the hair thick and healthy. A deficiency can lead to hair loss. Additional B vitamins, including B1, B2, B3, B6, B12 and folate (B9) also support healthy hair growth, as B vitamins create red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to the

scalp and hair follicles. Eat eggs, sweet potatoes, onions, pecans, almonds, tomatoes, carrots, grass-fed beef and avocado for a diet rich in B vitamins.

Omega-3

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids that are anti-inflammatory powerhouses. Since your body does not produce them naturally, you must consume them through your diet. Most people associate fish, like mackerel, wild salmon, herring, sardines and anchovies with omega-3s, but you can also get them through flax seeds, walnuts, chia seeds and hemp seed.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can hamper hair growth. It helps you absorb iron from plant-based foods, and supports the body in collagen formation, which is required for optimal hair growth. Food sources include bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries, pineapple, kiwi and dark, leafy greens.

Supplements

While eating a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet on a regular basis is ideal for improving hair health, incorporating a hair-supportive supplement like NIOXIN’s Recharging Complex is a great way to help you reach your nutrient needs. This once-a-day tablet contains biotin, zinc and iron, plus 14 other nutrients that support healthy-growing hair from the inside out.

WHAT TO AVOID:

Sugar and high-glycemic foods

Sugar and high-glycemic foods produce inflammation in the body. They can lead to an increase in insulin, which creates more available DHT, a hormone that can cause hair follicle shrinkage and hair loss in both women and men. Avoid foods like sugar, bread, cereal, pasta, crackers, cookies, cake and candy.

For more information about NIOXIN, visit www.nioxin.com.

(BPT)

In 2017, 95.6 million cats lived in a home in the United States and still, roughly 3.2 million cats enter United States shelters every year. Cats are funny creatures and often times misunderstood. Due to various reasons, many house cats are surrendered to shelters by their second birthday. In a perfect world, our cats would be able to spend part of their life outside without the fear of their safety. However, in the United States, most family owned cats spend their lifetime inside. In a 24 hour period, a feral cat spends roughly 40 percent of its time sleeping, 22 percent resting, 15 percent grooming and socializing, 14 percent hunting, three percent traveling and two percent eating.

When we move cats into our homes, we completely remove their ability to travel. This does not remove their instinct of owning a territory. Cats mark their territories by rubbing their face on objects or people, scratching surfaces, or inappropriately urinating. These behaviors help cats feel more relaxed in their home. The more pets in the home, the more time your cat may spend trying to mark its territory. We can help our furry friends by making sure we practice good litter box hygiene and encouraging good relationships between housemates. A good relationship would include your cats grooming one another or sleeping near each other. If you have some kitty disagreements you could also introduce pheromones into the home. Pheromones are spread by cat’s cheeks and paws to help them feel more “at home.” There are collars, sprays, and diffusers that can be helpful in making your kitty feel comfortable or decrease its stress.

The average outdoor cat hunts small birds, rodents, and bugs almost 30 times a day. Our house cats are served their meals—sometimes endless— out of the same bowl without the thrill of a chase. In fact, 65 percent of indoor cats are overweight. To help Fluffy be more active, try feeding at least one meal a day out of a puzzle toy. This way she has to work for the meal she is getting. You can also purchase a wand toy—a stick with a feather or toy on the end—and interact with your cat 20 minutes each morning and evening. Feral cats tend to be the most active at dawn and dusk since that is when their prey is on the move. Our indoor cats are no different.

Cats like to pick their friends. To your current resident, bringing home a new cat can feel like an arranged marriage with no escape. Although grooming is a normal behavior, it can also be increased when a cat feels anxious or fearful. This possibility increases when you have multiple pets sharing a space, or when someone moves in or out, when moving locations, when you bring home a baby, when construction or remodeling occurs, or when a housemate passes away. Some cats can handle a lot of stress and others can’t even handle the furniture being rearranged. Cats show stress in different ways, some more annoyingly than others. Other ways to increase your cat’s happiness is by adding more enrichment to your home. Dress up your home with a cardboard box, some toilet paper

tubes, and brown paper bags. Add some ping pong balls to the empty bathtub or a perch to a window looking out to a bird feeder. You can even clicker train your cat to do new behaviors such as sit, come, or roll over. Your cat will be with you for a long time, help make his life purr-fect.

The wrap and tie feature on this top sets it apart from your basic white tee! It’s the small details that go a long way.

A rockin’ pair of sunglasses can make you feel beautiful, cool and confident!

Whether it’s date night, a wedding rehearsal, or a graduation ceremony, a jump suit is a must-have in your closet!

The unique button-down feature is something you’ll see a lot this upcoming spring and summer!

A nude heel will be your go-to shoe for any occasion!

Coral is this year’s color of spring! Everyone needs a great staple in their closet in this trend-setting color that you’ll love to wear all season long.

We all love a good handbag and the woven details on this one makes such a statement!

Distressed light-wash denim will be your best friend this spring!

Cork is a hot item this year and you will see it not only in handbags but also in your jewelry!

You can never go wrong with a tan clutch. The zipper details around the edge make it unique and trendy!

BY ASHLEIGH MOELTER The Refinery

Do you ever feel as though your hair just isn’t quite making you feel as confident as it could?  Then you might want to consider hair extensions. These extensions can be used for adding length, from medium to extra long or even just volume and thickness as seen in these before and after photos.

Our model has fine hair to begin with and over the years has had some heat damage, over processing to suffer some major breakage

on her sides and fronts.  Her extensions were matched to her own hair color and boom! She now radiates confidence and beautiful locks to match her personality.

100% human hair extensions, can be curled or flat ironed. They are bonded with heat for a perfected look.  If your hair is suffering, extensions can help!

EMILY SCHOPER & ASHLEY M cGOWAN Fréy Salon and Spa

Have you seen the movie The Money Pit?

It isn’t very good, so it’s okay if you haven’t. It’s a 1986 “screwball” comedy starring Shelly Long and Tom Hanks. In it, they wind up buying a dilapidated house that requires an excessive amount of work. Hilarity, or something, ensues as things continue to fall apart around them. I remember very little about The Money Pit. I presume it had a happy ending, but there isn’t a lot of it that stuck with me, save for a scene where Hanks has fallen through a hole in the floor, and becomes stuck. Eventually, he begins manically singing “The Name Game” until someone can help him.

I also remember a running joke—more or less the concept of the entire movie. The line, The house is gonna be great, is used repeatedly throughout—especially as things, for the couple, become worse.

My wife and I bought our home almost a decade ago, hastily moving in a few days before Thanksgiving 2009. It was a foreclosure—an unfortunately drawn out process where the out-of-state bank that owned the house itself could have cared less that a newly married couple was interested in buying. Then there was our realtor, devastated that we were going with something we could afford—not building a brand new home, as she continually was suggesting we do.

When we initially moved in, we did a lot of work to make the space livable—like having the carpeting professionally cleaned so it wouldn’t smell like urine, or painting the walls of the second bedroom so they

weren’t bright pink and covered with sponge painted butterflies. Once the space was livable, we started talking about all the things we could do to the space, like tearing out the carpeting in favor of something more glamorous, or making the bathroom in the basement exponentially less sketchy.

And, sure, we did do some minor work on the house, like eventually painting the exterior, occasionally remembering that the back deck needed to be re-sealed, and a little landscaping in the front—the first phase of a projected, multi-phase and costly endeavor. But, you know, a decade can pass, and you’re still begrudgingly tromping on the same carpeting, and that bathroom in the basement is used for “emergencies only.”

A decade in, and you’re also cursing the kitchen in its entirety—the confounding layout that makes it impossible for two people to work in it at the same time, or the fact that none of the cabinet doors actually close all the way.

All of them dangling open ever so slightly, like that scene in The Sixth Sense. The house is gonna be great.

A number of things, nearly all of them increasingly unfortunate, happened in order to bring us to the point where we are at now. That point is where we have a brand new front door for our home, sitting in our garage, waiting to be installed.

Only it cannot be installed—or at least, installed in the way we would like it to.

Near the end of the spring, the first unfortunate event occurred, and my wife Wendy and I found ourselves in a position we were unfamiliar with— one where we could consider doing work to the interior of the house.

Lists were written, and then re-written, of all the things we could do, and their levels of importance. Some of these things were projects we could probably handle on our own, and wouldn’t wind up being terribly expensive.

However, a majority of them would be rather costly, and were all completely out of the realm of things we could comfortably do on our own—though, admittedly, neither of us is very “handy.” We had, famously, almost killed one another while attempting to install a ceiling fan in our bedroom.

The fan itself only worked correctly for less than a year.

The house is gonna be great.

KEVIN KRIEN Writer, Music Blogger Northfield, MN

We decide to go with a new front door as the first large scale improvement because the door the house came with is…a piece of garbage. It doesn’t have any kind of window—not even a peephole to see who may be on the other side. And, since there is no light coming in, that corner of the living room is incredibly dark and sad.

The door, along with the rickety storm door crammed onto the outside of the door frame, are both hung in such away that allows them to let in a laughable amount of cold air during the winter—to the point where ice has formed on the bottom, and you can feel an actual blade of cold air, slicing through the living room, when you walk by.

Wendy had an idealized new front door—one with three small windows, staggered and descending diagonally. On our very first trip out to research doors, we are told this kind of door exists, can happily be ordered for us, and we’re given an estimate of how much it would cost. The very next day, a series of tornadoes come through southern Minnesota, and the winds knock a very, very large portion of a tree onto our house, puncturing a hole in our roof—among other things. The house is gonna be great.

I spent almost all of October, and into November, going back and forth with our homeowners insurance company about our claim from the storm damage, and what they should be compensating us for.

The new front door of our dreams, as well as a new storm door to go along with it, were ordered at the end of October. We were told to expect them in “about two weeks,” but by the beginning of December, the doors were nowhere to be found.

One of the things that kept us from even pursuing our lengthy list of projects sooner was wondering how to pay for it all. Do we blow through my wife’s savings and see how far down the list that gets us?

The day before Thanksgiving, we sign all of the paperwork for a Home Equity Line of Credit. Suddenly the sky is the limit on our projects and 

 their respective costs, but the sky, of course, will want to be paid back over time.

The doors arrive, and we pay for them. Perhaps it was a literal omen that I chose to laugh off that the total came to $1,666. The doors are delivered and, two days before they are set to be installed, Wendy has the realization that we never specified, nor were we ever asked, what side we wanted doorknob and hinges to be on. She has, more or a less, a subsequent anxiety attack regarding this seemingly overlooked detail.

The next day, I call the place the doors were ordered from, and the person I speak with assures me that the door is set up the right way—meaning, the same way our current door is—from the exterior, the hinges are on the left, and the handle is on the right.

I tell my wife this news. It calms her, but only slightly. “But what if they’re still wrong?” she asks.

On the day the doors are to be installed, maybe 10 minutes after I leave the house, I receive a call from our contractor. The door is, in fact, not set up the same way—it is hinged on the right, with the handle on the left. The house is gonna be great.

The day ends with a cavernous, mechanical hum overhead from a ventilation system, and the dull roar of amusement park rides. In an effort to “drown our sorrows,” we wind up in an unlikely place—the Mall of America, seeking solace in vegan fast food from Earth Burger.

The front door can’t be returned, or exchanged, of course. It was custom ordered. Wendy and I both think of a way to possibly salvage the situation, like having the door installed on the back wall of our garage, in an effort to make it easier to get out to the backyard.

“I’m trying to tell myself we shouldn’t stop trying to make our house not a dump,” Wendy said to me earlier in the day, in a text, after all this unfolded.

Maybe our house isn’t a dump—it’s just lived in. You move in and have a lot of big ideas, but as the years pass by, and life itself causes you to make concessions, resigning yourself to the fact that maybe the bathroom in the basement is always going to look like the set of a horror movie, or that the kitchen cabinets will always be ever so slightly open.

We still need to get a new front door. We’ll try again, ordering the same door, and hopefully we get the ‘in swing’ correct.

We try to laugh at our thousand dollar mistake, because if you can’t laugh at yourself with something like this, what can you do? Cry? Sure. You can do that too.

The house is gonna be great. RVW

TO HAVE YOUR EVENT LISTED

E-mail Ruth Klossner at cowladyruth@gmail.com by the 10th of the month. Listings are generally for events that are free to the public, or are fundraisers. Listings will be published as space allows and at the discretion of the editor.

Fri.-Sat., Mar. 8-9

• New Ulm Farm-City Hub Club Farm Show, Civic Center, 1212 N Franklin St, New Ulm; 1-8 pm Fri; 10 am-5 pm Sat. Info: 507233-4302 or jenny@newulm. com.

Sat., Mar. 9

• Pheasants Forever Banquet, The Mill, 310 2nd Ave SW, Waseca, 5-10 pm. Info: 507-2017241 or ageldred@yahoo.com.

• Courtland Rec’s 68th Annual Fish Fry, Community Center, Courtland, 11 am-8 pm.

• Hy-Vee Kid’s Club, Hy-Vee Dining Area, New Ulm, 1-3 pm. Info: 507-354-8255 or 1441mgrsop2@hy-vee.com

• Happy Birthday Wanda Gag Kids’ Event, Public Library, New Ulm, 1 pm. Info: 507-359-8331.

• Service Enterprises’ Euchre Tournament & Silent Auction, American Legion, 100 Industrial Drive, Redwood Falls, 10:30 am. Info & registration: 507-6373503 or 612-710-1848.

• St. Raphael’s Cadillac Dinner, Community Center, Springfield, 6-11 pm. Info: 507-723-4135.

• Windom Farm & Home Show, High School, 1400 17th St, Windom, 9 am-2:30 pm. Info: windomchamber.com.

Sat. Mar. 9 & 23

• Maple Syrup Tour, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 1-2:30 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.

Sat.-Sun., Mar. 9-10

• New Ulm Trade Fair & Living History Event, Turner Hall, 102 S State St, New Ulm. 9 am-5 pm Sat, 9 am-3 pm Sun. Info: Facebook, 651-247-4733, or memery@newulmtradefair. com

GO. BE. DO. CON NECT.

• Natural Healing & Psychic Expo, Courtyard by Marriott, 901 Raintree Rd, Mankato. 10 am-6 pm Sat, 10 am-5 pm Sun. Info: matrixmediaexpo.jigsy.com.

Sun., Mar. 10

• Dad’s Belgian Waffle Benefit for Brady Webster, UFC Berdan Center, 705 E 4th St, Winthrop, 9 am-1 pm. Info: 507-228-8201.

• Hilltop Radio Live, Hilltop Hall, 206 First St N, Montgomery, 4-6 pm. Info: hilltopupdates@ gmail.com.

Mon., Mar. 11-Apr. 15

• Basic Computer Classes, Public Library, 17 N Broadway, New Ulm, 6-8 pm. Info: 507-779-5827 or ksump1@isd77.org.

Tues., Mar. 12

• Keep the Farm in the Family, Thrivent office, 110 S Broad St, Mankato, 6 pm. Info & RSVP: 507-388-3555.

• Business of the Year Banquet, Conference Center @ Best Western Plus, 2101 S Broadway, New Ulm, 5:30-8:30 pm. Info: 507-233-4300 or chamber@ newulm.com.

Tues., Mar. 12-Wed., Apr. 17

• Free Tax Preparation, Basement, Public Library, New Ulm, 12 pm. Info: 507-276-3186 or unitedway@newulmtel.net

Thurs., Mar. 14

• Films on Thursdays—A Few Good Pie Places, Treaty Site Hist. Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Ave, St. Peter, 7 pm. Info: nchsmn.org/nchs-events/.

Thurs.-Sat., Mar. 14-16

• North American Farm & Power Show, Four Seasons Centre, 1525 S Elm Ave, Owatonna. 9 am-5 pm Thu & Fri, 9 am-4 pm Sat. Info: tradexpos.com.

Thurs.-Sat., Mar. 14-16 & 21-23

• Merely Players Dinner Theater—My Fair Lady, Kato Ballroom, 200 Chestnut St, Mankato, 5:30. Info: katoballroom.com.

Thurs., Mar. 14 & Apr. 16

• AARP Smart Driver Safety Course, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 5:30-9:30 pm.

Info: cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us

• 5 Tools to Break through Negativity, Middle School Conf Room #228E, New Ulm, 6-8 pm. Info: cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us or 507-233-8307.

Fri., Mar. 15

• Coin Dive Event, Rec Center, 621 W Nathan St, Lake Crystal, 3:30 pm. Info: 507-726-6088 or lcacc56055@gmail.com.

• Rotary Trivia Night, Country Club, New Ulm, 6-8 pm. Info: 507-233-4300 or chamber@ newulm.com

• Cabin Fever Reliever— Jesters Comedy Improv, Hahns Dining & Lounge, Winthrop, 6-8 pm. Info: winthropminnesota. com/chamber-ofcommerce/, 507-647-2627 or chamberwinthropmn@gmail. com.

• A Night of Ballroom Dancing, State Street Theatre, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 6:30-9:30 pm. Info: statestreetnewulm.org, 507-233-4300 or chamber@ newulm.com.

• St Patrick’s Day Celebration, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:309:30 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or info@paradisecenterforthearts. org.

Fri.-Sat., Mar. 15-16

• Citizens Bank Minnesota Craft Retreat for So. MN Crisis Nursery, Parish Center, 63128 388th Ln, New Ulm (St. George). 6-11 pm Fri, 9 am-9 pm Sat. Info & signup: citizensmn. bank/citizens-way/communityevents.

Fri.-Sun., Mar. 15-17

• Southern MN Home & Builders Show, Verizon Center, 1 Civic Center Plz, Mankato. 4-8 pm Fri, 10 am-6 pm Sat, 11 am-4 pm Sun. Info: somnhomeshow. com/.

Fri.-Sun., Mar. 15-17 & Apr. 5-7

• Mankato Craft & Vendor Market, River Hills Mall, 1850 Adams St, Mankato. 10 am-9 pm Fri & Sat, 11 am-6 pm Sun. Info: riverhillsmall.com.

Sat., Mar. 16

• Gustavus Wind Symphony & Chamber Winds Winter Concert, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 1:30 pm. Info: 507-9337013.

• Romantica, Steele Co. Hist. Soc., 1700 Austin Rd, Owatonna, 6:30 pm. Info: steelehistorymuseum. org/ or 507-451-1420.

• Sno Pro Vintage Show, McLeod Co. Fairgrounds Agribition Bldg, Hutchinson, 6 am-3 pm. Info: crowriversnopros. com or vintagesledshow@ crowriversnopros.com.

• Renville Co Hist Soc Annual Meeting w/Doug Ohman, Smokey Hollow, 121 Park St S, Fairfax, 11 am. Info: 507-697-6147 or director@ renvillecountyhistory.com.

• Firehouse Rib Feed, American Legion, Lake Crystal, 4:30 pm. Info: lakecrystalchamber.com.

Sun., Mar. 17

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Gathering of the Clans Banquet, Kaiserhoff, 221 N. Minnesota St, New Ulm. Info: 507-233-4300.

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade, So Third St, St. Peter, 5:30 pm. Info: 507-934-3400 or spchamb@ hickorytech.net

• Lions’ Dad’s Belgium Waffles, Public School Cafeteria, 400 4th Ave SW, Sleepy Eye, 8:30 am12:30 pm. Info: 507-794-7549.

• St. James KC’s Annual Mulligan Stew, Marian Hall, St. James, 5-7 pm.

Mon., Mar. 18

• Life Line Screening, First United Methodist Church, 1 N Broadway St, New Ulm, 8 am-3 pm. Info & registration: 800690-6495 or lifelinescreening. com/communitycircle.

Tues., Mar. 19

• Hub Club Ag Day Parade, Minnesota St., New Ulm, 10:30 am. Info: hubclub@newulmtel. net.

• Financial Strategies for Women, Central Building, 501 E Elm Ave, Waseca, 6 pm. Info & registration: 507-835-5626.

• Savvy Social Security Workshop, Thrivent office, 110 S Broad St, Mankato. 1, 2:30, 5 & 6:30 pm. Info & RSVP: 507-388-3555.

• Kids Canvas Horse Painting, Washington Learning Center Rm 104, New Ulm, 3:30-6:15 pm. Info: 507-233-8307 or newulm.k12. mn.us/community-ed/.

Thurs., Mar. 21

• Ney Senior Learning Series— Maple Syruping, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 12-1:30 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.

Thurs., Mar. 21 & Apr. 18

• Searles Senior Club, Bar & Grill, 13014 Main St, Searles, 12 pm. Info: 507-217-7886.

• Family and Friends CPR, Washington Learning Center Rm104, New Ulm, 6:30-8 pm. Info: cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us or 507-233-8307.

Fri., Mar. 22

• Jazz in the Courtyard, Courtyard Café, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 4:30 pm. Info: 507-933-7013.

• The High 48’s Modern Bluegrass, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:309:30 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or info@paradisecenterforthearts. org

• Free Friday Flicks—‘Julie & Julia,’ Library, St. James, 1 pm. Info: co.watonwan.mn.us/Calendar. aspx?NID=1&FID=224.

Fri.-Sun., Mar. 22-24

• Home & Health Show, Civic Center, Fairgrounds, New Ulm. 3-8 pm Fri, 10 am-5 pm Sat, 11 am-4 pm Sun. Info: 507-233-4300 or chamber@newulm.com.

• KOWZ & KRUE Home & Recreation Show, Four Seasons Centre, 1525 S Elm Ave, Owatonna. 3-8 pm Fri, 9 am-5 pm Sat, 11 am-3 pm Sun. Info: kowzfm.com.

Sat., Mar. 23

• 7th Civil War Symposium, ‘Civil War Transportation and Communication,’ Pavilion, Sibley Park, 900 Park Ln, Mankato, 9 am-5 pm. Info & registration: bstenz1@isd77.k12.mn.us or 507491-4171.

• Mankato Craft & Vendor Event, Nat’l Guard Armory, 100 Martin Luther King Dr, Mankato, 9 am-3 pm.

• Men of Truth Conference, Auditorium, Martin Luther College, 1995 Luther Ct, New Ulm, 8 am-2 pm. Info: menoftruth.org/ or mlcinfo@ mlc-wels.edu

• MVL Jeans and Dreams, Turner Hall, New Ulm, 5-9 pm. Info: mvl. org/news-events/auction/ or valh@mvlhs.org.

• Waseca Jazz Fest 2019, Performing Arts Center, 1717 2nd St NW, Waseca, 7-9 pm. Info: wasecachamber.com.

Sun., Mar. 24

• College Choir Homecoming Concert, Martin Luther College, 1995 Luther Ct, New Ulm, 2 pm. Info: mlc-wels.edu.

• Gustavus Symphony Orchestra Concerto/Aria Concert For High School Musicians, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 1:30 pm. Info: 507-9337013.

• MN Adult & Teen Challenge Choir, Christian Assembly, 900 14th Ave SE, Waseca, 10 am. Info: wcamn.org or secretary.wcamn@ gmail.com

• Stories of Hope & Healing, Peace Center, Peace Lutheran Church, Hutchinson, 1-5 pm. Info: wewalk4life.org or 320-587-9326.

• Permit to Carry & Renewal Classes, Conservation Club, 46045 471st Ln, Nicollet, 8 am. Info & signup: Rick@ RiverValleyTraining.com or 507381-0930.

Mon., Mar. 25

• Signs of Spring with Scott Kudelka, Library, St. James, 12 pm; Library, Lewisville, 2 pm. Info: 507-375-1278.

Tues., Mar. 26

• Beer & Hymns, Main Street Sports Bar, Hutchinson, 6-8 pm. Info: riverofhopehutchinson. org or office@ riverofhopehutchinson.org.

Wed.-Sun., Mar. 27-30

• Mothers & Sons, MN State Univ, 320 Maywood Ave, Mankato, 7:30 pm. Info: 507-389-2118.

Thurs., Mar. 28

• Garrison Keillor at Steele Co. History Center, 1700 Austin Rd, Owatonna, 7 pm. Info: steelehistorymuseum.org/ or 507-451-1420.

• Retail & Business Expo, Mall, 204 Valleygreen Sq, Le Sueur, 3:30 pm. Info: 507-665-2501 or

julieb@lesueurchamber.org.

Fri.-Sat., Mar. 29-30

• Speechless Film Festival, Verizon Center, 1 Civic Center Pl, Mankato. Info: 507-344-7732.

Fri., Mar. 29 & Apr. 26

• Free Community Breakfast, Garnette Gardens, 511 S. Dekalb St, Redwood Falls, 7-9 am. Info: redwoodfalls.org.

Sat., Mar. 30

• Maple Syrup Demonstration, Fort Ridgely State Park, 72404 Co Rd 30, Fairfax, 10 am. Info: 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@ state.mn.us.

• Health Fair, KingsPath Senior Living, 125 Commerce Dr W, Belle Plaine, 10 am-1 pm. Info: 952-873-5800 or bjweicherding@ tlha.org

• Ladies Night Vendor Fair, Hahn’s Dining, Winthrop, 6-8:30 pm. Info: 507-995-4813 or briannaehahn@hotmail.com

• Murder at Schells Brewery Mystery Dinner, Ballroom, Conference Center, 2101 S Broadway, New Ulm, 6-9 pm. Info & tickets: 507-359-3540 or chad. cooreman@tpihospitality.com

• Comedian C Willi Myles, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30-9:30 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or info@ paradisecenterforthearts.org.

Sun., Mar. 31

• Hilltop Happenings Musical Variety Show, Hilltop Hall, 206 First St N, Montgomery, 4 pm. Info: hilltopupdates@gmail.com.

• Pancake Breakfast, American Legion, Lake Crystal, 9 amnoon. Info: 507-726-6088 or lcacc56055@gmail.com

• Sauerkraut, Landjaeger & Dumpling Dinner, Church of St. Mary, 417 S Minnesota St, New

Ulm, 10 am-12:30 pm.

• Cash for Kids’ Benefit Auction for St. James 840 Foundation, School Event Center, St. James, 11 am-4 pm. Info: discoverstjamesmn.com.

• Searles Baseball Benefit, Bar & Grill, Searles. Info: searlesbar.com or searlesbar@gmail.com.

Tues., Apr. 2

• Start Up Smart Workshop—New Ulm, Chamber of Commerce, 1 N Minnesota St, New Ulm, 5-6:30 pm. Info: 507-389-8875.

Wed., Apr. 3

• Local Ag & Food Expo, American Legion/VFW, Madelia, 5-7 pm. Info: visitmadelia.com.

Thurs., Apr. 4

• Heartsaver CPR/AED Certification Course, New Ulm Comm Ed, 910 14th North, New Ulm, 6:308:30 pm. Info: 507-233-8307 or newulm.k12.mn.us/communityed/.

Fri., Apr. 5

• Eagles Extravaganza, Event Center, New Ulm, 5-11 pm. Info: info@isd88foundation.org or isd88foundation.org.

• 14th Annual Hammer & Nails Fundraiser, Crow River Golf Club, 915 Colorado St, Hutchinson, 5:30-8:30 pm. Info: 320-587-8868 or Lori@crhfh.org

Fri.-Sun, Apr. 5-7

• Drinking Habits Comedy, State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm. 7 pm Fri & Sat, 2 pm Sun. Info: statestreetnewulm.org, 507359-9990 or statestreettheater@ gmail.com.

• Grackle Days, Winthrop. Info: winthropminnesota.com/ chamber-of-commerce/, 507-6472627 or chamberwinthropmn@ gmail.com.

Fri.-Sun., Apr. 5-7 and Thur.Sat., Apr. 11-13

• Savannah Sipping Society by The Merlin Players, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Thur-Sat 7:30 pm, Sun 2:30 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or info@paradisecenterforthearts. org

Fri. & Sun., Apr. 5 & 7

• Crow River Singers Spring Concerts, New Journey UCC, 31 4th Ave SW, Hutchinson, 7 pm Fri, 2 pm Sun. Info: hutchinsonarts.org or hollymd55@hotmail.com.

Sat., Apr. 6

• Faribault Winter Farmers’ Market, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 1-4 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or info@ paradisecenterforthearts.org.

• New Ulm Bird & Small Animal Swap & Sale Day, Brown Co Fairgrounds, New Ulm, 8 amnoon. Info: 507-375-4716, 507210-5741 or 507-354-6448.

• Champagne Brunch & Spring Fashion Show, 210 N Minnesota, New Ulm, 8:30-11 am. Info: 507233-4300 or chamber@newulm. com.

• Permit to Carry Course, Searles Bar & Grill, New Ulm, 10 am-2:30 pm. Info & registration: 612-7872264 or carrypermit.net.

• Ormsby Fire Dept Chicken Supper, Fire Hall, Ormsby, 4:30-8 pm. Info: 408-847-7199.

• Gopher Campfire Conservation Club Bluebird Day, Club House, 24718 Co Rd 7, Hutchinson, 12-3 pm. Info: gophercampfire.com or 320-587-5787.

Sun., Apr. 7

• Bridal Show, Starfire Event Center, 206 2nd Ave SW, Waseca, 11 am-2 pm. Info: Facebook or mindyjohnson@wasecamac. com.

• Relay for Life Pancake Breakfast, American Legion, St. James, 9 am-1 pm. Info: 507.375.1289 | info@ci.stjames.mn.us.

• Winthrop Lyons Omelet Breakfast, St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 501 N Brown St., Withrop, 9 am-1 pm.

Mon., Apr. 8

• Intro to iPads, High School Media Center, New Ulm, 6-8 pm. Info: 507-233-8307 or cfleck@newulm. k12.mn.us

Wed., Apr. 10

• Barn Quilts, Washington Learning Center Rm 104, New Ulm, 5:30-9:30 pm. Info: 507233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12. mn.us

Thurs., Apr. 11

• Acrylic Pour Painting, Washington Learning Center Rm 104, New Ulm, 6:30-8:30 pm. Info: newulm.k12.mn.us/ community-ed/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.

• KNUJ Spring Dance, Turner Hall, New Ulm. Info: 507-359-2921 or knuj@knuj.net.

• Curtis & Loretta Show, Princess Theater, St. James, 7 pm. Info: localendar.com/public/ stjameschamber

Fri., Apr. 12

• Free Friday Flicks—‘Apollo 13,’ Library, St. James, 1 pm. Info: co.watonwan.mn.us/Calendar. aspx?NID=1&FID=224.

Sat., Apr. 13

• Gustavus Wind Orchestra Home Concert, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7:30 pm. Info: 507-9337013.

Sun., Apr. 14

• Evening Choral Service, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7:30 pm. Info: 507-933-7013.

Wed., Apr. 17

• MVL Sacred Spring Concert, MN Valley Lutheran High School, 45638 561st Ave, New Ulm, 7 pm. Info: valh@mvlhs.org or mvl.org/ calendar/.

Thurs., Apr. 18

• Heartsaver CPR/AED First Aid Certification Course, Washington Learning Center Rm 104, New Ulm, 6-9 pm. Info: cfleck@ newulm.k12.mn.us or 507-2338307.

• Ney Senior Learning Series— Bee Keeping, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 12-1:30 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.

Thurs. –Sat., Apr. 11-13 & 18-20

• The Hunchback of Notre Dame, MN State Univ, 320 Maywood Ave, Mankato. 7:30 pm; plus 2 pm Apr. 20. Info: 507-389-2118.

by Staci Lowe

A Favorite: ALLIUMS

There’s a small container of chives in my yard. In the wobbly and dented metal pot lives a chive plant that somehow reliably proliferates its delicious leaves year after year, despite our best efforts to ignore it. We rarely water it, and we don’t give it any winter protection. It receives inconsistent light and no fertilizer. Yet throughout the growing season, our neglect is rewarded with bountiful harvests of chives for scrambled eggs and salads. There’s no denying it: Allium schoenoprasum is one scrappy plant.

I rarely use the words “no maintenance” to describe any facet of gardening, but certain plant genera can make me reconsider. Allium, also known as ornamental or flowering onion, fits my criteria—it doesn’t need additional watering, it flowers reliably without any fussing and primping on my part, and it valiantly battles against the toughest bullying weeds. Anecdotally, I’ve never seen any insects or diseases bugging alliums in the landscape, and the deer and rabbits don’t seem to like them either.

But despite their overwhelming tough-gal personae, alliums are sweetly beautiful, with bright, showy flowers. The most familiar ornamental alliums are probably those with large purple globe-shaped flower clusters that sprout from fall-planted bulbs. These beauties and their rhizomatous relatives, when planted together, provide northern perennial gardens with year-long blooms.

Members of the Allium genus can differ greatly in appearance and form. Blooms range from yellow to blue to the well-recognized pinks and purples. Some alliums are bulbous, while others are rhizomatous; some remain leafy and green throughout the growing season, while others go dormant after blooming. But overall, the species have many shared characteristics and growth requirements.

Allium leaves are often long and cylindrical (like chives) or flat and wide (like ‘Globemaster’). Each species’ leaves produce a chemical compound that accounts for their characteristic oniony taste and smell. Allium flowers grow on leafless stalks and bloom in a rounded flower cluster made up of stalks stemming from a common center. Each individual flower is tubular, with six symmetrical pointed petals. Both rhizomatous and bulbous alliums can spread by seed.

In their native habitats, allium plants grow in temperate climates like ours, though there are a few tropical exceptions. Most species (especially the ones we grow here) prefer full sun and dry, well-drained soil. Under the proper growing conditions, Allium species will be among the toughest, most reliable plants in your perennial gardens. They rarely have pest problems, they have excellent drought tolerance, and they attract lots of friendly pollinators. Their blooms are bold and cheery, and their leaves can add unique textures throughout the growing season.

Allium senescens subsp. montanum “Summer Beauty” is a sterile allium that won’t spread by seed. Instead, it stays neat and tidy, slowly widening into a larger clump over time. Its three-inch lavender flower heads are tightly globular, bobbing sweetly above bright green foliage that bends gently as it grows upward. This species blooms in mid to late summer, and like most alliums, the dried inflorescences add beauty to fall and winter landscapes. Allium ‘Millenium’ is very similar to “Summer Beauty,” though its flowers are a brighter, more vibrant pink. Both cultivars pair well with other late summer bloomers, especially those that also attract bees and butterflies, such as Echinacea, Nepeta, and Calamintha. Even when they’re not in bloom, “Millenium” and “Summer Beauty” have flat glossy foliage that boldly complements the finer textures of grasses, especially light airy ones like Sporobolus and Panicum

Another great Allium senescens is the subspecies glaucum, commonly known as German garlic. At six inches in height, its miniature size makes it perfect for rock gardens or mass plantings at the front of a dry sunny garden border. Its light pink late summer flowers are also quite small, reaching only about one inch in diameter. Deadheading the finished flowers before they develop their seeds will help strengthen the following year’s blooming.

This allium variety has flat bluish gray leaves that grow upward with an unusual twisting habit. Interplanting German garlic with low-growing Sedum varieties would make a fun edge for a stone path or a rock wall. It thrives on boulevards and in other difficult sites, too.

As spring approaches, I’m thrilled that my chives will return for another season of flavoring our meals. But admittedly, I’m much more excited about the reappearance of my other alliums, the ornamental ones, because they’re beautiful, well-behaved, and nearly maintenance free. I’ll definitely be planting more varieties this spring (I’m looking at you, “Medusa”), and I already know that I’ll love them.

LAURA SCHWARZ New Ulm native, is a horticulturist and writer in Minneapolis

MnDot#125249

WHEN: Thursday, April 18 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

WHERE: MSU Strategic Partnership Ctr 424 North Riverfront Drive Mankato, MN

COST: $125

Note: A limited number of $50 scholarships are available. Email julie.nelson@mnsu.edu

REGISTER: https://link.mnsu.edu/sbdcrosie-was-right

OFFERED BY: Small Business Development Center South Central Region

Today, women are needed again — to be entrepreneurial in a tech-based economy and generate wealth in our communities. In this workshop you will learn:

• The 3 things that have kept women from building business profits and wealth in the old economy and what has changed.

• Why your passion really is the most important driver of business success.

• How a triple bottom line of people, planet and profits is critical in the New Economy.

• Tech trends that are changing every industry — including the four industries where women hold 80% of the market (for now).

• Learn about women across industry who have combined their passion with clever technologies to grow their sales by 20%-30% and more.

• Participants will engage in Tech-Ideation®, a form of idea storming to connect with new and off-the shelf technologies to grow sales, reach new markets and improve business operations.

Presenter & Program Creator: Mo Collins, New Economy specialist, national speaker, trainer, and expert in women's entrepreneurship.

Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and regional support partners. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the program sponsors. Programs are open to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the SBDC at 507-389-8875. 109538

Two generations ago, women were called to the workforce by Rosie the Riveter, who told us, "We can do it!"

MarchMust

1. Sleek & Modern Design by Flexsteel®

Catalina’s contoured seating by Flexsteel® provides body-hugging, ultra comfort lasting day after day and year after year. A power rocking reclining mechanism lets you rock and change angles effortlessly from an upright to a fully reclined position with the touch of a button. Rooms and Rest

Furniture and Mattress

1760 Madison Ave. Mankato, MN 56001 1704 North State St. New Ulm, MN 56073 roomsandrest.com

2. Work in comfort with Dansko professional clogs

New at C&S Supply! Come and shop our huge selection of new Dansko

Professional clogs. Dansko professionals are the perfect choice for chefs, nurses and medical professionals, restaurant servers, hairdressers, and just about anyone who spends long days on their feet or simply appreciates comfortable, stylish, long-lasting footwear. C&S Supply 1951 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 507.387.1171 or 800.879.1938

3. Leave your skin feeling soft & smooth Basin brings the relaxation of a spa to your home. With a refreshing line of sweetly scented bath bombs, scrubs and soaps that will help relieve your daily stresses. You can find Basin products at your Mankato Hy-Vee’s.

Hy-Vee Hilltop 2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 56001 507.625.9070

Hy-Vee Riverfront 410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.625.1107

4. DeGrood's Home Store is ready for grilling weather! Green Mountain Pellet Smoker Grills are a top-of-line pellet grill company, that makes great products for a reasonable price. Pellet grill systems are the easiest way to get that great smokey flavor without the fuss and the clean up of charcoal. To make cooking even easier, they also have grills with wifi-connectivity, so you can check the temp from anywhere! DeGrood's Home Store 220 St. Andrews Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.388.9391 shopdegroods.com

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5. Batter Up!

Used by amateurs and professionals alike these Instant portable baseball and softball nets set up in less than 2 minutes and can withstand even the hardest hits. Perfect for tee work, hitting, pitching, batting, fielding or as a portable backstop this is a must have for any sandlot enthusiast.

Scheels River Hills Mall

1850 Adams St. Mankato, MN 56001 507.386.7767 scheels.com

6. Healthy, Vibrant Rejuvenated Skin

Skin Essentials offers DERMALINFUSION®, an advanced skinresurfacing treatment that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts and infuses skin with condition-specific serums for an allinclusive treatment in one step to improve skin health, function and appearance with no downtime. Call Skin Essentials and schedule a free consultation to discover if DERMALINFUSION is right for you.

Skin Essentials, Mankato Clinic

1400 Madison Ave. Suite 400A Madison East Center Mankato, MN 56001

7. Make a statement this Spring

Check out one of The Refinery’s 3 locations in St. Peter, New Prague, or Minneapolis to shop spring accessories! These leather clutches have a fun zipper detail that will be sure to make a statement this Spring!

The Refinery Boutique St. Peter, New Prague and Minneapolis, MN 507.934.5981 therefinerymn.com

8. Himalayan Salt Room Halotherapy, or breathing in of salt vapor, takes the healing properties of salt into the respiratory system. Dry salt therapy is a NATURAL detoxification for your airways and skin. “Halo”, coming from the Greek word for salt, Halotherapy is the use of vapor utilizing micro particles of salt to promote optimal health and wellness.

Body Concepts LLC 1615 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.381.5467 bodyconceptsmankato. com

9. Our Traveling Showroom

Blinds & More travels to your home or office with custom samples. We offer window coverings and interior design services. Our team will travel within a 60-mile radius of Mankato. Schedule your free consultation today! Blinds & More Interior Design Group 507.380.5019 blindsandmore.org

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MarchMust

12. NEW Accents Chairs

10. Traeger Timberline Grill

Join the Wood-Fired Revolution with a Traeger grill.  For meltin-your-mouth meats and the latest in grill technology get the Traeger Timberline. Enjoy Super Smoke and Wi-Fire, where you can control your grill from anywhere. Only available at Arrow Ace Hardware, your local Traeger Timberline Dealer. Arrow Ace Hardware & Paint 201 S. Minnesota Ave. St. Peter, MN 56082 507.931.3830 arrowace.net

11. Customize your Next Building Project

Floor to Ceiling in Mankato offers endless opportunities for customizing Cambria throughout your home. Let our showroom displays serve as inspiration for your next building or remodeling project!

Floor to Ceiling 224 St. Andrews Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 ftcmankato.com

Relax in the luxurious style of the Madison Park Accent Chair. This modern accent chair takes on a classic twist with a quilted back and elegant silver studs lining the arms and seat. A high-density foam cushion fills the seat for exceptional comfort, while solid wood legs with a Morocco finish provide excellent support. Perfect in the living room or home office, this accent chair add elegance to your home décor.

Nordaas American Homes

10091 State Hwy 22 Minnesota Lake, MN 56068 800-658-7076 nordaashomes.com

13. Contemporary Design

Our contemporary fireplace Slayton series offers affordable elegance that combines innovation and design with function and efficiency. This linear fireplace offers a sleek modern design that will revolutionize your contemporary design ideas. With a variety of media choices, accent lighting, enamel firebox lining, and dancing flames will make this fireplace a stunning addition to your home.

Glowing Hearth & Home

241 St. Andrews Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.345.8084

507.327.6957 | MANKATO, MINNESOTA | FACEBOOK

(Family Features) Even if your home has seen a generation or two of living, creating a contemporary new look may not require a full-scale renovation. The key to creating a more modern feel is all in the details.

Many of these elements can be tackled one by one so you can transform your home into the modern marvel you desire on a timeframe and budget that fits your lifestyle. If a contemporary home is your ultimate goal, start with these key features to create a more modern look.

Lighting

Dingy lighting and dim rooms are the antithesis of modern design. A contemporary space is airy and bright, and the lighting fixtures often help set that tone. Replace outdated fixtures with modern alternatives that boast sleek lines and finishes. Add more fixtures, including table-side task lighting and floor lamps, to brighten a room with limited natural light. Have some fun with the lighting by incorporating colored or textured globes that allow the fixtures to become focal points of contemporary design rather than functional afterthoughts.

Windows

When it comes to curb appeal, windows play an essential role in the overall aesthetic. Old, outdated windows are a tell-tale sign of an aging home, so when you’re planning for a modern exterior upgrade, be sure to include the windows as part of your plan. An option like Milgard Trinsic Series vinyl windows offers an expansive viewable glass area and a narrow frame to help you embrace modern home design. Not only do they provide even sightlines for clean, unobstructed views, they’re manufactured for maximum durability and energy efficiency and require little to no maintenance.

Walls

No matter the color, a freshly painted space simply feels new. For a true contemporary style, honor simplicity in design and keep colors on the lighter side. However, don’t be afraid to introduce a pop of color in the form of a bold accent wall or even wallpaper that makes a statement. A good rule of thumb: maintain a simple palette of no more than three shades to incorporate a truly minimalist, modern atmosphere.

Doors

The entry and exit points to your home are more than functional features; think of them as a canvas for making a bold design statement. For the patio, consider a sleek and contemporary door with a frame profile so narrow you’ll hardly know it’s there. For example, Milgard offers a contemporary Trinsic Series sliding patio door with the maximum available viewable glass area and an optional narrow handle that blends seamlessly into the frame to lend a modern flair. The doors are also ideal for lowmaintenance living; the durable vinyl frames don’t absorb moisture or require painting.

Hardware

Even the smallest details matter when it comes to contemporary design. You may not need to replace or update your cabinetry, but you’ll most likely want to select hardware that fits a more modern motif. Avoid weathered and overly polished finishes in brass or nickel, and opt instead for selections like matte black, gold and copper, which are all well-suited for contemporary kitchens. Don’t be afraid to mix and match for a bit of an eclectic look, such as different pulls for the upper and lower cabinets or a unique style for drawers.

Explore more contemporary design ideas for your home at Milgard.com.

“I was very pleased and pleasantly surprised at the advertising area coverage via River Valley Woman magazine. Many, many clients and non-clients commented on the ads. RVW is definitely worth my advertising dollars!”

— JENNIFER L.J. GILK Gilk Legacy Law PLLC

“My business has grown steadily ever since I began advertising in River Valley Woman! I am so proud to be associated with a magazine of such high quality and my clients appreciate it, also! I myself have patronized many of the other advertisers businesses and am happy to promote them just because I know the quality of River Valley Woman.”

— HEIDI NELSON OLMA Life Coaching

“Love it! Just gotta say! This magazine sits on my desk and then it’s gone! People love it! I run out all the time! Thanks for the abundance of them every month!”

— LAURIE DANBERRY Heintz Toyota

“Gari Jo Testimonial: I am so impressed with the quality and creativity that you gals at River Valley Woman consistently deliver each month. I’ve been advertising in RVW for over 5 years now and I completely trust your marketing and design team to create that perfect marketing piece! Thanks for continuously putting your magazine to work for Body Concepts!

— GARI JO JORDAN Body Concepts

RELIEF FROM VARICOSE VEINS.

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Don’t let the discomfort of varicose veins keep you from enjoying life. Our surgical experts in Mankato provide a quick and effective solution for varicose veins, leg pain and other serious conditions.

Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato Call 507-246-2627 to schedule an appointment. mayoclinichealthsystem.org