River Valley Woman May 2019

License #BC225623

BY EILEEN MADSEN Editor

What does family mean to you? Is it holiday traditions, vacations and joyful gatherings with relatives? Maybe it’s special meals around the table highlighted with lively conversation. After which the young folks play board games and the elders sip sarsaparilla, right? Oh brother, no one’s family is quite that picture perfect. What seems to be good, bonding fun for some families, such as multi-generational vacations, or aforementioned board games, might just open a multi-generational “never speaking to you again” can of worms. Go ahead and play Trivial Pursuit or Pictionary at a family gathering and see who cries uncle first.

I suspect for most people, it isn’t necessarily those big “supposed to feel something” moments when family means the most, but rather those thousand little things. For me it’s my two sisters’ daily emails about nothing, but still make me laugh out loud; my older brother who still refers to me by my childhood nickname; my mom’s custom Irish jig ringtone that tells me she’s still on the other end; when my great niece calls me “Auntie;” or my husband and my countless inside jokes that are more romantic than candlelight and flowers.

Traditional family togetherness wasn’t the norm for our cover story, mom, wife, medical professional and recently retired veteran, Terri Jo Malecek. Regardless of her 20 year stint in the military, it’s family that’s front and center for her. She was fortunate to have her husband, parents

and in-laws close by and at the ready to help and support during her absence. Salutes all around.

Extended family takes on a new meaning with our story on Julienne Antes. She and her husband have kids from all over the world including France, Italy, Spain, Kyrgystan, China and the Czech Republic to name a few. As hosts to numerous foreign exchange students over the years, they have come to think of them as, well—family. Julienne is also coordinator of Nacel Open Door that helps hook up potential hosts with students.

Like it or not, we all get older and there may come a time when we or our relatives could use some help. Maybe we can’t get out and socialize like we used to, or perhaps we have physical limitations that keep us from upending the Trivial Pursuit board when we’ve finally had enough of that know-it-all cousin. Don’t worry, there are brighter days ahead. Kathy Virnig, director of Bright Days Adult Day Services strives to keep people mentally and physically healthy. Again, it’s the simple things that mean so much, according to Kathy. Participants often wish to see or do things such as visit with a friend or sibling they have not seen for a while, or have a whirlpool tub bath. Bright Days can make that happen and then some.

Sometimes our most beloved family members just lay on the couch all day. Or follow you around wherever you go begging for treats. And even though they leave hair all over our favorite clothes, those four-legged friends hold a special spot in the family hierarchy. That’s right, the top spot. This is one instance where you can pick your family. So when they pass on to that great litterbox, dog park, or hamster wheel in the sky that’s when Wendy June of Mankato Pet Cremation steps in. She gives us options. We don’t all have a backyard to bury Rover in, or perhaps the wherewithal to do so. You can even keep a memento of Fluffy in the form of jewelry or a scatter tube to disperse over its favorite stomping grounds (always check regulations on this first, ok?).

I kid you not, we’re all family here at RVW this month, so pass the sarsaparilla, sister!

When FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2019

6:00 PM Registration & Social Hour

7:15 PM Welcome & Grant Awards

7:30 PM Music by IV Play until 11:00 PM

9:00 PM Live & Silent Auction Winners Announced

Where Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery EVENT CENTER

Tickets

$50 - Purchase from Board Members or online at www.educarefoundation.org

Enjoy a performance by local band IV PLAY in CHANKASKA’S NEW EVENT CENTER.

Casual fare will be served buffet-style.

Diamond Sponsors: Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery | Consolidated Communications

Lowell & Nadine Andreas Foundation | Mankato Clinic Foundation

The Glen A. Taylor Foundation

Additional Sponsors: Mayo Clinic Health System | ISG | Jones Page Jacobson Family Foundation | MEI – Total Elevator Solutions

Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic | Schwickert’s Tecta America | WEB Construction | Dan & Angie Bastian

Bolton & Menk, Inc. | Eide Bailly LLP | CLA/CliftonLarsonAllen | MinnStar Bank | River Valley Woman

True Real Estate | Valley News | Ed & Maureen Waltman | Linda & Randy Berkland | Blethen Berens

Blinds & More | Frandsen Bank & Trust | Hatanpa Insurance Agency | Paul Lawton

Maschka, Riedy, Ries & Frentz Law Firm | Corporate Graphics

Unable to Attend?

Donate online at EducareFoundation.org or mail to: Educare Foundation, PO Box 241, Mankato, MN 56002

By RUTH KLOSSNER PHOTOS BY JON CARTER PHOTOGRAPHY

Major/nurse practitioner/wife/mother/student Terri Jo Malecek knows a thing or two about juggling roles.

Through it all, Malecek always remembered, “Regardless of all my other roles, my family is in the center. They are the most important part of my life.”

It wasn’t easy to be a 20-year MN Army National Guard member and a mother—and twice return to school to get advanced degrees.

Fortunately, Terri hasn’t had to go it alone. Husband Marty has been there throughout, along with his parents, Betty and the late Joe Malecek. Marty’s parents lived next door and helped with the kids when Terri was doing her duty in the “Mommy Guards”—as the kids called them.

When she enlisted in the Guard after her first year of college, Terri never expected to be a “lifer” but—20 years later—retired as Major Malecek in July 2018.

Two people inspired Terri to enlist—her college roommate Jenny George and her father.

“My roommate joined in March 1998. She talked about the good school benefits and sent letters from basic training. My dad was in Vietnam—I always felt honored by his service and grateful for his contributions. I was proud of his service, even though I didn’t know much about it as a kid,” Terri explained.

One of four girls in a family of five kids, Terri grew up near Good Thunder on a hog and grain farm and knew the value of hard work. She graduated from Maple River High School in 1997.

Her parents, Dennis and Myra Sohre, didn’t believe it when Terri told them of her decision to enlist in the National Guard—and demanded to meet the recruiter. With that done, Terri took basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri the summer after her freshman year at Bethany Lutheran in Mankato. She took advanced individual training at Fort Jackson in South Carolina and started her job in the National Guard as a “71L,” or administrative assistant.

After finishing an associate degree at Bethany in 1999, Terri enrolled at Minnesota State University, Mankato (MSU) and graduated as an R.N. in 2003.

As she got into nursing at MSU, she reclassified from an administrative assistant to a medic in the Guard. After completing her degree, she was commissioned into the Army Nurse Corps as a Second Lieutenant in 2004. Terri’s name in the military also changed along the way from Sergent Sohre to Sergent Malecek, as she married hog farmer Marty Malecek of Redwood Falls in 2003. The two met in 2000, when Terri was in her first semester at MSU—and Marty was in his last two weeks of school.

“To be honest, I had never heard of Redwood Falls,” Terri admitted when she recalled that meeting.

They maintained a long distance relationship through the rest of Terri’s schooling—and Guard duty. 

 “I don’t think he knew what he was getting into with me being in the Guard,” she said. “After we were married, I moved in with Marty, in the small house on the farm. His parents lived in the big house. Marty worked alongside his dad until he passed away two years ago.”

The farrow-to-feeder pig farm has 1,400 sows and does some contract finishing.

Terri, meanwhile, opted for more schooling—returning to MSU to get a Masters degree as a clinical nurse specialist in 2008. And once again, graduating as a nurse practitioner from South Dakota State University in 2017.

Those degrees were completed while the Malecek family was growing. Daughter Gracelyn was born in 2007, son Zach in 2008, son Jared in 2011, son Isaiah in 2013, and daughter Lexirae in 2018.

Terri also lost a baby to pregnancy loss at 16 weeks in 2017, while working on her last degree.

“That was hard. Usually everything is fine at that point in a pregnancy. I had already been through the terrible first trimester. We had an ultrasound at about 10 weeks that showed her little heart just beating away with nothing to be concerned about. When she came we got to hold her and decided to name her Rayanne. In her honor, I make ‘Mini Blessing’ blankets for the hospital in Redwood Falls for pregnancy loss families. Another mom and I do this as our mission to remember our babies,” Terri said.

“After Isaiah was born in 2013, I wondered what I could do to make life easier. I had worked at the Willmar Diabetes Center— mostly in Willmar, with outreach to Marshall and Redwood Falls.

The commute to Willmar and Marshall was roughly an hour each way. I decided to get that last degree with the hope that I could then work in my local town of Redwood Falls—but it was more work than I thought,” Terri admitted. “As the kids were getting older, I felt strongly that I wanted to be involved with them and to work in the same town they went to school in so I could make their after-school activities.”

The plan worked, as Terri joined the staff at Carris Health–

Redwood in November 2017 as a nurse practitioner in family practice part-time. The Carris staff includes six MDs and six nurse practitioners.

“My goal was to get a job in Redwood Falls so I could be more involved with the kids. It’s worked well—they go to school at St. John Lutheran School, right across the street from the clinic.”

She added, “I still have a lot to learn—I’m definitely still learning. Everyone I work with has been great.”

Terri works three days a week and is working hard to balance family life.

“We’ve been busy—with grad school, the military, family and work—it’s been a nice balance to now just work three days a week and to be done with my military duties.”

As Terri reflected on her military career, she stated, “I’m grateful to have had that opportunity. My goal was not to serve 20 years. I originally signed up for a six-year enlistment. As I got involved, I found that I enjoyed it. There were great opportunities, great relationships with other soldiers, the bond of the military family, and a lot of support. I was always proud to wear the uniform. The military has made me braver and more courageous than my 19-year-old self could have ever foreseen. It has had great influence on the person I have become. It’s an honor to have served and know that I was fulfilling a mission bigger than myself or my family—it’s a mission for the greater good of our state and country.”

As an officer, Malecek didn’t have a contract, but could re-up year by year.

“After 12 to 15 years, I figured I might as well stay for the retirement benefits which you get when you serve 20 years. I’m grateful that Marty was onboard with me continuing to serve. He was encouraging and supportive. He took care of the kids when I was away. I hope the kids are as proud of me and my service as I was of my dad. The grandparents on both sides were very helpful—they were very supportive.”

Terri added, “The kids called it ‘Mommy Guards.’ They’d ask, ‘Are you going to Mommy Guards again?’”

During her career, Malecek served in units in Mankato and Cottage Grove, with her last assignment to the Minnesota Medical Detachment at Camp Ripley. She was never deployed overseas but did a summer at Fort Polk in Louisiana, helping troops get ready to deploy to Bosnia and also an overseas exchange mission to Norway.

“The reason I’ve never deployed is that I’ve always been in a unit that is nondeployable—we get troops ready for deployment. It’s a pretty essential asset to Minnesota—to be sure our troops are ready. During high deployment times, like after 9/11, my unit spent many extra duty days processing soldiers who were on orders to deploy. We also did medical readiness and retention.”

Upon reaching 20 years of service, Malecek had the choice of retiring or continuing. She chose to transfer to the Retired Reserve and end her active service to spend more time with her family

“I felt the time had come to give up the military commitment and commit to my family,” Terri said. “We enjoy our big family. It definitely has its ups and downs. We feel blessed.”

When she addressed her unit for the last time, Malecek ended by saying “My husband and I have created our own little Army at home—with the five kids—so it’s time to stay home and take care of them.” 

Major Malecek

SHARED AT HER FINAL FORMATION

 Major Malecek’s final formation was on July 15, 2018. On that Sunday morning at 0600, Terri lined up with her unit for the final time, with her family watching. It was her last day in uniform with the U.S. Army. She was presented with the US flag and awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for 20 years of combined meritorious service with the MN Army National Guard.

In addressing the troops, she shared these words of wisdom.

Number 1. Do not be afraid to take a chance or make a change. The change may not be easy. It might seem like the hardest thing in your life and may even take a few years to achieve. But, in the end, if you believe in yourself and your goal, you’re going to be OK and be successful.

Number 2. Don’t cut yourself short to what you have the ability to achieve. The sky really is the limit to your successes. If you are just starting out in your military career and thinking there is no way you could do 20 years—don’t be so sure. My goal was never 20 years, it just sort of happened. Somehow a six-year enlistment turned into a commission in the Army Nurse Corps, and soon the years just kept adding up. And I’m proof that life can still happen along the way—getting married, having kids, and more kids, changing jobs, going to school, going to school again, or whatever else life might entail. Again, don’t be afraid to take the chance to be successful and to believe in yourself and, with that, let others believe in you as well. I’ve also learned in 20 years that it is OK to ask for help. Most of the time others are willing to help if you ask.

Number 3. Life is a journey—whether it be a military life or civilian life—and tomorrow isn’t promised. So, make the best of today, try to make a difference in someone’s life and appreciate the people in your life today, because again, we don’t know what tomorrow holds. RVW

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By KRISTIN SJOLIE

Where to turn for help is a question many families face as loved ones age and need more care. Kathy Virnig, Director of Bright Days at New Ulm and Sleepy Eye Adult Day Services offers a positive solution.

Meaningful activities and social opportunities are vital to people of all ages to keep them engaged and mentally and physically healthy. As people age, they often lose the ability to do favorite activities, or are only able do them for short periods of time. Many find it physically challenging to leave home. Sometimes a health crisis or surgery leaves them laid up. All these things can contribute to isolation, depression, and withdrawal.

Bright Days offers a solution. It provides participants the opportunity to engage and thrive in social interactions, discover new interests and revisit old ones, make connections, and improve overall well-being.

“Just to be with friends and get out and visit with somebody else is so important,” participant Elaine Schueler said. “Not just sit and look at four walls on the farm!”

A variety of activities are offered, with some sponsored through a Health Connection Grant from Allina Health, which Bright Days has received the last five years. This year’s grant offers a healthy cooking class with dietitian Jessica Weisbrich featuring local produce. Other activities include painting, art therapy, games and cards, drumming, music therapy, daily exercise class facilitated by physical therapists, and musical guest performances including a harmonica player who comes every month.

Recently a party to welcome spring was held, featuring the one-man band Beachcomber Bob. Participants enjoyed dancing, a photo booth, flip flop cookies, drinks with umbrellas, shell decorations, and snacks in sand pails.

Virnig said, “We all had so much fun!”

Monthly health assessments include weight and blood pressure monitoring to catch health changes early. Breakfast, lunch, and an

afternoon snack are provided. A shower or whirlpool bath is available, with professional staff assistance. This helps participants remain at home longer, reducing risk of bath falls and relieving the caregiver of this frequently challenging task.

“We also try to make wishes come true for our participants. Their requests are never something like, ‘I want to go to Hawaii.’ It’s simple things like ‘I haven’t seen my sister in five years,’ or ‘I’ve always wanted to play guitar,’ or ‘I want to go back to the farm and see harvest just one more time,’” Virnig said. “It’s so fun and rewarding for the staff to make these wishes come true.”

Bright Days Sleepy Eye is located at Ross Park. Bright Days New Ulm is at Oak Hills Living Center. Both sites are part of Volunteers of America, Sleepy Eye Senior Living Campus.

These two sites are the only Volunteers of America adult day programs in the United States. They offer services to any adult who wants to attend and who qualifies, with each site licensed for 24 individuals per day. Trained staff and additional volunteers from Lutheran Social Services provide care as needed.

Veterans attend free through a contract with the Veterans Administration, and make up the majority of participants at the New Ulm site. Private pay, county waivered services, and long-term care insurance cover costs for other participants.

Additional funding comes from grants, civic groups, individual donations, the annual Sleepy Eye Senior Living Campus Gala, and donations of time by musicians and other artists.

Schueler first came to Bright Days five years ago when recovering from bunion surgery. Her husband Merle, who had Parkinson’s disease, began attending, too.

“Until mom had her surgery, we did not realize how much help she was giving dad,” Schueler’s daughter Sue Schumacher said. “The program is so beneficial health wise—and socially—for people. Rather than sitting

Elaine Schueler, participant and Bright Days Director, Kathy Virnig

home alone, this keeps their minds active. The staff sees them daily or several times a week. They notice changes.”

When Merle’s health declined, and Elaine could no longer care for him at home, Bright Days helped the family through the process of creating a plan beyond Adult Day Services.

“Elaine is the epitome of what a wonderful wife should be,” Virnig said. “Not many couples come to Bright Days together. It was such an example to others to have them here. When Merle needed more care and they moved to the Sleepy Eye Senior Living Campus, Elaine was able to go down the hall from her apartment at Countryside Retirement Community, to the Sleepy Eye Care Center, to feed him, sit with him, and hold his hand.”

Family caregiving is emotionally and physically exhausting. Adult Day Services offers a much needed break, which helps reduce caregiver burnout.

Virnig cited an example. “A caregiver once told me, ‘I feel like it’s Christmas when my husband goes to Bright Days. I feel somewhat guilty, but I know that for me to be a great caregiver, I need time alone to rejuvenate myself.”

She went on, “I use the analogy of the airplane oxygen mask when explaining to caregivers why respite care is so important. In pre-flight briefing, passengers are instructed to put their own oxygen mask on first, before helping others. In this way they can breathe and are better prepared to help. Respite care is like the oxygen mask. If you don’t take care of yourself first, you will not be able to take care of others. Statistics show caregivers neglect their own health when caring for others. Many become seriously ill and die before the person they are caring for.”

This statistic can be changed when caregivers prioritize self-care, and use adult day services.

“Bright Days gives caregivers that much needed break,” Virnig said, “At times it is hard to convince people that Bright Days is a great place for their family member—and to help them recognize that participating could benefit them and their loved one.”

Other challenges to participation include caregiver guilt in accepting help, along with limited transportation. Heartland Express transports participants in Brown County, but those living outside the county need to find their own transportation.

“I believe this work is my life’s calling,” Virnig said. “I have always been a caregiver in some way or another. I feel very privileged to be able to be a part of our participants’ lives. Truthfully, I believe we offer ‘Brighter Days’ for our participants.”

For more information, go to www.brightdaysatnewulm.org or call Kathy Virnig at 507-359-3377. RVW

It’s your life. We’re here to help you live it 111865

Bright Days director, Kathy Virnig

Elaine Schueler and daughter Sue Schumacher

Mother’s Day is fast approaching. This special holiday reminds us of the joy we receive from the powerful bond between mother and child. To help mark the occasion, you may want to consider making certain financial gifts, including the following:

For your mother:

• IRA contribution. If your mother is still working, she is eligible to contribute to an IRA, but she might not always fully fund it—so you may want to help. You can’t contribute directly to your mother’s IRA, but you can write her a check for that purpose, though, of course, she can use the money however she likes. In 2019, the contribution limit for a traditional or Roth IRA is $6,000, or $7,000 for individuals 50 or older. (A Roth IRA

does have income limits that can reduce the contribution amount or eliminate it altogether.)

• Insurance premium. If your mother has life, disability, or long-term care insurance, why not offer to pay some of the premiums this year? Longterm care premiums, in particular, can be quite costly, especially for older policyholders.

• Introduction to a financial professional. If your mother doesn’t already work with a financial professional, consider introducing her to yours, or to someone else who is recommended by friends or relatives. A financial advisor can help your mother move toward her retirement goals—and, at some point, also can work with legal and tax professionals to assist your mother with her estate plans.

For your children:

• 529 plan contribution. If your children are still of school age, you may want to contribute to a college savings vehicle. One popular choice is a 529 savings plan. When you invest in this plan, your earnings can grow tax-free, provided the money is used for qualified educational expenses. (Be aware, though, that withdrawals not used for qualified education expenses may be subject to federal and state taxes, as well as an additional 10% penalty.)

As the 529 plan owner, you have flexibility in using the money. For example, if you’ve designated one of your children as the 529 plan’s beneficiary, and that child decides not to pursue any higher education, you can switch the beneficiary designation to another child or to yourself.

You can choose the 529 plan offered by any state, but your contributions might be tax deductible if you invest in your own state’s plan. Tax issues for 529 plans can be complex, so—before investing—consult with your tax advisor.

• Shares of stocks. Giving stock shares to children is a good way to help them learn some of the basics of investing. You can track the progress of their stocks with them, and even do some research together about why prices may be going up or down. By getting children involved early, you may help instill a lifelong interest in investing.

• Charitable gifts. Many children are now concerned about various social issues. You can help encourage this involvement—and possibly an appreciation of the value of philanthropy—by making a gift to a charitable group whose work aligns with your child’s interests.

We don’t need to exchange presents on Mother’s Day to show our appreciation for one another, but certain financial gifts can help provide needed support—and even some valuable life lessons—for your loved ones.

CATE GRINNEY CFP ® Financial Advisor

Edward Jones

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

CELEBRATING ALL MOTHERS

MARIELYNN HERRERA Program Manager New American Families

May is the month when we celebrate the mothers who give life and love, who inspire and push us beyond conventional limits, and who support us through the toughest of times. At YWCA Mankato, one of our main focuses is on the health of mothers and children before, during, and after pregnancy.

The YWCA’s New American Families home visiting services works with immigrant and refugee mothers in Mankato, North Mankato, and St. Peter communities. Our work is predicated on the belief that parents are the first teachers of their children and are best suited to identify their children’s strengths, goals, concerns, and barriers. We collaborate with mothers to build up this basic bond, in part by removing participation barriers to their children’s education. We connect families to local health providers to improve family well-being and personal enrichment. All of this contributes to strengthening their ties to the community, and the community itself.

Our collaboration and work with immigrant and refugee mothers has yielded insight into the health inequities that adversely shape the everyday experiences of immigrants and refugees. The conventional advice for good health has always been to eat right, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and regular doctor’s visits. While personal choices and behaviors are components that determine one’s health, they cannot fully account for poor health in all communities.

Structural and social forces—the social determinants of health—greatly impact health outcomes. People work and live in environments that affect and shape a wide range of health and quality-of-life outcomes. The inequities that shape these determinants explain the deplorable facts surrounding birth outcomes for women of color.

A New York Times article cited that the U.S. began keeping records of infant mortality by race in 1850. During that time, infant mortality was understood to be a simple fact of life. That year, the reported black infant-mortality rate was 340 per 1,000 live births, while the white rate was 217 per 1,000 live births. Fast forward to today, black infants in America are more than twice as likely to die as white infants—11.3 per 1,000 black infants, compared with 4.9 per 1,000 white infants.

Unfortunately, the Minnesota infant mortality rate is reflective of national trends. From 2012 to 2016, the mortality rate for infants born to white mothers was 4.0 per 1,000 live births, while that of infants born to black/ African American mothers was at 9.0 per 1,000 live births.

YWCA Mankato is increasingly becoming more vigilant of the fact that societal and systemic racism exacerbates disparate health outcomes for people of color. Racial discrimination and structural racism explains why people of color possess less wealth and education. It explains why they are more likely to live in segregated communities with poor housing options and increased exposure to environmental hazards. Since 2003 in Minnesota, for example, undocumented members of our community have been uniquely burdened by their inability to legally possess a driver’s license. This means that undocumented mothers seeking prenatal care and regular child check-ups after the birth of their child have the potential to be criminalized for seeking basic care.

A growing body of research has analyzed exposure to racism and its impact on maternal health outcomes for women of color. High stress during pregnancy harms the immune and endocrine systems, which may contribute to preterm and low-birth-weight infants among black/African American mothers. The long-term stressors of racism may also explain why, regardless of wealth and educational background, black mothers are three to four times more likely to die during and after childbirth.   Intervention can bring down maternal and infant mortality rates. Home visiting services are a great example. Our program affirms pregnant mothers’ knowledge of their own bodies, connects them with health services, and advocates to the state legislature to increase funding and expand the accessibility of home visiting services to Minnesota’s most vulnerable populations. Minnesota is currently one of the few states that reimburses doula support services through Medicaid. Women who are at-risk for adverse birth outcomes due to racial disparities greatly benefit from having a doula. They help to mitigate mortality-contributing factors by, for example, decreasing labor time and cesarean births. Their efforts ultimately contribute to fewer preterm and low-birth weight infants. In Minnesota, doula services are available to women in correctional facilities.

Reducing maternal mortality and infant mortality promotes overall health and well-being. It should be afforded to all populations. YWCA Mankato is committed to providing support to mothers and their children, to reducing barriers to good health, and helping create a better life for the whole family.

By KATIE SONNEK

When Julienne Antes hosts an international student, she travels the world without ever leaving home.

The 20-year resident of Windom—and former homeschooling mother of three—acts as a local coordinator for Nacel Open Door, Inc. (NOD), a nonprofit student exchange program focused on international understanding and cooperation. Her involvement with NOD was more of a happy accident than a planned decision. In 2000, during a conference for the Minnesota Association for Christian Homeschoolers Education (MACHE), Julienne’s husband Wayne spotted a NOD display booth among the other vendors.

“He sees the table there and he signs us up,” Antes laughed. “I was like, ‘What are you doing?’”

Two months later, the couple agreed to host their first international student, a French boy named Corentin who stayed with them for four weeks. Thanks to her homeschooling background, Antes was able to help tutor him in English. This first partnership with NOD helped Antes realize

how much she enjoyed interacting with other cultures and providing an educational home-away-from-home. As soon as Corentin was scheduled to return, the Anteses hosted a second French student named David. Until 2016, they continued to sponsor at least one student a year.

Since 2000, Antes and her family have hosted 26-plus students from countries including France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Austria, Finland, Norway, Denmark, Kyrgyzstan, Spain, Russia, China, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Czech Republic. In 2007, Antes took on the roles of NOD representative and coordinator. As coordinator, her main responsibilities involve finding local families who are interested in sharing their homes with international students, providing orientation services, and checking in on the students once they have settled in with their American hosts.

After becoming coordinator, Antes decided that the best way to positively represent NOD was to continue to host students herself. While she enjoyed participating in the All Year Program which sponsors students for ten months, she, her husband, and their three children Danielle, Janelle, and Kyle have also acted as a welcome family by taking in an international

student for one to three months prior to finding them more permanent lodging.

“When they start school, they make friends,” Antes said, explaining that it’s usually the friends they find who volunteer to host them for the rest of the term. “They already know the second family before they move in.”

In addition to helping them practice their English, host families like the Anteses are encouraged to introduce their students to the idiosyncrasies of American culture. Many international teens look forward to Americanized holiday celebrations, especially Christmas and Thanksgiving.

“I tell all of my students, ‘At least try pumpkin pie once,’” Antes said. “They just love that big feast—it’s all about food and family, and they just revel in that.”

The students Antes hosted found Minnesota’s icy winters fascinating. Gemala Zenobia, a teen from Indonesia, was particularly eager to experience the unfamiliar weather. “She would get outside and make angels in the snow,” Antes explained. “She would want us to take pictures, and wanted to do a snowman for the first time, or throw snowballs.”

August Hyldrup Neilsen, a resident of Denmark who stayed with the Antes family for the 2013-2014 school year, mentioned in an email interview how much he appreciated their efforts to help him become acquainted with the United States.

“From the beginning, Julienne and Wayne told me that I could call them Mom and Dad, which showed me what amazing host-parents they were,” he said. “My host-brother, Kyle, took me out for a ride the day I arrived where I saw my new neighborhood and met my new friends. Within a day in the States, I already felt like part of a new family.”

Making sure that the students are involved with school and community activities has another practical reason in addition to experiencing American culture. Antes has observed that the international teens who occupied themselves with extracurriculars and cultural events were more closely connected to their host family and had less time to feel homesick. She herself made a tradition of taking her students shopping for prom attire every spring. She also encouraged them to try out for plays and sports programs.

“The best thing we recommend is being busy,” she said.

Nielsen agreed with this advice and was active in Windom High School athletics. Having played football since he was ten years old, the Denmark native was especially excited to join NOD for the opportunity to practice the sport in America.

“It was amazing to play the ‘Friday Night Lights’ games,” he said.

While Nielsen was playing for the Windom team, the Denmark television company Danmarks Radio filmed a football documentary in the United States. The production’s goal was to promote the sport in its home country. Along with interviewing a former pro football star in New York and a concussions specialist in Colorado, the company stopped in Windom to film Nielsen. The story was broadcast during 2014’s Super Bowl Sunday in Denmark.

“Being part of the football team is something that I appreciate a lot,” Nielsen—who still plays for the Danish National Team—said. “It gave me a whole lot of trips and experiences and a whole lot of friends for life.”

While staying involved may be key to the students’ success, Antes believes that the secret to an effective host family is strong communication skills.

“Don’t assume” is what Antes advises families during orientation, explaining that many families expect that the students will immediately grasp what is requested of them, in spite of language and cultural barriers.

“Especially in the beginning, a student may be overwhelmed. If they’re smiling at you and doing this,” she said, nodding her head vigorously, “they clearly don’t understand a thing you just said. They don’t want you to know that they didn’t understand, because they don’t want to feel stupid.”

Antes has placed roughly 500 students during her time with NOD, but is still looking for Minnesotans willing to host foreign teenagers. Interested families are not obligated to take the first available student. Instead, Antes works with them to find a good match. If a family has expressed a

preference for a boy or a girl, this is taken into consideration, as well as any desire to experience a particular nationality. Additionally, families can choose a range of commitment. Those who are interested in sponsoring a student, but who can’t participate for an entire school year or summer, can volunteer for a single semester, or can be a student’s welcome family while another long-term housing situation is located.

If families are unable to host for at least a month, there are other ways to help. Simply welcoming international students and volunteering to take them on school or family outings is a fantastic way to get involved, Antes said.

Thanks to their hospitality, families will receive the opportunity to interact with another culture and share their own experiences. Antes mentioned how much she appreciated learning about her students’ religious 

 practices. A few of her Muslim teens from Indonesia wanted to keep Ramadan while living in her home, and she was happy to help them.

“You learn a lot from firsthand experience,” she said, in regards to observing her Indonesian students celebrate their religious seasons. “Everything that you learn as a firsthand experience is far better than if someone had told you.”

In return, she took the students to her Christian church services, where the international students enjoyed attending youth groups and weekend camps with the Antes children.

“Even though they were Muslim, they were always involved with our church activities,” Julienne said.

Antes feels that the best way to broaden her students’ experiences is to introduce them to as many different people and cultural situations as possible.

It pays off too. “They always seem to really like it—especially the food. We were going to this one church that had a lot of potlucks. They really enjoyed those.”

Hosting an international student frequently leads to a long-term friendship between the students and their American families. Even after the student returns home, families keep in touch.

“Veronica and Gemala took our daughter down to the library and got her signed up for Facebook!” Antes said with a laugh, remembering the year she hosted a German and Indonesian girl together.

Facebook is a primary method that Julienne and her children use to stay in contact with their foreign friends. Antes has been invited to several weddings, has met some of the students’ families, and is often informed when former guests enter college or have their first children.

Even after a few years, Nielsen still feels connected to his Minnesotan friends.

“The best thing about my experience was getting a family across the Atlantic Ocean,” he said. “I can’t wait to visit them again someday.” RVW

MEET

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A bus driver! I don’t know why. Then when I had three kids and started homeschooling, I felt like I really became a bus driver!

How many countries have you visited?

Panama, Nicaragua, Jamaica, Aruba, Costa Rica, Mexico, Spain, Italy, France, England, and Belgium, among others.

What’s one quirky thing about you?

I collect magnets from all the different countries I visit.

You always take photos of your students’ time in the U.S. What’s a favorite picture of yours?

A picture of Gemala and me. When she was here, our church honored the graduates and she was a graduate that year. As a mom, I had to do a speech, and I cried the entire time that I was speaking on her behalf.

What’s your favorite place you’ve ever lived?

I would have to say Windom, because of how things turned out. I’m from Chicago and moving here was kind of culture shock. I really had to adjust. But actually, if you look at the things I’ve been able to do and accomplish and experience, I had more in these 20 years than I would have had back in Illinois.

Photos depict the Antes family with a variety of host students from around the world.

Every spy, worth their salt, in the movies, has a “go bag”. When the heat turns up and they need to leave in a hurry, but still need the essential resources, they always grab their “go bag” first. Said bag is usually hidden under loose floorboards or behind a cool air intake vent. It somehow always seems to contain exactly what they need for the coming circumstances.

Since life can sometimes feel like the movies and you don’t know what is coming around the corner, it’s a good idea to have your financial “go bag” ready. Not sure what to include? Below, you’ll find a list of potential items to put in yours:

WILL – the basis of an estate plan that allows you to decide where your property goes.

LIVING WILL – allows you to make decisions and give direction about your end-of-life care.

DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR HEALTHCARE – designates a specific person to make health-care decisions if you are incompetent. You might also consider including a hardcopy of your personal and family medical histories.

DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY – allows an individual of your choosing to make decisions and take actions on your behalf.

LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES – check the beneficiaries on life insurance to make sure they are current.

MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE OR DIVORCE DECREE

HOUSING AND LAND DEEDS

VEHICLE TITLES

CREDIT REPORT – request a free credit report if it’s been more than a year since you’ve run your last report.

You might also decide to prepare a post-mortem letter or letter of instruction, especially if you are the only one who knows the location of your important documents, accounts, and other records. It does not substitute as a will but can help save time and provide your executor with important instructions to carry out your wishes.

Financial Advisors do not provide specific tax/legal advice and this information should not be considered as such. You should always consult your tax/legal advisor regarding your own specific tax/legal situation.

PACKING YOUR Financial “Go Bag”

KEVIN SANGER

Representative and Investment Advisor Representative Securian Advisors MidAmerica, Inc.

Located at Pioneer Bank, North Mankato

Kevin Sanger is a registered representative and investment advisor representative of Securian Financial Services, Inc. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Securian Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Securian Advisors MidAmerica, Inc. is independently owned and operated. The Securian Financial name and logo are registered trademarks of Securian Financial Group, Inc., and have been licensed for use by Securian Advisors MidAmerica. 2497795 DOFU 04-2019

Creating a financial strategy for your future.

Financial Analysis and Review

Retirement Strategies

Wealth Management

Financial Protection

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Contact me today: Kevin Sanger 507‐625‐3268

kevin.sanger@securianma.com

Contact me today: Kevin Sanger 507‐625‐3268 kevin.sanger@securianma.com

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

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Most parents make sure their newborns and toddlers get regular health care checkups, but as kids grow into tweens and teens, visits to the doctor often become less frequent. Katie Holt, nurse practitioner in pediatric and adolescent medicine at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, is here to share why older kids need well-child visits, too.

Just to be clear, what age is “adolescent medicine?”

When we talk about adolescent medicine, we are typically talking about kids in the 13- to 18-year-old age range.

Why do you have an interest in this age group?

It’s such a cool age, and I honestly think adolescents are fun. I like that they tell me what’s going on and that I get to help set them on a good path. Before I was a nurse practitioner, I taught eighth grade for a year. I realized that, as a group, teens can be challenging, but working with them individually, there is a chance to make a difference. After that, I decided I wanted to work with adolescents one-on-one, especially around health.

Should older teens be seen by a pediatrician?

I’m a firm believer that pediatric and adolescent medicine is appropriate for 17- to 18-year-olds, too. A brain of a typical 17- or 18-year-old is still developing, and those working in pediatric and adolescent medicine are able to take into consideration where they are physically and developmentally.

Well-child visits are so defined for younger kids, what are the recommendations as kids get older?

The biggest thing is that teens do need to be seen—and not just for mandatory sports or other physicals—but for their overall health and development. Teens should be seen each year for a well-child visit, but I also know how busy teens and families are. When possible, our team tries to combine visits—such as a refill for an asthma prescription with a sports physical—but we also have to honor that a sports physical may not be the right time to discuss ongoing anxiety. In that case, we’ll help determine next steps to meet their needs.

What might a well-child visit for a teen look like?

It depends on each child, of course. But we can address common health concerns at that time, such as acne, sports physicals, and discuss vaccines. Remember, critical vaccinations continue, even as we age. In particular, it’s recommended teens receive a vaccine to prevent Meningitis and another to protect against the human papillomavirus or HPV. Our team will also check in with teens about healthy habits such as diet, exercise, and screen time. We can also make referrals if teens have specific questions around healthy growth, sports medicine, or nutrition as it relates to sports.

That’s all helpful, but what about the tough-stuff?

It depends on the family, of course, but some topics like anxiety, depression, alcohol, drugs, puberty, relationships, birth control, and sexually transmitted diseases are hard to talk about at any age. During a well-child visit, we will also do a screen for depression and may talk with them one-on-one about drugs, alcohol, and relationships.

What are some of the common things you hear from kids?

Pressures related to school, social media, possible changes in kids’ families, and the growing awareness of the world around them all impact teens. Some parents do a good job of talking with their teens and some teens are more open to hearing from their health care provider. Remember, even though teens don’t always make the best choices, one-on-one conversations can open the door to learning if addressed in an age-appropriate way.

As a parent, how can I help?

Even if they don’t always show it, adolescents value and trust their parents. If parents aren’t providing information, teens will often turn to their friends, online, or look to other resources that tend to be less accurate. Be a good source of information for them. Continue to give clear expectations and positive praise when possible. We do that with toddlers, and it’s a bit of the same thing with teens. They are looking for someone to set expectations and for continuous conversations about the tough stuff. While it may not be easy for families, health care professionals are happy to help start the conversation and provide resources to parents and adolescents.

KATIE HOLT Nurse Practitioner Mayo Clinic Health System

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The postpartum period can be filled with universal feelings such as “This is not what I was expecting,” “I don’t know what I’m doing,” and “I’m so tired.”

After our son was born, we hosted our families who came to visit since we lived far away. I was near tears that I was making dinner and cleaning dishes while everyone else got to hold my baby. Of course, I didn’t ask for help. I should have.

It’s so important to let your friends and family know how you are feeling. You will find they understand and will be happy to help. Joining a mom and baby class or group may help you to not feel isolated. Support is essential.

As an OB/GYN, I can tell you the feelings and adjustments you are going through in those first six weeks after birth are part of the process. We feel a lot of pressure to be perfect—even in those very first photos that we post on Facebook and Instagram. Keep in mind, social media is a highlight reel. Just be yourself and share your joy. Your friends and family just want to see that you and baby are healthy!

About 70 to 80 percent of women experience the baby blues a few days after giving birth.

Women may feel depressed, sad, anxious, and upset or fear they are being bad mothers. Usually, these feelings go away on their own in a few days or weeks.

For about 10 to 15 percent of women, postpartum depression occurs. Postpartum depression often sets in one to three weeks after birth, but it can occur up to a year after having a baby.

With postpartum depression, women may experience feelings of despair, severe anxiety, or hopelessness. The severity and feelings can be different for each person. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also lists these symptoms:

• Crying more often than usual

• Feelings of anger

• Withdrawing from loved ones

• Feeling numb or disconnected from your baby

• Worrying that you will hurt the baby

• Feeling guilty about not being a good mom or doubting your ability to care for the baby

When these feelings don’t go away but interfere with daily life and activities, it’s time to talk to your health care provider. If your partner, family, or friends notice these signs, please listen and see your provider.

We tell moms not to wait until their four- to six-week postpartum appointment. By getting help sooner, you can feel better and enjoy your new family. Treatments include talk therapy and antidepressants. You and your health care provider can weigh the benefits and potential risks of taking antidepressants if you are breastfeeding.

Once women feel up to it, exercise can help boost energy and wellbeing. Breaking in the stroller and going for a walk is a great way to start. The baby weight will come off, but at this time your body needs nutrients to heal and nourish your baby if you are breastfeeding. Eat lots of fruits, veggies, protein and healthy snacks—day and night.

KATIE KEEPERS, M.D. Obstetrics and Gynecology Mankato Clinic

If you have older family members whose cognitive functions or decision-making abilities have declined, or who are lonely or recently widowed, you might need to help protect them against financial scams. What steps should you take?

First of all, try to gain a good sense of their overall financial activity. Look for red flags, such as a reluctance to discuss money matters, consistently unpaid bills, unexplained withdrawals, mysterious wire transfers or a sudden need to purchase large quantities of gift cards. And watch out for new “best friends” or caretakers who show an unusual interest in your loved one’s finances.

Whether or not you’ve observed any of these activities, you can help your elderly family members by making these moves:

• Have checks (such as Social Security payments) directly deposited. You can help your family members avoid a lot of potential trouble by having their checks deposited directly into their bank accounts.

• Seek permission to become a joint account owner. By becoming a joint account owner on your elderly family members’ checking and savings accounts, you can review statements for suspicious activity. Of course, your loved ones may be initially reluctant to add your name, but if you have a good relationship with them, you should be able to explain the benefits.

• Shred bank statements, credit card offers and notices of lottery or sweepstakes winnings. One of the most useful gifts you can give to your elderly family members may be a shredder. Encourage them to use it to shred old bank statements, credit card offers and other financial documents.

• Get on a “do not call” list. Telephone scammers are persistent and devious. By registering your family members’ house and cell phones at www.donotcall.gov, you may be able to reduce their exposure to unwanted calls.

• Obtain power of attorney. By creating a power of attorney, your loved ones can designate you or another trusted relative or friend to assist with their finances now – for day-to-day assistance and protection from scammers – and later, should they become incapacitated. Again, you will need to employ some sensitivity when discussing this issue.

• Check references of caretakers. As mentioned above, some caretakers are, unfortunately, dishonest. Before you hire one, check out this person’s references. And even when you do, be careful – scam artists have been known to use accomplices as references, so you will need to be thorough in your research and questions.

• Get to know your family members’ financial advisors. If possible, become acquainted with your older family members’ financial advisors. Any reputable advisor will welcome a connection with their clients’ loved

Help Protect VULNERABLE Family Members from Scam Artists

MIKE BENZ CFP ® Financial Advisor Edward Jones

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

ones. And if you are involved in any estate plans, this multi-generational relationship will prove beneficial for everyone.

• Ask to meet any new “friends” they have met online. When someone is lonely, they become vulnerable to online friendships. Sometimes, these new friends make promises of meeting, but never show – and then they suddenly need money for one reason or another.

It can be challenging to guard against all threats posed by the scammers of the world. But by staying alert and taking the appropriate preventive actions, you may be able to help safeguard your loved ones’ financial security.

Do you have a mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, aunt, or other mother-figure in your life you wish you knew more about? I don’t mean favorite food or color. I mean childhood stories, where they met their spouses, how they were raised, and life-long friendships. This Mother’s Day, schedule a special time to spend alone or with a younger generation, asking questions and listening to stories from “the old days.”

If you can grab a bunch of old photo albums or box of photographs as story prompts, you will get people talking, laughing, crying, and remembering quite quickly. Take it a step further and record the stories and people on the back of the photograph or in a journal. This activity is especially important to do with an older relative who

BY CINDY HAUGLAND tidytightwads.com

is having memory issues. It’s important to have your family history documented and able to pass along to younger generations. So start asking questions and listening to the answers!

Here are some great questions to get the stories started:

• How did you spend time together as a family?

• Did you have a nickname and who gave it to you?

• Where all have you lived?

• What was your favorite pet growing up?

• What did your parents do for a living?

• What did you want to be when you grew up?

• What have you always dreamed of doing or where would you have like to travel?

• What were some trends when you were a teenager?

• How did you meet grandpa?

• How did grandpa purpose?

• What holiday traditions did you have growing up and which ones did you start?

• What do you think are some of today’s biggest challenges?

• How have you seen the world change?

• What tradition or recipe would you love for us to know and carry one?

You may want to consider digitizing all the old photos at some point, so they are preserved and more easily sharable with others. Any time you spend visiting with your family and telling stories is precious, and you’ll be glad you took the time.

From the outside, Jess and Dillan McCoy’s home on Gray Fox Drive may look like others in the development in northeast Owatonna. It’s the inside that shows the home’s true character, however.

Like others in the neighborhood, the McCoys started with a floor plan provided by builder Hall Construction of Owatonna. From there they adjusted to fit their family’s needs—and added the personal touches that make their home special.

The McCoys did a lot of the work themselves. “We did all the painting, we laid the engineered hardwood floors, we finished off the basement,” Jess

said. “My brother-in-law, Todd Nelson, is an electrician. He and Dillan did all the electrical.”

She continued, “Dillan did a ton of work on the house. The girls and I would bring him supper when he worked on it. He put in a lot of time and effort. I came up as much as I could.”

Jess’ time was limited, however, as the couple’s two girls—Greta, now five, and Bridget, now three—were little when the home was being built in the winter of 2016-2017. The McCoys moved into their new home in May 2017.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY RUTH KLOSSNER

Jessica especially loves her kitchen. It provides function and ease for the baking and cooking she likes to do. She wanted a lot of cabinets—and added a few more than the plans included. The island is oversized—making it a great place for the family to gather.

The front entryway features a narrow table that Dillan made, along with a window frame rescued from the farm.

Dillan did the bathroom tile work and the kitchen backsplash as well as all the woodwork in the home, including the face-work on the fireplace. He also built a lot of the furniture, including the dining room table, a coffee table and cabinet in the living room, other cabinets, wall hangings, picture frames, and a lot more.

“We did the interior design—I used Pinterest for a lot for ideas. I’d find things I liked and ask Dillan, ‘Can you make it?’ Jess said. “It was fun seeing it all come together. We agreed on a lot of things.”

Jess grew up on a farm and drew from that experience. 

Jess and Dillan McCoy with their daughters Greta, five, and Bridget, three.

The master bath is one of Jessica’s favorite features of the home. It includes a shower, linen closet, and a shelf—made by Dillan.

Each girl has her own room upstairs. As they get older their rooms will move downstairs.

Dillan created the basement bar, incorporating a beam from a corncrib on the farm, building the bar itself, and doing the tile work on the floor.

The basement bathroom is between the two bedrooms. Dillan did all the tile work.

more

in the master

The McCoys especially like the open concept of the home—with the dining area, kitchen, and living room all open to each other. Jessica is able to interact with the family while working in the kitchen. Dillan built the dining room table, with the chairs being purchased and refinished.

Dillan also created the fireplace, doing the mantel and shiplap above it.

Jess has plans to add

decorations

bedroom— which includes a mat at the end of the bed for the McCoy’s eightyear-old Chocolate Lab, Reese. The master bedroom features a huge walk-in closet, with the master bath off to the side.

Each girl has her own room upstairs. As they get older their rooms will move downstairs.

 “A lot of wood was repurposed from the farm. The original buildings were over 100 years old—it was neat to bring that in. It’s kind of rustic and has a weathered look,” Jess said.

Wood from the farm is evident in many places. For example, a beam over the downstairs bar is made from wood from the corncrib and a door from the farm was repurposed into a wall hanging in the basement.

Compared to the upper level, the basement is still a “work in progress” as Jess “keeps coming up with more plans”—among them more built-ins and a gas fireplace.

The two available downstairs bedrooms are now a kids’ playroom and storage. Eventually, the girls’ bedrooms will move there, with their own bath and space to have friends over.

Dillan is an engineer technician for Rice County, working in Faribault, and Jess works in community relations at Federated Insurance in Owatonna. They’ve been married almost eight years. This is their second house, having previously purchased a foreclosed home, fixed it up and flipped it. Of their overall project, Jess said, “It was a long couple of months but it was worth it—to be able to say we did a lot of work on our own.”

Although they would—someday—like to live in the country, Jess said, “This is a great place to be now, with tons of kids in the neighborhood.” RVW

The McCoy home on Gray Fox Drive.

Dillan’s handiwork is evident throughout the house. He built this cabinet, the ladder, and the hanging frames. The door on the right leads to the bedroom area. A pocket door closes off the area to keep it quiet for kids’ naps and bedtime.

Using wood from the farm and chicken wire, Dillan created these frames that hang above the stairway.

Jess and Dillan plan to do more work in the basement but, for now, have lots of room to watch TV, as well as a bar (left). Two bedrooms—now used as a playroom and storage—open off this room.

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School will be out soon and kids will be spending more time at home, some even staying home during the day without adult supervision. Finding meal ideas that they can and will eat that are also nutritious can seem overwhelming. Below are 10 meal and snack ideas that get kids involved in cooking that they will be excited to eat.

1. Strawberry & PB Wraps: Slather peanut butter on a wholewheat tortilla, sprinkle with diced strawberries and wrap it up like a burrito for a hand-held meal.

2. Sub Sandwiches on a Stick: Set out the fixings — chunks of cheese, cherry tomatoes, cubes of thick bread, pickles cut into large dice, rolls of salami — and let kids slide everything onto a bamboo skewer. The food options can be prepped ahead of time, or right before eating.

3. Cutting Board Buffet: That’s right, everything is served right on the big ol’ wooden cutting board. Chop up raw carrots, slice cucumbers, pile up pickles or olives, add slices of cheese and crackers, and serve the whole thing in the center of the kiddie table.

4. As a quick, vegetarian option, try a HATS sandwich. Hummus, Avocado, Tomato and Shallots.

5. Pizza! Who doesn’t love pizza? Keep it simple by using whole grain tortillas as the crust. Tomato sauce, pesto, or even leftover Alfredo make a great base. Then pile it high with veggies, cheese and protein choices. Bake at 400 degrees for 7-10 minutes.

6. Quesadillas are the perfect way to use up leftovers. Add cooked meat, veggies, and cheese to a tortilla and heat. Younger children can simply microwave. Older children can use a skillet or pan to melt the cheese.

7. Egg Muffins are the perfect way to use up leftovers and encourage vegetables. These can be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge or freezer to be reheated later, or prepared the same day. To a muffin tin, add chopped vegetables, cheese and cooked meats. Fill the remainder of the cup with beaten eggs (use 1 egg for each muffin tin). Bake at 350 for 20-22 minutes, or until eggs are cooked through.

8. Banana Dog: Take a whole grain tortilla, spread with peanut butter, and roll around a peeled banana for a portable, and nutritious meal or snack.

9. Tuna Salad or Tuna Melt: Food doesn’t have to be complicated. Canned tuna can be combined with a little mayonnaise, placed on bread, topped with cheese, and broiled for a quick and delicious meal.

10. Not so much a recipe, but a concept. Create a list of different categories of foods you often have on hand (Vegetables, grains, fruits, protein, dairy) and let children pick the combination they want. Popcorn with tuna salad? Why not! Greek yogurt and carrots? Absolutely! It doesn’t have to sound like a cohesive meal to you. As long as they are happy (and fueling their bodies), then consider it a win!

Baked Egg Muffins

ALL YOU NEED

8 Hy-Vee large eggs

1/4 c. Hy-Vee 2% reduced-fat milk

1 1/2 tsp. Hy-Vee Italian seasoning

Hy-Vee salt

Hy-Vee ground black pepper

1/2 c. Hy-Vee Short Cuts chopped tomatoes

1/2 c. Hy-Vee Short Cuts chopped white onion

1 c. Hy-Vee Short Cuts riced cauliflower and broccoli

1/2 c. Hy-Vee finely shredded Italian cheese

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a standard 12 cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray; set aside. Whisk together eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Fold in tomatoes, onions, riced cauliflower and broccoli, and Italian cheese.

Using a ladle, carefully pour egg mixture into muffin tin. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until eggs are set along the edges and reach an internal temperature of 150 degrees. Remove eggs from oven and cool 10 on a wire rack. Remove from tin.

Store egg muffins in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week, or cover and wrap for the freezer and store for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts per Serving: 140 calories per serving, 9g Total Fat, 3.5g Saturated Fat, 0g Trans Fat, 255mg Cholesterol, 180mg Sodium, 4g Total Carbohydrates, 0g Dietary Fiber, 2g Total Sugars, 0g Added Sugars, 12g Protein.

April Graff, MS, RD, LD - Hilltop Dietitian 507.625.9070 | AGraff@hy-vee.com

EDIBLE CONTAINER

When it comes to growing edibles in containers, the first thing to remember is, be confident! You can garden even if you aren’t a seasoned green thumb! Secondly, remember plants have three basic needs. They need rich soil, plenty of light, and water. Let’s quickly go through these three important needs and then I have a couple plant combinations for you to try!

Soil: Buy soil made for containers. I recommend organic potting soils that contain worm castings and compost but any potting soil will do. Nutrients don’t stick around long in container gardens so be sure to use a water-soluble fertilizer to assure your plants are growing to their full potential.

Light: Most edible plants will need full sun for strong growth. Check your lighting and plant combos that will work for you. If you have around 5-6 hours of full sun choose plants that can do well with half-light like arugula, basil, parsley, dill, cilantro, chives, and all kinds of lettuces. If your plants are spindly, soft and weak, and have a bland flavor, your plants aren’t getting enough light.

Water: How often you water will depend on the weather and the container your plants are in. Materials like unglazed clay will dry out faster than plastic and glazed pottery. Metal and dark materials will heat up the soil so only plant heat-loving plants in those containers such as eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, chards, and beans. Pair plants with similar watering needs so you don’t pair plants that need consistent moisture with ones that need the soil to get completely dry. When you water, water thoroughly and deeply.

How do I start creating an edible container? Write down the produce you would love to grow and then search for their beneficial partners. Check on your plant’s nutrient, light, and watering needs and match them with others that are similar!

Here are two edible plant combos I love and hope you give them a try this season! Happy growing…and eating!

Italian Gold: Tomato and Basil, and Marigolds

Are you a lover of Italian food? This combo is perfect for you. Look for Patio or Bush tomato varieties since they may not require caging and don’t get as large as other vine varieties. Basil is a perfect companion because of its bug repellent properties and it is said to enhance the flavor of the tomatoes it grows by. Basil repels white flies, mosquitoes, tomato hornworms, aphids, houseflies, and asparagus beetles. Border it with marigolds for a luxurious pop of color and to attract beneficial insects. Container should be 18”-24” wide and 12” deep.

The Minty Purple Cabbage: Mint, Purple Cabbage, and Violas

Most successful combos have plants that are beneficial to each other and in this combo mint enhances the flavor and health of the cabbage it’s planted near. It could be purple or green cabbage but the purple adds a lovely royal color to the container. Any variety of mint helps repel ants, aphids, earwigs, mealybugs, slugs, snails and spider mites. The mint will also trail over the side of the container while the wide cabbage leaves will fill out the top of the pot. Add violas to fill in the container before the cabbage fills out and use the edible flowers in salads or even candy them! Container should be at least 18” wide and 12” deep. *Warning: Mint tends to take over. Plant your mint in a small pot within your bigger pot to keep it under control.

JACQUELINE KARSTEN Marketing Coordinator Drummers Garden Center and Floral

EATING WELL AS YOU GROW OLDER KNOW HOW MUCH TO EAT

Eating a mix of healthy foods every day provides the nutrients, fiber, and calories your body needs. The amount you should eat depends on your age, whether you are a man or woman and your height and weight. It also depends on your level of physical activity. The more physically active you are, the more calories you might be able to eat without gaining weight. Most people in the United States eat more calories than they need.

Daily Calorie Levels for Women

A woman over age 50 should consume about:

1,600 calories a day if her level of physical activity is low (only performs activities associated with typical day-to-day life)

1,800 calories daily if she is moderately active (walks the equivalent of 1.5 to 3 miles a day at 3 to 4 miles per hour)

2,000 to 2,200 calories daily if she has an active lifestyle (walks the equivalent of more than 3 miles a day at 3 to 4 miles per hour).

Daily Calorie Levels for Men

A man over age 50 should consume about:

2,000 to 2,200 calories a day if his level of physical activity is low (only performs activities associated with typical day-to-day life)

2,200 to 2,400 calories daily if he is moderately active (walks the equivalent of 1.5 to 3 miles a day at 3 to 4 miles per hour)

2,400 to 2,800 calories daily if he has an active lifestyle (walks the equivalent of more than 3 miles a day at 3 to 4 miles per hour).

Calorie Intake and Physical Activity

Plan your meals and snacks to include the right number of calories for your activity level.The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommend eating the following amounts of food if you are eating 2,000 calories per day. Remember to adjust the amounts depending on your daily calorie level.

How Many Vegetables Each Day?

A person who eats 2,000 calories daily should have 2 ½ cups of vegetables a day. This might include a half-cup each of broccoli, tomatoes, cauliflower, and a sweet potato. Aim for lots of color on your plate as a way to get a variety of vegetables each day.

How Much Fruit Each Day?

A person who consumes about 2,000 calories daily should plan to eat 2 cups of fruit a day. This might include one large banana, one-half cup of strawberries and a half-cup of orange juice. To help you get enough fiber, most of your daily fruit intake should be in the form of whole fruits rather than fruit juices.

How Many Grain Foods Each Day?

A person who eats 2,000 calories per day should eat 6 ounces of grain foods daily. At least half (3 ounces) of the grain foods eaten should be whole grains. Approximately one ounce of grain foods counts as a serving. This is about one slice of bread, one roll, or one small muffin. It is also about one cup of dry flaked cereal or a half-cup of cooked rice, pasta, or cereal.

How Much Dairy Each Day?

Dairy products are another important part of eating well. A person who consumes 2,000 calories daily should have the equivalent of 3 cups of low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt, or other dairy products daily. One cup of

yogurt contains about the same amount of calcium as 1 cup of milk. Eating 1½ ounces of natural cheese or 2 ounces of processed cheese counts as drinking 1 cup of milk.

How Much Protein Each Day?

A person who consumes 2,000 calories daily should eat about 5½ ounces of protein each day. You can get protein from seafood, lean meat and poultry, as well as eggs, beans and peas, tofu, nuts, and seeds. One egg or one-fourth cup of cooked dry beans or tofu counts as 1 ounce of meat, poultry, or seafood. One tablespoon of peanut butter or a half-ounce of nuts or seeds also is the same as 1 ounce of meat, poultry, or seafood.

How Much Oil Each Day?

Oils are fats that are liquid at room temperature, like the vegetable oils used in cooking. Use mainly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated oils like those that come from olive or canola oil. A person who eats 2,000 calories daily should not consume more than the equivalent of 6 teaspoons of oil daily.

Pay Attention to Portion Sizes

When eating out or buying packaged foods, pay attention to portion sizes. Portion sizes are not the same as the serving sizes listed on the Nutrition Facts label. A portion is the amount of food served in one eating occasion. A serving size is a standardized amount of food, such as a cup or an ounce, which is used to provide dietary guidance or to make comparisons among foods. The portions served at fast-food and other restaurants have grown a lot in recent years.Whether you’re eating out or at home, one portion may be much more food and many more calories than the amounts recommended for a specific daily calorie level. For instance, a bowl of pasta from a restaurant may have two cups of pasta or more, which is almost the recommended daily amount of grains.

Look at Serving Sizes

Also, read the Nutrition Facts label on packaged and canned foods. It tells you the serving size, how many servings per container, calories, calories per serving and key nutrients the food provides. You can use it to help you keep track of how much fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, cholesterol, sugars, and calories you get from different foods.

Pay attention to the serving size and the number of servings in the package. A package might contain two or more servings, so if you eat two servings, you would consume twice the calories, fat, sodium, carbohydrates, protein, etc., as you would for one serving.

Check Out the Nutrient Content

The Percent Daily Value (written as “% daily value”) on the right of the label tells you what percentage of the recommended daily amount of a nutrient is in one serving of the food. It is based on the nutritional needs of a person who consumes 2,000 calories per day. For example, if the label for macaroni and cheese lists the Percent Daily Value for total fat as 18% this means that one serving of macaroni and cheese (1 cup) will give you 18 percent of the total amount of fat you should allow yourself each day, assuming you eat about 2,000 calories daily.

Information adapted from NIH Senior Health Info Page article from the National Institute on Aging at National Institute on Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

If you would like more information on “Eating Well as You Get Older –Know How Much to Eat” contact Gail Gilman, Family Life Consultant, M.Ed., C.F.C.S. and Professor Emeritus – University of Minnesota at waldn001@umn.edu.

By GRACE BRANDT

Losing a pet is never easy. Every pet comes with its own stories, memories, and ways it left their mark on their families’ life.

Animal lover Wendy June has plenty of her own pet stories, and now is collecting more through her new business, Mankato Pet Cremation. Her face lights up when she retells them, sharing the ways owners gave her a glimpse into their pets’ lives.

Buster the hamster is an example. In late March, a young woman called June about cremating her hamster, which had died several weeks before and was stored in her freezer.

“She explained to me that Buster was more special than the average hamster,” June said. “He had neurological challenges, and he was deaf.”

The woman shared a picture of Buster with June, who kept it and happily gushes about how cute he was.

“Every time I pick up an animal (for cremation), it comes with a story,” she said. “That person’s either going to have the death story, or the cutest story of, ‘Remember that day…?’ ‘Remember when we had Lassie?’ Pets comings and goings in people’s lives, those are milestones.”

Filling a need

June moved to southern Minnesota in the 1980s, settling outside of St. Peter. During her “regular hours,” she works as a medical professional in area clinics and hospitals. However, she was inspired to explore another industry last summer when she was driving up north to visit her father. During the trip, she drove through Dassel and saw a sign for “Pawsitively Remembered,” a pet cremation service.

“I just thought, ‘Oh my gosh, that is an amazing idea,’” June recalled. “I thought, ‘I’ve got to do it.’”

It took about nine months to put together a business plan and gather

the necessary resources. The main tool she needed was an incinerator, which she bought from the crematorium in Dassel for $27,000. The incinerator burns at more than 800,000 BTUs (compared to a standard house furnace, which burns at around 30,000 BTUs) and is usually set to 1100 degrees Fahrenheit during jobs. It has a 400-pound capacity and takes about four hours to burn a 50-pound load. The incinerator has both a lower burner, which burns the animal remains, and an upper burner, which burns all odor and smoke. Because of this, the only thing that comes out of the top of the 20-foot chimney is a faint shimmer.

June noted that the fact that her incinerator—which she keeps on her own property—is so efficient is one of the reasons she was able to secure

June said she specially set her prices so that she could ask customers to round up a dollar for a special cause. Right now, it’s BENCHS—Blue Earth Nicollet County Humane Society. In the future, she said, she would like to move her support around to several area causes.

“If anyone’s trying to earn money for getting a service dog or community issues, I invite them to appeal to me,” she said. “I’d like to support them and help them get to their goal.”

approval from all the necessary government bodies for her business. First, she had to secure approval from Decorah Township and her neighbors, and then she went before the Mankato Planning Commission and the Mankato City Council in two separate meetings.

“Everyone has been behind the business,” June said. “At [a Mankato meeting], someone actually stood up and said, ‘I’ve had pets my whole life and want to personally thank you for taking this on, because it’s really needed in Mankato.’”

Starting small

June officially opened Mankato Pet Cremation in February. She feels that she fills a real need in the area. While local veterinaries can arrange for the cremations, they usually work with the Veterinary Hospitals Association, which collects deceased animals and takes them to St. Paul for cremation in a process that takes two to three weeks.

June’s goal is to work with area vets to provide cremation services for them and their customers. Ideally, she would like to team up with a veterinarian to provide in-home euthanasia before transferring the animal to

First pet: A solid black Persian rescue cat named Mimi, who lived to be 15.

Other pets throughout the years: Cats, dogs, a hedgehog, a bearded dragon, goats, sheep.

Current pets: Labradoodle Kodiak, Goldendoodle Ginger, Chihuahua Mia, cat Lucky, several hens and chicks.

Hobbies: Remodeling and building, kayaking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

Dream pet: “I have always wanted a baby orphan crow. Two years ago, I actually found one.  I watched it on the ground for eight hours before I picked it up, just in case the mother would return. I noticed it had a strange head-bob. I took him straight to the vet and they felt that he must have certainly fallen from a nest and landed on his head. He didn’t survive his injuries, unfortunately.”

Why is Lucky “lucky”? “She’s lucky to be alive. She was a feral kitten that I found. I think she would have died that night—she was that close to death the night I found her. So she’s lucky!”

cremation. June said she has been approaching local veterinary clinics to talk about partnerships and plans to start sending letters to veterinarians to explain her business as well. She is hoping to find those partnerships so that she can make the end-of-life process easier for pet owners.

“A lot of dogs and cats don’t do well at the vet clinic,” she explained. “It’s very stressful. And if it’s your last moment…it’s just stressful for everybody. It’s better done at home, whenever possible.”

For her urns, June said she works with an urn company out of the Twin Cities, which ships the urns to her overnight so that she can give them to the pet owner within three to five days. She plans to offer other options in the future, among them jewelry made from a pet’s ashes or “scattering tubes,” which are breakable and allow pet owners to easily scatter a pet’s ashes at a special place.

According to June, there has definitely been a learning curve as she figured out her business, especially with the incinerator. She said the piece of equipment came with a 100-page manual that was “written for an engineer” and included no troubleshooting advice. That meant it was no 

An animal lover, June has had many pets—and many types of pets—throughout the years. She currently has three dogs, a cat and 15 laying hens. In the past, she also dabbled in exotic pets such as a hedgehog and bearded dragon, as well as raising farm animals such as goats and sheep.

“I’m a pet person,” she said. “I’ve always had pets. I don’t know how people live without pets, or why they would even want to. I just think they’re so good for us. They provide us with so many valuable services [and] so much unconditional love.”

She said most of her pets have their final resting places in the traditional backyard cemetery, but she did cremate her Pomeranian, Daisy, when she died after 18 years. She said it was a compromise with her son, who wanted Daisy stuffed.

“I’m glad to have her,” she said. “She’s moved with me a couple times. You have that nice little urn, and it’s something that you keep of them. I appreciate it now.”

June feels that it is important to her to honor the work of service animals, which is why she offers special urns and discounts to their owners. If owners post a picture and a story on June’s Facebook page, she will reach out to them about these offers.

“I have a lot of respect for working dogs [and other animals],” she said. “They do so much valuable work for us in the community. I think they’re special animals that aren’t getting enough recognition. Their owners love them, but I think they need a greater honor than that at their passing.”

 help when she couldn’t figure out why it wasn’t burning right.

“It was really hard at first,” she said. “I was on the phone a lot. I kept thinking, ‘What have I done? I’m a total nut to take this on. I must be crazy! Who would do this?’”

By April, June had had five customers. Her business came mostly from southern Minnesota, though a friend drove over from Milwaukee with a deceased cat. Besides her friend, June’s business is strictly pick-up. The largest pet she cremated was a 50-pound dog, while the smallest was a hamster.

June said cremation is especially nice for people who don’t have the ability to bury their pets, either because they don’t have the physical strength to dig, or the ground is frozen during winter or because they don’t have the yard space. But in the end, she added, it’s really about offering people a chance to keep a part of their pet after it has died.

“It’s going to be a valuable service for people,” she said.

Meaningful work

June said her goal is to do 50 cremations a month by the end of her first year of business. She added that she hopes she’s able to purchase another incinerator as well. She currently works with her 84-yearold neighbor, Dave Madsen, and her daughter, Alaina Sullivan. She hopes she’ll need to hire additional people in the future as business increases.

“It’s kind of my retirement plan,” she said. “I think I’m a good person to do this type of work. It’s not the kind of thing that most people would want to do, as it’s emotionally difficult, but it’s important. I get the people thing, and I get the pet thing. So it’s a good match for me.”

“I really have the highest regard for this work,” she said. “I know it’s a strange end of the pet industry to come into, but it’s an interesting time, too. This kind of loss is a great equalizer. It doesn’t matter how much money you earn, or what color your skin is, or anything… everyone is pretty equal in death. The passing of a pet is such an intimate, very raw, very organic moment to go through. And to be part of that and be the person who’s receiving the pet—and entrusted with it—that’s an amazing task. I feel really honored.” RVW

My Teaching Style

Trendy Prints & Patterns

Adding a statement top to any look will be sure to keep you on trend. From floral to leopard print to polka dots, there are tons of prints and patterns that are trending this season. Add a pop of color with any of these patterns for a fun Spring look!

Comfortable Shoes!

As we jump right into the Spring and Summer, we all love to have that pair of shoes that is both comfortable and stylish! A tan wedge or sandal is great to carry you from morning to after office hours without hurting your feet! Bonus: they go with almost everything!

TEACHER APPRECIATION

MONTH

Simple & Versatile Pieces

We all have that staple item in our closet that we can wear over and over again to create different outfits by mixing & matching!

High-waisted midiskirts are a musthave this season and the button-down details on this skirt bring it from basic to upgraded! Pair this with a blouse for the office and a graphic tee to go more casual.

Layers! Layers! Layers!

White denim jackets are a great layering piece for Spring and Summer! You can throw the jacket on for chilly mornings or a cold office setting and then take it off for the mid-day heat wave. This will be a staple in your closet this season.

Being a 1st grade teacher, I enjoy wearing fun, bright colors and patterns. Floral, polka dot and stripes are some of my favorites!

It’s important to me that my wardrobe is versatile, unique and makes a statement. I love being able to pair different items together to make different looks. Layering is another important feature in my wardrobe, as I find throughout the day the temperatures in my classroom adjust and my wardrobe needs to be able to adjust as well. Accessorizing is the final touch to any outfit I pick out. Just by adding some fun jewelry or a scarf it can go a long way to dress up any look!

Maggie W. Cleveland Elementary 1st Grade Teacher

BY ASHLEIGH MOELTER The Refinery

The eyebrow. We have seen the brow through many stages over the years. Over tweezed, unibrow, over waxed, too penciled in, tattooed and as of late microbladed. The brow has emerged over the last few years as one the most important facial characteristics.

The brow can make or break your beauty routine. We want to share a few different looks on how to “wow your brow,” whether you need to repair, improve or are totally clueless on how to shape them.

Let’s start with the cleanup process. Whether you prefer to wax, tweeze or use other hair removal methods, you want to start with a clean slate and find a brow shape that is fitting for your face shape. If you struggle with lighter brows, thinning brows or overgrown brows your brow artist can help guide you in the right direction.

There are a few different options for styling your brows, yes — brows have their own place in the styling world.

Much like a lash tint you can tint your brows as well. You can go darker, more natural, or add a tone to match your current hair color. A tint takes about 15 minutes and can last up to four weeks. This is a great option if your morning routine needs to be kept short.

will give you a defined, natural or ombre (shaded) brow.

BY COURTNEY WILMES Stylist, Esthetician

*BROW MICRO PENCIL used for a more natural look, the micro pencil allows the ability to draw in the hair more like strokes. This creates a more subtle look.

*THE BROW QUAD with four different colors the quad allows you to highlight, fill and define the brow.

*THE BROW DUO this will give you more of an ombre look. Allow for a lighter beginning fading into a more defined and filled in end.

*BROW GEL this gel is used to keep the shape of your newly kept brows in place all day.

Family caregivers continue to be the backbone of the long-term care system. In Minnesota, families, relatives and friends provide 90% of the care needed by the older adults in their lives. According to a Department of Human Services report, if one percent of unpaid caregivers were no longer able to provide care, the cost to Minnesota’s public welfare system would increase by $30 million a year (DHS-5461-ENG 12-15). The dollar value of care provided by families and friends is estimated at $7.8 billion per year, exceeding Minnesota’s Medicaid expenditures for nursing homes and long-term services and supports.

Caregivers frequently do not identify themselves as caregivers but believe they are simply functioning as a loved one should. Because of this, many caregivers are unable to identify what services they need or where to find them. Caregivers often make do with what they know and don’t reach out for help until they are in crisis mode. They are typically so focused on taking care of others they don’t consider seeking help for themselves, even when they are distressed. They worry that if they need to seek help for themselves, others will criticize them for being unable to adequately care for their loved one. They may feel embarrassed if they experience a sense of burden or distress because they believe having negative emotions means they are not good caregivers. Caregivers often get caught up in a cycle of FOG – fear, obligation and guilt. Fear of the unknown and what lies ahead, feeling obligated to care for their older loved one and Guilt that they are experiencing negative feelings.

Studies show caregivers have a higher incidence of depression than the general population. Depression is even higher among caregivers of brainimpaired older adults and those with dementia. Caregivers often don’t understand the nature of their care receiver’s chronic condition/disease. This is especially true for those taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other related dementia. When a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, a caregiver may experience a long unfinished goodbye as the person gradually “leaves” and may feel suspended in grief. Understanding the characteristics of a disease/chronic condition and how it progresses is critical in caregiving.

For sibling caregivers – those caring for an aging parent – it can be challenging to get the information they need about their parents’ medical condition and/or financial situation making it difficult to provide appropriate care. Sibling caregivers are more likely to be working. In today’s workforce, an estimated one in four workers cares for an aging parent. Twenty percent of employees are family caregivers; a number that almost doubles if the organization is mostly women.

Employees generally underestimate the amount of time caregiving will take and the impact it will have on their work and home life. Regardless of where an employee works, the double duty of being a working caregiver can impact their work and their employer. At least 60% of working caregivers report they have made work-related adjustments due to caregiving responsibilities including arriving late to work, leaving early, or taking time off (57%), taking a leave of absence (17%), switching from full-time to part-time work (10%), or leaving the workforce to become a full-time caregiver (9%). Caregiving costs employers $17 -$34 billion in lost productivity annually.

However, businesses can address critical workforce issues by retaining good employees who feel supported. Working caregivers who are supported by their employer are more satisfied with their jobs and have higher morale. Satisfied employees are more committed to their work and tend to be better workers. Job satisfaction leads to decreases in absenteeism and increases in productivity and employee retention.

Help for caregivers is available. There are many non-profit organizations in Minnesota who provide support for caregivers such as respite care, education and support groups. There are resources such as powerfultoolsforcaregivers.org that help caregivers focus on self-care and learning how to thrive and not just survive. Call the Senior LinkAge Line® at 1-800-333-2433 for information on when and where classes are being held and for other services available to caregivers.

ELAINE SPAIN, LSW Program Developer Minnesota River Area Agency on Aging Mankato

BY LORI MATHIOWETZ

After the network cancelled our favorite Netflix Series One Day at a Time (#saveodaat), my eldest daughter insisted we find a new show. I don’t have much of an attention span for bad television, and I have no faith in Disney to come up with a new plot line for their tween audience, so I suggested we go old school and I introduce her to one of my childhood shows.

Since, for some reason, “the Urkel dance” is making a pop culture comeback, I obviously chose Family Matters. If you’re not familiar, the general plot is that police officer Carl Winslow comes home every evening to his own children, his wife, Harriette, his mom, a sister-in-law, a nephew, and Steve Urkel, the next door neighbor who doesn’t understand that he doesn’t actually live with the Winslows. Chaos ensues.

We all know that without Steve Urkel, the Winslow family wouldn’t have been complete—and the show would have ended after its first season. His character lives on in sitcom immortality. This got me thinking about the whole “an ounce of blood is worth a pound of friendship” adage. The funny thing about family is you don’t necessarily need to be blood relatives in order to be family.

For myself, family is created, not inherited. Growing up, most of my extended family lived all over the United States. I’ve only met a handful of my aunts, uncles, and cousins a handful of times. The reality of having a family that is scattered all over the globe sort of necessitated that other people fill in everyday roles in my life that many people typically depend on their family for.

My friends are my people, man!

My husband’s family is exactly the opposite. They’re like, hard-core family. Many of his cousins are one another’s best friends, and they have remained so into college and adulthood. They show up for every birthday party, dance competition, and piano recital. Basically, if you invite them, they show up. I admire them for this. This was never my reality, so I forget this is a thing. I like to think my family taught me to have big wings, and his family is teaching me to have deep roots. A wise friend told me that I’m allowed to have both.

As my children grow and make friends, so my family grows again. Neighbor friends, school friends, sports friends, friends of friends…the shuffle of kids in and out of my house grows daily—along with my grocery budget. I love every minute of it. I’d rather hang out with kids than adults any day. Adults wanna talk my ear off about stressful subjects like current events, but kids wanna talk my ear off about music or the new YouTube arts and crafts channel they discovered. My mind is just more at peace in a creative place than in a problem-solving place. As my oldest approaches the tumult of teenagerdom, I worry about “cool mom syndrome,” though. I don’t want them stealing my booze in a few years. So I’m working on navigating that balance, too. In the meantime, I’m just trying to remember to lock the bathroom door. ’Cause despite how much I love having a house full of fun and laughter, I still just really long to pee alone.

Many years ago, my favorite professor told me, “When people treat you like they don’t care, believe them.” That advice has been invaluable to me over the last few years of navigating family and friend dynamics. So, if you feel like an odd duck because you don’t have the conventional family dynamics thought of as “normal,” who cares? Create your own brand of family, fresh with all the traditions, family rituals, Friendsgivings and photo albums you hope to display in memory boxes at your funeral one day.

“The more the messier,” they say. When given the choice, I prefer to invest in more people versus more things. The former can invest back into me, after all. However, life is much busier and messier the bigger your tribe gets. So it’s important to be discerning as to who you let in and which parts of yourself you give away. Some people fit into some roles better than others. If my life is a puzzle, I know which people are my corner pieces, which people are the middle jigsaw craziness, and which people help me contain my borders. And on occasion, I even discover upon further examination that a puzzle piece actually belongs in a different box for a different puzzle. No guilt in that, no shame in that; some pieces just don’t fit. You are actually doing them a disservice by wasting everyone’s time trying to smash them into a space they simply will never fit into.

So whether your puzzle is a 500 piece, a 1000 piece, or a dang Rubik’s cube, it’s yours. Love it exactly as it is. Just try not to spill coffee all over it like I did this morning.

Did I do that?

ANNUAL WINDOW BOX PLANTING

I like to write in our front porch, where I can look out onto our street. From where I’m sitting right now, every house that I can see has window box planters under its main front window. We don’t have any window box planters on our house, but I’ve put them on my wishlist of things I want my husband to build. Window boxes can make houses look cozy, softening some of the countless harsh corners inevitable to any building.

Many of my gardening clients have window boxes, so I have a lot of experience planting and caring for annual window box plantings. They’re surprisingly tricky! As with most gardening scenarios, I actually killed a lot of plants—and curated some ugly window box plantings—before I learned how to do it successfully.

Growing conditions

The most difficult factors influencing window box planting are water and space, although light can also be an issue. Since most window boxes exist underneath a roof’s eaves, they receive almost no water from rain. Window box planters are also notoriously shallow, which means there’s usually less

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

soil than in most containers. These two factors combine to create planters that dry out very quickly.

I once had a client who requested all succulent plants in her window boxes. Knowing that she—a small-business-owning mother of three— was too busy to water her gardens regularly, I thought the succulents would be a good option. However, since her window boxes were directly under her eaves and in full afternoon sun, they basically just fried over the course of the summer. Even with plants that prefer drought, it’s important to irrigate your window boxes regularly, using either an irrigation system or a good old-fashioned watering can.

As with any planting, you’ll want to figure out how much light your window boxes will get. Unless your windows face south or west, it’s likely that the window boxes will be shady for most of the day, especially if your house has large eaves or is covered by a full-grown tree. Keep these conditions in mind as you choose your plant material. If you’re unsure, go for plants that can thrive in various light conditions.

Since window box planters have less soil in them than other containers, your plants will exhaust the available nutrients more quickly, too. Fertilize them with low doses of natural fertilizer throughout the growing season. I’ve been happy using Nature’s Source All-Purpose Plant Food, which is best applied every other week or so. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer like Sustane 8-2-4, which is made from turkey waste products.

What to plant

My favorite thing about window boxes is that their distance from the ground makes them perfect for planting vines, which can be challenging to incorporate into annual containers otherwise. One straightforward design idea is to simply fill your boxes with vines, either one particular variety or an assortment of several different types. For example, Algerian ivy (Hedera algeriensis) is a fast-growing tropical vine that will tolerate both drought and shade. I like the variegated variety the best.

Foliage vines that I’ve had success with include vinca vine (Vinca major), golden moneywort (Lysimachia aurea), gold moss sedum (Sedum sarmentosum), silver ponysfoot (Dichondra argentea ‘Silver Falls’), asparagus fern ( Asparagus densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’), and sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas). Be cautioned that sweet potato vines need significantly more water that the other plants on this list. The golden moneywort, sedum, ponysfoot, and vinca vines will trail straight downward without exhibiting any upward growth, so they’re best planted in combination with more upright annuals.

For annual plants that provide height without blocking your windows, I strongly recommend begonias, coleus, lantanas, and geraniums. These tough candidates are drought tolerant, and aside from coleus, they flower with reckless abandon. Geraniums and lantanas are best in full sun, and they will benefit from regular deadheading (physical removal of the old blooms). Some tuberous begonias will also trail over the sides of the window boxes in a more mounded growth habit. I especially like the Begonia boliviensis “Mistral” series, which comes in many bright colors. Depending on what variety of coleus you choose, it might perform best with regular trimming.

Other plants to try include sweet alyssum, calibrachoa, and trailing portulaca

Sara Kietzer, Owner

Not all CBD products are created equally. Our plants are organically grown and our oils are processed and produced in the United States. Every batch is thoroughly tested for quality and safety. Journey Organics is Mankato's premier CBD retailer. We pride ourselves on product knowledge, customer education and being your trusted local resource for the safest and most effective CBD products on the market. MANKATO’S BEST PRICES & 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE!

This place is amazing! The owner, Sara, is very knowledgeable and friendly. Definitely knows her stuff! Journey Organics is the best CBD oil out there in my opinion. Great for my anxiety and helps with my son's ADHD.

I am so pleased with the amount of knowledge and dedication Sara has with Journey Organics CBD. My Mom has tried other CBD, but she really prefers the capsules over the oils. She has fibromyalgia, arthritis, IBS and the list goes on. Mornings were always the worst with headaches, stiffness and aches. Within a week she was able to make a fist and is off of her headache medication. She will never go a day without it! Thank you Sara! —MEGAN

JOURNEYORGANICS.COM

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MON & WED: 10 AM - 5 PM

TUES & THURS: 10 AM - 9 PM

FRI: 1 PM - 9 PM SAT: 10 AM - 9 PM

SUNDAY: 12 PM - 6 PM

AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT

The snow has melted, everything is muddy and wet, but boy are we itching to spend the days outside! Many of us can’t wait to get our dogs back to the dog park where they can finally burn off their energy. As much fun as it sounds, is your dog actually enjoying their time at the park?

If you frequent a dog park, you know that when you first enter the park, you are greeted by other dogs. This might seem super friendly, but it can

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Too precious not to protect.

often be very scary for your dog. All the other dogs have been there for at least a few minutes and have sniffed everything out, met everyone, and peed several times to leave their scent. Your dog is the next newcomer and the newest addition to the group. Everyone wants to say hello and take a sniff. This can be extremely overwhelming. Imagine walking into a crowd and everyone rushes you, anxiously waiting to see what you smell like. This can set the mood right away for your pooch.

After you make it through the threshold your dog is now faced with new challenges. Dog parks can be like a bar. Everyone is drinking, emotions run high, and many times things get taken out of context. Dogs communicate primarily through reading body language. A wagging tail does not necessarily mean a “happy dog.” A wagging tail means the dog has an intent to interact. This intention can be aggressive, uncertainty, playful, or frustration. A playful dog will often times play bow (rear end in the air and front paws and chest to the ground), let out little short yips, and bounce. Its face should be relaxed with its ears forward. A nervous, fearful, annoyed, or uncertain dog will have its ears back, it will avoid eye contact, it may yawn or lick its lips or even completely turn its back on playmates (avoidance). Things can quickly tumble out of control when communication is not appropriately listened to or respected.

When we rescue dogs we do not know what they have been socialized to or how well it was perceived. A dog that did not spend a lot of time with other dogs as a puppy will most likely not know how to read or respond to another dog’s body language. Some dogs don’t get exercised all week, then on the weekend they are brought to the dog park to run off their energy. They are so pumped to be there they completely disregard everyone else’s feelings. To make things worse, people often use this time to socialize, making it very possible that they have missed some essential cues that their dog is just not enjoying its time.

As humans, we all have our personal bubbles. Some people hate to be hugged or touched while others beg for hugs every five minutes. Our dogs are the same way. You may have a dog that loves to wrestle while I may have a dog that hates others being within five feet of him. Often, the dogs with small bubbles tend to not do well in a large group. They may benefit from being in the dog park on their own, at free will to explore.

It’s also important to remember to have your dog fully vaccinated, including Influenza and Bordetella as well having a monthly flea and tick preventative. Playing at the dog park is the same as your children playing at the park. It is very easy to pick up unwanted friends while socializing and it can be easy to get in a disagreement. The dog park can be fun, but watch your dog and see if it’s something you and your dog can enjoy together— or maybe your loveable pooch would prefer a walk.

NICOLE LUECK Minnesota Valley Pet Hospital

ASK A

Q: How do I know if I should be following a Gluten-free diet?

A: Unless you have been diagnosed with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, the answer may not be very clear. Elimination diets have become as trendy as white converse low-tops in spring, and navigating the options can be overwhelming. Keto, paleo, Whole 30, Vegan, Atkins, Gluten-free, low FODMAPS, and GAPS are just a few examples. Elimination diets can help you identify foods that may be having negative effects on your body. Symptoms such as abdominal cramping, inflammation, bloating, brain fog, eczema, acne, mood disorders, joint stiffness, or weight gain may be related to your diet. By eliminating these trigger foods, you may be able to manage these symptoms.

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. In people with Celiac disease, gluten is converted into a toxin during digestion that causes a harmful inflammatory response. For that reason, following a gluten-free diet prevents the autoimmune response triggered by gluten digestion. Gluten itself is not harmful to you if you don’t have a sensitivity to it. However it can be found in many simple and refined carbohydrates like cake, breads, and pastas. Cutting back on these foods is good for a lot of people. Processed foods in general should be avoided, regardless of being gluten-free or not. A good rule of thumb is “If it comes in a ‘crinkle bag,’ it probably isn’t good for you.” Choosing to replace these foods with fresh fruits and vegetables will be much more beneficial.

Diarrhea, bloating, abdominal cramping, anemia, weight loss, or rashes can be signs of Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Especially if these symptoms are associated with ingestion of foods containing wheat, barley, or rye. If you experience these symptoms, talk with your doctor about getting tested.

Dr. Angela Schuck

Dr. Keith Flack

CORINNE JORDAN, MD, FACS General surgery Physicians Group of New Ulm

THE YEAR OF PAYING IT FORWARD

Because of the generous support of our Power of 6 sponsors, Alpha Media will feature a 'Non-Profit of the Month'

The goal is to showcase the organizations that define Mankato's quality of life, spirit of giving and paying-it-forward

In addition to the non-profit of the month, the Alpha Media Mankato team is working to raise visibility and awareness for other area events and fundraisers.

Alpha Media Mankato is using their diverse on-air and digital platforms to shine a spotlight on the people making a difference in this community.  Including interviews, commercials, live broadcasts, podcasts, digital advertising, online features, videos and social media.

As one ages there are many different factors that can impact our sleeping patterns. Sleep is so important to our health that many health care providers are now considering it a vital sign. Sleep is not only important to our overall health, but also our daily performance, as well as the role it plays in disease prevention.

Environmental factors that can disturb sleep include: noise level, lighting, temperature, and surface. These environmental factors allow some control. Here are some tips to help promote a restful night’s sleep. Do an environmental check by sitting in your room with your eyes closed. Note any sounds or noise that is occurring. Can any of those sounds be eliminated? Next look at lighting, it is suggested to eliminate “blue” light one hour before bed time. Blue light is found in all electronics including cell phones and TVs. The blue light stimulates your eyes and will interrupt a sleep pattern. Also look at the lighting in the bedroom. If a night light or lamp is used, it is recommended to use an amber tone light bulb. Amber light is softer on the eye and does not interrupt or stimulate like blue light done. Amber light has a much softer and calmer tone.

It is suggested by CDC, that the aging population gets seven to eight hours of sleep at night. Of that total sleep time, four of those hours should be uninterrupted. The body needs four hours of uninterrupted sleep to replenish and repair. Uninterrupted means no pets in bed disturbing you, no bathroom trips during those four hours, or any other environmental disturbances. Those who do not get uninterrupted sleep can suffer from negative health outcomes.

Your physical activity plays a role in your sleep pattern as well. Compare your body to a battery. You must wear your body down so it can re-charge at night. The more active you are the better you will sleep. Active can be anything from walking, chair exercises, weight lifting, to swimming. Keeping your mind mentally challenged can also help with catching a refreshing night’s rest. Word puzzles, reading, and games are great for this.

Have you heard of snooze foods? Snooze foods have sleep inducing ingredients to help with sleep. Try a snooze food if having trouble with sleeping. Some of these foods include: warm milk, oatmeal, cherry juice, pumpkin seeds or bread, bananas, tea and nuts.

If you struggle with sleep, look at your bedtime and wake routine, have your doctor do a medication review, complete an environmental check, look at dietary and activity habits, or consult with a sleep clinic. Sweet

RACHAEL EVERS RN, LNHA Executive Director Vista Prairie at Monarch Meadows

What is it about humans that causes us to want to create a home wherever we are? Not just living quarters, but something cozy, that makes us feel cocooned? I believe that creating a sanctuary is vital to the rest and calm that we all need today. With life racing by at breakneck speed, having a nest to come back to is paramount for our daily recovery. I think this is also why the method of tidying up has become so popular. We desire a home that allows us a respite from the chaos of daily life…without too much stuff.

Remember your very first apartment? Along with a few pieces of castoff furniture, ours had four carpeted blocks that came from the display window of a music store. We used them as end tables, footstools, and even extra seating when we had more than three people over. By the end of that marriage, 18 years later, we were dividing up exquisite pieces of furniture. And, suddenly, neither of our homes was truly complete. We had grown into two people who cared far too much about the “stuff,” and—ironically—it was the absence of the stuff that amplified the loss. The carpeted blocks were long gone, but the memory of that simpler time remained sweet.

It’s interesting that we use our homes as extensions of how we want the world to see us. Whether an adventurous spirit living off the grid, or a pampered soul with lots of space to relax, we create homes that tell others who we are. We decorate in styles that—without speaking a word—tell others if we relate to traditional, artistic, country, or modern. In a world filled with beautiful things, we spend an inordinate amount of time making sure that our styles, patterns, and textures all complement each other and our individual sense of style.

Geomedicine is the study of how location can affect our health and wellbeing. That, as humans, we actually feel better in certain locations on this planet. For anyone who has ever been on vacation to a beautiful place, this isn’t such a unique thought, but it is when you think about actually living and working somewhere every day.

For eight of the happiest years of my life, I lived in a northern suburb of Atlanta. Something about living there made me feel like I was on vacation every day, even though I still had bills to pay, kids to care for, and all of the other pressures of life. My biggest motivation now is to create a business that will allow me to have a home in that part of Georgia for a part of every year. I’m so happy to know that there’s scientific backing to my feelings of being more fully alive in an actual location. I truly believe that we all have a place that makes us feel the most at home of anywhere in the world, and if we are lucky enough to find it, we know it.

In the 1980s, the movie Trading Spaces—with Eddie Murphy and Dan Akroyd)—showcased the ability of environment to change a person’s personality and habits. Research supports this phenomenon. As human beings, we are so influenced by our surroundings that we adjust our level of motivation to succeed solely on where we live. In other words, if you

live in a shack, you are more likely to be okay living in a shack, but if you live in a mansion, you are more likely to want to stay in the mansion. So, what if moving is out of the question? What if a bigger, nicer home just isn’t in the budget right now? What are some things that we can do to feel that sense of happiness and comfort in our current living situation?

Start by identifying what the qualities are in the place you would like to live and see if you can add some of those things to your current location. In my case, I plant flowers in my garden that remind me of the flowers I planted when I lived in Georgia. Or, scatter photographs of the places you love around your home. Just looking at a photo of a place can evoke the same emotions as actually being there. Finally, remember that being truly present on this journey is the best part.

In other words, “Bloom Where You’re Planted!”

HEIDI ANNE NELSON OLMA Life Coaching One Life Make it Awesome

By now, most of us have heard that Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has plans to hire a doula for the birth of her first child. Although employing a doula is not a new concept—doulas have been assisting births in support roles since the 1960s—we are hearing more and more about their presence in the lives of families during the childbearing years. According to a 2012 survey, six percent of birthing people said they used a doula (Declerq et al., 2013), up from three percent in a 2006 national survey. The trend upward, however, does not reflect the large percentage of moms who would have liked to have had a doula at their birth after hearing more about the longlasting benefits—27 percent.

A birth doula is a professional labor assistant who provides emotional and physical support as well as advocacy for a mother and her partner during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. During a birth, a doula is a continuous support person who is skilled at massage and position changes, helps with breathing techniques, and can facilitate communication between the family and hospital staff. Being she—or he, in some cases—has established a relationship with expectant mothers and their partners, she can attend births in homes, birth centers, and hospitals, and is considered a vital part of any birth team. Doulas will support moms and their partners in whatever birth they choose, be it unmedicated, epidural, or cesarean.

Birth doulas do not generally have formal obstetric training and will not perform vaginal exams, blood pressure checks, or fetal heart monitoring, nor will they give medical advice or take the place of the partner. Depending on the certifying agency a potential doula uses, her training can vary. DONA (Doulas of North America)—the first and one of the most reputable organizations to certify and train birth and postpartum doulas— requires all candidates take a birth doula training workshop and childbirth education class, as well as complete a written exam, required reading, references list, and attend three qualifying births. Continuing education is also vital for a doula to stay current on techniques and practices, and to stay up-to-date on evidence-based information.

The benefits of using a birth doula, according to moms and their partners, are numerous. According to research, births attended by doulas have a decreased use of pain medication and Pitocin (a hormone that causes uterus contractions), a shorter length of labor, a decreased incidence of cesarean delivery, and an increased perception of positive childbirth experiences. A Cochrane review from July 6, 2017 concluded that women statistically have a better chance of having the birth outcomes they desire when they have continuous labor support from a person who is present solely to provide support (doula).

A happy client wrote:

“As a first time expectant mother I knew very little about pregnancy, childbirth, and my options. My healthcare provider is great but has only limited time to spend with me to discuss things during my routine appointments. I hired a certified doula to make sure I had access to someone with knowledge and experience in pregnancy and all kinds of deliveries who had time to address all of my questions and concerns. My doula has been available to me as a resource whenever I have needed her. She helped me and my husband learn about pregnancy, labor, and delivery options and develop a birth plan suited to our individual preferences. When we found out about some unexpected pregnancy complications, our doula was available to help us modify our birth plan in a way that allowed us to feel at ease and supported while still addressing all of my baby’s and my body’s unique healthcare needs.”

SUNDEE KUECHLE & KATERI KORMANN

Birth Doulas in the Litchfield Area Who Serve Central Minnesota

Nordaas Flooring Store

**IN-STOCK options available**

professional installation through independent contractors

Saturday,

June 29th

Celebrate Quilting, Art and History with us!

9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Experience the outdoor display of quilts located at various historic sites throughout the city:

• Schell’s Brewery and Gardens

• Glockenspiel and Schonlau Park

• Brown County Museum Annex

Sewing Seeds Quilt Co. 1417 S. State New Ulm

507-354-8801

Hours: Mon 10-7; Tues-Fri. 10-5; Sat. 10-4 SewingSeedsQuiltCo.com

• Hermann Monument

• The Way of the Cross

• Lind House

Spinning Spools Quilt Shop 106 S. Minnesota St., New Ulm 507-359-2896

Hours: M-F 10-5; Sat. 10-4 spinningspools quiltshop.com

The Thimble Box 10 N. Minnesota St. New Ulm 507-354-6721

Hours.: M-F 10-5; Sat. 10-4 ThimbleBox.com

For more information visit newulm.com or contact New Ulm Chamber of Commerce at 507-233-4300.

Start and end your Quiltistry Passport at one of the three unique quilt shops conveniently located all within one mile!

Sewing Seeds Quilt Co. Spinning Spools Quilt Shop The Thimble Box

Complete your passport to receive a fat quarter bundle and be eligible for a drawing to receive 1 of 3 $100 gift certificates!

Plan for a day or stay the entire weekend!

KNUJ Radio

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.

Now thru Sat., May 4

• Citywide Garage Sale, Fairmont. Info: 507-235-3303.

• Citywide Garage Sales, Springfield. Info: springfieldchamber. org or 50-723-3508.

Now thru Sun., May 5

• Odin Spring Boutique, Craft Mill, Odin. 10 am-5 pm. Info: odincraftmill.com or 507-7368235.

Fri., May 3

• Oak Hills Foundation Frolics Retro TV Shows, Best Western, New Ulm, 5-10 pm. Info: director@oakhillsfoundation.com.

• Social Media Breakfast—Photography Tips For Work & Home, Public Library, Redwood Falls, 8:30-9:30 am. Info: 507828-2956 or rvtechsolutions. com.

Fri.-Sat., May 3-4

• All Years Menagerie Reunion, Country Club, New Ulm. 7 pm-1 am Fri, 1-9 pm Sat. Concert Sat 7 pm at State Street Theatre. Info: angkaysch33@gmail.com.

• Henderson’s Community Sales, Centennial Lutheran Church, 701 Locust St, Henderson. 8 am-8 pm Fri, 8 am-noon Sat. Info: 507-248-3834.

• Night Falls, Ramsey Park, Co Rd 31, Redwood Falls, 8-11 pm. Info: 425-417-1155 or celebrateredwoodfalls.com/.

Fri.-Sun., May 3-5

• ‘Farce of Habit,’ Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna. 7:30 Fri. & Sat., 2 pm Sun. Info: littletheatreofowatonna.org/farce-of-habit/.

• Bye Bye Birdie, MVL High School, 45638 561st Ave, New Ulm, 7 pm Fri & Sat, 2 pm Sun. Info: mvl.org/calendar/ or valh@ mvlhs.org.

• Spring Dance Concert, MSU Theatre & Dance, 320 Maywood Ave, Mankato. 7:30 pm Fri, 2 pm Sat & Sun. Info: 507-389-2118.

Sat., May 4

• ILS 7th Annual Strides 4 Souls

GO. BE. DO. CON NECT.

Family Fun 5K Walk/Run, 10 am, Immanuel Lutheran School, 50605 478th St, Courtland. Info & registration: Facebook.

• 5th Annual Spring into Summer Women's Expo, Event Center, New Ulm, 9 am-2 pm. Info: keith@knuj.net or call 359-2921.

• Dr. Suess's The Cat in the Hat, MLC Auditorium, New Ulm, 3 & 7:30 pm. Info: mlc-wels.edu/ forum.

• New Prague 1/2 Marathon, 10K, 5K & Kids Fun Run, 400 E Main St, New Prague, 8 am. Info & registration: 952-7584360, info@newprague.com, or runnewprague.com.

• Mai Fest Wine Season Opener, Morgan Creek Vineyards, 23707 478th Ave, New Ulm. Info: 507-947-3547 or martimcv@aol. com.

• Foundation Farm Rummage & Bake Sale Fundraiser, Verizon Be Mobile Comm. Room, 1609 S Broadway, New Ulm, 10 am-3 pm. Info: hisfoundationfarm@ outlook.com or 507-217-9252.

• Big Hats & Big Hearts Derby Party/Auction for the Arts, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 4-7 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or director@paradisecenterforthearts.org.

• Gustavus Jazz Ensemble & Adolphus Jazz Ensemble Spring Concert, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7:30-9 pm. Info: 507-9337013.

• Flowers & Feathers, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 9-11 am. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.

• ‘When there's Good to be Done’ concert by Curtis & Loretta, Arts Center, 435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna, 2-4 pm. Info: oacarts.org or 507-4510533.

• Bettering Butterfield Bash, City Park & Buckshots parking lot, Butterfield. Info: 507-380-4708 or butterfieldcommunityfund@ gmail.com.

• Hutchinson Spring City Wide Garage Sale. Info: 320-753-3635, hutchinsonleader.com or info@ explorehutchinson.com.

• Golden Rose Saddle Club WSCA Game Show, KaBoy Up Arena, 24016 Co Rd 12, New Ulm, 9 am-5 pm. Info: Facebook.

• Turner Ladies Annual Bake Sale, 102 S State St, New Ulm, 10 am-1 pm.

• Global 6K for Water, Crossview Covenant Church, No. Mankato, 9:30 am. Info & registration: teamworldvision.org/team/ crossview6k.

• Authentic Italian Spaghetti Dinner, Hunters Ridge Community Church, 850 School Rd, Hutchinson, 4:30-7 pm. Info: huntersridgecommunitychurch.org or 320-587-8374.

• 50's & 60's Music Revue Concert, Event Center, Hutchinson, 7-9 pm. Info & tickets: 320.234.5656.

Sat., May 4 & Jun. 1

• New Ulm Bird & Small Animal Swap & Sale, Brown Co Fairgrounds, New Ulm, 8 am-noon. Info: 507-375-4716 or 507-3546448.

Sat.-Sun., May 4-5

• Deep Valley Quilters Guild Quiltfest, National Guard Armory, Mankato, 9-5 Sat, 10-3 Sun. Info: Facebook.

Sun., May 5

• Cinco De Mayo Celebration, Plaza Garibaldi Mexican Restaurant, New Ulm, 5:30-8:30 pm. Info: ocampo@newulmtel.net or 507-359-7073.

• Polka Service by St. Peter’s Lutheran Church of Otisco, Waseca American Legion, 700 State St S, Waseca, 10:30 am. Info: Facebook.

• Courtland Lions Pancake, Egg, Sausage Brunch, Community Center, 300 Railroad St, Courtland, 10 am-12:30 pm. Info: paandmaabbas@hotmail.com.

• Vocal Jazz Showcase, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, 1:30-3 pm. Info: 507933-7013.

• Owatonna Bike Blessing, Steele Co Fairgrounds Park, 18th St SE, Owatonna. Info: 507-451-1093 or steve.schroht@co.steele. mn.us.

• Just For Kix New Ulm Spring Show, Garden Street, New Ulm, 12 pm. Info: Facebook or justforkix.com/danceclasses/

newulm_mn.

• Egg Coffee & Newtons Day, Harkin Store, 66250 Co Rd 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info: 507-3548666, 507-934-2160 or harkinstore@mnhs.org.

• Redwood Falls Youth For Christ Spring Banquet/Fundraiser, Community Center, 901 Cook St, Redwood Falls, 12:15 pm. Info: 218-310-2156 or chris@ yfcminnesota.com.

Mon., May 6

• Building Amazing Customer Relations Workshop, Small Business Devl Center, 424 N Riverfront Dr., Mankato, 11:30 am-1 pm. Info: 507-389-8875.

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

Mon., May 6 & Jun. 3

• Business Leadership Cohort Program for Child Care Providers in Redwood County, County Govt Center, 403 S Mill St, Redwood Falls, 6:30-8:30 pm. Info: jessica@firstchildrensfinance. org or 320-808-7066.

Tues., May 7

• SmartLink Travel Training, KingsPath Senior Living, 125 Commerce Dr W, Belle Plaine, 1:30 pm. Info: 952-873-5800 or bjweicherding@tlha.org.

• Workshop for Renters, Public Library, 17 N Broadway St, New Ulm, 9 am-4 pm. Info: 507-3598227 or nueda@newulmmn. gov.

• Turner Ladies 1st Annual Membership Open House, Turner Hall, 102 S State St, New Ulm, 4-7 pm.

Tues. & Wed., May 7-8 & Wed.Thurs. Jun. 5-6

• AARP Smart Driver 8-Hr Safety Course, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 5:30-9:30 pm. Info & cost: newulm.k12.mn.us/ community-ed/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.

Tues., May 7 & 14

• Youth Birding Club, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 4-6 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.

Wed.-Thurs., May 8-9

• Disney’s Aladdin Kids, St. Raphael's School, Springfield, 1 & 6 pm each day. Info: Facebook.

Thurs., May 9

• Welcome to the Party Newcomers Event, The Grand, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm, 5:30-7:30 pm. Info: 507-233-4300 or chamber@newulm.com.

• Go Red For Women Luncheon, Country Inn & Suites, Mankato, 11:15 am-1:15 pm. Info: heart.org/ mankatogored or 507-382-2404 or carrie_schill@yahoo.com.

• ECFE Vehicle Fair, First Lutheran Church parking lot, 1114 W Traverse Rd, St. Peter, 5:30-7 pm. Info: stpeterchamber.com/ calendar.

Thurs.-Sat., May 9-11

• Spring Pop-Up Sale, Depot Marketplace, 25 Adams St SE, Hutchinson, 10 am-6 pm Thurs & Fri, 10 am-2 pm Sat. Info: 320583-3129, rev320shop@gmail. com or Facebook.

Fri., May 10

• Cocktails at the Governor's, Lind House, 622 Center St, New Ulm, 4:30-7 pm. Info & cost: lindhouse@newulmtel.net.

• Jazz in the Courtyard, Courtyard Café, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 4:30-6 pm. Info: 507-933-7013.

• Galaxy 50's & 60's band, Red Rock Center for the Arts, 222 E Blue Earth Ave, Fairmont, 7 pm. Info: 507-235-9262 or redrockcenter@frontiernet.net.

• Almost Paradise—Prom 1984 Concert, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or director@paradisecenterforthearts.org.

• St. Paul's Dig In Gala, Concordia Lanes, 416 19th St No, New Ulm, 6-9 pm. Info: splnewulm.org/ church/time-to-build/.

Fri.-Sat., May 10-11

• Turner Ladies Fluff and Puff Pillow Cleaning, Turner Hall, 102 S State St, New Ulm, 6:30 am Fri-2 pm. Info: Facebook.

• Lake Crystal City Wide Garage Sales. Info: lakecrystalchamber. com.

Sat., May 11

• Lafayette Public Charter School Open House & Plant/Bake Sale, 351 6th St, Lafayette, 9-11 am. Info: 507-228-8943 or lcsoffice@ lafayettecharter.k12.mn.us.

• Celebrate MOM Craft & Vendor Show, Nat’l Guard Armory, 100 Martin Luther King Jr Dr, Mankato, 9 am-4 pm.

• Prism Concert, MVL High School, rural New Ulm, 5 & 7 pm. Info: valh@mvlhs.org or mvl.org/cal -

endar/.

• Handel Messiah—Mankato Symphony Orchestra, Good Counsel Chapel, 170 Good Counsel Dr, Mankato, 7:30 pm. Info: 507-6258880 or mankatosymphony.com.

• Gustavus Wind Symphony, Chamber Winds &Woodwind Chamber Ensembles Concert, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter. Info: 507-933-7013.

• Outsmart the Scammers, 910 14th St No, New Ulm, New Ulm, 9:30 am. Info: 507-233-8307. newulm.k12.mn.us/community-ed/ or cfleck@newulm.k12. mn.us.

• Spring Vendor/Craft Fair, Sr High School, 1717 2nd St NW, Waseca, 9 am-2 pm.

Sun., May 12

• Permit to Carry Course, Searles Bar & Grill, 13014 Main St, New Ulm, 1 pm. Info & cost: 612-7872264 or carrypermit.net.

• Gustavus Philharmonic Orchestra & Lucia Singers Spring Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 3:30 pm. Info: Info: 507-933-7013.

• Handbell Ensemble Concert, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7:30 pm. Info: Info: 507-933-7013.

• Mother's Day with Aprons, Harkin Store, 66250 Co Rd 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info: 507-354-8666 or 507-934-2160 or harkinstore@ mnhs.org.

• Mother's Day Brunch, Morgan Creek Vineyards, 23707 478th Ave, New Ulm, 11 am-2 pm. Info: 507-947-3547.

Mon., May 13

• Chamber Golf Outing, Le Sueur Country Club, 36195 311 Ave, Le Sueur, 1 pm. Info: 507-665-2501 or julieb@lesueurchamber.org.

Tues., May 14

• Teepa Snow Dementia Speaker, Event Center, 1005 Hwy 15, Hutchinson, 8 am-4 pm. Info & cost: 320-484-9184, 320-4846004 or hopehagert@ecumen. org.

Tues., May 14 & Thurs., Jun. 13

• AARP Smart Driver 4-Hr Refresher Safety Course, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 5:309:30 pm. Info & cost: newulm. k12.mn.us/community-ed/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@newulm. k12.mn.us.

Thurs., May 16

• Ney Senior Learning Series— Beginner Birding, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center

Ln, Henderson, 12-1:30 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.

• Spaghetti Supper, Oakwood United Methodist Church, 1630 Oakwood Ave New Ulm, 4-6:30 pm.

Thurs., May 16 (every other Thurs. thru Sept. 19)

• Cruz ‘IN Lake Crystal, streets around Marston Park, Humphrey & Main St., 5-8 pm. Info: akecrystalchamber.com.

Thurs., May 16 & Jun. 20

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

Thurs.-Sun., May 16-19

• Lysistrata By Aristophanes, Linnaeus Arboretum, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7-9 pm. Info: 507-933-7520 or marketing@gustavus.edu.

Fri., May 17

• Martin Luther College Commencement Concert, Auditorium, 1995 Luther Ct, New Ulm, 4 & 7:30 pm. Info: mlcinfo@mlc-wels. edu.

Fri.-Sat., May 17-18

• Garage & Bake Sale 4-H Spring Fundraiser, 4-H Bldg, Fairgrounds, 409 8th Ave NE, Waseca. 3:30-8 pm Fri, 7 am-12 pm Sat. Info: 507-835-0600.

• City Wide Garage Sales, St. James. Info: 507-375-3333.

• Madison Lake in May BBQ CookOff, 416 Main St, Madison Lake. 6 pm Fri, all day Sat. Info: 507-2434343 or 507-243-4154.

Sat., May 18

• Citizens Race 2 Raise 5K, 105 N Minnesota, 7:45-11 am. Info: sseifert@citizensmn.com or call 354-3165.

• Winthrop Citywide Garage Sales. Info: winthropminnesota. com/chamber-of-commerce/, 507-647-2627 or chamberwinthropmn@gmail.com.

• Annual Heritage Plant Sale, Cox House, 500 N Washington Ave, St. Peter, 8:30 am-1 pm. Info: cox@nchsmn.org or 507-9342160.

• Syttende Mai Smorgasbord, Norseland Lutheran Church, 37777 State Hwy 22, St. Peter, 4-7:30 pm. Info: facebook.com/ norselandlutheran.

• Minnesota River Valley Master Gardeners plant sale, Caledonia Curling Club, Mankato, 9-11:30 am. Info: northerngardener.org/ events/minnesota-river-valley-master-gardeners-plant-sale/.

• Hallett's Pond Shoreline Planting, Pond Nature Area, St. Peter, 9 am-1 pm. Info & preregistration: greatrivergreening.org/ vol-events/, volunteer@greatrivergreening.org or 651-272-3989.

• Hanska Syttende Mai, City Park, Hanska, 10 am-5 pm, parade 2 pm. Info: Hanska@sleepyeyetel. net or 507-439-6246.

• Larval Masks, State Street Theater Co., 1 N State Street, New Ulm, 12-2 pm. Info: Facebook or newulm.ce.eleyo.com.

• 8th Annual Cancer Cruise for Aaron Scharpe, Arlington, 9 am. Info: CancerCruise55307@gmail.com or 507-964-5603.

• Spring Bacchus Festival, Morgan Creek Vineyards, rural New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info: morgancreekvineyards.com or 507-947-3547.

• Crazy Day & Hot Dog Day, 1st Ave S, St. James, 11 am-1 pm. Info: 507-375-3333.

• Park Day Clean-up, Fort Ridgely State Park, 72404 Co Rd 30, Fairfax, 10 am-2 pm. Info: 507-5082848.

• Bookin’ on Belgrade Nearly 5K, 1001 Belgrade Ave, No. Mankato, 8:30 am. Info: 507-345-5120, businessonbelgrade@gmail.com or bookinonbelgrade.wordpress. com/.

• Get on your Feet and Play Physical Comedy Workshop, State Street Theater Co, 1 N State Street, New Ulm, 10-11 am. Info: Facebook.

• Paws on Parade Pet Walk for Heart of MN Animal Shelter, McLeod Co Fairgrounds, Hutchinson, 9 am-1 pm. Info: 320-234-9699, contact@ heartofminnesota.org or heartofminnesota.org.

Sat.-Sun., May 18-19

• Flat Track Races, Flying Dutchman Motorcycle Club, New Ulm. Info: 507-354-2024, 507-354-2306 or flyingdutchmenmotorcycleclub.com/.

Sun., May 19

• Arriving in West Newton, Harkin Store, 66250 Co Rd 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info: 507-354-8666, 507934-2160 or harkinstore@mnhs. org.

• MVL Sacred Year-End Concert, Chapel of the Christ, 1995 Luther Ct, New Ulm, 7 pm. Info: mvl.org/ calendar/ or valh@mvlhs.org.

Tues., May 21

• History of the Minnesota River Valley by Scott Co. Hist. Soc., KingsPath Senior Living, 125 Commerce Dr W, Belle Plaine, 1:30 pm. Info: 952-873-5800 or bjweicherding@tlha.org.

• Minnesota Valley Civil War Round Table, Public Library, 17 N Broadway, New Ulm, 6:30 pm. Info: newulmlibrary.org, aide@ tds.lib.mn.us or 507-359-8331.

Tues., May 21 (every Tue. thru mid-Sept.)

• Henderson Classic Car Roll-In, downtown Henderson, 5-8 pm. Info: 507-248-3691.

Thurs., May 23, Jun. 6, 13 & 20

• Cruisin’ on Pine & 99, downtown Nicollet. Info: nicollet.org/crusinon-pine-99.

Fri.-Sun., May 24-26

• All Breed Key City Kennel Club Dog Show, Nicollet Co Fairgrounds, 400 Union St, St. Peter. Info: Facebook.

Sat., May 25

• Opening Day at Ft. Ridgely, 72404 Co Rd 30, Fairfax, 10 am-4 pm. Info: 507-508-2848 or ridgely@mnhs.org.

Sun., May 26

• Hilltop Happenings, Hilltop Hall, 206 First St N, Montgomery, 4 pm. Info: wendyzaske@yahoo. com.

• Live Music with Bob Bovee, Harkin Store, 66250 Co Rd 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info: 507-354-8666, 507-934-2160 or harkinstore@

mnhs.org.

• Guided Tour of the E. St. Julien Cox House, 500 N Washington Ave, St. Peter, 1-4 pm. Info: cox@ nchsmn.org or 507-934-2160.

• American Bison Talk, Minneopa State Park, 5 mi W of Mankato on Hwy 68 & 169, 1 pm. Info: 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@ state.mn.us.

Mon., May 27

• New Ulm Memorial Day Program & Municipal Band Concert, Cemetery, New Ulm, 10 am.

• Lafayette Memorial Day Program with Lafayette Band, Lafayette, 10 am. Info: lafcityclerk@gmail. com.

• Nicollet Memorial Day Program with Schell’s Hobo Band, Nicollet, 11 am. Info: nicolletamericanlegion.com/.

• Hebron Cemetery Memorial Day Program, south of Nicollet, 2 pm. Info: nicolletamericanlegion. com/.

Tues., May 28

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

Thurs., May 30 (each Thurs. thru Aug. 8)

• 11@7 Concert Series, Central Park, Owatonna, 7 pm. Info: Facebook.

Fri., May 31

• SSTC Unplugged—Pop Wagner & Bob Bovee, State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 7:30 pm. Info: statestreetnewulm. org or statestreettheater@gmail. com.

• 2019 Finale Concert—The Gustavus Wind Orchestra, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, 7 pm. Info: 507-933-7013.

Fri.-Sat., May 31-Jun. 1

• Smokin’ in Steele BBQ & Blues Festival, Owatonna. Info: smokininsteele.com.

Fri.-Sun., May 31-Jun. 2

• Vesta River Days, 150 Front St W, Vesta, 4-11 pm. Info: 507-7623140.

Sat.. Jun. 1

• Northrop Day, citywide Northrop, 11 am. Info: 507-2272002.

Sat., Jun. 1 & 15

• An Evening Look at the Carvings, 27160 Co Rd 2, Comfrey, 5-7 pm. Info: 507-628-5591.

Sun., Jun. 2

• Dairy Day, Harkin Store, 66250 Co Rd 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info:

507-354-8666, 507-934-2160 or harkinstore@mnhs.org.

• Road Run, Flying Dutchman Motorcycle Club, New Ulm, 1 pm. Info: 507-354-2024, 507-354-2306 or flyingdutchmenmotorcycleclub.com/.

Tues., Jun. 4

• Start Up Smart Workshop, Chamber of Commerce, 1 N Minnesota St, New Ulm, 6-7:30 pm. Info: 507-389-8875.

Tues., Jun. 4, 18 & 25

• Wabasso Roll-in ‘Let The Thunder Roll, 713 Main St, Wabasso, 5-10 pm. Info: 507-342-2006 or wabassoroadhouse@hotmail. com.

Wed., Jun. 5

• Bernadotte Lutheran Ice Cream Social & Band Concert, 34122 5th Ave, Lafayette, 5:30 pm. Info: fieldsofgracemn.com or 507-7663471.

• Ramsey Park Jamboree, Community Center, 901 E Cook St, Redwood Falls, 4:30-8 pm. Info: 507-644-2333.

Wed., Jun. 5, 12 & 19

• Municipal Band Concert, German Park, New Ulm, 7-8 pm. Info: gkoch@newulmtel.net or Facebook.

Wed., Jun. 5 (every Wed. thru Aug. 28)

• Car & Bike Nights, Dave’s Place, downtown Lafayette, 5 pm. Info: Facebook.

Wed., Jun. 5 (every Wed. thru Aug.)

• Music on Main & Farmers’ Markets, corner of 5th & Main, Gaylord. Info:

Thurs., Jun. 6, Jul. 11, Aug. 1

• Downtown Thursday Night Market, Owatonna, 4-8:30 pm. Info: Facebook.

Thurs.-Sun., Jun. 6-9

• Town & Country Days 2019, Heritage Park, Mapleton. Info: 507-524-3492 or mapletontownandcountrydays.com.

Fri., Jun. 7

• Dairy Day Celebration, Library Square Park, Hutchinson, 11 am1:30 pm. Info: 320-587-5252 or info@explorehutchinson.com.

• Pow-Wow 3 Person Best-Shot Golf Tourney, Dacotah Ridge Golf Course, 31042 Co Hwy 2, Morton, 11:30 am. Info: 1-800-WIN-CASH ext. 8007 or dacotahridge.com/ index.html.

Fri., Jun. 7, 14, 21 & 28

• Ice Cream Socials & Lafayette Band Concerts, Community Center, Lafayette, 5 pm. Info: lafcityclerk@gmail.com.

Fri.-Sat., Jun. 7-8

• New Ulm Community-Wide Garage Sale. Info: New Ulm. Info: 507-233-4300 or facebook.com/ NewUlmGarageSale.

Fri.-Sun., Jun. 7-9

• Company B Weekend, Ft. Ridgely, 72404 Co Rd 30, Fairfax. 10 am-4 pm Fri & Sat, 12-4 pm Sun. Info: 507-508-2848 or ridgely@ mnhs.org.

• Interlaken Heritage Days, various locations, Fairmont. Info: 507235-8585 or visitfairmontmn. com/listing/interlaken-heritage-days/.

Sat., Jun. 8

• Ambassador Blues Fest, Hwy169 S, St. Peter, 12-9:30 pm. Info: 507934-3400 or Facebook.

• Borderline Cruisers Classic Car Show, Fairmont, 9 am-3 pm. Info: 507-235-6356 or borderlinecruisers@gmail.com.

• Victorian Lawn Party, 606 S Broad St, Mankato, 1-4 pm. Info: 507-345-5566 or info@blueearthcountyhistory.com.

• Minnesota River Paddle, Fort Ridgely State Park, 72404 Co Rd 30, Fairfax, 9 am-1 pm. Info: 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@ state.mn.us.

• Reptile & Amphibian Discovery Zoo, Minneopa State Park, 5 mi W of Mankato on Hwy 68 & 169, 1 & 3 pm. Info: 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@state.mn.us.

• An Evening Out with Jumpin At The Woodside Diner/Dance/ Fundraiser, American Legion, Faribault, 5-9 pm. Info: 507-3327372 or director@paradisecenterforthearts.org.

• Two Man Tournament, Dacotah Ridge Golf Course, 31042 Co Hwy 2, Morton, 8 am. Info: 1-800-WINCASH ext. 8007 or dacotahridge. com/index.html.

Sun., Jun. 9

• Father's Day with Crafts, Harkin Store, 66250 Co Rd 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info: 507-354-8666, 507934-2160 or harkinstore@mnhs. org.

• Music on the Patio—Closing of Blues Fest, Patricks on Third, St. Peter, 4-7 pm. Info: Facebook.

Mon., Jun. 10

• MLC Golf Classic, Country Club, Golf Dr, New Ulm, 12 pm. Info: mlc-wels.edu/events/golf-classic/, 507-354-8221.

Mon.-Sun., Jun. 10-16

• Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival, citywide, Hutchinson. Info: 320-587-5252 or watercarnival. org/.

Wed., Jun. 12

• Mini Container Gardens, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 12:30-2 pm. Info: newulm. k12.mn.us/community-ed/, 507233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12. mn.us.

• Annual Drive-in Diner, Faith Lutheran Church parking lot, 335 Main St S, Hutchinson, 5-7 pm. Info: gladysn@faithlc.com, 320587-2093 or Faithlc.com.

• Margarita Tasting Fundraiser, South Fork Golf Course, 77818 Hwy 60, St. James, 5-9 pm.

Wed.-Sun., Jun. 12-16

• Island Days, Bird Island. Info: Facebook.

Thurs.-Sat., Jun. 13-15

• Lake Days Celebration, Lake Crystal. Info: lakecrystalchamber. com.

• Friendship Days, downtown, Nicollet. Info: nicollet.org or facebook.com/AmericanLegionPost510NicolletMinnesota/.

Fri., Jun. 14

• Waseca Area Chamber Golf Tournament, Lakeside Club, 37160 Clear Lake Dr, Waseca, 9:30 am-3 pm. Info: ann@wasecachamber. com.

Fri.-Sat., Jun. 14-15

• Winstock Country Music Festival, 3233 230th St, Winsted. Info: 320-485-4287 or winstock@ winstockfestival.com.

Fri.-Sun., Jun. 14-16

• Annual Lower Sioux Wacipi, 39527 Reservation Hwy 1, Morton. Info: 507-697-6185.

• Sherburn Holiday Festival, City Park, Sherburn. Info: 507-7644311 or

• visitfairmontmn.com/listing/ sherburn-holiday-festival/.

Fri.-Sun., Jun 14-16 & Thurs.Sun., Jun. 20-23

• A Pirate's Tale—A Swashbuckling Musical, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. 7:30 pm Thurs-Sat, 2 pm Sun. Info: 507-332-7372 or director@ paradisecenterforthearts.org.

Sat., Jun. 15

• 8th Annual Duathlon & 5K, Recreation Center, 621 W Nathan St, Lake Crystal, 9 am. Info: 507-7266730 or lcarc.com/special-events.

• Shop the Park Craft & Vendor Show, German Park, 200 N German St, New Ulm, 11 am-4 pm. Info: 612-454-9972 or graffixplus@gmail.com.

• Lewisville Fun Daze Celebration & Parade 12:30 pm. Info: Facebook.

• Cottonwood River Hike, Flandrau State Park, 1300 Summit Ave, New Ulm, 7 pm. Info: 507-3848890 or scott.kudelka@state. mn.us.

• ArtSplash, South Central College, 1920 Lee Boulevard, No. Mankato, 10 am-4 pm. Info & registration: 507-345-5120 or Facebook.

• Harry Wenger Marching Band Festival, Owatonna, 11 am. Info: owatonnabandfestival.com.

• Lake Waconia Band Festival, City Square Park & Main Street, Waconia, 6 pm. Info: waconiabands. com/lwbf/.

• Craft Fair, American Legion, 715 3rd St, Nicollet, 10 am-4 pm. Info: 507-327-3146.

Sat.-Sun., Jun. 15-16

• Minnesota Air Spectacular, 3030 Airport Rd N, Mankato. Info: 507385-6660 or mnairspectacular. com.

Sun., Jun. 16

• Day in the Life of a Prairie Woman, Harkin Store, 66250 Co Rd 21, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info:

507-354-8666, 507-934-2160 or harkinstore@mnhs.org.

Mon.-Sat., Jun. 17-22

• Railroad Days, 516 1st Ave. S, St James. Info: 507-375-3333 or stjmnchamber@gmail.com.

Wed.-Fri., Jun. 19-21

• Red Cross Bloodmobile, Civic Center, New Ulm. 1-7 pm Wed, 12-6 pm Thurs, 8:30 am-1:30 pm Fri. Info & sign-up: redcrossblood.org.

Wed., Jun. 19

• Puppy Play Date Dog Show, Unleashed Dog Park, St. James, 5:30-7 pm. Info: discoverstjamesmn.com/chamber/,

Thurs., Jun. 20

• Youth Focused First Aid Training, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 1-2:30 pm. Info: newulm.k12.mn.us/community-ed/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@ newulm.k12.mn.us.

• Sleepy Eye Chamber of Commerce Golf Tourney, Golf Club, Sleepy Eye, 11 am-5 pm. Info: director@sleepyeyechamber. com.

MayMust

HAVES

1. The Perfect Gift

If you are looking for the perfect gift, our Brass Script Bracelets May be the perfect choice. Subtle, dainty, and stackable, these bracelets  each feature a unique quote, have a hook-eye closure, and a comfort fit. Even better, they're incredibly affordable at only $12.99 Bella Nova Boutique 521 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.779.7444

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. 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 507.625.6599

skinessentialsmankato. com

4. 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

DoubleHood™

As one of the most popular sweatshirts, the Women's Ampersand Ave DoubleHood™

Sweatshirt is a must-have to add to your wardrobe. This functional, yet practical sweatshirt is an ideal choice for everyday wear backed with a touch of fashionable flair. With such a lightweight design, this sweatshirt can be worn on a sunny spring afternoon.

Scheels River Hills Mall

1850 Adams St. Mankato, MN 56001

507.386.7767

scheels.com

7. Spring Is In The Air HyVee’s Lawn & Garden center has everything you need to make your patio or garden stand out. With a variety of hanging baskets, eye-catching flowers or patio furniture; the possibilities are endless! If you need assistance, the staff is always happy to help. Next time you’re getting groceries stop by Lawn & Garden to smell the roses!

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

Bound for compliments, this accent cabinet is anything but ordinary. Light distressing creates an aged, vintage look while the medallion carving on the door front adds intricate detailing. This piece isn't only beautiful, it's also functional with two shelves behind the door for your storage needs.

Only $179.

Rooms and Rest Furniture and Mattress

1760 Madison Ave. Mankato, MN 56001

1704 North State St. New Ulm, MN 56073 roomsandrest.com

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

6. Fossil Ridge Accent Cabinet

8. Himalayan Salt Room

5. Ampersand Ave

6.

7.

8.

MayMust

Enjoy the taste of wood-fired grilling with the all new Traeger Ironwood grill. Its KYSM radio personalities, George & Jess’s, favorite grill. With new features like WiFire, Turbo Temp and the amazing Traeger app, wood-fired grilling has never been easier. Stop in the Fire It Up Grill

Showroom and find your next grill. We offer FREE Assembly, FREE Delivery, and FREE grill recycling.

Arrow Ace Hardware 201 S. Minnesota Ave. St. Peter, MN 56082 507.931.3830

arrowace.net

Timeless stone recreated to resemble diverse range of projects — stone options: ledgestone with stunning character with varying heights and depths; old world replicates hand chiseled stones from 19th century; blends contains unique variety of stones which create a natural feel; fieldstone is tailored with a rugged texture with distinct edges; limestone is a classic rectangular and square stone; country rubble irregularly shaped stones designed to fit well with rugged appearance kwik stack modular panel with smaller stone with drystack look.

Nordaas American Homes

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

nordaashomes.com

A showcase of fire, the Key Largo Gas Fire Pit Table features a beautiful, glowing fire that dances atop a bed of fire glass. The focal point of the design is a striking12 x 24” Stainless Steel Crystal Fire Burner. This simple, modern design will look great in any outdoor living space. Glowing Hearth & Home 241 St. Andrews Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.345.8084

9. Traeger Ironwood ACE Exclusive Grill

11. Key Largo Gas Fire Pit

10. New Stone by Casi Di Sassi

FIND THE FREEDOM TO LAUGH, SNEEZE AND JOG AGAIN.

108307

Although loss of bladder control may be embarrassing, it doesn’t have to mean giving up belly laughs with friends. Our OB-GYN experts, led by a board certified urogynecologist, partner with you to help determine the best urinary incontinence treatment option, surgical or non-surgical, to fit your lifestyle and needs.

Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato Call 507-933-0087 to schedule an appointment. mayoclinichealthsystem.org