When you’ve lived in your home for many years, the thought of downsizing and deciding what to do with all of your stuff can seem overwhelming and even emotional. I can ease your stress and help you find the perfect home for you and for your prized possessions!
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Your birthday is a great reminder to celebrate good health by scheduling a mammogram. Our physicians and the American Cancer Society recommend women have an annual breast screening beginning at age 40. Schedule your mammogram today with our convenient Patient Online Services or by calling 507-479-7307.
it’s our annual health issue just bursting with wellness! It’s bound to make you feel as fresh as a country lane after a spring shower. And now you will be able to go white water kayaking, or, at the very least, power walking with an unusually chipper group of friends. Sorry, was that a bit much? Perhaps my perspective is clouded by all the media influence of being told how wonderful life can be if only I would ask my doctor if some incongruously named medication (Skyrizi?... Ozempic? Really?), is right for me. Especially when it’s promoted with some pop song from my youth.
In this Well-Being issue you’ll discover there is a lot more to being well than just singing about it. What does it take to be well? Brandy Brink, whose strength simply radiates on our cover this month, can tell you. Transitioning from an unhealthy lifestyle and difficult up-bringing, to the resilient woman she is now, has fired up her determination to help others in similar situations. She’s got muscle!
Kay Martin is an opportunist—but in the best possible way. Upon returning recently to her childhood home in New Ulm, this former teacher and cancer survivor, has taken advantage of using her talents in a variety of ways. Art, photography, kids’ camps, water exercise and fitness classes are just some of what she offers to others to help them become well-rounded (or less rounded) individuals. In the last year, Kay has also accomplished an impressive 120 lb. weight loss. Who knows, she might just take up kayaking next. We introduce a new feature this month called FIRST PERSON. Kristin Rehkamp shares her daughter’s heart-rendering journey through panic attacks. This mental illness, which came out of the blue, quickly changed
not only the life of the 12-year-old, but that of her entire family. Learning the way through, not around, was key to managing their new normal. From this, Kristin’s online business, “La Vie Est Belle,” (Life is Beautiful) which donates a percentage of profits to supporting children’s mental health awareness, was born. Beautiful, indeed.
Healthy adults get that way by first being healthy children who are challenged and have positive stimulation in the classroom. But that takes money. Kyena Cornelius and Educare Foundation brings those two together. Associate professor of special education and undergrad students, at MSUM, Kyena stresses the importance of how a good education impacts the health of a community. She’s not kidding.
Topping the list in our Facebook poll which posed the question: “What are your favorite self-care activities?” were massages and reading, with a few wildcards thrown in including antique shopping and saying no when you need to. Speaking for myself, next to watching back-to-back episodes of the Gilmore Girls for the umpteenth time, one of my favorite winding down activities is what I call “walking the perimeter.” This entails strolling about our property with a cup of coffee or glass of wine and checking out the happenings in the yard, pulling the occasional weed, kicking a few walnuts out of my path from where hundreds of them fall each year, watching a heron fly by on the river, keeping an eye out for the woodchuck that lives under the deck, setting wine down to water my herbs, forget where wine glass is, meander more, find wine, and well… lather, rinse, repeat.
We are confident you won’t need to ask your doctor if this issue is right for you. But side effects could include enlightenment, education, singing pop songs, and an overall sense of well-being.
The right window treatment can not only really make a difference in the look of your home, but impacts the space in other ways as well. It is an investment that will be around a while, so the pressure is on to choose the style and type.
I always recommend choosing window treatments that you love, instead of selecting something that is trending at the moment. You will be the one to look at it every day, so make sure that it is something that you will enjoy. Also, consider not only how the treatment looks, but how it is going to function and meet your needs for the room. This means you should consider factors including privacy, light control and insulation. Cordless and Motorized blinds and shades are quickly becoming standard because cords are not safe for kids and pets.
Some of the most popular shades that my clients love are:
• Woven wood shades come from organic elements of reed, bamboo grass, paper and jute. Woven woods filter the sunlight and fill a room with warmth, texture and natural beauty. Woven woods come in a variety of weaves from chunky woods to classic matchstick styles, unique strands of shimmery accents and wavy textures.
Roller and Roman shades are loved for their clean
appearance, superior functionality, artistic flair and exceptional style. A vibrant selection of color hews, true neutrals and impactful textures bring an infinite selection of design choices. Choose from an array of decorative and foundational fabrics, from sheer to opaque, or solar screens with just the right openness for your desired light control, privacy and view through.
• Transitional or Zebra Shades offer you the privacy of a window shade the softened view of a sheer and the option of raising and lowering your shades with privacy control at every level. Unique vanes transition from opaque to sheer as you raise and lower your shades for vast viewing options. Select one of the semi opaque, room darkening, or semi-sheer fabrics to softly diffuse the light.
• Sheer Shades offer the best of both worlds – beautiful views and protection from the sun. With the vanes open these stunning shadings provide up to 88% UV protection and 99% with the vanes closed.
Cellular Shades offer an expansive range of pleat sizes, fabrics, colors, opacities and textures, along with innovative lifting systems and design options, the choices are endless!
Sheer shades are beautiful and protect from the sun.
Roller Shades are classic and offer numerous choices in fabric.
Woven Wood Shades are unique and offer natural beauty.
By KELLY DEVRIENDT PHOTOS BY ALICE HQ PHOTOGRAPHY
Trauma is negative and has a significant impact on those who experience it. However, the process of coping with trauma can lead to powerful personal evolution. Psychologists call this post-traumatic growth. It happens when an individual comes to a new understanding of themselves, other people, and even the world around them. When this happens, people become capable of accomplishing amazing things.
Brandy Brink and her three siblings were raised by a single mom. Due to a stream of financial difficulties, her mother moved her family often. Relationship dynamics at times brought with them unhealthy qualities which deeply impacted Brandy’s daily life. This led to her first drink at the age of ten, foster care placement by age twelve, and a struggle with addiction that raged on and off for 22 years.
Those years, inevitably, brought additional heartbreak. Brink was separated from her four children. Many other significant relationships were damaged. Brandy’s addiction made maintaining employment tough and she also had legal encounters that made it more challenging to secure housing.
As difficult and regretful that those events were—and remain—for Brink, she insists it all has helped lead her to this part of her life, and to accomplish all that she has in such a short time. Without this exact journey, she may not have grown her thick skin, stubborn attitude, and unending resiliency.
“I have come to see and know how every life experience I have had thus far plays into what I am doing now, and how I am helping others,” Brink said, “The good, the bad, and the different all paved the way.”
Brandy entered sobriety five years ago, on April 21, 2016. Her
traverse through the sober living process exposed significant gaps in services—services that are essential to support people down the road to recovery.
“I was someone in the need of something that was not available,” Brink explained, “One significant thing that I did not have was a safe place to live in my community after completing treatment.”
The barriers that Brink encountered lit a fire in her to bring change and ensure that others would have the resources that they so desperately needed.
At that time, she was working in property management in Mankato and knew that her then-boss had a property sitting open. She approached him with a proposition to utilize the space for safe and sober housing. He agreed and, to bring in the money she needed to make it happen, Brink continued to work full time and began shoveling snow for extra money to put towards the remodel and to fund the property to become a non-profit. This eventually expanded into a snow removal company, which Brink now utilizes to offer second-chance employment to others with employment barriers.
“I can’t explain it,” Brink said, “It was an absolute calling and I had total faith that every experience I had leading up to this was making me tough enough to make it happen.”
Brink needed this resolve as the path to bring her vision to life was met with an abundance of roadblocks. “None of the process came easily,” Brink stated, “I had to push to find solutions over and over again.”
They were also several incidences of help along the way that repeatedly reminded Brink that what she was doing was meant to be. When working to secure beds, she was running out of
I have come to see and know how every life experience I have had thus far plays into what I am doing now, and how I am helping others.
What is your sign and do your traits match? I am an Aries and yes, there are definitely some true statements in the list of common traits. Notably, stubbornness, drive, rebelliousness, and being social and transparent.
What are your favorite selfcare activities? Being outdoors, kayaking, and dog-time.
Favorite quote? “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” Walt Disney
Define wellness: I see wellness as a selfdirected realization of one’s true potential.
Do you follow any wellness gurus or influencers? I am definitely into self-help, but I don’t follow one in particular. I will gravitate towards anything that resonates with me, whether that be something that originated from Native American wisdom and culture, Christianity, or Buddhism.
What is your biggest pet peeve? People being late, or more specifically people causing me to be late.
Favorite feel-good or cheer you up song? There is a go-to playlist that I lean on! A few key songs are “The Champion,” by Carrie Underwood and “This is me” from The Greatest Showman soundtrack.
What inspires you? My staff inspires me every day. I am always inspired by any person who has fallen down and gotten back up to share their experience.
How do you inspire others? I hope I inspire others by living out loud; by showing and acknowledging the good and the bad. What do you most want the readers to know? That anything is possible. All persons can recover and we do recover. We need to continue to raise our voices and live out loud.
options. United Way stepped in and had just received a donation of the exact amount of beds Brink was looking for.
Out of necessity, and with much help from others, Brandy became a grant writer and applied for, and received, a grant from the Department of Human Services (DHS). That allowed her to open her center. She was able to get classified as a non-clinical Recovery Community Organization (RCO). This allowed the business to bill insurance for peer recovery support services. Beyond Brink, located in Mankato, was coming to life.
Today, Beyond Brink houses the WEcovery center which offers Peer Recovery Specialist services and currently has three open houses for transitional, safe, supportive, sober housing. After only four short years—and despite a business analyst concluding that this would never be a successful venture—the housing side of the business is self-sustaining, outside of staffing. WEcovery, which bills for peer recovery support, covers most of the staff time.
If there was ever any doubt that there was, and is, a need for these services, Brink’s numbers put that to rest.
“We very quickly saw the need for more resources; we were getting up to 20 calls a day,” Brink shared.
Beyond Brink began with a six-bed home for women, which swiftly expanded to 12. A men’s house followed and, lastly, the need for pre-treatment housing was recognized. A fourth house, slated to open this fall, will be for LGBTQ-identified individuals. There is presently a waiting list for housing.
The program accepts Housing Support Funding, available to persons who qualify financially through their counties, and who have been found in need of supportive housing through a professional. Those who do not qualify for this type of funding would be considered self-pay, which is always based on the individual’s ability to pay.
Beyond Brink presently has 18 employees, with plans to hire and grow in the very near future. Since opening, they have assisted over 800 people in Mankato. They operate under a harm reduction approach, which means no one is turned away for peer recovery support services.
“Individuals are met wherever they are at in their journey, without judgment,” Brink assured.
Despite the prevalence of addiction services needs, Brandy says there is still a serious stigma attached to addiction and to the recovery community.
“People don’t understand the extent of the need and they want to ignore the problem,” Brink explained, “Addicts need hope and, rather, they end up facing a lot of judgment.”
One of Brink’s goals is to bridge the recovery community to the community at large. “It is so important for everyone to have a sense of belonging and a sense of acceptance,” she said.
Brandy, herself, struggled with this, along with feelings of shame and guilt in her early recovery. “I felt like I had nothing to offer. I was so uncomfortable in my own skin,” she admitted.
A counselor recommended that she volunteer. Desperate to feel better, she took her advice. “It reinforced to me that this was exactly what I was supposed to be doing,” Brink recalled.
At the young age of 37, her goals continue to grow. She has her heart set on adolescent housing, as well as housing for women and children. She is open to expanding to other communities.
However, Brink’s biggest wish is simply to make her children proud. “I want to live a life of purpose outside of myself,” she said, “I have already spent too much not doing that, and there is so much that needs to be done.” RVW
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Our Himalayan Salt Room naturally rebalances the ions in your body. We are constantly bombarded with positive ions from our environment, but a session of Halotherapy can help conteract these effects and restore your natural ion balance. A short treatment in our salt room will be sure to enhance your emotional health and decrease stress.
Body Concepts is a Wellness Facility offering various forms of detoxification, stress relief, relaxation, weight loss, body toning and tightening. Taking time to detox and de-stress is vital in maintaining a properly working body. Typically, people feel better, sleep better and have more energy. Body Concepts offers an effective, safe, painless treatment process that will boost your self improvement efforts.
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The Sauna Pod is a modern-day evolution of detoxification and healing in a private, safe and sanitary space.
OWNER
507.381.5467
$24.90 SESSION
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, wellness and respiratory hygiene.
Benefits: Boost immunity and helps with allergies.
A detox foot soak makes joint movement easier in the knees and elbows. Detoxification also promotes weight loss, as it rids your body of crippling chemicals and raises your metabolism to higher levels.
Benefits: Stimulates the immune system.
"I can truthfully say that from day one Gari Jo and her staff at Body Concepts have made me feel welcome and put all their effort into making sure I leave feeling better than when I entered the doors. For the past 5 + years I have continued to make many visits to Body Concepts for my selfcare. I have tried everything they have to offer and enjoy it all. By far, after a long day of work and coaching, I love to take in the Alpha Sauna Pod to relax my brain and my body. I will forever be thankful for Gari Jo and the Body Concepts staff."
—JEWEL FORSTNER, New Ulm
Floating has become the best-kept secret to safely and naturally relieve stress and anxiety. A float tank (ours are more of a float room) provides a weightless environment that when combined with pitch darkness and silence, creates sensory reduction. With the sensations of the outside world removed, your body and mind are allowed to completely relax and unplug.
A 2001 study in the Journal of the Canadian Pain Society found that spending time in a floatation tank effectively decreased anxiety and depression and increased optimism. In summary, floating takes you to your happy place.
Kay Burnett Martin has come full circle. After being born and raised in New Ulm, Martin left the area to get an education and to work in various places. This past April—after 47 years away from her hometown—Kay chose to return to her roots.
She’s now living on South Broadway, only a few blocks from her childhood home—and from the place of her birth, the old Union Hospital.
“I was born a block and a half from my house. Now it’s a funeral home, so I can go out where I started,” she quipped.
Being in New Ulm allows Martin to be closer to her children—both in the western metro—and to have more opportunities than she’d have had in Staples.
By RUTH KLOSSNER
Though she’s only been back for six months, Kay has been quick to latch on to opportunities. This past summer, Martin taught Barn Quilt classes at the Grand in New Ulm and will repeat the classes in October and November.
Martin also hopes to repeat something else that she was involved in at Staples—a barn quilt trail. With about 120 barn quilts on display in a fivecounty area around Staples, a map with photos and descriptions of the quilts was created, encouraging people to hit to road to look at them.
“That would be cool to do here,” she said. “My goal is to get 100 or more barn quilts made around town and to set up a tour. Our classes will go on and on. Charlie Leftridge, the new executive director at the Grand, supports getting grants to do this. I want to get it going.”
Unfortunately, cancer runs in the Burnett family, with her entire family having—or having had—the disease. Both her parents had cancer before they died.
Kay’s sister Barb was diagnosed with lung cancer a year and a half before the disease also hit Kay. She survived it and is now 70.
With that in mind, Kay’s doctor started her on mammograms every six months. On her third one, a tumor was found in 1993 when she was 38, extremely early, and she had a double mastectomy and radiation. She’s doing well, thanks to early diagnosis.
“Here I am, nearly 30 years later,” Kay said. “I’m happy it was something I could take care of, did it, and here I am.”
Both of Kay’s brothers died of cancer, Fritz at the age of 31 and Butch at the age of 64.
Kay overcame another health battle a little over a year ago when she lost 120 pounds in seven months. Fitness was a big part of her weight loss.
During college, and while working at the YMCA, Kay had been a fitness instructor. However, the years of teaching school took a toll, when she wasn’t able to get in the pool. She topped out at 270 pounds when she retired from teaching in 2016.
“I was embarrassed. It’s not who I am inside. I’m a stress eater, I used food
to comfort myself,” she said. “I got to the point where I could hardly walk the block to get to the pool where I was teaching “aquasize” after I retired from teaching. I was a huge mess. Arthritis is strong in my body. I had had both knees replaced, had two back surgeries, and two shoulder surgeries, but I was still in a ton of pain.”
After getting a referral from a shoulder specialist, Martin found her way to Rejuv Medical in Waite Park (St. Cloud). There she was able to get the hormones in her blood balanced and got the pain in her back reduced.
“Then I felt good enough to exercise—which I could do without pain. I decided I should eat better and pushed low carbs. I had given up but, on May 29, 2020, I started exercising three or four hours a day,” Kay said. “I cut back on carbs, I cut out sugars. By January 1, 2021, I had lost 120 pounds. I felt good. I eat protein—eggs, cottage cheese, chicken, hemp seeds, nuts, and berries—and lots and lots of vegetables. I have maintained for eight months now—which I’ve never done in my life. I have to stay strong every day.” RVW
our selection of boards, bread kits, festive beverage sugars, serving Holiday Gatherings, Birthday Parties, Special Anniversaries and Small Company Celebrations.
Born and raised in New Ulm, Kay is the daughter of Joseph William and Virginia “Ginny” Burnett. Her father was the only radiologist in the area for 30 years (19541984). Her mother was one of the first two women elected to the New Ulm City Council, in 1974. She also led the League of Women Voters and the John Lind House restoration. While on the city council, she worked hard to get the Glockenspiel to town, as well as to get the Vogel Pool and Arena built.
Influenced by the park and recreation classes she was able to take in New Ulm— and by park and recreation director Larry Kobs—Kay headed off to Winona State, after graduating from high school in 1973. There she earned degrees in parks and recreation, photography, and art. She worked in YMCAs as aquatic director for several years, but found that other towns
didn’t have park and rec programs like New Ulm does. So, she completed a degree in K-6 elementary education, before stating a 28-year career teaching art in Staples. In 2007, she earned a K-12 art education degree, also from Concordia in St. Paul.
While teaching, Kay started doing foster care and cared for about a dozen kids, including some students, over about a decade. She adopted her first foster child, Matthew, who came to her near death at two months—with “failure to thrive” and many medical needs. He couldn’t even cry or open his eyes. Matthew is now 23 and lives in a group home.
“He’s a very wonderful, cheerful, loving young man,” Kay said. “He’s a very special guy—fun and challenging.”
Kay also has a daughter, Darcy, now 31, who’s a hair stylist in Eden Prairie.
“The Grand is an amazing facility—and a beautiful place to work,” Martin added. “It’s a good place for a retired person to do a little teaching. What’s great about New Ulm is that there are opportunities for people like me who want to stay active. I may be retired, but I’m still doing what I enjoy. I’m not done living— but a full-time elementary teaching position wore a person out.”
Even with that said, Martin was right back in the fray, working with two other art teachers to do a kids’ creativity camp for about 40 kids this past summer.
The Grand also provides a place for Kay to market her nature and New Ulm photography note cards. Martin enjoys catching spectacular scenes on her iPhone 12 and makes them into beautiful note cards. Although she has a fancy 35mm camera, she prefers the convenience and accessibility of her cell phone for most shots.
Martin started doing the note cards about 2007 when she gave some to her family for Christmas. Her older brother Butch told her, “These are really good, you should go into business,” and that’s how it happened.
Going in person to ask if stores would want to carry her cards, Kay soon was selling them in Staples, Brainerd, St. Cloud, Eden Prairie, Nisswa, Motley, as well as New Ulm.
Martin is also using her skills to teach other classes in New Ulm. She’s teaching senior chair fitness at the New Ulm Rec Center every Monday and will soon teach a water exercise class.
“During Covid, I had a dream of teaching the water exercise class I love, water dance. The City has hired me to teach at the new pool, as soon as it opens,” she said, in early September. “The Best Western cooperated with the City to allow lifeguard training in their pool and to allow me to do my water dance workouts there to keep active. I can’t wait to start teaching classes again.”
Having lost 120 lbs. (see sidebar) and focusing on being fit, Martin is happy to be back, teaching fitness classes.
“The fitness part and losing weight work together,” Martin said. “The more I lost, the better I felt. I was thrilled to be hired by the City to teach in their new pool. I really feel blessed that God brought me back to New Ulm to enjoy myself.”
Kay also enjoys herself in the new gardens she established at her Broadway Street home.
“The yard was a mess when I bought the house—it hadn’t been lived in for several years. I put in a huge garden, landscaped, and planted grass,” she said. “I moved in April—I did the yard work first. Eventually I’ll unpack all the boxes.”
Over the years, Martin has also taught adult photography, knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, and pottery.
“Anything I know how to do, I’ll teach. Going into teaching (as a career) was real natural. It’s who I am. As soon as I learn something, it’s time to teach it,” Kay said. RVW
It’s easy to spot Martin’s house on South Broadway Street in New Ulm—just look for the barn quilt on the wall.
ne of my best and dearest friends said to me recently, “You are amazing. And crazy. But those go hand in hand, I think. Most amazing people have to tackle crazy to find their amazing.”
I laughed—not sure I am amazing. I am simply surviving, like most. Crazy—probably—most definitely. But, when times are hard or life throws you a loop, you have no other choice but to find your way in a different way, to continue living.
But let’s start from the beginning.
My name is Kristin, proud mother to a beautiful 12-year-old girl who experienced a panic attack at a well-child check, on September 16, 2020, that triggered acute anxiety/severe panic disorder (a Mayo diagnosis, not mine) that changed our life, perspective, and path forward suddenly and without warning. Any stigmas or preconceived ideas about mental illness, let’s just get rid of them right now.
Anna is blessed with a loving family, beautiful home, and safe community of friends and neighbors, and is an A-student and a dancer. Sadly, like any physical illness, mental illness can present just as suddenly, and happen to any of us.
Prior to September 16, 2020, our daughter had no indicators of any underlying mental health conditions or illness. Our daughter’s sensory system, following her first and only panic attack, never relented and got progressively worse.
Symptoms included fluttering/upset stomach, dizziness, feelings of being hot, racing heart, perceived shortness of breath, and loss of sensation in limbs. Her panic attacks, or irrational state of fear, could/can last minutes or hours. Symptoms could/can appear seizure-like—uncontrollable body movements, eyes closed or they do not see, brain functions disassociate or go off-line, and sometimes an inability to speak. She enters a state of fight-or-flight—and WILL fight (hit anything and everything) and WILL flee. We have found her hiding in unusual places—once under our snow blower in the garage—and trying to leave the house, a couple of times in her PJs in sub-zero temps. Our daughter often mentions “life does not feel real” and dying feels easier.
In less than two weeks after her first panic attack, our daughter was admitted to a local hospital and, for seven days, waited for an inpatient mental health bed. Her symptoms got progressively worse, terrifyingly worse, nearly resulting in sedation and restraint to calm her body, mind, and sensory system that was malfunctioning.
From that moment on, our daughter was in-and-out of mental health hospitals for nearly two months, and on various different psychotropic drugs that did not appear to do her many favors, despite best intentions. Medications made her feel worse—specifically increasing dizziness— and the induced physical symptoms associated with panic scared her, increasing her anxiety.
It became a viscous cycle. The sicker our daughter felt, the greater her anxiety, and the more severe and often her panic presented. Her world became very small. She was unable to attend sixth grade or dance with her team. We could not attend the children’s museum or the zoo for
By KRISTIN REHKAMPmore than 45 minutes. A hot boat ride, cold water swim, or go-kart races tripped physical symptoms resulting in panic attacks. She survived in a protective bubble. “Living” was paused.
It quickly became painfully obvious that mental illness does not just impact one person. It impacts a family and a community. There were times my husband and I had to ask our nine-year-old son to take his fiveyear-old sister into her bedroom. He knew to grab a movie, headphones and to close the door to avoid the unwelcome sounds and sights of the panic attacks that plagued our oldest. I cannot begin to describe how that felt as a parent, recognizing the insanity of the ask and the horrible reason for it.
In addition, I remember tears from our littlest every time we took her sister to a medical appointment. Tears that stemmed from our oldest’s second ER visit, resulting in a transfer to a local in-patient mental health hospital. Our littlest never got to say goodbye to her sister and waited 17 days to see her again. Every time our oldest experienced a panic attack, it induced fear in our littlest around the possibility that her sister would be “taken” and not come home.
I remember being in the throes of keeping our oldest daughter safe, while my heart broke for my other two children lost in the chaos of it all. Experiencing things, being asked to do things, seeing and hearing things you would never wish for any child.
Between September 2020 and August 2021, we have logged a total of three ER visits, three extended hospital stays, and a trip to Mayo in Rochester. We have consulted 12 different mental and physical health providers, considering everything from behavioral health to infectious disease(s). We have tried more medications and supplements than any child should ever brave – 40 to date (the last time I counted). We have a medical three-ring binder for our daughter that is bursting at the seams. In February I put my corporate career on hold, adding care provider to my personal/professional resume. I remind myself every day that my greatest and most important job is and always will be “mom.” The job does not come with a fancy corporate title like those I have held in the past, or a paycheck that supported a more than comfortable lifestyle. I have neither of those today…but I have my daughter.
We slowly move forward. Day-by-day. It is truly a mountain our family had to summit before healing could begin. We had to overturn every rock and be ready to accept the truth that there were no quick fixes, infectious disease, or “cause of.” We surrounded ourselves by a strong, diverse, and comprehensive mental and physical health team. One team that was both right for our daughter and our family. A team that included Washington County, a medication manager, equestrian therapists, exposure therapists, a pediatric team that did not give up, our daughter’s compassionate dance studio and school counselors/administrators who cared beyond the call of duty. This team met two to three times a week this past summer, working with our daughter in our home, her dance studio, and at her school. They met her where she needed them most (both physically and mentally). Rather than avoiding anxiety/panic attacks, our daughter and family learned to shoulder them, plan for them, and accept that the only way was through—not around.
We learned not to be afraid and slowly, over time, we watch our daughter’s panic disorder recede into more manageable emotions and behavior.
Our beautiful daughter is dancing again, started seventh grade on August 31, and is a stronger version of herself. Along the way, we took some right turns and, I think, we may have taken some wrong turns. But we learned. We learned about our daughter, we learned about mental illness, we learned how to be a support system and stronger for each other. We cried a lot. We also laughed a lot, and reflected on our blessings.
I am reading the book, Limitless, by Mallory Weggemann, a Paralympic gold medalist. Her words resonate deeply and often occupy my thoughts. Weggemann wisely says, “Life is about the long game, and what seems overwhelming in the moment could very well be pointing us toward something greater. It’s up to us to push past the noise of our present, past expectations placed upon us, and into the boundless possibilities of our unwritten future.”
From Mallory and others in my life who quietly and patiently guide, coach and love me, I am learning that there isn’t really such a thing as going back to “normal” after trauma or tragedy. You cannot go back because somewhere along the way your perception of normal changes, based on your experience. Life for me, for my daughter, for my family, is still limitless. It will just be different.
I have slowly and intentionally molded a very different life than the one I lived prior to our daughter’s first indication of a panic disorder last
La Vie Est Belle, LLC (lavieestbelle.live) is an online storefront with a mission to inspire giving and beautiful living with unique gifts, home décor, and adorable items to delight babies and kids. In honor of our daughter, 20 percent of our net profits are donated to non-profits supporting children’s mental health awareness and education.
I joined PrairieCare Fund board of directors, a non-profit grant making foundation with a mission to improve youth mental health and well-being.
I got involved in my local community by joining our local chamber of commerce, a woman’s business bridge and local leadership program. We raised $15K—through generous donations of friends and family—to provide 1,200 custom “Prairie Bears” for children admitted to PrairieCare’s inpatient mental health hospital in Brooklyn Park. Bears are a collaboration between our daughter, family, DEMDACO, and PrairieCare. La Vie Est Belle was fueled by these new partnerships and a collective desire to do something meaningful for youth and families braving mental illness.
Although I may never understand the “why” behind our journey with our daughter, I do believe all things happen for a reason. I am hopeful my family will lend a strong and positive voice for children/adolescents, families, and those serving our communities working to break down barriers, raise awareness, and make a difference in the lives of those braving mental illness. As we advocate for our daughter, we look forward to evolving mental health/well-being thinking and care models for those who journey with us. These individuals and families are some of the most courageous people we know.
La Vie Est Belle (a French expression meaning “life is beautiful”) was born out of the desire to tell our story—to be a voice, mindful reminder, and community for others. We are choosing our own path to happiness, and to love life now. We hope to inspire others as much as they inspire us.
I look forward to tomorrow without the fear and uncertainty the past has caused, realizing the blessings and strength that have found us when not
INSPIRE IMPACT: CELEBRATING THE POWER OF PASSION AND PURPOSE
INSPIRE IMPACT: CELEBRATING THE POWER OF PASSION AND PURPOSE
Presented by
Presented by
Are you looking to build your network, become a more effective leader, and celebrate the qualities that make you truly unique? YWCA Mankato is proud to announce the 2021 Women’s Leadership Conference. This two-day hybrid event is perfect for women looking to discover the passion that dwells within themselves and learn more about using that spark to inspire their goals and create impact.
Are you looking to build your network, become a more effective leader, and celebrate the qualities that make you truly unique? YWCA Mankato is proud to announce the 2021 Women’s Leadership Conference. This two-day hybrid event is perfect for women looking to discover the passion that dwells within themselves and learn more about using that spark to inspire their goals and create impact.
Attendees will hear from keynote speakers, participate in breakout sessions, and engage in facilitated discussion via Zoom. Wrap up the conference with an in-person networking social event and connect with other empowered women.
VIRTUAL CONFERENCE:
VIRTUAL CONFERENCE:
NOVEMBER 2ND & 4TH
NOVEMBER 2ND & 4TH
9:00 AM - NOON
9:00 AM - NOON
SOCIAL HOUR:
SOCIAL HOUR:
NOVEMBER 4TH
NOVEMBER 4TH
4:00 PM
4:00 PM
Attendees will hear from keynote speakers, participate in breakout sessions, and engage in facilitated discussion via Zoom. Wrap up the conference with an in-person networking social event and connect with other empowered women. Learn more at ywcamankato.org
Evoke Neck is the industry’s first hands-free applicator designed specifically to address the neck and submental areas. The patented technology harnesses the power of RF energy to remodel facial tissue and improve its appearance.
Evoke Face is the industry’s first hands-free applicator designed specifically to address cheeks and jowls. The patented technology harnesses the power of RF energy to remodel facial tissue and improve its appearance.
Morpheus8 Morpheus8 combines the power of micro-needling and RF (radio frequency) to penetrate deeper into the skin than any other microneedling device allowing it to stimulate collagen production to truly contour and transform different parts of the body. The result – a smoother and sleeker appearance.
Morpheus8 targets subdermal layers of the skin and tissue to remodel collagen on the face and body. that exhibit wrinkles, discoloration or acne scarring are suitable for treatment.
This fractional tissue treatment simulates the production of collagen in the underlying layers of the dermis. Morpheus8’s modular tips enable procedures to be customized for large or small body areas.
Morpheus8 effectively remodels skin and tissue with minimal risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Patients should expect little to no thermal damage to skin types I – VI.
Good health is more than physical and mental. A healthy child needs stimulation and challenges in the classroom to be their best and to grow into a vital, thinking adult. It is essential to their well-being. In order to offer these opportunities to children, educators need supplies. Many people don’t realize how much of their own money teachers put into what is necessary for kids in the classroom. School funding only goes so far, and classroom budgets are limited.
Kyena Cornelius, a former classroom teacher and current college professor at Minnesota State University Mankato (MSUM), knows all about the challenges current teachers are facing.
“It’s not the pencils or paper they are asking parents to buy,” Cornelius said, “but rather supplies to enhance their curriculum and help students engage in the materials.”
Some teachers are getting creative and establishing “Fund my Classroom” pages or Amazon Wishlists, but ultimately the expense is their own.
According to the National Center on Educational Statistics, teachers— more than any other profession—pay for their supplies out of their own pockets. Up to 95 percent of teachers spend at least a portion of their income on classroom supplies. Of that 95 percent, the average teacher spends 2.5 percent of their gross salary, or about $495, each year.
Families in Mankato are fortunate to have a unique funding source for its educators. The Educare Foundation, a non-profit created in 1995 to support Mankato Area Public Schools (MAPS), provides grants to fund programs and activities meant to enhance the educational experience of the district’s students.
The unique funding school district funding, as well as its impact on the Mankato community, drew in Cornelius who, as a military wife, worked in schools in five states and a foreign country. Through it all, she had never been in a school district with this kind of organization.
“It was helping teachers with educational materials, and teachers were no longer having to fund themselves,” Cornelius, who remembers just how much she used to spend on her own classroom as a teacher, said. “They don’t have to beg and ask. They can write up a proposal and go to people who understand the value of education and can make it happen.”
Between its mini grants of $1000 and less and its larger initiative grants, Educare Foundation provides MAPS educators with roughly $65,000 a year. These dollars are solely community donations raised through sponsorships and fundraising.
Educators are encouraged to apply online for grants. On a quarterly basis, the Educare Foundation reviews the applications and considers them based on innovation, alignment with MAPS curriculum, and mission, and sustainability.
As a Educare Foundation board member the past three years, Cornelius has been able to share her unique perspective. That comes not just from her extensive background in education, but from her passion for making education impactful for students by engaging them through real world connections, individualized learning experiences, and creating the feeling of community in classrooms and schools.
Kyena’s passion for education began with her own experience as a child of a military family.
“I was a military brat and we moved a lot,” Cornelius reminisced. “I attended 15 schools in seven states and a different country. They were all different, but the one thing they all had in common was that I worked from a book, I sat, and listened to a teacher.”
Though she recalled listening, reading and producing, she never felt involved in the classroom.
Times have changed and, as an educator, Cornelius knew that methods of teaching had to change as well.
Her experience working with students with learning disabilities and emotional, behavioral disorders as a special education teacher made her realize teachers need to approach education with fresh eyes and new strategies.
That was the start of her mission to engage kids in learning by adjusting her teaching methods to their individual needs. It’s what she loves about teaching now.
Kyena later held various roles in education, including instructional coaching for co-teacher pairs and professional development. These experiences helped her to realize that teachers were coming into the profession unprepared. She went back to school and obtained her Doctorate in special education with an emphasis on teacher preparation from John Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.
Now, as the associate professor of special education and undergrad students, as well as the College of Education accreditation coordinator at MSUM, she is preparing the next generation of educators to make a positive impact on our youth.
Cornelius emphasizes the importance of community to her students at MSUM. There is more to education than a solid instructional model, strategies, and interventions to use in the classroom. She frequently will challenge her students by asking how they will engage their own students to be active members of the classroom and active members of their communities.
Cornelius feels that it’s all about building relationships with kids. Teachers need to know individual educational needs, as well as emotional needs. When those two are brought together, kids are more engaged and more likely to be active participants in their education.
Kyena asks the questions, “How do I engage a student to want to learn? How do I pick up on their interests and how can I make this relevant to them?”
Through her work as a professor and as an Educare Foundation board member, Cornelius can support teachers by providing them with the tools they need to be successful in the classroom and, in turn, make a big impact for their students.
“Kyena is passionate about education on all levels,” said Jessica Blais, fellow Educare Foundation board member.
Through this lens Cornelius can provide guidance on the Grants and Benefits Committees for Educare. She has a thoughtful approach to the process, ensuring grant requests are well researched, teachers have had the appropriate professional development, the project is sustainable, and
the project will be impactful to the students. Cornelius knows firsthand what goes into lesson planning for each grant proposal they receive, and what will be impactful for students.
“Developing a lesson isn’t just me standing up in front of a classroom and talking,” Cornelius said. “The question is, how can we find innovative ways to teach and engage our students?”
Kyena believes school shouldn’t be a chore. For most of her adult life, she has tried to get kids excited about learning. Over the past three years on the Educare Foundation board, Cornelius says she had the privilege of awarding many grants that allow kids to see education in a different way, engage with it in a different way, and then demonstrate their knowledge in a different way.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs and supplies are popular teacher requests and offer real world connections to students.
Wendy Weber, Hoover Elementary third grade teacher and district teacher representative for the Educare Foundation, has seen the benefits of those real-world connections first hand. Weber and fellow third grade teacher Andrea Dilbeck co-wrote a recent grant for supplies for STEM activities in their classrooms.
“The Educare grant we received continues to keep kids innovative and creative, all while having hands-on learning experiences,” Weber said. “The kids love the challenges to improve upon their prior explorations as they problem solve to make their work even better the next time. They are little engineers at work.”
One of the most creative grants Cornelius has seen was a grant requesting supplies for a snow curriculum combining STEM and physical education.
“They talked about the engineering plan of building a snowman,” said an excited Cornelius. “It got the kids out and moving and physically engaged. Students were able to see how engineering impacts their daily lives.”
Another recent project funded in part by Educare Foundation was the Greenhouse Project. Set to begin this month, the Greenhouse Project promotes lifelong skills—and skills beneficial to the workforce including problem solving, critical thinking, technology literacy, and knowledge of plant and food production. Students work together to grow healthy foods and ultimately better understand the farm to table concept.
“Our greenhouse includes state-of-art, industry standard equipment that few schools have,” Ethan Dado, Mankato East and West High School Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources instructor and FFA advisor, said. “We are excited to have the greenhouse space to teach these skills in a hands-on, minds-on manner.”
Another part of engaging students revolves around the sense of community in the classroom and school. That community feel can be determined by whether or not a child can identify with the curriculum of the classroom.
“We know when students read, they want to identify with the main character,” Cornelius said. “A student of color is more likely to find a book with an animal or car as the main character than a child that looks like them.”
As Cornelius pointed out, there are students who cannot find books in their own classrooms to identify with. It’s challenging to motivate and engage a child who doesn’t feel a part of the classroom community.
This year, the Educare Foundation provided funding to increase classroom libraries to include multicultural books.
In addition to being passionate about engaging individual students, Cornelius is a strong believer in building community. She feels the innovation of many of the funded projects are giving kids skills and resources to be good community members. For example, a local artist worked with students to create the mural at a MAPS middle school. It not only benefited the students through exposure to the arts, but also built positive school culture and community. When kids feel a part of the school community, they are more engaged. Cornelius feels that, when students are exposed to art and culture, they are developing lifelong skills such as expression, engagement, and communication that helps them to be more wellrounded individuals.
“We can show how all of these projects are aligned to the curriculum and good for the student community,” Cornelius said. “The more a student is involved and belongs to a community, the more they are going to be a community provider when they graduate.”
Through her leadership as a professor in education and her role on the Educare Foundation, Kyena has been able to support local teachers in their efforts to make education impactful for their students. For both her instruction of future educators at MSUM and in her review of grants, she is mindful of the importance of engaging students through real world connections, individualized learning experiences, and creating community in the classroom.
“I like that these grants are really giving kids the opportunity to make learning more meaningful,” Cornelius said. “They are able to actually see the connection to the real world, instead of being told there is a connection, and that’s life changing.” RVW
DOORS OPEN: 7P.M. SPOTLIGHT: 8:15 P.M.
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Because they’ve seen celebrities who overdo it, many women think they aren’t the type to get Botox or fillers.
Skin treatments can be done safely and conservatively to give women a natural, glowing and more youthful look. Less goes a long way.
As women, we want to look our best and feel confident about how we look. As a female nurse practitioner who has provided skin treatments in a medical spa for more than 18 years, I understand this. And with a ton of products and treatments on the market, I know the choices can be confusing.
So, here’s your guide to skin treatments and skin care.
Botox: Botox is a wrinkle treatment to smooth frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead furrows, and those “11’s’ between the eyes. Botox is a safe and effective anti-aging injection. Your practitioner will customize the treatment to you and may start with lower doses based on results which last four to six months.
Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers, like Juvederm, are injections of hyaluronic acid and water that creates a gel that can plump up your skin. Hyaluronic acid is actually found in body tissue and adds plumpness. Dermal fillers smooth away marionette lines, those lines around the mouth and nose. Fillers can add volume to the cheek area or increase lip fullness. Effects last up to a year.
Laser treatments: Lasers are used in a variety of treatments. They are most commonly used to rejuvenate sun-damaged skin and even out skin tone and pigmentation, freckles, and dark spots to make your skin look clear and bright. Lasers can also be used to resurface and smooth the skin texture and remove hair.
Skin Tightening: Skin tightening with Exilis Therapy can help contour the neck and lower face by tightening loose or sagging skin.
Microdermabrasion: DiamondGlow is a 3-in-1 technique that exfoliates the skin to remove rough, dry skin, remove oil and dirt from the pores, and infuse condition-specific serums directly into the skin. Regular treatments can keep the skin soft, glowing and healthy. Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments, skin tightening, and microdermabrasion should only be done by a qualified medical professional. Ask about certifications, education and experience. Look for a medical spa that offers free consultations. Your medical professional should examine your skin and listen to you.
Be realistic about results. We can’t turn back the clock or defy gravity, but skin treatments can make you look and feel confident as you age. Several treatments may be needed to get the desired effects. Like hair coloring or exercise, beautiful skin takes consistent care.
My best advice is to wash your face and neck every evening with a facial cleanser, followed by a moisturizer for the face. Our faces take a lot of punishment from our environment, pollution, and sun. Cleanse in the morning and apply sunscreen formulated for the face. Don’t stop at the jawline; apply to your neck and décolletage too. Then put on your makeup as usual.
Remember to drink lots of water and eat fresh fruits and veggies. What goes in your body shows on the outside.
Love your skin!
LISA MONTAG Nurse Practitioner Skin Essentials Mankato Clinic
About 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their life, and many women don’t have a family history of it. But breast cancer is actually 99% curable when caught early, which is why it’s so important to get your mammogram.
To schedule your mammogram online at an Olivia location, visit healthpartners.com/schedule
With fiber, vitamins B6 and potassium, bananas help sustain energy and muscle function. An all-natural peanut butter has healthy fats, protein and fiber to keep blood sugars stable.
Hello everyone! My name is Holly Ellison and I am the on-campus Registered Dietitian (RD) serving Minnesota State University –Mankato! #hornsup
As a campus dietitian, with a passion for preventative nutrition, I focus on helping students, employees, and the dining service staff, develop a positive relationship with food. I also assist students with food allergies and dietary restrictions, ensuring they receive safe, wholesome, and delicious meals in all of our dining services locations. Additionally, I counsel individuals, conduct group presentations and answers general questions regarding nutrition and living a healthy lifestyle. In my spare time, I enjoy baking, gardening, biking, reading, and spending time with my family and friends (of the human and animal kind).
Let me start by saying that dietitians are real people too, we love food, we crave sweets, we overindulge and we do NOT have time to cook a five-course organic whole foods meal every night for our family. So, on a personal and a professional level, I know it can be hard to change your eating habits. But it CAN help to focus on small changes. Here are a few tips, choose one or two and start there – small changes make a big difference over time.
• Calorie restriction does NOT equate to weight loss. Stop counting! Focus on eating high quality, whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, meats, nuts, and whole grains.
• Choose good carbs, not no carbs. Whole grains are your best bet.
• Pay attention to the protein package. Eat a variety of plant and animal based proteins.
• Feed your gut bacteria. Eat probiotic foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut and consume plenty of fiber (a prebiotic and aa food source for your gut bacteria).
• Choose foods with healthy fats, limit foods high in saturated fat, and avoid foods with trans fat. Plant oils, nuts, and fish are the healthy sources.
• Choose a fiber-filled diet, rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
• Eat more vegetables and fruits. Go for color and variety, think the colors of the rainbow – red, orange, yellow, green, blue and don’t forget there is purple too!
• Calcium is important. Milk is great, but it isn’t the only source.
• Water is best to quench your thirst. Skip the sugary drinks.
• Eat the yolks! They are loaded in nutrients and won’t raise your cholesterol (saturated fats and trans fats do that).
• Eating less salt is good for everyone’s health. Choose more fresh foods and fewer processed foods.
• Moderate drinking can be healthy—but not for everyone. You must weigh the benefits and risks.
• A daily multivitamin is a great nutrition insurance policy. Some extra vitamin D may add an extra health boost.
• Low fat products commonly equate to high sugar or added artificial sweeteners! Work to limit your consumption of sugar and artificial sweeteners.
• Nutrition and exercise are NOT the pain predictors of a healthy lifestyle. It’s hard to deny that nutrition and movement play a critical role, but the components of health do not end there. Health is the accumulation of everything that feeds your mind body and soul.
By HOLLY ELLISON, RD, LD Campus Dietitian MNSU – Mankato 507.389.1441 Holly.ellison@mnsu.edu
After living in the Twin Cities for the early years of their married life, Jinelle and Justin Fryklund decided they wanted to raise a family elsewhere—either in the countr y or on a lake.
As fate would have it, they found both on the shores of Lake Elysian, at the end of a dead end gravel road.
“Elysian means ‘heavenly fields’ and it sure has been for us,” Jinelle said. “We’re so grateful to live here. It was meant to be that we found it.”
While the Fryklunds’ 3.3 acre site on the lakeshore may be heavenly now, it wasn’t when they found it through a Realtor three years ago.
“It was run down. There was garbage everywhere. The house was dusty and damp— but we saw the potential and fell in love,” Jinelle said.
The transition to the beautiful site that it is now took a lot of work.
“I took four tons of trash to the dump and there were 80 to 100 gallons of used oil here,” Justin said.
Zeek, nearest, and Clover love to run up and down the steps and all the way to the lake where they hop in the water.
Like
Large windows on the lake side provide a great view, from both the main and lower levels of the home. And the wrap-around deck makes a great place for Zeek to watch what’s happening inside. It’s not surprising for Justin and Jinelle to see deer, mink, muskrats, opossums, bald eagles, and more from their home.
Justin has also rebuilt and restored various fixtures of the house and yard, including the gazebo. It’s taken a lot of hard work, but the effort has been worth it, and they enjoy sharing it with others.
“We love having people over. We have lake parties in the summer and skating in the winter,” Jinelle said.
Justin is pilot for Delta Airlines, flying mainly domestic flights. He usually makes one trek to the Twin Cities a week, a trip that’s usually easier than his previous drives from St. Louis Park to the airport were. Justin is gone three, four, or five days at a time—then may have the next week off to work on all the things he still wants to do at the house and yard.
Justin and Jinelle met when she was a flight attendant. The couple now has a five-month old daughter, Quinnley Faith Fryklund, who they’re excited to raise in their corner of
The
acreage also includes a horse barn tucked in the trees. Justin uses it for storage but it might someday again have horses, when Quinn grows up. The land behind it is government acreage, now
Making the house and yard what it is today took a lot of work. Justin trimmed trees, cleaned up and restored the fountain and pond, and hauled four tons of trash to the
Jinelle, who is originally from Henderson, works parttime with Hope Interfaith Center. She and her sister, Amy, also have the business, The Sisters Rising, that inspires and empowers women to live their best lives.
Multiple flower beds grace the yard. Jinelle credits her sister, Amy, who lives with them, for keeping the flowers alive and thriving during this hot, dry year.
Jinelle and Justin often share morning coffee in this beautiful spot.
Fryklunds’
rented out to pasture cattle.
What a view from the deck—hot tub, multiple level decks, gazebo, pool, and mini waterfall.
dump.
This deck, midway down, includes potted geraniums that are at least 20 years old and had been raised by Jinelle’s mother who passed away in 2016.
Currently, Minnesota’s Women’s Economic Security Act (WESA) requires employers to provide nursing mothers unpaid break time to express breast milk, unless doing so would “unduly disrupt” operations.1 Employers must reasonably try to give employees a private area with an electrical outlet (not a bathroom) to express their milk. The duration and availability of the break is limited only by the employer’s operations. If providing the time would “unduly disrupt” operations, the employer is not obligated to provide the break.
Minnesota employers with 21 or more employees on at least one job site must also provide reasonable pregnancy accommodations for pregnancy and childbirth-related health conditions. 2 The WESA divided these accommodations into two categories: advice-based accommodations; and no advice/undue hardship accommodations. The second category of pregnancy accommodations is limited to requests for “(1) more frequent restroom, food, and water breaks; (2) seating; and (3) limits on lifting over 20 pounds.” 3Employees do not need advice from their doula or health care provider when requesting these accommodations, and employers cannot claim these limited accommodations would impose an undue hardship. Employers must engage in the interactive process (joint effort through discussion and brainstorming) with employees to determine whether a reasonable accommodation(s) is available. But, unlike nursing accommodations, accommodations under this Minnesota law are limited to employees that worked (1) at least 12 months; and (2) average weekly hours of at least half of a full-time position in the same classification. 4
These rights for nursing and pregnant mothers were substantially changed by Minnesota’s 92nd Legislature passage of the 1st Special Session Law, Chapter 10, Article 3.
Beginning January 1, 2022, all Minnesota employers must provide nursing employees reasonable daily paid break times during the twelve (12) months following their child’s birth to express breast milk. Aside from making the lactation breaks paid time, the new law answered the question that plagued employers since WESA’s passage: How long after childbirth does an employee have a right to lactation breaks? Reasonable efforts to provide a private location with an outlet are still required. These lactation breaks are still restricted by the employer’s operations and shall be provided only in a manner that does not unduly disrupt such operations.
Pregnancy accommodations will also extend to all employees of employers with 15 or more employees, regardless of length of
1Minn. Stat. § 181.939.
employment or hours worked, starting January 1, 2022. The new law did not change the accommodations available without advice of a doula or health care provider and for which an employer cannot claim undue hardship. Further, the list of potential reasonable accommodations outlined in the statute remain unchanged.
Temporary position reassignment is a reasonable accommodation available under the law, but employers are not required to create any position, discharge another employee, transfer another employee with greater seniority, or promote an employee to accomplish a temporary reassignment or transfer. The law does not (now or after January 1, 2022) affect any other law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex or pregnancy or diminish any coverage of pregnancy, childbirth, or their related health conditions provided by other laws. Lastly, employers are and shall remain strictly prohibited from retaliating against any employee who requests accommodations or exercises her rights under WESA, nor are they allowed to require an employee take a leave or accept an accommodation.
The amendments to WESA taking effect on January 1, 2022, provide more protection and a little more clarity on a very important issue impacting many women in the workplace.
This article is not intended to be responsive to any individual situation or concerns as the contents of this article are intended for general informational purposes only. Readers are urged not to act upon the information contained in this article without first consulting competent legal advice regarding implications of a particular factual situation. Questions and additional information can be submitted to a Gislason & Hunter Attorney or to the writers of this article.
JENNIFER GISH Attorney Gislason &
2Under the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), employers with 15 or more employees must reasonably accommodate qualified disabled individuals. Pregnancy and childbirth-related health conditions may constitute a disability under the MHRA or ADA.
3Minn. Stat. § 181.9414, subd. 1.
4See Minn. Stat. §§ 181.940, 181.9414. Neither MHRA nor the ADA limit an employer’s duty to reasonably accommodate disabled employees is not limited based on length of service or hours worked
There is no way to halt the aging process, but that doesn’t mean we can’t do our best to fight it. If you follow these tips and add these products to your daily skin care routine, your skin will stay youthful for as long as possible.
To say that your skin is important might be the understatement of the year. The health of your skin not only impacts how you look, but also affects the quality of life in general. That's why it’s so crucial to use the correct skin products.
The beauty industry is filled with misinformation and false claims, but we have the inside scoop on everything you need to know about skin care from a professional. In this guide, we will teach you how to take your antiaging face care routine up a notch by following these six simple steps! #nofilter needed to show off this skin! These are our best kept skin secrets and we are spilling all of them today.
Face Wash
Cleansing is important for removing any skin care product or makeup that you’ve applied during the day, as well as natural oil and bacteria build-up. This allows your products to work their best! Cleansing removes anything from lotion to makeup on top of dead cells so they can work better in the renewal process. In order to keep your skin safe and healthy, you should use a gentle cleanser that is pH-balanced.
You say it's time to get your skin looking radiant and youthful again? HA is the answer. You'll be able to eliminate wrinkles and lines. Hyaluronic acid gives your skin structure and contributes to its plump, hydrated look! This natural ingredient has recently been generating buzz as scientists have discovered it may also help heal wounds more quickly than traditional methods. We’re sure you have heard of collagen, but Hyaluronic acid is the real deal. Benefits include: moisturized skin, smoothed out wrinkles and fine lines, and increased elasticity.
As an added bonus we recommend a Hyaluronic Acid with Peptides.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks of protein such as collagen, elastin and keratin. These proteins are the foundations of your skin and are responsible for its texture, strength and resilience. When applied topically to the skin, peptides trigger skin cells to build collagen and elastin, making skin look and act younger.
They say that beauty is a choice, but it's hard to tell who does the choosing when all of us want different things! For those looking for an easy way out with their skin tone and texture issues, vitamin C serums are legendary because they work. They can diminish uneven skin-tone areas from post acne scarring or sun damage while also fading dark spots too stubborn for topical treatment alone. Vitamin C works best if used consistently over time. You can expect an accelerated production in collagen and elastin that will help detoxify any inflammation or damage on your face caused by environmental factors all while protecting against future aging effects!
As as added bonus we recommend a Vitamin C with Vitamin E & Ferulic Acid. Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant to neutralize free radicals that come into play when our skin is exposed to any external environmental stress. Ferulic acid is an antioxidant that works to boost the effects of other antioxidants, it helps to stabilize the vitamin C.
Retinols
Retinol is hands down a non-negotiable in your anti-aging skin care routine. Vitamin A derivatives clear acne flare ups, evens out tone and texture, stimulates collagen, and minimizes age spots. Retinoids have the ability to neutralize free radicals in your skin that may be causing collagen damage. Retinol has scientifically proven properties to battling aging as well as clear breakouts, stimulate a person's natural production of collagen which helps prevent wrinkles from forming while also minimizing any signs of skin damage such like dark circles or sunspots due to radiation exposure during youth.
Moisturizer
It’s never too late to start taking care of your skin, and a proper moisturizer is one of those things that can make a huge difference without visiting the cosmetic surgeon. Moisturizers are all the rave, and not only do they boast major hydration benefits, but can also contain powerful ingredients that will keep skin looking its best for as long as possible. Moisturizing is a must for any skin type. It can reduce the chances of experiencing problems such as dryness, wrinkles, and scars from acne breakouts, while giving your skin a natural glow. Moisturized skin stays soft all day long which helps fight off signs of aging on top of making other blemishes less visible. So go ahead— throw in moisturizer to your daily routine.
Sunscreen
Sun protection is one surefire way to keep your skin looking as young and even-toned as possible. The sun, which causes the bulk of visible signs of aging on our skin, does so by breaking down collagen and causing abnormalities in elastin—all leading up to thinner skin with wrinkles! You might think the sun is only good for your skin, but it will cause premature aging. It is never too late to start using sunscreen. With age comes the realization that we are not invincible, and so it's important to protect yourself from wrinkles, sun spots and other negative consequences of overexposure.
An anti-aging routine is a surefire way to keep your skin looking young. You need to take care of your skin like you would any other part of your body— with patience and attention, using products that are tailored specifically for this natural armor we all rely on every day. It's not hard or restrictive, but rather a well-rounded routine that will keep us looking our best as we age gracefully into the next phase in life.
EMILY GIDDINGS, RN Giddie Skin Medspa, Mankato MN Certified Aesthetic Injector
Working in veterinary medicine is anything but boring. One of my favorite jobs is being the surgery technician, particularly overseeing foreign body surgeries. It’s like Christmas morning as a kid, when you see all the presents around the tree and you can’t wait to see what’s inside. Only this time, it’s patiently waiting to see what’s inside the pet’s intestines (although, the smell does not compare to warm cookies). I am always amazed at what pets will eat. Some very popular, expensive treasures, include socks, underwear, tampons, corn cobs, hair bands, and various toys. After the treasure is removed, the pet usually recovers really well. But what about all the things that pets eat that can’t just be removed? It’s time to talk about the nitty gritty of pet toxicities.
There are tons of different toxicities that can harm your pet and even kill it. The most commonly known food toxicity is chocolate. Milk chocolate is
not nearly as dangerous as dark chocolate. This is because the darker chocolate has more theobromine in it, which is the ingredient that causes the toxicity. Baker’s chocolate is the most dangerous. The toxic dose can be calculated based on the size of the pet and the amount consumed.
Unlike chocolate, grapes and raisins in unspecific amounts can send your pet right into kidney failure. Some pets may be able to tolerate large amounts, and some will be severely sick with just a couple nibbles. Garlic and onion are also very toxic—but not because of the bad breath they cause—as they damage your pet’s red blood cells and cause them to rupture. Xylitol (found in certain peanut butters, chewing gum, ketchup, syrup and other baked goods) is another very dangerous ingredient that can cause an over production of insulin resulting in low blood sugar and liver failure.
So, think twice before giving your dog those scraps from supper! There are also non-food items that pose great threats to our fourlegged friends, such as sweet tasting antifreeze (ethylene glycol). Just a couple licks are enough to poison a large dog. This toxic choice has a quick consequence but does have an antidote. Due to the drug’s short expiration, the antidote is usually only found in emergency clinics. At Easter beautiful lilies are displayed across churches and homes. Just a few bites from these beautiful flowers are enough to put your cat in kidney failure. A home with a cat should never be shared with a lily. Ibuprofen is toxic to pets. People often give this medication in hopes to decrease pain, but our pets do not metabolize this medication the same way humans do. Even a small dose can be enough to cause kidney failure. Marijuana can cause some of the same symptoms in pets as it does in people but it can also be very toxic in higher doses. If your pet consumes this drug, please be honest with your vet so we can work on helping your pet make a full recovery. We also often get phone calls about pets eating other human medications. Please keep your medications in a container away from your pets.
There are also items that cause a great deal of discomfort, pain, and irreversible damage. Alkaline batteries, for example, can leak a fluid that burns your pet’s mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Batteries are not cheap, so please just put them in secure lockdown to avoid this situation.
Pennies made before 1982 have zinc in them which, when ingested, gets into the blood stream and can cause anemia and liver damage. So, if you find a penny, pick it up, you will have much better luck.
Laundry detergent is apparently enticing for pets but causes severe burns in their mouths and often causes upper airway inflammation. Then there are the products, that if they don’t kill you will only make you miserable. Many people like to give their dogs cooked bones, but these bones do not dissolve well in pet’s stomachs, leading not only to foreign bodies but other GI upset. Fatty foods can cause painful bouts of pancreatitis and expensive vet bills.
Rat baits are dicey as well. There are many different types of baits. If your pet gets into rat bait, be sure to have the package on hand, so the ingredients can be seen. Some of these ingredients will cause some GI issues, while some will cause clotting problems and others neurological problems.
With many of these toxicities, you may not see signs for hours or days—while others only take minutes. If you suspect your pet got into any of these items listed, please seek help immediately.
Who are you gonna call? Not Ghostbusters, but the Pet Poison helpline (855-764-7661, fees apply) as it is equipped with answers on all toxicities. If it is during normal business hours, reach out to your veterinarian and follow their advice.
It’s probably fair to assume that you’re aware that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Chances are you’ve participated in a 5K walk or run, given a monetary contribution to a foundation or fundraiser, or liked and shared a pink ribbon post on Facebook this month. These are all valuable ways to show and share your support of this cause. And it’s a worthy cause. It’s estimated that over 280,000 new breast cancer cases will be diagnosed in the United States in 2021. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in U.S. women, behind lung cancer.
This month, I challenge you to not only support Breast Cancer Awareness Month but to take your own awareness of breast cancer one step further. I encourage you to be aware of the risk factors for breast cancer and what strategies you can implement in your lifestyle to reduce your risk.
Breast cancer risk factors include:
• A family history of breast cancer.
• Inherited genes that increase cancer risk, such as gene mutations BRCA1 and BRCA2.
• Beginning your period at a younger age, before age 12.
• Beginning menopause at an older age.
• Having your first child after age 30.
• Having never been pregnant.
• History of breast abnormalities.
• Use of postmenopausal hormone therapy, especially if used for three years or more.
• Obesity.
• Alcohol consumption, even at moderate levels.
If you have breast cancer risk factors, I recommend talking with your doctor about ways you can lower your risk and about screening for breast cancer.
While many of the risk factors cannot be modified, you can reduce some. Take steps to live a healthy lifestyle, such as limiting your alcohol consumption to less than one drink per day, exercise regularly, and control your weight. If you have a higher risk of breast cancer, your doctor may recommend that you take certain medications, such as tamoxifen, raloxifene, exemestane, or anastrozole, or have surgery to remove both breasts and ovaries to help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.
Screening for breast cancer has been considered one of the main reasons why the mortality from breast cancer has decreased by 38% from 1989 to 2014. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends breast cancer screening starting at age 25, with a physical exam and risk assessment every one to three years. It’s then recommended to receive an annual screening mammogram starting at age 40. For higher risk women—those with a significant family history of breast cancer—screening may start at an earlier age, and other screening modalities, like a breast MRI, may be considered.
So, when you see a pink ribbon signifying Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s not only a chance to support those battling breast cancer, it’s an opportunity for you to remind yourself of the risk factors and risk-reduction strategies. The most important prevention steps you can take are to:
• Be familiar with your breasts, and promptly report any changes to your health care provider.
• Be aware of any cancer history in your family and discuss it with your health care provider.
• Follow the screening recommendations pertaining to your age and breast cancer risk.
• Stay active and exercise.
MINA HANNA, M.D., ONCOLOGIST Mayo Clinic Health System Albert Lea and Owatonna
I’m a pretty strong advocate for keeping organic material in gardens, rather than relocating it to dump sites or compost piles. For example, when I pull small non-invasive weeds out of my landscape, I usually just toss them behind a shrub or tuck them under some Hosta leaves. These weeds will die and then quickly decompose, adding nutrients and precious organic material to the surrounding soil.
When my neighbor’s birch tree drops its (many) twigs, I snap them into smaller pieces and toss them into areas I already have covered with wood mulch. As long as the plant material isn’t diseased, seedy, or well-known for rooting despite being exposed to air and light, I try to reuse it in some way.
Fall cleanup is no exception to this school of thought—I usually rake fallen leaves and dead herbaceous plant material into my gardens to help insulate my perennials for the winter. However, I do have some strict rules regarding what plant material I remove from my yard altogether. Plant material infested with certain diseases or prone to insect infestations goes in my yard waste bin (which the City of Minneapolis dumps and hauls away). Pro tip: if you have a home compost pile, don’t add diseased/potentially infested leaves and stems; take them completely off-site to prevent infection the following year.
Powdery mildew can be an aggressive fungal disease of ornamental plants. You’ve probably seen its chalky white growth cover some of your plants’ leaves in late summer. Common host plants of powdery mildew include peony, monarda, phlox, salvia, zinnia, squash, and cucumber, among many others. Infected perennial plants should be cut back to the ground in the fall. If possible, remove all leaves and stems with visible white or gray fungal growth. Annuals with powdery mildew should also be torn out and removed from your gardens completely.
Black spot is a common fungal disease of roses, especially older varieties that haven’t been bred for resistance. As its name suggests, this pathogen causes black discoloration on rose leaves and stems. Leaves affected by black spot will often fall to the ground, where the fungus can easily survive the winter. Garden sanitation is critical for
stopping black spot, so gardeners should pick up as much rose foliage as possible if black spot is present. Infected canes should also be cut out before winter. (Note: roses are also susceptible to powdery mildew, so keep an eye out for that disease, too.)
Since tomato plants are susceptible to many different diseases— fungal, bacterial, and viral—I always remove any and all tomato plant parts from my gardens before winter. Even if your tomatoes were seemingly healthy this season, it’s important to remove all tomato foliage in the fall so that nothing sinister overwinters. And next spring, don’t forget to rotate the tomato plants’ location in your garden, just in case some remnants of disease remain in the soil!
This past summer was the first year that I’ve found iris borers in my gardens. If you’re not familiar with this insect pest, I hope you don’t encounter it anytime soon. Iris borer adults are rather large moths that lay their eggs on iris foliage in late summer and early fall. If the egg-laden leaves remain in your garden over the winter, the eggs will probably hatch in the spring. The subsequent larvae eat their way down the iris leaves, eventually eating the iris tuber itself, which can prove fatal for the plant. Cutting and removing all iris foliage (even from healthy, unaffected plants) is a good way to prevent this pest the following spring.
We’ve also been battling asparagus beetles in my garden for the past few years. There are two varieties, the common asparagus beetle and the spotted asparagus beetle. (Our garden has both—lucky us.) These small red and black beetles lay their eggs on the asparagus leaves, where the hatching larvae can cause significant defoliation that stresses the plants and reduces their yield. Since the adult beetles overwinter in hollow stems and leaf litter in asparagus patches, garden sanitation can help eliminate the next year’s beetle generations. We always cut down and remove all asparagus leaves and stems in the fall, and this year we’ll be raking out all other organic material from within the asparagus patch as well.
Jessie: Making art, reading, napping, and cuddling with my kitties are my favorites.
Eileen: Massages, eating out with friends, singing in church choir, lavender epsom salt baths, planning trips
Danielle: Massages! Or any services that are provided at The New Ulm WELLness Collective. I also love workout classes and shakes/teas that happen at Fit 365 Nutrition.
Samantha: Running, girl time, napping.
Brenda: Sleep, Sleep, Sleep.
Sarah: Massages!
Sarah: Massage, Zumba, out with girls, pedicures, alone time outside with a good book.
Kj: Gardening, baking cookies, or reading.
Carly: Walks in nature. Laughing with friends. Yoga.
Nicole: Acupuncture at Wildflower Traditional Chinese Medicine. Yoga (body flow at the Y is my fave).
Kristy: Weight lifting, swimming, walking amongst nature, gardening, cooking, observing wildlife, rescuing animals, helping humans, learning.
Jessica: I enjoy sitting down with a cup of tea and balls of yarn when the kids go to bed. Sometimes I knit, or sometimes crochet.
Stephanie: Traveling!
Robyn: Volunteering. Donating. Helping others who are less fortunate.
Chelsey: Acupuncture and cupping with Kayla Bartlett at the WELL!
Bridget: Spending time outside alone, acupuncture, massage, and antique shopping.
Amber: Spending time at the North Mankato Taylor Library or Blue Earth County Library System to find new books, massages at Menari Body Works, and visiting the salt room at Body Concepts.
Kris: Aerial Fitness at Aerial Affinity.
Crystal: Sauna pod at Body Concepts, massage, walk in the park, yard work, chiropractor.
Kate: Reading, massage, exercise, time away from my kids.
Joy: Going to Body Concepts!
Elaina: Books, bubble baths and baking brownies!
Renee: Being in nature, with nature. Hiking, observing wildlife, birds, stars, sunrise or sunset, watching the waves, or waterfalls, using all of the senses to connect with the earth and nature.
Kate: Detox foot soak, massages, camping.
Natasha: Massages, yoga, girl time.
Jennifer: Acupuncture, infrared sauna, massage, chiropractic, meditation and movement like walks in nature.
Chay: So many to choose from! In order of importance: 1. meditation 2. journaling 3. alone time 4. drinking coffee in silence 5. creating with my hands 6. working out 7. massage.
Kate: Reading, massage, exercise, time away from my kids.
Dawn: Reading, long walks, and trips to state and national parks.
Colleen: Daily yoga and weight exercises. Exercise is the fountain of youth! Drink lots of water and good nutritious food. An occasional glass of wine and listen to great music. Good relationships with the ones you love!
Alicia: Reading a book, going for a walk.
Tara: Massage at Aveda!
Amanda: Netflix and crochet!
Sara: Exercise.
Tjode: Hot yoga, hot sculpt classes, definitely girl time, but also solo time reading, meditation, etc.
Carrie: Reading and evening walks!
Nancy: Golf and golf.
Lisa: Workout, acupuncture, meditation, prayer, spending time by the water (my happy place), spending time with my grandson, and massage!
Lisa: Infrared sauna, meditation, eating healthy, whole foods.
Trish: Get outside. Into the woods. Or near water. Anywhere with fresh air. Kids & grown-ups alike! Hoping to teach our kids how to unplug and care for self. It’s free! Self-care! Everywhere. Make some time outdoors, for wellness & health.
Ali: I agree with so many of what’s already been said (exercise, meditation, yoga, drinking enough water). I’d also like to add therapy, alone time, and social time. And not cooking—aka take out.
Jennifer: Massage, float therapy, chiropractor, reiki massage, acupuncture, cranial sacral, yoga, biking/ walking, foot detox, essential oils, meditating, spending time alone, reading , laying in my hammock and naps! I rotate all of these things into my self care. I wish more people took time for self care as it’s amazing!
Diane: Bike rides—either solo or with friends, meditation, massage, pedicures, reading.
Amy Jo: Setting boundaries, saying, no.
Joi: Getting vaccinated to assure my family, community and country is assured of their health.
Brandy: Hiking, kayaking, playing with the puppy.
Lisa: Time alone in my camper or riding on the Harley with my hubby.
I consider myself to be in good shape. I do CrossFit three to four times each week and lift weights, in fact I feel like I am in the best shape of my life. However, every time I go to my doctor she tells me my BMI is too high and I am obese. Is BMI an accurate measure of health?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a standardized health measurement that divides your weight (in kg) by your height (in meters squared). It is used in most medical facilities as a reflection of your overall health. It has been criticized for being an oversimplification of what “healthy” really means.
The BMI formula was created by a mathematician in 1832. He developed the tool to measure the obesity of a given population in order to help governments allocate healthcare resources. It was later adopted and driven by insurance agencies to help develop coverage models. Notably, the mathematician that developed the tool stated that BMI is not useful or accurate in studying individuals, but rather should only be used for population health studies. Nevertheless, it will be on your medical chart, and it will guide your medical care. It doesn’t take into account other factors such as age, race, sex, genetics, fat mass, muscle mass, and bone density.
Despite these concerns, studies have shown that there are health complications, chronic diseases, and premature death with BMI’s that are very low and very high. Furthermore, a 5-10% reduction in a person’s BMI has been associated with decreased rates of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and other chronic illness. So the numbers can be used as a guide. Other important numbers to consider in health assessment are cholesterol levels, blood sugar, heart rate, blood pressure, and depression/ anxiety scores.
The BMI tool assumes all weight is equal. Muscle is denser than fat, and as a result an athlete may be lean but have a high muscle mass, making them heavier on the scale. Two people of the same height and weight can look completely different in body composition. The tool also doesn’t consider fat-distribution. Though a higher BMI is link to health complications, the distribution of fat around the middle versus the booty is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular complications.
The BMI tool can lead to weight bias. Physicians are tasked with creating a care plan centered on lowering the BMI of their patients, even if their appointment is for an unrelated concern. Some studies have shown that the higher a person’s BMI, the less likely they are to engage the medical community for fear of being judged, shamed, or any other negative experience. This can lead to delays in diagnoses and treatment plans. Relying on the BMI tool also ignores a person’s perception of body image and health. In some cultures and homes, higher fat mass is viewed as healthier and more desirable. A person’s perception of body image and their overall health is a critical part of the experience, and this concept is neglected in the standard BMI tool.
In summary, the BMI is just another number. Like any other data point, it doesn’t have meaning without someone assigning an emotion to it. If you feel you are living a healthy life, making good choices for your body, and you feel happy with where you are physically and mentally then no intervention needs to be made. If you are looking for an opportunity to improve something such as smoking cessation, decreasing cholesterol, improving blood pressure, or trying to lose some weight then talk to your provider about opportunities to make some improvements. Your provider is there to help you live your best life, you do you.
Stay healthy friends!
YOUR PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY WITH PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS
Feeling good and looking healthy starts with regular self-care, which we all know takes being very intentional, so weeks don’t turn into months before you take some time for yourself. Some people envision self-care to include hours of shopping and hauling purchases home. However, I’d caution against “shopping” each time you do something nice for yourself. There’s a staggering statistic that today women have an average of $1,000 to $2,500 of clothing sitting in their closets and drawers. I can attest to the garbage bags of clothes, shoes, purses, and accessories I regularly haul away for my clients whom I’m helping declutter and find more space in their homes. Why add more clutter when you can focus on other self-care indulgences that won’t fill your shelves?
Here are few ideas I recommend that don’t involve a bunch of clutter:
A subscription to a fresh flower bouquet! Talk to your local florist or CSA to arrange fresh flowers each month. If fresh flowers lift your spirits and bring joy, do it.
Schedule a massage or facial. You don’t have to wait until one is given to you as a gift. Buy this for yourself and relax completely for a day here and there.
If you love getting your hair or nails done, let this be your day of pampering.
Call a friend and plan to visit over coffee. Meet at a park, lake, or favorite coffee shop and use the time to really reconnect.
Working moms and stay-at-home moms need to schedule time away. Hire a babysitter or give grandparents a call and set up a regular time for yourself. Everyone wins when mom is rejuvenated!
Plan a date night to see a movie or community play.
If you love to read, reserve time to grab a book and your favorite chair. Ask friends who love to read to swap books and always keep one “in the hopper” to prompt you to continue to enjoy reading.
Plan a standing date with girlfriends to go for a walk. Take turns creating a new route and use the time to get caught up.
Use the bike, treadmill, paddleboard, snowmobile, kayak or other items that were purchased with the best intentions. Reserve time on your calendar every month and do not let other things impede on your time.
Plan a regular game night or traveling dinner amongst your friends and enjoy the laughter and conversation.
The fact is that everyone can find time—or find excuses. Commit to finding time for self-care, and you’ll be happier you did!
Every October, CADA joins survivors, allies, community partners, and other advocates across the state and nation to recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to bring attention to the issue of domestic violence and relationship abuse. Every October, we honor and mourn those whose lives have been lost because of domestic violence and celebrate those who have survived. Every October, communities, and individuals have the opportunity to take a stand against domestic violence.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month actually started as just one day of recognition. In October of 1981, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) established the “Day of Unity,” which was a day to connect advocates across the country working to help survivors and end domestic violence.
The Day of Unity activities quickly began to fill an entire week. In 1987, October was recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month for the first time. 1987 was also the year that the first national domestic violence hotline was operational. In 1989, Congress passed Public Law 101-112, which designated October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This legislation has passed each year since then, with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence leading advocacy efforts. Millions of people experience relationship abuse every year, and the negative impacts of the violence and trauma are far-reaching.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to share information about red flags of relationship abuse, as well as promote and share information about available resources for victims and survivors. One reason that Domestic Violence Awareness Month is so important is that the more information everyone has about what relationship abuse can look like, individuals experiencing abuse may be more easily able to recognize unhealthy and abusive behavior for what it is. The more people know about relationship abuse, the more likely they are to recognize when someone they know demonstrates signs of being in an abusive relationship. Furthermore, when we normalize conversations about relationship abuse, victims may feel more empowered and safe in seeking help or confiding in loved ones.
Domestic violence and relationship abuse are often “hidden problems.” While relationship abuse happens at epidemic levels, many people are unaware of the high rates of domestic violence and the impacts.
There are many reasons that domestic violence stays “silent,” but one of those reasons is because it is a deeply personal issue. Furthermore, there is still an immense amount of stigma around being a victim or survivor. While domestic violence is a very personal issue, there are attitudes that it shouldn’t be discussed because it is a private issue or an issue that only
impacts individuals. However, we know that domestic violence impacts victims, their families, their workplace, and their entire community.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, on average, more than one in three women and one in four men will experience abuse or violence by an intimate partner. Relationship abuse affects nearly 12 million people every year. Last year, CADA advocates provided support more than 8,000 times to victims and survivors calling the 24-hour helpline. On average, CADA advocates work with between 2,000 and 3,000 people each year. And these are just individuals who reach out for help. There are so many people navigating abuse and trauma alone.
The goal of Domestic Violence Awareness Month is, of course, to raise awareness and bring attention to the issue of domestic violence. There are so many ways that you can get involved, show support for survivors, and start conversations.
On Thursday, October 21, join with survivors, advocates, and allies across the nation to wear purple. Start a conversation, share a picture, and let people know why you’re wearing purple.
Familiarize yourself with the local advocacy resources near you. You never know when someone you know will need to reach out for help.
Attend local Domestic Violence Awareness Month events.
Follow your local domestic violence advocacy organization on social media—share their posts and start a conversation with your networks. Volunteer with your local domestic violence advocacy organization. Host a donation drive for your local domestic violence advocacy organization.
Encourage your workplace to partner with a local advocacy organization. Educate yourself on healthy, unhealthy, and abusive relationships. The more you understand about abusive behaviors and red flags, the better resource you can be for those who may be experiencing relationship abuse.
This month, you have the opportunity to take part in the movement to end domestic violence. We all have a part to play in ending violence and supporting survivors. No one should have to navigate abuse alone and, if we all participate in Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we can show victims and survivors that they are not alone and our community is here to support them.
KRISTEN WALTERS Development & Communications Manager CADA, Mankato
St, St. Peter. 9 am-4 pm. Info: makerfairmn@gmail.com or makerfairmn.com.
• Craft Fair & Garage Sale, Our Lady of Good Counsel, 170 Good Counsel Dr, Mankato.
Fri, Oct 8
• Oktoberfest with Crow River Habitat for Humanity, Bobbing Bobber Brewing Co, 900 Hwy 15, Hutchinson, 6-10 pm. Info & tickets: 320-587-8868, Katris@ crhfh.org or crhfh.org/octoberfest-fundraiser-save-the-date/.
Fri, Oct 8 & Nov 12
• All You Can Eat Chicken Dinner, American Legion Post #294 Lake Crystal, 6-8 pm. Info: lakecrystalchamber.com/events.
Fri-Sat, Oct 8-9
• Oktoberfest 2021, downtown New Ulm, 10 am-5 pm. Info: newulm.com/visitors-community/things-to-do/festivals/oktoberfest-3/.
• Parish Rummage Sale, Marion Hall, St. James, 9 1m-1 pm. Info: localendar.com/public/stjameschamber.
Fri-Sun, Oct 8-10
• ‘Over the River and Through the Woods,’ State Street Theater Co, 1 N State St, New Ulm. 7 pm Fri & Sat, 2 pm Sun. Info: info@ statestreetnewulm.org.
Sat, Oct 9
• CraftoberFest during OktoberFest, 1st St N between Broadway & Minnesota, 12-5 pm Fri, 10 am-4 pm Sat. Info: nucve. com/ or newulmevents@gmail. com.
• BCHS Vintage Popcorn Wagon, 2 N Broadway New Ulm. 10 am-5 pm. Info: browncountyhistorymn.org or 507-233-2616.
• Maker Fair Minnesota, Nicollet Co Fairgrounds, 400 W Union
• Live2Lead, Owatonna Country Club, 1991 Lemond Rd, Owatonna, 8 am-3 pm. Info: owatonnabusinesswomen.org/ LeanIn-with-OBW
• Schell’s Oktoberfest, 1860 Schell Rd, New Ulm, 10:30 am-5 pm. Info & cost: schellsbrewery.com/ events/annual-oktoberfest/.
• Spooky Bash—Great Pumpkin Race, BMX Race Park, Glencoe, 2 pm. Info: business.glencoechamber.com/events/details/ spooky-bash-343 or 320-8645231.
Sat, Oct 9, 16 & 23
• Riverwalk Market Fair, Bridge Square at Division St & 4th St, Northfield, 9 am-2 pm. Info: riverwalkmarketfair.org or info@ riverwalkmarketfair.org.
Sun, Oct 10
• Family Weekend Showcase Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 2-4 pm. Info: 507-933-7013 or gustavus.edu/music/events.php.
Tues, Oct 12
• Heartsaver CPR/AED First Aid Certification Course, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 6-9 pm. Info & sign-up: newulm. ce.eleyo.com/ or cfleck@ newulm.k12.mn.us.
Wed, Oct 13
• Strong Towns Presentation by Charles Marohn, Turner Hall, New Ulm, 5-7 pm. Info & registration (required): chamber@ newulm.com
Fri-Sun, Oct 14-17 & 21-24
• LTO—The Marvelous Won -
derettes, Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna. Info: visitowatonna@gmail.com.
Fri, Oct 15
• Glotzbach Gallery Public Open House, State Street Theater Co 1 N State St, New Ulm, 11 am-3 pm. Info: statestreetnewulm. org/ or info@statestreetnewulm.org.
Sat, Oct 16
• Comedian C. Willi Myles, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30 pm. Info: visitfaribault.com/ calendar/.
• Pumpkin Party, Farmamerica, Waseca, 10 am-4 pm. Info: farmamerica.org/.
Sun, Oct 17
• Memory Quilt Class, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 1-5 pm. Info, cost & materials: cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us, newulm.ce.eleyo.com/ or 507233-8307.
• 100 Women Who Care New Ulm Area, Turner Hall, New Ulm, 6-7 pm. Info: 100women-newulm. org/, 605-376-0350 or info@ 100women-newulm.org.
• GSL ECFE Fall Festival, Learning Center, 1621 16th St E, Glencoe, 10-11 am or 6-7 pm. Info: 320864-2549 or mnelson@gsl.k12. mn.us.
Wed, Oct 20
• Minnesota Senior Linkage Line Updates in Medicare for 2022, Watonwan Co Library Mtg Room, St. James, 10 am-12 pm. Info & registration: 507-3751276.
Thurs, Oct 21
• Lifelong Learner Series—Time Travel to 1850: Homestead Tour, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 12-1:30 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.
Sat, Oct 23
• HOPE—NUMAS Haus Annual Fundraiser, Event Center, 301 20th St S, New Ulm, 6-9 pm. Info: numashaus.org or kdiehn@ numashaus.org.
• Biker Breakfast, Faribault Harley-Davidson, 2704 W Airport Dr, Faribault 9-11 am. Info: visitfaribault.com/calendar/.
• Card Class for Kids, Washington Learning Center, 910 14th St N, New Ulm, 9:30-11 am. Info & cost: newulm.ce.eleyo.com/ or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.
• Card Class for Adults, Washington Learning Center, 910 14th St N, New Ulm, 12-2 pm. Info & cost: newulm.ce.eleyo.com/ or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.
• The Rocky Horror Picture Show, State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 8 pm, with pre-movie extras. Info & tickets: statestreetnewulm.org/ or info@statestreetnewulm.org.
• Bingo, Legion Friendship Hall, 715 N 3rd St, Nicollet, 4 pm. Info: American Legion Post #510 on Facebook.
Mon, Oct 25
• ‘Freedom to Dance’ Performance, United Church Of Christ, 318 4th St, Gaylord, 7 pm (preevents 6:15). Info: 507-237-2595 or uccgaylord@gmail.com.
Thurs, Oct 28 & Nov. 4
• Creating a Barn Quilt Class, The Grand, 210 N Minnesota, New Ulm, 5 pm. Info & cost: thegrandnewulm.com or grandnewulm@gmail.com.
Fri, Oct 29
• Comedy Club with C. Willi Myles, State Street Theater Co, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 7-10 pm. Info & tickets: statestreetnewulm. org/ or info@statestreetnewulm.org.
• Gustavus Symphony Orchestra Fall Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7:30-9:30 pm. Info: 507-933-7013 or gustavus.edu/ music/events.php.
• Ney at Night, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 6-8 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.
Fri, Oct 29
• Adult Halloween Horror Movie Night, Steele Co Hist Soc, 1700 Austin Rd, Owatonna, 8-10 pm. Info: visitowatonna@gmail.com.
• Trick or Trunk Halloween Event, Rec Center, 621 Nathan St, Lake Crystal, 7-9 pm. Info: lakecrystalchamber.com.
• Spooktacular, Madelia, 3:306:30 pm. Info: visitmadelia.com/ event/madelias-spooktacular/.
Fri-Sun, Oct 29-21
• The Francois Haunted Hotel, Redwood Falls. Info: celebrateredwoodfalls.com/haunted-hotel/.
Sat, Oct 30
• Art Center-Great Fall Get-Back Together Fundraiser, Arts Center, Waseca, 6-9 pm. Info: wasecaartcenter.org.
• Jersey’s Sweet Spot Trunk or Treat, 18848 US Hwy 14, New Ulm, 2-5 pm. Info: Facebook.
• Trunk or Treat, Peace Lutheran Church, 2090 Commerce Drive, No Mankato, 4-5:30 pm., Info: Facebook.
• ‘A Haunting You Will Go,’ Steele Co Hist Soc Village of Yesteryear, 1700 Austin Rd, Owatonna, 2-6 pm. Info: visitowatonna@gmail. com.
• Monsters on Main Street, Redwood Falls. Info: celebrateredwoodfalls.com/haunted-hotel/.
Sun, Oct 31
• Hilltop Happenings, Hilltop Hall, 206 First St N, Montgomery, 4 pm. Info: wendyzaske@yahoo. com or HilltopHall@wordpress. com.
• Omelet Breakfast, Legion Friendship Hall, 715 N 3rd St, Nicollet, 8:30 am-12 pm. Info: American Legion Post #510 on Facebook.
Mon, Nov 1
• Bjorling Music Festival Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7-9 pm. Info: 507-933-7013 or gustavus. edu/music/events.php.
• Lions Fish Fry, Eagles Club, St. James, 5-7:30 pm. Info: localendar.com/public/stjameschamber.
Thurs, Nov 4
• Film Series at Home—The Warrior Tradition, youtube.com, 7 pm. Info: 507-934-2160 or info@ nchsmn.org.
• Mike Lynch MN Starwatch Party, Public High School Commons Area, New Ulm, 6:30-8:30 pm. Info: newulm.ce.eleyo.com/, 507233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12. mn.us.
Fri, Nov 5
• Raw Fusion VII, Historic Post Office, 401 S 2nd St, Mankato, 7 pm. Info & tickets: mnrba.com
• Duelly Noted Dueling Pianos, State Street Theater Co, 1 N State
St, New Ulm, 7:30-10 pm. Info & cost: statestreetnewulm.org/ or info@statestreetnewulm.org.
Sat, Nov 6
• Country Store & Lunch, First United Methodist, 1 N Broadway, New Ulm, 10 am-12:30 pm. Info: 507-354-3358 or gluth@newulmtel.net.
• ‘Wine, Women, Comedy,’ Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30 pm. Info: visitfaribault.com/calendar/.
• Fall Band Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7-9 pm. Info: 507-933-7013 or gustavus.edu/music/events. php.
• 3M Holiday Craft Show, McLeod Co Fairgrounds Commercial Bldg, 840 Century Ave, Hutchinson, 9 am-3 pm. Info: 320-5838789 or 3MCraftSale@gmail. com.
Sat-Sun, Nov 6-7
• Natural Healing & Psychic Expo, Courtyard by Marriott, 901 Raintree Rd, Mankato. 10 am-6 pm Sat, 10 am-4 pm Sun.
Tues, Nov 9, 16, 23, 30 & Dec 7
• DSLR Photography, Washington
Learning Center, 910 14th St N, New Ulm, 6:30-8:30 pm. Info & cost: newulm.ce.eleyo.com or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.
Sat, Nov 13
• Jazz Fall Showcase, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 4:30-6 and 7-9 pm. Info: 507-933-7013 or gustavus.edu/music/events.php.
• Fall Vendor Craft Fair, American Legion Post #27, 229 West Nassau Street, St Peter, 9 am-2 pm. Info: auxiliarypost37@gmail. com.
• Dist 840 Foundation Fundraiser—Women, Wine & Wonderful Finds, American Legion, St. James, 5-8 pm. Info: localendar. com/public/stjameschamber.
Thurs, Nov 18
• Family and Friends CPR, Washington Learning Center, 910 14th St N, New Ulm, 6:30-8 pm. Info & cost: newulm.ce.eleyo.com or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.
Fri-Sat, Nov 19-20
• Razzle Dazzle Celebration, Madelia & Watona Park. Info: 507-642-8822 or chamber@ madeliamn.com.
THE SWITCH HOODS LABEL IS NOW AVAILABLE AT BELLA NOVA! OFFERED IN SIZES S-XL, ALL PIECES ARE FULLY CUSTOMIZABLE.
“PICK YOUR JACKET, PICK YOUR HOOD, LOVE YOUR LOOK”
Wrap yourself in fall with our perfect autumninspired outfit blueprint.
BY ANNE BESEMAN Scheels Fashion Expert Scheels, Mankato
2 3
Your go-to dress for all things fall. Add a jaunty hat and some rockin’ boots and you’re good to go!
The shacket, your essential new hero piece. Pair it with some laced up kicks and unexpected earrings.
The cozy cardigan, your forever favorite layer. Dress it up or down with multihued booties and stylin’ necklace you’re ready to go to town!
1. Sorel Joan of Arctic Wedge III Zip Booties
This waterproof design offers superior performance in any weather. The plush EVA footbed prevents foot fatigue while the new slimmer, foot-flattering shape offers a great look. With a lateral side zipper for stylish functionality and a durable rubber outsole for excellent traction, you'll love these booties from SCHEELS!
2. Ariens Snow Blower
Featuring a wide 30” clearing width that moves 71 tons of snow per hour with a powerful Ariens engine. Blows snow up to 50 feet, 14” auger and impeller diameter, Auto-Turn Triggerless Steering, Interlocking handles for one-handed operation. Get yours today!
C&S Supply
1951 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.387.1171 or 800.879.1938 candssupply.com
7. Tranquility Candle
Aromatic, relaxing candle with intense notes of Vanilla, Rose and Cedarwood for an immediate sensation of wellbeing and relaxation. Perfect for Fall! Shop Fréy today!
Fréy Salon & Spa
Scheels
River Hills Mall 1850 Adams St. Mankato, MN 56001 507.386.7767 scheels.com
3. Lifestyle Collection
Shop Body Concepts' NEW lifestyle collection of clothing, accessories, purses, coffee mugs, and so much more. New items added daily!
Body Concepts LLC
1615 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.381.5467 bodyconceptsmankato.com
4. Somfy Motorized Blinds
Motorized blinds & shades appear at the touch of a button and disappear when you don’t need them. These custom professionally installed blinds & shades give you the convenience to easily manage room lighting and privacy. Contact Blinds & More today to schedule your FREE consultation. Blinds & More Window Coverings 507.380.5019 blindsandmore.org
5. Switch Hoods
Bella Nova is now selling the all new “Switch Hoods” label. Stop in, grab a Jacket, grab a Hood, and truly customize your look! Jackets available in 3 styles and multiple colors; hoods available in 16 prints.
Bella Nova Boutique
521 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.779.7444
6. EMSCULPT NEO
The first and only FDA cleared non-invasive body shaping procedure that provides simultaneous fat elimination and muscle building in a combined 30-minute session. Multiple treatment applications including abdomen, buttocks, arms, calves & thighs. Can treat BMI to 35!
Giddie Skin
530 N Riverfront Dr. Suite 130 Mankato, MN 56001
507.381.7723 giddieskin.com
8. Flavor Freedom
Choose from 18 rotating flavors of dreamy frozen yogurts, custards, gelatos, Italian ices and over 75 toppings, including fresh baked cookies and waffle wedges made in house, dipped in chocolate and coated with your favorite treats. Frozen Yogurt Creations 1901 Madison Ave. St. 450 Mankato, MN 56001 507.625.3001 frozenyogurtcreations.com
9. VI Peel
The VI Peel is a skin-resurfacing chemical peel that stimulates collagen and increases cellular turnover to reveal smoother and more radiant skin. Schedule a consultation today. The Skin Clinic Medspa
1603 N Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 651.226.3704 mankatomed.com
429 S Minnesota Ave. St. Peter, MN 56082 507.934.7399 freysalon.com 164915
10. Time To Get Your Flu Shot
Stay a step ahead of flu season and save some money on fuel. All it takes is a few minutes to get vaccinated at work and you can protect yourself, your loved ones and your coworkers. Please contact your local store pharmacy to check availability and schedule a flu shot.
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
Get your fall look on with this cozy go-to cable knit sweater and your favorite pair of mac & me denim. Top the look off with a pair of your favorite boots. Get your look today at Mainstream Boutique. Mainstream Boutique
1901 Madison Ave. Ste. 110 Mankato, MN 56001
507.384.5275
mainstreamboutique.com
Skin Essentials offers
DERMALINFUSION®, an advanced skin-resurfacing treatment that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts & infuses skin with conditionspecific serums for an all-inclusive treatment in one step to improve skin health, function and appearance with no downtime. Call Skin Essentials & schedule a free consultation.
Skin Essentials, Mankato Clinic
1400 Madison Ave. Suite 400A Madison East Center Mankato, MN 56001
507.625.6599
skinessentialsmankato.com
You can be confident in Renewal by Andersen® custom replacement windows, which are backed by one of the strongest transferable warranties in the industry. Soon you’ll be saying, “I love our new windows.” Schmidt Siding & Window expert crews install them all year round. Renewal by Andersen® windows are custom-made to fit within the exact space of an existing window. They are an easy, hassle-free way to enhance your home’s comfort and appearance without the major disruptions that often come with remodeling projects. Schmidt Siding & Window 901 N 5th St. Mankato, MN 56001 507.625.6412 schmidtmankato.com
A townhome is a style of home that usually shares one or two walls with adjacent townhomes, with each having its own private entrance and garage. Townhomes are individually owned and tend to look a lot like traditional, detached homes but operate more like condos in that they are usually a part of a homeowner’s association (HOA). Owners of these homes are responsible for the interior and exterior of their home, although siding, driveway and roofing are often covered by monthly fees individual owners pay in to the HOA.
Whether a townhome is right for you or not really depends on what you are looking for out of homeownership. If a smaller, more efficient space with less exterior maintenance and a sense of community with your neighbors is appealing to you, then a townhome may be perfect!
What are the pros and cons of buying a townhome?
One of the most talked about benefits of owning a townhome is that owners have less outdoor maintenance to do since HOA fees often cover lawn care and landscaping as well as clearing your driveway of snow during the winter months. Another benefit is that utility costs are generally lower in this style of home since they are built for efficiency and shared walls can translate to lower heating and cooling costs. If you are buying a townhome that shares walls with other homes, it can be less expensive to buy than a traditional style home in the same neighborhood, meaning you can get more square footage for your money and perhaps own a home in an area you could otherwise not afford. Finally, some townhome communities include amenities such as a shared pool, clubhouse, park or greenspace. Some potential downsides to townhomes include less privacy due to the proximity of your neighbors. Depending on the construction of the townhome, there could be some noise from your neighbors via shared walls, but this is not an issue with all townhomes. Additionally, the HOA often has restrictions regarding things like outdoor paint colors and what kind of windows you can install.
Townhomes can be a great choice for a variety of homeowners. Some of the people who typically buy townhomes include first-time homebuyers looking to get away from renting and start building equity in a home that they own instead of spending money on rent. Often times people are surprised to find that they can end up with a mortgage payment that is less than they were paying to rent a smaller space! Townhomes also tend to be popular with empty nesters who are looking to downsize and perhaps want to spend less time on lawn care and maintenance. Another common group of townhome buyers are investors looking for properties they can rent out. In a college town like Mankato, parents or grandparents will sometimes buy a townhome for their children to live in while they are attending school. Make sure to check by-laws and city zoning/ordinances to ensure renting is an option.
CANDEE DEICHMAN REALTOR® CENTURY 21 Atwood
165172
For quality care, close to home, it’s OrthoEdge . The OrthoEdge Joint Replacement Program features two of the most experienced orthopaedic care providers in the area, The Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic and River’s Edge Hospital .
• Over 5,000 successful hip, knee and other orthopaedic surgeries
• 245 years of combined orthopaedic surgery experience
• 1 of 6 hospitals in the nation accredited as a hip and knee replacement center of excellence
Getting the care you deserve and trust, close to home, makes OrthoEdge the right choice for joint replacement surgery.
Learn more at OrthoEdgeMN.com
Recognized for Being the Best!
River’s Edge Hospital has been recognized as a DNV GL Healthcare certified Orthopaedic Center of Excellence for:
• Hip & Knee Replacement
• Shoulder Surgery
• Spine Surgery
Plus, River’s Edge Hospital is top rated for patient experience!