River Valley Woman February 2023

BY EILEEN MADSEN Editor

loves a lover, and everyone loves a good love story. There are book publishers and TV shows whose fortunes are made on the will-they-or-won’t they concept. But when they finally do, then what misunderstandings or interferences will ensue that will make them don’t? And if you’ve ever read any Nicholas Sparks romance novels you pretty much know how it’s going to end for one or both of the protagonists (spoiler alert: a trip to the great beyond is involved).

Luckily, for our Love Stories issue, these once upon a times, lead to happily ever afters. Cover couple Angel and Karl Gutha lived parallel lives for years before they finally intersected. Six children, and a family-run business later, they have found the key to their happy union is putting their marriage first. Eight may be enough, but they're number one with each other.

Angi and Curtis Doell’s relationship is a team effort. Literally. Curtis, was a hockey player, and Angi was the cheerleader who caught his eye, then stole his heart. Fast-forward to a pro career, a few concussions, community involvement and adapting to what life throws your way, and you have the making for a strong family—and good sports! Score.

Love is love whether it be for pets, kids, parents, family members, spouses, and significant others. There is no one way to express it. It really depends on the individual. One person’s declaration of undying devotion can be as simple as bringing the other coffee each morning, or as grand as a diamond bracelet. I can tell you what love isn’t though—Hallmark movie plots. You all know the drill, and it typically includes puppies, baked goods, ice skating and a whole lotta intense gazing.

I can’t quite imagine my quiet, artist husband gazing at me over a frosted pastry before doing a double axel in the town square ice rink. But if I ask him what he’s thinking about when he gets a certain look on his face, and he answers “abstract, three-dimensional forms,” I know I married the right man. (True story). What the world needs now is love sweet love, and Candice Deal-Bartell has plenty to give. Owner/ operator of Cultivate Mankato, she noticed how broken the child care system was when she was pregnant with her first child, eight years ago. She knew she could do better, so she not only developed her own child care center, she purchased and renovated the old Mankato Clinic building. I kid you not.

Many people declare they love someone to the moon and back. How about just to the store and back? Or perhaps to bingo, lunch or physical therapy, and back? Adult Day Services at Ecumen Pathstone provides this and more to adults who still live in their own homes, but may need health care services, bathing assistance, exercise, learning opportunities, or simply want a chance to shoot the breeze with others. This program goes the distance. No space travel required.

If you’re a girl whose love is solid as a rock, then your best friend could be Julee Johnson of Julee’s Jewelry. This diamond in the rough knows her trade inside and out. As a Certified World Wide Diamond Importer, she travels the world to select the best gems to offer her customers. Our Something Special spotlight on her has a nice ring to it.

It’s clear that through all our relationship ups and downs, coffee, puppies or diamonds, in the end all we really want to hear are those magic little words of love: abstract, three-dimensional forms.

CORRECTION: January’s feature on Nicole Jensen Briggs mistakenly listed that Jensen Motors purchased Martinka Motors. The correct business that was acquired was Maday Motors. We apologize for this error.

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By BROOKE WOHLRABE

PHOTOS BY WOLLER PHOTOGRAPHY

elationships look different to everyone, whether it’s a relationship with a friend, parent, child, or partner.

Angel and Karl Gutha, of Eagle Lake, know that they take a different approach to their relationship, but it works for them and, in the end, that’s all that matters.

The Guthas married 14 years ago, in their mid 20s. But, they’d actually known each other since they were young. In fact, Angel says that the two ran parallel lives to each other until their paths actually crossed when they were teenagers.

Karl grew up near Jackson and Angel in the Amboy area.

“For about 14 years, we were living right next to each other and didn’t even really know it,” Angel said.

For example, for a time, Karl lived in St. Peter next to Alumacraft where Angel’s father worked. They both also frequented Tourtellotte Park in Mankato.

“I have a picture of a random little blonde boy I was playing with. I’m not sure if it’s Karl or not, but it very well could be,” Angel said. Karl also went to the same church as Angel’s aunt. They found out later in life that Angel’s aunt knew Karl’s foster family.

“There are all these instances where our paths ran parallel to each other, but didn’t quite cross,” Angel said.

When Karl was 14, his family moved to Amboy and he began going to the same small school as Angel.

“Quite honestly, he dated everyone but me,” Angel said with a laugh. She said that neither of them had an inkling that they liked each other, but had a good and comfortable friendship.

“People say, ‘When you know, you know,’ but looking back on it as adults now, we knew, we just didn’t know what it was,” Angel said.

As they got older, they grew apart, but would run into each other every once in a while. Then, after years of not seeing each other, Angel saw Karl working at an Arby’s in Mankato.

“I almost let the moment slip by without saying anything, but I built up the courage and said, ‘Hey, you missed a spot.’ He turned around and from there, it was a pivotal moment. That’s what pivoted our entire relationship into what it is now,” Angel said.

both in relationships at the time, after a brief period, they found their way to each other and Angel said that they eased back into a friendship that had always been there.

For a time, they took their relationship out of Mankato and lived together in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. That time allowed them to grow—and it was there that they got engaged. They married on May 30, 2009 in the backyard of Angel’s childhood home in Amboy.

After marriage, the two worked several different entry level jobs and were considering what they could do to allow for more stability. They both eventually began corporate jobs but, by then, they had adopted five children from the foster care system.

“We had our five kids, and I don’t think we realized that it’s always something. Someone is always sick or did something in school, it’s always something,” Angel said.

The couple talked about it and felt like one of them needed to quit their job in order to be available for the children. Angel became a stay at home mom for a while, but said it wasn’t for her.

At that time the family was living in Lincoln, Nebraska, but Angel and Karl felt that the kids, who were older when adopted, could use a fresh start. They also wanted to be closer to family in Minnesota.

“We relocated to this area and I thought the kids could benefit from seeing firsthand what it’s like to own a business and be an entangled part of the community,” Angel said. 

Photo Credit: Ashley Hubbard

The Gutha Family at Angel's baby shower.

 In 2017, the Guthas opened Marine & Auto Custom Interiors, which is a specialty shop that offers customized modifications on boats and vehicles. The main corporate location is in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin. For a while, they had a satellite location in Mankato but, after Covid, that was put on hold. However, it’s a goal to get back in this area.

Angel expressed gratitude for their business and the team they have, but said that the business was really born out of a need and a want to be available for their children. The kids have been involved in the business operations. Through that, they’ve learned work ethic, dependability and budgeting.

When it comes to working together, Karl and Angel acknowledge that it’s not something every couple can do.

“It’s great. She works up front in the office and I run the shop in back. We make a great team,” Karl said.

That they do. Angel talks to the customers while Karl, who is quieter, handles things behind the scenes. With a laugh Karl explained that he doesn’t mind letting Angel do the talking, as she enjoys doing it.

“People ask us, ‘You guys get up together, get ready for work together, go to work together, and go home together. Don’t you ever get sick of each other?’ And I mean, not really… it’s like hanging out with my best friend every day,” Angel said.

As for what makes their relationship work, Karl said communication, honesty, and being open are key. Angel agreed.

“If you’re coming at each other with a closed heart and really don’t want to hear what the other person is trying to say…it’s not going to work. You really have to be open and honest. Communication has been our biggest thing,” Angel said.

Throwing away their 15-year relationship has never been an option but they have put contingency plans in place, in case they hit a brick wall and can’t get past it. Those plans include communication and counseling, which they’ve been through before.

“Allowing someone else to give our relationship or marriage some perspective was paramount for us,” Angel said.

To maintain their relationship, the Guthas make sure to have regular date nights, which can be going out to dinner or just getting groceries together.

“In relationships, sometimes you think it has to be all hearts and flowers, but it doesn’t. If you can appreciate the small things like going to the grocery store and having a small chat together and have a good time, I feel like that’s a big thing to being able to make it work,” Angel said.

Parenting in a relationship can look different for couples, too. For the Guthas, their relationship comes first, which they understand isn’t the norm.

“People will say you have to put your kids first. Absolutely not. Karl comes first. If he wants something, he has my attention and if I want something, I have his attention. We have explained to our kids that

we’re putting them first by putting our relationship first,” Angel said. The logic of putting their relationship first hasn’t always been well-received by people who know the Guthas, but putting their relationship first helps their family dynamic as a whole.

“We’re giving our kids a solid foundation and quite frankly, that’s all I care about,” Angel said.

She said one of the reasons they’ve worked hard on prioritizing their relationship is because their children do come from a broken home and they want to show that it’s possible to maintain a healthy relationship with someone else.

Angel shared that one of their daughters once said that she never wanted a husband because men were nothing but trouble. Her thinking shifted after a few years with Angel and Karl.

“She said, ‘You know, I changed my mind after seeing you and dad together. I think I can have a relationship,’” Angel reported. Their children aren’t the only ones the Guthas hope to help. They operate a non-profit, the Hope Foundation, that benefits foster kids in the county where their business is located.

“Our kids help us run it and it’s a way for them to empower and embolden other youth who maybe have experienced some of the same things they’ve experienced,” Angel said.

Photo Credit: Ashley Hubbard

Angel herself is a child of adoption and Karl grew up in the foster care system, so it’s something they both understand. However, adopting a child wasn’t something they necessarily expected to do, much less adopt five.

“We wanted to do something to give our lives purpose and give back,” Angel said.

They’ve been together as a family for 10 years and this past spring, Angel and Karl welcomed a baby, their first child born biologically, into the family.

Whatever life throws at the Guthas, they’re confident that they can get through. They’ve experienced living in several different states, fostering and then adopting children, opening and running their business, and welcoming a baby. Through all of that they’ve had each other to both lean on and support.

“Our story is unique, yes, but it’s always been easy with Karl. Again, not always hearts and flowers, but being considerate and putting his needs ahead of my own comes naturally. And it’s the same for him. He’s my person and I knew that when I was 14, I just didn’t have the

Favorite way to spend time together?

Angel: We love getting in the car, spending an obscene amount of money on gas station snacks, blaring our favorite 90s and 00s songs and just going somewhere. It can be wherever. The best trips are the spontaneous and unplanned ones.

Karl: I love getting in the car and going somewhere with Angel. No plans needed.

Favorite quality about your partner?

Angel: Karl is my balance. He’s literally everything I am not, so wherever I’m lacking in our life he makes up for it. But if I had to pick one, it’d be the fact that he’s genuinely kind for the sake of being kind.

Karl: I love Angel’s smile when she’s genuinely happy. She’s also an amazing wife and mother.

Best piece of advice for other couples?

Angel: Keep going as long as it’s healthy for you. There are hard days when you’re going to feel so not in love. But keep going. Communicate and don’t forget to be compassionate with your partner.

Karl: Don’t let the romance fade out. Never

Gutha children from oldest to youngest are Jordan, Ali, Jakob, Alyssa, Colin, and baby Gabriel who is held by grandpa Lowell Wallace.

Photo Credit: Ashley Hubbard

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By KRISTIN SJOLIE

e played defense. She was a cheerleader. Hockey at the University of Minnesota, Duluth brought Angi and Curtis Doell together in 1998. They have been on the same team ever since.

“I saw her on the ice practicing,” Curtis said. “She was wearing these gray yoga pants. I needed to meet her!”

“I said I’d never date a hockey player,” Angi said.

“I told my UMD Bulldog mom about her, and she introduced us,” Curtis said.

Angi had a boyfriend and Curtis had ended a relationship the month before.

In February, on Canadian Football League Sunday, Curtis went to the grocery store where Angi worked. He selected a few groceries, making sure he was in her checkout lane. He asked her to carry them out to his car for him, then asked her out. She said yes, and ended her other relationship.

“I wore a blue shirt on our first date,” Curtis said. “She was a good listener and became my confidant when I was going through the process of leaving college and going pro, and could not talk about it with anyone at UMD.”

“We knew pretty quickly we would be together,” Angi said. “That spring, I asked him if he would like to move to Mankato with me when I went home for the summer. He packed up his car and moved here. We have been together ever since,” she said.

That summer, Curtis was away every week for training in Florida and Canada. In October, he moved to Lexington, Kentucky to join the Florida Panthers. Angi transferred to the University of Minnesota that fall, eventually joining Curtis in Lexington and working on her degree through the mail.

In 1999, they bought a townhouse in Shakopee, and Angi attended summer school classes. On one stormy evening, while she was doing her homework, Curtis kept asking if she was done yet. When she finally was done, he surprised her by getting down on one knee holding a plate of strawberries with whipped cream in the shape of a heart, and proposed to her.

“I had been to Mankato that day to ask her father for his permission to marry her. I could not wait any longer to ask her,” Curtis said.

They were married on July 1, 2000, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Mankato, followed by a reception at the Mankato Golf Club.

Eighty of Curtis’ family and friends traveled from Saskatchewan to attend. The Doells spent their wedding night at the Butler House Bed and Breakfast in Mankato and honeymooned in Europe, backpacking for twoand-a-half weeks.

That fall, after three serious concussions in ten months, Curtis’ professional hockey career ended. The doctor at Mayo Clinic told him that he could not risk any more concussions.

Curtis was given the opportunity to join his father-in-law’s business working in finance, so they returned to live in Mankato that December.

Curtis has also coached high school and community hockey ever since.

“Giving back is an easy way to stay involved,” Curtis said. “I still have connections with former coaches in my life who were great mentors to me. Coaching is more about relationships, and then skills. Not everyone is going to be a pro, but they can be good people.”

“Curtis can light a fire under a kid in a way that many people can’t,’’ Angi said. “He is also super dedicated when he sets his mind to something— there is no backing down. I admire that!”

The Doells started their family in 2002, welcoming baby Emma, and then added daughter Madison in 2004.

Angi stayed home with the girls, writing part time for The Land and Static magazines. She completed her Master’s Degree in Education, and began teaching, working as a para in multiple language learner classes, and later worked full time teaching high school English. She taught in several districts until landing her current position at Mankato East.

Throughout their years together as individuals and as a family, the Doells have been very involved in the Mankato community. Angi has taught downhill skiing and adaptive skiing, helped at the humane society, served on the task force to develop the Mankato dog park, and taught the mom and toddler skating program.

Curtis has coached his daughters’ soccer teams, served on the Mankato Youth Hockey board of directors, helped encourage and teach his hockey players to give back to the community, held many hockey camps and leagues in the area, and helped with wheelchair skating for those with disabilities.

As a family, the Doells volunteer to help with the Mankato Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinner.

“I love to help in the kitchen with the food,” Curtis said. “Angi is more of a people person and is in the dining room or delivering meals with our daughters.”

The family enjoys spending time together and has many special memories of family trips.

“When we make a plan to do something, the girls always want to come with us,” Angi said.

The Doells have taken trips to visit family in Florida and Canada. Their favorite vacation place is Evergreen Lodge near Longville, Minnesota, where they have gone for 11 years. They celebrate their anniversary, Canada Day, and July 4 there.

“It is more remote, with lots of outdoor fun, and is a great place to really relax and unplug,” Curtis said.

“Family time was a priority in my family,” Angi said. “My grandparents gave us cash gifts, saying ‘Here’s money to make a memory.’”

However, some memories are more stressful than others. Curtis was on life support twice. In 2021, from a lung issue, and 2022, from a seizure.

“I am in the best shape ever now,” Curtis said. “I am healthy, and am enjoying teaching business education this year at Mankato West High School. I love teaching! Angi is my mentor and aide and I rely on her to learn how to teach in the classroom setting,” he said. 

Where they grew up

Angi: Mankato.

Curtis: Saskatchewan, Canada. Where they met Duluth.

Married

7/1/2000. Curtis: Canada day! Then I will never forget our anniversary or how many years we have been married!

Key to a successful marriage

Angi: Being willing to see all aspects of what’s happening around you.

Curtis: Being willing to work at it—it’s not easy.

Favorite couple activity

Angi: Watching reality TV—it’s silly, junky, and takes us away from our life stress.

Curtis: Avoid reality TV examples to find out if your marriage is successful!

Favorite shows

The Voice, American Idol, The Bachelor/Bachelorette.

Do you Celebrate Valentine’s Day?

Angi: I love it! I love celebrating everything!

Curtis: I think it’s a made-up holiday.

Who is more romantic?

Angi.

Love Languages

Angi: Acts of service.

Curtis: Words of affirmation.

The Doells advice for a successful marriage Surround yourself with good people and you are more likely to have a successful marriage.

 The Doells saw early on in their marriage how life can change quickly. The original plan for their life focused around professional hockey, which changed due to injury.

“We rolled with it and adapted, learning that you can’t plan that far ahead,” Curtis said. “I realize now that if I had continued in my hockey career, I would have frequently been gone. Married life would have been more stressful, and I would not have been as close to my children.”

When asked about what is important in their lives, Angi and Curtis both agreed that it is their marriage.

“We made that choice 23 years ago and, no matter what, stuck through it,” Curtis said

“We make the decision constantly, we are going to tough it out and get through whatever the situation is,” Angi said.

“Both of our grandparents were married for around 75 years. They are great examples,” Curtis said.

Curtis still has the blue shirt from their first date. Angi still has the gray yoga pants. They have been on the same team for over 24 years, sharing love and dedication to each other, their daughters, family, friends, and community. They have made memories together through fun times and tough times, knowing that whatever life sends their way, they will face it together. RVW

The Doells with daughters Madison and Emma.

“My husband Tom and I have a fun love story. About a year after my divorce, I had my appendix out and decided to fill my time with going on match.com. After filling out my profile, the first person I was matched up with was Tom! I realized he was the service guy who had worked on a my van a few times. He was always so nice and I enjoyed working with him. So, I reached out and said “Are you THE TOM MARTINKA who worked on my car?”

That day, he was going to discontinue his subscription to Match after no luck and saw my message. His response back was “Are you THE ANGIE PIDDE who had the Dodge Journey?” We met for supper a few nights later and here we are now!”

“I met my second husband when I was 14 and he was 15. He was my first love.

We married others first and had 6 children between us. We both divorced at the same time, hadn’t seen each other for 20 some years, when he called me wanting a haircut (I managed the JC Penney Salon then). We married 25 years ago and blended our families. He would always tease me that all he wanted was a haircut.

He passed in November 2022. He was my best friend.”

TO AN ETHICAL DIAMOND BUSINESS

By RUTH KLOSSNER

With 65 team members working with 200-plus kids, there’s plenty of love to go around at Cultivate Mankato Child Development and Resource Center in downtown Mankato.

Cultivate Mankato owner/operator Candice Deal-Bartell is understandably proud of the center’s program and facility. She has worked in some capacity of early childhood education for over 20 years. She and husband Nathan Bartell moved back to Nathan’s hometown of Mankato when Candice was pregnant with their first child, Norah, now eight.

“Cultivate Mankato stems from Norah. When I was looking for child care when I was pregnant, I saw how broken the child care system is. I realized that it could do better. That’s what we do here, trying to do better by the children and by early education teachers, too,” she said.

“My love for children, passion for connecting people to resources, and desire to help grow strong communities all drove me toward opening a child care center,” explained Deal-Bartell. “Through years of studying and engaging different child care centers around the Mankato area, I discovered excellent child care options and not so excellent options. I also discovered how daunting and concerning the process can be, especially for new parents. I want to help by providing excellent, consistent child care services and by empowering families with tools and resources to ensure their child is receiving the best care.”

Open since September 2019, the primary goal at Cultivate Mankato is to create an environment where children can grow in their natural development and to help them in that process.

The center operates in two buildings on Broad Street downtown and a third building near the hospital. The main classroom building—built in 1929 and operated as the Mankato Clinic until the 1960s—has two toddler rooms and five infant rooms on the lower level and two toddler and three preschool rooms on the upper level.

Lunchtime for the toddlers in the center room on the upper level of Cultivate Mankato’s child care center. This room is also rented out for birthday parties, showers, etc.

Candice checks on a baby in one of the infant rooms.

The Sensory Room in Cultivate Mankato’s Hub definitely stimulates the senses. It’s sensory library has shelves full of materials that parents can look at and check out to use at home.

The building next door, known as The Hub, houses the administrative office, a sensory room, as well as Cultivate Minnesota, a non-profit advocacy group. The third building, which opened in July 2022, near Mayo, has an infant center that focuses on babies six weeks to 18 months.

Deal-Bartell drew up the original business plan for Cultivate Mankato in 2014—but let it sit for a bit. That is, until she saw the old Mankato Clinic building with a dumpster next to it.

“They were looking at making it into an apartment complex. I pulled my plan out and started again. That was in early 2018. By July I got the building— and we opened here in September 2019,” she said. “Reconstruction was painful—the whole building was renovated.”

For the previous five decades, the building had been home to a hodge podge of businesses so a lot of work was needed to turn it into a modern child care center. Only the main staircase on one side was kept.

“The building is very special. It’s a great location, downtown, in the heart of Mankato. It’s beautiful— it’s meant to be full of children,” Candice said. “The community is one of our values, being downtown, being able to integrate into the community, and being seen as valuable citizens.”

With the location, children can walk to many downtown locations—the sculpture art tour, Blue Earth County Library, the art silos (where the kids met the artist), Washington Park, Old Main Village. The center partnered with the Carnegie Art Center to do its own art show, the kids were able to make bagels at Tandem Bagel, and they visited with the city’s public safety people. The children have bussed to the Children’s Museum and to a family picnic at Sibley Park. 

Candice Deal-Bartell listened to the stories that the preschoolers told.

The fence tells it all—there’s a lot of love at Cultivate Mankato.

Candice was born in California but “hopped around” the country until her family landed in South Dakota. She stayed there until college when she headed west to Washington State University in Pullman to earn a BA degree in English Language and Literature/Letters.

She first came to Mankato to attend grad school at MSU. “It had an awesome program—they offered the best grad program. I could teach my own class and be paid for it,” Candice said. She also met her future husband, Nathan Bartell, while in grad school.

At MSU, Candice earned a Master of Arts degree in English Language and Literature, General, in 2011. With that, she joined Teach for America and was placed at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School in Kansas City, teaching fifth and sixth grades, for two years.

She added a master’s degree in education from the University of Missouri-Saint Louis in 2013.

While pregnant with their first child, Candice and Nathan moved back to Mankato. They now have two children, Norah, eight, and Lawson, six.

Nathan is an automation engineer for Abdo in Mankato. He likes to help with technology and had worked with Cultivate Mankato.

Although Candice says she loves working and is always thinking of ideas for Cultivate Mankato and “reading boring things such as legislative stuff,” she does have other hobbies. She loves to cook, loves being a mom, and playing with her kids. She enjoys traveling when she can—including a family trip to Florida every year. She’s also been to Italy, India, Mexico, Costa Rico, and all over the U.S.

 Class sizes are 15 to 20 in the preschool rooms, about 14 in the toddler rooms and eight to 12 in the infant rooms.

Deal-Bartell is also a founding board member of CultivateMN, a non-profit advocacy group that works with legislation to advocate for child care and to develop policy.

“CultivateMN started when I realized that we need to change the system of child care. We advocate for teachers working in the field,” Deal-Bartell said. “The average wage for early childhood educators is $11.43. That’s not enough—we’re asking people to live in poverty and work all day long,” Candice added, “The most important thing is that we’re really striving to professionalize the field. Working with children is hard work. We want to be sure that we’re taking care of our teachers. We often say ‘We’re not babysitters, we’re brain developers.’”

Those brain developers at Cultivate Mankato include both full and part-time employees. The full timers are all professionals in the field and are building careers in early education. Those working part-time are mostly college students, with many majoring in education and/or social work. RVW

Cultivate Mankato has a backyard playground that the kids enjoy.

The infants were curious to see who came to visit.

Candice DealBartell is a Minnesota licensed teacher with a double MA in education and English.

My name is Tracy, and I am a local chef at Hilltop Hy-Vee in Mankato. I’m here to be a resource for you.

I graduated from The Culinary Institute of America in 1994. I cook for the public, my family—husband, three kids and the dog. Plus friends, the community, the local shelter, farmers market, and my neighbors. What do you know of the tamarind fruit? Numerous food publications and industry leaders have predicted that tamarind will be a key ingredient in 2023.

Tamarind is a hardwood tree. It is native to Africa but also grows in India, Pakistan, and many other tropical regions. The tree produces bean-like pods filled with seeds surrounded by a fibrous pulp. The pulp of the young fruit is green and sour. As it ripens, the juicy pulp becomes paste-like and more sweet-sour.

Interestingly, tamarind is sometimes referred to as the “date of India.” Tamarind’s almost-perfect sweet and sour balance makes it unusual in the plant world. The fruit may be eaten fresh, but it is most commonly used with sugar and water in the American tropics as a cooling drink. Tamarind pulp is used to flavor preserves and chutney, make meat sauces, and pickle fish. Candy can be made by mixing the pulp with dry sugar and molding it into desired shapes. Southeast Asians often use the tamarind in combination with chiles to make a paste for basting fish and chicken that is to be grilled. You may be surprised to discover where tamarind can be found in the U.S.—it is one of the main flavorings of the popular Lea & Perrins Worcestershire sauce. Once you try using it, it may make you a tamarind enthusiast.

Ingredients

1 T. vegetable oil, for frying

1.5 lbs ground beef or turkey

3 large eggs

3/4 c. toasted pine nuts

3/4 c. bread crumbs, plus extra in a bowl for rolling

2 tsp. salt

1-2 tsp. baharat seasoning*

1/2 c. fresh herbs (such as parsley, cilantro, dill, or mint), finely chopped

Directions

Combine all the meatball ingredients, minus the oil, and with wet hands, gently form walnut-sized balls.

Place them on baking sheets & roll each meatball in crumbs.

Over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil to a pan and brown the meatballs on all sides. Brown in batches so as to not overcrowd the pan. Set aside.

For the Sauce

olive oil

1/4 tsp Aleppo pepper**

(or more for extra heat)

1/4 tsp allspice

2 cups water

1/4 cup plus 1 T. good quality tamarind concentrate

1/4 cup tomato paste

juice from 1/2 lemon, about 1-1/2 T. salt, to taste honey, to taste (optional)

In a separate pot over medium heat, add a generous drizzle of olive oil and the Aleppo pepper. Once the oil has turned a reddish color, add the allspice and the rest of the sauce ingredients. Stir and let simmer for a few minutes.

Add the meatballs and simmer for about 30 minutes. Taste the sauce to see if it needs adjusting. The meatballs should plump up a little when done, and the sauce should thicken.

Serve with rice. Hope you enjoy this sweetsour flavor bomb!

It is important to note that there are no real rules here, so explore new flavors.

I encourage you to expand your cooking skills. Step out of your culinary comfort zone. Keep it simple but dare to be different.

*Baharat seasoning is a warm spice blend that varies by region—and even household. It typically includes black pepper, cardamom, cloves, cumin, nutmeg, coriander, and paprika. Use to add depth to rice, soups, meat, fish, and chicken dishes.

**Aleppo pepper is a spice. It’s about half as hot as the crushed red chili flakes and easily twice as flavorful. Like salt, Aleppo-style pepper is a flavor enhancer. It marries slow-building heat with earthy, cumin-y undertones and a little hit of fruity tang and, yes, it’s as delicious as it sounds.

MANKATO HILLTOP 507-625-9070

2010 Adams Street, Mankato, MN

MANKATO RIVERFRONT 507-625-1107

410 S. Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN

NEW ULM 507-354-8255

2015 S. Broadway Street, New Ulm, MN

ST. PETER 507-625-9070

1002 Old Minnesota Avenue, St. Peter, MN

EASY TRANSFER

Let your Hy-Vee pharmacy take care of your prescription needs this year! Transferring your prescriptions is easy, just let your helpful Hy-Vee pharmacy staff know and we will take care of everything for you. We accept most insurance plans and offer low copays on Medicare Part D plans. Stop in today and see what your Hy-Vee pharmacy can do for you.

HEART HEALTH

When it comes to your heart health, it’s important to know your cholesterol numbers to manage your risk of heart disease and stroke. With knowledge comes power – allowing you to make dietary and lifestyle changes to improve those numbers every day!

Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by your liver and is needed to make vitamins and other hormones. Cholesterol circulates in your blood, but as it increases, so do the health risks associated with high cholesterol. An excess of “bad”, LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) contributes to fatty buildups in your arteries, narrowing the arteries and increasing your risk for stroke. Think of LDL cholesterol as “trash” that can litter your artery roadways. “Good”, HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein) helps protect against strokes and heart attacks as it carries LDL cholesterol away from your arteries and back to your liver where it is broken down and passed from your body. Think of HDL cholesterol as “recycle trucks” that help carry the LDL cholesterol (trash) back to the liver to be broken down. It is important for heart health to have enough “recycle trucks” (HDL cholesterol) compared to “trash” (LDL cholesterol) in order to keep your artery roadways clean from plaque buildup and blockage. High cholesterol contributes to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease such as heart disease and stroke.

When it comes to managing your cholesterol and improving your numbers, simple diet changes and incorporating exercise into your routine can help!

CHOOSE FOODS RICH IN OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS.

Omega-3s have heart health benefits such as lowering your blood pressure and triglycerides. Choose salmon, herring, walnuts, chia or flaxseeds for your next meal.

INCREASE YOUR SOLUBLE FIBER INTAKE.

Add oatmeal, kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples, or pears to your next meal or snack. Soluble fiber helps reduce the absorption of cholesterol in your blood stream, lowering your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

EXERCISE OFTEN.

Moderate physical activity helps raise your HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Check with your doctor before adding any new physical activity, but for most people, the goal is 20-30 minutes of rigorous movement, 3-5 times per week. Aim for an intensity that gets your heart rate up.

QUIT TOBACCO PRODUCTS.

Did you know within 20 minutes of stopping to smoke your heart rate and blood pressure will decrease?

DRINK ALCOHOL IN MODERATION.

Moderation is up to one drink a day for women of all ages, and men older than 65, and two drinks a day for men aged 65 and younger. High alcohol consumption can lead to more serious cardiovascular risks such as higher blood pressure, heart failure and strokes.

INGREDIENTS

4 Jazz apples, or Braeburn apples, cored and cut into chunks

2 ½ c. water

2 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. fresh lemon juice, divided 1 lbs. Hy-Vee Short Cuts Brussels sprouts, trimmed & halved

1 (3-oz.) pkg. prosciutto, torn into pieces

4 tbsp. Gustare Vita olive oil, divided Hy-Vee salt, to taste

Hy-Vee ground black pepper, to taste

¼ c. Hy-Vee chopped walnuts

2 tbsp. aged balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp. Hy-Vee honey

½ tsp. Hy-Vee stone ground Dijon mustard

¼ c. Hy-Vee dried cranberries

DIRECTIONS

1 Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place apple chunks in a bowl; cover with water and 2 T lemon juice.

2 3 4 5

Toss together Brussels sprouts, prosciutto, 2 T olive oil, salt and pepper on a 15x10x1-inch baking pan; spread mixture into a single layer. Roast 10 minutes.

Remove pan from oven. Drain apples. Stir apples and walnuts into Brussels sprouts mixture. Roast for 10 minutes more or until Brussels sprouts are tender.

Whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, remaining 1 tsp lemon juice, and mustard. Whisk in remaining 2 T olive oil. Toss vinaigrette and cranberries with roasted Brussels sprouts. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts per serving: 280 calories, 14g fat, 2g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 5mg cholesterol, 310mg sodium, 33g total carbohydrate, 4g dietary fiber, 22g sugars, 6g added sugars, 8g protein. Daily values: 10% iron, 0% vitamin D, 4% calcium, 10% potassium.

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

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Tell us a bit about Ecumen Pathstone Pathstone Living is a full continuum of care campus located in the historic Sibley Park neighborhood of Mankato. Since 1937 we have been serving seniors in the greater Mankato area. Ecumen Pathstone Living is a faithbased, non-profit provider. We have grown immensely over the past 85 years. We provide Independent Living at Pathstone Latitude, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Transitional Care, Long Term Care, Adult Day Service, as well as Homecare and Hospice.

What are Adult Day Services?

Adult Day Services is a unique health care service that is designed to meet the physical, mental, social, and health needs of individuals. A truly personcentered and fully customizable health care service, Adult Day is whatever the participant, and/or the caregiver, need it to be. Adult Day Services can assist with all activities of daily living, including bathing, assistance with medications, and accommodating special diets. Adult Day Services also provides meaningful programming that is both mentally and physically stimulating, including a daily exercise program developed by on-site physical therapists alongside adaptable games and community outings.

What type of people generally take part in the services?

We serve individuals living independently in their homes who may be at risk of isolation or who are seeking a meaningful space to develop relationships and create a sense of community. We also serve the at-home caregiver. Whether it be a caregiving spouse or child, we provide a safe environment for their loved one while the caregiver works and/or gets a much-needed break. We serve individuals living in adult foster care and assisted living settings by providing a more interactive programming model and a higher staff to participant ratio. Individuals living with Parkinson’s, dementia, and developmental disabilities also take part in Adult Day Services.

What types of activities do the people take part in?

Adult Day Services offer a daily exercise program created by a physical therapist. Ecumen Pathstone Day Living is fortunate to have an in-house physical therapy team to create these programs for participants and offers a variety of outings in the community, such as lunches, shopping trips, and other activities. Monthly speakers and entertainers provide additional opportunities for lifelong-learning and enjoyment. A robust activity

schedule made up of physical games, crafts, table games, and exercise for both the body and the mind is developed by a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist each month. Participants stay busy throughout the day, moving from bingo to bean bag toss, to trivia, to bowling—all before the noon meal. After lunch we will have exercise, news and, depending on the day, sing-along, musical entertainment, or special events.

How does the person benefit from the services?

A main benefit of Adult Day Services is being able to continue to live in your home. Utilizing day services is an affordable way to receive health care services while not having to move into a skilled nursing or assisted living community. Other benefits include health care monitoring by a licensed practical nurse (LPN), meaningful programming, sense of community, socialization, and maintaining physical and mental health.

Do you have to live at Pathstone Living to take part?

Absolutely not! Most of the participants live in the greater community in a variety of capacities. Participants come from Eagle Lake, Le Center, Montgomery, Elysian, St Peter, and the Mankato area.

Are there age limitations?

Ecumen Pathstone Day Living is licensed to serve individuals 18 years of age and older. The current average age is 79 years old. Our age ranges from our youngest participant at age 37 to our eldest participant at age 96.

What kind of feedback do you get from the participants?

When we ask participants what they love about Adult Day Services, we often hear responses such as, “I get to see my friends;” “I love visiting with the staff and clients;” “They have great meals;” “I like all the fun and games;” and “The caring people. When you’re here, you are surrounded by family.” Caregiving takes a village, and one caregiving spouse said that Adult Day Services was her and her husband’s village. Caring for the ill, aging, and disabled takes a special kind of village and that is what Adult Day is.

What would you like people to know about Adult Day Services that you think they may not?

We are expanding our program, due to the need within the greater Mankato community. Our second Adult Day location will open in the next few months in St. Peter.

Neutrals will never go out of style.

Minimalism at its finest with this metal lantern + Edison bulb.

Setting the scene in a unique and subtle way.

The moody boho look includes deep and dusky colors.

Dark & moody hues from our Whitney line paired with a pop of gold.

Spring lilac silk flower bouquet gives the look a lighter touch.

This unique die-cut gold metal votive candle holder set is SO easy to pair with other

décor.

SUSAN SCHILLING Founder & Creative CEO Vivian Grace Creations Lamberton

A candelabra is sure to spice up any space and add a dash of romance!

Simply place a few flower stems in this trio of ceramic vases to create the perfect boho table-set.

Passion is the word of the day with the Madeline line. This deeply enchanting color scheme is the perfect mix of class AND sass.

Boho with attitude!

An autumn pallet pops while still keeping with that Boho vibe.

The hustle and bustle of the holidays are behind us, making it the perfect opportunity for focusing on habits that will leave skin looking healthy, radiant, and happy. Anything new can be overwhelming, life gets busy…and let’s be honest, we can be pretty set in our ways. A great concept to follow is the 21/90 rule, developed by cosmetic surgeon Maxwell Maltz in 1960. According to this concept, it takes 21 days to make something a habit and 90 days to make that habit part of your lifestyle. Start simple, pick one habit at a time, and watch your skin evolve over the new year.

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and quite possibly one of the most neglected. Skin is an important organ, providing a protective barrier against mechanical, thermal, and physical injury, preventing loss of moisture, reducing harmful effects of UV radiation, and acting as a sensory organ. Read on for a few ways you can bring your skin back to life this year.

Skin Care Routine

One of the best ways to have healthy skin is to take care of it. Having a good skincare routine can seem daunting but, with the correct products, it ’s actually quite simple. Your skincare regimen should include a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and SPF. Consider corrective or protective serums to enhance your results. Know your skin type, as well as the best order to apply products. Make an appointment with licensed providers to identify the best-individualized routine for your skin. Don’t forget the body. And ensure everything is properly moisturized and protected with SPF.

Sun Protection

Everyone needs to wear sunscreen, every day. The sun doesn’t ’t discriminate. Its harmful UV rays damage the skin, and can even lead to skin cancer, in people of all ages and races. Sunscreen should be a part of your daily skincare routine all year. UV rays still reach our skin through clouds and on shortened winter days. According to experts, use a broad spectrum SPF. Choose one with at least 30 SPF or higher (It blocks 97% of UVB rays), apply 15 minutes before going outdoors, reapply at least every two hours, or after swimming/ sweating, and always remember to check the expiration date. Add extra protection such as hats, sunglasses with UV protection lenses, and even clothing that offers sun protection when you will be in direct sunlight.

Regular exfoliation

Taking the time to regularly exfoliate—meaning at least once a week—will help to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and oil that block your pores, as well as accelerate cell turnover, bringing new healthy skin to the surface. Without exfoliation, cellular debris builds up, creating a barrier that stops products from penetrating the skin and absorbing beneficial ingredients. Regular exfoliation will also help to brighten your complexion. How frequently you should exfoliate really depends on your skin type. Oily skin can handle more frequent exfoliation than its dry skin counterpart.

Be gentle, choose the appropriate exfoliant for your skin type, don’t scrub with too much force as it can damage skin, and use warm, not hot, water.

Manage Stress

When our body senses emotional or physical stress, it releases more of the stress hormone cortisol. This triggers inflammation, impairs wound healing, increases oil and sebum production, and impairs resistance to infection. Due to the increased inflammation, skin conditions—such as acne and eczema—can be exacerbated. Consider practicing self-care such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, exercise, or scheduling breaks to reduce the effects of stress in your life and on the skin.

Drink Water

While drinking water won’t necessarily “rehydrate” the skin, it does lead to an overall plumped appearance in the face and body by maintaining intra and extracellular body volume. Drinking water also assists in the elimination of toxins, with thermoregulation, and keeps the bowels moving. An easy way to calculate daily water requirements is to take your weight, divide it by two, and aim for that number of ounces per day. Spice it up and put fruit such as strawberries or lemon in your water, and drink up.

Good Nutrition

It is so important to have a well-balanced, nutritious diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lean meat, and healthy fats is good for your skin and your overall health. A diet high in sugar and processed foods can lead to inflammation, acne breakouts, and premature aging of the skin.

Adopting healthier habits can help you put your best face forward! Remember to start small, choose one habit to focus on for 21 days.

When it comes to measuring the worth of love, it can be a tricky and personal concept. However, when it comes to measuring the worth of a diamond, it’s important to be informed and make the purchase in person, and from a place you trust. As a Certified World Wide Diamond Importer, I have traveled to places such as Antwerp, Belgium, New York City, and to trade shows for diamond purchases. Seeing the diamonds in person allows for better selection of beauty and value. Transparency, authenticity and sustainability are crucial factors to consider in a diamond purchase.

Julee’s Jewelry recently acquired the most innovative and beautiful diamond line available today—Rare & Forever. This ethically-sourced brand supports global programs that develop and empower people in natural diamond communities. They are graded by AI (Artificial Intelligence) Technology, for accuracy and non-bias. This diamond line is also one of the first to offer block chain technology, documenting each diamond’s entire journey from origin to consumer. Additionally, they offer the unique concept of NFT (non-fungible tokens) with each diamond purchase. This can be thought of as an irrevocable digital certificate of ownership and authenticity.

Another important aspect to consider is the rejection of brown, milky and green tints, also known as BMG screening. These undesirable features are often not disclosed to the consumer, especially when shopping online. The Rare & Forever line is chosen from the newest diamonds available on the market. My travels and connections allow me to have one of the first opportunities to select the best quality diamonds available for customers. The remaining lesser quality diamonds can often be picked up by chain stores and online sellers, who may not disclose complete information on these diamonds.

With a billion-year-old legacy, a natural diamond is still the most prized and rarest.

“No symbol has the same wonder, uniqueness and beauty as a natural diamond.”—Unknown

Today some people prefer to see some unique characteristics in their diamonds, often called salt & pepper diamonds. With these, larger and multiple visible inclusions, you may choose a pendant over ring if the integrity of the stone is compromised.

A topic gaining popularity in the jewelry industry, and on social media, is the difference between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds. Scientifically, lab-grown diamonds are considered real diamonds as they have the same physical and optical properties as natural diamonds. Although their origins and where they are formed differ, they are extremely difficult to tell apart. Expensive instruments are available to aid with the accuracy of distinguishing natural from lab-grown. In reality, if there is a difference, they are not the same.

With the ability to grow diamonds in a lab within a week or so, it allows for increased mass production which will continue to lower the cost and value of lab-grown diamonds. I believe that would conversely increase the value of natural diamonds, especially the better quality stones. It is becoming

lab-grown diamonds in the market.

“While natural diamonds reflect the wonder of nature, laboratorygrown diamonds reflect the wonder of human ingenuity.”

Gemological Institute of America

We all know that your new car or new cell phone depreciates as soon as you make your purchase. This may become true with a lab-grown diamond purchase also. Although, I believe that they will continue to decrease in value until they plateau at some point and maintain that value, just as lab-grown gemstones have done.

From Moissanite to gemstones, and lab-grown to natural diamonds, there is a stone to fit everyone’s dream and budget. Being informed about a purchase is ultimately up to the consumer, therefore, buy from ethical businesses that are willing to answer questions and share pertinent information. Keep in mind that some online purchases may have certain risks such as the inability to get any recourse or consumer protection. It may be hard to hold anyone accountable, as often there isn’t a phone number or person to contact. Returns may not be accepted, or are difficult.

In conclusion, transparency and honesty is crucial for diamond retailers, and is integral to the success of smaller businesses. It’s important to be informed and make the purchase in person from a place you trust. Consider factors such as transparency, authenticity, sustainability and integrity when making a diamond purchase.

JULEE JOHNSON Julee’s Jewelry St. Peter/Mankato

We are trained to think that muzzles on dogs are for aggressive dogs only. We see them and immediately think Hannibal Lecter! Unlike Mister Lecter, dogs are not searching for flesh to eat.

Some dogs wearing muzzles are aggressive but, did you know that 90% of aggression is due to FEAR?

When a dog (or any animal) feels afraid, its fight or flight response kicks in. Sometimes even dogs that choose to run are forced into defending themselves. In some cases, it is advised to have a dog wear a muzzle to keep others safe.

At a veterinary appointment, it may be required for blood draws, sedation, or even exams if a dog is very fearful and reactive. If a muzzle is something that is only used in this scenario, the muzzle is scary! Can you imagine being in a doctor appointment and someone comes in and puts a mask over your face? I bet you’d decide to not comply!

There are also breed bans in certain states or counties that require a dog to wear a muzzle whenever they are out of the home, as well as dangerous dog laws that require this attire if your dog has been labeled as such.

Of course, there are other reasons that dogs wear muzzles, such as keeping them from eating inappropriate objects like garbage, kids’ toys, rocks, and so on. We have patients that have eaten several pairs of underwear and, at $1,000 a surgery to remove each pair, not counting recovery on the patients, wearing a muzzle is essential to life. Muzzles are also helpful when introducing a dog to a possible scenario that could cause a fearful response.

Muzzle training can be super easy and even fun, but waiting until it is needed is not ideal and is even super scary for the dog. It is something that should be taught as puppies, in case of emergencies or care needed in the future that could be painful and unsafe or just necessary. You can start this anytime. Ideally, not a day before your upcoming appointment.

Just like anything else, there are a ton of options to pick from, and it can be overwhelming. Not all muzzles are worthy. Nylon muzzles are very restricting and should not be used. Panting, licking lips, barking, and yawning are things that dogs do when they are stressed. They do this to communicate. Much like we open our mouths to talk or yell when we are feeling threatened or scared.

When we put a nylon muzzle on, dogs can’t communicate and, not to mention that it has to be very terrifying to not be able to breath out of your mouth when you get worked up. These muzzles can actually increase a dog’s feeling of panic. Although basket muzzles are very intimidating, they are the best and safest options. Basket muzzles allow the dog to pant, yawn, bark, drink water, take treats, and relax. Of course, even though they are more comfortable, they are still going to be very scary to the dog if this is not something they have been taught to wear.

To find the right fit, you will need to measure from the tip of the nose to between the eyes, as well as around the neck and behind the ears. For some breeds, it can be hard to find a good fit as they may have long skinny snouts or big jowls. The muzzle should be loose enough to be able to do all the things and not rub on the sides. Find a brand that you like and measure according to their directions. I really like the Baskerville brand for most dogs. The first muzzle you buy does not need to be the perfect fit, as you just need the dog to learn to like it. You won’t actually know if it fits until later in the game. Start slow. You know how you take the nail trimmer out and your dog heads for under the bed but, when the leash comes out, they get ecstatic. That is because dogs are smart and they have made associations to these items. Associations can be good or bad. If your dog has already experienced a muzzle, this task will need to be a slower trained process. Start with showing the dog the muzzle and giving a treat. Repeat throughout the day. The dog will quickly learn that when the muzzle comes out, treats happen. These treats should be small and tasty. Skip the dry Milk Bones. That’s like us getting a rice cake for a reward.

When the dog is very excited to see the muzzle, you can move on. Now place the treat in the muzzle for the dog to take out. As the dog takes the treat, say a phrase. You will use this phrase repetitively and whenever you want the dog to muzzle up in the future, so pick something epic. If you are struggling to get your dog to put its nose in the muzzle, use something they can lick off—peanut butter, baby food, cat food, yogurt, etc. When your dog is reliably doing this, you can fasten the strap but do it slowly. The sound can be scary for some. Immediately give a treat once the muzzle is on, and then take it off. Gradually prolong how long you have the muzzle on, Wait to fasten the muzzle tighter until your dog is comfortable with the previous steps.

If you are struggling, please reach out to your vet. Slow and steady wins at this game. The process can seem daunting, but dogs will surprise you if you’re patient. People are always going to talk, but don’t let the fear of judgment keep you from training this helpful task. Plus, your dog isn’t worried about what it looks like!

True LOVE GROWS

TRUE LOVE GROWS

NICOLE LUECK, CVT MN Valley Pet Hospital Mankato

200 square feet, you will love the charm of his nearly 100 year old home, including the beautiful hardwood floors and high eilings Please enjoy any of the FOUR great utdoor spaces available including a large front porch, a small coffee deck on the second floor, the back deck or the patio with a cozy, private fire pit The property also has off-street parking

simply rela long day The property has two parking spots; a garage stall a

I was a lifeguard about 20 years ago and was trained in CPR. I think I remember the basic gist of it, but I’ve heard the recommendations have changed. What do I need to know? Should I be certified as an adult? I have a desk job, and I don’t know when I would use it.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that everyone should know how to perform. When used properly in cases of heart-attack or neardrowning, early intervention can make a significant impact in the outcome of the recipient. A person suffering a heart attack is unable to circulate oxygenated blood through the body, and the brain can become damaged in a matter of minutes without oxygen. Since you never know when you may be called upon to action, it’s a good idea to keep your skills current.

The American Heart Association recommends starting CPR with hard and fast chest compressions. This “hands-only” method may be a change from your previous training. By swift administration of aggressive chest compressions, the blood can be circulated throughout the body during the crucial early minutes of distress. It is ALWAYS better to do something, rather than nothing at all. There are only two-steps to remember:

• Call 911

• Start chest compressions (stay calm, you can do this)

For example, you are shopping at the mall when you see a person nearby in distress. Perhaps they are lying unresponsive on the ground and a crowd of hysteria is beginning to form. Rather than freak out and run in the other direction, approach the situation calmly and assertively. Ensure the scene is safe, meaning no one else is in danger of becoming injured while you are administering aid. Tap or shake the

person and ask them loudly, “Are you ok?” If no response, delegate a person to call 911. This is critical: do not say “Someone call 911,” rather assertively assign the task to the nearest person to you. Begin chest compressions. Trade off with another person if you become fatigued, but do not stop until help arrives.

Chest compressions are performed with the recipient on their back on a hard surface. Kneel next to the person’s shoulder and place the heel of your hand over the center of their chest along the nipple line. Place your other hand on top. Keeping your elbows straight and your shoulders over your elbows, compress the chest at least 2 inches using your entire body weight. Push harder than you think you need to.

Effective chest compressions are between 100-120 beats per minute. Here is a list of songs that you can sing to yourself while you administer life-saving chest compressions:

• “Glory Days”- Bruce Springsteen, 117bpm

• “The Real Slim Shady” Eminem, 105bpm

• “Bad Romance” Lady Gaga, 119bpm

• “Rock Your Body” Justin Timberlake 101bpm

• “Ring of Fire” Johnny Cash 105bpm

• “Ice Ice Baby” Vanilla Ice, 116bpm

If you would like to receive formal CPR training, check with the Red Cross or American Heart Association for programs offered near you. Stay Healthy, friends!

CORINNE JORDAN, MD, FACS General Surgeon Physicians Group New Ulm

For many, the winter season is a joyous time filled with family, friends, and great food. However, for others, winter months can be quite the opposite. Shorter days, cold weather, and stress from the holidays can be challenging, leading to increased stress, sadness and even depression.

While it may seem like “just the winter blues,” some people may experience more persistent, pervasive symptoms of depression known as seasonal affective disorder.

Why does seasonal depression increase in the winter?

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a form of major depression that some people commonly suffer from in the late fall and winter months. And more rarely, it may occur in early spring.

An explanation may be that reduced levels of sunlight disrupt the body’s internal clock and may change the levels of serotonin, which affects mood, or melatonin, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood.

People tend to stay indoors more often when it’s cold and dark. This can increase isolation and decrease the opportunity to share enjoyable activities with others, further contributing to sadness and depression.

In addition, people may be less physically active or not exercise as much during winter, which can impact their sense of well-being.

Common symptoms of seasonal affective disorder

• Depressed mood, such as feeling more sad, down, or numb

• Irritability or mood swings

• Problems getting along with others

• Fatigue and oversleeping

• Appetite changes, such as craving high-carbohydrate foods

• Weight gain

People struggling with SAD are more likely to experience increased appetite, weight gain, or hypersomnia (sleeping too much) compared to those with major depressive disorder without a seasonal variation.

If you suspect that you or someone you care about may be struggling with SAD, seeking help from a qualified professional is the first step to feeling better.

Coping with seasonal affective disorder and lifestyle modifications

Some of the best ways to prevent or improve a depressed mood are simple—and you can start today.

• Eat a well-balanced diet. If you are not eating a nutritious diet, you are missing out on nutrients that promote a positive state of being. Specifically, consume foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts.

• Exercise moderately on a regular basis to improve your mood and energy levels.

• Get enough sleep. When you don’t sleep enough, it affects your thoughts, mood, and overall cognitive function. Sleep needs vary from person to person, but the National Sleep Foundation recommends between seven and nine hours for adults. Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule.

• Make time to interact with friends and loved ones. They supply a strong support system, which can help you deal with emotional difficulties. If a friend or family member is exhibiting symptoms of depression, reaching out to them can be helpful.

• Do something nice for someone else. Volunteering, donating to charity and performing random acts of kindness can be very rewarding. This is an effective way to add a spark back into your life.

Treatment interventions for seasonal affective disorder

Feeling sad or down now and then is a normal part of life— especially during difficult times or when mourning the loss of someone close to you. However, persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness may be signs of depression.

Evaluation and treatment for seasonal affective disorder may involve:

• Using a light box or bright light therapy may help alleviate SAD symptoms. When using bright light therapy or light box therapy, the light should be 10,000 lux. Light box therapy should be used in the morning, within the first hour of waking, for 30 minutes, such as while getting ready for work or eating breakfast. The light should be placed 1 to 2 feet from the face, making sure not to look directly at the light.

• Some people choose pharmacologic options to treat symptoms. Speak to your health care team to find out more about starting an antidepressant, such as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).

Other treatment interventions include:

• Individual assessment and evaluation for depression/SAD

• Lifestyle changes to increase exposure to natural light

• Individual therapy using evidenced-based treatments

• Support groups and classes

It’s time to contact your health care professional if these feelings interfere with your everyday life and you don’t enjoy activities that you once did.

PATRICK BIGAOUETTE, M.D. Psychiatry and Psychology Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato

READER POLL

TELL US YOUR FUNNY PET TALE

Our dog, Dallas, takes sticks of butter off the counter and buries them under our pillows or in the couch cushions. When we put our hands under our pillows in the middle of the night they come out with warm melted butter all over.

Lola (dog) and Tillie (kitten) quickly became best friends when Tillie joined our family in August. Tillie is vision impaired and Lola seems to know that Tillie needs special care.

Our cat Axel helps me unfold laundry.

Our dog, Honey, crawls under the blankets in the winter.

Our cat Vanilla acts more like a dog than a cat. He loves water and showering, loves being where we are and spending time with us. Whether it’s outside doing horse chores, playing in the dirt, or playing dress up on rainy days, he’s there. And when you play hard, you nap hard—with your people. He also loves to be held and will follow you meowing until you pick him up. If you don’t he’ll climb your leg like a tree to snuggle in for hugs and be carried around. He’s simply the best cat-dog around!

Lily loves laying in sinks.

Our dog sits on a real chair and watches me work. He sits there most of the day. People love seeing him behind me in my meetings because he so often is sitting up like in the photo. He reminds me of Eeyore. So sad that I can’t play with him or pet him. He cracks me up!

Heart attacks are often not as dramatic as we see on movies and TV. We often picture an elderly man clutching his chest and falling to the floor.

Let’s bust some myths. First, cardiovascular disease is also the number one killer of women, causing one in three deaths each year. Pregnancy and menopause can also impact women’s risk. When women approach menopause, cardiovascular risks can rise.

As for the drama. Many people, women and men alike, experience heart attack symptoms that are mild or less well known. In these events, people may delay calling 911 or never call at all.

Heart Attack Symptoms:

• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

• Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness.

It’s more common for women to experience symptoms that are less common. In fact, women are more likely to have a heart attack without feeling chest pain or discomfort. Women may notice:

• Shortness of breath

• Nausea and vomiting

• Sweating

• Back or jaw pain

• Back pain is sometimes described as upper back pressure like squeezing or a rope being tied around you.

• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting

• Weakness or fatigue

• General feeling of unease or discomfort

Heart attacks can often be confused with the flu, anxiety attacks, indigestion, or a pulled muscle in the upper back.

What should you do?

Listen to your body. If you feel symptoms, call 911 immediately and get to the nearest hospital. Every minute counts.

Some heart attacks are even called silent heart attacks because the symptoms are so subtle. In fact, 2022 statistics from the American Health Association estimate that about 20 percent of heart attacks are silent.

No matter how mild or silent the symptoms, a heart attack temporarily or permanently blocks blood flow to a section of the heart. This causes scarring and damage to the heart muscle. A silent heart attack puts people at risk for further heart issues because it hasn’t been treated. Sometimes patients will feel fatigue weeks and months later and seek care only to learn they’ve had a heart attack.

To help prevent heart attacks and cardiovascular disease, schedule an annual visit with your primary care provider. These visits include routine testing of blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes which can identify risk factors. Annual visits also offer the chance to talk with your provider about healthy lifestyle changes to lower your risks. Not smoking and vaping, exercising regularly, and eating a heart healthy diet can help.

To take charge of your heart health, visit Go Red for Women at goredforwomen.org. Invite a girlfriend, sister or family member to join you. Go Red Today.

ELIZABETH EVERS, PA-C Mankato Clinic Cardiovascular Medicine Heart Care

TO HAVE YOUR EVENT LISTED

To have your event listed, please email Ruth Klossner at cowladyruth@gmail.com by the 5th of the previous month. Listings are generally for events that are free to the public, or are fund-raisers. Listings will be published as space allows and at the discretion of the editor.

Fri, Feb 3

• No School Afternoon Movie, Public Library Children’s Room, New Ulm, 2-4 pm. Info: 507-3598331 or ktatnall@tds.lib.mn.us.

• Full Moon Luminary Snowshoe Hike, River Bend Nature Center, 1000 Rustad Rd, Faribault, 6-8 pm. Info & pre-registration: 507332-7151, rbnc.org or rbncinfo@ rbnc.org.

Fri, Feb 3 & 17 & Mar 10

• Starkeller Music Series, 2215 N Garden St, New Ulm, 6-7 pm. Info: schellsbrewery.com/brewery/starkeller/.

Sat, Feb 4

• Nicollet Legion Fish Fry, Friendship Hall, 715 Third Street, Nicollet, 11 am-8 pm. Info: 507232-3031.

• Dance Party Reunion—Buddy Holly & Friends, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30-9 pm. Info: 507332-7372 or info@paradisecenterforthearts.org.

• Candlelight Trail, Fort Ridgely State Park, 72404 Co Rd 30, Fairfax, 5-8 pm. Info: 507-4267840 or joanne.svendsen@ state.mn.us.

• Polar Plunge for Special Olympics, Johnson Hall, 400 W Union St, St Peter, 12 pm. Info: plungemn.org/events/st-peter/.

• Candlelight Event, Rice Lake State Park, 8485 Rose St, Owatonna, 5-8 pm. Info: visitowatonna@gmail.com or dnr. state.mn.us/stateparks/event. html?id=71556.

Sat, Feb 4 & Mar 11

• Volunteer Resource Workday, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 9 am-12 pm. Info & sign-up: 507357-8580 or alex@neycenter. org.

GO. BE. DO. CON NECT.

Sun, Feb 5

• Gibbon Sportsmen’s Club Pollock Fish Fry, Clear Lake Club Grounds, 5 mi S of Gibbon, 11 am-4 pm. Info: Facebook.

• Sportsman’s Club 41st Annual Ice Fishing Contest, Sleepy Eye Lake, Sleepy Eye, 12-3 pm. Info: 507-220-5101 or sleepyeyesportsmansclub.com/.

Tues, Feb 7

• Teen Tuesday, Public Library meeting room, New Ulm, 4 pm. Info & registration: newulmlibrary.org or 507-359-8331.

Wed, Feb 8 & Tues, Mar 7

• Social Security (& Taxes) 101, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 6-7:30 pm. Info: newulm.ce.eleyo.com/, 507-2338307 or cfleck@newulm.k12. mn.us.

Thurs, Feb 9

• 55+ Driver Discount Program, Community Bldg, St. James, 1-5 pm. Info & sign-up: 888-2341294 or driverdiscountprogram. com.

Fri, Feb 10 & Mar 10

• Chicken Dinner, American Legion, 600 Co Rd 20, Lake Crystal, 5-7 pm. Info: lakecrystalchamber.com/events.

Fri-Sun, Feb 10-12 & Thurs-Sat, Feb 16-18

• Paradise Center Community Theatre’s ‘Wrong Window,’ Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. ThursSat 7:30 pm, Sun 2 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or info@paradisecenterforthearts.org.

Sat, Feb 11

• Winter Gala, State Street Theater Co, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 6 pm. Info: info@statestreetnewulm.org or 507-359-9990.

• Hutchinson Theatre Company 20th Anniversary Gala, Art’s Place, 35 1st Ave SW, Hutchinson, 5:30-8:30 pm. Info & tickets: 320-587-7278 or info@hutchinsonarts.org.

• Gustavus Choir Home Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7-9 pm. Info: 507-933-7013.

• St James Community Theatre ‘Evening of Love Songs Fundraiser for Little Theater, First Presbyterian Church, St. James, 7-10 pm. Info: localendar.com/ public/stjameschamber.

• Nicollet Co. Trail Assn. Snowmobile Fun Run, Blue Moon, 300 S Webster St, Kasota, 9:30 am. Info: facebook.com/NCTASnowmobileClub.

• Candlelight Event, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 6-9 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.

• Winterfest, Group Campground, Minneopa State Park, 5 mi W of Mankato off Hwy 68/169, 5-8 pm. Info: 507-386-3911 or ashley.steevens@state.mn.us.

• River’s Edge Hospital Winter Walk, St. Peter, 11 am. Info: 507934-3400, edlee@stpeterchamber.com or Stpeterchamber. com.

• Evening of Love Songs Fundraiser for Little Theatre, First Presbyterian Church, St James, 7-10 pm. Info: localendar.com/ public/stjameschamber.

Sat, Feb 11 & Mar 11

• Legion Made Rights, American Legion, New Ulm, 10 am-1 pm. Info: nuamericanlegion.com.

Sat-Sun, Feb 11-12

• Titlow Vintage Ice Drags, Radar Run, Vintage Show & Swap, Lake Titlow, Gaylord, 8 am Sat to 4 pm Sun. Info: facebook. com/sibleydriftdodgers/.

Sun, Feb 12

• Wind Symphony Concert, Chapel of the Christ, 1995 Luther Court, Martin Luther College, New Ulm, 3 pm. Info: mlcwels.edu/music/ensembles/ wind-symphony/ or wurstemb@ mlc-wels.edu.

• New Ulm Area Sport Fishermen Ice Fishing Contest, Clear Lake, New Ulm, 11 1m-3 pm. Info: facebook.com/newulmsportfish/.

• Love-A-Fair Craft & Vendor Show, Best Western, New Ulm, 10 am-3 pm. Info: facebook. com/groups/nucraftevents/.

Thurs, Feb 16

• Women’s Networking Event-Mingle With a Purpose, Best Western Plus, New Ulm, 6-9 pm. Info: 507-233-4300 or chamber@newulm.com.

• Lifelong Learner Lunch, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 12-1:30 pm. Info & registration: 507-3578580 or info@neycenter.org.

• Galentine’s Day, The Capitol Room, St Peter, 6-9 pm. Info & tickets: cadamn.org/galentines-day.

Fri-Sun, Feb 17-19

• MLC Lutheran Invitational Basketball Tournament for large grade schools, Martin Luther College & Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School, New Ulm. Info: mlc-wels.edu/events/ grade-school-basketball-tournament/.

• MLC Winter Play—Radium Girls, WCC Auditorium, Martin Luther College, 1995 Luther Ct, New Ulm. 7:30 pm Fri & Sat, 2 pm Sun. Info: laabser@mlc-wels. edu.

• Indigenous Art Fair, Riverfront Dr, Old Town, Mankato. Info: Facebook.

• Home & Lifestyles Show, River Hills Mall, 1850 Adams St, Mankato. 10 am Fri-4 pm Sun. Info: mankatomnshows.com.

Sat, Feb 18

• Gustavus Wind Orchestra Home Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 7-9 pm. Info: 507-9337013.

• Friends of the Library Chocolate Affair Fundraiser, Library, St. James, 7-9 pm. Info: localendar. com/public/stjameschamber.

• The BriTins—A Beatles Tribute Band, State Street Theater Co, 1 N State St, New Ulm, Info: 507359-9990 or info@statestreetnewulm.org.

Sun, Feb 19

• Lunch-Bake Sale-Raffle-Bingo, St. John’s Church, Searles, 11:30 am-4:30 pm. Info: 507-276-3274 or schmitt.ent@gmail.com.

• Snowshoeing at Meadowlark Prairies, 33672 733rd Ave, St James, 12-4 pm. Info: 507-6218055.

Fri-Sun, Feb 24-26

• MLC Lutheran Invitational Basketball Tournament for small grade schools, Martin Luther College & Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School, New Ulm. Info: mlc-wels.edu/events/ grade-school-basketball-tournament/.

Sat, Feb 25

• Pedal Past Poverty, YMCA, 1401 S Riverfront Dr, Mankato, 8:30 am-12:15 pm. Info: Facebook or partnersforhousing.org/pedal.

• Babysitter Training—Boys and Girls, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 9:30 am-1 pm. Info: newulm.ce.eleyo. com/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@ newulm.k12.mn.us.

• (Staying) Home Alone, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 1:30-3 pm. Info: newulm. ce.eleyo.com/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.

• Lions Dad’s Belgian Waffle Brunch, Turner Hall, 102 S State St, New Ulm, 7:30 am-12:30 pm. Info: 507-354-8940, 612-5012719 or bbschir@comcast.net.

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

• Winter Charm on the Farm, Farmamerica, 7367 360th Ave, Waseca, 11 am-3 pm. Info & tickets: 507-835-2052, info@farmamerica.org or farmamerica. org/event/wintercharm-jan/.

Sun, Feb 26

• Mankato Bridal Show, Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato, 11 am-2 pm. Info: mankatobridalshow.com/eventdetails.

• Omelet Breakfast, Nicollet American Legion, 715 N 3rd St, Nicollet, 8:30 am-12 pm. Info: Nicollet Sons of the American Legion on Facebook.

Mon, Feb 27

• Senior Driver Refresher Course, CAST Senior Center, 600 N German St, New Ulm, 1-5 pm. Info: 507-354-3212, castnu@newulmtel.net or communityandseniorstogether.org.

Fri, Mar 3

• Super Duos Presents The Music of Simon & Garfunkel, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or Info@paradisecenterforthearts.org.

• Jazz Jamboree, Bjorling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 8 am-6 pm. Info: 507-933-7013.

Sat, Mar 4

• Bock Fest, Schell’s Brewery Grounds, 1860 Schell Rd, New Ulm, 11 am-4:30 pm. Info: 507354-5528 or schellsbrewery. com/events/bock-fest/.

• The Gambler Returns—Ultimate Kenny Rogers Tribute, State Street Theater Co, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 7 pm. Info & tickets: info@statestreetnewulm.org or 507-359-9990.

Sat-Sun, Mar 4-5

• ‘Alice on Ice’ Figure Skating Show, Civic Center, New Ulm. 1 & 6 pm Sat, 1 pm Sun. Info: nuskate.org/iceshow/.

• Gun and Knife Show, Kato Ballroom, 200 Chestnut St, Mankato. 9 am-5 pm Sat, 9 am-3 pm Sun. Info: 763-754-7140, crocodile1@comcast.net or gunshows.com/Mankato-Gun-Knife-Show.

Tues, Mar 7

• Mingle with a Purpose Heels and All Networking & Development for Women, Turner Hall, New Ulm, 5 pm. Info & tickets: 507-233-4300 or NewUlm.com.

Thurs, Mar 9

• How to Easily Grow a Beautiful Pollinator Garden, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 7-8 pm. Info: newulm.ce.eleyo. com/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@ newulm.k12.mn.us.

Fri-Sun, Mar 10-11

• Hub Club Farm Show, Civic Center, 1212 N Franklin St, New Ulm. 1-8 pm Fri, 9 am-5 pm Sat. Info: 507-217-7226, don@sandersonsf.com or farmcityhubclub. net.

Fri-Sun, Mar 10-12

• Mankato Home Show, Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center. 3-8 pm Fri, 9 am-5 pm Sat, 11 am-3 pm Sun. Info: mankatohomeshow.com, radiomankato@gmail.com.

Sat, Mar 11

• Harmonious Wail, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30 pm. Info: 507-332-7372 or Info@paradisecenterforthearts.org.

• March Madness Craft and Vendor Show, Best Western, New Ulm, 10 am-3 pm. Info: facebook.com/groups/nucraftevents/.

• Ballet Folklorico Mexico Azteca, State Street Theater Co, 1 N State St, New Ulm. Info: 507359-9990 or info@statestreetnewulm.org.

Sat-Sun, Mar 11-12

• New Ulm Trade Fair & Living History Event, Royal Oak Event Center, 301 20th St S, New Ulm. 9 am-5 pm Sat, 9 am-3 pm Sun. Info: 651-247-4733, memery@

newulmtradefair.com or newulmtradefair.com.

Sun, Mar 12

• Dad’s Belgian Waffles Fundraiser for After Prom, Public School, Nicollet, 9 am-1 pm. Info: isd507. k12.mn.us

Mon, Mar 13

• Honor Choir Evening Concert, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, 6:30-8 pm. Info: 507-933-7013.

Mon, Mar 13 & 20 (2-part class)

• 8-Hour Senior Driver Refresher Course, CAST Senior Center, 600 N German St, New Ulm, 1-5 pm each day (2-part class). Info: 507354-3212, castnu@newulmtel. net or communityandseniorstogether.org.

Thurs, Mar 16

• Ivy House Spring Fundraiser—Help our Children Bloom, Best Western, New Ulm, 5-8:30 p.m. Info & tickets: trisha@ivyhousemn.org or ivyhousemn. org.

Thurs-Sat, Mar 16-18

• North American Farm & Power Show, Four Seasons Centre, 18th St SE, Owatonna. 9 am-5 pm Thurs-Fri, 9 am-4 pm Sat. Info: 507-451-7970, tradexpo@ tradexpos.com or tradexpos. com.

Thurs-Sun, Mar 16-19

• Peewee A & AA State Hockey Tournaments, Civic Center, 1212 N Franklin St, New Ulm. Info: business.newulm.com/events/ details/state-hockey-tournaments-44188.

8+

u will love the charm of old home, including the ood floors and high

any of the FOUR great ilable including a large all coffee deck on the back deck or the patio

you will love the charm of ar old home, including the dwood floors and high njoy any of the FOUR great vailable including a large small coffee deck on the he back deck or the patio ate fire pit The property off-street parking

parking

2,800 square feet, you will love the charm of this home built in 1925, including the beautiful hardwood floors French

2,800 square feet, you will l of this home built in 1925, including the beautiful hardwood floors, French doors and high ceilings You will also enjoy the great outdoor space in the back yard made for entertaining or simply relaxing after a long day The property has two off-street parking spots; a garage stall as well as a carport adjacent to the garage stall

parking spots; a garage stall as well as a carport adjacent to the garage stall

FebruaryMust

1. Scrubs, Medical Supplies & Accessories

Shop our large selection of medical equipment and supplies including stethoscopes, compression stockings, scrubs, scissors and more! C&S Supply has a great in-stock selection of quality uniforms & footwear. Special orders also available at no extra charge.

C&S Supply

1951 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 507.387.1171 or 800.879.1938 candssupply.com

2. Gerard Bertrand

Cote des Roses Rosé

This dry rosé from the Languedoc region in France has the aromas of summer fruits, cassis and red currant. Floral notes of rose along with hints of grapefruit complete the picture. Pairs well with fish, seafood, and sushi. Liquor Mart 1527 N Broadway St. New Ulm, MN 507.354.8778

3. The Gift of Diamonds

The perfect gift for Valentine's Day is the gift of diamonds, because nothing says "I Love You" like diamonds. They won't wilt or fade in color. Many sizes and options to choose from. Earrings, bracelets, rings and so much more. Let Patterson's Diamond Center in New Ulm and Mankato take your Valentine's Day from ordinary to extraordinary.

Patterson's Diamond Centers Mankato Hilltop 1031 Madison Ave Mankato, MN 507.625.1625

Downtown New Ulm 117 N. Minnesota St. New Ulm, MN 507.354.2613 pattersonsdiamondcenter.com

4. Coppelia – Spring Repertoire Concert

When a life-sized doll gets mistaken for a real girl, misunderstanding, confusion, and hilarity ensue. It’s a family MUST SEE! 2023 spring repertoire production will be Coppelia. Saturday, March 4th at 5pm at the West High School Auditorium. Tickets are $15 Adults, $12 for children 12 and under.

Mankato Ballet

507.625.7716 mankatoballet.org

5. Love your Body this Valentine's Day Basin brings the relaxation of a spa to your home. With a refreshing line of sweetly scented bath bombs, scrubs and soaps that will help relieve your daily stresses. Scents range from Serenity or Electric lemonade and even Florida Sunshine, something to fit every mood. You can find Basin products at your Mankato Hy-Vee’s. Hy-Vee

Mankato Hilltop 507.625.9070

Mankato Riverfront 507.625.1107 New Ulm 507.354.8255 St. Peter 507.519.1910 hy-vee.com

6. Motorize Your Shades

Now it's simple to adjust large, tall and hard-to-reach window coverings. Take half off of your remote when you purchase motorization window coverings during the month of February.

Blinds & More Window Coverings 507.380.5019 blindsandmore.org

7. Renewal by Andersen Windows: Professionally Installed by Schmidt Siding & Window

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 custommade 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

507.625.6412 schmidtmankato.com

8. Detox Today

A detox foot soak makes joint movement easier in the knees and elbows. It’s an alternative medicine option for people who suffer chronic lymphatic and bone pain. Detoxification also promotes weight loss, as it rids your body of crippling chemicals and raises your metabolism to higher levels. Body Concepts LLC 1615 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507.381.5467

bodyconceptsmankato.com

Austad, RN Intake, Rebekah Chadderdon, Lindsey Westphal, Intake Coordinator

Teen dating violence is a common form of intimate partner violence (IPV) that directly impacts adolescents. One in three teens experience teen dating violence in the US. There are abuse tactics within dating violence that are unique to teenagers. The following abuse tactics show the different ways that someone can gain power and control over their partner in a dating relationship.

Psychological Aggression

Psychological aggression is when someone is experiencing verbal and sometimes physical abuse from their partner that causes fear or emotional harm. This can manifest as one partner insulting their partner’s appearance, name calling, playing mind games, or having them question their reality. Teenagers who experience psychological aggression from partners are at a higher risk for depression, lower school performance, substance abuse, and eating disorders. When someone experiences these forms of verbal manipulation and abuse it can compromise the trust in the relationship. It can also impact the way we trust ourselves.

Physical and Sexual Violence

Physical violence is when an abusive partner harms or uses the threat of harm to gain power over their partner. After physical violence happens, an abusive partner can use guilt as well as the threat of their peers’ opinions to minimize the survivor’s voice. Abusive partners may also try to persuade their partners to have sex. This can look like continuing to ask a partner to pressure them to say yes, or not taking no as an answer. A partner may also use relationship “obligations” as a reason to convince their partner to have sex. It is important to remember that consent is shown through an emphatic yes and not through silence or an eventual yes after persuasion.

Stalking

An abusive partner can stalk their partner at school, in their community, and online. Because of the different ways we are able to keep track of each other through social media, stalking online has become more prevalent and can be challenging to recognize. Online profiles can give away sensitive information like address, phone numbers, locations, and places of interest. This information can be used by abusive partners to find the other partner without their consent or use private information against them. Stalking takes away a survivor’s privacy and can affect the way they are able to live their life.

Peer Pressure and Social Status

Abusive partners can also use peer pressure within the social circles that they and their partner share to gain control. This could look like threatening to humiliate a partner in front of their peers or spreading lies about them and their character. When the abusive partner has more influence on their community, they can use their social status to gain control over their partner by threatening to negatively impact their image amongst their peers.

Isolation

Isolation in a relationship can show up in different ways. Different examples of isolation are when someone controls who their partner can talk to, where their partner is “allowed” to go, or even what information their partner is “allowed” to have access to. Abusive partners may try to justify the behavior through jealousy; however, it is important to remember that even if a partner is jealous, they don’t have the right to control their partner’s behavior.

Here is a helpful analogy to explain the impact that isolation can have on survivors.

You are on an island and your connection to the outside world and resources are represented by boats coming into the harbor. These boats represent different connections you make in life, such as relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and classmates. An abusive partner may block boats that offer you different levels of support and resources. They do this so they can become the only boat left available to you.

One way to help a survivor who is becoming isolated from friends and family is by offering them a boat. Offering them the resources and support that they may have been convinced or persuaded to ignore. Even if a survivor doesn’t utilize the boat often, knowing it is there can have a positive impact.

If someone you know is experiencing teen dating violence you may be asking yourself, “What are the next steps?” As a friend or caring adult, one of the most important things you can do is express concern and offer support. Offering survivors that boat without any conditions attached can give them opportunities to reach out for help on their own terms. Through the cycle of abuse. a survivor may end up being distanced from their support systems and community.

Active listening is another way you can support survivors in your life. Once they reach out to your offer of support, it is important to respond without judgment. Allowing them the space to be heard can help strengthen your relationship and show them that you are safe to confide in.

TAYLOR CLARK

CADA Shelter Advocate

The medical cannabis landscape of Minnesota and beyond is rapidly evolving. Navigating the medical cannabis system becomes murkier with varying state laws and regulations. When the Legislature convenes in 2023, there will likely be further expansion of the medical cannabis program. As with any therapeutic intervention, sound research is necessary, and—as of this writing—there are 21 ongoing trials specifically looking at THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids reported on ClinicalTrials.gov. In hopes of dispelling some of the more common confusion, several frequently received questions have been addressed.

Do I need a doctor’s prescription?

In Minnesota, a medical doctor may engage in discussions, provide education, or recommend consideration of medical cannabis, but they do not prescribe, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the use of cannabis. Medical cannabis dispensary pharmacists work directly with the individual to create a treatment plan.

What conditions does cannabis help?

Minnesota has 17 approved diagnoses: ALS, Alzheimer’s, Autism, Cancer, Tic disorder, Chronic pain, Glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, Irritable bowel disease, PTSD, Sleep apnea, Seizures, Muscle spasms, Sickle cell disease, Terminal illness, and Tourette syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome and OCD will be effective in August 2023. Although Minnesota does not recognize hepatitis C infection, many other states do. Further information regarding Minnesota qualifying conditions can be obtained at health.state.mn.us/people/cannabis/patients/ conditions.html

How does cannabis work?

Cannabis contains more than 60 compounds classified as cannabinoids. Cannabinoids bind with cannabinoid receptors within the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is the body’s most widespread receptor system involved in almost all body functions and maintains internal environment homeostasis (mood, immune function, temperature), and influences anxiety, appetite, neurogenesis/ protection, and many emotional states, such as depression, reward, cognition, learning, and pain sensation (Lowe et al., 2021). The precise mechanism of action, adverse side effects, and drug interactions, are not yet fully understood.

What are edibles?

Edible cannabis products (edibles for short) are essentially products containing cannabinoids that one can eat or drink. Edibles vary widely in their appearance and how much THC and CBD they contain. It takes longer for the body to absorb THC from edibles than after smoking or vaping. According to the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (2019), response to edibles may be more intense than dried flowers, with initial effects 30 minutes to two hours after ingestion, and overall effects lasting up to 12 hours, with residual effects lasting 24 hours.

Why would I take cannabis for pain control?

Pain relief is the most cited reason for medical cannabis use and is increasing, especially in situations where opioid reduction is indicated (Bell & Kalso, 2021). According to the British Medical Journal expert panel, there are limited and inconsistent guidelines regarding cannabis for pain management, however, for insufficiently managed moderate to severe chronic pain a trial of non-inhaled medical cannabis, in addition to standard care, could be offered (2021). Any decision to use medical cannabis should be made with great consideration and after discussions with your medical provider.

Will I pass a drug test?

Thirty-seven states allow adults to use cannabis medically, recreationally or both. Pew Research (2022) report that in most states, people can be fired or denied a job for using cannabis and certain employers are required to test for cannabis under federal law, while others want to make sure they don’t employ anyone who could threaten workplace safety.

The information, content, and materials provided are for general informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals and is not intended to constitute legal advice.

References

Bell, Rae F.a; Kalso, Eija A. Cannabinoids for pain or profit? PAIN 162():p S125-S126, July 2021. DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001930

Busse, J. W., Vankrunkelsven, P., Zeng, L., Heen, A. F., Merglen, A., Campbell, F., Granan, L. P., Aertgeerts, B., Buchbinder, R., Coen, M., Juurlink, D., Samer, C., Siemieniuk, R. A. C., Kumar, N., Cooper, L., Brown, J., Lytvyn, L., Zeraatkar, D., Wang, L., Guyatt, G. H., Agoritsas, T. (2021). Medical cannabis or cannabinoids for chronic pain: a clinical practice guideline. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 374, n2040. doi/10.1136/bmj.n2040 Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction. (2019). ccsa.ca/sites/default/ files/2019-06/CCSA-7-Things-About-Edible-Cannabis-2019-en.pdf

Lowe, H., Toyang, N., Steele, B., Bryant, J., & Ngwa, W. (2021). The Endocannabinoid System: A Potential Target for the Treatment of Various Diseases. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(17), 9472. MDPI AG. Retrieved from dx.doi.org/10.3390/ ijms22179472

MN Department of Health. Office of Medical Cannabis. health.state.mn.us/people/ cannabis/patients/conditions.html

Quinton, S. (2022). Workers who legally use cannabis can still lose their jobs. Pew Research Center, Washington D.C. pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/ stateline/2022/02/28/workers-who-legally-use-cannabis-can-still-lose-their-jobs

AMY HAYCRAFT Harmony Center LLC

“I am not going to sit here and watch the world go by.”

-Deanna Enright Mankato, MN

Deanna was just managing knee pain with cortisone shots until she returned from a trip to Vietnam & Cambodia. She consulted her doctor, Jesse Botker, and scheduled a double knee replacement. Now Deanna can go back to traveling without worry!

“It’s been wonderful! I can stand for hours and I am not in pain. I can walk and I am not in pain.”

See Deanna’s full story at www.rehc.org/news

Learn more at OrthoEdgeMN.com

JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY IMPORTANT CHOICE, EASY DECISION

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!

DR. JESSE BOTKER