River Valley Woman June-July 2023

Reward yourself.

With both treatments you’ll be rewarded by Allergan with Allé points you can then use to reduce the cost of your next Botox, Jevederm filler treatment!

Get rid of stubborn fat for good.

Show off the body you’ve always dreamed of with CoolSculpting®: the non-surgical body contouring treatment that freezes and naturally eliminates fat from your body. No needles, no surgery and best of all, no downtime. Developed by Harvard scientists, CoolSculpting® is FDA-cleared, safe and clinically proven. We will develop your customized plan so you can say goodbye to stubborn fat!

TRANSFORM YOUR BODY

Look and feel stronger.

Trim, tone and contour your body with CoolTone® by using Magnetic Muscle Stimulation (MMS) to selectively deliver strong pulses to muscle tissues in a noninvasive manner. The MMS technology penetrates into the muscle layers and induces involuntary muscle contractions, all in a safe and effective treatment. CoolTone® is FDA-cleared to strengthen, tone, and firm the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.

THEAESTHETICCREATOR

BY EILEEN MADSEN Editor

a good man is hard to find, they probably don’t live in the river valley area. In fact, there were so many smart, talented, funny, altruistic, and successful guys to choose from I had to whittle down my list of potential features and spotlights by over half.

We have received many requests asking when we were going to publish a River Valley Man magazine over the years. A perusal of publications aimed at men show mostly targeted themes including hunting, fishing, cars, sports, and women (they just can’t live without us it seems). But we understand that gents aren’t quite that simple. Their interests run the gamut of the typical to the unusual—you name it and there’s a man who does it. While we can’t be all things to all guys, we try with our once a year (for now!) Man issue. This year’s theme adds an outdoor activities subject into the mix for a June-July double hitter.

Filling the bill is our cover guy, adventurer Daniel Lee, who has made a life and career out of having a blast. Heeding his mother’s advice to “get outside,” as a child, Lee made Mankato his playground. His sense of adventure and non-stop energy has him climbing and paddling all over the world. Lee’s latest endeavor, Circle the Earth Recreation Organization, is a synergy of mind/body activities. His unstoppable nature also compels him to raise money for kids to attend sports camps. Well played.

I love to live vicariously through people who paddle board, surf, rock climb, and white water raft. Mainly because I am a big wimp when it comes to my odds of bashing my knee into a boulder (high), or getting a face full of Boundary Waters (certain), washing out my much-relied-upon contact lenses into the abyss, along with my pride. After which I’d have no choice but to myopically stumble through the woods in search of a forest ranger to tell my plight to, only to discover I am talking to a badger.

It’s summer—let’s do some math, mixed in with some art and science just for fun. Take one architect with a desire for creative expression and community

involvement, add many rolls of tape and a whole lot of talent, and you’ve got the makings of Eric Lennartson. Finding inspiration from a European exhibit made of tape, Eric took the idea to the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota, and TapeScape was launched. His cool interactive displays are now at sites worldwide. Find your passion and stick with it.

“Dreaming huge” and a desire to be the best, drives Eddie Hernandez, owner of Elegante Porcelain. His hard scrabble life as a kid in Mexico, and since immigrating to the United States, he takes his combined life and job experiences, and puts them to work. As a teenager, Eddie would listen and observe his dad’s business dealings, socking those lessons away for the future. He credits his dad for seeing a spark in him that spurred his potential. Father knows best.

Speaking of dads, June being Father’s Day month and all, let’s give a shout out to all of our padres and their sage advice that’s helped shape our lives. Or the advice we wisely ignored. Case in point, the time my thrifty and practical dad once determined that, instead of shampoo, my sisters and I could wash our hair with his bar of Lava soap and we would not be able to tell the difference. Not surprisingly, none of us girls took him up on that challenge.

Challenges are what marathoner, and school principal, Jon Graff is all about. Driven to do what people think can’t be done, Jon thrives on the feeling of exhaustion and the inner drive to push on to the next thing. Never deterred by the unexpected during a marathon run through the Superior Trail, the same could be said about his career with young students. Stay positive, slow down, and enjoy the journey, he says. I’m positive you’ll be exhausted just reading about him.

Tom Maidl is as much of a patchwork as are his award winning quilts. Since his youth Tom has been part seamster with his colorful and artistic creations, part farmer and champion show horseman, and part musical performer added in for good measure. True to the name for both of his thriving Clydesdale and quilting businesses—he’s a Country Classic.

Not to be left out is our Applause nod to Reverend Dave Norman of Immigrant Connection, Something Special spotlight on Tee Time, and Spaces showcasing Steve Konz’ John Deere collection. Whew!

We wanted to make a big splash with this combo issue and prove that good men are indeed not hard to find. You just need to know where to look. Just ask that nice badger fellow over there.

Mankato resident Daniel Lee has chased adventure all his life.

The 33-year-old has traveled all over the world, accomplishing feats such as climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and paddle boarding down the Mississippi River.

However, his most recent endeavor, starting Circle The Earth Recreation Organization (CERO) with business partner Martie Kraus, may be his most exciting adventure yet.

Lee’s love for the outdoors started at a young age.

“My mom made me go outside because I had too much energy,” Lee said with a laugh. “I grew up always outside. Mankato was my playground.”

He attended the Loyola Catholic School system through tenth grade and then switched over to Mankato East School for a yearand-a-half as he wanted to try out the public school system—but graduated from Loyola.

Lee then started at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee—but a visit to the school’s guidance counselor as a freshman led him to switch schools.

“I was asking her all of these questions and she said, ‘From what I’m hearing, the recreation industry would be something for you and MSU has that degree,’” Lee said.

He transferred to Minnesota State University-Mankato and began taking the required classes. Dan quickly realized it was a good fit, as he said he was excited to attend every class and learn about all of the different recreation opportunities.

In school, he was a ski and snowboard club officer and president and, through that, organized events in Colorado and Utah, as well as local events. Upon graduating in 2012, Lee’s adventures really took off.

“I went to Maine and lived out of a tent during Hurricane Sandy, working for the Conservation Corps. Then I got a job and moved to Winter Park, Colorado,” Lee said.

He stayed there for a number of years, taking on a different job about every six months. Those included ski patrol, lift operator, lifeguard, nanny, and beer rep.

“I had it in my mind that, every six months, I was going to try something new and look at all the different realms of jobs to figure out what I wanted to be in the end. Recreation and physical labor was always coming back to the essence of the two things that I really enjoyed—being outside while working,” Dan said. Soon, Dan was spending his summers in Mankato, managing Bent River Outfitter. In the winter, he’d return to Colorado to work as a ski patroller.

“One of the times I was in Colorado, I was wondering what my next trip would be. I decided that I was going to paddle the whole Mississippi (River) on a stand up paddle board (SUP),” Lee said. He wanted to do it for fun, but then found out two people had paddled the river together on a SUP. That made him want to see

By BROOKE WOHLRABE PHOTOS BY OFFBEAT ARTISTRY

how fast he could do it by himself.

“I had a goal of 50 miles for 50 days,” Lee said.

He set out solo in August 2017 and finished 55 days later. There was only one day in that span that he didn’t paddle at all, but just let himself rest.

Following the completion of his trip, he moved back to Colorado and worked at Arapahoe Basin as a ski patroller, but didn’t enjoy it as much as Winter Park so—after a brief time moved back to Mankato.

“After summer, I didn’t want to go back to Colorado so I said, ‘If I want to stay here, I need a full time job.’”

Lee secured a job at Scheels in 2018. He started out in the men’s fashion department and is now the sport, game, and toy manager at the store.

Even though he began working a more consistent job, Lee’s adventures didn’t slow down. In 2020 he climbed Mount Kilimanjaro—the highest mountain/ volcano in Africa. Before going, Dan put a message about the trip on Facebook. Willy Mekeel of Mankato joined him for the hike.

The next year, Lee hiked Mount Cotopaxi in Ecuador. While hiking both mountains, Dan raised funds for Range of Motion Project (ROMP), which is a foundation that provides amputees with new limbs.

There’s a sense of thrill and accomplishment as Lee takes on and completes each new challenge, but Dan also likes to do it for a cause. When he paddled the Mississippi River he raised $3,000 for children to go to sports camps. When he hiked Mount Kilimanjaro, Dan raised $2,500 for ROMP. When he hiked Mount Cotopaxi, he raised over $6,000.

One would think Lee has a strenuous fitness regimen in order to keep him in shape for his active lifestyle. He said he’s often asked how he works out. But the answer is that he really doesn’t.

“My daily life somehow incorporates it. Right now I do daddy workouts. AKA, I have a child who’s 30 pounds and I lift him up all the time,” Lee said with a laugh.

As for his diet, Lee said he eats what he wants, but does so intuitively, only eating when he’s hungry.

“I don’t want to feel like I need to stress about everything in my life. Because, if I’m always worried about what I’m eating and my workout schedule, then I’m just worrying all the time. I’d more like to go with the flow,” Lee said. 



In January 2023, Lee and his long-time friend turned business partner, Martie Kraus, established CERO. It’s a nonprofit with several different aspects, including mind and body, cross country, a potential skate park, and, further down the road, dreams of a river wave to surf.

Prior to establishing CERO, Kraus spent over eight years working at Verizon. She said the opportunity to leave the corporate world was a welcome change. She, like Lee, has a passion for the outdoors and leads an active lifestyle.

“I grew up with a lake in my backyard and hunted and fished with my dad all the time,” Kraus said.

While working at Scheels, Lee spends a good amount of time asking people what kind of activities they enjoy and what they’d like to see.

“What I was getting was that people wanted more recreation. More things to do that don’t bring you to the bars,” he said. Lee and Kraus put on their first event, Nordic Exposure, in February. It’s a sauna and cold bath cycle. The process boasts many health benefits such as improved blood flow, detoxifying, soreness recovery, skin rejuvenation, and inflammation help. To date, every Nordic Exposure has been fully booked.

Favorite trip

Costa Rica in 2019. He and his friend Dane Fisher (past River Valley Woman Man issue cover story) flew there, borrowed a car and went hiking around and paddle boarded inside a volcano. While there he ran into friends from Colorado so it turned into a fun group trip.

Favorite outdoor activity

Either mountain biking or standup paddle boarding.

Unique piece of gear

A bouldering wall in his basement. During COVID, Lee built a 20 ft. long vertical wall to climb since he couldn’t do it at a facility.

Any other job you could see yourself doing Lee has always been interested in real estate.

While CERO has a home base at the Hub in Old Town Mankato, the saunas are portable and can be taken anywhere. In the future they’d like to add not only more saunas, but bigger ones as well. Lee envisions a bigger sauna being used in place of an office or coffee shop for business meetings.

“Your juices really flow differently when you’re in a 180 degree room or a 36 degree tub,” he said.

The Nordic Exposure happens in three cycles. Participants start with 10 to 12 minutes in the sauna, followed by a three minute cold bath, then it’s repeated. The cycle takes place outdoors because a big goal of CERO is to allow people to enjoy the outdoors, especially in the winter. Lee and Kraus detailed a night this past winter when the snow was falling during a Nordic Exposure experience.

“It’s interesting. When you’re in the cold tub, you want the sauna and, when you’re in the sauna, you want the cold tub. It’s being comfortable staying where you are. It’s controlling your urges,” Lee said.

The Nordic Exposure is unique and not offered anywhere else in southern Minnesota. In fact, 50 percent of their market is outside of Mankato. People have come from New Ulm, Rochester, Redwood Falls, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Nordic Exposure has attracted people from age six to age 70. Most events are open to everyone, regardless of age or other distinguishing differences. A few special events, such as couples’ night and ladies’ night have been held. About 80 percent of the market is women.

Lee and Kraus have plans to expand CERO but, as a non-profit, it’s a matter of getting donations and sponsors.

“We’re trying to create more opportunities for the community through CERO,” Dan said.

As a business partner, Kraus does a lot of the clerical work but Dan and Martie are both hands-on for the events.

“It’s the opportunity to do our own thing and be out in the community. We’ve met so many different people and have gotten so many ideas from them,” Kraus said.

The community piece is one of Dan’s favorite aspects of CERO. Both he and Kraus, who is originally from St. James, commented that the people in the community have been so welcoming.

“Connecting with people is one of my favorite things to do. I love networking and helping people achieve the different goals that they have,” Lee said.

Outside of his goals for CERO, Lee is working on planning a skiing trip to Japan next year. The following year he’d like to go to the base camp of Mount Everest in Nepal.

“I’m traveling for myself in essence, but I’m also going to these different places to learn about the different cultures and what people do there to be healthy, recreate, what they eat. That’s why our name is Circle the Earth. You have to go around and see new things and bring it back to your community,” Dan said. RVW

HEY GUYS, RELAX!

+ floatfoot Soak

$79 DETOX FOOT SOAK FLOAT TANK

VISIT US ONLINE OR CALL TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR PERFECT WELLNESS PACKAGE

“The sensory deprivation chamber is the most important tool I've ever used for developing my mind, for thinking, for evolving.”

AVAILABLE gift cards

“When it comes to recovery, pro athletes like

Tom Brady

are big fans of floating in a tank of nothingness…”

–MSN

SERVICE OR PACKAGEOnly$32 WITH ANY

Experience our head-to-toe contact-free massage.

FOOT SOAK

A detox foot soak makes joint movement easier in the knees and elbows. Detoxification also promotes weight loss, as it rids your body of crippling chemicals and raises your metabolism to higher levels.

Visit our Facebook page for more info

Floating Relieves Stress & Pain

Floating has become the best-kept secret to safely and naturally relieve pain, stress and anxiety. A float tank (ours are more of a float room) provides a weightless environment that when combined with pitch darkness and silence, creates sensory reduction. With the sensations of the outside world removed, your body and mind are allowed to completely relax and unplug.

A 2001 study in the Journal of the Canadian Pain Society found that spending time in a floatation tank effectively decreased anxiety and depression along with pain relief and increased optimism. In summary, floating takes you to your happy place.

–Joe Rogan

By RUTH KLOSSNER

Tom Maidl is as comfortable on the lines of a six-horse hitch of huge Clydesdales as he is on the bench of a Vogelpohl organ, or at the controls of a Gammill-Statler longarm quilting machine.

Though he’s only 29 years old, Maidl has already mastered all three, primarily learning the necessary skills on his own.

Though he grew up on a farm that raised beef cattle just south of Lafayette, Tom’s animal interests were first directed to dairy, then to horses. With a quality dairy herd just up the road, Tom

started working for owner Todd Nelson, joined 4-H, and leased dairy animals to show in 4-H and FFA for nearly a decade. Tom mowed lawn, milked, helped with herd health, drove the baler, and even planted flowers in exchange for leasing the animals.

Along the way, Tom’s love of horses blossomed—even without the blessing of his parents, Leon and Diane.

Tom’s first horse was a secret from them, until an unfortunate accident resulted in the vet bill accidentally being sent to his parents.

The upstairs master bedroom of the farm home is just big enough for Tom Maidl’s Gammill Statler quilting machine.

Animals weren’t his only interest as Tom was just as involved in his other loves—music and handiwork. Though his early music work was pretty much self-taught, Tom had great guidance in developing his love of handiwork.

Country Classic Quilting

From an early age, Tom had the help of his grandmother, Edna Maidl. Tom was “Grandma’s little helper” in the sewing room when it came to tying mission quilts, starting at the age of five.

As Tom gained experience with Edna, his quilting horizons expanded through 4-H.

Along the way, Tom and his mom learned the art of hand quilting from Candice “Cookie” Williams through the School Sisters of Notre Dame quilt retreats.

Grandma Edna’s sister, Doris Crone, founded the New Ulm Quilt Guild and was one of the first longarm quilters in southern Minnesota. She helped Tom with his first 4-H quilt.

With needle arts being primarily a girls’ project in 4-H—and Nicollet County having a lot of talented girls in the project—Tom was going head-to-head with them and was always looking to “ooh, ah, wow, and beat the girls.”

He did it in a big way in 2012.

While Tom had opportunities to exhibit his 4-H quilting work at the Minnesota State Fair, he opted, instead, to advance to state with his hardanger needle work. In 2012 his hardanger was named overall champion of the 4-H needle arts division at the state fair.

About the time he was finishing his 4-H career, Ann Wendinger of Sewing Seeds Quilt Company in New Ulm called to ask him to work there. He did that off and on over the years, as he built his own quilting business.

Being around longarm quilting at the shop, Tom started to dream of owning his own Gammill Statler quilting machine. After years of planning and contemplating, that dream became a reality about three years ago.

“Right from the start, I had customers. I started with the simple stuff. It’s really taken off since then. Now I have customers from as far as Ohio and Wisconsin, as well as a lot of local people. I’m always busy,” Tom said. “That’s pretty much all I do. Quilting works well with the horses. I can quilt, then go out to the barn to feed the horses.”

Tom’s business, Country Classic Quilting LLC, is now located on a farm site in rural Winthrop, Tom, his partner Michael Looft, and the quilting machine have moved from Mapleton to New Ulm, before finally settling down in the country.

A longtime member of the New Ulm quilt guild, Prairie Piecemakers, Tom has displayed his work in the group’s quilt show and was awarded numerous ribbons at the last show— both with his own pieces and those he did for his customers. Tom will be the group’s president next year.

“People often think of quilting as female dominated but a lot of designers and pattern designers are men. That’s kind of cool with me,” Maidl said.

Country Classic Clydesdales

After the unfortunate accident suffered by his first horse, Tom bought his first Clydesdale, Cedar Grove’s Nell, in October 2012, while attending college at North Dakota State University in Fargo.

Along the line, Tom made contact with Ebony Clydesdales in Tomah, Wisconsin and joined them to help on the show circuit in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois in the summer of 2013.

He was in college when the opportunity came for him to work with the Budweiser Clydesdales.

“Dad raised beef cattle. To him, horses were hayburners—until I got a job with Budweiser,” Tom said.

Maidl spent six months at Budweiser’s Grant’s Farm in St. Louis, Missouri. The farm was a “daycare and senior center,” as Tom worked with weaned colts and retired horses. The job was a stepping stone to his future with big horses.

Back in Minnesota, Tom continued to work with other farms and show his own horses.

Showing at the National Clydesdale Show at the Indiana State Fair in 2017, Tom’s Nell was reserve champion in both English and Western Pleasure. That same year, she also set the arena record for draft horse barrel racing at the Minnesota State Fair. That’s a record that hasn’t been beaten.

In 2015, Tom purchased the two-year-old mare Ebony Diamond’s Miss Springfield, known as “Spring.” Three years later, he bought her sister, Ebony ABJ Miss Starburst, when she was five months old.

The herd expanded when “Stu”—officially Country Classic Mister Stupendous—was born to Spring on Palm Sunday, 2021.

Stu was junior champion at multiple shows as a weanling and undefeated as a yearling in 2022. He was named reserve All-American in 2021 and all three of the Country Clydesdale horses were nominated for All-American in 2022.

“We’re gearing up for the world show in Springfield, Illinois in 2025,” Tom said. “There are usually 700 to 800 horses there. We hope to do well in the stallion class.”

In addition to showing in halter classes, Country Classic Clydesdales enters single cart, team, and unicorn classes and hooks with other farms for four- and six-horse hitches. Stu will begin his career in the hitch classes this year as a two-year-old.

“Our goal is to have a six-horse hitch of black Clydesdale mares to compete in shows. Black horses are in high demand. It’s our niche market,” Tom said.

“I found that the draft horse industry is a big family. I started meeting people and started working with other hitches. I’ve worked for 15 or 16 hitches in my career, including Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, all the way to Vermont,” Maidl said.

In addition to raising and showing horses, Tom breaks and trains some outside horses. He also hopes to open the farm for tours or “meet and greets.” He’s taken the horses to the library in Winthrop for people to 

Maidl displayed this quilt at the 2022 Prairie Piecemakers Quilt Guild show. It’s a Vintage Rose by Judy Niemeyer and is done in a line called “a peacock and copper.”

In addition to his horses, Tom has two other “big” animals— St.

Tom Maidl and Michael Looft with “Spring” on the couple’s 2022 Christmas card.

Tom driving a four-horse Clydesdale hitch at the Minnesota State Fair.

Working with and showing dairy cattle was Maidl’s first step into livestock. He was named Outstanding Senior Boy by the Nicollet County Holstein Association in 2013.

Maidl has played organ at many of the area churches. In December he played at First Lutheran, during the annual Community Hymn Sing.

With a. grand piano in the living room, Tom can sit down to play anytime.

Bernards Dorothy, left, and Edna.

 see, driven them in New Ulm’s Bavarian Blast parade, and has taken them to Lafayette for Santa Day wagon rides, and to Lafayette’s Neighborhood Night Out.

“If we can do it, we want to,” he said. On the organ bench

From a young age, Maidl liked to watch people play piano and organ. At first, when he couldn’t line up piano lessons, Tom tried to teach himself, and got some help from neighbor and church organist Karen Arlandson.

By the time he was 13, Tom started playing the keyboard at the Lafayette church, sometimes playing with Arlandson on organ. That morphed into Arlandson and Maidl doing dueling musicians on organ and piano. They even went to nursing homes to entertain.

“I remember driving the Ranger into town to practice at church. Dad would say, ‘At least I know where he’s at,’” Tom recalled. “Father Moran pushed me to do more.”

When Maidl started NDSU as a vocal performance major, he drove home almost every weekend to play organ at New Ulm Cathedral. Over the years, he’s also played at Oakwood Methodist, Our Saviors, St. Mary’s, Holy Rosary, St. John’s in Mapleton, and all three churches in the Fields of Grace Parish—Bernadotte, First Lutheran, and Swan Lake.

“I never had organ lessons. I make it up as I go. I’m self-taught. I did get some piano lessons at SSND when mom worked there. That got me going more,” he said.

Life at the Winthrop farm site

Tom and partner Michael Looft moved to the Winthrop location in December 2021. After putting up fences and building pens, the horses were moved to the site in January 2022.

Michael is city administrator for the City of Winthrop. He had previously been president and CEO of the New Ulm Chamber of Commerce, and had managed the Mankato and Redwood Falls Walmarts before that.

Tom and Michael have been together seven years. Michael was a city kid who had never been around horses, but is getting more comfortable all the time.

“When we first moved here, he posted on Facebook that he did the morning chores. Now he HAS to do them,” Tom said with a laugh. “He’s more competitive (at the shows) than I am.” RVW

Tom learned how to tie quilts at a very young age, working with his grandma Edna Maidl.

The outer border of this quilt was done on a computerized setting on the longarm, with the inner part being done manually.

INNOVATIVE SHADE SOLUTIONS

OUTDOOR LIVING Awnings,

Shades and Pergolas

Upgrade Your Outdoor Space for the Ultimate Guys' Hangout!

Hey fellas, as the weather heats up, it’s time to start prepping our outdoor spaces for some serious relaxation, entertainment, and fun. With summer just around the corner, we’re all looking for ways to add a touch of luxury to our outdoor spaces. That’s where Blinds & More comes in - the ultimate destination for high-end outdoor window coverings that are both stylish and functional.

According to the man in charge at Blinds & More, Brook Devenport, “Our outdoor window coverings are designed to enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor spaces while providing superior protection against the elements. We believe that outdoor spaces should be an extension of your home, and our blinds and shades are crafted to create a comfortable and luxurious outdoor living environment.”

So why should you consider investing in outdoor window coverings from Blinds & More this summer? Let’s dive into the benefits of these high-quality products.

Style Elevated

Blinds & More offers a wide range of styles, colors, and materials to suit even the most discerning tastes. Their outdoor window coverings are designed to seamlessly blend with any outdoor decor, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance to your outdoor spaces. With premium options that exude luxury, you can create a visually stunning outdoor environment that reflects your personal style and elevates the overall aesthetics of your home.

Comfort Redefined

Comfort is key when it comes to outdoor living. Blinds & More’s outdoor window coverings are designed to provide effective sun protection, privacy, and temperature control, allowing you to create a comfortable outdoor space that you can enjoy throughout the year. Their blinds and shades block harmful UV rays, reduce glare, and minimize heat and cold transfer, ensuring that you can relax in a cozy and pleasant outdoor environment, no matter the weather conditions.

Durability and Convenience

Blinds & More takes pride in offering outdoor window coverings that are built to last. Made from premium materials that are resistant to fading, cracking, and warping, their blinds and shades are designed to withstand the outdoor elements and provide long-lasting performance. Additionally, Blinds & More offers a variety of operating options, including motorized and smart-home compatible options, making it convenient and easy to control your outdoor window coverings with just a touch of a button. With minimal maintenance and hasslefree operation, you can enjoy the luxury of outdoor window coverings without the added stress of upkeep.

Expertise and Service

Blinds & More is committed to providing exceptional customer service. With their team of experienced professionals, they guide you through the entire process, from consultation and measurement to installation, ensuring that you get the perfect outdoor window coverings that meet your specific requirements. As a trusted name in the industry, Blinds & More stands behind their products with warranties, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your investment.

As Brook Devenport, owner of Blinds & More, puts it, “Our outdoor window coverings are not just functional, but also an expression of style and luxury. We believe that outdoor spaces should be an oasis of comfort and sophistication, and our blinds and shades are designed to elevate your outdoor living experience to new heights.”

Now that summer is here, it’s the perfect time to invest in Blinds & More outdoor window coverings and transform your outdoor spaces into a luxurious and functional oasis. Elevate your style, redefine your comfort, and experience the convenience of highquality outdoor window coverings from Blinds & More. Contact Blinds & More today to schedule a FREE consultation and let their expertise and craftsmanship take your outdoor living to the next level.

Paid advertisement by Blinds & More Window Converings & Decor

By KELLY DEVRIENDT

Allow me to go off script temporarily. As a writer for River Valley Woman for several years, I have had the opportunity to listen to many people’s stories. Oftentimes they tell me they never expected to land where they did, and that seemingly random events nudged them along. All believe they have landed in the right place, despite it looking different than their original life vision. The random and unexpected thing that sent Eric Lennartson down his path is the most unexpected I have heard to date. The thing is tape. Yes, tape, and it sealed the deal for the life path Lennartson has found himself on.

Eric Lennartson grew up a city boy in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area. College, love, and career brought—and then kept—him in the Mankato area. Eric dreamed of becoming an architect, so he studied science, art, and math at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter. It wasn’t until after graduation that he randomly met his future wife, Amy, in Redwood Falls.

With the addition of a new job at Paulson’s Architects in Mankato, Eric found himself seeing the community as a place to plant some roots.

“I wanted to work for a smaller firm,” Lennartson said, “I loved that it allowed the ability to explore and do more of everything.”

His new employer valued community involvement and encouraged its team to do the same. Eric joined the board for the Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota as a founding member in 2011. Without a real home, they landed in various locations and prototyped exhibits.

One day, at the office, Eric was looking through an architecture magazine and came across an article showcasing an European exhibit made of tape.

“I was so fascinated at how they made something extraordinary out of something so ordinary,” Lennartson said.

Eric took the idea to the museum board and soon they set off to make an area of play and exploration out of this simple element.

The team was dependent on donations and volunteers, since it had no budget for projects. 3M donated tape, Jones Metal brought in framing, and MSU construction management students helped with set up.

The TapeScape exhibit was displayed locally and enjoyed by many.

In the meantime, Lennartson was connected to a prominent blogger named Jean Vagrant who was also a national museum consultant. A few blogs later, the tape exhibit at the Southern Minnesota Children’s Museum was getting some serious internet attention. 

What do you like most about what you do?

Architecture and engineering shapes our communities. I love being a part of that creative, collaborative process. The same thing with museums, where we shape learning experiences and spark creativity for future generations.

What is one thing that would surprise people about working with tape?

It’s also very slippery. And it the compounded tensile strength of it bends the metal pipes.

How do you spend your weekend?

Working on preserving and restoring my mid-century house, or biking and skiing on area trails.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

After playing with LEGOs and being surrounded by building projects through my dad, I dreamed about working in architecture. I may not be a licensed architect, but I’m still in the industry and part of designing our community’s buildings, cities, and landscapes.

What was your high school or college job?

My first job ever was picking pumpkins at a local farm in Stillwater, but my summer jobs were in landscaping, a summer camp counselor, on the assembly line at Andersen Windows, and at a local lumber yard.

Three words that best describe you?

After completing Strengthfinders (a strengths-based test of skills and talents), the top three words were right on—Ideation, Connectedness, and Adaptability. They sum up how I like to brainstorm ideas and collaborate to change them into even better ideas.

Of what are you most proud?

My family! I’m so lucky to be able to look back and know all the time we spent at home, outside, travel, and working together brought us all together. We have so many great shared memories! We joke that a family that tapes together is kind of stuck with each other.

One thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I’m a total music geek. I’ve been to hundreds of concerts—mostly in Minnesota—at First Avenue. But, my first show was John Denver with my dad in the late 1970s. John Denver actually gave our family the tickets since my mom knows his first wife, Annie Martell, the inspiration for Annie’s Song, from her days at Gustavus in the 1960s. Our family’s ties to the Minnesota River valley go back much further than the 20 or so years we’ve lived here.

 Lennartson’s Tapescape began to get invited to exhibit in museums across the country. Since its fruition, it has also landed at international sites including Canada and Dubai.

“Tapescape has appeared in nearly 30 exhibit installations,” Eric said. “Helping shape my own community, ended up bringing me around the world.”

Exhibits center on the concept of utilizing simple, everyday items and using them to inspire creativity, imagination, and a place for exploration.

“I have seen kids imagine the tape tunnel as a worm hole in space,” Eric shared, “It has been so rewarding to witness the different ways people experience the exhibit.”

With the Southern Minnesota Children’s Museum now in a permanent home in Mankato, Eric looked at what else he could contribute to locally. He decided to join the City Art Committee.

“It felt like a very natural fit for me, very tangible,” Lennartson explained, “I was excited to have exposure again to new ideas and projects.”

Eric has since worked on projects, including murals, box covers, and creating engagement spheres within the community. The moveable benches in the Food Truck Hub in Mankato are one of the projects that Lennartson has contributed to.

Eric likes hearing everyone’s creative ideas and watching them grow.

“One idea sparks another, and then that sparks someone else,” Eric exclaimed. “It is always better when working with others and creating that synergy.”

Eric continues to look for the next community project to support and to encourage others to join in and not be afraid to try something new. Because of his on-going community contributions, the City Center Partnership nominated Lennartson for volunteer of the year; a well-earned accolade.

“It took a long time to figure out who I was and what I could really do,” Eric said, “I am so grateful for the opportunities I have been given, and have been able to share with my family. I would be nowhere without them by my side to enjoy it all.” RVW

Moveable benches in the Mankato Food Truck Hub.

By RACHAEL JAEGER

Eddie Hernandez, owner of Elegante Porcelain on Victory Drive in Mankato, specializes in commercial and residential construction. Since immigrating to the United States from Mexico as a child, he is no stranger to hard work, and is living proof anyone can make anything happen. At the same time, he strongly believes it’s important to remember where he came from.

Eddie is always ready to greet a new person with a hearty handshake and generous grin when he welcomes them into his space.

Through a combination of skills and knowledge he learned from other companies he has worked for, Eddie has implemented the knowledge and ideas gleaned into his vision for his business.

Elegante Porcelain uses Italian products such as Laminam, Daltile, Florim and others. Eddie sees it as the way of the future with its gaining popularity. The natural looking porcelain slabs are easy to clean and maintain, while also protecting against mold, mildew, and bacteria. The texture is also resistant to damage and temperature changes.

When Hernandez first launched his business, he’d arrive in his office as early as 4:30 a.m. to brainstorm ideas. Then, as he went through his day, he would discover how he needed to adjust those ideas.

“I’m dreaming huge,” Hernandez said, adding that his long-term goal is to build a franchise.

His team consists of past coworkers who have followed him when he moved on.

“They follow me because they know where I come from,” Eddie said.

One challenge Hernandez faces is that, while big companies are rolling out lines of porcelain, most fabricators are terrified to touch porcelain as it’s so fragile. To overcome that, he has given his team the space and freedom to learn the craft so they are comfortable building their skills.

At the same time, he’s also learned that part of being a leader is being able to look in from the outside and envision what could go wrong, breaking possibilities down, and preparing for what can happen.

For instance, although Eddie recently invested in machinery that will help the fabricating process run more smoothly, he learned from experience not to rely on machines. He is training his team that, when machines are down, his team can still work. In his view, his team reflects him as a leader and the business itself.

“I want to be the best!” he said.

When he doesn’t accompany his team on a project, he stays on top of things by asking questions to make sure everything goes as planned and he is kept in the loop.

Hernandez credits his father as having an impact on him for how he handles business, calling him a “hustler” because of his drive to provide the best life for his family.

Eddie describes Mexico’s business environment at the time he and his family lived there in a lower class situation as “every man for himself.”

“That keeps you hungry,” Eddie reflected. “You grow up thinking, ‘I want more.’”

While his basic needs were met, Eddie still had a longing for knowledge and connections beyond his immediate environment and the simple, but at times, violent life.

“And that’s why we came to the States,” he added. “You can work really hard in Mexico, but you’re not allowed to grow.”

Before the Hernandez family moved to Minnesota, Eddie’s dad had traveled to different states—among them North Carolina, Kentucky, and Texas—to do custom work as a mechanic for different businesses. He was able to move around because of the varying connections and needs.

“He was not afraid of change,” Eddie said. “I think I grew up realizing change is not bad or scary.” 

Eddie as a young child.

 The family settled on Minnesota as their home as they had family in St. Peter, and Eddie’s father had worked in the area. As a 13-year-old boy and a seventh-grader, Hernandez remembers having only a small backpack with a change of clothes for a few days when they first moved to St. Peter.

Coming to a new school was rough in so many ways, especially since he didn’t speak English at first. And, although he was bullied at times, he said the experience was not as bad compared to what would have happened if he had stayed in Mexico where fights broke out every day.

There came a point, as a teen, back in Mexico when Eddie didn’t want to go to school. His father took him to work in the fields, walking and picking maize in 115-degree summer heat until it got dark.

Eddie learned the real value of money and hard work as his father had him pay for the trip, the bus fare, and money to help the family. In the end, Eddie only had a bit of money for himself after working so much for low wages.

When he pointed that out, his dad told him that’s why education was so important. It was also a main reason for his father’s desire to bring his family to the United States, to have a better and higher than the third grade education that he received.

“I think he saw a spark in me,” Eddie said, explaining how his dad saw his potential. “I was always excited to learn things and to imitate others.”

Whenever his dad had a business deal to make—such as selling a car in exchange for land—he took young Eddie along so he could observe what it was like in the real world.

“Don’t say anything,” Eddie recalled his dad saying. “Just watch and learn.”

Essentially, Eddie picked up what he was supposed to say, but also what not to say. He applied that skill when he interviewed for jobs that he didn’t necessarily want, so he could learn from reactions where the company stood on their values.

From when he was young, Eddie also remembers he also picked up the art of communicating with adults from riding around the city of around 380,000 people in Mexico.

“I listened to how deals were made, just curious, just because it was fun,” Eddie said.

Now, as he runs his own business, he’s applied the concepts he learned from his dad but also what it means to think on your feet.

“I’m always creating problems in my head to solve,” Eddie explained. “You have to learn how to hack your brain.” He sees the refusal to be uncomfortable is one of the biggest failures he sees in America.

“I take risks like nobody’s business,” Eddie said. Examples include selling his house to finance his business when the housing market was crashing. He also recently purchased new machinery that he believes will be a game changer for Elegante Porcelain, Eddie is not comfortable with stagnant environments. He constantly asked himself what he could learn from the experience in past jobs that he didn’t care for, especially 

 when it was paying the bills. He would gather the knowledge and the mental tools he needed to potentially move up in a leadership position. After that, he felt like he needed to move up or out. He put his knowledge to the test about what others in the same business were doing, and if he felt like he could improve conditions, he challenged them.

“They’re comfortable, they’re in charge,” Eddie said. “But in the end, you’re the one who gets in trouble, because you’re the one doing the work. They don’t want to change the system because it’s been working forever.”

From Eddie’s perspective, hypothetically, if anyone lost their job because they put themselves at risk to grow, it meant that person could do a better job.

“I don’t want to sound arrogant, but I focus more on people’s failures,” Hernandez said, “It’s a reminder for me not to do those things.”

“I work it backwards,” Eddie explained. “It’s easy. In order to be a business owner, or do something you’re passionate about, don’t make the mistakes other people make. Do the right things and be aware of what is needed to get there, set yourself to succeed, not to fail.”

Eddie knew he needed good leadership skills, as well as schooling so he could understand processes, marketing, how to talk to people, and make deals. He believes a combination of all those skills, strengths, passions, and interests—and knowing how to use all of them with the right people—will pave a way towards his success. While he also believes money plays an important factor, he also sees opportunity and experience as having just as much value, if not more.

“If I worry only about money, I won’t make it. I focus on creating a platform where I can do whatever I want and expand it,” Eddie said with a smile. “My wife told me last night, ‘Everything that you have planned and envisioned, has happened.’ My greatest support is my wife Katie, I feel blessed to have her by my side!” RVW

By KRISTIN SJOLIE

“What’s Next?” is the question Jon Graff asks himself each time he achieves a personal goal. From running ultramarathons, to furthering his education, and taking on increased responsibilities at work, that question is always on the horizon.

Decisions are made with life balance in mind because being a husband to his wife, April, and a dad to children Max (14), Mia (12), and Martin (9) is his top priority. The decisions Graff makes are implemented with forethought and strategic planning.

Graff grew up in the small town of Laurens, Iowa, graduating in a class of 42. He and his future wife April were backyard neighbors growing up, and became close friends in high school when they had band and introduction to business classes together. April was a year ahead of him in school, and went to Minnesota State University, Mankato. Graff followed a year later.

“I was always someone who needed activity and was in baseball, track, and wrestling in high school,” Jon said. “Track wasn’t my favorite sport. I did not like the feeling of always being on the clock.”

However, after starting college, Graff began to run after school and then began mountain biking.

“I enjoyed that endurance feeling of being exhausted, lungs and legs burning, heart pounding out of your chest, wanting nothing more than to stop, yet somewhere finding something within you to push further,” he explained.

After graduation Jon rode his bike from Mankato to Laurens, a 127-mile trip.

“At the end of the ride, I had the feeling of ‘What’s next?’ and decided to run a marathon,” Graff said. “I kind of hated it, but when I was finished with the marathon, it was ‘What’s next?’”

Graff was student teaching life science at Dakota Meadows Middle School in North Mankato and learned that a coworker’s husband was a trail runner. Graf became interested and asked for his advice. Soon he was training and running the 50K at Afton, Minnesota. He has since moved on to complete seven 50-mile and two 100-mile races at the Fall Superior Trail Race north of Duluth. 

Define and redefine your “Why.” Why do you want to run an ultramarathon? Having a deep connection to why you want to finish a race will help you train for the race and ultimately cross the finish line. Superficial “whys” such as wanting more likes on social media may not be enough to get you to the finish line.

Develop a realistic training plan that allows for work, life, and training balance. Running can be a healthy activity but, for most of us, it isn’t our only commitment. Be prepared for the time it takes to train for an ultra, and develop a realistic and obtainable plan for training that doesn’t take over your life.

Nutrition is very important. (Not just because I am married to a dietician!) Learn how to fuel and refuel appropriately. There are many places out there with less than healthy advice. Seek input from a registered dietician.

Experiment. Everybody’s experience will be different. Learn from others, try new things, see what works for you in terms of shoes, food, etc.

Give yourself grace. This isn’t about perfection, it’s about doing your best, enjoying the journey, and celebrating each and every small, incremental win.

The coolest thing I have experienced was one run when I could feel the dew coming down on me. I was a part of that grounding experience. Things are happening in nature and you’re part of it.

 For Graff, the ultramarathon is symbolic of life.

“There are ups and downs, twists and turns, and things don’t always go as planned. The trick is to stay positive and keep going,” Jon said. “It’s also important to slow down every once in a while, enjoy the journey, and take note of beauty around you. Running on the Superior Trail offers many opportunities to experience the beauty that only the North Shore can offer.”

Growing up, Graff spent time with his family at his aunt and uncle’s bed and breakfast on Lake Superior, and also canoeing the Boundary Waters. The big lake inspired awe, and the inland lakes were a very special area to him. Because of these early experiences, time spent on the Superior Trail has been especially meaningful.

“There is transcendence every time. The woods are my church,” Graff said. “The coolest thing I have experienced was one run when I could feel the dew coming down on me. I was a part of that grounding experience. Things are happening in nature and you’re part of it. Another special moment is when deer pop out. You look at each other, nod and go.”

The Superior Trail race is a perfect combination of challenge and natural wonder for Graff. The race began in 1991 with 47 participants, and now it is capped at 257 participants. It is listed as one of the toughest, wildest courses in the United States, according to Run100.com. A spring race is held in May, and a fall race in September. Runners can choose to go 26.2, 50, or 100 miles. Each group of runners has a ribbon color.

“There are some unwritten rules of trail running etiquette, Jon explained. “When passing on the rocky, root laden, single-track trail of Superior, it’s important to practice patience to ensure everyone’s safety. For me, the race is about supporting one another.”

Graff’s professional life was not exempt from the question of “What’s next.” He taught seventh grade life science at Dakota Meadows Middle School for seven years. During that time he obtained a master’s degree, as well as principals licensure. His eighth year in teaching was a transition year. The dean of students position at Dakota Meadows opened up temporarily and he filled in. The following year he became the assistant principal for grades 7-12 in St. Peter, and in 2017 the middle school principal in St. Peter.

“How can I use what I’ve been given to make the world better” is a question Graff asks himself frequently.

“Middle school students are amazing. They possess incredible strength and talent. If the students at Saint Peter Middle School are any indication of where we are headed, the world is in good hands,” Jon said.

When asked how his work and running philosophies work together, Graff said, “I am driven to do things that people don’t think can be done. Society views Middle School as an underdog, and I am out to prove them wrong.”

Family life as well, doesn’t escape the “What’s next” question.

“Right now, life revolves around hockey and soccer schedules,” Graff

said. “When time allows, we enjoy being outside and active—hiking, fishing, mountain biking, skating on the backyard rink, and sledding. We enjoy cooking and baking as a family, and try new recipes often. April, who is the dietician at Hilltop Hy-Vee, has self-sufficiency in the kitchen as a family goal.”

Each year, the Graffs take a few family trips.

“We load up the minivan and head out someplace new. Our trip is about adventure and experience,” Jon said. “New foods, activities, sights, and sounds.”

A few of the places they’ve visited are Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Door County, Wisconsin; Michigan’s Upper Peninsula; and Gulf Shores, Alabama. This year they are heading to Colorado. The family also enjoys a week at April’s grandparents’ cabin in Theodosia, Missouri each summer, and a trip to Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails near Crosby. “April and I have been purposeful over the past few years to leave the kids at home and take a winter trip someplace warm,” Graff said. “We have enjoyed Cabo and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and next year plan to see the Dominican Republic.”

So what’s next for Graff?

“Someday, I’d love to see if I can push beyond 100 miles, but balance with my family and professional life is very important,” Jon said. “I’m currently registered for next fall’s 50-mile race because training for the 50 is manageable right now, given my family’s current level of busyness.”

When the next family trip is complete, the degree is earned, and the most recent race is run, the question for him will continue to be, “What’s next?” RVW

BANKING THE WAY IT

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

Protect yourself from pneumococcal disease with just one dose of Prevnar 20®.

GO NUTS

Men, it’s time you added a small handful of nuts to your day. Nuts are loaded with many beneficial nutrients, and have positive effects on nearly every part of your body. Read on for seven reasons to add a 1-ounce serving of nuts to your day!

PROTEIN

Nuts are one of the best plant sources of protein, helping to build muscle and keep you feeling satisfied.

HEART HEALTH

People who eat nuts as part of a heart-healthy diet can lower the LDL (bad) cholesterol level in their blood. High LDL is one of the primary causes of heart disease. Eating nuts reduces your risk of developing blood clots that can cause a fatal heart attack. Nuts also improve the health of the lining of your arteries.

COGNITIVE FUNCTION

Nuts contain nutrients that may help protect your brain from damaging inflammation and support good brain function as you age. People who regularly eat nuts like walnuts have shown a 26 percent reduction in symptoms of depression.

DECREASE INFLAMMATION

Several plant compounds and nutrients in nuts may help decrease inflammation, which is a key culprit in many chronic diseases.

PROMOTES A HEALTHY GUT

Eating nuts nourishes the beneficial bacteria that live in your gut. This promotes the health of your gut and may help reduce disease risk.

REDUCES RISK OF SOME CANCERS

Eating nuts may reduce your risk of certain cancers, including breast, prostate and colorectal cancers.

SUPPORTS MALE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

When 117 healthy young men included 2.5 ounces of walnuts daily in their Western-style diet for three months, they had improved sperm shape, vitality and motility, compared to men not eating nuts.

Pistachio-and-ParmesanCrusted Halibut

INGREDIENTS

4 (5-oz. each) halibut fillets, 1-inch-thick

2 leeks, trimmed and cleaned

¼ c. crushed unsalted pistachios

¼ c. Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp. plain bread crumbs

2 tbsp. mayonnaise

1 c. Short Cuts Brussels sprouts

DIRECTIONS

1 red onion, cut into thin wedges

2 carrots, peeled & bias-sliced

2 tbsp. Gustare Vita olive oil, divided

1 tsp. garlic salt

½ tsp. black pepper

¼ tsp. red pepper

3 sprig(s) fresh sage

1 lemon, halved, for serving

1 Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Spray a foil-lined 15x10x1-inch sheet pan with nonstick spray. Pat fish dry. Thinly slice leeks and finely chop the tops. Combine pistachios, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, and chopped leeks. Pat mixture on fish; set aside.

Toss Brussels sprouts, red onion, sliced leeks, and carrots with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Spread in prepared pan. Bake 10 minutes. Stir vegetables; push to the side to make room for fish. Spread remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil on pan and top with fish. Sprinkle fish with garlic salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper; top with sage. Bake 15 minutes more or until fish flakes with a fork (145 degrees). Serve with lemon.

Nutrition Facts per serving: 370 calories, 19g fat, 3.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 75mg cholesterol, 770mg sodium, 19g total carbohydrate, 3g dietary fiber, 6g sugars, 0g added sugars, 32g protein. Daily values: 10% iron, 35% vitamin D, 10% calcium, 20% potassium.

Steve Konz isn’t quite sure how many tractors he has on his farm site.

“Nineteen, 20, 21. I don’t know. They come and go—mostly come,” the rural Sleepy Eye man responded when asked how many there are now. “I pick them up here and there.”

With a chuckle, he added, “It keeps a guy out of trouble. I’m working in my shop, not sitting in a bar. It probably costs about the same.”

Konz has picked up many of the tractors at reasonable prices, especially when they came from neighbors and/or needed fixing. There’s the 1954 John Deere R that was in a fire.

“I’ve had every bolt out of it. I could have bought one a lot cheaper, but this one has a lot of meaning,” he said.

Then there’s the 720 John Deere that he bought in South Dakota—with the plan that it would be a parts tractor.

“But I couldn’t bear to part it out. I did quite a bit of work on it and it turned out well,” he said. 

Seventeen John Deere tractors—and a JD Gator—were lined up for a drone photo shoot last summer.

A drone photo of the farm site shows most of the buildings. The heated shop is in the center, behind the tractors. Tractors are stored in the two red barns on the left, as well as the machine shed, just off to the right edge of the photo.

Three of Steve’s favorites—a 1960 730, a l935 A, and a 1957 620, all acquired from the neighborhood—from the Rombergs, the Jannis, and the Hoffmann auction.

 Konz got a 730 JD from an older neighbor.

“He gave me a deal I couldn’t pass up,” Steve said. Steve’s dad always had John Deeres, so Steve got used to driving them and liked them. A 1944 John Deere B was the first green tractor on the farm, arriving long before Steve can remember.

“It’s always been here,” Steve said. “The rest of these kind of wandered in.”

Although he’s been collecting for about 30 years, things got a little more intensive, according to Steve, after he retired from Del Monte about 15 years ago.

As Steve’s wife, Denise, explained, “I was still working the night shift. I’d wake up to noise outside—with another tractor being unloaded. Then Steve would say, ‘I forgot to tell you, I bought a tractor.’”

It’s not that she minds—she pretty much knows where to find Steve. He’ll be out in his shop, working on a tractor, either his own or one he’s fixing for a friend or neighbor.

And, Steve’s shop is a gathering place.

“On rainy days, the yard is full of pickups. The guys stop by to visit,” Denise said.

To that, Steve laughed and said, “I’m the only guy with a heated shop for those cold winter days.”

In addition to his big shop, Konz keeps the tractors in three other buildings on the farm site along County Road 27—the old dairy barn, another barn, and a Quonset machine shed.

Part of the dairy barn’s haymow floor was removed and a big door put in so tractors can be driven in where the Konz family used to milk cows. Spare parts are stored in the upper level around the edges.

While some collectors can’t wait to repaint tractors that they acquire, Steve likes his in original condition. He pointed to a 720 John Deere that has never been repainted and still has its original seat cushion.

“They have a lot more character with the original paint. You’re not hiding anything,” he said.

Konz’s collection includes some rare tractors—a small two-cycle Detroit diesel John Deere 435 utility, made for only two years, and a 1956 John Deere 80, also built for only two years before a new series was introduced.

An 820 JD is one of the last acquired.

“I always kind of wanted one of those,” he said.

Besides the “real thing,” Steve used to collect toy tractors and had about 500 before selling them at auction. RVW

Steve bought this 720 John Deere in South Dakota to be a parts tractor but, instead, rebuilt it.

Two “big boys” are kept in the Quonset shed— this one was ready for any snow plowing that was needed.

With the haymow floor partially removed, the old dairy barn has space for Steve’s tractors, as well as storage space for parts up above, around the sides.

G R I LLI N G T I M E

Largest Selection of Weber Grills & Accessories in the Area. FREE Assembly

WE SERVICE WHAT WE SELL

With young adulthood comes many new goals and expanded responsibilities. The to-do list can be long and ever-growing. The early adult years are filled with meaningful choices that set you on the path toward your long-term plans and goals.

Just as you would look for assistance regarding investments from a well-experienced financial advisor, you should seek expert guidance regarding your long-term health and well-being.

Your partner in health

Establishing continuity of care with a primary care provider is key to creating a partnership with a trusted health care team. Here are three reasons why it is important to invest in a relationship with a primary care provider.

A primary care provider wants to understand you and your health goals.

A primary care provider can provide a wide variety of health care services. By developing a relationship with a primary care provider, you benefit in these areas:

Your personal medical history

The provider-patient relationship is valuable. A primary care provider who knows you and your medical history well will apply that knowledge to improve your health care experience.

Your personal health values and wellness goals

A long-term professional relationship with a primary care provider enables you to develop a comfortable trust with that person, particularly when sharing health information and receiving medical guidance. Establishing this relationship also can make you feel more comfortable discussing personal concerns and asking questions about your short-term and long-term health.

Your overall health

After establishing with a primary care provider, future appointments can be more productive. Seeing a primary care provider who already knows your health history allows you to focus on and invest more time discussing the future. This improves the overall quality of your preventive health and can increase your longevity.

A primary care provider helps you manage your short-term and long-term health needs.

Primary care providers are masters of preventive medicine, medical counseling, and health screenings. An annual visit for these things is recommended. Consider it a yearly analysis and tune-up for your physical and mental health. Your primary care provider can ensure your health is up to date according to the latest guidelines on evidence-based medicine. Your primary care provider also can ensure you are well informed about how to reduce health risks based on your personal and family medical history.

A primary care provider manages your transfer of specialty care.

Primary care providers are generalists by training. They evaluate and treat a broad spectrum of medical conditions.

However, your health concerns may sometimes require assistance beyond the primary care clinic. In these cases, your primary care provider will:

• Ensure a smooth referral to the appropriate specialist.

• Coordinate care between specialty providers.

• Actively monitor your updated medical history and status.

• Follow up with test results, provide meaningful explanations for those results and describe the best next steps in your health care.

Lastly, primary care providers are here to educate and be a point of contact for community resources. Having a primary care provider allows you to maintain the healthiest version of yourself while actively investing in your life goals.

TREVOR RICH, M.D. Family Medicine physician Mayo Clinic Health System Mondovi, WI

By RUTH KLOSSNER

When the weather is nice, there’s nothing better than being outdoors.

But, when it’s raining, or cold, or snowing?

Area golfers now have a choice. They can go to Tee Times, a new business on Belle Avenue in Mankato.

Tee Times offers four Full Swing Pro Golf Simulators, along with a chipping and putting green.

Shane and Nancy Laffen and sons Ben and Mitchell saw the need, did the research, and opened the business last November.

“It stems from our boys and my husband talking about golf. They thought it would be nice to have something like this to train during the off season. They had to travel to the Twin Cities,” Nancy said. “With four golf courses in Mankato, they felt this would be supported.”

Although people are still learning about Tee Times, Nancy reported that the site was booked solid when the weather was bad through Minnesota’s extended winter. Golf teams from Mankato East utilized it extensively, with Mankato West boys also coming in before the season started.

The simulators allow golfers to “golf the world” without leaving Mankato—with as many as 80 courses available.

With the selected course projected onto the screen, golfers hit the ball into the screen. Sensors in the floor, walls, and curtains pick up the ball, collect the data, and project the shot onto the screen. Ball speed, launch angle, carry distance, and yardage are projected.

Mitchell basically runs the business, knows the technical parts of the simulators, and can do repairs as needed. He is also taking United States Golf Teachers Federation® (USGTF) certification classes online so that he can give lessons.

Nancy is on site mornings and weekends, and as needed. Ben has also worked at the shop and is on the Minnesota State University, Mankato golf team. Shane is kept busy with his full time job as Sleepy Eye High School principal and commutes from Mankato.

An adjoining 900-square foot chipping and putting green allows golfers to work on their short game.

Tee Times also offers a full bar and a limited menu of finger foods.

Shane, Nancy and Mitchell Laffen

Mitchell swings away on one of the simulators. Controls for it are on the computer to the right.

What is Immigrant Connection?

It’s a ministry of the church we’re starting that provides lowcost, immigration legal services as a provider recognized and accredited by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Why did you start this service?

We moved to Mankato in January 2020 to start a church but couldn’t do that due to the restrictions on gathering sizes. My wife works in the lab at Madelia Health and mentioned to me early in the pandemic that she was unable to follow-up with some immigrant patients because of discrepancies with their identification. That’s where the idea came from – even though our church couldn’t gather, it could be useful in helping immigrants with their number one felt need: immigration legal services.

Who uses the service and why?

Immigrants seeking humanitarian or family-based immigration legal assistance. They use us because, as a condition of our recognition and accreditation by the US Department of Justice, we offer our services at a fraction of the cost of an immigration attorney.

Tell us what you do personally for clients?

I’m the accredited representative at Immigrant Connection, making me responsible for legal counsel and submitting their case to USCIS or the Department of State.

Give us a brief anecdotal story on a person whom you have helped?

While we aren’t a refugee resettlement agency, Sister Dorothy Zeller from Good Counsel Learning Center connected us with a client who was separated from her husband and two children

at a refugee camp. After about seven years of trying, and using multiple attorneys, her latest attempt to petition for her family to join her and her other two daughters in the United States was rejected by USCIS. She had a stack of documents about four inches tall that she didn’t understand. I took the stack of paperwork and sorted it out on a Saturday only to discover that her family was approved to join her years ago. None of the attorneys she had hired noticed that fact. I emailed the embassy where her family was and a few weeks later she was notified that her husband and children were booked on flights for MSP in January. Immigrant Connection rented a van and drove her and her daughters to the airport along with Sister Dorothy to be reunited with her husband and other two children. Witnessing their joy, tears, warm embraces and the giddy laughter of their children when they were all together again was such a disproportionate reward for the role we played in their story.

What drives you?

Frankly, once I realized that my attitudes and opinions were getting in the way of me loving and serving people who don’t look like me, talk like me, worship like me, or vote like me – I asked God to help me love and serve people unconditionally like He does.

What angers you?

I’m disappointed that our elected representatives in Washington can’t come to terms on comprehensive immigration reform.

What fulfills you?

I didn’t anticipate the relational bond that forms as I’m working with my clients – becoming their friend is a tremendous honor and incredibly fulfilling.

D. M. S. Fick

Lewis Sinclair and the Gentlemen Cowboys

Lewis Sinclair and his band are #1 on the top suspects chart when their manager ends up dead at a country music festival. Readers looking for a great blend of mystery, humor, romance, and action elements will find D. M. S. Fick’s debut mystery a great summer diversion. Lewis Sinclair and the Gentlemen Cowboys is a vacation trip to a summer outdoor festival without having to drive in traffic, find a hotel or campsite, fight crowds, or get sunburned.

In Lewis Sinclair and the Gentlemen Cowboys, country musician Lewis Sinclair gets dumped by his girlfriend right before taking the stage at a top music festival. The man she dumped him for? His manager, who later turns up dead, with Lew being the primary suspect. The main theme of the book is about the importance of family, whether it’s the one you’re born into or one you create.

“There are elements that tie us together and nurture family,” says Fick. “Two of those elements are music and food. Music brings everyone together at the festival. It bonds the Gentlemen Cowboys, Gordon and his uncle, the festival staff, the audience and the performers, and others.”

Book Summary Author Bio

A missing brooch. A face set in cement. This is not your average music festival.

Lewis Sinclair, a stalwart and tender country musician, is about to take the stage with his band, the Gentlemen Cowboys, at the premier U.S. country music festival when his girl dumps him for the Cowboys’ shifty manager. When that same manager ends up at FallFest’s walk of fame with his handprints—and his head—in cement, Lew finds himself on the top ten most wanted list instead of the music charts. With the help of his loyal Cowboys and the close-knit festival staff, Lew must clear his name before the killer gets away— or strikes again.

D. M. S. Fick’s short fiction is published in the Nodin Press anthology, Festival of Crime. She’s also an Emmy-nominated and PromaxBDA awardwinning graphic designer and cartoonist. She does design and animation for SciGirls, a PBS Kids program that encourages girls and young women to become involved in science, technology, engineering, and math. Ms. Fick has lived in Boston, the Twin Cities, and London. She presently resides in an old farmhouse on the Minnesota prairie near New Ulm, with her composer husband where they sometimes observe the antics of a colorful fox family and the occasional eagle.

Lab Services

THE

DAT

Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pm

This event will be held rain or shine.

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

• Schell’s Brewery and Gardens

• Brown County Museum

• Glockenspiel and Schonlau Park

Sewing

• Hermann Monument

• The Junique Center

• Wanda Gag House

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

- Sewing Seeds Quilt Co.

- Spinning Spools Quilt Shop

- The Thimble Box

Complete your passport to receive 1000 piece Quilt Themed Puzzle.

222059

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

KITTY? BAD

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens, sharp little scratches by those little mittens, tiny razor teeth that sink in and sting, these are a few of “kitten” like things.

While these are not exactly the words to Maria’s song from The Sound of Music, but they are true when it comes to bringing home a little kitten!

Although these are “normal” kitten behaviors, they are unacceptable, hurt, and are likely to get worse as time passes.

If a kitten were with siblings and their mom, they would likely learn how much biting is acceptable and how hard is appropriate. Unfortunately, many kittens are orphaned at a young age so they do not learn this. If they are left alone at four weeks, or even younger, they will require bottle feeding by a human.

Research shows that these orphaned youngsters are much more likely to be “oral fixated.” This means they tend to use their mouth much more than their appropriately weaned friends. These feisty kittens are more apt to suck or chew on blankets, use their teeth on human flesh, and play aggressively with other pets and humans alike.

As if these little buggers don’t have the odds stacked against them already, we contribute to the madness.

We have all seen—or even participated ourselves—that cute little fluffy kitten, pouncing on a pair of wiggling fingers. They may puff up, side step, and wiggle their butt before they pounce. We think this is super funny, until they get just a bit bigger and they start attacking your fingers while you are typing or using hand gestures.

When they are little, they are learning that your fingers are toys, meaning appropriate things to pounce and bite at. After all, you laughed when they were the size of a gopher, but now they are a bit bigger with adult teeth. You may suddenly feel you are living with a tiger ready to use your fingers as a snack.

What about wiggling your toes under the sheets before bed. This will have your sweet kitten stalking you as you walk down the hallway, ready to pounce as soon as you get into the perfect launching position for them.

Declawing cats has been on the downswing, with some states now making it illegal. Although there are many other negative outcomes of removing their claws, declawing cats does tend to make them even more “chompy” when they have struggled with keeping their mouth to themselves in the first place.

A bite from a cat can become serious very fast, even if it was “just playful.” Cats have a bacteria in their mouth that can cause even the smallest bites to

become infected quickly. If you should get bit, draw a circle around the redness of the bite with permanent marker. If the redness or swelling goes out of the boundaries, you should seek medical care as you will very possibly need antibiotics.

So what can we do to help our biting kitties and save money on Band-Aids? The most important thing is to schedule playtime in the morning and evening. If you can do it three times a day, even better. Play time should be 10 to 15 minutes each time. Set your phone to go off at these times each day. If your cat learns this is a scheduled and dependable session, this can be very helpful.

How you play is also super important. Find a wand toy—a string or ribbon toy on a long stick, with feathers or something on the end. The idea is to get your cat to stalk it and, right before he can catch it, you move it quickly from him.

Cat expert, Jackson Galaxy, has some great videos online that show what appropriate play looks like. We want your kitten to get all of their cat behavior out on an appropriate thing.

Adding enrichment into your cat’s environment is also very helpful. One way is for them to eat all their scheduled meals out of a puzzle toy. The toys make them think and use their cat brain to get the food, as well as engage their mouth on a target. If you have a food motivated cat, you could try a kong filled with tuna or canned food for a special treat.

Bring boxes and paper bags into the home for your cat to hide in or even chew on. Empty egg cartons make a fun toy when you hide food or toys inside them. Ping pong balls in the bathtub—with or without water—can provide endless fun as well.

Some cats may even require medication intervention if all other behavior modification has occurred.

We can’t undo time, but we can move forward with great feline care and understanding. When the cat bites, when the scratch stings, when you’re feeling bad, just think of all of these helpful things and then you won’t feel so mad—and call your vet if you need a hand.

NICOLE LUECK, CVT MN Valley Pet Hospital Mankato

Stay in the game:

KNOW YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE NUMBERS

Being a man is one risk factor for high blood pressure (HBP or hypertension) that can’t be changed.

According to the American Heart Association, men, until the age of 64, are more likely to have high blood pressure than women are.

One of the best things men can do for their health is to know their numbers. That means going to annual check-ups. As you know, blood pressure is taken routinely at clinic visits. Medical guidelines recommend blood pressure checks every two to five years starting at age 18.

When men turn 40, we like to check your blood pressure every year. We know that high blood pressure increases with age. African-Americans are also more likely to have high blood pressure. If high blood pressure runs in your immediate family, your risk for high blood pressure also increases.

Blood pressure numbers less than 120/80 are within the normal range. So what do these numbers mean?

Blood pressure measures two forces. The top number is the systolic pressure—the force of the oxygenated blood pumped out of the heart into the arteries. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure—the force created when the heart rests between heart beats. These measurements are your blood pressure reading.

High blood pressure makes the heart and blood vessels work harder and can damage the tissues inside the arteries. Hypertension can lead to other conditions including stroke, vision loss, heart failure, heart attack, kidney disease, and sexual dysfunction.

If you’re diagnosed with elevated or high blood pressure (130-139/80-89), there are many ways your healthcare provider can help you lower your blood pressure and improve your health. We can support you in making small changes that can make a big difference:

• Eat and follow a diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Your medical provider can also help you limit salt, saturated and trans fats, red meat, and sweets.

• Be physically active 90-150 minutes per week—30-minutes of brisk walking, five days per week, is a great place to start.

• Maintain a healthy weight. Losing as little as five or ten pounds can help you lower your blood pressure.

• Limit alcohol to two drinks per day or less. When it comes to smoking and vaping, it’s best to quit altogether. Stress can also raise your blood pressure. One of the best places to begin reducing stress is practicing healthy habits.

In addition to lifestyle changes, your provider may recommend medication to help lower your blood pressure.

What’s your risk for hypertension?

There are many risk factors for hypertension that we have the power to change. The same lifestyle choices that treat high blood pressure can help prevent high blood pressure.

Start leading a heart healthy lifestyle now to help prevent high blood pressure. Be physically active, maintain a healthy weight, eat lots of fruits and veggies, choose low-fat dairy products, whole grains and lean proteins, and be tobacco free. To learn more about leading a heart healthy lifestyle, visit the American Heart Association at heart.org.

Happy Father’s Day!

Sports Bra Super Hero

With its supportive design, it keeps the bounce at bay while giving you three handy pockets for all your essentials.

Your Secret Weapon for Happy Feet

Whether you're hitting the pavement or tackling the trails, Brooks has got you covered.

Kick into Gear

These Swiss-engineered kicks bring lightweight cushioning and put a spring in your step.

Superstar is What You Are

With a lightweight feel and sleek design, you'll look and feel like a running superstar. Lace up and let your runs take flight with the On Cloudrunner!

Turbo Booster

These shorts are built for speed with a lightweight feel and a fit that moves with you.

A Friendly Ghost

Lightweight and comfy, the Ghost 15 is ready to haunt the roads and trails with style and support.

Made in these Shades

With bold colors, a stay-put fit, and polarized lenses, these sunglasses will have you ready for any adventure.

Goodbye to Glare

With polarized lenses and a budgetfriendly price, you'll be looking cool and feeling awesome, no matter the adventure!

TJ AND KELLEY JEANNETTE RIVER VALLEY RUNNING

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, Jun 9

• Mick Sterling Presents—The Perfect Songs of Barry Gibb & The BeeGees, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30 pm. Info: paradisecenterforthearts.org/calendar or 507-334-4381.

Fri, Jun 9, 16, 23 & 30

• Poker Walk, downtown New Ulm, 10 am-4 pm. Info: wealth-management-solutions@ampf.com, 507-233-4300 or chamber@newulm.com

Fri-Sun, Jun 9-11

• William Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing, State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm. 7 pm Fri & Sat, 2 pm Sun. Info: 507-359-9990, info@statestreetnewulm.org or statestreetnewulm.org.

• Bullhead Days, downtown Waterville. Info: Facebook or bullheaddaysmn@gmail.com.

Sat, Jun 10

• Resource Volunteer Workday, Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson, 9 am-12 pm. Info & registration: 507-357-8580 or info@neycenter.org.

• Seven Little Known Strategies to Fund Long-term Care, Washington Learning Center, 910 14th St N, New Ulm, 9-11:30 am. Info: newulm.k12.mn.us/ community-ed/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.

• Bicycle Ride, Civic Center, 12th N & Franklin, New Ulm, 9:45-11 am. Info: Facebook New Ulm Bicycle Group, 507-276-8370 or alicefasna@gmail.com

• Riverfront Art Fair, Old Town, Riverfront Dr, Mankato. Info: oldtownmankatomn.com/ events.html#/ or Facebook.

• New Ulm Night at the MoonDogs, ISG Field, Mankato, 6:35-8:30 pm. Info: chamber@ newulm.com or 507-233-4300.

• Blues Fest, Minnesota Square Park, Hwy 169, St Peter, 12-9 pm. Info: 507-508-9662 or stpeterambassadors.com/.

Sat, Jun 10, Jul 8, Aug 5

• Marketfest St Peter, downtown, St Peter, 10 am-3 pm. Info: mar-

GO. BE. DO. CON NECT.

ketfeststpeter@gmail.com.

• River Valley Makers Market, Hub Food Park, 512 N Riverfront Dr, Mankato, 11 am-3 pm. Info: facebook.com/RiverValleyMakers/.

Sat, Jun 10, Jul 8, Aug 12

• Unique Classic Cars Roll-In, 2015 Bassett Dr, Mankato 9 am-2 pm. Info: facebook.com/uniquemankato/.

Mon, Jun 12

• MLC Golf Classic, Country Club, 1 Golf Dr, New Ulm. Info: 507354-8221, gartneml@mlc-wels. edu or mlc-wels.edu/events/ golf-classic/.

• Water Carnival Kickoff—Music in the Park, Library Square, Hutchinson, 5-8 pm. Info: valerierosemack@gmail.com or riversongfestival.org/about-riversong/music-in-the-park.

Mon, Jun 12-Aug 28

• Concerts in the Park, German Park, New Ulm, 7 pm. Info: parkandrec@newulmmn.gov or 507-359-8347.

Mon-Sun, Jun 12-18

• Water Carnival, Hutchinson. Info: commodore@watercarnival.org or watercarnival.org/.

Tues, Jun 13

• Power of the Purse Fundraiser for Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Owatonna Country Club, 1991 Lemond Rd, Owatonna, 5:30-8 pm. Info: visitowatonna. org/calendar-of-events/.

• Youth Focused First Aid Training, Washington Learning Center, 910 14th St N, New Ulm, 1-2:15 pm. Info: newulm. ce.eleyo.com/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us

• Social Security (& Taxes) 101, Washington Learning Center, 910 14th St N, New Ulm, 6-7:30 pm. Info: newulm.ce.eleyo. com/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@ newulm.k12.mn.us

Tues, Jun 13 (every Tues thru Sept 19)

• Classic Car Roll-In, downtown, Henderson. Info: Facebook, 507291-5846 or hendersonrollin@ gmail.com

Tues, Jun 13, 20, 27

• Summer Concert Series, Trowbridge Park, 408 N State St, Waseca, 7 pm. Info: wasecachamber.com/events.

Wed, Jun 14

• Chamber’s 75th Anniversary Celebration, 44 Main St S, Hutchinson, 2-6 pm. Info: explorehutchinson.com or mary@ explorehutchinson.com

• Absolutely Elvis, St. Peter Community Center, 600 S Fifth St, St. Peter, 2-4 pm. Info: 507-9343400 or Edlee@stpeterchamber. com.

Wed, Jun 14 & 28, Jul 12 & 26, Aug 9 & 23

• Car/Night Nights, Dave’s Place, downtown Lafayette. Info: Facebook, 507-228-8910 or daves.place.lafayette@hotmail. com

Wed-Sat, Jun 14-17

• Heritage Days Celebration, Central Park, 430 2nd Ave NW, Faribault. Info: faribaultheritagedays.com.

Thurs, Jun 15

• Carden International Circus, Steele Co Four Seasons Centre, 1525 S Elm Ave, Owatonna, 7:30-9 pm. Info: owatonna.org/ community-calendar/.

Thurs, Jun 15 (every Thurs thru Aug 10)

• 11@7 Concert Series, Central Park, downtown Owatonna, 7-8 pm. Info: 507-451-7970, oacct@ owatonna.org or visitowatonna. org.

Thurs, Jun 15 & 29, Jul 6 & 20

• Music in the Park Concert Series, Memorial Park Band Shell, St James, 7-9 pm. Info: 507-3753333 or stjmnchamber@gmail. com

Thurs, Jun 15 & 29, Jul 13 & 27, Aug 10 & 24

• Cruz ‘In Lake Crystal, Marston Park, 100 E Robinson St, Lake Crystal, 5-8 pm. Info: lakecrystalchamber.com/events or Facebook.

Thurs, Jun 15, Jul 20, Aug 17

• Summer in the Valley, 100 S Main Street Le Sueur, 5-8 pm. Info: Facebook or lesueurchamber.org/events.

Thurs-Fri, Jun 15-16

• Lake Days, Lake Crystal. Info: lakecrystalchamber.com/events or lcacc56055@gmail.com.

Fri, Jun 16

• Chamber Golf Tournament, Lakeside Golf Course, Waseca, 8:30 am-3:30 pm. Info: wasecachamber.com/events.

• Kenny Rogers Tribute, State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 7:30 pm. Info: 507-3599990, info@statestreetnewulm. org or statestreetnewulm.org.

Fri, Jun 16, 23 & 30, July 14 & 21

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

Fri, Jun 16 & 30, Jul 14 & 28, Aug 11

• Bike Night & Classic Car Roll In, Crow Bar & Grill, 308 Main St, Courtland, 4-8 pm. Info: Facebook, shellirmartin@gmail.com, or 507-359-4227.

Fri, Jun 16, Jul 21, Aug 18

• Car Cruise, Central Avenue N, Faribault, 6-9 pm. Info: Facebook or members. faribaultmn.org/events/details/2023-car-cruises-19926.

Fri-Sat, Jun 16-17

• Power Pull Grand Nationals Truck & Tractor Pull, McLeod County Fairgrounds, Hutchinson. Info: powerpullhutch@ gmail.com, 320-510-1095 or powerpullnationals.com.

Fri-Sun, Jun 16-18 & Jul 7-9

• Cutting Horse Competitions NCHA Days, Steele Co Free Fair Horse Barns, Owatonna. Info: owatonna.org/community-calendar/ or 507) 451-7970.

Sat, Jun 17

• 129th Annual Bazaar, Albion Lutheran Church, 10454 250th Ave, St James, 12 pm. Info: Facebook.

• Habitat Hustle 5k & Kids K, Masonic West Park, Hutchinson. 8-10 am. Info & registration: stefanie@crhfh.org or runsignup.com/Race/MN/Hutchinson/ HabitatHustle.

• Harry Wenger Marching Band Festival, 107 W Main St, Owatonna, 11 am. Info: harrywmbf09@ gmail.com or owatonnabandfestival.com.

• Father’s Day Brunch, Morgan Creek Vineyards, New Ulm, 11 am-2 pm. Info: morgancreekvineyards.com or 507-9473547.

• Juneteenth Celebration, Manthey Park, 225 24th St NE, Owatonna, 2-5 pm. Info: visitowatonna.org/calendar-of-events/.

• LCARC Duathlon & 5K, 9-10 am. Info: lakecrystalchamber.com/ events.

Sun, Jun 18

• J C Water Carnival Pancake Breakfast, Airport, Hutchinson, 8 am-12 pm. Info: 320-587-2358 or 612-723-8598.

Mon, Jun 19

• Concert in the Park—’Ralph’s World,’ German Park Amphitheater, 200 N German, New Ulm, 7-8 pm. Info: 507-359-8331.

• Block Party, Downtown Madelia, 5-8 pm. Info: Facebook, 507642-8822 or visitmadelia.com.

Mon, Jun 19 & 26, Jul 10 & 17

• Music in the Park, Library Square, Hutchinson, 6:30-8 pm. Info: riversongfestival.org/ about-riversong/music-in-thepark/ or valerierosemack@gmail. com.

Mon-Sun, Jun 19-25

• Railroad Days, St James. Info: Facebook or localendar.com/ public/stjameschamber.

Tues, Jun 20

• Teacher Tours—A Day in the Life of a Farmer, Compeer Financial, 1921 Premier Dr, Mankato, 7:30 am-5:45 pm. Info: mnagmag. org/teacher-tours/.

• Chamber Golf Outing, Shoreland Golf Course, 43781 Golf Course Rd, St. Peter, 2 pm. Info: 507 934-3400.

Tues, Jun 20 OR Wed, Jun 21

• Meal Prep That Fits Your Budget, High School FACS Room, 1800 Oak St, New Ulm, 4:30-6 pm Tues OR 1-2:30 pm Wed. Info: 507233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12. mn.us.

Tues, Jun 20 OR Thurs, Jun 22

• One Room School House, Brown Co Fairgrounds, New Ulm, 9 am-1:30 pm. Info & registration: 507-233-2616 or education@ browncountyhistorymn.org.

Wed, Jun 21

• Summer Solstice Celebration, Living Earth Center Community Garden, 170 Good Counsel Dr, Mankato. Info: livingearthcentermn.org.

• Chamber Golf Tournament, Golf Club, Springfield, 12 pm. Info & registration: 507-723-3508 or spfdchamber@newulmtel.net.

Wed-Sun, Jun 21-25

• Riverside Days, Springfield. Info: Facebook, 507-723-3508 or spfdchamber@newulmtel.net.

Thurs, Jun 22, Jul 6 & 20, Aug 3 & 17

• Cruisin on Pine & 99, downtown Nicollet, 5-8 pm. Info: nicollet. org/crusin-on-pine-99.

Thurs, Jun 22, Jul 27, Aug 24

• Hot Summer Nights Cruise In, downtown Waterville, 6-9 pm. Info: info@watervillemn.com Facebook Waterville Chamber of Commerce.

Fri, Jun 23

• Golf Tournament, Country Club, St James, 11 am-5:30 pm. Info: 375-3333 or localendar.com/ public/stjameschamber.

• Fire Department Grilled Pork Chop Fundraiser, St. James Comm Bldg, 5:30 pm. Info: 3753333 or localendar.com/public/ stjameschamber.

• Levi Compton Benefit Supper & Pie Social, Community Center, Lafayette, 5-8 pm. Info: 507-2400048.

Fri-Sun, Jun 23-25

• Friendship Days, Nicollet. Info: nicollet.org or Nicollet American Legion Facebook page.

Sat, Jun 24

• The Music of Patsy Cline, Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault, 7:30-8:30 pm. Info: paradisecenterforthearts.org/calendar, 507-334-4381 or chamber@faribaultmn.org

• Relay For Life of Martin County, Fairgrounds, 1300 N Bixby Rd, Fairmont, 4-11 pm. Info: samijo. helmersnelson@cancer.org or 507-236-1231.

• St James Rotary Cakes for Kids, Eagles Club, 8-11 am. Info: 507375-3333 or localendar.com/ public/stjameschamber.

• 0.5k Beer Run to benefit Steele Co Humane Society, Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna, 11 am-2 pm. Info: jseykora@owatonna.org or visitowatonna.org/calendar-of-events/.

• Hub Club Pancake Breakfast, Bus Barn, Fairgrounds, New Ulm, 7-9 am. Info: 507-240-0048.

• Southern Minnesota Youth Dairy Show, Youth Coliseum & Bus Barn, Fairgrounds, New Ulm, 9 am. Info: 507-276-6810.

Sat, Jun 24, Jul 15 & Fri-Sat, Jul 28-29

• Popcorn Wagon @ BCHS, 12 N Broadway, New Ulm, 10 am-5 pm. Info: 507-233-2616 or director@browncountyhistorymn. org.

Sat, Jun 24 & Jul 22

• Biker Breakfast, Faribault Harley-Davidson, 2704 W Airport Dr, Faribault, 9-11 am. Info: visitfaribault.com/calendar/.

Sat-Sun, Jun 24-25

• Autofest, Brown Co Fairgrounds, New Ulm. Info: newulmautofest@gmail.com or newulmautofest.com.

• City-Wide Garage Sales, New Ulm. Info: nujournal.com/garage-sales/.

Sun, Jun 25

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

Mon, Jun 26

• Eagles Unified Booster Golf Scramble, Country Club, New Ulm, 12-6 pm. Info: Eaglesunifiedbooster.com, 507-276-4229 or Kathyvanroekel@hotmail. com.

Tues, Jul 4

• 4th of July at Turner Park, 102 S State St, New Ulm, 11 am-6 pm. Info: 507-354-2022, events@ newulmturnerhall.com or newulmturnerhall.org.

• 4th of July Fireworks, Steele

Co Fairgrounds Campground, Owatonna, 10 pm. Info: visitowatonna.org/calendar-of-events/.

• Old-Fashioned 4th of July, St Peter. Parade 10 am S Washington & Broadway; fireworks 10 pm fairgrounds. Info: 507-934-3400.

Thurs, Jul 6 & Aug 3

• Downtown Thursday, Main Street & Central Park, N Cedar Ave, Owatonna, 5-8 pm. Info: visitowatonna.org.

Thurs-Sat, Jul 6-8

• Vicki’s Camp N Country Jam & Bean Bag Tournaments, 29446 370th St, Redwood Falls. Info: VickisCampNCountryJam.com, 612-799-9955 or info@vccjam. com

Fri-Sun, Jul 7

• Park Days, Watona Park, Co Hwy 9, Madelia. Info: 507-642-8822 or visitmadelia.com.

Fri-Sat, Jul 7-8, 14-15, 21-22

• Wilder Pageant, 330 8th St, Walnut Grove, 9 pm. Info: walnutgrove.org/pageant/, 507-859-2358 or lauramuseum@ walnutgrove.org.

Mon, Jul 10

• MVL Golf Classic, Country Club, 1 Golf Dr, New Ulm, 10 am. Info & tickets: GC2023.givesmart.com or Facebook.

Mon, Jul 10 & Aug 14

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

Thurs, Jul 13

• LEEP Legends 2023, ISG Field, 601 Reed Street, Mankato, 5-10 pm. Info: info@mankatoleep.org, 507-387-5122 or mankatoleep. org.

Thurs-Sun, Jul 13-16

• Gibbon FunFest. Info: gibbonfunfest@yahoo.com

Fri, Jul 14

• Bull Riding, Fairgrounds, Redwood Falls, 6 pm. Info: Facebook or 320-226-0949.

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

• Pars & Stripes Golf Tournament, Faribault, 12-7. Info: 507-3344381 or casie@faribaultmn.org.

Fri-Sat, Jul 14-15

• RiverSong Music Festival, 1003 Les Kouba Dr NW, Masonic W River Park, Hutchinson. 5-11 pm Fri, 11 am-11 pm Sat. Info: riversongfestival.org or info@ riversongfestival.org.

Fri-Sun, Jul 14-16

• Crazy Days, New Ulm. Info: 507233-4300 or chamber@newulm. com.

Sat, Jul 15

• Gus’ Station Car Show, Steele

Co Hist Soc, 1700 Austin Rd, Owatonna. Info: visitowatonna. org/calendar-of-events/.

• Pork Chop Fry, Nicollet Conservation Club, 5-8 pm. Info: nicollet.org.

Sun, Jul 16

• Secret Garden Tour, Owatonna Arts Center, 435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna. Info: 507-451-0533 or info@oacarts.org.

Tues, Jul 18

• Meal Prep That Fits Your Budget, High School FACS Room, New Ulm, 4:30-6 pm. Info: newulm. ce.eleyo.com/, 507-233-8307 or cfleck@newulm.k12.mn.us.

Wed-Mon, Jul 19-24

• Orange Spectacular, McLeod Co Fairgrounds, 843 Century Ave SW, Hutchinson; 8 am-5 pm

Thurs, Jul 20

• Youth Focused CPR/AED Training, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 1-2:15 pm. Info: 507-233-8307, cfleck@newulm. k12.mn.us or newulm.ce.eleyo. com/.

Thurs-Sun, Jul 20-23

• Bavarian Blast, Fairgrounds, New Ulm. Info: bavarianblast.com, 507-233-4300 or info@bavarianblast.com.

Sat, Jul 22 & Aug 12

• Bike Ride, German Park, 3rd N & N German St, New Ulm, 9:45-11 am. Info: 763-645-2573, alicefasna@gmail.com or Facebook: New Ulm Bicycle Group.

Sat-Sun, Jul 22-23

• Minnesota Original Music Festival, Minnesota Square Park, 1000 S Minnesota Ave, St Peter. Info: Facebook.

Wed-Sat, Jul 26-29

• 56th American Turners National Festival, Turner Hall, New Ulm. Info: 507-354-2022, director@ newulmturnerhall.com or turnfestnewulm.com/.

Fri-Sun, Jul 28-30

• Musical Production of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s, Cinderella, State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm. 7 pm Fri & Sat, 2 pm Sun. Info: statestreetnewulm. org, 507-359-9990 of innfo@ statestreetnewulm.org

Fri-Sat, Aug 4-5

• Blue Collar Festival, Teepee Tonka Park, 3rd Ave NE, Faribault. Info: 507-334-4381or casie@ faribaultmn.org

Tues, Aug 8

• Madelia Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Scramble Fundraiser, Golf Course, Madelia. Info: 507642-8822.

Sat, Aug 12

• Air Margaritaville—Jimmy Buffett Tribute, State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 7 pm. Info: statestreetnewulm. org, 507-359-9990 of innfo@ statestreetnewulm.org.

Area Farmers' Markets

Amboy Farmers Market

• Amboy City Park, Main & North State St., Thurs. 4:30-6:30 pm, June-Sept. Info: 507-317-7436, maryleeteubner@gmail.com or Facebook.

Arlington Farmers Market

• Community Center Parking Lot. June 20-Sept, Mon. 4-6 pm. Info: 507-380-1047, Facebook or marketsarlingtonmn@gmail.com.

Bird Island, Renville Co. Artisan & Farmers Market

• Dogwood Ave & Main St, Jun-Oct, Wed 4-7. Info: 320-579-1412.

Bongards Farmers Market

• St. John’s United Church of Christ, 12984 Co Rd 51, Norwood Young America, Wed. 3-6 pm. June-Sept. Info: 612-710-0508, bongardsmarket@gmail.com or bongardsmarket.com.

Buffalo Lake Farmers & Flea Market

• City Park on Hwy 212. Jun.-fall., Sat., 8 am-noon. Info: 520-2966292 orrenvillecountymn.com.

Fairfax Farmers Market

• 1st St,. SE of Hwy 19. Mid-JuneSept., Tue. 46 pm. Info: 507-2765044 or renvillecountymn.com.

Faribault Farmers Market

• Jun-Oct, Sat, 7 am-noon; Jul-Sept, Wed, 1:30-5 pm. Info:507-332-8283 or garden2534@yahoo.com.

Gaylord Farmers Market

• 5th & Main Ave, Jun-Oct, Wed. 4-6 pm. Info: 507-232-3497 or FarmersMarketGaylord@gmail.com.

Gibbon Farmer’s Market

• Hwy 19, Jul.-Oct., Thurs. 3-5:30 pm.

Glencoe Farmers Market

• 11th St and Greeley Ave. Mid Jun.Oct., Thurs., 3-6 pm. Info: 320-8643650 or connect@glencoechamber.com.

Good Thunder, Blue Skye Farms.

• Rapidan Township. Sat. Info:507995-9793 or blueskyefarms@ outlook.com.

Hutchinson Farmers Market

• 25 Adams St SE. May 21-Oct 29, Wed. 2:30-5:30 pm and Sat. 8 am-noon; Info: 320-234-5652 or jpage@ci.hutchinson.mn.us.

Lafayette Outdoor Market Farmer & Vendor Market

• Lund Park; Mon., Jun 26, Jul 10 & 24, Aug 14 & 28; 2:30-6:30 p.m.; Info: 507-276-4583 or lafcityclerk@ gmail.com.

Lamberton Farmers Market

• Hwy 14, Jun-Oct, Thurs 3-6 pm.

Litchfield Community Market

• North end of park on 4th Street, May-Oct. Thurs., 2-5:30 p.m. Info: Facebook or 320-552-1387.

Madison Lake Farmers Market

• Lindburgh Park, 300 7th St, MayOct. Sat., 9 am-12 pm. Info: Facebook or mlfm2014@yahoo.com.

Mankato Farmers Market

• Best Buy Parking Lot, 1805 Adams Street. June-late Oct., Sat. 8 amnoon., Tues & Thurs., 3:30-6 pm. Info: 507-382-9337, manager@ manktatofarmersmarket.com or mankatofarmersmarket.com.

Mayer Market & More

• In conjunction with Car & Cycle Show, Cedar Ave, Jun-Aug, 1st & 3rd Wed, 4-7 pm. Info: 952-2328445

New Prague Farmers Market

• Carbone’s parking lot, May-Oct., Sat. 9 am-noon. Info: Facebook, 507 317-7046 or np.market@ yahoo.com.

New Ulm KNUJ Farmers Market

• Cash Wise Foods, Hwy 14 W. June -Oct., Thurs. 2:30-5:30 pm; Downtown, Sat. 9 am-12 pm; June-fall. Info: Facebook,knuj.net/farmers-market/ or 507-359-2921.

North Mankato Farmers Market

• 1920 Lee Blvd., Upper No. Mankato. June 56-Oct. 16; Mon., 3-6 pm. Info: northmankato.com/farmers-market..

Olivia United Acres Farmers Market

• City parking lot 9th St & Fairview, Jul-Oct., Thurs., 2-6 pm. Info: 320522-1043 or Facebook

Owatonna Farmers Market

• Central Park. May-Oct., Sat., 7 am-3 pm. Info: Facebook

Redwood Falls

• 125 S Washington St. July-Oct. Tues, 3-6 pm & Sat 9am-noon. Info: 507-27904398 or rwffarmersmarket@gmail.com.

St. James Farmers Market

• Plaze De St. James; Thurs. 3-6 pm. thru Oct. 8. Info: 507-375-3333 or stjmnchamber@gmail.com

St. Peter Farmers Market

• Corner of Mulberry St & Minnesota Ave, June -Oct., Tue. 3-6 pm & Sat 8:30 am-noon; June-Oct. Info: 651-307-9083, Facebook stpfarmersmarket@gmail.com

Area County Fairs

Sat-Tues, Jul 1-4

• Cannon Valley Fair, Cannon Falls. Info: cannonvalleyfair.org, 507-263-3548 or

• CannonValleyFair@gmail.com.

Wed-Sun, Jul 12-16

• Dodge County,  Kasson. Info: dodgecountyfreefair.com, 507634-7736 or dodgecountyfair@ kmtel.com.

• Waseca County, Waseca. Info: wasecacountyfreefair.com/ or 507-461-0314.

Thurs-Sun, Jul 13-16

• Watonwan County, St. James. Info: watonwancountyfair.com, 712-363-2014 or watcntyfair@ gmail.com.

Thurs-Sun, Jul 20-23

• Blue Earth County, Garden City. Info: blueearthcountyfair.org/, info@blueearthcountyfair.org or 507-546-3986.

Wed-Sat, Jul 26-29

• Faribault County, Blue Earth.  Info: faribaultcountyfair. com/ or 507-340-7539

Wed.-Sun., Aug. 3-7

• Sibley County Fair, Arlington. Info: 507-964-5698 or sibleycountyfair.com

• Meeker County Fair, Litchfield. Info: 320-583-8291 or meekerfair.com

Wed.-Fri., Aug. 10-12

• Renville County Fair, Bird Island. Info: 320-365-3242 or renvillecountyfair.org

Wed.-Sat., Aug 10-13

• Cottonwood County Fair, Windom. Info: 507-831-0023 or cottonwoodcountyfair.org

Wed.-Sun., Aug. 10-14

• Brown County Free Fair, New Ulm. Info: 507-354-2223 or browncountyfreefair.com

• Carver County Fair, Waconia. Info: 952-201-9585 or carvercountyfair.com

• Nicollet County Fair, St Peter. Info: 507-934-2684 or nicolletcountyfair.com

Mon.-Sun., Aug. 15-21

• Martin County Fair, Fairmont. Info: 507-235-9576 or mnotherbigfair.com

Tues.-Sun., Aug. 16-21

• Steele County Free Fair, Owatonna. Info: 507-451-5305 or scff.org

Thurs.-Sun., Aug. 18-21

• McLeod County Fair, Hutchinson. Info: 320-587-2499 or mcleodcountyfair.com

• Le Sueur County Fair, Le Center. Info: 507-357-6500 or lesueurcountyfair.org

NICOLLET FRIENDSHIP DAYS

FRI-SUN June 23-25

Friday Evening: Petting Zoo, Kids’ Bike Drawing, Miss Nicollet Talent, Smokescreen on Park Stage

Saturday: Dad’s Belgian Waffles, Kickball, Escape Room, Bean Bags; Kids Pedal Pull-Bingo-Bike Drawing; Miss Nicollet Coronation, GTX on Park Stage

Sunday: Grand Parade, Music in the Park, Raffle Drawing

ALL WEEKEND: BOUNCE HOUSES — FOOD & BEER STANDS

Sponsored by American Legion Post 510 Family and Community Organizations Visit NicolletFriendshipDays.com

222049

SHOP LOCAL, BUY LOCAL, SAVE BIG!

SHOP LOCAL, BUY LOCAL, SAVE BIG!

222039

Shop and save 20-50% off

20-50% off

The retail price of gift certificates to local businesses!

Radio Mankato Big Deals is an online shopping site where you can buy discounted certificates to local businesses in the Mankato and surrounding areas.

Radio Mankato Big Deals is an online shopping site where you can buy discounted certificates to local businesses in the Mankato and surrounding areas.

DOWNLOAD THE APP today.

DOWNLOAD THE APP today.

Available on the App Store Google Play

Available on the App Store Google Play

The Man Box

What does it mean to be a man? When I was given the assignment for River Valley Woman’s “man” issue I did some soul searching and asked myself, how can I, a person who has identified as a woman my whole life, write anything related to men? Therefore, I started my journey by talking to the men in my life.

I’ll start with a story about my dad. My parents were getting ready to go on a trip to Mexico and, if you can imagine, my dad is the type who wears jeans all year round with cowboy boots—who was now being asked to wear shorts and sandals. We also gave him clear direction that he couldn’t wear socks with the sandals.

Long story short, my mom told him he needed to get a pedicure if his toes were going to be exposed. I’ll give you a quick picture. You know, in the movie Dumb and Dumber, when they were getting Harry ready for his date and they were using a power sander to file his toe nails…yeah, like that.

Well, you can about imagine how my dad responded. “I’m not going to be caught dead getting a pedicure. I’m a man. We don’t do that.”

So my dad, being the proud man he is, cut and sanded his toenails himself. Now, if you ask some of the younger generation, getting a pedicure isn’t as bad as my dad makes it out to be.

To tell you my experience, I get my nails done about every two weeks and, I would say, every time I see at least one man getting a pedicure with their daughters or with their significant others. So, what is the stereotype related to masculinity and where do we, as a society, draw the line? Or is there a line to even be drawn?

When I asked my 16-year-old son, “What does it mean to be a man?” he said, “to make a lot of money so he can have a family and provide for them.”

I was interested in hearing more, so I asked him, “What about emotions?” and he responded, “we can’t have them.” Where do our sons and the men in our society get these messages and why are they so generational?

Well, I’d like to think the same place women get the message to be thin, but not too thin; be successful, but not too successful; be emotional, but not too emotional—all stereotypes and good old-fashioned gender roles. Here’s a definition. “A stereotype is an overgeneralization and rigid definition of group characteristics that is assigned to people based on their membership in a group.”

The majority of us, I’d like to think, don’t use these stereotypes to be malicious or harmful, rather to give a quick description of the person we are conversing about. But, truth be told, these stereotypes are hurtful even without the intent. They are used to file people away into a small box, if you will, and if the person doesn’t fit the box, a stronger judgement is made and our uniqueness is missed.

Enter the concept of the Man Box. Imagine a small box hammered shut with expectations to always appear tough, strong, powerful, successful, fearless, in-control, and capable. The expectation is clear and simple: don’t let anyone see anything that can be perceived as weakness.

According to writer/podcaster, Brene Brown, “we reward their willingness to stay in the box by celebrating their “toughness” and reinforce and punish by labeling any demonstration of vulnerability or emotion—especially fear, grief, and sadness—as weakness.”

Men are certainly socialized to hide their vulnerabilities and fears, but it seems that women play an important role in that socialization.

As one man put it to Brown, “Women would rather see us die on top of the white horse than to be forced to watch us fall off it.”

When men and women shame each other and reinforce unattainable gender expectations, we kill intimacy. Our relationships move from compassion and connection to fear, blame, and disconnection.

I don’t think any of us want this for ourselves or our children.

No wonder the statistics of men seeking mental health help is so low and the statistics of male suicides are so high. Also, wonder why the majority of domestic violence cases aren’t reported by men? What would it look like if a man reported being beaten by a woman?

We need to jump into action and redefine these unattainable expectations and put a stop to celebrating toughness and, instead, celebrate the courage it takes to be vulnerable and speak their fear. We need to redefine weakness into strength and empower authenticity, especially for the men in our lives.

We all have the basic need to feel accepted and to believe we belong, and are valued. Let’s strive to teach our sons to be accepted and valued, based on who they are rather than who they are supposed to be.

So, men go get that pedicure and wear whatever color you like, or wear camouflage and go hunting. Do what defines you to be your true authentic self.

And, ladies, if you’re still reading this, allow the men in your lives to be vulnerable because vulnerability is the new strength.

ANORIA ZUEHLKE, MA, LPCC Bridge to Growth Wellness Therapy Mankato

A friend of mine just started taking testosterone supplements. How do I know if I have low testosterone?

Testosterone production decreases with age and nearly half of all men aged 45 and older have low testosterone. If you have symptoms associated with low testosterone that are impacting your quality of life, then you may benefit from treatment. If the testosterone levels gradually decrease, you may not experience any changes. However, drastic changes can lead to a range of symptoms. Signs of low testosterone can be subtle or dramatic, and if you are experiencing these symptoms, please speak with your provider as you may benefit from further testing.

1. Loss of sex drive. Changes in libido may indicate low testosterone. Often times changes in libido are erroneously attributed to stress, busy schedules, or other lifestyle factors. If you or your partner notice a shift in your sex drive, you may benefit from testing or testosterone supplementation.

2. Erectile dysfunction. Testosterone signals the brain to produce nitric oxide which plays a key role in achieving and maintaining an erection. Combined with loss of sex drive, low testosterone can significantly negatively impact your sexual health. Feelings of shame and frustration are common under these circumstances, but the symptoms are not uncommon and can be managed with testosterone replacement.

3. Hot flashes. Not just for the ladies, hot flashes are an equal opportunity malady. You may experience a sudden sensation of warmth, heavy sweating, flushing of your skin, and night sweats. Sometimes the sudden change in body temperature can trigger feelings of anxiety, mood swings, or irritability as well.

4. Hair loss. Testosterone contributes to hair production. When testosterone levels decrease, hair loss can occur. Balding is

hereditary and progresses with age. Hair loss associated with low testosterone can also be seen in facial hair, body hair, eyebrows and lashes.

5. Fatigue. Loss of energy reserves is very common with low testosterone. This symptom can be subtle and, like loss of libido is often attributed to a busy lifestyle. If you are getting consistent and adequate sleep but find yourself craving heavy carbohydrates or energy drinks/caffeine, you may have low testosterone levels.

6. Muscleatrophy. Bulking up and maintaining muscle mass is difficult over age 45 due to progressively decreasing testosterone levels. Testosterone affects muscle mass, but not necessarily strength or function. You may still be able to hit your weightlifting benchmarks, yet your appearance may lean out a bit with low testosterone. You may also notice an increase in body fat as well. Low testosterone levels will result in accumulation of abdominal fat and can increase the prominence of breast tissue.

7. Memory loss. Short term memory is impacted by low testosterone levels. Overall cognitive health can be improved in older men with low testosterone, though the effect may be small. Supplementation, in addition to regular exercise and social engagement, can improve memory over time in older men with low testosterone.

While it could seem reasonable to attribute some of these symptoms to natural decline with aging, if your symptoms are impacting your quality of life, please discuss them with your provider. Testosterone replacement may be helpful in getting you back to where you want to be.

Stay healthy, friends!

JuneMust

1. Casement Windows

Infinity Casement Windows are made of Ultrex® fiberglass, featuring two hinge options for easy cleaning or larger, unobstructed views.

Lacina Siding & Windows, Inc. 2104 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507.625.5064 lacinasidingandwindows.com

2. Riccar Vacuum

Proven technology that improves indoor air quality and deep cleans your carpet in ways others can't, and they also work on bare floors. Designed and engineered for high performance and long wear. We offer canisters and uprights, vacuums with tools, multi-floor vacuums, long cords, and headlights. Whatever your need, we have a vacuum that can meet it.

Hilltop Vaccum Plus 950 Madison Ave. Mankato, MN 507.387.5125 hilltopvacuums.com

3. Motorize your Indoor and Outdoor Shades

Now it is simple to adjust your indoor and outdoor window coverings and shades with our motorized options. Raise and lower with a remote or directly from the app. Contact Blinds & More today to learn more. Blinds & More Window Coverings

507.380.5019 blindsandmore.org

4. STIHL FSA 56 Trimmer

The FSA 56 delivers STIHL performance and exceptional value. It features an adjustable shaft to fit different user heights for enhanced comfort. Its AutoCut® head feeds out new line with just a tap on the ground. And you can trim the length of five football fields on a single charge – that’s up to 0.31 miles. Come shop our large selection of STIHL single charge products today.

C&S Supply 1951 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 507.387.1171 or 800.879.1938 candssupply.com

5. Microneedling with Skin Pen

Microneedling provide numerous benefits for men’s skin, such as reducing acne scars, improving skin texture and tone, boosting collagen production & reduced pore size. The tiny injuries from a microneedling session with Skin Pen boost collagen and elastin production to fight lines and wrinkles. Collagen and elastin are compounds in your skin that add structure and strength, lending a youthful quality & glow.

Giddie Skin Medspa

530 N Riverfront Dr. Suite 130 Mankato, MN | 507.381.7723 giddieskin.com

6. CoolSculpting®

Show off the body you’ve always dreamed of with CoolSculpting®: the non-surgical body contouring treatment that freezes and naturally eliminates fat from your body. No needles, no surgery and best of all, no downtime. Developed by Harvard scientists, CoolSculpting® is FDA-cleared, safe and clinically proven. We will develop your customized plan so you can say goodbye to stubborn fat! Aesthetic Creator Clinic 1140 South Ave. North Mankato, MN 651.334.9919 aestheticcreator.com

7. This Summer’s Hottest Accessory - Permanent Jewelry

Baubles & Bobbies Jewelry is proud to offer the newest trend from social media - BOUND by B&B Permanent Jewelry. Claspless & pain-free welded jewelry in 14K Gold Fill & Sterling Silver options. Make an appointment or walk-ins accepted most days. Bonita!

401 N Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN

222036

222045

5.

Performance Inspired

Created to provide better all-natural, yet affordable, high performance sports nutrition for every athletic level. The formulas have ingredients you can trust and you’ll get results you can be proud of. Taste why all-natural is better, only at

Start a conversation

507.625.9070

Mankato Riverfront

Amish made burnt hickory table. Made with charred barrel

507.625.1107

New Ulm

507.354.8255

This is a quality piece that functional and fun.

St. Peter

Larson's Home Furnishings

Redwood Falls

507.519.1910 hy-vee.com

507-637-8346 Marshall 507-532-6320 larsonfurniture.com

9.

Performance Inspired was created to provide better all-natural, yet affordable, high performance sports nutrition for every athletic level. The formulas have ingredients you can trust and you’ll get results you can be proud of. Taste why all-natural is better, only

10. 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 custom-made to fit within the exact space of an existing window. They are an easy, hassle-free way to enhance your home’s comfort and appearance without the major disruptions that often come with remodeling projects.

(“Print Marketing

Schmidt Siding & Window

901 N 5th St. Mankato, MN

507.625.6412

schmidtmankato.com

184513

WHAT & WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER OUTDOOR ACTIVITY IN THE RIVER VALLEY AREA?

North Lincoln Needle Lady

Hiking at Minneopa Falls.

LINDA

Listening to music outside at Schell’s brewery.

JOY

Kayaking on an area lakes.

JESSICA

Enjoying a day on any of the surrounding lakes, boating and floating.

TIFFANY

Wine tasting.

HEATHER

Watching dirt bike races at the Kato Cycle Club.

JINELLE

Going to get ice cream at Scoops in Elysian.

CHRISTINA

Playing 9 Holes at Sleepy Eye Golf Club, followed by drinks & food on the patio.

New WEBSITE LAUNCH

222064

Our mission at LUXE Quarterlies is to inspire, empower and highlight the communities that we live and work in. Each of our publications are filled with enlightening stories of local businesses and community members as they celebrate their connection with family, friends, and the areas they call home.

Joint Replacement Surgery Important Choice, Easy Decision

222009

Recognized for Being the Best!

For quality care, close to home, it’s OrthoEdge . The OrthoEdge Joint Replacement Program features two of the most experienced orthopaedic care providers in the area, The Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic and River’s Edge Hospital .

• Over 6,000 successful hip, knee and other orthopaedic surgeries

• 250 years of combined orthopaedic surgery experience

• The only small hospital in the nation accredited as a Certified Center of Excellence

Getting the care you deserve and trust, close to home, makes OrthoEdge the right choice for joint replacement surgery.

Learn more at OrthoEdgeMN.com

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!