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BY EILEEN MADSEN Editor
of year I am glad to live in Minnesota. Cooler temps, darker evenings, colorful leaves, and the feeling that something exciting is about to happen or change. Along with a curious, unexplainable melancholy in the air. We say goodbye to summer (see ya), and perhaps to kids heading to school (wouldn’t wanna be ya).
But especially in this state, fall means harvest. There’s nothing quite like driving 18 mph behind a combine on a county road and you can’t see to pass to tell you autumn is here.
But I’m not complaining. Farmers are out there doing their jobs so we can do ours. You can’t swing a barn cat without hitting a product or industry that isn’t directly or indirectly related to agriculture. From food, to tech, to cosmetics, to building materials and toys—it’s all ag and we’re all in.
Once upon a time the word farmer meant a man, and if, as a woman, you happened to marry one, you were considered a “farm wife.” Perhaps that was accurate because if you married the man, you married the farm. But today women make up 36% of the farmer force—that’s 1.2 million female producers in the United States. That doesn’t include those in other ag-related industries such as marketing, communications, leadership, ag banking and insurance, advocacy groups, media and more.
Our mission in this Story of Ag issue is to start a new chapter, and who better to turn that page than our cover feature Angela Guentzel, who personifies the future of agriculture. Not only is she in the thick of things as a farmer—hauling grain or harvesting a field on her six-generation property, she’s also part scientist, political advocate and entrepreneur. She gives modern meaning to the term “farm wife,” and doesn’t need to be on a tractor for us to hear her roar.
I’ve always lived in a town or city, but I have had exposure to farming one way or the other my entire life through friends, family, and colleagues involved in ag-related businesses and organizations. I consider myself a farmer by osmosis and can bandy ag terms about with the best of them. Of course throwing words such as Rogator, or digester into general conversation can be a challenge.
But one woman’s job is just that—connecting consumers to Minnesota’s farm families for a better understanding about what farmers do, and where our food comes from. Emma Kuball shares a year in the life of her reign as Princess Kay, a title bestowed upon her in 2023 by Midwest Dairy. Highlights included visiting a newborn calf with her namesake, and having her likeness formed from a block of frozen dairy product. Apparently, everything is better with butter.
For Jill Resler, who recently took on the role as executive director of Minnesota Pork Producers Association after 15 years with the organization, agriculture is a lifestyle. A self-described typical farm kid, she was involved in 4-H, FFA, and went on to major in ag communications, education and leadership along with studying animal science and journalism. Her diverse abilities allow her to interact with a cross section of people to articulate MPPA’s public policy on the state and national level. She brings home the bacon in more ways than one.
Carol Herden has carved out a niche career for herself. Carol’s Original Works in Amboy offers animal sculptures, as well as other pieces, since 1989. Her rural roots, along with a love for cattle, horses and sheep, inspire her creations that she sells across the nation. Herden’s sculpting skills came naturally to her as a child when she started creating her own model horses and cows, which eventually were picked up by a world-wide collectors’ club company. She’s got livestock down to an art.
There’s a word for vegetation that comes up on its own without having planted it: volunteers. Every year I have more and more dill creep in my tomato patch. I didn’t have to do a thing but the dill does so much visually and culinarily. It’s the work and knowledge of the women volunteers at CommonGround Minnesota—a statewide branch of the national group— that can do so much when it comes to dispelling food myths, sharing experiences and helping consumers decipher labels, purchase products wisely and feel confident about food safety. You grow girls!
There’s a lot to digester in this Ag Story issue, so we’ll leave you to plow through it. Later, Rogator.
By JEAN ANNEXSTAD
PHOTOS BY WOLLER PHOTOGRAPHY
ngela Guentzel is a farmer. You are likely to find her on the seat of a semi hauling corn, or driving a grain cart harvesting soybeans on land that has been in her family for six generations. She may arrive at a coffee date fresh out of a field where she was scouting to see how a microbial product, developed by herself and her husband, Andy, is working for a customer’s crops. Or Guentzel might stride quickly into a trivia night where her friend group is waiting at a Mankato brewery wearing a business suit. That’s because she just served on a panel to explain to Minnesota politicians about a corn and bean grower’s perspective on farm policy needs.
Then, once a year on a gorgeous summer day, Guentzel can be found alongside FFA youth from several different local chapters on a farm in Blue Earth or LeSueur County hosting a breakfast for hundreds of local children, parents, and community members. At this annual event, typically standing by farm machinery, she is in her element telling others about modern-day agricultural practices.
In fact, telling agriculture’s story is Guentzel’s passion.
“The biggest thing is that we are a family farm, and this is what modern agriculture looks like. This is what we do, why we do it, how this works and why it works. Here are the things we have done to improve, the things we would like to improve and what’s coming in the future that we’re excited for,” she said.
These are key messages developed by Guentzel through hands-on farming, special skills partly honed from her prior career experience, and through a variety of key positions she holds, or has completed within farm organizations and boards.
“I get excited when groups come to our farm. I enjoy sharing that with them. We have had anything from preschool groups, young professionals, and we’ve had a group of Brazilian people involved in agriculture or who were farmers themselves,” she
said. “I think people are pretty surprised when they see the setups of the monitors we use within our farming equipment, outside of the equipment and how we track data.”
As an example of how she shares technology used on the Guentzel Family Farms, she describes the group of Minnesota Ag in the Classroom teachers who toured the farm.
“They really latched on when we brought out our iPads so they could see the different apps we use,” she said.
Her farm is a row crop farming operation and is headquartered at Kasota. She said the teachers were intrigued by the large scale-house setup where every load of farm’s grain during harvest is tested for moisture and where there is data displayed on a screen for the grain drying equipment and grain storage bins.
“A big computer screen tracks load information and another pulls up the route that each truck will take to the next field. Yet another live time app shows the combine in the field so grain truckers, such as myself, know exactly where they need to be in which field,” Guentzel said.
Home farm return
Guentzel is part of the trend in U.S. agriculture. The 2019 U.S. Census showed female producers now make up 36 percent of farmers. She admits that farming is in her blood and she has a passion for it.
Angela joined the Guentzel family farm where she grew up in 2014 when her brother Jon asked if she would like to farm with him full time. She was at a pivot in her career in the human services world, where she was managing staff for people with mental and physical disabilities. She had come back to the farm to work, while also starting a graduate program in counseling.
“I had always found myself taking off of work to help on the farm, especially during harvest time and then my brother finally asked me. I realized that I was more into the farming side of things than the grad school side of things,” she said.
Guentzel had not really considered agriculture as a career while growing up, but today she is totally on board with her choice, enjoying the hard work and challenges farming brings.
The Guentzels’ parents, Terry and Mary, are slowly turning over the expertise of managing the farm to the younger generation by stepping back, as well as setting into place a transition plan. Their help is relied upon especially during harvest,
when expertise and when seasonal help is hard to come by.
“Guentzel Farms has a really great group of guys that we have been working with for several years, which is nice because it’s tough to know all of the fields and approaches (to enter fields with large equipment) and all of the nuances of each field,” she said.
Guentzel manages the farm’s accounting and employees when it fits into her schedule. She relies on Traction Ag software tapping their good customer service to do the accounting as well as bi-weekly payroll, for example.
It was 2014 on her return to the farm that Guentzel joined Greater Mankato Growth’s Young Professionals where she met her husband, Andy Cramblit. Together with Andy and her two stepchildren, Angela is now involved in building their new home near the farm.
Guentzel enjoys helping with Mankato Valley Remodeling, Andy’s business, in the farm’s off-season.
Andy and Angela also have agricultural-related side businesses. One is a seed sales business, Mankato Valley Seed, which is seasonal during planting and again after harvest to determine performance and next year’s needs with customers.
Another business involves soil health, where the product they market is a food source for microbes, which stemmed from Andy’s chemistry background. As part of Mankato Valley Soil Solutions, they formulate some of their own products.
“Biologics have become important in agriculture. They enhance the natural microbial population that is already in your soil to benefit plant health –it’s better soil and plant health and better yields,” Guentzel said. Use of the microbial products can also be a cost savings to local farmers who are interested in the product and adapting new practices. “It’s a good and sustainable solution to help with nutrient management.”
“There’s just so much to learn, and it’s always changing. It’s fascinating,” said Guentzel, when explaining about the soil health concepts, plant biology, and new cropping ideas.
Life balance pursued
Guentzel admits she likes to be busy, and has a keen desire to learn and try new things in the farming and hobby realms of her life.
“It has changed throughout the years, where we put more focus and energy into,” she said.
“Adaptation is the biggest thing and recognizing where your strengths are and what your interests are and how you work best as a team. That’s the balance within your family,” she said. “Where the seed business was once a lead business, now the remodeling business has taken the lead.”
Farm income is related to weather, markets, politics, global events; often out of a farmer’s control. Having other income streams is a good fit.
To relax and restore, pickleball is her newest activity of choice, along with camping with family a few times a summer.
Guentzel has been chosen to lead in a variety of agricultural organizations she belongs to. She is a director on the board of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, and is on the Mankato FFA Alumni and Supporters Board. She recently completed a term on the Minnesota Farm Bureau Promotion and Education Committee, and is an alumnus of the MARL program, a dynamic leadership development program for active and engaged adult agricultural and rural leaders in Minnesota.
The effort and time to serve in leadership and growth positions enhances Guentzel’s other interests such as the Breakfast on the Farm event held every year in the Mankato area. It was held on her family’s farm in 2014, the first year she returned there. Since then, she has served on the committee for the event, as well as chaired it. This year’s event will be held on September 7 at Aaron Jones Farm in Lake Crystal, and is open to the public.
Guentzel is very excited about the community outreach the event provides, with an experience to draw young families in the metro area of Mankato to get on a farm and understand what modern agriculture looks like.
“People are so much more removed from agriculture, and food is such an important part of our lives. To really understand where it comes from and what goes into producing it is important to a lot of people, and it should be,” Guentzel said. “I’m grateful for what we have here, a neat mix of rural life, but still so close to pretty much everything I could want or need. I’m really happy to be able to share and give back to the community.” RVW
Idar-Oberstein, Germany
Antwerp, Belgium
T H I S O C T O B E R
Julee will embark on a European Rock Tour, starting with gem buying at a castle in IdarOberstein, Germany. From there, she'll travel to Antwerp, Belgium, to purchase diamonds. Throughout the tour, she'll be in direct communication with you, selecting the perfect diamond or gem right from the source.
CommonGround Minnesota is a dynamic group of women farmers who volunteer their time to talk about food and farming with consumers. Nationally, farmers make up only 1.3% of the population. Only 36% of those are women. That makes only .47% of the US population women farmers. The volunteers have a unique perspective to share, and the goal of CommonGround is to give them a platform to do so. CommonGround Minnesota is one of 12 state CommonGround organizations that are supported by a National CommonGround initiative. In Minnesota, support comes from Minnesota Corn. Currently, there are 25 volunteers across the state who raise a variety of crops and livestock. Many are conventional farmers, growing corn and soybeans and raising beef or hogs, but the group also has specialty farmers who grow cut flowers, raise bees, and grow lesser-known crops like potatoes. The organization has evolved over time, starting as an organization that connected farmer moms to consumer moms that now aims to connect women farmers with consumers, no matter their demographic.
CommonGround Minnesota holds various events, primarily in the Twin Cities metro area but occasionally in greater Minnesota as well. This year, they’ve hosted Food + Farming trivia nights at area
breweries, had an award-winning chef speaker night out in Minneapolis, and are gearing up for a Farm dinner at the end of August as well as a book club this fall. At these events, volunteers visit with attendees and share the realities of Minnesota farming, share photos, answer questions, dispel myths, and generally promote agriculture.
Volunteers connect with consumers online, build up their social media presence, as well as publish a monthly newsletter. They also blog about issues that are important to them. On the website you'll learn about the volunteers, as well as information about commonly misunderstood areas of agriculture such as herbicide use, GMOs, food labels, and more.
CommonGround Minnesota’s mission is to bridge the gap between consumers and farmers by providing reliable information. Volunteers utilize personal, firsthand experience as well as scientific, peer-reviewed studies. They value the importance of consumer choice when it comes to purchasing products, and they strive to help consumers make informed choices. Whether people choose to buy organic or conventional produce, grass fed or corn fed beef, conventional or free-range eggs, they want consumers to know what they are buying, what that label means, and to feel confident in the quality and safety of their selection.
Learn more, get involved, or attend an event, visit commongroundminnesota.com
Why is sharing information about agriculture and farming important to you?
It’s too easy for people to “ask Google” about farming and not know how to wade through all the misinformation and get to the real story. I love having the opportunity to tell my story of growing up on a farm, going to college for an agriculture-related degree, and being involved in agriculture on both sides of my family. I want other people in the community to think of me and my family when they have a question about farming and, most importantly, feel comfortable enough to reach out with their questions and concerns knowing they will get a genuine answer.
I think the volume of information available can be overwhelming, and it’s hard to discern what is true. I want to share my firsthand experiences, be a resource, and give people a glimpse into our life. I am passionate about my family and my farm, and CommonGround has given me the opportunity to find “my tribe”. I’ve met some amazing women from different backgrounds and come from different parts of agriculture, yet we all share a passion for our families and our farms. We all feel blessed to be farmers.
It’s important that the public, consumers, and other producers know the why behind our mission. We chose to continue farming and raising cattle because it’s a rewarding life, to be able to feed the rest of the nation is a big task and one we don’t take lightly. We are fortunate to be able to be called stewards of this land, to raise a delicious meat product that fuels people, and just grateful for the conversations we get to have with consumers. It takes everyone to support the way of life, so having people understand that is vital to our success. Without them we wouldn’t have a business and wouldn’t be able to continue this family farm.
Sharing information about agriculture and farming is incredibly important to me because I simply love our way of life. There are real people and families behind farms, and with so many people being generations removed from active agriculture in this day and age, it is crucial that we share our stories – what we do and the why behind it all. By sharing, we as producers can gain trust of consumers and properly educate on where our food, fuel, and fiber comes from. We live on this planet too and feed our families the same food consumers do. I just also really embrace rural, small-town living. I don’t want to see our way of life die, and while it may not be for everyone, it is really special and sharing about it brings attention to the fact that we as humans are all unique, striving to do what we love!
There are real people with families and feelings growing and raising the food, fiber, and fuel our Nation and world need to survive and thrive. While farms may not all look the same or use similar production methods, our goal is the same: To provide a safe and sustainable product. At a time in history when there is a lot of noise around consumer trends, the voices of the agriculture industry are more important now than ever. We are here to answer your questions; we may even have similar questions! Conversations matter. Connections matter. If I have helped just one person get to know and trust a farmer, then my work is making a difference.
We are a normal family, just like any other. We work really hard to provide safe, nutritious, and quality products to consumers. We love what we do and want to share our story with others.
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How do we lead well regardless of backgrounds or genders? To me, we should remain focused on leading well as individuals, communities and organizations.
By BROOKE WOHLRABE
Supporting and representing Minnesota’s present-day pig farmers, and educating and encouraging future farmers is what Jill Resler strives to do through her role as executive director of Minnesota Pork Producers Association.
Doing something in agriculture was always in the cards for Resler. She grew up on her family’s beef, cattle and crop farm in southwest Minnesota.
“I’ve been involved in the farm ever since I can remember and remain active in my family’s farm yet today,” Resler said.
Looking back Resler said she had a very typical ‘farm kid’ background. She was involved in both 4-H and FFA growing up, where she showed cattle. She also served as a region and state FFA officer and even went on to be involved on the national level.
Resler said that growing up in a rural community, she had a core group of peers around her with a shared interest and that they moved through the journey together.
She not only looked up to her peers, but to her immediate family members.
“I always knew I wanted to be involved in agriculture growing up. Both of my parents farm full-time so all through my youth I had a wonderful example of hard work, faith, perseverance, integrity and to me, agriculture is more than a job. It’s a lifestyle and I knew I wanted that for me and my family,” Resler said.
She went on to South Dakota State University where she majored in agriculture communication, education and leadership, with minors in animal science and journalism.
“I think that’s where your network really flourishes,” Resler said of the
college experience. “You get to be around young people with shared interests, and you get to learn different aspects of agriculture and figure out who you are, even more so as an individual and a leader and what you aspire to do within the agriculture community.”
Acknowledging that her area of study was fairly broad, Resler explained that there was a significant amount of focus on people and how to work well with others, which involved learning interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence and how to be a good member of a team.
In thinking about all of those skills she gained and the work she does at Minnesota Pork, Resler sees that the work is highly relational.
“Whether it’s interacting with our farmers or policy makers or allied industries, I’m working with a diverse cross-section of people and stakeholders every single day,” Resler said.
She began her career with Minnesota Pork in 2009, and over 15 years she has served in several different capacities, most recently as COO prior to being named CEO about two years ago.
Minnesota Pork is made up of two separate but complimentary organizations that work on behalf of Minnesota’s 3,000 plus pig farmers.
“The Minnesota Pork Board works in the areas of research, promotion and education and the Minnesota Pork Producers Association focuses on advocacy and public policy in both St. Paul and Washington, D.C,” Resler explained.
There are eight staff members of Minnesota Pork and their office is based in Mankato, but they work with pig farmers from all across the state and are also affiliated with the national organizations.
This family-friendly event is a one-stop shop for all your fall fun bucket list items. The best fall festival in the area! There is so much happening at Farmamerica, you’re sure to have a great time! Hop on a tram ride around our historic sites, run through the corn maze, play in sensory bins, enjoy concessions and fall treats, meet live farm animals, play BINGO, decorate a pumpkin, & SO much more!
Run through our corn maze under the stars. Food trucks, yard games, and entertainment. Every Saturday night in October. Family-friendly event. Fun for all ages! Last tickets will be sold at 8 PM.
Family
Jill and husband
Steven have three daughters: Ava, Addison and Josie, who also show livestock and help on the family farm.
Favorite Activities
When she’s not working on her family farm, Jill enjoys baking, reading, canning and gardening.
Motto
Whatever you do, do it on purpose.
In looking at the breakdown of men and women in agriculture, Resler said she is less focused on that stat and more so on ensuring that strong people are in a leadership role.
“How do we lead well regardless of backgrounds or genders? To me, we should remain focused on leading well as individuals, communities and organizations,” Resler said.
As CEO, she works alongside a group of individuals to deliver a return on investments of the finances that the farmers put into the organizations.
“We have five foundational pillars that drive the strategic direction of our organization,” Ressler said. “Those pillars are build trust, invest in people, impact through influence, protect our freedom to operate, and animal well-being.”
In keeping the pillars in mind, Resler and others in the organization work to develop and execute industryleading programming that addresses the farmeridentified priorities, which can include sustainability or human capital development.
Resler believes that Minnesota’s many pig farmers do a great job of getting involved in their communities.
“I’m not sure that people realize the volume of pig farmers in the state, but I think they recognize the impact of those farmers,” Resler said.
She noted that many of the farmers will be on their local school boards and fire departments and that they support other endeavors such as the local food shelves.
“They’re really an integral part of our community in the state of Minnesota so I think people would be able to recognize the impact—far beyond the economic impact—of pig farmers across the state of Minnesota,” Resler said.
All of the things that the organization works on is with the goal of ensuring that there are also opportunities for the next generation of pig farmers to thrive. Resler also notes that often times farms carry over from generation to generation.
“I do think that the beautiful thing about Minnesota pig farmers is the generational component of it. As I look across our farmers, I can point to second, third, fourth, seventh generation farms that are in the state that have grown and adapted their farm to make sure that they continue to thrive,” Resler said.
She said it takes a tremendous amount of tenacity, drive and passion to get a farm to thrive across multiple generations.
“A dear mentor and farmer has said to me, ‘I want my kids to come back to the farm because of opportunity, not because of obligation,’” Resler said.
Coming full circle, Resler said what keeps her engaged within the pork industry is the people.
“I love the people I have the privilege of working on behalf of everyday. Minnesota pig farmers are visionary, hard-working, engaged in their communities and they lead with integrity and conviction. It’s truly an honor to serve them at Minnesota Pork,” Resler said. RVW
Whether it’s interacting with our farmers or policy makers or allied industries, I’m working with a diverse cross-section of people and stakeholders every single day.
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Carol Herden is an artist and owner of Carol’s Original Works, LLC in Amboy. Originally from Montana, she was born and raised on a family farm/ranch. She said she’s been an artist her entire life, starting at a very young age, and has run her business since 1989. With her farming and artistic background, it makes for a unique skillset.
“I am a cattle and livestock sculpture artist, also paint, sketch, and do many other mixed media that is requested. My business is focused on livestock trophies and awards,” Herden said. “I get asked why do I do cows? It’s because I love cattle, and horses, sheep…I grew up with more of them than people. I would rather spend time in a barn than in a shopping mall.”
Her knowledge and appreciation for agriculture have helped spark her business, she said, mostly because she is able to relate to her clients.
“I know the difference between a dairy cow and a beef cow, the breeds and the behind the scenes work that goes into all the animals at a show, or even in a feedlot,” said Herden. “I was blessed to be in a family that raised many different breeds of animals, so I don’t have an affiliation with any specific one, and that also allows me to be open minded about the often underestimated or less known breeds, and enjoy learning about them and meeting all the people that work with and raise them.”
Sculpting in clay or wax, her world-renowned resin and bronze works are shipped to countries all around the globe. Her paintings are done in pencil, oils, or acrylics. However, she credits her downhome roots to why she’s been so successful.
By ASHLEY HANLEY
“I am not sure I would be able to do what I am doing without my lessons growing up on a farm. Learning that life is not easy, nothing is just a given. You must work hard, appreciate others, and work with, instead of against, circumstances,” she said.
While her farming roots taught her valuable lessons, there are some skills that just came naturally for her.
Herden says she was born an artist, and it just came naturally. Starting painting on her mother’s dish towels, she eventually asked for clay to do sculptures as she got older. She also collected Breyer model horses, but any avid collecting was not in the family budget, so her mom suggested Carol start making her own. Eventually she sculpted several original pieces for the Breyer company, that were produced in the late 1990s. Although she did attend college, she found it was not openly encouraging for the passion she wished to pursue.
While it is her career, Herden will also say it is much more. She enjoys the comments from and feedback from the people for whom she does her creations.
“Yes, it’s a job, but it is fun being able to work with so many different breeds of cattle and livestock and get wonderful feedback from people. To do a sculpture representing a specific breed in the U.S., and to get compliments from a breed association in another country saying they loved seeing the breed sculpted correctly feels great,” Herden said. “The agriculture world is smaller than anyone realizes, and animals connect that world.”
As an cattle artist she has a small niche, and with that comes some unique challenges.
“Personally, being an introvert makes it very hard to be in public,
and to sell or educate people on what it is I do as an artist or a business” she said. “Some people love to talk about themselves and what they do, but I find it difficult. But I’ve worked very hard to learn to speak to people, and to be OK in public with a lot of help from my husband.”
Over the years Herden has let her art speak for itself, through word of mouth marketing or what business calls soft selling. She, as an artist has not achieved the public fame or notoriety that her work itself has.
Her artworks are available on her website or Facebook, as well as her store in Amboy. She also has a booth every year at the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin in October.
Herden isn’t resting on her success any time soon as she looks ahead to multiple projects.
“I do have some larger sculptures in the works,” she said. “I am currently working on a life-size Jersey cow, and may add more to that line. We are also doing more farm signs as well.”
For the long term Herden says an artist is like a farmer, it’s not a job, it’s life’s work.
“As my dad always said he will retire when he passes on,” she said. RVW
Total Time 2 hr 30 min | Prep Time 20 min | Servings 8
1 CantaGold cantaloupe, peeled, seeded, and sliced
1 c. seedless cucumber, sliced
½ c. red onion, sliced
1 c. water
½ c. Gustare Vita white wine vinegar
4 tsp. kosher salt
1 tbsp. Hy-Vee granulated sugar
3 sprig(s) fresh mint, plus 2 tsp. finely chopped mint, and additional for garnish
¾ c. Soiree traditional feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp. Gustare Vita olive oil
1 tsp. Hy-Vee Dijon mustard
Place CantaGold melon in a large resealable plastic bag; add cucumber and red onion.
Combine water, white wine vinegar, kosher salt, and sugar. Whisk until salt and sugar dissolve. Pour over cantaloupe mixture. Add mint sprigs and refrigerate 2 hours.
After 2 hours, drain marinade; reserve 1/4 cup brine and discard mint. Transfer cantaloupe mixture to a serving plate. Sprinkle with feta cheese.
Whisk together reserved brine, olive oil, 2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh mint, and Dijon mustard. Drizzle over salad. Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cherries work to break down one of the main causes of bad breath— methyl mercaptan, a gas that smells like rotten cabbage and is produced by bacteria in the mouth.
Long used to settle an upset stomach, ginger treats bad breath, too. A compound called 6-gingerol stimulates the enzymes in saliva to neutralize sulfur compounds that give off a rotten-egg smell.
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The vitamin C in melons creates an environment in your mouth that makes it hard for bad bacteria to thrive. As an added bonus, it also aids in preventing gumdamaging gingivitis. One of the oldest natural remedies for alleviating bad breath is chewing
By EMMA KUBALL
It’s hard to believe that last year at this time I was sitting under a tree that has my favorite view of the farm, writing my speech for judging. Now a year later I’m writing my farewell speech after serving as Princess Kay for the past year. This year has been a dream come true for me, filled with incredible memories and experiences. I am excited for you to join me as we walk through some of my favorite experiences as Princess Kay.
Let’s go back to where it all started… the night before the Minnesota State Fair, at the Princess Kay coronation. Two years before I watched my sister walk across the same stage, listened to Brenna Connelly describe her year as Princess Kay, and then witnessed Anna Euerle be crowned. The next year I watched as Rachel Rynda represented the dairy industry with passion and a welcoming smile. As I walked on stage I couldn’t believe that within the next hour or so my whole life could change, and I could follow in the footsteps of all the Princess Kays that have come before me.
Finally, it was time to announce the top three finalists, first Megan Ratka, then Makenzie Alberts. Then I heard it, my name. I stepped forward to stand next to one of my best
friends, Makenzie. I don’t remember much from the next minute, but I do remember feeling the crown land on my head and then turning to hug Makenzie. The next twelve days were the longest, and also the shortest, of my life.
Some of my favorite memories from the State Fair were, of course, seeing my butter sculpture, visiting Princess Emma, the calf born at the Miracle of Birth Center, and also talking with fair goers outside of the butter booth as my fellow Princesses were having their sculptures done.
After the State Fair my family and I picked up my butter sculpture and promptly moved me back into college at the University of Wisconsin- River Falls. For the next nine months, I balanced school, Princess Kay activities, family time, and a social life. The school year was filled with agriculture leadership events and classroom visits. One of my favorite events from the school year was my very first classroom visit at White Bear Lake High School. We learned about all the ways that dairy farmers care for their land and animals through interactive learning opportunities. Another one of my favorite events was when I visited a Chick-fil-A for a Halloween event where they had a calf outside the restaurant for people to pet. My job was to stand next to the calf to talk to people and answer any questions they might have.
The question they asked most often was the name of the calf! I also had the opportunity to meet some pretty cool people through all of my visits. One of my favorites was a kindergarten teacher at Lake City Elementary. She went the extra mile to make sure that my visit to the school was extra special for the students, I was also able to see the farm set that she has in her classroom for students to get hands-on farm experiences.
To finish off the school year I experienced the May Leadership Event from a different perspective. May Event is a professional development event for dairy princesses in Minnesota, and also where we have the rounds of interviews that determine the next Princess Kay finalists. My job this year was to give a presentation on classroom visits for high school age students, and to answer any questions about being Princess Kay. Although that was technically my job I also spent those two days getting to know the dairy princesses who attended the May Event.
With the summer came county fairs. At the end of my reign I will have visited twelve county fairs where I have had different responsibilities at each one. However, my favorite part of visiting the fairs has been the same. I love to walk around the fairgrounds and talk with 4-H families and also fair goers. My goal at the county fairs isn’t always to educate about the dairy community but instead to leave a lasting positive impression about dairy to all fair goers.
As I wrap up my year, I hope that my year as Princess Kay has left a lasting positive impact not only on the people with whom I have interacted, but also on the dairy community itself. It has been an honor to serve Minnesota’s dairy farmers. I know that the memories that I have detailed in this article will be things that make me smile for years to come. I look forward to crowning the next Princess Kay and watching her pave new roads for the Princess Kay program as she uniquely represents Minnesota’s dairy farmers. RVW
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By Roy Bain
When at first our hearing begins to fade; Though the signs are foretelling, we may choose to evade. We tell others they don’t speak clearly, they mumble a lot; My concentration is elsewhere, that’s why I ask what. Please talk a bit louder; your voice is so weak; I could hear you OK, if you would look at me as you speak.
I can hear you just fine, when you’re close at hand. If you would learn to enunciate, I could understand. Being with family is one of life’s greatest joys; But, don’t expect me to hear with all of that noise.
It’s easy to blame others, though it’s not really fair; It’s your hearing problem, solve it, show others you care. He who said ‘Silence is Golden’ spoke for himself only; For the hearing impaired, “Silence is Lonely”.
As the school year kicks off, parents everywhere look for ways to help their kids excel academically. One critical area often overlooked is nutrition. The foods children consume can significantly impact their attention, behavior, and mental clarity. Here are the top five things to limit or eliminate from your child’s diet to help them
1
Artificial food dyes, found in candies, snacks, and even some beverages, have been linked to hyperactivity and attention issues in children. Studies suggest that these dyes can interfere with neurotransmitter function, making it harder for kids to concentrate and stay focused in class.
Excessive sugar consumption can lead to energy crashes and mood swings, making it difficult for children to maintain consistent focus throughout the day. High sugar intake can also impact brain function, leading to cognitive decline and poor memory.
3
4
Processed foods often contain a combination of unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives that can negatively affect brain function. These foods can contribute to inflammation, which is detrimental to cognitive health and can impair learning and memory.
While a small amount of caffeine might seem harmless, it can lead to jitteriness and anxiety in children. Caffeinated beverages such as soda and energy drinks can also disrupt sleep patterns, essential for brain development and learning.
5
Found in many fried and packaged foods, trans fats can impair brain function and are associated with an increased risk of ADHD in children. Limiting these unhealthy fats can help support better brain health and overall well-being.
By making mindful changes to your children’s meal plan, you can help fuel their brain for a successful and productive school year. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods rich in essential nutrients to support their cognitive development and academic performance. Good luck to all students this year.
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Kathy Guse received the Waseca County Distinguished Agriculture Leadership award this spring for her dedication and outstanding leadership in her community, place of business or employment, and the advancement of the agricultural industry.
Kathy has dedicated 42 years to farming, and is a testament to how important and impactful women in agriculture are.
Kathy was described by the selection committee as a stalwart figure in both the agricultural and wider community, having dedicated her life to both farming and public service. For 42 years, alongside her husband Marvin, she tirelessly tended to their farm, cultivating corn, soybeans, and raising hogs and beef cattle. Her hands-on approach to farming saw her in the fields during planting and harvest, skillfully maneuvering tractors, trucks, and other farm equipment. Despite retiring from the day-to-day operations in 2016, her passion for agriculture remains undiminished. She remains actively engaged in the farming community, attending meetings and staying abreast of developments in the industry.
Kathy’s connection to farming runs deep, having grown up on a dairy farm herself. This lifelong involvement spurred her to take action in educating others about agriculture. In 2011, she founded Farm Camp, a program aimed at bridging the gap between urban communities and agriculture. Through her leadership and the support of dedicated volunteers, Farm Camp expanded to three locations in Minnesota, reaching hundreds of children each year. Kathy’s commitment to volunteerism extends beyond agriculture. She served on the Waseca County Board of Directors for over a decade, including a four-year tenure as president. Her involvement in organizations such as the Waseca County Farm Bureau Home & Safety Day and Farm America demonstrates her dedication to promoting safety and education within the community.
Kathy receiving accolades including the President’s Club award from the Minnesota Farm Bureau, the Southern Minnesota Ag Ambassador award, the Director’s Award from Farm America, and the Minnesota State Commodity Challenge Advisor Award.
Outside of agriculture, Kathy has been actively involved in various community initiatives, including serving on school boards and volunteering with organizations like Junior Achievement. Her passion for educating the public about farming and ensuring the safety of rural communities shines through in her numerous endeavors. Kathy’s tireless dedication to agriculture and community service has left an indelible mark, enriching the lives of countless individuals and leaving a legacy of education, advocacy, and stewardship.
Information courtesy of news@wasecacountypioneer.com
These animals should also be on a monthly dewormer to control intestinal parasites that they get from eating “fun” things on the farm. Vaccines are also essential to protect against rabies, distemper (both are deadly), Lyme disease spread by ticks and leptospirosis that is spread by wild animals urinating in bodies of water. Outdoor cats are also more likely to have ear mites (imagine these guys crawling in your ears).
Proper training is a must whether your dog lives in a home or outdoors. You will likely have people come over at some point and your dog needs to know what the expectations are when these visits occur. They need to know where their property ends and what line causes them to be in trouble. If they can’t be trusted then proper fencing or leashes are required. Even if your dog or cat is super friendly, it does NOT mean every other pet they come across or see from a window is. Your pets’ freedom in town means increased anxiety and reactivity for others that struggle with social settings.
When we talk about “needs” one we seem to forget is exercise and mental stimulation. Sure, some pets are super content being waited on, eating without effort (some get a free buffet daily!) and napping on the couch suffering through our terrible TV shows, but many dogs and cats want so much more. They want to do what they were born to do. When their needs can’t (or just simply aren’t) being met we get frustrated with the same behavior that defines who they are as a breed or species. Our lack of understanding, sometimes effort, busy jobs and demanding schedules along with our high expectations, have our pets falling short day after day. Consider some of these breeds.
One the most common breeds we see are herding breeds such as Australian shepherds, border collies, corgis and various mixtures of the above. These breeds were made to herd farm animals with such accuracy that there are herding trials across the world! They depend a great deal on their owner’s communication. The vast majority of these breeds today are NOT living in homes with farm animals unless you can count toddlers and teenagers. We become frustrated when they are chasing kids, the family cat, bikes and cars. They look to us for direction and we get frustrated with them being “too needy.”
Old McDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O and on that farm he had a dog that loved to run and go. Dogs and cats share their farm with many owners across the world but these same pets also share our small apartments and city life. I often hear, “oh, he’s just a farm dog” or “oh it’s a barn cat.” Regardless of your pets address, they all require the same basic care.
Shelter is a must, regardless if they are social and friendly. Somewhere that provides warmth in the winter and protection from the hot sun. If it can’t be some type of building, then a tote or insulated cooler with some straw can be helpful. Avoid towels or bedding as when it gets any moisture it will freeze and the pet can freeze to it. Straw is a much better option. In the summer be sure to provide somewhere cool with shade. Of course, many pets would not object to a comfy couch or bed either.
Clean water is also a must. In the winter the water source should be heated to avoid freezing and it should be checked day and night. Just as we enjoy a fresh glass of water, so do dogs and cats. Of course, if given no other options they will drink from any puddle and there are those dogs that enjoy the “fresh” toilet bowl too. Let’s not count those dogs!
Vet care is still essential for these outdoor animals and some would argue even more essential. Spaying and neutering should be done at a young age to keep from reproduction. An unspayed cat can have over 100 kittens in just a 7 year lifespan! Neutering also controls roaming and fighting amongst others. Brothels are not preferred on farmsteads!
Another common group of dogs are Labs, Beagles, Rat Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers, and Yorkies, all bred to hunt various creatures from birds to rats to badgers. These dogs have their nose to the ground and are on the run to make their owner’s proud, but instead we get frustrated because they are not coming on command and are pulling on the leash. They tend to have a lot of say, which is frustrating in apartment buildings or places where neighbors do not appreciate their commentary.
Guardian dogs such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Boxers and Great Danes were bred to be stealthy alert systems and protect their family from intruders. Some large breeds were even bred to defend livestock from large predators. This is great if they have something to guard but when the “something” is our family from guests we love and want to spend time with, we get frustrated with the aggression that is displayed.
Let’s not forget about our feline friends. In an ideal world they would live outside, with large territories, peeing on whatever they want, fraternizing and socializing with whomever they want, soliciting attention whenever they want and hunting all day long, but only eating a small portion. When we move them inside we take away all the choices, force them into friendships and shrink their territory to 4 walls while providing a buffet. Again, some cats would not know what to do when they are outside and prefer their small spaces.
If you are looking to get a pet, please consider their needs, including what they were bred to do. Before we get mad or frustrated or put our pets in positions they are not prepared for, just remember that there is more to them than just being our companions.
From large farming operations to your local farmers’ markets food production is a huge part of agriculture. Did you know that 97% of farms are family farms accounting for 90% of total production.
Cheese is the most stolen food in the world.
About 4% of all cheese made around the globe
Chickpeas have more names than you think. Chickpeas and garbanzo beans are the same things – along with sanagali, ceci beans, chana, and bengal gram. Additionally, they come in red, black, brown, and pale yellow.
Pound cake got its name from its recipe. The early recipes of pound cake called for one pound of butter, one pound of eggs, and one pound of sugar.
French fries originated in Belgium, not France. They are only called French fries because they are French cut.
Coffee is the main source of antioxidants for Americans. It’s no secret Americans drink a lot of coffee, but it’s the number one source where they get their antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight aging and heart disease, but coffee doesn’t really have that many of them –we just drink so much of it!
Peppers don’t actually burn your mouth. There’s a chemical in chili peppers called capsaicin that tricks your mouth into feeling like it’s being burned – that’s why spicy food hurts. The pain is all in your head!
Ketchup used to be used as a medicine. Back in the early 1800s, people thought tomatoes had medicinal qualities. One doctor claimed they could treat diarrhea and indigestion, so he made a recipe for a type of tomato ketchup which
Potatoes are 80% water. Potatoes are only 15% behind celery in water content and technically could be juiced.
only see white cauliflower, it actually has purple, orange, and green varieties. Orange and purple cauliflowers have higher antioxidants!
Goat meat is the most popular meat. Although we in the U.S. may be accustomed to beef burgers, goat meat accounts for 70% of the red meat eaten globally!
Changing the way that we think about ourselves and speak to ourselves can greatly impact our quality of life. Let’s explore the idea of speaking kindly to ourselves, which also can be known as positive selftalk. In a nutshell, self-talk is your inner monologue of how you speak to yourself on a regular basis, which is constantly in motion. If you are typically a positive person, these thoughts are more likely to be positive, however, it can be easy for negative self-talk to take over, especially during trying times. It can impact our mental health if we don’t learn how to recognize the negative self-talk and take steps to rewrite the way we speak to ourselves.
I think most of us have heard of the saying, “You are your own worst critic.” Have you ever really thought about that saying? In essence, it states that we focus on our flaws and the things that we lack, rather than focusing on the valuable things we have to offer to the world. Furthermore, we often judge ourselves more harshly than we would a family, friend, or another individual. If a friend told us they just failed an exam, we would comfort them, remind them of how hard they are working, and encourage them to retest. We would share kind words and support to our friends and loved ones, right? Now, what often happens when we are the one who failed the test? We might feel shame or embarrassment for how poorly we did, picking out the areas where we should have worked harder or done better. Consequently, this does not help us to accept the results and move forward in a healthy and positive manner. Instead, this can lead to negative self-talk which could impact the next time we are studying to retake that test.
One way to counteract these negative thoughts can be by practicing positive affirmations, which are statement thoughts that are put into practice to help to challenge negative thoughts.
Some ideas for positive affirmations include:
1. I am strong and courageous.
2. I am resilient and can overcome challenges.
3. I am proud of myself and accept myself for who I am.
4. I love myself and will spread positivity and kindness to others.
5. I choose to focus on the things that I can control and release the things that I am not in control of.
6. I deserve to have a wonderful life and will take steps to progress towards my goals.
You can customize these affirmations to meet your current challenges and barriers you might feel you are experiencing, in efforts to best support yourself.
In addition to positive affirmations, here are a few more ideas of practices that can support mental health and wellness. Having compassion with yourself is very important. Try to actively speak kindly to yourself and about yourself, just as you would talk about other people you think highly of. Be respectful to yourself, which can include having grace during difficult times and practicing self-care on a regular basis. Practicing gratitude and focusing on being present in the moment. Exploring self-reflection, self-awareness, and mindfulness can be great tools to incorporate into your mental health toolbox. It is helpful to recognize who your positive support systems are and make sure to submerge yourself in the company of other positive people who lift you up. Try to limit time around those who exhaust your emotional state and wellbeing. As always, I encourage you to seek additional support through family, friends, or professionals if you feel it has become too overwhelming to do this on your own.
Results from positive self-talk can help to reduce and manage stress, improve feelings of self-worth and self-esteem, improve confidence, help to build healthy relationships, and improve quality of life. Focus on prioritizing yourself and make efforts to foster a healthy and balanced lifestyle and state of mind. It is so important to maintain a healthy relationship with ourselves.
Southern Minnesota is a vast region comprised largely of vibrant and thriving rural communities, many with populations of a few thousand people or less. Smaller communities rely on the cohesion and engagement among their residents to ensure that community members have access to the resources they need and people who can help, which ensures a sense of safety for all community members. The following three strategies can help us to make sure that our rural Minnesota communities are safe places for all residents.
A major asset of rural communities is that they typically foster close-knit relationships among residents. People tend to know their neighbors well, and there’s a strong sense of interdependence and mutual support. Community events prevalent in small towns, such as block parties, neighborhood clean-ups, and social gatherings, can help build and reinforce these ties. A community with solid social bonds where residents know and trust one another is inherently safer; neighbors who look out for each other can quickly identify and respond to potential problems. This social contract of vigilance helps to deter crime and other threats to safety.
However, while we may share a small community with other people, our experiences in the community are often very different. How someone experiences life in a community can be affected by myriad things – race, income level, which neighborhood they live in, whether they’ve experienced violence at home, whether they live with a disability, the size of their household and the ages of members, and much more. This makes considering the perspective of all community members especially important. When you’re engaging with your community, a good question to ask is, “Whose voice are we missing?”
Whether you’re at a PTO meeting, church or club gathering, or a community event, it is imperative to see who is missing and to identify barriers to involvement. Safe communities value the life experiences and viewpoints of all community members and ensure access to participation.
Living in a rural community makes accessing resources challenging. Rural areas generally offer fewer job opportunities, particularly in specialized or high-paying fields, and wages are generally lower than in urban centers. Public transportation options are typically scarce in rural areas, making it necessary to own a vehicle, and commutes to jobs might be longer. Healthcare facilities, schools, and emergency services are often farther away and less comprehensive than in urban areas, which is particularly challenging in medical emergencies or for those requiring specialized care. There are fewer retail
establishments, limiting choices in providing for food, child care and hygiene items, and other daily living needs.
However, we know that good work is happening in all communities to help address unmet needs and provide resources to residents. It’s good to be aware of the resources in your community – including public transportation, food shelves, free or low-cost legal aid, financial assistance programs, low-cost healthcare, or mental health services. Becoming familiar with the work being done by nonprofits, organizations, and clubs in your community can help to know where to direct people who need specific resources. People need to have their basic needs fulfilled to feel secure and safe within their living environment. Communities where residents have their needs met – or know where to turn for assistance –are fundamentally safer places for all.
Regardless of its size, every community has formal and informal leaders and helpers. They can be anyone – elected officials, faith leaders, government workers, coaches, and club officers – and in small communities, they are more likely to live next door or down the street from you. Take time to find out who the leaders and helpers are in your community. If you don’t know where to begin, ask, Who sets the priorities of the city administration? Who is involved in city governance and making changes to public policies? When you know who is in charge and who is making change, you know who to contact about concerns that impact you and your neighbors, your access to resources, and other factors that contribute to your feelings of safety.
Better yet – become a leader or helper yourself! Once you know what resources already exist in your community, you can see where your help fits in. Perhaps you’re passionate about local history or art, literacy, or making sure everyone can put food on their table. You can volunteer your time, donate money, share information about your cause through social media or an event, or advocate for policy change –there is no wrong way to get involved! When a community’s residents are involved in planning and implementing change, they are more likely to take ownership and responsibility for the outcomes, including measures toward safety.
When neighbors are known to one another, resources are available, helpers and leaders are accessible, and residents have the opportunity to participate, rural communities can provide a strong sense of safety for residents in southern Minnesota.
Our feet carry us through this world, so it’s important to take care of them. One common foot condition, more prevalent among women, are bunions.
A bunion is a bump on the joint at the base of the big toe. This is your metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. The bump or bunion forms when the big toe joint moves out of place. Then the toe bends toward the other toes. Untreated, the bunion and joint can be painful, stiff and sore. It may hurt to wear shoes. Bunions often run in families because they are caused by the shape, structure and mechanics of the foot – flat feet, low arches, how we walk. These are some factors that can put extra pressure on the MTP joint and lead to bunions.
Women who wear high heeled shoes are at higher risk for bunions. High heels place added pressure on the big toe, and also tend to be narrow in the toes, squishing the big toe against the others, and pitching a person’s weight forward.
People tend to see a podiatrist when they notice these symptoms:
• Development of bump and swelling at the base of the big toe
• Tenderness, redness, swelling or pain near the MTP joint at the base of the big toe
• Restricted or painful motion of the big toe
However, as soon as you notice a bunion, it’s best to see a podiatrist before they get bigger and more painful. A podiatrist can offer conservative care to slow the progression and reduce pain.
• Wear custom foot orthotics prescribed by a podiatrist. Evidence shows orthotics decrease foot pain and improve function.
• Wear good, supportive shoes with plenty of room in the toes. Do not wear narrow, pointed shoes that pinch or force the toe into an unnatural position. Ditch the flip flops too!
• Do not wear heels more than 2 inches in height.
• Stretch the Achilles tendon for 10-12 minutes.
• Strengthen the muscles of the arch. Try picking up 20 marbles with your toes and placing in a bowl. Use one foot to pick up all the marbles. Repeat with the other foot.
If bunions are extremely painful, padding and taping can help minimize pain and keep the foot in a normal position. Icing, anti-inflammatory drugs and cortisone injections can also ease pain. These options are typically not permanent fixes.
Bunion surgery can benefit people who have significant pain that limits everyday activities and walking and causes chronic swelling of the joint. A big toe that’s drifting toward the smaller toe is also a sign that you could benefit from surgery.
A simple bunion surgery can remove the bunion. Some patients may require a more complex surgery to realign the joint. Bones take 6-8 weeks to heal and recovery plans vary according to the type of surgery. Conservative care should continue after bunion surgery as well.
A passion for food started early for award winning food writer, Beth Dooley. She grew up in suburban New Jersey and would often visit her grandmother. The pair would drive to her grandmother’s home on the Jersey Shore and stop at farmer stands along the way. With the fresh food they found such as Jersey peaches, tomatoes, and sweet princess corn, Dooley and her grandmother would spend the weekend cooking together.
Cooking became a way for Dooley to relax, relieve tension, and find comfort during lonely times.
“I’ve always found solace in cookbooks,” said Dooley. “In my mind, recipes are stories with happy endings.”
Moving to Minnesota with her husband in the late 1970s was one of those lonely times, but Minnesota held a pleasant surprise for Dooley. She and her husband found a wealth of farmer’s markets and a blossoming co-op scene in the Twin Cities.
“When we had our first home in Minnesota, I was blown away by how good the farmer’s markets were and how wonderful that food was,” said Dooley. “It took me straight back home and was a way for me to find my place here.”
Dooley joined one of the first CSAs in Minnesota (community supported agriculture) called Red Cardinal Farm.
“That forced me to think about cooking differently,” said Dooley. “No longer was I marching into the store and buying what I needed based on a list called from those recipes, but I was forced to respond to food that was coming out of my CSA box.”
Cooking in this way taught Dooley how to “riff” in the kitchen or cook with what you’ve got.
“I never make the same thing twice. You don’t always have everything you need right at your fingertips,” said Dooley. “It’s about learning how to
improvise and just being flexible and tasting as you go, which is the fun of cooking.”
Her experience with the farmers markets and the CSAs also ignited a passion for locally sourced food. In working with CSA farmers and getting to know their practices, Dooley said she learned a lot about organic food and sustainable growing and harvesting. She also learned about fair pay for farmers and what happens when you pay attention to practices that improve the soil.
“It’s a whole window into a number of different things that really affect our lives,” said Dooley. “It’s not just about eating nutritious foods or foods that taste good but much of it is about making those decisions based on values and that was a gradual kind of awakening that helped me realize these incredibly important connections that evolve when you get to know the people that are providing your food and where it comes from.”
Dooley said it’s important to eat locally sourced food for several reasons. First, she said locally sourced food tastes better and it’s fresher. A farmer that uses best practices and not a lot of chemicals has nutritious soil. Farmers also provide continuous living cover on the land, extracting carbon out of the atmosphere, returning it to the earth, and nourishing the soil. According to Dooley, the more nutritious the soil, the more nutritious and probably better tasting that food will be.
Dooley also said farmers using good practices are sheltering pollinators and creating a beautiful habitat for wildlife.
“That’s important because we are in terrible danger of losing our bees and if we don’t have bees, we won’t have food,” said Dooley. “We need those pollinators.”
Cardamom is the go-to spice in Nordic kitchens, far more popular than cinnamon. It’s the spice the Vikings brought back from Constantinople and, like pepper, was literally worth its weight in gold. Aromatic, citrusy, and slightly herbal, cardamom offers flavor that runs toward the cooler end of the spice spectrum, so it is especially good with tart fruit.
This recipe comes together quickly because there’s no need to peel or core the apples. They’ll be passed through a sieve after they’re cooked. A few crab apples will give the sauce a lovely pinkish hue and tart flavor. For variety, try substituting lime, orange, or lemon for the grapefruit and rosemary, fennel, or sage for the cardamom.
Ingredients
• 3 pounds apples, coarsely chopped (about 10 c.) and held in acidified water
• ¼ c. water
• 1 T cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• ½ c. fresh grapefruit juice
• 1 T finely grated grapefruit zest
• sugar to taste
Directions
Drain the apples, and put them in a 10-inch sauté pan, along with the water, cardamom pods, grapefruit juice, and zest. Bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat; then lower the heat and cover the pan. Simmer the apples, stirring occasionally, until they are very soft, about 20 minutes.
Place a medium mesh sieve over a deep bowl. Working in batches, press the apple mixture through the sieve, occasionally scraping the underside of the sieve with a clean spoon. Discard the solids left in the sieve.
You should have about 4 cups of apple pulp, depending on the variety and juiciness of the apples.
Sweeten the sauce to taste, adding about ¼ cup of sugar (or less) at a time. Put the applesauce in the pan, return it to the stove, and dissolve the sugar over low heat. Wash the jars, lids, and bands in very hot soapy water, rinse them well, and place them upside down on a clean towel to drain.
Spoon the applesauce into the jars, leaving a half inch of headroom to allow for expansion during freezing. Wipe the rims with a clean wet cloth or paper towel, add the lids and bands, and finger-tighten the bands.
Label the jars. Cool completely and tighten the bands before storing the jars in the refrigerator or freezer.
Make an applesauce granita by turning the sauce into a metal bowl and setting it in the freezer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is nearly frozen. Serve the granita with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Applesauce is a natural with roast pork, lamb, and chicken, and is terrific on vanilla ice cream or yogurt.
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Finally, Dooley sighted the economic benefits of buying locally sourced food.
“One dollar spent on local products gives back four dollars to the local area because that money then gets spread out and then shared,” said Dooley. “It’s a closed loop system.”
Dooley has been writing about local foods for nearly twentyfive years and has published thirteen cookbooks each with an element of memoir or storytelling attached. Dooley draws on memories of her grandmother and family in the kitchen as well as what she’s learned from the farmers, researchers, agronomists, ethnobotanists, and food justice advocates she has met on her cooking turned food discovery journey.
“I like to share what I have discovered,” said Dooley. “There are all kinds of lessons embedded in understanding where our food comes from and how it grows. It goes well beyond what food you’re going to put on the table and that’s what I’m interested in.”
What started out as a love of cooking with her grandmother has developed into a career dedicated to advocating for the local food scene in the Northern Heartland. In her presentation, A Writer in the Kitchen: The Art and Craft of Cookbooks, Dooley will share stories of covering today’s food scene as well as the art and craft of creating a good cookbook and food memoir as the keynote speaker of the Deep Valley Book Festival at 3:30 p.m. on October 5 at the Country Inn and Suites Conference Center in Mankato.
Find your local CSA or Farmers Market at www.minnesotagrown.com.
Saturday October 5, 2024 | 10 am - 4:30 pm Country Inn & Suites Conference Center | 1900 Premier Drive in Mankato, MN Author tables open 10 am - 3 pm
Author Beth Dooley will be the Keynote Speaker of the ninth annual Deep Valley Book Festival on Saturday, October 5 at the Country Inn and Suites Conference Center in Mankato. Dooley, an award-winning food writer and author, will share stories about covering the food scene of the Northern Heartland for over thirty years as a writer for the Taste section of the Minneapolis-St. Paul Star Tribune and as a frequent visitor of KARE 11 News and Minnesota Public Radio. She will discuss the art and craft of creating a good cookbook and food memoir, one to cook with and to read.
The Deep Valley Book Festival connects readers and writers in celebration of literature and literacy and features dozens of authors, illustrators, publishers, literary organizations, and hundreds of books of all genres and for all ages. It’s free and open to the public. Participants can visit with a favorite author or meet a new one, have their book signed, or listen to authors talk about their works. Kids can enjoy the event as well with activities provided by the Blue Earth County Library.
Keynote Author Beth Dooley FREE Book Festival A Writer in the Kitchen: The Art and Craft of Cookbooks 3:30 pm
Awarding winning food writer and author will discuss the art and craft of creating a good cookbook and food memoir, one to cook with and to read.
ALL DAY FAMILY FUN!
For more information, scan the QR code or visit
The Deep Valley Book Festival welcomes back four past keynote authors, Allen Eskins, Lorna Landvik, Margi Preus, and Jacqueline West, for a special author panel “Tips of the Trade”.
Beginning and intermediate writers may participate in the writing workshop, “Getting Started: Identifying Your Writing Instincts to Write Your Novel, Memoir, or Poetry Collection-in-progress.”
A prize drawing for event participants and the Apple Dessert Recipe Contest Awards will be held prior to Dooley’s presentation. The awards for the Young Writer & Artist Competition will be presented at 11 a.m.
The Deep Valley Book Festival is organized by an all-volunteer committee of local writers, publishers, and book lovers. Founded by Minnesota Heritage Publishing, it continues through the general support of various sponsors and the Minnesota State Arts Board and Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Center.
Live stream the event on the Deep Valley Book Festival Facebook page. To find out more visit deepvalleybookfestival.com.
By
hen you think about agribusiness, you might picture a man on a tractor, working in a hog barn or selling seed. It’s time to think again. Today’s agricultural landscape is diverse and dynamic, offering women more opportunities than ever to make their mark.
Women have always been vital to agriculture, working on farms and supporting rural communities. But their contributions were often behind the scenes. Today, women are choosing careers in agriculture and stepping into roles where they can lead, innovate and bring fresh perspectives both on and off the farm.
The numbers tell a compelling story.
According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, women represent about 50% of Minnesota’s workforce. This is one of the highest participation rates in the nation. Women workers make up about 30% of the ag sector and 30% of manufacturing. They have even higher shares in service-oriented industries such as educational services, finance and insurance, and professional and technical services that often have ag and food connections.
In southern Minnesota’s GreenSeam region, the number of women working in ag has grown exponentially. From 1995 to 2022, females who identified employment in agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting went from 884 to 2,572. This equates to a 191% increase, with animal production being the leading segment.
Indicators that this trend will likely continue include USDA stats showing women have outnumbered men in enrollment in agricultural programs at Land Grant Universities and girls have outpaced boys in participation in 4-H programs across the country since 20091.
Dr. Annie Lerner and Bridget Norland are just two women working in the GreenSeam region who bring these numbers to life.
Lerner grew up in suburban Kansas City but has fond memories of summer vacations to her grandparents’ dairy farm in Murdock, Minnesota. Her love for animals and science led her to pursue an animal science degree at Kansas State University.
“That decision changed my life,” said Lerner, who switched from pursuing a path in veterinary medicine to swine nutrition after gaining experiences in undergraduate research working with the swine faculty at K-State. One mentor, Dr. Cassie Jones, was especially influential. Jones provided Lerner an example of a working woman in agriculture, raising a family while having a highly productive and fulfilling career.
Upon completing her Ph.D. in 2020, Lerner made another life-changing decision and accepted the role of director of nutrition and research at Schwartz Farms, Inc. in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, located in the heart of the GreenSeam. Today, she manages the company’s feeding and nutrition program for 70,000 sows and two million pigs across five states.
“It’s great to work as a swine nutritionist in a region with excellent corn and soybean production where we can easily access the feed ingredients needed to produce pork in an efficient and cost-effective manner,” Lerner said. She’s also active with the Brown County Pork Producers and GreenSeam Business Retention and Expansion committee where she gets to share her passion for agriculture.
Bridget Norland’s path to agriculture was different. She grew up on a dairy farm in Dovre, Minnesota, baling hay, milking cows, and harvesting crops alongside her dad. These experiences taught her work ethic, problem-solving, and resilience – skills that have served her well in careers spanning food manufacturing and professional services. All of which kept her rooted in ag.
Now, as business development and marketing manager at Gislason & Hunter Law Firm, Norland uses her creativity and data storytelling skills to help farmers and agribusinesses access important legal services in the GreenSeam.
“Ag isn’t always about the mud on your boots and dirt under your fingernails,” Norland said. “Technology gives us all an opportunity to be in ag. Working in ag gives me purpose. It’s not just about earning a paycheck.”
Both Norland and Lerner are excited to see more women leaning into agribusiness. Through their work, they’re sharing their stories and inviting the next generation to be part of an industry that needs their ideas, talents and perspectives.
Whether you’re passionate about growing food, science, technology, community relations or communications, the message is clear: Women belong in agriculture and the GreenSeam is a great place to make your mark.
Schmidt, C., Goetz, S. J., & Tian, Z. (2021). Female farmers in the United States: Research needs and policy questions. Food Policy, 101, 102039. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodpol.2021.102039
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