As the days grow longer and the sun begins to warm our corner of the world, there’s a special kind of energy that sweeps through North Mankato. Porches are swept, grills are fired up, and laughter begins to drift through open windows. With that spirit, I’m thrilled to bring you our summer kickoff issue of North Kato Magazine.
Each page of this issue celebrates the incredible people and places that make this community feel like home. From innovative entrepreneurs launching big dreams to the volunteers and neighbors who quietly but powerfully shape our city’s heart, we’re proud to shine a light on the movers, shakers, and dreamers of North Kato.
Our community is nothing short of dynamic. You’ll meet a few familiar faces and likely discover some new ones too—individuals and families who pour their time, talent, and love into making this area not just a place to live, but a place to stay
This issue also marks the beginning of summer fun, including our 60th year of Fun Days, music in the park, and many other memories waiting to be made. There’s no better time to embrace everything our city has to offer.
As always, thank you for reading and for being part of this amazing community. Here’s to sunshine, connection, and all the good days ahead!
Luke Lumsden didn’t ever expect he’d put his lifeguard training into practice over turkey and mashed potatoes. But when his 92-year-old great-grandfather Bob collapsed at the family dinner, Luke and his family did something extraordinary together: they saved a life.
Luke grew up in North Mankato. He graduated from Mankato West High School in 2024 and was known for his passion for athletics, particularly cross country and track, where he served as a two-time captain.
“I’ve always loved being outside, whether it was running, being at the pool, or fishing on the lake,” Luke said. That love for the outdoors eventually led him to a job as a pool attendant for the City of North Mankato’s Spring Lake Park Swim Facility in ninth grade, where he had his first taste of responsibility.
“I started working concessions and eventually took on pool shifts,” he explained. “There were multiple rotations—kiddie slides, crowd control, zipline safety... It taught me to stay alert, work as a team, and step up when it counted.”
After his first summer poolside, Luke committed to becoming a lifeguard. He enrolled in North Mankato’s first aid and CPR certification course. The blended learning course, involving online and in-person training, equips students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children, and infants.
After successfully becoming certified, Luke became a lifeguard, serving his community for two years at the Spring Lake Pool.
The knowledge and lessons he gained in the heat of those Minnesota summers would soon prove invaluable.
It was Thanksgiving Day, 2023. The Lumsden family, including about 15 relatives, had gathered for a late holiday lunch. Greatgrandfather Bob was the first to be served. Luke, sitting at the “grown-up table,” noticed something wasn’t right.
“He didn’t look good,” Luke recalled. “He took a bite or two, and I saw him starting to choke.”
Within seconds, instincts took over. Luke calmly walked to his parents, Jodi and Mark, and alerted them. “Grandpa’s choking,” he told them. Great-grandpa stood up, trying to breathe, and obviously in distress.
“We didn’t want to act too aggressively right away, but he was fading fast. He wasn’t responsive. Then he just collapsed.”
Luke and his mom caught him as he fell. What followed was nothing short of heroic: the entire Lumsden family sprang into action. Luke began to perform the Heimlich maneuver. When that didn’t work, his dad took over. Still nothing. Bob began to lose color.
“We laid him on his back. I checked his airway—no breathing. No heartbeat,” Luke said. The gravity of the moment hit hard, but there was no time to freeze. With the family surrounding him, Luke began chest compressions. Thirty counts. Nothing. His dad performed rescue breaths. Still no response.
But they didn’t give up. After a second round of compressions, Great-grandpa woke up.
“His chest started to rise. He started breathing. He woke up.”
The family’s coordinated and thoughtful collective efforts granted them more days with their loved one.
But what makes this moment so incredible isn’t just the outcome. It’s also the preparation.
Luke credits his first aid and CPR certification and his years at the pool for giving him the tools to act. “I didn’t always take it seriously,” he admitted. “But that moment opened my eyes. What you learn—whether it’s CPR or first aid—It’s a power you have. To be able to help save a life.”
It wasn’t just Luke. His mom, Jodi, was also CPR trained. His younger brother Logan, 17, also a pool attendant at Spring
With many public pools, the greater Mankato area has a community lifeguard shortage. The important and impactful job of Lifeguarding is a great way to serve the community and gain lifesaving knowledge. Upcoming First Aid and CPR trainings are available to ages 16+, with the next session offered on June 21-29th. Visit swimnorthmankato.com for more information.
Lake Pool, remained calm and called 911. His dad, Mark, didn’t hesitate to jump in and help with compressions and breaths. It was a full family effort, carried out with precision and grace under pressure.
“I’m just really proud of how we came together,” Luke said. “My family was a supremely important factor.”
In January 2025, the American Red Cross awarded Luke and his family the prestigious Lifesaving Award, which recognizes lifesaving acts by trained individuals.
Luke, ever humble, was reluctant to be singled out.
“This wasn’t just me,” he said. “It was everyone. We all played a role. It was a collective effort.”
North Mankato’s Aquatics and Recreation Coordinator
Sandy Bromley, who trained Luke, nominated the family. “Luke always had a strong presence and cared about helping others,” she said. “He stepped up when it mattered most.”
Despite the recognition, Luke, now 19, remains grounded. He’s currently pursuing his nursing degree at the University of Wisconsin—Eau Claire, training for a halfmarathon, and staying active in intramural sports like football and volleyball.
Luke has dreams of possibly pursuing orthopedics. “I’m learning a lot now,” he said. “And I’m realizing how powerful that knowledge can be.”
Looking back, Luke says the experience reshaped how he views his training, his responsibilities, and even his future.
“I used to just study for the grade,” he said. “But now, I see how it all connects. This can save someone’s life. That moment—helping my great-grandfather—that was the most important test I could have ever taken.”
Sadly, Luke’s Great-grandfather Bob passed away peacefully in his sleep during the winter of 2024, but he left knowing he was surrounded by love—and that his family was capable of extraordinary things.
Luke carries that memory with gratitude and renewed purpose. “You never know when something like this will happen,” he said. “But if you’re prepared, if you’re paying attention—you can make a difference. You can save a life.”
It’s a message he hopes others will take seriously.
“If there’s one thing I’d tell people,” he said, “it’s to take your training seriously. Learn CPR. Know what to do. Because you just never know when you’ll be the one someone’s counting on.”
Luke and his family remind us what it means to come together, to care for one another, and to be prepared for life’s unexpected tests. Because heroes don’t always wear capes. Sometimes, they wear lifeguard whistles, nursing scrubs, or even just the calm assurance of someone who knows exactly what to do when every second counts.
COOL & SAFE
ESSENTIAL WATER SAFETY TIPS FOR A FUN-FILLED SUMMER
BY ASHLEY HANLEY
We all know it can happen in the blink of an eye. A drowning or water incident can cause death or severe injury. While there are many things we know, some safety items also often get overlooked.
Facilities such as the Spring Lake Park Swim Facility in North Mankato offer swimming lessons to those as young as six months old. They teach them up until the age of 15 as well. Registration is now open, and the lessons begin June 9. These are group lessons, but they offer private lessons as well. Their website says the classes are taught based on Red Cross training.
The American Red Cross Provides These Swimming Safety Tips
Provide close and constant attention to children you supervise in or near water.
Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.
Provide close and constant attention to the children you supervise, even when a lifeguard is present, no matter how well the child can swim or how shallow the water is. Avoid distractions, including cell phones.
Never leave a young child unattended near water, and do not trust a child’s life to another child; teach children to always ask permission to go near water.
Designate a “water watcher” whenever in a group setting.
Take wise precautions and use layers of protection.
Stay within arm’s reach of any weak or inexperienced swimmer who is in the water.
Young children or inexperienced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guardapproved life jackets around water, but they should not rely on life jackets alone.
Do not rely on water wings, swim rings, inflatable toys, or other items designed for water recreation to replace adult supervision.
If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers to prevent unsupervised access to the water.
Many children who drown in home pools did so during non-swim times – when they weren’t expected to be in the water, including as the swimming activity was coming to an end and everyone was thought to be out of the water.
Children were often out of sight for less than five minutes and in the care of one or both parents at the time.
Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well and what to do in a water emergency.
If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability.
Know how and when to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.
Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets, and a first aid kit.
Enroll in age-appropriate Red Cross water orientation and learn-to-swim courses
REFINANCE
Lower
While
Wheeler Park | Lower North Mankato
2025 Beer Garden Bands
Thursday, July 10 – 3 Hour Download
Friday, July 11 – Red Dirt Road Band
Saturday, July 12 – Blue Ringers
Signature Events
Fun Days Parade — Sat. July 12 at 11am Belgrade Ave.
Kiddie Parade — Friday, July 11
Roll-In Car Show — Sunday, July 13
Carnival Fun — All Weekend
Get ready for the best get-together this side of the river as North Mankato Fun Days marks its 60th anniversary with five days of family fun, music, food, and hometown traditions! Hosted by the North Mankato Activities & Business Association and proudly supported by the City of North Mankato, this beloved event brings the community together like no other.
Enjoy rides, games, and classic fair food by Family Fun Shows, plus BINGO with the Knights of Columbus 5551 and a chance to score limited-edition Vintage Fun Days T-shirts!
And that’s just the beginning! Stay tuned for even more surprises and community events as we celebrate 60 unforgettable years of North Mankato Fun Days!
From coffee fixes to sweet treats and flood protection to renovations, North Mankato is full of growing businesses that offer exciting and essential services. The following are some up-and-coming notables as well as community pillars who are in the midst of new developments.
651-746-9392 | bakesy.shop/b/salt-fern-bakehaus
If you’ve got a craving that only artisan bread can fix, Salt & Fern Bakehaus is calling your name. Owner Cally Roberts named her baking business to reflect her German roots and enjoys using local ingredients in her creations, from her organic whole wheat flour to the berries for her strawberry bread.
“I grow what I can in my backyard, too,” Roberts said. The peppers for her customer-favorite cheddar onion jalapeno
sourdough come straight from her own garden.
Anyone interested in placing an order for sourdough boules, salted brown butter chocolate chip cookies, lemon-glazed cinnamon rolls, and more, can do so through the Salt & Fern Bakehaus Facebook page. The weekly pickup day for the 2025 season is Monday.
507-625-7667 | insurancekeycity.com/contact
Creating a supportive network is key to what Key City Insurance is all about. Locally owned and operated since 1948, the practice was purchased by Brittany Linder in 2022, and she and her team continue to offer policies for home, auto, business, farm, and life and health insurance as well as surety bonds, flood insurance, vacant dwelling insurance, and professional liability insurance.
“The connections we build are not just clients—it feels more like seeing an old friend,” said Key City agent Caleb Grunzke. “In the age of call centers and AI chatbots, we are fiercely committed to providing personalized service to each client.”
507-736-7036
apartmenthomeliving.com (Select The Forde)
DeMars Construction has been behind plenty of building projects in the Mankato area, and none more exciting than the recently renovated complex, The Forde.
“We are proud that this development has created new job opportunities and will help drive economic growth helping to revitalize the 169 Corridor and local area,” said DeMars Construction owner Max DeMars. The project, which was performed in collaboration with the City of North Mankato,
took the former Norwood Inn and transformed it with new electric wiring, HVAC, plumbing, flooring, insulation, and interior design. Available rental space includes apartment units, which were finished in August 2024, and commercial space, the renovations for which are currently ongoing.
507-445-6648 | mankato.dexafit.com
Fitness lovers will be in good company at North Mankato’s Dexafit, as owner Angie Jenkins is so passionate about it herself that she left her 23-year career in real estate to open her new fitness testing studio with her sister and business partner Emily and her two adult sons.
“I have so much fun going to work because we have a conversation with every single person who comes in here, and everyone is supporting everyone else,” Jenkins said.
“We’re basically a guidepost for anyone who wants to know their health data and track it over time.”
The medical-grade fitness tests that Dexafit offers include full-body scanning, red light therapy, and tests for three-compartment composition, resting metabolic rate, respiratory exchange rate, body fat percentage, visceral fat percentage, inflammation number, and bone marrow density.
507-217-1303 | sugarbellydesserts.com
The COVID-19 pandemic was a difficult time for all, but it did inspire Tina Schlumpberger to turn her interest in baking into a thriving business. When she lost her job during the coronavirus-caused shutdowns, Schlumpberger decided to teach herself to make macarons and distributed them to friends on Mother’s Day. So many recipients asked if they could purchase more that Sugar Belly Cakes was born.
“I try to do things that are a little different—things you wouldn’t see anywhere else,” Schlumpberger said. “It gets me excited about doing it and it’s a way for me to express my artistry.”
507-720-0321 | Book Catering Services
Beans Coffee House has been implementing exciting changes for the past few years since their purchase of the former Neutral Groundz coffee shop, and this year is no exception. In addition to buying their storefront from their landlords—stay tuned for upcoming renovations that will bring their roastery onto the premises—Beans entered into a partnership with New Ulm’s Backerei to provide traditional fancy donuts on Friday and Saturday as well as other baked goods.
Stop in for a sweet treat or to sample the new lunch and beverage menu while perusing a variety of goods from local artisans including hand-thrown pottery, decorations, soap, and jewelry.
“The cinnamon rolls are as big as your head!” said manager Lisa Ikier.
BY BRYN JARCHO MAC Regional Director
Since its inception in 1996, MAC Midwest (formerly Minnesota Autism Centers) has been a steadfast advocate for families seeking specialized autism services. What began as a vision by a group of parents striving to find exceptional care for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has grown into one of Minnesota’s leading providers of personalized therapy. Today, MAC Midwest serves children and young adults ranging from 18 months to 21 years old with the mission to help them build a brighter, more independent future.
MAC Midwest’s journey in North Mankato began with in-home services, allowing therapists to work directly with children in their home environments. While effective for some families, others faced challenges participating during these sessions. In response, MAC Midwest transitioned to center-based therapy in September 2012, opening its current location at 2101 Rolling Green Lane. This expansion allowed the center to offer services to more families, providing dedicated therapy space, a structured schedule (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., year-round), and the convenience of a facility with a full gymnasium and a breakout room offering increased sensory input options.
At the time of the move, MAC Midwest served just 10 clients with a team of 10-15 staff members. Fast forward to 2025, and the center has expanded significantly, now providing intensive ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy to over 50 clients. The team has grown to more than 70 employees, offering not just ABA therapy but also on-site speech therapy, occupational therapy, and additional tailored services to meet the unique needs of each child.
“The heart and soul of what we do is serve our learners and their families, and we could not do that without an amazing team of people,” says Regional Director Bryn Jarcho. “This is a job of love, and they do a wonderful job not only for our learners but also for the families. I’m very fortunate for the team I have in Mankato; I can’t say enough about how great they are.”
Indeed, the dedication and passion of the staff continue to be the driving force behind MAC Midwest’s success. Each therapist, educator, and support team member is deeply committed to the success and well-being of the children and families they serve. It’s not just about providing therapy; it’s about building relationships and fostering an environment where both children and their families feel supported and understood.
At the core of MAC Midwest’s therapeutic approach is ABA therapy—a scientifically validated method designed to understand and modify behavior, particularly in individuals with developmental conditions like ASD. ABA therapy focuses on improving socially significant behaviors while reducing disruptive or harmful behaviors.
Therapists work one-on-one with clients, providing a personalized experience focused on behavior modification and skill development. By manipulating environmental factors, ABA therapy promotes learning and helps individuals with ASD develop essential life skills, enhance communication, and improve overall functioning. It is a therapy that brings measurable, lasting results.
The impact of MAC Midwest extends beyond therapy sessions. The center continues to participate in various community activities, such as Trunk-or-Treat and hosting a Sensory-Friendly Carnival in 2024, which drew hundreds of families from the Mankato area. These events not only provide fun, inclusive experiences but also raise awareness about autism in the local community.
Thanks to recent generous donations from the Mankato Area Foundation, Mankato Clinic, and the Eagles Club, MAC Midwest has enhanced its facilities. New additions include a rock wall, sensory swings, and other vital resources that help children with sensory processing challenges. Clare Escobar, the center’s Occupational Therapist, explains, “It is important for children and adolescents to have access
to quality items that enhance their ability to participate in daily activities and learn new things. The sensory items provide essential sensory input, especially proprioceptive and vestibular input, which can be especially helpful for our learners.”
As MAC Midwest continues to grow, its focus remains steadfast on providing the highest quality of care and support for families across Minnesota. The center is exploring new avenues for therapy integration, including play-based learning and technology-assisted interventions, to expand its offerings and improve the therapeutic experience. In addition, MAC Midwest is working to expand its outreach programs and develop partnerships with local organizations to further support the autism community.
Whether through the dedication of its staff, the effectiveness of its ABA therapy programs, or the ongoing community support that fuels its growth, MAC Midwest remains a beacon of hope for families seeking specialized autism services. With an unwavering commitment to its mission, MAC Midwest is shaping brighter futures, one child at a time.
For more information on MAC Midwest and the services they offer, or to learn how you can support the center’s mission, visit their website at www.mnautism.org or contact their North Mankato location directly.
BY JENN FAUST Pioneer Bank
Planning the perfect vacation often starts with smart saving. A vacation savings account paired with an automatic “sweep” setup in your bank account can help you consistently set money aside without breaking a sweat.
Why Set Up a Vacation Savings Account?
A dedicated vacation savings account is a smart way to turn your travel dreams into reality while keeping your finances on track. By setting aside funds separately from everyday expenses, you can save consistently, stay focused on your goal, and easily track your progress. This approach promotes financial discipline, reduces stress, and helps you avoid relying on debt—all while potentially earning interest. Plus, watching your savings grow adds excitement and motivation, ensuring a more enjoyable and budget-friendly trip.
Many banks offer specialized savings accounts for goals like vacations, often with added perks or automatic saving features to help you reach your dream getaway even faster.
Automate Your Savings with Bank Account Sweeps
While traditional sweep accounts operate based on balance thresholds, many banks and financial institutions allow you to set up recurring transfers of a fixed amount, such as $100 per month, between accounts. This functions similarly to a sweep account but works more like a scheduled transfer. You can usually set it up through your bank’s online banking platform or by reaching out to customer service.
Setting up an automatic $100 monthly transfer into a vacation savings account ensures steady
progress toward your travel goals without requiring active effort. It builds consistency in saving, prevents the temptation to spend the money elsewhere, and helps you avoid financial stress when it’s time to book your trip. This method also makes budgeting easier, as you can plan around the set savings amount rather than scrambling to fund your vacation last minute. Plus, if the account earns interest, your savings can grow over time, giving you a little extra for your getaway.
Making the Most of Your Savings Plan
To maximize a vacation savings account, start by setting a realistic savings goal based on estimated travel costs, including flights, accommodation, food, and activities. Automate contributions— whether through a fixed monthly transfer or a balance-based sweep—to build savings effortlessly. Choosing a high-yield account can also help your money grow while you save. Keep your travel funds separate from everyday spending to avoid temptation and ensure they remain intact. Periodically review your progress and adjust your savings strategy if needed. As your departure date approaches, use the funds wisely by booking early for the best deals. By staying consistent and disciplined, you’ll set yourself up for a stress-free, well-funded getaway when the time comes.
With a vacation savings account and automatic sweeps, you’re well on your way to carefree adventures! Setting up these tools requires little effort but can make a big impact when it’s time to pack your bags. So, where’s your dream destination?
WAY YOU ARE TREATED is JUST AS IMPORTANT as the TREATMENT YOU RECEIVE.
is JUST AS IMPORTANT as the TREATMENT YOU RECEIVE.
is JUST AS IMPORTANT as the TREATMENT YOU RECEIVE.
At River’s Edge Hospital, you are more than a patient.
From the most basic health services to surgery, recovery and rehabilitation, River’s Edge Hospital makes your well-being a priority. You’ll receive a level of attention that goes well b eyond y our expectations.
At River’s Edge Hospital, you are more than a patient. From the most basic health services to surgery, recovery and rehabilitation, River’s Edge Hospital makes your well-being a priority. You’ll receive a level of attention that goes well beyond your expectations.
At River’s Edge Hospital, you are more than a patient. From the most basic health services to surgery, recovery and rehabilitation, River’s Edge Hospital makes your well-being a priority. You’ll receive a level of attention that goes well b eyond y our expectations.
P hysical Therapy | Occupational Therapy | Mammography
Imaging Services | Direct Access Lab Testing
P hysical Therapy | Occupational Therapy | Mammography
Imaging Services | Direct Access Lab Testing
Cardiac Rehab
Imaging Services | Direct Access Lab Testing Cardiac Rehab
Cardiac Rehab
LiveWell Fitness Center & much more
LiveWell Fitness Center & much more
LiveWell Fitness Center & much more
BY ASHLEY HANLEY
Revival Outdoor began with a mix of experience, timing, and a shift in direction.
Owner Aaron Madson said, “Before starting this company, I co-owned a landscaping business in the Twin Cities with my brother-in-law for about 13 years. We built something successful there—great projects, happy clients—and he’s still running it today, doing excellent work. In 2020, when my wife and I decided to move to North Mankato to raise our family, I wasn’t sure if landscaping was still my future. I’d
accomplished a lot in the Cities and felt ready to take a step back to focus on settling our family.”
That family pull is what drew him back to North Mankato.
“North Mankato is where I’m from. I grew up in the same house my wife Jayme and our three kids live in now. My early years were spent at Mount Olive Lutheran for grade school in Mankato and then at Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School in New Ulm. After that, I headed to Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, where I earned a BS in Geography—and met Jayme, who’s originally from Bloomington. We married after graduation and settled in the west metro of the Twin Cities. We have three kids: a son, Noah (12), and daughters, Elin (9) and Camden (5),” Madson said. “I picked North Mankato because it’s home—I grew up here, and it’s where my roots are. My parents and two of my siblings are nearby with their families, so holidays and visits kept us close to the community even when we lived in the Cities. Luckily, my wife loves it too.”
With family ties, Madson said it also made for a great place to run a business.
“North Mankato and Mankato are great communities to run a small business out of as well. Business owners look out for each other and support one another. North Mankato always had a pull. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Jayme and I acted on a long-considered idea to move back. In August 2020, we bought my childhood home and relocated our family here. For me, it was a chance to return to my roots and raise our kids in a community I’ve always loved. That timing coincided with the
early days of Covid—school closures, quarantines, and all the challenges that came with it. My wife, who’s been with Travel Beyond since 2008—a company that plans leisure trips to Africa and other unique international destinations—faced her own hurdles as the pandemic hit the travel industry hard. Being home more during that time was a silver lining in an uncertain season.”
Like with most endeavors, timing is everything.
“By spring 2021, though, I got an opportunity to join a local landscaping business, which pulled me back into the industry. A year later, in the summer of 2022, I teamed up with my colleague Austin to buy the company, and that’s when Revival Outdoor was born. Since then, we’ve shaped it into something distinct, focusing on custom residential landscape and hardscape installations—areas where Austin and I both bring deep expertise. We also provide services for many commercial properties in the area as well. Today, we have a solid team and clients who trust us to bring their ideas to life,” Madson said.
For homeowners, they handle everything from start to finish: consultations to understand your vision, custom landscape and hardscape designs, and professional installation—think patios, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, steps, plants, and more, all tailored to your space. Madson said
they’re big on details, making sure what they build fits Minnesota’s climate and your lifestyle. On the commercial side, they design and install landscapes for businesses, then keep them healthy and well-maintained by providing green services with ongoing maintenance. In the winter, they offer snow removal and liquid de-icing services for their commercial clients, too.
Madson said there’s also a risk of uncertainty when starting a business.
“My father-in-law has said that an entrepreneur is someone who walks to the edge of a cliff and jumps—while others peek over and step back. I took the leap for a second time with Revival, and I think anyone who’s started a business understands that rush and why you do it. Practically speaking, what kicked it off was realizing a need here in the greater Mankato area. Catching up with old friends when we moved back and acquaintances within similar industries, I saw that there was a need for a company that would excel at custom landscape and hardscape installs and a need for a company that could provide high-quality landscape design. There are some great landscape companies around— I’ve built solid ties with many of them—but I saw a chance to offer homeowners something a little different and took the leap,” Madson said.
Madson also gives a lot of credit for his and the company’s success to those around him.
“I get to work with incredible guys on this team. Austin and Alec, who’ve been with me from the start, are just good people—hard working, full of integrity, and committed to building great landscapes for our clients and this business. For me, starting Revival was as much about building something with guys like them as it was about the business itself,” Madson said. “It all starts with meeting someone new, walking their property together,
and listening to what they have in mind. I love jumping into the design process from there—honestly, I can get a little obsessed with the details, but that’s what makes it fun for me. Taking ideas and building a thoughtful design from scratch to create something stunning that the client gets really excited about is definitely the best part for me. Austin, Alec, and the team each bring their own strengths to the process as we bring a design to life, and together, we create something that’s just right for the space and the client. Seeing a client’s joy when the project is completed is very fulfilling for me.”
Madson said what sets them apart, along with their strong team, is also their ability to turn dreams into reality.
“We’re busy working with residential and commercial clients throughout the year, and I believe I’ve personally met and worked with all of them. For residential installs, we currently have two custom install crews, though we’re seeing growing demand and are looking for more skilled craftsmen to increase our bandwidth for current and projected workload. Right now, I’m actively designing landscapes for clients who would like their projects completed this season, which keeps me in regular contact with homeowners as we refine their plans. Timing is key in this business—reaching out to us early, even in winter, is the best way to get ahead. It lets us kick off the consultation and design process before the ground thaws, so we’re ready to work as soon as the weather allows. That said, we’ll keep working as late into the fall as possible and often have jobs that finish up in the spring, so it’s never too late to get started,” Madson said.
That mix of professionalism, attention to detail, and local expertise, Madson said, “means you’re getting a landscape that’s not just beautiful, but built to last.”
BY KATIE ROIGER
Sometimes saving the environment looks like showing up: in the community, in conversation, and in all weather conditions, rain or shine.
GO ZERO WASTE GO ZERO WASTE
Founded in 2015 by Betty Winkworth, Jane Dow, and Katy Wortel, Mankato Zero Waste’s original pilot program began as a partnership with Good Thunder’s Full Circle Organics. This composting company would bring empty carts to Mankato Zero Waste’s designated location for members to fill with compostable materials. The founders stood outside directing people and answering questions in all kinds of weather conditions.
“On the days that it was snowing or raining, we got a lot of sympathy,” joked Winkworth.
Today, Mankato Zero Waste is partnered with Mankato, North Mankato, and Lake Crystal to offer free drop-off sites for recycling household organics into compost. It also offers recycling bins for plastic bags and wraps at various local grocery and department stores. The plastics collected in these bins are turned into composite lumber that can be used for decking, railing, benches, and more. In the past four years, the organization has collected around 40,300 pounds of plastic recycling.
Reducing plastic garbage and litter is essential to Winkworth and Dow’s vision for a healthier local and global environment.
“There’s so many things wrong with [plastic],” said Dow, who took two plastic pollution courses at Bennington College to help educate others about the importance of plastic reduction. “It doesn’t break down completely. It breaks down into microplastics, and these affect all life on earth, animals down to vital plankton. We are eating and breathing it in, and it’s affecting our function. Soil, too—it’s getting into plants now, because the soil, air, and water are so saturated with plastics that you can’t avoid them.”
The material itself isn’t the only part of the plastic manufacturing process that affects the environment.
“There are about 16,000 chemicals that are added to plastic, and about 4,200 are considered unsafe for human health,” Dow said. “There are five chemicals that are really bad that need to be banned.”
In addition to providing options for safe and environmentally friendly recycling, Winkworth and Dow offer community education to encourage alternatives
GO ZERO WASTE GO ZERO WASTE
to plastic use in daily life. One easy suggestion they frequently give is to avoid using plastics at restaurants, especially for takeout orders and leftovers. Many restaurants will allow customers to bring their own reusable containers.. If this is not possible, simply asking the restaurant not to include plastic silverware with takeout meals is a small action that can have a big impact.
“Just say ‘no thank you’ to the straw you’re not going to use anyway,” Winkworth advised. “It’s no skin off the noses of the retailers because it saves them some money buying stuff. It’s a good way to start.”
Dow and Winkworth do caution against using reusable plastic containers, as these too can be less than ideal for human health.
“Don’t buy plastic water bottles, because research shows that there’s microplastics that leach into all of our liquid and food,” Dow said. “It’s especially bad in bottled water, which has the highest concentration of microplastics.”
If community members wonder what options they’ll be left with if they begin cutting plastics out of their lives, Dow and Winkworth recommend easy-to-find materials including glass and aluminum. Not only are these materials easier to recycle than plastic, which can only be reused a limited number of times, they are also considered chemically safe.
green today
Education and drop-off points aren’t the only ways that Mankato Zero Waste encourages environmentally friendly lifestyles. The organization is working on state-level legislation, including a bill that would ban the most toxic chemicals in plastic manufacturing, a bill that would require testing for phthalates in food, and legislation that would make free electronic waste recycling possible.
For Winkworth and Dow, all their efforts are worthwhile if they help the community connect through a shared interest in preserving the earth and bettering their health.
“You’ve got to make those choices now because it takes a while,” Winkworth said. “A lot of people have gotten into this. We really applaud the Mankato community for that.”
Salsas
Salsa is the perfect summertime food, adding a burst of flavor to any meal while helping you increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. Beyond the traditional tomato salsa, you can experiment with refreshing combinations like watermelon-mint or cherryjalapeno. These creative variations not only enhance your dishes but also bring a delightful twist to your summer dining experience.
Raspberry Avocado Citrus Salsa
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
1 c. fresh raspberries
1 avocado
¼ c. red onion
1 fresh jalapeno
½ c. fresh cilantro
2 tbsp. fresh orange juice
1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
¼ tsp. Hy-Vee salt
Grilled chicken breasts
In a large bowl, combine raspberries, avocado, red onion, jalapeno, and chopped cilantro. Toss with orange juice, lime juice, and salt. Serve immediately over grilled chicken, if desired.
Tortilla Chips with Fruit Salsa
2 Hy-Vee whole-wheat flour tortillas
1 tbsp. Hy-Vee granulated sugar
1 tsp. Hy-Vee granulated sugar
½ c. fresh strawberries
½ c. Hy-Vee Short Cuts pineapple
½ c. fresh raspberries
1 Hy-Vee Short Cuts peeled mandarin orange
2 tsp. Hy-Vee honey
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a large baking sheet with nonstick spray; add tortilla triangles, spray again with nonstick spray. In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle onto tortillas. Bake 15 minutes; remove from oven and cool.
Meanwhile, combine strawberries, mandarin orange, pineapple, and raspberries in a small bowl. Drizzle with honey and gently toss to combine. Serve cooled tortilla chips with fruit salsa.
Trout with Mediterranean Salsa
INGREDIENTS
1 tbsp. plus 1-1/2 tsp. Gustare Vita olive oil
1 tbsp. Hy-Vee unsalted butter
3 clove(s) garlic
1 ½ tsp. fresh oregano
1 ½ tsp. fresh thyme
¼ tsp. Hy-Vee black pepper
⅛ tsp. Kosher salt
1 (8-to-10-oz.) Fish Market fresh rainbow trout fillet
½ c. cherry tomatoes
1 tbsp. Gustare Vita capers
½ c. Modern Mill Farm
Fresh Salad Topper
2 tbsp. Italian parsley
1 tbsp. Hy-Vee sliced jumbo queen olives
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil in large cast-iron skillet; heat in oven for 10 minutes.
Stir together butter, garlic, oregano, thyme, pepper, and slat in small bowl; set aside.
Remove skillet from oven. Place fish, skin side down, in skillet; drizzle butter mixture over fish. Add tomatoes and capers. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until fish reaches 145 degrees.
For salsa, stir together cherries, 2 tablespoons parsley, olives, and remaining 1-1/2 teaspoons olive oil in small bowl. Serve salsa over fish. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.
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Peach Salsa with Salmon
PEACH SALSA
1 ½ peaches
2 green onions
¼ c. red bell pepper
¼ c. red onion
¼ c. poblano chile pepper
1 tbsp. Gustare Vita olive oil
1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
1 tsp. Hy-Vee honey
Hy-Vee salt
Hy-Vee ground black pepper
SALMON
1 ½ lbs. salmon fillet
3 tbsp. Gustare
Vita olive oil
2 tbsp. Hy-Vee Hickory
House seafood rub
1 ½ peaches
Prepare Peach Salsa: Chop peaches and slice green onions; combine with red bell pepper, red onion, and poblano peppers. Add olive oil, fresh lime juice, and honey. Season, to taste, with salt and pepper. Cover and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
Salmon: Prepare a charcoal or gas grill for direct cooking over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the salmon fillet with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Rub with Hickory House rub. Add two soaked cedar planks to grill; preheat until lightly toasted, turning once. Place salmon, skin side down, on planks. Grill for 15 minutes or until fish begins to flake when tested with a fork.
While salmon is grilling, cut remaining three peach halves into wedges. Lightly brush wedges and remaining green onions with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil; grill with lemon halves 3 minutes or until grill marks form, turning once. Serve salmon with peaches, green onions and lemon halves. Top with salsa.
Grilled Watermelon with Minted Salsa Bites
INGREDIENTS
2 c. diced strawberries
2 kiwi
¼ c. chopped red onion
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped*
1 tbsp. chopped fresh mint
1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
1 (3 lbs) seedless watermelon
½ tsp. kosher salt
¼ tsp. Hy-Vee black pepper
⅓ c. Hy-Vee Select traditional feta cheese crumbles
salsa
DIRECTIONS
Sweet Cherry Salsa
INGREDIENTS
3 c. sweet cherries
¼ medium red onion
¼ c. cilantro
2 tbsp. Hy-Vee Select extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
1 tbsp. fresh orange juice
1 jalapeno
Hy-Vee sea salt multigrain pita chips
For salsa, in a bowl combine strawberries, kiwi, red onion, jalapeno pepper, mint and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Preheat grill to direct heat over medium-high heat.
Cut watermelon into one-inch-thick slices; discard ends. Place watermelon slices on grill rack. Grill about 2 minutes or until watermelon is lightly seared, turning once halfway through grilling.
Remove watermelon slices from grill. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cut each slice into 6 wedges. Transfer wedges to a serving platter; top with salsa and cheese.
*Note: Chile peppers contain volatile oils that can burn your skin and eyes. When working with chile peppers, wear hand protection.
4 green onions
1 lemon
DIRECTIONS
Combine cherries, onion, cilantro, olive oil, lime and orange juice in a large bowl. If desired, add jalapeno. Stir to combine. Serve with pita chips.
HILLTOP LOCATION
HILLTOP LOCATION
RIVERFRONT LOCATION
RIVERFRONT LOCATION
WINE & SPIRITS
WINE & SPIRITS
2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-9070
2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-9070
410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507-625-1107
410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507-625-1107
2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-3055
2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-3055
Get to Know...
What is your background prior to the City?
I have a business management degree with a minor in sales & marketing. Prior to joining the City, I worked as an assistant branch manager for a financial company and a business development assistant for a local food manufacturer.
What do you love most about North Mankato?
North Mankato has a small town feel with great amenities.
Are you involved in other organizations?
I am a member of the Minnesota Law Enforcement Administrative Professionals organization and the Midwest Association of Crime & Intelligence Analysts organization. I am currently volunteering as a Sunday school teacher. In the past, I volunteered with Loaves & Fishes Food Shelf, Girl Scouts, and the Salvation Army meal program.
Would you like to share any notable work you’ve done for the City?
A lot of my work is behind the scenes: records management, administrator of department systems, regulatory compliance, backgrounds, onboarding employees, and criminal case processing. The most public parts of my position include the creation and compilation of the department annual report and the handling of all release of information requests for the department (averaging 800+ record requests a year and the number of requests for information have increased over 700% in the last 10 years).
Tanya Junker
What is your background prior to the City?
Prior to working for the city, I was a Recreation Coordinator for 6 years for a non-profit that worked with kids ages 11-18. After 6 years, I transitioned to the Facility Program Coordinator position for about 6 years.
What do you love most about North Mankato?
I love that North Mankato is a safe place to live and raise a family. North Mankato offers a variety of parks/trails and continues to add more recreational opportunities for kids and adults.
Are you involved in other organizations?
Currently, I am on the Leep Legends and Anthony Ford Pond Hockey committees. Both events raise money for local organizations.
Do you have a favorite spot in North Mankato?
Caswell of course, but me and my family enjoy riding our bikes around Bluff Park throughout the spring, summer, and fall.
Would you like to share any notable work you’ve done for the City?
This summer, the City of North Mankato and Caswell Sports will be hosting an 8-day Men's World Fastpitch tournament. This will include over 60 teams from across the United States and all around the World. There will be over 100 games played.
Brad Walsh
GROW YOUR BUSINESS.
THE POWER OF PRINT
In the United States, there were 222.2 million magazine readers who were 18 years of age or older in 2021, which was 300,000 more readers than the previous year.*
Magazine advertising continues to provide a return on investment. Averaging a $3.94 return on every dollar invested in advertising, magazines offer the highest ROI across all media, which is 50% more than all other categories combined.
REAL SURPASSES VIRTUAL
Many people spend a lot of time online, trying to record their everyday lives on Twitter or posting the newest selfie on Instagram. However, most readers only scan a website for 15 seconds before moving on. The physical experience of reading a magazine outperforms the virtual one and has the potential to establish a mind share.
A LONGER SHELF LIFE
Digital adverts come and go. Companies sometimes need to continue to pay to ensure that their advertising is wellplaced on websites and is repeated daily.
Magazines, on the other hand, are often published weekly or monthly. They have a longer “shelf life” since they sit in physicians’ waiting rooms, magazine racks, shops, malls, and supermarkets.
BRAND RECOGNITION AND CREDIBILITY
Many magazines are well-respected among their target audience; therefore, a magazine for advertising allows individuals to become acquainted with your brand and builds trust.
This identification is then reinforced when they encounter you in person, whether at your place of business or a local trade exhibition or charity event.
PASS-ON READERSHIP
One advantage of magazine advertising is that many people give magazines to their friends and relatives. This raises the likelihood that your marketing will reach more prospective buyers.
AFFORDABLE
Magazine advertising costs may begin as little as $300. This is less expensive than certain newspaper advertisements, phone book advertisements, and even radio or television advertisements.
MULTIPLE DESIGN OPTIONS
Advertisements in magazines can be put on the inner front cover or buried in the back pages. It might be a branding ad or discount code incorporated in a QR Code, a survey, or even a little mini-article that appears to have been produced for a magazine.
INCREASED TRAFFIC AND LEADS
Another advantage is that magazine advertising can help your business get more traffic and leads. You can increase interest in your product or service and persuade potential buyers to take action by targeting the correct audience.
