RVW March low res

Transcription

RVW March low res
Vicki
Hagen
K ato Roofing
Owner
Hy-Vee’s
Incredible
Bulk
Home
& Living
C&N’s
Got Game!
Your Home...
Organized
by Jayne Jensen
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
1
Service with uS!
When You’re Happy, We’re Happy
www.mankatoford.com
507.387.3454
HigHway 22
Back in our Brand New Showroom!
2
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Madison avenue
Mankato Ford
016542
12 20
22
42
contents
Publisher
New Century Press
6
Chief Operating Officer
Jim Hensley
General Manager
Lisa Miller
Please direct all editorial inquiries
and suggestions to:
Managing Editor
Eileen Madsen
[email protected]
Sales Manager
Natasha Weis
507-227-2545
[email protected]
Sales Team
Judy Beetch
Tessa Donato
Erin Fritz
Dawnn Hannover
Alika Faythe Hartmann
Ruth Klossner
Tami Leuthold
Janelle Magelee
Designer
Amy Leuthold
Cover Photographer
Alika Faythe Hartmann
Despres Photography
River Valley Woman
New Ulm & Mankato, MN
507.354.6158
For advertising and editorial contact
information and a list of newsstand
locations visit
rivervalleywoman.com
River Valley Woman is published monthly and
distributed free in the Minnesota River Valley
area. The content used in this magazine is
copyright 2015 River Valley Woman and may
not be reprinted in part or in whole without
written consent by the publisher. All articles
and editorial material represent the opinions
of the respective authors.
The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject, or
position any advertising. In the event of any error,
River Valley Woman will rerun the
incorrect part of the ad or cancel charges
on the incorrect portion.
{{ march
•
2015
}
Go
She’s Got Game - C&N Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Incredible Bulk - Mankato Hy-Vee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Strut Your Stuff Fashion Pages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Treasures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Fun, Festivals & Frolics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Be
Be Well: Stretching of the Lower Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Be Well: Beat the Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Be Well: Get a Move On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Oscar vs. Felix? Compromise is the Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Is Your Home Cat Friendly? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Organizing Your Pets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Do
Make Your New House Feel Like Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Spaces: That Lived-In Look . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Creating Space That Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Plan Ahead For Easier, Healthier Meal Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Money Talks: Spring Into Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Money Talks: Home Improvements & Your Home’s Value . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Suze Orman: Let’s Not Sell Young Retirement Savers Short . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Readers Rave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Plant a Tree, Prune a Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Good Reads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
connect
Lather, Rinse, Repeat - Editor’s Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
They Are Women - Hear Them Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Herstory: Peggy (Krzmarzick) Tauer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Mankato YWCA to Honor Women Of Distinction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Connections Business Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
3
I’m home!
Most days those
can be two of the nicest words one can
say. Unless your home is in dire need of
improvements, then maybe not so much.
Even so, amidst our clutter and pet-haircovered furniture, it can be a pretty great
place to be.
When I was growing up I marveled at
some of my friends’ houses and their pristine
perfection. Almost as if no one lived there.
Where are the magazines and books? How
about the stacks of photos, bills, eye-glasses
and scissors in a heap in a basket by the
cookie jars that I was used to in my mom and
dad’s house. And bathroom towels! Don’t get
me started. How on earth do people manage
to have bathrooms where there are hand
towels decorously and strategically draped
over matching bath towels and appearing
miraculously untouched. If this describes
your privy, please make me privy to your
secrets. Better yet, don’t. I think this might
be an instance where ignorance is bliss.
Herein our Home & Living issue will be
revealed all things household—de-cluttering
and organizing, decorating and design,
building your dream house and more.
4
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Lather,
Rinse,
Repeat
by Eileen Madsen, Editor
Speaking of the roof over our heads, cover feature Vicki Hagen of Kato Roofing is here to
make that happen. She and co-owner Jill Putz received the prestigious Women’s Business
Enterprise National Council certification that is bestowed upon selected women-owned
and operated businesses. She not only climbs the ladder of success, she owns it!
Often, what makes a house a home is the food that is cooked, served and shared in it.
Check out our spotlight on Hy-Vee Hilltop’s incredible bulk section where an appetizing
array of oils, nuts, spices and a few things I can’t pronounce, await. April Graff and Marcia
Smith are practically (if not literally, check out April’s video on the Hy-Vee Hilltop Facebook
page!) dancing in the aisles to tell you about it. This type of shopping has really come back
into vogue after a couple decade hiatus where much of our choices were boxed helpers
and plastic-encased-”ables” that passed off as lunch. So bring it on in bulk!
Two of our guest columnists this month talk about our furry friends. No I am not talking
about the legs we neglect to shave for 6 months until we can wear shorts again in May,
but rather the cats and dogs who share our lives, as well as our couches and chairs.
One thing we’ve learned as cat owners (or people owned by cats), is that they are family
members. There are things you let slide with your kids, spouse, roommate and the same
holds true for pets. Do we feed the cats bits of cheese and meat on the kitchen floor? Yup.
Have I given up hollering, clapping and stomping at them when the claw the furniture?
Not quite, but they do have their corner of a carpeted step they can have at, as well as an
old chair that could rival Marty Crane’s from the old TV show Frasier. And they can sleep
wherever they want. A perk not afforded to my husband--haha.
On this same vein, our Good Reads page features a book called The Nesting Place by a
popular blogger and self-taught decorator that touts the virtues of embracing the imperfect
home and releasing our need to compare ourselves with others. By all means, decorate,
and renovate to your heart’s content but have your home reflect who you, flaws and all.
Let people know that someone lives there and that someone is you. Phrew! That will
certainly take the pressure off when guests ask to use my bathroom.
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They are
women...
hear them
roof
By Ruth Klossner
Photos by Alika Faythe Hartmann
Even longtime Kato Roofing clients are
sometimes surprised to find that they’re
dealing with a woman-owned, woman-run
company.
Vicki Hagen and part owner Jill Putz
don’t make a big deal about the fact that
the company has been woman-owned
and operated since 2009—they’re far
more concerned about doing right by their
customers and employees. Hagen’s mantra
of providing the ultimate customer service
experience from start to finish is enforced at all
levels of the company.
Vicki’s passion for the company, its
customers, and employees has fueled her
efforts to attract some of the best talent
in the industry. Her goal to deliver quality
craftsmanship is demonstrated in numerous
awards for excellence.
Hagen puts a lot of emphasis on safety.
It’s not just a goal, it’s part of the company’s
mission. A statement on the company web
page pretty well sums it up…“We want
to ensure that all of our customers have
confidence in our high safety standards and
ease of mind that we will complete the job
without incident. We take our accountability
and responsibility very seriously!”
With that emphasis, it’s no surprise that Kato
Roofing is an industry leader in safety and loss
control. Over the past ten years, the company’s
safety record has far exceeded the industry
average, every single year.
But, let’s take a step back to see how Hagen
got into the business.
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Vicki Hagen and Jill Putz
Jamie Powers, Safety Director; Vicki Lynn Fay, Accounts Payable/
Executive Assistant; and Leonette Riley, Business Manager.
Vicki and ex-husband Jeff Hagen started Kato Roofing in 1992.
They’re both from the River Valley area—she grew up in New Ulm and
Jeff in Mankato. They were living and working in Minneapolis—Jeff for
one of the top five roofing companies and Vicki was running dental
clinics—but wanted to be closer to family as
their small children grew up. Thinking that
they’d prefer to work hard for themselves,
instead of for someone else, they sold their
house without giving a lot of thought to what
they’d do next.
Fortunately, the late Jerome ‘Red’ Sheehan
of Mankato Plumbing and Heating took them
under his wing.
“We attribute a lot to Red as far as starting
a successful business—he guided us from the beginning,” Vicki
explained.
Vicki and Jeff divorced in 2009, with Vicki taking over the company.
“It’s not that I grew up saying I wanted to own a roofing company,”
Vicki said with a laugh. “It was very difficult to take over. We went
through some trying times. We started to come out of it in 2010.
Fortunately, I had a lot of support around me—a strong group of
people that had been with us. You forge ahead, not only for yourself,
but for your team, too.”
Like most businesses, 2008-09 was a tough time. But, some good
things came out of that downturn.
“We had been running the business on emotion for many years. We
didn’t look at the forecast or numbers. We won’t do that again. The
businesses that survived came out much stronger,” Hagen explained.
“We went from the peak to having our revenue cut in half,”
Hagen related. “Our goal was to get back up in five years—we
made our goal a year ahead of our plan. As a company, we’re very
proud of that. I attribute that to the strength of the people here.
Kato Roofing
is not about
one person,
it’s about the
people who
work here.”
Hagen is
careful about
the people
she surrounds
herself with. “I was taught to hire people around you that had
strengths you don’t have,” she explained.
That’s how part owner Jill Putz came on board two years ago.
“Vicki had a lot of faith in me. She brought me on as controller
and I hit the ground running,” Putz said.
Hagen added, “We’re opposites—our visions are the same, but
we go about things in different ways. We know how to read each
other. Our differences are the balance that’s needed. I allowed Jill
to buy into the company. She’s like the cement, putting some bite
into the game. I’m definitely the ideas person.”
To that, Putz interjected, “You’re the visionary, the entrepreneur
spirit,” and Hagen added, “Sometimes I need those around me to
ground me. Fortunately, I have several of those here.”
Although Putz is relatively new to the roofing industry, she had
20 years experience in accounting and management in
“I was taught to hire people
around you that had
strengths you don’t have”
s
Vicki Hagen’s personal side
Vicki Hagen
is passionate
about the cause
Tee It Up for
the Troops and
involves Kato
Roofing and
its employee
in the annual
concert and golf
tournament.
“Four years ago, a friend gave my name
to Marly Lloyd and Mike Enger, the two men
who started Tee It Up. They asked me to be
involved. The first year, Mike and I headed
the concert at Riverfront Park. It’s an all-day
concert venue on a Saturday or Sunday the
last weekend in August. Then on Monday,
there’s a golf tournament at Mankato Golf
Club. All the money raised goes to the
troops. I’m proud to be involved. We have
our crane fly the flag high over the concert
venue.”
Kato Roofing staff members give more
than money—they volunteer their time at
both events.
Hagen also enjoys working with horses.
The Hagen family had up to 10 horses at a
time when they lived in the country. Now
they have two Warmbloods—one due to
have a colt any day and stabled at Le Sueur
and the other in Colorado where Vicki’s
daughter Tori Hagen, 23, lives.
“Tori is very good with the horses, she’s
into jumping,” Vicki said.
Vicki’s son Andrew, 25, lives in Colorado
but will move back to Minnesota in the near
future.
In her spare time, Vicki enjoys
spending time at the lake and attending
Timberwolves games.
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
7
About Kato
Roofing, INc.
Kato Roofing, Inc. is an
award winning commercial
roofing contractor serving
Minnesota and the Upper
Midwest. It has offices in
Mankato and Minneapolis.
Its comprehensive range
of products and services
meets the highest level of
performance and durability
while satisfying both economic
and aesthetic requirements.
Kato Roofing offers a full
range of services including
new and replacement roof
systems, architectural sheet
metal, coatings, 24/7 leak
service, roof repair, preventive
maintenance, snow removal,
and crane rental. KR works
on all types of commercial
buildings—churches, schools,
government, healthcare,
industrial/warehouses,
office, restaurants, and retail
structures.
The company applies a
variety of roofing materials—
rubber, built-up (BUR),
Thermoplastic single-ply
roofing, Poly Vinyl Chloride,
Modified Bitumen, tapered
insulation systems, and
standing seam roofing
systems.
Area projects that KR has
roofed include the Mankato
Airport warehouse, Bolton
& Menk office, Eagle Lake
Elementary School, Mankato
Ford Quick Lane, MRCI, MVL
High School, Mankato Public
Works, Echo Food Shelf, and
Mankato Home Depot.
8
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
service and manufacturing. She’s originally from
Medford.
Among the staff members that Hagen credits
with the business’ success are Tammy Knudtson,
marketing and human resources; Dale Voss,
vice president of operation; John Nelson and
Dave Welsh, salesmen; Tim Sinclair, sheet metal
department; Jeff Kisor, crane operator; and Jamie
Powers, safety director.
Kato Roofing has about 60 total employees at
this time, with about 75 in summer.
“This is a year to be proud of,” Vicki said. “We
came into 2015 with the largest backlog ever. We
really didn’t get a slow season this year. We have
four or five crews out now—it’s usually none at
this time of the year (February).”
The fact that Kato Roofing recently
received national certification as a Women’s
Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business
Development Center just might keep the
company even busier in the future.
“WBE certification opens doors for us,” Hagen
said. “More and more companies have diversity
programs. We’re looking at something we
already had and turning it into opportunities to
market ourselves even better, and to continue to
grow. We saw opportunities, why would we not
take advantage of them? It’s a win/win situation
in that we are provided access to contractual
opportunities with businesses who choose to
support WBE businesses through corporate and
government diversity goals.”
Putz added, “It’s not because we’re women
that people should hire us, but because of the
quality of work we do.”
The process of WBE certification isn’t easy.
It starts with a stack of paperwork—about six
inches high, Hagen indicated with her hand.
“They question everything, they do a site visit,
an audit. There are ramifications if you’re not
truly woman-owned and woman-operated,” she
said.
WBE has different levels of certification, with
Kato Roofing opting to do the toughest one first.
Annual recertification is required.
Hagen doesn’t find it difficult to work in a
man’s world.
“We don’t focus on that. We’ve been doing
that for so long that we don’t think about it.
Putz added, “Part of that goes back to Vicki’s
personality—she’s a genuine good person. Our
employees’ loyalty to Vicki and to the company
is why we’re here. She’s real and genuine.
That’s how Kato Roofing grows. We’re all
representatives of the company.”
There are two things that Hagen feels are very
important in her role. She explained, “Anytime
that we do miss something or do something
wrong, we go above and beyond to fix it—I don’t
want to repeat mistakes. And, second is our
employees. I enjoy talking to them and getting
to know them. I don’t get to do that as much as
I’d like to, but I want to know what makes them
like—or not like—things.”
Like any successful business, Kato Roofing has
changed with the times. From a business that
started out of the basement of the Hagen home
and office space provided by Red Sheehan on
Riverfront Drive, the company has purchased and
out-grown two buildings—and is now in its third,
a large attractive building north of Highway 14,
off Third Avenue.
“We’re kind of needing to do a little
remodeling…our office space is a little tight,”
Hagen said. “We also have a small warehouse and
an office in northeast Minneapolis. We’ve been
in the metro area for about five years. About 50
percent of our business is in the metro area.”
When she needs help, Hagen is not afraid to
use the resources available and ask questions of
the people around her. That includes ex-husband
Jeff who’s in roofing in another state.
With its emphasis on customer service, it’s
no wonder that Kato Roofing has many repeat
customers and a very strong client base,
including some strong national accounts.
“We try to be proactive as far as technology.
We’re our own worst critics. We definitely have
a vision for us to be better, but we also have to
embrace all our wins,” Hagen said.
After coming back from the tough years after
the recession, Hagen feels that the company will
now be able to focus more on its culture, making
that even better for employees—something
that’s unique in the roofing industry.
“If people want to be in the roofing industry,
I want this to be their best choice,” Hagen said.
RVW
WBE Status—a prestigious honor
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council is the nation’s largest
third party certifier of businesses owned and operated by women in the
United States. WBENC is a resource for more than 700 U.S. companies and
government agencies that rely on WBENC’s certification as an integral part
of their supplier diversity programs.
Kato Roofing, Inc. is the only WBE roofing contractor in Minnesota
certified by WBENC. It is also the only certified WBE roofing contractor in
the five state region of Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and
Wisconsin.
WBENC’s national standard of certification, implemented by the
Women’s Business Development Center, is a meticulous process including
an in-depth review of the business and a site inspection. The certification
process is designed to confirm the business is at least 51 percent owned,
operated, and controlled by a woman or women.
By including women-owned businesses among their vendors,
corporations and government agencies demonstrate their commitment
to fostering diversity and continued development of their supplier/vendor
diversity programs.
Pictured from top right: Dave Voss, V.P. of Operations.
John Nelson, Senior Estimator; Dave Welsh, Sales and
Tim Sinclair, Sheet Metal Superintendant.
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
9
Make your new house feel
•
Expert
tips
•
You know
that moving
into a new
home can
be one of life’s
biggest stressors the packing, the paperwork, the
unpacking and of course finding
the nearest coffee shop. Making
your new house feel like your
home can help alleviate some of
this stress and provide a safehaven for some much needed
relaxation.
“Everyone has a different sense
of what home is,” says Elizabeth
Lindmier of The Art Institute of
Colorado. So while the same
aesthetic won’t work for everyone,
she offers her top five tips to start
you in the right direction.
1. Texture and textiles - Instead of having
a bunch of hard surfaces, cozy up your home
with something soft or textured. This could be
a blanket, curtains or area rugs. These items will
also provide some acoustical value so noises aren’t
echoing in an empty space.
2. Comfort - Have some place in your home
where you can relax, recharge and feel at ease.
“Make a space where you would like to spend
time,” Lindmier says.
3. Color - A monochromatic scheme with pops
of colors can bring you into a place where you feel
comfortable and happy. “Do your research on color
theory before painting any space,” says Lindmier.
“Different colors can spark different moods,
emotions and even behavior. Discover what you’d
like a given space to accomplish, and use colors as
a tool to create such environment.”
4. Lighting - There should be aesthetically
pleasing lighting. Look at the difference between
warm and cool lighting colors to decide what
helps achieve the look you want. Also consider
task, ambient and accent lighting for your space.
“Lighting plays a key role in any home,” Lindmier
says. “Through lighting design you can highlight
like home
design and architectural features, create lighting
which is more useful to the human eye, and work
with natural light while keeping energy use to a
minimum.”
5. Clutter/stuff - “Less is more, but make it
more meaningful,” says Lindmier. Get rid of your
clutter. When sitting in your space, make sure you
can look around and adore the things you see.
“Mies van der Rohe’s old adage, ‘less is more,’
certainly holds true here,” says Jackie Barry, Interior
Design instructor at The Art Institute of Houston
- North. “Select significant pieces of furniture
and art to move. You don’t need to have or show
everything you have all in one room.”
Barry also advises incorporating a concept called
biophilic design, which recognizes the inherent
need of humans to interact and affiliate with nature
to achieve and maintain optimum health and wellbeing. “Bring the outside in; don’t neglect good
views to the outside, accentuate them,” she says.
“Let your garden and landscaping work for you on
the inside. Connecting with nature can also have a
calming and a comforting effect.” RVW
For more information about The Art Institutes,
visit artinstitutes.edu.
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
11
SPACES
That
“Lived-in”
Look
By Lynn Heuchert of Idea Haus (pictured at right)
Photos by Jordan Powers
12
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
memories and peace for the family. They wanted
the new home to feel like it had been there for
years. Comfort and a welcoming atmosphere were
priority. The home would need to welcome guests
on a regular basis, it would need to accommodate
large gatherings and major cooking! The floor
coverings had to be durable and easy
maintenance. Large areas were needed
for gathering and private areas for family
guests to get away from it all.
My job is not to push my taste on
others, but rather to read my client,
understand their style and try my best
to interpret that into the design project.
I always try to remember a home and its
furnishings are simply a backdrop to the
lives being lived there. It’s always necessary
for a designer to be in sync with the family
who will live there.
So the design process began. The kitchen was
the start. It was the central point in the main living
area and it was meant to be the heart of the home.
It needed to have major storage space for large
cooking pots, canned food and lots of space for
those extras when company is coming. Rather than
make the kitchen too large, we designed a walk in
pantry behind the range wall with walk through
doors that matched the cabinetry. That kept
s
Every design experience is different, and
every first meeting with a customer holds the
opportunity for something new and exciting.
Every customer has their own values, need and
expectations which must be considered with
every new project. That’s what keeps my job fun,
challenging and exciting.
Such was the case with this lovely lake home
located in Jackson County, Minnesota. The building
process had already started, the frame was up and
room locations and spaces were determined. A
fellow designer, Jackie Berg, had started some of
the initial concepts when she took another job and
moved out of the area. The responsibility was then
mine to help the homeowner. It can be difficult
for a designer to “take over” and connect with a
customer who has developed a good relationship
with another designer. The first time I visited the
new building site and met the homeowners, I
wasn’t sure what my reception would be. There was
no need for fear, the client-designer connection
was immediate. The homeowners had a solid idea
of what they wanted this house to be. They had put
a lot of thought into it and communicated those
thoughts to me. Figuring out what you want in a
new space is not always an easy thing to do.
This area and the lake had, for many years, been
a place of family gatherings, wonderful family
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
13
the kitchen a mid-size that two or three
people could work in comfortably with
a nice working triangle to save steps. We
added a large angled peninsula so guests
and family could sit and visit while the
cook is busy preparing meals. The sink was
placed in the peninsula with a great view
of the lake. The cabinetry by Showplace
Wood Products is quarter sawn oak with
a dark harvest stain and ebony glaze. The
door style chosen is a simple Shaker door
for minimum maintenance and a farmhouse
feeling.
The millwork throughout the home
is a close replication of the wood trim in
the home owners original farmhouse.
We wanted the feeling of thick rich, dark
wood contrasted by light colored walls,
again, to act as the backdrop to antiques,
memorabilia, accessories and the family
living there.
The stone fireplace is centrally located
within the great room to be enjoyed in the
sitting area, dining room and kitchen with a
view of the lake flanking both sides.
The family/media room was designed
to display the homeowners’ extensive
collection of model airplanes. The ceiling
is filled with these wonderful handcrafted
models. We put a fireplace in this room
also. The stone was chosen to coordinate
with the field stone used for terracing the
hillside outside the window. A large mantle
was designed to hold more of the airplane
collection. This room was designed to be
smaller than the great room area to give the
family a feeling of coziness when watching
TV, or just quiet time reading by the fire.
The main floor of the home, which is
concrete, is heated by radiant in-floor
heat. A large porcelain tile was chosen to
cover the entire main floor to hold and
radiate heat in winter, but also for easy care
summer and winter with swimmers and
fishermen coming in and out. All of the
permanent furnishings were chosen with
warm earthy colors to bring the feel of the
exterior surroundings inside. The porcelain
and glass accent tiles were mirrored
throughout the house in varying sizes and
patterns. This provided a continuity to the
design as you go from room to room.
The day of the photo shoot was the first
time I had seen the house fully furnished.
HOW TO START A BUILDING OR REMODELING PROJECT:
Thinking about some of these things can
get you started on the right track to the
communication and decision making
involved in any project whether it be
building, or remodeling your home.
• Will you want to work with a
designer to help with design concepts?
• Do you have a favorite design style?
Traditional, contemporary, transitional, just
to name a few, or are you very eclectic in
the styles you are drawn to?
• Start a design file. Either cut out
photos from kitchen or home magazines,
or start a file on Pinterest or Houzz of things
you like. Even if it’s just one thing you like in
the photo a pattern will develop which will
14
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
help your designer or builder know where
to start.
• What is your wish list? You may not
get everything on that list, but it helps
determine priorities.
• What are your family’s hobbies and
interests? Do you need space for sewing,
crafting or wood working?
• Do you need space for major TV
watching and game playing, or are you
content reading in front of the fireplace?
• Think about budget. The more
realistic you are up front, the more
successful you will be with the final plan.
• How do you use different spaces
in your home? Is the kitchen the main
gathering space for cooking, homework,
visiting with guests?
• How large is your family? How many
sitting spaces are needed on an island?
• Do you like to cook?
• How do you buy groceries? Do you
like to stock up and need space for bulk
products?
• Do you have lots of kitchen gadgets
or small appliances?
• How about in the bathroom? Do you
take showers, or prefer long leisurely baths?
• Do you need extra space for family
members getting ready in the morning?
• Do you like additional privacy for the
toilet?
• What colors are you attracted to?
Sometimes a special painting or piece of
furniture can be the creative spark to your
color palette.
With all the great furniture and personal items
it was no longer just a house, it was a home,
reflecting the personalities of the family
living there. That is the most rewarding, when
everything comes into the shell I have designed
and it’s finally home.
Homeowner comments:
The house floor plan was designed by my
husband and me. We decided to build as the
house that was on the property originally when
we bought it would not have been costeffective to renovate. I’ve always loved
the craftsmanship and character of
old homes so it was my desire
to carry that into our new
home. The house is postframe construction built by
Ameribuilt with geothermal
heating and cooling. Lynn
from Idea Haus is a joy to
work with and through
the process became a good
friend as well. She was easy to
work with and bounce ideas off
of. Our son helped with some of
the finish work in the house. We did
a lot of the landscaping ourselves. We love
the cozy welcoming feel of the entire house. My
favorite room is the probably the living roomkitchen area and my husband’s is the office. For
those looking to build, expect the unexpected,
realize timelines change as the project goes on.
It helps to know what you want the end product
to look like. RVW
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
15
Creating Space
[THat matters]
by Jane Jensen
If you’ve ever spent more than 10 minutes
looking for your car keys or cell phone, missed
a deadline or bill payment or had to move
newspapers and homework off the dinner table
to eat, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Life is busy
and even chaotic at times. Clutter collects and
disorganization naturally happens.
We can all use a little help sometimes.
That’s where Jayne Jensen comes in. Her
newly launched business Your Organized Home
promises just that.
Your Organized Home, a New Ulm-based
professional organizing business, offers many
tips and practical methods for simplifying and
organizing, for example on clutter:
• When decluttering - ask yourself do I use it,
need it, or love it?
• Think twice before you buy - what are you
using it for, where will you keep it?
• De cluttering will bring up lots of “things” to
deal with, but know there are no wrong choices,
and it is one of the best therapies for reducing
stress!
Jayne finds her passion in helping individuals
reduce their clutter and organize their space.
Living with less and loving your space is
Jayne’s mantra. Her goal is to guide the
organizationally-challenged in simplifying their
lives, de-cluttering their homes, maximizing
available space, learning organizing skills, and
finding more time for themselves.
How long have you been doing this?
I officially kicked off Your Organized Home
in January of this year. Unofficially I’ve been
organizing my entire life. I can remember
shutting my bedroom door on a Saturday
morning and completely de-cluttering,
rearranging and organizing my things! I’ve
always enjoyed clearing out space and doing
something new with it or just letting it be free
of something for awhile, especially now as I can
see the future of many of things I’ve acquired
and inherited.
What special skills do you bring?
Adaptability - there is no cookie-cutter
answer for de-cluttering depending on each
person’s relationship with their belongings.
Common sense - it’s important to have
sound judgment when suggesting solutions
about how to organize someone else’s
lifestyle that is different from your own,
assess situations quickly and accurately,
guidance, encouragement, ability to educate
on something potentially difficult to do and
understand, excellent listening skills, nonjudgmental, and dedicated to a successful
outcome meeting the client’s needs and goals.
What was your motivation in starting this
type of service?
More of a natural calling and instinct for me
to live with less, and live organized. I’ve never
liked dusting, so I’ve kept only the things I love.
Of course I have “trouble spots,” for example
right now I’m working on my photo storage
process, but it’s a fun organizational project
for me! I know that I can improve people’s
lives by helping them live with less and be
Endless Possibilities
507-345-1484
Hours: 9:00-5:30 M-F; 9:00-1:00 Sat.
www.dencolighting.com
016618
241 St. Andrews Drive,
Mankato, MN
507.345.8084
012358
16
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
more organized. I’ve
always enjoyed making
people’s lives better.
Once you help a
family get their home
in shape what can they
do to keep it that way?
This is a significant
part of the process. The
important thing is to
create a maintenance
schedule. Areas of the
home can demand
different maintenance
schedules and
frequencies. For example when dealing with a garage,
basement or attic, once it has been de-cluttered and
organized, semi-annual maintenance can happen so it
doesn’t get overwhelming. Places such as a household
command center, where the calendar of activities,
in-going and out-going mail, and miscellaneous items
are coming in and changing on a daily maintenance,
need daily maintenance. Once you have a schedule for
that place, remember to keep like things together, put
away what you take out, assign a home for everything,
and always abide by the in/out rule - when you buy
something new, something old must go.
Do you work with people’s habits? Meaning some
people are naturally disorganized, are good at
knowing what to do,
or seeing their way
out of their piles of
stuff, etc.
It’s important to
work side by side
with a professional
organizer so someone
who is chronically
disorganized learns
how and what they
need to do to stay
organized. The
organizing process is
very systematic. Many
tools and visuals can be left to help the organizationallychallenged keep on top of their space.
When should people call in the pros vs doing it
themselves?
If you’ve tried to get organized before but it hasn’t
worked or it reverted to the way it was in a short period
of time, it’s time to pick up the phone. It could be that
you weren’t clear on the goals and needs of the space,
or it all became a bit too overwhelming. A professional
organizer will come in and work with you, giving you
more hands on help, and be there for you at more
frequent levels, so your space continues to meet your
needs and goals. RVW
Jayne’s
Philosophy:
“Author Karen
Kingston wrote “every
aspect of your life is
anchored energetically
in your living space, so
clearing your clutter can
completely transform
your entire existence.”
She also says “everything
around you, especially
your home environment,
mirrors your inner self.”
I couldn’t agree more.
The ability to clear out
your clutter and have a
lighter, organized home
will bring you a sense
of peace, feelings of
accomplishment and
empowerment, and a
life of possibility. Who
doesn’t want more
time to spend on the
important things in life
versus keeping house? “
Style
207470
Step into
At the Idea Haus
Our talented staff is ready to
design the home of your dreams!
Kitchens - Bathrooms
Onyx Collection Showers - Porcelain Tile
Carpet - Wood Florors
Window Coverings
Countertops - Backsplashes
Lynn
Sue
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Linda
Overson Lumber Co. Inc.
St. James | Sleepy Eye | Lamberton | Wabasso | Jackson | Westbrook | New Ulm
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
17
8th annual
Ladies Night Out
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Friday, april 10, 2015
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Bring Your
Friends!
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Minnesota Lake, MN 56068
800-658-7076
www.nordaashomes.com
6th AnnuAl
home Show
Saturday, April 18, 2015
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
10:00 A.m. Free SeminAr
Building a New Home: Getting Started
Seminar rSVP
800-658-7076
www.nordaashomes.com
• Tour a Nordaas Home
• Over 20 Vendors
• Design Consultants/Home Decor
• Additions/Remodels Consultants
• Pole Buildings
10091 State hwy. 22 minnesota lake, mn 56068
014586
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Come select your slab
in our new & exciting 11,000 sq. ft. Slab Showroom
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016524
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Visit our Showroom:
1371 S State Street
Waseca, MN 011368
016614
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
19
She’s got game!
Photos by Amanda Dyslin
At right: Chris Phinney and
Barb Jacobs are two employees
who can be found most days at
C&N Sales in North Mankato.
C&N Sales also sells gaming equipment that
youngsters would enjoy, including foosball
tables and refurbished arcade games.
The latest trend in home game rooms?
Believe it or not, shuffle boards are hot
right now.
The retail side of C&N sales has everything
for a game room, from neon wall clocks
and signs to top of the line pool tables
and poker tables.
Chris Phinney says pool tables are still
the staple of most game rooms.
20
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
By Amanda Dyslin
Many of us conjure the same image when we
hear the word “shuffleboard:” a couple of older
gentleman standing on the deck of a cruise ship,
gently gliding a disc into a triangle scoring area.
All in all, it may sound like kind of a yawn
fest. Which is why Chris Phinney’s answer to the
question, “What would you say is the hot new
trend in home game rooms?” was so surprising.
“The shuffleboards are starting to get big,” said
Phinney of C&N Sales in North Mankato. “It used
to mean standing around on a deck somewhere
to play, but now it’s a table. It’s a really nice table,
and I always say that a game table is a really
beautiful piece of furniture.”
Shuffleboards have, indeed, come a
long way. The basic rules of the
game are the same, except
the playing area is
elevated and smaller
in scale. Tiny beads
of silicone are
sprinkled on the
surface to aid the
puck in gliding
down the table
surface to the
scoring area.
The
reinvention of the
game as a table has
made it popular with
a variety of age groups,
and it’s finding its way into
more and more area homes. The
narrow size of the wooden table makes
it a nice addition to home game rooms, Phinney
said, because it fits right alongside the wall so
there’s plenty of room left for other gaming
equipment.
That’s important considering the room has to
serve myriad purposes for all ages and interests
of family members: video and arcade games for
the kids, maybe a pool table for Dad, a dart board
for mom, and air hockey or foosball for all of the
above.
Pool tables are still by far and away the most
popular game room staples, Phinney said. C&N
sells Brunswick and Olhausen gaming tables,
which are sought-after brands. The store also
sells dart boards, bar stools, pub tables, theater
seating, and poker tables, which became quite
popular when Texas hold ’em became trendy
again.
“A couple of years ago, everybody needed a
poker table,” Phinney said.
C&N, which opened in 1928, also sells
refurbished gaming equipment, including arcade
games, among others. Recently, a refurbished
Ms. Pac-Man arcade game with about 60 games
loaded onto it was for sale in the showroom.
The store also sells tons of game room
accessories, including neon clocks and signs, and
all the most popular pool and dart supplies.
“Because of our leagues, we have to have
the pool cues and darts that everybody wants,”
Phinney said.
The pool and dart leagues are another big
part of C&N’s business. The company – which
also leases hundreds of coin-operated gaming
machines to businesses in the area – has the
largest league system in Minnesota. The North
Mankato branch, alone, has 104 leagues, a few of
which are women-only.
Phinney has been a member of an all-women
league in Mankato for years, but it’s a trend she
sees declining as women have begun to join
mixed leagues of men and women. Barb Jacobs
has worked at C&N for 24 years, and she knows
women who have played in leagues for decades.
“Sometimes you see them quit for a while when
their kids get to a certain age, but then they come
back,” Jacobs said.
Both Jacobs and Phinney said many women in
the area have always played pool and darts, and
that’s an interest that has remained pretty steady.
“It’s kind of always been that way,” Phinney
said. “But the women’s leagues are dissipating.
The women are still playing, but now they’re
intermixed with the men. … Probably within the
next few years they’ll all be intermixed.”
Phinney’s reasons for wanting to play in a
league are pretty consistent with that of other
women she knows. Bottom line: “It’s a night out.”
“You know how busy women are,” Phinney said.
“It’s a nice release. I’m not good at pool by any
means, but it’s fun, and I like to play, and I do OK in
my league.”
Phinney’s made a lot of friends playing pool
with so many familiar faces every week. And it’s
always fun to see beginners join the fun, too.
RVW
Cheers to Spring!
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014245
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
21
Incredible
Bulk!
Pictured April Graff and Marcia Smith
Story by Deb Moldaschel
Rows and rows of nuts, grains, beans, lentils, oats, granolas, flours,
rice varieties, dried fruits, spices, infused olive oils, some teas
and coffees, and even candy fill these 520 bins.
B
Buying food by dipping into a big bin used to feel like a hippiegranola thing to do. But buying food in its natural or raw state has gone
mainstream these days.
A recent tour of the new bulk foods section at Hilltop Hy-Vee in
Mankato was a trip into a foodie wonderland.
Registered dietitian, April Graff along with Marcia Smith, bulk food
manager, described the growth of the department.
“We started with 16 bins four years ago and expanded to 32 the next
year,” explained April. “This past fall the decision was made to revamp a
whole section of the store to greatly expand the bulk food offerings.”
“Now I oversee 520 bins of bulk food items in the new department,”
Marcia added.
Rows and rows of nuts, grains, beans, lentils, oats, granolas, flours,
rice varieties, dried fruits, spices, infused olive oils, some teas and
coffees, and even candy fill these 520 bins. Also available are freshly
ground peanut and almond butters, honey (locally sourced from
Luverne, Minnesota), and agave nectar.
Buying in bulk sounds, well, bulky, right? Not so according to April.
“Choosing from a bulk food department allows you to buy in very
small quantities,” she said. “Which is perfect for trying new foods and
recipes.”
22
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Marcia enjoys acting as a liaison to customers, showing them how
to package, weigh and label their purchases, and answering questions
about the products.
“The labels on each bin have the nutritional values and some basic
cooking instructions,” explained Marcia. “I often learn right along with
the customers as I research the products.”
She learns which items are most popular and what new things
customers might be looking for as she helps them shop.
“The department changes as we learn what customers want and
what works best for displays,” said Marcia, pointing out the bulk oils
and explaining plans to display them in small glass bottles.
The trend toward purchasing foods from bulk is becoming more
popular according to Marcia.
“All ages, women and men, they all enjoy the experience,” she said,
with April adding, “It’s fun to try something new and the process of
choosing and packaging is interactive and novel.”
Dietitian April walks clients through the store to help them learn
healthy shopping habits.
“The bulk food department is a great place for teaching,” she said.
Asked if there is a close nutrition and health relationship with bulk
foods April hedged, “Yes and no. There are many healthy, natural,
whole, unaltered and unprocessed items available, but there are also
the more indulgent choices – chocolates and candies, salted, seasoned,
or sweetened items,” she said, suggesting that these treats should be
had in small quantities.
Many of the bulk foods are also available in organic versions. A simple
explanation of organic refers to foods grown and produced without
chemical fertilizers and pesticides. April explained that customer
preference is the main reason for choosing organics, and that the
nutritional value of the food does not differ.
“Organic foods are often more expensive, but the gap is not as high
when purchasing in bulk,” said April.
“Buying in bulk is less expensive in general,” added Marcia,
“the packaging is cheaper and the customer controls the quantity
purchased.”
Both April and Marcia assured that when you are perusing the bulk
food department questions are welcome. “Don’t be afraid to ask and
don’t be afraid to try,” said April. Marcia encouraged, “Come in when
you’re hungry and have time to enjoy!” RVW
Author’s note: This was too much fun and way too tempting. I bought
whole walnuts, dried apricots, a low-glycemic snack mix, pepper infused
olive oil, quinoa - and no candy. I’ve been wanting to try some quinoa
recipes for some time. Quinoa is an ancient food that is a seed – a whole
grain. It is gluten-free and a source of protein, fiber, B-complex vitamins,
vitamin E, and essential fatty acids. The following recipe was perfect
because I had recently bought an avocado for which I had no plans on
how to eat. I liked the salad and felt very virtuous for making and eating
it – so many healthy ingredients. Did you know avocados contain nearly 20
vitamins and minerals, are a good source of fiber and provide healthy fats
that are important in your diet? Check out other quinoa recipes online or in
cookbooks.
Avocado
Quinoa Salad
This is served chilled so plan on 1 ½
hours prior to eating. The recipe is for 8
servings, but can easily be cut in half.
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
2 avocados
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 large tomato, diced
½ cucumber, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare the quinoa you soak it in warm water for 5 minutes
and then rinse and drain it. It will still look like little seeds at this
point. Then add the quinoa to the chicken broth which you’ve
brought to a boil on the stove. Bring it back to a boil and then
reduce the heat and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed into
the quinoa. It puffs up and looks a bit like cooked rice or barley –
but more interesting! Let it cool.
Cut avocados in half, remove pit and peel. Cut into small
chunks and toss with lemon juice. Add avocados and all
remaining ingredients to quinoa and toss gently to mix.
Chill until ready to serve.
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
23
“I fEEl
listened to.”
“I know the solutions we come up with will
fit our family and help us thrive.” —SARAH SCHWEIM
The Schweim family likes to stay active—biking, hiking, swimming, camping and roasting
marshmallows over a fire in the backyard. Helping keep everyone healthy is a job their Mankato Clinic
family physician, Dr. Richard Peller, takes seriously. He delivered all four Schweim children and he’s
seen Oliver through a scary recovery process after he was run over by a pickup truck. Sarah wouldn’t
trust any place else to keep them all healthy.
� mankatoclinic.com
016541
24
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Plan ahead
for easier, healthier meal preparation
We hear a lot about focusing on clean eating, but what does it really mean, and how can we be
successful in our hectic lives to stay on track doing so? It all comes back to planning! Eating clean
means eating food in its most natural state. This is a program that has worked well for me and
many people that I have helped develop a healthier lifestyle. I am not a certified nutritionist or
dietitian. I am a career woman with a family and many outside interests. Planning my meals is
key to keeping my health in line.
Make a Menu
Take one day a week and set aside a half hour. Use that half hour
to plan your food for the week. Make a grocery list, find your recipes.
Put a menu on the refrigerator to help keep you on track. This will
also help your family know what wonderful delicious foods are in
store for the week. I have seen some family members use a dry
erase board to show the meals that are premade in the refrigerator
as well as the freezer so in their absence the family knows what is
easily available.
Prep Your Kitchen
In cooking ahead you need to have the storage containers ready.
I like to use glass storage containers so it’s easy for my family to
see the items that are prepped and precooked for them when they
open the refrigerator. If you don’t already own these, you will need
to purchase one cup storage containers. Storing your prepped
food in these containers makes it easy to grab and go. You can also
use standard baggies but some items just work better in a glass
or plastic container. I prefer the taste of my foods, especially my
cooked proteins, out of glass containers. I discourage the use of
baggies as it just fills up landfills and adds extra cost. Each person in
my household has a small cooler bag that they pack each day with
the items that they need to snack on when away from home. I never
leave for a road trip without a small cooler of healthy snacks.
Once you are into the swing of eating clean you will soon realize
that most of your food comes from your refrigerator and not your
pantry. Processed and packaged snacks are not food in its most
“natural state.” Having a variety of healthy snacks readily available for you and your family is important. Our society is used
to the grab and go mentality. I like to keep a variety of healthy
nuts, fruits and vegetables prepped and available for fast
snacks. During the winter when some fruits tend to be less fresh
and more expensive I will stock up on frozen items such as berries,
mango and pineapple. These are also great to add to smoothies or
mix with a protein powder for a high energy meal replacement or
snack.
Cook Ahead
On Sundays I do all my meal prep for the week. Some people will
set aside one day a month and make freezer meals and then utilize
them throughout the month. It all works once you have a system in
place. When it comes to cooking ahead I like to cook all my ground
meats at one time. I usually fry up multiple pounds of ground lean
turkey breast and will make a variety of meals from this. Good
examples would be taco turkey meat, turkey meatballs in a marinara
sauce over spaghetti squash or turkey chili. The nice part is my meat
is cooked and I can prepare a quick supper when I get home and I
only have one pan to clean on Sunday instead of one each night! I
will marinade and grill several chicken breasts at one time. Now I am
set for several protein filled snacks and also quick lunches and dinners. Making egg frittatas in muffin tins also makes for a quick high
protein breakfast option if you don’t have time to make yourself
breakfast each morning. These are easy to pack and take with you
to heat up at work. Use the internet to search for “Eating Clean”
recipes. You will be surprised at the variety that are available. Almost
all your family favorites can be cleaned up and made healthier!
Not only will you eat healthier when you plan your meals and
snacks, you will probably save money on your grocery
shopping and also cut down on the expense of
eating out and grabbing food on the run. RVW
Chris Schull
Director of Information Technology, Ridley Inc.
Certified AFAA Personal Trainer
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
25
&
Fun, Festivals Frolics
To have your event listed, please e-mail Ruth Klossner at [email protected]. Listings are generally for events that are free to the public,
or are fund-raisers. Listings will be published as space allows and at the discretion of the editor.
Fri.-Sat., Mar. 6-7
• New Ulm Farm-City Hub Club’s
34th Farm Show, New Ulm Civic
Center, Brown County Fairgrounds.
1-8 pm Fri., 10 am-5 pm Sat. Free
admission. Largest indoor farm
show in south central Minnesota.
Info and vendor registration:
507-354-8524 or 507-233-4300.
• Hutchinson Craft & Vendor Show,
Hutchinson Mall, 1060 Hwy 15 So.
10 am-9 pm Fri. & 10 am-6 pm Sat.
Sat., Mar. 7
• Friends of Rush River Dance,
Henderson Event Center, Henderson, 8:30 pm. Profits go toward
upkeep & maintenance of Rush
River Park. Info: 507-381-4425 or
507-248-3230.
Sun., Mar. 8
• ‘Men are from Mars, Women are
from Venus’ live comedy show,
State Street Theatre, 15 N. State St.,
New Ulm, 7 pm. Info: statestreetnewulm.org or 866-811-4111.
• MVL Day of Events, Minnesota
Valley Lutheran High School,
2 Miles East of New Ulm on
Hwy 14. Booster Club Pork Chop
Dinner, 10:30 am-1:30 pm., free will
offering. Tours of newly remodeled
Learning Center. Winter Band
Concert, 1:30 pm. Info: valh@mvlhs.
org or 507-233-8662.
Tues., Mar. 10
• Alice Lind Play Reading Society,
John Lind House, 622 Center Street,
New Ulm, 7 pm. Reading ‘Cat
on a Hot Tin Roof’ by Tennessee
Williams. Info: execdir@newulmact.
com or 359-9990.
Thurs., Mar. 12
• Henderson Sew & Share Quilters,
Henderson Library, lower level, 6:30
pm. Beginning projects or bring
your own stitching, knitting, etc.—
sew, share, and learn. No cost. Info:
507-248-3880.
• Mingle With a Purpose Women’s
Networking and Development
Event, Holiday Inn, 2101 So. Broadway, New Ulm, 6-10 pm. Professional development & networking
with other women, Guest speaker
Dr. Verna Price. Hosted by New Ulm
Area Chamber of Commerce. Info &
cost: 507-233-4300 or
[email protected].
Fri., Mar. 13
• Murder Mystery at the Cox House,
Cox House, 500 N. Washington
Ave., St. Peter, 6-10 pm. Catered
meal and the drama of a good
mystery, supporting the Cox House
and Nicollet County Historical
Society. Full costumes encouraged;
some props available. Must be 21
to participate. Info & registration:
934-3048.
• Sixth Annual Home Tweet Home
event for Habitat for Humanity,
AmericInn, Mankato 6 pm. Wine,
beer, appetizers, & dessert tasting;
silent auction featuring hand
painted birdhouses and garden
accessories by area artists; raffle.
Info & tickets: 508-388-2081 ext. 4.
Fri.-Sun., Mar. 13-15
• 12U and 14U State Hockey
Tournaments, New Ulm Civic
Center, Brown County Fairgrounds.
on waterfalls side of park. Staff
will demonstrate tapping trees,
collecting sap & boiling to produce
syrup. Info: 507-384-8890 or Scott.
[email protected].
• Brown County Humane Society
Caged for Critters, Humane Society
at 1301 South Valley Street in New
Ulm. “Jailbirds” call friends & family
to get out of jail. Info: 359-2312 or
507-276-5888 or bchsnu@hotmail.
com.
Sat.-Sun., Mar. 14-15
• Mankato Natural Healing and
Psychic Expo, Courtyard by
Marriott, 901 Raintree Road at
River Hills Mall, Mankato. 10 am6 pm Sat.; 10 am-5 pm, Sun. 40
exhibitors, workshops, speakers
& healing modalities. Info & cost:
507-388-2506 or matrixmediaexpo.
jigsy.com.
Sat., Mar. 14
• Maple Syrup Demonstration,
Minneopa State Park, 5 mi. west
of Mankato on Hwys. 68 & 169,
DAC5205B_RVW_team_DAC5205 1/20/15 11:11 AM Page 1
1-3 pm. Meet at picnic shelter
Be Wise About Your Vision
11TH ANNUAL WINE & BEER TASTING EVENT
CITY CENTER HOTEL IN DOWNTOWN MANKATO
a benefit for:
Lisa Meyer
Amber Schewe
Leah Stadick
Tracie Schmidt
Our opticians are all ABO Certified.
6:30 - 8:30PM Hors d‘oeuvres & tasting
9PM - 10:30PM Dancing
SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY:
$1000 PLATINUM table of 8
INCLUDES: 4 bottles of wine | hors d‘oeuvres and desserts served at your table | gift bag
$595 PREMIER table of 8
INCLUDES: 2 bottles of wine | cheese and cracker tray | indivudual gifts
$320 table of 8 | $35 individual
We want you SEEing life together!
CITY CENTER HOTEL is offering a special room rate of $99, just mention the Relay for Life Wine Tasting.
PURCHASE TICKETS: DISCOVER CHIROPRACTIC
1609 N. RIVERFRONT DR. #100, MANKATO 507-720-0742
sponsored by:
Must be 21 or older. The money raised at this event provides services and programs for people in blue
earth countyaffected by cancer and also funds local research at the university of MN and Mayo Clinic
26
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
507.354.8531
249241
http://relay.acsevents.org/BLueEarthWineTasting
Tues., Mar. 17
• Irish Parade and Clan Banquet,
New Ulm, 5-11 pm. Info:
http://newulmblarney.com.
• Southern Minnesota Home and
Builders Show, Verizon Wireless
Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza,
Mankato. 5 pm-9 pm Fri.; 10 am-6
pm Sat.; noon-5 pm Sun. Building,
home & yard products and services
displayed by exhibitors. Info: 515537-2094 or jacksonexpogroup.
com/Southern-Minnesota/index.
html.
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade, South
Third St., St. Peter, 5:30 p.m.
Wed.-Sun., Mar. 18-22
• Joe’s Camper Show, New Ulm
Civic Center, Brown County
Fairgrounds, New Ulm. Info:
507-354-8106 or
joescampers.com.
Sun., Mar. 22
• MVL Booster Club Auction, Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School,
rural New Ulm, 11 am viewing &
lunch, 1 pm auction. Info: valh@
mvlhs.org.
Fri., Mar. 20
• Equinox and Astronomy Hike,
Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature
Center Lane, Henderson, 7:30 pm.
Welcome spring with a vernal
equinox celebration, hike through
the evening air to look at stars and
talk about the natural changes
that occur at this time of year. Info
& cost: neycenter.org or 507-2483474.
• MLC College Choir Home Concert,
Chapel of the Christ, MLC, New
Ulm. 3:00 pm. Info: 507-354-8221
or mlc-wels.edu.
Fri.-Sun., Mar. 20-22
• Musical - ‘When In Rome’ Fundraiser, New Ulm Community Center,
600 N. German, New Ulm. 7 pm Fri.
& Sat., 2 pm Sun. Intergenerational
light-hearted musical stage performance. Info: 507-354-3212 or
[email protected].
Tues., Mar. 24
• Women Celebrating Women,
Jackson Campus Center, Gustavus
Adolphus College, St. Peter, 6 pm.
A celebration of women as valued
members & leaders of community.
Theme is “Weaving the Stories
of Women’s Lives.” Info & cost:
stpetercommunityedonline.com;
register by March 16.
Fri., Mar. 27
• Eagles Extravaganza fundraiser
for New Ulm Public Schools, New
Ulm Event Center, 5-11:55 pm. Dinner, silent auction, entertainment,
hosted by the ISD 88 Foundation.
Info: [email protected] or
isd88foundation.org.
Fri.-Sun., Mar. 27-29
• New Ulm Home & Health Show,
New Ulm Civic Center, Brown
County Fairgrounds. 3-8 pm Fri;
10 am-6 pm Sat; 11 am-4 pm Sun.
Over 180 booths, seminars, door
prizes. Info: business.newulm.com/
events.
Sat., Mar. 28
• ‘Your Organized Home
101—Keepsake or Clutter,’
Home Show, New Ulm Civic Center,
Brown County Fairgrounds, 3 pm.
30-minute seminar to understand
relationship to “stuff” in the home.
Sun. Mar. 29
• Hilltop Happenings, Hilltop Hall,
206 First St. N., Montgomery, 4 pm.
Musical variety show. No admission—donation accepted to defray
costs; pizza sold at intermission.
Info: bighonza.com/hilltop-hall/.
Sat., Apr. 4
• Flying Event, Ney Nature Center,
28238 Nature Center Lane, 1 pm.
Learn mechanics behind flying, including lift, and how birds use this
as means of travel; make kites to
fly with newly gained knowledge
about flying. Info & cost: neycenter.
org or 507-248-3474.
Thurs., Apr. 9
• Henderson Sew & Share Quilters,
Henderson Library, Lower
level. 6:30 pm. Beginning projects
or bring your own stitching, knitting, etc.—sew, share, and learn. No
cost. Info: 507-248-3880.
Sat., Apr. 11
• New Ulm indoor citywide garage
sale, Civic Center, New Ulm.
Sat.-Sun., April 11-12
• Mankato Munchkin Markets Children’s Consignment Sale, Verizon
Wireless Center, Civic Center Plaza,
Mankato. Mankato. 9 am-4 pm
Sat., 9 am-2 pm Sun. Thousands
of pre-loved and new items for
babies to big kids at discounted
prices; furniture, toys, strollers,
swings, books more. Info: mankato.
munchkinmarkets.com/.
sponsors
016031
35th Annual!
March 27-29
• Friday
3 - 8 PM
• Saturday
10 AM - 6 PM
New Ulm Civic Center
1212 N. Franklin
• Sunday
11 AM - 4 PM
• Daily Drawings!
• Free Seminars!
• 200 booths!
www.newulm.com/507-233-4300
Sponsored by the New Ulm
Business & Retail Association
7th Annual Community
Run/Walk Event
✩ ✩
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Sibley Park Mankato
Registration and Information:
www.mankatoywca.org or (507) 345-4629
Registration & Activities: 8:00 a.m. Kids K: 9:30 a.m.
5k Run/Walk: 10:00 a.m.
016594
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
27
DO YOU PUT MORE
THOUGHT INTO CHOOSING
A TV THAN INTO CHOOSING
AN ORTHOPEDIC SURGEON?
Bleed: 8.625" x 11.25"
Live: .25" from trim x .25" from trim
Trim: 8.5" x 11"
Final Delivery: Hi-Res PDF with and without crop marks and bleed, via e-mail
Color: CMYK
Format: single page
Proofs: Single page PDF, with crop and bleed, via e-mail
Finished size: 8.5" x 11"
Keyline built to: 100%
Production Artist: Sarah Schroeder
_______
Proofreader:
_______
Copywriter:
_______
Creative Director: Lori Andersen
_______
Job Name: OFC1403_PrintAd
Executive Creative Director:
_______
Job Description: Print Ad
Project Manager: Laurie Perrin
_______
Job Code:
Account Director: Nicole Travis
_______
Version: 1
Job Number: OFC 1403 Print Ad
Date: 10.27.14
28
009805
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
015893
29
HER
story
This feature highlights the lives
of our sisters, mothers, grandmothers,
and great-grandmothers in who’s footsteps
we follow. River Valley Woman feels that
what our senior women in the river valley
have to say is vitally important and that
we have much to learn from them.
In this issue Peggy (Krzmarzick) Tauer
of Sleepy Eye tells HERstory.
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Loretto Hospital in New Ulm, and
lived in Sleepy Eye the first five years of my life.
With my parents, my sister and two brothers,
I moved to the Krzmarzick homestead east of
Sleepy Eye and lived there until marriage. Then my
husband Ray and I moved to a farm north of Sleepy
Eye, so I never strayed too far from home. What is a favorite memory?
At about 8 or 9, tagging after my dad when he
was planting small grain with a grain drill, pulled
by horses. That’s when I first became aware of
the smell of the newly-turned soil, while seeing
the seed falling into the furrow to be covered by
the chains of the drill dragging over the ground. I
always loved horses too, making pets of them with
shelled corn in my pockets and feeding them. My
brother thought I had a gift, taming the horses,
and I never told him about the corn kernels in my
pockets.
Education?
At the age of five, I went to a 6-week program at
Sleepy Eye Public School. I attended St. Mary’s
Elementary and High School for 12 years, graduating in 1949. Ten of those years I rode Bus #3 to
school, and Les Kuelbs was our driver. I have taken
several college classes through New Ulm Community Education, mostly art and design, and one
class through the technical college at Mankato.
Did/Do you have a career?
After high school, I worked for a photographer in
Sleepy Eye, learning to develop film, and tinting
photos with transparent oil paints. I left that job
when I married. In December of 2000, I retired as
a proofreader/copy editor at the Herald-Dispatch,
after working there 20 years. Between those jobs, I
was busy raising our family of eight children on the
farm with my husband. I did gardening, canning,
sewing, feeding poultry and animals, and the
occasional field work with the tractor. I loved living
on the farm, but now I hardly recognize the latest
farm equipment.
30
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Married or significant other? If so, tell us a
little about that person, what was the attraction?
My husband Ray was a friend of my brother, and came to our farm quite often. I think I
got used to him hanging around (grin). Where I was shy, I did admire his ability to talk to
anyone, and his having no fear of anyone or anything—and he seemed to think a lot of me.
He called me his sweet kid. He has been gone eight years but I do miss him every day.
Children?
We are blessed with eight children. They all chose wonderful spouses and now I have 15
grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
Do you have a philosophy for living?
Every day is a good day, and a gift, for which I am grateful.
What has changed the most in the last 20 years?
The technology changes in the world, including digital cameras. For over 20 years, I have
used Mac computers and have been online about that long. Along with the computer, I
have a mini-iPad and iPhone, and enjoy using them.
What did you like to do for fun in your younger
days?
On the farm, we didn’t have many playmates besides our siblings, but when our cousins
came to visit every summer from St. Paul, we looked forward to seeing them. We all had
someone our age and they stayed a month with our aunts and uncle, living across the road
from us. Our aunts and uncle were single and never married, and were very good to all their
nieces and nephews.
Do you connect to your friends and family using
social media? (email, Facebook, etc.)
Yes, I do a good amount of e-mailing, and some Facebook. Is it bragging to say I was online
before any of my children? I find that e-mail helps me keep in touch when they live a
distance away. Phone texting also brings responses more quickly. My thoughts about the
experiences were somewhat reserved, and not putting too much personal information out
there.
What do you think is your greatest asset?
Honesty, and not holding grudges; at least I try. What would people be surprised
to know about you?
I read the sports pages first, before digesting the rest of the newspaper, including the
editorials. I keep up with the local teams and Minnesota teams, especially Gopher basketball. A daily paper is a necessity for me, as my parents, and then my husband and I, always
had one. Now I subscribe to two dailies. Where have you traveled and do you
have a favorite destination?
When our children were at home, we took them camping in Canada, the
Black Hills, and Yellowstone Park. The national parks are wonderful. We
took a few trips to the U.S. south and west, and once to Washington, D.C.
My favorite place there is the National Gallery of Art. Later, my husband
and I visited our ancestral villages in the Czech Republic and Luxembourg. I have been to Luxembourg twice and my cousins there are very
hospitable to me and my family. Stress-free
living
year round
What is your favorite song/type of music?
What was your first car?
Never had a car of my own and didn’t get my license until age 23. Flunked
the first test because of poor parallel parking skills. Now I have no fear
of parallel parking! The first car my husband and I owned was a ‘49
Oldsmobile, previously owned by Doctor Nelson of Fairfax. The doctor
put on many miles driving from Fairfax to the Sleepy Eye Hospital with
that car.
If you could sit down to dinner with
anyone in the world today, who would
it be and why?
s
If you had asked about meeting anyone from the beginning of time, I
would have said my grandparents and great-grandparents, as I never had
the privilege of knowing them. My birth came after they had died. But
living people, whew! If there is a chance of meeting with the Holy Father,
Page 34
Pope Francis, I might be too awed in his presence to even
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To simplify your life,
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at 507-388-4200
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301 South Fifth Street
Mankato, MN 56001
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I like many kinds of music and used to listen to Country-Western. I also
liked the folk music of the ‘60s. Some classical and Oriental and music for
relaxation on CDs. 016448
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
31
RiveRfRont
410 S. Riverfront Dr.
Mankato, MN
507-625-1107
Hilltop
2010 Adams St.
Mankato, MN
507-625-9070
making lives easier, healthier, happier
• Get prescriptions automatically filled ahead
of time and ready when you are
• Receive a call when your order is ready so
you never have to worry about running out
again
• Ask your Hy-Vee pharmacist about
Repeat Refills
Your helpful Hy-Vee pharmacists can help
you stay on top of your medication therapy,
because not taking medication as directed by
your doctor can be costly to both you
and your health.
Brian Cornelius, Pharm. d.
Mankato Hilltop Hy-Vee
2010 Adams St., Mankato, MN 56001
507.625.7565
Where there is a helpful smile in your wellness aisle
National Nutrition Month
March is National Nutrition Month ® and a great time to take a step back to look
at your health and wellness goals.
Are you consuming an appropriate number of calories? This may mean reducing calories for some people or adding quality calories for others. Not all calories
are created equal. To find out if you are eating the right calories for your goals,
contact your Mankato Hy-Vee dietitian to set up an appointment.
Are you making informed food choices? Choosing the best foods for your
goals can be confusing. Finding the time to sort through all the information can
be time-consuming. The best way to make the right decisions is to be informed.
Schedule a tour with your Mankato Hy-Vee dietitian to walk through the aisles
and find the answers to your questions.
Are you getting daily exercise? Moving your body for 30 minutes each day
(even breaking it up into 10-minute pieces is great) may help you lose weight,
feel better and reduce your chance of heart disease and stroke. There isn’t a
perfect time of day to exercise. The best time to move your body is any time that
works for you.
by April Graff, MS, RS, LD
Hy-Vee Dietitian
Asparagus with Crispy Prosciutto and Almonds
Serves 8
All you Need:
3 oz sliced prosciutto (about 6 slices)
2 pounds fresh asparagus
4 tsp Hy-Vee Select olive oil
1/4 tsp Hy-Vee ground black pepper
1 (2 oz) pkg Hy-Vee sliced almonds (1/2 c.)
2 tsp grated lemon zest
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, for serving
All you do:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Line baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay prosciutto slices flat on baking sheet.
Bake until fat turns golden and meat is darker, about 15 minutes. Transfer prosciutto to
paper towels to drain; set aside.
Increase oven temperature to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Snap off and discard woody ends from asparagus. Toss asparagus with olive oil.
Spread in a single layer on baking sheet. Season with pepper. Roast, uncovered, for 10
to 12 minutes or until fork-tender, lightly tossing once.
While asparagus is roasting, place almonds in a shallow baking pan. Toast in oven for
5 to 7 minutes or until golden, stirring once. Transfer almonds to a bowl. Crumble prosciutto; add prosciutto and lemon zest to almonds.
Arrange asparagus on a platter and sprinkle almond mixture over top. Using a vegetable peeler, drop slivers of Parmigiano-Reggiano over top. Serve immediately.
Nutrition information per serving: Calories: 230; Protein: 23g; Carbohydrate: 6g; Saturated Fat:
2.5g; Cholesterol: 65mg; Sodium: 150mg; Dietary Fiber: 1g; Sugar: 4g; Fat: 12g; Trans fats: 0g
012550
HerStory from page 31
speak. I also would like to talk with George W. Bush
about his painting, which I think he does admirably.
What lessons have you
learned in life?
I have trusted that God will take care of me, and
have been blessed with His care. What are you the most
proud of?
Finishing a quilt last year, that I started making 65
years ago. I have one more to finish from that era.
If you could go back and change anything in your
life would you? If so what would it be? In my youth, I said and did some rather naive things that I’d not do, or do better today. I would
also work more often on my art.
What are your current hobbies and interests?
At this time, I work on genealogy, drawing and painting, quilting, gardening, exercise, biking
and golf. I enjoy my membership in several historical societies, and study clubs. When
needed, I will do volunteer work for the church. Last winter, I spent 60 hours proofreading a
new printing of Elizabeth Scobie’s book about Sleepy Eye. It had been scanned twice and the
scanner read some letters as other letters, so every word had to be checked twice. RVW
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Mankato, MN
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Call or stop by to register today.
www.mankatodc.com
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
016715
— Since 1970 —
It’s Been All About
Selection,
Service
And
Everyday
Low Prices
Lamplighter
Gift Cards
make a tasty
gift for anyone
on your list!
It all started in 1983. Big
Burgers, Beer, and Sports, the
ultimate tri-fecta! All of our
burgers are 85% lean ground
beef. We use zero trans fat
cooking oil, and only the
freshest produce is chosen.
Our spaghetti and alfredo sauce,
Lamplighter sauce, soups, chili
and dips are all made from
scratch right here in our kitchen.
Our winning attitude is still going
strong today. When the game
Choose from the largest
selection of wine, liquor & beer
in the New Ulm Area!
is on, our plasma screen hi def
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507-354-8778
1970 • Our 45th Yea r • 2015
016032
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507-354-2185
www.lamplighterbarandgrill.com
009305
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
35
Mank ato YWCA to honor
By Ruth Klossner
Women of Distinction
Four outstanding women and a women’s group
will be honored when the YWCA 43rd Annual
Women of Distinction Event is held Thursday,
March 26 at the Verizon Wireless Center in
downtown Mankato.
The event is presented by Jones Metal, Inc., with sponsorship by
many area businesses, including River Valley Woman. The evening
begins with a social hour and silent auction at 5:00 p.m., with
dinner and the program to follow at 6:30 p.m. Ticket information is
available at www.mankatoywca.org/women-distinction-0; or at the
YWCA office, 500 South Broad Street.
Over the years, the YWCA has honored 131 women and three
businesses for their leadership, significant impact on the community, and their dedication to YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism,
empowering women while promoting peace, justice, freedom and
ensuring dignity for all. Each of the women nominated has made a
large impact on the community. Their efforts have helped women
to live independently, combat ignorance, actively try to end gender
violence, and provide community assistance.
This year’s YWCA Women of Distinction honorees are Avra
Johnson, Dr. Katie Smentek and Deputy Director of Public Safety
Amy Vokal. The 2015 Young Woman of Distinction Honoree is Dana
Sikkila, and the 2015 Distinctive Difference Honoree is the Zonta
Club of Mankato.
Avra Johnson is an
associate professor in
political science and public
administration. She has
taught at the college level
for more than 15 years at
Minnesota State University, Mankato and Texas
Woman’s University in
Denton, Texas. At MSU, she
served five years as interim
assistant vice president
of institutional planning,
research and assessment.
A diversity trainer, she has
presented on the issues
of diversity and is the
co-author of an article on
racism. Avra is also a very involved member of her church where she
has written newsletter articles dealing with funding for the Black
College Fund and the Center for the Victims of Torture. She has
family members in Texas and Tennessee.
36
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Dr. Katie Smentek is
a Mankato native who
attended medical school at
the University of Minnesota and completed her
residency in pediatrics at
Yale-New Haven Children’s
Hospital. Not only did she
serve as chief resident, she
received the Resident of the
Year Award that recognizes
“the caring, compassionate,
and dedicated pediatrician
who is a competent, caring,
good-humored person who
I would want to take care of
my children.” In 2007—after
moving back to Mankato
with her family—she began volunteering in the community. She has
served on the boards of directors of the United Way, Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota, and recently was elected to the board
of the Mankato Clinic, where she is a pediatrician. Katie and husband
Joe have three kids. She has worked to increase opportunities for all
children in the community and to break down barriers that impede
children’s development. Katie is excited to be a part of the future of
Mankato and help all children grow and thrive.
Amy Vokal has been a
police officer in Mankato
for more than 23 years. She
has progressed through the
ranks from patrol officer
to her current position
of Deputy Director of
Public Safety for the City of
Mankato. In her tenure, Amy
has shown commitment
and initiative in engaging
the refugee and immigrant
communities while building
cultural awareness and inclusivity within the broader
community. She was
instrumental in developing
the Tapestry Project, an
initiative that has empowered refugee and immigrant women. The
program has done much to eliminate racism and discrimination by
bringing people together and promoting cross-cultural education
about the various cultures that make up the population of Mankato.
Far-reaching impacts included recruitment of refugee immigrant
part-time and reserve police officers, the development of youth
mentorship programs—including Cops and Bobbers—and increased
cultural competency among local public safety officers.
Litchfield native
Dana Sikkila received
a Masters of Art degree
from Minnesota State
University, Mankato in
2012. Continuing her
education, she is currently
enrolled in the Graduate
Non-profit Leadership
Program at MSU. Sikkila
serves as executive director
of The 410 Project gallery
in Mankato and as artistic
director and creator of
Black Water Press. Outside
of a bakery job—as well as
adjunct teaching in the Art
Department at MSU—she spends about 30 volunteer hours a week
running those organizations. Dana’s focus has been on art, and art
involvement within the community. She uses art creation as a catalyst
to bring boys and girls—and people of all ages and backgrounds—
together in an environment where everyone is valued and given
equal opportunity.
The Zonta Club of Mankato
is part of Zonta International, a
leading global organization of
professionals empowering women
worldwide through service and
advocacy. Zonta International
envisions a world in which women’s
rights are recognized as human
rights and every woman is able to
achieve her full potential. In such
a world, women have access to all
resources and are represented in decision-making positions on an
equal basis with men. In such a world, no woman lives in fear of violence. Locally, Zonta has supported the YWCA Mankato, Open Door
Health Center, Partners for Affordable Housing, CADA, STEM camps,
and Habitat for Humanity. The Zonta Club of Mankato is most known
for its Fall Fashion Show, Blooming Pretty, Kayaking for a Cause, and
its newest event, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes. RVW
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37
Money Talks
Spring Organization
Into
Springtime is a time of new beginnings. This is also the time when
many Minnesotans organize aspects of their lives. We are all familiar
with the term spring cleaning and while this may mean different
things for each of us, I personally try to tackle a few closets, clean out
a drawer that wasn’t intended to be a junk drawer, or discover what
really is in the back corner of that storage area. The truth is, no one
ever gets completely organized; it’s a process, and one all of us have
to refine. Still, springtime is a good time to look at the tools we use to
organize our lives and see if there are ways we can make things better.
I’d suggest that this spring, you allocate some time to organize
your financial and insurance documents. I believe that this type of
organization is more rewarding and beneficial in your life than addressing any closet chaos. First, gather together all of your insurance
and financial statements. You may find these documents in a pile
on your desk or it may require you to log onto your online account
to print these statements. For most, locating these documents can
be the most time consuming aspect. Once you’ve gathered these
statements, create an electronic document or file folder that lists:
1. The type of account or policy
2. The policy or account number
3. The company where the insurance or investment is held
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4. The contact information for the company and/or the name of the
financial professional you work with closely
5. A brief account/policy summary such as a policy’s death benefit
or current account value
6. On each page, record the date on which the information was last
updated. That way, if the copy in your home differs from the one in
your office, it’s easy to tell which is the more current.
Remember to not only include your personal policies or accounts,
but also the benefits provided by your employer, if applicable. Once
you’ve completed your list, provide this document to at least one or
more of your loved ones either in electronic or paper form, or both.
In addition, share with those individuals where you are storing the
physical supporting documents, such as policy summaries and annual
account statements. Moving forward, make a note to update any
changes and share your revised and updated summaries with your
loved ones.
There are several reasons why this may benefit you and the ones
you love. First of all, bringing this data together will help you visualize
where you are standing from both a financial planning and insurance
protection standpoint. You may find yourself thinking, “I thought I
had more life insurance than that,” or “I have more in my 401(k) than
I thought, maybe I should review what I’m invested in,” or “after
what happened to my friend, John, I should really look into disability
income insurance.” If any of these types of thoughts do enter your
mind, this would be a great time to reach out to a financial professional. With all of your information pulled together, the financial
professional can see the whole picture of what you have and make
recommendations based on the needs you express.
Compiling these documents may also greatly help the ones you
love. If something were to happen to you, it could be a huge burden
for your loved ones to sift through stacks of paper deciding who or
what company needs to be contacted. Worse yet, if in our electronic
era there are no papers to review, where do they even start to look?
You could look at this potential situation as another beneficial reason
to work with a financial professional. That individual’s job is to explain
your coverage and assist in completing what can seem like a mountain of overwhelming paperwork, while providing the comfort of a
trusted, friendly smile.
As I embark on my spring cleaning and updating any needed
changes on my personal financial and insurance summary, I hope you
will do the same. Cheers to springtime in Minnesota, and the start to
new, more organized beginnings. RVW
Carolyn Mager, Managing Director/Princor
Registered Representative/Financial Advisor,
The Principal Financial Group®
Insurance products from the Principal Financial Group® are
issued by Principal National Life Insurance Company (except
in New York), Principal Life Insurance Company, and the
companies available through the Preferred Product Network,
Inc. Securities and advisory products offered through Princor
Financial Services Corporation, 800/247-1737, member SIPC.
Principal National, Principal Life, the Preferred Product Network,
and Princor® are members of the Principal Financial Group®, Des
Moines, IA 50392. t15011303kg Carolyn can be reached at: mager.
[email protected] or 507.351.6058.
Home
Improvements
Save your receipts
for tax savings
When most people think about
making improvements to their home,
they think about choosing the right
finishes, flooring types and paint colors. Unfortunately, many homeowners tend to neglect one of the most
important home-improvement tasks:
keeping track of their receipts.
What’s so important about saving
this information, you ask? Besides
giving yourself a valuable record,
knowing the total cost of your
home-improvement projects could
save you money when selling your
home, thanks to a certain tax rule.
Here’s what you should know about
the rule, and why saving your receipts could result in significant tax
savings.
What does the tax rule entail?
The tax rule allows you to add capital improvements to the cost basis
of your home. For example, if you
purchased your home for $200,000
and recorded $50,000 worth of capital improvements over the years, the
cost basis of your home is $250,000.
If you sell your home for $500,000,
you have a capital gain of $250,000.
Tara Torseth, CPA, MBT
Manager
Christine Powers, CPA
Partner
11 Civic Center Plaza Suite 300
Mankato, MN 507.625.2727 www.aemcpas.com
Most people can exclude from
income up to $250,000 of gain for
single filers ($500,000 for joint
filers) on the sale of their personal
residence. To qualify, you must meet
two criteria: 1) You have owned and
used your home two out of the last
five years as your principal residence; 2) You have not sold a principal residence in the last two years.
It’s important to note that the rule
applies only to capital improvements. By definition, a capital
improvement increases your home’s
value, whereas a non-eligible repair
returns something to its original
condition. A capital improvement
must last longer than one year, and
must prolong the life of the home
or adapt it to new users. Also, the
improvement must still be there
when you sell. For example, if you
installed new flooring 15 years ago
and replaced it right before you listed your home, the flooring from 15
years ago wouldn’t count as a capital
improvement.
What happens if you don’t keep
your receipts?
If you had not recorded your improvements in the scenario described
above, you would have recorded
a gain of $300,000. And since
$250,000 is the gain exclusion for
a single taxpayer, your net capital
gain would have totaled $50,000.
Assuming you are in the 15% capital
gain bracket, you would be paying
$7,500 in federal taxes, plus state
taxes.
Now, you are probably thinking that
your house will never sell for a gain
of $250,000 or $500,000. But you
never know—if you live in your home
for several years, the cost of home
improvements can add up. The few
extra minutes it takes to keep everything filed in one place could save
you a great deal of money.
Do you own a lake cabin
or a vacation home?
The same tax rule applies to
your cabin or vacation home.
Unfortunately, the gain exclusion of $250,000 for single filers
($500,000 for joint filers) usually
does not apply, since you may have
not used the home as your principal
residence for two out of the last five
years. For this reason, it’s especially
important to keep receipts relating
to any improvements you make to
these types of homes.
Designate a “Home
Improvement” folder for
your receipts
After you choose your favorite finishes and paint hues, choose a suitable
folder (or safe-keeping place) in
which to save your home-improvement receipts. Even if you’re not
sure if the improvement qualifies as
a capital improvement, throw it in
your trusty folder. You can always
sort through them later if you sell
your property for a gain.
Good luck with your home improvement projects, and remember—when
it comes to saving receipts (and
choosing a paint color, for that matter), it’s better to be safe than sorry!
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
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39
016609
Money Talks
How Home
Improvements
Can Increase Your Home’s Value
Does your house need some work? Certain renovations can
pay back handsomely if you sell, while others add little to
a home’s value. Before hiring a contractor or doing the job
yourself, find out which projects are sound investments.
Renovation hits
Some renovations that provide the biggest bang for the buck aren’t
obvious. For instance, nearly 97% of the costs of installing a steel
entry door are recouped on average at resale, according to a recent
Remodeling Magazine study. Fancy new garage doors also did well,
adding about 83% of their cost to the home’s value.
Another surprising winner turns out to be adding a bedroom in
an attic space, providing a value boost equal to 84% of the cost.
Remodeling or finishing a basement comes close, with a return of
almost 78%.
less is often more. Replacing cabinet faces, the stove, countertops
and the floor covering should return about 83% of the cost. That
percentage drops to 74% if you add an island, fancier cabinets and
lighting. Going whole-hog with things such as stone counters, builtin appliances and a cork floor provides the lowest value, only adding
about 64% of the cost.
Worthy bathroom projects
DIY Network found that repainting can also be a value booster, but
with a bit of a caveat. New wall or siding coatings could backfire and
actually cut your home’s appeal if you use unpopular colors. Play
it safe with soft, neutral shades and avoid anything too harsh or
intense.
Nice new bathrooms also impress house hunters, so improvements
can be wise investments. As with kitchens, though, less often yields
more. If you replace the fixtures and add a tile floor, you’ll recoup
about 73% of the cost if you sell the house. A much more extensive
overhaul and expansion, including separate shower and tub, and an
enclosed toilet, may cost three times as much and return just 64% of
your investment. Adding a bathroom doesn’t pay back quite as well,
at around 60%.
Best kitchen projects
Outdoor payback
Almost all homebuyers love a modern, updated kitchen. When it
comes to what you’ll recoup from renovating your kitchen, however,
Improvements to your home’s exterior can also pack a good punch.
New siding can return about 78% with standard vinyl, or 87% if you
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Mortgage
Auto
Savings
Checking
Small Business
use a fiber-cement type. Replacing windows is also an excellent
choice, boosting the house’s value by as much as 79%.
Adding a stylish new deck can do more than make the outdoors
more comfortable. A wood deck returns an average 87% in added
value, while a longer-lasting material such as composite boards
costs more but adds less, about 65% of its cost.
Renovation flops
Some projects might seem like good ideas at first but don’t add
much value. Converting a bedroom into an office doesn’t do much
to wow homebuyers, nor does converting a garage into a bedroom.
Most house hunters prefer having a garage. Other projects that
don’t have much payback include wallpapering, screening in a
porch and adding luxury kitchen features (except in a high-end
home).
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If you don’t have cash available to pay for a project, a lender may be
able to provide home equity financing or a personal loan so you can
start planning your home improvements. Before you know it, you
can be on your way to transforming your living space and boosting
your home’s value as well. RVW
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510 Sibley St., Mankato, Mn
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www.ecsmankato.com
For a free
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388-3271
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41
Money Talks
by Suze Orman
Photo by
R. Trachtenberg
Let’s Not Sell Young
Retirement Savers Short
If we really think young adults can’t save for both at once-a point
A recent paper from the influential Research Affiliates investment
management firm (more than $140 billion in assets managed) takes the I am not suggesting is true-then at the very least let’s provide good
advice: Always save in a 401(k) that offers you a matching contribuprovocative stance that young adults saving for retirement should not
start out with a large portion of their money invested in stocks.
tion, but limit your contribution to what you need to max out on the
I respectfully disagree.
match. And w (I also
One key point of the
want all 401(k) savers
Plan on never touching that 401(k) until retirement
paper is that young adults
to understand that
have a tendency to cash
even if they were to file
out their 401(k)s when they
for bankruptcy, their
are laid off. Given that layoffs are most prevalent during a recession401(k) savings will not be touched; all money in a 401(k) is protected in
when stock values are falling-the last thing a young person wants is a
bankruptcy.) With that long-term horizon, let’s do a better job making
portfolio that has sharply declined in value right when they need it.
a case for the long-term benefits of having a heavy allocation to stocks
But that just seems to concede that cashing out a 401(k) is a fact
in your younger years.
of life, and is somehow okay. It is not okay. I don’t think we need to
Then all additional retirement saving should be done in a Roth IRA.
change the portfolio mix for young retirement savers. We need to
All contributions one makes to a Roth IRA can be withdrawn at any
change the mindset of young workers that their 401(k) is not sometime without any tax or penalty; just earnings are subject to both.
That’s a better back up emergency fund. RVW
thing to be raided. And that’s a two-step process.
First: We need to show every young adult who wants to take a
withdrawal, the opportunity cost of pulling that money out. If we are
really being honest that we care about the future of our young adults,
and if employers are really serious about wanting to help employees
build retirement security, that requires a bit more than lip service.
Educating young adults about the damage of early withdrawals is
really low hanging fruit. Why can’t every request for an early withdrawal immediately trigger a message that shows an estimate of what the
participant will pocket after paying tax and the 10% early withdrawal
penalty and also show an estimate of what the existing balance could
grow to by the time that person turns 70, assuming a conservative rate
of return of say 4%? And let’s require the participant acknowledge they
received this information, and then ask them again if they still want to
make the withdrawal. It’s just a nudge. They are still in control. But it
forces them to make an informed decision based on facts, not emotion.
Second: We need to do better at encouraging young adults to build
an emergency savings account. When you have money set aside for
layoffs, or whatever, you will be less inclined to raid your retirement
money. The Research Affiliates piece also advocates for this. Where
we disagree is that Research Affiliates suggests that the retirement
account first start as a safety account: that it be invested conservatively
until the balance is equal to six months income.
I think it’s best to keep the two distinct goals in two distinct accounts, and invest each accordingly.
A 401(k) is a horrible rainy day fund: you must pay income tax on
100% of the withdrawn amount and a 10% early withdrawal penalty.
I don’t think it’s asking too much of twentysomethings to have them
start building an emergency fund by making automatic deposits from
their paycheck or checking account into a savings account. I know
plenty of twenty somethings doing just that. And if and when they
need to tap it, there’s no 10% penalty and the only tax is on interest
earned, which these days is nil.
42
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
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Make sure you check out our great selection of
shoes, gym apparel, casual apparel, sports gear,
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women have a wider pelvis, which puts added stress on the hip
joints. The Q-Angle is the angle at which the femur (upper leg
bone) meets the tibia (lower leg bone). The normal Q-Angle in
men is 14 degrees and in women it’s 17 degrees. A higher Q-Angle
often results in abnormal tracking of the patella (knee cap) which
over time can cause microtrauma to the cartilage on the backside
of the patella and foot pronation which causes hip, knee and foot
pain.
Since this is a large reason why women have more hip, knee,
and foot pain than men, it is best to try to prevent these injuries by
stretching the IT Band, Psoas, and Glute muscles of the lower body.
Here are a few ways to stretch those areas:
1. Sit on the floor with your palms flat on the floor, spaced a few
inches behind your butt. Bend your knees up and place the soles
of your feet flat on the floor in front of you. Take your left foot
and place your left ankle across your right knee. Drop your knee
toward the floor, rotating at the hip in a sort of half-butterfly
position. Hold the stretch for at least 25 seconds, and gradually
try to get your knee closer to the ground. Repeat with the other
leg.
of the lower body and why
it is so important for females
2. While standing, take your left leg, bent at the knee, and place it
in front of you. Take your right leg and straighten it as best as you
can behind you. You’ll be in a semi-split position, except your front
leg is bent. You might need to drop your knee, bend your torso
forward and use your arms for support. You want to feel the stretch
in the outside of your hip area, so lean forward and slightly to the
left as you hold this stretch. Hold for at least 25 seconds. Repeat
with the right leg in front.
3. Use the foam roller along the IT band (from the hip to the
knee) back and forth over a stiff and sensitive area, for about 30-60
seconds, 3-4 days per week. For an injury free area use the roller for
about 5-10 minutes 3-4 times per week. Icing afterwards will help
decrease any soreness that may occur from using the foam roller.
Lower body issues, such as IT Band, Psoas, and
Glutes, are very common in women athletes, but
being proactive is the key to preventing any
injury and keeping you in the activities you
love. RVW
Dr. Tjode Mickelson, D.C.
Mankato Chiropractic Center
Dr. Angela Schuck
Dr. Keith Flack
Your Community Mental Health Center
Celebrating over 40 Years of Service
in the River Valley Area
You Deserve Comfortable Care Every Time.
Providing Mental Health Services
to Children, Adolescents and Adults
New Ulm, St. Peter, N. maNkato,
Gaylord, St. JameS & FairmoNt
For appointments call 507-354-3181
or toll-free 1-800-247-2809
www.siouxtrails.org
24 Hour Crisis Line 800-247-2809
016369
• Sedation - Complete Relaxation with
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• Emergency Care
1400 Lookout Drive, North Mankato
507-625-CARE(2273) • mankatodentist.com
302300
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
47
Be Well
Beat
the
burn
heartburn, that is
At least 40 million Americans suffer from heartburn.
Most have only mild or occasional symptoms.
However, about 15 million need medication on
a daily basis to control that burning sensation.
What is heartburn? The feeling varies from person to
person, but most people complain about a burning sensation in the
chest, near the level of the heart. Occasionally, the pain is lower, near
the bottom of the breastbone or sternum. Real heartburn has nothing
to do with the heart, but the location of the pain often requires that
we make sure the heart is not involved.
The accepted medical term for the problem that causes heartburn is
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It’s also commonly referred to
as acid reflux.
What causes heartburn? Quite simply, acid reflux refers
actually have food get completely stuck on the way down, requiring
removal by their doctor.
What are symptoms of heartburn? Heartburn, and
a number of other complications of acid reflux, can vary from mild
to severe, disabling pain. Other symptoms are usually associated
with damage and scarring caused by the acid. These might
include ulcers of the esophagus from the acid, causing worsening
pain. Sometimes scarring occurs, which can actually partially
block the esophagus, causing difficulty swallowing. Some people
Are there long-term risks? Rarely, acid reflux can cause
changes in the lining of the esophagus that are actually precancerous.
This does not mean that cancer will occur. However, it does mean that
some people end up with a higher chance of cancer than the average.
In the end result, the main question is, “When should I see my
doctor?”
Clearly, most people with heartburn don’t need a doctor to help
them. These are the people with mild, rare symptoms that are easily
controlled with occasional over-the-counter medications.
However, if you or a loved one has recurring, frequent heartburn,
especially when it is not getting better with the usual over-thecounter medications, you should consider seeing your doctor. Most
importantly, if you are having trouble swallowing, having pain with
swallowing or having food get stuck on the way down, seeing your
doctor is essential. While cancer in this area is uncommon, if it occurs,
finding it right away is the key to the cure.
Most people have benign acid reflux that is easily treated with
medication. Often the medication can be temporary until
the irritation is healed. For some people, long-term
medication is needed. Rarely, an operation to
prevent acid reflux is necessary. RVW
For more information, visit www.
mayoclinichealthsystem.org.
LeRoy Hodges, M.D., is a Mayo Clinic Health
System general surgeon.
to acid from the stomach flowing backwards up into the esophagus,
also known as the swallowing tube.
As most people know, the stomach makes acid to help digest our
food. The lining of the stomach is built to withstand the effects of acid.
The acid is supposed to travel downstream into the small intestine
along with the food being digested and absorbed. Therefore, the first
part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum, also handles acid
quite well.
Unfortunately, the lining of the esophagus is not made to
withstand acid. For most people, this is not a problem. Normally, a
valve at the end of the esophagus prevents acid from refluxing, or
flowing upstream, into the esophagus. When this valve fails, heartburn
often results. Another factor for some people may be the presence of
a hiatal hernia. This occurs when the opening in the diaphragm where
the esophagus passes from the chest into the belly becomes enlarged,
allowing part of the stomach to slide up into the chest. This interferes
with the function of the valve at the beginning of the stomach, leading
to acid reflux and heartburn.
48
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
a
t
e
G
e
v
o
m
o n!
Popping, cracking, grinding, and knee
pain during or after movement when
performing daily activities can be an
indication of osteoarthritis. Knee pain
associated with arthritis affects 34% of
adults aged 65+ and 16% of adults 45+
which can have an impact on activities
of daily living. Osteoarthritis (OA) is an
inflammatory condition that can affect any
joint in the body, but is more likely in the
weight bearing joints such as the knees
or the hips. Over time, the cartilage that
usually provides a protective layer between
the bones in the joint can wear down
causing increased friction between the joint
surfaces. There is no cure for this condition,
Motion is lotion for the joints
but with proper management you can
perform daily activities with less difficulty.
Common risk factors for osteoarthritis are
obesity, previous injury, overuse, and muscle
weakness. Higher level sports that involve
direct contact or twisting of joints may also
place you at risk, but moderate running
is not believed to cause OA in the knees.
Symptoms of OA include swelling, pain with
repetitive activity, and stiffness following
prolonged sitting. You may also hear
crepitus, or joint noises, which occurs when
the roughened joint surfaces are rubbed
together during activity. Inflammation
and swelling could also be present not
only in the joint, but also throughout the
surrounding muscles.
Management of this condition requires
consistent exercise with focus on strength
training and flexibility exercises. A physical
therapist can also prescribe braces that
can be worn during recreational or daily
activities to reduce stress on the joint.
Strength training is a critical aspect of
an exercise program as this can reduce
the amount of stress placed on the joint
surfaces and normalize movement patterns.
Alternate physical activities such as biking,
swimming, or walking to vary the strain
placed throughout the joints. Maintaining
a healthy weight is also important in
reducing undue forces throughout the
joints. Utilizing ice prior to activity may help
to diminish swelling which will allow for less
pain during activities. Avoiding a sedentary
lifestyle is important to prevent a further
decline in function and will also assist in
weight management.
Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition
and beginning an exercise program for
continued self management can help to
prevent a rapid decline in function. Staying
active with an exercise program that focuses
on strength and flexibility training can
reduce stress throughout the joint and allow
for decreased pain during
activity. Motion is lotion
for the joints, so get
out there and get
moving! RVW
Katie Swanson, PT,
DPT
Wenger Physical
Therapy
Total Family Care
Welcoming new patients of
all ages-- infants, children,
teens, pregnant mothers,
adults, and elderly.
Dr. Jennifer Stuvek
“I am new to the greater Mankato
community and am excited to bring my
knowledge and expertise to the area.
I specialize in working with children
and expectant mothers.”
Hours: Monday 8-12 and 1-5 • Tuesday 1-6 • Wednesday 8-11 •
Thursday 1-6 • Friday 8-12 • Saturdays by Appointment
Now Open on Madison Avenue in Mankato!
1051 Madison Avenue Ste 2, Mankato MN
507.625.1085
For more info. visit aurorachiropractic.org
236990
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
49
I recently saw that the show The
Odd Couple is returning to TV. The
premise of the show is two friends
sharing an apartment with each
being on a different end of the
spectrum of “cleanliness and order.”
While in the show, these issues are
portrayed as funny, in real life, this
isn’t the case.
After finances and children,
a person’s home is one of the
most commonly discussed topics
among friends, family and even
sometimes in therapy. No matter
how much we love the people
we live with, differences in how
our home is maintained can bring
about numerous heated and serious
arguments. It can be difficult to
ignore individual differences and
find a compromise so a family can
live peacefully.
There are two ends of the
continuum of “clean.” On one
end is the person with obsessive
compulsive disorder. This person
has to have everything in its place
and everything has to be perfectly
clean. I once knew a man who
constantly brushed off crumbs from
his counters, even when I could see
no crumbs. He would walk behind his children and straighten the
pillows on the couch when they moved to another room. No mail
or papers of any kind were allowed to be placed on the counters in
the kitchen or on the dining room table. You could feel his anxiety
when an object was put somewhere it did not belong. This is not the
measure of clean or lack of clutter that most of us can or want to live
with on a daily basis.
The individual described above is someone who has an obsessive
compulsive disorder with cleanliness. Individuals with OCD can be
compulsive and often are aware of their behaviors. They recognize
that their behavior impacts family and friends, but find it difficult
to refrain from these behaviors because the repetitive actions ease
their anxiety. The good news is that individuals who experience
OCD can be successful in decreasing these behaviors with therapy.
On the other end of the continuum of clean and clutter free is
hoarding. Because of reality TV, many people are more familiar with
hoarding. Hoarding is a compulsive behavior whereby an individual
acquires and keeps items that may have no value or that they do
not need. Their behavior is excessive and the individual has an
unwillingness or inability to get rid of these objects that they have
acquired.
I was visiting a friend in another state a few years ago and was
astonished to see all the stacks of objects around her home. I
thought she must be in the middle of a big move or something to
have such a cluttered house. I visited her again after a couple of
years only to discover that her next home was equally full of objects
stacked all over beds, chairs, tables, on the floor so much that there
was only a small trail through her
home. While visiting her, she came
home one day and showed me a
child’s bow and arrow that she had
bought at a garage sale on her way
home. The small wooden bow was
broken almost in half. She placed
it on top of one of the stacks and
said, “I might be able to fix this
someday.”
Many people with hoarding
behaviors do not recognize
their behaviors or admit there is
a problem. This can negatively
impact or cause friction in
their relationships with friends
and family. Many hoarders will
eventually not allow others
into their homes so they can’t
see how bad the problem has
become. Individuals with hoarding
behaviors often cover their
windows with paper or leave their
shades drawn at all times so no
one can see into their home to see
the chaos and clutter.
The hoarding behavior can
become so severe that the
individual’s health and safety
may be at risk. Homes become
so cluttered that items are stacked
in chairs, on beds and often even in sinks. There is no place for
anyone to sit or sleep. Dirty dishes cannot be washed and put away.
Odors and bacteria grow in the rooms and the individual may stop
showering because his or her shower is also filled with objects.
When a person’s home becomes this cluttered and there is
no place to walk, the individual is at a greater risk of falling and
getting injured. In the event of a fire, first responders cannot see or
locate who is in the home, putting both the homeowner and the
responders at great risk.
Individuals who suffer from hoarding behaviors frequently are
depressed, anxious or may be dependent on alcohol or other drugs.
Hoarding is now classified as a mental disorder and has very specific
symptoms which can be treated with therapy. However, individuals
suffering with a hoarding disorder are less likely to seek professional
help until family or friends intervene.
The continuum of clutter and cleanliness is wide. Most of us fall
somewhere in the middle. Unlike so many other aspects of our lives,
the amount of clutter and cleanliness of our home is something
most of us can control. Co-existing peacefully with your significant
other and family can be achieved with some discussion, goals, and
compromise. After all, home is our sanctuary,
where we all come to unwind from the stress
and nourish our souls. RV W
lix?
e
F
.
s
v
r
a
Osc
Compromise is key
The continuum of clutter and cleanliness
is wide. Most of us fall somewhere
in the middle.
50
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Catherine Job MA, MBA, LPC
Executive Director
Sioux Trails Mental Health Center
Is Your Home
Cat
Friendly?
T
here is no doubt that it is much safer for a cat to live
indoors, too many dangerous situations can arise for
outdoor cats. However, too often we see behavior
problems and medical conditions in cats that are
directly related to indoor environmental stressors. How can a cat
be stressed when provided with a warm home, food, and love?
Actually it is very easy for an indoor cat to be stressed when
there is not enough environmental enrichment that cats need.
Unfortunately, often cats are housed in environments that lack
stimulation and do not provide adequate resources that cats
require to be happy. If a cat is stressed, often it will reflect in
unwanted behaviors such as inappropriate elimination of urine or
stool, over grooming, or even aggression towards people or other
pets. Stress can even predispose cats to some serious medical
conditions.
What can we do to make our home cat friendly? There are several
core requirements for the home environment that are based on
normal cat instincts. Cats by nature spend much of their time
hunting for food, they are also territorial animals that can feel
threatened if their territory is disturbed, they have a superior sense
of smell, and they need to feel safe. Often times, the environment
we provide for cats is based on our convenience and lifestyle, and
not in the best interest of a cat’s normal behavior.
We need to make our cats feel safe in their home, and that
requires providing areas that a cat can retreat to if it feels
threatened. Ideally, the safe space should be big enough for only
the cat to fit, should have sides around it and be raised off the
ground. Cats naturally like being up high so they can see what is
going around them, therefore raised cat perches with enclosed
areas are a great safe place. However, cardboard boxes or even cat
carriers can provide the comfort a cat may seek. Having a safe place
to retreat to is especially important in a home with other pets or
children that the cat wants to escape from.
Cats by nature are predators and spend much of their awake
hours hunting. Many house cats are free fed taking away the
natural desire to hunt for food. This practice leads to boredom,
obesity, and sometimes pent up aggression. There are easy ways
to provide an outlet for predatory behavior. Interactive toys such
as feathers on a wand can help cats fulfill their need to hunt. Be
sure to let the cat catch the “prey” sometimes so they do not get
frustrated. Never use your hands as a “toy” for a kitten as it can
lead to inappropriate biting later on. The use of food puzzles help
mimic the act of hunting and can be great entertainment for cats.
A simple homemade food puzzle can be made from an egg carton.
Just take an empty egg carton and sprinkle some dry kibble in the
carton, close the lid, and let your cat try to get the pieces of food
out through the carton openings. Even hiding little bits of kibble
around the house can simulate hunting and provide entertainment.
Litter box issues are a common behavioral complaint from cat
owners, and often the problem is due to inappropriate location
and maintenance of the box. However, be sure to have your cat
examined by a veterinarian if it is inappropriately eliminating to
rule out any underlying medical issues. Litter boxes need to be in
quiet, easily accessible places. They should not be next to food or
water or next to any loud appliances such as washers and dryers.
The general rule of thumb is one box per cat plus one, this is
essential in a multi-cat household. It is very important that they are
scooped daily and emptied weekly.
These are just a few simple suggestions to make for a happier cat
in your house. Other ideas can easily be found online at indoorpet.
osu.edu and aspca.org. These are great websites that offer insight
into the natural behavior of cats and ways to provide an enriched
environment for indoor cats. Unfortunately, undesired behaviors
are a common reason cat owners may relinquish or even consider
euthanizing their pets. Many cats are even on the anti-anxiety
drug Prozac to help with the underlying stress and anxiety that
contributes to behavior problems. If you feel
your cat is having behavioral issues, contact
your veterinarian for advice as soon as
possible as the longer the behavior is
going on, the harder it can be to
change it. RV W
Julie Berndt, DVM
Minnesota Valley Pet Hospital, Mankato
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
51
Treasures. . .
Discover your treasure at the many fun and unique shops
in our Minnesota River Valley communities! You never know
what you might find... for a special gift, or just because.
Unique Island Details
This kitchen island is functional
AND beautiful. Customizable to
complement any kitchen scheme,
this piece will inspire and impress!
Route 1 Interiors
101 S. Minnesota Street,
Downtown New Ulm. 507-354-8025
www.route1interiors.com
Variety is the spice of life
And you’ll find it at Puhlmann’s
with an array of carpet brands,
styles and colors. Put a little
spring in your step--and under it!
Puhlmann Lumber & Design
301 1st S. St. New Ulm
507-354-4914
www.puhlmannlumber.com
52
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Plumbing
Fashions extend to all types
of home fixtures. Carry
your design through to your
faucets or shower heads now on display!
Lights On Madison
1351 Madison Avenue
Mankato, MN 56001
(507) 345-8771
www.lightsonmadison.com
Add warmth and style
to your home with a woven rug from
Park Designs. Rugs are available in
many colors to suit your home.
LAMBRECHTS
119 North Minnesota Street
New Ulm, MN 56073
www.lambrechtsgifts.net
507.233.4350
Clocks
Time for an update in your home?
Try a decorative time piece to
add design, color, and function
to your new space!
The Design Element
1351 Madison Avenue
Mankato, MN 56001
(507) 345-8708
www.thedesignelement.net
Not Just Fireplaces!
Discover our collection
of art and decor, like this
large stunning 3-piece
wall art set.
Glowing Hearth
& Home
241 St. Andrews Drive
Mankato, MN
507.345.8084
More Than Stationery!
Spring accessories are here in a bright array
of colors. Chase away the winter blahs with our
fun array of jewelry, scarves and home décor.
The Stationery and Gift Store
by Carlson Craft
1750 Tower Blvd. ● North Mankato, MN
507-625-0547
email: [email protected]
Show Off Your German pride
with a New Ulm Germans Have More Fun
shirt! Sweatshirts: $30, T-Shirts: $15.
Available for purchase at the
New Ulm Visitor Center
1 N Minnesota St, New Ulm, MN 56073
507-233-4300
newulm.com
Be inspired
to use color, style, and fabric to transform
your rooms with our internationally known
Jonathon Louis brand. You can artfully reflect
your home’s expression with fashion-forward
design, top quality construction, and
affordable prices. Visit with us today at
Rooms and Rest to discover all the
possibilities that await.
Rooms and Rest
1760 Madison Ave., Mankato, MN
507-218-0030 roomsandrest.com
Who Doesn’t Love New Ulm?!
Decorate your home or office with
this vintage-looking New Ulm Sign.
15.5” diameter, $40. Available for
purchase at the
New Ulm Visitor Center
1 N. Minnesota St, New Ulm, MN
56073. 507-233-4300
newulm.com
Clocks, Art, Rugs & More!
Find a great selection of accessories at
New Ulm Furniture Co. in Downtown
New Ulm. Framed & canvas art, area rugs,
ottomans, clocks, accessories, lamps and
more are available in a variety of colors
and styles. Add colorful decor to
brighten up your home!
New Ulm Furniture
16 N. German St.,
Downtown New Ulm
www.newulmfurniture.com
507-354-2716
Reasons to eat Zoet Premium Belgian
Dark Chocolate 57% Cacao
1. Sweetly luxurious, indulgent and satisfying
2. Cures your chocolate craving better than
milk chocolate. 3. Has antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory properties. 4. Pairs perfectly
with fruits, nuts, cheese, wine and coffee.
5. Made with high-quality cocoa beans
Hy-Vee Hilltop
2010 Adams St., Mankato, MN 507.625.9070
Hy-Vee Riverfront
410 S. Riverfront Dr., Mankato, MN 507.625.1107
Be Inspired!
Wow that someone special, or
treat yourself, by visiting THE
place for home decor and
furnishings. We also feature a
bridal registry for area couples.
Our showroom is a destination
place! “Big city showroom
at small town prices.”
Nordaas Home Interiors
10091 State Hwy. 22
Minnesota Lake, MN 56068
800-658-7076
nordaashomes.com
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
53
Plant a Tree, Prune a Tree
I’m not an arborist, but I’m always eager to understand trees more fully. In fact, when my friends
make fun of me for geeking out about trees, it’s confusing to me. Trees are so cool! Why wouldn’t you
want to know everything about them?! Anyway, I recently attended a landscaping industry trade
show where I learned a lot about tree care, and I’d love to share my new knowledge with you.
arden Ga
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
l•G
Ga
en G
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ar
Garden Gal
•
l
•G
Ga
Many people seem to believe that
trees don’t need pruning, and they base
this assumption on the rationale that no
one prunes trees in the wilderness. But trees
are a rather evolved groups of organisms, and they
generally take care of themselves in their natural habitats.
Think of a forest: for example, a dense stand of pines in Northern
Minnesota. The trunks – rows and rows of them – are very straight
and upright, linear and tall, each singular tree reaching vertically
for sunlight. This is how most trees are meant to grow. Since they
have to compete with each other for light, they have no choice but
to have one dominant trunk and one dominant top branch (called
a “leader”). The lower branches are often limited in where they can
grow because there are other trees physically blocking them and/
or their required light. Therefore, they don’t get very wide and the
lower branches don’t get as heavy as they might on a tree growing
alone in the middle of a front yard. Also, depending on the species,
trees might “self prune” by shedding their own dead branches.
When we plant single trees in our yards, they grow differently.
They don’t have as many space or light limitations as their forested
kin, so they reach luxuriously outwards. As a result, their lower
branches are thick and heavy, which makes them more prone
to breaking off under stress (wind, ice, etc.). They also might
develop “codominant leaders,” which are top branches that grow
parallel to one another. Codominant leaders are also highly
susceptible to breakage. As tree-owners, it’s important to
do whatever we can to prevent bad things from happening
to our trees! Under this mindset, pruning young trees is
necessary, not optional.
54
Something I hadn’t ever thought about (before the trade show
education sessions) is the fact that tree branch height never
changes. Branches get wider and also create new
growth at their tips; the existing branches and
trunk don’t stretch upwards. This means that
if you don’t prune the lower branches off
of a tree, they will continue to exist at the
height they are already at. Of course, as
the tree matures, it is possible to prune
accordingly, limbing it up as it gets
obtrusive. But larger branches leave
larger wounds, which take longer to
heal, so it’s best to prune when trees
have youthful vigor.
It’s helpful to decide on a permanent
canopy height for your tree. Large
shade trees (especially those planted on
a boulevard) should have about twelve feet
of trunk before they branch out. The ultimate
canopy height of your tree will also depend on how tall
its surrounding structures are (a.k.a. your house). It’s unlikely that
your new tree will be twelve feet tall already, and even if it is, you
shouldn’t cut off all of the lower branches right away. Instead, you
should view these branches as temporary ones, realizing that you
will eventually cut them off completely.
The next step is identifying and encouraging the dominant
central leader. If there are several codominant leaders reaching
up vertically from the tip of the trunk, choose one and cut off the
others. Even if the branch you choose isn’t perfectly straight, it will
eventually straighten itself out as it grows.
Finally, you should reduce the length of the horizontal branches,
especially those toward the bottom that are already thick and
heavy. These cuts are called “reduction cuts,” and they help reduce
the weight of the temporary branches so that they don’t get too
heavy and break off.
There’s so much to learn about tree pruning! Please prune
according to what is best for your exact species of tree; you’ll have
to do some research. Many university extension offices have
online publications to help you out, and it’s definitely
never a bad idea to ask for an expert opinion. Proper
pruning will set your tree up for a long life!
al • G
a
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de
n
Why prune?
How to prune
nG
de
ar
al • Gard
en
Many homeowners plant young trees, which is great. Younger
trees experience less transplant shock than older trees do, so they
grow quickly and healthily. Personally, I’ve planted countless young
trees for my clients. I’ve always felt confident that they would
thrive for many years, as long as my clients participate
in watering them the proper amounts during the
crucial first few years.
Unfortunately, aside from food and water
and sunlight (which you might think are
the only important factors), I’ve ignored
one of these trees’ most important
needs. What it comes down to is
this: trees in home landscapes need
pruning.
Laura Schwarz, a New Ulm native, is a horticulturist
with Tangletown Gardens in Minneapolis.
Wedding
Winter is a Great Time
to Be in the Pool!
invitations &
accessories
• Dock Jumping
• Learn to Swim & Love Water
• Great for Cardio,
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& Weight Loss
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M-F 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. | 507.625.0547
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236964
1741 Premier Drive Mankato
507-625-7070
thepawmankato.com
016598
016591
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
55
No Appointment??? No Problem!!!
Connections . . .
$24.95 standard oil change (includes oil and filter)
$34.95 syntheic blend (includes oil and filter)
Visit us online at mykwchevy.com
for exclusive service promotions and offers!
Kohls Weelborg Chevrolet
1430 Westridge Road, New Ulm, MN 56073
Call 507-233-2000 | 888-507-7236 Toll Free
016203
Providing a link between business
owners and thousands of readers
each month. Post or pick up virtual
business cards here!
Kohls Weelborg Chevrolet is now offering oil changes with
no appointment neCessary!
We will get you in, out and on your way.
Mention this ad & save 10%
• Trees • Shrubs
• Landscaping
& Much More!
016068
Interpreting and Translation Services
River Creek Nursery
New Ulm • 1200 South Front St. • 354-6001
Many Languages, One Company, One Voice
www.linguaone.com
Call today for all your chiropractic needs
016737
Jayne Jensen
Professional
Organizer
We take patients of all ages.
Visit Berkley’s Den
Pediatric Adjusting Room
Dr. Nate Neubauer
507-276-9016
[email protected]
www.yourorganizedhome.com
507-351-8787
009343
ICPA Cert. in Pediatric & Prenatal Chiropractic
20% off
my regular hourly rate
507-359-7622
1316 S Broadway, New Ulm
when you book by 5/1/15.
014674
006217
Bonnie Kruger
Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS
Cell: 507-327-0633 Bus.: 507-345-4040
Email: [email protected]
www.MakatoRealEstate.com
015079
6 East Central Street Springfield, MN
Thrivent Financial was
named one of the “World’s
Most Ethical Companies”
by Ethisphere Institute from
2012–2014.
507-430-5368
Professional DJs & Entertainers Specializing in
Weddings, Parties and Local Events.
012530
[email protected]
Chanelle E. Braekkan
Financial Advisor
Office: 507-934-5304
Cell: 507-351-4580
Fax: 507-934-5305
300 S. Minnesota Ave.
St. Peter, MN 56082
[email protected]
Licensed agent/producer of Thrivent Financial, marketing name for Thrivent Financial for
Lutherans,
WI. Registered
representative
of Thrivent Investment Management
Appleton,Appleton,
Wisconsin
• Minneapolis,
Minnesota
Inc., Minneapolis, MN. Member FINRA and SIPC. Thrivent.com/disclosures.
Thrivent.com • 800-THRIVENT (800-847-4836)
27193 R3-14
Valley Properties
Minnesota Valley
Pet Hospital P.A.
La Naye Kral, Paula Kral, Brenda Grams
507-345-5900
1214 North Broadway
New Ulm, MN 56073
505 Madison Ave.
Mankato, MN 56001
016543
507-354-1986
valley-properties.com
www.mnvalleypet.com
016233
Marketplace Mall • Consignment
Now
AcceptiNg
FurNiture
Antiques, Vintage, Home Décor & More.
Specializing in Custom Painting Furniture.
Retailer for Mother Earth Chalk Paints.
Pick Up Service Available
011384
016089
111 Sioux Road • Mankato, MN •507-388-3867
Hours: Thurs. 12-6;
Fri. 12-6; Sat. 10-4;
or by appointment
Plaid
Piper
We’re Boomin’ Good!
Floral, Gifts, Home Decor
308 Main St., Mapleton, MN
Hand Made Fresh Goat Milk & Organic
Grass-fed Beef Tallow Body Products,
One-Of-a-Kind Antique Items along with
Fashionable, Name Brand Clothing.
Our body care line is available at The Carlson Craft Gift
Store in Mankato, seasonally at Holmberg Orchard
near Vesta and Greenwood Nursery in Marshall.
Hours: Sat. 1:00-4:00; Sun. 1:00-4:00
507.524.4222
41132 180th St. W.
Springfield, MN
507-276-1270
[email protected]
Open Mon.-Fri. 9-5 & Sat. 9-12
Vital Life Massage LLC
016608
Lisa Donth - LMT, BCTMB
1051 Madison Avenue, Suite 1
Mankato, MN 56001
507.420.4654
249239
Tami Leuthold
Advertising Representative
507-360-4466
[email protected]
Over 1000 miles of local Minnesota River Valley news!
015078
6 East Central Street
Springfield, MN
507-430-5368
VitalLifeMassage.com
Massage - For The Health
of your Mind And Body
Judy Beetch
Advertising Representative
507-317-7244
[email protected]
Over 1000 miles of local Minnesota River Valley news!
Connections . . .
Providing a link between business
owners and thousands of readers
each month. Post or pick up virtual
business cards here!
Celebrating 35 years
of providing quality
products & service!
Professional DJs
Good Vibrations Mobile DJ Service
507-438-6533 or 507-254-6470
Nicollet, Minnesota
507-232-3502
010816
Find us on Facebook at Good
Vibration Mobile DJ or on the web
at www.goodvibrationdjs.com
Hours: M-F 8:00 - 5:30; Sat. 7:30 - 4:30
www.georgescitymeats.com
206924
Dart Boards • Pool Tables
Shuffleboards & Ping Pong
Video Games And More!
C&N Sales, C&N Gameroom Outlet
1840 Commerce Dr., North Mankato, MN
507-387-7986 or 507-387-6811 www.cnnsales.com
016639
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
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RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
59
Organizing
s
t
e
P
r
u
Yo
If you have a pet, this article is just for you! If you don’t have a
pet, be sure to share this article with your cat or dog loving friends.
Families come in all shapes and sizes. Many homes include at least
one pet. Whether you own a cat, dog, bird, rabbit, horse, or snake,
one thing is certain. It takes lots of “stuff” to care
for a pet. In many cases, pets can accumulate as
much stuff as kids but never be taught to put
things away or help out around the house.
In fact, it’s often a game for cats and dogs to
drag as many toys out as possible, leaving them
all over the floor. Cats have a knack (maybe
even a passion) for tossing kitty litter over the
side of the box and across a large surrounding
radius. All indoor pets create odors homeowners
continuously battle, along with hair on floors and
furniture.
So how do you keep a cleaner and neater
home, while cohabitating with pets?
shampoos, towels, etc so kids and guests don’t inadvertently use
pet items. Keep all medications in a separate container and clearly
labeled. If your pet isn’t typically on medication, it helps to put
dosages into your daily planner or family calendar. Keep leashes
and “dropping” bags near the door so you can
quickly grab them. If you take your pet with you
in the vehicle, it can be helpful to keep a small
container in the trunk with a separate leash and
supply of bags, etc.
Treats Store treats where you use them. If you
only give treats by the back door, find a shelf or
small storage area to grab one quickly. If you buy
in bulk or a non-resealable container, consider
transferring them immediately to keep fresh and
avoid messy spills later.
Toys Have one container to toss them in if you
need to quickly pick up. Pretty baskets or neat
Food Designate one area for food storage and
bins work well for fast clean up and storage.
feeding. Restrict your buying so you don’t have
Most animals will learn to take their toys out
from a
more food than will fit into the designated space.
of a basket they can reach, but you’ll do all the
Store dry food in plastic containers to keep it dry
cleaning up!
and bugs out. If you buy canned food, rotate it on
Pets take time, so be sure to make time for them.
a shelf by putting the most recently purchased
Reorganize your schedule and pencil in some
by Cindy Haugland
toward the back and pulling older food forward. If
time to spend with them. Giving pets attention
tidytightwads.com
possible keep food close to where you feed your
often means fewer undesirable behaviors and
pets, so you can keep spilling to a minimum.
messes later. Having pets means your home
will not be perfect. It’s the price you pay for the
Supplies If you do your own grooming, designate a storage tote
enjoyment of your furry friends. RVW
so you can store all items together. Clearly label scissors, combs,
Tidy Tightwad Tips
Professional
Organizer
Kato Moving & Storage
Over 120 years of service
We can handle all your moving needs
local and long distance, climate controlled warehouse or self-storage units
417 Poplar Street, Downtown Mankato
60
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
507-388-9329 or 1-800-228-8583
236538
YOUR Music...
10am-2pm
YOUR Life...
2pm-7pm
YOUR Station!
RIVER105.COM
7pm-12am
016582
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
61
Homemakers: A Domestic Handbook
for the Digital Generation
RVW
Good
Reads
by Brit Morin
In Homemakers, Brit Morin, founder of the wildly popular lifestyle
brand and website Brit + Co., re-imagines homemaking for the
twenty-first century. While today’s generation thrives in the virtual
world, they like to work and create in the physical world. Morin
inspires you to combine the best of analog and digital, to help you
reconnect with your inner creative child-the one who used to love
to draw, to build, and to play-to make your home a more creative,
functional, and beautiful place. Full of captivating, colorful spreads, step-by-step DIYs, tips,
and unique ideas, Homemakers explores a range of domestic skills room by room in a house,
from cooking advice in the kitchen to health and beauty tips in the bathroom. Simple,
beautiful, and stylish, it offers ideas for creative living to encourage and enable the digital
generation to make.
How to Keep Your Home Clean... The Smart
Way: Save Time, Money and Reduce Stress
by Learning How to Clean Intelligently
Spring is nearly
here, and thoughts
turn to home
improvements,
changes, and
refreshing that
tired decor.
The following books
will give you a head
start and provide
some new ways to
think about your
home and lifestyle.
By Paul Morrisey
Are you always dreading the weekend because you know that you
have to catch up on the house cleaning? Does it seem like when
you do clean, you do a bad job? Do you ever wonder if there is
an easier way to clean your home? How to Keep Your Home Clean..
The Smart Way shows you how to clean your home intelligently,
accurately and thoroughly. It will discuss numerous strategies
and tactics to help you get through the ‘chores’ and start living a
happier life. What you’ll learn: Getting into the correct mind frame to clean; Identify the things
that stop you from cleaning properly; Common excuses we use to not clean; Tips, tricks and
cleaning hacks; Natural cleaning recipes and more.
The Nesting Place: It Doesn’t Have to
Be Perfect to Be Beautiful
By Myquillyn Smith
Popular blogger and self-taught decorator Myquillyn Smith (The
Nester) is all about embracing reality and all the unpredictable
messes of life. In The Nesting Place, Smith shares the secrets of
decorating for real people—and it has nothing to do with creating
a flawless look to wow your guests. It has everything to do with
embracing the natural imperfection and chaos of daily living.
Drawing on her years of experience creating beauty in her 13
different homes, Myquillyn will show you how to think differently about the true purpose of
your home and simply and creatively tailor it to reflect you and your unique style—without
breaking the bank or stressing over comparisons. Full of easy tips, simple steps, and practical
advice, The Nesting Place will give you the courage to take risks with your home and transform
it into a place that’s inviting and warm for family and friends. There is beauty in the livedin and loved-on and just-about-used-up, Smith says, and welcoming that imperfection
wholeheartedly just might be the most freeing thing you’ll ever do.
Source: amazon.com
62
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
Minor illness or injury?
We’re open 365 days a year.
Illness and injury happen at the most inconvenient times. With Mayo Clinic Health System
Urgent Care, we help you get in, get care and get back to your day.
No appointment necessary. Open seven days a week, 365 days a year.
Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato Eastridge
101 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive | Next to the water tower by Mankato Ford | 507-304-7000
mayoclinichealthsystem.org
011339
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | march • 2015
63
It’s On.
20%
OFF
All Lighting & Rugs
This sale isn’t on forever...Hurry In!
Austin
1700 17th St NW
www.roomsandrest.com
507.437.1457
Mankato
1760 Madison Ave
507.218.0030
New Ulm
1704 N. State St
507.218.0158
016625