VUSA BENTLEY Following Her - FAIR TRADE - River Valley Woman
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
VUSA
BENTLEY
Following Her
Passion
CARISA BUEGLER
Inspired by Example
Wooden Nickel Project
New Ulm’s Own
FAIR TRADE
REACH-ing Out
to Homeless
FREE!
RIVERVALLEYWOMAN.COM DECEMBER 2017 • VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 7
SPECIALIZED CARE JUST FOR CHILDREN. 059171 Our Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine experts specialize in delivering the unique care children need from birth through their late teens. Whether it’s a routine exam or a diagnosis of an illness, we’re committed to keeping our youngest patients healthy. Call 1-877-412-7575 (toll-free) to schedule an appointment. mayoclinichealthsystem.org
42 28 84 14
contents
Publisher
New Century Press
Chief Operating Officer
{{ december • 2017 }
Jim Hensley
General Manager
8
Lisa Miller
Please direct all editorial inquiries Lather, Rinse, Repeat Editor’s Column . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
and suggestions to:
Managing Editor Vusa Bentley: Don’t Tell Her She Can’t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Eileen Madsen
emadsen@ncppub.com
Carisa Buegler: Inspired by Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
New Ulm Fair Trade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Sales & Marketing Manager
Natasha Weis Gustavus Alumnae Connect Through Dance Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
507.227.2545
weisnatasha@gmail.com
Recognizing Niceness: Wooden Nickels Have Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
REACH-ing Out to Help the Homeless . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Sales Team
Erin Herding YWCA Mankato: Inspired to invest… in ourselves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Ruth Klossner
Nicki Langlie LeTourneau
SPACES: Material Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Tami Leuthold Room-by-Room Renovations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Designer Shared Housework May be the True Language of Love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Amy Leuthold
Reader Facebook Poll: Who or What Inspires You? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Ad Designers Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Exposure Creative
Kelly DeVries: “I’m Not a Cat Person, I Swear” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Cover Photographer
Strut Your Stuff Fashion Pages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Rhonda Milbrett Photography
Think Outside the Box with 2018 Goals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Contributing Photographer
My Eye Photography Tidy Tightwads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Shamara Hornick
Visit Owatonna! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
River Valley Woman Magazine Festive Finances or Holiday Headache? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
New Ulm & Mankato, MN
507.354.6158 Healthy Cooking for One or Two . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Taste of the River Valley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
For advertising and editorial contact
information and a list of newsstand Eats: Cut Down On Stress with a Simple Holiday Meal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
locations visit
rivervalleywoman.com Miles of Memories: Wisconsin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
GO.
Reads: Bound to the Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
River Valley Woman is published monthly and
distributed free in the Minnesota River Valley area. Suze Orman: Get in the true holiday spirit: Gift disaster relief donations today . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
The content used in this magazine is
copyright 2017 River Valley Woman and may Garden Gal: Gift Ideas for Gardeners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
BE.
not be reprinted in part or in whole without
written consent by the publisher. All articles Connections Business Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
and editorial material represent the opinions
of the respective authors. Celebrating Those Who Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Treasures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
DO.
The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject, or
position any advertising. In the event of any error,
River Valley Woman will rerun the
Christmas Tree Pests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
incorrect part of the ad or cancel charges
on the incorrect portion.
CONNECT. RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017 3
Deck the
Halls
FROM WINDOWS TO WALLS
'TIS THE SEASON
As we cozy up with family and admire our decor,
we notice hanging stockings and wrapped-up gifts galore.
Our eyes do linger longest on our drapery before
we remember how we loved it, when we bought from Blinds & More.
HOLIDAY
CHEER!
LOOK OUT YOUR WINDOW, SNOW IS NEAR!
ALL IS CALM, ALL IS BRIGHT
Decorating for the Holidays causes us to focus on
ornaments, stockings and gifts. What about the room
in which we gather? What will our photos capture
behind or beside our tree? Complete the look with new
window coverings from Blinds & More. Fresh drapery,
convenient roller shades or cozy wooden blinds can
make any room feel like home.
GIVE
U
AS A S
GREA
T GIF
T !
Gift your loved one new window
coverings of their choosing or an
interior design session with a gift
certificate from Blinds & More!
081890
FREE
CONSULTATION,
SHIPPING &
INSTALLATION
on Window Treatments
507-380-5019
BLINDS-MORE.COM
Eileen Madsen
Editor
Lather, Rinse, Repeat
According to Thomas Edison, in my life or work. The saying came from a Bugs Bunny cartoon where
genius is one percent inspiration and he could sense where gold was buried. He’d get a goofy look on his face,
ninety-nine percent perspiration. I think declare he had “that funny feeling,” start to tremble—and then hoodwink
our cover woman Vusa Bentley would Yosemite Sam into digging it up. On the other hand Foghorn would sing
agree with that. Considering her never say and strut his way through life with an “Oh-Do-Dah-Day” and an endless
never attitude and multiple ventures— capacity for looking on the bright side.
including fitness trainer, mediator and
It’s the bright side that Carisa Buegler looks upon each day when she leads
fund-raiser—she keeps going even if the
by example as director of operations, and former foundation director, at
only cheerleader is herself. Teaming with
New Ulm Medical Center. When others find inspiration in what you do, well,
a friend, they created the Wagomobile,
you’ve struck gold.
which feeds people and raises funds
at the same time. In this same vein...”Make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver and
the other gold.” A group of women alumnae at Gustavus College in St.
I was lucky enough to be invited to
Peter know this song, and dance to its tune. These friends connect through
Vusa’s home for lunch a while back and
shared experiences and expressed it through performance.
to say that I was inspired by her is an
understatement. The lunch itself was a If Bugs Bunny were to meander the streets in New Ulm he would be sure to
delicious little feast of exotic homemade get that funny feeling and reveal what has been called the town’s “best kept
food and tea, served in a comfortable and secret”—New Ulm’s Own Fair Trade. Jeanie Hinsman, and a group of like-
eclectic setting. But it was her story that minded women, had a desire to the enrich the community and open doors
was most riveting. to artisans, locally and around the world, culminating in a little shop with a
lot to love.
Inspiration can come from anywhere
really. It doesn’t have to be lofty to make What isn’t a secret is that homelessness exists—even in southern
an impact. It just has to speak to you. Minnesota. With the inspiration to turn her own experiences in the foster
What speaks to me is Bugs Bunny and his care system into something good, Tasha Moulton and team invested
Warner Bros. cartoon cohorts. I credit my their perspiration into developing The REACH Drop In Center in Mankato.
independence, self-reliance, sarcasm and At-risk and homeless youth have a safe place to go and build supportive
penchant for bucking the norm (former relationships in the process.
bosses might say authority, but what As the saying goes “Don’t take any Wooden Nickels,” but this is Minnesota
do they know?) on countless Saturday Nice, so go ahead, take them and pay them forward. The impact the
mornings with Bugs, and my contrastingly Wooden Nickels project has is no small change. For dozens of nursing
positive attitude towards life on students, this endeavor, which rewards people for acts of kindness,
Foghorn Leghorn. changed their views of the world around them. Positive fosters positive...
”Oh-Do-Dah Day.”
Whenever I say “I’ve got that funny feeling
coming over me...” that’s when I know I We think this issue is pure gold. I’ve got a funny feeling there’s a ninety-nine
need a change or to kick things up a notch percent chance you’ll be inspired to read it in one sitting. No sweat.
6 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017
082099
New Look. New Name. Same Great Store.
Earl Johnson Furniture + Bedding Superstore + Town & Country Interiors
have joined forces to become Johnson Furniture, Mattress & Interior Design.
We still offer the same great products and services, just with a fresh face lift!
CORNER OF S. 2ND & CHERRY ST
DOWNTOWN MANKATO
New website launching soon at JFMankato.com
FURNITURE . MATTRESS . INTERIOR DESIGN LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!
Hours: Sunday 12pm-4pm; Monday & Thursday 9am-8pm; Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 9am-5pm
080303
Design Showroom Hours: Monday-Friday 9:30am-5pm; Saturday 10am-3pm
VUSA BENTLEY:
Don’t Tell Her
She Can’t.
By Kelly DeVriendt, Photos by Rhonda Milbrett Photography
It seems that the best way to get Vusa Bentley to planned to burn the house town rather than be
do something is to tell her that she can’t. captured by soldiers.”
“I don’t listen to the nay-sayers,” Bentley said, “If The years that immediately followed included
only one person is saying I can do it, even if that bread lines and coupons to exchange for bread,
one person is only me, I cling to that. The voice milk and salt.
inside me says to keep doing.” “To this day, I hate wasting food,” she said.
This voice has brought Bentley from her home Yet, Bentley doesn’t look back on that
in Azerbaijan—a home where the expectation experience as a victim, rather chooses to seek
of her was to find a suitable “woman’s” job and out what strengths came out of it. Strengths
settle down—to Mankato Minnesota where she like adaptability and the importance of
presently is building two businesses as well as human connection.
launching a new volunteer venture.
“Even though we have all had different
Bentley works as an independent consultant experiences, it is important to find our
at JP Fitness as a personal trainer through her common denominator,” Bentley said.
business, Vusa Fitness-Fitness for all walks of life.
She also works as a family and civil law mediator Coming to America
through Bentley Mediation and Drafting, LLC. Against her family’s wishes, Bentley started
Most recently, she partnered with Jack McGowan college at the university in Baku in hopes of
of Jack McGowan Farm to start the Bentley- becoming a translator.
McGowan Wagomobile—a mobile pizza oven “This profession was not considered to be a
that will come to fund raising events with wood woman’s job,” she said, “The expectation was
and two hours of free service to cook pizza for for me to go to piano school, get married and
attendees. start a family. I was told it was too hard and that
I wouldn’t pass the required exam.”
A Humble Upbringing
Raised by a single mother in Azerbaijan, Bentley Two times Bentley applied and two times
was the middle of three children. In her early she failed. Her mother, and others, said,
childhood, Azerbaijan was still a part of the “I told you so.”
Soviet Union. When she was 10 years old, she
On her third attempt, she passed. She received
witnessed its collapse.
a scholarship to the University of Land and Fire
“We were under martial law for three days,” said in Baku to become a synchronic translator. This
Bentley, “My mother told me later that she had degree would allow her to stand in front of
s
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017 9
political figures and do live translating of Body, Mind and Heart
Russian, Turkish and Azerbaijani to English. Body—Bentley began working as a
Certified Personal Trainer at JP Fitness
During her sophomore year she was
in May of this year. She received her
encouraged to take advantage of a
credentials through the National Academy
program which allowed for students to
of Sports Medicine.
study abroad in the United States for free.
If you pass the English test. Previously, Bentley stated that she had
been training for five years to be a special
Bentley was one of twelve who passed.
agent with the FBI. However, after some
Based on her interview, they placed her
deep soul-searching, she walked away.
at Minnesota State University Moorhead
on a one year scholarship. “I decided it wasn’t for me. It didn’t fill all
the aspects of who I am and what I wanted
“I came to the United States at age 20
to do,” she said.
with 200 dollars,” Bentley said.
Her training was very
“I am my own most violent
physical and after five
years of dedication,
competitor, I always feel like
she found herself
wondering what she
there is more that I can do was going to do with
all of it.
in this world.” Vusa Fitness-Fitness
for all walks of Life was
created to honor and
While at Morehead, Bentley met her utilize her experience. She went with the
future husband, Ben, which sealed her tagline: “Don’t go AWOL on your fitness.”
fate to a life in Midwestern United States.
Bentley hopes to develop a Boot Camp
She has continued to follow her own fitness plan that would target veterans to
passions and drives. Bentley has help fight PTSD.
developed three separate ventures
“My hope is to be a conduit of strength
which—together—are uniting all that
and inspiration through fitness training,”
is important to her.
Bentley said.
10 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017Mind—Bentley Mediation and Drafting also came to of repeating the task at her home in Mankato.
fruition this past spring.
An unexpected encounter with Jack McGowan of
“I thought about law school at one point, but decided McGowan Farm not only put that dream into motion, it
that there are plenty of lawyers and not enough peace expanded its reach.
makers,” she said. “I wanted a piano and contacted Jack. He was
Bentley had previous experience working in the legal delivering free used pianos that he got from people
field for nine years. That, combined with her myriad of who didin’t want them anymore” she said, “I am not
life experiences, positions her nicely to take on the role used to taking anything for free, so I required that he
of mediator. and his wife stay for dinner.”
“My hope is to be a conduit of peace through During their visit, Bentley told McGowan about the
mediation,” Bentley said. oven she had previously built. McGowan thought it
would be a good idea to build another one.
Heart—Although the kick off happened only this past
August, the Bentley-McGowan Wagon mobile really “He’s just as crazy as me, so we started planning right
has been years in the making. then and there,” Bentley said.
They decided that, instead of the oven being stuck in
Bentley can trace her love of preparing and enjoying
one place, that they would make it mobile and share it
food with others back to her grandmother.
with as many people as possible.
“My grandmother always opened the door to others.
The build took six months. McGowan provided the
She basically force fed people,” Bentley said, “I too now
base of the wagon, built the frame and wood part,
find obnoxious pleasure in seeing people eat and be
while Bentley purchased the wood, metal and cement
happy.”
and built up the brick part and decorations, including
Bentley had previously built an outdoor oven in her the logo. A local company custom made the front of
back yard at a prior residence and always had thoughts the pizza oven and wagon.
s
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017 11“I love feeding people. It was fulfilling
to find a way to make pizza for others
while also benefiting the community
and community businesses.”
“I love feeding people,” Bentley said, “It was fulfilling to find “My hope is to be a conduit of compassion through the pizza
a way to make pizza for others while also benefiting the wagon,” she said.
community and community businesses.”
It is said the good entrepreneur’s don’t only do one thing.
The way it works is first, a business is looking for a way to get This sentiment appears to hold true for Bentley. She continues
promotion. They ask the Bentley-Wagomobile to come to their to spark new ideas and to relentlessly pursue her goals. She
event. A fund-raising recipient is identified. The community aspires to one day have a physical office outside her home to
comes and eats pizza at a reasonable prize to support a local shelter all her endeavors. She hopes the space will allow her to
agency. host an annual soup kitchen.
There is no charge for their time, the wood or the use For more information about Vusa and the Wagomobile call
of the wagon. 715-302-5646 or visit her Facebook Page Bentley McGowan
Wagomobile or her personal page vmb Vusala. RV W
“I see the wagon as a way for businesses to promote what they
do by sponsoring a fundraiser,” Bentley said, “And the public Below: Gary Petersen, the owner of Caretakers is a big
gets cheap, tasty pizza.” community donor and a key supporter of Bentley’s
fund-raising efforts.
Their license allows for 10 events per year. Four events have
already been completed.ASKCandee.
061243
Let's Find Your
Holiday Happiness
Find the home of your dreams and start making
treasured memories. Ask Candee about finding
the perfect home for you and your family.
GENUINE SERVICE.
TRUE RESULTS.
CANDEE DEICHMAN
Realtor®, True Real Estate
C: 507.327.5006
P: 507.345.8783
truerealestatemankato.comCARISA BUEGLER
In s p i r e d
Her dad was also no stranger to giving back—a founding member
of a local heritage organization as well as several volunteer gigs
throughout his life.
Buegler continues to draw inspiration from others and is driven to
pass on that inspiration..
by Example WHO
Beyond her parents, Buegler stated that she has had many mentors
and examples of people who have inspired her throughout her life.
“There are always people doing amazing things and with amazing
skills,” she said, “I think it’s important that we learn from and
By Kelly DeVriendt encourage each other.”
Carisa Buegler’s first inspiring experiences came early in her life. “My Kathleen Backer is one such person who provided a learning
parents are definitely an inspiration,” she said. opportunity for Buegler. After graduating from the University of
Minnesota with a degree in family social services, Buegler got her first
Her mother was a nurse who worked with high risk clients with
job as director of the United Way in New Ulm.
disabilities. Buegler recalls her working extra shifts, accompanying
them to emergency room visits and being clearly dedicated to “There was a fair amount of cold-calling involved asking for donations
her patients. and that was intimidating at times,” she said.
“She was fearless in taking care of them,” Buegler said, “She found joy Backer had a solid background in fundraising and non-profit work.
out of giving to others.” “She brought a lot of encouragement and really helped me grow my
14 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017confidence,” Buegler said. Some years back, Buegler had the opportunity to write a personal
mission statement that has helped shape her career: “To always
Later, after having her first baby, Buegler encountered some struggles
advocate and speak up for those who are unable to speak for
when returning to work.
themselves.”
“When I came back from my maternity leave, I was facing the biggest
This mission continues to motivate her behaviors and choices. In turn,
challenge of my career thus far, and was dealing with the guilt of
there are many reasons why others find inspiration from her.
leaving my baby,” she said.
WHY
She leaned on her close friend, Susan Ward. Ward, who is also a life
“It’s difficult for me to understand why others find me inspiring,”
coach, worked with Buegler to help her find enjoyment in both her job
Buegler said, “I am just trying to do my best. I do try hard though.”
and motherhood.
She acknowledges that her positivity may be a reason why others
One of Buegler’s biggest supports and inspiration is her husband,
see her as inspiring. Always an optimist, Buegler believes that there is
Darrin. When she was encouraged to go back to school for her master’s
something positive in every situation.
degree in health care coordination, she was excited, but doubted
she had the time, money and energy to Jane Steuber has worked at New Ulm Medical
make it happen. When she brought Center for 37 years and stated that
this home to her husband, his “The best I can see is for women in that time there has not been
response was, “You can do another person who inspires
it. We will figure it out.”
to reach out to other women— her more than Buegler.
That was all she needed
ask questions, get ideas and most “She is a leader who inspires
to hear and—in 2016—she importantly, encourage each other.” everyone to be the best they
received her degree. can be,” Steuber said, “She faces
every day with a positive attitude
“All I needed was people around me
and treats everyone she encounters with
to inspire and support me and convince me
compassion and respect.”
that I could do it,” Buegler said, “That is what I want to do for others.”
In her collaborations with others, what is most important to Carisa are
WHERE
the relationships she is building. She thrives in problem-solving and
Today, Buegler is the director of operations at New Ulm Medical
encouraging others to use their strengths to strive for better.
Center. She oversees supportive services, such as radiology, lab,
housekeeping, Courage Kenny Center, dietary, community health and “Most people know what they want to do next, or different or better,”
business development. she said, “However, they don’t think they can do it. I want to be the
person who helps them find the confidence to know that they can.”
With this variety of departments, no two days are the same.
HOW?
“I love that there are constant challenges being thrown at me every
It’s difficult to see how one can manage all the facets of their lives, let
day,” she said, “I love that I have a great supportive team that helps me
alone manage them well. This is no different for Buegler. She admits
every day as well.”
that some things in her life don’t get the attention she would like them
The team at New Um Medical Center earned a nod when they were to.
named to the top 20 hospitals in the nation among rural hospitals in
“My social life is definitely lacking,” she said.
terms of quality and affordability.
Buegler believes that the goal overall is to find balance in all things in
Buegler takes great pride in this and furthermore believes the New
your life.
Ulm community as a whole is a very giving one.
“At some point, I recognized that I am in charge of my life and my
“We take care of each other within the walls of the hospital and
calendar,” she said, “I own it.”
throughout the community as a whole,” she said, “I love that about us.”
She feels it is important to decide what is most important in your life
WHAT
and prioritize it. For her personally, it means prioritizing family time. “I
Buegler stated that what motivates and inspires her most is making a
get rejuvenation from my family,” she said.
difference to others, especially to those within her community.
This means that sometimes Buegler has to turn down invitations or not
When she originally started college, her plan was to become a social
take on other responsibilities that are asked of her.
worker. Through some introspection and experience, she learned that
although she enjoyed working on a micro level—with people one on “You have to ask yourself if it aligns with what you have decided is
one—she was more motivated to work on a macro level. “I want to most important to you. If it doesn’t, you can’t be afraid to say no,” she
make an overall difference to the entire population,” she said. said.
Her variety of department oversites in her current position definitely The ability to say no rubs off on others and helps us become more
allows for this—most notably working in community wellness. The genuine—a trait that Buegler wishes to effectuate.
opportunity to develop outreach programs and engage outside of the
“Everyone struggles with the how,” she said, “ I wish I had a magic
walls of the hospital is something she stated is very rewarding.
nugget of advice. The best I can see is for women to reach out to other
‘It gives me the opportunity to be a part of serving the whole person,” women—ask questions, get ideas and most importantly, encourage
she said, “To be in positions where I contribute to making a difference each other.” RV W
in their lives.”
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017 15Board members, from left, Bernice Schmitz, Jeanie Hinsman, and Barb Olson showed
a few of the popular products that New Ulm’s Own offers.
Made by Women, Supporting Women
New Ulm’s Own...
“best kept secret”
By Ruth Klossner
Not too long ago, a woman stopped by the small shop at 212 North Minnesota
Street, saying that her niece told her to check it out. She had been told that “New
Ulm’s Own” was the best-kept secret in town.
While the volunteers who run the shop love to hear positive comments, they’d
rather not be a secret. They’re trying to spread the word by encouraging co-
workers, relatives, friends, and visitors to stop by to check out the offerings
for themselves.
New Ulm’s Own—a nonprofit 501(c)(3) Fair Trade shop—is tucked away down a
long hallway behind NadelKunst in New Ulm’s downtown. For those who prefer
easier access, there’s a back entrance and parking at the back of the building.
Photos: Recycled products are popular. Some of these purses are made from recycled
seat belts, others from the bags that tea is shipped in. In preparation for Christmas, board
member Barb Olson placed ornaments on the tree.The shop is a dream-come-true for board Because most Fair Trade shops buy from Ten
member and retired teacher Jeanie Hinsman. Thousand Villages and Serrv, Hinsman and
the board are now looking for smaller
“We shopped at Fair Trade shops when we
companies, in order to secure different
were out of town on our travels. I kept thinking,
items. “We’re hunting and seeking
‘Why not New Ulm?’ I had time on my hands,”
smaller and more unique products,” she
she explained.
said. “You see the same items in other
A special education teacher, Hinsman retired in Fair Trade shops if you get everything
2010 after teaching 18 years in St. Peter and 15 from Ten Thousand Villages and Serrv.
in Iowa. We’re now looking at Partners for Just
Trade in St. Louis,” Hinsman said.
“I felt that a Fair Trade shop could enrich our
community. It took a big effort and it was quite a “We have products from more than 30
learning process to get going,” Hinsman said. “I countries. Haves and have-nots are part of
talked to people with similar values and interests the society in every country. A critical factor
that I knew—and got seven people on board. for the crafts people is to get money to buy
We met often and visited other Fair Trade shops. materials. Twenty-five percent is provided up
We looked at locations.” front to help them get materials and growers
get three-year contracts with Fair Trade to
The group did a few test markets in the fall
get going.”
of 2016—setting up displays at New Ulm’s
Women’s Expo and at five churches. Things went Items for sale in the New Ulm shop include
well and they received a lot of positive feedback. those made from throwaway things,
among them Klikety Klik vases made
Though they would have liked a storefront
from plastic pop bottles, ketchup bottle
location, the group decided the “down the hall”
votive candle holders, purses made
space was a good place to start and the rent
from recycled seat belts, and “Poo
was reasonable. They started fixing the space in
Paper” products made from…you
March 2017.
guessed it…elephant droppings.
When Hinsman met with a consultant at a
Many of the food products offered are
conference in Chicago, she was told that it
from Eswatini Kitchen, an orphanage
would take $80,000 to $100,000 to open a Fair
for children who have lost both
Trade shop. “He laughed at me when I told him
parents to AIDS in Swaziland. Although
our budget was $40,000. I said New Ulm could
the condiments may be unfamiliar to
do better than that,” she recalled. “We started
locals, they are popular with shoppers.
with a $20,000 operating loan and hope to pay it
Samples are sometimes available in
back in four years.”
the store.
New Ulm’s Own opened in May 2017, a bit earlier
A “coffee club” featuring a different coffee each
than anticipated. “We found out that the second
month will begin in January.
Saturday of May is Fair Trade Day…and the
theme was ‘Opening Doors’ so we scurried to Hinsman encourages people to be
get it done,” Hinsman said. conscientious shoppers. “Some products
may not be cheaper, but there’s a
Like other Fair Trade shops, New Ulm’s Own
moral purpose—that’s the reason to
features Fair Trade products handcrafted by
support Fair Trade. Make purchases
artisans in developing countries. The shop offers
for the greater good. Pick one
chocolates, coffee, tea, scarves, baskets, jewelry,
item—like chocolates or jam—
pottery, ornaments, wall décor, metal art, and
and make a personal commitment
other handcrafted gifts. The products are made
to buy in to things that provide
by artisans who lack access to markets, business
fair wages.”
skills, and the tools needed to grow. They use
sustainable materials. New Ulm’s shop also features
artwork— photography, note
Local shops access the products through non-
cards, wall art, and locally made
profit organizations like Ten Thousand Villages
books—created by a dozen local
and Serrv. The purchasing companies operate
artisans, with the shop retaining a
on the principles of fair working conditions,
percentage of the selling price. Current
no discrimination in hiring, no child labor,
artists include Lanis Curtis, Carolyn
and products made so that they enhance
“Annie” Earl, Carol Edwards, Ron Kahler,
s
the environment.
Photos: Eswatini Kitchen products from Swaziland are among the most popular items in the shop,
according to Bernice Schmitz. Note cards made by a local artist have been big sellers. Welcome to
New Ulm’s best-kept secret…New Ulm’s Own at 212 North Minnesota Street.
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017 19Sue Happel, Anne Klinkner, Sue Kral, Geri Leavens, Ruth Lindemann, 063967
John Olson, Elaine Paa, and Pauline Hietala. To sell at New Ulm’s Own,
artisans must be Brown County residents or live within 20 miles of
New Ulm.
The non-profit shop has no paid staff, with a six-member board and
Unwrap the magic
this season
five volunteers running the business. Joining Hinsman on the board are
Barb Olson, Bernice Schmitz, Peg Sundell, Vicki Sieve, and Mary Kluge.
Store hours are 10 a.m., to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. During
December, Sunday hours of noon to 3 p.m. have been added.
“It’s inspiring to be in the shop. Those who work here call it ‘Our Happy
Place,’” Hinsman said.
Part of the mission of Fair Trade shops is to support marginalized
women. New Ulm’s shop does that both globally and locally—marketing
products made by low-income women from countries around the world
and supporting local women. Eighty-five percent of Fair Trade products
are made by women—including crops.
For 2017, New Ulm’s Own profits were earmarked to support the
operation of New Ulm’s NUMAS Haus. The house provides emergency
shelter and support services to homeless single mother families with
school age children from the New Ulm area. The program helps families
find permanent housing within 90 days, while addressing the root
causes of homelessness for each family through counseling, educational
programs and case management. The goal is to allow children to remain
enrolled in New Ulm schools while their families become established.
For more information about New Ulm’s Own, or to volunteer to staff 1234 Raintree Rd., Mankato
the nonprofit, visit newulmsown.yolasite.com or Facebook or call Call 507-387-0443
507-354-3458. RV W lauriedanberry@heintztoyota.com Laurie Danberry
Sales & Leasing
www.heintztoyota.com
082134
081367
20 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017i ng o f
a m
081359
D r e
m o n ds
Di a
Engagement Specialist . Custom Design Studio . Certified Worldwide Diamond ImporterThe Perfect Holiday Gift
for
for Everyone
Everyone on
on your
your List
List
DIAMONDS & GEMSTONES | WATCHES FOR ALL | CUSTOMIZED GIFTS & ACCESSORIES
FASHION JEWELRY | STORAGE BOXES FOR HIM & HER | BABY & CHILDREN'S GIFTS
Give your loved one a thoughtful gift with a custom jewelry piece from
Julee's! Design your own engagement ring, engrave a sentiment into
a beautiful watch, or repurpose Great Grandmother's ring.
Complimentary Gift Wrapping Year-Round
Julee makes regular visits to Antwerp, as a Certified
World-wide Diamond Importer for quality & beauty.
Mankato & St. Peter | JuleesJewelry.comLOOK FOR THIS SYMBOL WHEN CHOOSING SEAFOOD 081899
Let’s Dance!
Gustavus alumnae connect through performance
By Ruth Klossner
Two decades after they graduated, five women returned to Bjorling “I had been thinking about this dance for several years—and it was
Recital Hall at Gustavus Adolphus College to present a special perfect for this event,” Rusinko said. “This group of dancers had
performance as part of “Encore: An Alumni Dance Celebration.” overlapped with each other and had stayed connected. They were
there for each other in happiness and loss.”
Although Jennifer Gallus (’97), Nickie Kromminga Hill (’98), Betsy
Maloney Leaf (’97), Colleen Brady Lindstrom (’99), and Mya (Follansbee) The concept of Rusinko’s dance is based on the Hebrew word
Shaftel (’95) each danced four years at Gustavus, over a five-year “malkosh,” meaning “last rain.” There are clear divisions in Israel
period of time, they had never all danced together. between rainy and dry periods, but it is impossible to know which rain
is the “last” of the season until it’s over and the sun returns. Rusinko
Until Gustavus Adolphus’ homecoming weekend September 23
compared it to many losses in life and, after losing her mother and
When the Gustavus alumni office approached Michel Rusinko, learning that one of the dancers had also lost hers, it seemed like this
professor in theatre and dance, to ask if she could arrange an alumni group of women were the best group for the dance.
dance event—as an alternative to football—Rusinko got right to work.
“When Nikki Kromminga Hills’ mother died unexpectedly, I sent
She sent out a large call to all dancers who had graduated—and a
condolences and continued to think about this dance. As a group,
special message to the five.
“Last Rain” performers, from left: Jennifer Gallus ‘97, Nickie Kromminga Hill ‘98, Mya (Follansbee) Shaftel ‘95, Betsy Maloney Leaf ‘97,
and Colleen Brady Lindstrom ‘99.
24 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017these five women had dealt with some pretty significant losses,” “When we were all here, Kresge Dance Studio was home for us. We
Rusinko said. “I knew that I could choreograph this dance with [current] called it the ‘womb’ because we spent so much time there and it
GAC students, but most have not lived long enough to have that was warm and welcoming. Now we’ve been away for 20 years, but
collective experience. There’s a comfort with people you’ve known for to go back it felt like being home again—it smells the same,” Brady
a long time, a history. This was the cast that was in my brain.” Lindstrom laughed. It was the first time that her husband and daughter
had seen her dance.
Even before the alumni event was planned, Rusinko was in contact with
the group. “I sent a Facebook group message, saying that I didn’t know While the space still seemed the same, the wisdom that developed
when or how, but I felt that this was the cast for the dance I wanted to since their days on campus was evident. “Things are more complicated
do. All five immediately responded, saying ‘I’m in.’”
With dance celebration planning underway, Rusinko and the
group identified a weekend they could get together and Rusinko
reserved the Gustavus guesthouse for a weekend in August.
“They were very excited to come back and to work together. That
was the start and I turned it over to them. I went to the Cities for
one rehearsal and they rehearsed together after that. They had to
bring it together on their own. I trusted them when they were 22
years old and I trusted them even more now.”
Returning to the stage was a powerful moment for the dancers
and their families, as Rusinko explained. “Three of the five have
small children who had never seen their moms dance. A number
of the husbands hadn’t either—or it had been 20 years.”
Rusinko didn’t want the dance to be about grief, but rather a
realization of life.
“Realizing that we could lose somebody at any time makes the
time spent with people more precious. In reality, it’s not only an
elderly parent, but could be anybody. Because we’ve experienced
loss, we just savor the times we are with people more—that’s
what I wanted to capture,” she said.
“The idea that was conveyed through the dance
is that you just have to keep showing up. There
was a sense that, even in moments of grief, you
just keep putting one foot in front of the other. I
think we really succeeded in visually representing
that. Some things are difficult to give words to.”
In retrospect, Rusinko commented, “I know that
it was a powerful experience for the dancers. It
ended up being a very powerful moment. Many
in the audience were very teary eyed. We’re
looking for other opportunities where we might
perform this piece again.” Michele Rusinko, Gustavus
Though they were united in dance, the five Adolphus College Professor
women followed varying paths after graduation. in Theatre and Dance.
The dancers did a final run through the morning of the
Jennifer Gallus is currently a small animal performance.
veterinarian at Lake Harriet Veterinary Clinic.
Nickie Kromminga Hill is a theater/dance teacher at Anoka Middle
School for the Arts and is a performer at Chanhassen Dinner Theater. now. There are pets, jobs, kids, husbands. It’s not like it was when we
Betsy Maloney Leaf teaches at the University of Minnesota in Arts in were in college,” Maloney Leaf stated. “But we are a group of friends
Education and conducts educational research on community-based and there are things we only share with this group of friends. There’s a
art programs. Colleen Brady Lindstrom is a radio talk show host for lot of trust here.”
Twin Cities radio station myTalk 107.1. Mya (Follansbee) Shaftel is an ESL
teacher with the Minnesota Literacy Council. Kromminga Hill noted that the celebration was truly a homecoming. “It
felt good to be home again. Home is so many places now, but it’s like
For the dancers to be back on campus was special because they started when your parent cooks your favorite meal, that’s what it feels like to
to figure out who they were at Gustavus, an ever-evolving process. be back at Gustavus,” she said. RV W
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017 25D ream ing of a White Kitch
I'm en
BEFORE
Schedule Your FREE Estimate Today!
080091080307
IGNITION FITNESS OFFERS INDIVIDUALIZED FITNESS, PERFORMANCE,
AND CUSTOMIZED COACHING FOR ALL ABILITIES.
No matter what your goal is, we tailor our programs to fit your needs; so every exercise prescribed
for you has a particular purpose. Our science-based programs are the key to target FAT LOSS,
increase your ENERGY LEVELS, help you MOVE BETTER, and FEEL TOTALLY AWESOME.
START WITH A FREE FITNESS STRATEGY
SESSION & GOAL ACTION PLAN
507.479.1414 | IgnitionMankato.com | 1960 Commerce Dr., North MankatoG N I Z I N G
RECO
Nic e n e s s
By Ruth Klossner of the University’s Nursing 101W course engagement in relation to the nursing
– “Courage, Caring, and Team Building,” profession,” Gerdes said. “The assignment’s
Wooden nickels received a 1.5 inch “wooden nickel,” along
with directions of how to use it.
goal was to make students realize how
kind gestures may often go unnoticed
have impact The students were asked to step outside
or unappreciated, and to reflect on and
acknowledge the gestures.”
their comfort zone, being told to give the
wooden coin as a reward to someone they Each wooden nickel is printed with a picture
Wooden nickels—small round pieces of
saw do a kind act. After they had completed of Minnesota and the phrase “Minnesota
wood that can have a big impact on how
the task, the students went online, punched nickel — Recognizing Niceness” on the
people think about things. For dozens of
in the serial number on their coin, and front. The flip side is stamped with a unique
introductory nursing students at Minnesota
documented the act they saw—with hopes number and the words: “Pass this token to
State University, Mankato, the small coins
that the next person would continue the someone who performs an act of niceness.
have changed their view of the world
process. Share your story and track the coin at www.
around them.
sulegatt.com.”
At semester’s end, the students shared
how they selected recipients and their
feelings about the project. Just like
their backgrounds, their experiences
varied considerably, with some students
immediately knowing who to pass the coin
on to, and others debating for weeks—and
even months—who to select. Many carried
the nickels in their backpacks, waiting for
just the right opportunity.
Just holding the coin caused the students to
be more observant of the behaviors around
them, with some being a bit cynical at the
start—but later realizing that there’s more
good than bad around them.
A student’s reflection shares this very well.
She first wrote:
“When I first received the instructions for this
assignment, my immediate thoughts were,
‘Oh boy, how am I going to do this?’ It seemed
like a daunting task that was held over me.
hel, and
Kayla Giering of East Bet
dents, fro m left : Na tali e Grogran of Forest Lake, en nickels.
Each day I continually thought of what kind of
Nursing stu od
Lonsdale show off the wo kindness acts those around me were making
Samantha MacDonald of but, honestly, I did not notice much. It made
me realize that a majority of people do not
want to go out of their way to help others, no
At the direction of Professor Norma matter how easy a task it may be. So many are
“For students, the project was a creative
Krumwiede and adjunct instructor Becky stuck in their own minds and do not even pay
writing assignment that focused on
Gerdes, about 70 students in three sections attention to those around them. Not only did
the concepts of caring and community
28 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017Minnesota Nice
this assignment
make me notice
the people
around me, but
it also made me AND WOODEN NICKELS
pay a lot more
The expression “Minnesota Nice” refers to the
attention to
somewhat passive nature of upper Midwesterners—
how I act and
the tendency to work hard, help a neighbor, or spend
what kind of
a little extra time in conversation. However, as more
behaviors I
and more people leave the region or get caught up
have that could
in modern life—and prefer to communicate via text
be considered
or email—it seems that the mannerism is declining.
‘Minnesota
Freelance artist and community organizer Su Legatt
Nice.’
Professor Norma Krumw designed a project to challenge the “Minnesota Nice”
iede, left, and adjunct ins
After sharing Gerdes directed the Minnes tructor Becky mindset by asking participants to share wooden coins
ota Nickel project with nu
how she students at Minnesota Sta rsing when witnessing nice deeds.
te University, Mankato.
selected a
During the Depression, a local bank in Tenino,
person to pass
Washington, issued emergency currency printed on
her nickel on to, the student added: kids can start learning how to recognize
thin shingles of wood. In 1933, the Chicago World’s
others when they do something nice.
“This project made me look at the world Fair issued wooden nickels as souvenirs, and the
When giving out the token, it takes the
around me a little differently. I began to tradition of wooden nickels as tokens and souvenirs
individual by surprise. Many people
notice the actions of others more closely, continues today.
don’t get recognized anymore when
whether they were rude or kind. Not only
they go above and beyond for others, The American adage, “Don’t take any wooden nickels”
was I more observant, but I also became
and especially to strangers. It’s nice that is considered a lighthearted reminder to be cautious
more aware of my own actions and
the project also has a site where you in one’s dealings. The adage suggests that its origins
how I come off to others. I make more of
can tell who the nickel was given to and lie not in the genuine monetary value of nickels, but
an effort to display the Minnesota Nice
why, and then also be able to see if they rather in their purely commemorative nature.
characteristic, even if it is a simple task
continued with acknowledging others.”
like holding the door open, or picking up Inspired by those early 20th Century promotional
trash. This project made me want to be Another student wrote: tokens—given to potential customers and promising
a better person who truly does represent some kind of trade or discount—today’s wooden disks
“The Minnesota Nickel project made
Minnesota Nice, because a lot of times have no material value. Instead, their value is in the
me actually notice all the good things
this is not necessarily true anymore.” representation of the acknowledgment and gratitude
people do daily. I wanted to make
of a kind deed. Each coin states simple directions
Another student wrote: sure that I selected the right person to
about the project and how to document and share
give the nickel to, so I began to watch
“In the busy lives that many of us live online. It also has a unique serial number so that each
for good deeds. I saw a lot of people
today, it can be easy to let those acts coin can be tracked as it passes from person to person.
holding the door open, helping pick
of kindness slip beneath the radar.
up garbage, to someone catching up The coins provide a moment of acknowledgement, a
However, the Minnesota Nickel Project is
to a person who had dropped some simple reward to a kind individual while challenging
helping to change that. A person’s mood
money. There were so many good deeds the holder to seek-out and determine whether or not
or perception regarding their day is very
going on around us that we normally an act is kind and deserving of a token. The critique
delicate. It can be easily swayed—but
don’t notice. Why? Because we have varies from person to person, the acts may be large or
more so, easily fixed by the “Minnesota
become accustomed to minding our small, and the recipient may not believe their act was
Nice” behavior that we each hold inside
own business and keeping our heads indeed nice.
of us. More than ever, it’s time that we
down—and usually on our phones. We
spread it and recognize it because who Su Legatt, designer of MN Nickel commented, “In
become oblivious to the world around
knew that something as simple as a today’s word, I feel we’re so quick to find fault in
us. That is why we don’t notice all the
coffee could make someone’s day?” people. We get angry at other drivers or constantly
good going on. From this project I can
second-guess someone’s motives or meaning. This
This student would like to see the see that there are good things going on
project is trying to flip that around and encourage
project expanded to students of all all the time. We are just too focused on
people to seek out the good instead. The Minnesota
ages: ourselves to notice. I think we all need
nickels recognize niceness and redeem something
to do nice things and, when we notice
“The Minnesota Nice project was an that can’t be seen and has no monetary value— they
them, we need to say something. The
excellent ‘extra’ added to the class. I had inspire a feeling that is priceless.”
world can become a better, nicer place if
never heard about it until this class. I feel
we all just do something nice and notice To make sure that the concept of Minnesota Nickel
this is an excellent thing that should be
all the good!” remains in focus, nickels are not sold at a profit to the
taught and performed in all classes, and
artist. All donations made on the gofundme.com/
not just college level. This assignment This future nurse plans to implement
minnesotanickel website compensate the artist for
can be done at all age levels so younger what she learned in her future career:
s
material cost, production, and distribution.
RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017 29“Even the smallest act of kindness can sure I help someone in some way, whether it Minnesota social practice artist Su Legatt
brighten someone’s day. When I become a be to open the door for them, ask them about of Moorhead created and donated the
nurse, I’ll realize that little things can affect their day, or even buy them a smoothie.” wooden coins as part of her Minnesota
someone in a big way. I want to make sure Nickel Project, which examines the concept
After a successful run during spring
that each day I can make theirs just a little of the practice of “Minnesota Nice”
semester 2017, the wooden nickel project
bit better. Even just talking to someone throughout the state. (See sidebar) RV W
will be repeated. Krumwiede and Gerdes
when they’re feeling lonely can make their
are now reflecting, summarizing, and To learn more about Minnesota Nickels and
day better. I’m glad we got to do this project
putting plans in place for how to replicate to track acts of niceness, go to https://www.
because it can make one more self aware of
the project. sulegatt.com/m (scroll down below the box).
our actions. My plan every day now is to make
Shared Moments FROM COIN TRACKER
sulegatt.com/m
#1-0007 he made his dad stop because he wanted to hang out with the other
residents, too. He stayed for an hour and he made their day by doing
3/21/17- Marilyn, my neighbor, is always there when I need her—
activities with them.
when ill brings food, when need a ride gives me one, when needs
someone to visit with she is always there. #1-0359
#1-0035 4/25/17- I was in line in Chipotle. When a customer before me was
getting ready to pay, he did not have enough money. All the staff
3/2/17- I saw a young man help an older woman carry her groceries
decided to chip in and help the customer. I did not know who to give
out to her car and then put her cart away for her.
the MN nickel to, since all the staff was part of the kindness. I gave the
#1-0085 coin to the cashier because she was the one who talked to the other
staff. I hope all good deeds get passed on.
4/3/17- I watched a college student stop and help a disabled person
in the handicap spot open their truck and load their groceries. I even #1-0457
watched an older lady afterward comment that that was a very nice
4/20/17- I gave this coin to a customer at a coffee shop when I saw he
thing he did right before I approached him with my nickel.
bought coffee for two strangers because they forgot to bring money
#1-0098 with them. Maybe it is a simple act to others, but it warmed my heart.
4/27/17- My friend and I were on our way home for the weekend 3/27/17- After making my journey home from college I forgot my
when we realized that she had left her car lights on and the battery wallet somewhere. That’s when I received a call from Jane who had
had died. Since it was off campus, we couldn’t call security and didn’t picked it up at a gas station 40 miles away and got in contact with
know what to do. A person walking to her car in the apartment me. It was so generous of her to use her time to return it with nothing
complex noticed us with our hood up and asked if our battery had missing. Mankato
died. She immediately told us that she could jump the car, but first
#1-0671
had to get her boyfriend’s jumper cables from a few minutes away.
Within ten minutes, she was back and got our car started back up. We 4/22/17- I was doing homework in the library on campus. I had my
asked if we could give her a few dollars but she insisted that she didn’t open water bottle next to my computer and, of course, I knocked it
want anything. Her name is Tatiana and her dad is a police officer over onto my laptop. Some nice guy that I have never met came up to
who had taught her how to jump a car in case she or someone else me from a few tables away and handed me a huge stack of napkins
needed it. This is what makes her “Minnesota Nice.” and helped me clean up the mess. I gave him my coin because he
helped instead of ignoring what happened. My computer could have
4/30/17- I was on my way out to run errands when I noticed two
been ruined if he hadn’t rushed over to help, and I can’t thank him
girls in their car with the hood up. The battery died and I helped
enough for his ‘Minnesota Nice’ act.
them jump their car and then one of them gave me this coin. I was
just acting as I was raised by my parents. The girl told me about this #1-0679
project and I think its super cool. I am now looking for someone to
3/17/17- I gave my coin to a co-worker when I was home for the
pass the coin on to.
weekend. I was feeling very ill and just having a hard time staying
#1-0184 focused at work. Although she had prior plans, she offered to stay an
extra three hours to cover the end of my shift so that I could go home
3/27/17- While I was working in a memory care unit, a sixth grade boy
and rest. This is not something she had to do, but it was an act of
came out with his father to visit a resident. When they were leaving,
kindness that went a long way.
30 RIVER VALLEY WOMAN | december • 2017Gift Yourself a brand new you.
Brenda K. Any Diet can Help You Lose Weight. Ideal Weigh to B can help you
develop smarter lifestyle choices to maintain your results. We do not
Madison Lake, MN sell false hopes and empty promises. We’ve changed millions of lives,
Dropped 102.8 lbs one successful journey at a time.
and 74.5 inches
With the Ideal Protein Protocol, you will not only see results, you’ll gain
& has kept if off valuable nutritional knowledge to help you sustain your results on a
for 7 months and long-term basis.
counting!
• Exclusively available from Ideal Protein approved
health care professionals and trained coaches
• Administered by a Registered Nurse with 18
years of experience
• Weekly personalized weight and measurement
analysis with the IdealSmart interactive platform
• One-on-one weekly coach support sessions
• FDA Approved
Locally Owned & Operated by
Breanna Ludeman, RN
Certified Personal Trainer / Fitness Competitor
Before T TODA
AR Y
ST
!
Upcoming events at
idealweightob.com
507-387-5025
Call to learn how you idealweightob.com
can get $50 off!
FIND US IN MANKATO & BLUE EARTH/FAIRMONT
1400 S Riverfront Dr #200, Mankato, MN 56001 | 507-387-5025
315 South Main Street, Blue Earth MN 56013 | 507-526-2021 082019You can also read
