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NOVEMBER 2014 Distinctive Dentists World Class Care

Stillwater Living November 2014

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Page 1: Stillwater Living November 2014

NOVEMBER 2014

DistinctiveDentistsWorld Class Care

Page 2: Stillwater Living November 2014

spa.edu

The people we choose to venerate say a lot

about us. Students at SPA look to predecessors

like John Doar ’40 for quiet inspiration. During his career

at the Department of Justice he helped draft the Civil Rights Act

of 1964, oversaw landmark voting rights cases, and personally escorted

James Meredith, the first black student admitted to the University of Mississippi.

He embodies the values of a SPA community where people are judged based

on what they contribute, not what they have; a place that continues to shape the minds and

the hearts of the people who change the world.

Judging by the content of his character

“ SPA was a towering influence in my

life, making it possible to attend

Princeton and Berkeley Law—

giving me the tools to fight for

positive change in the world.”

Middle/Upper School Open Houses | Grades 6-12 1712 Randolph Ave., St. Paul

sunday, November 16, 2014 | 3:00-5:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 15, 2015 | 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Lower School Open Houses | Grades K-5 1150 Goodrich Ave., St. Paul

sunday, November 16, 2014 | 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, January 13, 2015 | 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Join us! 2014-2015 adMission eVents

Page 3: Stillwater Living November 2014

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 1

Page 4: Stillwater Living November 2014

GASTHAUSBAVARIANHUNTER.COM

Celebrate the holidays with friends & family at the Gasthaus!

4th Annual Kristkindlmarkt December 6, noon-4pm

Outdoor Holiday Market-Dress warm!

Santa Day Buffets: December 7th & 14thnoon-3 pm, reserve today, filling fast.Now Accepting Reservations 651-439-7128

Gift Cards Available Open daily for lunch and dinner. Private Parties to 100

Closed Nov. 24-27, Dec. 24 & 25, Jan.1st - Happy Holidays!!

URGENT CARE

we’rehere

STILLWATER | MAHTOMEDI | SOMERSET

for youright now!

(651) 439-1234 | lakeviewhealth.org

Page 5: Stillwater Living November 2014

MAINSTREETNews and Views from the Valley

GOOD LIFEWays to WelnessBy Jim Reynolds

ON STILLWATERA Splendid FallPhotos by Herbert Nelson

GIVING BACKAlternative Gift Market

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 3

November 2014

Departments

814

18

20

FeaturesTHE HEIGHTS HALL AND CLUBA Framework for CommunityBY SAM BOURMAN-KARNS18

contentscontents

On the cover, Dr. Ned Windmiller and Dr. Matt HawnCover photo, by Aimee Christenson

Nutrition and Fitness Specialist Beth Dierkhising RD, LD

QUALITY IN, QUALITY OUTWindmiller Dentistry, World Class CareBY GEOFFREY BISHOP22

Page 6: Stillwater Living November 2014

4 STILLWATER LIVING NOVEMBER 2014

VOLUME 10, NUMBER 11, NOVEMBER 2014

Peter McNiffPublisher and Editor [email protected]

Copy EditorMaureen McDonough

GEOFFREY BISHOPSAM BOURMAN KARNS

PETER MCNIFFJIM REYNOLDS

HERBERT NELSON

LAURIE SCHNEIDERLaurie Schneider Photograpy

STEVE (SHOWCASE) SKALMAN

HAWK

JEFF BAGGOT

editor’s note

Copyright 2014Watershed Publishing, Inc. all rights reserved.

Stillwater Living is published byWatershed Publishing, Inc.

P.O. Box 2302 Stillwater, MN 55082651-430-3143 [email protected]

Julie Bourman

Peter McNiff

Curtis Dale

What we’re really talking about is a wonderful day set aside on the fourth Thursday of November when no one diets. I mean, why else would they call it Thanksgiving?

-Erma Bombeck

he people that I’ve asked about Thanksgiving are petty evenly split between loving and loathing the family day of feast. I swear that my approach did not lead the respondent to lean one way or the other – I

was after their genuine feelings toward the ritual of a family gathering centered on a huge meal (and football for some).

It may be that my little survey is flawed due to a small sample size, so take the findings with a grain of salt. My inspiration to ask around was driven by my observation that we, as a society, seem to be letting some rituals of tradition slip away. For example, not every one flies a flag on the 4th of July or Veterans Day – but there was a time when it was unthinkable to not support the holiday.

The Good Life department takes a look inside the Ways to Wellness program now being offered at the HealthEast Stillwater Clinic. Beth Dierkhising is cut from a rare cloth and she is quit and asset to our community.

On Stillwater is a simple section - it’s a pictorial. Our friend Herb Nelson was in the right place at the right time, and he happened to have his camera at the ready.

Our first feature explores the combination Elk’s Lodge, VFW post and The Heights Hall & Club. This model could be the best chance of a future for “old school” fraternal organizations to have a future. With a little help from their friends Ed and Lisa Kivel have done a fantastic job renovating and updating the ballroom.

Dr. Ned Windmiller has worked for decades to earn a reputation of excellance, locally and around the world. His thriving practice now has a worthy partner in Dr. Matt Hawn who brings his own history of overachieving to the practice.

Giving Back makes an appearance this issue with a focus on a group from First Presbyterian Church of Stillwater. Our intention in this department is to bring you tales of people “paying it forward” in a unique way. Who would have thought that gift giving could change lives in this way?

If your family follows Erma’s sentiment and just gets together for a meal, I hope you’ll take the time to reflect on the positive aspects of your family. Some people won’t have a full day off from work, some will be too far from home to make the gathering, while others will intentionally miss the gathering. Whatever your family dynamic, you can be the one that brings the positive juju.

TNOVEMBER 2014

DistinctiveDentistsWorld Class Care

Page 7: Stillwater Living November 2014

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 5

Page 8: Stillwater Living November 2014

6 STILLWATER LIVING NOVEMBER 2014

letters to the editor

BRAVO!

I read Emily Gould’s reflections of her time abroad with a smile from ear to ear. That story warmed my heart – please pass on my congratulations and appreciation to her. I was fortunate enough to spend a semester in Europe back in the 70’s and in reading her story I was reminded of my experience all those many years ago.

She spent four months in a different culture and it sounds like the experience changed her life for the better. She seems to have opened her heart to the people she met in South Africa. To see first hand how

“the legacy of apartheid” as Emily says has affected the country must have been powerful experience.

I am a reader and I am sure that Emily could be a writer if she wanted to be one. She may have other ambitions for her life, and I‘d imagine she will be successful in whatever she chooses, but I am sure she has strong writing skills.

Thank You,

Joan K.Lake Elmo

I’m New Around Here

My new friend and neighbor showed me a Stillwater Living magazine from 2006 in which you wrote about the need for an art center here in Stillwater. Is there some way for me to get my hands on old copies of the magazine? Or a digital version of past issues?

I am picking Stillwater Living up at the Co-op each month so I’m all good with current editions, but I’d sure like to “read back” into the last ten years and see what I’ve missed. I’ll bet I will feel like I know my new hometown much better if I can find those past issues.

John R.Stillwater

24 STILLWATER LIVING SEPTEMBER 2014

even though I was missing my family, I could rely on the

staff and that I was part of their family at Missionvale.

Rosa, the head of agriculture, even told the staff when it

was my birthday and they sang for me. I also had the

honor of dancing in the middle of the morning circle with

Estherlene, one of my role models at the Care Center. I

was humbled that Rosa had remembered my birthday,

nearly three months after I told her the date. Although

we only went to Missionvale twice a week, the love and

support of the staff was incredible to experience. Some of the basic differences between South Africa and

Minnesota showed themselves in small daily events such

as eating at restaurants and the transportation system.

Eating at restaurants in South Africa means slow service,

asking for the bill and single checks. As for transportation,

where in Stillwater I had access to my car at all times, in

South Africa I had to rely on a free bus shuttle to get to

class and a taxi to get anywhere else unless I wanted to

walk, which was sometimes an option but could also be a

hassle. It was also an acquired habit being able to convert

Rand to U.S. dollars to figure out what was expensive and

what was a good deal. Yet after even just a few weeks,

these differences became normal, as if I had been doing it

this way my whole life.The frustrations that came with learning about and

witnessing first-hand accounts of the legacy of apartheid

took me longer to get used to. The very concept of the

townships caused me to feel overwhelmed, anxious

and frustrated. Sometimes I felt like what I was doing

at Missionvale wasn’t enough to even make a dent in

improving people’s quality of life. I also had to grapple

with the lack of effective justification for these people. It

wasn’t until I had been in South Africa for a little over

two months that I began to come to terms with what was

going on, yet the irritation still lingers in me today.

More stark differences became clear to me the longer I was

in South Africa and especially once I arrived back home.

Crime awareness is a matter of great significance in South

Africa, which is something that rarely, if ever, crosses my

mind at home. Not being able to walk the streets late at

night, having a security guard at Langerry and hearing

first-hand accounts of experiences with crime made me

appreciate the comfort of my home but also became

a norm for me while abroad. Further, I realized how

much I was cut off from what was happening at home

in news and popular culture. I didn’t know what movies

were coming out, I didn’t know what the top songs on

the radio were and I didn’t know what was going on

politically. Upon returning it took awhile for me to get

back in the loop, which made it hard to fit back into my

own culture.

While I definitely experienced culture shock upon arriving

in South Africa, I experienced reverse culture shock to a

greater extent upon returning to the states. I distinctly

remember my first trip to Target to pick up a few things

I needed for camp. I thought I would be excited to shop

there again, as Target is one of my favorite stores, but as

soon as I walked in I felt like I was in a foreign land. Here

was an abundance of clothing, toys, technology, food and

more that I didn’t need but had right at my fingertips. The

familiar Target smell and the largeness of each department

left me feeling overwhelmed and somewhat conscious-

stricken. I left after ten minutes.

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 25

The worst question people asked me once I returned to the states was, “How was

South Africa?” What do you mean how was South Africa? How do you expect

me to answer that in one word or even in one sentence? I mean, I spent four

months there and had some of the most meaningful, heartbreaking, fun, crazy,

intense moments of my life. These were all the thoughts going through my head,

but instead I answered with an exclaimed yet simple “great” or “amazing,” which

of course does not do my experience justice. Most people I talked to would

then move on in conversation as if I had never left the country. I found myself

struggling to contribute, both for lack of interest in the subject and unawareness

of the latest events in my friends’ lives. The transition back home proved tougher

than I thought it would be; the first few weeks I spent at home and at my summer

camp job consisted of feeling lost, confused and on the brink of crying at any

given moment. Nevertheless, I found ways to keep part of South Africa with me, both externally

and internally. I planted a few rows of vegetables in my neighborhood community

garden with my best friend who was also in South Africa with me. But then I was

faced with the daunting question of “Now what?” How do I take this meaningful

experience and bring it home, bring it to camp and apply it in my daily life?

It took me awhile to figure out the answer to this question. At first I thought

the only thing I could do was tell people as much about South Africa as I could

before they got tired of hearing my voice. When my campers would comment

on my rhino Buff, I would use that opportunity to tell them about the rhinos I

saw at Schotia Game Reserve. While talking about my experiences is definitely

helpful, I realized that applying my experiences through my actions was what

really kept South Africa alive in my heart.For me, my experience taught me a lot about following your passions and not

being ashamed of them. Society and even friends and family can have a strong

influence on what we feel is acceptable to like and be involved in, but South

Africa reminded me that everyone has their own strengths and passions to bring

to the world. Many people associate Africa in general with starving children,

which is definitely a big deal, but there is so much more than that. There are

environmental, political, education issues and more. We need people with

passions for these things to boldly follow their passions; even if such interests are

hidden behind the idea that all we need to do is help the starving children. In

fact, it is at the root of these issues that ending starvation and poverty lies.

The most meaningful overarching element of my experience in South Africa was

the idea and practice of ubuntu, an Nguni Buntu term that essentially means, “I

am because you are.” Desmond Tutu popularized ubuntu during South Africa’s

transition to democracy. This concept reminded me of how to effectively

love others by being open to everything about them and finding the good in

everybody. Ubuntu can be applied not only when we travel and meet new

people, but also in our everyday lives when we encounter strangers, or when we

are put in situations where we have to work with people we may not know or

like very well. The people of South Africa and the members of my study abroad

group showed me what ubuntu means, and for that I am truly grateful for the

shared experience we had. I left South Africa as I found it, but I also left with new friendships and a new

perspective that made me better for it. All I can do is hope that I made even

half the impact on South Africa as it made on me and try to keep my time there

alive as I continue on my own journey. Do I want to go back? I would go in a

heartbeat.

Emily Gould is a graduate of Stillwater High School and a Communication major at the College

of St. Benedict.

22 STILLWATER LIVING OCTOBER 2014

Reflections of a Bennie Abroad

By Emily GouldSouth African Experience

left South Africa in the same condition

as I found it: a country suffering from

the legacy of apartheid, both racial

and economic inequality affecting

the majority of their population. I

knew going into this four-month

adventure that I would encounter examples of the

legacy, from extreme poverty to power disparities

reflected by still-present conservative mindsets.

Despite knowing what I was getting myself into

and scratching the surface of South Africa’s

history, nothing could have fully prepared me for

what I would actually witness.

I held many expectations for what South Africa

would be like and quickly learned that although

some of them were true it was better to

keep an

open, adaptable mind. I expected to encounter

poverty. I expected to be part of the minority

of the population. I expected to be immersed in

the city environment. I expected to go through

struggles and feel frustrated at times. Most of

all, I expected this journey to be a life

-changing

experience.

Sure enough, my expectations gave me a nice

slap in the face. The quantity of people living

in poverty and the accumulation of trash in

the townships exceeded my predictions. The

uncomfortable feeling of being in the minority

of the population yet somehow still being more

privileged because of the color of my skin was

perplexing. Knowing I couldn’t escape the sound

of the honking cars and the shouts of “Town!

Town!” from the open window of the taxis

along with the pungent sewer smells was often

disheartening as I longed for the open meadows,

pine forests, rivers and lakes back home. The idea

of returning to the comfort of my flat after service

was conflicting and troubling. Yet all these things

were part of what made my time in South Africa

a life-changing experience.

In light of all these challenges, the people of

South Africa were overflowing with kindness

and joy. Yoliswa, who cleaned my flat every day

at Langerry, was like a mother and a frien

d to

me and the other girls in my flat. The idea of

this woman cleaning up after us every day was

uncomfortable, but once we took the initiative

to talk to her and get to know her better, our

relationship quickly skyrocketed. We grew to

adore her so much that we made her a card and

gave her chocolate on Mother’s Day. The staff

at Missionvale Care Center was incredible to our

group as they welcomed us to not only their

worksite, but also their family. The staff c

onstantly

reminded me of the sacrifice my parents made to

support me in traveling to South Africa and that

I

Page 9: Stillwater Living November 2014

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 7

WOODBURY DENTAL CARE

woodburydentalcare.com3060-B Woodbury Drive • Woodbury • 651-739-7910

Preventive, Cosmetic & Comprehensive Dentistry

Just of 94 on Woodbury Drive!

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217 North Main Street • Stillwater651-430-3385

www.valleybookseller.com

Lorna Landvik and William Swanson are the featured authors.Please call Valley Bookseller for the reading list and the Gunflint Lodge (1-800-328-3325) to reserve your cabin.

Our 16th annualmarch26-29 2015

bookswoodsin the

Gunflint Lodge, Grand Marais, MN

We hope you will join us for this fun-filled literary weekend!

Experience the magic of a relaxing retreat

Gift Cards

Spa Packages

Overnight Accommodationsat Unique Homes

Massage/Facials

Manicures/ Pedicures

Large Group Venues

Spa MembershipsJust For Me the Spa 110 S. Greeley Street • Stillwater651.439.4662 • justformespa.com

Page 10: Stillwater Living November 2014

NEWS AND VIEWS FROM THE VALLEY

8 STILLWATER LIVING NOVEMBER 2014

here is no question that the Valley Bookseller is a rare local gem. Most small communities have lost their local book store to the big box

retailers and the internet. We are so fortunate that the knowledgeable staff runs a tight ship and maintains such a great relationship with clients – so good to have them here.

American Express supports a program that promotes shopping local – it goes by the name Small Business Saturday. In the book store community this particular Saturday puts authors and local book stores together in what many well-read readers consider Full Bliss Saturday. Authors come to the book store and help shoppers find the right book for themselves or as gifts.

What a treat it will be to meet a great author and get their recommendation for the next book on your “must read list.” The fact that the Valley Bookseller has such pull should surprise no one. Here is a little small/local business fact that you may want to share with friends at your next diner party… when you shop at locally owned, independent businesses 52% of what you spend stays in the community.

Saturday, November 29www.valleybookseller.com651-430-3385217 Main Street North

T

Big Time Authors Support Valley

mainstreet

Page 11: Stillwater Living November 2014

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 9

Join Marjorie Wade for Spiritworks Pottery’s Annual Holiday Studio Sale. Having been a studio artist from the St. Croix Valley Area since 2001, Marjorie created her business with an emphasis on functional and decorative pottery comprised of natural and organic surfaces.

Using various clays and firing methods in her work allows the elements of the spirit, earth, water, fire and air to affect each piece individually. From Afton, Minnesota to Aalborg, Denmark and many places in between, nothing makes Marjorie happier than knowing her pots have found good homes around the world.

Stop on by her studio in rural Stillwater to see new work from the wood kiln, enjoy holiday treats. It’s very likely that you’ll be able to check off a few names from your Holiday gift list... or add to your own collection. Come on, it’ll be fun!

Saturday, December 6th 10:00 amSunday, December 7th 11:00 amwww.spiritworkspottery.com

Handmade Pottery for the Holidays!

Change is coming!!! Still-H2O is changing its name to

better serve our market base and customers. New name suggestions? Email us at [email protected]

and win $100.00 if we pick your suggestion.

Stop in or shop at our new online store

www.still-h20.com

1266 W. Frontage Rd

Valley Ridge Mall

651-351-2822

Happy Thanksgiving!

Black Friday Specials all day long. Opening at 9:AM Friday.

402 north main • studiooneyoga.com • 651-280-7155

Live Simply, Be Grateful, Give Love, Laugh Lots

This Holiday Season,

Page 12: Stillwater Living November 2014

10 STILLWATER LIVING NOVEMBER 2014

For over twenty years, the holiday season has begun with the Victorian Christmas at the Historic Courthouse Preview Gala. The beautifully-decorated courthouse glows with lights as guests approach the elegant site, sitting high on the bluff overlooking the St. Croix River. Guests will enjoy champagne, coffee and sparkling cider in addition to appetizers and desserts donated by a handful of proud local food and beverage purveyors.

Guests can begin their holiday shopping while strolling through the vendor booths featuring high quality arts and crafts for sale. Costumed volunteers and vendors add to the festive Victorian atmosphere. Door prizes will be awarded during the Friday evening event. A new feature

for this year’s event will be gift-wrapping offered by the Historic Courthouse staff and volunteers. The Preview Event is a restoration and operations fundraiser for the Washington County Historic Courthouse and nearly $275,000 has been raised over the years. The public is invited to attend and advance tickets are recommended.

The Victorian Christmas event continues on Saturday, November 22nd from 10 am – 5 pm and Sunday, November 23rd from 11 am – 4 pm. There is live music throughout the event, Santa will be visiting on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, a Tea Room is available and a holiday exhibit will be open. Admission on Saturday and Sunday is $3 per person.

Friday, November 21st 6:30pmTickets are $25 in advancewww.co.washington.mn.us/hc

Christmas Kick-Off Event

A perfect blend of personal service and expertise.

Specializing in a broad range of services for

business owners, executives &

independent professionals.

Affordable rates,experienced and friendly.

www.foleykalseim.com Stillwater • 651-430-3635

Certified Public Accountants & Consultants

Page 13: Stillwater Living November 2014

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 11

mainstreet

We are so fortunate to have maintained a strong connection to our history, not just through the classic structures that dot the valley but also in the personal interactions that remain timeless.

So many communities overlook the simple pleasures of life as they rush to embrace whatever the latest trends are selling. There is no replacing the joy of a child’s laughter or the mystic of an old fashion wagon ride with loved ones.

The first weekend in December is a great opportunity to grab the kids and pick up grandma for a short drive to Afton’s old village. No doubt the three blocks of historic Main Street will be decked-out in Christmas flair. Here is a sampling of what’s in store:Friday night is Candlelight Night. Opening night features free horse

and wagon rides, festive shopping with special discounts and treats, wine tasting, food and drink specials, chair massages, strolling carolers, live music and more.

Saturday is Family Day. Throughout the day activities include breakfast and lunch with Santa, kids crafts, a special kids “stuff the stocking” promotion, free horse and wagon rides, letters to Santa, cookie decorating, open skating and more.

Turn off the handheld devices and soak in the tradition of the season. We’d love to see your family out on the wagon ride.

Friday Dec 5, 2013: 5 pm - 9 pmSaturday Dec 6, 2013: 9 am - 5 pm651-436-8883www.exploreafton.com

Old Village Christmas Family Fun

Home & Business

651.770.0292Free in-home or office estimate!

Page 14: Stillwater Living November 2014

12 STILLWATER LIVING NOVEMBER 2014

Many of us struggle with the choice between modern convenience or traditional method. On one hand piles of folks around here have a healthy appetite for yesteryear while a gaggle of people crave whatever is the next thing.

Both crowds love Nick Nitti’s truck. He has been driving around the area serving up quality breakfast and lunch items to our local blue-collar workers for over thirty years.

Rain, sleet or snow won’t keep Nick from driving his self-appointed route and people working a long shift have come to appreciate his faithfulness. In fact, I’d encourage you to drop by Stillwater Motors at 10:00 AM on any weekday. You’ll find Nick surrounded by service techs, salespeople and management – everybody finds something at Nick’s truck.

It’s a little tough to carry fresh fruit all year, but seasonally Nick will bring the best local options available. The lion share of Nick’s offering is an array of sandwiches and the complimentary sides that make for a quick meal.

The modern convenience crowd will appreciate the fact that you can swipe a card for a quick meal. The more traditional crowd is happy that Nick has both hot and cold items, pre-wrapped sides and fresh sandwiches like mom used to make.

Nick Nitti651-324-6166

Old School Food Truck

Stillwater 651-275-0700 | Woodbury 651- 600-3310

INeedANewKITCHEN.com

Page 15: Stillwater Living November 2014

Continuing Braden’s series addressing modern green

building technologies, structural insulated panels are another key consideration for homeowners. If you’re looking into eco-friendly improvements to the building’s envelope, it’s worth researching further.

Structural insulated panels Also known as SIPs, structural insulated panels consist of a foam core sandwiched between two boards, typically oriented strand board, fiber cement or plywood. Builders use SIPs to replace conventional wall and roof framing.

SIPs are not created on-site by crews, but rather ordered to spec from factories. This ensures the panels are created under highly controlled conditions for optimum results. It’s important for builders and architects to know that SIPs can be fabricated to fit nearly any building design, so there are few limitations.

Cost of structural insulated panelsAccording to the Structural Insulated Panel Association, when compared to traditional wood frame construction, SIPs cost about the same overall. While the purchase price of SIPs is more than materials for conventional wood framing, the savings comes from shorter construction time and less jobsite waste.

The true cost savings of structural insulated panels comes from the enhanced R-value. SIPs help builders to create a tighter building envelope, giving the walls higher insulating properties. The result is fewer drafts and decreased utility bills because the heating and cooling systems won’t have to work as hard to regulate comfortable internal temperatures throughout the year.

Have questions? Give the experts at Braden Construction a call at 715-549-6099 in Wisconsin and 651-779-6819 In Minnesota.

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 13

askexpertsthe

Green Building:Structural insulated panels for Midwest homes

Andy Braden- Braden Construction • 715-549-6099

[email protected] • BradenConstruction.com

T he Barns of Lost Creek

W6124 County Road N • Beldenville WI 54003 • 651-239-3852 • thebarnsoflostcreek.com

One perfect day...one perfect place...

Page 16: Stillwater Living November 2014

14 STILLWATER LIVING NOVEMBER 2014

good life

applaud the health care community for moving to a more proactive posture when caring for us. We see countless examples of more available information

about health and staying well in the community. For example, we know so much more about childhood obesity and how we can help our kids avoid the issue. Another great example is the series of lifestyle changes one can make to minimize the impact of diabetes. Bravo, I say bring on as much knowledge as we can digest – what could be more important?

Stillwater’s HealthEast Clinic, which is located on the western edge of Curve Crest Blvd, has one of our own managing a great program. Her bio reads this way “Beth Dierkhising, RD, LD, Nutrition and Fitness Specialist at Ways to Wellness, is an expert in weight management, therapeutic nutrition, corrective exercise, fitness training, group exercise and lifestyle/behavioral change.”

What her bio couldn’t tell us is what a wonderful person she is, that wouldn’t be very professional. We don’t mind sharing that little factoid with you though – we’ve had the occasion to interact with Beth on a few stories and we admire her energy. Living and working in this community can give one a unique perspective, a more complete perspective. And as a wife and mother here in town Beth knows our community well and understands life’s ups and downs.

The Ways to Wellness program that Beth helps to manage here in town takes an “all are welcome” approach to working with clients. “I work with all fitness levels and meet clients where they are currently at. Change can be hard to sustain so the accountability with working with me can be the key to long-lasting success” shares Beth. How many times have you set out with the best of intentions to make a change in your routine only to see that change fade with time? It’s a common pitfall for most adults.

By Jim Reynolds

IWays to WellnessStillwater’s Beth Dierkhising Works Hard For Her Clients

Page 17: Stillwater Living November 2014

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 15

When I asked Beth what makes this opportunity different from other diets or exercise programs she was quick to say “I am a Registered Dietitian and a Personal Trainer so the nutrition piece is from a trusted and reputable source.” I have often heard that in order to reclaim one’s health and fitness the focus should be 70% on what we put into ourselves and 30% on what we do to be active.

My follow up question to Beth’s dietitian response was about what type of diet does she typically suggest and, again, she was ready with this reply “It's not a DIET...it's a LIFESTYLE. If you make a change you need to ask yourself: Can I live with this change? Am I willing to continue with these changes knowing that they will help me reach my goals? Will this motivator be one that continues to drive me forward?” Sounds like Beth takes this stuff very seriously. I’ve not considered weight loss or “getting back in shape” in quite the context she describes.

How about an example? I understand we need to respect people’s privacy, but a real life example might help me understand just how this works. Beth thought for a moment and said “I'm currently working with a mother of 4 young children, who also works outside the home, and is finding some extra time to give her own health and wellness the attention it deserves. She is down several sizes, in large part

due to the improvement in food choices and eating habits. Once her food changes were mastered, we began working on her cardiovascular endurance, strength and toning. Besides the physical changes she's experiencing, you can see that her energy level, stress management and confidence have improved greatly. All of these improvements in her well being help her perform at her very best at home and in her occupation outside of her home. I find that the most fulfilling improvements I witness in my clients lives are the factors that cannot be measured by a scale. The scale shows us a number, but it does NOT define who we are. When weight loss occurs because of positive lifestyle changes, it's just another change added to a long list of other great things going on with our physical and emotional health. We can all change for the better...we just have to want the change bad enough to be willing to sacrifice and stay focused. Part of my job is to remind my clients of their motivators on the days they've forgotten and to push them further then they ever thought was possible.”

Visit healtheast.org/waystowellness or call 651-232-1926 for more information or to schedule your appointment.

Jim Reynolds is a freequent contributor to Stillwater Living magazine.

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on stillwater

We couldn't have asked for a better fall season.Thanks to our friend Herb Nelson for capturing this perfect autumn day.

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h, Stillwater. Romantically tucked within the St. Croix we have a gorgeous and serene abode. We are mixed with an aesthetic of the historic and a

mentality of the forward thinking, and this excites the type of lifestyle that appreciates a cosmopolitan perspective with a small town environment. Beautiful, lively, and humble Stillwater is not only characterized by buildings and whereabouts, but by the people who have made it their home. It is our community that together harbors and amplifies this little slice of wonder, and it should be no

surprise that so many can’t help but spend their weekends and vacations visiting us. Our spunky, proud, and gracious temperament as a community is what establishes Stillwater as more than just a set of houses, shops, and roads clustered about.

We know this. We gather in our gorgeous Lowell Park to watch movies together. We invite artists to brighten our downtown streets, and musicians to melodize at our outdoor amphitheater in Pioneer Park. We host wedding

A

A Framework for CommunityBy Sam Bourman Karns, Photos by Aimee Christenson

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after wedding at our riverside gazebo. This is Stillwater; a home to people who for generations have cared for their town, who have worked for and improved their town, and a people who will always share and celebrate their home.

Last March Stillwater continued its mission to renew public spaces for it’s citizens and visitors to enjoy. Looking for a place to throw a winter wedding, swap recipes at a potluck, celebrate your sports team’s victorious season, or hold a fundraiser with live music and a dinner? Do you need a lighting scheme to compliment the thoughtfully selected color arrangements to best paint your event? Do you require an immense dance floor for guests whom you know will be strutting their stuff for hours? There is a place, one of prestige and exponential customization, that has come to answer our call.

The Heights Hall & Club has been recently renovated to serve this celebratory town. Located on the south side of highway 36 in Oak Park Heights The Heights Hall & Club, with nearly two acres of parking space, invites us and all the friends we can bring. Originally home of the Veterans of Foreign War Post #323 this block wall and Spancrete roof ‘bomb-shelter’ has recently been refurbished by Ed and Lisa Kivel and a team of mostly volunteers from the newly relocated Stillwater Elks #179 and the original building’s caretakers from the VFW. Looking for a new headquarters the Stillwater Elks trustee Ed Kivel pursued the VFW building at an auction held in October of 2013. The deal closed in March 2014. “The VFW have been great to work with.” Says Kivel, “They allowed renovations to start prior to the closing. That was very helpful to allow the Stillwater Elks to relocate and begin their operations in April.” The building contains the remodeled headquarters of the Stillwater Elks #179, the VFW Post #323, as well as the new Heights Hall & Club banquet hall. Equipped to handle multiple occasions the building can manage up to 550 guests; 400 in the hall and 75 in the respective headquarters of the two organizations.

To highlight The Heights Hall & Club specifically five crystal chandeliers hang elegantly within the banquet hall. LED lighting fixtures placed in the center perimeter of the raised ceiling can dim the room for intimate events or brighten it to a level of professionalism. Recessed lighting allows for a spotlight upon speakers and other types of presentations. Further perimeter lighting assists the setup of buffet lines and other service functions. With thanks Kivel commented that, “It really helps to have cousins in the lighting and electrical business.”

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However the banquet hall isn’t just set-up with dazzling lights. Whether the event calls for oration, friendly banter, or live music The Heights Hall & Club is consistent with acoustically engineered ceiling tiles and European damask fabric wall panels. Whatever kind of sound your event requires it will reverberate throughout the hall softly and evenly to each guest’s ears.

Entering the banquet hall guests will shed winter layers in the coat room and stride along a stunning solid maple floor. The planks of the floor are shorter than usual because they were responsibly recycled from the construction of the old Stillwater Jr High gymnasium. Stillwater’s own Tozer foundation, who donated the maple floor to the gym, also donated their time and resources to secure The Heights Hall & Club with sure footing. To this Kivel commented that, “if you could interview the floor I’m sure it would have many stories to tell.” The floor covers the entirety of the hall so that planning for any type of event’s layout isn’t limited to predetermined arrangements. For instance if more and more guests move to the dance floor tables and chairs can be moved to accommodate. An added bonus, in terms of the boogie, these floorboards originally designed to dribble basket balls now augment the bounce in every guest who gets their groove on.

As functional and beautiful as the Heights Hall & Club is its true attraction is the heart involved in the operation. Kivel explained, “Both organizations have helped out in different ways, from construction (labor, materials, and

equipment), to staffing events, to staffing the building to accept deliveries. Everybody is working very hard to make this endeavor work out. The Stillwater Elks have people skilled in multiple construction trades who have contributed endless hours to the whole process. Members of the VFW have contributed time as well.” This band of people willing to give their time and efforts brought this building new life, and to Stillwater a new gathering center. As active members of our community these two organizations have supplied us with a great location to enjoy and cherish. They also have shown how selfless action and hard work can go a long way in refining our great home. Kivel said, “It has really been fun watching everybody work together toward a common goal. We have received an enormous amount of help. The renovations are a great example. Skilled volunteers with expensive equipment have kept renovation costs to much less than they would have otherwise been… we have received an enormous amount of help and made some great new friends in the process.”

With the hospitable disposition to help neighbors and better the community the Stillwater VFW and Elks collaborated to elevate the Heights Hall & Club to the status that it, and our town, deserves. Yet, lately, times have been financially difficult for these organizations. By uniting and working together they have strengthened their ability to continue to be a supportive force for Stillwater as a whole. “There are many fraternal organizations that do a lot for the community, who are struggling financially.” Says Kivel, “We think this may be a viable model for other fraternal

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organizations across the country to adopt. Having three entities coexisting in a building creates a different financial picture… We are not aware of any other facility that has a model like this one.” By sharing volunteers, events, resources, and a home this collective group is minimizing operation costs and maximizing revenue streams. They are providing an exceptional place where we can gather, organize, conduct business, get married, fundraise, and, most importantly, enjoy ourselves. The ultimate goal is to keep these groups afloat and benefiting our community.

As an organization the Elks have been sponsoring multiple youth programs. The Hoop Shoot and Soccer Shoot are daylong events to give kids time to win prizes, have a home cooked dinner, and of course, to play. The Elks also organize an annual program to allow underprivileged kids to have a great summer at camp. Working side by side with the organization Youth Advantage the Stillwater Elks aid a collection of programs established to provide creative activities, access to sport teams, and other community organized programs to support the building blocks of healthy development and guide youth on a path of success.

Ed Kivel has been an Elk for an estimated 8 years. He explained the latest effort of the Elks, “The Stillwater Elks initiated a Salt purchase and delivery program with the Stillwater National Honor Society. It’s pretty simple: you order your softener or sidewalk salt online, and the Elks/honor students deliver it to your house” The Elks have also been operating with the NHS to provide babysitting services to anyone in need, and teaming up with the coaches of our Stillwater Ponies to celebrate our past season. A great organization to spend time with, or even get involved with, the Stillwater Elks are always here to support our community. If you’re interested in getting to know them Kivel reminds us that, “the Elks and VFW partner up for burger nights every Thursday and the Elks host a brunch the second Sunday morning of every month. Stop by; these meals are a great value.”

Stillwater is a beautiful site along the St. Croix. As a community of nurturing intentions and strong actions we aspire to make this town what it is, a great place to live. We are proud of the accomplishments that make this town so wonderful. We want to celebrate this, and the Heights Hall & Club is the friend to have to host our festivities. Let’s give that old Tozer Gym floor some new stories to tell and get together to enjoy our schools, our newlyweds, our organizations, and our neighbors.

Sam Bourman-Karns is a new contributor to Stillwater Living magazine.

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indmiller Distinctive Dentistry has been serving our community for over thirty years. Consider for a moment all of the businesses that have come

and gone in that time, so many well intended businesses that didn’t make it for one reason or another.

The test of time proves out a variety of attributes that comprise any business as a whole. For example, do we have strong leadership – check. Do we have willing and helpful support – check. Is there a solid plan in place – check. Is there a market for what’s being offered – check… and the list goes on from there.

Dr. Ned Windmiller has set a tone for his dental practice which has earned national and international respect as among the best in the fields of cosmetic and general dentistry. This recognition has led to demand for Dr. Windmiller’s teaching, lecturing and mentoring. He

recently returned from the 38th annual meeting of the American Society for Dental Aethetics (ASDA) which is a “by invitation only” society and includes the top cosmetic dentists in the world. He is also accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD).

To meet him about town one would never know that Dr. Windmiller is among the best in the world at his profession as he does not put on airs, not a whiff of smugness. Rather he carries himself with a genuineness that resonates in his every action – in fact as a visitor to his office it’s easy to observe that same characteristic of friendly genuineness from the rest of the staff. A staff that has been with Dr. Windmiller for decades, from the pleasant and knowledgeable women that greet and direct folks as they arrive, to the hygienists who welcome and care for patients – all of them communicate subtle grace with their actions and words.

W

Quality In, Quality OutWorld Class Dental Care

By Geoffrey BishopPhotos by Aimee Christenson

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The office is comfortable, beautiful and state-of-the-art. The lighting has a soft welcoming glow, elegant art work is tastefully placed throughout and plants thrive in the natural light adorning several greenhouse windows. It looked like someplace you could live comfortably. While the Windmiller’s were in N.Y. city their son Max showed Ned and the rest of the family the famous Prada store in Soho, pointing out it’s extraordinary high tech design features, including state-of-the-art frosted glass walls in the dressing rooms – sure enough the amazing transformative windows – walls that provide the option for privacy behind frosted glass or a complete open view, are now a fixture at the office. In the waiting room I watch amazing before and after photos transition from one satisfied patient to the next on a large screen. The noticeable transformations easily observed in the patients are significant – everything from what looks like a simple repair of a single tooth to a complete restoration. I am reminded that Dr. Windmiller has been doing great work in our community for decades – every working day he has seen and helped dozens of patients.

The consistency of service and uncompromisingly high level of oral health care provided by Dr. Windmiller over the years speaks to the character of Ned Windmiller. I’m reminded of a well known Vince Lombardi quote entitled “You’ve Got To Pay the Price” in which the legend of the gridiron says “Winning is not a sometimes thing, it’s an all-the-time thing. You don’t win once in a while, you don’t do things right once in a while, you do them right all the time. Winning is a habit… I’ve never known a man worth his salt who in the long run, deep down in his heart, didn’t appreciate the grind, the discipline...”

Clearly Dr. Windmiller understands the message espoused by Coach Lombardi. His staff has a record that speaks for itself. Their philosophy is pretty simple: “do not compromise. Never settle for less than the best. Offer only the highest standards of patient care including strong, respectful relationships with patients. Follow a holistic approach to treatment encompassing overall general health and longer life. Send folks off with healthy mouths and beautiful smiles, feeling confident and good about themselves.”

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When I asked Dr. Windmiller to talk about the current health insurance climate he answered, ”we feel patients should have a choice in deciding what is best for their mouth.Insurance companies or the government should not determine what type of dentistry is best for you as a patient. We have always used the best materials, used the highest quality laboratory (crowns, veneers, bridges) and have always been on the cutting edge as far as technology. We do file every patient’s insurance and feel our staff is great at maximizing every patient’s benefits.”

NEW ASSOCIATE JOINS THE TEAMEach morning the staff at Windmiller Distinctive Dentistry begins their day with a “team huddle” and, while it’s rare to see changing faces in that huddle, Dr. Matt Hawn has joined the team. I asked Dr. Hawn to tell us a little about his recent history, “after dental school I chose to go to a GPR at the VA in Salt Lake City. I wanted to expand my education and improve upon services I could provide. This program gave me great surgical experience rehabilitating Veteran's mouths. I spent time learning the intricacies of implant dentistry, sedation dentistry, oral surgery, and endodontics (root canals). While in Utah, I got bit by the "mountain bug" and found my way to a successful cosmetic practice in Vail, CO. This is where I gained invaluable experience in cosmetic dentistry providing smile makeovers thru the use of veneers, full mouth rehabilitations, Invisalign, and believe it or not, even Botox.

Dr. Matt Hawn says, “I was fortunate enough to have found Dr. Windmiller. Immediately I could see not only his passion for dentistry, but also his caring demeanor. He has an unparalleled drive to provide the absolute best service for his patients. Similar to many industries, dentistry is constantly changing and improving; it's exciting to be a part of a practice that is committed to being on the "cutting edge" in our field. I can't even tell you how excited I am to be apart of this amazing dental practice and to continue to improve the reputation that Dr. Windmiller has successfully built.

Dr. Ned Windmiller

Hometown: Stillwater, MN

Education: Undergraduate degree from Macalester College, DDS University of Minnesota.

Extracurricular: Standout three sport high school athlete, continued with football throughout college.

Family: Wife Chris, son Max, daughters, Mollie and Whitney – three wonderful grandchildern.

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It’s clear to me as I visit with these two men that Dr. Hawn is cut from the same cloth as Dr. Windmiller. Dr. Hawn strikes me as a man of clarity, energy with a positive disposition. The fact that Dr. Windmiller has welcomed him into the practice is a strong testimonial of what we should expect to see over time from the fresh face at their practice.

I asked Dr. Hawn why he chose this career path. He replied, “for me its the perfect mix of science and art, while being able to help people along the way. I've always loved working with patients, but being able to change people's smiles and give them their confidence back has been extremely rewarding.” I’d say that we all stand to benefit from the talents and energy or Dr. Hawn. Clearly, he could have made the decision to pursue a life in the mountains out west, but he has decided to put that wining smile and 4.0 Egregia cum Laude brain of his to work in our community.

Dr. Windmiller shares, “I feel that I found a dentist that complements our practice. He shares the same values and philosophy toward dentistry and patient care. He will continue to deliver the same high quality of care our patients have grown to expect. Matt expands the services that are available in our office.” It is important to note that in the modern “specialists” driven health care culture, we can find everything we need in one dental practice – right here in Stillwater.

Dr Windmiller's greatest joy is the relationships he has built with patients over the last 30 years. He truly enjoys what he does and is excited about the future of dentistry. He shares, “while I have no intention of slowing down, Dr. Hawn gives our office greater access, increased services and more flexibility. I feel he is a great fit. We have a wonderful loyal staff that has been with me for a long time and will continue to offer the best dentistry available. We live by the motto, do it right the first time.”

Geoffrey Bishop is a frequent contributor to Stillwater Living magazine.

Dr. Matt Hawn

Hometown: Eau Claire, WI

Education: Undergraduate degree from Saint John’s University - MIAC Scholar-Athlete of the year, DDS University of Minnesota.

Extracurricular: Standout three sport high school athlete, continued with football and Track & Field throughout college. Won the NCAA Division III National Championship in 2003 with St. John’s football.Family: Played college football along side of his brother for legendary coach John Gagliardi, who also coached their father decades earlier.

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giving back

he Alternative Gift Market wants to help you find special gifts for your friends and loved ones. The market operates from Stillwater's First Presbyterian Church,

and 2009 marks their 15th consecutive year of creating joy and merriment while making a significant impact.

This market is unique in part because it couples the tradition of gift-giving to the needs of those far less financially blessed. Choosing gifts at the market will help put your hard-earned dollars to work, bringing real benefits to real people with big needs. Some of them are neighbors right here in the valley, some live in greater Minnesota and other parts of the U.S., and some face daily struggles in distant lands. Regardless of location, we all share the same basic needs, but they have significant challenges in meeting theirs.

The market features a broad array of gifts -- fair trade handmade items from developing countries, toys, clothing,

and gourmet foods, to name a few - - and doing some of your shopping at the market can do a lot of good. Consider these examples of how much your purchase can mean to someone in need. The cost of a video game will provide blankets for a family of five who were displaced by a disaster. Tools and seeds for an impoverished family farm needing to feed itself have a price tag equivalent to a pound of gourmet coffee.

Eco-friendly, reusable fabric gift bags save natural resources and money, and eliminate the need to spend time wrapping gifts. Using them will aid the East Metro Women’s Council in assisting low-income and homeless families working toward self-sufficiency, and of course, they're useful for gifts purchased and the Alternative Gift Market and elsewhere.

From time to time we want something for a person who already "has everything." The perfect gift for them might be a donation in their name to a non-profit whose interests line up with

Making A DifferenceT

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theirs. Those represented at the market have established records of helping people or addressing environmental issues, and your donation will help, be it big or small.

Vendor and non-profit participants this year are:

• African Team Ministries

• Bead for Life

• Friends of Africa

• Global Crafts

• I Love A Parade

• Marketplace Handwork of India

• Partners for Just Trade

• Red Lake Nation Food

• SERRV International

• Turkish Scarf Project

• White Earth Land Recovery Project

• Women’s Bean Project

• Church World Service

• Common Hope

• Compatible Technology International

• East Metro Birthday Bags

• Habitat for Humanity

• Heifer Project

• Medical Benevolence Foundation

• Valley Outreach

The market accepts cash and checks. A soup lunch will be available on

Saturday, and homemade treats will be on hand both days.

19th Annual Alternative Gift MarketSaturday, November 22 2014

from 10 am - 4 pmSunday, November 23 2014

from 11 am - 2 pm

First Presbyterian Church of Stillwater651-439-4380

6201 Osgood Ave N.www.fpc-stillwater.org

WWW.STILLWATERLIVING.NET 27

612-338-2020www.vujovich.com

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perspective

DO YOU RECOGNIZE THIS LOCATION? Win a dinner for two! Email the correct location to [email protected] by the end of this month. A lucky winner will be drawn from a pool of correct answers. Each month we will run a new Perspective, so don’t get discouraged if this one stumped you. Congratulations to last month’s winner, Jack Wilmington of Afton. When your curiosity overwhelms you, visit curtisdale.com or facebook.com/CurtisDaleCreations each month to discover the location of this month’s picture.

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www.outinglodge.com • 651-439-9747

Upcoming Dinners & Events:Nov. 29th ~ Babette’s Feast

Dec. 20th ~ Downton Abbey Christmas Dinner,

Hot Chocolate & Sleigh Rides in Pine Point Park

Jan. 17th ~ Paella & Brazilian Jazz Dinner

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