Summer 2012

Faribault • Northfield • Owatonna • St. Peter • Waseca

Summer 2012

Motorcycle riding becomes the drive behind a friendship between these “Lady Riders”

SUMMER!Enjoy all the region has to

offer this summer

Northfield Retirement Community • 507-664-3466 • 900 Cannon Valley Drive • www.northfieldretirement.org

Caring Means Staying TogetherCare for a Loved One, Peace of Mind for YouAt Northfield Retirement Community, we understand the importance of staying side-by-side with your spouse. That’s why we offer eight varied senior living options, including our stunning new Northwood Pines apartments.

Northwood Pines is ideal for couples needing different levels of care. It offers privacy, freedom, comfort and security, all in an attractive residential setting. Features include:

For more information, call 507-664-3466 or visit northfieldretirement.org.

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Phil and Marie Ryden have been married for nearly 60 years. Today, they live together in Northwood Pines where they have access to different levels of care.

• A quiet, cozy home on the edge of NRC’s beautiful 30-acre campus.

• Access to a state-of-the-art theater, a full-service salon, Main Street Café and other amenities.

• The option of receiving personalized, catered care for one or both residents … from minimal assistance to around-the-clock care.

• Beautifully finished kitchenettes with Cambria® countertops, private baths and individually controlled heating and AC units.

• Five beautiful and spacious floor plan options.

• Outdoor walking paths.

• 24-hour emergency response system.

Summer is here and that can mean only one thing…it’s time to show off those tattoos. If you’re one of the three people left on the planet that doesn’t have one, God bless you. But for the rest of mankind, this can be a daunting time of year.

The dolphin your drunk friend Connie talked you into putting on your ankle in high school is now going be seen by Grandma at the family reunion. Maybe you had a little something special put on during that brief stint in prison no one knows about. And

remember when Janice said it would be super sexy to put that rose on your breast before the prom? Well, now everyone at book club is going to get a chance to see just what menopause did to that little number. Short sleeves, tank tops, sandals…it’s a cruel time of year.

My first tattoo was a source of great pride for my parents. I be-lieve my father’s response was, “I made it out of the Army without a tattoo, but my Catholic school-educated daughter got one.” It was a small mermaid on my abdomen.

Tattoo #2 involved a trip to Chicago to celebrate a friend’s 30th birthday. She was afraid of needles, but I insisted she get some ink to welcome in the new decade. In the spirit of moral support/peer pressure, I got one too. I spent several hours lying half naked having the afore-men-tioned sea nymph covered with a more elaborate & busty version of herself.

As the years flew by and my taut tummy went by the wayside, the work transformed. The nymph’s curves became droopy. She

looked as if chances of her actu-ally being able to swim (let alone lead sailors to their death) were slim to none. Her hair used to be carelessly windblown and the surrounding starfish glimmered on the rocks while being gently washed by delicate waves. Now you get the impression of a gal in desperate need of a trip to the salon, sitting on a giant bruise surrounded by deflated party balloons.

So, understanding exactly what my parents had been talking about all those years and having grown up enough to understand the value of a dollar, I made the obvious choice: I got Tattoo #3.

I went to see a guy named “Snake” at the tattoo convention. If you’re not in the market for a fringed halter top, switchblade or a tramp stamp, you might as well avoid this whole event. I quickly came to realize my denim skirt and Coach handbag were a tad out of the ordinary when the bald biker doing security at the door said, “I think you’re in the wrong place lady.”

Snake took a quick glance at the ankle scar I wanted covered with flowers and said he would draw it while I wandered around. “And you better take this with you,” he said as he handed me a cold six pack of beer. “Time to start drinkin’.” Good advice from my new pal who looked a teeny bit like a serial killer.

Years later, the flowers began to fade and I decided it was time to “brighten them up.” On to a female artist whose specialty was color work. Tattoo #4 took mul-tiple sessions over an entire sum-mer (15 hours total). That gave me plenty of time in between to visit my doctor and take all the rounds of antibiotics for the myriad of infections. That little touch up now covers most of my lower leg and cost about as much as my car. I can hardly wait to get Tattoo #5!

— Mary Closner is currently enjoying lying naked in front of a male laser technician who specializes in tattoo color removal.

SUMMER!

Play Clothes | Mary Closner

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The State Farm logo

The State Farm logo is the most visible expression of our corporate identity. It’s composed of the three-oval symbol, which grows out of the State Farm historic identifier, and a modified version of the State Farm wordmark. The logo has been designed to work effectively in all media and at all sizes and should be used to represent State Farm in all forms of communication. The State Farm logo is one of the most recognized in the world. We must leverage its recognition and protect its use. It has a trademark registration and should not be altered for any reason. The State Farm wordmark is an update of the 2007 wordmark. The letters have been carefully drawn to provide maximum legibility at all sizes, and to provide a consistent italic form. The stylized wordmark is always part of the State Farm logo and should never be used alone. The stroke widths, the letter spacing, and the size relationships of the various components of the logo have been carefully developed and should never be altered or recreated. Electronic artwork files are available in the “Downloads” section of the Brand Center. Download artwork

State Farm Brand Center Our Standards - The State Farm logo

Printed on: Jan 05 2012

If the Chaos of life has you in an endless spin cycle, this is a must read.

Available at all on-line book stores.

“Like” Simply Balanced Coaching on Facebook to learn about upcoming classes and tele-seminars

Christy TryhusSimplyBalancedCoaching.comChristy@SimplyBalancedCoaching.com 507-456-2250

Live Life Beyond the Laundry

Summer 2012 Girlfriends.mn 3

Cover Photo About Us

24

Features9 DANCING WITH OUR STEELE COUNTY STARS Taking a cue from the popular TV show “Dancing with the Stars,” Healthy Seniors has found a unique way to raise money and allow folks to show off their moves.

13 OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW Antiques never really go out of style. At least that’s what owners of antiques shops in the region say. Even in a slower economy, antiques tend to be popular.

16 DU JOUR! For one Owatonna native, a whimsical conversation about selling all her earthly goods and moving to France turned out to be prophetic.

24 GOING AGAINST THE GRAIN Five local women have shunned predetermined roles and have strived to achieve what feels right to them.

29 SUMMER SAFETY With summer activities in full bloom, safety takes a front seat, whether on a bike, in the pool or out in the yard.

34 SUNLESS TANNER - TESTED Girlfriends staffers test different sunless tanners so you can feel confident about the product you purchase.

Accessories3 Play Clothes

6 Covergirls

19 From the Kitchen

20 We Time

22 Literary Ladies

35 Unexpected Caregiver

} Look for your next issue of Girlfriends the week of July 30.

29

Volume 4, Issue 4Copyright © Girlfriends 2012Published 2012 by: Huckle Media, LLC, 115 W. 5th St., Northfield, MN 55057 / 507-645-1136Send releases and story ideas to: Jerry Smith at Girlfriends Magazine, [email protected]

Publisher: Lauran Rott Associate Editor: Jerry SmithStaff Writer: Brenda Ward Advertising Consultants: Nicole Howard, Lauran Rott, Luke Brown, Rachel Ebbers, Chris Ness, Deb Theisen, Diane Gengler, Mikki Law, Lisa Dwyer, Debbie Ensley, Kristie Biehn Graphic Designer: Ashley PtacekPhotographer: Kelli Wencl

From Left: Deanna Bauer, Stacy Borwege-Williams, Lori Larson

Pages 6-7(Photo by Kelli Wencl)

SUMMER 2012where local women turn

Wellness

1698

4 Girlfriends.mn Summer 2012

Making lives easier, healthier, happier

Faribault 1920 Grant St NW

507-334-2085

Owatonna1620 S Cedar Ave

507-451-0138

Waseca1230 N State St 507-835-8030

It is easier than ever to shop and save at Hy-Vee with the convenient Hy-Vee App-another

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Excludes alcohol, tobacco, gift cards, lottery; limit 1 with coupon. Valid at Faribault, Owatonna and Waseca Locations. Expires July 31, 2012.

off your next $50 or more purchase

L.U.#9575

By Brenda K.M. Ward

“Gypsy Rider”Crank her over once againPut your face into the windFind another road where you’ve never been……Sing that two-wheeled melody,The Highway Symphony.

Singer-songwriter Gene Clark understood the feel of riding astride a motorcycle out on the open road, rider and bike symbiotic, the grandeur of nature rushing by lush with scent and sight.

It’s a feeling three area wom-en have come to know each in their own time and now experience together as they ride their way to a deepening

friendship. Strangers not so long ago,

Lori Larson and Deanna Bauer, both of Faribault, and Stacy Borwege-Williams of Owaton-na, began riding together last fall, putting hundreds of miles on their bikes and traveling to places near and far.

“I used to always see Lori riding across the viaduct and wondered, who is that girl with the long braid?” said Bauer.

She finally met that long-haired woman after following through on her own desire to try out the sport, joining the Lady Riders of Faribault – a group of motorcyclists who crave adventure on the open road. It is where Bauer also met Borwege-Williams the previous fall during the first

annual Ladies Ride weekend along the Mississippi River to Dubuque, Iowa. Organized by Ann Hofmeister, owner of Faribault Harley-Davidson, the trip drew in dozens of women from throughout the state of Minnesota and beyond.

“It’s so cool,” said Larson. “There are so many women at the rides. It really brings you together.”

No doubt the number of female motorcycle riders join-ing Lady Riders will continue to grow as women from a wide range of backgrounds and professions continue to be the fastest growing demographic of motorcyclists in the country.

“It doesn’t matter what you do for a living or how many tattoos you do or don’t have,” said Borwege-Williams. “Bikers

are some of the most friendly people you’ll run into.”

“We’re all there to ride and enjoy the scenery and the company,” said Bauer.

The three friends often ride together on day trips and continue to take part in larger organized rides through Faribault Harley-Davidson. Up next? A 600-mile ride to the Black Hills (South Dakota) in June.

Cruising through the pastFor Larson, being on a mo-

torcycle is second nature. At age 7, Larson’s dad first

introduced her to a dirt bike, and from there the equip-ment kept growing in size and power. By age 17 she bought her first bike – a 650 Yamaha that she had yet to >>>

“Riding gives me a sense of empowerment. When I’m riding, I can’t think about anything else.” ~Stacy Borwege-Williams

Photo by Kelli Wencl of GingerSnaps Photography From Left: Deanna Bauer, Stacy Borwege-Williams, Lori Larson

Covergirls

The Highway SymphonyMotorcycle riding becomes the drive behind a friendship between three women


Covergirls

grow into, her feet unable to touch the ground. Many bikes and rides later, today Larson can be seen cruising on her 2012 Road Glide Custom Har-ley Davidson.

“I used to drag the kids all over on my bike when everybody else’s mom had a minivan,” said Larson, whose kids are now grown.

She continues to ride often, whether to her job as a substa-tion designer with Xcel Energy in Minneapolis or any other chance she gets.

“It’s such a freedom; it can be really relaxing,” she said. “I like riding by myself but there is a lot to be said about having fun with others, the camarade-rie of it.”

Bauer’s experience has been quite different from that of Larson’s. Motorcycles were not a part of her upbringing. Three years ago, however, Bauer decided she was ready to give it a run.

“I signed up for a Rider’s Edge course at Faribault Harley Davidson. I was either going to be an educated rider or actu-ally drive one someday,” said Bauer. “Within a month after finishing the course, I bought a bike.”

Owner of a 2008 Harley Soft Tail Deluxe, Bauer is now going on her third summer of riding and has gained a great appreciation for the beauty of the sport.

“It’s just you and the motor-

cycle and the road,” she said.Similar to Bauer, Borwege-

Williams didn’t begin riding until four years ago.

“I often envied the lady riders I saw,” said Borwege-Williams. “My husband kept saying, ‘You can do it.’”

And so she did. Borwege-Williams purchased her first bike even before she had her motorcycle license. But after a Rider’s Edge class, she went from handling one of the smallest bikes on the market to one of the biggest – a 2007 Harley Road King Classic.

“Riding gives me a sense of empowerment,” said Borwege-Williams. “When I’m riding, I can’t think about anything else.” G

WOMEN caring for WOMEN

CONNECT WITH US

Melanie H. Dixon, MDChristine Braun, MD Dana Olson, MD

At Women’s Health Center of Northfield Hospital and Clinics, our OB/GYN specialists see women of all ages in Northfield, Farmington and Lakeville. They deliver babies and perform surgeries at Northfield Hospital.

This unique practice provides you an opportunity to get supportive and comprehensive care from clinicians who understand your time of life and how to best meet your needs.

Call 507-646-1478 for your appointment.

2000 NORTH AVENUE • NORTHFIELD, MN 55057 • 507-646-1478 • WWW.NORTHFIELDHOSPITAL.ORG/WHC

PHYSICIAN SERVICES PROVIDED BY MAYO CLINIC HEALTH SYSTEM.

Deborah Suppes, MD

Learn to ride at Faribault Harley-Davidson

RIDER’S EDGE – For those who have never ridden a motorcycle, this four-day course takes you from sitting on a bike to passing the state test for motorcycle endorsement.

GARAGE PARTY – This free course outlines the basics of motorcycles and riding for those with little experience.

For details, visit online at www.faribaulthd.com or call 507-334-5130.


Explore: Faribault

Women Only ClassesGeared Towards Women With Little

Or No Firearms Experience Private Classes • All Paperwork Provided

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Chandler’s Conceal and Carry Permit classes

Acupuncture & PainManagement Clinic, LLC

Michelle LaCroixLicensed Acupunc tur ist , RN

(Traditional Chinese Medicine)

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Insurance Coverage May Be AvailableCall for a Free 1/2 Hour Consultation

122 N. Central Ave - Faribault

507-331-2930

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HOT DEALS!Click into weekly HOT DEALS

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For every local purchase – there is a local purpose.

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The Faribault Area Chamber of Commerce encourages all local

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always seek local vendors as their first choice when acquiring new

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Like us on FACEBOOK and see what you can “Get in Faribault!”

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Art Galleries Gift Shop

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Girlfriends Gifts

Dancing with ourSteele

CountyStarsSteele County notables step into dancing

shoes in the name of charity

By Brenda K.M. Ward

Couples Date NightFriday & Saturdays - $26/coupleTee Times – 1 Hr after Twilight

Sunday Afternoon SpecialAfter 1pm - $30 Walk or Ride!

1515 Shumway Avenue, Faribault507.332.7177 • legacygolf.net

Grand Opening Week Aug 28 - Sept 1 for the CLUBHOUSE, EVENT PAVILION & THE GRILL at THE LEGACY

Sun Aug 28 Mon Aug 29 Tues Aug 30 Wed Aug 31 Thurs Sept 1 Luau Family Day 6:00 Ribbon Cutting Taco Tuesday $5 Pizza Prime Rib $5 Hog Roast Free Hotdogs and $2 Tacos 11:00-10:00 $10 Special 11:30-2:30 Ice Cream Social 11:00-3:00 5:00-9:00 $1 Flaming Bananas 5:00-7:00 Proceeds to Youth Hockey 1515 Shumway Ave Faribault, MN 55021 507.332.7177 www.legacygolf.net

Golf Special ( with cart ) : 9 holes $20, 18 holes $30 25% Off all Golf Apparel Daily Registration for Door Prizes

Friday Night Happy Hour!4-6pm • 1/2 Price Appetizers

$2.50 Rail Drinks and Domestic Beer(Dine in only.)

The Burger BasketTuesday, Wednesday & ThursdayEnjoy a $5 Cheeseburger Basket

with French Fries!

For more information regarding any of the above, Jr League details, rates or menus for the Grill, please visit our website

Loyalty Cards & Memberships Available

THE LEGACY

Steele County Free FairMinnesota’s Largest County Fair

Owatonna, MN • 507.451.5305 or 800.423.6466

NEW Big Wheel Walker NEW Bigger Midway

“Biggest Reunion in the State of the Union” Check out our OFF SEASON EVENTS at the fairgrounds www.scff.org

Aug. 14-19th, 2012

Before Ruth became a client of Healthy Se-niors of Steele County, her life was met with some powerful challenges.

At age 86, despite being legally blind and unable to drive the seven miles from her home into Owatonna, Ruth continued to care for her terminally ill husband day-in and day-out.

Then, two years ago, in entered Healthy Seniors of Steele County (HSSC) and like a well-coordinated rescue mission, Ruth found herself suddenly provided with respite care for her husband, rides to medical appoint-ments, help with bills, a reading machine with which to read her mail, meal delivery,

paperwork assistance and more – the least of not was companionship.

The tremendous care of volunteers helped her through this most difficult time in her life, and though her husband has since passed away, Ruth continues to live in her rural home and volunteers continue to embrace the devoted relationship formed with this woman.

“I see volunteers feeling really good about helping our seniors,” said Executive Director of HSSC Edna Ringhofer. “In turn, the seniors are just thankful they have a community that can help them.”

In 2011, 500 volunteers provided more than 4,500 hours of service of wide capacity to help HSSC serve 1,095 seniors and caregivers throughout Steele County. Though volunteer time is donated, as with any organization, costs are incurred, and Healthy Seniors has found a unique way to raise money taking a cue from one of the most popular reality shows on TV today: “Dancing with the Stars.”

“Dancing with Our Steele County Stars,” now in its second year, has Steele County “celebri-ties” flaunting their moves to the tango, waltz, swing and other ballroom dance styles. It’s the one fundraiser of the year the organization is allowed, combined with a next-day golf tour-nament, to raise vital monies that keep this

program running – especially important now with the decrease in government funding.

“We were looking for a fundraiser that no-body else in town was doing,” said Ringhofer. “Red Cross of Albert Lea had done it before, and they took us under their wings.”

The dance couples began with an initial meeting in April with Choreographers Brian and Annette Dawley, owners of the Cedar Ballroom in Owatonna. The Dawleys determined just the right dance style for each couple, choreographed the moves, and pro-vided instruction throughout the 10 weeks of practice.

“It was really impressive last year to watch where the group started off and where they ended up,” said Ringhofer. “And the audience loved it. The feedback was tremendous.”

Amongst the eight couples taking to the stage in July is Marie Lawrence, former University of Minnesota line-dancer and Minnesota Vikings cheerleader who, along with dance partner Dave Effertz, are set to perform a West Coast Swing to the Aretha Franklin hit “Respect.”

Meeting about three times a week for prac-tice, Lawrence says she and her partner have truly been enjoying the experience. The most challenging part: allowing her partner to lead.

Dancing with ourSteele

CountyStars

Marie Lawrence and Dave Effertz


20.1FOR 1 ROOM 3 WAYS SEE 20.2 & 20.3

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Getting used to the footwear also is not easy.

But for this woman who has a strong compassion for community support, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to help HSSC raise vital funds.

Lawrence recalls a time when her cherished community gave excep-tionally to her and her husband after the loss of their son, Andrew.

“Owatonna played a big role in helping us go through our grief. Whatever I can do in order to help out other organizations that pro-vide services to seniors, to children, to couples, I will do,” she said. G

Dancing with ourSteel County StarsDetails: Show begins at 7 p.m. July 9 in the Medford High School auditorium

Tickets: $15, available at Kotke Jewelers and Kristi’s, both in Owatonna; seating limited

Sponsorships available: Contact Ringhofer at 507-977-2566 or [email protected]

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Golf Classic: Noon shotgun start July 10 at the Owatonna Country Club; contact Ringhofer for registration

Come & Vote for your favorite couple!

Marie Lawrence & Dave Effertz

Andrea Van Gelder & Tim Van Gelder

Emma Howell & Bob Howell

Gretchen Chavez & John Petterson

Val Mullenbach & Matt Mullenbach

Nikki Gieseke & Craig Doring

Karen Legault & Dave Legault

Kellie Mrotz & Victor Mrotz

Dustless. Odorless. Done in one day.

Locally owned by Rod Magsam 507-366-2833 (BUFF)

15% OFFYOuR Next ReFiNishiNg!

Expires August 1, 2012.


Fabulous Finds!Check out these great finds from the region!

Kokeshi Means Cute in Japanese - and that’s exactly what they are! Gorgeously produced with sneak-peek flaps, fun die-cuts, and lavish gatefolds, these interactive books will delight girls of all ages...the notecard set and journals are added fun! The Sketchy Artist, Northfield, $12.95-$17.95

Indigo Sandal“Tres Belle” in burnt orange, the hot color of the summer. Also available in black and white. Owatonna Shoe, Owatonna, $80

Great Gift Ideas for Dads and GradsFor the special men in your life, Chappuis offers a variety of Leather and Stainless Steel jewelry starting at $49.95. Chappuis Jewelers, Faribault

Botanical Luxuries for Home and BodyFine soaps, lotions, drawer liners and more. Paper Petalum, Northfield, Starting at $3.95


Out with the new, in with the old

By Lauren Ehlers

At Keepers Antique Shop in Faribault, antiquing is an all-day experience.

Local shoppers and customers from the metro area browse the aisles for that per-fect item, sharing laughs and stories before grabbing lunch at a restaurant in town and returning to continue the hunt.

“We’ve become a destination for a lot of people,” said co-owner Nona Boyes. “In our shop, it’s Christmas every day.”

But what exactly is an antique, and what makes the search for one so enticing? We talked to several local antique shops to get the scoop on a long-standing tradition that’s finding new popularity with younger generations. What’s an antique?Defining an antique is no simple task. Definitions vary from person to person.

“Everyone has their own definition,” said Leslee Milbrath, owner of Generations Antiques Gifts and Thrifts in Waseca. “It depends on what a person is looking for.”

Generally, a true antique is an item that is at least 100 years old and sought after

because it is rare, useful or has emotional value for the buyer.

Vintage pieces – often clothing – are usually less than 100 years old and are considered the classic, quintessential items of their era.

Often, antique shops also carry collect-ables, which are technically not antiques. Collectables differ in that they tend to be newer and bought in large quantities.

“In my opinion, they’re mostly from the 1980s and ’90s,” said Mary Wobschall, owner of Country Collections Antiques in Waseca. “They’re too new now, but they might become antiques in the future.”

What’s antiquing like?The experience of antiquing is different for each person, depending on where custom-ers choose to shop and the reasons behind their visit.

A shop’s selection can come from a variety of places: auctions, garage and estate sales and the local community, among others. Keepers Antiques, for example, obtains its items largely from nearby residents.

“Our stock is 95 percent local,” said Boyes. “People call us or bring things in for us

to sell, or we go out and collect them ourselves.”

Other stores, such as Country Collections Antiques, are multi-dealer shops, renting out spaces to dealers to increase the variety and quality of their collection.

Some shops have set prices, while others allow customers to negotiate.

“We call it ‘bickering,’” Boyes said, laugh-ing. “Customers usually shoot low, we usually shoot a little higher and we meet somewhere in the middle.”

Some customers come in looking for an exact item, but most simply browse.

“Many leave with something completely different than they had in mind,” said Wobschall.

Boyes agrees.

“Antiquing is all about the hunt,” she said. “That’s the most thrilling part.”

What’s popular?The struggling economy has affected what customers are buying as well. >>>


The beautiful colors and patterns of depression glass catch many eyes in antiques stores across the region. But what’s the story behind this popular collectable?

Depression glass was manufactured from the late ‘20s through the early ‘40s. It’s cheery colors and patterns were produced to bring a bit of joy into homes dur-ing the tough times. Because of its mass production, the quality was often poor, showing heavy mold marks and air bubbles.

At the time, the dishes were available for as little as a nickel or dime, which made it more accessible. It was also used by businesses as a product add-on, often movie theaters, insurance agents and even gas stations would offer a piece of the glassware for using their business.

Today, it can be hard to find depression glass in “mint” condition. The price depends greatly on the condition of the piece and whether its color or pattern were made for only a short time.

According to Boyes, men are currently buy-ing more traditional antiques than women, surprising for an activity often thought of as feminine.

“When money is tight, men usually make the best of a bad situation and continue to buy the things they want,” said Boyes. “Women tend to pull back a little more when times are tough.”

Typical purchases among men include sports memorabilia, military items and toys such as marbles and trucks.

Antique shops have seen a decline in sales of typically popular items, such as dishes and glassware, in lieu of less expensive pieces that can be repurposed.

“Many women buy old, broken jewelry and reuse those items,” said Boyes. “To us and to them, everything is a keeper.”

Younger generations are embracing the re-purposing trend, too. Limited incomes and new homes inspire many to get creative with antique items.

“Young customers buy old furniture and spice them up with bright paint, jewels, buttons, rhinestones and the like,” said Boyes.

Shoppers often buy damaged or seemingly useless items for and repurpose them to save money.

“I recently saw an old industrial cart trans-formed into a coffee table by adding a glass top,” said Wobschall. “It’s nice to see items being recycled rather than discarded.”

Why antiquing? Customers go antiquing for a wide variety of reasons.

Age is often a factor. Indeed, Wobschall notes a distinct difference between the

older and younger generations she sees in her shop.

“Younger customers aren’t focused on whether an item is a true antique,” she said. “They’re often just going for a certain look. Older customers are usually looking for specific antiques.”

For older generations, nostalgia plays a big role in antiquing.

“Antiques remind people of their youth,” said Boyes. “Certain items can spark happy memories of growing up.”

Milbrath agrees.

“A lot of people buy something that their mother or grandmother used,” she said. “It’s a way of bringing back the past.”

For younger generations, the utility of an item is often the primary focus.>>>


“Younger customers look for usable items,” said Wobschall. “Whether that’s a piece of furniture or a kitchen item, the pieces they buy are for use in everyday life, not just for decorative pur-poses.”

A downturn in the economy has sparked greater interest in antiqu-ing. Prices at antique shops are generally cheaper than at regular retail stores.

In addition, antiques can bring comfort and remind people of easier times.

“We all need some warm fuzzies in our lives,” Boyes said. G

Join the huntElko Trader’s Market

Interstate 35 and County Road 2 in Elko, Minn.

Memorial Day, July Fourth and Labor Day weekendsSaturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday-Monday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Rain or shine – free parking - $4 admission

Country Collection Antiques and More620 West Elm Ave., Waseca 507-833-2231countrycollectionantiques.com

Generations Antiques Gifts and Thrift203 South State St., Waseca 507-201-2984generationsantiquesmn.com

Keepers Antique Shop224 Central Ave., Faribault 507-334-7673

Picking Thru Time107 Main St., Lonsdale507-744-4218

Uncle Tom’s Antique Mall2923 W. Hwy. 14, Owatonna507-451-2254uncletomsantiquemall.com

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By Brenda K.M. Ward

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to seek respite far away from the hills of Hollywood. Who wouldn’t want a break from the paparazzi, the late night glitz and glamour?

When Owatonna native Delana Nelsen set out on her own retreat, it wasn’t meant to duck fame – though the delightful woman is, no doubt, quite popular with her friends – but for want of a new experience. The timing felt right: she was newly divorced and her youngest son had just left for college. What better opportunity to be adventurous? After all, it was only going to be for a year…

Fast forward three years and Nelsen continues to be enchanted by the place she calls home: the lovely city of Aix en Provence, France. Poles apart from her spacious suburban home in Eau Claire, Wis., she lives blissfully in a tiny apartment, maintaining a lifestyle that is “simply” splendide.

The provenance“A friend and I were talking, and he said, ‘Oh, let’s just move to France,’ as a joke,” said Nelsen. “I thought, what if I did move to France?”

As it turns out, her whimsy wasn’t so much a thought as it was a decision, and Nelsen began making preparations for life abroad.

Set on living in the south of France yet knowing little about what the region offered, Nelsen devoted time to researching towns starting with the letter “a” – for no reason other than it begins the alphabet. To her delight, even before getting to the “b’s” a winner was found: Aix en Provence, a town with a population of around 140,000 and a short hop to Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea.

Nearly a year of readiness had passed, and the time had come to leap the most enormous hurdle: sell her home. Yet, somehow, the task – along with other last-minute “to-do’s” – seemed to fall into place with relative ease.

“I sold my house within three weeks, just after the market bot-tomed out. I sold all of my stuff, sold my car, quit my job and got a visa,” said Nelsen, who, though she spoke not a word of French, also managed to secure an apartment to rent via online searching.

She was set! Life in France was becoming a reality – time to pack.

“I had no idea what to bring,” said Nelsen, laughing at the memo-ry. “I moved with three suitcases, a pillow and my cowboy boots.

Du Jour!Owatonna native takes a chance at life in France

Photos courtesy of Delana Nelsen


There were also little household things I thought I would need, like a scouring pad – why did I take a scouring pad? They don’t have those in France?”

Her initial rental became the first of several residences, and within six months of living in France, Nelsen lived in as many spaces, moving her few wares about as the next affordable spot came to her attention. Since then, she has settled into a more permanent abode – a minis-cule apartment on the top floor of a “medieval” building overlooking other antiquated buildings. With no closets and just two kitchen cupboards, she’s learned to change habits, like line-drying clothes from her window and entertaining on a rooftop terrace, where her cat, Arthur, also prefers to be.

“It’s been a great lesson for me on what’s important and what’s not,” said Nelsen. “There are things that you keep around for security when in fact they mean nothing. Life got better when I got out from under those things.”

Vivant FranceWhen asked what most stands out about life in France, Nelsen was quick to give an answer: the food.

Known for their culinary aptitude, the French have made eating into an art, lunch a two-hour affair during which time storeowners close their doors and enjoy a meal of in-season cuisine, accompanied by wine and spirited conversation.

“The French have a real relationship to food,” said Nelsen. “Conver-sation always turns to food – the proper way to do something, the flavor, where the food comes from.”

Just down the street from Nelsen’s home, in fact, food takes center stage in various forms throughout the day.

During the early morning hours, she can stroll down to an open-air market held in the town square where vendors sell their wares, whether freshly harvested or baked delights or arts and material goods.

Then, around 1 p.m. begins a finely orchestrated transformation. As vendors pack their bags, without pause white vans swoop in depositing workers who quickly clear away the stands. On cue, street cleaners emerge, removing any refuse left behind as men with chairs and tables on rollers wait on the sidelines to set the stage for quaint outdoor cafés. >>> NorthfieldUrgentCare.com

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Later on in the evening, the same square transitions yet again, this time into lively night clubs.

And the next day … it begins all over again.

Du JourThere are, of course, many fabulous things about life in France aside from the food – the quaint beauty, the discourse, the wine – but there are simply some things that the country cannot provide for Nelsen, like longtime friends and family.

“I miss the people. I love Midwesterners, I really do,” said Nelsen.

Once or twice a year, Nelsen cherishes time spent returning to her roots to visit her two sons, Ryan, 26, and Colin, 24, her family and the many other significant people in her life – not to mention a stop at Target and T.J. Maxx. She then returns home, satisfait, and once again resumes life in France.

“I have left and I have done it by choice. My sons are very proud, from what they’ve told me, because I did what I wanted to do,” said Nelsen.

Continuing to do what feels fitting to her life, Nelsen, a former news-paper columnist, now writes a blog, “du jour...so why can’t a 50-year-old woman pick up and move to France?,” found on Girlfriends website (www.girlfriends.mn).

She has also begun a business partnership with another woman, a company called Provence Rugs (www.provencerugs.com), selling colorful handmade woven rugs bordered in Provencal fabric, as well as acrylic accessories incorporated with similar fabrics.

“Things just drop into life sometimes and they seem like an accident. I don’t know if they are,” said Nelsen. “I ask myself, do I need to run with it or be wary of it? What will I lose if I do this?”

When it comes to her adventure in France, Nelsen is, no doubt, delighted to have run with it. Yet, who knows what other “accidents” might come her way?

“I feel like I’ll stay in France for a long time, but then again, I’ve never lived on a tropical island.” G


Augusto’s Balsamic Pork Chop

Ingredients1 thick-cut bone-in pork chop

Drizzle of olive oil

Salt and freshly ground pepper

1 scallion, sliced and separated

1/2 cup quality aged balsamic vinegar (recommended: Ariston 12-year balsamic)

1/2 cup chianti

Directions1. Bring the pork chop to room temperature and salt and pepper both sides. Heat olive oil in a medium-hot pan – hot enough to hear a sizzle when you place the pork chop in it. Do not move the chop for 4 to 5 minutes. Turn the chop and repeat this process, then remove it from the pan to a plate and cover with foil to keep it warm and rest the meat.

2. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the scallions, sautéing until translucent. Add the vinegar and wine and simmer for a few minutes, until the sauce thickens.

3. Return the chop and any collected juices to the pan and turn it over to coat the chop with the sauce.

4. Serve with either white jasmine rice with chopped green onion or risotto with mushrooms and craisins. At Augusto’s, the chop is served with roasted fresh beets and sautéed beet greens with crispy proscuitto.

Mangia’!

A native of Faribault, Bradley Gustafson began working in kitchens as a child, helping his mother with her catering business. Since culinary school, he has worked as a chef in upscale restaurants and hotels in Minneapolis, Norway, and Dallas, Texas. Currently, he is the co-owner and chef of Augusto’s Ristorante, located at 508 Central Ave. in Faribault.

“This is the sort of world I live in and I’ve just come to love it,” said Gustafson. “I don’t know how I could live any other way.”

From the Kitchen

Brad Gustafson


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CANOES, KAYAKS AND RAFTS

Cannon Falls Canoe and Bike Rental (www.cannonfallscanoeandbike.com or 507-407-4111)Float the Cannon River by canoe or kayak, or try out the new rafts for a three-hour, eight-mile trip to Miesville Ravine Park. Shuttle service, life jackets and paddles are included in rentals at this shop, open seven days a week.

Kato Canoe and Kayak, Mankato(www.katocanoeandkayak.com or 507-327-7235)Mankato is home to great natural beauty as seen when traveling by canoe or kayak. Discover it for yourself by renting for a self-guided or guided tour. Those more adventurous may even decide on an over-night guided trip!

Cleary Lake Regional Park, Prior Lake(www.threeriversparks.org/parks/cleary-lake-park or 763-694-7777)Head out to the water for a day on the cheap by renting a canoe, single kayak or rowboat for just $4 per 30 minutes, including paddles and life jackets. Or rent a double kayak, paddleboat or stand-up paddleboard for $6 per 30 minutes.

Bent River Outfitter, Mankato (www.bentriveroutfitter.com or 507-388-2368)Located in Old Town Mankato, the Bent River excursion is a paddling experience down the Blue Earth River, where bluffs, wildlife, water-falls, hidden eco gems and sandbars offer a unique experience on the river. Try a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle board whether on a solo or guided trip.

aquatic amusementBy Brenda K.M. Ward

Summer and water go together like chocolate and peanut butter, so take advantage of the season by gathering your family or girlfriends and heading out to enjoy the many water sports offered in our region.

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Look no further than nearby waters for your summer entertainment

Host your next event with a view.

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Weddings, Family Reunions, Company PartiesBusiness Meetings and more!

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20th AnnualOwatonna Festival of the Arts

Saturday, July 28 • 9-5 | Sunday July 29 • 10-4Central Park, Downtown Owatonna

Over 60 ExhibitorsFeatured Artist Scott WestFood & Live Entertainment

Corporate Graphics

Sakatah Lake State Park, Waterville(www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/sakatah_lake or 507-362-4438Located in Waterville, Sakatah Lake State Park is a forested park that offers opportunities for boating and fishing – and, of course, camp-ing. Rent canoes or kayaks for fishing or simply enjoying the splendid waters of our great state.

PONTOONS AND BOATS

Prior Lake Pontoon Rental(www.priorlakepontoonrental.com or 612-327-8873)Don’t forget your iPod when you rent a luxury pontoon, complete with a stereo iPod hookup and cushioned seating, for a day on beauti-ful Prior Lake. Captain the boat yourself or opt for a charter ride by day or night. It’s as easy as gathering up to nine friends to indulge in a four- or eight-hour day on the lake.

Roberds Lake Resort, Faribault (www.roberdslakeresort.com or 507-332-8978)If a day of reeling in walleye, bass, panfish or northerns is your thing,

you may want to check out this resort that offers a variety of boats for rent by the hour or the day. Need bait and tackle, or even a fishing license? You’ll find it all here.

Best Point Resort, Waterville(www.bestpointresort.com or 507-362-8526)Rent a fishing boat or pontoon, canoe or paddle boat at this popular fishing lake.

Winjum’s Shady Acres Resort and Campgrounds, Faribault(www.winjumsshadyacres.com or 507-334-6661)Located on Roberds Lake, this 650-acre span of water is stocked full of Minnesota fish there for you to catch. Follow up your day on a pon-toon or fishing boat with a meal and drinks at Winjum’s Restaurant overlooking the water.

Kiesler’s Campground and RV Resort, Waseca(www.kieslers.com or 507-835-3179)Kiesler’s Campground and RV Resort in Waseca is a 750-acre camp-ground located on Clear Lake offering boats for rent to better your chances at reeling in bass, crappie and bluegills. Choose from motor-ized or non-motorized boats or pontoons.

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By Brenda K.M. Ward

Time and energy – why does there never seem to be enough?Like love and happiness, these two sought after commodities cannot be bought, but they can be acquired, says Christy Tryhus, life coach and author of “Live Life Beyond the Laundry: Seven Strategies to Shift from Chaos to Calm.”

Tryhus, owner of Simply Balanced Coaching & Training in Owatonna, strives to help busy working women effectively manage their responsibilities, allowing more time and energy for what’s important in life – ultimately increasing personal joy and success.

Her recently published book is a com-pilation of strategies that she has both learned and devised as she personally struggled with trying to redefine a life that felt beyond her control.

Ten years ago, juggling life as a busy working mother of three children, Tryhus realized that stress was not only beginning to affect the dynamics of her home life – it was also causing physical concerns, like short-term memory loss, though she was merely in her early 30s.

“Things were not right,” said Tryhus. “I began researching work/life balances and tools to live more successfully, then implemented them into my life. And it worked.”>>>

Live Life Beyond the Laundry: Seven Strategies to Shift from Chaos to Calm By Christy Tryhus

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Minnesota Quilters, Inc.34th Annual Quilt Show

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June 14-16, 2012

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Minnesota Quilters, Inc.34th Annual Quilt Show & Conference

June 14-16, 2012 Mayo Civic Center • Rochester, Minnesota

Classes & Lectures National Teachers Over 700 Quilts $26,000 in Prizes Judged & Non-Judged Categories Over 80 Vendors

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Explore: Owatonna

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What she did was devise seven strategies – such as “Stop Pro-crastinating,” “No is not a Four-letter Word” and “Busy Mind Syndrome©” – that encourage women to discover and maintain balance amidst the many demands placed on them – the essence of “Life Beyond Laundry.”

Furthermore, each strategy is broken down into “tools,” that, when used at the appropriate time, help you to get back on track – and everyone gets sidetracked at times.

When not writing or coaching, Tryhus presents to women’s groups, service organizations and provides training for leadership teams and staff throughout the Upper Midwest.

Literary Ladies


Going against the grain

REBECCA GRAMSEEngineer, MRG Tool and Die, Faribault

Pursuing a major in Industrial Engineering, as Rebecca Gramse did while attending the Univer-sity of Minnesota Duluth, may not be a common path for most young women, but for this Faribault native it was a natural choice.

“I grew up around manufacturing and was always figuring out how to fix stuff – how to make things work better,” said Gramse.

That childhood influence has since led her to programming, machinery op-eration, taking charge of new equipment integration and solving industrial-style dilemmas at MRG Tool and Die. And, with the business growing as it has been – including a 28,000 square foot addition in 2009 – Gramse has also taken on the role of ensuring sound communications throughout the various departments.

One of just six females in a company that employs about 60 people, Gramse finds working with men – like working with machinery – to be quite satisfying.

“I’m used to communicating with men, and have always had more guy friends than girl friends. They’re easy to communicate with – they’re straight forward.”

By Brenda K.M. Ward

Stop in and meet our talented new jewelry designer....

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Women of NCB

LINDA CHRISTENSENMechanic shop co-owner, Christensen Tire and Auto Service, Waseca

For 38 years, Linda Christensen has had her hand in most every aspect of running Christensen Tire and Auto Service: office management, insurance, advertising, ac-counting, selling – nearly everything except the mechanic work itself, which she leaves to

her husband and their employees.

But being a woman in a field where the majority of employees and customers are men hasn’t always been a smooth ride.

“In the early years this was a male dominated business; when I started to do more selling there was some resistance,” said Christensen.

Throughout the years, however, both sexes have become significantly more open to the capabilities of each other, and today women holding careers in the field of mechanics work as service managers, auto tech-nicians and sales personnel.

“In the last 38 years I have seen a lot of changes,” said Christensen. “It has been a fun and exciting ride.”

JACKIE PAVEKPoker player, Dundas

About once a week, Jackie Pavek can be found sitting at a table at Dawn’s Corner Bar in Dundas, planning her next move in a competitive hand of Texas hold ’em. The poker nights are part of the Free Poker Network where players use their cunning to outwit one another for the win, earning

points that could ultimately land them a spot in the regional, state or even national showdown.

Pavek, age 27, learned to play poker when she was a teenager, and continues to work toward mastery of the game, which, she says, truly does take a lifetime.

“It’s very much a mental game. There’s so much strategy that you not only play your own cards, but you have to guess what cards other players have and predict what they’ll do,” said Pavek. That strategy, it seems, is on her side.

As if having placed in the top 10 percent in a past state competition wasn’t enough, Pavek was recently awarded a “wild card” spot in the National Tournament for the Free Poker Network, >>>


The Lonsdale American Legion offers a banquet hall that is perfect for your next occasion.

For reservations, availability or questions, please contact the Club Manager at (507)744-2387

Weddings • Baby or Wedding Showers Family Reunions • Company Parties

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The sooner you start investing,the more likely you are to reachyour long-term goals. Ask meabout State Farm Mutual Funds®.Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

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“Vegas or Bust,” over the Independence Day holiday in the gambling capital of Las Vegas.

At the tournament she will, no doubt, shoot for the stars, but her true ambition lies in working her way through the competitive ranks of the game – all the way to the top.

“My ultimate dream is to win the World Series of Poker,” said Pavek. “I want to be that woman.”

KATHY BARBIERIHot dog cart owner, U Betcha Dogs, Owatonna

It’s summertime. You’re hungry. Unexpected-ly, you catch the merest scent of a treat ever so familiar from your childhood days. Where is it coming from? You then spot the source – a hot dog cart. Your pace quickens. You are practically running, hardly able to wait the

few quick moments it takes for the vendor to top the steamed all-beef hot dog with the colors of the rainbow: yellow mustard, green relish, red tomatoes, onions, pickles, sport peppers and a dash of celery salt.It’s the legendary Chicago-style hot dog – eating one an “unforgettable experience,” says Kathy Barbieri, owner of U Betcha Dogs.

After seeing an article in Entrepreneur magazine that named hot

dog stands as one of the top 10 businesses for 2012, Barbieri didn’t hesitate to step out from working under the fluorescent lights of the emergency room into the great outdoors of the Owatonna area, push-cart in hand.

“It went from an idea to a business within a couple of months,” said Barbieri. “It’s something original and very fun.”

After just a few weeks in her new career, Barbieri is already at work on securing a larger number of locations and carts, while she continues to set up at places like Lowe’s, athletic games and company parties.But this benevolent business owner isn’t in it for herself only.

“I give 100 percent of my tips to charity,” said Barbieri, who after being in business a mere one week donated $200 to a local family in need.

“I believe in paying it forward.”

AMY JO BURReverend, Good Samaritan United Methodist Church, St. Peter

It was while Amy Jo Bur was living in Texas, working in corporate administration by day and volunteering at a homeless shelter by night, that she envisioned a new career for


Explore: Southern MinnesotaSt. Peter • Le Center • New Prague • New Ulm

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herself – one that would allow her passion for working with the vul-nerable in our society to be realized.

After completing graduate school and becoming ordained as a reverend with the United Methodist Church, Bur and her husband eventually chose St. Peter as their home. That is where the 33-year-old was designated to begin a new congregation, Good Samaritan United Methodist Church.

“It’s been challenging to start from zero,” admits Bur, “But one of the most exciting things has been to watch how the new congregation engages with the St. Peter community as a whole and seeing how even

small connections can be positive agents of social change.”

As with most sectors of Christianity, men predominantly lead clergies within the United Methodist Church, and while female reverends are accepted, it may take several more years of retirement for equality of gender to take hold, said Bur.

Recently, Bur returned from the United Methodist Church General Conference, for which she was elected first alternate delegate – an impressive invitation for the 38-year-old considering delegates – who act as the legislative body of the church – average in age from their mid-50s to mid-60s.


local. organic. fresh.Everyone’s welcome!

516 Water St S, Northfield 507-650-0106 · justfood.coop

Healthful salad or high-calorie, high-fat salad — it’s all about the ingredients you choose. You can cut way back on calories and fat grams just by making some simple substitutions.

To help get you started, here are quick tips and tricks for healthy salads.

1. Turn a salad into “dinner” by adding a protein-rich food. This balances the carbohy-drates in the salad and helps stave off hunger for hours.

2. Boost the smart-fat quotient by using canola oil or olive oil in your dressing.

3. Lighten up your homemade dressing by substituting a flavorful, liquid-type ingredient for half (or more) of the oil. Try fat-free sour cream; plain yogurt; fruit juice or fruit nectars; tomato, carrot or V-8 juice; honey or light corn syrup.

4. Try some new salad recipes instead of the traditional, mayo-drenched coleslaw and po-tato salad. Pesto sauce blended with condensed chicken broth, fat-free sour cream, or fat free half-and-half makes a fun and different dress-ing. Bottled or homemade vinaigrettes can be used as dressing for pasta and potato salads and coleslaw.

5. Kick the flavor up a notch with high-flavor (but lower calorie) ingredients like dill pickle relish, fresh herbs and spices, spicy mustard, flavored vinegars (such as balsamic vinegar), green onions, or a handful of toasted nuts or a tablespoon or two of chopped green olives (a little goes a long way).

www.webmd.com

Wellness

As an Emergency Medical Tech-nician, Rebecca Schoephoerster has seen a lot of injuries that could have been prevented.

She’s also seen instances where taking the right precautions and wearing the right safety gear has saved people’s lives.

One of those instances involved a little girl who was riding a scooter down her driveway. The girl went into the street and hit a passing car, and if not for her bicycle helmet, Schoepho-erster said she probably would have sustained life-threatening injuries.

“I saw firsthand how wearing a bicycle helmet saved her life,” said the EMT with Northfield

Hospital Emergency Medical Services, who noted the little girl’s helmet was badly cracked but still held up. “And there have been other calls I’ve been on in Northfield where a bicycle helmet has helped prevent seri-ous injuries.”

Schoephoerster is a huge advo-cate of cyclists wearing helmets. Along with other Northfield Hospital EMTs, she is on a mission to educate residents of Northfield, Dundas, the sur-rounding area and anybody who will listen about the benefits of wearing a helmet whenever you get on a bicycle.

“Only 8 percent of Minnesota bicyclists consistently wear helmets and that number is

way too low,” Schoephoerster said. “When worn properly, helmets reduce brain injuries by 88 percent (when the rider is in an accident). It’s really those brain injuries we are trying to prevent. Putting on a bicycle helmet is the easiest way.”

Northfield EMS is such a propo-nent of children and adults alike wearing bicycle helmets, EMTs give out certificates for free ice cream as part of a rewards pro-gram. For Schoephoerster and her colleagues, it is obvious why it is so important.

“We just want people to wear helmets, period,” she said. “You wouldn’t let your kid play foot-ball without a helmet, would you?”>>>

+ Summer Safety“I saw firsthand how

wearing a bicycle helmet saved her life.”

By JERRY SMITH

Wellness


Why wear bicycle helmets?More bicyclists than ever now wear bicycle helmets when riding. In 2008, 91 percent of bicyclists that died were reportedly not wear-ing helmets, according to the U.S. Depart-ment of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Several reasons exist for wearing bicycle helmets:

Prevent Head InjuryThe number one reason to wear a bicycle helmet is to protect your head and survive a bicycle accident. The helmet will take the brunt of the force instead of your head if it hits the pavement or a vehicle. You can reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent when you ride wearing a bike helmet, accord-ing to the Consumer Product Safety Com-mission (CPSC). When purchasing a bicycle helmet, make certain it has a seal of approval from an organization like the CPSC.

Obey LawsAs of May, 2010, the U.S. does not have laws requiring you to wear a bicycle helmet. However, some states and cities began their own helmet laws in 1987. In 2010, 22 state bicycle helmet laws existed, as well as about 196 local laws.

Be VisibleWearing a bicycle helmet allows drivers of ve-hicles to see you, especially at night. Choose a white helmet or one in bright colors. You can also find bicycle helmets with lights, al-lowing you to see the road better at night and enabling other drivers to see you.

Participate in Other SportsYou can wear bicycle helmets approved by the CPSC or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for other sports such as ice skating and sledding. These sports do not have their own individual helmets, but ap-proved bicycle helmets will protect more than one moderate impact.

Does Minnesota have a bicycle helmet law?No, but the idea of a bicycle helmet law for children has come up several times in Min-nesota. So far, however, it has not managed to pass. The effort continues, and the state legislature could take it up at any time.According to the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, as of June 2010, 13 states have no state or local bicycle helmet laws applicable to children or adults.

Having a safe summerHere are some other summer safety tips as you enjoy the outdoors.

Pool Safety The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) believes parents and families can build on their current safety systems at pools and spas by adopting additional water safety steps. Adding as many proven water safety steps as possible is the best way to assure a safe and fun experience, because you can never know which one might save a child’s life—until it does.

Staying Close, Being Alert and Watching Children in and Around the Pool• Never leave a child unattended in a pool or spa and always watch your child when he or she

is in or near water• Teach children basic water safety tips

By the numbersIn the latest data available (2009), the number of bicyclists has increased, while the number of bicyclists killed on the road has decreased. The number of injuries has gone up. Here’s a look at some telling numbers:

• 630 bicyclists died on U.S. roads in 2009 (718 in 2008, 1,003 in 1975)

• 74 were 14 or younger, a reduction of 58 percent from the 178 killed in 2000

• Bicyclist deaths represented 2 percent of all 2009 traffic fatalities

• 51,000 bicyclists were injured in traffic in 2009 (Up sharply from 43,000 in 2007) — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Wellness


• Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings to avoid entrapments

• Have a telephone close by when you or your family is using a pool or spa

• If a child is missing, look for him or her in the pool or spa first• Share safety instructions with family, friends and neighbors

Learning and Practicing Water Safety Skills• Learn how to swim and teach your child how to swim• Learn to perform CPR on children and adults, and update those

skills regularly• Understand the basics of life-saving so that you can assist in a pool

emergency

Having the Appropriate Equipment for Your Pool or Spa• Install a four-foot or taller fence around the pool and spa and use

self-closing and self-latching gates; ask your neighbors to do the same at their pools.

• Install and use a lockable safety cover on your spa• If your house serves as a fourth side of a fence around a pool,

install door alarms and always use them. For additional protection, install window guards on windows facing pools or spas.

• Install pool and gate alarms to alert you when children go near the water

• Ensure any pool and spa you use has compliant drain covers, and ask your pool service provider if you do not know

• Maintain pool and spa covers in good working order• Consider using a surface wave or underwater alarm

Monitor those pesky bug bites

Bug bites and stings usually are just nuisances. They bring momen-tary alarm, temporary discomfort and pain, but no serious or lasting health problems. But on occasion, according to kidshealth.org, they can cause infections that require treatment and allergic reactions that can be serious, even fatal.

Parents should know the signs of an infection or allergic reaction, and when to get medical attention. Inform all caregivers if a child has any history of complications so they know what to do in the event of a bug bite or sting.>>>

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What to Do About:

Bee and Wasp Stings• A bee will leave behind a stinger attached to a venom sac. Try to

remove it as quickly as possible. (Wasps don’t leave their stingers in the skin after stinging, which means they can sting more than once.)

• Wash the area carefully with soap and water. Do this two to three times a day until the skin is healed.

• Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or a cold, wet washcloth for a few minutes.

• Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.• For pain and itching, give an over-the-counter oral antihistamine if

your child’s doctor says it’s OK; follow dosage instructions for your child’s age and weight. You could also apply a corticosteroid cream or calamine lotion to the sting area.

• A sting anywhere in the mouth warrants immediate medical atten-tion because stings in oral mucous membranes can quickly cause severe swelling that may block airways.

• Seek medical care if you notice a large skin rash or swelling around the sting site, or if swelling or pain persists for more than 3 days, which could indicate an infection.

• Get medical help right away if you notice any of the following signs, which may indicate a serious or potentially life-threatening allergic reaction:

-wheezing or difficulty breathing -tightness in throat or chest -swelling of the lips, tongue, or face -dizziness or fainting -nausea or vomiting

Tick BitesCheck kids and pets for ticks carefully after you’ve been in or around a wooded area. Common types of ticks include dog ticks and deer ticks (deer ticks may be carriers of Lyme disease).

If you find a tick on your child:• Call your doctor, who may want you to save the tick in a sealed

container or zip-locked bag for identification later.• Use tweezers to grasp the tick firmly at its head or mouth, next to

the skin.• Pull firmly and steadily on the tick until it lets go (do not twist or

jerk the tick), then swab the bite site with alcohol.• Don’t use petroleum jelly or a lit match to kill and remove a tick.

These methods don’t get the tick off your skin, and they may just cause the insect to burrow deeper and release more saliva (which increases the chances of disease transmission).

Have Fun in the SunSafely and Responsibly

Wear Mineral Based Sunscreen!

In any sunscreen with an SPF above 40 there is a chemical sunscreen additive. Mineral based sunscreens have a range of SPF 8 to 36 and no harmful chemicals.

All sunscreens need to be reapplied more often than you think, and even if you have a sunscreen of SPF 60 you can still burn and in some cases the chemical sunscreen additives can make sunburns worse.

Stop in to Just Food and pick up your mineral based sunscreen. Remember - reapply often!


Spider Bites• Wash the area carefully with soap and water. Do this two to three

times a day until skin is healed.• Apply cool compresses.• Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.

To protect against infection, apply an antibiotic ointment and keep the child’s hands washed. If you have any reason to suspect a bite by a black widow or brown recluse spider, apply ice to the bite site and take your child to the emergency room. Even if a child doesn’t show any symptoms, get medical attention right away.

Most spiders found in the United States are harmless, with the excep-tion of the black widow and the brown recluse spider. The brown recluse spider — a tiny oval brown spider with a small shape like a violin on its back — is found mostly in Midwestern and southern parts of the United States. The bites usually don’t hurt at first, and a child might not even be aware of the bite, but in some cases they cause swelling and changes in skin color and a blister.

The black widow spider, which is found all over North America, has a shiny black body and an orange hourglass shape on its underbelly. The venom (poison) in a black widow bite can cause painful cramps that show up within a few hours of the bite. The cramps can start in the muscles around the bite and then spread. The bite may also lead to nausea, vomiting, chills, fever, and muscle aches. If your child has any of these symptoms — or you know that he or she has been bit-ten — go to the emergency room right away.

01/18/12 -- Compassionate Health Care for the Entire Family -- 3.75” x 10.0”

Full Color

To run in the following:Owatonna People’s Press (Girlfriends Magazine/April) – Monday, March 12, 2012

150 Line screen for newspaper publication

Questions: Travis Kunz, intelliGraphix inc. 320.685.7400

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- Cosmetic surgery to rejuvenate the face and hands

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call;Albert Lea - 507-373-2384Owatonna - 507-451-1120

Dr. Matthew Camp Plastic Surgeon


SUN

LESS

TA

NN

ING

Process: EXFOLIATE, EXFOLIATE, EXFOLIATE! Then apply a thin layer of non-greasy lotion—the more water base to the lotion, the better. I usually wear gloves to apply the self tanner so my palms are not orange or brown when I’m done. With this particular product, you really don’t want to rub it in—just apply in a downward motion. One layer is usually enough, although you can go back after it dries for a second layer.

Coverage: Can be tricky to get it non-streaky. Just make sure you don’t rub it in—it’s not lotion.

Scent: There is a scent, but it generally washes away when you shower.

Greasiness: No.

Repetition: I only have to reapply once a week.

Notes: For the feet, knees, elbows, and ankles, I mix the tanner with a little lotion to avoid dark spots. I find it blends better and gives a more natural look. Also, you are supposed to leave the tanner on for 4 hours and then wash it off. I will apply it an hour or two before bed and then sleep in it to ensure maximum coverage. Just make sure it’s dry!

Price $$$ Available: online at sttropeztan.com Tested by: Lauran Rott

Process: After exfoliating, rub evenly anywhere you want a sun-kissed glow.

Coverage: The lotion provides an instant bronze, helping you to see where you’ve applied and avoid any streaks or blotches.

Scent: Yes, a “sun-tan lotion” scent.

Greasiness: Yes. Standing in front of a fan after application can cut down on drying time and make it feel less greasy.

Repetition: Apply until desired color. I used it two nights in a row, as someone who is very fair skinned it was a fairly dark tan for me.

Notes: Using gloves helps keep your hands from becoming orange. Focus on one area at a time (e.g.: below the knee) so you can blend it more evenly.

Price $$ Available: Sephora and online at toofaced.com Tested by: Ashley Ptacek

Process: Rub on evenly and deeply; dries in just a few minutes and does not stain fabric.

Coverage: Smooth and even when rubbed in well, though tricky around ankles and feet; lotion has shimmer in it that washes off.

Scent: Noticeable, but not overpowering.

Greasiness: Not noticeable.

Repetition: Apply daily until desired coverage; reapply every 3 days to maintain color.

Notes: As a light-skinned woman, my goal was to “tan” but not look out of character with my natural coloring. I found that applying the tanner less frequently allowed me to control the color and keep it closer to natural.

Price $ Available: Local drug stores Tested by: Brenda Ward

Sunless tanners have come a long way since the golden “orange” look of the ‘80s, now offering a natural looking tan for those who want a sun-kissed look without the damaging rays of the sun.

Girlfriends staffers Lauran Rott, Ashley Ptacek and Brenda Ward each tested a different tanner to help prevent you – our readers – from lining your bathroom shelves with failed efforts.

But first things first.

When self-tanning, remember to properly prep to give you the smoothest, most natural look. The following steps are recommended by “She Knows” (sheknows.com), as suggested by make-up and tanning experts:1. Skip waxing – The tanner may not take if you wax the same day. Wait at least 24 hours.2. Exfoliate your skin – Exfoliate properly to prep your skin, but stay away from sugar or salt scrubs that have an oily residue. St. Ives exfoliating

body scrub is an inexpensive but effective exfoliant that gets the job done.3. Shower to rinse away sloughed-off skin. Use plain soap.4. Shave your legs, which also helps with exfoliation. Applying self-tanner on top of hair can make for a blotchy tan.5. Dry off completely – Too much moisture causes the product to slide off your skin. If needed, apply moisturizer only in light amounts around

your knees and elbows.6. Wear gloves – Using snug-fitting gloves reduces chances of palms “tanning” too.

Loreal Sublime Bronze Tinted Self-Tanning Lotion

Too Faced Tanning Bed in a Tube

St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Lotion


Summer may be the perfect

time to hold a family

meeting if you’ve got

concerns about Mom or

Dad’s health and well being.

These meetings don’t have to be doom and gloom. The goal is to bring everyone closer and help to define the various roles at the onset of a crisis, or at a trigger point. I recommend a family meeting. I’ve been involved in several such meetings, including one with my own family when my Grandpa Gus needed care. I opened the meeting by having us go around the table and check in. After each person was able to express feelings, we made sure everyone was clear about grandpa’s diagnosis and what he needed for care. We then allocated the tasks among us. Even though the tasks didn’t end up being accomplished exactly as assigned, it helped to have everybody aware of how much needed to be done.

Here are some of those basic roles you and your siblings may be called upon to play. Use them as a guide when you’re talking about who will do what.

Helping with activities of daily living. Professionals refer to

them as ADLs: the essentials of getting by on a day-to-day basis. Among them are core activities like bathing and toileting that very little in your life may have prepared you to take over. Are you ready to see your parents naked? Helpless? Wipe their butts for them? Clean up after them? And are your parents ready for that kind of care – when you’re the one providing it? In some families, this comes naturally. For most, it’s equally difficult on the parents and their adult children.

Ringing the immediate realities like ripples spreading around a rock dropped in a pond are others. Is your parents’ home set up for someone helping them? Can you rearrange it so they can continue to live in it, or is a move to some other form of housing going to be necessary – if not immediately, in the foreseeable future? Are there issues of arthritis to deal with? Disruptive behavior from dementia? Pain? With time and a little basic training, some of the anxiety common to new situations will pass. But expect a period of adjustment for both you and your parents when you start to take on these intimate responsibilities.

Helping with instrumental activities of daily living. Professionals call these IADLs. If your parents can no longer drive, and transportation isn’t readily available or accessible, will you be providing taxi service? Who will do their shopping? Cook their meals? How about cleaning? Doctor appointments can be a drawn-out affair and take up most of your day. Do you have to be there? And how about spending time with and keeping them occupied?

In contrast to ADLs, which typically have to be done right

away, these peripheral activities often will cause more tension and strain. From your point of view, they don’t absolutely have to be done right this minute. From your parents’ vantage point, sooner is better than later. Here’s where the balancing act gets complicated as you try to handle the needs of your own family, career and other responsibilities – which, of course, have not gone away – along with a new, and sometimes unpredictable, workload. If you’re not getting support from your sibs (or if you’ve pushed them away and taken on more than you might have needed to), balance is even harder to come by.

Managing paid homecare workers. Yes, you can hire folks to help with your parents care, from physical therapy and companionship to cleaning and cooking. But outsiders brought into your parents’ home also represent a managerial responsibility for someone: hiring, perhaps firing, paying, replacing, supervising, scheduling – the list goes on and on.

Besides finding competent and caring (not to mention honest) workers, someone needs to teach them about your folks’ likes and dislikes, explain their needs and behaviors, orient them to their changing needs. Someone also may need to step in and referee conflicts when your parents aren’t happy with what’s being done for them, or by whom. Some workers will just click; others will struggle. And one day, one of them will not show up. Then what? What’s your back-up plan? (Figure that your parents will call you first and expect you to pick up the slack.)

Battling the healthcare system. For a trained professional, trying

to make things happen in our country’s cumbersome system of public, private and personal providers is a daunting challenge. For you, it can be all but overwhelming. In our medical care system, fragmentation is the order of the day. Your parents’ physician will not always be available or aware of their day-to-day needs or wishes – with many HMOs, they may not see the same physician on a regular basis. More often, you may talk to office assistants or a nurse, none of whom will necessarily have been kept in the loop, and none of whom may have the ability to actually do anything on your parents’ behalf.

Whoever takes on this particular role needs to be an assertive communicator. As their care-requiring conditions advance, you may not be able to depend on your parents to make sense of the medical advice they’re receiving. You’ll increasingly need to be in the room with them: to hear what they’re telling their doctors (which may not be anything at all like what they’re telling you), to hear what their doctors are telling them (much of which they won’t remember without you reminding them), and in particular to ask questions that otherwise probably won’t be asked – questions that may help head off problems or better control manageable conditions, provided the proper preventative steps are taken.

Supervising in the face of dementia. Helping with any of the above becomes much more complicated when you factor in a frightened or hostile or disoriented parent. Even without dementia, many people don’t adjust well to illness, at any age.

With dementia complicating the situation, the frustration>>>

Family Meeting: Defining Roles

Unexpected Caregiver | Kari Berit


is magnified. You’re trying to cope with someone to whom the plea “be reasonable” may have little meaning or relevance – someone who, in your memories, is still a warm and competent individual.

Now, their feelings can come out in anger and frustration seemingly aimed right at you. Yet another can of worms. Anyone who takes care of a parent with dementia needs to be flexible, patient and empathetic – and a sense of humor helps a lot.

Finding Family BalanceIt’s impossible to cover every variation on sibling and family relationships, or cross-match them to every conceivable caregiver role someone in the family may be asked to play. In your communications with your siblings, focus on being as clear as possible about the care your parents need and want, not on everybody else’s baggage. Some of your siblings may surprise you with their willingness to jump in and lend a hand, while others will disappoint you by doing everything but running away from the new realities of your parents’ lives.

Understand that each of you has had an individual relationship with your parents, just as each of you now has a life beyond the old family structure. You all need to respect each other for both. Don’t forget spouses and other family members. Keep them included, if they wish to be, but also remember that they, too, need time to adjust.

It’s worth noting that even if you’re prepared to play the primary role, it may not always be what’s needed. I could not have taken care of my mother full-time. My dad was her caregiver – my role was supporting Dad.

-Kari Berit (www.KariBerit.com) is a radio show host, speaker and the author of “The Unexpected Caregiver: How Boomers Can Keep Mom & Dad Active, Safe and Independent. Follow her on Facebook!

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LAKEFEST • CLEAR LAKE PARKMusical Festival, Freedom Fun Run, and Fireworks

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Unexpected Caregiver | Kari Berit

Girlfriends Guide

• Education

BETHLEHEM ACADEMYBethlehem Academy, a Sinsinawan Dominican Catholic school founded in 1865, is currently home to students in grades 7-12. We strive to em-power our students and staff to achieve personal, spiritual and academic excellence. Call 507-334-3948 to schedule a visit today! 105 3rd Ave SW, Faribault, 507-334-3948, www.bacards.org

• Financial Resources

SANDY WENKER, CPAConveniently located in downtown Faribault, San-dy Wenker, CPA, provides tax planning & prepara-tion, payroll services, accounting & bookkeeping, QuickBooks assistance & training, and new busi-ness consulting. Call or stop in at 14 3rd Street NE, Faribault. 507-333-3973 www.faribaultcpa.com

CASTLE ROCK BANKThe Castle Rock Bank has been serving the women in this community for 96 years. To answer the question, “What do women want in banking?” We believe the answer is, “To be heard, understood, respected and valued.” 27925 Danville Ave Castle Rock • (507) 645-7751 www.castlerockbank.net

STATE BANK OF FARIBAULTState Bank of Faribault is an innovative community bank with two locations in Faribault (established in 1919). Offering business loans, home mort-gage, free mobile banking, free online banking and more, SBF is a leader in convenience, as well as customer service. 507-332-7401 www.tsbf.com Member FDIC Equal housing Lender

• Food & Entertainment

COSTAS CANDIES & RESTAURANTWe are a candy shop & restaurant located in down-town Owatonna that’s been family owned and op-erated for 90 years. All our candy is hand-made & our food is made from scratch using fresh ingredi-ents. Stop in today to experience the small-town, local café, friendly atmosphere of Costas! We’re sure you’ll leave with a smile on your face and a full stomach! 112 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna, MN 55060, 507.451.9050, Fax: 507.446.0501

COUNTRY KITCHENStill strong on the comfort foods that have defined us for years, today’s menu features old favorites and exciting new flavors. Guests will find Country Kitchen a perfect place to have breakfast anytime of the day or wind down with one of our tempting desserts. Stop in today! 3050 Hwy 60, Faribault, 507-332-4007 www.countrykitchenrestaurants.com

GAINEY CONFERENCE CENTERThe Gainey Conference Center, of the University of St. Thomas, is a full-service conference and retreat facility located in Owatonna. Nestled on 180 acres, Gainey provides groups with dedicated meeting space, private social areas, comfortable lodging and classic cuisine in a distraction-free learning environment for meetings, conferences, retreats or special events. Gainey Conference Center, 2480 South County Road 45, Owatonna, MN 55060. 507-446-4460. www.stthomas.edu/gainey

LEGACY GOLF & THE GRILL AT THE LEGACY The Legacy is a championship 18-hole facility offer-ing value-added golf and a warm friendly environ-ment for golf outings & casual dining. It provides a unique setting for meetings, reunions, groom’s din-ners, banquets and bridal showers. The indoor Grill can accommodate 30-50 people & the open-air Pa-vilion can accommodate up to 170. 1515 Shumway Ave, Faribault, 507-332-7177 www.legacygolf.net

• Health & Wellness

FIT FOR LIFEFit for Life is a 24-hour Fitness Center located just off Hwy 21 N. We specialize in individual and group personal training as well as weight manage-ment and group fitness classes. State of the Art Cybex Equipment is on site for those who prefer to do it alone. 1400 Cannon Circle, Suite 6, Faribault, 507-333-5430 www.fitforlifemn.com

HAIR-I-TAGE SALONHair-I-Tage Salon is a full service salon located in the heart of downtown Owatonna. We offer such services as hair cuts, color, perms, manicures, ped-icure, massage and more! All of our 9 independent stylist have many years of experience and are up to date on current styles and trends. Give us a call today to set up an appointment, we look forward to seeing you! 320 N Cedar Ave, Owatonna, 507-455-3100, www.hairitagesalonowatonna.com or www.facebook.com/hairitagesalonowatonna

HOLLAND FAMILY DENTALHolland Family Dental is located in the Profes-sional Building on Hillcrest Ave. in Owatonna. We have been in Owatonna since 1996 and concen-trate on dentistry for the entire family. We offer services in preventive, cosmetic and comprehen-sive care which includes implants and up-to-date dental technology. Please visit us at 605 Hillcrest Ave. Owatonna MN. 507-451-7250

JERILYN WIEDERHOLTMS, MS, LP, ATR-BC, Licensed Psychologist, Regis-tered Board Certified Art Therapist, Licensed Edu-cator K-12. Providing mental health services (as-sessment, therapy, consultation, training) to adults, adolescents and children. Use of psychological techniques to improve mental and physical health. Wellness oriented. Northfield, Mn. 507-321-2002.

MAIN STREET DENTALMain Street Dental Clinics offer comprehensive dentistry for the entire family. Main Street special-izes in superb customer service and gentle dental care. Our office has expanded hours including two evenings and all day Saturday. Relax-It’s Main Street Dental with offices in Blooming Prairie, Owatonna, Rochester and New Richland. 507-455-1000. Visit us at www.mainstreetdentalclinics.com.

MILLSTREAM COMMONS ASSISTED LIVINGMillstream Commons Assisted Living is located in downtown Northfield. 44 Assisted Living apart-ments (studio, 1 and 2 BR) featuring three meals a day, supportive nursing care, respite care, & life enrichment activities. Pets allowed. Licensed Housing with Services provider. Part of the Three Links Community. Member of Aging Services of Minnesota. 210 8th St W, Northfield, 507-650-9627, threelinks.org

NORTHFIELD URGENT CARE Tired of waiting to see your doctor for simple prob-lems like sore throats and earaches? We provide walk-in medical care for all ages, from infants to adults. We are open 7 days per week and no ap-pointment is needed! Quick, easy and efficient! 2014 Jefferson Rd Suite C, Northfield, MN 55057, 507-664-9999, www.northfieldurgentcare.com.

PAT DUNN’S NUTRITION CENTERMake your health and wellness a top priority! Pat has been helping people on their journey to successful weight loss (and maintenance!) in Northfield and the surrounding communities for 30 years. Pat provides individual counseling on Weight Loss, Body Composition, Nutrition, Menopause and sells only all-natural supple-ments and herbs. 500 Water St S, Northfield, MN 507.663.6121 [email protected]

PAULA J. DETJEN, MA, LMFT, LPC Licensed Family Therapist serving children, teens, adults & couples in downtown Northfield, MN. Areas of expertise: anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-image, relationships, transitions, school & work challenges, family issues, and gambling concerns. A solution-focused therapist, provid-ing support, practical feedback, integrating meth-odologies & techniques to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion & understanding, builds on individual’s strengths & helps others achieve their personal goals. 105 E Fourth St, Suite 301, Northfield, 507-581-0430, www.DetjenCounseling.com

REDBIRD ACUPUNCTURETraditional Chinese Medicine including acupunc-ture, Chinese massage & herbal therapies. Redbird Acupuncture Clinic exists to provide you with a healthy, natural method to enhance your well be-ing. Acute & chronic pain, emotional imbalances, & internal medical challenges can all be addressed. Located in Owatonna. www.redbird-acupuncture.com, or by appointment 507-213-4935.


REPOSE MASSAGE THERAPYAffordable stress and pain relief for busy people! Downtown Owatonna, 117 Broadway. Treatment sessions from ten to 90 minutes. Chair, hot stone, facial massage, Thai, muscle release technique (sports) massage. For details visit www.owaton-namassage.com. By appointment only: 507-323-5031 or e-mail: [email protected]

THE CRISIS PREGNANCY CENTER OF NORTHFIELDThe Crisis Pregnancy Center of Northfield offers free and confidential assistance to anyone experi-encing an unplanned pregnancy. Our services in-clude: Pregnancy tests, baby and maternity items, confidential counseling, parenting, education, , abortion, adoption, birth control and STD infor-mation. Hours: MWF 12-5, Th 12-7 www.cpc-northfield.org

THE NORTHFIELD AREA FAMILY YMCAThe Northfield Area Family YMCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for all individuals, families, and the community to achieve their fullest potential. From summer camps, to youth sports, to preschool activities and adult wellness, we have something for everyone. Become a member of the YMCA! 519 Division Street, Northfield 507-645-0088, www.north-fieldymca.org. Scholarships are available to ensure everyone can participate.

• Home & Garden

CEDAR FLORALCedar Floral is located in downtown Owatonna. We are a full service floral shop, specializing in gift and home décor items, custom silk arrangements and the freshest quality flowers available. Our professional design staff is here to assist you. 314 N Cedar, Owatonna, 507-451-7673. www.cedar-

floral.com

JUDYS FLORAL DESIGNWhether Your Wedding is black tie/ ballroom or barefoot on the beach or somewhere in between! Beautiful, quality flowers and great ideas start with Judy Smith. “Specializing in fresh creative and affordable blooms for all the flower moments of your life” 507-645-0008, 300 Railway St. North, Dundas, judysfloraldesign.com

NORTHFIELD CONSTRUCTION COMPANYNorthfield Construction Company handles all types of residential remodeling---and promises a clean job site at all times. You and your dwell-ing are respected at all times—no lost pets, no smoking---just good work. For all your remodel-ing needs contact Ray Cox at 507-645-8975. www.northfieldconstruction.net

OWATONNA GLASS & REPAIR, INC.Let us help you with all of your glass needs. We do commercial, residential, and automotive glass and mirrors; fireplace glass, shower enclosures, pat-terned glass and also screen repair. We are located down by the river at 221 N. Walnut in Owaton-na. Stop in and see Jon, Mary Kay and the pugs!! Phone 507/451-2234, Fax 507/451-7327.

OWATONNA MORTGAGEFinancing, or refinancing a home doesn’t have to be a complicated procedure if you have the right professional to guide you through the process. With Owatonna Mortgage you are guaranteed to receive supreme client care and trustworthy advice throughout the entire process. We know how valu-able and precious your time is. NMLS #320358. 507-676-2708, 122 N Cedar, Suite A, Owatonna, www.facebook.com/OwatonnaMortgage

SIMON BROS CEMENT CO.Simon Bros Cement Co. has been serving the Northfield area since 1969. We specialize in qual-ity concrete and masonry including foundations, driveways, epoxy garage floors. Call for a free es-timate. We will look at your project and use 40+ years of experience to share ideas and advice. Call Ray 612-328-4591

• Insurance

AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE BART JACKSON AGENCY American Family Insurance offers home, automo-bile, atv, motorcycle, boat, commercial business, farm and life insurance. We are available to meet with you personally to review your situation and provide recommendations as to the proper cover-age’s for your needs. Bart Jackson Insurance Agen-cy 511 4th St NW, Faribault, MN 55021. 507-332-6812.

STEVE MORGAN AGENCYThe Steve Morgan Agency has received the “JD Powers Award for outstanding customer experience” for 8 years in a row. Call and let his Licensed Staff “wow” you with their experience. Insurance should have a personal Fit. Does Yours? 200 Western Ave, Faribault, 507-334-

0140 www.stevemorganagency.com

THERESE WHITESONG AGENCYWe’re a J.D. Power and Associates Distinguished Insurance Agency. We’re among a select group that demonstrated the ability to consistently deliver “An Outstanding Customer Experience.” Whether you need insurance for your auto, home, life, health, or business, we listen to you to determine the right insurance that fits your needs. Therese Whitesong Agency, American Family Insurance. Telephone: 507-645-5010, 510 Washington St South, North-field, www.ThereseWhitesong.com

• Shopping

THE PAPER PETALUMThe Paper Petalum in the historic Archer House (212 Division St.) offers friendly customer service and unique gifts for all occasions. Locally owned and operated since 1987 we specialize in Scandina-vian gifts, Minnesota products, decorative napkins, Polish Pottery, Rothschild foods, and much, much more. Stop in and visit us. 507-663-0565.

• Transportation

COMMUNITY CO-OPThe Community Co-op is located in beautiful and historic downtown Faribault, MN. We were or-ganized in 1925 and have been a cornerstone of this community ever since. We specialize in fuels, lubricants, tires, and vehicle service, all for an af-fordable price. Women live busy lives, our staff un-derstands how important service and convenience are. That is why we are the Company where our customers send their friends. 9 Central Ave, Farib-ault (507)334-2056, www.coopoilfblt.com

NORTHFIELD LINES, INC.Have your group arrive in style when you pull up in one of our luxurious motor or mini coaches. Single or multi-day sightseeing trips, shopping, girlfriend getaways, dining, concerts, weddings, receptions, casino visits – you name the event and we will get your group there safely and on time. 32611 Northfield Blvd, Northfield, 800-944-2190, www.northfieldlines.com

Girlfriends Guide


507-334-5488 | 12 3rd Street NE, Faribault | gingersnapshots.com

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Documents

Summer 2012