Albert Lea Magazine March/April 2014

ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

15 makeup tips to look flawless

MARCH/APRIL 2014

Secrets for your garden Tips from an expert

ng, Presenti e like, th de ui g t s e l o o c ever for hildren c Create a comfortable, kid-friendly home

Home is where the kids romp

VOL. 2 NO. 2

MARCH/APRIL 2014

Come see us this spring at our new location Skyline Plaza March 14, 2014

Skyline Plaza

Albert Lea

507-383-9818

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L O C A L LY O W N E D

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Albert Lea and kids go together

Tim Engstrom, Editor

Got ideas?

We at Albert Lea Magazine want to hear what you think, and we need your brightest ideas for coming issues. Favorite musicians? Finest artists? Goofiest pranksters? Best storytellers? Local nightlife? We are open-minded. We are heading into our warm months, which should bring out how visually appealing Albert Lea is. Call Tim Engstrom at 379-3433. Feel free to pen a letter, too. Our address is on the right.

2 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Children are so worth it, people say. By “it” they mean all the work they require, from diapers to driving lessons and everything in between. One moment, you have all the time in the world, and then next you are working during most of your free time.

But there are moments of play. They are just unlike the days of BC — before children. My wife and I have two sons, 6-year-old Forrest and 1-year-old Jasper.

Sometimes, after a hard day at work, I want to relax on the couch and watch a movie or a TV show. Jasper isn’t having any of it. He’s not one to sit around and be bored. He makes his own fun. How? He asks to get up on the couch, then he climbs on me while laughing. If I am not playing with him, he’s just going to play with me. In the workplace, people call this “managing up.”

Children are a major reason people like living in Albert Lea. It’s why many families choose to stay and why others come back after leaving. Considering that the elementary population is on the rise, there are many young families liking it here. Without a doubt, it’s a great place to raise children. It is big enough to have shopping, social and cultural amenities, and it is small enough to have a true sense of community. It’s big enough to have many options for active people, but small enough to not get too crowded. It’s big enough for the schools to offer an array of choices, but small enough to let students participate.

The same participation factor goes for outside the schools, too. For example, it’s hard for grown-ups to participate in community theater in the Twin Cities, especially if they feel like performing in just a single play every four or five years. It can be hard for children, too, at least outside of a school environment.

In Albert Lea, it’s much easier for people big and little to appear on stage. Bigger doesn’t always mean more opportunity.

Moreover, there are kid-friendly spaces wherever we turn. You’ll find in this issue we have highlighted many of the great kid-friendly people and places in Albert Lea, whether it is the children’s library or the city pool or an after-school hangout or day care provider or farm tours or an ice cream seller — well, you get the picture. Hopefully, whether you have children or not, you’ll find this issue to be a way we connect with the child in all of us.

Thanks for reading.

Publisher Crystal Miller Editorial Editor Tim Engstrom Contributing Writers Kelsey Anderson Teresa Anderson-Krull Micah Bader Angie Barker Drew Claussen Brandi Hagen Jennifer Vogt-Erickson Tiffany Krupke Jennifer Levisen Amy Pleimling Sarah Stultz Tom Theesfeld Contributing Photographers Brandi Hagen Jennfier Levisen Tim Engstrom Micah Bader Drew Claussen Art Art Director/Story Layout Kathy Johnson Graphic Designers Kristin Overland Colby Hansen Susan Downey Sales & Promotion Sales Representatives Catherine Buboltz Michele Beyer Renee Citsay Clay Culbertson Angie Hoffman Susan Price march/april 2014 Volume 2, Number 2 Editorial correspondence: Editor, Albert Lea Magazine, 808 W. Front St. Albert Lea, MN 56007.

Online: albertleamagazine.com or facebook.com/ albertleamagazine © 2014 All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced without written permission.

For comments, suggestions or story ideas call 507-379-3433.

To purchase advertising, call 507-379-3427.

To subscribe, call 507-379-3422.

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on the cover

features

ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

fun places for kids to be kids Albert Lea is a great place to raise a family. Why? Because there are kid-oriented places just about everywhere. We offer a guide to them.

A Family-friendly home Kade and Nichole Vershey have built a home centered around their children and family life. Each room has a designated “kid zone.”

the face is the canvas The cosmetics counter at Herberger’s at Northbridge Mall shares tips for using makeup to appear flawless and fashionable.

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50

36 46

Live, Work & Play

In the Land Between the Lakes March 9 Civic Music Guitar Trios Albert Lea High School Auditorium

April 5 A Taste of Heritage Northbridge Mall

May 2 Crossroads of Destruction Demolition Derby Freeborn County Fairgrounds

March 14-16 KATE Radio Home & Recreation Show Skyline Plaza

April 20 Fountain Lake 5K Tiger Trot Brookside School

May 3 100-mile Cancer Bike-a-thon Sibley Elementary School

Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce • 2580 Bridge Ave • (507) 373-3938 • www.albertlea.org Albert Lea Convention and Visitors Bureau • 102 W. Clark St. • (507) 373-2316 • www.albertleatourism.org Albert Lea Economic Development Agency • 2610 Y.H. Hanson Ave • (507) 373-3930 • www.growalbertlea.com

contents

22 24

36

28

46

Seen

8 Bridal Expo

62 In every issue

12 gourment food auction

53 dietitian’s digest

16 varsity boys’ hockey

55 Book review

18 Area weddings & engagements

57 Ask the expert

24 Dazzle: sporty girls 30 savor: fishy crackers 32 savor: food & drink 34 create: home & garden

On the cover: Meet Albert Lea’s own Emily Troe of the cosmetics counter at Herberger’s.

Secrets for your garden 34 Presenting, like, the coolest guide 36 Home is where the kids romp 46 15 makeup tips to look flawless 50

15 makeup tips to look flawless

Secrets for your garden Tips from an expert

Home is where the kids romp VOL. 2 NO. 2

6 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

59 final word 62 Events calendar MARCH/APRIL 2014

28 Move: how she did it

ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

58 Scrapbook Departments

“This is their home, and I want them to be comfortable.” — Nicole Vershey, Page 46

22 things you didn’t know you wanted

Create a comfortable, kid-friendly home MARCH/APRIL 2014

g, Presentine like, th e id gu t es cool ever for children

2310/2320 East Main Albert Lea, MN 1-800-423-6663 • 507-373-1438 www.davesyverson.com Stop in and experience the difference with our non-commissioned sales team.

Kade Vershey, Chad Cahill, Brandon Harmdierks, Greg Hanson, Travis Stortroen, Doug Conn, George Gonzalez, Craig Loehr, Christopher Balfe, Mark Christopherson, Dave Villarreal, Kerby Lodin, Kathy Henderson, Mike Holzman, Nick Olson.

SEEN | Bridal Expo

1

2 The annual Bridal Expo took place Jan. 12 at Northbridge Mall. (1) Liza Harrington, Alayna Hall, Kim Underdahl and Lynzee Underdahl (2) Summer Bornhoff, Lilly Tapia and Chanel Bornhoff (3) Kim Moellenhauer, Abby Harriman, Jenna Tweeten, Michelle Bunger and Kailey Bunger (4) Jordan Meyers, Kim Redman, Jessica Redman and Tiffany Butcher (5) Tammy Abrego, Tianna Abrego, Ashley Mortenson and Lisa Adams

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Lakeville’s the place to stay & play in the twin cities

HOT HOTEL DEALS at VisitLakeville.org | 952.469.2020

Located on I-35, Lakeville is just minutes south of Minneapolis, Saint Paul, MSP International Airport and scores of Twin Cities attractions!

Mall of America® | Nickelodeon Universe® | SEA LIFE Aquarium® Minnesota Zoo | Elko Speedway | Canterbury Park | Valleyfair & more!

“Like Us” on Facebook for Hotel & Attraction Discounts

SEEN | Bridal Expo

Meet the writers Kelsey Anderson Kelsey started as a kindergarten teacher in Albert Lea in 2013, coming from Adams.

Teresa Anderson-Krull Teresa is a licensed therapist providing counseling, particularly for families and kids.

Micah Bader Micah takes his Jeep in the winter, but prefers to ride his motorcycle in summers.

Angie Barker Angie is an avid book reader who lives in Albert Lea with her husband, Josh, and son, Auslund.

Drew Claussen Drew and his girlfriend, Sophie, enjoy movies and concerts. He likes golf and hockey.

Tim Engstrom Tim enjoys brewing beer at home. He and his wife, Lisa, have two sons, Forrest and Jasper.

1

Brandi Hagen Brandi loves photography. She lives with her boyfriend, Nick, and dog, Molly.

Kathy Johnson Kathy teaches fitness classes. She and her husband, Marc, have a son, Brandon.

Jennifer Levisen Jennifer enjoys jogging. She and her husband, Jens, have a son, Anders.

Crystal Miller Crystal likes growing flowers. She and her husband, Dave, have two kids, Lauren and Jacob.

2 (1) Wendy Shultz, Jessica Shultz and Heather Hullopeter (2) Kayla Olson, Karen Aasgaard and Cassie Aasgaard (3) Kristie Luna, Vicky Hinds, Stephanie Mullis and Monica Czarnota

Amy Pleimling Amy is a registered dietitian who enjoys writing about healthy living.

Sarah Stultz Sarah enjoys gardening. She and her husband, Jason, have two children, Sophie and Landon.

Tom Theesfeld Tom gardens even away from his work.

He has a wife, Tanya, and a son, Payton.

Jennifer Vogt-Erickson Jennifer is a stay-at-home mother. She and her husband, Jeshua, have two kids, Axel and Trixie.

3 10 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

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by Michael Esch march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 11

SEEN | Gourmet Food Auction

2

1

3 The Gourmet Food Auction took place Jan. 31 at Wedgewood Cove Golf Club in Albert Lea. It brought food lovers together with food makers as chefs mingled with eaters.

(1) Cathy Klick, Brenda Van Fossen, Dave Van Fossen, Joe Klick and Barb Rehmke (2) Deanna, Tristan, Brian and Hayden Souba of Eagan (3) Ken Fluth of Iron Skillet, Nicole Thompson of Iron Skillet and Kim Rasmussen of Cold Stone Creamery (4) Melissa Sexton, Michael Sexton, Tori Anderson and Randy Kehr (5) Joyce Nixon, Susan Micklick and Deb Stolarcek (6) Tim Lenhart, Julie Sorenson, Allyssa Sorenson and Dan Sorenson (7) Dustin Truesdell of 112 on Broadway with Tom Sadauskis and David Mord of Green Mill (8) Sara Aeikens, Norm Fredin, Joyce Fredin and Shirlie Brownlow

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Your Destination for

Shopping, Dining & Entertainment • Over 25 stores & businesses • specialty shops • food court • restaurants • movie theater • much, much more!

I-90 & Bridge Avenue, Albert Lea, MN, Exit 157

Join us on Facebook

507-377-3185

Shopping Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10-8 • Sat. 10-6 • Sun. 12-5 Some Business and Holiday Hours Vary www.northbridgemall.com

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 13

SEEN | Gourmet Food Auction

1

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The Gourmet Food Auction raises funds for students from area schools to visit the Big Island Rendezvous, a celebration of pioneers that takes place in October in Albert Lea. (1) Steve Bowron, Cindra Van Vooren, Lynn Koza, Jody Bowron and Becky Knipping (2) Jordan and Emily Bohonek (3) Dave and Kathy Sabinish (4) Ernie Atchison, Mary Ann Atchison, Ronda Tuveson and Tina Stripe (5) Bill Koza, Perry Vining and Dennis Souba (6) Diane Schewe, Marilynn Lancaster and Annette Petersen

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Showroom Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-5p.m.

310 1st Ave. S, Albert Lea, MN • 507-373-8535 Toll Free 1-877-373-8535 sales@coolwindowshades.com • FREE INSTALLATION Visit our web site at: www.coolwindowshades.com * Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for purchases made 2/1/14 – 3/31/14 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Offer excludes Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette® Window Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter.

Additional limitations apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. © 2014 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

Assisted Living with Helping Hands Built-in Oak Park® Place features assisted living apartment

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Planned activities and amenities are customized to individual needs. A wide range of floor plans are available, from cozy studios to deluxe two-bedroom apartment homes.

To learn more about our Assisted Living options and to schedule a personal tour, Call (507) 373-5600 or visit albertleasales@oakparkplace.com.

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Assisted Living • Memory Care

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Independence when you want it, assistance when you need it.®

Find us on Facebook march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 15

SEEN | Varsity boys’ hockey

3 2

5

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7 5 They say Albert Lea is a hockey town. Photos here are from the Jan. 21 Albert Lea High School varsity boys’ hockey game against New Prague at City Arena. Unfortunately, the Tigers lost 6-0.

8

16 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

(1) Roy and Jan Nystrom (2) Matt Cheever (3) Rick Paulson (4) Kerry and Nancy Royce (5) Elizabeth Willett, Brooke Hanson, Daysha Luttrell and Riley Hanson (6) Maryah Hernandez and Jessie Hernandez (7) Alex Claassen (foreground) (8) Garrett Matz

BRIGHT IDEAS BRILLANT

SOLUTIONS

YOUR BUSINESS DESERVES A MARKETING PLAN, NOT JUST AN AD FOR THE WEEK.

507.379.3427 808 West Front Street • Albert Lea, MN www.albertleatribune.com

SEEN | Area weddings & engagements

2

3

4 (1) Andrew Larson and Angela Wagner (2) Alex Paul and Kari Rubsam (3) Katlyn Kangas and Andrew Weisert (4) Cory Ellertson and Alison Witt (5) Christopher May and Amber Bergland (6) Robert Anderson and Diane Watley (7) David Stoeger and Amy Toot (8) Tricia Gregerson and Derek Lau

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(9) Chelsie Luna and Joseph Pallardy (10) Melanie Farris and Eric Bakken (11) Cassy Graf and Kyle Belshan (12) Brittany Stranik and Trevor Penning (13) Andrew Irvine and Amanda Weiss (14) Tracy Dahlum and Jamie Neilon (15) Nicholas Anderson and Jessica Vano (16) Jordan Nolander and Michelle Peters 12

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16 march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 19

Old Crow Gallery Hand-thrown pottery & original hand-crafted artwork

Margie Kline

Open Every Thurs 9:30-5 & by appointment • 641-736-4960 112 S. School St., St. Ansgar, IA • OldCrowArtisanGallery

Get a Fresh New Look this Spring For You

New! Easy to wear tops for summer! Jewelery, scarves & flip flops!

For Your Home

Home Decor, Park Designs Window Fashions, Accessories & so much more!

For Your Yard

Stepping Stones, Chimes & Garden Flags

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At Simply Home Grown we specialize in keepsake floral preservation. We can Freeze-dry flowers from ANY special Occasion - Your Wedding Day, Anniversary, New Baby or Funeral Memorial. We will create for you a One-of-a-kind Keepsake to decorate your home long after that special day.

NEW! At Simply Home Grown Flower petal Jewelry! Now you can wear your keepsake flowers. Hand crafted from your dried flowers, and with the finest quality Sterling Silver components.

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Come STAY with us • AmericInn • The Maple Inn B&B

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Emerson’s on Main Men’s & Women’s Quality Apparel

Boots | Shoes Purses

Come PLAY with us • Cedar River Complex, Aquatic Center & Mitchell County Museum • Mitchell County Conservatory (cross country skiing & snow shoeing)

Full menu featuring: Flat Iron Steaks, Pastas, Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads & more!

Come SHOP & DINE with us • Experience an array of unique stores and tastey restuarants WE’RE EXPECTING YOU! Like us on Facebook

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104 N. Elm St, Cresco, 563-547-3300 627 Main St, Osage, 641-832-3300 224 W. Main St, Lake Mills, 641-592-3303 Join us Monday-Saturday • Grill open 11am-10pm

DAZZLE | Things

Things

You Didn’t Know

You Wanted

Sexy and smart beauty potions

By Crystal Miller Photos by Brandi Hagen

Spring is just around the corner. We live in Minnesota, so that doesn’t bring the promise of sun-filled days. It’s time to take spring-happy into your own hands. Check out these lotions and potions to help accomplish some early spring happy.

Kissable lips all day long Make your lips happy with nourishment from BeautiControl Skinlogics Lip Apeel. Your lips will be softer in two easy steps.

A special peel exfoliates and removes dry skin as well as reduces the appearance of lines. The balm will moisturize and soothe for extra-soft, kissable lips. The two-in-one application includes lip balm (3.5 grams) and line peel (1.25 ounces). Contact your local BeautiControl specialist at janelle.gilbertson@yahoo.com.

BeautiControl via Janelle Gilbertson, Albert Lea. $22 Feels like a facelift for your lips!

Match your outward appearance to your inner youth Real science has led to an accidental discovery of an extract from the Nerium oleander plant. The extract from this plant used in NeriumAD night cream yields antioxidant properties. This age-defying treatment is available in a 1-ounce bottle.

Contact your local Nerium brand partner, Jean Eaton, at www.jeaneaton.nerium.com. or call 507-373-9084.

Nerium International via Jean Eaton, Albert Lea. $80

Jean also is the owner of Granicrete Minnesota.

22 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Prepare to have your socks rocked off Sophistication is in every application of Burt’s Bees güd. These lotions are available in six fantastic, never-smelled-anything-likethat scents. Try Vanilla Flame in the 3-ounce hand cream. It is seductively scented with vanilla and creamy rich milk.

Banish your dry spots now.

Drug stores, Albert Lea. $7

Other scents: Red Ruby Groovy, Pearanormal Activity, Orange Petalooza, Floral Cherrynova and Mango Moonbreeze.

Daisy Blue products are developed and produced right here in Albert Lea. A natural remedy bottled up tight For generations people have been using common garden marigold tincture in home remedies. Today, studies have shown that the marigold flower, also known as calendula, helps with skin conditions such as eczema, scars, rashes and more. Find these results in Marigold Therapeutic Lotion from Daisy Blue. This lightweight lotion is offered in an 8.2-ounce bottle. To find your consultant call 507-373-0442.

Daisy Blue Naturals, Albert Lea. $27

Expression’s Salon & Spa offers a full line of Oxygen Botanicals facial products.

What goes on must come off Refresh your face each night with this soothing makeup remover from Oxygen Botanicals.

Created for your eyes and face, this makeup remover contains Japanese green tea extract with potent antioxidants.

Expression’s Salon & Spa, Albert Lea. $18

Susan also sells Jockey person-toperson.

Outsmart your skin Arbonne Intelligence brings next-generation innovation to the forefront with these multitasking nightly resurfacing pads. This 60-day supply of pads comes with a resurfacing solution to help improve skin clarity and texture. To purchase contact your local Arbonne consultant, Susan Price, at 312-590-1408.

Arbonne via Susan Price, Albert Lea. $95

Sexy, thick, strong hair Rehabilitate your scalp and hair with Invati solutions for thinning hair. As we age, our hair follicle reduces in diameter, resulting in thinner hair. This three-step system from Aveda includes an exfoliating shampoo, thickening conditioner and an Invati scalp solution.

Salon 625, Albert Lea. $114

Reduce hair loss by up to 33 percent.

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 23

DAZZLE | Sporty girls

Styling by Angie Hoffman Photos by Brandi Hagen

Fashions for the sporty girls It is as essential to look sharp at the gymnasium as it is in the classroom. We found these pieces at Herberger’s, Shopko and Tiger City Sports.

Entire ou tfit available at Shopko

Under Amour top Tiger City Sports $19.99 Green Soda pants Shopko $17.99

24 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Energy Zone girls’ pants $19.99

f

f

Nike top $25

Kylee Anderson is a 9-year-old who goes to school at Hawthorne Elementary School.

Her mom is Stephanie Okland and her stepdad is Miguel Muniz.

Halle Morris is a 7-year-old who goes to school at Lakeview Elementary School.

Her parents are Alissa and Wesley Morris.

Under Armour

sweatshirt $44.

Tiger City Sp 99 orts Puma workout pants $32 Herberger’s hirt Armour T-s

Under Armour sweatshirt $44.99 Under Armour sweatpants $39.99

Under $19.99 Sports Tiger City da pants Green So $17.99 Shopko

r

Entir e avail outfit ab Tiger le at C Spor ity ts

Nike top $25 Energy Zone girls’ pants $19.99

r

our Under Arm t sweatshir $44.99 Sports Tiger City da pants Green So $17.99 Shopko

Puma top $22 Puma workout pants $32

Entire ou tfit available at Herberge r’s

tfit Entire ou at available r’s Herberge

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 25

Downtown Albert Lea 228 S. Broadway • 507-377-0848 Since 1983

albert lea 217 S. Newton 507-377-7000 ALDEN 195 N. Broadway 507-874-3363 www.americanbankmn.com

1205 S. Washington Ave. 507-373-5469

Mon-Fri 4:30am-2pm; Sat 4:30am-11am

VARIETY Large selection of clothing, shoes, purses, jewelry and so much more.

QUALITY We only take the best SIZES Infant to plus size PRICES Our prices make looking good “affordable”

Member FDIC

WE HAVE ROOM FOR YOUR PARTY!

Now accepting reservations for team parties, birthdays, groom’s dinners & weddings.

Open Daily 10am - 9pm

No room fee!

123 North Broadway Ave • Albert Lea, MN • 507-373-0388 Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm

25% OFF

any one item Excludes consignment, fresh flowers and special orders.

Expires 4/10/14

115 E Clark St., Albert Lea • (507) 373-2175

Checking • Savings • Loans • CD's • IRAs • HSAs • Credit Cards • ATMs Debit Cards • Internet Banking • Telephone Banking • Safe Deposit Boxes 109 W Park Ave. Hollandale, MN (507) 889-4311

220 E William St. Albert Lea, MN (507) 373-5500

www.producestatebank.com Member

FDIC

507-377-2081

216 South Broadway Downtown Albert Lea

Downtown Albert Lea (507) 373-7746

200 N Broadway Ave. Albert Lea Phone: 507-373-8216 Fax: 507-373-6220

Exquisite food & fine wines We feature USDA Prime beef & fresh seafood Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 5:30 Regularly changing menu, see our website at www.cresendodining.com

www.iscfinancialadvisors.com

507-377-2425 118 S. Broadway Ave, Albert Lea

Registered Representative of securities offered through Woodbury Financial Serivce Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC ISC and Woodbury are not affiliated entities.

Providing the latest in cosmetic & family dental care.

To be the best, take from the best Dr. Hung Vu, DDS

Dr. Marko Kamel, DDS

141 E. William St., Albert Lea, MN 507-377-5033 • www.uptowndental.org

New Location - Formerly Tone Music 114 South Broadway, Albert Lea 507-377-1183

202 S. Broadway, Albert Lea 373-3925

Announcements Party Decor | Tablewear

Downtown Albert Lea • (507) 373-7746

YOUR REALTOR FOR ALBERT LEA AND FREEBORN COUNTY:

DAWN (FREEMAN) SWALVE Dawn can assist in buying and listing properties and can set up automatic emails to your inbox with all new listings & price changes as SOON as they hit the market! Text or email me to set it up!

TWO LOCATIONS in ALBERT LEA! 104 South Broadway (507) 377-2485 Open Mon-Sat 10:30am-3:00pm See us at the Freeborn, Olmsted, Mower, Filmore & Winona County Fairs!

1649 Blake Avenue (507) 373-2893 Open Mon-Sun 10:00am-10:00pm

Dawn Swalve, Broker Associate

507-383-1300

dawn.realtor@me.com

MOVE | How she did it

By Micah Bader

Secret to weight loss: commitment When Nyla Anderson, 29, was in high school at Albert Lea, she was an athlete who played volleyball. That’s how most people knew her.

In her fifth year of college, she was blessed with a baby girl. As a busy mother, she’d go out to eat often. It became hard to keep that athletic physique.

“McDonald’s is by far the easiest place to go,” she said. “They’re everywhere. Big Macs still make my mouth water. They’re delicious.”

With fast food, midnight snacks and minimal exercise, Nyla weighed 255 pounds.

The change

“It’s nice and quiet,” she said.

Exercise and a diet without many processed foods helped Nyla lose 60 pounds.

The lifestyle

Because she does not eat out as much, Nyla hits up the grocery store. Hy-Vee in Albert Lea suits her best because it’s between Brookside Education Center and her home in Clarks Grove.

“I always start with the produce section, and I like to get organic food,” she said. “Then I’ll go through the middle sections if I have to.”

Not only does Nyla like the way she looks, she likes the way she feels.

Nyla’s brother and mother started the Candida diet to cut out processed foods. So last June, Nyla, a 10ththrough 12th-grade math teacher at Albert Lea High School, decided she’d take a 10-day vacation and start the diet immediately when she returned.

“I started it that summer,” she said. “Then I decided to walk a lot — three to five miles a day, four days a week.”

Before Albert Lea has an 255 lbs.

After abundance of parks with lakes 195 lbs. and trails. Nyla said her favorite place to exercise is the walkway around Fountain Lake.

Nyla’s tips • Surf the web.

“I collected a few workouts on Pinterest so I can do a different list of jumping jacks, squats and side lunges each day and not get sick of them.”

• The more the merrier.

“Try to lose weight with a friend or 28 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Nyla Anderson before, right, and 60 pounds less, above.

family member. It also helped when I started posting my weight loss to Facebook because I felt more accountable.”

• Everything in moderation.

“I’ll still go out to eat with friends, and I’ll have whatever I would’ve had before, but my stomach has shrunk so I don’t eat as much. If I eat a ton, I know I’ll feel miserable.”

Let’s get physical!

• Indoor Cycling, 5:15-6 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Mondays; 9:30-10:15 a.m. and 5:30-6:15 p.m. Wednesdays; Albert Lea Family Y, $28 for nonmembers per session (one day a week) • Kettlebells, 12:15-1:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Albert Lea Family Y, $28 for nonmembers per session (one day a week) • Boot Camp, 5 a.m. Mondays Wednesdays and Fridays; 5:15 p.m.

Mondays and Wednesdays, Anytime Fitness, free to members, $5 per class for nonmembers; 7:50-8:50 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, March 10-April 30, Fab Z Fitness at Carnegie Event Center, $56 • Cardio Combo, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Mondays, Albert Lea Family Y, $28 for nonmembers per session (one day a week) • Body Strength and Tone, 7-7:50 p.m.

Thursdays, April 2-May 22, Brookside Gym A, Albert Lea Community Education, $23 • Pilates Mat Class, 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

Mondays, March 17-May 5, HeartWaves Studio, $48 • Zumba/Zumba Toning, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Mondays and Wednesdays, March 10-April 30, $56; Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 4-May 1, Fab Z Fitness at Carnegie Event Center, $63 • Nia, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays, March 19-May 7, HeartWaves Studio, $56 • All About Abs!, 5:05-5:25 p.m.

Mondays and Wednesdays, March 10-April 30, Fab Z Fitness, $34 • Fitness For You, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Wednesdays, Albert Lea Family Y, $28 for nonmembers per session (one day a week) • Cycle Kettlebells, 4:15-5:15 p.m.

Tuesdays and Thursdays, Albert Lea Family Y, $28 for nonmembers per session (one day a week) • Yoga, noon to 1 p.m., Tuesdays, March 18-May 6, HeartWaves Studio, $61; 6:45 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, Carnegie Event Center, $5 each class for nonmembers of Snap Fitness; 6:45-7:45 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays, March 10-April 30, Fab Z Fitness at Carnegie Event Center, $56; 6:35-7:35 p.m., Mondays, Albert Lea Family Y, $28 for nonmembers per session

✔ Networks ✔ Workstations ✔ Software ✔ Servers ✔ Managed Services ✔ Remote Support

S erving au stin & over 185 alb ert lea b u s inesses !

The Albert Lea Tribune proudly supports the Newspapers In Education (NIE) program which supplies area schools with free newspapers to encourage literacy, broaden student community awareness and equip educators with a powerful tool for teaching.

The Albert Lea Tribune is committed to covering half the cost of this program. We depend on community-minded businesses, organizations and subscribers for the remainder.

The economic health and development of our community and your business depends on quality education for our students. They are tomorrow’s consumers, employers and leaders.

Please contact Melissa to learn how you can help, 379-3421.

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 29

SAVOR | Fishy crackers

Photo by Jennifer Levisen

Jennifer Levisen lives and works in Albert Lea. She enjoys finding new recipes to share with her family.

I get such a kick out of turning store-bought favorites into homemade delights. From graham crackers to macaroni and cheese to Goldfish, if I can I’d rather make them than buy them. It saves a little bit of money, and I like knowing what goes into the foods my family eats.

Like most kids, my son loves “fishy crackers,” so I was excited when I stumbled upon Catherine McCord’s recipe for whole-wheat cheddar crackers in her Weelicious Lunches cookbook. Like I was hoping, they provided a similar “fishy cracker” taste and thanks to a nifty little fish-shaped cookie cutter I picked up on a trip to Grand Marais, I was able to reproduce my son’s beloved snack.

Depending on the size of your cookie cutter, this recipe will produce a lot.

Which is good, because they didn’t last too long in our house. Enjoy!

30 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

One fish, two fish, red fish … homemade fish?

Whole-wheat cheddar crackers Ingredients • 2 cups grated cheddar cheese • 1 cup whole-wheat flour • 1 tablespoon of your favorite salt-free, herb seasoning • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. Place the cheddar cheese, flour and seasoning in a food processor and pulse to combine.

3. Add the butter and pulse until a ball forms.

4. Roll out the dough to quarter-inch thick on a floured or parchment-covered surface. Slice the dough into crackers or cut out your desired shapes with a cookie cutter.

5. Place the crackers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until they start to turn golden.

6. Cool and serve. Store in a covered container for up to two weeks.

Tip • When the dough gets too warm it’ll become difficult to work with. Putting it in the refrigerator for a spell makes it easier to use.

Bragen Rights Photography Brandi Hagen, photographer, 507-402-7894, 460 First Ave. SW, Glenville 56036 Like Bragen Rights Photography on Facebook. Photo booth rental coming soon!

Albert Lea Community Theatre presents

LEND ME A TENOR

Auditions March 5 & 6 Performances May 1, 2, 3, 4M, 7, 8, 9, 10 Written by Ken Ludwig | Directed by Steve Kinney

ANNIE

Auditions May 20 & 21 Performances July 17, 18, 19, 20M, 23, 24, 25, 26 Written by Thomas Meehan | Directed by Gordy Handeland

Marion Ross Performing Arts Center 147 N. Broadway, Albert Lea • 377-4371 24/7 Call Center 1-877-730-3144 Box Office Open Thursdays 4-6pm and Regular Hours during the performance schedule For more information on our theatre visit www.actonbroadway.com march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 31

SAVOR | Food & Drink

4

By Tim Engstrom

things you didn’t know about

Cuban food

The Cuban Island Restaurant opened in October and since then word has spread about the quality of the cuisine.

Owner Lyan Martinez escaped Cuba eight years ago on a small boat. He and others didn’t head north across the Straits of Florida like most refugees from the communist-controlled island. They headed south out of the Gulf of Batabano and then westward across the Caribbean Sea seeking Mexico.

Why? Cuban authorities patrol waters to the north more than waters to the south.

However, the trip to Florida is 90 miles.

The trip to Mexico is 300 miles.

He said they were afloat for eight days before being picked up by a Mexican vessel. Then he spent time in a Mexican jail before securing his release through his father in Florida. He eventually made his way to relatives in Albert Lea, where he dreamed of opening up a restaurant.

The Cuban Island Restaurant is his American dream.

Martinez shared five interesting aspects of Cuban cuisine: • It’s not spicy hot like Mexican food. It has its own distinct flavors, like sweet, salty or citrusy — or all three. “Lots of Mexicans come in here to eat Cuban food for the first time and say, ‘Oh, it’s good. It’s different.’”

• Cuban food has more in common with Caribbean cuisine than with Mexican.

People won’t find burritos and tacos. They will find dishes like “old clothes,” which is shreds of meat and vegetables that resemble strips of rags, as well as fricasseed food — cut into pieces and stewed in gravy.

• The food at his restaurant is made with all-natural spices. Nothing is premixed from a can. It’s all made from scratch.

• Cuban food typically has a different sauce for each meat, rather one sauce for everything. He said it is how they make food at home.

1 2 3 4

Lyan Martinez loves to share his food.

What drinks do local bartenders like to make?

A friend once told us: “Always know your bartender.” Good advice. Albert Lea Magazine took a drive around to the local bars one Friday night and asked bartenders, “What is your favorite drink to make?” Here are their answers: Chelsea Hanson, Wedgewood Cove: Jack Daniels straight up Andrew Tait, Big Island Grille & Bar: White Russian Myrna Wegner, 112 on Broadway: Hammer (Bacardi Limón rum and water) Kathy Stuart, American Legion Club: Cherry Bomb Lauri Lindschmidt, Nasty Habit: 4:20 (She invented this drink. It is 2 parts watermelon schnapps, 2 parts peach schnapps, 1 part Southern Comfort, a dash of Coke, a dash of Sprite and a dash of orange juice, then shaken.)

Steve Hagen, Eagles Club: Margarita on the rocks Veronica Zuniga, Aragon Bar: Long Island Iced Tea Dave Nelson, Chubby’s: Kryptonite (16 oz. mug of beer, a shot of Apple Pucker schnapps, topped with 7-Up, then chugged) Jenna Riggle, 112 on Broadway: Water Moccasin shot Lisa Adams, Moose Lodge: Colorado Bulldog Tara Simmons, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill: Perfect Margarita Becky Morgan, Green Mill: Long Island Iced Tea or Margarita Ashlyn Nasby, Harold’s Bar: layered shots, like Bob Marley

Voted Best Liquor

1617 W. Main St. • Albert Lea 32 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Call today to visit our showroom

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Next to Walmart Visit us online at: www.KayNailsandSpa.com march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 33

CREATE | Home & garden

What I do to prepare a

A

garden

s spring approaches, thoughts begin to enter my mind of nice, red, juicy tomatoes, great-tasting cucumbers and all the other vegetables I will ask my garden to produce for me.

So how will I get my garden ready to give it the best chance to produce those great vegetables for me? Well, if the weather permits me the time to do exactly what I want to do, I start by cleaning up any debris that I do not want to till under. This would include sticks, rocks and nonorganic material such as plastic bags and other garbage that may have blown into the garden over the winter.

Then I’ll check to see if the soil is dry enough. A good test is to grab a handful of soil. If I can make a ball, it is too wet.

It should fall apart. Once it is dry enough, I give the garden a good tilling to get a nice loose soil and break up all the hard clumps. Then I’ll decide what soil amendments to add. Some options are

manure, compost, any other organic material or a synthetic fertilizer such as 10-10-10.

I’ll spread one or more of these items on top of my garden space. Then I’ll step back and plan where to plant each of the vegetables I have in mind. After that I will till in the soil amendments making sure I till deeper in the areas I am going to plant things that will be deeper such as potatoes. That way the fertilizer is down where the vegetable can use it right away and produce the quality crop I am looking for.

Now the garden is ready to be planted.

Some people let it set for a week or 10 days to see what weeds come up right away and get rid of them before planting.

This may not be practical if the only time you have to plant is right away, which tends to be the way it works for me. After planting, all that is left to do is sit back and wait for that great-tasting produce.

Oh, yeah, and weeding and watering,

By Tom Theesfeld Photo by Brandi Hagen

Need advice on your garden?

Tom Theesfeld is the guy to see.

but that is what children and grandchildren are for, right? OK, maybe not, but you can’t blame me for trying.

Happy gardening!

Tom Theesfeld is the garden center manager at the Albert Lea Seed House.

By Drew Claussen Photo by Tim Engstrom

Check your home for winter blues

Ken Petranek in February cut cabinet space for a dishwasher in an Albert Lea home.

Cabin fever in the winter might lead to cabinet fever in the spring.

According to Ken Petranek, owner of Ken Petranek Construction, spring is a great time to not only spend some time outside your home but also to repair problems that went unnoticed during the winter months.

“Just kind of check your overall house, 34 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

how it made it through the winter,” Petranek said. “If you had leaky doors and windows through the winter, you could probably look into reinstalling or putting new windows or doors in. Just anything that you noticed through the winter that you’d rather not have happen next winter.”

Petranek said there are people who want to get projects done right away in the spring — such as cabinets — but, of course, it all depends on the weather.

“You get kind of a spurt. Like last year was kind of tough because winter lasted so long into May,” he said. “A couple of years ago when it got so nice in February and March everybody was gung-ho to get going and get stuff taken care of

before graduations or weddings or anything like that.”

Petranek has been in the construction business since he graduated high school 28 years ago and has been self-employed for the last 18 years. He works with his son and a couple of other subcontractors, depending on the size of the job.

“We do everything from concrete to finish painting,” he said. “We do just about anything. We can custom build cabinets, and we pour concrete, build new houses, garages, additions and decks.”

Petranek is based out of Geneva and serves all of Albert Lea and the surrounding area. He can be reached at 507-456-1414.

Because he loved me,

He did the dishes, Rubbed my feet, Surprised me with tulips, Took me to musicals even though he didn’t like them, Carried my bags while I did the shopping, Held my hand.

He died of cancer four years ago.

Because he loved me,

I can stay in our home.

I can be here for our children.

I can afford to pay for their college education.

I can worry about the other things in life besides money.

He still loves me. And he still shows it.

Nancy Vanderwaerdt, Agent, LUTCF, FSS 505 Bridge Avenue, Albert Lea 377-0227 www.nancyvw.net

308 7th Avenue • Ellendale, MN • (507) 684-2881 2210 East Main St. • Albert Lea, MN • (507) 373-2461 217 West Division St. • New Richland, MN • (507) 465-8015

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www.mainstreetdentalclinics.com

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 35

presenting, like, the coolest guide ever

Fun places for kids to be kids Story by Sarah Stultz Photos by Brandi Hagen

KID h t i w ELS MOahDCarlson

Jon right Myla W nsen Ha Owen rickson nd Abi He

36 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Albert Lea City Arena Best place to fall on your fanny.

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 37

Have a child who wants to get out of the house but don’t know where to go?

There are organizations and businesses in Albert Lea that offer something for every type of child — from the energetic and sporty to the laid back and eager learner.

Check out these locations:

Life jackets are provided for children ages kindergarten and older.

Rock Wall

211 E. Clark St. In addition to having more than 110,000 children’s books in its circulation, the Albert Lea Public Library hosts multiple activities throughout the year for children.

Children’s Librarian Patty Greibrok said storytime is at 10:30 a.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays and at 6 p.m. on Thursdays.

At 3:45 p.m. every first Monday of the month there is Lego time, where the library supplies hundreds of Legos, including some kits, for children to use to make whatever they choose.

There is a book club for children ages third through fifth grade, and in the

Brookside Education Center, 211 W. Richway Drive Offering more than 900 feet of climbing space and six ropes, the Rock Wall at Brookside Education Center is open yearround.

Hours for the public are from 6 to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and for a climbing club from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

Two staff are on hand on Fridays and Saturdays, with one on Tuesdays.

Rock wall coordinator Scott Hanna said the Tuesday night session is designed for experienced climbers or people who want to become belay-certified. A free basic certification class is at 6:30 p.m. with paid admission.

Cost per day is $10 per person, or people can purchase a five-admission punch pass for $25.

Brookside Boathouse Brookside Park, 623 W. Richway Drive The Brookside Boathouse, which opened in 2010, offers experiential education in both summer and winter.

In the summer, there’s outdoor archery, geocaching, canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding for all ages; in the winter, there’s open snowshoeing.

Hanna, who also heads up the boathouse, said he hopes the experiences offered there help people realize there are fun things to do in Albert Lea. “I’m trying to get everyone exposed to the environment and the things we have in our community,” Hanna said.

Kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding are offered from 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesdays, 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, 1 to 3 p.m. Fridays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays. Archery and geocaching are offered from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays.

38 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Albert Lea Children’s Library

summer there is a summer reading program.

Greibrok said the library offers a place for children to hang out, meet their friends, check out books and DVDs and play games on computers. There are more than 9,000 downloadable books.

Albert Lea Aquatic Center 321 James Ave. The city pool, which reopens for the season on June 7, features two pools: a splash pool and a main pool that ranges in depth from 3 1/2 feet to 13 feet.

The splash pool has interactive tumbling buckets, deck sprays, a mushroom waterfall, bubblers and a fivearm water fountain for younger swimmers. A 226-foot water slide leads into this pool.

The main pool has two one-meter diving boards.

Jenny Davis, with Albert Lea Parks and Recreation, said the pool will be open this summer from 1 to 5 p.m. for daytime swim and from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for nighttime swim Mondays through Fridays. It will be open from 1 to 7 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays. Admission prices are changing from previous years.

Lifeguards will teach swimming lessons for six weeks out of the summer in the mornings.

Burger King 2011 E. Main St. Parents can hit two birds with one stone with a stop at Burger King.

After grabbing a bite to eat, parents can sit back and relax while their children climb in the restaurant’s colorful playland, which features three levels and two slides. On the outside is a tic-tac-toe board.

“We have a lot of people come in the afternoons,” said General Manager Christine Behrends. “The kids definitely really like it. It keeps them busy.”

Behrends recommended the playland for children ages 4 to 10. Guidelines ask that children wear socks while playing for sanitary purposes.

Holiday Lanes 522 Prospect Ave. Albert Lea’s Holiday Lanes has days set aside for kids and families.

The bowling alley hosts Kids’ Day from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Family Day from noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays, said Manager Loren Kaiser.

Bumpers are available for young bowlers.

Cost is $8 for one hour or $12 for two hours; the price of shoes is included.

Youth leagues are after school on Wednesdays, at 6 p.m. on Fridays and from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on Saturdays.

The bowling alley has light shows, video music and fog machines from 8 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and from 9 p.m. to midnight on Saturdays.

“There’s socializing, family fun and a little bit of exercise involved with it too,” Kaiser said.

Youth

for

Christ’s The Rock

116 W. Clark St. Offering children a safe place to hang out, Youth for Christ’s The Rock has everything from pool tables to video games, skateboarding, board games and

If

they love...

Take

them to...

Pizza

Jake’s pizza

ice cream

cold stone creamery

fried macaroni

elbow room

pancakes

perkins restaurtant

tacos

burgers

chicken fingers candy

plaza morena applebee’s neighborhood grill green mill hy-vee

cold stone creamery Best place to build your own ice cream creation.

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 39

arts and crafts, said Mandy Schuster, administrative assistant.

It is open from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. for children in kindergarten through 12th grade.

On Monday nights there is a club for high schoolers, on Thursday nights there’s one for middle-schoolers and on Friday one for grade-schoolers. Schuster said the clubs always have some sort of religious message, and staff share a Bible verse weekly with the children.

Children get a snack after school, and during the summer, a lunch is provided through the Albert Lea Salvation Army, she said.

“We want a safe place for the kids to hang out,” Schuster said. “That’s our goal here — and we want to show them Jesus.”

Cinema 7 2550 Bridge Ave. Children can step into another world by watching a movie at Cinema 7 at the Northbridge Mall.

The theater plays one or two children’s movies a month, said theater manager Danny Halvorsen.

“It’s all-around, really good entertainment,” Halvorsen said. “They can get out of the house, and at this time of the year everybody has cabin fever.”

In addition to the movies, the theater offers 25 types of candy, plus popcorn, nachos and pop.

Movie tickets are $6 for children ages 3 to 12 and free for children under 3.

Movies in 3-D are an additional $2.50.

Albert Lea Family Y 2021 W. Main St. Children and adults alike can get exercise at the Albert Lea Family Y. The organization offers parent and toddler playtime, a fit club for sixth- and seventh-graders and teen night on Fridays, among other activities.

New this year, father and son duo Nick and Gavin Hanke have started laser tag in the gym of the Family Y. The course is set up in over half of the gym, and eight children can play at a time.

Nick Hanke said there are 12 corrugated cutouts for barriers, and games last for 10 minutes.

Cost is $3 per game or $5 for two games.

The next games are slated for March 14.

For prices of other activities, visit http://www. ymcaal.org/

T E E M D I K THE LS E D O M

Albert Lea PUBLIC LIBRARY Best place to get lost in a book.

40 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Myla Wright Age: 4 City: Albert Lea Family: parents, Arthur and Erica, and sister, Everly Favorite thing to do: play games with Mommy and Daddy Favorite movie: “Frozen”

Owen Hansen

Abi Hendrickson

Jonah Carlson

Age: 6 City: Clarks Grove Family: parents, Chris and Cari, and brother, Chet Favorite thing to do: play video games Favorite movie: “The Hobbit”

Age: 4 City: Albert Lea Family: parents, Calvin and Robyn, and sister, Ruthie Favorite things to do: play with toys and make crafts Favorite movie: “Frozen”

Age: 8 City: Glenville Family: parents, Lynn and Sara Heggestad, and siblings Shayla, Alexia and Ava Favorite thing to do: play outside Favorite movie: “Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters”

Cool ways to see farm stuff: • Third Grade Farm Tours Each September, third-graders from all over Freeborn County tour at least three farms to learn firsthand where their food comes from.

“We tried to pick things where they know the end product, and we want to show where it starts,” said Randy Kehr, director of the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce.

They typically visit dairy, hog and potato farms but have visited beef cattle farms or elk farms. The children get to milk a cow, feed animals and harvest their own potatoes.

“We have had kids who said, ‘I never knew my milk came from that,’ so that’s pretty powerful,” Kehr said.

The tours are organized and funded by the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce.

• Farmer John Pumpkin Patch Open to the public on Sept. 20, Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch offers thousands of pumpkins for purchase plus other activities for families to enjoy.

John Ulland, who operates the patch with his wife, Jan, said this year there will be 36 varieties of pumpkins.

Once children have picked out their perfect pumpkin, they can pose for photos, take a ride down a slide coming out of a silo or join in on a scarecrowmaking contest.

Albert Lea COMMUNITY EDUCATION ROCK GYM Best place to let out your inner monkey.

42 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

“We’re not in the entertainment business,” Ulland said. “We’re in the experience business.”

Babies born after Oct. 15 of the previous year get a free, small pumpkin.

Ulland said kindergartners from Austin and several other area schools take a field trip to the patch each year. If large groups are coming, Ulland asked that they call ahead at 507-437-9180.

The patch is at 90537 273rd St. in Moscow Township.

• Livestock barns at the Freeborn County Fair Children can get a hands-on look at various livestock in the Kiddie Farmyard at the Freeborn County Fair.

Whether it’s checking out chicks that have just hatched, newborn baby pigs or basic kittens, children are sure to get excited here. There are also animals such as goats, rabbits, ponies, donkeys, peacocks and puppies.

“The Kiddie Farmyard is a great place for kids to see all species of livestock in one building, so it works out real well,” said fair manager Norm Fredin.

The fair has had the Kiddie Farmyard for 25 years. In addition, children can view livestock being judged at the fair in separate barns for swine, small animals, sheep, cattle and horses.

This year’s fair is from July 29 through Aug. 2.

The joy of being a kindergarten teacher Albert Lea schools are seeing growth in the elementary population.

That means additional kindergarten teachers. We invited Kelsey Anderson of Lakeview Elementary School to share with our readers the joys of being a kindergarten teacher: “This is my third year teaching kindergarten, and there are many exciting moments during the day.

“The greatest joy in working with this age group is seeing how much academic growth each child makes during our year together. They are so enthusiastic about learning, and I especially love watching them learn how to read.

The kindergarten students are so proud when they read a book for the first time at school. I love seeing the excitement on their face when they come back after taking the book home to read.

“Another reason I love teaching kindergarten is watching them interact with each other. I love seeing one child help out another child by tying a shoe or zipping a coat.

“I look forward to seeing each of my kindergarten students at school every day. I feel very fortunate to be a part of their first year in school.”

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• Yield: 4-6 servings

Ventura Foods Ingredients Hidden Valley Balsamic Vinaigrette Other Ingredients Crab Meat, lump or jumbo lump Mango, fresh, peeled and diced 1/4 Red Roasted Pepper, 1/4 Chives, clean and sliced Cayenne Pepper Mixed salad greens

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4 oz.

2 oz.

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4 dance 1 Best places to

Joyce Matthies Dance Centre

114 S. Broadway In business for 48 years, Joyce Matthies Dance Centre offers tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical and point classes for children ages 4 and older.

Matthies, who has a degree in dance from Point Park University in Pittsburgh, has been dancing since she was 3. She and another instructor offer skills learned through trainings and studies.

“When we teach, it’s fun, but it’s always technically based, so when my dancers go off to college, they’re usually put in intermediate classes or accepted right into the college dance troupe,” she said.

The dance studio can be found online at joycematthiesdance.com.

It can be reached by phone at 507-377-1183.

2

Echo Step Studio

of

Dance

1416 W. Main St. Albert Lea’s newest dance studio, Echo Step Studio of Dance opened Feb. 3 and provides classes for both children and adults.

The studio offers hip-hop, ballet, jazz, contemporary and tap dance classes, along with yoga, Zumba, Nia and possibly more in the future, said co-owner Dustin Boyer.

The studio has instructors who specialize in each type of music.

Boyer, who has taught at about six studios across the state, said classes are divided based on age.

The youngest available is for 3-year-olds.

“Our main focus is kids having fun,” Boyer said. “If kids aren’t having fun here then we aren’t 44 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

doing our job.”

Find out more information about the studio at echostep.co or by calling 507-351-4590.

The studio offers discounts for families with multiple children enrolled.

It is in the former location of the Montessori Children’s House of Albert Lea.

3 Just

for

Kix

1360 W. Main St. Just for Kix offers dance styles such as kick, jazz, lyrical, hiphop, ballet, tap and pom.

The company’s website describes the studio as having positive teaching strategies and a team-based performing environment.

Instructor Aimee Struck said the dancers have the opportunity to perform at Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Twins games and even go to Florida in December each year.

Find out more about the studio, including prices of classes, by visiting www.justforkix.com/ danceclasses/albertlea_mn or by calling instructor Aimee Struck at 383-5139.

4

Unlimited Possibilities Dance Studio Skyline Plaza, 1645 W. Main St. Unlimited Possibilities Dance Studio offers ballet, jazz, hip-hop, tap, beginning pointe, tumbling and technique classes for children pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

Classes are set up by age.

Find out more about Unlimited Possibilities online at www. updsdance.com or by calling 507-273-0402.

Education has a Albert Lea Community adults to enjoy. and rock gym for children

Longtime licensed day care providers • Debbie Baas, 1208 Swanhill Drive, 373-5466 • Laura Back, 71205 255th St., 826-3585 • Elaine Bohlen, 208 Fredrick Drive, 373-6280 • Linda Christian, 606 Pilot St., 373-5493 • Wende Friehl-Taylor, 1220 Martin Road, 377-3242 • Judy Gulbrandson, 306 E. Hawthorne St., 373-4301 • Robin Helgerson, 1909 Stevens St., 373-8089 • Sherry Hoenisch, 1208 Spartan Ave., 377-1253 • Starr Holt, 317 Summer Ave., 373-7789 • Patricia Nesse, 1107 Skylark Lane, 377-1486 • Debra Pirsig, 709 Hammer Road, 373-0869 • Debra Prihoda, 514 Pilot St., 373-6561 • Gayle Sternberg, 421 Meredith Road, 373-6258 • Mary Stevens, 822 Minnie Maddern St., 373-1320 — For a full listing of licensed day care providers in Freeborn County visit http://www.co.freeborn.mn.us/201/Licensing

Only 25 minutes south of Albert Lea

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family friendly home

Elegant

N

The Vershey residence is customized for raising children icole Vershey sits on the couch watching her children, Grant, 5, and Gabrielle, 4, play with

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

When the kids aren’t playing, the toys are stored in bins just out of sight.

Nicole and her husband, Kade, have been living in their rural home for four years.

The family fell in love with the open layout and the view. Situated on what once was a bison farm, the home overlooks Grass Butte Lake, two miles southeast of Twin Lakes. Kade is the general sales manager at Dave Syverson Auto Center in Albert Lea. Stay-at-home mom Nicole has decorated the home to appeal to the eye, as well as to the interests of her children.

“It is about embracing the space you 46 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

have and finding ways to get your children involved,” Nicole said. “Any way that they can help is great.”

They enjoy their family-friendly home.

Nicole shared some of her decorating secrets and tricks to staying organized.

Entryway The home has a bench for when the kids are putting on shoes and jackets.

Extra space under the bench helps hide shoes or winter gear.

The closet is arranged with a rack within reach of her children. Nicole said this way her children can hang their own jackets. The closet is also equipped with baskets for mittens, hats and scarves.

Mud

room

The mud room, off to the side of the

Cupboards near the living room and kitchen area in the Vershey home make a convenient place for game and puzzle storage.

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 47

entryway, has racks above the washer and dryer to hang snow jackets and snowpants. In the summer, the Vershey family uses the area to let life jackets dry after a day at the lake.

Living

By arranging closet shelves and hooks at a kid-friendly level, the Vershey family can all have a hand in putting away their gear.

room

The living room is big and open, perfect for playing. Bins are hidden beside the fireplace so the toys are kept neat. All furniture is pushed to the walls to give the kids more space.

Nicole said bins are her secret to staying organized.

A cabinet holds children’s board games on the bottom shelf, perfect for an after-school game of Candy Land.

A big sectional sofa has plenty of room for the family to cuddle up and watch movies or cartoons.

Kitchen

The Versheys made the basement into a space where Grant and Gabriel could create art, display it and just be kids.

Not only does it give the children a space of their own, it makes them feel more comfortable being in their bedrooms, which are also in the basement.

The living room opens up to the large kitchen. The kitchen is Kade’s favorite place, said Nicole. He enjoys cooking and working with food.

The pantry has a child-level shelf so Grant and Gabrielle can pick out their own snacks. Nicole likes to keep them involved in day-to-day tasks.

Sun

room

The sun room is Nicole’s favorite place in the home. The room sits just off the kitchen and has beautiful windows that let in natural light.

Each room of the house has a designated “kid zone,” said Nicole.

The sun room has a corner with quiet toys, such as Legos and a drawing book, for Grant and Gabrielle to play while Nicole relaxes with a book.

Basement

Turning towel hooks into artwork encourages children to use them.

48 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

The basement was unfinished when the family moved in. Nicole decided to skip the cost of finishing the basement and make it into the children’s play area. The basement and the children’s rooms were the first to get decorated when the family moved in.

“I wanted to make sure they felt at home and had their own space,” Nicole said.

The basement is paradise for the

children and their friends. After school, Grant and Gabrielle dash downstairs with their friends. Large, colorful foam squares cover the floor.

The children’s art is displayed prominently on a wall next to an art table. A mini-trampoline sits on the opposite side of the room. And toys are everywhere.

Children’s

rooms

Grant and Gabrielle’s rooms are in the basement.

Grant couldn’t decide whether he wanted a dinosaur or sports theme, so the family did both.

The deep blue walls are decorated with sports memorabilia, including a puck from a Minnesota Wild game.

Grant participates in basketball, hockey and football.

Gabrielle’s room is fit for a princess.

She is girly, but keeps up with her brother and has similar toys. Gabrielle participates in dance and tumbling at school. Her purple walls are painted with a mural of butterflies, a project Nicole did herself.

“I just used chalk and drew freehand,” Nicole said. She got the idea from a friend who saw an artist do a mural. Leftover paint was used.

“I said to myself, ‘Now why can’t I do it?’” she said.

Nicole also painted a mural in the downstairs bathroom. She affixed hooks to the tree branches to create a towel-tree.

Decoration

inspirations

Nicole uses Pinterest to search for decorating ideas. She shops at HomeGoods for storage containers for cheap. She also prioritizes fun and comfort over stiff furniture and fancy breakables.

She describes her style as minimalistic and traditional. Still, she isn’t afraid to take a cue from their children.

“This is their home, and I want them to be comfortable,” Nicole said.

The Versheys hope to stay in their home for a while, with plans to update as Grant and Gabrielle grow up. AL

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Story by Tiffany Krupke Photos by Brandi Hagen

The

face is a canvas Makeup is more than meets the eye

W

ith a swipe of a brush, they add color to the canvas. The makeup artists at the Herberger’s cosmetic counter in Albert Lea apply makeup to hundreds of women a year. With white coats and bright smiles, the girls at the Clinique, Lancome, Elizabeth Arden and Estee Lauder counters are pros at the makeup game.

During a Thursday morning lull, Emily Troe of the Estee Lauder counter applies makeup to Breanna Himmerch.

Troe has a year and a half of experience.

She took foundation and warmed it on her hand, a step she said helps the color apply evenly. Troe carefully applied a warm shade of pink to Himmerch’s lips. She chooses colors based on instinct.

Amber Koziolek has been working at the Clinique makeup counter for a

50 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

Emily Troe applies makeup to Breanna Himmerch at the Estee Lauder counter in Herberger’s.

year and a half. Their jobs involve more than just makeup application. They work to meet sales goals and to make sure the counter runs smoothly.

“I love it,” Koziolek said. “It is fun helping people look their best.” She has been working at Herberger’s for three years but switched over to the makeup counter because of her love of makeup.

Koziolek

shares her top makeup tips for looking fresh and flawless in any weather.

• Always moisturize. A great skin care routine is important to set the tone for any look. During winter, dry air can cause makeup to stick to patches of dry skin. Start your routine off right by smoothing on some moisturizer with built-in sunscreen before you apply foundation.

•Don’t skimp on primer, either.

Koziolek said many women think they can skip this step. “Primer smooths your skin and gets it ready for foundation,” Koziolek said. “It is worth the extra money.” Choose a primer targeted toward your skin type for added benefit.

• Invest in a good foundation brush. A brush can help prevent streaks and provides an even finish. “We often see people with streaks on their face from applying their makeup with their hands.

A good brush can help smooth the look.”

Using a brush also prevents the transfer of oils from the hands to the face, too.

• Find your perfect match. During winter, we lose some of our glow, Koziolek said. That often leads to makeup being too dark. Adjust your foundation to 52 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

match your skin tone. The counter at Herberger’s provides free consultations to help match you with your perfect color.

They also can help customize a beauty regimen for any skin type.

• Curl your lashes before applying mascara. Waiting until after the mascara has set can cause lashes to break. Only applying mascara to the tips of the lashes is another common mistake and can make eye lashes look smaller.

• Think of your eye color. While you may enjoy neon eye shadows, they don’t always look the best with your eye color.

• Blue is a naturally cool tone, so warmer shades tend to set this iris color ablaze. Colors like gray-brown, slate, or even silvery blues go well with this eye color.

• Women with brown eyes have the widest range of options when choosing shadow. Brown is a neutral, and it doesn’t tend to compete with colors in the same

way that other eye hues do. Koziolek recommended blue to make eyes pop.

• Green eyes look good with purple, Koziolek said. Browns with a red undertone also highlight but with a more subtle look.

• Hazel eyes contain a range of tones because of their innate spectrum of colors allowing a lot of flexibility. Want to pick up the green flecks in hazel eyes? Shades of purple can play up the green tone.

• Finish the look with some powder over the top to ensure the look stays fresh for hours.

• Find a trusty makeup routine but don’t be afraid to try new things. Pastels are big this spring and can add some fun after months of dreary weather.

• Invest in quality products. Koziolek said cosmetics like Clinique are easier on skin because they are made from quality ingredients. Cheap products may seem like a good idea but can be harder to match to skin.

• Don’t be afraid to mix and match different brands. According to Koziolek, brands Clinique, Estee Lauder and Elizabeth Arden really emphasize skin care but Lancome offers more colors. “I have seen people get something at every counter,” she said. “It is really all in what you like.”

• If you don’t know how to apply makeup, don’t be afraid to ask. Mistakes like over-plucked eyebrows, streaky eyeliner, orange foundation and mismatched color are often the result of lack of knowledge. Makeup artists are at the store, ready to inform. AL

By Amy Pleimling | DIETITIAN’S DIGEST

Amy Pleimling is a registered dietitian living in Albert Lea.

Do people need to to lose

diet

weight?

While the number of Americans on a diet varies depending on the source, no one can argue that the desire to lose weight is a common one and that we spend billions of dollars each year on weight-loss products.

There are so many diets out there, many with claims of melting away the pounds quickly while eating what you want! Sifting through them and choosing one that will be a good fit for you is a lot of work. You may have one friend that is losing weight following the Paleo diet while another may be losing weight with Weight Watchers. How do you know

which is the right diet for you? Or if you should even be on a “diet”?

While you can follow any diet for a while and lose weight, the reality is that dieting is hard and most don’t work in the long term. Some diets can even be dangerous.

U.S. News recently published its Best Diets of 2014. It had a panel of experts (registered dietitians among them) rank 32 popular diets. The experts rated each diet in seven categories, including shortand long-term weight loss, ease of compliance, safety, nutrition and potential for preventing and managing

diabetes and heart disease. The government-endorsed DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) snagged the top spot this year.

While I absolutely agree that the DASH diet is a great one and is definitely worth reading more about, do we have to find a specific diet to be healthy or to lose weight successfully? There are certainly very important dietary and lifestyle pieces many of the top-ranked diets and registered dietitians will agree on. You will see lots of fruits and veggies, fiber, lean protein, smaller portions and consistent exercise as part of the DASH diet, the Mediterranean diet and the MyPlate government recommendations.

Making healthy changes can involve many things and will not seem alike to each person. Healthy changes are driven by our current habits. One person might exercise daily but eat fast food for lunch every day. Another person might eat plenty of fruits and vegetables but skip breakfast. Each person has different pieces of a healthy lifestyle they do and 4Weight loss, Page 61

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 53

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Book review by Angie Barker | CONSTANT READER

Albert Lea resident Angie Barker is an avid reader and has a degree in English literature from MSUMankato. Email her at zoller@ hotmail.com.

Getting old is grand Kids are tiny idiots. It’s not their fault; they were born that way. Philosopher John Locke called it tabula rasa.

Hear me out. The theory is that we are born as blank slates waiting to be filled with information. It also means that when you’re a kid you have no idea how good you have it because you don’t have experiences and perspective. That’s probably why kids foolishly think being adult is cool and may even look forward to their inevitable transformation.

I did.

I was an idiot.

I remember sitting in my room late at night craving the deliciousness of a Whopper and feeling an angry dejection that I couldn’t simply go and get the burger. I imagined myself as a college freshman eating all the Whoppers I wanted. (Full disclosure: Most of my dreams involve food. I’ve learned to

accept it.) I now realize there were a number of problems with my dream: 1. Transportation is expensive. It involves a loan, insurance, maintenance and gas.

2. Whoppers require money. See problem No. 1.

3. Whoppers are full of calories.

The freshman 15 would arrive and definitively destroy the unrealistic expectation that freedom has no downside. Yet, I’m nostalgic for a time when calories did not exist.

Author and Tribune columnist Julie Seedorf offers readers hope for the future in her novel “Granny Hooks a Crook.”

Protagonist Hermiony Vidalia Criony Fiddlestadt, aka Granny, subsists exclusively on a diet of ice cream, chocolates, doughnuts, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy and wine. Like her name and her diet, Granny lives life large. Her preferred nightwear is furry lingerie. She loves flip-flops despite the

footwear increasing her risk of falling. She even has hidden a miniskirt under the floor boards, which makes a good closet when she wants something to stay hidden and needs something to match her feeling of exhilaration. It’s her freedom skirt.

Granny hides most of her scandalous behavior behind closed doors because she needs the outside world to see her as a sweet, innocent, vulnerable old woman.

She uses the senior stereotype to move invisibly through retail stores trying to catch thieves. No one suspects the old lady wandering around with a disheveled appearance could be capable of department store espionage, and if they did, her cane and weighted handbag would need to be licensed as dangerous weapons. She pulls off clumsy and incompetent like she’s on stage at the Globe. The only one in on her secret job is her boss, the sheriff, otherwise known as “The Big Guy.” Armed with a panic

4Book, Page 61 march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 55

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Same day and next day appointments available in Pediatrics.

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Outdoor Equipment 56 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

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ask the expert| Teresa Anderson-Krull

Teresa Anderson-Krull provides counseling and therapy services for individuals, couples and families in and around the Albert Lea area.

To be a parent, live in the now Do you want to feel a connection to your children? Start by being confident in your parenting.

Children first need to feel safe and trust that their parents are capable of taking care of them. If you know you lack parenting skills or have unresolved childhood issues, seek out counseling.

Your children are not here to be your friends and confidants. They are not your support system. Your children want to love you. It’s a fact.

Respect is the foundation of all healthy relationships. Respect your children by expecting them to do as you say. Follow through with consequences. Don’t bribe your children to get them to behave. It is disrespectful to them. When you bribe your children to behave, you are saying you don’t believe they are capable. They will demand more. You likely will become frustrated and feel they are ungrateful.

But you are the adult, and it all begins with you.

There are many ways to be a parent.

Being real and in the moment counts for a lot. If you think reading to them is a good idea, try it. If you find this is not something you enjoy, stop doing it.

Children have radar, and they won’t enjoy it if you don’t. Maybe you would prefer to sing or dance or build something. It’s all good if you are enjoying the activity with your child. Comment on their efforts, encourage them, tell them about how you were when you were their age.

Make time for your child every day.

That doesn’t mean you need an hour for each child. Fifteen minutes of complete attention to them is often all they want.

This means you are not doing something else. It means eye contact, smiling and interacting with them. Make sure the activity is something they also enjoy. Talk

to your children about what is going on in the world. Ask them their opinions.

Share how you formed opinions you have. Teach your children to be kind.

Teach them to be open-minded. Be careful about supporting blaming behaviors. Help them to problem solve.

Don’t be to quick to rescue.

Keeping the conversation alive builds the connection you have with your child.

There needs to be order in the world.

There will always be someone above them with more authority. They need to know how to function and thrive in this environment. Teaching your child to respect authority and feel content and safe begins with you.

Teresa Anderson-Krull can be reached at Teresa Anderson-Krull & Associates, 216 E. Main St. No. 4, in Albert Lea. The phone number is 377-0107. march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 57

SCRAPBOOK

The more things change …

Photos courtesy of the Freeborn County Historical Museum

e Street d Colleg ed as n a y a w d who serv uth Broa ner of So ng (1829-1891), e Brick Furniture r o c t s e o 1874. Th at northw s Armstr e house home of Thoma to Albert Lea in th f o rd in the ya d moved once the Children 1890s. It was 1866 to 1869 an in the latet governor from und. lieutenanis in the backgro building

ed was made ndmade but inde ment for ha s ok lo on ag This w vertise plete with an ad in a factory com rnishes. It is a collector’s item Va Berry Brothers’ age was taken at 637 W. Park im e Th s. ay ad now .

Ave in 1899 58 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

The first-grade cl as 1923 gathers for s at Abbott School in a photograph. Th building was orig e in Hall for Albert Le ally built as the Science a apartments at 91 College and today is 3 Abbott St.

FINAL WORD | By Jennifer Vogt-Erickson

Jennifer Vogt-Erickson taught social studies in Albert Lea for more than six years before staying home to raise children. She lives with her husband, Jeshua, and their two young children, Trixie and Axel. She wrangles toddlers by day and writes by night.

Is running in church not allowed?

My son, Axel, loves chasing a soccer ball around the Hawthorne Elementary School field at night with his father until he is so wrecked he can barely walk home. My husband gapes at this behavior and claims to have spent most of his own early childhood imitating a motionless lump.

While I think that’s a bit dubious, our son may take after his mother in this regard. If I wasn’t tearing around, rolling on the ground and jumping off stairs or out of trees, I was recovering from doing so. My knees looked like mottled turnips, and my left ankle was often sprained.

When I was in grade school, my parents owned an eight-acre hobby farm, and the lawn was a sprawling race track, nearly flat. It doubled as a paddock for our cattle, so we dodged around fresh cow patties whenever Dad moved the electric fence. During one unforgettable “Chariots of Fire” moment, I was running full tilt along a grove of trees at the edge

of the lawn when — zap! — my body jolted backward, and I landed spread eagle on my back.

In my rapture, I hadn’t noticed the wire on the electric fence looming in front of me. It wasn’t the finish-line ribbon I had been imagining, and I could hear its subtle clicks chastising me as I struggled to reinflate my lungs.

My greatest bliss, though, was running at church.

Before the ecstasy came the agony: Getting ready for church was a weekly discordant symphony concluding with resentful subordination. Mom domesticated my long, snarl-prone blond hair into French braids, partitioning the left side from the right side with a Maginot Line, which no hair could cross, exactly down the middle.

Though I always wanted to wear pants, my sisters and I had to wear dresses. The worst part of the ensembles was the tights. My mother weathered fits of crying

nearly every Sunday when she forced me to wear them. During worship service, the seam of my tights wandered like Israelites in the wilderness, and the crotch sagged lower with each “Please stand,” and “You may be seated.”

After Sunday school, if adult forum was still in session, I would sneak into the sanctuary and check to make sure no mature figure, except for the image of Jesus, was watching. Then I would hitch up my tights and bolt up the center aisle, my braids flying behind me. I would bank right and shoot under the arches of the side aisle, run around to the other side aisle and sail through dust particles suspended in the reddish glow of the stained-glass windows. Sometimes other children with propriety fatigue would join me.

If the snow was melted, I would make a beeline out the narthex, zip down the wheelchair ramp and circle around the

4Final word, Page 61

march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 59

marketplace Dave Syverson Auto Center

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Weight loss Continued from Page 53

those they could work on.

But if we are going to achieve success at weight loss, we need to make our efforts ones that can last long term. As a registered dietitian I don’t mind using the word “diet” (it is part of my title). I even will say certain diets (like the DASH diet or the Mediterranean diet) provide clear guidelines and a sense of accountability that many people need.

But I also think that many of us view a diet as having a starting point and an ending point.

Whether it is a diet or goals toward a healthy lifestyle, one word is common between the two — change. To achieve weight loss or become healthier, a person needs to make some changes — put those good intentions into action.

Replace some of those unhealthy habits with positive actions until those positive actions becomes healthy habits.

Change, whether done on your own or by following a diet, should be realistic

Final word Continued from Page 59

back of Grace Lutheran Church until I reached Vine Street — the thin, worn asphalt line between Grace and St. Mary’s Catholic Church representing the schism between the supposed Heretics and True Believers. I would slow a little to tag my church’s modest and reassuring Protestant buttresses, never mind that my fondest memory of my dad’s mother’s funeral had been the pink rosary beads laced around her knobby fingers.

Then I would pick up speed around the corner, cruise past the church’s front, and jump into the long well that ran along the basement windows. I would give my nearly-forgotten tights another upward yank in full view of the nursery window, skitter over the crushed rock in my Sesame Street saddle shoes and pull myself out at the other end of the well, careful to keep my dreadful tights from

The DASH diet is aimed at pre-

venting and lowering high blood pressure. The DASH diet is: • Low in saturated fat, cholesterol and total fat.

• Focuses on fruits, vegetables and fat-free or low-fat dairy products.

• Rich in whole grains, fish, poultry, beans, seeds and nuts.

• Contains fewer sweets, added sugars and sugary beverages and red meats than the typical American diet • Includes foods rich in potassium, such as fruits and vegetables To learn more about the DASH plan contact Amy Pleimling or visit www.nhlbi. nih.gov.

and something you can stick with. Longterm success with weight loss will come from repeated healthy efforts day in and day out. Once healthy habits are developed, you can set new goals or keep those efforts going, either way, you are living a healthier lifestyle that works for YOU. There is no end to managing your weight through healthy choices. It is the continuous efforts that lead to success. snagging at the knees. Dirt was a sin that could be washed away; rips and tears tempted perdition.

After two or three rounds of this, my parents herded me back into the car. On many rides home from church, I would mop my forehead and once again be fully aware of my awful tights, rendered even more torturous by the sweat with which they clung to my legs.

These memories flooded me while I was touring a large church in Faribault on a spring day a few years ago. Axel was with me and doing an admirable job of sticking quietly to my side. Then, as if channeling my inner wishes, the priest invited my son to run down the center aisle from the altar. Axel dashed all the way to the narthex doors on his short legs and galloped back.

As he returned to me, his cheeks were flushing and his expression was ecstatic. My heart felt free, too. Like mother, like son.

Book Continued from Page 55

button and Big Guy’s quick response time, Granny keeps the stores of Fuchsia, Minnesota, safe from shoplifters.

I bet some of you are thinking I spelled Fuschia wrong. I also bet those people experience a giddy swell of superiority from catching grammar and spelling errors. It’s like a drug and you can’t wait to share it with the nearest bystander. “Look what I have found! An error!” I know that high well. Restraint is hard won for the word nerd. So I regret having to take that feeling away. There, their, they’re. Take comfort in learning that Fuchsia derives from a German botanist named Leonhart Fuchs.

Seedorf’s imaginary Fuchsia is quaint and quirky. It is the literary version of Star’s Hollow from “Gilmore Girls” or BlueBell on “Hart of Dixie.” It is a town that so seriously values its leisure, rock kicking, that it refuses to fill potholes or fix cracked sidewalks for fear that their pebble supply will dry up and then it’s bye-bye pastime. It is a place where a tree hugs back and a forest goes into hiding.

It also possesses the ability to draw in citizens with rhyming or alliterate names at an amusing rate. And my personal favorite is the neighbor’s bacon-loving hound dog called Baskerville.

Fuchsia may be a small town, but it is alive and thriving. It provides Granny with a love interest, a rival and a thieving nemesis that plans to frame her for the recent break-ins happening all over town. Granny has her hands full, and if she can remember where she parked her car she just might save the day. The novel’s zany characters and insane situations keep the pace quick and the storytelling entertaining. Granny is like the octogenarian version of Stephanie Plum, Janet Evanovich’s hapless bondswoman. Both heroines exist in worlds where the escapism is served with laughter and snappy comebacks. march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 61

events calendar

“Prince Igor”

When: noon-4 p.m., Sat., March 1 Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts Center Cost: $20 More info: “The Met: Live in HD” continues to be popular, drawing opera fans from around the region to Albert Lea. “Prince Igor,” by Russian composer Alexander Borodin, is famous for its Polovtsian dances and comes to the Metropolitan Opera in New York City for the first time in 100 years. It is billed as a “brilliant psychological journey through the mind of its conflicted hero, with the founding of the Russian nation as the backdrop.” See the wonderment live on the widescreen to welcome the month of March.

California & Montreal Guitar Trios When: 3 p.m., Sun., March 9 Where: Albert Lea High School auditorium Cost: admission by season ticket only More info: This special show is presented by Albert Lea Civic Music. Season tickets for the Civic Music series are $85 family, $40 adult and $10 student. The guitar trios are six virtuoso guitarists fused into a sixby-six “phenomensemble,” performing original compositions and new arrangements of progressive rock, world, jazz and classical music.

Tigers’ Roar!

Becky Schlegel gets set to dazzle the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center.

When: 7 p.m., Thu.-Sat., March 13-15 Where: Albert Lea High School auditorium Cost: $5 More info: This is a 50-year-plus tradition of a student talent show. “You never know what you are going to get,” says ALHS vocal music instructor Diane Heaney. “This year’s show is going to be really good. I can’t wait.” The theme this year is “Reality Roar” in tribute to reality TV.

Lenten Recitals When: 3 p.m. March 16, 23, 30 and April 6 Where: Salem Lutheran Church Cost: no charge; there is an offering More info: Come hear local organists play Lenten music, such as Bob Tewes, Eileen Nelson Ness and Gail Thurnau.

62 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

features an Italian Mass with music by composer Claudio Casciolini. Other songs will be by Daniel E. Gawthrop, Dan Forrest and Ola Gjeilo, with a special piece by Stephen Foster to mark the 150th anniversary of the death of the father of American music. The song will be “If You Only Got a Mustache.”

Anyone who likes guitar music will enjoy the March 9 performance of California & Montreal Guitar Trios — two trio acts together — at Albert Lea High School.

“Becky Schlegel as Seen on TV” When: 7:30-9 p.m., Fri., March 28 Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts Center Cost: $18 More info: Schlegel turns life experience into songs. Her music is a fusion of folk, bluegrass and country and she is a wistful soprano to back it up. Bluegrass Unlimited says her voice “can go gritty at times or break appropriately or soar to ethereal heights or drift off in a whisper.”

“La Bohème” When: noon-4 p.m., Sat., April 5 Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts Center Cost: $20 More info: Young love is always appropriate for a springtime audience.

“The Met: Live in HD” brings “La Bohème” to the Albert Lea widescreen.

Italian composer Giacomo Puccini composed the opera from an Italian libretto based on a novel by Henri Murger, “La Vie de Bohème.” Puccini’s opera debuted in 1896 and remains a world favorite. After all, it is the most performed opera in the history of The Met.

Fountain Lake 5 and Tiger Trot When: 9 a.m., Sat., April 26 Where: Brookside Education Center

parking lot Cost for FL5: $29 prior to April 10, $34 after Cost for TT: $5 for students, $15 for non-students More info: The Fountain Lake 5 is a fundraiser run by the Albert Lea Family Y is a five-mile run around Fountain Lake and traces what is without a doubt the most popular exercise route in the city.

The Tiger Trot is a 5-kilometer run that serves as a fundraiser for Southwest Middle School. Both events start at the same location.

“Cosi Fan Tutte” When: noon, Sat., April 26 Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts Center Cost: $20 More info: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart wrote this two-act opera in Italian, which is popularly taken to mean “Women are like that.” This opera is kind of like the operatic version of the reality TV show “Wife Swap,” only this time it is swapping fiancées in 18th century Naples.

Cantori Spring Concert When: 3-4 p.m. Sun., April 27 Where: United Methodist Church Cost: no charge; there is an offering More info: This is the 41st year for the Cantori, a regional choral group with Albert Lea members and members from as far away as Wells. The spring snow

Jeshua Erickson, wearing a Fountain Lake 5 shirt, crosses the finish line in 2010 in third place. Erickson won the race in 2009. march/april 2014 | ALBERT LEA | 63

INSIDE ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

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Myla doesn’t actually wear glasses. We found a pair for her to wear and popped the lenses out to enhance her look as a librarian.

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In the next issue:

Some say a backyard is like an extra room. We visit our favorite great outdoors. er side hold the oth look to in d e p p Halle Angie ste lp Kylee and . e h to e p ro of the ulling it re actually p e w y e th e k li 64 | ALBERT LEA | MARCH/APRIL 2014

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It’s time to think about your summer plans! College courses can really pile up, so why not lighten your load by taking a summer class at NIACC? Summer classes are condensed so you’ll get the same credits in less time.

Check out the class list at www.niacc.edu.

Many online courses are available.

Students from bordering states get an automatic scholarship to attend NIACC – making their tuition the same as in-state tuition!