Austin Living Magazine • March-April 2019 by Austin Daily Herald

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changing one life CHANGES EVERYTHING

EDITOR’S NOTE

All about community At around 25,000 people, Austin in a lot of ways hovers between two worlds: that of a large community and that of a small community, but one thing remains constant. Did you see it? One word: Community. Community drives Austin. It’s big enough to begin getting the “city” vibe, but still small enough to warrant the title of small town. Either way you look at it, it’s the community that makes and drives Austin and the surrounding area. It’s an appeal you see in several walks of life. Austin has a way of coming together, whether it’s for a cause or maybe just for an improvement that makes our city a better place for all. While this issue of Austin Living magazine doesn’t have a theme per se, it does have a community feel as it shows off the best of being part of where we live. Perhaps nothing in this March-April edition shows that off better than in our three features. We’ve walked hand-in-hand with the amazing work the Lyle Area Cancer Auction has done over the years and what a difference they make. Despite a severe winter storm, the LAC still manEric Johnson, aged to pull in over $170,000, around $2,000 shy of Austin Living last year’s total. Go ahead and ask Larry Ricke about the Editor $850 golf ball sometime. And sure, they just missed the $3 million mark, but the organizers and all who take part now have a target for next year. We’re also checking back in with St. Augustine’s Catholic Church and the jaw-dropping restoration they completed recently. By now you may have seen it for yourself or heard Father James Steffes talk about the process, but now read about what the parishioners themselves have to say about it. Truly stunning. And we have yet another group in Austin celebrating a milestone and they are kicking up their heels over it. The Cotillion Club has turned 100 and boy, do they have a lot to party about. We tell their story and go into the history of this fun group. Along the way: If you’re a food lover, you’re in luck. Not only are we stopping in at Alicia Bakery, but we’re also taking in a little history. The Mower County Historical Society has released a new cookbook and we are trying out some of the oldest recipes as well as bringing to you the process of how the cookbook came to be. Delicious.

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Call 507-434-2220 to get your subscription started today! Austin Daily Herald ~ 310 2nd Street NE, Austin, MN 55912 2 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

PUBLISHER Jana Gray EDITORIAL Editor Eric Johnson Contributing Writers Rocky Hulne Eric Johnson Deb Nicklay Michael Stoll Hannah Yang Photographer Eric Johnson ART Art Director Colby Hansen Graphic Designers Susan Downey Colby Hansen Eric Johnson SALES & PROMOTION Sales & Marketing Manager Heather Ryks Sales Representatives Mike Delhanty Brenda Landherr Brodie Long Heather Ryks MARCH-APRIL 2019 Volume 7, Number 2 EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE: Editor, Austin Living 310 2nd Street NE Austin, MN 55912 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced without written permission. For comments, suggestions or story ideas call 507-434-2237. To purchase advertising, call 507-434-2220 © A Minnesota Publishers Inc. publication

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WHAT’S INSIDE March – April 2019

SEEN

OUT & ABOUT

24 GETTING A CLOSER LOOK

SCENES OF THE NORTH Austin Living’s readers share the images they’ve taken of our frozen home.

Scientist brings cancer-fighting drive from New York City to Austin.

WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS

26 ‘I CAN BE MYSELF’

10 HALO

32 GROWING BOOKS, GROWING COMMUNITY

Sundogs flank the rising sun in late January, just after the arctic vortex began settling in.

AREA EATS 12 PRESERVING TRADITIONAL RECIPES Alicia Bakery has been serving authentic Mexican dishes since 2003.

THE LIST 18 PUTTING A LID ON IT Apparel company is on the move.

HOME & HEARTH 20 AROUND THE TABLE Refresh your lunch this spring.

22 FOOD AND HISTORY Historical society’s new cookbook combines both elements to create a unique taste of the past.

The Arc Mower County brings advocacy, fun for those with special needs. Floral Club celebrating 150 years of supporting Austin’s libraries.

TRAVEL 56 ROAD BY RENT Austin couple toured the United States in rented RV.

LOOKING BACK 59 THE ORIGINAL HORSE POWER Early Austin transportation powered by equine might.

AREA HAPPENINGS 60 THE BIGGEST UPCOMING EVENTS

BOOK REVIEW 62 STARS FROM THE PAST Page Turner’s picked book combines a love story with history.

WHY I LOVE AUSTIN 64 COMMUNITY OF RELATIONSHIPS Anna Meyer empowering local students, athletes.

4 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

FEATURED 36 BLESSINGS OF BEAUTY St. Augustine renovation continues to impress.

44 WALTZ DOWN MEMORY LANE Cotillion Dance Club celebrates 100 years of dancing.

52 40 YEARS IN THE FIGHT After four decades, Lyle Area Cancer Auction still putting up the numbers. Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 5

Scenes of the north

SEEN

Winter is a season of contradictions. For many, it represents a time of cold and wind, snowstorms and ice. It’s an unpleasant time of year that keeps people indoors and away from the warmth and sun of summer. At the same time, it represents an extraordinary opportunity to capture some magnificent photos, which is what our readers did when we opened up our Seen section to the photos they captured of the magnificent frozen north. See more photos on pages 8-9.

1 2

3 4

1. Photo from the air of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church. Photo submitted by Bryan Dirksen. 2. Looking out the front door in southeast Austin. Photo submittted by Sue Davison. 3. Courtney Pulsifer took the kiddos (CJ, Connor and Carter Turcotte) for some premium sledding at Skinner’s Hill. Photo submitted by Courtney Pulsifer. 4. Photo of Logan and Stephanie Kittridge taken in early December. Submitted by Lauren Miland of Lauren Rose Photography. 6 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

5 6

8 9

5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

A view from the farm. Photo submitted by Paula Decker. A scenic view taken at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in January. Photo submitted by Michelle Lane. Winter on the farm, taken just outside of Austin in November of 2018. Photo submitted by Nicole Van Hooser. A flamboyant winter sky puncuates the end of a day. Photo submitted by Tori Leitch. Some frosty berries captured in the chill. Photo submitted by Tori Leitch Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 7

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10 11 14

10. 11. 12. 13. 14.

December in Red Rock Township, Mower County. Photo submitted by Sally Anderson. Emma and Peyton Clark of Austin pictured with their snowy friend. Photo submitted by Craig Clark. Photo of the Cedar River State Water Trail at Driesner Park in December. Photo submitted by Tim Ruzek. Aubrey and Estelle Ruzek at The Point â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Cedar and Dobbins at Driesner Park. Photo submitted by Tim Ruzek. Photo from the tower at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center in December. Photo submitted by Lee Bjorndal.

8 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

15 16

15. Colorful sky taken on the outskirts of Austin Township. Submitted by Raevian MacIntosh. 16. Emerson and Chris Garbisch pose with their snowman. Photo submitted by Stephanie Garbisch. 17. Stephanie Garbisch pictured with Emerson. Photo submitted by Stephanie Garbisch.

Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 9

WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS

10 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

Halo Photo by Eric Johnson Sundogs flank the rising sun in late January, just after the arctic vortex, delivered by the winter storm Jayden, began settling in. If you have a photo you think would be worth sharing, send it to Eric Johnson at photodesk@austindailyherald.com. Resolution must be 300 DPI and at least 14 inches wide.

Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 11

AREA EATS

If you are going to eat at Alicia Bakery, come with an empty stomach, because you are guaranteed to leave with that stomach full.

12 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

Above, Alicia Bakery has loads of baked goods as are fitting of a quality bakery.

Preserving traditional recipes

Jose Torres has created an oasis of tradition at Alicia Bakery, baking items that have been in his family for generations.

Alicia Bakery has been serving authentic Mexican dishes since 2003 BY MICHAEL STOLL • PHOTOS Baking is in Jose Torres’s blood. The owner of Alicia Bakery in Northeast Austin comes from a family of bakers that goes back generations. A native of the south-central Mexican state of Morales, located a few miles directly south of Mexico City, Torres worked in a bakery in California before coming to Minnesota about 20 years ago. “When I moved to California, I originally worked at a bakery that also had a restaurant in the back,” Torres said, as translated by his daughter, Jessica Meza. “I focused mainly on the bakery because that was what I knew and came from, but then I started getting into the kitchen, learning how to cook and make meals.” Upon moving to Minnesota, Torres worked in a Minneapolis bakery that also had a kitchen. When he first came to Austin in 2001, no such establishment existed.

ERIC JOHNSON

“The building (where Alicia Bakery is located) was already a bakery and was for sale,” he said. “When I saw the building, it was pretty damaged and needed a lot of fix ups. I decided that I could potentially grow in Austin, so I saved money for a couple of years to get what I needed to purchase the building and start a business.” On March 3, 2003, Torres opened the doors to Alicia Bakery, named after his wife, who co-owns the business. The reception was a warm one from the community. “When we opened the doors in 2003, we felt very welcomed by the Latino community and the American community,” he recalled. “A lot of natives were glad that I was able to preserve a historic building because there has always been a bakery in this location. We saw a lot of happy people and got a lot of good feedback from the community.” March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 13

Ararli Hernandez begins storing baked goods coming out of the oven. 14 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

A large mural fills the back wall as customers to Alicia Bakery wait for their orders.

Upon entering the bakery, there is no question as to why the reception was so positive. Visitors are greeted by the heavenly aroma of freshly baked goods sitting on racks in cases waiting for hungry patrons. Traditional pieces of bread include concha, a Mexican sweet bread that resembles a seashell, and bolillo, a Mexican dinner roll. “The bakery is what I’m definitely most proud of; it’s what I grew with and it has helped us continue to grow,” Torres said. Each piece of bread and pastry from their respective varieties are shaped uniformly, a testament to Torres’s skill and experience. The bakery items are made with authentic Mexican recipes Torres learned growing up, earning him a

following in southeast Minnesota and other states. As Torres’s reputation grew, so did his business. With the success of the bakery, Torres began to offer grocery items, such as meats and produce, along with packaged items from Latin American countries. Utilizing what he had learned in California and Minneapolis, Torres then added on a kitchen with the hope of bringing classic authentic Mexican dishes to Austin. “We strive to try to get the word out that we are 100 percent Mexican food,” he said. “We’re not like a lot of other restaurants that have a Mexican restaurant name, but fix (the food) so it’s more Tex-Mex. The only thing that’s Mexican is what’s on their sign.”

Plates are piled high with good food. March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 15

Walter Baltazar Tzoy Santos, left, and Arturo Casaval man the kitchen at Alicia Bakery.

Torres developed all of his recipes, serving dishes that are as consistent as they are authentic. “Cooks can come and go, but the food will always stay the same recipe because I created those recipes,” he said. And while Torres takes pride in the authenticity of his dishes, he admits the perception that many Americans have of Mexican food sometimes make them hesitant about his dishes. “We cater to 100 percent authentic Mexican, which is why sometimes I struggle with getting into the American community because they are so used to having that TexMex,” he said. “We do get a lot of compliments from people who come here from Texas and California who do agree this is authentic Mexican food.” Diners can find traditional Mexican dishes on Alicia’s menu, from tacos to burritos, tortas to carnitas. But for the

more adventurous eaters, menudo, a traditional Mexican soup made with beef stomach, is served every Saturday and Sunday. “It is traditionally known as a hangover cure,” Torres said. “After a night of partying and drinking, you go to a restaurant and have menudo. It’s for lifting souls and is a well sold item in the bakery.” For Torres, the recipes are about more than authentic taste — they are about representing his family and his culture. “Not a lot of people can offer that generation by generation experience with recipes made by family members in Mexico,” he said. Alicia Bakery is located at 1017 Second Ave. NE in Austin. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for the bakery and 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. for the restaurant. They can be reached at 507-437-4860.

Chicken sizzles on the flattop.

16 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

First time to Alicia Bakery?

Here are a few suggestions for first time kitchen diners.

Torta:

These traditional Mexican sandwiches are served on a bolillo roll and feature meat of your choice with lettuce, tomato, onion, jalapeño, mayonnaise and refried beans. If you’ve never had refried beans as a condiment, you’re missing out.

Torta

Plato de Pollo

Plato de Pollo: This plate engulfing feast

features thinly sliced chicken seasoned in Torres’s spice blend served with salad, rice and refried beans. Trust me when I say you’re going to love this chicken.

Tacos: Arguably the most iconic Mexican dish, Torres

serves these tacos as a one would get them on the streets of Mexico: your choice of meat in a corn tortilla topped with onion and cilantro. For those who like some spice, try them with the green tomatillo salsa for a little sweet and a little heat, or with the red salsa for a more intense kick.

Tacos Mar y Tierra

Mar y Tierra:

Literally translated as “sea and land,” this must try features Torres’s excellent chicken, perfectly seasoned shrimp, and carne asada (steak) that, despite its thinness, is not lacking in juiciness.

Burrito

Burrito:

This hefty favorite is served with your choice of meat, rice, refried beans, onion and cilantro. Honestly, who doesn’t like burritos?

Horchata:

This traditional Mexican beverage is made with rice water and cinnamon. It is a great accompaniment to any meal and will satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging,

March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 17

THE LIST

Jacob Schlicter, left, and Noah Kinney are the two creative minds behind Cannalids in Austin.

Putting a lid on it APPAREL COMPANY IS ON THE MOVE STORY

AND

PHOTOS

It may seem like a small business, run by just two people, but Cannalids in Austin isn’t skimping. Offering quality-made merchandise, the two-man operation of Jacob Schlichter and Noah Kinney are diving into wholesale and retail merchandising with items like shirts, hats and sweaters. “We want people to be able to chill, but look professional,” Schlicter said. They certainly don’t settle when it comes to their wears, using material such as pima cotton, a cousin to Egyptian cotton. Most of their wears are cotton or polyester with many featuring a Minnesota feel. Largely sticking to the wholesale market, the duo 18 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

ERIC JOHNSON

does offer retail, available at Old 218 at 1308 10th Drive SE in Austin. All of the money from retail end goes directly back into the wholesale production. Cannalids appears to be on the verge of taking off, but they are keeping an optimistically cautious view of the future. “I’ve heard nothing but good things about it,” Kinney said. “We’re just trying to start small and see how it works out.” Included are five of the products on sale at Old 218. Note: All designs are digital print and shirts can be made to order featuring a print of their choosing.

BEANIE, $15

A multi-colored beanie, it features a pom on top along with a leather patch.

T-SHIRT, $35 A maroon t-shirt, premium made of 100 percent pure organic cotton.

T-SHIRT, $15

Coming in white and red colors, this T is fixed with a large porcelain designed logo on the back and a smaller design on the crest in front.

SWEATER, $35

This is a felt appliquĂŠ garment with a crew neck and offered in both pink and navy blue colors.

HATS, $15

With the distinctive seven-panel mesh back, this hat also features a snap to adjust size as well as coming with a leather patch. Another version comes with a floral-designed bill and leather back strap. Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 19

Spinach, Cranberry and Feta Salad

HOME & HEARTH

Around the Table BY JEN HAUGEN, RDN, LD

Refresh your lunch this spring

ecently at one of my cooking classes, where I was sharing ideas for healthy lunchtime makeovers, one of the guests shared that all she had had that day for lunch was a package of candy. Of course, we’ve all made these types of mistakes, and then we are ravenous by the afternoon looking to eat anything in sight! Contrast that with another class I am teaching where participants are making changes to their meals one small step at a time, and building lunches that are power packed, and where one of the participants noted, “I feel so much more energy in the afternoon, I’m even working out more!”. So how do you boost your afternoon productivity and eat for success at lunch even when you are strapped for time? I’ve put together three ways you can make this happen: 1. Save time by making a salad that allows you to toss ingredients together in the morning and chop it later when you are ready for lunch. How, you might wonder? This is one of my favorite new ways to eat more salads at lunch (and saving money and eating healthier too by making them myself!), and it’s using a brand new tool called the Salad Cutting Bowl. I love tossing in dark romaine or spinach, adding other vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes and carrots, and then chicken breast I have

20 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

pre-grilled for the week (no need to cut into strips, you cut later). I simply use the bowl to cut through my ingredients in about 30 seconds when I am ready for lunch and finish with the dressings and toppings I have packed too. Healthy eating has never been easier! 2. What about a hot lunch, like pasta? Totally doable! Use whole grain noodles in the Microwave Pasta Cooker and cover them with water by about 1 inch, then cook in the microwave for eight minutes. Toss in vegetables, sauce and protein, and you’ve got yourself a hearty meal that will last all afternoon. 3. Grab and go more your style? This one is easy too, simply slice up peppers, cucumbers, apples and berries, toss in a Greek yogurt (look for the ones with 15 grams protein per serving) or hummus, and slices of cheese and meat and whole grain crackers. It’s basically a boxed lunch for adults! I love using my Small Square Cool & Serve for this as I can freeze the cooling insert and it will keep my lunch nice and cool for up to two hours. Overall, when you eat a good lunch, you are much more likely to be more productive, have more energy, manage your weight in a sensible way and feel good about yourself too. I encourage you to drink a glass of milk with your lunch as well, and sip on water all afternoon.

About Jen Jen Haugen, RDN, LD, is a mom, author and registered dietitian nutritionist. She owns her own business as a Pampered Chef consultant where she loves teaching how to make cooking fast and easy and healthy. She offers private inhome cooking experiences for hosts and their friends to gather in the kitchen and learn kitchen tips and recipes and use tools to make cooking fun. She specializes in culinary demonstrations, as well as private appointments. Like her Facebook Page, Jen Haugen RD, where she has a weekly cooking show. Follow her on Instagram at Jen Haugen RD. And subscribe to her blog at jenhaugen.com.

Spinach, Cranberry and Feta Salad Ingredients

•3 cups spinach •3 oz cooked chicken breast •1 apple, cored and cut in half •¼ cup dried cranberries •¼ cup feta cheese •¼ cup glazed walnuts

Directions

To prepare: Add the spinach, chicken, and apple to the colander of the Salad Cutting Bowl. Add toppings to the divided sections in the top of the cutting platform. Place the cutting platform on top of the colander and twist until the notches are aligned. Add large bowl underneath the colander and lid to the top of the bowl (including fork and spoon and dressing).

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NEWSLETTERS • FLYERS POSTCARDS • BOOKLETS POSTERS • BANNERS MAGNETS WEDDING INVITATIONS

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n print anythin a c e

To learn more about the tools mentioned (the Salad Cutting Bowl, the Microwave Pasta Cooker and the Small Square Cool & Serve), go to www.pamperedchef.com/pws/jenhaugen or connect with me at 507-4387109.

We print it all

When ready to eat: Remove dressing container, fork and spoon, and pour out topping ingredients into gray lid. Flip the bowl over and use the Coated Chef’s Knife to cut along the slots. Gently lift the colander and turn it one quarter turn; slice again. Continue turning and slicing until produce reaches the desired size. Slide out the colander to pour the salad into the bowl. Add dressing and toppings.

...y ou can imagine!

Support those who support our Community: Buy Mower/Grow Mower March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 21

FOOD AND HISTORY Historical society’s new cookbook combines both elements to create a unique taste of the past

STORY

AND

PHOTO

It didn’t take long for Randy Forster, newest executive director of the Mower County Historical Society, to make a mark on the organization. After all, he came into the position already armed with a recipe for success based on an idea for — recipes. That idea was for a cookbook using a combination of submitted recipes along with recipes taken from church cookbooks and other sources. Sprinkle in a little history and you have the new cookbook “A Taste of History: Recipes and Remembrances,” available at both the Mower County Historical Society and Sweet Reads for $10. “When I first came in it was one of my first ideas,” Forster said. Along with historical society board treasurer Sue Grove and Millie Burrows, the book was brought together using help from the community. A simple request through the society’s newsletter set up a flood of recipes and submissions. Aside from their request for recipes, they also scoured old church cookbooks that provided a flood of great ideas from places and from people that others could identify with. “We tried to find, if possible, names that people might 22 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

ERIC JOHNSON

find familiar,” Grove said. Some of those recipes came from places like Christ Episcopal Church (1951), The Garden Club (1968), Mitchell County Historical Society in Iowa and from “Prescriptions For Good Eating,” from St. Olaf Hospital. The recipes were also accompanied by little factoids and writings. Each divider features a photo of a church or building with a description included on the flip side. Combining history and food just seemed to make sense as often times memories serve as a direct link to food. “I just think there is an associated memory with food,” Forster said. “Every meal connects a food with a memory.” Also made perfect sense as far as the historical society was concerned. “I just think everybody likes a cookbook, and what a fun way to do a fundraiser for the historical society,” Forster said. The reception the cook book has generated has drawn pleasant reviews and has been well received by the community. A little over 500 copies were ordered and given the interest, neither Forster or Grove are ruling out ordering more if necessary. “I think it’s gone better than we anticipated,” Grove said. “There are so many things to choose from.”

TASTINg THE PAST Resident foodie gives his take on 3 dishes from historical society’s newly released cookbook STORY

AND

PHOTOS

With the new Mower County Historical Society cookbook “A Taste of History” now available for purchase, I was tasked with making and tasting a few recipes for you, the readers. After receiving recommendations from the MCHS staff and members, here are my thoughts on a few of the historic recipes.

PISTACHIO SALAD

This easy recipe comes from “Prescriptions for Good Eating, St. Olaf Hospital Cookbook” and was submitted by Anne Goldston. It consists of pistachio pudding mix, dairy whip, pineapple, marshmallows and maraschino cherries. The word that came to mind when I tasted it was “nostalgic.” It is very reminiscent of items my grandmother served at parties when I was a kid. I did find the maraschino cherries a bit too sweet, so if you’re not looking to make an overly sweet dish, I would recommend substituting regular cherries. Finely chopped nuts are listed as an optional topping, but I would suggest using them to help give some texture to this soft side item.

CORN HOTDISH

Honestly, what is more Minnesota than hotdish? Okay fine, lutefisk, but after that is hotdish. I am a southern transplant and up here was the first time I had ever heard a casserole be referred to as a “hotdish.” I have been told that it has to include potatoes (tater tots, more specifically) or that it can be any form of casserole.

MICHAEL STOLL

This particular recipe, from the “1950s Methodist Church Cookbook” submitted by Inez Colescott, does not include potatoes. Nonetheless, it is a very hardy dish with hamburger, sausage, onions and corn. While the recipe does not call for it, I felt it could benefit from a dash of salt to enhance the flavor.

WILD RICE SOUP

Of the three recipes I made, this was by far my favorite. Another recipe taken from St. Olaf Hospital’s “Prescription for Good Eating,” submitted by Glenna (Mrs. Clifford) Pesonen, it features wild rice, bacon, onion, grated cheese, milk and cream of potato and chicken soups. And bacon. This recipe was not only easy to make, but very flavorful and in no need of tweaking. The only change I made was using a wild and long grain rice mixture, not because of any disdain for wild rice, but because the groceries were purchased on the Herald’s dime and wild rice is very expensive. It came out just as good. As an added bonus, the bacon and onion are browned together in a pan on the stove. My kitchen smelled immaculate for hours, and yours will too.

March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 23

OUT & ABOUT

Getting a closer look

The Hormel Institute’s Dr. Liang Liu. 24 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

Scientist brings cancer-fighting drive from New York City to Austin STORY

AND

PHOTO BY THE HORMEL INSTITUTE

but it has been recognized recently that this Dr. Liang Liu joined The Hormel Institute gene misregulation can occur due to aberrant in early January as an assistant professor leading epigenetic events. the Chromatin and Epigenetic Gene Regulation “It’s really a network of events — genetics, lab, making the move from bustling New York epigenetics, and environmental factors — City to snowy Austin. that often interact together to drive cancer He is excited to be in Austin to continue his development,” said Dr. Liu. “We’re using a research focused on how cancer develops and systemic approach, rather than looking for a what internal and external factors either promote single event to better understand how cancer or suppress cancer growth. arises.” Dr. Liu looks at the molecular level to find While this approach to cancer research out how cancer develops. can be used on any cancer, Dr. Liu’s team is “We’re using ‘magnifying glasses’ to look currently focused on skin cancer. He chose for the cause of cancer inside the body,” Dr. Liu to use skin cancer as model for his research said. because skin cancer is the most common cancer Tools like microscopes and other advanced in the United States and is easily observable. molecular biology technology at The Hormel Dr. Liu’s choice to focus on skin cancer is Institute allow scientists to search for the roots part of what drew him to The Hormel Institute. of cancer. “It was really the reputation of the people, The focus of Dr. Liu’s cancer research is research environment and research support genetics and epigenetics. system at The Hormel Institute that brought me As Dr. Liu describes it, genetics is like to Austin,” he said. hardware part of our body, while epigenetics He first heard functions partly of The Hormel like the software Institute while to translate the reading studies information and published by The instructions MENTOR CONNECT Hormel Institute’s stored in the The Hormel Institute is busy with new faculty executive director, genes. When you joining all the time. If you are interested in Dr. Zigang Dong, study genetics, meeting our scientists and forming a friendship, during his early you study the consider joining Mentor Connect. research into DNA structure To learn more and hear about upcoming skin cancer. Dr. and composition events, contact Pam Hollrah-Asleson at 507-481Liu then met Dr. of the genes. 4469 or phollrah-asleson@rncandc.com Rebecca Morris, When you study epigenetics, you study how genes are packaged into 3D structures to influence the activity of the genes. If genes were lights, epigenetics would function like the switches to turn genes on or off or control the strength of gene activities. Liu says one of the important causes of cancer is the misregulation of cancer-related genes, in other words turning on certain genes that should be turned off and turning off certain genes that should be turned on. This can happen at the genetic level via genetic mutations,

leader of the Stem Cells and Cancer research section of The Hormel Institute, at a dermatology meeting. Dr. Morris previously did research at Columbia University, where Dr. Liu was conducting his research before joining The Hormel Institute. After visiting Austin during the interview process Dr. Liu was struck by the peaceful and friendly environment of the community. Dr. Liu is excited to get his research underway at The Hormel Institute, “the perfect place to focus on research.” March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 25

26 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

The Arc Mower County. Good times and good friends.

‘I can be myself ’

The Arc of Mower County organizes several activities, among them Special Olympics softball teams.

The Arc Mower County brings advocacy, fun for those with special needs BY HANNAH YANG • PHOTOS

SUBMITTED BY

Crack! The symphonic sounds of bowling pins being struck thundered throughout Echo Lanes. Around 90 of The Arc Mower County members were delighted by the night of bowling, which easily becomes one of the most attended events that administrators see during the winter months. Jumping into the festivities was Lola Olson, who has been involved with The Arc Mower County for about 20 years. She saw herself emerge as a leader of sorts through her participation in People First and Aktion Club (she also holds leadership roles) and serves as secretary for Self Advocates Minnesota in the southeast region. “I’m getting to know a lot more people,” Olson explained. “I like volunteering. I love The Arc because sometimes people don’t have a place to go or to do recreational activities. I learned a lot of new things and I love bowling and softball and I love to go on trips.” She then motioned over to the crowds of Arc members playing in the lanes.

ARC MOWER COUNTY

“I enjoy spending time with my friends,” she added. The Arc Mower County hosts a wide array of events, classes and trips for individuals with special needs to learn skills that help them maintain and improve their lives. That includes anything from bowling nights on Wednesdays during the winter to hosting The Arc’s 4-H Adventure Club. There are also dances and other activities that engage the community, and encourages them to socialize and build relationships with each other. One of the people who benefits immensely from The Arc Mower County is Steven Mallan, who has been a part of The Arc since 1994, and serves as a self advocate on The Arc’s Board of Directors. He wants others to know more about The Arc and to come by for a time of fellowship. “I like going on trips every year,” Mallan said. “I like getting more people to join The Arc.” Roy Rolfson, who has been a part of The Arc Mower County for “at least 10 years,” said he has enjoyed the outings that The Arc has put together, including date nights. It was at those date nights that Rolfson met his girlfriend, Sarah Jensen. March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 27

For all the holidays, The Arc Mower County makes sure to whoop it up, including Halloween parties.

“I like dancing and learning how to cook and making more friends,” Rolfson said. “It’s a fun place to hang out and do stuff. It’s about hanging out and learning stuff. It’s really fun to be there. ...it stops us from being couch potatoes.” Jensen beamed at the sentiment, noting that she “loved date nights.” A history of advocacy, adventure Much has changed since the 1950s. Before then, there were few local organizations for individuals with special needs and no state or national organizations existed. There were nine local Arcs in Minnesota during the 1960s and a few more scattered across the country, according to The Arc’s website. Most of those early parent groups served a major city area, including: Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Austin, Red Wing and Albert Lea and mostly operated services for local children such as Members of The Arc school and recreational Mower County are photographed at the programs. A national Mower County Fair. Arc organization was created in September of 1950 during a meeting in Minneapolis. During that time, Minnesota was considered the pioneer in planning and providing services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Arc Mower County was founded in 1952 and was incorporated in 1956. The 28 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

goal of The Arc Mower County was to develop a project to enhance the lives of children in the areas of special education, vocational training and recreation. That’s what drew Dawn Helgeson, executive director of The Arc Mower County, to spend her time advocating and providing opportunities to improve quality of life for those with special needs. That has been the mission of The Arc, as well as Helgeson. “We advocate and work with families,” Helgeson said. “We do education and we have recreational opportunities. We have around 250 members, and we help them in all areas to support them in helping them live and obtain quality of life.” Helgeson has served The Arc as executive director for more than two decades (she’s approaching her 30th anniversary in March) starting as a bookkeeper. She then became director in 1995 and has led the organization since then. During her tenure, Helgeson has seen attitudes shift significantly from the public toward individuals with special needs, including individuals becoming more independent and able to seek employment. “There are more people being employed on their own and they’re being a part of the community,” she said. “There is, however, still a lot of work to be done at the

Emily Johnson fires a shot during a game of pool at The Arc Mower County, where they have open center every Thursday night. Photo by Eric Johnson

Legislature. There are funding and transportation needs. We don’t want to take steps back. We’re here to help people take steps forward.” Others who volunteer at The Arc noted the positive impact that the nonprofit has on the community, as well as for the people who they care for, from cooking classes that teaches information about nutrition to competing in the Special Olympics. Susan Huffman feels The Arc empowers people. There was a big push for a campaign from The Arc to eliminate the derogatory “R-word” and replace it with “respect,” Huffman said. “The ultimate goal is to have a great life and learn new things,” she said. “We want them to live a fulfilling life and live independently. It’s important, and it’s really fun to be with them.” For the people who use The Arc as their way of getting connected into the Austin community and beyond, they expressed their happiness for one of the most important reasons why they love the organization. “I can be myself,” Jensen said with a smile.

One of the most popular pastimes at The Arc is Bingo which fills the room and sometimes requires more tables be brought in. March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 29

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March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 31

Growing BOOKS, Growing

COMMUNITY

Austin’s Floral Club President Sally Baker guides a book discussion at January’s meeting at the Hormel Historic Home. 32 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

Floral Club celebrating 150 years of supporting Austin’s libraries STORY

AND

PHOTOS

ERIC JOHNSON

The Floral Club’s historian Pat Stevens has an extensive knowledge of the groups 150 years, perhaps one of the state’s oldest clubs.

As one walks into the Austin Public Library, more often than not they will walk over a large marble crest, displaying a colorful purple geranium at its center. A closer look shows that it is dedicated to the Austin Floral Club. It is one the oldest, if not the oldest, clubs in the state of Minnesota and the United States. Which begs the question: why is a floral club being honored in a public library? For that answer, one has to go back a long way to the beginning when the club was first formed — on March 16, 1869. “They raised flowers and sold the seeds and had floral shows,” said club president Sally Baker. “The proceeds went to support the library. They knew they needed funds to make that possible.” Thus, the Austin Ladies Floral Club and Library

Association was born and now, 150 years later, the club of about 50 members is celebrating its proud history of supporting the library and supporting education. In the early days, the library was nothing more than a white, two-story home. In time, thanks in large part to the Floral Club and other supporters, the library grew into what it is today. As time marched forward and in different library locations, the club found itself always ready to help lend a hand, lend time and lend funds. The group raised a large sum of money, in fact, to help build the current library in downtown Austin. “We raised about $10,000 when we were just building the new library,” said club historian Pat Stevens. “The library at the time suggested the plaque piece on the floor. It gives the library a history, ties it back to how it started.” March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 33

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY The club was formed in March 1869, but it took a few months to open the library. The circulating library opened on Nov. 9, 1869, with 255 books. The club members acted as the first librarians, opening for just one afternoon a week. All of this happened under the leadership of Esther M. Morse, who served as the first club president from 1869 to 1901. She has been honored by the city of Austin as one of its Pillars of the City. But in a way, it was education that helped drive the early days of the club. “They wanted to learn,” said member Joyce Mlinar. “They came to learn and wanted to extend learning and reading.” As time progressed, the club, which largely supported library endeavors, began changing to meet the changing times. Members began to give presentations on a variety of subjects, socially bound to the world around them. Many of those who joined the club — that charged a 25-cent membership fee — were serving vital functions in the town and the area. “They were the wives of ministers, they were lawyers and doctors,” Stevens

said. “They taught in the seminaries and in the schools.” That education came from a need to make sure women had a say in the world around them. The world was beginning to demonstrate that women had a valuable place in society. “In 1869 … the first co-educational college west of the Mississippi was in Iowa, Iowa Wesleyan,” Baker said. “After the Civil War, men realized their daughters needed to be educated. That was a lot of why this group was founded in the beginning.” While many could point to the Floral Club and see it as just another club, its very beginning was a trial compared to starting a club today. Not many clubs required legislative approval. “We had to petition to the state legislature to be a club,” Baker said. “We had 13 women who had signed the petition on that day so it was a big deal to have those 13 signatures.”

WHAT THE CLUB IS TODAY During its January meeting, club members came together as they usually do at the Hormel Historic Home and its program that day was — books. They talked about book lists, books that had been recommended and books the club members themselves recommended.

A picture of the house Austin’s Floral Club met at in 1869. Top, Esther Mitchell Morse was the first president of the Floral Club. Photos provided. 34 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

DedaRae Graber introduces a pair of guests she brought with her to January’s Floral Club meeting.

But the club doesn’t always talk about books; in fact, it’s very much about community. The club still holds dear its connection to history and continues to proudly support not just the library, but the community as well. It actively continues the programming, with members giving presentations each month during their meetings. “Every month we have a program that tells us what’s going on at the library or in the community,” Mlinar said. “We share our ideas and have a book study club and we still have fundraisers in support of the library.” Programs like the United Way are covered and provide an important link to that community. One of the changes most evident is what the club has been helping to raise funds for. The difference is those items aren’t just books anymore. “We have helped with a lot of other projects, like computers,” Baker said. While today’s Floral Club has changed a lot from its earliest days, the members think those first members would be proud of what the group has accomplished. “I think they would be impressed, ”Stevens said. “It just has moved so progressively, but with heart in the sense that through all these years, the names (of those) who belong to the Floral Club are known for other reasons. There have been several generations of mothers and daughters that have been

part of Floral Club. We are sticking with and honoring those women that came to meetings in buggies and slopped through the streets.” The group has a simple answer for those curious about the group. “Come and visit us any time,” Mlinar invites. “We would love to have them,” Baker added.

Janet Gilbertson, who frequently provides music during meetings, starts off “America, The Beautiful.” March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 35

Parishioners sit in revered silence before a service, beneath the brightly restored St. Augustineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Church.

36 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

Blessings of Beauty

St. Augustine renovation continues to impress BY DEB NICKLAY • PHOTOS

ERIC JOHNSON

March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 37

You bless us with beauty all around. You guided the work of restoring our great Church and generously bestowed on us this pearl … ” “

Prayer upon completion of St. Augustine Catholic Church restoration When parishioners walked into the nave of St. Augustine Catholic Church for the first time following its restoration, Father James Steffes said some would stop in the doorway, awestruck. “Sometimes, they were just speechless; they stood in the door, and tears would come into their eyes,” he said one day recently, as he talked about the $1.45 million project. Along the side aisles, the church’s restored windows caught the afternoon light, their opalescence diffusing the rich rays illuminating the space. As he sat in one of the pews and scanned the extensive makeover, he still seemed awestruck as well. “Something like this, this true beauty — it reminds us of the sacred, what’s truly important,” he said. The project, which began almost a year ago, took an alreadybeautiful church and revived its color, restored its windows and woodwork, and created arresting accents that allowed its architectural heritage to shine, according to Steffes. The church, completed in 1896, was built in the Neo-Gothic style. The renovation, said Steffes, was designed to highlight elements that were appropriate for the era in which the church was built. “This church was built with hard work and on faith,” Steffes said, adding the restoration reflected appreciation for those early pioneers and highlights the abiding faith of today’s congregation. The restoration is as impressive as it is extensive. A pale green paint previously covered its walls and its high altar, side-altars and pews were stained a lighter oak color. While its vaulted ribbed ceiling was always awe-inspiring, much of its detail was lost in its mostlymonochromatic coloring that left some of its finer details overlooked. That is not the case any longer. Eyes are drawn to the newlypainted ceiling, whose heavenly blue is dotted with some 3,500 stars. Its cream-colored ribs, which cross and re-cross over the center and side expanses, frame the darker shade. The side walls are painted an ivory color. But the ceiling color is just the beginning. Intricate borders, painted in shades of blue, deep red and gold, are fashioned along the rib lines, as well as along panels and windows. Decorative painting, in a muted lighter blue with gold accents, is seen above arches — such as those under the higher rose windows. Behind the high altar is a stenciling that many could swear was patterned wallpaper, so exacting is the work. Ribbing that opens in the half-dome over the altar is inset with gold painting that is breathtaking to take in. There is an extensive use of gold in the accents, on the capitals — the crowns that sit at the top of columns — and other decorative accents, including the keystones that grace the ribbed ceiling and other ornamental features, such as angels, located on walls at the bottom of ribs. 38 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

Bob Collier

Bob Collier, like many of the congregants at St. Augustine Catholic Church, said his reaction when walking into the renovated church for the first time was its breathtaking change. “When you come in from the east entrance, you walk in and you look down at the altar — it’s just gorgeous,” he said. He has many favorites among the changes wrought by the restoration, but also like many, the ceiling is a big one. “When you look up; and you see the blue, the stars … it’s something,” he said. He added that the use of gold paint and gold leaf has also added rich elements to the church. Collier is a longtime member of the congregation and participates in the music during Mass. So, Collier is very familiar with his church. Even then, there was a “wow” moment when he first walked into Mass, following the completion of the restoration in October. “It kind of reminds me of older Gothic churches we saw when we went to Europe,” he said. For Collier, the renovation is something you do for your home. “And this is our home,” he said. “And in your own home, when things become dated, when you begin to see cracks — you need to maintain it, to take care of it,” he said. The $1.45 million project created a beautiful worship space, he said – one that he and fellow parishioners really appreciate. Overall, he said, “It brings us closer to God when we’re in Mass.” He has been particularly taken with evening Masses, “when the sun comes around and the sun hits those (newly-restored) stained glass windows – it’s really impressive.”

The intricate work of the renovation spreads to all corners of the church.

Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 39

Father James Steffes begins the service from the brightly colored alter.

Kathy Huffman

Kathy Huffman, a retired teacher, is a longtime member of St. Augustine Catholic Church and she said she is thrilled with its restoration. The $1.45 million project has reinforced what she feels is important in a worship space. “It is absolutely stately,” she said of the completed restoration, one morning before Mass. “And I think the woodwork is absolutely awesome.” Huffman was referring to the re-staining of the altar, side-altars and pews, as well as the addition of wainscoting along the side aisles of the 1896 church. Prior to the $1.45 million project, which began in April 2018 and which spanned about five months, the church walls were a pale green and much of the vaulted ceiling was all one color, with fewer accents to highlight its Neo-Gothic architecture. This project — which included a restoration and repainting of all the walls and ceiling — as well as restoration of church windows, new carpet and tile, as well as a rebuilt east wall — “just makes it a church,” she said, in the best sense. “You walk into some churches and you kind of wonder, ‘Where are the TV cameras?’ You know what I mean? Here, you know you are in church; it has that stateliness.” She said restoration reinforces what she has always known: St. Augustine is a special place. “Overall, even now, after all these weeks, you look around and you can still see something new,” she said.

40 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

The casework — altars and pews — was stripped of their previous stain and a darker brown applied. Wainscoting was added along the side aisles, also in a darker brown, Steffes said. New carpet was installed under the pews, and porcelain tile was laid along the nave aisles and chancel. Some of the tilework also includes some patterned accents. Much is a credit to Riehle Decorating, Inc., of Cresco, Iowa, who, along with Affiliated Artists of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, designed and executed the exacting work over the summer and fall of 2018. Extensive scaffolding meant the congregation had to celebrate Mass at St. Edwards, its parish partner, throughout the project that began in April 2018. As many as six painters worked on the project. Steffes said he climbed the 40-foot scaffolding “just once,” he said with a chuckle. “And I backed down very slowly. The painters would tease me constantly for the months they were here. They’d say, ‘Father, you need to come up here; you have to see this.’ And I’d say, ‘Nope. Just move those planks aside; I’ll look at it from down here.” Joking aside, Steffes said he checked the ceiling progress through the planks and “in pieces. But it was amazing — when the scaffolding came down and you could see it altogether … it was just breathtaking.” The crews “were wonderful to work with,” he added, noting the painters’ willingness to try different designs, colors and ideas until just the right effect was achieved. They welcomed suggestions and decisions were collaborative. “There was one design we were working with,” Steffes recalled, “and they would try things over and over; ‘maybe we should change a color; maybe make that a square in the center,

Faye Bollingberg and Daniel Bollingberg

change the hue,’ over and over again. “Finally, I came in one the morning and Dave (Strickland) said, ‘I think I have it. I think that’s it. I looked at it, and said, ‘It fits.’ They cared that we got it right.” Cathedral Crafts of Winona handled the renovation of the stained glass windows, which included cleaning and re-leading where it was needed. The Stations of the Cross were also cleaned. The project came with surprises. Flooring installers discovered evidence that the choir loft, located on the upper east end of the church, had weakened over the years. As a result, Steffes said, the east wall was taken down, steel beams installed and the wall rebuilt. As the work progressed, it was also found that it was the perfect time to replace an aging heating and ventilation system. That moved the initial price of $1.2 million to $1.45 million — but Steffes said almost the entire amount has been raised. For all of its challenges, Steffes said the end result was as wonderful as anything he could have imagined — and the congregation agreed. When the parishioners returned to the church for their first service in October following the renovation, “I told everyone, ‘OK, you have two minutes to look around … and then you need to focus here,’” he said with a laugh, referring to the time taken by the members to scan the new interior for the first time. He understands their wonder. “We really highlighted it; it’s God house, it should be the most beautiful building in the city,” he said. The first service in the church on Oct. 7, 2018, “was a wonderful day; the church was packed … and to have it filled with people of God was awesome, in the truest sense.”

Faye Bollingberg is another longtime congregation member of St. Augustine Catholic Church. And, although she knows her church up and down — she has served on many committees, she said, and her entire family attends — “after all these weeks (since the restoration ended and its rededication held in October) I still see myself looking up,” she said a bit sheepishly one morning as she got ready to enter Mass. “It’s such a beautiful change.” She said early into the $1.45 million project, she would peek into the nave and check out the changes that were getting underway. “But then I stopped coming about halfway through the project; I wanted to wait until everything was done” to get the full effect. She was glad she waited, she said. The impact was stunning. “I love the colors; the (gold) foil, the stars,” she said. “I think they did a great job.” She added that at Christmas, “with its lighting at night — oh, it is magnificent.” Her son, Daniel, 20, agreed. He said he returned home for the Christmas holiday from his studies at St. Thomas University and was impressed with the change. “I’d been away for a while,” he said. “Being able to come back at Christmas, to see all the work that had been done — it seems a lot brighter now. It’s really welcoming.” Renovating his home church was a good idea, he said. “It’s good to upgrade, to maintain. And it got a lot of support from the church.”. March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 41

Garry Ellingson

Garry Ellingson is a longtime member of St. Augustine Catholic Church — and when he heard about the church’s $1.45 million restoration, he wasn’t so sure he was happy with the project plans. “In the beginning, I didn’t like the idea … because it was change,” he said. “And, the cost. I spent many years as a trustee,” so he knew how much it would impact the congregation. Still, he said, when the project was done, “I thought it was unbelievable.” There are many things he likes about the new look, but since he is a woodworker, the changes in the casework drew his attention right away. The workers re-stained items that

once had been a lighter blond color — circa 1950s and 60s — to a darker wood, which Ellingson preferred. The altar, side-altars and wainscoting and other wood framing and woodwork were all re-stained. “In fact, my wife and I were married in this church, and all the wood then was a darker color, way back when,” he said. He was also glad that the choir loft was reinforced and the heating and ventilation systems replaced. “When some things were opened up, we found some things that could have been a problem down the road,” he said. “Better to fix them now.” Overall, he said, “It was a wonderful thing to get going; they did a marvelous job.”

Knowing the labor taken to revive and restore the interior, Steffes said it was “amazing to think back on what it took to build this beautiful church — without cranes, without machinery, without computers.” Now, refreshed for a new day, the church will continue to inspire faithful in the future, he said. “This allows for more generations … to grow in their relationships with God. But I don’t want it just to be a showplace; it’s about faith. It’s about God.” Steffes added that as he got close to the craftsmen, some stories unfolded “and miracles happened.” Without going into detail, Steffes said it was clear that in some cases, “they were moved by God while they were here; some rediscovered their faith.” Steffes said working in a holy place can do that. “This is what happens when you do things for God,” he said.

Over each service is a sea of stars against blue backdrop, adding a heavenly feel to the church.

William Kahle and Rachel Kahle

42 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

William Kahle, 17, and his little sister Rachel, 8, may be young, but that doesn’t mean they cannot appreciate the new look of St. Augustine Catholic Church. They joined other parishioners in giving their impressions of the work. William wasn’t so sure initially what would happen when he heard all that was going on. “When I first walked in, I thought, ‘my gosh, how is this going to look?’ But then he saw the blue ceiling with its starry

heavens, “and I thought, wow, that’s really great.” After he took it all in, he said he found it reminded him of a basilica. “It really is beautiful,” he said. Rachel agreed with William that the restoration of church “was beautiful.” “At first, I didn’t know how it would look,” she said. “I didn’t know if I would like it.” But she quickly changed her mind. She was particularly impressed with the new porcelain tile flooring and its decorative accents. “I really like that, I like the tile,” she said.

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Members of the Austin Cotillion Dance Club settle in for a night of dancing at the Austin Country Club. 44 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

Waltz Down Memory Lane

Cotillion Dance Club celebrates 100 years of dancing BY HANNAH YANG • PHOTOS

ERIC JOHNSON

March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 45

he swoosh of elegant gowns and the sounds of dancing feet resonated throughout the Austin Country Club on a dark and wintry Tuesday night in January. To a casual onlooker, the events unfolding on the dance floor may look like a one-night affair. To those who have been a part of the Cotillion Dance Club, it’s been a waltz for nearly a century. For couples (and a few singles) the evening was about fellowship and reminiscing about the past through classic and old-fashioned dancing. Some, found the monthly dancing to be a time to unwind from the daily stresses of life and to let loose on the floor. Several types of dances could be seen on the floor, from the samba to the rumba, or even the polka. The Cotillion Dance Club will be celebrating 100 years in June, and the group’s activities have provided a source of joy and memories for decades. One such couple included Otto and Betty Volkert, who have been a part of the club for 50 years. And while they don’t actively dance anymore, they still find happiness in spending time with some dear friends. “When cotillion started it was very formal,” Otto said. “The main thing was, you don’t have to be a good dancer.” Another couple who have been dancing for decades included Joyce and Bob Goetz. “You get to know everybody, and it’s such a congenial group of people,” Joyce said. “We like to dance. We’re both retired and it’s such a great group of people. It’s wonderful and it’s outstanding.”

A twirl about history The Cotillion Dance Club had its first dance in 1919 and began as a time for people to come together and enjoy a meal. Once the potluck was determined and the dishes were finished, the women would return home to don their favorite elegant gowns, while the men would come home from work and put on their suits or dinner jackets, said Alice Anderson, steering committee member. “The ladies prepared the meal early in the day,” Anderson explained. “When their husbands returned home from work, the men dressed in suits, the women in gowns. The club met once a month.” Early on, charter members Dr. Fred and Lucy Rayman entered the Cotillion Dance Club and were honored as king and queen during the 25th anniversary.They retired from the club after spending 42 years helping with its organization, Anderson said. Some of the more notable members of the club included George Hormel and his wife, Lillian, who joined in 1924, according to the Cotillion Dance Club’s history documents. It was a time of frivolity when the couples would mingle and cut a rug with their friends. These took place once a month on the first Tuesday of the month, meeting at the former Elks Hall for an evening of wonder and excitement. 46 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

Joyce and Bob Goetz slide across the dance floor at the Austin Country Club.

Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 47

David and Sally Arrindell swing to the music.

48 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 49

The members of the Austin Cotillion Dance Club sit down for a meal before a night of dancing. Below, Dancer’s fill the floor during a meeting of the Cotillion Dance Club at the Austin Country Club.

“Everyone enjoyed the dancing,” Anderson shared. “It was remarked that when the band began to play, the forks were put down and all went to the dance floor.” Even during the wartime in the 40s, there was still good times had at the Cotillion Dance Club. Although sugar was rationed and considered “precious,” Anderson said that leftover sugar would be used for the following dance, and even at one point, a 10-pound sugar bag was raffled off as a prize during the event. By 1945, the membership had voted to allow military soldiers to come back to the club after serving in the war. There were no cocktails, and it was mostly focused on having a nice supper and dancing amongst decorations that adorned the dance halls and added to the festive environment. “The decorations for each dance were elaborate and a labor of love,” Anderson said. “Each entry of a dance described in detail the decorations, often done according to seasons or the holidays.” However, there was a tragic experience when the original Austin Country Club caught fire and burned to the ground. One of the current Cotillion Dance Club members, Merlene Stiles, was there when the flames erupted and escaped to see the building consumed. “It was quite scary,” she said. “Smoke was coming down and the whole thing burned up.” Still, they danced. Couples would go from one location to the next in different parts of Mower County including Taopi and Lansing Township and dance halls from all over the area. Eventually the club returned to the Austin Country Club after the new structure was built. 50 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

The Cotillion Dance Club has been dancing under its roof ever since.

A new generation? The future ahead Back in the early years of the Cotillion Dance Club, there’d be 50 couples and waiting lists to get a chance to dance. Tables were filled all the way to the fire place of the country club. “You couldn’t get in unless some couples dropped out,” Otto said. “So, you had to wait until someone made an opening by dropping out or passing away.” Now, there are about 20 couples still dancing away the night away. Several singles also mingle with their friends and try to make a point in socializing once a month when the Cotillion Dance Club convenes, such as Dr. Richard Nordin, who has been a member since 1958, when he would attend the dances with his late wife, Gloria “It’s really fantastic,” Nordin said. “I come for the fellowship.” Although there aren’t too many younger couples who come out to dance, the Cotillion Dance Club encourages those who love to dance to come out and cut a rug with them, especially with the 100th anniversary coming in June. The Austin Big Band has already been lined up as the main act. Despite generational differences, the one thing that connects everyone together through the Cotillion Dance Club is just that ... dance. “Some of the dancing that takes place may not be familiar to young people, but they seem to like what we do,” Anderson said. “It’s very unusual to have a 100-year-old club, but it’s a wonderful evening out.”

Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 51

52 | Austin Living | Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019

40 Years in the Fight

After four decades, Lyle Area Cancer Auction still putting up the numbers STORY

Wilson Shirk shows off a cardinal sculpture to a bidder during the Lyle Area Cancer Auction this year.

AND

PHOTOS

ERIC JOHNSON

Marchâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 2019 | Austin Living | 53

A golf ball on. Memories of those days come back when he goes to There is nothing overtly special about a golf ball. It’s nearby auctions doing the same thing, like the auction in small, covered with dimples and necessary for the game of Geneva. golf, but other than that, it’s just a golf ball. “I’ve been there a couple of times and believe me, But a golf ball turned out to be indicative of an event that it’s tight,” Ricke said. “The thing is they don’t have the for 40 years has been a major contributor to the fight against opportunity like we had. We get to use the building next cancer. to it.” That single golf ball sold for $850 and was just one of “And we fill both of them,” Slowinski added. the “Wow” moments experienced over the weekend at the As time moved on, the numbers steadily jumped 40th annual Lyle Area Cancer Auction Jan. 18-19. Garth higher to the point where the event hit the first millionBrooks tickets — two pairs’ worth — sold for hundreds of dollar mark in 2008. dollars; two racks of ribs sold for over $5,000. “I hope all the balloons fall right,” Ricke remembered Despite frigid temperatures and heavy snow, the auction thiinking when the celebration of the big moment raised $170,500, just short of last year’s total of just over started. “That was awesome. The place was on their feet they $172,000 and bringing it within striking distance of the were screaming coveted $3 million so loud. I swear target. to God I thought And it still that roof was may reach that going to come mark as donations off. It was keep coming in unbelievable.” and other totals Eight years from side events later, in 2016, the are tallied up. LAC broke the While the $2 million mark numbers continue and now, just to be staggering three short years each year for the later they are on auction, it really the verge of $3 comes down to a million. simple principle: Time tells the People wanting to The total board shows the amount of money raise after the tale of just how help. first day this. year, on the way to a total of just over $170,000. successful this “I remember auction really is. why I first was coming here,” remembers co-chairwoman and long-time volunteer Terry Slowinski. “People would come up and tell It’s about the volunteers their story, and that was always touching and that was what Ricke tells a story of how much volunteering means to the brought me into it. I want to do something for these people. I LAC and really, it puts the entire thing in perspective. want to help.” “One year I did a count because somebody wanted to It’s all anybody wants to do, as seemingly mundane items, know how many volunteers it takes to do this,” Ricke said. “So like our $850 golf ball, go for higher and higher prices. It’s all I asked each committee, the core ones, ‘Give me a head count for a cause that touches so many lives. of how many volunteers you guys had.’ It was over 400.” By way of comparison, Lyle’s population is around 566, Ricke said. Time tells the tale There are the core committees that organize the event, Forty years for one event is a long time and certainly the but there are also the committees that form to raise the extra LAC has seen its changes over the years. Notably, the scale of money or to take on other challenges. the event forced the expansion from the Lyle American Legion “It changes all the time,” Ricke said. “The one year I to the adjoining town maintenance shed. Co-chairman Larry counted and it was 28.” Ricke remembers that being a game-changer. These groups are donating time and resources, and often “Moving into the maintenance building, that was a big, that’s just as important as the money that is raised. big one,” Ricke said. “The city of Lyle let us use that building Things like preparing the maintenance shed for the and that was huge.” auction, which in recent years has been done by Agri-Steel, Ricke remembers years of standing room only in a Inc., of Lyle. building that could hardly contain everything that was going 54 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

Andy Bissen bids from the back of the maintenance shed during this year’s Lyle Area Cancer Auction.

“We used to go down there on Wednesday and be there until 10, 11 p.m.,” Slowinski said. “Go back Thursday and do the same thing. Go back Friday and start the weekend. Them taking over and doing that is huge.” It’s indicative of the helping spirit by the community and those involved. “It’s not a little thing, but it’s somebody saying, ‘You know what, I can do this,’ ” she continued. “And to them it’s not a big deal to go in and spend that time, but for us it’s a huge deal. It comes Saturday night, we’re dead by 4 p.m. in the afternoon because we got halfway decent sleep those three nights and we’re not running on (empty).”

Carrying forward That excitement to help carries the event forward each year. Back in the early days, Ricke didn’t think it would become as big as it has, but it certainly continues to change.

“Now it’s unpredictable,” he said. “It’s an absolute blast. If you’re there for five minutes, you might be there at the wrong time, but if you’re there for five minutes at the right time, your experience is going to totally be blown away.” The LAC and those auctions like it are sharing in a struggle and they are sharing in stories of remembrance. It certainly isn’t going to stop as they are already looking ahead to next year. How that and subsequent events look after that is anybody’s guess. “It’s not up to us, it’s up to the community how far this goes,” Ricke said. “… everybody is touched by cancer; I don’t think it will ever quit. It might decline and it might go back up, it might go way up.” Regardless of how it goes, there is no denying the impact.

The Lyle Area Cancer Auction in full swing.

March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 55

Mike and Stephanie Postma took the trip of a lifetime when they rented an RV for a trip to visit Mike’s sister in Florida.

TRAVEL

Photo by Eric Johnson

- - - ROAD BY RENT - - Austin couple toured the United States in rented RV BY ROCKY HULNE • PHOTOS

SUBMITTED BY

For those who believe the journey is the reward, getting in an RV and trekking across the country is the best way to take a vacation. When Austin couple Mike and Stephanie Postma found out they could take an RV trip to Florida for a relatively inexpensive price, they jumped at the chance. The couple picked up an RV in Forest City, Iowa, last June and drove it back to Austin, before making a week-long, 2,200-mile trip to Orlando, Florida, where Mike’s sister lives. The vacation included stops in St. Louis, New Orleans and the Topsail Hill Preserve State Park in Florida. Mike was behind the wheel for the entire journey and was surprised by how easily the vehicle handled. “I’d driven a lot of things and I’d never driven anything quite like that,” Mike said. “We hit a squall in Florida and hydroplaned it for a couple of hundred feet. That was a little heart stopping. Mostly you had to be aware of the wind and it wasn’t too bad.” Mike found out about the relocation special for RVs when he lived in California a few years ago, and when Stephanie came forward with the idea of taking an RV trip, he decided to give it a try. 56 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

MIKE

AND

STEPHANIE POSTMA

Stephanie, who isn’t big into camping, liked the fact that an RV offers many of life’s modern advantages while on the road. The RV came with a generator, full air conditioning, a kitchen to cook in and a bedroom to sleep in. “I always wanted to go on an RV trip and I didn’t want to own one. I just wanted to rent one,” Stephanie said. “We never really went off-grid. I kind of liked how it felt like you had your hotel room with you almost. You kind of had this compact space that you came back to every night. It was a sense of home away from home and it was with you all of the time.”

A stunning panorama of a beach in Florida, taken during one of Postmas stops during their tour.

If they would have chosen to fly to Orlando, the Postma’s would have missed out on many of the highlights of their RV trip. They were able to hit up a casino and enjoy barbecued food in St. Louis, they tasted oysters in New Orleans and they dipped their feet on the white sands of a beach in Florida. Since they didn’t tow a vehicle, Mike and Stephanie used public transportation or ubers to get around. “We really did have a good time. Ours was a little more urban camping,” Mike said. “We’d definitely do it again. It would really be amazing to do a west coast national parks tour. You could hit so many places. The cool thing is you don’t have to drive back. You can take the full week and a half to get out there and then you fly back.” Mike and Stephanie Mike’s eyes were open by the Postma take a amount of RV parks, especially in selfie beneath the Florida. It was surprising to him Gateway Arch in St. Louis. to discover there is a whole group of people who live out of their RVs for parts of the year. “We realized there’s a whole lifestyle of people who live this way. They travel and live in the RV full time,” Mike said. “They’ll get somewhere and then put out their little family flag with their name on it. Central Florida has some huge RV parks where people go for the winter.” Mike said the RV traveled at a solid speed, and as long as he and Stephanie kept groceries in the vehicle, they never had to worry about finding a place for food or supplies. The couple had to be careful where they parked the RV, they had to watch for low hanging trees and they made sure that they never backed it up without a spotter. It was a unique experience for the Postma’s to camp on a beach in Florida. “It was a very natural feeling. There was a spot where there was a big beach we could go all by ourselves,” Mike said. “I could see the appeal for people who love RVs. We’ve camped before, but to do the Florida version with sand in your toes was kind of nice.”

IF YOU PLAN ON GOING Apollo RV has some great options for safe drivers and open-minded vacationers. The company, which is based out of Australia, has plenty of options for low-cost RV relocations, where customers pick up an RV at a factory and drive it across the country to the dealer. For people in the Austin area, a highly affordable RV rental is a short drive away in Forest City, Iowa away. From there, you will have an RV from 22 to 33 feet for a maximum of four people with the option of taking it to San Francisco, Denver, Las Vegas, Seattle, Orlando or New York. The cost of the RV rental ranges from $5 per night for April to $50 per night in June. The customer is responsible for fueling the vehicle and getting it to its drop-off location within a range of two to three weeks. After a few hours of waiting at the RV lot in Forest City, Mike and Stephanie Postma were given a 26-foot RV that they were able to take to Orlando, Florida. “As you got there, they handed them out. Some were smaller than others and some were a little bigger,” Stephanie said. “It was kind of luck of the draw. If you had a bunch of people, everyone may not have a bed. You make requests, but when we got there, they only had five RVs left.” Mike said that he saw people all over picking up RVs in Iowa. “What surprised me is the amount of people who knew about this and that were doing it. A lot of them were from overseas,” Mike said. “They were flying in from England and Germany.” While Mike or Stephanie didn’t have any experience with RVs, they were taught how to use one from a quick training class at the RV lot and they were given a manual. “It’s kind of amazing that they give you a little training and then they give you this vehicle and say ‘see you.’” Stephanie said. “You’re liable for any damage so you’ve got to take really good care of it.” Depending on the package, a non-refundable deposit of $500 may be required to secure the booking. For more information visit: www.apollorv.com/iowareloc.aspx March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 57

LOOKING BACK

City officials joined the effort to pave some of the city streets with creosote wood blocks around 1913 or 1914. The wood blocks were often used on streets where street noise was a worry because they absorbed more sound than cobblestones. Left to right: City Clerk Frank Cronin, Fire Chief Nels Johnson, Austin Daily Herald Editor John Skinner, Alderman Charles Riley, Fred Gleason, John Hare, Louis Shepley, Mayor A.C. Page, Ralph Crane, Alderman Ira Padden, George Umhoefer, Sheriff Nick Nicholsen, Gunder Teeter, Grant Bailey, and City Engineer Oscar F. Weissgerber.

The Fox Hotel hack, which delivered passengers back and forth between the hotel and the railroad depot. Charles Fox opened the hotel in October 1894 where Wells Fargo is located today.

In the 1890s, Austin Steam Laundry was operated by T. Burnham and was “well equipped with all modern machinery necessary for turning out first class work” and was often operating at full capacity. Mr. Burnham employed 15 people and boasted customers from as far as 100 miles away. In the early 1900s, Louis Andrew took over the business and was known for his fine service and prompt delivery. 58 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

Dirt roads and rain where dangerous combination for delivery wagons. This wagon is mired in deep mud on Oakland Ave. between 4th and 5th streets in 1900.

Grain Belt Beer delivery wagon in front of the Austin branch. The Minneapolis Brewing and Malting Company was formed in 1890. It became the Minneapolis Brewing Company in 1893 and they started producing “Golden Grain Belt Old Lager.”

The original horse power

Hormel Dairy Brand Pork Sausage wagon, ca. 1900.

Early Austin transportation powered by equine might BY JAIMIE TIMM, MOWER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY • ALL Before the automobile became a common sight on local roads, Austin businesses made their deliveries via horse-drawn wagons. The “clip-clop-clip-clop” of horseshoes on the cobblestones or the creak of a wagon on unpaved roads announced an incoming delivery or approaching salesman. People also used horse-drawn wagons as a form of transportation between places like the train depot and a hotel. Paved roads, which Austin began working on in the early 1900s, made it easier for horses to pull their heavy loads, but also served as the beginning of the automobile takeover.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE

MOWER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Northwestern Fuel Company delivery wagons.

March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 59

Feb. 27-March 3

“The Game’s Afoot”

When: 7 p.m. (Feb. 27-March 2) and 2 p.m. (March 3) Where: Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College Danger and hilarity are non-stop in this murderously funny whodunit set during the Christmas holidays in 1936. Broadway star William Gillette, admired the world over for his leading role as Sherlock Holmes, has invited his fellow cast members to his Connecticut castle for a weekend of revelry. But when one of the guests is stabbed to death, the festivities in this isolated house of tricks and mirrors quickly turn dangerous. It is then up to Gillette himself, as he assumes the persona of his beloved Holmes, to track down the killer before the next victim appears. Season tickets $50 or $13 for this show. For more information, go to www.riverland.edu/theatre or call 507-433-0595.

March 7

First Thursday Events - A Taste of Spam Town

When: 5-7 p.m. Where: Spam Museum Eat. Drink. Shop Austin by trying some of the Spamtastic recipes of our local vendors, then browse and shop in our neighbor’s stores. For more information, call 5070-434-6401.

March 8

Austin Artist Series - Tapestry (Carol King Tribute)

When: 7 p.m. Where: Knowlton Auditorium, Austin High School Fourth concert in Austin of the 75th season of one of the largest and longest running artist series in the Midwest. Subscription tickets available starting Sept. 4 through the website www.austinartistsseries.org. Tickets also include access to the season’s concerts in Osage, Iowa and Albert Lea. For more information, call 507-440-6030 or 612-272-8653.

March 9

Third Annual All You Can Eat Steak Dinner

When: 5-8 p.m. Where: American Legion Post 91 Dinner includes salad, baked potato, green beans, dessert and coffee - plus gun raffle and live auction. Tickets $20 in advance or $25 at the door ($10 for ages 10 and under). Proceeds shared by American Legion Post 91 and American Legion Riders’ Bob Kvam Memorial Scholarship. For more information, contact Roe Naylor at 507-438-5804.

March 13-17

MACT Fest 2019

Where: Riverland Community College Minnesota Association of Community Theatres Festival brings together theater groups from all over the state to share their talents in short presentations throughout this multi-day celebration. For more information, call 507-433-0376.

March 15-17

45th Annual Austin Home and Vacation Show

When: 3-8 p.m. (March 15), 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (March 16) and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (March 17) Where: Packer Arena Annual expo featuring many vendors offering a variety of products and services of interest to homeowners and travelers. Interested vendors should contact Power 96/KQPR at 507-373-9600. 60 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

Winter is turning to spring, and there are plenty of things to do to pass the time. All dates, times, and locations subject to change.

April 4

First Thursday Events - Sensory Awareness (An Autism Awareness Event) When: 5-7 p.m. Where: Spam Museum Come learn about the special interests of our Autistic and other special needs community members. For more information, call 507-434-6401.

April 6

2019 Taste of Nations

When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Where: Packer Arena Celebrating our cultural heritage with information, food samples, dance performances, music and art from all over the world. This is a free community event. For more information, email herve@austinwelcomecenter.org or call 507-434-2863.

April 9

Austin Artist Series - Sons of Serendip

When: 7 p.m. Where: Knowlton Auditorium, Austin High School Last concert in Austin of the 75th season of one of the largest and longest running artist series in the Midwest. Subscription tickets available starting Sept. 4 through the website www.austinartistsseries.org. Tickets also include access to the season’s concerts in Osage, Iowa and Albert Lea. For more information, call 507-440-6030 or 612-272-8653.

April 25-28 “Camelot”

When: 7 p.m. (April 25-27) and 2 p.m. (April 28) Where: Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College Lerner and Loewe’s Camelot brings the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table to life with an extraordinary score boasting such gems as “If Ever I Would Leave You,” “I Loved You Once in Silence,” “The Lusty Month of May,” and of course, “Camelot.” Arthur, a young, ambitious, idealistic king dreams of creating a just society inspired by his vivacious Queen Guenevere. Together, they create a kingdom where might works at the service of right and the king serves at a round table with no head--a symbol of collaboration and unity. But just as this utopian vision starts to become reality, everything begins to unravel. In a world of human realities, can Camelot achieve the utopia of which Arthur dreams? Season tickets $50 or $16 for this show. For more information, go to www.riverland.edu/theatre or call 507-433-0595.

April 27

National Wrestling Hall of Fame, Minnesota Chapter, Awards Banquet

When: 1 p.m. Where: Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center Social hour from 2-3 p.m., silent auction from 3-4:30 p.m., banquet at 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 507-433-1000.

April 28

Ninth Annual Taste of Mower County

When: 4-7 p.m. Where: Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center Enjoy unlimited tastings of signature items from the finest home and restaurant chefs in Mower County and the surrounding area. Evening includes food and wine tasting, live and silent auction, door prizes, entertainment, and cash bar. For more information, call 507-433-8994 or go to www.thearcmc.org.

Austin ArtWorks Center For more information, call 507-434-0934. • March 2 . . . . . . • March 9 . . . . . . • March 9 . . . . . . • March 12 . . . . . • March 16 . . . . . • March 22 . . . . . • March 23 . . . . . • March 28 . . . . . • March 29 . . . . . • March 30 . . . . . • April 4 . . . . . . . • April 6 . . . . . . . • April 11 . . . . . . • April 13 . . . . . . • April 13 . . . . . . • April 13 . . . . . . • April 15 . . . . . . • April 19 . . . . . . • April 20 . . . . . . • April 27 . . . . . . • April 30 . . . . . .

$5 Kids Studio, 10:30 a.m. $5 Kids Studio, 10:30 a.m. Family Art Studio, 1-3 p.m. Kolrosing Class (Woodwork), 10 a.m. $5 Kids Studio - Spring Decoration, 10:30 a.m. ArtRocks Open Jam Session, 7 p.m. $5 Kids Studio, 10:30 a.m. Oil Portrait Painting Class, 11 a.m. Youth Show Gallery Opening, 5-7 p.m. $5 Kids Studio - Fox Painting on Canvas, 10:30 a.m. No Press, No Problem - Gelatin Printmaking Workshop, 5:30 p.m. $5 Kids Studio, 10:30 a.m. Basic Wheel Throwing Class (Clay), 5:30 p.m. Felting Daisies Class (Textiles), 10 a.m. $5 Kids Studio, 10:30 a.m. Family Art Studio, 1-3 p.m. Sandy’s Pop Up Shop, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ArtRocks Open Jam Session, 7 p.m. $5 Kids Studio - Easter Mobile, 10:30 a.m. $5 Kids Studio - Unicorn Painting on Canvas, 10:30 a.m. Watercolor Botanicals Painting Class, 6 p.m.

Austin Public Library For more information, call 507-433-2391. • April 26-27 . . . Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Movie Matinee and Movie Night at the Paramount Held every Wednesday at 3 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m., unless noted otherwise. Tickets are $5; no advance ticket sales. For more information call 507-434-0934. • March 6 . . . . . . • March 13 . . . . . • March 20 . . . . . • March 27 . . . . . • April 10 . . . . . . • April 17 . . . . . . • April 24 . . . . . .

“Raiders of the Lost Ark” “Galaxy Quest” “Labyrinth” “Dead Poets Society” “Gone With the Wind” “Casablanca” “Singing in the Rain”

Mower County Historical Society For more information, call 507-437-6082. • March 21 . . . . . Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation, 5:30-8:30 p.m. • April 25 . . . . . . Lunchbox History Series: “Austin’s Own Pulitzer Prize Winner - Richard Eberhart” with Guest Speaker Sue Grove, noon • April 27 . . . . . . Clean-Up Day, 9 a.m. to noon

Jay C. Hormel Nature Center RSVP for the following programs by phone at 507-437-7519, by email at info@hormelnaturecenter.org, or in person at the Interpretive Center. • April 13 . . . . . . Friends and Volunteer Appreciation Event Jamie Lynn Concert, 2-4 p.m. • April 27 . . . . . . “We Are Water MN”: Traveling Exhibit Opening

Classic matinee movies every Tuesday at 2 p.m. Library Tech Tutoring every Wednesday from 10:30-11:30 a.m. and Thursday from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Free Cross Country Ski and Snowshoe Rental every Thursday (weather conditions permitting) from 3-6 p.m.

Hormel Historic Home

Austin Bruins Schedule

For more information, call 507-433-4243. • March 2 . . . . . . • March 11 . . . . . • April 1 . . . . . . . • April 8 . . . . . . . • April 14 . . . . . .

Kids Music in Motion featuring Ecumenical Bells, 10 a.m. History Happy Hour - Bizarre Minnesota History, 6 p.m. ASD Parent/Caregiver Network Event, 6 p.m. History Happy Hour - 1940s Baseball in Austin, 6 p.m. Stepping Out for Autism Walk, 1-4 p.m.

Events at the Paramount For more information, call 507-434-0934.

• March 1 . . . . . . Tonic Sol Fa, 7:30 p.m. • March 9-10 . . . Northwestern Singers - Roadtrip USA, 7:30 p.m. (March 9) and 2 p.m. (March 10) • March 16 . . . . . Katie McMahon - Celtic Rhythm, 7:30 p.m. • March 30 . . . . . Austin Big Bang - A Tribute to Nat King Cole, 7:30 p.m. • April 5-7 . . . . . Matchbox Children’s Theatre presents “The House at Pooh Corner,” 7 p.m. (April 5-6) and 2 p.m. (April 7) • April 14 . . . . . . Forte Milers Barbershop Chorus, 3 p.m. • April 27-28 . . . St. Andrew’s Sisters - Just a Little UnCONVENTional, 7 p.m. (27) and 2 p.m. (28)

Go Bruins! Schedule includes home games only, played at Riverside Arena. Tickets available at the door, Hy-Vee, Games People Play, Holiday Inn and Jim’s Market Place. For more information, call 507-434-4978. • March 1-2 . . . . • March 8 . . . . . . • March 13 . . . . . • March 16 . . . . .

vs. Aberdeen Wings, 7 p.m. vs. Brookings Blizzard, 7 p.m. vs. MN Wilderness, 7 p.m. vs. Brookings Blizzard, 7 p.m.

Austin Masonic Lodge All You Can Eat Pancake Feed Enjoy a delicious all-you-can-eat pancake feed complete with bacon, sausage, juice, milk and coffee, while helping raise funds for local organizations. • March 2 . . . . . . Proceeds benefit the Banfield School Playground Committee, 9 a.m. to noon • April 6 . . . . . . . Proceeds benefit the Mower County Council for the Handicapped, 9 a.m. to noon

March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 61

STARS FROM THE PAST

BOOK REVIEW

PAGE TURNERS’S PICKED BOOK COMBINES A LOVE STORY WITH HISTORY BY HOLLY JOHNSON, AUSTIN PAGE TURNERS

There’s a lot to be learned from the 2019 Page Turners book selection. “Stars Over Clear Lake” by Loretta Ellsworth offers a little mystery, a little love story and a little history that will likely appeal to all readers. Each year the Page Turners selection committee chooses a book to bring the reading community together to explore a book written by a Minnesota author. Though originally from Mason City, Iowa, Ellsworth now lives in Lakeville, Minnesota, and is an award-winning author of young adult fiction. “Stars Over Clear Lake” is her first work for adults, and it features the rural Iowa setting of her childhood. Lorraine Kindred, the main character, is caught between living the life of a widowed woman in her 70s and mentally reliving her life as a teen in the war torn 40s. In the opening pages, the older Lorraine attends an event at the modern day Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, a place that is a key setting in the plot. However, when ghosts from her past start appearing to her, she is transported back to a time full of fear, heartbreak, and her own coming of age. The original Surf Ballroom of her youth burned down and she is one of a few living people who know the whole story of that tragic fire. When Pete, Lorraine’s older brother, joins other eager young men of his day and enlists to serve in World War II, the stability of the Kindred family starts to crumble. Pete leaves behind his bereft mother and his role as farm hand to see the world and defeat the enemy. Left shorthanded, his father 62 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

Loretta Ellsworth

decides to employ workers from the German POW camp in Algona, Iowa. The presence of the prisoners spurs a sense of fear and resentment in Pete’s mother, but Lorraine and her father grow to see them differently and to appreciate their help in keeping the farm running. Musically gifted, Lorraine loves to sing and enjoys going to see bands at the Surf Ballroom. After a few failed attempts at singing with the notorious bands that entertained at the Surf, such as the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, Lorraine loses confidence. However, an unconventional relationship with one of the prisoners of war leads her down a path that allows her to explore her musical talent. “Stars Over Clear Lake” sheds light on the uncertainty of wartime and how the expectations of the times limited people from reaching their potential and pursuing their dreams. A young girl befriends a German soldier who is just as afraid and vulnerable as she is. A mother loses a son and turns her back on her daughter. And the desperate prejudices of some cause the loss of a venue that brings joy to so many during dark days. However, in the midst of loss and sadness, hope can prevail. Love can conquer and it does so for Lorraine Kindred. I encourage you to read “Stars Over Clear Lake” to learn, to feel, and to be reminded that people are people no matter where they come from.

TURN THE PAGE If you like this book by Loretta Ellsworth, Bonnie Rietz suggests that you give these a read as well:

“Future Home of the Living God” by Louise Erdrich, another Minnesota author, is a bit unsettling but very intriguing and describes a rumor of martial law with a registry of pregnant women. It is definitely a page turner.

“Never Coming Back” by Alison McGee, yet another Minnesota writer, tells of a young woman with many questions coming back home after 10 years to care for her mom who has Alzheimer’s. It is fascinating to see how she gets the answers to her questions. March–April 2019 | Austin Living | 63

WHY I LOVE AUSTIN

Anna Meyer, life-long Austin resident and current girls basketball coach for Lyle-Pacelli girls basketball.

Community of relationships

Anna Meyer empowering local students, athletes BY ANNA MEYER, LYLE-PACELLI GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH PHOTO BY ERIC JOHNSON Why I Love Austin. The answer is simple … relationships. Relationships fuel every passion in my life and the reason why Austin is so great. A place to grow up and learn as a child and a great place to create a life as an adult. The most obvious and pure form of relationships stems from family. Teaching and coaching and are also strong avenues to form lasting relationships. There is no greater calling than to impact our youth and teens in positive ways and education and athletics provides that opportunity. 64 | Austin Living | March–April 2019

I was once told “the next best thing to playing the sport you love is to coach the sport you love.” Working with student athletes has become my greatest passion. Being an athlete is more than your physical ability. Being a true teammate involves a positive attitude, continuous effort, integrity and is constantly building and revealing character. I want my students to gain the skills necessary to become better, more accountable adults. I am very grateful to have been raised in a great community and will continue to look for ways to empower our local students and athletes.

HAVE A BETTER PORK-LIFE BALANCE.

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