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COUNCIL FOR THE
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Best from the Best Some of Mankato’s favorite businesses and professionals share business secrets, advice and insight.
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Best of Mankato
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Dining
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People
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Entertainment
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Shopping
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Goods/Services
The winners of the Mankato Magazine’s Readers Choice contest
A few of their favorite things ... Cindy and Craig Shirk, winners of the Readers Choice ballot contest, share a few of their own personal favorites in Mankato.
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6 From the Editor The best of Mankato: a milestone 10 Familiar Faces Bent River Outfitters 12 Artist Insight Mary Miller 38 Places in the Past Mankato Area Community Band 40 That’s Life Hank’s first job 42 From the kitchen Pack a perfect picnic 44 Things to Do, Places to Go Events to check out in July 46 Garden Chat Summer fraught with fretting 50 Happy Hour Cocktail time machine 52 Fashion Currents Another day, another collar 54 Good Health Helping seniors drive safer, longer 66 The Way It Is Pilgrimage to Omaha
Coming up in the August issue of Mankato Magazine ... Are you ready yet? Ready for the bell to ring, for students to take their seats and for class to get back in session? Though summer remains in full swing, August is when academic responsibilities begin creeping back into our collective conscience.
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To help get you in the mood, we’ll talk to some non-traditional students about how they prepare for school and to a few students who are getting ready for the Ivy League. Join us in August and we can wait for the bus together.
MANKATO magazine
July 2012 • VOLUME 7, ISSUE 7 PUBLISHER EDITOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR
James P. Santori Joe Spear Tanner Kent
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Nell Musolf Pete Steiner Grace Webb Marie Wood Jean Lunquist
PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Cross Pat Christman
PAGE DESIGNER
Christina Sankey
ADVERTISING MANAGER
David Habrat
ADVERTISING SALES
Cheryl Olson
ADVERTISING ASSISTANT
Barb Wass
ADVERTISING DESIGNERS
Aaron Tish Seth Glaser Sue Hammar Christina Sankey
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR
Denise Zernechel
Mankato Magazine is published monthly at 418 South Second St., Mankato, MN., 56001. To subscribe, call 1-800-657-4662 or 507-625-4451. $19.95 for 12 issues. For editorial inquiries, call Tanner Kent at 344-6354, or e-mail tkent@mankatofreepress.com. For advertising, call Cheryl Olson at 344-6390, or e-mail mankatomag@mankatofreepress.com.
6 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
From The Editor
By Joe Spear
The best of Mankato: a milestone
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here was a time not too many years ago that a “Best of Mankato” issue of a magazine may have been pretty thin. That’s no insult to those businesses and organizations that have been around a long time. We’ve always had notable places, people, businesses and events, but we just didn’t have a lot of them. Now, things are different. More and more there are plenty of notable places to eat, drink, have fun, and get good service in Mankato and the region. This month’s “Best of Mankato 2012” issue has a list of some 68 businesses, organizations, people and places that were voted by the readers of Mankato Magazine as being someplace or someone special. Some 500 total votes were cast and they were all hard copy, so duplicate computer voting wasn’t possible. Readers will recognize a lot of the winners. They’re hometown businesses run by locals who’ve been in for the long haul, are usually from Mankato or the region and have committed to their business, their employees and the community. Many have pretty interesting stories to tell about how they got started and what they ran into along the way. Some of these stories will surprise readers. For example, it’s interesting to note that Todd Snell, of Snell Motors, actually started out in the service department. It’s fun to hear the attitude that Najwa Massad, of Olives, Najwa’s Catering and Massad’s, takes toward running the family restaurants and catering service. She runs them like customers are coming to her house for dinner. You won’t always know what John Lowery is thinking of next when he cooks that perfect steak at Charley’s Restaurant, but at least you’ll get a little glimpse into the fine culinary approach of a longtime, experienced chef. You’ll be surprised by Sharon Sens, who wanted to do something fun in retirement and took on the challenge of Old Town Antiques. She’s got a few good stories too, some involving the White House and well-known Minnesota
music celebrities. You’ll find it interesting how Lynn Austin and his wife Darla have developed a car repair business that has come to be trusted by lots of longtime and repeat customers. Stories of Mankato’s top waitresses, barbers, lawyers and local bands also get the due they deserve in this edition. Many of these stories we might take for granted in today’s hyper-competitive business environment. Good service, good people and welcoming atmospheres are the norm nowadays to stay in business. But it’s always worthwhile as I say to my colleagues in management to “catch people doing something right.” Praise what works. Highlight the good. Acknowledge the mistakes and work to improve, but positive feedback often goes a long way toward improving a service or employee attitudes or professional approaches. So we hope this month’s “Best of Mankato” edition will highlight what’s going well in our community, people who are doing it right and have been for some time. It’s a good way to celebrate Mankato. And these are not stories we chose, but they are stories our readers chose. They are people who stand out and it’s easy to see why. M Joe Spear is editor of Mankato Magazine. Contact him at 344-6382 or jspear@mankatofreepress.com.
Printing more than just your everyday color!
July Almanac
This Day in History
July 2, 1863: Members of the First Minnesota Regiment bravely charge a much larger Confederate force during the Battle of Gettysburg, slowing the advance but suffering 215 casualties — 82 percent of the regiment, which stands to this day as the largest loss by any surviving military unit in a single engagement. The next day, remaining soldiers help repel Pickett’s charge, capturing the flag of the 28th Virginia Regiment in the process. That flag is still held by the Minnesota Historical Society and attempts by officials in Virginia to reclaim it have been repeatedly denied. July 3, 1863: Little Crow (Taoyateduta), a leader of the Dakota during the U.S. Dakota War of 1862, is killed while picking berries in Meeker County, near Hutchinson. He is shot by Nathan and Chauncey Lamson, who are unaware of his identity and collect a bounty of $500. July 16, 1862: Bishop Henry B. Whipple lays the cornerstone for the Cathedral of Our Merciful Savior in Faribault, the first Episcopalian cathedral built in the United States. On the following day, Whipple sets the cornerstone of the nearby Seabury Divinity School. Bishop Henry B. Whipple July 19, 1815: The Dakota, having sided with the British during the War of 1812, agree to end their hostilities with the United States. July 23, 1851: Wahpeton and Sisseton Dakota bands sign the treaty of Traverse des Sioux, near St. Peter. In the treaty, the Dakota relinquish title to their lands west of the Mississippi River, about 24 million acres, for $1,665,000 and a reservation for the Indians is set up in the Minnesota River valley. Problems with treaty payments would be one of the causes of the U.S. Dakota War of 1862. July 28, 1861: John A. Johnson, Minnesota’s first homegrown governor, is born in St. Peter. Johnson worked his way up from poverty to become editor of the St. Peter Herald. He was elected governor in 1905 and his oratorical skills would attract nationwide attention. He died in office in 1909, cutting short plans to make him the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee in 1912.
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1750 Northway Drive North Mankato, MN 56003 800-729-7575 8 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE www.corpgraph.com
Best of the Web
he internet now includes more than 600 million websites, according to recent estimates. That means that if you clicked on one per second, 24 hours per day, it would take more than 19 years to see every site. Since July is Mankato Magazine’s “Best of Mankato” issue, we thought it might be appropriate to give readers a few websites that have compiled the best of the web for us. TIME’s 50 Best Websites of 2011: Every year, TIME magazine compiles the 50 best websites of the year. The most recent list includes some old favorites as well as newcomers, including Proust.com (a kind of social media diary), 8tracks.com (a legal site that plays user-generated playlists) and BigThink.com (a blog and video site featuring intellectuals and distinguished thinkers). The Webby Awards: The Webby Awards were established in 1996 and given annually by the International Academy of Arts and Sciences. The latest contest included 10,000 entries from all 50 states and 60 countries. 100BestWebsites.org: This website regularly updates its list of the 100 best websites. A team of editors compiles the list based on 21 criteria. Some of them are quite surprising and many you never knew existed. A great way to causally browse the best of the internet.
Flag Etiquette
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n 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt codified the customs and rules governing the display of the flag of the United States of America. Though there are no specific punishments for breaking the rules regarding flag display, there is a lengthy list of guidelines. Here is a primer: • Flags should be displayed sunrise to sunset only; a flag may be displayed 24 hours if illuminated properly. • The flag should be hoisted “briskly” and lowered “ceremoniously.” • The flag should not be displayed in inclement weather, unless an all-weather flag is displayed. • The flag should be at the center and at the highest point of the group when a number of flags of states or localities or pennants of societies are grouped and displayed from a staff. • The flag should never be displayed with the union (the name for the blue rectangle in the upper-left corner) facing down, except as a signal of dire distress. • The flag should never touch anything beneath it (ground, floor, water, etc.) • The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free. • The flag should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding or drapery. • The flag should never be used to cover a ceiling. • The flag should never have placed upon it, nor attached to it, any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture or drawing of any nature. • The flag should never be used for advertising purposes. • The flag, when it is soiled, warn or unfit for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.
Said with pride A few patriotic quotes to commemorate the Fourth of July. “Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed — else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die.” — Dwight D. Eisenhower “In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt “For what avail the plough or sail, or land or life, if freedom fail?” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it.” — Thomas Paine
“Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.” — Abraham Lincoln
“We need an America with the wisdom of experience. But we must not let America grow old in spirit.”— Hubert H. Humphrey “You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism.” — Erma Bombeck
Familiar Faces
Photos By John Cross
A river runs through them Bent River Outfitters turns outdoor passion into business opportunity
Bent River Outfitters in Mankato formed between three families as a way to bring their own passion for the outdoors to the community. Pictured are (from left): Dain Fisher, Adam Steinke, April Femrite and Jason Femrite. Mankato Magazine: What’s the history of Bent River Outfitter? Who is behind the company, and why did it form? Bent River: Bent River was born from three families’ passion for the outdoors and wanting to share their experiences with the local community. Dain Fisher was approached by Adam Steinke in the winter of 2010 to see if this dream could become a reality. “Adam came into my office, I had only seen him around but never really met him. He said he heard my dad (Curt Fisher) and I knew the area rivers really well. His next question was, “If I buy a building, would you want to start an outfitter?” I said “I’m all in.” Adam and Jason Femrite were good friends and had shared many canoe trips to the BWCA and kayaking area rivers, so it was a natural fit to bring all three of these adventurous souls together 10 • June 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
to turn their hobbies into a business. April Femrite was brought in as general manager in March 2012 to handle daily operations since all three business owners have full-time professional careers in addition to Bent River. MM: Why the name “Bent River”? BR: The outfitter is named after our location in Mankato. We are at “the bend of the Minnesota River.” MM: What kinds of products/services does Bent River offer? BR: Bent River rents kayaks, canoes, snowshoes and stand-up paddle boards (SUP) and specializes in guided trips throughout the Blue Earth County river valley. We have a shuttle van and trailer to offer round-trip transportation service to several different river landings, which is a great convenience to paddlers.
We offer river guide service and custom outdoor activities for corporate outings, team building events, friend and family trips, youth groups and more. Our events and clinics include SUP and kayaking lessons, SUP Yoga, Full Moon Floats, Happy Hour Paddles, Women on the Water kayaking trips and Winter Winery Wonderland snowshoe hikes and vineyard tours. MM: What about in the winter? BR: We have adult and kid’s snowshoe rentals, guided hikes and snowshoe vineyard tours. We are looking at possibly adding cross-country skis, ice fishing and snowshoe races as well. MM: What about beginners? Do you offer lessons? And what advice would you give to a budding outdoor enthusiast? BR: Our passion is to get people outside and to have them comfortably enjoying the outdoor adventure scene. Our guided tours always start with a quick lesson on how to safely paddle a river. “I love taking first-timers down the Blue Earth River. The experience is incredible and most cannot believe this is right in their backyard. It is super cool to watch the progression of a newbie and the confidence it instills in that person long after the trip is over,” Dain said. We also offer SUP and kayak lessons through our scheduled clinics and are always willing to set up private group skills classes at their convenience. MM: What are some new trends in outdoor recreation? BR: Lake SUP, River SUP and geocaching are all areas that we plan on expanding upon over this next year. SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) is the fastest-growing water sport in the industry; it is a fun, easy way to go play on the water. With minimum equipment, you can learn to paddle on lakes and rivers within minutes — no waves required. Paddleboarding offers an amazing full-body workout and is becoming a favorite crosstraining activity for all athletes. MM: Where are your own favorite places in the region to explore the outdoors? BR: Locally: Blue Earth/Maple/LeSueur River Valleys, Seven Mile Creek, Minneopa Park, Kasota Prairie, and Ney Environmental Center near Henderson Within the state: Whitewater State Park, Forestville State Park, The North Shore, BWCA, and Itasca State Park. MM: What do you enjoy most about operating Bent River Outfitter? BR: Giving kids great outdoor experiences with their family. We love to see their smiling faces with a sense of accomplishment at the end of a river trip. We truly feel we can help people develop a lifelong love for outdoor sports. We all try to develop our skills and have a great time trying new things. Oh yeah, having access to a variety of outdoor equipment to use personally is a nice perk, too! MM: What is something we may not know about Bent River? BR: We all have river aliases; Jason is “Bernie,” Adam is “Donny,” Dain is “Ricky” and April is “Adrian.” There is no rhyme or reason, it’s just something fun, which is the foundation to our company.
In addition to guided river trips, Bent River offers a host of other outdoor activities, including snowshoed vineyard hikes in the winter and Stand-Up Paddleboard lessons throughout the summer, to name a few. MM: What’s next for Bent River? Care to share any plans for the future? BR: We are always thinking of ways to expand our business to offer more activities for people to enjoy. Some things that have been tossed around include a rock-climbing wall, ice-climbing trips, and Bernie’s Brew Wagon (or Paddle Pub). Plans are in the works to open a small retail shop with new and used outdoor gear within the next year. Lastly, we are designing our own line of durable river packs that we will market to outdoor enthusiasts. M MANKATO MAGAZINE • June 2012 • 11
Artist Insight
By Nell Musolf Photos
by John
Cross
Mary Miller began making rings as a way to cope with homesickness after moving to Mankato from Missouri.
Ring, ring Feeling a bit homesick in Mankato, Mary Miller answered art’s call Although she doesn’t look it, Mary Miller has reached the age of 81 and has achieved many accomplishments throughout her life. She raised five children, worked a variety of jobs from receptionist to meter maid and recently married for the second time 40 years after her first husband passed away. “I have been busy,” Mary said. “Raising five kids kept me very busy.” Mary was born in Iowa and lived in Missouri for the majority 12 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
of her adult life. Four years ago, she attended a class reunion where she reconnected with Lloyd Miller, a widower with five children of his own. The two were married shortly after and Mary moved from Missouri to Mankato. The active newcomer needed something to do, so she began looking. The something she found was creating rings out of jewelry that she has found at auctions, thrift shops and rummage sales. She began making the rings for her daughters and granddaughters but
the craft quickly became addictive. Her newly discovered artistic endeavor also helped keep homesickness at bay. “I do miss my children very much,” Mary said. “Making rings helps. This is my way of coping with not seeing them all the time.” It also helps that one of her stepchildren is Mike Miller, of Mike Miller Auctions. Mary credits Mike with helping her find many unique pieces of jewelry. Another plus is her new husband. Lloyd started Mankato’s first flea market many years ago and his experience has given him the ability to spot the right kind of jewelry for his wife to refashion into rings. In addition to being an ace antique hound, Lloyd has an artistic bent of his own. The house the couple shares has a unique stained glass window made by Lloyd gracing the front door. “Lloyd is a good artist and he does have an eye for jewelry,” Mary said. “He’s always finding new treasures for me to bring home.” Mary admitted that keeping her newfound pastime going can get a little spendy. Lloyd quickly agreed. “We’ll go to a thrift store or a rummage sale and when we get home Mary will say, “I only spent $20 today.” That’s true, but when you spend $20 every day for two weeks in a row, it adds up,” Lloyd said.
Mary Miller and her husband, Lloyd, enjoy going to flea markets, auctions and rummage sales to find materials for new rings. Mary makes her rings in a lower level studio of her home. She begins with premade ring bases that she purchases online or at a hobby store. She then takes the jewelry she’s selected and works with it until it’s ready to be glued to the ring. Quite often, she will break up a larger piece, such as a silver and turquoise belt, into several smaller pieces. “My daughter couldn’t believe I took apart that belt,” Mary said. “But I knew it would make a lot of nice rings.” Lloyd helps the process by grinding off rough edges with a small sander. He also helped her find the right kind of glue that would keep the rings holding together. The couples tried many different types before discovering an epoxy that was strong enough. “It’s a real joint effort,” Mary said. It’s also a nice way to spend an evening. “I’ll be making rings while Lloyd is right next to me watching something on TV,” Mary said, adding with a smile: “I have to say that I’d rather make rings than clean house.” Mary enjoys making her rings out of such items old earrings, buttons, necklaces and belts. She has found that jewelry from the Mary Miller started by making rings for her daughters and granddaughters.
1960s is especially good to work with. Newer jewelry, she noted, isn’t as well made. She also uses military buttons and has taken family jewelry and turned it into rings for children who want to commemorate their loved ones. She said that she can “see” rings in all kinds of different objects, such as the gold buckles she saw on a pair of shoes. Mary said that she enjoys the fact that the rings she makes are one-of-a-kind, or two-of-akind, objects. “If I buy a pair of earrings, I’ll get two identical rings out of them,” Mary explained. In addition to her rings, Mary has begun making hair accessories and decorates spoons with some of her auction house finds. “I love to find old spoons to decorate. The older the spoon, the prettier it is,” Mary said. The prolific octogenarian is toying with a new idea of making attractive centerpieces out of covered milk cartons that are then filled with artificial flowers and, yes, jewelry. “I’m always looking for ideas,” Mary said. M
MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 13
Celebrating a
Centur y Hill on the
1912-2012
Ice Cream Social & Open House
Sunday, July 15, 2012 ~ 1 to 4 p.m. ~ “Rain or Shine”
Egrounds and visit with sisters. Shop for unique handmade crafts. Tour the Our Lady of Good Counsel Campus, house lawn 170 Good Counsel Drive, Mankato, Minnesota
njoy delicious frozen yogurt while listening to Warren Streets. Walk the
chapel and experience organ demonstrations. Watch the children play in the bounce house and with bubbles! For more information, call 507-389-4212 or email jprahm@ssndcp.org.
Frozen treats sponsored by: Located next to Old Navy, Mankato, Minnesota
14 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
ssndcentralpacific.org facebook.com/ssnd.centralpacific
Best from the Best Mankato’s best have a lot to offer
A
s recession and economic strife have recently — and often painfully — taught us, owning and operating a successful business isn’t as easy as simply hanging an “Open” sign in the window. Some of the business chosen as Mankato’s best have been in operation for decades, their names carrying instant recognition and reputation. Others are relative newcomers, still carving out their brand in the marketplace. But they all have one thing in common: Customers and community members have recognized them for being a cut above the rest.
The winners were chosen through a write-in ballot distributed inside the April edition of the Mankato Magazine. Readers were asked to choose the best businesses, services and professionals in 68 different categories. The response was overwhelming. All of the businesses and professionals chosen as Mankato’s best have a story to tell. And though all of them can’t be told in this limited space, we hope you will enjoy a smattering of history, advice and business insight from those who are doing it best. Without further adieu, the Mankato Magazine presents: The Best of Mankato.
MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 15
dini Best Breakfast Winner: Perkins Second: Wagon Wheel Third: Baker’s Square
Best Lunch Winner: Panera Second: Olives Third: Applebee’s
Best Place for a Dinner Date Winner: Olives Second: Neighbor’s Third: Number 4 Submitted Photo
First Place — Olives Best dinner date restaurant Restaurateurs John and Najwa Massad never specifically intended for Olives to become the go-to spot for a dinner date. Rather, Najwa said the intent was to create a go-to spot for a good meal shared intimately with loved ones — just like the tradition at the Massad family table. “Gathering around the table is a very important time for our family,” Najwa said. “Our goal when we opened Olives was to give our customers a warm and intimate feeling when they walked in. As if they were invited into our home.” The family also operates Najwa’s Catering (the exclusive caterer for the Verizon Wireless Civic Center) and Massad’s in the River Hills Mall. Najwa shared this recipe for Taboulee, a “wonderful, refreshing salad” that is perfect for the summer months: 4 bunches of Italian parsley (or flat leaf), chopped 3 tomatoes, diced 1/4 onion, chopped fine Juice from 3 lemons 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1/8 cup cracked whea 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 Romaine heart for decorating and eating 4 sprigs of mint, chopped (optional) Put everything in a bowl, except the olive oil. Mix well then add the olive oil. Taste, add salt or lemon to your liking. Enjoy! 16 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
Best Family Restaurant Winner: Applebee’s Second: Perkins Third: Old Country Buffet
Best Ethnic Food Winner: El Mazatlan Second: Mexican Village Third: Yu’s
Best Bakery Winner: Hy-Vee Second: Panera Third: Tandem Bagels
Best Fast Food Winner: Culver’s Second: McDonalds Third: Chipotle
ing Best Frozen Dessert Winner: Culver’s Second: Dairy Queen Third: Cold Stone Creamery
Best Hamburger Winner: Five Guys Burgers and Fries Second: Culver’s Third: Guenther’s Cafe
Best Steak Winner: Charley’s Second: Pappageorge Third: Grizzly’s
Best Seafood Winner: Red Lobster Second: Charley’s Third: Pappageorge
Best Deli/Sub Shop Winner: Subway Second: Erbert and Gerbert’s Third: Jimmie John’s
Best Coffee Winner: Dunn Brothers Second: Caribou Third: Panera
Best Pizza Winner: Jake’s Stadium Pizza Second: Pagliai’s Third: Dino’s Pizzeria
Photo by John Cross
Charley’s Restaurant & Lounge First place — Best steak John Lowery knows a thing or two about cooking a steak. The executive chef at Charley’s Restaurant in Mankato has nearly four decades of culinary experience. He moved to Mankato in the fall of 2011 after spending much of his career in Florida, cooking everywhere from Disney World to fancy hotel restaurants. Since arriving at Charley’s, however, Lowery has gone far beyond steak. Recent menu items have included wild boar with juniper berries, alligator ribs (shipped overnight from Florida), Peking duck and Maine lobsters. Soon, he said, he might try an eggplant dish, and a ratatouille. But make no mistake. Mankato loves its steak. “It’s our main entree item,” he said. Lowery has featured a dish in which he stuffs a steak with crab and gin; another that includes sauteed Portabella mushrooms with a “flash of brandy and red wine” and finished with an au jus reduction (pictured above). The broadly smiling man who said he wakes up every morning knowing “it’s going to be a great day,” shared these steak-cooking tips: • Don’t rush: Lowery said the biggest mistake people make is rushing the meat by pressing it: “Let it savor in its own juices.” • Spice it up: Don’t be afraid to use spices while the meat is cooking. And, he said, be creative with vegetable add-ons, from roasted red peppers, asparagus and baby bok choy to deep-fried rosemary and sauteed fiddlehead ferns. • Don’t butterfly: Cutting open a steak to check if it’s done is another guaranteed loss of flavor. Better to use your best judgment, and use an oven to finish the job if it’s too rare. MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 17
Mary McClure First place — Best insurance agent
Becoming the people’s choice for Mankato’s best insurance agent hasn’t been an easy road for Mary McClure. A woman in a male-dominated industry, McClure became an agent in 1979, a partner in the McClure, Kemp and Associates insurance firm in 1996 and now is the principal for the firm. She has served industry associations at the local, regional and national levels. Photo by John Cross The Mankato Magazine asked McClure a little bit about her rise to the top and the industry in general. MM: What led you into the insurance industry? What prompted you to pursue this career? McClure: I was a secretary for a State Farm agent (yes, we were called secretaries back then) in 1976. Commission is a great equalizer for women and I went out on my own in 1979. It was hard being a female in this male-dominated industry, but I was determined. Most would say I still am. MM: For many, the insurance world is complex, difficult to navigate and more than a little intimidating. What advice can you give to people who are going through the process of choosing an agent and choosing the right policies for them? McClure: Find an agent you trust. When that claim happens, you want to have an advocate and one that made sure they explained your options for coverages and limits when you purchased the insurance. There are a lot of ifs, ands or buts in an insurance contract. MM: The McClure Insurance Agency has been in business for more than three decades. What do you think that says about you and your agency? McClure: Our tag line is: “Your best insurance policy is a good agent.” We do whatever we can to live up to that.
peopl Best Florist Winner: Hilltop Florist Second: Hy-Vee Third: Becky’s Floral
Best Waiter/Waitress Winner: Graetchen Heelan — Famous Dave’s Second: Layla Pappas — Pappageorge Third: Alissa Haney-White — Wagon Wheel
Best Family Physician Winner: Dan Anderson — Mankato Clinic Second: John Benson — Mankato Clinic Third: Richard Fleming — Mayo Clinic Health System
Layla Pappas Second place — Best waiter/waitress Layla Pappas holds no secrets. T h e co-owner/ operator of Pappageorge’s Restaurant and Bar said keeping a restaurant in business comes Photo by John Cross down to one mantra: “You have to have your heart and soul in it.” Layla and husband Jay — better known as “Flip” — are continuing a tradition that began with Flip’s great-grandfather, Michael Pappageorge, who immigrated from Greece (changing his name to Pappas stateside) at the turn of the century. The Pappas fine-dining lineage carried through Michael’s Restaurant in Mankato and Maggie’s Cafe and Saloon before settling down at 18 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
Pappageorge in 2007. “This,” she said, “is all we know how to do.” While Flip handles cooking and the kitchen, Layla is the face of the establishment. In its relatively short existence, Pappageorge’s has earned a devoted customer base — and Layla knows almost all of them. She remembers their kids, their jobs, their usual orders. And they know her, too. She keeps pictures of her own children in her serving apron, always ready to showcase them for those who ask. “It makes people feel good when you ask about their new baby or their new job,” Layla said. “You have to like people.” If she does have one secret to being a good waitress, Layla said it’s learning how to handle stress and surprises. A good waitress, she said, can clear plates, refill cups, take orders and chat with customers — all while maintaining composure. “It takes a ton of multi-tasking skill,” she said. “And common sense, too. Some of the most brilliant people in the world can’t be a server.”
ople Best Photographer Winner: Gregg Anderson — Gallery 19 Second: Daniel Dinsmore — Daniel Dinsmore Photography Third: Ruth Francour — Quality 1 Hr. Foto
Best Chiropractor Winner: Mark Dehen — Dehen Chiropractic Second: Keith Kuch — Kuch Chiropractic Third: Teresa Marshall — Mankato Chiropractic
Best Insurance Agent Winner: Mary McClure — McClure Insurance Agency Second: Lonnie Bristol — State Farm Third: Sonny Telshaw — American Family
Farrish Johnson First place — Best lawyer
Scott Kelly joined the Farrish Johnson Law Office in 1973. The attorney and resident historian for the firm joked: “I’m older than a lot of the furniture around here.” Yet, he’s far younger than the firm’s rather storied history. Established in 1893 by Harrison L. Schmidt, brother J.W. joined in 1900 — making it Minnesota’s 10th-oldest law firm. Since then, it has garnered more than its share of notoriety. In 1926, Charlotte Farrish joined the firm and was an immediate trailblazer. At the time of her graduation from the University of Minnesota law school, she was the first woman to earn membership in the Order of the Coif, a prestigious law school honor society. Farrish found work at Schmidt’s firm — but only after agreeing to work an entire year without pay. She quickly became a well-respected attorney and, during World War II, provided counseling to the clients of attorneys who were serving in the war. When they returned, Farrish returned their clients. Kelly worked alongside Farrish until she retired in 1989. “She was never bitter,” Kelly said of Farrish’s attitude toward her uphill climb into the courtroom against sexist stereotypes. “She was always a pleasure to be around.” The firm has produced two Minnesota Supreme Court chief justices in Henry Gallagher (1937-1944) and Robert Sheran (1963-1970). It has also brought nearly 230 cases to the appellate courts, a “phenomenal” number that Kelly said speaks to the longevity of the firm. More recently, a trio of Farrish Johnson layers — Kelly, Randall Knutson and Daniel Bellig, along with Minneapolis attorney Samuel Hanson — were named 2011 Attorney of the Year by Minnesota Lawyer for their involvement in a case that helped set new guidelines for the collection and dissemination of infant blood samples.
Lynn Austin/Austin’s Auto First place — Best auto mechanic First place — Best auto repair Submitted Photo
From their first shop in a three-stall gas garage in Mankato in 1979, Lynn and Darla Austin have been in business together. Lynn runs the shop, Darla runs the books and their ever-present shop companion — a Bichon Frise named Isabella — runs the welcome wagon. In business together for more than 33 years, the husband-wife duo said business is still good: “There really isn’t a ‘secret’ to keeping our customers coming back. It’s quite simply treating our customers as we would like to be treated if we were in their shoes. We’re honest, work hard and hope they know we enjoy what we do and having the opportunity to service their cars.”
Lynn shared this advice for do-it-yourself mechanics: • Be aware of your car: Check your fluid levels and tires monthly. Make sure your fluids are full and clean and that your tires are properly inflated and wearing evenly. Learn how to check and fill the fluid levels for your vehicle or have them checked by someone who can. • Get rid of debris: Keep the vents around the windshield free from leaves, stems and other debris. These things can find their way into the car’s heating system and contaminate the heater core and other components. MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 19
people Best Dentist Winner: Daniel Osdoba — Oz Family Dentistry Second: James Simpson — James Simpson Family Dental Third: Gary Eichmeyer — Commerce Drive Dental
Best Accountant
Dr. Dan Anderson First place — Best physician
Dan Anderson joined the Mankato Clinic in 1990. Since then, he has garnered a reputation as a thorough, caring and attentive family physician. Anderson said he chose family practice over other more specialized, and perhaps lucrative, areas of medicine because his father was also a family physician in his hometown in Nebraska. “I just noticed that touching all aspects of patient care seemed to be the best fit for me,” Anderson said. As a family physician, Anderson sees a variety of patients and health care concerns that “cover the entire spectrum of medicine.” In some cases, he even serves multiple generations of the same family. The Mankato Magazine asked him to offer his best advice for families who want to get healthier together: “The best way to maximize your family’s health is with lifestyle choices. Introducing eating habits to keep weight down and exercising at least five times per week is a good start. Parents need to take an active role in their children’s eating habits throughout the high school years, as well as making sure they stay physically active year-round.”
Winner: Gene Braam — Braam Accounting Second: Jeff Lang — LarsonAllen Third: Jody Swanson — Swanson Hinsch and Co.
Best Realtor Winner: Karla VanEman — American Way Realty Second: (tie) Patty Pherson — Re/Max; Lisa Fitterer — Re/Max Third: (tie) Dan Wingert — NuStar Realty; Dick Norland — Midwest Realty
Submitted Photo
Gregg Anderson’s Gallery 19 First place — Best photographer Gregg Anderson is a dreamer. “Imagination is my fuel,” said the owner of Gallery 19 in Mankato, who described his dream photo as a collaborative video of all the world’s people joining hands and singing John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ in their native language. “I have big dreams.” Anderson describes himself as living on the edge and making his own tracks. Whether it’s a photo shoot for a graduating senior, a portrait of blushing newlyweds or a patiently framed nature shot, Anderson finds plenty of inspiration in his viewfinder. “I immerse myself into creating one image at a time,” he said. “Photography is a lifestyle for me and I live for today.” 20 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
Gregg Anderson shared these tips for hobby photographers: • Practice: “Shoot, shoot and shoot some more. You can always edit the rejects,” he said. • Get an iPhone: “It will be the best combo camera/video system you can own.” • Shoot wide: “You can always crop, but you cannot add what is not there.”
Entertainment Best Place to Take the Kids Winner: WowZone Second: Sibley Park Third: Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota
Best Golf Course Winner: North Links Second: Terrace View Third: Mankato Country Club
Best Happy Hour
Best Local Band
Winner: Pub 500 Second: Tav on the Ave Third: Buffalo Wild Wings
Winner: City Mouse Second: Steve Murphy Brothers Third: Powerhouse
Best Radio Show
Best Park
Winner: TJ and Lisa — New Country 93 FM Second: Pete Steiner — KTOE 1420 AM Third: Dan Rivet — KTOE 1420 AM
Winner: Sibley Park Second: Spring Lake Park Third: Minneopa State Park
City Mouse First place Best local band
Submitted Photo
In their 40 years of gigging, City Mouse has stayed true to playing American roots music of blues, country, folk and rock. Now labeled as Americana, the style is resurging here and nationwide. “It’s a flashback to what we were doing in the ‘60s and ‘70s,’ said Billy Steiner, City Mouse frontman. This Labor Day, Steiner will experience another ‘70s flash-
back. For the fourth time, City Mouse will share the stage with Little Feat, their favorite band of all time, at the Vetter Stone Amphitheater in Riverfront Park. The first time they opened for Little Feat was at the 1973 Rapidan Music Festival. For acoustic guitarist Ron Arsenault, his fondest memories with City Mouse are playing outdoor festivals such as Rock Bend Folk Festival and People’s Fair. At Rockin’ in the Quarry, they played Steiners “Moonlight Baby” with the Mankato Symphony Orchestra. “I’m an old folkie. To have all those strings behind us is a power that nobody should have,” said Arsenault. City Mouse was a revolving door of Minnesota musicians early on, but for the past 25 years the band has been the same six guys. “We really play better together. You just breathe together,” said Steiner.
WOW! Zone First place — Best place to take the kids A group of 20 kids are armed with a laser gun and issued a glow-in-the-dark vest. They enter a dark room, but their vests aren’t glowing yet, so they sneak into a hiding place behind a pillar or wall. Then it’s game on and their vests begin to glow. They fire their lasers around pillars and through portholes, trying to tag other players vests or guns. Solo or as a team, they can defend their bases and destroy opponents’ bases in a spaceage setting. When the game’s over, their world domination is calculated into points to determine a winner.
It’s just another typical night at Mankato’s WOW! Zone, owned by Doug and Pam DeMarce. Outside the multi-level laser tag arena, the arcade lights up like Las Vegas. Kids swipe their cards and use their skill to earn points to buy super balls and whoopee cushions at the prize counter. Add 24 lanes of cosmic bowling and Wowzer’s Sports Bar and Grill, and families have a blast at the WOW! Zone. “People work very hard and they need to take time to play,” said Pam. MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 21
Pub 500 First place — Best happy hour Just what is in that Southwest dipping sauce for Pub 500’s homemade potato chips? Jay Reasner, operating partner of Pub 500 in downtown Mankato, will never tell. “I have friends that have asked, but I won’t tell them,” said Reasner. Even if you are one of the nearly 1,000 friends who like Pub 500’s Facebook page, you won’t learn the special sauce recipe, but you will find out about upcoming music, trivia and community events as well as what’s on tap.
Recently Pub 500 posted, “We now have two new summer beer choices! Click and friend Pub 500 to find out which ones.” Pub 500 has rolled out many new kegs of micro brews for 5 p.m. happy hour tastings. Earlier this year, they tapped Mankato’s Original. Pub 500 posted to friends: “Be one of the first people on the planet to try Mankato Brewery’s new beer!” In 19 minutes, Pub 500 emptied the first keg of Mankato Original. “We have a good happy hour crowd, but there’s always room for a few more,” said Reasner.
Submitted Photo
North Links Golf Course First place — Best golf course Local golfers have a love-hate relationship with North Links’ signature hole 7, a long 520-yard par 5 with a pond right before the green. As golfers make their approach to the green, they have to clear the pond. Many golf balls don’t make it. “I know a lot of people don’t like that hole, but I enjoy it,” said Josh Gates, who has worked in the pro shop at North Links for four years.
Every season, the pond on hole 7 claims hundreds of golf balls, noted Gates. That’s why “SCUBA Steve” comes out once a year to clean out the pond. It takes him a whole day to dive and collect every golf ball by hand. This 18-hole public golf course is also known for its rolling greens, which Gates describes as “tough.” “You’re never going to get a flat putt on our greens, which is kind of neat,” said Gates.
Sibley Park First place — Best park With a colorful history of fairs, a horse racetrack and a zoo of exotic animals, Sibley Park has been Mankato’s signature park since 1887. Today, families enjoy recent improvements including the Storybook Farm petting zoo and playground. With a gazebo, trails, and beautiful gardens, Sibley Park has been a popular site for strolls, weddings and photos. Sibley Park landscaper Kevin Dardis is 22 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
often asked how he makes the annual flowers look so nice. “All I say is water. Watering is the most simple and basic thing to do,” said Dardis. Dardis advises watering gardens two to three times a week and hanging baskets daily. When you water, penetrate down into the soil, about four to six inches. Dardis tells his seasonal help to stick their finger into the soil and if the tip of their finger is wet, that’s enough water.
Submitted Photo
TJ and Lisa First place Best radio show
When TJ first met Lisa, she was hosting a local morning show and TJ was working mid-days. “I knew she was a very friendly, easy-toget along with person, a lot like me,” said TJ. As co-workers they learned they had the same sense of humor. After 12 years as a morning show team — now on New Country Minnesota 93.1 FM — they finish each other’s sentences. “We’re the male and female versions of each other,” said Lisa. For the record, TJ and Lisa are not married to each other. They are married to other people. Lisa likens their relationship to one of brother and sister. “You have to get along. You’re literally locked in this room together for four hours a day,” said Lisa. “We don’t argue as much as we should,” said TJ, which he credits to their ability to compromise and be flexible. Their spouses harbor no jealousies of TJ and Lisa’s on-air partnership. When they host events together as “TJ and Lisa,” their spouses are often in attendance. “Sometimes those two are sitting back laughing at us,” said TJ. “The roots will go where the water is. ... If you water down deep in the soil, the roots will be stronger and healthier,” explained Dardis. Next time you visit Sibley Park, check out the renovated rock garden and patio on the hillside. City workers laid over 70,000 reclaimed cobble stone pavers from city streets.
Shopping Meyer and Sons TV and Appliance First place Best appliance store Meyer and Sons hasn’t strayed far from its roots since opening in 1931. The family business has always been located in Mankato’s downtown core. And it has always prided itself on a level of service and expertise that bigger and boxier retailers can’t match. The Mankato Magazine caught up with third-generation owner Rich Meyer for a few questions about what sets Meyer and Sons apart. Mankato Magazine: What has kept Meyer and Sons in business since 1931? Rich Meyer: Personal attention to our customers. Repeat business; some don’t come back for 10 to 20 years — but they come back. And, in many cases, are greeted by the same sales person or service tech. MM: What is the advantage of buying appliances from Meyer and Sons, as opposed to other retailers? RM: Experience, loyalty and honesty from our staff. MM: What is something people may not know about Meyer
and & Sons? RM: We say 1931 as an anniversary date for Mankato. Before moving to Mankato, my grandfather had a store in St. James in the mid ‘20s. It was Photo by John Cross called Meyer Electric and it sold Frigidaire appliances. We are recognized as the seventh-oldest Frigidaire dealership in the world.
Old Town Antiques First place Best antique store
Photo by Tanner Kent
After retiring from her job as a supervisor at what is now HickoryTech, Sharon Sens “needed something different.” “I wanted to do something fun in my twilight years,” she said. She’s found it sitting behind the front counter at Old Town Antiques, the Riverfront Drive enclave of the rare, collectible and kitsch. She has 44 vendors within its confines and hosts occasional events with authors and musicians. A woman whose confident charisma is
as distinct as the silver jewelry she wears on her neck and wrists, Sens said it’s her customers who keep her excited to
open shop every morning. She’s even had a few brushes with celebrity. When former President George W. Bush visited Mankato in 2004, the Air Force captain responsible for overhead surveillance purchased wine glasses and cordial glasses for his friends back in Washington, D.C. She showed him her White House cookbook circa 1898, but refused his offer to buy it.
In 2003, Lori Line and her band spent a few hours Christmas shopping. And in 2007, the Purple One himself walked through the door. As it went, the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame in New Ulm was inducting the notoriously mercurial musician into its ranks. Prince never arrived in New Ulm for the induction, and Sens isn’t sure why. But she knows he signed her guestbook: “Symbolina was here.” The woman he was with signed also: “I was too.” Such stories, Sens said, are reason enough to not give up her perch behind the counter anytime soon. “It’s a fun business,” she said. “Rewarding, enlightening — it’s just a great time here.”
MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 23
Snell Motors First place Best new car dealership Snell Snell Powersports and Equipment First place Best power sports dealer
Photo by John Cross
The Snell brand began as an Oldsmobile dealership on South Front Street in 1951. What was known then as Brakke Oldsmobile has since been passed from Don Snell to son Todd, who assumed ownership in 1999. Since then, the car dealership has built the largest indoor showroom in southern Minnesota (43,000 square feet) and sells about 1,600 vehicles a year. In 2009, the Snell Auto Wash opened. In 2010, Snell Powersports and Equipment opened after Todd had an epiphany when his lawnmower broke down: “Everywhere I took it for a repair quoted between a four- and six-week turnaround. I knew my grass wasn’t going to stop growing for that length of time. This proved the need for small engine repair in the area, specifically with a quick turnaround time.” Snell Powersports is now the largest Arctic Cat Wildcat dealer in the Midwest 24 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
and retails a variety of outdoor items, from lawnmowers and marine accessories to apparel. The Mankato Magazine asked the local car magnate to recall his first sale: “My first sale was in 1978 to one of my best friends — it was a yellow Pontiac Grand Prix with a landau roof. At the time I had mostly been working on the service side of the business, but my dad (Don Snell) let me step in and do this sale and help out my friend. What came out of this experience was a feeling of accomplishment because my friend loved the car. He got so emotionally excited about buying this car — something that I made happen and was a part of. This first sale was a game-changer for me because it was a total happy experience and charged me. I knew that if I could make customers excited about buying a vehicle and help them find the right one, that I’d be happy as well. It made me tick. “Since that time, I learned that the car business is way more complicated than I could’ve ever imagined. We’ve grown from 28 employees to now almost 200 — that kind of growth adds a lot of extra layers and dimensions to an organization. Once I really stepped into the business with my dad, I quickly realized how each department within Snell is like running a small company — and our departments continue to grow and multiply. Times aren’t as easy as they used to be, so I feel like I got into the business at just the right time. I love this industry and the growth opportunities.”
shop Best Antiques Winner: Old Town Antiques Second: Save Mor Jewelry Third: Antique Warehouse
Best Appliance Store Winner: Meyer and Sons Second: DeGrood’s Third: Sears
Best Phone Store Winner: Verizon Second: Sprint Third: AT&T
Best Furniture Store Winner: Earl Johnson Furniture Second: Slumberland Furniture Third: Rooms and Rest
Best Grocery Store Winner: Hy-Vee Second: Cub Foods Third: Aldi’s
Best Jewelry Store Winner: Exclusively Diamonds Second: Williams Diamond Center Third: Patterson’s Diamond Center
Best Liquor/Wine Store Winner: MGM Liquors Second: Hy-Vee Third: Cub Foods
Best Meat Market Winner: Schmidt’s Meat Market Second: Hy-Vee Third: Hilltop Meat Market
pping Best New Car Dealership Winner: Snell Motors Second: Heintz Toyota Third: Mankato Motors
Best Women’s Clothing Winner: Herberger’s Second: Kohl’s Third: dressbarn
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Best Men’s Clothing Winner: Kohl’s Second: Matt J. Graif Third: J. Longs
Best Powersports Store Winner: Snell Powersports and Equipment Second: Scheels Third: Starr Cycle
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Best RV Dealership Winner: Keepers RV Center Second: Gag’s Camper Way Third: Kroubetz Lakeside Campers
Best Tire Store Winner: Tire Associates Second: Discount Tire Third: R and R Tire Shop
Best Home Entertainment/ Home Electronics Store Winner: Best Buy Second: DeGroods Third: Sam’s Club
MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 25
Goods/services Best Auto Body Repair
Best Cabinetry
Winner: Jerry’s Body Shop Second: Gary’s Body Shop Third: Heintz Toyota
Winner: Cherry Creek Cabinetworks Second: Acorn Custom Cabinetry Third: Menard’s
Best Auto Repair Winner: Austin’s Auto Repair Center Second: The Service Rack Third: Autotronics
Best Bank
Best Computer Repair Winner: Geek Squad Second: Geeks 2 U Third: Computer Renaissance
Best Construction Company
Winner: Wells Fargo Second: Nicollet County Bank Third: Affinity Plus Credit Union
Winner: RW Carlstrom Second: Goodrich Construction Third: Deichman Construction
Best Barber
Best Employment Agency
Winner: Y Barbers Second: Mark’s Belgrade Barber Shop Third: Nate’s Barber Shop
Winner: Express Employment Professionals Second: Manpower Third: Jeane Thorne
Y Barbers First place— Best barber Larry Thompson is proud of the fact the he is just the sixth owner of one of Mankato’s oldest continually operating businesses. “You get to know so many people,” he said. “Hell, I know we’ve helped sell a house or two, or a car or two, between customers. ... But we don’t take a commission.” Y Barbers takes its name from its first location in the basement of the old YMCA building at the corner of Second and Cherry streets. The business moved several times in its 108-year history, from South Front Street (next to Harold’s Shoes) and the basement of the JCPenney building, to its current home in the Mankato Place Mall Everywhere it’s been, Thompson said, the barbers within have been proud to display the trademark pole outside. 26 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
“It’s a tradition that goes back to the medieval times,” said Thompson, a certified master barber who has cut hair in six different decades. “The barber pole is earned.” Fresh out of high school and encouraged by a cousin who’d found work in a barbershop, Thompson got his first job in St. Paul in 1967. In 1974, he heard about an opening at a shop in Mankato. Interested in a smaller city and slower pace, Thompson won the job during an interview at the old Stone Toad bar — the only place he’d ever been in Mankato. “The Old Clipper” has been at Y Barbers ever since. And, he’s got no plans to move on just yet. “It’s the people,” he said. “Wealthy people, poor people, we have one guy that’s been coming 80 years. ... It’s been a fun ride.”
Best Heating/Air Conditioning Service Winner: Schwickert’s Second: Davis Comfort Systems Third: Northern Comfort
Best Massage Winner: Liv Aveda Salon and Spa Second: Indulge Salon and Tanning Third: Healing Touch
Best Hotel/Motel Winner: Hilton Garden Inn Second: Country Inn Third: Best Western
Best Nail Salon Winner: Nails by Jordan Second: Liv Aveda Salon and Spa Third: Kim Nail and Spa
Best Fitness Center Winner: YMCA Second: Anytime Fitness Third: Curves
Best Tanning Salon Winner: Indulge Salon and Tanning Second: Electric Beach Third: Ultra Tan
Best Travel Agency Winner: Travel and Cruise Center Second: AAA Travel Agency Third: Emerald Travel and Cruises
Best Rental Store Winner: A to Z Rental Second: Just Ask Rental Third: G and K Rental
Best Specialty Printing Winner: Insty Prints Second: Paragon Printing Third: Carlson Craft
Steel Electric First place (tie) Best electrical contractor
Photo by Tanner Kent
Travel and Cruise Center First place Best travel agency
The Travel and Cruise Center in Mankato opened in 1961. Since then, the company has been helping vacationers get where they want to go around the globe — including their guided trips with local celebrities such as Barry Wortel and Pete Steiner. The Mankato Magazine spent a few moments with manager Bonnie Thompson to ask about the best parts of the job. MM: What is something people may not know about the Travel & Cruise Center? BT: We have been in business since 1961 and have over 90 years of combined travel agent experience. MM: Are there particular destinations or travel packages that Travel and Cruise offers that folks can’t find anywhere else? BT: The several group tours we host and lead to many popular destinations each year, including Ireland, New York, Boston, Branson, Mo., beach resorts and cruises. MM: What advice do you give to people who are planning their first big vacation? BT: Prioritize your interests and the Travel Center will custom fit a vacation you will truly enjoy. MM: What do you enjoy most about working at the Travel and Cruise Center? BT: Assisting our clients plan their adventures and hearing that they have now become lifetime memories.
Something about Steel Electric has proved alluring for the Seys boys. Steve Seys got his first job with Marv Steel when he was 18 years old, purchasing the business from his one-time boss in 1985. Seys’ sons, Adam and Aaron, both went to work with dad as soon as they were able. In 2011, the brothers bought the business and now operate the company themselves. “Aaron and I were both led to the electrical field because of our dad,” Adam said. “He always had a reputation of good, clean work and that is how we were trained in on the job.” The pair of brothers said they enjoy a challenge and stay up to date on the latest energy-efficient technologies. “LEDs and CFLs,” Adam said, referencing the acronyms for the latest energy-saving lightbulbs, “are two new things that we are trying to incorporate
into people’s homes.” Adam Seys offered this tip for do-ityourself homeowners: “One call we get a lot and could be easily done by the homeowner is a tripped GFCI receptacle. Typically, we get a call where the customer has no power in the garage. So, we ask over phone if they have looked to reset the GFCI, if there is one. Either they can’t find it or don’t know what to look for. Nine out of 10 times ... we find the GFCI and it is tripped.” Where to look: Look in the garage first. If it’s not there, Adam said the GFCI can be located in a bathroom or in the basement next to the electrical panel. How it works: The power goes to the GFCI receptacle and, when not tripped, lets the power through that receptacle to the receptacles down the line from it, and so on. When tripped, the power stops at the GFCI and you have no power down the line.
Ploog Electric First place (tie) Best electrical contractor
Photo by John Cross
In recent years, Ploog Electric has expanded well outside its Madison Lake confines. Owned and operated by father-son duo Bernie and Troy Ploog, the company has grown its reach into Mankato and beyond while also expanding services. Bernie focuses on service and agricultural calls while Troy handles primarily new-home construction. They split commercial duties. Each of them manages their own crew and bids, works and bills their own jobs. The company has about 10 employees. “We have been very lucky to find
dedicated employees who understand our vision and do what it takes,” Troy said. The Mankato Magazine also asked Troy for the secret to operating a successful family-owned business. MM: What’s the secret to running a successful business alongside loved ones? Are there rules for what to talk about, or not talk about, at the family dinner table? Troy: Owning a family business isn’t easy, but I think it’s critical everyone keeps focus on what’s really important: family. Maintaining a balance between work and family has, and always will be, difficult. There are times when I don’t see my kids and wife enough. We love what we do, which is why we both still work on the job site every day. That calls for office time to be in the evenings and weekends. It’s not unusual for jobs to be discussed at dinners and holiday celebrations. We probably should have rules, but we don’t. MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 27
Liv Aveda First place — Best massage First place — Best beauty salon Liv Aveda wants to pamper you — in greenwise fashion, of course. For the Mankato salon and spa with more than 55 employees, “being ecofriendly and environmentally conscious is part of who we are as a company,” said Magen Feuchtenberger, general manager. She notes that Aveda products boast naturally derived ingredients and the salon uses only biodegradable and compostable cups for the beverages it offers to guests. Liv Aveda also uses cloth towels instead of paper towels and have parted with some spa treatments that did not use natural resources efficiently. Liv Aveda celebrated its 10th anniversary in Mankato in March 2012. The Mankato Magazine asked the Liv Aveda staff to
share some style and relaxation tips for readers. From Hilary Cowdin, salon lead and stylist: “This season texture is in. Try to find the best ways to work with any natural wave or curl you may have. There are so many products to choose from that work with different hair types. Even adding a braid to your style can add a textured look for anyone.” From April Olfert, spa lead and massage therapist: “My advice for relaxation at home is to use aromatherapy. You can use your favorite aroma and drop it into a nice warm bath or put it on your pillow when you sleep at night. Take a few deep breaths and you’ll feel the stress leave your body.”
Hilton Garden Inn First place — Best hotel/motel Everything looks a little different from the top of the Hilton Garden Inn. The slated-for-demolition Gage Towers on the Minnesota State University campus notwithstanding, the Hilton Garden Inn’s ninth floor might provide the area’s best aerial view of Mankato and North Mankato. In each corner of the floor is one of the hotel’s “four-corner” rooms, each offering a balcony with a spectacular vista of the river valley, or of downtown Mankato. Also on the ninth floor is a fully-loaded
board room for businesses and meetings that overlooks downtown. “It’s pretty all-inclusive,” said Steve Tacheny, the hotel’s general manager. The board room can expand into a second room if needed and includes all the standard audio and visual capability as well as other amenities such as a projection system. Tacheny said the room is available for groups in town, but is primarily used by out-of-towners and for wedding receptions.
Best Carpet Cleaners Winner: Shine Way Second: Vanderberg Cleaning Service Third: ServiceMaster
Best Beauty Salon Winner: Liv Aveda Salon and Spa Second: Indulge Salon and Tanning Third: JCPenney
Best Car Wash Winner: Kwik Trip Second: Gerring’s Mankato Car Wash Third: Snell Auto Wash
Best Electrical Service Winner: (tie) Ploog Electric; Steel Electric Second: (tie) Schwickert’s; Volk Electric Third: (tie) Javens Electric; Fischer and Hoehn Electric
Best Plumbing Service Winner: Jordan Plumbing and Heating Second: (tie) Paul’s Plumbing and Heating; Stuve Plumbing Third: Schwickert’s
RW Carlstrom First place — Best construction company No doubt you’ve seen RW Carlstrom’s work around town. The third-generation family construction business is the company behind such buildings as the St. Peter Community Center, Mayo Clinic Health System-Andreas Cancer Center, Bethany Lutheran College’s Honsey Hall, MinnStar Bank and the Riverside Regional Pet Center, to name a small few. The company was founded in 1945 by Robert W. Carlstrom and passed down to sons Jon and Lee Carlstrom. Grandson Ian Carlstrom and Scott Umhoefer took over 28 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
in 2004 and continue to work on projects both large and small. They pride themselves on the fact that 90 percent of their business comes from repeat customers. MM: Are there any projects that were particularly rewarding? How so? Scott Umhoefer: I think that the most rewarding projects are the facilities that are challenging in terms of budget, schedule or construction type. Working with the owner, architect, and subcontractors to successfully meet those challenges is very rewarding.
MM: What kind of feeling do you have when a project is finished and you take a step back to view what your team has accomplished? SU: Relief — just kidding. You always have a sense of pride. However, what you might not know, is that many times when we finish a project, it can leave you with a sense of missing the work, the people involved, and the intensity that comes from the running of a project on a daily basis. Projects become a large part of your life. M
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Reflections
By John Cross
30 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
Thanks to modern transportation and refrigeration, there is no such thing as “out of season” when it comes to the things available in the fresh produce aisle of a modern grocery store. For a price, pretty much any kind of vegetable or fruit can be had year-round. Nevertheless, home-grown still has the connotation of being just a little bit better. And come July in Minnesota, there is nothing that can compare with locally grown sweet corn straight from the field. Some would argue that today’s hybrid sweet corn varieties are imbued with enough natural sugars to eat without butter. But most of us still would prefer our corn slathered with melted butter and chased with just a dash of salt to bring out the best in this sweet taste of summer.
MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 31
A few of their
Favorite Things... By Nell Musolf | Photos by Pat Christman
Cindy and Craig Shirk enjoy strolling through their West Mankato neighborhood. Mankato’s many parks and trails are just one of the reasons they love Mankato.
MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 33
“Restaurants and Lancers and excellent educations/Trails and Band and Minnesota Valley Winds. the Y and a freebie vacation/These are a few of our favorite Then there’s eating out. things ...” “As for restaurants we like many ll right, so Mankato Magazine’s Readers Choice contest of them — too many to list,” Cindy winners Cindy and Craig Shirk didn’t break into song says. “One in particular that I like is while discussing what they like best about living Mankato, 101 Main in the Mankato City but the sentiment was there. Center Hotel. They The couple reports that in have the best soups and “No matter if you’ve their popovers and addition to the many items they listed on their prizetoast are to die lived here your entire life garlic winning entry, there are even for.” more things that make in the When not eating out, or are about to start your Mankato area a special and shopping or following unique experience. journey here, the Mankato the Lancers, the Shirks The Shirks have lived in like burn off those area will embrace you,” restaurant calories by Mankato since 1977, a length of time that Craig feels makes working out at the Craig said. them “technically” locals. YMCA and occasionally Craig hales from Bricelyn and walking on the trails in Cindy grew up in Farmington. the area. More often “Our son and daughter are both college graduates now,” Cindy they can be found taking walks in says, “and they were born here, so we’ve had roots planted in west Mankato. Mankato for a long time now. We met at St. Cloud University and “Sometimes we’ll walk the trails moved to Mankato when Craig started working as a planner at but more often we enjoy looking at the Region Nine Development Commission and I taught music at all the unique and interesting houses. SS Peter and Paul school.” We also bike ride south of town on The couple stayed in Mankato for many reasons. the trail along County Road 90,” “Our kids were born here and it was always fairly easy to visit Craig said. both extended families during the holidays,” Craig said. “We were As winners of the ballot submission also very impressed with the Mankato school system, particularly contest (one readers choice ballot our children’s elementary school, Jefferson, and West High was selected to win a three-day School.” vacation), the Shirks will have the Cindy has been a part of the school system for many years. She opportunity to fly to a destination of currently teaches seventh and eighth grade band at Dakota their choice. So far, they haven’t Meadows Middle School and before that she taught vocal and decided what that destination will classroom music in District 77 and elementary music at SS Peter be. and Paul. The Shirk’s children, Ryan and Laurie, had their mom “We’ve been thinking about it a for a teacher when they were in both middle school and high lot,” Cindy said. “We’d like to go to school. either the west or east coast.” “The District 77 schools are a great benefit to the Mankato Possibilities include visiting the area,” Craig said. “The post-secondary schools offer great areas where Secretariat trained and opportunities for our own graduates as well as students from the raced in Virginia and Kentucky. Or region and beyond.” they might go to see the wild horses Mankato’s health care system is another plus for the Shirks and of Shackleford Banks in North also makes the list as one of their favorite things. The abundance Carolina. Or perhaps San Francisco, of shops and restaurants is something else the couple appreciates. a spot the couple visited on their “River Hills Mall has made the Mankato area a Mecca for 25th wedding anniversary. Whatever shoppers — many who used to travel to the Twin Cities for the destination the Shirks choose, it’s a same retail and entertainment experience,” Craig said. safe bet that they’ll be happy to Both Cindy and Craig enjoy music so the variety of musical return to Mankato. experiences offered in Mankato has definitely enhanced life for “No matter if you’ve lived here the couple. your entire life or are about to start “We sing in the chamber ensemble Musicorum and also sang your journey here, the Mankato area for many years with the Minnesota Valley Chorale,” Craig said. will embrace you,” Craig said. M Both of their children were Lancers and the Shirks consider the marching band “great ambassadors” for the Mankato community. They continue to follow the Lancers whenever they can. They also attended numerous concerts over the years for such groups 101 Main Restaurant, located in the as the Govenaires, the Echoes, Southern Minnesota Real Big City Center Hotel, is one of the Shirks’ favorite Mankato restaurants.
A
34 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
36 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
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Place
in the
Past
By Grace Webb
Striking up the Band & e History of the Mankato Area Community Band
members decided they were good enough to form a real band. Heine Udelhofen was the band’s first director, and members received matching uniforms in the early 1930s. The band continued to play together until the 1960s, but then membership dwindled. The band looked like it might slowly disappear, until members found a unique solution.
Different name, same band
Photo Courtesy of Blue Earth County Historical Society
The Mankato Area Community Band began as the Elks Club Band. Pictured is the Elks Club Band marching in the 1925 Fourth of July parade. Mahowald’s Hardware is in the background.
T
he group of 30 or so men shuffled impatiently, holding their horns and trumpets. Ahead and behind them, other groups of men also waited. They could hear the crowds of people lined up along Main Street, waiting for the parade to start. It was the annual Elks Convention, held every year in Atlantic City, N.J., and the parade was the most popular part. This year, 1922, was the first that the Mankato Elks Club had sent a band to represent them. Then came the signal every band member was waiting for: The parade was about to start. Heine Udelhofen, the Mankato band’s director, raised his arm to snap his musicians to attention. They looked solidly united and professional. Only one thing seemed out of place: While all the other bands were dressed in military-style uniforms, the Mankato Elks Club hadn’t been able to find uniforms yet. Instead, they were going to march down Main Street in matching bathing suits. 38 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
A long history of music
e
Community bands have a long history within American towns and cities. Minnesota began seriously forming community bands around the 1850s. The Mankato Area Community Band wasn’t the first. One of the city’s earliest bands was the Mankato Saxhorn Band, which formed in 1862, and, by 1875, Mankato had at least four community bands. “(These bands) were a constant ingredient to any and all forms of civic celebrations,” said Clayton Tiede, an occasional guest conductor of the Mankato Area Community Band and founder of the Mankato 77 Lancers marching band. The Mankato Area Community Band grew out of this love of community music. The band started in the early 1920s as part of the Mankato Elks Club. Members would stay after meetings and play their horns together. After the informal group of musicians took first place at the ElksConvention in Atlantic City, the
As the band lost members in the early 1960s, Elks members knew they had to change something in order to preserve their music group. They approached the city of Mankato and pitched a plan to turn the Elks band into a municipal band. Thus the Mankato Area Community Band was born. It was around this time that the steady summer concert series was set up. For years, the band has performed at Sibley Park every Tuesday through June and July. Other events include tuba concerts, featuring 20 tubas playing at once, and Pie in the Park, a fundraiser tiein with the 77 Lancers in which Lancers perform with the band and Lancer parents sell pie and ice cream to the audience. “The whole purpose of the band was to meet in the summer and play in the summer,” said former band director Ed Stock, who directed the band for 29 years and also performed with his tuba. “We talked about playing around throughout the year, but other bands fulfilled those (needs).” The band has about 50-60 members now, including professionals and simple music lovers. The youngest member is only 12 years old, while other members are past 80. Anyone can join and no auditions are required. The band plays a wide variety of music, from classical and rock and roll to themed concerts such as Broadway musical pieces and children’s marches.
“If people come, I think they’ll find something they like,” said Martha Lindberg, a 15-year performer with the band. The band’s most popular event is its Fourth of July concert. The concert features guest soloists, both vocal and instrumental, and other musical groups often perform as well. This year, it will be held in Lincoln Park on July 3. “All of the Fourth of July performances were always great fun because we always had huge audiences,” Stock said, adding that usually around 200-400 people attend.
Marching with pride
The Mankato Elks Club musicians couldn’t help but grin as they marched along Main Street. They certainly were entertaining the crowd, though they weren’t sure if it was more because of their excellent rendition of “Wang-Wang Blues” or because of their bathing suits. They were pleased just to be there, something most members had never imagined as they sat at their clubhouse and played around with their brass instruments. And when the parade ended and their band won first place, well ... that just ended the day on a perfect note. M
Photo by Tanner Kent
The Mankato Area Community Band plays 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday night at Sibley Park through June and July.
That’s Life
By Nell Musolf
Hank’s first job “Do you have everything you need? Do you have your wallet — your cell phone —” With only the slightest roll of his eyes, my then 15-year old son Hank replied, “Mom, I have everything. I’m fine. I’ll see you later.” Bouncing out of the car, he disappeared through the pair of plate glass doors that led to his first job interview. Staring after him until his blue shirt walked down a long carpeted hallway and faded from my view, I sat behind the steering wheel, unable to drive away. This summer job was something Hank wanted and something that my husband and I wanted, too. Hank spent the previous summer lying around the house, watching television, playing electronic games, ignoring my suggestions that he clean his room and basically bored beyond belief. When the opportunity arose for him to apply for a summer job, we encouraged him go for it. So why was I feeling as if I was watching my right arm walk away as I watched him head for his first interview? Slowly, I put the car into park, lingering as long as I could, just in case Hank reappeared, needing me for something. As I waited,
I thought back to when Hank was in elementary school. I remembered how every day when I left him in his first-grade classroom, Hank would pick up his desktop and pretend to be furiously looking for an eraser or a piece of paper. But looking back from the doorway, I knew better. He was trying not to come unglued. So was I. I also remembered the day Hank impressed his pre-school teacher with his printing skills. “Where did you learn to print so nicely?” his teacher asked him. Hank looked up at her with all the wisdom of a 4-year old. “I may look young, but I wasn’t born yesterday,” he told her. The thing is, it seems like just yesterday to me. Those early years rush past so fast. Babyhood, toddlers, and then suddenly school. How can it go by so fast without making more noise? Childhood is such a flurry of activity. It seems impossible to me that all that color and chaos can slip away so silently. We should be breaking the sound barrier daily. Instead, the days melt away like popsicles, leaving me to wonder if they ever really happened. But I know they did. I remember them every time I come across a homemade Valentine or a grade school photo, complete with missing front teeth and hastily combed hair. They happened. They were real. These days are still sweet, only in a different kind of way. Now my role as a mom has become a supportive one instead of the lead. I’m fading into the background, like an aging diva. My children still need me, only not nearly as much as they once did. I was still sitting in the car when Hank emerged 15 minutes later. Opening the door, he climbed in. “Thanks for waiting for me,” he said. “You didn’t have to.” “I wanted to,” I told him. “How’d the interview go?” “Pretty good,” he replied. “I start next week.” My baby’s first job. Putting the car into gear, I wondered if maybe we could manage some way to break the sound barrier before the next week arrived. M
Nell Musolf is a mom and a freelance writer from Mankato. 40 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
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From
the
Kitchen
By Family Features
Pack a perfect picn F
ood always seems to taste better when enjoyed outdoors. No matter the occasion or location, these packable, snackable recipes are foods fit for a fabulous picnic.
Bean Salad Stuffed Shells
Preparation Time: 20 minutes • Makes 6 servings 1 can (15 ounces) three- or four-bean salad 12 jumbo pasta shells 1/2 cup cubed (1/4-inch) cheese (see note) 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, parsley, chives or a combination Coarsely ground black pepper Additional herbs 1. Drain bean salad; discard liquid. 2. Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain; rinse in cold water and drain well. 3. Combine bean salad, cheese and herbs. Add black pepper, as desired. 4. Spoon bean mixture into shells. Sprinkle with additional herbs, as desired. Serve immediately or chill. Note: Use smoked Gouda, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or other favorite cheese.
Picnic Sandwiches with Beet-Mango Slaw Preparation Time: 20 minutes • 6 servings
1 jar (16 ounces) sliced pickled beets 1-1/2 cups cabbage slaw mix 3/4 cup cubed mango (about 1/4-inch cubes) 1/4 cup sliced green onion 2 to 3 tablespoons prepared vinaigrette Baguette or other loaf, plain or multigrain (about 21 inches x 3 inches) 1 package (4 ounces) creamy goat cheese or other spreadable cheese 1/2 pound thinly sliced deli roast beef or turkey 1. Drain beets well; discard liquid or save for another use. Coarsely chop beets; reserve 1/2 cup for Pink Lemonade (see recipe to follow). 2. In large bowl, toss together slaw mix, mango and onion. Add vinaigrette; toss to coat well. 3. Cut baguette lengthwise in half. Remove insides leaving 1/2-inch shell on top and bottom. Spread bottom half with goat cheese. 4. Toss beets with slaw mixture; spoon half over goat cheese. Arrange beef over slaw; spoon remaining slaw over beef. Close sandwich and press firmly. Wrap tightly with aluminum foil; refrigerate up to 4 hours before serving. 5. To serve, cut baguette into 6 pieces. 42 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
Baby Beet & Farro Salad
Preparation Time: 25 minutes • Makes 6 servings 1 jar (16 ounces) baby whole pickled beets 3 tablespoons white or red wine vinegar 1 tablespoon grainy Dijon mustard 1/3 cup olive oil 6 cups cooked farro (see note) 1/2 cup coarsely chopped toasted walnuts 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion 3 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, basil, chives or a combination 1/2 cup crumbled feta (optional) Salt & Pepper 1. Drain beets well; discard liquid. 2. For dressing, in small bowl, whisk together vinegar and
nic mustard, then whisk in oil. 3. In large bowl, toss together farro, walnuts, onion, herbs, dressing and feta, if desired. Gently toss in beets just before serving. Add salt and pepper, as desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Note: Pearled couscous, barley or favorite grain blend may be substituted for farro. Prepare according to package directions.
Southwestern Marinated Chicken with Bean Salad Preparation Time: 20 minutes Marinating Time: up to 6 hours Cook Time: 12 minutes Makes 4 servings
1 can (15 ounces) Southwestern bean salad 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 large cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1 teaspoon lime zest 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional) 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves Chopped fresh cilantro 1. Drain bean salad. Place bean salad in large bowl; place liquid in medium bowl. For marinade, stir together bean liquid, lime juice, garlic, oil, zest, salt, if desired, black pepper, and red pepper, if desired. 2. Place chicken in large food-safe plastic bag or place in single layer in glass dish. Add marinade; coat chicken well. Close bag or cover dish. Marinate, refrigerated, 1 hour up to 6 hours. 3. Remove chicken from marinade. Place on grill over medium coals or medium setting on gas grill. Grill about 12 to 15 minutes, turning once, or, broil in oven 5 to 6 inches from heat about 6 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through. May be served immediately after cooking or chilled. Sprinkle with cilantro just before serving. M
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atozrentalmankato.com MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 43
Things
to do,
Places
to go
July 3 • Mankato Area Community Band presents “Boy in Blue Patriotic Concert” 7:30 p.m. • Lincoln Park, Mankato free • boyinblue.org
12-14, 18-21 • Minnesota State University Highland Summer Theatre presents “The Sound of Music” 7:30 p.m. • Ted Paul Theatre 320 Maywood Ave. $22 general admission, $19 discounted and $15 for current MSU students msutheatre.com 15 • School Sisters of Notre Dame Ice Cream Social and Open House with music by Warren Streets 1-4 p.m. Our Lady of Good Counsel Campus 170 Good Counsel Drive free • 389-4212
7 • Riverbend Blues Festival featuring Jonny Lang 7 p.m. • Riverfront Park Vetter Stone Amphitheater $35 ticketmaster.com 9 • Barton’s Hollow concert 7 p.m. • German Park, New Ulm free • 507-359-8331 10 • Mankato Area Community Band concert 7:30 p.m. (weekly) Mankato Sibley Park free • 387-6990
24 • Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists Annual Summer Noontime Recital Series featuring Dr. Wayne Wagner noon • Bethlehem Lutheran Church 720 S. Second St. free agosiouxtrails.org 27 • Alan Munde, Five-String Banjo noon • New Ulm Public Library 17 N. Broadway free 507-359-8331
17 • Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists Annual Summer Noontime Recital Series featuring Br. Theophane Windschitl noon • Bethlehem Lutheran Church 720 S. Second St. free agosiouxtrails.org 19 • Kid’s Concert Series: Snapdragon Seeds with Steve Sanders 6:30-7:15 p.m. • German Park, New Ulm free • 507-359-8331 20-22 • Morgan Creek Vineyards German Winefest; Part of the German Wine Tasting Festival (free) 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Morgan Creek Vineyards 23707 478th Ave., New Ulm $35, registration required • 507-947-3547
28 • Tesla 7 p.m. • Riverfront Park Vetter Stone Amphitheater $25 ticketmaster.com 31 • Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists Annual Summer Noontime Recital Series featuring Ron Shilling noon • Bethlehem Lutheran Church 720 S. Second St. free agosiouxtrails.org
Austin Family
RAILVIEW PERUVIAN HORSE 10 • Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists Annual Summer Noontime Recital Series featuring David Lim noon • Grace Lutheran Church 320 E. Main St. free • agosiouxtrails.org
Open House Sunday, July 8th • 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. You’re invited to experience the grandeur and uniqueness of our Peruvian Horses. Defined by a smooth gait for riding comfort, Peruvians combine a willing temperament, strength and stamina with beauty and rarity. This breed offers versatility for all types of riding.
Breed Demonstrations and Drill Team Performances 2:00 & 4:00 p.m. 44 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
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Directions: 2 miles north of Hwy. 14 on 3rd Avenue (Cty. Rd. 5)
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Garden Chat
By Jean Lundquist
Surviving a summer fraught with fretting
T
he time for garden fretting is nearly over. There are many things I fret over in the garden. I don’t worry, because I refuse to worry. Worrying only destroys today, and won’t do a thing to change whatever it is that I’m worried about. I feel differently about fretting, however. Fretting takes less energy. For example, I fretted that if I went fishing on the opener of the season with my husband and my Dad that it would rain the next two weeks, and I’d be late getting my seeds and plants in the ground. That fret was unwarranted. The seeds and plants went into the garden the next weekend perfectly — and we had fish for supper that Saturday evening. As I was wiping my brow after two days of planting and sowing, I suddenly realized I had forgotten a very important component in keeping my plants safe. There is no substitute, and I needed to leave those tender small green, living things unprotected until late the next afternoon, when I could purchase some predator urine to splash around them. I had hoped to find bobcat urine, as that is a deterrent to rabbits and deer alike. The best I could do was red fox urine, as it is a trapping supply, and this is not trapping season. Deer don’t fear red foxes, but bunnies run from them. I rip up a rag, poke pieces of it into the ground by the plants I wish to protect, and pour the urine on the rag. This 46 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
fall, I’ll think ahead and look for something that scares deer, too. Note to garden centers: Try it in your test plots this year and carry the stuff next spring. Honestly, it works. Fretting about frost is something that keeps gardeners holding onto old bed sheets and keeps us glued to the latest weather forecast. Not really something to worry about, as there’s nothing we can do about it anyway. But if it snows on Memorial Day like it did some 20 years ago, we need to be ready to spread old sheets over the gardens. I recall that snow. I was looking around for movie cameras. I felt like I was on the movie set of “The Wizard of Oz” and the Wicked Witch of the West was nearby, cackling evilly at my freeze-drying plants. But when it came to something to truly fret about, indeed, coming close to worrying about, it was my chickens. Last summer, well after the garden was up and established, I brought home a few hens. Then, I brought home a few more hens and a baby rooster. None of them paid any attention to the garden. A couple of times I saw them in the garden, but nobody pecked my tomatoes, no one ate anything but mosquitoes, gnats and no-see-’ems, as far as I could tell. What a good deal. Over the winter I acquired seven more hens. So when Lar and I went out to till the garden this spring, we were disheartened to see all 12 chickens behind us, scratching around in the soil, looking for seeds and bugs. Once in the past, I had a bad experience with chickens in the garden with all that scratching and pecking and whatnot. Peas and beans and radishes were growing everywhere. I worried — I mean fretted — this chicken thing this year could come to no good. I contemplated putting a chicken wire fence around the whole garden, but there are drawbacks to that. It is a large garden and would require a lot of fence posts and
a lot of ties and a lot of chicken wire. Plus, I have a couple of jobs and a few more hobbies. Add that to the fact I’m a bit lazy and there is a big problem. So instead of just putting the rags in the soil just by the cabbage, Brussels sprouts, beans and broccoli, which the rabbits love to dine on for all occasions, I scattered them throughout the garden, pouring liberal doses of red fox urine on all. I don’t know if it was that, or that these chickens just plain weren’t interested, but there was no chicken scratching and searching for seeds and bugs in the garden after the initial tilling. Of course chickens, like rabbits, have reason to fear a red fox. I have been having so much fun with my chickens that late in May, when I was offered another 20 chicks, I jumped at the chance to take them. They require quite a bit of care and special equipment and handling. But I didn’t lose any, so I felt good that I was doing it all right. Then, one night last month, some dirty, low-down mink or weasel entered the pen and killed every single one of them. Maybe I need to look for mink or weasel urine for keeping chickens and rabbits away from my garden next year. But trust me, if I catch this one, I’ll harvest my own. M
Jean Lundquist is a master gardener who lives near Good Thunder.
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MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 49
Happy Hour
By The Washington Post
Cocktail time machine
W
hen it comes to spirits, the 19th century may be the last frontier. Making the rare and obscure available again has driven the past decade’s cocktail renaissance. But where do we go from here? We burrow deep into dusty old distilling recipes from the mid-19th century. The original mid-19th-century “cocktail” was usually just a mix of a base spirit, a few dashes of bitters and simple syrup, and “curacoa,” a catch-all name for orange liqueurs. This version of the Brandy Cocktail does away with the simple syrup and increases the amount of orange liqueur. Spirits expert Jason Wilson recommends seeking out the new Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao, which is based on a 19th-century recipe. But this works with Grand Marnier and, to a lesser extent, Cointreau or Combier.
Brandy Cocktail Ingredients: Ice 2 ounces cognac 1/2 ounce orange liqueur, preferably Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao (see headnote) 1 dash bitters Twist of lemon peel, for garnish Steps: Fill a mixing glass halfway with ice. Add the cognac, orange liqueur and bitters. Stir vigorously, then strain into a chilled cocktail (martini) glass. Garnish with the lemon peel twist. M
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Fashion Currents
By The Washington Post
DIY design: Another day, another collar
S
orry boys, but it’s about time girls had the spotlight shone on their neckwear. And though we won’t be donning ties fit for a fraternity reunion anytime soon, we’re excited to doll up our collars. These easy, do-it-yourself tweaks take less than 30 minutes each — and some don’t even require sewing. All breathe life into otherwise dull workwear you already own. And because these styles shift easily from cubicle to corner bar, you’ll always be neck and neck with the guys.
Haute hardware
What looks like a relic you picked up as a horse-handler at a Texas dude ranch is really a basic denim snap-down with two decorative brass corners hammered onto the tips. Check your local hardware store.
All the trimmings
Not all button-up updates need be drastic. A thin trim of monochrome beads ($12 per yard, Mjtrim.com) loop-stitched to the edge of a pink blouse curbs the garment’s boldness. The resulting top looks demure paired with a pencil skirt.
Studs, not duds
A simple silk shirt gets ready to party when you stitch or glue a gold-colored plastic pyramid trim ($10 per yard, Mjtrim. com) around the entire collar. We imagine your hip fifth-grade teacher wore something similar after hours.
Just bead it
Not for the faint of art, this style requires some dexterity. Choose beads in the same color (we love red against preppy black gingham) and thread them randomly one by one. Buy at local beads stores, Michaels or other crafts outlets or online at Oriental Trading.
52 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
Clip-on class Love the look of old clip-on earrings but worried they’ll slip off your lobes? Dab glue on the earring-side and tack them to the tips of a fave vintage shirt. M
Envision 2020 Leaders are critical to the Growth of the Vision Judy Arzdorf just completed a year of being the Chair and a year prior to that as Vice Chair of the E2020 Implementation Team.
Thank you for the Reader’s Choice Votes!
Judy was very effective at engaging community members in areas of the plan where we needed some extra attention and supporting initiatives through grant proposal letters and volunteer recruitment. John Kind, the Executive Director of the Mankato Family YMCA, steps up to serve as the new Chair in 2012-13 and Nancy Zallek, the Executive Director of the Mankato Area Foundation, becomes the new Vice Chair. These individuals, along with the other members of the E2020 Implementation Team, volunteer their time and community leadership talents to keep abreast of community challenges and accomplishments throughout the year.
Suits | Tuxedos | Casual
They help connect individuals and organizations to the goals of the Envision 2020 plan, and keep everyone focused on initiatives and strategies that can be effective, so that we continue to grow our community’s vision by the year 2020. For more information about Envision 2020, contact Barb Embacher, Vice President of Greater Mankato Growth at bembacher@greatermankato.com or 507.385.6644.
MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 53
Good Health
By Family Features
Helping seniors drive safer, longer
S
ince January 2011, nearly 1 0 , 0 0 0 Americans turn 65 every day, joining the fastest growing age group in the nation. According to a recent American Automobile Association (AAA) survey of that booming population, nearly half of seniors worry about losing their freedom and mobility when the time comes for them to transition from driver to passenger. From understanding how vision changes can affect one’s ability to drive at night, to researching the effects certain medications can have on one’s driving ability, it’s important to get the facts about driving for seniors. Use these tips from AAA to help ensure you and your family members are driving safely:
should the airbag deploy during a collision. Make sure you have at least 10 to 12 inches between your chest and the steering wheel. When seated properly, you should be able to see the ground in front of your car within 12 to 15 feet and 1 1/2 car widths left and right. Visit www.car-fit.org to assess the safety of your vehicle, find the proper seat and mirror adjustments and more.
Take a refresher course
No matter how many years a driver has been on the road, a refresher course can help reinforce the basics such as identifying road signs, as well as provide information on updated driving rules and new vehicle technologies.
Talk with your doctor and pharmacist
Ensure that the medications you take — both prescription and over-the-counter — will not impair your ability to drive safely. In addition, make sure all your medications go through one pharmacy, so the pharmacists on staff can better assess any potential drug interactions.
Evaluate your driving
While most seniors are experienced drivers, it’s important to take time to consider one’s driving “health” and habits. For instance, how frequently do you wear a seatbelt? Do you use your signal and check for nearby traffic before changing lanes? Does traffic cause you to feel anxious? When was the last time you had an eye exam? You can take a Driver 65 Plus self-assessment at www.SeniorDriving.AAA. com to get a clear picture of just how good your driving skills really are, and you’ll also get suggestions for improving your driving.
Be aware of how aging affects driving habits
From hearing and vision loss, to mental fitness and reaction time, seniors may not notice the gradual differences that can impact their driving ability. For instance, by age 60, your eyes need three times the amount of light to see properly as they do for people 20 years old, which means it’s more difficult to see at night. Likewise, onethird of Americans suffer from hearing loss by age 65. This can pose a problem, as senior drivers may be unable to hear high-pitched noises such as emergency response vehicles while on the road. Reaction times can be slower for seniors as well. But preventative measures can go a long way. When following other vehicles, seniors should increase the distance between their car and the car in front of them, to allow more time to react to sudden braking. Eliminating distractions in the vehicle and avoiding heavy traffic can also help seniors identify emergency sirens, and avoiding driving at night is another safer option for seniors.
Find the right fit
With the wide array of vehicles offering all sorts of convenience features, seniors may not realize that their car may not be optimally adjusted to fit them. For example, sitting too close to the steering wheel can interfere with steering and cause fatigue, as well as injury,
54 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
More driving tips for seniors
• Prepare for a drive by adjusting your mirrors and seat to ensure you can see properly. Always wear a seatbelt. • Eliminate distractions, such as the car radio, which can interfere with your ability to hear emergency response vehicle sirens and other important sounds. • Avoid driving in bad weather, heavy traffic or at night. • Making left-hand turns can be difficult for people with limited vision. Avoid left-hand turns at intersections with signals by making three right hand turns around the block when possible. • Manage slower reaction times by increasing the amount of space between your vehicle and the car in front of you, allowing for more time to react to sudden braking. M
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MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 55
Faces & Places
Photos By Sport Pix 1
Red Jacket Bridge RE-Opening 1. Bike and walk advocates wave from the newly opened bridge.
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2. (Left to Right) Heidi Tibbets, Kay Wilking, Michelle Melby, Donica Doran and Kathy Leggett gather for a photo near the trail. 3. Scott Kudelka, from the Minnesota DNR,
teaches kids about mussels and other organisms found in local rivers.
4. Joel Anderson helps his children, Samuel and Clara, pump water from the well. 5. Bike and walk advocates gather under the shelter to avoid the sudden downpour of rain.
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6. Bikers approach the new portion of the bridge.
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56 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
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MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 59
Faces & Places
Photos By Sport Pix
WElcome Home for Red Bull 34th Inf. Div. Soldiers
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1. Dozens of families were reunited during the homecoming. 2. Lori Grunzke jumps into her brother Dennis Becker’s arms as he returns home from overseas. 3. Autumn Schiller hugs her dad Master Seargant Dana Schiller. 4. Anxious families await the return of their loved ones. 5. Brynna Lynn Eggum holds her American flag as waits for her father to return. 6. Ryan Heidelberg returns home to his 4-month-old girl Autumn. 7. Soldiers were all too happy to return home to a cool rainy day, after a year of sweltering temperatures overseas.
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60 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
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507.625.2525 | FARRISHLAW.COM MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 61
Faces & Places
Photos By Sport Pix
10 Kato Run for a cause 1. Brynn Henning finds a shady spot for breakfast before the race begins.
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2. Skylar Nolta plays in the wading pool to cool off. 3. Mckenna and Addison Gager and Joelle White burn off some excess pre-race energy with a follow-the-leader style dance party. 4. O.C. Akway ran the fastest time of the day with a blistering pace and finished with a time of 34:12. 5. On the starter’s call the race begins as the crowd surges forward. 6. Eve Anderson gets help pinning on her number from her mother, Eve. 7. Eric Peters is in good spirits as he nears the end of the course. 8. Olivia Burbank sported patriotic pinwheels in honor of Memorial Day.
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62 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
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MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 63
Faces & Places
Photos By Sport Pix 1
PiCcadilly Circus 1. With his cotton candy in one hand and popcorn in the other, Corbin Jaros grabs a snack at intermission. 2. Enjoying a spin around the pony ride, Ruby Marble flashes a smile as she goes by. 3. Catelyn Young relishes in a cirus time favorite, blue cotton candy. 4. Kylie Berdan watches carefully as she gets an orange butterfly painted on her face. 5. The crowd watches as the intermission performers are introduced. 6. Two-year-old Josie Scrabeck and her mom, Jessica, feed one of the goats at the petting zoo before the show.
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MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 65
The Way It Is
By Pete Steiner
Pilgrimage to Omaha Gomorrah.” I wonder, do the Kardashians ever contemplate such things? Ninety minutes from Sioux Falls, I crank the music on my little car’s CD; nothing like a roadtrip! ••••
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raversing God’s green earth in springtime. The snow barriers that block the roads in blizzards are locked up for the next six months. The corn is in, and a pickup is hauling a load of soybean seeds for the nextplanting. The brown and black rolling fields along the two-lane are punctuated by hog confinement sheds and pole barns, by grain bins, crop elevators and an occasional wooden country church. Here and there are groves of oak or cottonwood, and yes, vast stands of steel trees as you head past Truman: wind turbines now dominate the horizon. Hitting the interstate, I take note of a handmade sign a farmer has hung from a fencepost: “Remember Sodom and
Warren Buffet 66 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
I remember Woodstock, partly because (if you know what I mean) I wasn’t there. It was one of the defining moments of my generation, although from my perspective more than 40 years on, the defining was as much about selfindulgence as it was about peace and love. But that’s another article, or maybe a book. Now on a lovely May day, the better part of a lifetime later, instead of going to see Hendrix and Janis Joplin, I’m going to see another kind of headliner. Traveling to what they call “The Woodstock of Capitalism.” Instead of upstate New York, it’s in the middle of America, in Omaha, where investing superstar and billionaire Warren Buffett annually reveals his insights. I do not own shares in Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, but my cousin, who’s done well in real estate in Sioux Falls, owns enough that he’s allowed to bring a guest. He has invited me. “It’s like a cult,” he smiles. He and his wife Pat drive me from Sioux Falls to Omaha. In the hotel parking lot, every spot is taken, and there are license plates from Oregon and California and Arkansas. We check in and head for the investor party, with free food and drinks for all. It’s at the mall attached to Borsheim’s Jewelers. Anyone so inclined can buy the $4 million, 25-carat, pearshaped diamond pendant. Me? I head for the free stuff. I’m not alone. Thousands are crammed into the mall’s walkways, waiting patiently in line. Those who emerge from the food tables are carrying plastic plates piled high with
cheeses and Swedish meatballs. I never made it to the front of the food line, but that’s OK. A colleague of my cousin has offered to treat us all to dinner at the Horse Shoe Casino, on the other side of the Missouri River in Iowa. The parking lot is jammed and every slot machine is occupied. No one here appears to share some Minnesotans’ worries about “an expansion of gambling.” At dinner, the crab cakes are excellent, and I order the $26 filet — cheapest item on the menu, but one of the best steaks I have ever had. •••• Instead of gathering at Yasgur’s farm, these devotees — 30,000 or more of them every year — line up just after the break of dawn on a Saturday at the Century Link Center, hoping to grab the best seats in the cavernous arena. I’m scanning the crowd waiting to get inside. A few investment advisors are wearing coat and tie, but mostly it’s sport shirts or golf shirts, jeans, even Bermuda shorts and Hawaiian shirts. It’s likely I’m standing next to “The Millionaire Next Door.” Bill Gates is there somewhere, he’s on Buffett’s Board. Oh, and there is a real rock star: U-2’s Bono, who shares humanitarian concerns with Buffett and Gates, mingles with the masses. Buffett takes the stage shortly before 9:30, after a 55-minute, highly produced company video that has a lengthy, humorous segment about the notoriety of Buffett’s secretary, Debbie, after he publicly declared she should not be taxed at a higher rate than he is. He says “Good morning,” and that he’ll be answering questions from an expert panel. But, every third question will come from the audience or from e-mail submissions. Several questioners don’t like his strong stance on higher taxes on the rich. He says he never put his citizenship in a blind trust. As an investor, Buffett, who shuns gold, has the Midas touch. A business school student asks what he thinks of the complicated mathematical trading models pushed by some B-schools. The 81-year-
Warren Buffet old replies it’s “astounding how schools have focused on one fad after another. Investing is not really that complicated. (Just determine if) the business has value, and if there’s market potential. Ray Kroc just tried to project whether people would buy his hamburgers.” Then a rather profound philosophical observation: “High priests in any arena have to convince people things are difficult (so they preserve their power).” I took 10 pages of notes before lunch and Buffett, who says he’s feeling great following a prostate cancer scare, was scheduled to return for another three hours after lunch.
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MANKATO MAGAZINE • July 2012 • 67
Faces & Places
Photos By Sport Pix
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Senior Expo 1. Stephan Thome, M.D. at Andreas Cancer Center of the Mayo Clinic Health System, gives a talk to visiting seniors. 2. The Magic Barbershop Harmony and Sleight of Hand group sang at the event. 3. Senior visitors to the expo were met with dozens of booths with information and free prize giveaways. 4. A huge crowd filled the Verizon WirelessCenter Ballroom in anticipation of a speech from Bud Grant. 5. Jeanie Shoemaker has her photo taken with former Minnesota Vikings coach Bud Grant. 6. Bud Grant addresses an audience at the senior expo in the Verizon Wireless Center. 7. Mankato Mayor Eric Anderson plays a friendly game of table tennis with seniors at the expo.
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68 • July 2012 • MANKATO MAGAZINE
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