A special section of the
2015
Working
Women Pg 2: Love of animals turns into careers
Pg 3: Pizza, pies, & ice cream Pg 5: Finding balance in the workplace
Pg 7: Check it out - Anderson loves her work Pg 8: Bank workers find their niche Pg 9: All work is work worth doing well Pg 11: River Hills Chiropractic provides sports medicine and more
A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
Page 2
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, October 19, 2015
Love of animals turns into careers By Barb Jeffers The Harmony & Cresco Veterinary Clinics located in Harmony, Minn. and Cresco, Iowa. have seven doctors on staff; four of these doctors are women. These women not only care for animals, but also love animals which is why they became veterinarians in the first place. Dr. Sarah Otto, owner, grew up on a farm near New Prague, Minn. She is a graduate of the University of Minnesota Veterinary School and has been
with the practice since 2003, according to the business website http://www.harmony-crescovetclinic.com. Dr. Otto specializes in companion animal medicine and surgery as well as bovine and small ruminant medicine and surgery. Dr. Otto, her husband and children live on a farm where they raise calves, turkeys, and a miniature horse named Star. They have two dogs and three cats. According to the website, Dr. Otto enjoys spending
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time with her family, gardening, photography, and WW II history. Dr. Mackenzie Westby grew up on a small farm in Dawson, Western Minn. She completed her undergraduate degree at South Dakota State University and her veterinary degree at Iowa State University in 2011. Dr. Westby worked for a few years near Willmar, Minn. at a mixed animal clinic. In 2013, she joined Harmony Veterinary Clinic. Dr. Westby enjoys working with both large and companion animals. In her spare time Dr. Westby enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, photography, and reading. Dr. Allison Hartman, associate veterinarian, joined the practice in June of 2014 after graduating from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. Born and raised in Western N.Y., she migrated to the Midwest to attend vet school and chose to remain in Minn. after graduation. The website for the Harmony & Cresco Veterinary Clinic states that Dr. Hartman has lifelong experience in the equine industry, having done everything from galloping race horses at the track, to three day eventing, polo, and western pleasure in her earlier years. While in college, Dr. Hartman was exposed to the dairy and beef industries and has developed her knowledge base and experience with cattle over the last decade. Her interests include large animal medicine and specifically, chiropractic work for dogs and horses, as she is a licensed animal chiropractor through the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. Dr. Megan Thompson, associate veterinarian, joined the practice in May of 2015, according to the website. Dr. Thompson grew up on a farm near Hayward, Minn., completed her undergraduate degree in Biology at Gustavus Adolphus College, and received her veterinary degree from the University of Minnesota in 2015. Dr. Thompson became interested in veterinary medicine while shadowing her uncle, who was a large animal veterinarian, and helping on her family’s farm, states the website. She most enjoys large animal medicine and surgery with an emphasis in dairy and beef production. The address of the Harmony Veterinary Clinic is 855 Wickett Drive NW and the phone number is (507) 886-6321. The address of the Cresco Veterinary Clinic is 221 5th Street SE and the phone number there is (563) 547-3121. Business hours are Monday Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday hours in Harmony only are 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. Each location also has a Facebook page which you can “like” to receive further information and updates.
Working Women 2015
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Working Women 2015
Monday, October 19, 2015
Pizzas, pies, and ice cream By Jason Sethre From the farm to the table, the Village Square of Fountain is a cornerstone of downtown Fountain, Minn. When David and Mary Milne purchased the corner business location in April 1998, they felt that Fountain needed a pizza restaurant. The previous owners of the building, Mike and Sue Tangen, operated a gift shop at that location. And, they sold ice cream at their gift shop. David and Mary wanted to keep the tradition of ice cream, add in some custom pizza recipes, and eventually homemade pies. They also added soups and dinners, creating a wide variety options for their guests. Quickly, as their business grew, they added onto the building. While Mary operated the pizza business in the front half of the building, David ran his jewelry business on the north side of the building. Eventually, David moved the jewelry business into their home. He still works on jewelry per request. And, the space he occupied with that business has become an extended dining area for the large crowds of restaurant patrons. As Mary reflects on their business, she really enjoys baking pies for customers. “When I’m baking pies, I
think about the farmers’ wives making pies,” shared Mary. “They picked the apples from trees on their farm. They rendered the lard from hogs on their farm. They picked pumpkins when they were ready. They picked berries. Every farmer had a rhubarb patch nearby. Everything that goes into those wonderful pies comes from the farm.” Mary said she was glad she learned how to bake pies from her mother years ago. Her mother recently passed away as a result of Alzheimer’s Disease. “The farm site might not be there, but that apple tree may still be there,” shared Mary, as she traces of the past are still prevalent on farms today. Mary continued sharing how people rarely went into town, because they could get what they needed at their farm. Today, she said everyone drives to town every week and picks up with they need. The farm is still involved in everyone’s life, even if they don’t think about it. Pies are important to Mary, and she prides herself in making them they way she learned from her mother. “It used to be that when someone moved into the neighborhood, you brought them a pie,” said Mary. “And, it was like a competition. Who could bake the best tasting pie?”
Mary is grateful for all of the farmers’ wives who baked pies and passed that along to her and others in the area. And, Mary is sharing her experience and passion for the restaurant business with all of her staff -- many of whom are family. She’s had quite a number of family members work at the Village Square of Fountain, including Jared Hahn (son of Gary & Karen Hahn), Taylor Sprenger (daughter of Scott & Tami Sprenger), Payton Schwingle (daughter of Jason and Becky Schwingle), Nick Ebner (son of Todd and Darla Ebner), Shelby
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL Ebner (daughter of Todd and Darla Ebner), Matthew Hoff (son of Greg and LuAnn Hoff), and Bonnie Hahn (Mary’s sisterin-law). In addition, three out of four of David and Mary’s daughters have worked at the restaurant. Tami Sprenger, Annie Erickson, and Kim Wingert. While their eldest daughter, Mindy Parker, did not work at the restaurant, Mary said she could see Mindy’s children working there some day -- Theodore, William, and Abby. While this family-owned restaurant seems “family” exclusive,
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they do let outsiders in to their “Village Square”. Currently, they employ Melissa Kalstabakken, Julianna Ford, Marcus Walbridge, Jeana Chapman, Tiffanie Seibert, and Amanda Seibert. David and Mary Milne are proud of their staff, and all of their family that has been involved in the restaurant. And, over the course of 39 years of marriage, recently celebrated on Oct. 2, they have spent more than half their time together owning and operating a little slice of what some people call “Funtown”.
The staff at the Village Square of Fountain (left to right): Shelby Ebner, Taylor Springer, Melissa Kalstabakken, Tami Sprenger, Mary Milne, Julianna Ford, Payton Schwingle, and Kim Wingert. Not pictured: Marcus Walbridge, Jeana Chapman, Tiffanie Seibert, and Amanda Seibert. Photo by Jason Sethre
Experience
Visit
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Proud Working Women Adrienne Britson, Rushford Vicki Christianson, Harmony Tammy Danielson, Fountain Liz Giese, Canton Michelle Haugerud, Harmony Sherry Hines, Harmony Becky Hoff, Harmony Barb Jeffers, Fountain Loni Kemp, Canton Kathy Little, Houston Beth McManimon, Houston Morgan McManimon-Meyers, Houston
Yvonne Nyenhuis, Lanesboro Jana Olson, Rushford Sue Ommen, Harmony Peggi Redalen, Rushford Karen Reisner, Fountain Jeanette Schmidt, Preston Amanda Sethre, Fountain Liz Short, Preston Ellen Whalen, Harmony Hannah Wingert, Preston Kirsten Zoellner, Rushford Rhea Wawrzyniak, Lanesboro
Thank you to the women who bring out the best in all that we do!
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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Monday, October 19, 2015
Working Women 2015
Job hunting tips for young women Young women preparing to enter the workforce may discover a job market that's difficult to crack. Getting a foot in the door in your desired field is not always easy, but young women looking to land that first job out of college can consider the following tips to help them take that all-important first step toward a rewarding career. • Decide on a path. Blindly searching for work or any old job is a recipe for an aimless search that likely won't land you a job you enjoy. Choose what it is that you want to do and who you hope to do it for, and then you can proceed with a more refined search that does not include you spending time pursuing positions you don't want. • Don't be afraid to seek advice. Once you determine some companies you may want
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to work for, don't be afraid to seek advice from people who already work for those companies. Even if such businesses don't have any current openings, you might be able to schedule informational meetings. Treat such meetings like you would a job interview, asking questions about the industry and what you can do to get your foot in the door. Once such meetings have concluded, send a handwritten thank-you note to the person who took time out of their day to give you the informational meeting. • Learn from each job interview. Many people, especially young people just starting out, go through many job interviews before finally landing a job. Each interview is not just an opportunity to land a job or hone your interviewing skills, but also a chance to learn
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Email your ad and a photo to ads@fillmorecountyjournal.com and we’ll add the artwork! Fillmore County Journal P.O. Box 496, Preston, MN 55965 Ad deadline is Wednesday Noon for the next Monday’s edition.
what employers are looking for. Many interviews for entry-level jobs are similar regardless of the industry, so make note of your responses that went over well and those that might need a little more work. • Be prepared to explain why you should be hired. Job seekers should be able to explain both their enthusiasm for the job and why they are right for that job. Keep your description of your capabilities concise, but don't be afraid to confidently state why you are the best possible candidate. • Look for volunteering opportunities. After you have targeted a field you want to work in, you may find that there are few paying opportunities within that field. But you might be able to volunteer or even pursue an internship if you only recently graduated from college. Volunteering or accepting an unpaid internship is a great way to start making some contacts and gaining some legitimate experience, and working for free might just indicate to prospective employers that you are serious about pursuing a particular career and not just landing a job. Young women may be met with a difficult job market upon graduating from college. But there are ways to make job hunts easier and land the job of your dreams.
Simple techniques to help you relax Finding ways to relax can improve life at home and at the office. While it’s not often easy to find time to slow down, especially for those men and women juggling the responsibilities of career and family, the following are some simple techniques that don’t take much time but can have a positive impact on your day. • Take some time out from multitasking. The ability to multitask is a cherished commodity for parents and working professionals alike, but men and women can benefit from periodic breaks from their everyday juggling acts. Something as simple as focusing on a single task for 30 minutes at a time, as opposed to checking emails while preparing dinner or working on a project while answering a client’s phone call, can help lower stress levels and have a lasting and calming effect on your nerves. • Make time to meditate every day. Studies have shown that meditation can affect the circuitry in the brain, positioning it to more adequately respond to illness and stressful situations. Meditation has the added benefit of being a relaxing exercise, as meditation encourages people to sit with their feet on the floor with both eyes closed in a relax-
ing setting that is free of external distractions. • Walk away from your desk and couch. It’s well documented that spending too much time sitting at a desk can have a negative impact on your health. In addition to elevating a person’s risk of heart disease and diabetes, sitting at a desk all day long has been linked to repetitive stress injuries, obesity and back pain, each of which can contribute to stressful living conditions that make it difficult to relax. Men and women should spend at least five minutes each hour walking, whether they are getting up from their desk at work or getting off the couch at home. Doing so takes little time, but it can help to relieve stress at work and at home and improve your overall health. • Practice yoga. Yoga is another activity that can help men and women relax. Yoga involves a series of poses that helps stretch the muscles and aid their recovery from everyday aches and pains, including those that often result from stressful experiences or days at the office.
A special Thank You to these women! Peggy Jeanne Abbie Deanna Viola Ciera Gayle Barb Emma Sonia Peggy Tammy Deb Crystal Diane Kendra Lori Clara Beth Mavis Michala Kourtney Diane Addy Sheila Carol Miranda Brittany Pat Pam Jean Brittany Rita Kelsey Donna Leah Victoria Debbie Sarah Lindsey Kate Natalie Taryn Mickey Josie Carolyn Allisa Amber Ashley Rhonda Rachel Linda Katie Jaden Chris Eileen Andrea Danielle Sara Marie Beverly Kayla Betsy Jessica Kathy Linnette Peyton
We’re of the 67 women employed at our stores and realize they are better known as Mom, Grandma, Aunt, Sister, Daughter, Friend and also serve in our communities as volunteers.
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Working Women 2015
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, October 19, 2015
Finding balance in the workplace years working for the Methodist Church camp program in the cities. In that role, she handled a vast amount of the design marketing workload. “I realized I loved graphic design and working with people. I loved every design piece I could get a hold of. I thought, ‘Oh, that’s what I want to be when I grow up’,” she laughs. Moving back to the area in 2004, Peterson set up shop and opened her business, initially just graphic design services, in the fall. “I didn’t start out like gangbusters. I started with people I knew; businesses I knew. The whole reason I wanted a business here was that I could see the things people were putting out and there was a real need for better graphic design.” Offering the opportunity for access for better graphic design, Peterson gained momentum. Started slowly, but surely, she began weeding out some aspects within graphic design that didn’t bring her satisfaction in work. “I had the presence of mind to do what really I really enjoyed and exceled at; not only for my business, but for others as well.” The business offers a thorough array of services including design for brochures, rack cards, menus, posters, banners, and websites. Days were anything but typical for Peterson. “Some days I’d have my camera in hand all day.
By Kirsten Zoellner When it comes to operating a small business, Sarah Peterson, of Peterson Creative Photography and Design, admits that finding balance can be fine line juggling act, but one that’s critical. “Small business owners have to be good at balance. That’s why they often burn out; they give all of themselves.” With the responsibility of that fine line, why tackle the challenge of a small business? For Peterson, the motivation is to find joy in work that fit around the priorities in her life. “I wanted a job that fit the life I wanted. It sounded like a better life,” she says. “I can work really, really hard at something I love, but I can put it down when I need to.” Peterson grew up in rural Fillmore County near Preston, graduating from Fillmore Central in 1995. When she went to college, she found herself stuck. “I didn’t know what I wanted to be when I ‘grew up’. I struggled with it for four years,” she chuckles. Varied interests and an inability to hone in on which direction she wanted to go led to her earning a business administration degree. “It allowed me to go into many interests, to test out a few areas. Once I found direction, I found training in the specific area that appealed to me.” Initially, Peterson spent five
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Others, I’d be editing all day. Sometimes there’s days when it would all hit at once. The variety of what I do is why I love my job. I can shift gears and it’s fun. It kind of feeds me,” she laughs. “Some days I’m a book keeper, some a designer. I can be an artist or photographer. Some I’m a receptionist. All while stilling being the mom,” she adds. “I try to have balance.” A clear motivation for Peterson is the people and businesses of the area communities. “I like serving them; helping them. People always invest more time in the things that bring them joy.” Still, she admits getting
her own projects done can be difficult. “I have to schedule myself,” she chuckles. “I can feel when I’m starting to become unbalanced. You can lose your mind as a small business owner. It’s critical that you set boundaries. Honestly, one of the most helpful words in the English language is, ‘No.’ It’s not a given. You have to decide day after day.” Following a steady increase in her business growth, Peterson decided three years into the venture that she wanted to take her creative eye to a new level with the addition of photography services. Rather than just offer up the option right off the
Page 5
bat, she spent four years learning, training, and taking mentorship from others. She also became a part of the Southern Minnesota Professional Photography Association, where she has now served three years on the board under the Director of Media. “It was a huge resource,” she acknowledges. “I found the encouragement to get better and found people willing to teach me. I didn’t want to tell people I did photos. I wanted to really know what I was doing.” It’s been a vital piece of her business, helping her grow professionally and personally. “We’re so digital all the time. I put a high value on something physical. I tend to do moments in time. I’m not against digital at all, but it feels so much today is fleeting,” she says. “People balk at that, but that’s okay. It just doesn’t match my philosophy.” The photography aspect of the business became an equal portion of her business. Specializing in family, child and baby, and senior portraits, as well as commercial and marketing photography, Peterson takes pride in her work. “When clients come through the door, I want to be the best photographer I can be. I want to do more for my clients.” Peterson is quick to note that there are definitely challenges and hurdles that catch her off guard. Sometimes, she says she’s unaware of hurdles until she’s right in the thick of it, but her push towards balance and joy help bring her back to center. One of the biggest challenges for her isn’t design projects or photographing that uncooperative toddler, but summer. Taken for granted by many, for working women it can be tough as their children are off school and enjoying the weather, while business calls. Luckily, taking those breaks
Sarah Peterson owner of Peterson Creative Photography and Design. Photo by Sarah Peterson
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
BALANCE
Continued from Page 5
with her family and being a part of other people’s joy helps her cope with the ups and downs. “I love it when a mom cries when she sees a photo of her kids. I get to see people at points of change in their lives; birth, graduation, or generations gathering together. I love that and tend to see people in moments. I really enjoy watching that.” Another benefit of her work is that the change and variety keep her interested. “I tend to get bored easily,” she admits. “I never want anything to look the same. I like to take on what I call, ‘Stretch projects’. It’s a project I’ve never done before.” These challenging, fresh projects include her collaboration on a children’s book as the illustrator. “It was scary, but if you take yourself out of your comfort zone, it can really teach you something.” Another stretch project for Peterson was submitting four entries for the Professional Photographers of America’s international print competition. In
2014, one of her entries was selected to be in the General Collection. In 2015, she submitted four more entries and three were chosen, two of which were went on to receive recognition in the Loan Collection. “It was hard,” she notes. Those two entries are now part of an archived collection travelling around the country. “You have to put yourself out there; take risks. Step outside your comfort zone,” she urges. “I learned how to do more; to grow.” Peterson plans on submitting more entries in 2016. The effort earns her points with the association towards a degree of Master Photographer. With the weight of owning your own business, Peterson notes that long term goals tend to be different and lean towards a balance and happiness. Looking back, she can see that the journey she began has taken the course she expected it to because of those goals. “Things are always changing,” she says, “But, I’ve had a lot more fun along the way than I expected. Life keeps surprising me. So, I try to be flexible enough. My only rule is family needs
Monday, October 19, 2015 to come first; period. Happily married to John and the mother of four children; Kaitlyn (23), Eric (20), Andrew (11), and Isabelle (6), Peterson is serious about taking perspective of what’s valuable in life and work. “Perspective is important. After all, it’s just a job. If what you’re doing doesn’t bring you joy, it’s not worth it.” Throughout the success, Peterson does have some words of wisdom for other working women and especially those who are looking to start their own business. “It’s challenging. It can be all consuming. You have to really want it. But, start small and test the waters and you’ll avoid the growing pains. Establish boundaries and balance early on and write down the core things that you need. Commit to that first and build your business around that. Be intentional early on. If you’re
Working Women 2015 balanced and content, your business will be also. Be centered.” If people spend a small
In From the Outback - General Collection and will be printed in the Showcase Book. Photo by Sarah Peterson
{ We Live Where We Work }
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Ellen Whalen is a local gal loving the
rural and small town life. She grew up on a dairy farm north of Cresco, Iowa. Never living too far from that farm, she married a dairy farmer from south of Harmony. Together, John and Ellen were fortunate to raise four children on their own Harmony area farm. During these years, Ellen filled many roles in 4-H, church, and local government. The kids have grown and moved, but not too far away. John and Ellen are now enjoying their new roles as grandparents! In her free time, Ellen enjoys gardening, cooking and baking, movies, and going to the gym with John.
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cow and calf herd and raise corn, beans, and hay. Ellen is the herdsman, according to her husband, while he is her animal health consultant and does most of the crop work. She enjoys the (sometimes) peaceful life of working on the farm, as well as the opportunity to use her skills as a proofer for
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Working Women 2015
Monday, October 19, 2015
Check it out - Anderson loves her work By Barb Jeffers When Beth Anderson was visiting the Preston Public Library with her children back in 1990, she saw a need and offered to help. That offer eventually led her to where she is today as the Director of the Preston Public Library in Preston, Minn. Anderson says the first time she volunteered was during summer reading time and she saw a lot of kids wanting to check out books and she said she could help. Of course, “this was back when we wrote on the cards and stamped them so it took a little longer” than it does today, she notes. From that experience where Anderson says she “saw a need” for some extra help at the library she began volunteering her time there on a regular basis. Anderson eventually began working as a substitute library assistant, was later given the opportunity to be library assistant, and then in October of 2007 she moved up the library ladder once again and was hired as the director. Anderson states “I always wanted to be a librarian,” explaining that she found out about libraries in first grade and she says “I just loved libraries” and wanted to become a librarian one day. Her eagerness to become a librarian showed when she was just a second grader as she
says she “alphabetized all of my books by author” and then when she was in seventh grade she used the books in her home and “actually made a card catalog for all of our books and I put library cards in there and gave everyone a library card with a number on it”, she says. Anderson states that although she knew she wanted to be a librarian, she had to quit college because she could not afford to keep going. Anderson says “it took me longer to get to it but I was glad because I got to stay home with my kids” when they were young. She and her husband, Dave, have five children and 12 grandchildren. Her grandchildren were so used to visiting her at the library when they were little that they called it “Grandma’s house” because that is where she usually was. She has passed on her love of books to her grandchildren as she says “they do enjoy books” just as she does. There are many activities at the library for children as well as adults. The library sponsors a Summer Reading Program each year for kids with prizes and special programs. Some of the entertainment they have provided has included a magician, a storyteller, and music. The library has also had visits from the National Eagle Center
in Wabasha, Minn. and the International Owl Center in Houston, Minn. For children six and under, the library holds Storytime on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 10:30 - 11 a.m. The theme for the upcoming October 28 Storytime is “Halloween Fun” and should be spooktacular. Adults participate in the Winter Reading Program, which begins in January each year and also includes a special program and, yes, the adults get prizes too! The library offers additional services such as Internet/Wi-Fi and black and white and color copies at a cost of 15 cents each. One convenient service that has come to the library thanks to technology is downloadable books. Anderson says “people can download a book for free” and explains that “the book disappears” after the rental time so there are never overdue fines. Anderson states the downloadable books “have been handy for many people” explaining that “some people have problems reading regular print, so they would put it on their computer and they would make the print big” so it is easier for them to read. She laughs and says “we didn’t see them after that” but
We would like to salute the working women at the Root River State Bank and thank them for all they do.
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL says that downloadable books “count toward our circulation,” so that is good. With downloadable books, people have the library at their fingertips in their own home.
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Being a library director is not Anderson’s only gig, as she is also a member of several bands along with her husband. Their main band, the Purdy River See ANDERSON Page 10
Beth Anderson, who began as a volunteer at the Preston Public Library in 1990, is now the Director. Photo submitted
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Bank workers find their niche By Rich Wicks First State Bank in Spring Valley first opened in 1993, and moved into their current building in 2002. The branch boasts many loyal employees, and several volunteered to share their thoughts and experiences. Juanita Gilbert (Bank Teller), Renae Lange (Bank Teller), Ann Keim (Loan Officer/Insurance Agent), and Kimberly Ptacek (Head Teller) each have unique stories, but with several similarities. The common threads that ran through their conversations were the love of this area, their appreciation for their coworkers and employer, and a commitment to handle the challenges of finding a balance between work and family. All are full-time employees, but their tenure in their current position varies greatly, rang-
ing from less than a year to twelve years. Juanita Gilbert shared that she went to school for cosmetology, and worked in that field for a while, then later worked in a clothing store before coming to First State Bank. She said, “I have two children, both in school, so trying to juggle work and family is kind of a challenge at times. But I have an amazing husband that helps out.” She said with young kids at home, there’s a constant need to keep up with homework, backpacks, and lunches, but that she relishes it all. Regarding her work, she beamed, “I really enjoy working with people…I love my job!” Renae Lange shared that she’d gone to school for daycare, then worked at Sunshine Foods for 17 years before starting at the bank. She and her husband
Monday, October 19, 2015 raised three kids, and they now have five grandchildren (“and one on the way”). She added that she also serves as her township’s treasurer, and keeps busy going to the grandchildren’s activities. When asked what she makes the bank a good place to work, she said, “They’re really good for families…these people are really nice!” Kimberly Ptacek is a lifelong resident of the area, and has worked in the banking field for 24 years, but just started at First State Bank earlier this year. She and her husband Rick raised four children, and now have one grandchild. She recalls that when her children were younger, “I had to miss a lot of school functions sometimes”, but she handled this as a necessary part of working full-time. Regarding her current job, she added, “I just started here in April. So far, I find it very rewarding and
Working Women 2015 they’re very accommodating.” Ann Keim attended college at UW River Falls, earning a degree in Ag Business, with a minor in Agronomy, and has worked at First State Bank ever since. She and her husband Luke have a two-year-old daughter, Antonia. Ann recalls that, “Everybody tells you when you’re expecting your first kid how much your life is going to change, and you don’t really believe them,…Boy, all those people were right!” She says the work/life balance is a challenge, but, “I think sometimes moms are better mothers when they’re working moms. Sometimes then they’re more diligent and more specific about the time they spend with their children.” Ann said working at the bank has been “a wonderful experience. We’re a small, locally
owned bank, which provides a lot of flexibility. We’re very lucky to have an awesome support group here.” She also shared, “I love working with ag producers. They’re very good, honest, hard-working, salt-of-the-earth people. And I love working with those families that are able to transition their children into farming. That’s probably my favorite part of the job!”
Ne e d t o s e C ome t o t
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136 St. Anthony Stree t, Preston P 507.765.2151 • F 507.765.2468
Thanks to my customers for 15 wonderful years!
Sally’s
Hair to Dye For Sally GibSon Owner/Hair Designer
507-765-4773 100 Main St. SW • Preston
A special thanks to all these ladies who provide strikingly good service! Megan Dahl, Molly Boyd, Cindy Bothun, Danielle Allen, Barbie Bernard, Ashley Olson, Jessica Wright.
Juanita Gilbert, Kimberly Ptacek, Renae Lange, and Ann Keim pause during their work day at First State Bank in Spring Valley. Photo by Rich Wicks
Do you know someone who you think should be in next year’s Working Women Section?
First State Bank of MN appreciates all working women!
Dawn Merkel, Jan Hammon, Juanita Gilbert, Kimberly Ptacek, Renae Lange, and Ann Keim.
Spring Valley, MN 1030 N. Broadway Ph. 507-346-9836
Call us at 507.765.2151 or Email news@fillmorecountyjournal.com
LeRoy,MN
102 W. Main Ph. 507-324-5260
Call the FCJ at 507-765-2151 to advertise or offer news tips!
All work is work worth doing well By Kirsten Zoellner Theodore Roosevelt famously said, “Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” This may conjure images of supremely noble work. But, what of those working women, putting their nose to the grindstone, working to serve us in roles we may not appreciate day to day? For Deb Kitchens, co-owner Kitchens Enterprises, Inc., which operates Nordic Lanes and Lounge bowling center and The Creamery in Rushford, all work is work worth doing well. Her work, focused mainly at the bustling restaurant, motivates her daily to find success. “I want to be able to close my eyes at the end of the day knowing I did my best,” she says. Putting forth one’s best effort, no matter what the job, is a key piece in Kitchens’ philosophy. She’s noticed that strong work ethic is not what it once was and she takes pride in having a staff and business that puts forth every effort to exemplify a customer service and food service industries. Growing up in Tomah, Wis., Kitchens had the influence of both bowling centers and a family restaurant early on. Her uncle owns the Strike Zone and Pizones in Tomah and from age 11, she was hands on at her grandmother’s restaurant. “I started working for my grandmother, washing dishes in her restaurant. I got up at 4 a.m. to help turn donuts.” Kitchens grew up, met and married her husband Jim, and the two spent 15 years at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska before settling in Rushford. She never expected to find her way here, but it proved a providential turn.
In 1991, the family, including two daughters, took the suggestion of her uncle and came to look at the bowling center that was for sale at that time. “You fall in love with Rushford as soon as you drive down that hill. It was May and it was beautiful. When we were driving I said, ‘Lord, I need your help here.’ If my business is here in Rushford, which I really didn’t think it would be, give me a sign that I should move to this next phase of my life.” At the time, Kitchens was working for Pacific Telecom, Inc. and the family knew it would need a second income to support a possible business venture. “We drove downtown and then, as we were leaving, there was a big Pacific Telecom, Inc. sign. There was a literal sign that said, ‘Rushford, Minnesota’.” That sign and a leap of faith set the next 24 years of their lives in motion. The family purchased Nordic Lanes in 1991. Five years later, it purchased the adjacent 1915 Rushford creamery, which had been renovated and operated as a restaurant. In 1998, the family renovated the second story of the restaurant for additional seating and events. Then, in 2003, they added a limestone façade that joined the bowling center and restaurant. Both Nordic Lanes and the Creamery suffered numerous damages in the 2007 flood and took the business in directions Kitchens never expected. “I try to take the path set in front of me,” she notes. Despite all its hardships, Kitchens believes the disaster brought some blessings, even if the route to them seemed to bring more challenges. Over the years, the bowling
Monday, October 19, 2015 center has seen several upgrades. After the flood, it needed a major overhaul. The restaurant, too, was forced to make upgrades when its kitchen was deemed no longer suitable. This led the family to add a large dining and banquet area to its building, complementing the growing business. Kitchens also noted that the flood brought something to life within the community that has helped the business and made the city the strong economic force it is today. Even with all the successes, Kitchens notes that every day as a small business owner can be a challenge. She’s in at 7 a.m., seven days a week, working until the workload ends, working on marketing, advertising, training cook and wait staff, book- keeping, and most importantly to her, making sure customers come to a clean and welcoming place. The restaurant offers a full assortment of food from the grill, soups, its
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
famous pizza, and award-winning ice cream. “Every day is an adjustment,” she laughs. Business is hopping May through November, as the tourist season takes hold, but it’s also steady November through April, when she tries to catch up many aspects that sometimes take a back seat. Patrons in the end, it’s all worth it for Kitchens. She loves the people she serves. While unexpected hurdles can pop up anytime, Kitchens handles them promptly and efficiently. The strength to keep going and improving comes from both the work ethic ingrained in her as a child and faith. When days present more downs than ups, she turns to prayer. Thankfully, the joys of the business outweigh the hurdles and for Kitchens, the biggest benefits of the job is seeing customers return and having employees happy to work where they do. With a job that demands so
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much, Kitchens is thankful to enjoy her work. Whenever possible, she seeks out the opportunity to go the extra mile and seek out ways to improve the offerings and reputation of the restaurant. She also credits her family with success of the business. She is married to Jim, her business partner, who manages the bowling center side of things. They have two grown daughters, Donata Kitchens and Danielle (Josh) Rasmussen and she is grandmother to three, Isaac, Mackenzie, and Lucas, a role she clearly relishes. The family, along with her mother and brother have been a driving force behind her. Looking back, Kitchens knows the business has led to the blessings in her life. “It’s been so much more than I anticipated,” she adds. “Sometimes in life, we’re not always able to do what we think we should. But, whatever we do, we should do it to the best of our ability.”
6th AnnuAl tAsty temptAtions Calling all the Best Cooks of Bluff Country! The Fillmore County Journal is sponsoring a cooking competition that will result in a selection of the top three recipes in each of the following categories: - Appetizers & Beverages Total contest payout of Gift Certificates - Soups, Salads, & Vegetables $630 in gift certificates Sponsored By: - Main Dishes & Casseroles just in time for the - Meat, Poultry, & Seafood holidays to spend at - Breads & Rolls Harmony Foods, Preston - Pies, Pastries, & Desserts Foods & Rushford Foods. - Cakes, Cookies, & Candy *Participants may win in - Dips, Sauces, & Spreads more than one category. - Special Diet (i.e. gluten-free, egg-free, shellfish-free, peanut free, dairy-free, etc.)
Special Kemps Cooking Category
•PIES, PASTRIES, and DESSERTS Must use two Kemps brand items in your recipe!
tAsty temptAtions 2015
Contest Rules: 1. Participants may enter one recipe per category based on the categories listed above. 2. No purchase required. Category: 3. Entries may be delivered to the Fillmore County Journal office at Name: P.O. Box 496, Preston, MN, 55965. Address: 4. Must use original entry form from the Fillmore County Journal. 5. Entries must be postmarked or delivered to the Fillmore County E-Mail: Journal office no later than October 23, 2015. Phone #: 6. Businesses excluded from contest, residential only. Sethre Media please submit this entry form along Group, Inc. employees and Rush with your recipe Foods Inc. employees are excluded from competition. 7. Recipe judging and taste testing to be held at Harmony Foods on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2015 from 6:00pm-7:00pm. 8. The top three recipes of each category will be published in the November 23, 2015 “Tasty Temptations Cookbook”.
Pictured here is Deb in her restaurant’s ice cream parlor. Photo by Peggi Redalen
The judges will conduct their taste tests, and the following prizes will be awarded per category: 1st Place will receive a $40 gift certificate for use at Harmony Foods, Preston Foods, and Rushford Foods 2nd Place will receive a $20 gift certificate for use at Harmony Foods, Preston Foods, and Rushford Foods 3rd Place will receive a $10 gift certificate for use at Harmony Foods, Preston Foods, and Rushford Foods.
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
ANDERSON
Continued from Page 7
Band, has performed in Mo., Ill., Wis., and Minn. She and Dave are also members of the local Over The Waterfall Band and occasionally play in the Root River Bluegrass Band with family members. Anderson primarily plays the upright bass, but also plays guitar and sings. Anderson says that the library is always looking for extra help at the library, noting it’s nice to have volunteers because “there are little things that need to get done that we don’t always have time to do” and just as she volunteered her time at the library for many years others will surely enjoy doing the same. The Preston Public Library
Monday, October 19, 2015
is located at 101 St. Paul Street NW and the phone number is (507) 765-4511. Library hours are Monday - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tuesday - 2 p.m. - 8 p.m., Wednesday - 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Thursday - 2 p.m. - 8 p.m., Friday - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday - 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and closed on Sunday. For additional information go to preston.lib.mn.us, which includes an on-line catalog, or visit the Facebook page of the library. Anderson says the library has new books coming in all the time and states “we get most of the bestsellers” as many people want those. So be sure to “visit” the library whether in person or virtually and find out what latest titles have arrived. You may end up with a long winter’s reading list.
Word on the Street
www.fillmorecounty
journal.com
136 St. Anthony St. S P.o. Box 496 Preston, Mn 55 965 507-765-2151
Working Women 2015
Fitness tips for busy moms Working mothers have a lot on their plates. In addition to the responsibilities that come with raising a family, working moms also must focus on their careers. Many mothers find that managing such hectic balancing acts leaves little time for physical fitness. But there are ways for working moms to stay physically fit even as they juggle their commitments to career and family. Work out in the early morning. Working out in the early morning, when the kids are still asleep and the office has yet to open, is a great way for busy working mothers to get their daily exercise. Designate a room in your home where you can spend time each morning doing some light strength training before hitting the treadmill or elliptical machine. The United States Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity each week, and women who get up just 45 minutes earlier each morning can meet those requirements and then some. An added benefit to working out in the early morning is that many people who follow such regimens insist they have more energy throughout the rest of the day. Exercise with the kids. Working mothers looking to find time for exercise can turn part of family time into a time to exercise with their children. Play in the yard with
youngsters while dinner is cooking or go for nightly post-meal walks. Exercising with kids is a great way for mothers to get their daily exercise while also instilling a love of physical activity in their children. Have a backup plan on hand. Working out at a gym can be motivational, as many mothers want to make sure their monthly membership fees aren't going to waste. But there will inevitably be days when working mothers can't get to the gym. Prepare for such days by purchasing home workout DVDs you can play while the kids are doing their homework or after they have gone to bed. Look for gyms with childcare. Many gyms now offer on-site childcare to parents of young children
who can't stay home alone while their folks are at the gym. Gyms that offer on-site childcare may prove more reliable and even less expensive than hiring a sitter, and some gyms even offer fitness programs to youngsters, helping to ensure kids get the daily exercise they need as well. Exercise during lunch breaks. If possible, squeeze in your daily exercise during lunch breaks. Take advantage of on-site exercise facilities if your company offers them. If not, take your lunch outside and then go for a walk around the campus or a nearby park rather than eating at your desk. Finding time to exercise is a common dilemma for working mothers. But there are some creative ways for moms to stay fit without affecting their commitments to work and family.
Thank you to these ladies for such great customer service!
ch, Brenda Lloyd
Miranda Clausen, Jo Szu
Sweet Stop & Sandwich Shoppe
The
Hrs: M-F 7:30 - 7:00 Sat. 8:30 - 2:00 www.sweetstop.net
110 St Anthony St. S, Preston, MN 507-765-9956
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Working Women 2015
Monday, October 19, 2015
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
River Hills Chiropractic provides sports medicine and more By Morgan McManimonMyers River Hills Chiropractic in Lanesboro is a busy place – and the busiest person there is Dr. Kay Johnson, DC, CCSP. Not only can you find her in her clinic on 102 Sheridan Dr. Kay Street West, Johnson you might also spot her on the sidelines of many a football and volleyball game, since she helps our local athletes get back in the game through her work in sports medicine. Johnson grew up in Rushford, Minn.
and graduated from Rushford high school. She played basketball and ran track during these years, beginning a lifelong love of sports medicine which continues into her practice today. Chiropractic medicine wasn’t her original plan – in fact, her major was biology with a preoptometry focus while attaining her bachelor’s degree at UW Eau Claire. However, several of her pre-chiropractic friends got her interested in the field and invited her to joing them at a chiropractic school open house in Davenport. The rest, she says, “is history”. She reports coming back home that summer with an interest in the study, talking to a chiropractor in town, and in between her
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summer job, spending time at his clinic where she saw and talked to many people who benefitted from the care. She returned to school and changed her focus to pre-chiropractic. She entered Palmer College of Chiropractic, Davenport Iowa, and recalls the “very intense” schooling during that time – “you go all day from 7:30 to at least 4, and usually there’s night labs and studying as well” she says “also, the average credit load is 32 credits a semester, instead of the 18 a semester at regular college”. Johnson didn’t just spend her days at a desk, however. She also went to India for two weeks to provide free care to the people there. She states this was very interesting and “one of the best parts of my time at Palmer”. Her first job was with a clinic in Oshkosh, Wis. where she completed her internship. This, Johnson says, was an extremely busy clinic with five doctors and teo massage therapists. One and a half years later, she moved on to Eau Claire, where she worked for three and a half years at a smaller clinic. Here she enjoyed spending much more time one-on-one with her patients, as well as working with Regis High School athletes and coaches. Finally, she decided she wanted to get back
to her home and family, and in 2004 opened her own practice in Lanesboro. Opening her own practice, she states, gives her the freedom to practice the way she thinks is best for her patients – with as much oneon-one time as necessary. “I spend as much time as I need with each patient, so I make sure I’m covering all the bases”. Then I know what their true needs are, and whether they need referrals to someone else. She laments how too often patients feel as though they are “rushed through” clinics and other care centers, and wants to make sure that doesn’t happen in her office. “My goal,” she says, “is to give quality care and appropriate amount of time to determine what their needs truly are.” The services offered at River Hills Chiropractic include eight techniques from low force adjustments to more classic techniques. She has ultrasound interferential (muscle stimulation), low level lasers, kinesiotapes, braces, pillows, and supplements available to her as well. Her clientele are a variety – anywhere from young children to the elderly, and while her specialty is in sports medicine, she works with many other pain conditions, citing examples including back pain, migraines, extremity issues, and
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carpal tunnel. Often, being one of the only care centers in a small town, emergencies land in her clinic as well. Johnson had been active for 10 years with LHS sports but lessened her time being on the sidelines and at the games in 2014 due to her practice being too busy in the office. She knew the coaches in the area and when she moved back she approached them asking if they’d like help with their athletes’ pain and injury issues. She was welcomed warmly and continues to work with athletes in her office, especially the football and volleyball teams. She enjoys being on the sidelines for them when she’s able and working with them. “I support the high school kids quite a bit here,” she says. “It’s good to get them back in the game faster.” River Hills Chiropractic is open Mon., Tues., Weds., Fri. 9a.m. – 6 p.m.and Saturday by appointment, closed on Thursdays. However, Johnson states she is flexible with her hours and often arranges appointments around this schedule as well. River Hills Chiropractic is located at 102 Sheridan St. W, Lanesboro, Minn. 55949. To call the office, phone: (507)467-2629. In the case of an emergency, she can be reached at (507)450-2466. Fax: (507)467-2638 or email: riverhills@acegroup.cc.
Greg: Here’s my comment, suggestion or request...
Please mail to: State Representative Greg Davids 585 State Office Building 100 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd St. Paul, MN 55155-1298 Paid for by the People for Greg Davids.