Spring 2015 You Magazine by Gannett Wisconsin Media

SPRING 2015 | FREE

From the editor:

It’s time to rediscover my creative passions

ome of my most prized possessions are gifts my 9-year-old daughter has made over the years. The Christmas ornaments with her photos on them, cards with sweet messages written inside, and a lily pad candle holder she sculpted are proudly displayed or safely tucked away. Emma would rather be creating something than just about anything else in the world. Her artwork has adorned my office walls since before she could color in the lines. A Christmas picture she drew of a horse and sleigh left my parents speechless. And she can create the most impressive creatures with a few sheets of colored paper. Just last night I found her laying on the floor learning to draw horses with books she brought home from the library. Much to my husband’s dismay,

our office at home as been transformed into a craft room. A knitting loom she received for Christmas, millions of Rainbow Loom bands, construction paper and rows and rows of markers litter the floor. And if it comes with glitter, it’s an automatic favorite. But while my daughter is a creative genius, I don’t remember having that same passion as a child. I’m sure I loved doing crafts and art projects, but nothing really sticks out in my mind. I’m hoping my daughter’s passion for all things creative is something she’ll continue to nurture as she gets older and other things compete for her time. That’s certainly what happened for Michelle Lepak of Stevens Point. The 41-year-old stay-athome mom has taken creativity to a whole new level, and she credits her mother for fostering that passion while she was a child.

Michelle remembers having crafting weekends with her mom, which she says grew into frequent home redecorating projects as she got older. She now runs Dandelion Patina, a blog where she shares do-it-yourself home decorating tips and design ideas. And her work is impressive — from a rustic lounger created with hay bales to a Valentine’s arrow made with an oar to a home organizer created with wooden goblets. “With all the stresses of being a mom, I needed something to keep me happy,” Michelle says. “This is about taking care of me.” And she shares that passion with her two daughters, as well. Read all about Michelle and see some of her projects on pages 16 to 18. And there’s so much more inside this issue ... Now as the weather (hopefully)

warms and spring arrives, I’m making it my mission to get creative. Let me know how you explore your creative side by emailing jamie.jung@cwnewsnet. Jamie Jung can be reached at 715-345-2256. Find her on Twitter as @SPJJamieJung.

yo u m a g a z i n e s t a ff Publisher Mike Beck Editor Jamie Jung Advertising Manager Tara Mondloch Operations Manager Sherri Wallis Photography Jamie Jung, Serena Sblendorio, Thomas Kujawski, Leah Cady Design Amanda Boyd

... YOU MAGAZINE is published by the Stevens Point Journal. Contents of the magazine are by Gannett Wisconsin. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the Stevens Point Journal. YOU Magazine, 1200 Third St, Stevens Point, WI 54481 YOUR CONTACTS Content: Jamie Jung at 715.345.2256. Advertising: Tara Mondloch at 715-297-7514

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stevenspointjournal.com

Features 8 Shops we love: Lee Ayers Jewelers serves customers with unique, custom designs

12 Woman to know: Resale store owner inspired by her children 16 Find your happy space: Stay-at-home mom turns home decorating hobby into business 26 Restaurant feature: Hilltop Pub & Grill provides delicious food, great atmosphere 30 Makeover: “Jock girl” seeks a more professional look

Home 10 Do your homework: Shop for quality, value when choosing a home builder 36 More than meets the eye: Tricks to make a small room look more spacious

Health 6 Healthy diet: Focus on healthy lifestyle changes, not weight loss 7 Drink smart: Cut excess calories, carbohydrates from your diet

22 Better night’s sleep: Sleep-disordered breathing threatens women’s health

Children and family 5 Gifts and inheritance: Protect your inheritance from possible division in divorce 14 Book reviews: Welcome spring with these great books 15 Child care: Is your child care facility “Breast-feeding Friendly?” 20 More color: Spring fashion trends feature bold prints, vibrant color palettes 34 Plan the perfect event: Stevens Point area offers many unique event spaces 38 Protect your credit: Take time to check your free credit report

This and that 24 Can’t-miss events: Don’t miss these Portage County events 28 Caught you looking good: Photos from the Arts Bash 2015 fundraiser

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Cover photo:

Michelle Lepak was photographed by Serena Sblendorio of Splendid Photography by Serena

Protect your inheritance from possible division in divorce W

isconsin law presumes that all property acquired by either spouse is marital. The law also presumes that the court should equally divide marital property at the time of a divorce. The exception is that any asset that either spouse receives as a gift or inheritance is excluded from the marital estate. A more complex legal analysis is Donna Ginzl required when a spouse receives a gift or inheritance and mixes the proceeds with marital funds (“comingling”) or uses the gift or inheritance to purchase something for the family (“donative intent”).

Co-mingling Three years into your marriage, you inherit $30,000. You open a money market account, title it in your name only, and fund it solely with your $30,000 inheritance. Five years later, you leave the employment that you began one year after marriage. You have your 401(k) rolled over into an IRA. To simplify your accounts, you close the money market account that was funded with your inheritance and deposit the proceeds into your new IRA. For the next few years you make additional contributions to your IRA from your earnings. Marital property law considers the earnings of either spouse to be a marital asset so the 401(k) from your former employer and the contributions you made to your IRA from your earnings are all marital funds. Your IRA is therefore a marital asset subject to division at divorce. Six years later, you get di-

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vorced. You would like to subtract the value of the money market account that was “co-mingled” with your retirement accounts from the value of your IRA before dividing the IRA in divorce. However, due to market fluctuations, it is difficult to determine how much the original $30,000 inheritance is worth today. The simplest solution for the court is to find that the inherited assets have been so co-mingled with the marital assets, that the entire balance of your IRA is marital and subject to division in the divorce.

Donative intent You have been married for 10 years. You and your spouse purchased a home two years into your marriage. Eight years later

you inherit $40,000. You deposit the $40,000 into a joint checking account until you determine how you want to spend the proceeds. After four months, you spend $25,000 of the inheritance to remodel the marital residence. Three years later, your spouse files for divorce. You would like the court to give you credit against the marital property division for the $25,000 that you inherited and spent to remodel your home. The easy response for the court is to determine that your actions in using your inheritance to remodel the marital residence demonstrated an intent to “donate” the proceeds of your inheritance for a marital purpose, and you may receive little to no credit against the property division.

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So what can you do to protect a gift or inheritance you receive from being divided as part of the marital estate in the event of a divorce? The safest thing is to take the proceeds from the inheritance and deposit them into a new account that is in your name only. Do not make any additional deposits into this account from the earnings of you or your spouse. In addition, before you spend your inheritance on a marital purpose (such as remodeling the marital residence) be aware that you may never recoup those funds in the event that you later divorce. Donna L. Ginzl is an attorney at Anderson, O’Brien, Bertz, Skrenes & Golla LLP. She specializes in family law and civil litigation. To reach her, call 715-344-0890.

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Focus on healthy lifestyle changes, not weight loss A

nytime you stand in line at the grocery store you will likely notice many sensational headlines jumping out at you from the magazine racks. Most of them promote weight loss through fad diets, and two common themes are: fast weight loss and effortless weight loss. With articles Emily Starke claiming these methods are effective, it is no mystery how magazines like these continue to sell copies month after month. But the hard truth is that losing weight and keeping it off require more time and effort than these articles lead us to believe. I’m not arguing that we should all stop trying to achieve or maintain a healthy weight, but instead of searching for the next (ineffective) quick way to remedy the consequences of everyday choices, we can make lasting lifestyle changes that will add value and joy to our lives. Instead of focusing solely on weight, let’s think about all the benefits of a healthy diet, such as reducing our risk for disease and feeling our absolute best, and some tips to stay on track with a healthy eating plan.

Keep it simple Have you ever had the motivation to completely change your lifestyle, only to slip back into your routine a month or two later? Initial over-enthusiasm is one of the most common pitfalls to improving one’s diet. Avoid the urge to take on too much too fast by making small changes that you enjoy, and then build on those changes once they’ve become habits. Focus on

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satisfying, nutrient-dense foods to eat for a complete diet, rather than dwelling on foods you think you should avoid. For example, if you enjoy oatmeal in the morning, try making it with milk or nondairy milk instead of water, or adding fruit, nuts or ground flax seed for extra nutrition.

Enjoy your food If you choose foods based solely on their health merit and not on their taste, you are likely to drop that change in favor of more delicious food, especially when you are under stress. When thinking about new foods to add to your diet, look for foods that are whole, or mostly unprocessed, and that taste good. Forget about the so-called “super foods” if you don’t care for them, and go for a different nutritious

option that you enjoy! For example, it seems that every article you read these days is touting the benefits of kale or chia seeds. While both of these foods can add nutrition to a well-balanced diet, adding any type of whole vegetables, fruits, seeds, nuts and grains to your diet in place of processed foods that are lower in nutrients will benefit your health. Taking time to enjoy your food with family or friends rather than eating on the go will also help you get the most out of mealtime.

Plan ahead For many of us, we can go into our week with the best intentions to eat well, and then our schedules become impossibly busy with unexpected tasks. The next thing we know, we are headed through

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the drive-through for fast food on the way home. This can negatively impact our budgets as well as our health, so it’s helpful to have a plan in place to get us through busy days. To avoid this pitfall, try making a meal plan and shopping for the ingredients you need on the weekend, and choose recipes that will be quick and easy to make. Chopping your veggies on the weekend could save you even more time during the week. While these tips may not sound as glamorous as the magazine headlines and will require some planning and dedication, they will help you make sustainable, enjoyable changes to your diet and your overall health. Emily Starke is director of wellness and chronic disease prevention for the Stevens Point Area YMCA.

Drink smart to improve health

CUT EXCESS CALORIES AND CARBOHYDRATES FROM YOUR DIET WITHOUT SUBTRACTING THE JOY

his past year was a very transformative year for me. Repeat usage of prednisone, coupled with being overweight and having a family history of diabetes caught up with me. In April, I was given a life-changing diagnosis, and I knew that I would need to make a drastic change. While I have always eaten a pretty healthy diet, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t drink a healthy diet. I was totally hooked on soft drinks. I drank diet soda for years until my body could no longer tolerate artificial sweeteners, and then convinced myself that having the occasional sugar-sweetened

soda or fruit juice beverage was OK. It really wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. While my intentions were to have just one soda or glass of fruit juice per Jen Dolan day, I often found myself having three or four sweetened beverages ... not realizing that was as many as 600 extra calories per day! I have struggled with weight my entire life, and I believe I now have a good understanding of why. At a Childhood Obesity Conference sponsored by the University

of Wisconsin-Green Bay, I found out how much just one soda per day can make a difference for a child under the age of 13. Keynote speaker Christina Economos said the average daily surplus of calories leading to childhood obesity amounts to only 150 extra calories. That is one can of soda! Facing that truth, I knew I would need some creative solutions to make a lasting change. These are some of the ways I have cut excess calories and carbohydrates from my diet without subtracting the joy: Âť Invest in either an infusion water bottle or pitcher. These are vessels that contain a core to hold fresh fruit to flavor water. Try filling the core with lemon wedges and sliced ginger, lime wedges and mint leaves, or orange slices with half a vanilla bean. Âť Make a festive winter-weath-

er drink with less sugar. Brew a cup of apple spice herbal tea, leaving enough room to add Âź cup of apple juice. The flavor is that of mulled cider, with a quarter of the sugar and calories. Âť Explore a variety of iced tea. Tea comes in so many varieties other than just green and black, and many companies offer cold brew teas that offer instant gratification. Try blending flavors. Combine mint with chamomile to make a naturally sweet yet refreshing drink that is caffeine free. These are some healthier changes that are satisfying and easy to make! Jennifer Dolan is an active member of Portage County CAN, a coalition of community businesses, organizations and individuals committed to promoting healthy eating and active living in Portage County.

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SHOPS WE LOVE

Crafting special moments LEE AYERS JEWELERS SERVES CUSTOMERS WITH UNIQUE, CUSTOM DESIGNS By Breanna Speth For You magazine

TEVENS POINT — With

PHOTOS BY JAMIE JUNG/YOU MAGAZINE

A full-service jeweler, Lee Ayers Jewelers & Custom Goldsmithing emphasizes quality merchandise, custom design and in-house goldsmith repair.

Lee Ayers Jewelers & Custom Goldsmithing showcases one of the finest collections of colored gemstones, diamonds, engagement rings and watches available anywhere.

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his original business plan stating that he wanted his store to offer unique, custom jewelry designs and to serve customers, Lee Ayers Jewelers & Custom Goldsmithing has not changed this mission during its 30 years in business. Beginning with just two employees, the business has grown to 12 employees, most of whom have been with the company for the better part of three decades. “I started the business April 1, 1985, with a shoestring and a prayer,” recalled owner Lee Ayers. “I had worked and saved for 10 years with the hope of having my own business before taking the leap of faith.” A full-service jeweler, Lee Ayers emphasizes quality merchandise, custom design, and in-house goldsmith repair, and provides complete in-house goldsmith repair and appraisal services, as well as complimentary ring inspection and cleaning. The store showcases one of the finest collections of colored gemstones, diamonds, engagement rings and watches available anywhere, right from downtown Stevens Point. “We have developed many good resources over the years for

Lee Ayers Jewelers & Custom Goldsmithing Address: 1044 Main St., Stevens Point Hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday Contact: 715-341-0411; www.ayersjewelers.com

Goldsmith Dan Zieher replaces a missing gemstone on a ring that was brought in to be resized.

Lee Ayers Jewelers & Custom Goldsmithing is home to Thomas Dailing Designs’ team of designer goldsmiths.

jewelry and gemstones,” said Ayers, who for many years traveled to Antwerp, Belgium, for diamonds; Bangkok, Thailand, for colored gemstones and jewelry; and Hong Kong for diamond and colored gemstone jewelry. “The trips helped me to bring gems and jewelry to our store with lower cost to our customers, unique designs, and in the end more profit,” he said. The store sees a steady flow of customers seeking jewelry repair and appraisal services. “There are so many facets to our store which makes each day’s experience unique,” Ayers said. “I look forward to each day to enjoy working with our employees and helping customers with their requests.” The talents of the Thomas Dailing Designs’ team of designer goldsmiths are an integral part of

Lee Ayers’ complete package of services. They work with customers to develop a piece that is truly original and personifies the customer’s style and vision. “Tom Dailing had natural artistic talent when I hired him,” recalled Ayers. “I gave Tom artistic freedom to decide what he will design and when.” While Dailing serves as a custom jewelry designer/goldsmith, his fellow teammate Dan Zieher acts as jewelry repair goldsmith. “He has collaborated with a national and internationally recognize colored gemstone cutter to create new cutting designs,” Ayers said of Dailing. “He won more jewelry design state and national contests than any jewelry designer in Wisconsin.” Dailing’s work has also been showcased at the Smithsonian Institute.

With a talented and compassionate team, Lee Ayers has excelled in its 30 years of business. “I am so appreciative of the wonderful employees I have had so many years to experience business and life with,” Ayers said. “I appreciate all of the significant contributions each of them has made. I appreciate our loyal customers who enriched our life by sharing their lives and special moments with us and trusting us with their family treasures.” Ayers said he will never forget the time a customer brought in pieces of a sentimental family ring that had been ground up in a garbage disposal. “Dan (Zieher) meticulously put the pieces back together like a puzzle, using the laser welder so it looked like new again,” recalled Ayers. “The customer shed tears at the counter when receiving it, a

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real emotional time for all of us.” Lee Ayers’ employees have witnessed many passionate stories of creation and recovery throughout the years. “We have had the pleasure of sharing our customers’ special moments in life, and share their grief when they or loved ones are ill, injured,” Ayers said. “In a way, many of our customers are like extended family as we care about each other.” Ayers calls his journey “remarkable” and enjoys giving back to the community by supporting local nonprofit and charitable organizations in Portage County. “It’s another way for us to say thanks and to do what we can to help our community grow and thrive,” he said. “So many great people live here, and I am most grateful to have had this opportunity.”

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SPONSORED FEATURE

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ing references make sure to ask: Did the builder give a fixed and accurate quote? Was the builder helpful with materials, finishes, recommendations? Did the builder stay within the projected completion time line?

How do they present a price? Is the price of your home time and materials? Cost plus? Or is it guaranteed? A builder who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give you a guaranteed price doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how much your home is going to cost, which means you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how much your home will cost. When making the investment of a lifetime, the lowest bid may not always be the best value. Remember, you get what you pay for. A â&#x20AC;&#x153;smoking dealâ&#x20AC;? may be just that. Bottom line is: When you move into your fabulous new home built just for you, you want to have built a lasting relationship with your builder as well. Doing your homework up front can mean years of lasting enjoyment in your new home. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hoping the builder you choose makes your building experience easy and fun. Jason Jones is building consultant for Heartland Custom Homes Inc. For more information, call 715-344-8886 or email hch@hchbuilder.com.

Gas fireplace with stone to the ceiling and built-in entertainment area.

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WOMAN TO KNOW

Resale store owner inspired by her children Kelly Kluck Age: 32 City: Stevens Point Family: I have twin 11-year-old girls, Kyla and Ashlynn, and an 18-monthold daughter, Brielle. I love spending time with them. Job: I am the owner of Remix Kid’s Consignment LLC, an upscale children’s resale store located at 2501 Church St. in Stevens Point. We consign and sell anything used for children ages newborn to juniors — from clothing to toys to larger equipment and furniture and everything in between. Having twins, I had tons of outgrown items and thought it would not only be a place for me to sell them, but to help out the community by providing a place for others to sell their outgrown children’s items and for people to have a place to shop for “almost new” items for their children at a fraction of the cost. After all, children outgrow things very fast, and we can help the community and our planet by recycling and reusing them. I also work as an accountant for several small businesses in Stevens Point and Wausau. If you weren’t in your current job position, you’d be ... I’ve always wanted to be an elementary school teacher. If given the chance to go back to school, that is what I would do. I love working with young children. It would also mean summers off to spend with my children! What inspires you? My children inspire me to do the best I can every day. Everything I do is with them in mind. I try to set good examples for them. As young as they are, I learn things from them every day, and they make me inspired to do my best and live life to its fullest. My superhero power would be ... I think I would clone myself. It seems there are never enough hours in a day to get things done. The one thing I wish I could do but can’t is ... I wish I had a really good

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â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;

My children inspire me to do the best I can every day. Everything I do is with them in mind. I try to set good examples for them.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; voice and could sing. I think we all sing when no one is listening, but I envy those who have beautiful voices and sing effortlessly. My guilty pleasures are ... I love shopping. I love spending a day shopping for things for those I love. (And a few things for myself every now and then). I also love to travel. I wish I had the ability to go on several vacations a year to visit warmweather places. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not built for the cold so any opportunity to get out of it is a plus. I LOVE playing volleyball. I use to play two or three times per week. Life has since gotten too busy, but I would love to get back into it. The gift that I want but never receive is ... Vacation. Lots

and lots of relaxing vacations with my children! The movie I can watch over and over is ... I love the movies â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Christmas Storyâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;National Lampoonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Vacation.â&#x20AC;? Every year we watch the 24-hour marathons during Christmas time. It seems every time I watch them I catch something that I had missed all the other times Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve watched them. I also really enjoy watching comedies like â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dumb and Dumber,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wedding Crashers,â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Old Schoolâ&#x20AC;? ... anything with Vince Vaughan, Will Ferrell and Steve Carell. The book I can read over and over again is ... When I do find the time, I enjoy reading books by Jodi Picoult. They are always very good stories.

Nominate If you would like to be featured as our Woman to Know in an upcoming issue of You magazine, or to nominate someone, email you@stevenspointjournal.com.

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Welcome spring with these great books SPRING STARTS TO STIR AND YOU TURN YOURSELF TOWARD THOUGHTS OF ROMANCE. IS IT BECAUSE THE MONTH IS SUPPOSED TO BE ROMANTIC, OR COULD IT BE SOMETHING ELSE? WHILE YOU’RE PONDERING THAT QUESTION, WHY NOT GRAB A GREAT BOOK ...

Terri Schlichenmeyer is the Bookworm. She has been reading since she was 3 years old and never goes anywhere without a book. She now lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 12,000 books. She can be reached at bookwormsez@ yahoo.com.

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“While Beauty Slept” by Elizabeth Blackwell, c.2014, Berkeley Trade We all grew up with fairy tales, but they’re not real ... are they? In “While Beauty Slept” by Elizabeth Blackwell, an old woman overhears her great-granddaughter acting out a classic fairy tale and she decides to set the child straight. The tale we think we know was nothing like the truth. This is a book of knights and battles, princesses and evil-doers, kings and castles. It’s everything you want in a Medieval fantasyromance, and then some.

“My Boy, Ben: A Story of Love, Loss and Grace” by David Wheaton, c.2014, Tristan Publishing How much do you adore your pet? In “My Boy, Ben” by David Wheaton, you’ll read the story of a boy (a grown boy, but still ...) and his dog. Wheaton, who traveled a lot, wanted a dog but since his parents would have to care for it while he was gone, the decision involved them, too. They absolutely did NOT want a dog … until they saw Ben. Bring a box of tissues, if you’re a Lab lover or if you have a pup you can’t live without.

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“The Teenage Brain” by Frances E. Jensen, M.D., with Amy Ellis Nutt, c.2015, Harper And finally, you love your kids — but do they make you crazy, too? In “The Teenage Brain” by Frances E. Jensen, with Amy Ellis Nutt, you’ll learn the science behind why teenagers behave the way they do (or don’t). Teens are a “work in progress,” say the authors, and what happens in their lives during this time really does matter. This book will make you understand a lot — and your kids will adore you for it. And there you are — three books to bring you romance of one sort or another. Don’t you love it?

Is your child care facility ‘Breast-feeding Friendly’?

he American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all babies be exclusively breast-fed for the first six months and breast-feeding continue with complimentary foods until 1 year. That goal can become a challenge when mothers return to work. The Portage County Breastfeeding Coalition along with other coalitions in the state are working with child care providers to make the transition back to work while still breast-feeding easier. Knowing that the child care facility being used is certified as “Breastfeeding Friendly” will go a long way to assist in the transition from home to work or school. Child care providers are one of the most important supports a breast-feeding mother has after she returns to work or school. The daily support and interaction make all the difference in the

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world. Support from the child care provider means respecting the effort mothers put into providing their own milk for their baby. What does it take for a child care provider to be Breast-feeding Friendly? Here are some steps necessary to become Breastfeeding Friendly:

» Establish a supportive breastfeeding policy. » Provide training for the staff in proper handling and storage of human milk. » Provide positive breast-feeding promotion messages in the center or home. » Set aside a place for mothers to breast-feed or pump their milk in privacy. Make it clear to mothers, staff and other parents that a mother may breast-feed her child wherever she and her child have a legal right to be. » Make information available to pregnant and breast-feeding mothers including community resources. » Provide recognition and encouragement to mothers who choose to breast-feed. Wisconsin is part of a national group that has been established to address promotion, protection and support of breast-feeding in the

child care setting called The National Collaborative on Advancing Breastfeeding in Child Care. This group is committed to sharing best practices that guide coalitions, state governments, child care and others to implement programs and policies that build infrastructure to support a breastfeeding-friendly child care environment. Any child care facility in Portage County can contact the Portage County Breastfeeding Coalition to find out how they can start the process to become Breastfeeding Friendly. The service is free and the coalition works closely with the child care staff to achieve their goal. For more information, call Lora Harris at Ministry Saint Michael’s Hospital at 715-346-5332. Submitted by Amy Bakken, a member of the Portage County Breastfeeding Coalition.

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JAMIE JUNG/YOU MAGAZINE

Michelle Lepak of Stevens Point sits amid several projects in her home office.

‘Find your happy space’ Stay-at-home mom turns home decorating hobby into business By Jamie Jung You magazine

ichelle Lepak credits her mother for nurturing her creativity from the time she was a young girl. The 41-year-old Stevens Point woman recalls a time when she and her mother created fabric heart

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cards and entered them into a hometown radio station contest. “We won first place,” says Michelle, who has held onto those cards throughout the years. “It was a big inspirational moment for me.” Michelle now tries to instill that passion for creativity into her two daughter, Minta, 9, and Mia, 6, as well as those who follow her blog, Dandelion Patina.

Michelle grew up in Portage, studied in the medical secretary program at Madison Area Technical College and moved to Stevens Point when she got a job as a medical coder at Rice Medical Center. She worked there for more than 10 years, and that’s where she met her husband, Jim. They have been married since 2003. When the couple started a family, Michelle became a stay-at-

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home mom. And when she found free time, she pursued her passion for home design and decorating. “It was a hobby at the time,” Michelle says. “I painted all the rooms in our house several times. It was something I enjoyed doing while being home; it kept the creative juices flowing. “Things in our home get moved around quite a bit. I say, ‘I have an

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

JAMIE JUNG/YOU MAGAZINE

Michelle created this aqua home office organizer using wooden goblets purchased at a local thrift store.

Michelle says her Stevens Point home undergoes several makeovers each year. She found the mantel for her latest living room redesign on Craigslist, and then added pine board.

idea,’ and Jim goes to the garage and grabs his hammer.” Michelle also enjoys painting furniture, and in the past has sold her work at Design Inspiration in Stevens Point. “She’s a very good artist and she does very good work,” says Jen Haas, an interior/exterior color and design specialist for Design Inspiration. “She’s good at thinking outside of the box and taking something and repurposing it. “She will see something when she looks at an item, and then she can make it happen.” About a year ago, Michelle came across a blog post on MissMustardSeed.com that shared information on how to get started as a blogger. And that was the

and schedules posts on social media, and then she shifts her attention to projects for her blog. “Sometimes (ideas) just come to me,” she says. “I’ll go to stores, flea markets or the antique store in town and see something. Then I try to put a twist on it; how could this be turned into something else. “My brain is constantly in creative mode.” Michelle also finds inspiration on Pinterest and other blogs. “It’s evolved with the girls, too,” Michelle says. “They come up to me and say, ‘Look at this, it could be used this way.’” Michelle admits learning the ins and outs of the blogging world has been a challenge. “It’s just me and networking with other bloggers,” she says.

spark she needed. Michelle now operates her blog at DandelionPatina.com. She shares home and design inspirations as well as clever do-it-yourself home decorating projects. Many of those projects describe ways to repurpose things you already have or those you find at local thrift shops and antique stores. She also shares her ideas and projects on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. “With all the stresses of being a mom, I needed something to keep me happy,” Michelle says of her blog. “This is about taking care of me.” Michelle’s work day starts as soon as she gets her daughters off to school. She responds to emails

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Follow Dandelion Patina » Blog: www.dandelionpatina.com » Facebook: www.facebook.com/DandelionPatina » Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/dandelionpatina » Instagram: www.instagram.com/dandelionpatina » Twitter: www.twitter.com/ dandelionpatina

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CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Michelle, second from right, with daughter Minta, 9, husband Jim and daughter Mia, 6.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have to become your own photographer, you have to learn lighting. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more to it than I ever thought.â&#x20AC;? When sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not on a treasure hunt for her next project or busy with her blog, Michelle enjoys trips to the beach, watching her daughters compete in gymnastics tournaments, biking and nature walks with her family on the Green Circle Trail and watching movies. She also spends a lot of time in the art room doing crafts with her daughters.

Michelle hopes to continue to grow her blog by building followers and working toward brand sponsorships and advertising. But her mission remains the same â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to inspire people to create the home they love. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Find your happy space,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whether you find things at an antique store or Pottery Barn, make it your own. It creates something more special than if you purchased it at a big box store, and it makes it more special to have in your home.â&#x20AC;?

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

As she focuses on her blog, Michelle says painting furniture has become more of a hobby. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something she hopes to find more time for in the future.

ABOUT US Tempura House is owned by Mr. Chu. At Tempura House, we offer an authentic, quality Chinese & Japanese menu with the addition of a full service Sushi Bar & menu. We are proud to be a local favorite tradition for over 15 years! Tempura House was voted â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best Chinese / Japanese Food In the Areaâ&#x20AC;? in a local poll by the Stevens Point Journal. Please join us & experience our delight in serving you while sharing delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere!

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5720 WINDY DR, STEVENS POINT, WI

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you money

Women May Face Extra Challenges in Seeking Financial Security On March 8, we observe International Women’s Day. On this occasion, thousands of events across the world will honor the cultural, political and social achievements of women. Of course, in many countries, women still face significant economic challenges. And even here in the United States, women encounter more obstacles than men in the pursuit of financial security, particularly in seeking a comfortable retirement lifestyle. So if you are a woman — regardless of your marital status — you will need to be aware of these challenges and take steps to overcome them. Let’s consider a few of these challenges and some possible solutions: Challenge: Women spend more time out of the workforce and accumulate less money in 401(k) plans. Women spend an average of 12 years out of the workforce caring for children or elderly parents, compared with less than two years for men, according to the Social Security Administration. This time away from work can translate into less money in retirement plans — in fact, women’s average 401(k) balance is only about two-thirds as large as men’s, according to a study by Fidelity Investments. Potential solution: Take full advantage of your 401(k) and IRA. Your care-giving obligations are an issue to be decided by you, your spouse and perhaps other family members. But while you are working, contribute as much as you possibly can to your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored plan. Also, try to fully fund your IRA each year. Challenge: Women typically live more years in retirement and depend more heavily on Social Security. Women reaching age 65 are expected to live, on average, an additional 21.6 years, compared with 19.3 years for men, according to the Social Security Administration, which also reports that the average annual Social Security income received by women 65 years and older was about $12,500. Furthermore, Social Security comprises about 50% of the total income for unmarried women age 65 and older, compared to just 36% for elderly men. Potential solution: To become less dependent on Social Security, create a sustainable withdrawal strategy for your investment portfolio.

Member SIPC

Social Security was designed to supplement one’s retirement income, not replace it. Consequently, it’s essential that you make full use of your other sources of income, such as your 401(k), IRA and other investment accounts. To make this money last, you’ll need to create a sustainable withdrawal strategy early in your retirement — and stick to it. Challenge: Women are far more likely than men to need some type of long-term care. More than two-thirds of nursing home residents are women, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. And the average cost for a private room in a nursing home is more than $87,000 per year, according to the 2014 Cost of Care Survey produced by Genworth, a financial services company. Typically, Medicare covers only a small percentage of these costs. Potential solution: Prepare in advance for long-term care expenses. Long-term care costs can be enormous, but you do have some protection-related options for meeting these costs. Check with your financial advisor to learn which of these choices might be most appropriate for your situation. These aren’t the only financial issues facing women, but they do give you a good idea of what you may be facing. So, be proactive in meeting these challenges — because there’s actually a lot you can do. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Dorie Johnson , AAMS Financial Advisor Edward Jones 1209 Church Street Stevens Point, WI 54481 (715) 344-1112

WI-5001873900

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‘Color, color and more color’ SPRING FASHION TRENDS FEATURE BOLD PRINTS, VIBRANT COLOR PALETTES

PHOTOS BY MEGAN MCCORMICK/YOU MAGAZINE

Bold colors and geometric patterns at Rae Baxter’s Fashions in Marshfield.

By Carol Knauf For YOU Magazine

ARSHFIELD — Specialty stores give their customers an experience, not just merchandise. As an example, at Rae Baxter’s Fashions in Marshfield, we give our customers something that can’t be replicated when shopping online. We make things interesting and fun.

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It is more than selling our customers valuable merchandise, it is selling an experience and a memory. We create a friendly atmosphere for shopping that is easy and comfortable. We specialize in making our customers look good in timeless, fashionable silhouettes that follow the trends of the season. The spring season’s bold prints and vibrant color palettes are inspired

by classic and artistic designs that range from romantic to playful to graphic to linear. These include dresses, sportswear and accessories for the woman who likes to stand out in the crowd. If I had to use one word for this season, it is “color, color and more color.” There are lots of blues, from cobalt, aqua to royal blue in everything from dresses to sportswear to accessories. We

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are coming off a long, cold winter and our customers will delight in these shades of blue that remind them of beautiful coastlines and tones of the ocean. Shop your local specialty shops where you will receive the VIP experience because you deserve the best. Carol Knauf is the owner of Rae Baxter’s Fashions in Marshfield.

Bold prints inspired by classic and artistic designs at Rae Baxterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fashions in Marshfield.

â&#x20AC;&#x153; Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman.â&#x20AC;?

Dresses, sportswear and accessories at Rae Baxterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fashions in Marshfield will help women stand out in the crowd.

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Spring fashions at Rae Baxterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fashions in Marshfield will remind shoppers of beautiful coastlines and tones of the ocean.

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Sleep-disordered breathing threatens women’s health W

omen’s bodies are unique and so is their need for sleep. How well a woman sleeps directly affects her health and the quality of her life. More and more physicians and their female patients are evaluating sleep to determine if there is an undetected sleep Thomas Honl problem before prescribing pills or a therapist to help women attain the balance they are seeking. Women face many challenges to get the sleep they want and need, and there are solutions available for the challenges they face. I TRY TO GET ENOUGH SLEEP SO WHY DON’T I HAVE ANY ENERGY? Although an average of seven to eight hours of sleep per night is required to function at her best, women commonly settle for five to six hours due to the demands of home, work, family and friends. First, women need to start getting the quantity of sleep they need. But even if she allows for an eight-hour night, arousals or awakenings during the night can significantly decrease the amount of sleep she “thinks” she is getting. Additionally, there are physical factors that seriously can impact the quality of her sleep, preventing the amount of the restorative deep sleep she needs to stay healthy and feel her best. Sleep-disordered breathing such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or upper airway resis-

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GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO

Women face many challenges to get the sleep they want and need, and there are solutions available for the challenges they face.

tance syndrome (UARS), restless leg syndrome or insomnia can disrupt sleep throughout the night, interrupting sleep cycles and resulting in waking unrefreshed and robbing her of the energy and vitality she needs to face each new day optimistically. WHY DO I WAKE UP WITH HEADACHES? There are two main causes for morning headaches: nighttime hypoxia (low oxygen) and nighttime clenching. Hypoxia can be the result of obstructive sleep apnea, where an obstruction in the airway repeatedly

causes apneas (stopping breathing) throughout the night and produces morning headaches because the brain is starved of oxygen during the night. Until recently, nighttime clenching has been a mystery. No longer thought to be triggered by stress, new research is beginning to connect clenching and how you breathe during sleep. Clenching your jaw stiffens your airway to aid in improving airflow. Both sore muscles from nighttime clenching and hypoxia can result in a morning headache to start your day.

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WHY DO I GRIND MY TEETH AT NIGHT? New research has connected teeth grinding (bruxism) with disrupted sleep and sleep-disordered breathing. The most effective approach to treating teeth grinding at night is to address why people grind their teeth in the first place. An evaluation by a sleep dentist and a home or hospital sleep test to determine if there is an underlying sleep breathing problem is the first step. Many dentists were taught to make night guards to protect teeth. Although it may actually

decrease grinding and result in less pain and fewer headaches for a while, it does not address the more serious potential health concern of sleep-disordered breathing. Soon the patient begins to clench on the night guard just as they did on their teeth, and the grinding, sore muscles and headaches return. WHY DID I START SNORING WHEN I REACHED MENOPAUSE? How women sleep changes over time. As women age, changes in their bodies and sex hormone levels affect their sleep. The hormones progesterone and estrogen help protect the airway from collapsing while sleeping during child-bearing ages. When women reach menopause, they lose this natural protection and the rate and severity of OSA and snoring becomes equal to that of men. Sex hormone levels also affect other hormones that play a key role in how a woman sleeps. Research indicates that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) given to women as treatment after they have developed OSA is ineffective. WHY AM I SUDDENLY GAINING WEIGHT? Leptin and Ghrelin are hormones that help control appetite and affect weight gain. Leptin suppresses appetite, while Ghrelin increases appetite. Normal levels of these two hormones are released when we get enough sleep and good deep sleep. If you lack enough deep sleep, the level of Ghrelin rises increasing your appetite, while the level of Leptin that controls appetite decreases. That is why, despite your best efforts at dieting and exercise, a sleep disorder can create a vicious cycle of weight gain. Additionally, tired people are likely to seek more frequent and larger servings of carbohydrates for energy contributing to the pounds. IS MEDICATION OR THERAPY THE ONLY TREATMENT FOR MY ANXIETY OR DEPRESSION? Problems with a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Tips for a better nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep Women should observe the following guidelines to improve their sleep habits: Âť Make sleep a priority. Âť Go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Âť Make your bedroom a comfortable place. Eliminate pets and reduce noises and lights. Âť Avoid the bright lights from electronic devices such as cellphones, iPads, computers and TVs one hour prior to bedtime. Âť Exercise regularly after consulting with your doctor. Âť Get your sleep and breathing tested. Âť If your sleep is disturbed by a snoring bed partner, protect your health and his. Get him tested and treated. breathing during sleep can cause anxiety and depression. When her sleep or breathing is disturbed, the brain becomes excited and remains in a state of â&#x20AC;&#x153;fight or flightâ&#x20AC;? all night long. Your â&#x20AC;&#x153;fight or flightâ&#x20AC;? response continues into your day and can cause anxiety or depression. Your doctor can refer you to a sleep specialist for a full evaluation of your sleep problems that may require a sleep study at a sleep center. You also can have your airway assessed by a sleep dentist who is trained and experienced in the area of dental sleep medicine. A sleep dentist can help you find the cause of a sleep breathing problem. After a complete examination he may recommend a home sleep test to help your physician determine a diagnosis and the right treatment. Thomas Honl has practiced dentistry in Stevens Point since 1975. Today his practice focuses exclusively on helping people with obstructive sleep apnea, TMJ problems, and head and neck pain. For more information, contact Honl at 715-341-5001, thonl@adcofsp.com or online at www.adcofsp.com.

While I Was Sleepingâ&#x20AC;Ś I let go of despair and got ahold of my life! About a year ago, I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and prescribed a CPAP for treatment. I was distressed at the idea of being tied to a machine for the rest of my life. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m only in my 30â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s! I travel for work sometimes and I was embarrassed to have to pull out a CPAP at airport security. It was like broadcasting my problem to the world! The despair that went along with my treatment plan affected me emotionally. I saw three different specialists in the hope of replacing the CPAP with an oral appliance, but each time I was told that I would never be a candidate for oral appliance therapy because of my TMJ problems. I hated wearing the CPAP. It exacerbated my TMJ issues and jaw joint pain Last fall I attended my employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health fair where Dr. Honlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team from Advanced TMD & Dental Sleep Center had an informational booth. A colleague of mine had been singing Dr. Honlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s praises and encouraged me to check into it. I fully expected to hear, yet again, that nothing could be done for me. As I relayed my story to Dr. Honlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assistant Mary I began to cry. I was suffering and I felt so defeated. Mary reached out and hugged me, asking for more information. She said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dr. Honl has done amazing things for our patients!â&#x20AC;? and encouraged me to make an appointment and get his perspective on my issues. Mary was the first person I spoke with who gave me a glimmer of hope! She was the one person who said â&#x20AC;&#x153;maybeâ&#x20AC;?. I made an appointment with Dr. Honl as soon as I got back to my office. I really appreciated Dr. Honlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approach. He wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afraid to deal with my jaw joint issues. After my examination, he considered my specific challenges and assured me we would go slow and be

careful. He didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just proceed like I was some typical, by the book case. The entire staff at Advanced is so knowledgeable and incredibly kind and compassionate. So often in medical settings I felt like the emphasis was on treating my symptoms without considering me as a whole person. I felt like a whole person there! I cried when I heard him say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes, I believe we can do this.â&#x20AC;? I got my YES! After two months of wearing my oral appliance Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m starting to feel like myself again! I never realized just how adversely my sleep issues were affecting my life. Since I started wearing my oral appliance I feel rested and refreshed, my memory has improved and my jaw doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hurt anymore. And my emotional wellbeing has improved tremendously. I never expected that! I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t thank Dr. Honl, Mary and the rest of the staff at Advanced TMD & Dental Sleep Center enough. They have truly changed my life! I am so very grateful!

- Amanda Meidl Grundman Stevens Point

Thomas J. Honl DIPLOMATE ABDSM DDS, MAGD, FAACP

Helping People with Obstructive Sleep Apnea, TMJ Problems and Head & Neck Pain.

FREE Personal Consultation!

spring 2015

2020 Cty. Rd. HH, Plover, WI 54467 (715) 341-5001 info@adcofsp.com www.adcofsp.com

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CAN’T MISS

SPRING EVENTS There are so many things to do in Portage County — from events focused on family fun, the arts and music to those that would serve as the perfect date night. You magazine editor Jamie Jung scoured local entertainment calendars for the next three months and selected these nine events as ones you definitely shouldn’t miss.

Taste of Wisconsin Sample products from some of the state’s finest producers of potatoes, wine, cheese, beer, cranberries, meats and more at the annual Taste of Wisconsin at the University of WisconsinStevens Point. The event will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 27 in the Laird Room of Dreyfus University Center at UWSP. Participants

must be at least 21 years old. Advance tickets cost $25 for the general public and $20 for UWSP students. Tickets will increase by $5 the day of the event, if any are available. They are available at the UWSP ticket office in Dreyfus University Center, by calling 715-346-4100 or online at http:// tickets.uwsp.edu.

YOU MAGAZINE FILE PHOTO

Emerging Artists exhibit

Kennedy’s Kitchen

Emerging Artists

Kennedy’s Kitchen has been making Irish music together since 1998, averaging 80 shows a year. Based in South Bend, Ind., the group has traveled across the United States with music rooted in traditional Irish jigs, reels, hornpipes, aires, recitations, stories and songs. They will stop at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point for a show at 7:30 p.m. March 7 in Michelsen Hall of the Noel Fine Arts Center. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for senior citizens and $6 for youths. UWSP students with ID may buy tickets in advance for $4.50 or be admitted free the day of the show if seats remain. Tickets are available at the UWSP ticket office in Dreyfus University Center, by calling 715-346-4100 or online at http:// tickets.uwsp.edu.

The annual Emerging Artists exhibit will be on display March 2 to 26 at the Annette & Dale Schuh Riverfront Arts Center, 1200 Crosby Ave., Stevens Point. The exhibit features artwork created by talented student artists in seventh through 12th grade from Stevens Point Area Senior High, Pacelli High School, P.J. Jacobs Junior High School, Ben Franklin Junior High School, St. Peter Middle School and St. Paul’s Lutheran School. A reception will be from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. March 8 at the gallery. For more information, call 715-343-6251 or go to stevenspoint.com/rac.

Taste of Wine & Cheese The 11th annual Portage County Taste of Wine & Cheese features

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Kennedy’s Kitchen

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Taste of Wine & Cheese

more than 100 wines from around the world, more than a dozen specialty cheeses, handcrafted beers, delicious desserts, a silent auction and a special bourbon tasting. The event will be from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. April 10 at the Noel Group Hangar, 4501 Highway 66, Stevens Point. Tickets cost $60 in advance. Proceeds from the event support the youth programs of the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County. For more information, call the Boys & Girls Club at 715-341-4386 or email info@bgclubpc.org.

“Danstage 2015” “Danstage 2015,” a presentation of original choreography by University of WisconsinStevens Point faculty and guests, will be April 10 to 12 and April 15 to 18 in the Studio Theatre of the Noel Fine Arts Center. This year’s show will feature new work by faculty choreographers Michael Estanich, Jeannie Hill, Joan Karlen, Scott Wirtz-Olsen and renowned Chicago choreographer Autumn Eckman. Tickets cost $19 for adults, $18 for seniors, $14 for youth and $4.50 for students with UWSP ID. Tickets are available at the UWSP ticket office in Dreyfus University Center, by calling 715-346-4100 or online at http:// tickets.uwsp.edu. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Trivia 46

Danstage

Put on your thinking cap and get ready for Trivia 46, the world’s largest trivia contest, April 17 to 19. Hosted by campus radio station WWSP-90FM, this year’s contest is themed “Guardians of the Contest.” Registration, which costs $30 per team, will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. April 13 to 16 and from noon to 6 p.m. April 17 at 90FM studios, 1101 Reserve St., Stevens Point. For more information, visit www.90fmtrivia.org.

Public Radio legend Jim Fleming returns to the stage to narrate Aaron Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait.” Tickets cost $25 for general admission, $20 for seniors and $10 for students. Tickets are available at the UWSP ticket office in Dreyfus University Center, by calling 715-346-4100 or online at http:// tickets.uwsp.edu.

Riverfront Arts Center and scholarships that are given to Portage County high school students to attend UWSP Arts Camp. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.FestivaloftheArtsStevensPoint.org.

Festival of the Arts

Celebrate ethnic diversity during the 23rd annual Portage County Cultural Festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 9 at Stevens Point Area Senior High, 1201 Northpoint Drive, Stevens Point. The festival offers ethnic arts demonstrations, entertainment on six stages, delicious international cuisine, hands-on children’s activities and crafts from around the world. Admission is free. For more information and a complete schedule of events, go to www.portagecountyculturalfestival.org.

“By the People, For the People” Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra will perform an entire concert of music in honor of veterans of all wars, but inspired by the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln, as part of “By the People, For the People.” Show times are 7:30 p.m. April 18 and 4 p.m. April 19 at Theater @1800, 1800 Northpoint Drive, Stevens Point. Wisconsin

The 43rd annual Festival of the Arts will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 19 in the Noel Fine Arts Center at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. The event will feature 50 of the Midwest’s most accomplished artists. Free children’s activities also are planned. Proceeds from the event go toward scholarships for UWSP fine arts students. It also provides monetary awards for the annual Emerging Artists exhibit at the

Portage County Cultural Festival

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YOU MAGAZINE FILE PHOTO

Portage County Cultural Festival

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Delicious food, great atmosphere HILLTOP PUB & GRILL EARNS SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

PHOTOS BY THOMAS KUJAWSKI/FOR YOU MAGAZINE

Hilltop Pub & Grill is located at 4901 Main St., Stevens Point.

By Breanna Speth For You magazine

TEVENS POINT — Start out

with Macho Nachos, Chicken Flippers, Brew City Mushrooms or an assortment of deep-fried, breaded or beer-battered goodness, then move onto a build-your-own burger, rib eye, prime rib, chicken salad or award-winning fish fry. Whatever the dish, those in

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search of hearty food and a pubstyle atmosphere find just what they are looking for at the top of the hill on Main Street in Stevens Point, at Mitchell’s Hilltop Pub & Grill. For more than six decades, Hilltop Pub & Grill has supplied residents of Stevens Point and beyond with delicious food and a great atmosphere. Opened in the 1940s by John and Bernice Bemowski as a bar

with limited menu options and a small area for drinking and dining, the Hilltop remained under their care for 37 years. In the 1950s a bus hit and destroyed much of the building, but the couple rebuilt and kept operating for nearly 30 more years. In 1983, Bill and Kathy Mitchell purchased the bar, and over the years added an enclosed deck, front patio, a third dining area, and the popular keg room, which

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features an original beer keg from the Point Brewery as a doorway. In 2001, Mike and Sara Mitchell bought Hilltop and continue to serve their original char-grilled hamburgers and famous fish fry. “The fish fry is a huge favorite among our guests,” says Ashley Andersen, front-of-the-house manager. “It’s the original recipe that Kathy Mitchell created in 1987. We haven’t changed it

A shrimp and tenderloin dinner and a chicken salad with walnut, apple and cranberry.

Mitchell’s Hilltop Pub & Grill Address: 4901 Main St., Stevens Point Hours: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m Friday and Saturday Contact: 715-341-3037; www.hilltoppubandgrill.com since!” Voted Portage County’s best fish fry and burger for three consecutive years in Stevens Point Journal Media’s annual reader survey, Hilltop not only serves great food, but also an impressive atmosphere. Andersen believes that the restaurant thrives because of its commitment to people. “My favorite part of the restaurant is the people I work for and with,” Andersen says. “Without our employees over the years, we wouldn’t be in business. They work some extremely long days, and do it with a smile on their face.” The long history of the Hilltop combined with a tenured management team with a collective 64 years of experience is uncommon in the local restaurant industry, she adds. This history is on display in the

decor, too, with memorabilia from past decades adorning the walls. “We have a large collection of antique bottles from Wisconsin breweries, a plot map of Portage County in 1876, a picture of the restaurant when the bus crashed into it, many old photos of Portage County, and countless other things lining our walls for guests to look at,” Andersen says. “My favorite physical part of the restaurant is the entrance. The beer barrel was purchased from the Stevens Point Brewery and serves as the front door to the restaurant.” In January, the Portage County Business Council named Hilltop the Small Business of the Year, something Andersen attributes to the strong support from the community. “Without our local guests coming in to eat the last 32 years we would’ve closed the doors years ago,” Andersen says. “We are very grateful for the award.” In the same month, Hilltop also underwent a significant interior remodel. “The bar has changed shape to allow more room for waiting, more seats at the bar, and more room in between the bar and the tables in the bar,” Andersen explains. The renovated bar looks just like a beer barrel, mimicking the entrance. It features 24 beers on

Bar Manager Luke Andersen draws a beer from one of the 24 lines running to the tappers. One of those is Point Root Beer.

The main entrance is through an original wooden storage tank with doors cut on two sides.

tap, several televisions and new flooring. “There were a lot of people and companies who worked on the project and they did an amazing job,” Andersen says. Never a place to rest on its laurels, Hilltop is in the process of expanding its daily and nightly

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specials to offer more variety and has additional renovations planned. “When the dust settles from the recent renovations we will be taking a look at our options for our outdoor seating and our options for restructuring the parking lot,” Andersen says.

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CYLG CAUGHT YOU LOOKING GOOD

PHOTOS FROM ARTS BASH 2015 ON JAN. 31 IN THE NOEL FINE ARTS CENTER AT THE UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-STEVENS POINT. THE EVENT IS A FUNDRAISER FOR THE DEPARTMENTS OF THEATRE AND DANCE AND ART AND DESIGN AT UWSP.

Amy Boettcher of Wisconsin Rapids, from left, Olivia Stillwell of Stevens Point and Sarah Koepke of Stevens Point.

Kylie Abel of Stevens Point, from left, Lanea Zagrzebski of Stevens Point and Emily Volland of Stevens Point.

Mackenzie Karanagh of Eau Claire, from left, Kylee Hawkinson of Dodgeville, Roni Honaker of Green Bay and Amanda Santiago of Green Bay.

Pamela Luedtke of Custer, from left, Nerissa Nelson of Stevens Point, Cathy Derezinski of Amherst Junction and Stana Luedtke of Custer.

PHOTOS BY LEAH CADY/FOR YOU MAGAZINE

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Mandy Miller of Spring Green, from left, Megan Bloesch of Madison and Amanda Shields of Baltimore.

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Shelley Auer of Stevens Point, from left, Erin Raikowski of Stevens Point, Danielle Wroblewski of Stevens Point, Brittany Rossman of Stevens Point and Lauren Priest of Stevens Point.

Autumn Carlson of Stevens Point, from left, Shannon Semmerling of Stevens Point and Malinda Richter of Iola.

Alyx Johnson of Manitowoc, from left, Emily Hein of De Pere, Madelyn Mickelsen of Racine, Katherine Menard of Gladstone and Ariana Shank of Sheboygan.

Jane Ritger of Marathon City, left, and Sarah Lensmire of Madison.

Kellen Skidmore of Green Bay, from left, Courtney Holly of Manitowoc and Kelsey Yudice of Madison.

Erin Andrews of Plover, from left, Terri Hahn of Stevens Point and Debbie Schumer of Plover.

Jennifer Voda of Spencer, from left, Alexa Voda of Spencer and Kristie Luepke of Spencer.

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PHOTOS BY JAMIE JUNG/YOU MAGAZINE

Korryn Brooks after her makeover at Salon Envy in downtown Stevens Point.

Nominate yourself or a friend for a makeover You magazine staff and Salon Envy are looking for a Portage County woman to feature for our summer makeover. Please send an email with picture to you@stevenspointjournal.com and tell us why the nominee should have a makeover. Include nominee’s name, age and contact information. Nominations are requested by March 27.

‘Jock girl’ seeks a more

professional look By Jamie Jung You magazine

STEVENS POINT — Korryn Brooks said her morning beauty routine typically involves throwing her hair up in a ponytail and heading out the door. With an 8-month-old son to get ready before she heads to work as a fifth-grade teacher at Tri-County Schools in Plainfield, Korryn said she usually showers before she goes to bed. “Everybody’s always before me,” said the 28-year-old Plover woman, who has been teaching for six years. The self-proclaimed tomboy said she has always been known as “jock girl,” and she considers herself low-maintenance. She’s more likely to be found on the ice at Ice Hawks Arena playing hockey with the

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guys or on the softball field then primping in front of a mirror. But after losing more than 30 pounds since giving birth to her son and with a July wedding on the horizon, Korryn said she’s ready for a more professional look. She put herself in the very talented hands of the stylists at Salon Envy, 1314 Third St., in downtown Stevens Point, for her first makeover. “I’m hoping for a new me, but not too far from me,” Korryn said before the makeover. She also was looking for hair and makeup tips she would be able to incorporate into her busy morning schedule. Korryn’s makeover at Salon Envy included having her hair colored, cut and styled, and having her nails and makeup done.

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Korryn before her makeover.

the hair

Simple cut, layers allow for low-maintenance style

s someone who almost always wears her hair up in a ponytail, Korryn laughed as she recalled a recent day when she wore her hair down to school and one of her fifth-grade students asked her why she was dressed up. She said when she was in junior high, her friends would pin her down to do her hair and makeup. So when she arrived for her makeover, Korryn was completely open to the stylists’ ideas for her hair cut and color. Her only request was that her hair remain long enough to pull back in a ponytail. Manager and stylist Lauren Karaliunas and owner and stylist Jessica Richie agreed a simple, natural look was the best choice. Lauren chose a reddish-brown color that wasn’t too far from Korryn’s natural color, and then added caramel and chocolate highlights for a lighter, multidimensional look. “If you do something real drastic and noticeable, you’re going to notice right away when it starts to grow out,” Lauren said. For her cut, Jessica left most of the length, only trimming the ends, and then added layers. She also cut a sideswiped bang, something Korryn said she’s never had. Lauren then styled her hair using a round brush, hair dryer and flat iron. She also teased the top for volume. The stylists said with her new cut and added layers, Korryn can just blow dry, or even air dry, her hair and she’ll be ready to go. “I have the perfect cut for a lowmaintenance girl,” Korryn said.

Jessica Richie, owner and stylist at Salon Envy, trims Korryn’s hair and adds layers.

Lauren Karaliunas, manager and stylist at Salon Envy, applies color to Korryn’s hair. spring 2015

Lauren uses a flat iron to style Korryn’s hair.

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the nails

Gel polish manicure perfect option for active mom

orryn said she has never had a manicure and rarely wears nail polish, and with an 8-month-old son at home and many bottles to wash, Jessica decided a gel polish manicure was the best choice. The gel polish dries “rock hard,” which prevents chipping, and will last for about two weeks, Jessica said. “With normal polish, you have chipping after one day,” she said. Jessica first applied a Gelishbrand foundation, then two layers of silver polish and two layers of silver glitter. After each layer, Korryn put her hands under an ultraviolet light for 60 seconds, which cured the polish. After the final layer, she left her nails under the light for two minutes. Lauren told Korryn the best way to remove the gel polish is to soak a cotton ball with acetone nail polish remover, and then to wrap the cotton ball around the nail with foil. Let the nail soak for about 20 minutes, and then the polish should come right off, she said. “It makes me want to get my nails done more often now,” Korryn said after looking at her finished nails.

Korryn shows off her glittery silver nails.

An ultraviolet lamp is used to cure the gel polish.

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Jessica applies a silver Gelish polish to Korryn’s nails.

the makeup

Makeup artist aims for natural look

nless she’s going out for a special occasion or event, Korryn said she does not wear makeup. So makeup artist and stylist Monica McCovery explained each step she took while completing Korryn’s makeover. She started by tweezing her eyebrows to clean up the stray hairs, and then showed Korryn how to use makeup to create a definite eyebrow arch. In keeping with the “natural” look of the makeover, Monica used a light cream foundation as a base. She told Korryn the mineral-based Youngblood foundation is very natural looking and comfortable to wear. For her eyes, Monica started with a nude tone with a shimmer base to make Korryn’s eyes “pop.” She then added a brown and violet color to her lid, and used a sage green shadow on the inside corners. She completed the eyes with eyeliner and mascara on her natural lashes. A bronzer with blush was applied to Korryn’s cheeks, and then the bronzer was applied over her face and neck. The look was completed with a natural lip color. “It’s still simple, so it’s me,” Korryn said while looking in a mirror for the first time after the makeover. “I love it. It looks good. I’m excited.”

Makeup artist and stylist Monica McCovery uses a natural lip color to complete Korryn’s makeover.

Monica applies a mineral-based cream foundation by Youngblood.

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Monica applies mascara to Korryn’s natural lashes.

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Plan the perfect event STEVENS POINT AREA OFFERS MANY UNIQUE MEETING VENUES AND EVENT SPACES

he Stevens Point area has great traditional meeting venues like the Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, which offers nearly 30,000 square feet of convention space, and the Best Western Plover, which offers a modern feel perfect for a smaller group. In addition to these traditional venues, the region Melissa Sabel also has a number of great alternative venues for groups. » SentryWorld, known as the first destination golf course in Wisconsin when it opened in 1982, has recently undergone a full renovation. The facility has received a complete overhaul, from the addition to the Atrium, which serves as a great pre-function or reception space, to the newly designed Fieldhouse, which offers flexible space for everything from expo and conventions to indoor sports for up to 1,500. Upstairs the reimagined Grand Hall offers well defined pre-function and event space for up to 300. Smaller rooms throughout the facility, including the Community Room, are ideal for smaller meetings and groups. Renovations to the reimagined public golf course included enhancements to accommodate less-seasoned players along with an increased length of champion tees to more than 7,200 yards for experienced golfers. Preserving and enhancing the course signature details, like the iconic Flower Hole, helped SentryWorld to land a spot on the Golf Digest’s Best New and Newly Remodeled Courses of 2014. » With a more rustic approach,

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PHOTO COURTESY OF SENTRYWORLD

Fire pits at SentryWorld in Stevens Point help warm up a crisp Wisconsin evening, with friends gathered for conversation and cocktails.

the Central Wisconsin Environmental Station is another ideal natural setting that is a nice fit for meeting planners. The facility is located 20 minutes east of Stevens Point, on Sunset Lake in Amherst Junction. More than 200 acres, CWES features the Sunset Lodge. Looking over the lake, the lodge is equipped with wireless Internet and room for up to 112 for meals. Additional lodging facilities are available on-site. » Artha Bed & Breakfast in Amherst has achieved Travel Green Wisconsin’s highest certification rating in the state. Artha Bed & Breakfast is a part of the Artha Sustainable Living Center, which offers year-round hands-on workshops and retreats in solar

water heating, gardening, herbs, yoga and more. At Artha B&B visitors can experience green living powered by the sun in a 100-year-old renovated farmhouse. » The Pfiffner Building, once used to mill lumber, is set along the shores of the Wisconsin River at Pfiffner Pioneer Park in Stevens Point. The Pfiffner Building can accommodate up to 150 people, and it offers rustic charm with newly remodeled bathrooms and a separate kitchen. The building also has two large double doors that open to an 840-squarefoot deck overlooking the original section of the Green Circle Trail. » The Wellness Spa, which sits on 8 acres in Whiting, offers meeting and corporate retreat space

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overlooking the beautiful natural area. They specialize in customizing programs to fit the needs of the individual groups, which include the incorporation of on- and off-site spa services or seminars on health and wellness. » Don’t overlook other unique spaces for your event, like Great Northern Distilling in Plover. The region’s first and only distillery is committed to creating small batches using the highest quality ingredients from local farmers. From local potatoes for its iconic potato vodka to grains and fruit, the distillery is committed to using sustainable sources from within 150 miles. During their normal hours, they elevate the cocktail to an art form in their

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The Central Wisconsin Environmental Station is located 20 minutes east of Stevens Point, on Sunset Lake in Amherst Junction. Its lodge is equipped with wireless Internet and room for up to 112 for meals.

mixology bar. The space offers a laid-back atmosphere that might be available for your event. Over the past several years the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has focused on working with locals who are affiliated with state and national organizations and bringing those meetings and events to the region. Some of those events include high-profile national events like the 2011 National Fireworks Association and the 2016 Izaak Walton League National Conference, to statewide events like 2014 Wisconsin Farm Technology Days. For more interesting places to plan your event or meeting, or if

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The Pfiffner Building, set along the shores of the Wisconsin River at Pfiffner Pioneer Park in Stevens Point, can accommodate up to 150 people.

you are interested in bringing your organization or association to the Stevens Point area, contact us. The Stevens Point Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is ready to assist you in planning your next event. From pre-event planning assistance, including off-site activities to name badges, we are here to help! For more information about services available for those planning meetings and events in the Stevens Point area, contact Tom Coleman at 715-3442556 or tomc@stevenspointarea.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF EVA DONOHOO

Melissa Sabel is director of marketing for the Stevens Point Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Great Northern Distilling in Plover elevates the cocktail to an art form in its mixology bar. The space offers a laid-back atmosphere that may be available for your next event.

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GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO

Natural light will open up a room and make it look larger. Mirrors reflect both natural and artificial light to make a room brighter and will give the illusion of depth.

Tricks to make a small room look more spacious By Jill Livernash For You magazine

mall rooms can feel confining and uncomfortable. Luckily we can use certain design concepts that fool the eye and make our rooms seem much bigger and more spacious. Color techniques, furniture arrangement and lighting are a few solutions we can use to make a room look larger.

Color techniques Cream colors and icy blues are just a few of the best color combi-

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nations that can open up a tiny room. It is all about illusion. Light colors make your room look bigger and brighter. Light and brightly colored walls are more reflective making a space feel open and airy, which will help to maximize the effect created by natural light. While dark colors absorb light, making the room look smaller. For optimum effect, select soft tones of blues and greens, and always remember that brighter rooms look bigger and more inviting. You can paint your walls light and use dark colors for the border

and trim. Paint your wall trim and moldings a lighter color than your walls. When you paint your moldings light, the wall appears further back, making your living room appear bigger.

Furniture arrangement Sometimes furniture can take up a lot of space. To avoid that, here are some useful tips: » Use multi-function furniture like a chest that can be used as a coffee table, sofa beds, chest of drawers, and beds with drawers for storage. Stick to clean lines in the furniture. Use an extendable

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dining table, folding tables and nest of tables, which can be tucked away when you don’t need them. » Place the large pieces of furniture against the walls so the open space in the middle isn’t broken up. » Scale the furniture to fit the size of the room and don’t block walking pathways. With furniture and accessories blocking the view into a room and out to open spaces, a room will look cramped. By moving furniture out and away from walkways, you’ll open up the space and make it feel

larger. If you can see the floor, the room will look larger. Having oversized sofas or too much furniture will make the living room look smaller. » Consider having at least some of the furniture pieces the same color as the walls. Even the bigger items like armoires and chests will begin to blend into the room and widen out the room. You can add some detail by stenciling in a design or accent onto the furniture. » Setting your furniture at an angle works because the longest straight line in any given room is its diagonal. When you place your furniture at an angle, it leads the eye along the longer distance, rather than the shorter wall. As an added bonus, you often get some additional storage space behind the piece in the corner, too. » If the furniture in your room is tall, that might be making it seem as though the ceiling is lower than it actually is. Make sure there is plenty of space between your furniture, too.

» Choose a sofa and chairs with open arms and exposed legs. A glass table will keep the appearance of an open and free space. This allows light to filter under the furniture, making the room appear airier.

Lighting Lighting is a key element in opening up a space. Let the light into the room, too. By letting the natural light flow into the room, you will be surprised at how this will open up the room and make it look larger. If you do not have a lot of natural light, you can add some lighting features to the room to make it look bigger. You will be amazed at how this small addition can make a big difference. If you have access to natural light, make full use of it. Bring it into your home through windows. Full-height glass panes work best. Having a large picture window can make a room seem bigger because a barrier between visitor

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and outside view has been removed. Instead of seeing a dimension-defining wall, visitors see an expansive view of the outdoors. Make sure window coverings are sheer, or are pulled back, to bring more light in. If the view is bad use hanging plants and potted flowers near windows. Lamps will bring in color and focus attention.

Other tips Keep your room tidy and organized. There’s nothing that makes a small space feel cramped more than having too much stuff. With things neatly arranged and out of sight, the space that is in view will feel orderly and open. A cluttered room equals a smaller room. Don’t cover your walls with a lot of pictures. One large painting works better than a group of small paintings. If there’s too much going on, all clamoring for attention, it can make the room feel busy and crowded. So, when decorating a small room, create a focal point, one area or feature that will draw the eye. In the

dining room, the focal point will probably be the table. In the bedroom, it’ll probably be the bed. Make that focal point the star of the room. Arrange the furniture so that focus is drawn to that area, and keep the decor in the rest of the room to a minimum. Mirrors can make your room look larger. Use a focal point and angle your mirrors toward it, which will give the illusion of depth. The mirrors also reflect both natural and artificial light to make a room brighter during the day and night. They bounce light deep into the room, making it appear larger. This is especially effective near a window so the outdoors can be reflected. Mirrors on the walls and glass tabletops will make it seem like there’s a more open flow. You can also use mirrored cabinet doors to make spaces feel large and uncluttered. Jill Livernash is a design consultant for Home Furniture, with locations in Plover, Wisconsin Rapids and Madison.

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Take time to check your free credit report or at the official website AnnualCreditReport.com. The University of WisconsinExtension makes ordering your free reports easy through its â&#x20AC;&#x153;Check Your Free Credit Report: 2/2, 6/6, 10/10â&#x20AC;? website. Anyone can sign up to receive an email reminder three times a year â&#x20AC;&#x201D; on Feb. 2, June 6 and Oct. 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; on the Sherry campaignâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Daniels website at http:// fyi.uwex.edu/ creditreport. The Portage County UW-Extension office recommends that you view one report every four months so you can be sure that the information is up-to-date and accurate. For most individuals, ordering a free credit report online takes less than five minutes. But if

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youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve moved recently or had a name change, obtaining your free report will likely involve a few additional steps. When ordering a free report online, there are typically three security questions youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be asked to verify your identity. These multiple-choice questions might ask about past residential addresses, names of lenders, or the amount of a car or home loan. After answering the questions, you will have access to your requested free report. If you answer one of the online security questions wrong, which has happened to me, you will not be able to access your report. You will need to follow up with a paper request form and additional documentation. You will be instructed to print off a paper request form, available at AnnualCreditReport.com. You also will need copies of sever-

al items to verify your identification and address. The items must include your Social Security number and your current home mailing address. Sending in additional paperwork can be annoying, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth it. Sometimes wrong information is a simple data entry error, and other times, it could be a sign of fraud. Whatever caused the mistake, it could pose a problem if you are looking for a loan, a place to rent, or even renewing your auto insurance. If you suspect wrong information on your credit report could be a result of fraud, the UW-Extension â&#x20AC;&#x153;2/2, 6/6, 10/10â&#x20AC;? website has information on security freezes, fraud alerts and identity theft, along with a sample dispute letter. Sherry Daniels is family living educator for University of Wisconsin-Extension Portage County. To reach her, call 715-346-1321.

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spring 2015