You_Mag_Spring_2012

SPRING 2012 | FREE

BEYOND COUPONS SAVE more at the store

DECADENT

desserts from your kitchen

REUNION Walk Wisconsin about more than health

you money

Give Your Portfolio a “Spring Cleaning” Springtime is almost here. If you’re like many people, the arrival of spring means it’s time to spruce up your home. But why stop there? This year, consider applying some of those same spring-cleaning techniques to your investment portfolio.

Here are some ideas you may want to put to work: Get rid of clutter. You probably don’t have to look too far around your home to find things that are broken or simply no longer useful to you. If you poke around your portfolio, you might make similar discoveries: an investment that has chronically underperformed, duplicates another investment or met your needs in the past but is less relevant to your current situation and goals. Once you identify these types of investments, you may decide to sell them and use the proceeds to take advantage of opportunities that may prove more valuable to you.

Consolidate.

Over the years, you may have accumulated multiple

versions of common household items — brooms, mops, hammers — which pop up mysteriously in various parts of your home. You might find it more efficient, and even less expensive, if you consolidated all these things in one centralized location.

As an investor, you also might find that consolidation can offer you some benefits.

Do you have one Individual Retirement Account (IRA) with one financial services provider and a second IRA with another? Do you have a couple of old 401(k) accounts with former employers? And have you scattered investments here, there and everywhere?

By consolidating all these accounts in one place, you can cut down on paperwork, reduce fees and, most importantly, unite your investment dollars so that it’s easier for you to see what you have and then follow a single, coherent investment strategy.

Prepare for turbulent weather. As you know, springtime can bring heavy rains, hail, strong winds and

other threats to your home.

As part of your overall spring cleaning, you may want to check the condition of your roof, clear branches away from your house, clean your gutters and downspouts, and take other steps to protect your property from the ravages of Mother Nature.

And just as you need to safeguard your home, you’ll want to protect the lifestyles of those who live in that home — namely, your family.

You can help accomplish this by reviewing your life and disability insurance to make sure it’s still sufficient for your needs.

Get professional help.

You may find that you can’t do all your spring cleaning by yourself. For example, if your carpets and rugs are heavily soiled, you may need to call in a professional cleaner. Or if your tree branches have grown out of control, you might need to bring in a tree trimmer. Similarly, when you decide to “tidy up” your portfolio, you’ll need some assistance from a financial professional — someone who can study your current

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mix of investments and recommend changes, as needed, to help ensure your holdings are suitable for your risk tolerance, time horizon and short- and longterm goals.

Spring cleaning can reinvigorate your home and your overall outlook. And by tidying up your investment portfolio, you can help gain some of that same optimism — for your future.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Member SIPC

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

CONTENTS: FEATURES

HEALTH

7 Off the shelf

9 Walk Wisconsin

Reviews of “The ScientiďŹ c American Book of Love, Sex and the Brainâ€?; “Working Out Sucksâ€?; “Girl Hunter: Revolutionizing the Way We Eat, One Hunt at a Timeâ€?

Annual event about more than health for local family

11 Fitness break Fit ďŹ tness into even the busiest day

14 Beyond coupons

9

Save big on your grocery bill

HOME/GARDEN

18 Art scene Galleries, hands-on activities abound

20 Shops we love Beyond Ordinary offers something for everyone

12 Good start

13 Sleepover anxiety

Start your garden indoors

Keep child’s night away safe and fun

22 Clutter control 10 ways to get your house in order

30

28 Little prints

FAMILY

Small patterns can be a big change

29 Things to do

FOOD

Events, plays and more in March

24 Big-city inspiration

30 Woman To Know

@1800 has unique, refreshing menu

Hilary Dawn Rose Bilbrey is a busy mom, wife and business owner

26 Sweet satisfaction

Chef Michelle Syring shares recipes for rice pudding, fudge and more at service,

l

P

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5541 Highway 10 East, Stevens Point www.dentalhealthsp.com

est. 1988

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spring 2012

you | 3

Love Is Blind, NOT DEAF!

Second S econd H Hand and S Snoring noring Do you kick, poke and prod your snoring bed partner all night long in an effort to get a decent night’s sleep? Grumpy sleep deprived spouses have a right to be concerned about snoring, and the toll “second hand snoring” can take on their overall health.1 A recent study showed that bedmates of heavy snorers lose an average of one hour of sleep per night.2 Although men are almost twice as likely to be heavy snorers and are the most commonly treated for snoring, the majority of people who “suffer” from snoring are women!3 Although snoring can take its toll on a relationship, sleeping in separate bedrooms is not your only option. The snorer is usually unaware that he snores, and won’t believe his wife. Try tape recording him.

Nineteen percent of snorers snore so loudly, they can be heard through a closed door!4 Ask his friends. He is likely to take it more seriously when his buddies won’t lodge overnight in the same fishing cabin.

Although most women are willing to report on their bed partners, men are not the only ones who have trouble admitting they snore. Women generally buy into the stigma that snoring is “unladylike”. Women need to self report to their physician or sleep dentist. The likelihood of snoring increases in menopausal women. In fact, women in menopause are just as likely to snore as men. Lower menopausal estrogen levels may cause hot flashes that disturb

sleep. However, “night sweats” may be a result related to untreated sleep apnea, and are experienced by both women and men.

Snoring also increases during pregnancy, particularly in the last trimester. It is linked to pregnancy-related high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, and low birth weight in infants.

And yet, we can be thankful for snoring! It is sometimes the only noticeable symptom that leads to a diagnosis of a more serious underlying medical condition of your loved one. Snoring sounds are the result of a partially obstructed airway during sleep.

Habitual snoring affects an estimated 24 percent of adult women and 40 percent of adult men5. Snoring, rarely a harmless condition can be a sign of a serious medical condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Approximately one half of people who snore loudly have OSA. People who snore and suffer from OSA can stop breathing for measurable periods of time during the night, resulting in a lack of oxygen to the brain and as well as the rest of the body. Some consequences of snoring and sleep apnea left untreated include: high blood pressure, acid reflux, headaches, fibromyalgia, type II diabetes, atrial fib, ADD/ADHD, depression, stroke, heart disease, obesity, erectile dysfunction and Impotence.

IF YOU OR YOUR BED PARTNER SNORE, IT MAY BE A SIGN OF A SERIOUS MEDICAL CONCERN! Untreated Sleep Apnea is a major independent risk factor contributing to: • High Blood Pressure • Cardiovascular Disease • Stroke • Type II Diabetes WI-5001454791

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• Depression • Weight Gain • Daytime Sleepiness & Insomnia • Erectile Dysfunction

Sleep apnea can occur in anyone, and generally worsens with age and weight gain. Other common warning signs of OSA besides snoring are: excessive daytime sleepiness, insomnia, fatigue, teeth grinding, awakening un-refreshed and interruptions in sleep due to gasping and choking.

Untreated Sleep Apnea can also be the underlying cause of unexplainable weight gain or the inability to effectively lose weight.

If you or a loved one is suffering from snoring, get screened by a qualified and experienced sleep dentist or physician.

All that is needed is a thorough history, evaluation of symptoms, and a test with a portable home monitor worn one night in the comfort of your own home. If results warrant, a final diagnosis is easily performed by a sleep physician in a sleep center using an overnight sleep study.

Depending on your results, treatment for sleep apnea and snoring may involve positive airway pressure (C-PAP), an oral appliance, or in rare circumstances, surgery.

Properly screened, diagnosed, and treated patients can look forward to more energy, happier bed partners, and better health.

Recent studies show that heavy snorers with sleep apnea who underwent treatment reported better sex lives and a smoother relationship.6 Contact your physician or an experienced dentist who specializes in dental sleep medicine for information, evaluation and proper screening today.

Caution: Do not accept a “snoring appliance” unless you have gotten a medical diagnosis that confirms that you do not have sleep apnea. You may be at risk of a more serious condition.

Dr. Thomas Honl has practiced general dentistry in Stevens Point since 1975. He has devoted much of his time and energy to the study and treatment of sleep apnea since 2005 since he was diagnosed with the disorder. He holds a membership in the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine and a Fellowship in the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain. For additional information regarding sleep apnea screening, contact a sleep physician or Dr. Honl at (715) 341-5000 thonl@adcofsp.com www.advanceddentalcareofstevenspoint.com 1. Research, Oct Issue “Mayo Clinic Proceedings” 2. Study by John Shephard, MD, medical director Sleep Disorders Center at Mayo Clinic, Rochester,MN. 3. National Sleep Foundations Survey 4. The National Sleep Formalities latest “Sleep in America” 5. Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine 2011 6. Study release by the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Call today for a FREE SLEEP SCREENING AND CONSULTATION with DR.THOMAS HONL 7 years experience successfully treating hundreds of sleep apnea patients Member American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Fellowship American Academy of Craniofacial Pain Member American Academy of Oral Facial Pain Member American Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorders Disciplines

520A Vincent Street • Stevens Point, WI 715-341-5000 www.advanceddentalcareofstevenspoint.com spring 2012

From the editor:

Couponing bug catches hold

W

hat if I told you there was a way you could save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars each year. And it doesn’t require anything more than a few newspapers, a computer and printer, a pair of scissors and a few hours of your time each week. Would you want to know more?

If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this issue of You magazine you will meet five local women who have discovered the money-saving power of couponing. They have offered tips and advice that can help you save money on the things you use every day. And the best part: It really works.

I’ve always been a coupon clipper, and I’ve definitely been intrigued by the world of couponing.

But I live in a smaller city, and I certainly don’t have 40 hours a week to spend with a pair of scissors like some of the people featured on shows such as TLC’s “Extreme Couponing.” So I could never make this work for me, right? WRONG! As I was talking to the couponers featured in this issue, I decided why not give it a try. So I grabbed the pile of coupons I regularly clip from my Saturday paper, visited some online coupon sites, then sat down with my sale ads. I made a grocery list with my new-found knowledge and

growing collection of coupons in mind.

Next, I headed to Copps Food Center early one Wednesday morning to take advantage of double coupon day. In 10 minutes, I had grabbed the 11 items on my list and was at the checkout counter, nervous as to how my first “serious” couponing transaction would turn out.

Let me tell you, there was no greater feeling than hearing the beeping sound as each of my eight coupons scanned in and the total on the register screen continued to drop lower and lower. In just one transaction, I had saved $38.12 by combining sale prices and coupons. I left the store having spent just $10.68 on six boxes of cereal, two four-packs of C batteries, string cheese and other items for my family of three.

As I loaded the groceries into my car, I realized that I may have caught a bit of the couponing bug.

Although I don’t think I’ll ever take this couponing thing to the “extreme,” I definitely will never look at grocery shopping the same way.

And with the tips and advice in this issue, you can try it, too.

Good luck!

— Jamie Jung

you magazi ne s taff Publisher Mike Beck Editor Jamie Jung Advertising Manager Mary Jo Johnson Operations Manager Sherri Wallis Photography Doug Wojcik and Laura Schmitt Design Sirena Mankins

••• YOU MAGAZINE is published by the Stevens Point Journal. Contents of the magazine are by Gannett Central 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 Court, Stevens Point, WI 54481 YOUR CONTACTS: Content: Jamie Jung at 715.345.2256. • Advertising: Mary Jo Johnson at 715.345.2051.

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spring vol. 13 2012 |

stevenspointjournal.com

Growing My Way? SPRING IS RIGHT AROUND “THIS” CORNER

OUR SPRING PLANT OPENING IS April 1st!

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spring 2012

Off the shelf: Books to get you thinking spring “The Scientific American Book of Love, Sex, and the Brain” Judith Horstman, c.2012, Jossey Bass, 242 pages So it’s spring and your thoughts are turning to things, um, spring-like. Things like love, getting into shape for swimsuit season and the patio you can’t wait to put to good use. Yep, you’re firmly focused on fun, so why not read about it while you wait for the weather to cooperate?

Why, first of all, do we fall in love, anyhow? In “The Scientific American Book of Love, Sex, and the Brain” by Judith Horstman, you’ll find out why you fall in love with the person you adore, why you do dumb things in love, what your brain has to do with it all, and how becoming twitterpated can change your noggin.

“Working Out Sucks” Chuck Runyon, Brian Zehetner and Rebecca Derossett, c.2012, Da Capo Lifelong, 224 pages Everybody knows that looking good in a swimsuit doesn’t happen by magic, right? Well, then, let’s face it and read “Working Out Sucks” by Chuck Runyon, Brian Zehetner and Rebecca Derossett.

You’ll learn to chuck the excuses by getting off your tush because, when you really get down to it, it’s not that bad.

You’ll also find out how to eat right and get rid of the negative thinking that holds you back … and that doesn’t suck at all.

“Girl Hunter: Revolutionizing the Way We Eat, One Hunt at a Time” Georgia Pellegrini, c.2012, Da Capo LifeLong, 248 pages Do you know what you’re putting on the grill this year? Yeah, it might be kind of early to know, but if you read “Girl Hunter” by Georgia Pellegrini, you’ll have some good ideas. This is a memoir of a Wall Street-analyst-cumchef who was faced with five live turkeys that quickly needed to be five dead turkeys for dinner. That got her to wondering if it was possible to survive on what you killed.

Believe it or not, this is a lovely book with minimum blood-and-guts and maximum beauty, plus there are recipes inside. What’s not to love about that?

Happy reading, and happy spring!

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She can be reached at bookwormsez@yahoo. com.

spring 2012

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you | 7

“If we are facing in the right direction, all we have to do is keep on walking” Chinese Proverb

June 2, 2012 • Stevens Point, WI

The premier walking event in the Midwest 3 non-competitive walking events:

1 Full-Marathon sponsored by Ministry Health Care/Stevens Point Journal 2 Half-Marathon sponsored by Delta Dental 3 Quarter-Marathon sponsored by First Law Group

This event is brought to you by

For more information:

Portage County

Keeping Central Wisconsin Moving

www.walkwisconsin.com 1-800-236-4636 • 715-344-2556

WI-5001454280

8 | you

spring 2012

Celebration of healthy living Family makes Walk Wisconsin annual reunion

W

hen Debra Yach, 34, of Plover participated in her first Walk Wisconsin event in 2005 with co-workers, she never expected the event would blossom into an annual family tradition.

“One of my co-workers mentioned it, and four of us from the place I was working did the half-marathon; we loved it,” Yach said.

“The next year, I thought it would be fun to do as a family.”

So Yach invited her mother, father and two older sisters to join her, and the quintet completed the quarter-marathon in 2006.

“I used to live in Minneapolis, where the rest of my family still lives, and Walk Wisconsin was a nice chance to get together,” she said. “It was also a nice way to push my parents to get healthier.”

Developing a year-round active lifestyle is why Walk Wisconsin was started in 2005, said Brant Bergeron, a member of the Walk Wisconsin committee.

“Walk Wisconsin is a celebration, a celebration of healthy living,” Bergeron said. “We want people to be fired up and inspired to live a healthier lifestyle yearround.

REGISTER FOR WALK WISCONSIN The eighth annual Walk Wisconsin will be held June 2 along the Green Circle Trail in Portage County.

Full-, half- and quarter-marathon walking events will be offered.

Participants will receive a T-shirt, sports sack and finisher medallion.

There will be rest stops along the way where nutrition, fluid and restrooms will be available for participants. A finish-line celebration also is planned.

The registration fee is $25 through May 1, then $35 thereafter.

No registrations will be accepted after May 29. To register, go to www.walkwisconsin.com.

START TRAINING

Debra Yach of Plover participated in her first Walk Wisconsin in 2005 with co-workers, and then she decided to make the event a family affair. In 2006, she participated with her mom Sharon Briley, dad Dave Briley and older sisters Shari Alexon and Kim Boylan. In 2011, the group had grown to nine walkers, including Yach’s son, two nieces and a niece’s friend.

Pictured before last year’s walk are, front row from left, Kalee Boylan, Samantha Alexon, Austin Yach, Kim Boylan, Owen Yach (did not walk); and, back row from left, Katey Hacket, Debra Yach, Sharon Briley, Dave Briley and Shari Alexon. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO) “Our goal is to make Portage County the healthiest county in Wisconsin.”

Bergeron said the fact that Walk Wisconsin is a non-competitive event is a real draw for many people.

“Anyone can do it,” he said. “Shoes are the only piece of equipment you need, and Portage County

has the Green Circle Trail and other wonderful trails.

Walking is also easy on the body.

“It’s the perfect blend of wellness — physical, spiritual and social — and it can be done year round.”

Wa l k Wi s c o n s i n h a s proven life-changing for Yach’s sister, Shari Alexon,

39, of Minneapolis. Alexon has completed the quartermarathon several times and the past three years has walked the half-marathon.

She plans to participate in the half-marathon again this year.

“I was an occasional More on Page 10

Training schedules for the Walk Wisconsin full-marathon and half-marathon are available online at www. walkwisconsin.com/ wwtraining.htm.

Brant Bergeron, a member of the Walk Wisconsin committee, suggests participants start training for the full-marathon as soon as possible. Training for the half-marathon should start the second week of March, at the latest.

A training schedule for the quarter-marathon isn’t offered, but those who plan to participate in that event should start walking regularly by May.

By Jamie Jung | YOU magazine spring 2012

you | 9

From Page 9

dog walker, but I was not really a walker (before I started doing Walk Wisconsin),” Alexon said.

“The fact that we could do this and that it was a family bonding thing is what has made me stick with it.

“Walking is for everyone, and it’s such a good feeling when you accomplish it, whether it’s the quarter-marathon, the half-marathon or the full marathon. It’s like, ‘Look what I can do!’”

Alexon said after completing her first walk, she did not stick with her training — which included using the “Walk Away the Pounds” DVD by Leslie Sansone and walks at the park. But after two years, she made more of a commitment.

“I started making an effort to go out once a day to walk,” Alexon said. “My daughter started school, and it took me 40 minutes to walk her to and from school each day. It wasn’t a lot, but it got me out and going.”

Since then, Alexon has been going to her local health club and works out a minimum of one hour a day. She also has made a conscious

effort to avoid fast food and cooks healthier meals for her family.

“It started with just walking, and proving to myself that I’m capable,” Alexon said. “I’ve lost a total of 39 inches all over, and a lot of that was just walking and a diet.”

Alexon said her new-found focus on health also has carried over to her husband and two children, Samantha, 10, and Bill, 8.

“The kids go biking with me, swimming and walk dogs with me,” she said. “My daughter also did the (Walk Wisconsin) quarter-marathon with my mom, dad, sister and (Debra’s) son last year, and my son wants to do it this year.”

Yach said Walk Wisconsin also has played a big part in keeping her motivated and has helped her stay active in the winter months.

This year her youngest son, Owen, 4, also might join family members for the quarter-marathon.

“I enjoy it,” Yach said. “It’s a good opportunity to get out and be part of the community.”

“We don’t do a family reunion,” Alexon added, “we do Walk Wisconsin.”

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info@podiatryassociates.net spring 2012

Fit fitness breaks into even the busiest day

B

usy is an understatement for how we run our lives.

Not only has our free time decreased significantly in the last few decades, but we also spend most of our time sitting eight to 10 hours a day. With less time to spare, skipping workouts might seem to be the easiest way to add time to your day, but missing a chance to stay fit is the last thing you’ll want to do when time is limited and you feel rushed.

If you pick the right routine and time slot, you can fit a meaningful workout into any and all of your busiest days.

No matter

how little time you have available, there is a workout for you.

In the days of electronic calendars, we can get a good look at our day’s schedule in advance. After taking a glimpse, do you see any areas you can adjust to make time for a workout? You might find many more fitness break options than you imagined just by evaluating your day. Identify small amounts of time where you can add even

a quick burst of energizing movement. If all you have are spots of five- to 10-minute segments, turn it into a fitness time-out by taking a brisk walk, doing some lunges or running in place. Get creative and be committed to making exercise a priority.

My favorite time to work out is right away in the morning, so I can attest to the fact that the early bird gets more than a slimy worm.

Becoming a part of a dedicated group that jumpstarts their day with exercise means you get to cross your workout off your to do list right away, which is an amazing feeling.

Not a morning person?

Small changes in your sleep schedule can help you become one. Finding what works for you is the best way to be successful.

Multitasking, in the famous words of TV detective Monk,

If you or your bed partner SNORE, it may be a sign of a serious medical concern!

Untreated Sleep Apnea is a major independent risk factor contributing to: 520A Vincent Street High Blood Pressure • Cardiovascular Stevens Point, WI Disease • Stroke • Type II Diabetes 715-341-5000 • Depression • Weight Gain • Daytime Sleepiness & Insomnia • Erectile Dysfunction

“it’s a blessing and a curse.”

We can’t deny how many of us have perfected the fine talent of doing more than one thing at a time, so why not use this same concept when it comes to exercise?

If you only have time to do one thing, bring the weights on the treadmill with you.

Doing some bicep curls and shoulder shrugs while increasing the incline on the treadmill will have you feeling a full-body burn in no time. You will leave the gym feeling no regrets because you were able to get in an entire workout.

The world is full of fitness opportunities, such as taking the stairs or using commercials to see how many pushups you can do.

Take advantage of your undiscovered fitness openings and friends by turning your fitness breaks into fitness dates.

Iola Living Assistance, Inc. welcomes you to explore three levels of living arrangements for rehabilitative, respite, assisted living, or long term care.

Butternut Ridge Apartments Independent Living

Call today for a FREE SLEEP SCREENING & CONSULTATION with DR. THOMAS HONL

www.advanceddentalcareofstevenspoint.com

Iola Living Assistance is a skilled nursing facility. This 50-bed community-owned complex is dedicated to providing rehabilitation, comfort and end-of-life care to the residents of our village and surrounding area.

Living Oaks is a 24-unit residential care apartment complex that provides meals and assistance with daily chores, medication assistance, and grooming needs. Four levels of service care are available.

Screeningg For Sleepp Apnea p Has Never Been This Easy! y

7 years experience successfully f treating hundreds off sleep apnea patients • Member American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine • Fellowship American Academy of Craniofacial Pain • Member American Academy of Oral Facial Pain • Member American Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorders Disciplines

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spring 2012

Butternut Ridge offers independent living apartments with optional meal plans, housekeeping services and transportation assistance. Skilled nursing staff is close at hand and residents have priority admission status to the adjoining Iola Living Assistance facility should the need arise.

Iola Living Assistance, Inc. 185 S. Chet Krause Drive P.O. Box 237, Iola, WI 54945

you | 11

Get garden plants off to a good start, indoors

A

get seeds germinated and keep them from rotting off. It can be removed once plants are setting their first leaves. » Make sure your containers are clean before you start. New trays are clean, but if you have used some before, be sure to sterilize them with a mild bleach solution and then rinse well. » Use a good potting mix.

Seed-starting mixes that contain no soil usually work best. Vermiculite and peat will provide good airflow so seeds don’t rot. Fill containers, water thoroughly and then refill after the mix settles. That way, you don’t have to water and disturb the seeds once they are

planted. Potting mix needs to be kept moist but not wet to get plants growing. It is good to have a spray bottle to keep the soil surface moist and a tray cover to keep humidity high. » The time of planting and the conditions seeds need to germinate are different for every variety of plant.

If you have an informative package, it will tell you how many weeks until germination, how much time before they can be planted outdoors and how deep to plant the seeds to get proper light for germinating. In most cases, you count back from the last frost date, but with tender plants it is safer to wait until the soil tem-

peratures are warm, which could be early June. Many university websites have this information available.

Just search “starting seeds indoors extension,” which will take you to researchbased information. » The final step is transplanting your seedlings outdoors. Up until now, the plants have been in a very safe environment, so they need to be “hardened off,” or be conditioned to the natural outdoors. For a few hours each day, put them outside, in the shade and out of the wind. Slowly increase the length of time they are out; after about two weeks, they should be ready for the garden.

Granite doesn’t come cheap.

Neither did that bass boat, pumpkin.

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12 | you

spring 2012

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Lynn Caine is a University of Wisconsin-Extension Portage County Master Gardener Volunteer.

s the garden catalogs roll in and the seeds begin to appear in stores, we gardeners start getting anxious to get our hands dirty and grow something.

A few tips can help you turn those packages of seed into plants ready for the summer garden. » Seeds are available from many sources. It’s important to remember that each seed contains a plant embryo that must stay alive until the seed is used. Old or poorly stored seeds might not germinate.

A quick test is to put 10 seeds in a damp paper towel, roll it up and keep it damp and warm for several days. When the seed starts to put out its first root, you will know how many are alive. If five out of 10 are alive, you can assume 50 percent of your seed is good, so you should plant two seeds to get one plant. » The short and cloudy days of winter will not provide your plants enough light to grow, so you will need to provide artificial light close to the plants.

Fluorescent tube bulbs hung over seed trays work well.

Most plants need 12 to 16 hours of light each day. » Your seeds also need heat to germinate. A heat mat underneath trays will

Trust instincts when it comes to sleepovers

M

y kids are in kindergarten and second grade.

The day is slowly creeping up on us when we’ll get that first sleepover invitation. I’m glad we have yet to see one because, for most parents, the situation is fraught with anxiety.

The idea of sleeping at a friend’s house is so intriguing and so exciting for young kids that they only think of the fun. The more practical aspects (a different routine, and different foods, smells and beds) go right out the window.

Most kids start this process with a sleepover at a grandparent’s or other relative’s house, where close family can ease the transition. As with everything, a child’s first sleepover depends on the maturity of the child and his or her flexibility with new

situations and environments.

Parents have a lot to consider. Is the child old enough?

How many kids will be there?

Is the sleepover environment safe and secure? Do you know the parents? How will the host parent cope with your child if he or she decides they want to come home?

It’s not paranoid to ask a lot of questions of the sleepover parent. You’re basically handing your child over to someone who you don’t know very well and putting your child in a situation where they might have to rely on a stranger for discipline, assistance or comfort. Chances are a child (probably a girl) will be asking for a sleepover before her parent feels she is fully ready for the experience. So that puts the pressure on to be “cool” and let the child go.

But a parent should ALWAYS trust their instincts

and ALWAYS ask questions.

Even if you feel you have a good idea of what’s going to go on at the sleepover, things can change overnight.

And not always for the better.

If you are the sleepover parent, consider introducing yourself at least over the phone to the invitee’s parents.

Include a detailed itinerary for the festivities: times, places, food, etc. Ask the invitee’s parents for phone numbers, allergies or any sleeping issues that might come up.

Above all, stick to the plan.

Allow for adequate supervision. If you have six 6-yearolds sleeping over, do not leave them alone to run to the store. (Yes, it happened.) Be where you say you will be. Do not arrange for a sleepover at your house and change locations at the last minute without informing the parents.

(Yes, it happened.) Above all, do not take it personally if the other parents are asking a lot of questions or don’t feel their child is quite ready yet.

If you are the invitee’s parent, ask a lot of questions. And if you do not feel comfortable allowing your child to sleep over, ask about participating with the fun but arrange a late pickup. Don’t feel bad if you feel that your child isn’t ready or you are not comfortable with the situation.

Sleepovers are a fantastic way for young children to start to show some independence. They teach kids about different family dynamics and get them used to solving problems and developing interpersonal relationships outside their families and school. But they need to be a safe, fun experience for everyone.

Lisa Pett, 40, lives in Stevens Point with her husband, Christopher, and children, Owen, 7, and Olivia, 5.

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spring 2012

you | 13

COVER STORY

BEYOND coupons Planning, strategy help Plover woman find ‘tremendous’ savings

KELLI RASMUSSEN 23, Plover

Y Y

ou can’t help but take notice when you see Kelli Rasmussen, 23, of Plover at the grocery store. The recent University of WisconsinStevens Point graduate comes equipped with a color-coded binder, a calculator, shopping lists and, occasionally, a second pair of hands. And her perfectly organized grocery cart is loaded with items.

That’s because Rasmussen is among a growing number of people nationwide who have discovered the money-saving power of couponing.

Story by Jamie Jung Photos by Doug Wojcik YOU magazine

14 | you

“Once you get started, couponing takes very minimal effort.

I think anyone can do it.”

spring 2012

Rasmussen got her start with couponing about eight months ago, when she was looking for ways to save money for her household of four (herself; her boyfriend, Patrick O’Neil; and his 7-year-old twin daughters).

“I was still in college and with four people at home and a limited income; something had to give,” said Rasmussen, who works part time as an assistant at First Law Group. “Couponing has definitely helped tremendously.”

In fact, Rasmussen estimates she has averaged at least 75 percent savings on groceries and household products since she began. “(Couponing) was a little overwhelming in the beginning,” she said. “I went through the circulars and clipped coupons, but I didn’t save much. But I started doing research, and now I’ve been able to save enough to help out with some of the bills at home.”

Initially, Rasmussen looked online and watched shows such as TLC’s “Extreme Couponing” to see if saving money through couponing was feasible for her. When she decided to give it a try, her first step was creating a coupon binder — complete with colorcoded dividers and plastic baseball card sheets

SHOPPING WITH KELLI

Armed with a binder full of coupons, worksheets and a calculator, Kelli Rasmussen shops for groceries during double coupon day at Copps Food Center. With careful planning, Rasmussen saved 65 percent off her total grocery bill in four separate transactions.

to hold the coupons. Then she spent time getting to know the coupon policies at the stores where she shops.

“Once you get started, couponing takes very minimal effort,” she said. “I think anyone can do it.”

Rasmussen estimates she spends about 10 hours a week finding, clipping and organizing her coupons. She finds most of the coupons in newspapers she buys at a local gas station.

She also relies on two online couponing sites (TheKrazyCouponLady.com and Hip2Save. com) that show visitors how to best match coupons with sales at local stores.

“Because groceries are so expensive, even if I did most of my shopping at (discount grocer) Aldi’s before, I was spending at least $100 a week,” she said. “Now, my budget is $25 to $30 a week for groceries.

“If you look hard enough, you can find a coupon for just about anything. Almost everything I buy, I buy with a coupon.”

Rasmussen said she now does most of her grocery shopping at Copps Food Center and takes advantage of the store’s double coupon

On a recent shopping trip at Copps Food Center, 5657 E. Highway 10, Stevens Point, Kelli Rasmussen, 23, of Plover was ready to share her couponing knowledge. It was a Wednesday, which meant double coupon day at the grocery store.

With her color-coded coupon binder, a worksheet with four separate transactions planned and her calculator, Rasmussen got to work. She said an average shopping trip, including checking out, usually takes 45 minutes to an hour.

While she tries to scout the store the day before to make sure the expected items are on sale, she had not had time to do that before this shopping trip. So when she realized the Excedrin tabVIDEO lets she was REPORT planning to buy with a $2 stevenspointjournal.com coupon were To watch a video of recalled and the cereal she Rasmussen’s recent shopping trip and witness her savings was planning firsthand, go to www. to buy was not stevenspointjournal.com. on sale, she had to make some adjustments to her list.

“I never used to scout, but then stuff like this happens,” she said. “But I always bring back-up coupons and scenarios just in case.

And I would just be dead without a calculator, especially for situations like this.”

After finding the rest of the items on her list, Rasmussen found a quiet aisle to doublecheck the number of items in her cart and her coupons before heading to the register.

“I divide the cart up by transactions, and I separate the coupons for each transaction with reusable baggies,” she said. “Then I put two paper clips on the coupons I want to double, and you have to remember to give them those coupons first (otherwise, they will automatically double the first five you hand them).”

Then it was time to check out. Because Rasmussen had multiple transactions, store personnel moved her to her own checkout lane and the savings began. » Transaction No. 1: $25.09, which dropped to $10.83 after coupons » Transaction No. 2: $25.14, which dropped to $7.69 after coupons » Transaction No. 3: $24.62, which dropped to $8.57 after coupons » Transaction No. 4: $24.16, which dropped to $7.87 after coupons In the end, Rasmussen’s purchases totaled $98.91 before coupons; after coupons, she spent $34.96 — a 65 percent savings.

More on Page 16 spring 2012

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From Page 15

days on Wednesdays and select Saturdays.

And since she often times has multiple transactions on her shopping trip, she tries to go early in the morning or late at night to avoid the busy lunch hour and after-work crowd.

“I have received some great feedback from cashiers, and others not so much,” she said. “There also are the people who stand behind you in line and say, ‘You’re one of THOSE people.’

“I try to educate people whenever possible.”

Rasmussen said before she started couponing, she bought a lot of generic products, but since there are very few coupons for generic items, she’s found it less expensive to purchase name-brand products with coupons.

Rasmussen suggests shoppers buy fresh fruits and vegetables when they are in season or at a local farmers market to save money because there are rarely produce coupons available.

Coupons for meat also are very hard to find, but Rasmussen said that, because she and her boyfriend are deer hunters, they usually have venison on hand.

“Couponing has changed my entire thinking; I was very wasteful before,” she said. “I’ve seen the effects of it, and it’s changed my entire life.”

16 | you

Clockwise from top: Kelli Rasmussen double checks her coupons. Sara Gunderson, a cashier at Copps Food Center, processes Rasmussen’s coupons. Rasmussen tracks each transactions on a worksheet she keeps in her binder. spring 2012

COUPONING 101 Local couponers offer the following tips to help you get started with couponing: » Get organized. Organizing your coupons in a binder by category requires a few hours of time each week, but it makes preparing to shop quick and easy because your coupons are clipped and organized. Plastic baseball card sheets work great to hold coupons. » Buy multiple newspapers. If you know there is a high value coupon or several coupons you plan to use in the weekend paper, buy several copies. Some couponers also subscribe to larger, out-of-town papers in addition to their local paper. » “Like” your favorite brands and products on Facebook because they often offer coupons. » Visit websites that match store sales and available coupons for you. This cuts down on the time it will take you to prepare for shopping trips. » Know the coupon policies. Print the coupon policies for stores where you plan to shop and take them with you. Cashiers don’t always know their store’s policy, and having a copy will help educate them.

» Some stores allow you to “stack” coupons.

This means you can use one store coupon and one manufacture’s coupon for the same item.

Some stores also offer double coupon days, when you can double the amount of a specified number of manufacture’s coupons valued up to $1 (a minimum purchase usually is required). » Make a menu for the week before you go shopping. Look through the weekly sale ads and match sales with coupons to plan your meals. Items stockpiled in your pantry also can be helpful when planning meals. » Buy smaller sizes. When you have multiple coupons for one item, many times you can get two to three of the same item (equaling the size of more than one larger one) for what you would pay for one large size with one coupon. » If you look hard enough, there are coupons for just about everything. Two exceptions are fresh produce and meat, so look for sales on those items. » It’s only a deal if you really need the item, or if you know where you can donate your items.

WHERE TO FIND COUPONS ONLINE COUPONS There are many websites where you can print manufacturer’s coupons and/or store coupons. Here are a few: » Coupons.com (manufacturer’s coupons) » Smartsource.com (manufacturer’s coupons) » Redplum.com (manufacturer’s coupons) » Allyou.com (manufacturer’s coupons) » Target.com (store coupons as well as manufacturer’s coupons) » Trigs.com (store coupons as well as manufacturer’s coupons)

Kmart and more. » Hip2Save.com: Shows how to get best deals at Walmart, Walgreens, Target and more. » WildForWags.com: Shows how to get best deals at Walgreens. » PocketYourDollars.com: Shows how to get best deals at Copps, Pick N’ Save, Target, Walgreens, Walmart and more. » CouponConnections.com: Shows how to get best deals at Walmart, Walgreens, Target and more.

COUPON DATABASES USEFUL SITES FOR COUPONERS There also are some helpful sites that match store sales with available manufacturer’s coupons and store coupons to help you get the best deal, without doing all the work.

They include: » TheKrazyCouponLady.com: Shows how to get best deals at Target, Walgreens, Walmart,

In addition to offering couponing tips and advice, some of the websites mentioned above also provide a coupon database with links to online coupons. Just click on the link and it will take you to printable coupons on Facebook, product websites and more. Most databases list coupons in alphabetical order by brand name and/or provide a search function.

spring 2012

SERENA SBLENDORIO Age: 30 City: Stevens Point Family: Married with three children (ages 6, 4 and 2) How long couponing: Six months How got started: “I saw some acquaintances at Walmart who had piles and piles of toys in their cart. They told me they were stocking up because they had some really great coupons. They had some extra coupons and gave them to me, and I was hooked. That’s when I decided that I’m never buying anything retail again.”

Savings: At least 50 percent every shopping trip.

CYNTHIA BRUNDAGE Age: 35 City: Stevens Point Family: Married with one son (age 2) How long couponing: Four months How got started: After suffering a shoulder injury in September and realizing how long recovery would take, Brundage left her job and “was looking to save a little cash for my family.”

Savings: About 50 percent on total grocery bill.

AMY BEHNKE Age: 29 City: Almond Family: Married with three daughters (ages 4, 2 and 1) How long couponing: More than a year How got started: “My desire was to be a stay-athome mom. We needed to find some way to save money, so I look at couponing as part of my job.”

Savings: Between 60 percent and 75 percent off retail prices.

HEATHER RULAND Age: 29 City: Stevens Point Family: Married with two sons (ages 3 and 7 months) How long couponing: Nine months How got started: “My car was dying, and I had just had a new baby. I sat down and was budgeting, and I realized I needed to do something.”

Savings: About $300 a month.

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Find an eclectic mix of local art, activities

I

f you are looking for something to do during the winter, try getting acquainted with our local arts culture. Whether it’s a leisurely walk through inviting galleries or taking part in hands-on experiences, this is a great way to enjoy the Stevens Point area.

Art scene

Melissa Sabel is communications manager for the Stevens Point Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

» Winter recreation mixes with art during a winter hike through the Stevens Point Sculpture Park. The 20acre park features sculptures dotted along a half-mile trail, connecting to the Green Circle Trail. Snowshoe to get some stunning winter views, with a distinct backdrop of regional and national artwork. » Warm up and get cozy with the local art scene in the Stevens Point area. Inspired by the natural beauty of the area, arts are woven into architecture and lifestyles in each community.

Explore the blossoming artist community by visiting the Riverfront Art Center. The facility, tucked along the Wisconsin River at 1200 Crosby Ave., features changing exhibits as well as local and regional artists. Admission is free. » Just across the street from Riverfront is the Scarabocchio Art Museum. Scarabocchio, which means “doodle” in Italian, is the basis for the patented technique of artwork by David Smith, who founded the museum. The museum strives to encourage cultural and intellectual activities for

Exterior walls downtown feature the work of muralist Kelly Meredith. (YOU FILE PHOTO)

18 | you

The Riverfront Arts Center offers an array of artwork, including the “Winter’s Garden” exhibit, which runs through Feb. 19. (DOUG WOJCIK/ YOU MAGAZINE)

the benefit and enjoyment of all community members. The Scarabocchio Art Museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesdays through Fridays. Admission is free. » As you explore the art scene in downtown Stevens Point, be sure to tuck into many of the specialty shops within the district. Many shops, as well as restaurants, adorn their walls with the works of local artists. Outdoors, you can find murals dedicated to the area’s past on display. As you walk through the square, be sure to get a side view of the Market Day Mural in the southeast corner. Wisconsin artist Kelly Meredith painted the mural on the old brick building, and the uneven and jutting bricks are undetectable from the front. » For more local artwork, step into the Q Gallery Artists’ Cooperative. An artist-owned and operated gallery, it features rotating exhibits as well as original fine art for sale. Admission to the Q Gallery is free; hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. » Tucked inside the Sentry Insurance headquarters, you will find @1800.

Open to the public, it includes a res-

spring 2012

taurant and art gallery featuring masterpieces from Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore and Salvador Dali. It also includes seasonally changing exhibits, featuring the works of talented local artists. The space also includes a theater, with a number of musical, theatrical and dance performances throughout the year.

Hands-on experiences If you would rather create your own masterpiece, take a class at the Blue Bead Trading Company, plan an afternoon at the Clay Corner Studio or visit Herrschners. » The Blue Bead, a small specialty bead store in downtown Stevens Point, offers weekly classes featuring various beading projects. » Clay Corner Studio, which opened in downtown Stevens Point last summer, offers pottery painting and glass fusing. » Herrschners, headquartered in Stevens Point, produces the world’s largest mail order craft catalog. Its craft outlet store, with more than 20,000 craft items in stock, is open to the public daily.

There are lots of opportunities to explore your artistic side at the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum. (YOU FILE PHOTO)

» If you are traveling with kids, no trip to the area would be complete without getting your hands messy in the art room of the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum. » For more, head east, to the University of WisconsinStevens Point campus. In the Noel Fine Art Center, home to the Carlsten Art Gallery, you will find rotating exhibitions featuring student work as well as faculty and guest artists.

Just outside, as you walk to the Museum of Natural History inside the Albertson Learning Resource Center, you will see the mosaic mural, which stands 150 feet wide and 50 feet high, titled “E Pluribus Unum.” » Don’t forget to visit the Wisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame (at Schmeeckle Reserve).

Schmeeckle Reserve offers free, hands-on nature and history programs, geared to a wide audience, from September to May. The programs, which feature informative talks, guided rides and hikes, are run

by UWSP College of Natural Resources students.

Want more information for things to do in and around the Stevens Point area? Visit www. stevenspointarea.com or call 800-236-4636 to order a free planning guide.

Herrschner’s retail store offers a variety of products for craft and art projects. (YOU FILE PHOTO)

Clay Corner Studio in downtown Stevens Point offers a number of items for customers to paint. (YOU FILE PHOTO) WI-5001446164

spring 2012

you | 19

SHOPS WE LOVE: BEYOND ORDINARY

Find ‘something for everyone’ Beyond Ordinary a unique local shopping experience

A

s discerning shoppers know, it can be very difficult to find the perfect gift that’s truly one-of-a-kind. That’s why Tabby Huber, 43, of Wausau says she drives to Plover if she needs something that’s really unique.

“Beyond Ordinary lives up to its name,” Huber said.

“It’s absolutely my favorite store, and well worth the drive for me.”

Since opening almost five years ago in Village Park in Plover, Beyond Ordinary has garnered a following throughout central Wisconsin thanks to its unique collection of gifts, accessories, culinary items and home decor. The store recently was named the best shopping experience in the Stevens Point Journal’s Portage County’s Best reader survey.

Jenna Fritsch of Stevens Point says it’s one of her favorite places to buy gifts for friends and family.

“The staff is always welcoming and friendly,” Fritsch said. “I love it.”

Story by Shereen Skola Photos by Doug Wojcik

ABOUT BEYOND ORDINARY Address: 3044 Village Park Drive, Plover Hours: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sundays.

Contact: 715-344-3180. You also can find Beyond Ordinary on Facebook.

For You magazine

20 | you

spring 2012

Anna Neuenfeldt, above, is owner of Beyond Ordinary in Plover. “It’s really rewarding to see the eyes light up when a new customer walks through the door for the first time,” she said.

The store carries a number of recognizable brands, such as Magnabilities, interchangeable magnetic jewelry. It also carries jewelry from Kameleon and Bauble Lulu, which have become increasingly popular with customers.

In addition to the jewelry customers will find artfully arranged on the shelves, Beyond Ordinary offers a selection of brightly colored scarves, socks and other accessories. It also offers a unique group of purses, including Maruca handbags and totes in fun fabrics and styles, as well as reversible and interchangeable purses.

“There’s really something for everyone,” Huber said.

Gourmet kitchen items, such as St. Croix cutting boards and lunch totes, also are featured, as well as a selection of wines, many of which are made in Wisconsin. In addition, you’ll find gourmet food items like salsas, dressings and bread mixes, some of which are sold under the Beyond Ordinary brand name.

Huber said it’s her go-to place for baby gifts as well.

“I shop there because I know I’ll be able to give a baby shower gift that’s really different from what everyone else brings,” Huber said.

“That’s important to me.”

The baby section features socks, clothing, children’s flatware and cups. Beyond Ordinary also has a selection of fun toys such as the Tickle Monster, a book-and-glove set in a keepsake box designed to bring laughter to bedtime storytelling.

The store also features artwork for the home or office, and plenty of unique accent pieces in a variety of styles such as lamps, wall hangings, flags and candles.

Tracy Trybull of Stevens Point calls it a fantastic little shop.

“I could spend hours checking it out,” she said.

That’s exactly the kind of reaction owner Anna Neuenfeldt strives for.

“It’s really rewarding to see the eyes light up when a new customer walks through the door for the first time,” she said.

spring 2012

you | 21

10

ways to control the clutter in your home Story and photos by Gannett Media Service

Professional organizer and author Charlotte Steill sees it all the time. She calls it the “shoveand-close method,” and it’s why she’s in the organization business.

Shoving stuff into closets, drawers and storage rooms (typically when company is coming) is what happens when people lack specific places for things to go.

“That’s the root of the problem,” said Steill, owner of Simply Put Organizing in Scottsdale, Ariz., who insists home organization is as simple as two basic principles: “It all starts with not getting rid of old things and not placing things with purpose.”

Steill has 10 tips for purging unused stuff and storing things strategically.

4 WAREHOUSE SPACE

If you buy toothpaste and toiletries when they’re on sale, create a space to keep them organized. Again, Steill said it’s important to group like things together, so you don’t end up with 25 tubes of toothpaste stored all over the house.

She keeps her warehouse space on a shelf in a spare bathroom. She always knows when she’s running low on a certain product, and she doesn’t waste money on duplicate purchases.

1 LANDING SPOT

Of course, it’s always best to put groceries and household purchases away immediately. But if you can’t stop to put things in their place, Steill suggests creating a landing spot in your home.

The landing spot prevents bags and purchases from being shoved into corners or cupboards all over the house. Typically, a laundry room or an area between the garage and kitchen can make a good, temporary landing spot.

Steill said everything left here needs to find a permanent home within 24 hours.

“People are so busy, coming in with things and not putting them in a specific place,” she said. But the “do it later” approach always comes at a price.

“Clutter is delayed decisions,” she said.

2

DONATE IT

Steill said most of us fail to purge our homes of things we no longer use or need. And if nothing ever leaves the house — and stuff only filters in — clutter accumulates. So she makes her clients identify a charity that’s convenient and close to home. “If it’s not convenient, you won’t do it,” she said.

Once a month, that donation bag needs to be taken to the charity and another bag started. You’ll be amazed at how many things you can get rid of when you have a dedicated donation bag and a deadline. Filling it becomes a priority, Steill said.

22 | you

5 OPEN MAIL DAILY 3 GROUP IT

It seems simple, but Steill said most of us forget the importance of storing like things together. She’ll often find lightbulbs and batteries on shelves and in drawers throughout a house, rather than in one designated spot. The same is true for pens, office supplies and many other common household goods. Create a designated drawer, shelf or bin for these items, and you’ll be surprised how easy it becomes to put them away.

spring 2012

Steill doesn’t waste time on junk mail. It goes in the trash without a thought. Only three types of paper come into the home, she said: trash, reference material and action paper. Reference material needs to be put in a filing system, and paper that requires action (a bill that needs to be paid, etc.) goes to the “action center.”

6 ACTION CENTER

Steill said paper is one of the biggest hurdles to an organized home. To conquer it, she uses a paper “action center” with three components: a stapler, a three-tiered organizer and a trash can and/or shredder. The stapler keeps loose papers together so she can pitch the outside envelopes.

On the organizer, three separate shelves or slots should be marked “To Do Now,” “To Do Later” and “Pending.” The “now” shelf is for bills to be paid and correspondence to be mailed and must be gone through daily. The “later” shelf should be looked at weekly, and the “pending” file holds such things as disputed charges, which can be thrown away when the issue is resolved.

7 ASSESS THE CLOSET

A good trick for thinning the closet, Steill said, is to start the year by hanging all your clothes hangers the opposite way (from the back) in your closet. As you take things out to wear them, put them back normally. Steill said we tend to wear only about 20 percent of what we have.

You’ll soon see a pattern emerge showing which items you’ve worn, which ones you love and which things you completely ignore. Part with clothing you haven’t touched for months whenever you bring home something new, and the donation bag will fill up in no time.

8 HALFWAY HOUSE

We all have things we’re not ready to get rid of, even when we’re not sure we want to keep them forever.

For those seasonal items, vases, small appliances or clothes that don’t fit, Steill suggests creating a “halfway house” holding area in an out-of-the-way closet or even the garage. If you don’t retrieve an item for six months to a year, it’s time to sell or donate it.

10 SELL IT

For some, parting with stuff brings guilt — especially if we’ve paid a lot for an item we intended to use. For things of value, find a consignment store and start a bag or bin to hold things to be consigned. Good furniture, brand-name clothing and shoes and nice household accessories all can be consigned. Again, find a consignment store that’s convenient.

You also can sell electronics, such as laptops and cellphones, to gazelle.com (they’ll send you an estimate and a pre-paid mailing envelope) or advertise/sell items on eBay or Craigslist. Steill uses her consignment/sales money on holiday gifts, which is added incentive to get rid of things throughout the year.

9 GO DIGITAL

In this digital age, “people save way too much paper,” then struggle with storing it, Steill said. She files away only vital documents, such as insurance policies, health/medical records, legal papers and tax records.

Most of the rest — especially paid bills that can be accessed electronically — should be shredded and tossed.

Steill also has started to scan things with her NeatDesk scanner (to create searchable, digital files) and uses the website carbonite.com to back up her data.

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you | 23

Big-city inspiration @1800 offers perfect atmosphere for intimate dinners, business luncheons, family gatherings, more For dining at its finest, look no further than @1800, the restaurant inside the Sentry Insurance complex, 1800 Northpoint Drive in Stevens Point.

Inspired by big-city dining, @1800 offers a sophisticated and metropolitan-style atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners, business luncheons and family gatherings alike.

Open for lunch and dinner, the menu is both unique and refreshing, changing significantly three to four times each year to offer new dishes, as well as those that are seasonally appropriate.

For lunch, @1800 offers a madefrom-scratch soup of the day, along with a delicious potted fire-roasted tomato bisque that is available every day. Traditional fare, such as grilled cheese, hamburgers and pulled pork, are on the menu, as well as unique items such as a wild mushroom enchilada.

Marianna Marks, 32, of Stevens Point calls herself “a regular” at the restaurant for both lunch and dinner. She says her favorite lunch menu item is the chicken banh mi, a marinated chicken breast served on a hoagie with Vietnamese pickled vegetables, cilantro and sriracha mayo.

“It’s to die for, seriously,” Marks said. “And they have a really good wine list. I like that.” @1800 features “18 wines for $18,” with a selection of chardonnay, cabernet, shiraz and other popular wines from notable wineries.

Dinner entrees are unique, ranging from sweet potato gnocchi to chipotleglazed bison.

Clockwise from top: Fine dining chef Wayne Anderson prepares a buffet meal at @1800. The restaurant offers a selection of wine.

Subtle lighting casts an inviting glow. Anderson prepares food for baking.

Story by Shereen Skola Photos by Laura Schmitt For You magazine

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spring 2012

ABOUT @1800 ADDRESS: 1800 Northpoint Drive, Stevens Point HOURS: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mondays through Fridays, 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Lounge opens at 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.

HAPPY HOUR: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, featuring free kettle chips, half off @1800’s daily flat bread feature and two-for-one domestic bottles of beer. Soups, salads, appetizers and burgers are available in the lounge as well.

CONTACT: 715-346-1800, www.at1800.com

Top: The dining and bar areas at @1800 offer scenic views and a simple but elegant atmosphere. Above: Chai cheesecake with apricot glaze is among the dessert offerings. Left: Assistant fine dining chef Kellen Ferkey prepares a dessert.

spring 2012

Manager Julene Hahn-Stokes says that a few signature items always remain — even when the menu changes — including her favorite: cowboy ribeye, served with Southwestern potato hash and red mole.

“It’s always good,” she said. “The salmon is also extremely popular; that never leaves the menu, either.”

The appetizer list goes beyond the standard fare, with choices from a mushroom-and-goat cheese strudel to braised beef served in a red mole with flour tortillas. The jalapeno prawns are especially well-liked.

“You absolutely cannot leave without trying them,” Hahn-Stokes said.

Aside from the wine list, the lounge has an eclectic selection of specialty drinks available. The rose-berry sangria is a mixture of rosemary-infused vodka, Absolut Citron and pinot noir with lime and blueberries. Or, try Tenn Scotts in Italy, a mixture of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, Drambui, Tuaca Italian liqueur and runny honey served in a chilled martini glass.

For special gatherings, @1800 has a private dining area that comfortably seats up to 16 guests.

Formerly The Restaurant and Pagliacci’s, the restaurant was remodeled and reopened as @1800 in March 2008. Reservations are recommended.

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Sweet satisfaction Michelle Syring is dining services director for Oakridge Senior Living Community

When you think of February, do images of sweet treats fill your head? If so, it should come as no surprise, because the months of February, March and April are crammed full of “holidays” dedicated to a variety of desserts.

In fact, the entire month of February has been dedicated as National Celebration of Chocolate Month. Crepe Day was observed Feb. 2. National Chocolate Caramel Day will be here March 19.

And you certainly won’t want to miss National Chocolate-Covered Cashews Day on April 21.

In honor of these food holidays and more, our You chef Michelle Syring has shared several recipes to help satisfy your sweet tooth.

HEAVENLY FUDGE GET IT

DO IT

8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature) 4 cups confectioners’ sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 12 ounces white chocolate chips (melted) 3 ⁄4 cup pecans (toasted)

Mix together the cream cheese with the confectioners’ sugar.

Once whipped together, add the vanilla extract. Now mix in the 12 ounces of melted white chocolate chips and the toasted pecans. Pour into an 8- by 8-inch container and cool in the refrigerator.

CREAMY LEMON RICE PUDDING GET IT Juice of 1 lemon 1 1 ⁄4 cups Arborio rice 4 cups milk Zest of 1 lemon 1 ⁄2 vanilla bean, split, seeds scraped Pinch of salt 1 ⁄2 cup sugar 1 ⁄2 cup heavy cream

DO IT Place the Arborio rice, milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla bean and seeds, salt and sugar in a medium saucepan; bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and most but not all of the liquid has been absorbed, about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream. Remove the vanilla bean, and serve the pudding in small bowls.

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spring 2012

TIRAMISU

CHOCOLATE CREPES AND FUDGE SAUCE

GET IT

GET IT

6 egg yolks 3 tablespoons sugar 1 pound mascarpone cheese 1 1 â „2 cups strong espresso, cooled 2 teaspoons dark rum 24 packaged ladyfingers 1 â „2 cup bittersweet chocolate shavings, for garnish

DO IT In a large bowl, using an electric mixer with whisk attachment, beat egg yolks and sugar until thick and pale, about 5 minutes. Add mascarpone cheese and beat until smooth. Add 1 teaspoon of espresso and mix until thoroughly combined.

In a shallow dish, add remaining espresso and rum. Dip each ladyfinger into espresso for only 5 seconds. (Letting the ladyfingers soak too long will cause them to fall apart.) Place the soaked ladyfinger on the bottom of a loaf pan, breaking them in half if necessary in order to fit the bottom.

Spread half of the mascarpone mixture evenly over the ladyfingers. Arrange another layer of soaked ladyfingers and top with mascarpone mixture. Continue alternating until mascarpone mixture is gone.

Cover tiramisu with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to 8 hours.

Before serving, sprinkle with chocolate shavings.

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For crepes: 4 eggs 1 1 ⠄3 cup whole milk 1 ⠄2 cup granulated sugar 7 tablespoons butter, melted, divided 1 teaspoon vanilla 3 ⠄4 cup all-purpose flour 1 ⠄2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 ⠄2 teaspoon salt For fudge sauce: 1 1 ⠄4 cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels 2 ⠄3 cup heavy whipping cream Confectioners’ sugar (optional)

DO IT For crepes Whisk together eggs, milk, granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons butter and vanilla in a bowl until well blended.

Whisk in flour, cocoa powder and salt until smooth. Cover and refrigerate 20 minutes.

Lightly spray 8-inch nonstick pan with canola oil. Heat pan over medium heat 1 to 3 minutes or until shimmer1 ing. Pour scant â „3 cup crepe batter into pan, immediately tilting and swirling pan to cover bottom.

When crepes start to bubble, run spatula along outer edge of crepe to

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loosen; turn crepe over. Cook 20 to 30 seconds. Remove from pan to parchment paper.

Repeat with remaining batter, stacking crepes between sheets of parchment paper.

For fudge sauce Combine chocolate morsels, cream and remaining 1 tablespoon butter in large glass bowl; microwave, 1 uncovered on high for 1 to 1 â „2 minutes or until chocolate is mostly melted, stirring every 30 seconds. Stir until smooth and glossy; set aside.

To assemble, place crepes onto serving plates (roll the crepe into a cylinder).

Top each crepe with fudge sauce, then sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar.

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you | 27

Little prints Small patterns can be a big change

Tucker printed silk top, $250 at www.neta-porter.com.

Sleeveless blouse with bird print, $69.95 at H&M.

Today’s prints often are bright and bold, but a subtler look still charms. Make your fashion statement a whisper.

Story and photos

by Gannett Media Service

Abstract puff sleeve top, $19.80 at Forever 21.

Bisou Bisou belted top, $25 at JCPenney.

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spring 2012

Shades of Lace dress from Nic + Zoe, $152 at Nordstrom.

Dot-printed shirt dress from Jason Wu for Target, $39.99 at Target.

THINGS TO DO: MARCH Arts Alliance Community Show, 7:30 p.m. March 2 and 3, 2 p.m. March 4, Theater @1800, Sentry Insurance, tickets available at the door or call 715346-4100, www.artsportagecounty.org.

Second Annual Dueling Pianos!

Two Guys, Two Pianos and a Night to Fight Cancer!, 6 p.m., Memories Wedding and Banquet Hall, 2811 Plover Springs Drive, Plover, tickets cost $50 in advance, $60 at the door.

Contact Marshfield Clinic at 715-3879249, or email faber.tracy.m@marshfieldclinic.org.

Point Bock Run, noon, Stevens Point Brewery, 800-369-4911 or www.pointbockrun.com.

MARCH 4

MARCH 13

Allen F. Blocher Planetarium presents “Sky Quest,” 2 p.m., free, UWSP Science Building, 715-346-2208, www. uwsp.edu/physastr/plan_obs.

UWSP Performing Arts Series Presents: Spencers: Theater of Illusion, 7:30 p.m., Theater @1800, 715-346-4100 or www.uwsp.edu/centers/pas.

MARCH 2-4 UWSP Theatre & Dance Presents: “A Streetcar Named Desire,” 7:30 p.m.

March 2 and 3, 2 p.m. March 4, Jenkins Theatre. www.uwsp.edu/theatredance.edu.

MARCH 8 Lecture, “The Devil’s Church: Evangelicals and Hollywood in the 1940s,” free, 7 p.m., Pinery Room, Portage County Public Library, 1001 Main St., Stevens Point, 715-3464211 www.uwsp.edu/cols/Pages/ LectureSeries.

MARCH 24 Tomorrow River Concerts present: LJ Booth, 7:30 p.m., Jensen Community Center, Amherst, www.jensencenter. org

MARCH 26-30 Print with Legend Amos Kennedy Jr., Edna Carlsten Art Gallery. Kennedy will set up a press and print his posters, assisted by students, for a week in the gallery. Reception and poster sale, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 1, Edna Carlsten Art Gallery in the Noel Fine Arts Center.

MARCH 17 CWN Singles Dance, 8 p.m., Shooters, 3330 Harding Ave., Plover, $8 members, $12 non-members, 715341-4995.

Daleks & Dungeons & Ghosts, Oh My! Egocon 2012, Elizabeth Inn, Newfod2020@yahoo.com.

MARCH 8-10 UWSP Theatre & Dance Presents: “A Streetcar Named Desire,” 7:30 p.m., Jenkins Theatre, 715-346-4100, www.

Community Center, Amherst, www. jensencenter.org

MARCH 9-10 Point Dance Ensemble’s 13th Annual Performance, featuring choreography by guest artists Melinda Myers and Ted Ballard, 7:30 p.m., Theater @1800, $12 adults, $7 students and senior citizens, 715-346-4100 or www.pointdance.org.

MARCH 3

MARCH 1

uwsp.edu/theatre-dance.edu.

MARCH 20 Tomorrow River Middle School Choir Concert, 7:30 p.m., Jensen

MARCH 30 Portage County Taste of Wine and Cheese, 7 p.m., Noel Group Hanger, Stevens Point Municipal Airport, 715341-4386, www.bgclubpc.org

MARCH 31 CWN Singles Dance, 8 p.m., Bernard’s, 701 Second St., $8 members, $12 non-members, 715-3414995.

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you | 29

WOMAN TO KNOW: HILARY DAWN ROSE BILBREY

Be open to

If you would like to be featured as our Woman to Know in an upcoming issue of You magazine, or to nominate someone, contact Jamie Jung at 715-345-2256 or jamie.jung@cwnews.net.

LIFE’S LESSONS Name: Hilary Dawn Rose Bilbrey Age: 38 City: Stevens Point Family: I am married to my college sweetheart and best friend, Jeffrey.

We have been married for nearly 16 years. We have three hilarious, smart and unique kids. Breck is 10 and in fourth grade at St. Stephen Elementary School. Jake is 8 (almost 9) and in third grade at St. Stephen.

Faith is 6 and a big first-grader at St. Stanislaus Elementary School. The kids and I all do taekwondo. Between us we have a blue belt, two high green belts and a high yellow belt. We all love reading. My husband heads up our crazy basketball schedule. Our very favorite thing to do as a family is camp. We spent a month camping our way to and from Alaska.

Job: I am the co-founder and CEO of Inspired By Family, founder and CEO of Trademark U, co-founder of the

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spring 2012

One Mom Making a Difference movement and radio host of “What’s Your Story� at Portage County News Talk 1010 AM and 92.1 FM. Under Inspired By Family, I work with my co-founder, Michelle Heim, to write and distribute the Brecker Bunny Safety Series and other family-inspired material. Trademark U is a leadership training/life-coaching business, generally aimed at teens. One Mom Making a Difference is an online boutique to help moms remember that even in the midst of the daily grind, they are truly making a difference every day. The media outlet of “What’s Your Story� is a chance to combine all of my loves. I interview people who are living their personal brand out loud and creating positive change in our community and beyond.

What inspires you? What doesn’t inspire me? The older I get, the more I understand that anything and everything can inspire us if we are open to the lesson. Also, I feel like I am inspired in different ways. I might be inspired to write in order to overcome tragedy and teach others. I am inspired to become more of an athlete by participating in taekwondo and learning from the accomplishments of other athletes around me. I am inspired to be of ser-

vice by the extraordinary acts of kindness I see throughout our community. I am inspired to love bigger by the smiles of my children. I live every day inspired by the beauty and challenges that God has crafted for us.

If you weren’t in your current job position, you’d be ... Teaching. I originally studied to teach English and drama to high school students. Some days I still miss it, but owning my own business has allowed me the opportunity to work my schedule around my kids.

My superhero power would be ... Hmmm. I would love to receive super organization super powers. Just when I think I have it all together, I realize I’ve missed something!

One thing I wish I could do well but can’t is to ... Maintain routines. I get easily bored and have to change things up. This makes getting to the gym and doing other healthy things really difficult. I aspire to be the kind of person who knows what she is doing most days because I have established a routine that works.

My guilty pleasure is ... I have a book addiction. I go to the library, yes, but if I am reading

a good series, it is so easy to download the next one when I am done. I always feel bad because I know I don’t need to be spending the money, but, oh, the instant gratification! Some people are addicted to shoes ... I am addicted to book stores and iTunes.

The gift that I want but never receive is ...

I can’t actually think of anything that I want as a material gift. In all honesty, the two gifts that are hardest to attain have no money attached ... the gift of time and peacefulness. Sure, I would love world peace, too, but I mean that sense of contentment where you can sit after a day without your brain going 100 miles an hour and just be.

The movie I can watch over and over is ... “The Breakfast Club� ... still.

The book I can read over and over again is ... “The Awakening� by Kate Chopin. I read it in high school first, then twice in college and several times since. It always means something different to me depending on what is going on in my life. It is about the journey to self-discovery by one woman. It is haunting and empowering and tragic.

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you | 31

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