F R E E FALL
2015
Shabby Chic Owners of The Junky Monkey, Kelly Matejcek and Kelly Peters breathe new life into old furniture and accents.
Also in this issue: Southern Minnesota Wine Country Canning your summer produce Recording your family history
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Contents
10
HEADLINE HERE
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MATURE LIFEST YLE • FALL 2015 • VOLUME 7, ISSUE 4
FEATURES 6 Shabby chic is a big trend in home décor “The Junky Monkey” owners are breathing new life into old furniture and teaching others how to do it, too.
16
10 Southern Minnesota wine country Move over Napa Valley, a great glass of wine is just a few short miles in pretty much any direction from Mankato.
12 Recording your family history The woman behind “Treasured Heritage Keepsakes” in Lafayette helps people compile their personal and family stories.
18
16 Canning your summer produce Canning is experiencing a resurgence of popularity now that gardening is in vogue with all ages.
18 Friends of San Lucas John Dickerman along with “Friends of San Lucas Mission” educate people of Guatamala so they are better equipped to help themselves.
DEPARTMENTS
20
20 Traveling With Pets 22 Calendar of Events
Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 3
publisher’s notes
Welcome to the Fall edition of Mature Lifestyle…
W
elcome to the fall edition of Mature Lifestyle! This issue is packed with stories to prepare you for the season...but I must confess that my mind is going 200 mph as I write these Pub Notes. I have a lot of connections with the stories that are featured in this issue, but I must slow down, regroup and have complete thoughts. Must be a sign of maturity... Our Mature Lifestyle cover features Kelly Matejcek and Kelly Peters, entrepreneurs and owners of Junky Monkey. That name just brings a smile to my lips. Plus it’s just a fun name for a business! I did their photo shoot this summer during their sale. It was totally unplanned, but as I walked upon their porch on that hot day and into their garage, I was inspired by what they had done...my thought was that these ladies and what they were creating just had to be a story in our next issue of Mature Lifestyle. And when I met them, I followed my gut instinct: “WOW! These ladies would look awesome on the cover of Mature Lifestyle!” My instinct was right. It is one of our best covers ever. They are beautiful, talented women and had no problem with a spur of the moment photo shoot from a crazy lady (me) who just happened to be on their porch that day. Thank you Kelly and Kelly! And thank you for keeping our heritage alive by your chick style. As I thought about the repurposed antiques, I thought about my parent’s home, now vacant for a year. I’m crossing my fingers that after their auction, items can be “brought back to life” again by the new owner. I’ve experienced all kinds of emotions as “us kids” prepare our childhood home and its contents to be sold. One of my favorite finds was in the attic...it’s my grandfather’s old trunk. When I opened it, I found my Dad’s high school report card, dated 1943 along with bank statements from my grandfather, dated 1969 and that was just on the top! I can’t wait to dig a little further into the chest. I’m sure we all have gems like this 4 FALL 2015 Mature Lifestyle
in our own homes, just waiting to be found. Repurpose them and make them come alive... Continue on with our story entitled, “Move over Napa Valley” which features local vineyards and wineries in southern Minnesota. I enjoy a very good glass of wine and have visited all three: Chankaska Creek, Indian Island and Morgan Creek. I have my favorites at all three and look forward to many more years of enjoying the taste of Minnesota cold climate wine. Be sure to attend their upcoming fall events. Please take a minute and read the story about Serra Muscatello and her business, “Treasured Heritage Keepsakes.” She has taken her love of writing to an intimate level by documenting lives of others. And she also offers a class, “Writing Your Life Story” for anyone who wants to write their own life story. Anything that is associated with your heritage can be compiled by Serra...photographs, a family tree and even family recipes. But most importantly, the “stories” of our lives are something that can be handed down from generation to generation. Lastly, check out the story about the “Friends of San Lucas.” I did not have the opportunity to meet John Dickerman before his death. What I do know is that he was a compassionate soul who cared deeply for the people of Guatemala. When I reviewed the photos from past missions, trying to decide what to use for the story was difficult. There were photos of the church that was built, the new generator for the school, and lots of photos of his “sponsored” child, that is almost a full grown woman now. Rest in peace, John and be assured we will honor you and your work at the November fundraiser. In closing be sure to check out the calendar of events, “Traveling with Fido,” and book reviews. But mostly enjoy the colors of fall and reading this issue of Mature Lifestyle!
Mature Lifestyle is a Quarterly Publication of the Home Magazine, Mankato, MN. A Property of Community First Holdings, Inc.
Publisher Kelly Hulke Sales Manager Mary DeGrood Sales Executives Yvonne Sonnek Kim Allore Deena Briggs Dorothy Meyer Editorial/Photography Amanda Dyslin Nell Musolf Graphic Designer Sirena Tanke Production Heather Zilka Office Julie Jolynn Kurtz Advertising Information: Home Magazine 1400 Madison Ave., Suite 610 Mankato, MN 56001 (507) 387-7953 fax 387-4775 homemag@homemagonline.com F R E E FALL
2015
Shabby Chic Owners of The Junky Monkey, Kelly Matejcek and Kelly Peters breath new life into old furniture and accents.
Kelly Hulke, Publisher
Also in this issue: Southern Minnesota Wine Country Canning your summer produce Recording your family history
On the cover: Junky Monkey Owners Kelly Matejcek and Kelly Peters
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Across 1. Cost to cross 5. Conquers 10. Attempt 14. Fencing sword with no cutting edge 15. “Hurray!” 16. Legal prefix 17. Place for official written record of names or events (2 wds, pl.) 20. Biochemistry (abbrev.) 21. Hot spot 22. Main arteries 23. Arctic sight 25. Carbonium, e.g. 27. Bas-relief medium 28. Flapjacks 31. Fascist 32. ___ Islands, off NE coast of Scotland 33. Legislator (abbrev.) 36. A mentally deficient person (pl.) 38. ___ fly 40. Lent’s start, e.g. (abbrev.) 41. Characterized by intense activity 45. Sexual crime 46. Injects with extra force and energy 48. Auto option 51. Be in session 52. ___-friendly 53. Masters 55. To exist unsuspected 57. Consumes 59. Wrinkleproof 62. Elliptical 63. “Green ___” 64. The “A” of ABM 65. Boys 66. En ___, all together 67. Aroma
Down 1. Okla., before 1907 2. When a bowler fails to make a strike or spare (2 wds) 3. Sanctioned by law 4. “Fantasy Island” prop 5. Information unit 6. Before the expected time 7. Ruthless moneylender 8. “___ bad!” 9. Chesterfield, e.g. 10. Pinnacles 11. Discretion (pl.) 12. Bailiwicks 13. Boito’s Mefistofele, e.g. 18. Abandon 19. Extremely fussy person (pl.) 24. Father of Balder 26. Masefield play “The Tragedy of ___” 28. Vex, with “at” 29. Doofus 30. Two-masted sailing vessel 33. Theatrical production worker 34. Artificial language based on words common to all European languages 35. At no time, poetically 37. All ___ 39. Blows it 42. “60 Minutes” network 43. One who works strenuously (pl.) 44. Sudden attack or stroke (pl.) 46. Trouble or grief (pl.) 47. Black-and-white diving bird of the northern seas (pl.) 48. English race place 49. Caterpillar, for one 50. Up, in a way 54. A-line line 56. Acclivity 58. Ado 60. ___ Victor 61. Chinese “way”
Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 5
Junky Monkey
Breathing New Life... 6  FALL 2015 Mature Lifestyle
...Into Old Decor
by Amanda Dyslin
S
habby chic is a term most of us have heard and many of us have actually employed as a decorative style in our homes. Furniture and décor pieces that show signs of wear and age are no longer thought of as “junk,” but rather people are using various painting, staining, sanding, and distressing techniques to breathe new life into pieces and sometimes even make them look older than they are. The vintage furniture and accent trend is so huge that people are paying top dollar for pieces that will add a great deal of interest to their homes. Others have begun to shop at garage sales and used furniture stores with a more forgiving eye, looking for interesting furniture or décor items with good bones that they can transform themselves with some sandpaper and a coat of paint. As the owners of The Junky Monkey, Kelly Matejcek and Kelly Peters have their hands in both worlds. For those who are less than crafty but who love the look of repurposed, vintage pieces, the Mankato women sell beautiful items that they have “upcycled” themselves. For those who want to learn how to paint furniture and accents themselves, they offer monthly workshops at Broad Street Antiques. “We show people different painting and distressing methods,” Matejcek said. “And they get to bring something home that they made.” The origins of The Junky Monkey can be traced back to a painting class the two women took a couple of years ago north of the Twin Cities. With a mother in the antique business for 20 years, Matejcek had always been interested in vintage pieces and breathing new life into old furniture. The painting class is what pushed the women over the edge into painting more themselves.
“I’ve watched this new wave of painted, upcycled furniture come to be, and I was trying to think of how I could put my spin on it that was new and fresh and different in the antique world,” Matejcek said. For Peters, Matejcek was largely her inspiration for wanting to dive into The Junky Monkey. “It was just seeing her house and how she repurposed things and had bought things that were repurposed,” Peters said. “Then after we took the class together, we were addicted. I started going to garage sales and looking for stuff that is unique and jumps out at me. You just have to see it and know it would be a good piece to upcycle.” The summer after that painting class, the women had a garage sale and put out some of their painted pieces, a sort of unofficial start to their business. The response was great. People wanted to know if they had a store where they could look for more items. Matejcek put up a Facebook page that night, and in the time since they have held two sales per year (in spring and fall) at Matejcek’s home. They also brought in other vendors. They also rent space in Broad Street Antiques to sell some items throughout the year and hold Country Chic painting workshops using the popular Country Chic products. Matejcek’s personal style can be seen in the pieces displayed there. “I like to mix in primitives, and functionality is important,” she said. “I like an eclectic mix of old farmhouse and cottage chic.” The women love to experiment with color on the pieces they work on, although there is often discussion about whether to paint certain pieces or not. “I know and appreciate old pieces, so if it’s a piece from the 1940s or earlier, we really discuss if something would benefit from paint or not, or if they’re beautiful in their original state,” Matejcek said.
When they go out picking at estate sales, auctions, garage sales and flea markets, there’s no end to the kinds of items they look for: old windows, tractor seats, metal carts, buckets, hoes and rakes, furniture, mirrors, glass pieces and various odds and ends. At their sales, they put out pieces they have painted as well as unfinished pieces. “I love to put out things that people can create with,” Matejcek said. “They can say to themselves, ‘I see that idea, and I can do that myself with this piece.’” At their workshops, they offer people numerous tips for upcycling pieces. For example, prep work is very important when painting a piece. If a piece already has an oil-based finish, it will need to be sanded or primed before being painted. It’s also important to use a clear coat or wax on top of the paint to ensure the paint doesn’t chip.
These tips and numerous others will be offered at upcoming workshops at Broad Street Antiques: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17; and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 19. Cost is $60 or $55 each if you bring a friend. The Junky Monkey Fall Occasional Sale is Oct. 2-3 at Matejcek’s home. Those interested in details can call 507340-0712; visit Broad Street Antiques at 1434 N. Broad St.; or search for The Junky Monkey on Facebook. Broad Street Antiques is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Matejcek and Peters are at the store on most Sundays. Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 7
Southern MN Wine CoUntry
Move Over Napa Valley
N
ot so long ago, the idea that Minnesota would be a hotspot for picturesque wineries and exquisite wine varietals seemed ridiculous. Minnesota is known for its harsh weather conditions. California, on the other hand, seemed to have the only kind
of optimal climate for vineyards to flourish and wineries to prosper. Nevertheless, thanks to cold-hardy grapes and other advancements, Minnesota – including southern Minnesota – has become home to award-winning wines and wineries. Just miles in pretty much any
direction from Mankato, a tasty, unique, and local glass of wine awaits. For those not acquainted with the wineries in their own backyards, we offer this roadmap and a few words from the winery staff and owners themselves on what makes each winery unique.
Upcoming events: Sept. 19 – Uncorked MN:
Enjoy the best of local area wines, brews and food while listening to great music.
Oct. 27 – Harvest Ball Nov. 14 – Toast to Women: A day to celebrate women, including local business vendors and Chankaska wines.
Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery Chankaska Creek Ranch and Winery 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota (off Highway 22) www.chankaskawines.com (507) 931-0089 After just several years open, Chankaska has already made a name for itself in the wine industry, having won numerous awards. In addition to the vineyard, the beautiful grounds, and the numerous sitting areas and deck, guests can enjoy 8 FALL 2015 Mature Lifestyle
wood-fired pizzas and antipasto with Chankaska wines in the tasting room.
What sets the winery apart? “Chankaska Creek Ranch and Winery is Minnesota’s newest farm winery and has been named MN Best Winery 2015 by the Star Tribune. Our vineyard and winery sits on the right bank of the creek we take our name from in Kasota, Minnesota. Chankaska is a native Dakota Indian name
meaning forest-enclosed and vineyard visitors will delight in the natural setting of our southern Minnesota River Valley. Hand-crafted, Chankaska Wines’ artisan winemaking techniques ensure a transformation from hearty grapes on the vine to a flavorful wine experience.” - Karen Borresen-Berg, event and marketing coordinator
18018 631st Ave, Janesville www.indianislandwinery.com (507) 234-6222 Indian Island originated from Winterhaven Vineyard and Nursery, which was established in the spring of 2000. The vineyards covers 12 acres and is still growing and boasts 17 varieties. The winery produces wine from other local growers, as well as its own vineyard, and grapes include cold-hardy varieties such as Frontenac, LaCrescent, Marquette, St. Croix, Brianna, and many others.
What sets the winery apart? “Indian Island Winery is a family-owned farm winery with a very friendly and beautiful atmosphere. We offer live music every Friday and Saturday night. Indian Island focuses on cold-hardy grape varietals and is proud to sell 100 percent Minnesota grown and produced wines, which have won numerous high honors at an International level including Double Gold, Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals as well as Best of Show, Best of Class, and Sweepstakes Nominees. In addition to top award winning wines,
Indian Island Winery Upcoming events: Sept. 12 – 6th Annual Grape Stomp, including vendors and live music. Oct. 11 – Paint and Sip! Painting class. Oct. 24 – Black and White Masquerade Ball a formal event with black and white attire. Nov. 28 – Vendor Sale and After-Thanks-giving Shopping Day. Indian Island also offers a full menu on weekends; and, for a bit of history, the winery has many Native American artifacts on display. Enjoy a large outdoor patio when it’s nice, or our large event and tasting rooms when it’s not. There is always a reason to come out and enjoy Indian Island Winery.” - Angie Netzke, winemaker and partner
Morgan Creek Vineyards producing German, French, and American style wines, including Minnesota coldhardy varietals. Numerous events are held throughout the year on Morgan Creek’s picturesque grounds in the Minnesota countryside.
A unique feature of the winery from co-owner Paula Marti’s blog:
23707 County Rd 101, New Ulm www.morgancreekvineyards.com (507) 947-3547 Morgan Creek Vineyards was established in 1993 and had its first vintage season in the fall of 1998. The winery is the only in Minnesota to be underground; the earth shelter provides just the right cellar temperature for wine production and aging. The winery specializes in growing and
“You never forget your first crush! … That is, the Cambria Crush, voted best Fall Event by Explore Southern Minnesota! Explore the Minnesota River Valley full fall colors and stop at the winery nestled in the river valley along the Morgan Creek, and enjoy the old fashion, sporting, harvest
celebration honoring the ancient rite of ripening!”
Upcoming events: Oct. 3 – Cambria Crush, the annual grape stomp event. Nov. 14 – Annual Winemaker’s Dinner showcasing award winning wines of the season.
Nov. 20 – Christmas Candlelight Winetasting Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 9
Treasured Heritage Keepsakes
by Amanda Dyslin
Books Of Life S
ometimes it takes just a moment to make a person realize what’s truly important in life. For Serra Muscatello that moment occurred during a car accident. She was a full-time newspaper journalist at the time with a 1-year-old daughter in the back seat, traveling from Lafayette to New Ulm. She hit black ice and ended up against a small tree in the ditch after a scary 180-degree turn. “My car was totaled, and I was really emotionally shaken up by it,” Muscatello said.
10 FALL 2015 Mature Lifestyle
Her daughter, Serena, was crying in the back seat, and Muscatello realized it was time to follow her heart and become a stayat-home mom. Having written someone’s life story before, Muscatello realized she could write such stories as a business. That’s how Treasured Heritage Keepsakes was born. “I felt that creating my business, Treasured Heritage Keepsakes, would give me more freedom and flexibility, while also serving others by helping them write their life stories, family histories, church
heritage stories, and business histories,” she said. Here is a bit more about Muscatello and her company.
How long have you been doing this, and what kinds of projects have you worked on so far? I started my business, Treasured Heritage Keepsakes, in the spring of 2012. I’ve written life stories for people, family history projects, a Duluth couple’s love story, and a couple of stories of folks who had lengthy military careers. This coming
copy or many copies of the story printed up and spiral bound into the final version. I also give people the option of having a professionally recorded digital audio copy made of our interviews so they can have a keepsake of the person’s voice as well. Most people also request a disk of the final version of the project, too, so they can make additional copies down the road. In the future I would like to do more video recording work of my client interviews so I will offer both the audio and video recordings for people.
What do the books look like? Serra Muscatello has written life stories for people, family history projects, a Duluth couple’s love story, and a couple of stories of folks who had lengthy military careers, among other things. Photo Courtesy of Serra Muscatello
fall and winter I will be working on a video history project with another person capturing the last 25 years of a nearby church. I’ve helped my mom and my dad get their life stories written, too.
Describe the experience a client should expect during the process of working with you. We usually do one or two in-person interview sessions. (We could also do phone interviews or Skype if the person lives quite a distance away from me. Although, at this point I have mostly done local stories, and I’ve met my clients at their homes.) I gather all the information and photographs together that we will need to complete the booklet. After I have written the text for the story, I meet with a graphic designer who begins adding the photographs, family tree(s), well-loved recipes, old newspaper clippings, other memorabilia, etc., into the story copy to create the booklet. The graphic designer also creates a beautiful cover page for the booklet. When the rough draft version is done the client has an opportunity to look it all over to make sure that it is done the way they’ve wanted it done. Any necessary changes are made to the story and then we go into the final printing phase of the project. The folks I work with have the option of getting one
Mostly I have done spiral-bound booklets printed on high-quality paper. The first page is a plastic cover that protects the designed cover page of the project. The rest of the booklet is text of the story with many photographs, sometimes photo collage pages (if there are a lot of pictures), possibly a family tree and recipes usually towards the end of the story. I had one lady who wanted her family history prepared in a plastic binder with each page of the story in a plastic sheet. She wanted to be able to add pages to her book binder. I also have one gentleman who is requesting a hardcovered book for his family history, similar to a book made by the company Snapfish. It’s good I think to be flexible and figure out how to get my clients what they want for their projects.
What kinds of responses have you received from families when you hand over the finished product? I’m very thankful to have worked with many wonderful individuals and families
that have been grateful for me getting this work done for them. One lady has passed on since I wrote her life story and the family felt it was a blessing now to have this written story of her life. Some people have commented that they’ve even learned new things about the people I’ve written about in the stories.
Has the work been rewarding for you so far? Yes, I’ve felt this work is not only rewarding but really interesting as well. You get to know new people and their families. The longest distance I’ve traveled to meet clients was near Duluth. I’ve worked with people who have lived colorful, passionate lives – lives that are rich with meaningful careers, family, friends and loved ones and exciting trips and adventures. It’s also important to me to help people preserve their heritage. That’s so important to what we are as people in this country. Leaving a lifelong legacy ... the legacy we will be leaving behind ... it’s not something to take too lightly.
What else should people know about Treasured Heritage Keepsakes? My business recently moved into an office space at Big Dogs Treasures and Coffee Shop owned by Sharon and Paul Donnay located here in Lafayette. My new office is a space where I can meet and interview clients or just use as a quiet space to write stories. I also offer a class called “Writing Your Life Story.” I have offered it in New Ulm through community education and CAST (Community And Seniors Together). There is nice meeting space at Big Dogs Treasures and Coffee Shop, so I’m planning on offering Writing Your Life Story classes there during the fall and winter months. I’m also now offering “packages” to people: individual life story package, family history package, family business heritage package, church heritage package, and family reunion package. Those interested in learning more can call 507-276-4219 or email treasuredheritagekeepsakes@gmail.com. Serra Muscatello began her company Treasured Heritage Keepsakes in 2012. Photo Courtesy of Serra Muscatello
Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 11
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Mature Magazine (November)
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Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 13
Lisa coons
Lisa Coons cans about 500 jars of food per year. Photo courtesy of Lisa Coons 14â&#x20AC;&#x201A; FALL 2015 Mature Lifestyle
L
Preserving Your Produce
isa Coons was first a gardener. She loved eating the fresh food that she grew during the summertime. But the summer only lasts so long. “I wanted to eat some of my food I was growing in abundance during the wintertime,” said Coons, co-director of the School Sisters of Notre Dame Center for Earth Spirituality and Rural Ministry. That’s what sparked Coons’ interest in learning to can produce. About 20 years ago she started with strawberries, which was a favorite summertime treat. “I picked two buckets of strawberries, and I turned them into jam,” she said. Now a seasoned canner who offers classes through community education to teach others the somewhat forgotten art, Coons said she encourages newbies to start with jam, just like she did. “Jam is an easy one to start with,” she said. Coons, who cans about 500 jars of food per year for her family, said interest in canning has increased the past few years with the popularity of personal and community gardening, as well as local, organic produce. People of all ages are gardening, she said, and as a result, people of all ages have begun to show interest in canning. “Canning used to be our grandmothers’ activity; most of our grandmothers probably grew up canning food,” she said. “Those of us who are much younger now probably should have learned the skill, but most of us don’t know how to do it.”
by Amanda Dyslin
really is much safer now than it used to be,” Coons said, referring to proper sealing and prevention of bacteria and botulism.
Canning Tips
Kelly Schultz, 25, said when she was a child she remembers her grandmother’s pantry was always full of food she had canned herself. When Schultz moved into a house with a garden in the backyard, she became interested in learning how to grow her own food and cook with it. “Then a couple of years ago I took a class to learn how to can food,” Schultz said. “At first there seemed to be a lot of steps involved, and I worried about ensuring the food was safe from bacteria. But now I’m used to doing it, and I love feeding my friends and family my own food that I grew.” Coons taught herself to can by reading books. She learned by trial and error and made her share of mistakes, which is to be expected when picking up a new skill. “I used a box of 50-year-old lids, so none sealed,” she said. “I had to give away most of my pickles right away.” Just like Schultz, Coons said canning is a skill learned by following instructions to the letter and, of course, practice. “The biggest thing is people should not be afraid of canning food. The process
For those interested in learning to can food, Coons offered a few tips for getting started. * Follow a recipe from a trusted source to ensure the recipe is safe to make. * Start with an easy recipe, such as jam, tomatoes, or applesauce. * Use fresh, flavorful, local food for the most nutritional and best-tasting results. * Can with a friend to make it more fun. * Methodically follow all the steps in the recipe. * Expect about a two-year shelf life for most canned foods. While the food will be safe for much longer than two years, they start to lose nutritional value afterward. Coons has taught Mankato Community Education and Recreation classes at Good Counsel. She also teaches pressure-canning classes for soups. For more information on her class schedule, call 507-387-5501 or visit www.mankatocer.com. Photo courtesy of Lisa Coons
Lisa Coons, co-director of the Center for Earth Spirituality and Rural Minstry, teaches canning classes each year through Mankato Community Education and Recreation. Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 15
“The mission at St. Lucas”
Friends of San Lucas
By Nell Musolf
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n the late sixteenth century, a Mission Church was built in Guatemala by the Franciscan order of the Catholic Church. Several centuries later, the Diocese of New Ulm began a partnership with the Diocese of Solala, Guatemala and Fr. Greg Schaffer, a diocesan priest from New Ulm, began a relationship with the San Lucas Mission that lasted until his death in 2012. Throughout the years several people in the Mankato area have become involved with the San Lucas Mission. One of the Mission’s most devoted supporters was the late John Dickerman. Dickerman died this past July following a construction accident. Dickerman’s wife, Joyce, said that the San Lucas Mission was very close to her husband’s heart.
“John made seven trips to Guatemala and was planning his next trip as well,” Joyce said. “The San Lucas Mission really captured his heart.”
Mary Beth Nygaard, who accompanied Dickerman on a few trips, said, “I will never forget what John said to me the first time we were in Guatemala together. After seeing the living conditions of the villagers he turned to me and said, ‘Boy, we have a lot to do to make it up to the man upstairs.’” Among the many ways that the San Lucas Mission has helped the people of Guatemala have been building school rooms, roads, a bridge, new houses and a women’s center. Kim Rotchadl, a volunteer with the Mission, said that the
women’s center has helped Mayan women by giving them a place where they can weave, sew and cook. Betty Widmer Blace, another volunteer who went on her first mission trip this past January, said that the women’s center also gives the local women a place where they can gather together socially. The center will also offer classes in personal violence and domestic violence. Widmer Blace became involved in the mission thanks to John Dickerman’s persistence.
“John kept asking me when I’d be ready to go,” Widmer Blace recalled. “I’m very happy that he was so persistent because our trip down there was amazing.”
John Dickerman and other volunteers view the grain crop that was harvested at the mission. 16 FALL 2015 Mature Lifestyle
The San Lucas Mission has kept true to Fr. Schaffer’s aim to firstly treat people with dignity as well as to work with people where they are. “It’s a learning experience for us too,” Nygaard observed. “There are many rewards that come with going on a mission trip. The neat thing is that you’re always moving forward. We can go back and see what work we’ve done and how it’s moved on to the next thing. It’s very fulfilling. Also, the people remember you from previous trips. It’s truly joyful.” This November a benefit will be held to raise funds to support the Friends of San Lucas as well as to introduce more people to the mission. It will be the third benefit since Fr. Schafer’s death and the first one in Mankato. The benefit will be held on November 21 at 6 p.m. at the Verizon
Wireless Center. There will be music, a live auction and a silent auction featuring handmade Guatemalan items including clothing, jewelry, woodworks and baskets. The auction will end at 7:30 with dinner following immediately. Tickets are $50. For more information, contact Terri Wong at 651-454-0981 or 651-314-0024; www. sanlucasmission.org; or email terriw.sanlucasmission@gmail.com
John Dickerman is pictured above with a group of Mayan women. The local chapter of “Friends of San Lucas” will have a benefit to support even more projects/ people at the Guatemala mission.
“One of the main goals of the Mission is to help educate people so that they are better equipped to help themselves,” Rotchadl said. “As southern Minnesotans, we have embraced this mission.” Right: Mission volunteer transports his precious cargo.
Friends of San Lucas Benefit Nov. 21, 2015; starting at 6 p.m. Verizon Wireless Center, Mankato, MN Call 507-420-4222 for tickets: $50 each Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 17
travel
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Traveling With Fido
id you know 30 million people travel with their pets each year? Whether by plane, train or automobile, if you’re planning an upcoming trip with your furry family member, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure you both stay safe and healthy while making memories that will last a lifetime. “Traveling with pets has never been more popular,” says Dr. Christina Fernandez, Medical Director of the SGU Small Animal Clinic in Grenada and Associate Professor Emergency Critical Care at St. George’s University. “To ensure you both have a wonderful time without experiencing unexpected hurdles and headaches, be proactive. A little forethought goes a long way to keep everyone safe and having fun.” Dr. Fernandez suggests five simple steps to prepare when traveling with pets:
Prevent bug bothers Planning a trip to a cabin or lake home? These popular destinations are ideal for people traveling with pets, but being outdoors can mean lots of insects. Plan to visit your vet at least a month prior to your
departure to discuss flea and tick treatments, as these can take several weeks to start working effectively. Especially if your pet is not already receiving routine preventatives.
Slather on sun protection Everyone wants great weather while on vacation, and sunny days are ideal for all types of activities. It’s important to be careful, though, as too much sunshine is dangerous for both people and pets. Pack sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher for yourself, but be aware that sun block sold for humans use can be potentially toxic to your pet. Look for pet specific sun block instead or ask your veterinarian if there is a suitable product that could be used to protect your pet while having fun in the sun. While you’re out, remember to wear light clothing, a hat and sunglasses. Always take frequent breaks in the shade with your pet to cool off.
Properly prepare prescriptions No matter where you’re traveling, be sure to plan ahead and pack enough medication
to last the entire duration of your trip. Properly label all medication for you and your pet, and consider carrying a written prescription from your doctor just in case you need a refill while away. Bottles can get lost, damaged or stolen, so having a backup plan can be a lifesaver. If your pet has major medical conditions it’s never a bad idea to request a copy of the pet’s medical records to have with you, especially if you are going on longer trips.
Snacks stave off hunger Both you and your pet will need nourishment while traveling, so don’t forget to pack snacks. Staying properly hydrated is important, too, making bottled water a must. If traveling by car, ice cubes are a mess-free treat for your pup. A few healthy snacks for you and a small bag of food for your pet will keep you fueled throughout any journey so you’re ready to roll when you arrive at your destination.
Verify perfectly pleasant pet accommodations If you’re staying at a hotel or resort, verifying your reservations before leaving is always a smart step, yet when traveling with a pet it is even more important. The last thing you want is to arrive and find out they don’t allow animals or all the animalapproved rooms are taken. Make a call now to provide peace of mind and avoid trouble later. “Vacationing with pets isn’t a trend, it’s something people will continue to do more and more,” says Dr. Fernandez. “As long as pet owners think ahead about what they should do for themselves and well as their furry family members, there’s no reason Fifi or Fido can’t come along on the journey.” Source: Brandpoint
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Put The Breaks on Pet Car Sickness
any of us take our pets along when hitting the road with our pooches for a little summer fun. However, for some four-legged family members, road trips can mean upset tummies. Queasiness in the car is not just a human problem. Dogs and puppies do sometimes experience motion sickness on car rides. Unfortunately, car sickness can make any kind of pet travel a distressing ordeal for both dogs and their families. Car sickness doesn’t have to be a serious or lasting problem for your pet. With the right treatment, it can be mitigated, or even stopped altogether.
There are several causes of car sickness in dogs and puppies. The most common include: • Immature ears. In puppies, the ear structures that regulate balance aren’t fully developed, which can cause them to be extra sensitive to motion sickness. Many dogs will outgrow car sickness as they age. • Self-conditioning. If your dog experienced nausea on his first car rides as a puppy, he may associate car rides with illness, and expect to get sick in the car.
Car sickness doesn’t look like you might expect it to in dogs, and you might not even realize that this is the challenge you’re dealing with. Here are some symptoms to look out for: • Inactivity/lethargy • Restlessness • Excessive/repetitive yawning • Whining/crying • Hyper-salivation (drooling) • Vomiting If your dog is suffering from car sickness, symptoms will typically disappear within a few minutes after the car comes to a stop. Fortunately, there are a number of different methods available to help prevent and/ or treat canine car sickness. • Turn your dog so that he faces forward. Motion sickness is related to the brain’s ability to process movement. The less blurring movement he sees out the window, the
There are both over-the-counter and prebetter he might feel. • Keep your dog as close to the front seat scription medications available, including: as possible (but not in the front seat). The • Anti-nausea drugs: reduce nausea and farther back in the car you go, the more you vomiting. • Antihistamines: lessen motion sickness, sense motion. reduce drooling, and calm nerves. • Opening the windows a crack. This • Phenothiazine: reduces vomiting and brings in fresh air, which is soothing, and helps sedate the dog. helps reduce air pressure. Always discuss any medications you plan • Avoid feeding your dog for a few hours before a car trip. to give your pet with your veterinarian to • Transport him in a travel crate. A crate ensure that your dog is healthy enough to will limit his view to the outside, and will take them, will be given the correct dosage, help to keep any sickness he may have and won’t suffer any adverse effects. confined to a small space. Holistic treatments are another way to go • Keep the temperature low. Heat, for dog parents. They really can be effechumidity and stuffiness can exacerbate car tive, and are worth trying. Some common holistic choices include: sickness. • Ginger. Ginger is used to treat nausea. • Distract him. Toys, soothing music, or Try giving your dog ginger snap cookies just hearing you speak may help calm and or ginger pills at least 30 minutes before distract a high-strung dog. travel. • Take frequent breaks. • Peppermint, chamomile and horehound • Exercise before your car ride. naturally help calm the stomach and nerves For dogs who have negative associations of your dog. with riding in cars, reconditioning could be • Massage can help soothe and relax your the answer. Reconditioning does take time and patience, but it really can help relax pet before you travel. As with other medications, always your dog. discuss any holistic remedies you plan to • Drive in a different vehicle. give your pet with your vet to ensure that • Take short car trips to places your dog it’s appropriate and the dosage is correct. enjoys. In short, with some patience, training, or • Gradually acclimate your dog to the car. Start by sitting with your dog in the car the right medications or holistic treatments, you and your dog will be able to ride safely while the engine is off each day for a few and happily together anywhere you need to days. go. When he seems comfortable, let it idle. Once he is used to that, drive slowly around Source: TripsWithPets.com the block. Gradually progress to longer and longer trips until your dog seems North Mankato Animal Hospital comfortable driving 1765 Commerce Dr., N. Mankato anywhere. • Offer your dog ServiceS include: Where smart pets • Wellness Exams treats, or offer him bring their people! • Vaccines a special toy that’s • Dental Care just for car rides. • Sick Animal Care While motion • Laser Spay, Neuters, Declaws sickness can be • Microchip Implantation helped in natural • Plentiful Attention ways for some dogs, Maryann Nelson, DVM there are cases in 1765 Commerce Dr., N. Mankato which medications northmankatoanimalhospital.com is the only option. info@northmankatoanimalhospital.com
507-720-6700
Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 19
BOOK REVIEW by Terri Schlichenmeyer
“Lesser Beasts: A Snout-to-Tail History of the Humble Pig” by Mark Essig c.2015, Basic Books $27.50 / $34.50 Canada 310 Pages
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ever have you felt such pain. You were only walking through your kitchen, when you stubbed the Piggy That Had Roast Beef. Yowza, that made you dance. Brought tears to your eyes, too.
20 FALL 2015 Mature Lifestyle
Pigs at the end of your feet. Huh. Ridiculous, but there isn’t a baby within a mile who won’t fall for that game and neither will you, once you read “Lesser Beasts” by Mark Essig. Many millions of years ago, about 10 million years after dinos died, hooved mammals appeared on Earth. Among them were horses, cattle … and porcine-like creatures that walked on two digits, possessed a sensitive snout, and resembled humans in gut and heart. That creature ultimately became the pig we know. While dogs were the first animals to be domesticated, pigs “domesticated themselves” about 11,000 years ago. By that, Essig means that pigs hung around humans long enough to know that food was plentiful, so they moved in with us on their own. Humans quickly realized that pigs were easy to keep; says Essig, “if it was biologi-
cally possible to raise pigs, people raised pigs.” And that was the case on and off throughout history: pigs were handy and cheap, which was good for the poor but bad for a pig’s reputation. Politically, pigs sometimes “didn’t fit” and were ignored as food; other times, they were viewed as a stash of emergency vittles on the hoof. Pigs notoriously eat things that are taboo for us to eat, so they’ve been called unclean and disgusting. On the other hand, they’ve saved a lot of people’s bacon, in more ways than one. Furthermore, calling a pig dirty, as Essig points out, is hogwash. Pigs are intelligent and resourceful. They’ll seize almost any chance to adapt to their surroundings and can help clear land quickly (sometimes to the chagrin of landowners). They are more fecund than both cows and sheep. And, thanks to our willingness to ask where dinner once slept, little piggies that go to market may enjoy better lives before they join us at the table. Forget cats online: what make you say “awwwwww” are videos of those impossibly cute piglets with their long eyelashes. Agree? Then “Lesser Beasts” is going to put you in hog heaven. Starting with a herd of porkers and ending with pleas for compassion, author Mark Essig takes readers on a world tour that starts even before pigs became pigs. That science may be an odd way to start a history book, but it fits – especially since we then head styward to see how hogs have fell into and out of favor with humans. Along the way, Essig fattens up his narrative with little bits of asides; for instance, the first Arnold Ziffel on TV’s Green Acres? You don’t want to know… I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s got just enough lightheartedness in it to be fun, but it’s very informative, too. If you love pigs or you’ve joined the “cult” of bacon, “Lesser Beasts” is a book you’ll want to take all the way home. * * * And about that Piggy That Went to Market? If you’re concerned about where he’s spent most of his life, look for “Pig Tales: An Omnivore’s Quest for Sustainable Meat” by Barry Estabrook. It’s a look at corporate farming, pig husbandry, environmental issues, and what’s on your plate.
“Simple Lessons for a Better Life” by Charles E. Dodgen
inevitable,” but a good support system can help overcome it to the point of toleration. If that support system is you, resist the need to “do something about it” and just comfort. Simple love and companionship work wonders; reach for it, and give it. Recognize that depression lasts longer than demoralization; to ease the latter, positive reminders of the past are sometimes all you need. Try to remember that, though it’s certainly no fun, “loss allows for personal growth.” Understand that phantom pain can come from missing people, too, but activity helps and “a… gaping hole can be filled with new experiences.” Keep in mind that you are your best health plan, and you can improve your own attitude and experiences, love your body, and balance your mind. And finally, remember that there’s pain in life but what matters is what you do about it. War, racial tensions, financial problems, dead lions, the list of woes all depends on
where you sit. “Simple Lessons for a Better Life” may be able to help you relax about things – or it may not. As self-help books go, this one is unique: by examining the emotions of those who’ve lost a lot (home, partner, independence, health) and have moved to a nursing home, author Charles E. Dodgen shows how richer lives can come from adversity. Yes, it sounds simplistic (and there are pages where it definitely is), but what Dodgen says consistently makes sense on at least some level. Though it may take a bit of betweenthe-lines reading, that’s particularly true when his advice encompasses the needs of caregivers, elders, and their children. This is not a book of wisdom, so much as it’s a book of inspiration that needs to be savored and pondered to get the best from it. If you’re dealing with adversity or just watching too much news, “Simple Lessons for a Better Life” may be just the thing.
c.2015, Prometheus Books $18.00 / $19.00 Canada 288 pages
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etting your news these days is a nerve-wracking thing. Yes, you’re happy to note cat videos, new babies, and neighbors having fun. But who likes to see word of war, destruction, accidents, or death? Yes, life means having both – but at this point, you feel as though there should be some sort of balance. Seek it in “Simple Lessons for a Better Life” by Charles E. Dodgen. Things sure have changed since you were a kid. That’s a common sentiment. People have probably been uttering it since two years after time began – but today, how do we “not exist in a perpetual state of fear and misery?” Dodgen, a clinical psychiatrist, answers that question with what he found in a nursing home. As we age, and especially when we reach Senior Status, we become “dispossessed of the material features that defined… identities.” Dodgen says that’s the “original identity theft,” and while there’s no alternative to this loss, we can learn to cope with it. Everyone endures suffering and pain to some degree, but there is a way to separate the two, for instance. “Pain in life is Mature Lifestyle FALL 2015 21
HEADLINE WHAT’S HAPPENING HERE
Where To Go & What To Do This Fall!
Minnesota on the Map Exhibit
Arts By The River
Through 9/19 Blue Earth County History Center and Museum, 424 Warren Street, Mankato 507-345-5566
9/19; noon to 6 p.m. Front Street Plaza, 500 South Front St., Mankato 507-387-1008
6th Annual Grape Stomp
River Hills Women’s Weekend Show
9/12 Indian Island Winery angie.winter@indianislandwinery.com Mankato Walk to End Alzheimer’s 9/12; 9-11:30 a.m. Sibley Park Pavilion, 900 Park Lane, Mankato 507-289-3950 MSU Theatre & Dance presents “The Haunting of Hill House” 7:30 p.m. 9/16-9/19 Earley Center for Performing Arts, MSU 389-6661
9/19 Chankaska Creek Winery 507-931-0089
7:30 p.m. Oct. 1-3 & 8-10; 2 p.m. Oct. 10 & 11 Earley Center for Performing Arts, MSU 389-6661
10/1; 7-8 p.m. Kato Ballroom 507-625-6169 Maximizing Wealth and Wellness Conference and Expo
43rd Annual Mankato Traditional Powwow
Uncorked MN
MSU Theatre & Dance presents “Titanic,” a musical
STORYTELLERS presents Alan Page
Evening of Big Band Jazz 9/18; 6-9 p.m. 18018 631st Ave., Janesville 507-386-7003
9/18-9/20 Land of Memories Park 651-500-9317
9/20; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. River Hills Mall 507-387-7469
10/3; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Best Western Hotel and Conference Center 507-625-9355 Cambria Crush: The Annual Great Grape Stomp
10/10; 8:30 a.m. to noon Spring Lake Park 651-255-8101 Mankato River Ramble 10/11; 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Land of Memories Park katobikewalk@gmail.com Evening Networking Event 10/13; 5:30-7 p.m. WOW! Zone 507-351-4450 MSU Theatre & Dance presents “The Miracle Worker” 7:30 p.m. Oct. 15-17 & 21-24; 2 p.m. Oct. 18, 24 & 25 Earley Center for Performing Arts, MSU 389-6661 Harvest Ball 10/17 Chankaska Creek Winery 507-931-0089 Black and White Masquerade Ball 10/24; 7:30 p.m. Indian Island Winery angie.winter@indianislandwinery.com The Beginnings Band
fall 10/3 Morgan Creek Vineyards 507-947-3547
10/23; 7-10 p.m. 2030 Adams Street, Mankato 507-625-2695
Say Cheese & Savor The Wine
Chili Benefit for Habitat for Humanity
10/3 Morgan Creek Vineyards 507-947-3547
Find more events, and more information, at greatermankatoevents.com. 22 FALL 2015 Mature Lifestyle
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
10/25; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 320 E. Main Street, Mankato
507-345-4248 MSU Theatre & Dance presents “A Christmas Story: The Musical” 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5-7 & 12-14; 2 p.m. Nov. 7, 8, 14 & 15 Earley Center for Performing Arts, MSU 389-6661 Henderson Lions Ladies Night Toy Drive
I Am We Are 20th Anniversary Performance 11/20; 8-10 p.m. Anderson Theatre marketing@gustavus.edu Christmas Candlelight Winetasting 11/20 Morgan Creek Vineyards 507-947-3547
11/5; 6-9 p.m. Henderson Event Center 514 Main Street 952-200-5684
Spirit of MVL Gala
GnomeMade Arts and Crafts Shows
Entertainment Pairing Class
11/5-11/8 Historic Locations and Artisan Homes nugnomes@gmail.com
11/21; 5-8 p.m. New Ulm Holiday Inn 507-380-3084
11/21 Chankaska Creek Winery 507-931-0089
Ladies Night Out/Toy Drive
I Am We Are 20th Anniversary Gala Performance
11/6; 6-9 p.m. Henderson Event Center 952-200-5684
11/21; 8-10 p.m. Anderson Theatre marketing@gustavus.edu
Wine Diva Weekend: New Ulm Shopping Opener
I Am We Are 20th Anniversary Performance
11/7-11/8 Morgan Creek Vineyards 507-947-3547
11/22; 2-4 p.m. Anderson Theatre marketing@gustavus.edu
Annual Winemaker’s Dinner
After Thanksgiving Shopping Vendor Show
11/14 Morgan Creek Vineyards 507-947-3547 Toast to Women 11/14 Chankaska Creek Winery 507-931-0089 MSU Theatre & Dance presents “Time Stands Still” 7:30 p.m. Nov. 18-21 Earley Center for Performing Arts, MSU 389-6661
Henderson Event Center 514 Main Street 952-200-5684 Holiday Open House 12/5-12/6 Morgan Creek Vineyards 507-947-3547 Make Your Own Chankaska Gift Baskets 12/12 Chankaska Creek Winery 507-931-0089 Ugly Sweater Party! 12/19; 6-8:30 p.m. Indian Island Winery angie.winter@indianislandwinery.com
11/28 Indian Island Winery angie.winter@indianislandwinery.com Kiwanis Holiday Lights 11/27-12/31 Sibley Park 507-385-9129 Henderson Small Business Saturday 11/28; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
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