North Kato Fall 2023

BEAUTY. IMPACT. GROWTH.

WE SPECIALIZE IN A VARIETY OF SERVICES DESIGNED TO HELP YOU AGE GRACEFULLY AND BOOST YOUR SELF-CONFIDENCE. FROM ADVANCED MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY TO OUR OWN EXPERTISE, WE’LL HELP YOU ACHIEVE THE LOOK YOU’VE ALWAYS DREAMED OF.

UNLOCK YOUR INNER BEAUTY

OUR TEAM OF EXPERIENCED MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS KNOW THAT TRUE BEAUTY COMES FROM WITHIN, BUT WE ALSO UNDERSTAND THAT SOMETIMES WE ALL NEED A LITTLE HELP FEELING OUR BEST.

ACNE TREATMENTS

BODY WRAPS

BOTOX® AND FILLERS

CHEMICAL PEELS

DIMAONDGLOW®

IPL AND FRAX LASER

KYBELLA®

LASER HAIR REMOVAL

PRP-HAIR RESTORATION

SCULPTRA®

SKINPEN®

SKIN RESURFACING

COOLSCULPTING®

COOLTONE®

CITY SERVICES

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

Billy Steiner, Council Member billysteiner@northmankato.com

Matt Peterson, Council Member mattpeterson@northmankato.com

James Whitlock, Council Member jimwhitlock@northmankato.com

Sandra Oachs, Council Member sandraoachs@northmankato.com

Scott Carlson, Mayor scottcarlson@northmankato.com

STATE & COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES

County Commissioner Jack Kolars, District 3 jack.kolars@co.nicollet.mn.us

County Commissioner Mark Dehen, District 4 mark.dehen@co.nicollet.mn.us

County Commissioner Kurt Zins, District 5 kurt.zins@co.nicollet.mn.us

Representative Jeff Brand rep.jeff.brand@house.mn.gov

Senator Nick A. Frentz sen.nick.frentz@senate.mn

There is a little bit of everything in this issue of North Kato Magazine! If you are getting ready for back to school, we've got you covered with everything from a mental health check up to a nonprofit fighting illiteracy in our community.

If your family includes a furry member or two, you'll love the stories in these pages that range from how pets help our older population to tips for capturing the perfect pet portrait!

So please, sit down for some good reading on how your North Kato neighbors are making a difference in our city and beyond.

Happy Reading,

ON THE SUCCESS

BY HOLLY DODGE

In 1898, chemist and pharmacist Caleb Bradham developed “Brad’s drink” - a combination of carbonated water, sugar, vanilla, rare oils, and cola nuts. It made his drugstore in New Bern, North Carolina a popular destination. Renaming his drink in 1902, Bradham began to bottle and distribute under the more familiar name, Pepsi-Cola.

In 1937, the Gillette Pepsi-Cola Companies were founded by Norman Gillette, Sr., who purchased the Pepsi-Cola franchise for $1,200 from a wholesale grocer. In 1940, the south-central Minnesota franchise in North Mankato joined the Gillette Pepsi-Cola Company. To this day, Gillette PepsiCola continues to lead the market with their determination to be the best.

And the best they are. This year, Gillette Pepsi of North Mankato was awarded the prestigious Central Division Bottler of the Year award. “It’s like the Oscars of the beverage industry,” Bonnie Barrer, VP of Sales and Marketing, jokes. But it’s no joke; the national award gauges two-year volume and share growth, per capita consumption, product quality, customer service, and community involvement. This great honor also places Gillette Pepsi as one of five finalists for the overall Bottler of the Year, called the Donald M. Kendall Bottler Award, awarded in July. Gillette Pepsi stays true to their mission: “To be the best supplier of refreshing beverages…period.”

Bonnie knows firsthand the quality of Gillette Pepsi, having spent the last 16 years with the company. A Madelia native, Bonnie actually began her career in the beverage industry with the competitor Coca-Cola. In 1987, she was the first female sales representative. Bonnie shares, “It was pretty low pay and a job no one wanted. I thought it sounded fun.” Besides being the first female Sales Rep, she was also pregnant with her first daughter. Back then, maternity leave was still a bit uncharted, and some male customers even suggested she “stay home with her babies.”

Luckily, Bonnie didn’t take that advice to heart. She worked her way up, taking on every leadership opportunity she could. From sales and marketing with Coca-Cola to Gillette Pepsi, where she began as General Manager overseeing sales and distribution in Mankato, then moving to Director of Retail Sales, and currently Bonnie serves as the VP of Sales and Marketing, overseeing four facilities located in Southern Minnesota, Western Wisconsin, and Northern Iowa.

Pepsi’s extensive range of products saturate the Mankato area. Attend a concert at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center or an athletic event at Minnesota State University, Mankato and an array of refreshing Pepsi offerings are available to choose from. Gillette Pepsi distributes over 700 beverage

North Mankato’s Gillette Pepsi-Cola a leader in the industry

To learn more about the tremendous ways Gillette Pepsi supports the Greater Mankato area, you can visit www.gillettepepsicola.com or follow them on Facebook.

brands and package sizes, ranging from soft drinks to coffee and sparkling water, including a local favorite, Bubbl’r.

But Gillette Pepsi isn’t only committed to quenching thirst. They are also committed to investing in their community. Just this year, they launched their original “Zero Hero” campaign, which donates proceeds from every Zero Sugar carbonated soft drink beverage sold to local youth organizations. They also directly support other area nonprofits with funds, products, and volunteer time. “We are proud to put in hours to support our communities,” says Bonnie. Gillette Pepsi also offers generous programs, services, and support called “Pepsi Perks” that enable their employees to thrive physically, financially, and emotionally. A testament to the benefits of the perks: Gillette Pepsi currently has over 100 employees with over 20 years of service.

Bonnie, a wife, mother, grandma, and tenacious leader, has seen her years of hard work and dedication pay off. Now leading a robust regional market at a company where kindness flows and hard work is celebrated, Bonnie shares that she is “Proud of the team in all our divisions.”

When Bonnie is not busy “Dew-ing Good,” she enjoys spending time with her husband Gary (who she met at North Mankato Fun Days), visiting with her two daughters and four grandchildren, or you might catch her waterskiing or snowshoeing at their lake cabin. Obviously, the years have not dimmed her desire for fun.

And the million-dollar question had to be asked:

“You’re at a restaurant. Do you order a Whiskey Coke or a Whiskey Pepsi?”

Through laughter, Bonnie vehemently says, “Pepsi!”

And if that’s not an option, well then, she’ll just settle for a vodka club soda. 

Bonnie Barrer VP of Sales and Marketing

Fall is filled with end-of-summer trips, back to school, sports, activities, and a crammed schedule. Meals that are quick, nutritious, and mobile are vital this time of year. Enter meals in a bowl. Bowl meals are the perfect fall meal option because you can prep them ahead of time, each person can choose the ingredients they want to include, you can take them with you on your adventures, and the never-ending possibilities of ingredients ensure you won’t be bored. When planning your bowl meal, don’t get stuck in the weeds or lost in the lists. See what you have on hand and add options from each category that make sense. I suggest doing an inventory of items you have that need to be used up, or a flavor/theme you’d like to have and build your bowl ingredients around it.

GREENS

Chicories & Bitter Greens, Arugula, Romaine, Cabbage, Kale, Spinach

INGREDIENTS

2 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch-long sticks

1 medium fennel bulb, cut into 3/4-inch wide wedges

4 oz. Hy-Vee Short Cuts Brussels sprouts

1 T + 2 tsp. Gustare Vita olive oil, divide

2 clove(s) garlic, sliced

2 small red beets, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch wide wedges

5 sprig(s) fresh thyme

½ c. white quinoa

1/3 c. baby kale, chopped, plus additional for garnish

1/3 c. bottled honey-mustard salad dressing

DIRECTIONS

GRAINS AND CARBS

Farro, Bulgur, Brown Rice, Wild Rice, Quinoa, Cooked Pasta, Roasted Potatoes (white, baby reds, sweet), Beans

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Asparagus, Avocado, Carrots, Tomatoes, Cucumber, Broccoli + Cauliflower, Zucchini, Green Beans, Onions, Mushrooms, Bell Peppers, Brussels Sprouts, Roasted Corn, Beets, Celery

PROTEINS

Chicken, Steak, Fish, Beans + Lentils, Edamame, Pork Roast, Taco Meat, Eggs, Tofu

EXTRAS

Nuts & Seeds: Pepitas, Sunflower Seeds, Walnuts, Peanuts, Pistachios, Slivered

Almonds Cheese: Parmesan, Feta, Goat Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Fresh Mozzarella

Olives: Green, Black, or Kalamata Banana Peppers, Pickled Onions Fresh Herbs

Seasonings + Sauces

Salsa and Pico de Gallo, Tzatziki, Hummus (doubles as protein) Pesto, Ranch Dressing, Greek Yogurt-Based Dressings Olive Oil, Vinegar, or Vinegar-Based Dressings, Lemon and Lime Juice, Taco Sauce, Guacamole, Hoisin Sauce, Peanut Sauce

AGraff@hy-vee.com

For this tasty recipe, scan the QR code below.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place carrots, fennel, and Brussels sprouts in a large bowl. Combine 1 tablespoon oil and garlic; drizzle over vegetables and toss to coat. Arrange vegetables on a large rimmed baking pan.

Toss beets with remaining 2 teaspoons oil; add to sheet pan. Scatter thyme sprigs on top. Roast for 40 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Discard thyme sprigs.

Meanwhile, cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat; stir in kale. Cover and let stand 5 minutes.

Divide quinoa mixture between two individual shallow bowls. Arrange vegetables on top. Garnish with kale leaves, if desired. Drizzle with some of the honey-mustard dressing; serve remaining dressing on the side.

Nutrition Facts per serving: 570 calories, 31g fat, 4g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 10mg cholesterol, 390mg sodium, 65g total carbohydrates, 9g dietary fiber, 0g sugars, 0 added sugars, 12g protein. Daily values: 30% iron, 10% calcium, 0% vitamin D, 31% potassium.

North Mankato bus driver is ready for a new school year Watching Kids Grow Up from the Driver’s Seat

BY ASHLEY HANLEY

The wheels on the Palmer Bus Service buses go round and round, round and round North Mankato. A sure sign of back-to-school time is seeing those big yellow buses making stops in North Mankato neighborhoods and having a friendly face smiling back at students as they board the buses. One of those smiling faces belongs to Tim Murry. Murry’s smile gets bigger late summer as he prepares for a new school year. This is his 13th year of driving for Palmer.

“It keeps me busy in ‘retirement’,” Murry says. “My son-inlaw drove a bus and suggested it would be a good fit for me since I like kids and have been around them through my other gig: umpiring. Sure enough, it was such a good fit I’ve been doing it for more than a decade!”

Headquartered in North Mankato, Palmer Bus Service has been delivering kids, adults and smiles since 1996. Palmer has 88 employees who help drive 17 education, big bus routes, 12 special-education mini-bus routes and nine van routes.

Murray says there are so many rewarding aspects of the job, but atop that list, without a doubt, are the kids.

“I get to know the kids and it has been great,” Murry says. “Just recently I saw kids that I drove a bus for in kindergarten and now 13 years later, they’ve graduated. I run into them all over town and at places where they work. It is so fun to talk with them and catch up.”

Murry currently drives for K-8th grade, mostly for students from upper North Mankato that go to Monroe Elementary in lower North. He also takes kids to Dakota Meadows Middle School in North Mankato.

Murray got all his training from Palmer Bus Service. He says it involves a written test, and a driving test.

“Just like when you turn 16 and get the driver’s license,” he muses.

Murry says another benefit of the job is the comradery with his fellow bus drivers.

“Some of them I get to see bright and early before we go on our routes, and it has been a great blessing,” says Murry.

Shelly Goettl, the Palmer Bus Service Site Manager in North Mankato, agrees.

Murry offers a smiling face to students as they board the bus.

Safety is always top of mind when Murry slides behind the wheel.

“Being a part of a very special team of employees that are dedicated to safely transporting students to and from school and other special events is the best part of the job. As well as seeing the connection that my team has created with the students, they transport daily. It is very rewarding for my employees to be the first person a student sees in the morning on their way to school and the last person they see on their way home.”

Overall, Palmer transports about 2,200 students on a daily basis.

The drivers will start their day with a cup of coffee and comradery in the break room. Every driver will do what is known as a pre-trip. They will thoroughly check over the entire vehicle to make sure everything is working properly. Most routes leave the bus garage between 6:30 and 7 a.m. and are completed with the morning route by 9 a.m. In the afternoon, the drivers leave at 2 p.m. to ensure they arrive at the elementary schools in time for dismissal. They are done for the day when the last student is transported home safely around 4 to 4:30 p.m.

Along with school routes, Palmer also transports people to and from field trips and other community endeavors. They also have drivers who drive solely for athletic teams year-round or on a seasonal basis.

During the summer months they transport approximately 250 students to and from summer school, preschool and field trips. But it is the preparations for each new school year that truly gets them excited.

“We spend a lot of hours cleaning every vehicle inside and out. All buses and vans are deep cleaned over the summer months so they are ready for the upcoming school year. The mechanics, myself and my office staff keep busy getting ready for our annual DOT inspection,” Goettl adds.

Like many businesses in the area, Palmer is also hiring for a number of positions that fit their company values.

“Driving a school bus is a very rewarding position. If you are the type of person that wants to give back to your community, have a soft spot for children, like to feel part of a family at work and likes coffee and treats, then you would make the perfect school bus driver,” Goettl says.

Then you, too, like Murry and Goettl, can help the wheels on the bus go around and around for the next generation of students in the Mankato/North Mankato area. 

Murry has worked for Palmer Bus Service for 13 years.

North Mankato couple brings DonutNV to our region

BY LISA COWNIE

Not your typical food truck fare, DonutNV strives to bring sweet fun to any event. North Mankato entrepreneurs Andy and Christine Nessler, say this franchise seems like a good fit for our community.

“We knew we wanted to own a business but weren’t sure what type, so we actually met with a franchise broker and this one checked a lot of our boxes,” explains Andy. “We wanted something fun, and something our kids could be involved with and learn from. There is nothing else like DonutNV in our area.”

Christine adds, “Community involvement is big for us too. Andy has lived in this community his whole life. We love this place and wanted to add value to it.”

In the DonutNV truck, the family makes hot fresh mini-donuts made to order. It boasts a viewing window where kids of all ages can watch the team make the donuts. They offer more than 20 flavors to choose from ranging from s'mores to dirt and worms to unicorn. In addition, they have Nvous iced coffee and fresh-squeezed lemonade.

“There is always something new,” adds Christine. “And it is customizable so we can adapt to any budget and need. Plus, we can do this in any weather. We can pull up close to any entrance so even in winter months, we’ve got you covered!” 

For more information, find DonutNV Mankato on Facebook.

Entrepreneurs Andy and Christine Nessler enjoy working together.

DonutNV has a viewing window to watch all the action!

More than donuts, DonutNV also offers lemonade!

DAY OUR NATION’S CHILDREN WILL ALL BE ABLE TO READ

BY CHRISTINE NESSLER

Nearly three years ago, sitting down to their weekly cup of coffee together at Neutral Groundz in North Mankato, Kristin Cain and her father George Peterson began discussing the serious concern of illiteracy in America. As owners of The Child’s World, an independent, family-owned book publishing company founded in 1968, Cain and Peterson have a vested interest in ensuring the children of our nation develop their love of reading, but more importantly, can read.

According to Cain, a day or two before they had coffee that week there was a big community discussion about the literacy rates in Mankato based on graduation rates. The community seemed to be proud of the literacy rate of 76%.

“That means 24% are illiterate,” said Cain. “As everyone was celebrating, we were thinking that number was really quite awful. It’s not a success. There are too many kids that are not able to read.”

Peterson also has a great passion for literacy. He believes the illiteracy problem is deep seeded and far reaching, affecting unemployment, prison and poverty rates in our country.

“The Nation’s Report Card which is put out by the Department of Education indicates that 64% of our nation’s children cannot read at a third-grade reading level,” Peterson said. “It’s an epidemic. Literacy in America has disintegrated from the time that I grew up when there was 100% literacy in the 1950s and 1960s.”

According to Peterson, the difference back then was the parent’s involvement in preparing their kids for kindergarten by introducing them to reading and using phonics. He noted in the 1970s and 1980s a new teaching methodology was introduced called the whole language approach. This theory, that if children were simply exposed to books they would learn to read, held for decades. Now, years later, a new movement called The Science of Reading concludes the nation needs to return to phonics.

“Children need explicit phonics instruction to learn how to read and decipher words,” Peterson said.

The Child’s World has just the resource for parents needing to help their children learn phonics skills to be proficient in reading. Since the 1970s, they have been publishing a set of books called “My First Steps to Reading”. Over the years they have sold over 36 million copies of “My First Steps to Reading” to schools, libraries, and families. These books prepare children for a lifetime of reading by getting back to the basics of phonics. The set includes twentysix books, complete with various activities to engage the children and a parent’s guide which provides tips, tricks, and ideas to help

parents teach their children to read. The books were written by Jane Belk Moncure, a leading advocate of Early Childhood Education in the 1950s and 1960s.

“If each child had a set of ‘My First Steps to Reading’, more kids could read,” said Cain. “Yet not all kids can get their hands on a set.”

As book publishers of these tried-and-true beginning to read books, Cain saw an opportunity to make a difference. So, at Neutral Groundz that day, with an idea in her heart and a buzz of espresso coursing through her veins, Cain presented her father with an idea of how to best reach the educational market with their “My First Steps to Reading” books and lessen the literacy gap.

“She said ‘Dad, I have an idea. Let’s give the books away,’” recalled Peterson.

Her philanthropic plan was to address illiteracy one community at a time, starting with the home of five generations of the Peterson family – Mankato/ North Mankato. Cain foresaw focusing on the school district to disseminate the books to parents who would share them with their preschool-aged children through a loving interaction of reading and phonics activities. One community at a time, they could make a difference in the growing illiteracy rate.

In that moment, imagineOne was born. This nonprofit advocates for the teaching of phonics and provides preschool families with free sets of “My First Steps to

Reading” to communities across America. Through generous donations, imagineOne has been able to donate 1,500 sets of “My First Steps to Reading” to Mankato Area Public Schools Preschool Programs, Head Starts and other various preschools. Prior to making the donations, Peterson and Cain meet with school administrators, curriculum directors and even school boards to approve the addition of the program to schools’ curriculum. Public schools have been eager to come on board, knowing the answer to illiteracy isn’t the school’s burden alone but must also fall on parents at home. imagineOne provides the tools parents need to be successful in teaching their children.

“In the set of books is a parent’s guide and that is just as valuable as the books themselves,” Cain said of the guide’s tips, tricks, and ideas to help their kids learn about letters and the sounds of language.

“It also gives parents and caregivers activities to do with their kids. That bond is important to reading. If parents are reading and showing interest in reading, then kids are more likely to be interested.”

As a part of the program around “My First Steps to Reading”, schools are also implementing Parent, Child, and Teacher nights to help teach parents the skills they need to help their children learn to read.

“Parents are the child’s first teachers,” said Peterson. Although daunting for some parents, Peterson points out the rewards of teaching your children.

“I can remember teaching Kris how to ride a bike,” Peterson said. “Holding on to her and running after her as she was trying to balance the bike as it was moving forward at a little too much speed and then all of a sudden, she got it. She could ride all by herself. All of a sudden, a whole new world opened to her, a certain freedom she never had before. That’s exactly the feeling a child has when all of a sudden, she says, ‘I can read!’ What we are trying to do is so simple, yet so very profound. Reading opens new worlds for children that are otherwise closed. It’s freedom we are talking about,” said Peterson.

Over the last three years, Peterson and Cain have grown the program from the Mankato area to surrounding communities. They have also expanded to Florida, Pennsylvania, and California where they both have connections. imagineOne now provides parent guides in Spanish as well as English and they have volunteers ready and willing to go through the “My First Steps to Reading” program as a support for parents who are unable to complete the program at home. imagineOne has been fortunate to be supported by many generous donors, but they are always looking for passionate people to help them further grow their program. All donations go directly to the purchase of “My First Steps to Reading”.

“When we go into communities, we don’t want the program to last for just a year,” said Cain. “It’s not meant to be temporary. It’s meant to be a permanent solution to the illiteracy crisis in the communities we serve.”

imagineOne is changing the way schools and families are approaching teaching children to read.

“Learning to read is a learned skill. It must be taught,” said Peterson. “Just giving books to a community or to a family does not serve the purpose. Children need to be taught to read. It is the most important life skill that you can give to your children.”

One community at a time, imagineOne is determined to see that all families have the tools to give the gift of reading to their children.

imagineOne day our nation’s children will all be able to read. 

FALL

MAIN EVENTS

MUSIC IN THE PARK - SEPTEMBER

THURSDAYS 5:30-7:30 PM

Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a fun community night with local musical talent. Happening every Thursday evening in September.

FALL FESTIVAL - OCTOBER 7TH 2-7 PM

Join us in Benson Park for this free community event including a corn pit, scarecrow walk, face painting, bounce house, hayrides, fall food, drinks, live music, and more!

PUMPKIN WALK - OCTOBER 21ST 6-9 PM

Bring your family and enjoy all the uniquely carved Jack-O-Lanterns as well as a fall food stand at Bluff Park.

TRUNK OR TREAT - OCTOBER 31ST 5-7 PM

Trick or Treat safely with the city of North Mankato in the library parking lot! Wear your best costume and join in the candy, games, and fun!

Scan the QR code or visit our Facebook page for more information on these upcoming events

Perks of Pets

for older population

BY DARLA MAKELA

Statistics show that 74% of pet owners believe their mental health improved after getting a pet. Many sources cite one population that has benefited greatly from having close contact with pets: those in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

Shari Rich is part of the Enrichment Activities Team at Birchwood Cottages in North Mankato. Birchwood Cottages’ mission is to serve those living with memory loss in an environment filled with compassion and purpose. Rich says they strive to make a positive impact on the lives of their residents. Sometimes that comes in the form of a pet.

“No matter who the individual is or their ability to communicate, a pet will bring smiles of joy to their face and their heart. Simply said, pets can enrich anyone’s life,” says Rich.

Rich sees this every day at Birchwood, where one resident in particular, demonstrates the power of pets.

“Rhoda, who lives at Birchwood Manor, lights up like a Christmas tree at the sight of one of the center’s canine visitors,” explains Rich. “Rhoda is 97 years young and loves to spend time with her family dog as well. Rhoda’s daughter Jeanie has observed her mother go from sadness to contentment and joy at the sight of their family dog, Thor. Petting Thor is therapeutic and relaxing, oftentimes lulling them both to sleep.”

Many places, like Birchwood, have the opportunity to use pet therapy to bring a smile to their residents’ faces. One of the most common benefits of pet therapy is reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among older adults. Interactions with animals have also been found to lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who suffer from anxiety or depression. Overall, pet therapy is a valuable tool for improving the quality of life for nursing home residents.

David Lewis, Birchwood’s Executive Director confirms that pets are beneficial to helping his residents relax and feel at peace, decreasing their agitation.

“While it would be amazing to have the joy of a live-in pet in a nursing home or long-term care facility, I have found the secondbest resource in therapy stuffed animals. Birchwood has several stuffed animals we use to comfort and calm residents who might be struggling with anxiety or loneliness. You can often see these residents snuggled up with an animal or stroking them as they

Rhoda’s story is a familiar one in area assisted living facilities, proving the power of companionship through pets can impact quality of life no matter the age. 

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School Year kick off for

BY MAURA MCBREEN, MS, LMFT Owner

of Wounded Haven Counseling

Many readers of this magazine are likely directly impacted with the start of the school year. This population includes, but is not limited to, students, parents, teachers and community resources. This article is filled with tips and tricks to help make the start of the school year smoother. Regardless of what you take from this article, remember at the end of the day, it may help to pick one thing you are going to do differently this year and work towards that consistently.

For many, the start of the school year and the month leading up to it can be filled with high anxiety, fear and dread. Talking to your children during the summer is a great way to connect with them and see how they are feeling about starting school. Discussion of some short and long term goals could be helpful, as well as talking about hopes they have and what they may be excited about. These can help them to feel as though they have control and structure. It is important to remember that a child’s experience in school looks different for every child. This may be the case even if you have multiple children or when your child experiences school differently than you did. Their experience is their own. For those who may not enjoy talking, having a parent initiate the conversation can plant a seed and keep the door open for when your child may want to connect. More times than not, this gesture will not go unnoticed if they do have worries that arise.

As parents build the connection with their kids during a check in, it’s a wonderful time to address needed resources for the kids and family. Seeking connection with your children will never be wasted time. This resourcing could be within the school, outside of school, or both. Touching base with the school counselor or school licensed mental health professional is a great option to help the child feel seen and heard during the school year. If your child doesn’t have a therapist in the community, seeking an intake with a provider who works well with minors can also be imperative to their academic successes. If a child is struggling in school

with academics or social skills, taking time out of the school day for a therapeutic service can lead to not only a healthier child mentally and emotionally, but improved grades, social skills and educational involvement. An additional resource could be creating a toolbox with your child. This toolbox will look different depending on the age of the child, and is meant to be items that allow the child to cope during the school day. A snack, beverage, picture of family, letter from a parent, fidget, plan with faculty for a short break, etc. can be included. The school can work with families to build this box and understand how to implement the use of items. When a school better understands a child, and the parents are actively involved as advocates for their child(ren), outcomes can drastically improve for all parties.

As stated, getting to know your contacts at the school your child will be attending is such a great way to soothe some of those nerves and feel more grounded in the transition back to school. These faculty members can help students and families connect to resources within the school as well as resources they have utilized outside of school. Building connections with school staff models for the child that it’s ok to also build trust and relationships with faculty. Kids spend a lot of time in school, so it is important to encourage those healthy connections. If something feels off for the child at school, encourage them to advocate for themselves and ask questions. One of my favorite mantras is “it’s no until you ask.” School is a milestone for building the skills necessary for work and a career, as well as a plethora of social interactions in various degrees. With that comes a need to communicate, connect, ask questions, build resources and reach out for help. It’s an opportunity to help your child and those you serve develop the necessary skills to thrive.

Remember, there are many wonderful therapists eager to work with individuals in the Mankato area who are knowledgeable of childhood struggles and helping parents navigate the challenges that school can bring. Reach out today so that you and your child can find “your person!” 

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Doggy delights

Substitute a plant-based milk in the recipe even if a small amount of dairy causes your dog digestive issues.

Frozen Fruit Smoothie

DOG TREATS

2 c. strawberries, hulled & halved

1 large banana, sliced

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

¾ c. Hy-Vee plain Greek yogurt

¼ c. Hy-Vee 1% low-fat milk

Place strawberries in a blender. Add sliced banana, yogurt, and milk. Cover; blend until smooth.

Divide between 20 (3-oz.) paper cups set on a large rimmed baking pan. Freeze for 6 hours or until firm.

Remove frozen treats from paper cups and place in a resealable plastic freezer bag. Store in freezer up to 1 month.

Peanut Butter 'n' Bacon

DOG BONES

1 ½ c. Hy-Vee old fashioned oats

INGREDIENTS

¾ c. Hy-Vee whole wheat flour

1 c. Jif low-sodium natural creamy peanut butter, divided

¼ c. Hy-Vee 1% low-fat milk

2 tbsp. Hy-Vee honey

1 Hy-Vee large egg

3 slice(s) Hy-Vee lower sodium sweet smoked bacon, crisp-cooked and crumbled

1 tbsp. virgin coconut oil, melted

DIRECTIONS

Doggie Meatballs

DOG TREATS

INGREDIENTS

1 lbs. 93% lean ground beef

¾ c. frozen brown rice, thawed

½ c. carrots, finely shredded

½ c. sweet potato, cooked and mashed

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease a foil-lined rimmed baking pan with nonstick spray; set aside.

Combine ground beef, thawed brown rice, carrots, and cook and mashed sweet potato in a large bowl.

Shape mixture into 1-to-1-1/2-inch balls. Place on a lightly greased, foil-lined rimmed baking pan.

Bake for 12 to 18 minutes or until meatballs reach 165 degrees. Drain on paper towels; cool before serving.

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.

Place oats in food processor. Cover; process until finely ground. Add flour, 3/4 cup peanut butter, milk, honey, and egg. Cover; process until combined. If dough is dry, add an additional 1 tablespoon milk. Knead in bacon slices.

Roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness between 2 sheets of parchment paper. Use a 3-inch cookie cutter to cut into bone shapes.

Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 350 degrees for 14 to 16 minutes. Cool on baking sheet.

Combine 1/4 cup peanut butter and melted coconut oil; drizzle over baked dog treats. Refrigerate until set.

Store in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze up to 1 month.

HILLTOP LOCATION

To keep pups safe, avoid low- or nosugar peanut butters with the sweetener Xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

HILLTOP LOCATION

2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-9070

2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-9070

RIVERFRONT LOCATION

410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507-625-1107

RIVERFRONT LOCATION 410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507-625-1107

WINE & SPIRITS

WINE & SPIRITS

2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-3055

2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-3055

This is a common question my patients ask and it’s very important to address. I like that more and more people want to stay well-informed about the latest cosmetic techniques, knowing that each individual needs customized treatment. I love when my patients ask me questions because it shows they are researching each process and want to learn about aging intentionally with non-invasive beauty treatments.

When it comes to the use of neurotoxins commonly referred to as Botox®, there are other types such as Dysport and Xeomin. Many people think that you should consider it only when you can visibly see wrinkles on your face. In the consultation process, I educate patients on what I believe there are two ways to treat with neurotoxins: “preventative” toxins and “treatment” toxins. Preventative toxins are used before a resting line develops. “Treatment” toxins on the other hand are used when the line is there at rest. You look mad or like you are frowning all the time. There are many different uses for Botox®; Some people use Botox® for a brow lift, lip flip, teeth grinding, or strong neck bands. The most commonly treated are Frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet. With that, Let’s dive into how Botox® could be beneficial at any stage of life.

The Sweet 20s and 30s

At this age, many people think that there is no need to worry about the skin at all. However, this is the stage when we start losing hydration all over our skin, not only in our faces. We also will start to see the consequences of sun damage to our skin. This is why we utilize “preventative” Botox® in the 20s and 30s. “Preventative” Botox® is recommended when you can see where the line may develop and treat with a toxin before the line becomes “static.” The term static refers to lines that stay there at rest, think frown lines making someone look angry. In prevention treatments, we treat lighter, which means we may not do the full FDA-approved amount of Botox®. For the frown line, the FDA-approved amount for the frown lines is 20 units, we might inject 12-16 in the frown. This is a great tool to achieve natural, refreshed-looking results while keeping the lines from deepening.

Should I Start Using Botox®?

BY LESLIE LEE AESTHETIC CREATOR

Applying Botox® earlier is a preventative measure to avoid getting fine lines and wrinkles by relaxing the muscle and the overlying skin. If you are in this stage, is very important that your injector is honest with you if you need preventative Botox® and educates you on the dose and frequency that you specifically will need and why. If the lines never fully develop, they are easier to maintain. Great injectors may also educate you on at-home care for your skin to make sure you are getting the best results possible.

The Fabulous 40s and Beyond

The age to start using Botox® is very individual. There are no rules to follow when it comes to the “right” age to start. It is important to pay attention to your lines of expression and wrinkles AND how you feel about them. As soon as you start to notice them or when they start bothering you, it’s time that you visit a trusted injector and identify which type of treatment could be the best for your type of skin and daily activities.

In the fabulous ’40s and beyond we tend to use “treatment” Botox®. This is because most people have well-developed lines and wrinkles. For best results, those lines need to be able to relax for a longer period of time meaning we would fully treat with the FDA-approved amount of Botox®. We have to do this every three months for a least one year to get the line to look better and better. As a rule of thumb, most neurotoxins last around 3-4 months. Most clients do not mind their age, they just want to look and feel GOOD for their age. Our goal is to assist clients in looking and feeling their best.

Always consult your doctor before any beauty treatment, non-invasive because it is important that your skin is in healthy condition. Many things can affect the needed dose of Botox®, such as body weight, medical conditions, and, medications. Being well-informed and disciplined with any treatment is the key to having the best results. For more information and support on aging gracefully, please reach out to hello@aestheticcreator.com. We would love to be a part of your journey. 

A TRIO OF PETS MAKE THE CLARKSEAN FAMILY COMPLETE

BY AMY LORENZ

When you visit the Clarksean family in North Mankato, chances are you’ll be greeted at the door by William Eisenhauser. His “hello, hello!” comes in the form of trills and meows. His voice blending in with those of the five humans and two other pets he lives with.

Willie, as he goes by, is a cream-colored, long-haired Persian cat with a beautiful silky coat and somewhat grumpy expression. Don’t let the grumpy look fool you, Willie takes his role as a comfort cat very seriously, bringing joy to the Clarksean family comprised of dad Dallas, mom Niki, and children Aspen, Hudson and Ireland.

Willie was the Clarksean family’s first pet, but when they realized what an impact he would make on their family, they knew he wouldn’t be the last.

Willie was originally adopted by the family in 2012, with the intention of being a therapy cat for Aspen as she entered the tricky years of junior high. Willie quickly

Loki

Willie

Ireland & Aggie

bonded with Aspen, loving nothing more than sweetly lounging in her lap or on her bed. Persians tend to bond with one member of the family and Aspen was his person. Throughout junior high and high school, Willie was a constant, reassuring and gentle companion. When Aspen left for college two years ago, Willie holed up in her room for six months. He slowly reemerged and now is affectionately known as “the main floor cat” and has taken up residence in Niki’s lap.

Close to three years ago, Willie was introduced to a new family member, Loki. The name Loki comes from the Norse god of mischief and could not more accurately describe this Exotic Shorthair. Exotic shorthairs also typically bond to one family member, making them wonderful therapy cats or cats in oneperson homes. Initially, Loki was brought into the family to be Niki’s kitten but he had his own plans and Hudson, who is now 14, became his guy. Loki can be a little more discriminating with his affections than Willie. He is happy to give attention to those whom he trusts and maybe a playful swat of the paw to those he does not. Loki also likes to confidently strut around his domain and will then smugly welcome you to his home. He is then content to keep an eye on the family while relaxing on the couch or watching the birds out of the patio door. This mischievous little guy finds the most cumbersome nap spots, whether it be wedging his face flat into a wall or laying in a delicate position while dangling off of a chair, he is boldly comfortable in his own fur.

Even with these two additions, the Clarkseans didn’t feel like their family was complete. The last of the trio of Clarksean pets is of the same size, similar adorable smushed face, but a pooch, not a cat. Agnus is a mixed breed, terrier and pug. This cross is sometimes referred to as a Bugg, Pugin or the Boston Terrier Pug. But Agnus simply prefers to be called Aggie. Aggie has also picked a favorite family member, Ireland. Aggie likes to stick close by Ireland’s side and sleep curled up in her bed. Aggie is the perfect companion for an active nine-year-old girl. She is happy to indulge in a quick play session and then nestle into her lap as she watches TV. Friendly and affectionate, she is just the right size and temperament for children. Ireland is at a similar age to Aspen, when Willie was first brought home as a therapy cat. Aggie is just the right pup to help transition into those awkward and somewhat difficult tween years. She is a little lover, who adores Ireland’s company.

Whether it be a feline or a pup, the Clarksean family has found their trio of pets offer emotional support and comfort to their children throughout all different types of childhood challenges. Turning the Clarkseans from a family of five, to a family of eight. And they wouldn’t have it any other way. 

DISH ON DINING

The North Kato Magazine team loves to eat! And we love all the options available in North Mankato. Here is just a sampling of our favorites!

Curiosi-Tea House & Big Dog

Tea House holds tea tastings on Tuesdays and Saturdays, for $5.75 you can sample 5 teas! My husband and I also LOVE Big Dog’s wings and they do a few deals:

• MON — 89¢ traditional wings

• WED — $10.99/doz

boneless wings

• SUN — $10.99/doz

boneless or traditional

Spinners & Dino's Pizzeria

I will have to say Taco Tuesdays at Spinners or Upgrade Free Tuesdays at Dino's. Spinners has been doing Taco Tuesday for as long as I can remember and they are so good! Dino's has specials almost every day, Tuesday is great because who doesn’t love more pizza for free.

Neutral Groundz

Neutral Groundz provided an extraordinary experience. The coffee was exceptional, the sandwiches and sweets were delicious, and their collection of distinctive items for sale was truly remarkable.

NaKato

I enjoy the food at Nakato in lower North. It is delicious, plus many nights it comes with a side of live music! That makes the night even better!

The Beast

I love The Beast for its convenient pop-up sales and deals. Living out of town, it's perfect for grabbing food to stash in my freezer. My husband loves the egg rolls, and my boys go crazy for the mozzarella sticks. I also enjoy their fresh wraps and soups.

Dino's Pizzeria

Rox and I often schedule our meetings during lunchtime, and we simply love going to Dino’s. They have this amazing lunch special with pizza and salad for only $10, and it’s so tasty! Plus, we got to take half of it home for our next meal.

“DELIZIOSA!”

ANNA BROWN City of North Mankato Public Information Officer

MICHELLE ISEBRAND Michelle Isebrand Photography

KARLA MARSHALL Exposure Creative

LISA COWNIE Editor, LUXE Quarterlies

KATIE HEINTZ City of North Mankato

NATASHA WEIS & ROXANNE BIRR Exposure Creative

Perfect Pet Portraits!

BY LORI MARIE PHOTOGRAPHY

Pet Photography Top Tips:

1. Make sure your pet is nice and clean, pictures should be taken after a grooming appointment!

Professional grooming or even a quick bath is a good start to preparing for the portrait session, you want them to look and feel their best. If grooming is stressful for your pet, plan this a few days prior to your session.

2. Lights, camera, action!

Here’s what to bring: Include props or your pet’s favorite things. This will help them feel comfortable in a new environment and familiar smells will help them relax. Props are a great way to show their personality, find their current favorite toy (or the shoe they may have decided was theirs) and capture them playing with things they love!

3. Did someone say TREAT?!

Most pets’ favorite word is “treat”, so bring their favorite treat to reward them after the session. Just make sure to keep it hidden until the session is finished so they are not distracted.

4. Patience

Relax and trust the process. Take time to let your pet relax. If you are relaxed, that will help your pet be more comfortable. Give yourself plenty of time and don’t feel rushed. All pets are welcome, and are not expected to be trained. Any level of obedience is acceptable.

5. Don’t wait!

We don’t get nearly enough time with our furry, feathery or scaly friends. Now is the best time to capture moments you can cherish forever!

BLINDS

PET PROOF

When it comes to creating a safe and stylish home environment, pet safety should be a top priority. Lafayette Interior Fashions™ window treatments play a significant role in ensuring the well-being of our furry friends. Blinds & More and Lafayette Interior Fashions™ understand the importance of pet safety and are proud to offer a range of window coverings that combine style with security.

At Blinds & More and Lafayette Interior Fashions™, we prioritize the safety of your pets. That’s why we provide cordless lift and motorized lift options for our window coverings. These innovative features eliminate the standard cord, significantly reducing the risk of accidental strangulation. With the simple push of a button or a gentle tug, you can effortlessly adjust your blinds or shades while keeping your furry companions out of harm’s way.

We understand that horizontal blinds are a popular choice for many households. That’s why Lafayette Interior Fashions™ have taken extra precautions to ensure their safety. Their horizontal blinds come with cord stops that prevent internal cords from slipping through the louvers. This feature provides an additional layer of protection, keeping even the most curious pets safe from potential accidents. With Blinds & More and Lafayette Interior

Fashions™, you can enjoy the beauty of horizontal blinds while maintaining a secure space for your furry friends.

At Blinds & More, our knowledgeable team understands the unique needs of pet owners. We’re here to provide expert advice on selecting the right window coverings from Lafayette Interior Fashions™ for a safe and pet-friendly home. Whether you have energetic dogs, mischievous cats, or any other furry companions, we can guide you toward the best options that prioritize their safety without compromising style. Our goal is to help you create an environment where your pets can roam freely and comfortably.

When it comes to the safety of your pets, you can trust Lafayette Interior Fashions™ and Blinds & More to deliver secure window coverings without sacrificing style. Our cordless and motorized lift options and cord stops on horizontal blinds provide the peace of mind you deserve.

Let us help you create a pet-friendly home with window coverings that prioritize their well-being. Visit us online or call today to schedule your FREE consultation today and discover the perfect blend of safety and style for your furry friends.

Hudson Sanders

Blinds Motorization Expert

Get to Know... Bryan Bode

Would you like to share anything notable about your background prior to the Library?

I graduated with a degree in Elementary Education with a Psychology minor, but never taught at the elementary level other than some substitute gigs Would you like to share any notable work you’ve done for the Library?

I have helped with most of the community events the library has been involved in, both with and without the Bookmobile

North Mankato Street Supervisor

3 YEARS OF SERVICE

Would you like to share anything notable about your background prior to the City?

I brought 20-plus years of experience from the private sector in the excavating industry

Are you involved in any organizations or programs outside of the City?

What do you love most about North Mankato?

The many, many events that the community holds year round. There is always something fun going on I love how the local businesses and volunteers in town work together to help put them on.

Are you involved in any organizations or programs outside of the Library?

I am the Office Support Specialist for Living Earth Center, a local non-profit that runs a large community garden and manages the Blue Earth County Farm, in addition to offering programs and classes that teach sustainability and encourage community It is a wonderful organization and I am proud to work with some really great people doing important work in the community.

Bookmobile Librarian at North Mankato Taylor Library

12 YEARS OF SERVICE

I am on the MAYBA Baseball Board, West Bank Committee Board, the Lions Club, MVLHS's Capital Campaign Committee for their addition, as well as a member of Hosanna Lutheran Church.

What do you love most about North Mankato?

That people are willing to help out and pitch in to make the city a better place to live, work, and play

Would you like to share any notable work you’ve done for the City?

For the streets, I've been involved in the decisions to use more liquid for anti-icing and also de-icing. I also helped integrate fog sealing into our seal coating process, this is a product that helps with locking the rock to the surface and because it's black, it helps heat the road better in the winter time I've also been involved with the Spring Lake Park pool and the upgrades to Caswell.

We invite you and your family to come in and try our delicious cuisine, from tasty appetizers to delightful entrees! Come in and experience authentic

Hey mr. Dj

Hit my Back-to-School Playlist!

CURATED BY TJ PALESOTTI Program Director/Morning Show Host KEEZ-FM

FOLLOW YOUR ARROW

Kacey Musgraves

I LOVE THIS SONG ABOUT BEING TRUE TO YOURSELF.

(YOU GOTTA) FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHT (TO PARTY!)

Beastie Boys

RUN THE WORLD (GIRLS)

Beyoncé

WE ARE YOUNG fun

KIDS IN AMERICA

Kim Wilde

GOOD RIDDANCE

(TIME OF YOUR LIFE)

Green Day

ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL

Pink Floyd

WHAT I GO TO SCHOOL FOR Jonas Brothers

TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL

Fountains of Wayne

COOL KIDS

Echosmith

BE TRUE TO YOUR SCHOOL

The Beach Boys

HOT FOR TEACHER

Van Halen

SMOKIN' IN THE BOYS ROOM

Mötley Crüe

PARENTS JUST