Holiday Lighting:
Each year, the North Mankato area lights up with festive decorations, especially along Belgrade Avenue.
Winter Wonderland: During the winter months, North Mankato’s Spring Lake Park becomes a snowy wonderland, perfect for sledding, ice skating, and crosscountry skiing.
Chill Factor: North Mankato’s winters can get chilly, with average November temperatures ranging from 25°F to 40°F.
History Highlight:
The first bridge between North Mankato and Mankato was built in 1879 and was made of iron truss.
City Offices
Police Department
Taylor Library
Building and Inspections
Utility Billing
Park Department
Water Department
Street Department
Caswell Sports
Mankato School District
507-625-4141 info@northmankato.com
507-931-1570
507-345-5120 kheintz@nmlibrary.org
507-625-4141 permits@northmankato.com
507-625-4141 utility@northmankato.com
507-625-3382 drader@northmankato.com
507-625-3382 drader@northmankato.com
507-345-5570 larnold@northmankato.com
507-625-9189 bradw@northmankato.com
507-387-3017 isd77.org
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
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
With the cold winter months comes an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Perhaps it’s the holiday celebrations, perhaps it’s the changing of the seasons, or maybe it’s because we spend more time reflecting and reminiscing on the year as it comes to a close. The popular Scottish New Year’s song, Auld Lang Syne, translates to ‘days gone by.’ As I reminisce on my first full year as an editor with Luxe Quarterlies, I am fortunate and grateful for all the outstanding businesses and people I have had the pleasure of learning about and featuring in this wonderful community publication. I am constantly astounded by the talent, generosity, and ingenuity that makes North Mankato such a special place to call home. In this issue, world-renowned winter gear company Gordini chooses North Mankato as an additional city to further its brand mission. Mindy Smith, a Lower North resident, shares her modern approach to an art that has existed for many centuries. And, I had the great joy of learning the story and legacy of Anthony Ford, the brave young boy who inspired North Mankato’s annual winter event, the Anthony Ford Pond Hockey Classic. As we wrap up North Mankato’s 125th year, I challenge you to take a peaceful moment and reflect on everything that makes you grateful. See you in 2025!
Priceless Indeed,
With another Minnesota winter nipping at our heels, North Mankato can stay a little warmer with the presence of Gordini, a world-renowned brand best known for its high-performance gloves and cold-weather gear. Their mission: To keep you outside longer.
Since its founding in 1956, Gordini has been synonymous with craftsmanship, quality, and durability in outdoor winter gear. The brand is respected by professional athletes, weekend adventurers, and winter sports enthusiasts alike for its superior and innovative performance.
In 1980, Gordini was one of the first brands to become licensed to utilize Gore-Tex gloves. Gore-Tex is a material that is completely windproof, water-resistant, and breathable. In 2015, they implemented a new 3-D knit technology that provides warmth in gloves without the standard bulk. In 2018, they created synthetic leather that is more sustainable and durable than animal leather.
But a common theme runs through their long tradition of product innovation—a commitment to meeting and exceeding consumer demands for highquality winter wear.
With its long-standing headquarters in Northern Vermont, Gordini decided to expand and build a distribution facility in upper North Mankato. According to Gordini’s Chief Financial Officer, Jason Hackerman, the decision was simple, “The people in Minnesota have a good work ethic, and the location is central.” They began by renting a warehouse space for the first year and soon outgrew it.
With the confidence that they could hire enough good people to work in the facility, they worked with the Regional Economic Development Alliance and began production of their 12-million-dollar facility, which was financed through Community Bank. The 120,000-square-foot facility was built by Rice Companies and is located on Lookout Drive, just North of Fun.com. The facility officially opened in March of 2024 and was already shipping orders a month later.
As a seasonally dependent company, it is now at its peak time of the year. The new facility in North Mankato currently employs around 50 people and offers competitive pay and benefits. Hackerman shares, “In Vermont, we have been known as a welcome presence in the community, and we look forward to becoming that in North Mankato, as well.”
We will always do our best to do the right thing because the future is in all of our hands.
We take our commitment to people and the planet seriously and build that into everything we do.
Gordini’s ethics are an important part of their reputation. They are a Bluesign System Partner, which certifies that your business and supply chain use only sustainable and ethically sourced materials. They also began The Little Glove Project, in which they provide thousands of quality gloves to Vermont students in the winter months. Purchases on their website are matched through donations to support the effort.
So, what does the future hold for Gordini? Well, according to Hackerman, “Hopefully, 250 inches of snow and hopefully a cold winter.” He says it with a chuckle, but as a seasonally dependent company, Gordini is concerned with the real effects of climate change. But, with Gordini’s track record of innovation, there is no doubt that they will continue to produce quality products and offerings.
This winter, whether you are planning on hitting the slopes at Mount Kato or sledding at Spring Lake Park, stay outside longer with Gordini and let it warm your heart to know you are supporting a company that is dedicated to the vibrant community (and snowy winters) of North Mankato.
Learn more about Gordini at gordini.com
The cities of North Mankato and Mankato are fortunate to have a robust bus transportation system. Just this year, route changes were made to improve the coverage and frequency of North Mankato routes. This is great news for North Mankato residents and large employers such as Fun. com and the Taylor Corporation companies. This change was made to respond to the evolving needs of community members. With significant population growth in North Mankato, transportation alternatives like public bussing are essential for a thriving community.
Convenience often comes at the expense of sustainability, so public transportation remains a wonderful and eco-friendly option for commuters. Whether you are commuting to work or running errands, public transportation offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just getting from point A to point B.
One of the most significant advantages of public bussing is its positive effect on the environment. With fewer cars on the road, buses help reduce overall carbon emissions. A single bus can take dozens of cars off the road, reducing both traffic congestion and air pollution. This decrease in emissions contributes to cleaner air and, ultimately, a healthier planet.
With another Minnesota winter upon us, imagine not having to worry about the challenges of a winter commute. Passengers can sit back, read, or even catch up on work while traveling across our cities. This stress-free experience makes public transportation an appealing option for daily commutes. The Mankato Transit system also offers real-time tracking, an online trip planner, and a mobile app to make it a breeze to catch the bus.
The Greater Mankato Area region is fortunate to have a public transportation system that prioritizes residents’ needs. The affordable bus fares range from free for Veterans and High School students to 75 cents reduced fares for seniors, Medicare recipients, and individuals with disabilities. Fares can be paid with cash, check, or credit card.
Scan the QR code to learn more about this great community asset
BY NICHOLAS M. SMITH
It’s that time of year again when sickness interrupts our daily routines, and any little bit of relief can help with the sudden disruption. With herbal medicine, we often find that what works for one person, does not affect another. It seems that our bodies, like our minds, have their own biological subjectivity. Below are three different remedies that have worked for me.
Gaia Echinacea Goldenseal Propolis Throat Spray
Propolis throat spray is always in my arsenal when prepping for the cold season. When I feel the onset of a sore throat, this remedy does wonders for me. As with most medicines, it has an interesting taste at first. This is primarily because of Echinacea and the tingling sensation it creates. Besides Echinacea, the main ingredient is Propolis, a resinous mixture that is produced by bees. Propolis has a rich history of use as a medicine. The Egyptians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans all used Propolis for a variety of conditions due to its anti-microbial compounds.
Herb Pharm Certified Organic Elecampane Liquid Extract for Respiratory System Support
Elecampane is commonly used as a stimulating expectorant. As David Hoffmann, a phytotherapist, says, “This remedy provides a good illustration of the complex and integrated way herbs work. The mucilage has a relaxing effect, while the essential oils bring about stimulation, so the herb both soothes irritation and promotes expectoration.” In other words, if there is a build-up of phlegm in your lungs resembling concrete solidifying, Elecampane might provide some relief.
Traditional Medicinal Tea, Organic Herbal Cold Care
Tea is always a refreshing morning substitute for coffee when you are feeling under the weather and want to avoid the stimulating effects of caffeine for purposes of rest. There are many options available for cold-specific tea remedies. I prefer a bit of spice, such as ginger or cinnamon, to cover up the taste or rather bitter qualities often attributed to plant medicine.
Nicholas Smith studied herbology at the California School of Herbal Medicine. He is a certified herbalist and has been practicing plant medicine since 2003.
We offer a variety of siding options for your home from our professional installers for residential to commercial projects.
We offer Vinyl, Seamless Steel, James Hardie, LP Smart Side, Everlast, Trulog Steel Siding, and more. Plus, you can always accent with Versetta Stone.
All-aluminum gutter guards offer dependable and efficient protection delivering excellent value. Featuring the innovative RiserStep™ technology, designed to decelerate water flow and prevent larger debris from clogging your gutters.
Hassle-free drop-in installation ensures a secure and steadfast setup, promoting longlasting protection.
We provide only the best in the shingle industry and we will work with your insurance company. Whether you need minor patches or full roof replacement.
We proudly offer Owens Corning Duration Shingles. Ask us about warranty, energy star, and other product details. We will review the most current standards for ice and water shield and asphalt shingle options with you.
BY HOLLY DODGE
For many, embroidery is considered a quaint and traditional hobby. Motifs of geese on tea towels and hearts on napkins may come to mind. But for artist Mindy Smith, embroidery has become a canvas for her to embroider chunky anatomical organs, realistic spiders, 3D mushrooms, and gothic skulls. Her intricate works utilize many complex embroidery techniques and range in size.
Mindy and her high school sweetheart husband of fifteen years live in Lower North with their two middle school children. When she isn’t tediously stabbing fabric, she works as a Benefits Manager for Grace Management. Before that, she spent 11 years as a talented cake decorator at Hilltop Hy-Vee. Mindy shares, “I’ve just always wanted to create. In high school, everyone wanted me to go for art, but I didn’t want it to be my job.”
Through the years, Mindy has busied herself with new crafts and many mediums. “There is very little that I look at, and I think I can’t create that myself.” Mindy credits her creativity to her mother, who taught her how to sew, crochet, and embroider as a youth.
In 2016, her foundational knowledge of embroidery and curiosity led her to research additional embroidery techniques on the popular internet forum Reddit. She recalls someone posting a realistic, 3D embroidered eye, and it struck her: “Whoa, you can do whatever you want?!” That’s when she discovered stumpwork.
Stumpwork is an intensive form of three-dimensional embroidery in which different techniques are employed to raise stitches above the canvas. It originated in London in the 1500s. Various techniques have evolved for a technique that has existed for so long.
Mindy studied these various techniques and learned about Hardanger (Hardangersøm) embroidery. The Norwegian technique involves creating stitch patterns and then removing or cutting the negative space. After five years of researching and learning, she finally got the confidence to give it a stab.
Mindy’s detailed creations involve a methodical approach. She begins by designing an original pattern and finding reference images. Selecting her embroidery thread colors
is a feat in itself. “It’s like I’m painting with thread. But unlike paint, I can’t mix colors.” After transferring her pattern to fabric, she begins to mark where color transitions need to occur and begins patiently creating.
Her works vary in size. Some are small cameos featuring a realistic polypore mushroom or an anatomical heart. But as her skills advanced, she began larger works; her largest is a diptych with two portraits covered in dimensional and cascading leaves and mushrooms. Each canvas measures 18” x 24”. Between pattern working and finishing, a large work can take more than 80 hours to complete.
But no matter the size, these works all share a staggering display of technique, patience, and creativity. Mindy knew early on that she
didn’t want to embroider in the typical ‘pretty’ or ‘decorative’ way; rather, she was inspired to expand the technique by featuring dark images, anatomy, and a slew of bugs. The images she references are full of complex textures and shadows that often occur in nature.
Another technique Mindy uses in her work is wire slips, which involve intricate stitches and thin wire. She uses this method to articulate small cicada wings or to create delicate floating leaves. One work displays a figure unraveling as a three-dimensional ribbon. She also uses free-motion machine embroidery, which is commonly used in quilting, allowing her to create larger-scale pieces.
Seeing these fantastic pieces in person is a real treat. Just this past October, Mindy displayed 46 of her original works at the 410 Project Art Gallery. Twenty of her pieces were created this year alone. Mindy says that she usually embroiders for a few hours every evening. She is also constantly hunting for thrifted and repurposed frames to house her creations.
Mindy encourages hobbyists to consider the limitless potential of embroidery. Compared to other hobbies, it’s relatively inexpensive to begin. She just recently decided to upgrade and get herself an embroidery stand, which she insists is not necessary but nice for the amount of time she spends with her art.
Her creative spirit is insatiable, and she plans to share her work at shows and markets in the future. She has also started an online store and social media page. “I just want to continue doing it and creating. I want to really take my time with it,” Mindy says. She is currently challenging herself to find even more complicated and detailed images to portray. She says she has a whole list of future projects, but most importantly, she wants to explore and relax with her method of thread painting.
You can follow Mindy’s artwork on Facebook: M.Smith Stitches
Regular Season (7 Weeks)
Dec. 2 - Jan. 27
Cost: $100
There will be an option to add the tournament season for $50 if your athlete wishes to continue.
Tournament Season is preparation for district, regional and state tournaments.
Regular Season + Tournaments (15 Weeks)
Dec. 2 - Mar. 24
Cost: $150
Days: Mondays + Thursdays
Time:
6-6:50pm Grades K-2
7-8pm Grades 3-6
Mondays: Mankato East High School
Thursdays: Location TBD
Financial assistance is available for qualifying families through Connecting Kids
The Mankato Area Youth Wrestling Club has served the Greater Mankato region for over 25 years. K-6 students learn skill training, technique, conditioning, and participate in live wrestling with their peers.
This year marks the 7th season since Mankato East and West youth programs have merged to provide a popular and healthy outlet for young people by teaching them the basic instruction in the sport of wrestling.
The Youth Wrestling Club has a seven-week regular season that runs from December 2 – January 27th, as well as a fifteen-week session that includes a regular season and a tournament season to prepare youth for district, regional, and state tournaments.
Youth sports provide a wide array of benefits that extend beyond physical activity. From fostering healthy development to instilling life skills, here are some of the most significant benefits of youth sports:
Physical Health and Fitness
Improved Fitness: Engaging in sports helps children stay physically active, promoting cardiovascular health, muscle development, and overall fitness.
Healthy Habits: Regular participation in sports can encourage a lifelong habit of staying active, reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other lifestyle-related diseases.
Motor Skills Development: Sports help children improve their coordination, balance, and agility, laying the foundation for better physical abilities as they grow.
Stress Relief: Physical activity, including sports, is a natural stress reliever, helping children cope with academic and social pressures.
Boosted Self-Esteem: Successfully learning new skills or achieving personal or team goals in sports can improve confidence and self-esteem.
Mental Resilience: Sports teach children to handle both wins and losses gracefully, helping them develop emotional resilience and grit.
Reduced Anxiety and Depression: Participating in sports can help combat anxiety and depression by releasing endorphins and improving mood.
Teamwork and Cooperation: Team sports teach children how to work effectively with others, communicate, and cooperate toward common goals.
Friendship and Socialization: Sports provide an opportunity to meet and bond with peers, creating a sense of camaraderie and belonging.
Respect for Authority and Rules: Youth sports often require following the guidance of coaches and adhering to rules, instilling respect for authority, discipline, and fair play.
Register for the Winter Wrestling Club and other seasonal sports at caswellsports.com/youthwrestling
People are attracted to North Mankato because of its quality of life, local businesses, and vibrant neighborhoods. They stay because it feels like home.
— North Mankato Mayor Scott Carlson
One thing that Lower North Mankato residents can look forward to each winter is the joyous sounds of cheering, music, and hockey sticks tapping that reverberate through the cold air at the Anthony Ford Pond Hockey Classic hosted at Spring Lake Park.
The fun and competitive event has been hosted for 16 years, allowing youth and adults of all levels to gather together to play pick-up hockey. The event is free to the public and includes viewing from the pier, a sledding hill for kids, a hospitality area serving food and refreshments including beer and wine, warming houses, and plenty of parking.
However, the tradition of the Pond Hockey Classic is more than just fun; it honors the life and legacy of Anthony Ford, a bright and compassionate young man who passed away too soon at the age of nine after a courageous 18-month-long battle with leukemia.
Throughout his life, Anthony lived his life to the fullest, determined never to allow his disease to interfere with doing things that he loved. His mother, Robin Ford, shares, “Anthony was really invested in the community. Even when he was sick, he was worried about everyone else.” He was so generous that he even decided he wanted to be an organ donor, which he was unable to do because of the intensive chemotherapy he underwent.
Anthony loved playing hockey in his favorite position as goalie and dreamed of one day playing in the NHL as the “Next Great One.” He knew every single stat for every single player. Robin reflects, “He had a notebook, and he would watch all the drafts and keep track of where everyone was playing.”
Anthony was diagnosed on October 30, 2005, with a very rare form of leukemia. He was sent immediately to Rochester for treatment. When Troy Jutting, the MNSU hockey coach at the time, heard the news, he brought three hockey players to
To play, sponsor, donate, or volunteer for the Anthony Ford Pond Hockey Classic on January 25 and 26th, visit anthonyford99.com
the hospital to visit the young hockey enthusiast. Originally an avid Gophers hockey fan, Anthony quickly bonded with the players and changed his team loyalty to the Mavericks.
The whole Mavericks team regularly visited Anthony in the hospital and eventually back at his home. “They always visited him, and we would have Sunday meals together. It gave Anthony a little hope.” Robin said. Even today, a banner honoring Anthony, #99, is hung in his honor above the Mavericks ice. “They fought the battle with him.”
The day Anthony passed away, his house was packed with just a tiny portion of the people who loved him. His entire hockey team, coaches, his best friend, and his family. Everyone took time with him, a testament to his impact.
Anthony’s funeral was hosted at the MNSU Taylor Center. Many teams from the Mankato Area Hockey Association, both East and West teams, and the MNSU teams were in attendance. “As they brought the casket out, all the teams lined up and did a stick tap.” Robin reflects. Chad Brownlee, a now famous Canadian country singer, performed an original song, inspired by Anthony, titled “The Hero I See.”
It was only a few months later that family friends Larry and Ellen Wild ran into MNSU hockey player Matt Tyree. They decided they had to do something to keep Anthony’s memory alive. In true Minnesota tradition, they decided a pond hockey tournament was the way to go.
Many people impacted by Anthony’s legacy gathered and formed a committee, and the first Anthony Ford Pond Hockey Classic happened at Lake Washington. But soon they had to decide how best to utilize the funds they were raising.
The Anthony Ford Fund was created in 2007. Since its inception, they have donated more than $100,000 to Pediatric Cancer Research and to hockey scholarships to ensure all kids have the chance to be the “Next Great One.” The Therapeutic Advances in Childhood Leukemia & Lymphoma (TACL) consortium, which is supported by funds, has already had promising results that have put young leukemia patients into remission. The Anthony Ford Fund also donated $50,000 to build the warming house in Spring Lake Park, akin to the Anthony Ford rink. A shadow box in the warming house contains Anthony’s hockey mementos— including his stick, a puck, and medals.
The two-day pond hockey tournament, which has been hosted at Spring Lake Park for seven years, is no easy undertaking. It takes slews of sponsors, volunteers, and dedicated community members to make it a success. Many area hockey teams dedicate time and talent to referee the games and the city of North Mankato prepares the ice.
Before his passing, Anthony had the opportunity to meet his mentor and hero, the original “Great One,” Hockey Hall-ofFamer, Wayne Gretzky, in Toronto. Anthony even got to tour his home and view all his trophies and awards. But anyone who knew Anthony knows he wasn’t the “Next Great One,” he was the “Greatest One.”
It’s easy to add extra vegetables or protein-rich foods to most recipes. Other swaps, such as whole wheat pasta for regular pasta, can pack in more nutrients. Soup can also be adapted for dietary restrictions, such as using dairy-free cream to make a thick chowder.
Plenty of soups are made in just one pot, cutting down on dishes. Other recipes can simmer in the slow cooker during the day with almost no prep, and are ready to serve at dinnertime.
Some soup recipes can be made in 30 minutes or less. Many soups can also be made in a big batch, then divided into individual portions and frozen. Thaw and heat for a fast dinner or lunch.
2 lbs. 85% lean ground beef
1 c. Hy-Vee Short Cuts chopped onions
1 c. Hy-Vee Short Cuts chopped tricolor bell peppers
2 (15-oz.) cans Hy-Vee sloppy joe sauce
2 (10.5-oz.) cans condensed chicken gumbo soup
2 Hy-Vee 50% less sodium beef broth
2 c. water
Hy-Vee seeded hamburger buns, cubed and toasted, for serving
Fresh Gourmet Crispy Dillies pickle flavored fried cucumbers, for serving
Fresh dill, for garnish
1
2
3
Heat a 5-qt. Dutch oven over medium heat. Add beef, onions and bell peppers; cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until beef is browned (165 degrees), stirring occasionally to break up crumbles. Drain and discard drippings.
Stir in sloppy joe sauce, gumbo soup, beef broth and water into ground beef in Dutch oven. Bring to boil; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 6 to 8 minutes or until heated through.
To serve, ladle soup into serving bowls. Top with toasted hamburger bun cubes and fried cucumbers; garnish with dill, if desired.
Nutrition Facts per serving: 300 calories, 12g fat, 4.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat, 70mg cholesterol, 1060mg sodium, 21g total carbohydrates, 0g dietary fiber, 9g sugars, 5g added sugars, 24g protein. Daily values: 10% iron, 2% calcium, 0% vitamin D, 15% potassium.
As the end of the year approaches, change feels inevitable. It sweeps in like so much snow, covering what came before. The nights get longer, and the weather gets colder. Everything seems farther away. This year, perhaps more than most, the division between what has passed and what is yet to come can feel like a chasm. You can peer down over the edge, but the bottom remains dark.
Mindfulness feels like too twee a word these days— it conjures images of young people on yoga mats and rooms full of color yet devoid of personality. That is too bad, because for the chasm of reflection to be crossed, mindfulness must be the first step. In a world where suffering can so easily seem to outweigh joy, is there peace to be found in perspective? I hope so.
The end of the year is difficult for me for multiple reasons. The weather, of course, is where dark days mingle with dark thoughts (they don’t call it seasonal affective disorder for nothing). Mostly because my family seems cursed to mark the end of the year with tragedies, from a house fire in 1969 to the nearsimultaneous deaths of my father and grandmother in 2021. There is a certain heaviness that comes with this changing of the seasons, the hibernation of the land reflecting the loss it heralds.
I have been reliably told that time heals, tells, and absolutely does not wait. So, I return to mindfulness, perspective, and the reflection that waits for me and for us all.
There is good even in the bad, I think. My grandmother made it to 92 and was still as strongwilled as ever. There are many memories to choose from—she was unencumbered by a filter and would not hesitate to chastise strangers for speaking too loudly; she was an avid reader of John Grisham, even when she didn’t seem to enjoy his writing; she was fascinated by the existence of televised Mass. The one I come back to, though—the memory that makes me truly grateful to have known her for as long as I did— is her sense of etiquette. Not only did she require a cloth napkin at every meal, but a centerpiece for the table. Not trusting restaurants to provide one, she would bring her own—a vase, or more often, a mason jar, filled with flowers and twigs that, on more than one occasion, had been plucked from directly outside the restaurant in question.
My father, on the other hand, passed two months after his 59th birthday. For this too, I find myself able to be grateful. I had already run the gauntlet from resentment to acceptance—my adult self could see his flaws for what they were, and I let the child in me cling to the good memories.
A few years before his passing, we took a road trip—just the two of us. Thirteen hours from Ohio to Georgia—me the driver, him the backseat driver—you might have expected us to drive each other mad. We did, a bit. The parts of that trip that stay with me the most, however, are the quiet moments: sitting on a balcony outside, watching a Denzel Washington movie from a laptop screen, discussing sobriety and living alone, the shared chuckle when we realized we took the same antidepressant.
If it sounds simple, I’m sorry. It isn’t. Like most things that call for mindfulness and understanding, the effort can feel insurmountable until you look around and realize you’re already halfway across.
So, I start small. I cook some fatayer and stuffed grape leaves—the smells filling my kitchen the way they used to fill my grandmother’s house.
I turn on a hockey game and root for the Boston Bruins—my father’s loyalty to Massachusetts is some sort of birthright, unwillingly inherited but now gratefully accepted.
The feeling grows each time I try, the joyous remembrance stretching out beyond me. I grab dinner with friends and we remember fondly how long it has been since we were all in the same room, trying to sum up our life changes in five words or less. I steal a technique from my mother sometimes, when the meal is long and the conversation is slow:
“Let’s all go around the table and say one thing we’re grateful for. No repeats.”
There are inevitably groans of performative discomfort, each one pierced with smiles as we race to think of things nobody else will think of.
For this year, I think I have my answer: When I woke up this morning, there was a cardinal on my windowsill. The sun hit it just right, a ray of light filtering in through cloud and glass, and the only thought in my mind was of an old story I used to hear around funeral homes: a visit from a cardinal is a visit from those since departed, looking on and making sure that you are still here.
Jake Demers is a writer. He spent his formative years in Ohio and has spent the last six years bouncing around the country pursuing various Fine Arts degrees. He is also quite fond of music.
20 ingredients WITH JUST
Prep 15 unique meals with just 20 ingredients!
A well-planned schedule simplifies your shopping, using a core list of 20 ingredients along with pantry staples.
4 (5-oz. each) Hy-Vee true boneless skinless chicken thighs
3 tbsp. Gustare Vita balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp. Gustare Vita olive oil, divided
1 tbsp. garlic, minced
1 tsp. Hy-Vee Dijon mustard
¼ tsp. Hy-Vee salt
¼ tsp. Hy-Vee ground black pepper
1 loaves Hy-Vee frozen bread dough, thawed according to pkg. directions
¾ c. Hy-Vee Thai peanut sauce
4 oz. Soiree fresh mozzarella
cheese, shredded
1 small red onion, sliced
Fresh Italian parsley, chopped, for garnish
Increase oven temperature to 425 degrees. Brush a large baking sheet with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Pat bread dough into an 11x15-inch rectangle on prepared baking sheet. Bake 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven; spread peanut sauce onto crust and sprinkle with fresh mozzarella. Top with shredded chicken and red onion slices.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until crust is golden and cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
2 c. Hy-Vee all-purpose flour
1 c. Hy-Vee brown sugar, packed
1 tsp. Hy-Vee baking powder
¾ tsp. Hy-Vee salt
¾ tsp. Hy-Vee ground cinnamon
½ tsp. Hy-Vee baking soda
1 ½ c. Hy-Vee 2% reduced-fat milk
⅓ c. Hy-Vee vegetable oil
1 tsp. Hy-Vee vanilla extract
12 tbsp. Hy-Vee fruit nut granola, divided
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly spray 12 (2-1/2-inch) standard muffin cups with nonstick spray; set aside.
Whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and baking soda in a large bowl; set aside. Whisk together milk, oil, and vanilla in another medium bowl. Pour milk mixture over flour mixture; gently stir until combined (do not overmix).
Spoon 1/4 cup batter into each prepared muffin cup. Top each with 1 tablespoon Hy-Vee fruit and nut granola.
Bake 13 to 17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Remove muffins from cups. Cool completely on a wire cooling rack.
New name. Same benefits. Now, save even more with PRICES. PERKS
New name. Same benefits. Now, save even more with PRICES. PERKS
4 (8-oz. each) Hy-Vee Choice
Reserve New York strip steaks, about 1-inch thick, patted dry
1 c. Gustare Vita olive oil
1 tbsp. Gustare Vita balsamic vinegar
½ tsp. Hy-Vee Dijon mustard
½ tsp. Hy-Vee salt
¼ tsp. Hy-Vee ground black pepper
4 (8-oz. each) Hy-Vee Choice
Reserve New York strip steaks, about 1-inch thick, patted dry
1 c. Gustare Vita olive oil
1 tbsp. Gustare Vita balsamic vinegar
½ tsp. Hy-Vee Dijon mustard
½ tsp. Hy-Vee salt
¼ tsp. Hy-Vee ground black pepper
1 loaves Hy-Vee frozen bread dough, thawed and baked according to pkg. directions
Gustare Vita olive oil, for brushing
8 slice(s) Soiree fresh mozzarella cheese
1 small red onion, sliced
1 c. mixed salad greens
Marinade Steak: Place steak in a 2-galon resealable plastic bag; set aside. Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Pour mixture over steaks; seal bag. Turn bag to evenly coat steaks; marinate in refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Make Pesto: Place fresh basil and garlic in a food processor or blender. Cover and process until chopped, stopping to scrape down sides as needed. With processor running, slowly add olive oil. Process until well combined and season with salt and black pepper.
Prepare a charcoal or as gril with greased grill rack for direct grilling over medium heat. Remove steak from
marinade; discard marinade. Grill steaks 8 to 10 minutes or until an internal temperature reaches 130 degrees for medium-rare doneness, turning once halfway through. Remove steaks from grill and loosely cover with foil; let stand 15 minutes.
For Sandwiches: Preheat broiler to HIGH. Lightly brush 8 (1/2-inch each) slices of baked bread with olive oil; place on a large baking sheet. Broil 2 to 3 minutes or until lightly toasted. Top half the toasts with 2 slices fresh mozzarella cheese. Broil 2 to 3
SCAN THE QR CODE FOR THE FULL MEAL PLAN & SHOPPING LIST
1 ½ c. Hy-Vee frozen unsweetened tropical fruit blend, divided
½ c. Hy-Vee 2% reduced-fat milk
½ c. Hy-Vee plain Greek yogurt
½ c. Hy-Vee fruit and nut granola, divided
HILLTOP LOCATION
HILLTOP LOCATION
2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-9070
2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-9070
Combine 1 cup frozen tropical fruit blend, milk, and Greek yogurt in a blender. Cover and blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Divide between two serving bowls. Top each bowl with 1/4 cup granola and 1/4 cup frozen tropical fruit blend. Serve immediately.
RIVERFRONT LOCATION
RIVERFRONT LOCATION
410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507-625-1107 WINE & SPIRITS
410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 507-625-1107 WINE & SPIRITS
2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-3055
2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 507-625-3055
But no worries, the Circle Inn is ready to warm you up with their specialty winter drink menu. You can try these seasonal drinks and many more at the Circle Inn. A little too warm for your taste? They have a full mocktail menu, too! So, bundle up and head on down!
Salted Caramel Egg Nog
Salted Caramel Crown Royal, Carmel Syrup, Egg Nog and Nutmeg
Spiced Cranberry Paloma
Tajin Rim, Don Julio Blanco Tequila, Cranberry Juice, Grapefruit Juice, Simple Syrup, Dried Orange Slice, Cranberries and a Cinnamon Stick
Toasted Marshmallow Mule
Whipped Vodka, Marshmallow and Ginger Syrup, Soda Water and a Toasted Marshmallow
Peppermint Mudslide
Mr. Black, Baileys, Chankaska Peppermint Kreme, Whipped Cream and Crushed Candy Cane
Salted Caramel Apple
Salted Caramel Apple Crown, Apple Crown, Apple Cider, Carmel Syrup and a Carmel Apple Sucker
Vanilla Espresso Martini
Espresso Vanilla Liqueur, Espresso Chankaska Kreme and Espresso Beans
PHOTOS & RECIPES
BY JENI BOBHOLZ & CATHERINE CASWELL
What is your background prior to the City?
I grew up in Eagle Lake, MN with my hard-working parents and five siblings. I played baseball, wrestled and was the editor of the school newspaper at Mankato East High School, then attended Mankato State University for two years in the Construction Management program. I started helping my uncle Perry Kleist build homes in the summers starting at age twelve and continued that through high school and college.
What are some notable projects you’ve done for the City?
I was involved in the remodel of the City Council Chambers in 2006, the construction of the Thompson Fishing Pier in 2009, and projects at the ice rinks, warming house, and pool house at Spring Lake Park.
What do you love most about North Mankato?
High quality of living and services, beautiful parks, a great place to raise children, and I know that the people who work here take pride in what they do, and put a lot of effort into making the city a good place to live.
What are some fun facts about you?
I put in 18+ years with the Eagle Lake Volunteer Fire Department, retiring in 2006, and more recently I’ve been active with the Mankato Area Youth Baseball Association. Started in 2005 as the Equipment/Uniform Manager, and I ran the busy youth training facility up until 2020.
My wife Lisa and I enjoy everything outdoors, from camping, gardening, and working on projects around our house. She runs a daycare out of the lower level of our home, so it seems there is always something fun to create or improve for the kids! Nobody believes me, but I do a lot of our cooking at home, and I like doing it! I also look forward to the annual fall hunting trips with my sons Mitch and Ben, along with other family and friends to northern Minnesota. Also, our grandson, Truett, was born almost a year ago, and we cherish our time with him.
North Mankato Water Department Foreman
18 YEARS OF SERVICE
North Mankato Aquatics and Recreation Manager
3 YEARS OF SERVICE
What is your background prior to the City?
I am a mom of 4, 2 boys and 2 girls; married to my husband Will. I have a Bachelors’ degree in both Exercise Science and Community Health as well as a Masters in Public Health Education. I have been in the recreation industry on the wellness side for over 10 years. My Aquatics background dates back to my high school lifeguarding days. I have about 5 years of aquatic management experience prior to my involvement with the City of North Mankato.
What are some notable projects you’ve done for the City?
I have been a large part of the growth in the Culture and Recreation department. We have added fitness programming, certification classes, adult rec events, a youth volleyball program and created our first print and digital full summer programming brochure.
What do you love most about North Mankato?
The sense of community has always drawn me to North Mankato. We have many passionate residents and are a smaller but fierce community that works hard to ensure it’s a great place to live. The large number of events also gives our community great opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and all the many great places in North Mankato.
What are some fun facts about you?
I just gave birth to twin girls and added to the large number of City of North Mankato employees with twins. I am a fitness instructor and personal trainer outside of work and I enjoy coaching volleyball for local schools and Junior Olympic programs. I also love to run, bike and be outside.
of dedicated service to our members and communities. Today, MVFCU is proud to be a rock-solid financial institution with nearly 18,000 members and over $283 million in assets. We offer competitive loan rates, great savings options, and low fees. Thank you for being part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of financial success and community spirit!
WAY
is JUST AS IMPORTANT as the TREATMENT YOU RECEIVE.
WAY YOU ARE TREATED is JUST AS IMPORTANT as the TREATMENT YOU RECEIVE.
TREATED is JUST AS IMPORTANT as the TREATMENT YOU RECEIVE.
At River’s Edge Hospital, you are more than a patient.
From the most basic health services to surgery, recovery and rehabilitation, River’s Edge Hospital makes your well-being a priority. You’ll receive a level of attention that goes well b eyond y our expectations.
At River’s Edge Hospital, you are more than a patient. From the most basic health services to surgery, recovery and rehabilitation, River’s Edge Hospital makes your well-being a priority. You’ll receive a level of attention that goes well beyond your expectations.
At River’s Edge Hospital, you are more than a patient. From the most basic health services to surgery, recovery and rehabilitation, River’s Edge Hospital makes your well-being a priority. You’ll receive a level of attention that goes well b eyond y our expectations.
Emergency Care | Urgent Care | Surgical Services
Emergency Care | Urgent Care | Surgical Services
Physical Therapy | Occupational Therapy | Mammography
Emergency Care | Urgent Care | Surgical Services
P hysical Therapy | Occupational Therapy | Mammography
Imaging Services | Direct Access Lab Testing
P hysical Therapy | Occupational Therapy | Mammography
Imaging Services | Direct Access Lab Testing
Cardiac Rehab
Imaging Services | Direct Access Lab Testing Cardiac Rehab
Cardiac Rehab
LiveWell Fitness Center & much more
LiveWell Fitness Center & much more
LiveWell Fitness Center & much more
E U R O P E A N
R O C K
2 0 2 4
From Germany for Gems to Belgium for Diamonds, Julee’s trip ended with a private tour and training at the DeBeers Headquarters in London.
BACK WHAT CAN WE CREATE FOR YOU?
