Lake Region Woman Volume 6, Issue 2

Page 1

COMPLIMENTARY

Christy Remmick

From Behind the Sewing Machine to the Red Carpet

Volume 6, Issue 2 May 2015


Distributed by Girl on Fire Publishing at the following locations:

If you would like to provide Lake Region Woman to your clients or customers, please contact us by phone at 701261-2692 or by email at lakeregionwoman@live.com.

Devils Lake Chamber of Commerce Devils Lake Regional Airport Fireside Inn and Suites Hasse Plumbing Horizon Financial Bank Lake Region State College Bookstore Leevers Foods in Devils Lake Publisher Girl on Fire Publishing Managing Editor/Ad Sales Autumn Graber

Leevers Foods in Langdon Leevers Foods in Rugby

(701) 261-2692 lakeregionwoman@live.com

Melissa’s Grocery in Tolna

(701) 330-3150 gcwmagazine@gmail.com

Miller’s Fresh Foods in New Rockford

Advertising Sales Mary Glessner

Copy Editor MariLou Harveland Design/Layout Autumn Graber CFO Kelly Graber Business Development Kaelyn Teigen Mail correspondence to: Lake Region Woman PO Box 705 Devils Lake, ND 58301 Connect with us! lakeregionwoman@live.com www.girlonfireonline.com www.facebook.com/lakeregionwoman www.twitter.com/lakeregionwoman

Mr. & Mrs. J’s in Devils Lake Munich Grocery Store Nettiques Old Main in Devils Lake One Stop in Devils Lake Oxton’s Supervalu in McVille PLC Photography Ramsey National Bank Rock Lake Cafe

Messages sent to us by email, Twitter, or Facebook might be used in future issues of Lake Region Woman.

Printed in North Dakota. © 2015 Girl on Fire Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Lake Region Woman Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Lake Region Woman Magazine does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented.

Rolette Supervalu Spirit Lake Casino & Resort Supermarket Foods in Cando The Liquid Bean in Devils Lake Michigan Home Foods Wimer’s Grocery in Lakota

COMPLIMENTARY

This magazine is printed on an environmentally certified paper that contains a 10% post-consumer waste. FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®) is an international, non-profit association that promotes well-managed forests by ensuring forestry practices that are environmentally responsible, socially equitable, and economically viable. If you would like to become a contributor to Lake Region Woman, please contact us via email at lakeregionwoman@live.com or call us at 701-261-2692. We are currently searching for experts in their industry to submit articles relevant to women in our area.

MEMBER OF

Volume 6, Issue 2 May 2015

Christy Remmick

From Behind the Sewing Machine to the Red Carpet

Christy Remmick

On the Cover Photographed by Autumn Graber

Read a Lake Region Woman feature about the owner of Rilos and MiMi, Christy Remmick.

2

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015


It Takes a Team...

If you would like to become a writer for Lake Region Woman, please contact us via email at lakeregionwoman@live.com or call us at 701-261-2692. We are currently searching for experts in their industry to submit articles relevant to women in our area.

Autumn Graber | Publisher Autumn graduated from Minnesota State University – Moorhead (MSUM) with a BS in Mass Communication emphasizing in journalism. She was the 2014 Entrepreneur of the Year, an award given by the Greater Grand Young Professionals and University of North Dakota Center for Innovation. Autumn is a 2009 graduate of The Chamber Leadership Program. She was elected and served six years on the Board of Directors for the American Advertising Federation of North Dakota (AAF-ND). Autumn enjoyed a successful term as president of AAF-ND, helping them win the “Club of the Year” award for District 8 at the national convention in 2010, competing against all clubs from South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

Mary Glessner | Advertising Sales Mary Glessner grew up in North Dakota and graduated from Mayville State University. She has been with Girl on Fire Publishing since March of 2012. She has also been employed with the North Dakota University System for twenty-four years. After relocating to Grand Forks and excepting a job at UND she decided to start Cheerful Givers, ND because of her passion for helping others. Mary is a board member and volunteer for the Sunshine Memorial Foundation. She enjoys the community in which she lives and is currently volunteering on the Sunshine Hospitality House Executive Committee to bring the proposed Sunshine Hospitality Home to fruition in Grand Forks. MariLou Harveland | Copy Editor MariLou is a freelance editor since 2001, when she began editing technical manuals, helping create a style guide for writers, and training new writers for Microsoft. During this time, she also earned a Master of Arts in English from NDSU, where she also taught College Composition I and II. In 2011, MariLou published her first novel, “The Seventh Soul,” which won the 2012 Indie Reader Award in Paranormal Fiction at the International Book Expo in New York, NY. Currently, she’s working on her second novel, which should be published in 2015. MariLou lives on a farm near Brocket, ND with her husband, Dan, a spoiled Golden Retriever, two domineering cats, and a loquacious parakeet.

Sheri Hatten, Licensed, Registered Dietitian and Certified Lactation Counselor | Writer Sheri graduated from NDSU with a BS in Food and Nutrition and a BS in Corporate/Community Fitness. Sheri has been a Licensed Registered Dietitian for 20 years. She is married to Bob Hatten and has two children: Stephanie and Kendall. Sheri loves to be outdoors walking, biking, and fishing. She also enjoys baking, cooking, and scrapbooking. Macine Lukach | Writer Macine is the coordinator for the Region 3 Parent Resource Center and the Family and Consumer Sciences extension agent for the NDSU Extension Service, Cavalier County office. To stay updated on events hosted by Region 3 Parent Resource Center, “like” them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ ParentResourceCenterRegion3.

Betsy Waldo | Writer Betsey Waldo is all about home décor, interior redesign, and furniture repurposing. She specializes in refurbishing furniture, re-purposing vintage-found items, taking on do-it-yourself projects, and interior decorating on a budget. Betsey owns Truly Yours, a home-based business in Devils Lake.

Erin Wood | Writer Erin began writing during her high school years in Hankinson, ND, which led to studying communication at UND. She received an internship at the Grand Forks Herald in 1995, which led to a reporting job for the paper and AGWEEK magazine. She earned a degree in journalism from UND in 1996. She and Steve are the proud parents of three active youngsters aged 2-10. Between work and the kids’ schedules, finding free family time can be tough, but they squeeze it in wherever possible. “Homework and many family discussions occur in the kitchen while preparing a meal.” Kaelyn Teigen | Business Development Kaelyn is a University of North Dakota student working toward a degree in business. She also serves as a UND Student Ambassador. She is a recipient of the 2014 Western State Bank, Dennis Flynn Memorial, and Morris & Christine Barks Family Scholarships. Kaelyn is from Devils Lake and has volunteered as a Sunday school teacher and elementary school teacher assistant. Kaelyn is managing our digital marketing campaigns and assisting in identifying potential business opportunities.

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

3


Please call ahead to confirm events. Promote your August, September, October, and November 2015 events in the next issue by sending information to lakeregionwoman@live.com by July 15, 2015.

OPEN ALL YEAR NELSON COUNTY BARN QUILT TRAIL The quilt trail is a series of 40+ barn quilts that are hung along a highway or country road. A barn quilt is an 8 X 8 or 4 X 4 foot section of quality plywood painted with a quilt block pattern. These quilts are then hung on barns and other buildings for people to view. A map for this self-guided, 40mile driving tour can be found at local businesses or www.nelsonco. org.

MAY 28 NORTH DAKOTA TELEPHONE COMPANY FUN RUN Ruger Park, Devils Lake 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. North Dakota Telephone Company will be hosting a 5k fun run/ walk as a fundraiser for Relay for Life. Registration & shirt pickup will be at 5:30 p.m. at Ruger Park with the walk/run starting at 6:30.

MAY 20 CHAUTAUQUA EVENT: K.C. HANSON K.C. Hanson is a former resident of rural Webster, North Dakota. He will share some of his poetry and stories, as well as his book, The Lazarus Project. The 2015 North Dakota Chautauqua Season Membership Pass is $30 per person, which includes admission to all programs presented in 2015. Single admission for each event is $10. For more information, send an email to ndchautauqua@gmail. com or call 701-230-3225. All events are free for children and students.

MAY 30 AND 31 IT’S A WOMAN’S WORLD SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA Bill Jerome Arena, Devils Lake Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

4

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

MAY 29 THROUGH 31 DEVILS RUN CAR SHOW Roosevelt Park, Devils Lake

JUNE 4 LAKE REGION STATE COLLEGE ROYAL SOCIAL The Royal Social is a delightful opportunity for Lake Region area women to gather, chat, have a chance to win a purse, and support projects at Lake Region State College. The social is usually held in homes on the first Thursday of each month (excluding January and July). Volunteer hostesses gather a team of helpers and

uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu

*

Event Calendar

MAY 29 - 31 DEVILS RUN CAR SHOW

MAY 30 AND 31 IT’S A WOMAN’S WORLD SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA Bill Jerome Arena, Devils Lake Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

provide hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Invitations are handled by email and public notice. Admission fee is $10. For more information, call 701-6621520. JUNE 5 LAKE REGION RELAY FOR LIFE Roosevelt Park, Devils Lake

person, which includes admission to all programs presented in 2015. Single admission for each event is $10. For more information, send an email to ndchautauqua@gmail.com or call 701-230-3225. All events are free for children and students.

JUNE 5 PIERCE COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE Johnsen Field, Rugby 5:30 p.m. Free Will Donation Supper 7:00 p.m. Relay For more information, call Larae at 701-340-7117 or Darci at 701-3303217. JUNE 26 HARVEY AREA RELAY FOR LIFE 6:00 p.m. Harvey City Hall For more information, call Heather at 701-341-7506. JUNE 17 CHAUTAUQUA EVENT: DAN RODRIGUEZ The 2015 North Dakota Chautauqua Season Membership Pass is $30 per person, which includes admission to all programs presented in 2015. Single admission for each event is $10. For more information, send an email to ndchautauqua@gmail.com or call 701-230-3225. All events are free for children and students. JUNE 24 CHAUTAUQUA EVENT: DAN AND MICHELLE NYBO The 2015 North Dakota Chautauqua Season Membership Pass is $30 per

JULY 15 GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT: COLOR YOUR LIFE

5:00 p.m. Memorial Building, Devils Lake The Ramsey County Soil Conservation District invites all women to attend Girls’ Night Out, “Color Your Life” on Wednesday, July 15 at the Memorial Building in Devils Lake. Tickets for this event are $25, which includes dinner, door prizes, silent auction, raffle baskets, purse auction, and entertainment featuring keynote speaker, Amber Hauglan. This event is sponsored by Tronson Grain. For tickets, contact Soil Conservation District at 701662-4088.


JUNE 26 THROUGH 28 REEL FUN DAYS AND 39TH ANNUAL CHAMBER FISHING TOURNAMENT Devils Lake For more information, go to www.devilslakend.com. JULY 1 CHAUTAUQUA EVENT: THE RUSTY CHORDS The 2015 North Dakota Chautauqua Season Membership Pass is $30 per person, which includes admission to all programs presented in 2015. Single admission for each event is $10. For more information, send an email to ndchautauqua@gmail.com or call 701-2303225. All events are free for children and students. JULY 7 CHAUTAUQUA EVENT: OLD TYME FAMILY PICNIC This event will include a picnic, Unsung Hero Awards, horse-drawn wagon rides, and a concert by the Devils Lake Elks Community Band. The 2015 North Dakota Chautauqua Season Membership Pass is $30 per person, which includes admission to all programs presented in 2015. Single admission for each event is $10. For more information, send an email to ndchautauqua@gmail.com or call 701-230-3225. All events are free for children and students. JULY 8 CHAUTAUQUA EVENT: TERESA TANDE Teresa Tande will showcase her latest travels to Europe with a group from Lake Region State College and friends. The 2015 North Dakota Chautauqua Season Membership Pass is $30 per person, which includes admission to all programs presented in 2015. Single admission for each event is $10. For more information, send an email to ndchautauqua@gmail.com

or call 701-230-3225. All events are free for children and students. JULY 15 GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT: COLOR YOUR LIFE 5:00 p.m. Memorial Building, Devils Lake The Ramsey County Soil Conservation District invites all women to attend Girls’ Night Out, “Color Your Life” on Wednesday, July 15 at the Memorial Building in Devils Lake. Tickets for this event are $25, which includes dinner, door prizes, silent auction, raffle baskets, purse auction, and entertainment featuring keynote speaker, Amber Hauglan. This event is sponsored by Tronson Grain. For tickets, contact Soil Conservation District at 701-662-4088. JULY 15 CHAUTAUQUA EVENT: LOUIS GARCIA Louis Garcia, author of Grass Dance of the Spirit Lake Dakota, will explore Native American stories. The 2015 North Dakota Chautauqua Season Membership Pass is $30 per person, which includes admission to all programs presented in 2015. Single admission for each event is $10. For more information, send an email to ndchautauqua@gmail.com or call 701-230-3225. All events are free for children and students. JULY 16 RELAY FOR LIFE GARDEN TOUR 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Showcasing a variety of beautiful gardens in the Devils Lake area, this event offers inspiration for the beginner to the experienced gardener. Advanced tickets for $8.00 can be purchased at Paul’s Plants, Mark’s Greenhouse, LaMotte’s Paint and Glass, and Altru Clinic Lake Region. On the tour day, tickets will be available at the Old Sheriff ’s Office Museum for $10.00. All profits go to Relay for Life. For further information, please contact Diane

JUNE 5

LAKE REGION RELAY FOR LIFE

Roosevelt Park, Devils Lake

JUNE 5

PIERCE COUNTY RELAY FOR LIFE

Johnsen Field, Rugby

JUNE 26

HARVEY AREA RELAY FOR LIFE

Harvey City Hall

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

5


Smith at 701-662-2157 or 701-662-8503 or send an email to bdsmith@midco.net. JULY 30 CRAZY DAYS Devils Lake For more information, go to www.devilslakend.com. AUGUST 6 LAKE REGION STATE COLLEGE ROYAL SOCIAL The Royal Social is a delightful opportunity for Lake Region area women to gather, chat, have a chance to win a purse, and support projects at Lake Region State College. The social is usually held in homes on the first Thursday of each month (excluding January and July). Volunteer hostesses gather a team of helpers and provide hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Invitations are handled by email and public notice. Admission fee is $10. For more information, call 701-662-1520. AUGUST 12 CHAUTAUQUA EVENT: MICHAEL DUNN Michael Dunn is an artist and teacher from the Fargo area. Michael has been a practicing professional artist and educator since 1975. The 2015 North Dakota Chautauqua Season Membership Pass is $30 per person, which includes admission to all programs presented in 2015. Single admission for each event is $10. For more information, send an email to ndchautauqua@gmail.com or call 701-230-3225. All events are free for children and students. SEPTEMBER 3 LAKE REGION STATE COLLEGE ROYAL SOCIAL The Royal Social is a delightful opportunity for Lake Region area women to gather, chat, have a chance to win a purse, and support projects at Lake Region State College. The social is usually held in homes on the first Thursday of each month (excluding January and July). Volunteer hostesses gather a team of helpers and provide hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Invitations are handled by email and public notice. Admission fee is $10. For more information, call 701-662-1520. SEPTEMBER 6 & 7 20TH ANNUAL STUMP LAKE VILLAGE THRESHING BEE Stump Lake Park, 10 miles south of Lakota or 10 miles north of Pekin on Hwy 1 The threshermen’s breakfast will be held between 7:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. both days. Join us for parades, craft show, live entertainment, old time demos, horse-drawn events, food vendors, and tours of the village. The admission fee does not include food or drink. This event is fun for the whole family. For more information, go to www.stumplakepark.com. SEPTEMBER 12 CAPTURING THE MOMENTS 5K WALK/RUN Ruger Park, Devils Lake 10:00 a.m. Join Heartland Care Eventide of Devils Lake for their 6th Annual Capturing the Moments 5K Walk/Run. 6

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

Taking you everywhere you want to go: Clothing, Accessories, Shoes

an a shoe store! So much more th701-544-0177 “Like” us on Facebook bootsandheelsshop

www.bootsandheelsshop.com


Hot Spots to Shop PRODUCTS YOU NEED THIS SUMMER

Find these items and more through local retailers. When purchasing an item that you’ve seen in our shopping guide, make sure you tell them that you saw it in Lake Region Woman. Claims that products make in the Lake Region Woman Shopping Guide are of product manufactures’ and not of Lake Region Woman or Girl on Fire Publishing.

LaMotte’s Paint and Glass

Home Décor Products See their ad on page 19.

Quilt Essential

New Upholstery Fabrics See their ad on page 13.

Devils Lake Chamber Devils Lake Coffee Mugs See their ad on page 12.

BE Inspired

Custom Wall Art See their ad on page 5.

Creative Impressions Lake Gear Caps See their ad on page 23.

Slumberland

Tempur-Pedic Mattresses See their ad on page 17.

Snapdragons Floral

Rustic Storage Chest See their ad on page 11.

Ritter Huesgens Jewelry

Petite Pendants by Aspire Fine Jewelry See their ad on page 11. girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

7


Quilt Essential

New Upholstery Fabrics See their ad on page 13.

Boots and Heels

Tote Bag See their ad on page 6.

Truyu at Choice

NovalashÂŽ Eyelash Extensions See their ad on page 27.

BE Inspired Creative Impressions

Lake Gear Water Infusers See their ad on page 23.

LaMotte’s Paint and Glass

Garden Post See their ad on page 19.

8

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

Custom Wall Art See their ad on page 5.


Devils Lake Chamber Devils Lake Coffee Mugs See their ad on page 12.

Snapdragons Floral

Home DĂŠcor Products See their ad on page 11.

Slumberland

Vintage Style Shelf See their ad on page 17.

Truyu at Choice

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue See their ad on page 27.

Boots and Heels

Lace Dress See their ad on page 6.

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

9


Testing the Limits Written by Macine Lukach

On a recent walk, I came upon a young mom with a toddler, who was playing in water puddles. The toddler knew which puddles he was allowed to jump in. But as I watched, he got increasingly closer to deeper water puddles. I saw the twinkle in his eyes as he looked at his mom, wondering what would happen if he jumped in the deeper puddles. I knew he was testing his limits and wondering how far he could push. As I continued my walk, I thought about how my grown sons still continue to test their limits, seeing what they can do or say to get me to react. Recently, one of my sons told me his landlord called. As moms do, I wondered, Now what happened? As it was, the landlord was checking to see if my son would be interested in managing the apartments in exchange for reduced rent. So I asked him, “Why did you word your statement so it led me to think the worst?” His answer, “Just wanted to test you Mom!” His brother does the same, trying to get me to react. Sometimes I do. Sometimes I don’t, just to see their response. A favorite children’s book of mine that I use when teaching discipline is Sit Still by Nancy Carlson. In this book, no matter how hard he tries, whether at school, at home, on the bus, or in a restaurant, Patrick just can’t sit still. So what’s a kid with lots of energy to do?

Parents and caregivers have the job of helping children learn and of providing positive and developmentallyappropriate guidance. Setting limits is an important aspect of guidance. Limits help children learn acceptable behavior. Limits can be classified into four kinds: Those that prevent physical harm, protect property, prevent psychological harm, and show respect for others. Setting limits provides children with guidance before they get into trouble. Children know from the beginning what is expected of them. Limits tell children what to do and how well it should be done. Children who understand limits are much more likely to assume responsibility for their actions. The following are suggestions for setting appropriate limits. Make your limits simple and clear. Everyone can benefit from clear directions about rules and limits. Clearly communicate your expectations so that they are understandable. Children of all ages need clear rules. Children are more likely to follow rules they understand, the “why” rather than the “rules for rules’ sake.” Revise limits to adapt to changes in the child’s age and development. By involving children/teens in limit discussions, they are more likely to cooperate.

10

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015


Set reasonable limits. What limits are important to you? What limits are necessary for the child to be safe? Keep limits to important matters. Too many limits can be a burden to parents and children. Limits should be based on your family’s values and priorities. Reasonable means limits that allow a child to succeed. Be consistent with your limits. Limits need to be consistent with a child’s abilities and must be appropriate to his or her age and maturity level. Limits should not change from day to day or setting to setting. Inconsistently enforced limits are confusing to children. Parents should agree on limits before presenting them to the children so there is a consistent response. A consistent response will eliminate the, “mom always lets me do that when you aren’t here” complaint. If children receive mixed messages about limits, they will test the limits more often. Set enforceable limits. Accept that children won’t like rules and will “try” the limits. This is normal. Children will exert their own independence by challenging a parent’s commitment by breaking rules. They are testing parental willingness to stand behind what they say is important. Parents must be consistent and enforce limits. Appropriate and logical consequences should be in place and understood by the child when rules are established. Emphasize the positive and avoid the negative. Children will learn the limits better if parents emphasize the positive. Setting positive limits is important for helping children deal with their emotions. Tell a child what to do rather than only telling them what not to do. Be a role model for appropriate behavior. Provide another form of expression; for example, tell them, “When you’re angry, tell me how you are feeling. Tell me you are angry.” Saying “no” and “don’t” too often will make a child “parent-deaf.” When children become angry or frustrated, parents are likely to react with negative limits, such as, “Don’t hit your brother!” Learn to rephrase negatives in a positive way while clearly stating the desired behavior. For example, instead of saying, “Don’t break anything,” say “There are many breakable things in this store, so please walk carefully and keep your hands to yourself.” Children want and need to know their limits. When children have clear limits, they quickly learn the “rules of the game.” Clear limits tell children exactly what is expected of them. This understanding helps children learn and take responsibility for their own actions and to grow in self-confidence and self-reliance. According to Fred Rogers, “Disciplining a child includes making rules. I prefer to think of this parenting task as ‘setting limits.’ It can be very frightening for a child not to have limits. Not only can the world outside be frightening, but the world inside, the world of feelings, can also be scary when you’re not sure you can manage those feelings by yourself.” [LRW]

Ritter Huesgen Jewelry

“Where Craftsmanship is a Family Tradition” Since 1886

313 4th Street NE | Devils Lake

701-662-3412

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

11


NOW BOOKING 2016 Weddings!

Brittnee Wilson Photography

cate o l e R TO THE LAKE

The Loft Photography Studio PLC Photography Jennifer Zachmeier Photography

208 Highway 2 West www.devilslakend.com

12

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

Jennifer Zachmeier Photography

All smiles!


The Loft Photography Studio PLC Photography

Brittnee Wilson Photography

Stoc er projects! summ

Shop online at www.devilslakequiltshop.com

Professional photographers in the Lake Region can submit photos for galleries by contacting Lake Region Woman by phone at 701261-2692 or by sending an email to lakeregionwoman@live.com.

206 5th St NE Devils Lake

701-662-3634

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

-------------------------

-------------------------

- - - - - - - - -k-u-p -fo-r - - - - -

13


On this day...

Professional photographers in the Lake Region can submit photos for galleries by contacting Lake Region Woman by phone at 701-261-2692 or by sending an email to lakeregionwoman@live.com.

Organizing | Interior Redesign | Repurposing

Brittnee Wilson Photography Jennifer Zachmeier Photography

trulyyoursbybetsy@gmail.com www.facebook.com/trulyyoursbybetsy

701-521-0808 14

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

The Loft Photography Studio


Brittnee Wilson Photography

eration n e g t x e n e h T in real estate The Loft Photography Studio

Jan

Tracy

Dawn

Steve

Brianne

701-662-2583 www.blueskyrealestatedl.com

Jennifer Zachmeier Photography girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

15


Recipes Written by Sheri Hatten

While you are reading this, I hope it is warm and sunny outside. For this issue, I will provide you with some quick and easy ideas to help you spend less time in the kitchen and more time outside enjoying the warm sun and doing your favorite summertime activities. Happy summer! These bars are easy and quick. I found the recipe in one of my church cookbooks and it is a family favorite. They are just as yummy as the cookie version, but a lot less time-consuming. This will make an 11x15 pan, enough to freeze some for later. Tip: When my cereal box is empty, I like to save the cereal bags, cut them into 2 pieces, and then use this to put between my cookies or bar layers when freezing. This saves money so I don’t have to buy wax paper and I am recycling, too. If you have a family member with gluten-free needs, make sure your bag is from a gluten-free cereal, such as a gluten-free Chex. Also, make sure your oatmeal is labeled gluten free, if you need to make these bars gluten free.

Monster Cookie Bars (makes about 24)

½ cup butter, softened ¾ cup brown sugar ¾ cup white sugar 4 large eggs 1 ½ cups peanut butter 1 tsp. vanilla 2 tsp. baking soda 4 ½ cup oatmeal 1 cup M&M’s candies 1 cup chocolate chips (I prefer the milk chocolate) In a large mixing bowl, mix together the butter, sugars, and eggs until smooth. Add the peanut butter, vanilla, baking soda, and oatmeal; mix well. Stir in the chocolate chips and M&M’s. Spray the 11x15 pan (jelly 16

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

roll pan) with nonstick spray. Spread the dough into the pan—using a piece of wax paper helps to push the dough evenly into your pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes, until medium brown color. Take out of the oven, cool, then cut into bars.

Meatballs 1 ½ pounds of ground beef ½ - 1 pound of ground pork sausage (I like to use Jimmy Dean Reduced Fat, 12 oz. package, but any pork sausage would work) 1 small onion, chopped ¾ cup cracker crumbs (I have also used seasoned bread crumbs) 1 egg 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce ½ cup milk Whisk the milk and egg in a large bowl. Add the chopped onion, beef,


pork sausage, cracker crumbs, and Worcestershire sauce. You can mix this with a large spoon, but I find it easier to use my hands to mix it. Mix well and let sit for 15 minutes so the ingredients moisten together. Shape mixture into 1 ½ inch meatballs. I have made them two different ways: 1. Cook in an electric griddle at 250 degrees and turn the meatballs occasionally to brown all sides. You will want to remove grease as the meatballs are cooking. I like to cover the meatballs and cook for about 30 minutes; then, I’ll turn the temperature down to 200 degrees and simmer with the homemade gravy (recipe below) another 30 minutes. 2. Line a cookie sheet with tin foil and spray with nonstick spray. Place the meatballs about 1 inch apart and bake 25-30 minutes at 400 degrees. If you want the oil to drain while cooking, place a rack on top of the cookie sheet and place meatballs on the rack. Be sure to line the cookie sheet with parchment paper or tin foil for easier cleanup. Typically, I will use the baking method if making a double batch to get them done quickly. Making a double batch means that I can use some for a meal that week and then freeze the rest for later. What I like about making a big batch of meatballs is that they are versatile for future meals: mix with gravy and put over egg noodles; or pour a sauce over them such as BBQ, sweet and sour, or spaghetti sauce. Once the meatballs are cooled, place on cookie sheets lined with wax paper. Place in the freezer. Once the meatballs are frozen, place in freezer bags for meals later. When you take out of the freezer, thaw and add any sauce you desire.

See bank for details. Member FDIC.

Gravy for Meatballs ¼ cup flour 2 cups hot water Beef stock base, enough for 2 cups of liquid broth. (The instructions on my base says 1 tsp. per cup of liquid) Pepper, optional Whisk the water, flour, and beef stock base in a large measuring cup or bowl. Put in a medium saucepan and cook on medium heat. Continue to stir until thickened. Stir in with the cooked meatballs in the frying pan. Cover and let simmer for 30 minutes to absorb the delicious flavors.

Downtown Devils Lake

701-662-3500

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

17


Changing Lives – Enhancing the Workforce Technology enhances and expands nursing education outreach Written by Erin Wood

For Karen Clementich, coordinator of Nursing at Lake Region State College (LRSC), there is nothing more rewarding then walking into a medical facility and seeing one of your former students working and doing well.

successfully educated North Dakota nurses for over a decade. The firsttime pass rate at LRSC has consistently been above state and national averages. Over the past year (July 2013 to June 2014), the Practical Nurse (PN) and Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) programs have had 100 percent of the students pass the first time on the national licensing exam. Another point of pride is that the PN program has actually had a 100 percent pass rate since 2010. Today, thanks to technology and flexible faculty, LRSC offers its practical nurse and associate degree nurse program at the campus in Devils Lake and in Mayville. Additionally, the Practical Nurse program is offered in Grand Forks. Lake Region also offers certified nurse assistant training in Devils Lake, online, and at the Grand Forks Air Force Base. The Dakota Nursing Program is a nursing education consortium made possible through the collaborative efforts of four state colleges: Bismarck State College (BSC), Lake Region State College (LRSC), Dakota College at Bottineau (DCB), and Williston State College (WSC).

“The biggest reward is student success. I feel such pride and happiness when I see them working. I love that,” she said. Thanks to technology, nursing education has evolved over the years, but the core goal of educating nurses who are active critical thinkers, caring, and compassionate remains the same.

Karen Clementich

Technology has allowed the Dakota Nursing Program to exist and expand so that Clementich and other instructors can witness successful graduates working in the nursing field and meeting a critical workforce need in North Dakota. Lake Region State College is part of the Dakota Nursing Program that has 18

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

“The vision of the Dakota Nursing Program is to respond to the nursing needs of the people of North Dakota by delivering a high-quality nursing educational program to students through innovative instruction,” said Julie Traynor, director of the Dakota Nursing Program. Students can study close to home without uprooting families; moreover, when completing their degree, they can find employment where they reside. A partnership for practical nurse education was forged in 2000 when LRSC and Bismarck State College used Williston State College’s


Julie Traynor

practical nurse curriculum and operated under the WSC program, supervised by its director. In the year 2000, LRSC expected the agreement with WSC would be a long term commitment. “Instead it evolved into something greater,” Traynor said. In 2004, the Dakota Nursing Program was created, launching a practical nurse curriculum. An Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) program or two-year registered nursing program was approved by the State Board of Nursing and started in 2005. The Dakota Nursing Program is administered by one Nursing Director–Traynor–and a Nursing Coordinator located at each of the four colleges along with nursing faculty and staff. “We’ve been doing associate degree nursing education for a decade and practical nurse education for 15 years,” Clementich said. High-Tech and Hands-On Clinical and lab experiences have been enhanced with advances in simulation technology. Software and mannequins are equipped to mimic a variety of medical conditions depending on its sophistication level. “Simulation technology creates real-life emergency and critical care medical practical situations for student nurses that a student may not see during clinical rounds in a medical facility. Also, students are in a setting where we can record, watch, and debrief after lab,” Clementich explained.

Flooring Benjamin Moore Paints Wallcoverings Window Treatments Gifts & Collectibles 301 4th St. NE Devils Lake ND 58301-2411 701-662-4976 or 800-726-8014 Fax 701-662-6752 Follow us on Facebook

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

19


Students from distance sites have simulation days where they come to LRSC and work in the simulation labs. Some sites have their own simulations and simulators are also transported to distant sites. Lake Region State College’s new Bergstrom Technical Education Center is amply equipped with today’s latest simulation education materials, giving student nurses a real-world scenario for some of their lab experiences. “The high fidelity simulators enhance student learning and allow faculty to grow,” Traynor said. “Nursing education is much more interactive between students and faculty. The active learning in the simulation lab is a prime example of that interaction.” None of this simulator education would have been possible without a new facility to house the education area or the partnership that brings nursing to LRSC. The Bergstrom Technical Center project was made possible with legislative appropriation in 2013. The new space will relieve crowding, strengthen programs, and allow LRSC to serve more students. The space also fortifies the college’s place as a nimble education center, innovative facility, and teaching/learning powerhouse for other programs such as simulation technology, wind energy, law enforcement, automotive technology, and American Sign Language interpreting. 20

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

Career Ladder

The Dakota Nursing Program educates more than 200 future practical nurses and associate degree nurses (two-year registered nurses) each year at the four colleges that work together within the Dakota Nursing Program. The Dakota Nursing Program is fully approved by the North Dakota Board of Nursing. The program is structured to provide a foundation for career paths for future leaders in nursing practice and to prepare lifelong learners who demonstrate knowledge, skill, critical thinking, and flexibility. Dakota Nursing Program students are able to move quickly from certified nursing assistants to the one year Practical Nurse certificate and then on to a two-year Associate Nurse(RN) degree. Students are educationally prepared to continue on to a four-year Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and beyond. The four state colleges continue to collaborate to deliver nursing education with a common curriculum. Currently, didactic courses are delivered over the Interactive Video Network (IVN) to the four state colleges and distance education sites located in Rugby, Minot, New Town, Hazen, Harvey, Mayville, and Valley City. Additional distance education sites have been offered throughout the consortium and vary from year to year.


These sites have included Langdon, Cooperstown, Carrington, Grafton, Northwood, and the Burdick Job Corps in Minot. Clinical courses and laboratory experiences are coordinated and delivered by each college and/or site locally. Many students transfer to Minot State University, University of North Dakota, and now Mayville State University to advance their education level and become BSNs, Traynor said. “Educational experiences are continually assessed to assure that graduates are highly competent and prepared for a variety of nursing practice roles,” Traynor said. Like many student nurses, Clementich has climbed the career ladder. She received her nursing diploma from Grace Hospital in Winnipeg in the early 1990s. Because there were no job openings in Winnipeg, she worked as a CNA. Her dad noticed a posting for nurses in Devils Lake, where she moved to start her official nursing career. “When I moved to Devils Lake, I knew I had to further my education because of the requirements in North Dakota,” Clementich said. She started taking general education courses at LRSC and earned her bachelor degree in Nursing through Minot State University. Throughout her educational journey, she continued to work, gaining experience in elderly care, and acute care. Clementich came to Lake Region State College as an instructor for the practical nurse program in 2007. “I knew I wanted to be an educator for future nurses, but wasn’t sure if I would land the job, so in my mind, I was at the interview for experience more than anything. But when I left that interview, I really wanted the job.” Many students who enter the nursing career follow a similar path of education, work experience, more education and certifications, work experience, and much more. “That is one of the great benefits of the Dakota Nursing Program,” Clementich said. “You can be in your career [while] taking baby steps in your education,” Clementich said. Deanna Amen always dreamed of becoming nurse. And, thanks to Lake Region State College, that dream is becoming a reality. Nearly four years ago, Deanna Amen and her family (which includes her husband and four children) claimed North Dakota as their new home state. The children enrolled in school, and Deanna found work as a CNA at Heartland Care Center. Deanna was delighted to learn that a quality nurse education program was available in her new home town. She began to prepare by brushing up on some needed academic skills. That preparation paid off, and she was accepted into LRSC’s Nursing Program. Amen appreciates the challenging courses and hands-on expertise to help her realize this longtime goal.

701-262-4438 HOMEMADE, HOME-STYLE

TASTE WITH

modern PRESENTATION

Custom cakes and cooking classes available! /moderncuisine

moderncuisinecatering.com

Parenting is the most important job you'll ever have! Region 3 Parent Resource Center offers: Parenting Classes Lending Library Newsletter

NDSU Extension Service 901 3rd St. Ste. 7 Langdon, ND 58249 701-256-2560 macine.lukach@ndsu.edu http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pen/region-3

“It’s been a dream of mine to be a nurse since I was in the fourth grade. Today, I’m finally realizing my dream,” she said. For more information go to www.dakotanursing.org. [LRW]

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

21


Nancy Conkins Something New Written and photographed by Autumn Graber

For about twenty years, Nancy Conkins lived and breathed education. She started out as a kindergarten teacher, and then teaching evolved into technology during her last years before retirement. She was instrumental in acquiring smart boards for the schools and then training teachers to use them. In 2011, Nancy and her husband, Gary, saw an opportunity. Hesch’s Furniture in Devils Lake had plans to close. The store manager at the time, Denny Schwab, intended on retiring, and because of that, Orville Hesch decided it was time to close. Orville—who happens to be Nancy’s stepfather—previously assisted his children with the purchase of a couple Slumberland Furniture stores in Wisconsin, and upon discovering Nancy and Gary’s interest in Hesch’s, became instrumental in helping them acquire a Slumberland Furniture franchise for Devils Lake. The current Slumberland Furniture location in Devils Lake has always been a furniture store since the building’s construction in 1908. “It started out as Goldberg and Sprung, then I think to Jundt’s Furniture, and then to Hesch’s Furniture,” said Nancy Conkins,

co-owner of Slumberland Furniture in Devils Lake. Soon after being handed the keys to the building, the Conkins recruited help from their children, Brett, Breanne, and Brandon, who returned to Devils Lake to help get the store in shape to open. “It was a family event, right down to the grandkids.” They removed the walls that separated each area of the showroom to create an open and spacious floor plan. “Now, the concept is to have it open and flowing,” she said. Additionally, they removed the storage area in the basement to allow room to display their 65 test beds. “Slumberland started out as a sleep store. We are the sleep experts,” said Nancy. Employees are trained to understand the customer’s needs regarding how they sleep and if they have any health issues. Much like the car industry, new bed models are released every year. Consequently, the employee training is continuous.

The early years 22

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

Although Nancy and Gary, previous Meat Department manager at Leevers Foods, lacked experience in owning a business, they were eager to start a new chapter in their lives. Nancy credits her ability to learn quickly to her years of training in new technology during her eight years as the technology coach for Devils Lake Public Schools. “In education, you are constantly getting trained.” Nancy and Gary found Slumberland


Furniture to be extremely supportive during the startup. The company assisted in everything from educating Nancy on accounting duties to helping each decide what their job titles would be. Adjusting to the New Environment “We were smart. The first day I retired from teaching, I came in and Gary looked at me and said, ‘You know, we could split days.’” Gary and Nancy rarely work the same days. They brought their son, Brett Steffan, on as the assistant store manager three months after opening. “It really has been an amazing opportunity for us,” said Nancy. She loves the interconnections of a small town and the feeling of trust between residents. “My banker is my neighbor and that is what is really neat about Devils Lake.” Another aspect of the business that Nancy takes pride in is the Slumberland Furniture-sponsored 40 Winks Foundation. According to Slumberland Furniture, the 40 Winks Foundation seeks to provide mattresses and beds to children and families who lack these resources to help them attain one of life’s foundation blocks: a full and healthy night’s sleep.

LAKE GEAR IS IN! Embroidery Screen Printing Promo Items

www.creativeimpressions2013.com

“For our grand opening, we were lucky to give 50 beds away to kids and families in need,” said Nancy. In addition to the donations they make on behalf of the 40 Winks Foundation, Nancy and Gary donated beds to the Home for the Holidays program. “Those beds are earmarked for kids in the community that are sleeping on the floor.” Nancy and Gary work with area schools to find out which children in the area are in need of beds. To date, they have donated 99 beds to area children and are working on donating their 100th.

Youʼre on the go ‒ take your bank with you. C’mon get APPy!

With Horizon Financial Bankʼs new mobile app, Horizon e-Mobile, managing your accounts at your convenience has never been easier! With Horizon e-Mobile your mobile device gives you the ability to view your account balances, view transactions and transfer funds between your Horizon Financial Bank accounts and more. Need to deposit a check? Itʼs a snap with the app! Horizon e-Mobile provides the ability to remotely deposit checks into your checking account on the go! Wherever lifeʼs adventures take you, your hometown bank is at your fingertips.

Though owning a furniture store was out of their element, they knew they could tackle the job. “My mom and step-dad started Woodland Resort at 55 years old, and when we started Slumberland Furniture, Gary was 55 as well. We thought, well, if they could do that then we can do this.” [LRW]

Download the free app today. Youʼll be APPy you did!

Munich (701) 682-5331

Osnabrock (701) 496-3482

Devils Lake (701) 665-2020

Bismarck (701) 751-7274

www.HorizonFinancialBank.com girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

23


Carnegie Lofts

Fine, Urban Living within Historic Brick and Mortar Written and photographed by Autumn Graber

“I like history and I like historic buildings; they are more detailed and I’m more detailed. We just go together,” said Paula Anderson, owner of Carnegie Lofts in Devils Lake. The building that once held the books that gave us the much-needed escape from reality or the information necessary to prepare for a science project has now been converted to fully furnished, extended-stay luxury lofts. In 2003, Paula purchased the historic Carnegie Library—once deemed one of the city’s fallout shelters—for $1,000 from the City of Devils Lake. “One of the reasons I got it so [reasonably] from the city is because it needed a lot of work,” said Paula. The building sat empty for a few months after the new library was built a block away. Paula also speculates that her bid was selected because she presented a five-year plan showing her commitment to the building’s upkeep. “In the first two weeks, I had Target Roofing go in the attic and blow in insulation. The heating bill went down by $600 a month.” The purchase of the building fit well with Paula’s business plan at the time. She was in need of more space for her salon and newly developed event planning business. From the time they moved in, they began remodeling the upstairs to accommodate a small event center. “I let people use it for fundraisers and good things for the city.” Once her event planning business—An Elegant Affair—took off, she realized that she couldn’t keep the event center operating while having employees simultaneously traveling around the state 24

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015


5 Stars on Facebook “Following the tour of The Lofts, we all said ‘we are ready to move in, with all the amenities.’ We are blessed to have this option of living in DL.” – Marlene Krein

5 Stars on Facebook “I was blown away! It looked like a magazine photo inside. You did an amazing job! I’m ready to move in!” – Sue Alvestad

to produce events. Consequently, she needed a different purpose for the building. Having already contemplated creating lofts over the past five years, she decided to go through with the plan. “Finally one day I said, ‘yes, we are going to do it!’” Paula consulted with Devils Lake Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Paula Vistad, to confirm there would be a market for this type of service in Devils Lake. They both agreed that even though the niche was small, it was there. The target market includes people just moving to Devils Lake for temporary work, like doctors or oil workers. She also can envision it being a potential nesting place for snow birds who only require a home during the summer months. So, with pencil and graph paper in hand, she finalized the plans she had been scratching out during those five years. “We tried to keep everything as original and historic as possible, including all the book shelves,” she said. She even repurposed parts of old bookshelves that needed to be removed into the trim and cabinets in the kitchen, creating a two-toned, textured look. “My goal while creating girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

25


VENDORS: Granites Unlimited Gleason Construction Sears of Devils Lake Ashley Furniture Closet Crafters Johnson Electric Hasse Plumbing Mid Continent Cabinetry

26

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015


the Carnegie Lofts was first and foremost to maintain the original and historic property while incorporating upscale, modern luxuries. We obviously needed to remove a few historic features, but while doing so, we tried to incorporate these things back into the lofts somehow. One example is we needed to remove some of the 100-year-old original library shelving, which I was not excited about doing. We then repurposed these beautiful pieces of oak back into other areas such as additional trim on the more modern cabinetry, base, and crown molding. We even salvaged some pieces to create bathroom and mantle mirrors and closet shelving. This idea pulled the old and the new together, making the lofts a perfect balance of the old original look and the new modern luxuries. I couldn’t be more excited about how they turned out!” Once she snapped the chalk line and got the nod of approval from contractor, Dennis Gleason, the work began. The main floor was split equally down the middle with a separate entrance for both units. Each unit is a mirror image of the other, except that one unit has an extra bathroom and private back entrance. Each unit has one bedroom with a custom walk-in closet, and both are equipped with an in-unit washer and dryer. The kitchen—Paula’s favorite part of each unit—includes highend appliances from Sears in Devils Lake and beautiful granite counter tops from FM Granites Unlimited. She spent extra time plotting out an area for a wine bar to be included in each unit. Paula is a detail-oriented person, which is why she feels so connected to historic buildings. From the embellished cabinets, down to the pull-out garbage cans, she wanted every detail to be perfect. Paula’s main focus for the project was to create something unique for the City of Devils Lake. “I wanted it to be different and something needed,” she said. “I wanted it to maintain the historical value including upscale luxury living.” For a full list of amenities, go to www.carnegielofts.com. [LRW] girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

27


SKILLED CARE | MEMORY CARE | ASSISTED LIVING

DIY Pedestals Written by Betsy Waldo

It’s a new season and time to start brightening up your home with a new and easy DIY project!

What you’ll need: 620 14th Avenue NE, Devils Lake | (701) 662-4905 | www.eventide.org

-Gorilla Glue or E-606 Glue -Candleholder -Plate

-Glass cloche

LOCAL SERVICE

with a personal touch Providing advanced quality communication services to fit your lifestyle.

TO FIND OUT MORE CALL 662-1100. Apply the glue around the top of the candleholder and center the plate on top of the glue, let dry for as long as the glue instructs and top it with your cloche. You are now ready to add a new decoration to your home that you created! [LRW]

662-1100 gondtc.com 211 22nd St NW, Devils Lake ND 58301 28

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015


Christy Remmick From Behind the Sewing Machine to the Red Carpet Written and photographed by Autumn Graber

Christy Remmick of Devils Lake wanted to create a company from the ground up. Her love for sewing started at the age of eight, when she spent weekends with her grandmother, Lynne, who taught her how to sew. “She was my idol,” said Christy. “I would spend hours and hours with her.” Christy had continued her love for sewing as she grew up, but her competitive nature placed her in the corporate world after graduating from the University of North Dakota. Her husband Robert transferred to dental school, so while the Remmicks lived in the Minneapolis area, Christy worked as a project manager for a software company. “I never thought I would be a corporate ladder person, but I was really addicted to it. I moved up pretty quickly and I had a really goodpaying job.” Some of Christy’s clients included Walmart and Target. “I would do all their training for them and set up their software.”

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

29


After Robert finished school, they moved back to Grand Forks where she was able to work from home, but still had to travel a lot for her career. They had their first child, Hunter, by then, and her travel schedule proved to be too much with the frequent flights between Grand Forks and Minneapolis added to her trips. As a result, she switched to a local software company in Grand Forks and quickly climbed the ladder there, too. Robert and Christy welcomed twins, Riley and Emersyn, in December of 2009. The pregnancy was difficult, requiring Christy to stay in the hospital for two months before the twins were born. “They had a fifty percent survival rate,” said Christy. Robert was working as a dentist at a community clinic in Grand Forks, when he and Christy realized their chance to move back to Devils Lake—where they first met at Lake Region State College—existed in Robert’s opportunity to purchase Dr. Whitney’s practice. “Robert always wanted to move back here,” she said. “It was a whirlwind two months.” During her stint in the corporate world and subsequent focus on their growing family, Christy took a break from sewing, except for the occasional need to make new curtains in the kids’ bedrooms. Shortly after the family’s move to Devils Lake, Christy decided that it was too difficult to work in the software industry while raising a family the way she wanted. “I was always stressed,” she recalls. However, her retirement was short-lived. “I could sit still for a month,” she laughed. “When I was able to stay home with the kids was when I was able to get back into crafting. I broke out my sewing machine again and made stuffed animals. That was how Rilos & MiMi got started.” 30

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

Her determination has helped get her products on the shelves of many boutiques around North Dakota and other parts of the country. The first store that started selling her products was Adley Ann’s in Grand Forks. While a friend of Christy’s from Grand Forks was shopping in Adley Ann’s, the shop owner noticed her custom diaper clutch and asked where she got it. “I went there, super nervous, with a Rubbermaid container full of products and she said ‘I’ll take it all.’” Since then, Rilos and MiMi products can be found at Boots & Heels in Devils Lake, Red Silo Studio and Wizard of Kids in Fargo, Tinee & Trendee and Mommies 2B in Bismarck, Lulu Lane in Minot, in addition to Scooterbug Boutique in London, Ohio and Bossi Bambini in Newport Beach, California.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Christy started out by sewing items that her family used on a daily basis. Products like diaper clutches, key chains, and snack pouches quickly caught on with her friends and family. Then, Christy decided to go live with her company and launched her Etsy store in September of 2012. “The first thing I ever sold was the key chains,” she said. “I remember I was in Leevers grocery store and my phone ‘cha-chinged’ at me and that was my first sale. I remember I called my mom and Robert right away to tell them, ‘I sold something on Etsy!’” Because the key chains made great stocking stuffers, Christy sold 50 of them in the month of December alone. “I would carry a Ziploc bag full of them everywhere—to the doctor’s office and my son’s hockey practice in order to get them done.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Christy didn’t realize how popular the sewing trend had become and how many people craved locally-made products like hers. In the beginning, she sold toys and clothes that her kids had outgrown on eBay to secure funds for purchasing fabric to sew her products. “I’ve never borrowed any money to start my company,” she smiled.

Christy joined the Artisan Group, an entertainment marketing organization that helps introduce Hollywood professionals to the handcrafted movement. They provide businesses like Rilos and MiMi the chance to introduce their products to celebrities and industry leaders. This year, she was asked by the Artisan Group to supply 100 makeup bags to the MTV Awards on April 12.


Christy has the “go big or go home” philosophy in business. “I’m very competitive, so when I decided to do something, I want to see how big I can do it.” “Getting a chance to be part of the celebrity gift lounge honoring the MTV movie awards was such an amazing and unique opportunity for Rilos & MiMi. A lot of great attention was given to the company and the makeup bags because of it. We gained tons of new fans, customers, and even a few new retail partners.” Rilos & MiMi is focused on growth for 2015. Christy has hired Photo Credit Artisan Group: Stassi Shroeder from Bravo’s Vandeepump Rules with a Rilos some contract sewers to allow her time to step away from and MiMi makeup bag at the MTV Awards. sewing and develop the business. In addition to the orders she receives from partner stores, she sells her products on the Utah that gives them as gifts company website at www.rilosandmimi.com, her Etsy store, to new mothers. and provides large amounts of diaper clutches to a hospital in The name Rilos & MiMi was derived from nicknames her son, Hunter, gave her twin daughters at a young age. Her daughters are featured in most of her marketing materials to highlight the products. “The girls love the idea of the company. They love taking pictures,” she smiled. “They are my mini moguls.” [LRW]

Trail maps available at local business or

www.nelsonco.org

Special Event Rentals

www.anelegantaffairnd.com

Devils Lake, ND girlonfireonline.com

may 2015

31


32

girlonfireonline.com

may 2015


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.