November/December 2018

Refreshed Living: Financial Well-Being: It’s the little things

Maybe it’s because I’m getting older, but as I think about giving thanks and celebrating the holidays, it truly is “the little things” for which I’m most thankful … a sincere

compliment, a hand-written Thank You note, a “free hug” coupon from my kid. The material things mean less as the years fly by.

Budgeting our time and money goes back to ancient times. Even the Bible references, “For

where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matthew 6:21).” Where is your treasure? Is it with the people around you or is it with your possessions? Of course we all have those things that mean a lot to us (perhaps your worn Vikings blanket?!), but they are likely connected to a memory with someone special.

In this issue of Mower Refreshed, we’ll explore the concept of financial well-being, especially

during the holiday season. Learn about budgeting, balancing and buffets – money, time, and food.

Next month, we’ll focus on Physical Well-being in the Workplace. We spend so much time with our “work family,” it’s important to make your environment a healthy one. Let me know if you have an idea you’d like to share.

Here’s to your well-being,

Sara Lee Mower Refreshed Coordinator Mayo Clinic Health System lee.sara@mayo.edu

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

County Connections It’s been a busy year for SHIP, making Mower County healthier.

Refreshed Spotlight Salvation Army Pathway of Hope provides a light to a better future.

5 Minutes With Meet Lori Espe, and learn why she does what she does.

Financial Well-Being Balancing time is as important as balancing your budget this holiday season.

Eat Refreshed Austin Hy-Vee dietitian offers tips to manage and enjoy the holiday buffets.

Calendar of Events Looking for activities to spend your time together with family and friends? Check out these local events.

The Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) of Mower County works to create good health throughout Mower County by increasing opportunities for healthy eating, active living and tobacco-free living. SHIP provides tools necessary to assist the local community in identifying where health inequities are taking place and then helps to address them.

Mower County SHIP awarded more than $55,000 this year in mini-grants to help fund projects throughout the county. Community-led improvements associated with healthy eating, physical activity and reduced commercial tobacco use were accomplished for schools, worksites, businesses, health care and at community events.

2018 completed SHIP projects include • Hydration stations and lactation rooms at schools and businesses• An upgraded student pantry at Riverland that allows for storing perishable

food items • Heathier food choices and vending options for employees at worksites• Signage, increased access, and a fix-it station for the bike trail throughout the

county• Outdoor equipment for Gerard students to be active during the winter• A new Mother‘s Room that Mower County Fairgrounds for mothers to

comfortably breastfeed during the fair and for all other events held at the Fairgrounds

Mower County SHIP also provides education, training and resources on health topics related to tobacco, food access, walking, biking and breastfeeding. Funding is available for efforts that focus on changing policy, systems and environments that increase opportunities for healthy eating and, physical activity and reduce tobacco use/exposure. Community organizations interested in funding can fill out a mini-grant application. For more information, contact Chris Weis, Community Health Specialist, Mower County Health & Human Services, chrisw@co.mower.mn.us.

County Connections:

A year-end salute to SHIP fundingBy Jane Knutson, Mower County Public Health Planner/Educator Lead

County Connections:

A year-end salute to SHIP fundingEat Refreshed: Healthy Eating during the HolidaysThe holidays are a time to gather with friends and family and — let’s be honest — enjoy all of your favorite holiday foods! But for someone who is trying to avoid weight gain, the worry over added holiday calories can cause a lot of unnecessary stress.

Recent research indicates that we gain an average of 1-2 pounds during the holiday season. Unfortunately, we tend to hang on to that one pound and pick up another, and another. So where do we go wrong? Those added calories come from constant nibbling/grazing instead of taking one plate, big portion sizes, high calorie recipes, and inactivity.

Megan Groh is the local Austin Hy-Vee dietitian. Registered Dietitians offer a credible source of food and nutrition informa-tion. Hy-Vee Nutrition Services include nutrition tours, health screenings, medical nutrition therapy, cooking classes, and kid’s events.

Control portion sizes• Don’t let foods touch on the plate.

• Compromise – Pick one or two starches. Mashed potatoes or stuffing? Creamy fruit salads or pie?

• Load up on fresh salads and vegetables.

• Eat slowly and socialize while eating.

• Survey the offerings before getting in line – PLAN.

Don’t “save up” your calories. This strategy usually backfires by bingeing and over-indulgence.• Eat fiber and protein at every meal and snack the

day of the party. Open-faced egg sandwich and fresh fruit

• Have a light snack before so you are not overly hungry when you arrive. Broth-based soup, salad or half a sandwich

Avoid tricky beverages• Empty stomach + alcohol = increase in appetite.

• Try drinking your beverage in a tall skinny glass – this tricks the eyes into thinking you have more.

• Drink a glass of water or club soda between drinks.

• Opt for lower-calorie beverages or mixers.

Get active• Bundle up and go on a walk with the whole family

post-dinner.

• Play a game that gets you moving. My grandma used to have a Nintendo Wii and we used to play boxing, bowling, or baseball before dinner—that got us to work up a sweat.

Follow these healthy holiday tips to avoid weight gain

Refreshed Spotlight: Pathway of Hope program offers light for the futureBy Lori Espe, Salvation Army

“There’s never been a better day to take the first step. With the Salvation Army’s

Pathway of Hope, a better future is possible.”

The Salvation Army team walks alongside you on your family’s journey.

Pathway of Hope offers

• A personalized action plan

• Progress charting

• Goal setting

• A network of support

• A sense of community

• Holistic programs

• Spiritual guidance

Pathway of Hope connects with community resources, including:

• Job training

• Health services

• Childcare and education

• Housing options

• Legal services

For the past four years, The Salvation Army in Austin has offered an innovative family mentoring program called Pathway of Hope.

Pathway of Hope is for families who want to escape poverty. A case manager works with these families to make positive changes in their lives by assisting them in setting goals and creating plans of action. Most are single-parent households.

After joining the program, each family meets with their case manager on a weekly basis. These meetings help the families stay on task with their goals while allowing them a chance to talk about their week, good or bad.

Identifying goalsSome of the most common goals include finding a job, getting a better job, securing a place to live, and obtaining a driver’s license. Sometimes they need help identifying resources to obtain their goal, such as applying for Section 8 housing. Often they receive referrals to agency partners for additional help.

Pathway of Hope is an effective program because it is based on setting goals that are associated with specific dates. This model creates urgency, accountability and – once the goal is reached – a big sense of accomplishment. Without a date, a goal is just an idea.

Set your own goalsAs the holiday season approaches, be thoughtful about setting your own goals. For example, think about creating a ceiling on how much money you will spend on gifts, or create an eating strategy so you won’t gain weight overeating turkey and stuffing or Christmas cookies. You will thank yourself after the holidays are over.

Goals are so important in life. As Mohamed Ali once said, “What keeps me going is goals.”

Lori Espe works as a case manager at the Austin Salvation Army where she’s been for 19 years. A lifelong Austin resident, Lori found her calling to help people and has completed training in case management work through the Salvation Army.

5 Minutes With ... Lori Espe

Lori Espe, Case ManagerSalvation Army

Lori Espe works as a case manager at the Austin Salvation Army where she’s been for 19 years. A lifelong Austin resident, Lori found her calling to help people and has completed training in case management work through the Salvation Army. Take a few minutes to get to know Lori.

• What do you do as a case manager? Every day is different. I work with our programs, manage the seasonal distributions, assist with clothing and furniture needs. We operate on a walk-in basis, so I never know what the day is going to bring. As the world changes, our programs change. Our programs are based on community need, so every Salvation Army offers different programs based on their particular community.

• How did you get in to this work? I had been attending church at the Salvation Army and heard that the former case manager was retiring. I had never done this kind of work before, but had been a teacher’s aide at school and really enjoyed helping people.

• What do you find the most rewarding about your job? I love seeing people become more stable … stronger. That’s why I love the Pathway of Hope program. It makes my day when people I’ve helped come back and say, “I don’t need anything – I just came to say “hi.” We were able to offer help when they needed it.

• What advice can you offer others to achieve financial well-being? Create a budget. Regardless of your income, it’s so important to set a budget. Record your purchases. Track your spending. Ask yourself, “Do I need this? Or want it?” It’s so important.

• What is your favorite food at the holiday table? Oh I can’t name a favorite! I love the whole meal! More importantly, I love having my family around the table. It’s a time of gathering and enjoying traditions.

Refreshed Spotlight: Pathway of Hope program offers light for the future

SMART Transit is owned and operated by and is sponsored by

For Immediate Release: November 8, 2018

SMART Transit Announces Shuttle Service between Albert Lea and Austin, Minnesota

SMART Transit, a division of Cedar Valley Services, Inc, in partnership with: - The city of Albert Lea, MN - Freeborn County, MN - The city of Austin, MN

- Mower County, MN - Mayo Clinic Health System - Riverland Community College

Is pleased to announce the addition of a shuttle bus to provide round trip service between Mayo Clinic Health System campuses in the city of Albert Lea, MN and the city of Austin, MN. “Austin and Albert Lea share a long history of interaction between our communities and ensuring transit options exist for patients from both Cities helps support quality health care accessibility. We appreciate the partnership that allows for this connection between Mayo facilities and hope that it can lead to other ridership options as we build the program. MNDOT and SMART’s recognition of this need is greatly appreciated.” Craig Clark, City Administrator, City of Austin

Beginning in January of 2019, continual round trip service is expected between 8am and 5pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays along with limited additional trips on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Costs for the shuttle service will be $3 per person, per one-way trip, with the remaining cost per trip covered through a grant from the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Additional details and information will be available for publishing in early December, 2018.

Questions, comments or concerns about any of our services may be directed through our dispatch office at

1-855-SMART-B1 (1-855-762-7821) or

SmartService@CedarValleyServices.org

See you on the bus!

“Whatdya get for Christmas?” Remember bragging or pouting when you came back to school after the New Year? Perhaps you could name every part of the G.I. Joe or Barbie collection. Now think back to last Christmas. Could you answer the same question? What did you get Aunt Maisie? Would she remember?

She likely would remember the time spent together, even watching the latest generation of children play with their new toys. But her greatest joy was the time together.

Time is money

Think of our expressions: How will you spend your time? Can you save time? Can you waste time? Can you make time? Can you be timely in the time spent, that you saved for friends and loved ones without wasting it? Of course, if you are with loved ones, how is it possible to waste time? (Maybe if you sit and stare at the clock …)

If you think of time as money, then it needs to be balanced just like any checkbook. Balance in one’s life is often the key to improved mental health, especially during the holidays.

Time is something we all have, no more, no less than anyone else. Shall we spend it here and there on the trappings, the material aspects of the days, or spend it with the people who are worth far more than the latest “giddy-gap” with the spinning “what’s-it” on top.

Spending time together

Does Christmas have to mean frenzied forays to the discount-high end store, or fretting about shipping dates? Consider gathering your people and going to a movie, dining out, skating at the local rink, caroling in your neighborhood, hiking or cross-country skiing in the woods, playing cards or a board game or maybe watching those Christmas specials for the umpteenth time. You’ll be together and likely not spending a lot of money doing so.

The season of giving

Spend a little time, and maybe a little money, but spend it together. During this season and for all of your days, your gift of time is the most precious gift you have to give. Give your time to others generously. More than any expensive gift, you and the receiver will be happier about the time you give.

Anita Bissinger, LICSW is in her sixth year at the Mayo Health Clinic Systems of Albert Lea and Austin. She works with Integrated Behavior Health providing psychotherapy and general social work for Primary Care patients in Albert Lea. Besides spending time with her family and dogs, she finds quilting to be a great stress reliever.

Spend more time, less money, this holiday seasonBy Anita Bissinger, LICSW, Mayo Clinic Health System

ACHIEVEMENT,CLOSENESS & ENJOYMENTThere are three areas to keep in balance, Achievement, Closeness and Enjoyment. Achievement is setting attainable goals. Closeness it the time we spend with others. Enjoyment is finding the joy in what we do. “ACE” Logging is a way of “balancing the time checkbook” through monitoring where your time is spent and working to keep a balance between all three areas.

The goal is to have a pie with equal pieces.

• Where do you spend your time right now?

• How do you want to spend your time?

Make the Drop Program promotes safe use, safe storage and safe disposal of unneeded prescription and over-the-counter medications.

WHY is it important?• A growing concern is the abuse, by youth and others, of medications not

prescribed to them. Safe disposal make medications less available. • Evidence is increasing of the damage to the environment due to unsafe

disposal of medications. Proper disposal helps protect our soil and water.

WHEN is the drop box location open?The Make the Drop box is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

WHERE is the drop box located?Law Enforcement Center located at 201 1st Street N.E., Austin, Minn.

WHAT do I do?• Leave medication in the original container• Remove your name or other identifying information• Leave the name of the medication on the container• Drop the medication in the disposal box opening

Make our county “Mower” safe: Make the Drop and dispose of unused prescriptions.

The Salvation Army will start accepting Christmas Basket & Toy Shop Applications Friday, Nov. 30 and Dec. 3 through 7.

Deadline to check in for Christmas Assistance will be Friday, Dec. 7 at 3:30 p.m. No applications will be taken after the deadline date.

Application hours are:• 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m.

• If unable to make it during this time, please call 507-437-4566 to make an appointment.

Please bring the following with you:

• Picture ID

• Proof of address

• Last 30 days income and benefit information

• If a new member(s) has been added to your household, please bring verification of the household member(s) such as a social security card or birth certificate

If you have not received any services from The Salvation Army since 2015, please check with receptionist or call 507-437-4566 to find out what you need to bring.

Salvation Army Christmas Assistance Program

Salvation Army Christmas Assistance Program

SCIENCE FAIR MENTORINGVolunteers are needed to help 3rd and 4th grade students at Southgate Elementary in Austin with their experiments! You can volunteer as much or as little as your schedule allows.

Volunteer Times: Conducting Experiments, Jan. 7 – Feb. 1 Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Build Boards & Practice Presentations Mon., Feb. 18 – Thurs., Feb. 21, 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Requirements: • No science background necessary, support is

provided to mentors throughout the program. • Complete a free background check through Austin

Public Schools.

For more information and apply, visit www.sciencefairmentoring.org/mentors-1/ or contact Catherine Haslag at ScienceFairMentorMN@gmail.com.

Volunteer to help students with their experiments

Save the Date – Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2019Wellness@work

Date: Wednesday, Jan. 16 Time: Noon to 1 p.m. Location: Riverland Community College-Austin Campus, West Building RM #A237 | Parking is available in the North parking lot

Learn how simple changes at your workplace can make a big difference in your overall health. Occupational health professionals from Mayo Clinic Health System will discuss the importance of having a healthy workplace and how you can be an advocate in your environment to promote health and well-being among your colleagues. Learn about different techniques to help minimize injury and feel good while at work.

Presenter Information: Occupational Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System

REGISTRATION REQUIREDThis event is free and open to the public. One continuing education credit is available for a $5 fee.

To register call 507-460-1706 or visit the Community Education website

Lunch and LearnA time to connect and develop solutions together!

NGAGE | QUIP | MPOWER

Lunch is provided by Mayo Clinic Health System.

Upcoming Events: Save the date!

• Kids Studio Portraits (ages 4 to 14) Saturday, Dec. 1 | 10:30 a.m. to Noon Austin Artworks Center ($5 registration) For more information, call 507-434-0934.

• Festival of Nativities Children’s crafts, scavenger hunt, unique nativity scenes and holiday refreshments. Saturday, Dec. 1 | 4 to 8 p.m. Westminister Presbyterian Church, Austin

• Bowling with Santa Jaycee Fundraiser Fundraiser for ‘Christmas for Kids’ which purchases gifts for children in the Austin area. Sunday, Dec. 2 | 1 p.m. Echo Lanes, Austin ($12 for a team of 4) www.facebook.com/JCIAustin

• Rhythmic Circus Holiday Shuffle Sunday, Dec. 2 | 2 to 4 p.m. Paramount Theatre austinareaarts.org

• Set Memories Aglow Tree lighting ceremony in lobby of the medical center Sunday, Dec. 2 | 5 p.m. mayoclinichealthsystem.org

• Christmas in the East Annual celebration with fun for all ages! Tuesday, Dec. 5 | 4 to 7 p.m. austincoc.com

• Miracle on 34th Street Additional showtimes available through Dec. 9 Wednesday, Dec. 5 | 7 to 9 p.m. Frank W. Bridges Theatre - Riverland For tickets, call 507-433-0595.

• Muppet Christmas Carol Movie Purchase tickets ($5) at concessions. Wednesday, Dec. 5 | 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre, Austin

• SPAM® Can Decoration Thursday, Dec. 6 | 4 to 7 p.m. SPAM® Museum, 101 3rd Ave NE, Austin, MN

• A Handmade Christmas Friday, Dec. 7 | 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hormel Historic Home Purchase tickets at hormelhistorichome.org.

• Christmas Wonderland Craft Show Saturday, Dec. 8 | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Holiday Inn & Conference Center, Austin

• Christmas in the County Bake sale, Santa, kids crafts and wagon rides. Saturday, Dec. 8 | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mower County Historical Society

• Charlie Brown Christmas Play Saturday, Dec. 8 | 7 to 8: 30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9 | 2 p.m. Matchbox Children’s Theatre Paramount Theatre austinareaarts.org

• Austin Symphony Orchestra Sunday, Dec. 9 | 2 to 4 p.m. Knowlton Auditorium, Austin High School austinmnsymphony.org

• History Happy Hour Celebrate in early 1900’s Christmas style, make a victorian ornament and traditional holiday cookie. Monday, Dec. 10 | 5:30 to 8 p.m. hormelhistorichome.org

• Elf Movie Purchase tickets ($5) at concessions. Wednesday, Dec. 12 | 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre, Austin

• Volunteer Meet and Greet Learn more about volunteering at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvre’s Tuesday, Dec. 18 | 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Piano Waiting Room/Lobby near the Lab mayoclinichealthsystem.org For more activities and things to do in the Austin area visit austinmn.com.

• Engage multiple community stakeholders in creating a culture of wellness in Mower County.

• Equip community groups and individuals to intentionally create conditions that foster healthy environments: making the healthy choices easier and more accessible.

• Empower community groups and individuals to positively impact their personal health and wellness through behaviors and attitudes.

Mower Refreshed Guiding Principles

Ways to connect with Mower RefreshedEmail: connect@MowerRefreshed.org Web: www.MowerRefreshed.orgTwitter: @MowerRefreshed

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mowerrefreshedYoutube: www.youtube.com/mowerrefreshed

To unsubscribe, email connect@mowerrefreshed.org

Wellness WednesdaysGet a simple reminder to live well every Wednesday with a refreshed tip and fresh, healthy recipe to test out at home. Click here to subscribe and experience a midweek boost that keeps the focus on health where you live, work, play and learn. Make your midweek more refreshing! Don’t want to subscribe but still want inspiration? These Refreshed Tips are shared through Facebook and Twitter as well.

Mower Refreshed Team Meetings Collective Team Meetings1st Wednesday of the month Noon to 1 p.m. 408 4th Street NW, Austin

Contact the community engagement coordinator to get more info on how you and/or your organization might benefit from being at the table.

More information? connect@MowerRefreshed.org