ALBERT LEA

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

magazine

FIND YOUR
SEASON OF
COLOR

THE
MAGIC
OF SANTA
 EDITOR’S NOTE
Join in on spreading the joy this season
Editor Sarah Stultz lives in Albert Lea with her
husband, Jason, and son, Landon. She loves
interior decorating and gardening.
Got ideas?
This is our 10th year! We at Albert
Lea Magazine want to hear what you
think, and we need your brightest
ideas for coming issues. Favorite
musicians? Finest artists? Beautiful
home? Best storytellers? Local
nightlife? We are open-minded. Call
Sarah Stultz at 379-3433. Feel free to
write a letter, too. Our address is on
the right.
2 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE
ALBERTmagazine
LEA
PUBLISHER
Crystal Miller
Working on this issue every year gets me excited for
EDITORIAL
the holidays that are just around the corner. Editor
Whether it’s because of the decorating, attending Sarah Stultz
holiday events, gathering together with family or just
Contributing Writers
the spirit of goodwill in the air, the Christmas season is Linda Evenson
my favorite. Alex Guerrero
For this issue I was thrilled at the idea of featuring Sarah Stultz
one of those individuals in our community who is quite
Contributing Photographers
busy at this time of year spreading joy and smiles to Amber Von Haden Photography
children — and adults alike — at various events and Sarah Stultz
happenings.
ART
Bob Yaw has taken on the role of Santa Claus Layout Design
seriously in the last few years, and if you’re at an event Kim Ehrich
slated to have the Jolly Old Elf himself in attendance,
SALES & PROMOTION
he’s likely the one you’ll see. On top of community Sales Representatives
events, he hosts photo sessions on the lawn outside of Renee Citsay
his house, which have grown immensely, drawing in Daniel Gullickson
people even from neighboring communities. Amanda Nelson
I appreciate his service in providing smiles to area NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022
children. Volume 10, Number 6
For this issue we also were on the lookout for five
EDITORIAL
people in the community who would share their ideas CORRESPONDENCE:
for decorating a fireplace mantle. The people we found Editor, Albert Lea Magazine,
created beautiful displays that we photographed for the 808 W. Front St.
issue and hope that you can use to inspire you when Albert Lea, MN 56007
decorating your own home this holiday season. The ONLINE:
possibilities really are limited, but these designs are a albertleamagazine.com
great start to get you thinking. or facebook.com/
albertleamagazine
The issue also has a decorating feature for our DIY
article, and our recipe is one that’s sure to be a hit
during holiday entertaining. © 2022
Whatever your plans are during this upcoming All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be
season, remember to keep spreading the holiday cheer reprinted or reproduced
that’s already in the air. The holidays can be a difficult without written permission.
time for some, but we have a kind, generous For comments, suggestions or
story ideas call 507-379-3433.
community. To purchase advertising,
Don’t let that feeling of goodwill leave at the end of call 507-379-3427.
the year. Let it be something that sticks with you To subscribe,
call 507-379-3422.
throughout the year.
Until next time, may you and yours have a blessed
Christmas season.
See you in the new year!
— Sarah Stultz
RECENTLY
ENGAGED OR
MARRIED?

Submit your recent engagement or wedding

picture to be featured in the Albert Lea Magazine.
Email photos news@albertleatribune.com
or drop them off at the Albert Lea Tribune,
808 West Front Street.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 3
ALBERT LEA | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

on the cover features

CAPTURING THE FINDING CONFIDENCE GET YOUR HOME INTO
MAGIC OF SANTA IN COLOR THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT
Albert Lea man enjoys bringing joy to Business uses science to assign a Ideas for decorating your mantle for
area children in Christmas role season of color to each person Thanksgiving, Christmas holidays

38 30 44
ALBERT LEA | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

contents ALBERT LEA Bride

Seen
08 SUNFLOWER FIELDS
WE ARE LOOKING
10 OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK
FOR BRIDES TO BE
12 BIG ISLAND RENDEZVOUS
IN OUR NEXT
8 Departments
BRIDAL ISSUE
If you are interested email
sarah.stultz@albertleatribune.com.
16 DIY: HOLIDAY DECOR
20 SAVOR: ROASTED GARLIC
WHIPPED FETA CROSTINI

All the rest

26 BOOKS: GREAT READS

28 STREAMING MADNESS

50 LOOKING BACK

20 52
56
EVENTS CALENDAR

WHY I LOVE ALBERT LEA

52

ALBERT LEA
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022
ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

magazine

Next Issue
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

The mostOn theorthopedic

precise cover:
January 2023
FIND YOUR
care in Albert Bob
Lea. Yaw as

56
SEASON OF
COLOR
Santa holding an
Do you have discomfort and mobility issues associated with joint pain or an injury?
Mayo Clinic Health System provides innovative orthopedic care that uses greater
precision for a quicker recovery — with many patients leaving the hospital the
same day.

infant. — Amber
Virtual and in-person appointments now make it easier than ever for patients THE
MAGIC
in Albert Lea to receive personalized orthopedic care, tailored to their needs.

Von Haden
Photography OF SANTA
VOL. 10 NO. 6

Call 507-229-2112 to schedule an appointment.

mayoclinichealthsystem.org

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 5
 St. John’s Lutheran Community
Knutson Place Apartments
on Luther Place
24-hour Emergency Call Service
Scheduled Enriching Social Activities and Outings
Transportation to Local Medical Appointments
Additional Meals Available
droom
Many More Services Available One-be s available
Call 507-373-8226 Today! ent
apartm
NOW
a tour
call for 3-8226
507-37

901 Luther Place and 1761 Eagle View Circle

Albert Lea, MN
507-373-8226
www.stjohnsofalbertlea.org

6 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 7
 SEEN | SUNFLOWER FIELDS

2 3

The Fish Sunflower field was open in late September through early October in rural Manchester. This was the third year for the event, which this year
was dedicated to various causes related to cancer.

(1) Photo by Ruth Olson (2) Photo by Danielle Schroeder (3) Jordan, Maggie, Maren and Jason Buendorf. Photo by Kelly Fitzgerald/Kelly &
Matt Photography (4) Addison Geesman. Photo by Lindsay Geesman (5) Photo by Lindsay Geesman

4 5

8 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

6

(6) Yaneiri and Wendy Rivera (7) Abigail

Schaper and Spencer Wacholz. Photo by Kelly
Fitzgerald/Kelly & Matt Photography (8)
Freya Folven (9) Huxley Atz (10) Miranda
8 9 and Austin Perkins (11) Photo by Jacob “The
Fox” Schlichter

10 11

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 9
 SEEN | OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK

1 2

The Out of the Darkness Walk

was Oct. 24, starting at Trinity
Lutheran Church. The event
raises awareness for suicide
prevention and awareness.

(1) Leland Johnson, Jean

Pestorious and Darcie Gilster
(2) Lynn Stuewe, Ashley Nelson
and Bob Stuwe (3) Dustin and
Laila Barr (4) Loryn and Daxynl
Whalen (5) Hailey Barnes,
Kaidin Barnes, McKenzie
Romer and Zadie Daniels (6)
Steve and Macie Hansen

5 6

10 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

 >> IT’S THE
TO OPEN A CHECKING OR SAVINGS ACCOUNT WITH US!
perfect time
OPEN A NEW ACCOUNT AND GET $10
GIFT CARD FOR YOURSELF...
PLUS: we will also donate $10 towards the All Together
Albert Lea Inclusive Playground & Miracle Field!
COMMUNITY OWNED. COMMUNITY FOCUSED.
Get your $10 Gift card to one of three options: ALBERT LEA OFFICE 1452 W. Main St. 507-373-1945
112 on Broadway, Whimzy Toy Store, and HARTLAND OFFICE 601 N. Broadway 507-845-2233
Homestead Boutique. FREEBORN OFFICE 214 5th Ave. 507-863-2371
Member FDIC NMLS 554275
Offer valid through December 30th 2022. One donation and gift card per
tax ID number.
www.arcadian.bank

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 11
 SEEN | BIG ISLAND RENDEZVOUS

1 3

The 36th annual Big Island Rendezvous &

Festival took place the first weekend in October
at Bancroft Bay Park. The event is the Midwest’s
largest historical reenactment of early America.

(1) Cory, Logan and Kyra Reps (2) Nicole

Dualt, Theresa Holt and Ron Holt (3) Jada
Alphs, Scott Crosbie, Banning Korfhage and
Warren Fett (4) Alyssa Menz spins dyed
sheep’s wool. (5) Lydia Blustin, Elsa
McEllistrem, Anastasia Blustin and Roman
Larson (6) Kaylin, Angela, Killian and Kane
Whalen (7) Steven Mallan, Susan Huffman
and Aubrey Birk (8) An entertainer balances
on the top of a ladder. (9) Alice, Benjamin,
Linda, Elizabeth and Asher LaVallie (10)
Nicole, Clara and Nina Morrison and Amber
Busall and Adelyn Johnson

12 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

5 6

7 8

9 10

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 13
 HERE FOR
YOUR
LONG TERM
INVESTMENT
SUCCESS!
Call Us TODAY!
507-379-3729
709 Wilson Street
Securities offered through Registered Representatives of LPL Financial, a
broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. LPL. Not affiliated with North Iowa Advisors
14 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE
Keeping You Connected
Every Which Way
Unlimited article access anytime, from anywhere, on any device.
In a time when many communities are losing their only trusted local news source,
we're more committed than ever to bring you all the news and information you need,
as it happens, in more ways than ever before.

Our mission is local news and how if affects our entire community. That's who we are.
We live here with you, but we need your investment in local journalism to make it happen.

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AlbertLeaTribune.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 15
 DIY | HOLIDAY DECOR BY HOLLY MILLER

DECK THE HALLS WITH THIS

SIMPLE HOLIDAY DECOR
What you will need:
3 styrofoam cones of varying heights

Sweater cable yarn in three different

colors and thicknesses

Hot glue

1 Take yarn of one color and roll into a circle

large enough to cover the top of the cone.

2 Using hot glue, attach the yarn to the top

of one of the cones.

3 Roll yarn tightly around cone.

4 Cut yarn once length of cone is covered.

5 Glue end of yarn at bottom of cone.

Repeat with the other cones until three
trees are made. Display with additional
holiday decor or as desired.

Holly Miller and her husband, Clint,

have owned B&B Cafe in Albert Lea for
18 1/2 years. Aside from the restaurant,
she has a love of decorating that she said
began when she worked for a flower shop
in Tucson, Arizona, many years ago. She
enjoys working on do-it-yourself projects.
16 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 17
18 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE
 inform.
involve.
inspire.

Albert Lea Tribune

808 W. Front St. | Albert Lea, MN
507.373-1411

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 19
SAVOR | ROASTED GARLIC WHIPPED FETA CROSTINI
 AN EASY APPETIZER TO ADD

HOLIDAY CHEER
Before the big meal, gifts and cherished moments at the family table, almost every
holiday party starts with an important tradition: breaking the ice. This year, you can serve
up a smile and start the party with this crave-inducing appetizer to get everyone talking.
The sweet touch of Roasted Garlic Whipped Feta Crostini can be your delightful way to
brighten the season of gifts and gatherings. With its creamy cheesiness from a homemade
whipped topping boasting the richness of feta and whole milk, it’s an easy and tasty way to
invite friends, family and neighbors into your home. This shareable treat comes together in
a cinch while adding pops of cheerful color to plates and platters.

Roasted Garlic Whipped Feta Crostini

Ingredients
1 bulb garlic (about 12 cloves)
4 tablespoons olive oil, plus additional
for drizzling, divided
1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
1 1/2 teaspoons pepper divided
32 baguette slices
8 ounces feta cheese
1/2 cup whole milk, plus additional, if
necessary (optional)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1/4 cup parsley, minced

Directions
Preheat oven to 400° F. Slice garlic bulb in half, exposing garlic heads, and place in
center of large piece of tinfoil. Drizzle each half with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon
salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Wrap foil tightly around garlic and roast until caramelized,
about 30 minutes.
Place baguette slices on large baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake on second rack
in oven until golden brown about 10 minutes; set aside.
In high-speed food processor, pulse feta cheese, milk, lemon juice, remaining salt,
remaining pepper and roasted garlic cloves until whipped and creamy, adding more milk as
needed to reach desired consistency. Check for seasoning and adjust, to taste.
To serve, spread each baguette slice with whipped feta and sprinkle with pomegranate
seeds and minced parsley.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 21
SHOP LOCAL
albert lea
 Attorney
ALLAN L. HALVORSEN
Goldman, Sturtz & HalvorSen

Wills | Probate | PoWers of attorney

HealtH Care DireCtives
real estate | transfer on DeatH DeeDs

137 North Broadway Ave. | Albert Lea, MN

507-373-1409
 SHOP LOCAL
albert lea

Interested in seeing your business on the Shop Local page in the Albert Lea magazine?
Call Renee at 507.379.3430.
24 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE
Request your consultation today:
publisher@albertleatribune.com
 BOOKS | GREAT READS

BOOKS YOU CAN’T

LIVE WITHOUT
“Fostered”
By Tori Hope Petersen
Review by Erin Stoneking

Officially released on Oct. 15, “Fostered” is a memoir of former Albert Lean

Tori Hope Petersen’s life. Petersen is a wife, mother to two biological children and
one adopted son, a foster parent, foster youth advocate and public speaker. In
“Fostered,” she shares her story of her time living in foster care, starting with some
of her earliest life memories, to being a state champion in track, to how she is using
her experiences to serve others today. Petersen has defied statistical odds, both as a
biracial woman and as a former foster youth. Beyond her foster system experiences,
Petersen also uses her memoir as a tool to share her testimony of her faith in God.
Although Petersen has faced much adversity in her life, she chooses to love Jesus
Christ and love people.
First, I must offer a trigger warning, as Petersen does in the beginning of the
book. If you have been a part of the foster care system or have been affected by
abuse, please consider carefully if this book is a good fit for you to read. What
I enjoyed most about “Fostered” is the real, raw emotions you can feel behind
Petersen’s words. I don’t have any personal experience regarding foster care, so it
was also an educational experience for me. It is a compelling story and moved me
to a better understanding of why we need to love each other. Bonus: At 161 pages,
it is a fast read. I normally take months to finish a book; however, I could not put
“Fostered” down and read it cover to cover in under 48 hours.

“The Quarry”
By Jess Lourey

Killers hiding in plain sight. Small-town secrets. A girl who knows too much. From
the Amazon Charts bestselling author of “Unspeakable Things” and “Bloodline” comes
a nerve-twisting novel inspired by a shocking true crime.
For the teens of one close-knit community, summer means late-night swimming
parties at the quarry, the county fair, and venturing into the tunnels beneath the city.
But for two best friends, it’s not all fun and games.
Heather and Brenda have a secret. Something they saw in the dark. Something they can’t
forget. They’ve decided to never tell a soul. But their vow is tested when their friend disappears — the second girl to
vanish in a week. And yet the authorities are reluctant to investigate.
Heather is terrified that the missing girls are connected to what she and Brenda stumbled upon that night.
Desperately searching for answers on her own, she learns that no one in her community is who they seem to be — not the police, not the boys she
met at the quarry, not even her parents. But she can’t stop digging because she knows those girls are in danger. She also knows she’s next.

Jess Lourey teaches, travels and writes about secrets. She’s the bestselling author of over 20 books, including nonfiction, children’s books, YA
adventure, magical realism and crime fiction. She’s a retired professor of writing and sociology, a recipient of The Loft’s Excellence in Teaching
fellowship, a TEDx presenter (check out her TEDx Talk to discover the surprising inspiration behind “May Day,” her first published novel), and a
leader of writing retreats for women and online creative writing classes for all. She lives in Minneapolis with a rotating batch of foster kittens (and
occasional foster puppies).

26 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE


SHOULDN’T MISS
“First Born”
By Will Dean
Review by Starr Fjelstad
This book is about twins Molly and Katie
Raven, KT as Molly calls her. They are from
England. Katie moves to New York to go
to school at Columbia University. Molly’s
world is turned upside down along with her
parents when her twin sister, Katie, is found
murdered in her apartment. Molly then
must overcome her fears of flying and fly to
New York to be with her family. Molly is a
paranoid girl who takes extra precautions
and does more research than any one person
ever does. While she is there, she makes
it her mission to help the police find her
sister’s killer. Also while doing that, she seeks
revenge against those who have wronged her
sister. After her parents fly back, she stays to
get her revenge. That is not where the story
ends. It takes you through a few more twists
and turns as the revenge games begin.
This book just really pulled you in. Started
really slow, but then as you got to know the
character it just slowly pulled you in until
you couldn’t put the book down. The twists
and turns were amazing — I didn’t see any
of them coming. Loved the suspense of it all
and the shocking ending.
Want to review a book?
Contact Michelle Rasmussen at 379-
9850 or michelle.daveiga@albertleatribune.
com.
4 READS YOU
“Glad You’re Here: “Bad Vibes”
Two Unlikely Friends By Sara Baron
Breaking Bread and Fences” Review by Julie Seedorf
By Walker Hayes and Craig Allen Cooper
Review by Sara Stilwell Moe
I am never disappointed when I pick up a
Diane Weiner Cozy Mystery, no matter what
Have you ever read a book that when you series. “Bad Vibes” is the third book in her “Sara
were finished with it, you wanted to read it Baron Tuned In Series.” In “Bad Vibes,” Sara
again right away? This book is a feel good moves back to her hometown, and as always,
book about a friendship — a friendship life is never what you expect when you go home
between Walker Hayes (an alcoholic/atheist) again. Reconnecting with her family business
and Craig (a Christian). This is not a preachy- in the craft of making custom oboes, she feels
about-God book. But it sure opens your eyes the warmth of being near her family but the
a little more! It will make you laugh, it will death of a friend rocks her world. This mystery
make you cry and it even might strengthen has romance, a family feel and of course an
your faith a little! Quick read and you won’t enthralling mystery. Put on your amateur sleuth
be disappointed. hat. As always with Ms. Weiner’s mysteries, it
is well-written and a good addition to the “Sara
Baron Tuned-In Mystery Series.”
“The Stand”
By Stephen King
Review by Brittany Colvin
“The Stand” is a multi-person point of view book that
describes the fall of the United States after a flu-like disease is
accidently released and kills 99.4% of the world’s population.
As the characters in the book live through “Captain Trips,”
as the disease is called, they begin to experience dreams that
begin to pull them in two directions. Now the survivors must
decide, will they go toward the light, or the dark?
For me, a good book has layers, and this book does not
disappoint. Not only do we get to read from the “good guys” perspective, we also get to
hear what the “bad guys” are thinking and planning. I enjoy to read books with multiple
points of view — you get a much richer, fuller story, and that’s what I crave in a book.
This books also offers something for everyone: action, suspense, romance, well-developed
characters, a bit of horror and a touch of “magic” (think of “The Shining”).
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 27
 STREAMING
MADNESS

“Dahmer-Monster: The
Jeffrey Dahmer Story”
Available on Netflix
Review by Chelsey Bellrichard

Honestly, I didn’t know what I was

getting into with this show. I knew

“Severance”
bits and pieces of his story, but I
really did not know the whole thing.
As the episodes roll on, they do a
Available on Apple+ really great job at telling the stories of
Review by Tyler Julson the victims, more than playing into
his killings. I really thought that was
a great way to have this show go, as I
Imagine if you could split your consciousness into two separate and independent parts. know they did not want emphasis on
One takes over while you’re at your job, the other during your personal life. Sounds great, Jeff himself.
right? Well not if you’re the consciousness that has to be at work. Imagine walking out the They do in the first few episodes
door of work every day and essentially turning right back around and going back. Severance dive into what lead to him starting
the path he chose, and his family life,
takes a look at lives of both.
that played a big factor in that.
I won’t give anything more away about the plot because it’s something you’ll really want
I would recommend this if you
to check out yourself. “Severance” is a show that you’ll spend the afternoon watching and love true crime or anything like that.
not even realize that you haven’t left the couch in a few hours. The acting, story telling and This is definitely not for the faint of
tension building of the show are all fantastic. You’ll be introduced to characters you love, heart.
characters you love to hate and everything in between. Check it out.
 “Do Revenge”
Available on Netflix
Review by Chelsey Bellrichard
Camilla Mendez (Drea) and Maya Hawke
(Eleanor) play an unlikely duo in this teen
comedy.
Drea is at the peak of her high school
powers when her entire life goes up in
flames, and Eleanor is an awkward new
transfer student who is angered to find out
that she now has to go to school with her old
bully. After a run-in at tennis camp, Drea
and Eleanor form an unlikely and secret
friendship to get revenge on each other’s
tormentors. From here on out, this movie is
spectacularly great, and I loved every minute
of it. This movie has a pretty great all-star
cast, and you will be gladly surprised at the
twist ending.
I would definitely recommend this for a
girls night, or just a movie night by yourself!
Look for these releases on Netflix
“The School
for Good
and Evil”
Released
October 19
“The Switch”
Available on IMDb TV
Review by Kim Herfindahl
When single Casey, played by Jennifer
Aniston, feels like her biological clock is
running out, she decides to take matters
into her own hands and find a donor.
When her best friend, Wally, played
by Jason Bateman, becomes drunk at
Casey’s conception party and switches her
sample, neither of them realizes how their
friendship is going to change until seven
years later when Wally meets Sebastian and
can’t deny the similarities.
“The Good
Nurse”
Released
October 26
“The Bear”
Available on Hulu
Review by Deanna Rochleau
Have you ever worked in a kitchen, or
even in a restaurant? The cooks are hot,
cranky and stressed due to all the orders,
as well as both wait staff and customers
pressuring them as though they can cook an
amazing meal in five minutes. It’s controlled
chaos. “The Bear” gets it right, from the
various ways chefs find little ways to take
a five-minute stress break by smoking in
the alley, going into the walk-in with tears
in their eyes, and the lingo. “The Bear”
does such a good job showing what they
go through. This show is good. If you
haven’t watched it already, watch it now.
Jeremy Allen White — remember Lip from
“Shameless” — is absolutely incredible.
“Blockbuster”
Released
November 3
 FINDING CONFIDENCE
IN COLOR
Business uses science to help look people look and feel their best
Story and Photography by SARAH STULTZ
The process starts
by comparing
different whites
under each
season next to
the complexion
of the individual.

R
ural Albert Lean which season of colors look best based for a person based on
the undertones of his or her skin.

Abby Leach It changed her life so much that Leach Schumaker

Schumaker used
to struggle
finding clothes that made
her feel confident.
As a lawyer with Leach Law PLLC, she said she wanted
to come off put together, yet approachable.
She wanted to find out why the color black made her
look harsh and why the black dresses she wore never looked
quite put together.
Then she found House of Colour, a personal color and
style analysis, that helped her discover what colors and styles
work best for her.
“My shopping has completely changed, and I am no
longer purchasing things that just hang in the closet,” she
said.
“My personality is not wearing black suits.”
The analysis uses a combination of color science and
precision-dyed fabric drapes to compare four groupings of
colors — or seasons — next to a person’s skin. It determines
32 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE
became a consultant herself so she could help others gain
the confidence she discovered, she said.
She opened House of Colour Albert Lea in April with the
help of her own consultant, Amber Schipper, who is
originally from Thompson, Iowa, but currently lives in
Sioux City, Iowa.
The process typically takes about two hours, unless a
person comes with a group, which are Leach Schumaker’s
favorite consultations.
Once she figures out which season a person is, she gives
recommendations on makeup tailored specifically to that
season, including foundation, mascara, blush and lip color.
She also offers style consultations, help with shopping
and help with makeup for special events.
Leach Schumaker said she has helped people from all over
— not just from Albert Lea. One of only about half a dozen
consultants in the state, she has helped people from Ohio,
South Dakota and Iowa, among others. She sometimes tag-
teams with the consultant who got her into the business.
While she has worked mostly with women, she has
helped a few men, too. She has also had three generations of
families come in and even a bridal party trying to figure out
what color to get for their bridesmaids dresses.
Once she figures out which season a person is, she
normally goes through all of the colors in that season and
 Tessa
Hemmingsen
applies lip color
after going
through a
consultation to
determine which
season of colors
matched her. The
company also has
makeup choices
tailored to match
the different
seasons.

House of Colour has

a variety of makeup
choices for each
season of colors.
My shopping has completely changed,
and I am no longer purchasing things that
just hang in the closet.
— Abby Leach Schumaker

they pick out which colors are their favorites.

She then gives them a color fan, which they can take with
them to compare colors when out shopping, and a rating
book to determine which colors might be better as dresses,
pants, shirts or accessories.
In addition to clothes and makeup, she can help with
hair color based on the same color theory. If someone is one This color wheel
of the blue-based seasons, that person will typically look showcases colors
of each season.
better with ashy tones, while if they are yellow-based, they
will look better with golden tones.
Leach Schumaker’s website can be found at www.
hocalbertlea.com or on Facebook or Instagram at
houseofcolour_albertlea. AL
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 33
 Brie Tubbs

BEFORE & AFTER

HOUSE OF
COLOUR

Morgan Meaney Noelle Hagen

34 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

 Autumn palette

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 35
Winter palette
Summer palette
 THE MAGIC
OF SANTA
Albert Lea man enjoys bringing joy to area children in Christmas role
Story by ALEX GUERRERO
Photography by AMBER VON HADEN PHOTOGRPAHY,
COLLEEN HARRISON AND SARAH STULTZ

38 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

 Yaw often
makes
many of his
appearances
with his wife
as Mrs. Claus.
— Photo
by Amber
Von Haden
Photography

I
t’s not uncommon for So he decided to try it and see if there was a need or
desire from kids.
“We set the yard up, and it went crazy with the people
performers to use just showing up,” he said.
In Yaw’s yard are a Mary and Joseph manger scene, a
stage names in order lighted archway with a bench at the end and a backdrop for
photos and a cut-out for kids to stick their heads through.
to protect their Yaw’s grandchildren dress up as elves and provide hot
chocolate to visiting children. He even bought a sleigh for
privacy. this year.
“It’s just a relaxing yard, no pressure kind of a deal,” he
Tony Stark is Iron-Man. Stefani Joanne Angelina said.
Germanotta is Lady Gaga. Natalie Hershlag is Natalie This year he plans to hand out candy canes.
Portman. And Albert Lean Bob Yaw is Santa Bob.
For anyone unfamiliar with Santa Bob, he likes to
elaborately decorate his front yard for Christmas. Santa Claus
“We just moved here two years ago during COVID, and greets Grant
there were no Santa Claus, so we invited Santa Claus to Gordon during
come and Santa Claus showed up, decorated the yard and a the Holiday
little over 700 people showed up,” he said. “So we Bazaar in
continued that, and the following year — which was last 2021. — Photo
year — still over 600 people showed up.” by Sarah Stultz
The event started after he and his wife moved to the area
after living on a farm.
“My daughter … she said ’Dad, there’s no Santas
anywhere, you should do this,’” he said.

40 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

 Santa Bob’s yard, at 622 W. Richway Drive, is open from
2 to 6 p.m. every Saturday in December through Christmas
Eve, though he said it took him until 7 p.m. to get back
into his house. Because Christmas Eve is on a Saturday this
year, he thought he might wrap up around 6 p.m.
We set the yard up, and it went crazy Appointments aren’t needed.
with the people just showing up. The free event has drawn visitors from Rochester, Austin,
— Bob Yaw Bloomington, Plymouth, Freeborn, Alden, Wells, Blue
Earth, Fairmont and Lake Mills.
Weather will not deter him from holding these events
either.
After the last Saturday before Christmas Eve, Yaw will
turn his attention to another project: presents.
And for him, people having fun was the whole point of
the event.
That first year, Yaw and his wife wore masks and offered a
hand-sanitizing station at the entrance. If people wanted
him to wear a mask or shield, he would. If they didn’t, he
would take it off.
Last year also featured hand-sanitizer, and according to
Yaw it will be offered again this year.
Yaw will even make toy deliveries Christmas Eve with
parents leaving toys outside, which he will then put in his
own bag before walking into a house and then handing
them out. He’ll then leave and move onto the next house.
“We don’t get back till late, it’s 10:30, 11 p.m.,” he said.
“Depends on how many houses we have to go to. Some
might be out in Glenville, some might be in Clarks Grove,
some might be over in Freeborn or New Richland.”
The events are free to attend.
“You just come, you bring your camera, we have some
special lighting, we can use your camera, take your
pictures,” he said.
One of the most challenging aspects of doing this, he
said, was finding a reason to talk to older kids and asking
them why they could be negative.
“I was disappointed in a whole generation last year,” he
said. “A bunch of kids wanted Xboxes, they wanted iPads,
they wanted iPhones, they wanted [Apple Watches]. I had
to tell them, I stopped them after everybody says
something. I said, ‘Wait, I’m Santa. I’m not an IT guy. I
build wooden toys — electronics are on your parents.’ And
I didn’t want them to go to school going, ‘Santa didn’t get
me an iPad.’”
Yaw, who described himself as an outgoing person, said
the work was rewarding, and said he thought the want,
need and love were out there. Children just needed
someone besides their parents to express it.
People can even leave letters in a mailbox.
Anyone is invited to come, and he said older visitors
tended to be happy and reminiscing.
Donations are also accepted. Donations will be used Yaw sets up several
toward the next year’s decorations. times for Santa Claus
“We just did a lights donation, and people donate trees, to take photos with
and I put more artificial trees, put them in the yard and area children. — Photo
then decorate all the trees,” he said. by Amber Von Haden
In fact, he said while you would be able recognize it now, Photography
that will not be the case come December.
Decorating starts in November, before the ground freezes.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 41
 The Yaws set up a display that
people can take photos in front
of. — Photo by Amber Von Haden
Photography
 Santa Bob and Mrs. Claus meet
8-month-old reindeers Sweetie
and Moon before the start of a
drive-thru event in 2020. — Photo
by Colleen Harrison

“Christmas Eve I start getting phone calls to come to Above all, his biggest enjoyment from serving as Santa
people’s houses to deliver presents,” he said. Bob was seeing the excitement and smiles on children’s faces
The first year three families wanted him to come. Last when talking to him. AL
year there were six.
And be warned, all presents on display in his yard are
fake.
“Some people will try to pick them up and take them,”
he said. “There’s just a brick in there to hold it down.”
Last year a woman brought a baby to him and
unwrapped the child from a blanket.
“I was like, ‘What are you doing,’” he said. “‘The baby’s
going to freeze.’”
But she asked to take a picture.
On the other hand, he still vividly remembered the time
last year when a girl walked up to him with a letter.
“She was trembling, shaking,” he said. “And she’s the one
that said, ‘Are you the real Santa?’
“And her brothers said ‘No, he’s not.’
“She turned around and said, “Stop it. I’m talking to
Santa.’”
So after, he asked if she thought he was Santa, and she
read a letter.
She even asked her parents for some space.
He asked her to read it again, only louder. He then took
the letter and had his daughter return it to her parents.
“This year when she shows up — I will see her again, I Santa Bob likes
don’t forget a face, I forget a name but not a face — so if to have fun as
she shows up again I’ll say, ‘Did you get this?’” he said. pictured here on a
“Then I will see how that worked out.” bike. — Photo by
Yaw said he started preparing to be Santa Bob back in Amber Von Haden
June when he started letting his beard grow out. Photography

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 43
Bringing the outdoors in
Designed by Kathy Woodside at St. John’s
Lutheran Community, Fountain Lake campus
GET YOUR HOME
INTO THE HOLIDAY
SPIRIT
Gather some inspiration from
these 5 fireplace designs to help
you decorate your mantle for
Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Photography by SARAH STULTZ
 Simple yet
cozy farmhouse
Designed by Holly Miller

46 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

Fall in the cabin
Designed by Kristy and Frank Thompson

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 47
 A fireplace of memories
Designed by Laura Cunningham

48 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

A welcome from Father Christmas
Designed by Amber Avery at Village Cooperative of Albert Lea

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 49
 LOOKING BACK | CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS

Albert Lea firefighters were busy repairing toys for distribution to local children.

CELEBRATING THE
HOLIDAYS TOGETHER
By LINDA EVENSON
Photos courtesy FREEBORN COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Albert Lea has a tradition of celebration and shared experiences
during the holiday season. Street decorations have been part of the
city’s history for many years. By 1938, wreaths were a prominent
feature in the holiday décor. KATE Radio, on the 300 block of S.
Broadway, entered the airwaves in 1938. The radio tower, on the
building’s roof, sported a large festive wreath that year. The
American Legion and Albert Lea Fire Department continued their
work together to collect, repair and deliver toys. In 1937, nearly
800 children received toys.
The Broadway Theater’s management offered a free show, a
program of moving pictures, to area children. In 1940, there were
two showings, the first at 1 o’clock for the children living outside
Albert Lea (“so they can get home in ample time for the evening
chores”) and the second at 3 o’clock for the Albert Lea boys and
girls. As they exited the theater, children received popcorn balls and
candy canes from area businesses.
The Albert Lea Chamber of Commerce announced new and
improved decorations in November 1941. On Broadway, the light poles
were decorated with 24-inch wreaths, two 3-foot lighted cylinders plus
evergreen garland wrapped the poles. The following year, in an effort to
reduce the use of electricity and aid the war effort, outdoor holiday
lighting for communities and private homes was discouraged by the War
Production Board. Even without illumination, residents enjoyed Albert
Lea’s holiday decorations and community spirit.

50 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

In the early 1930s, Broadway Avenue
was decorated with festoons and stars
creating a canopy over the street.

A circa 1933 view from North Broadway looking south at the seasonal
decorations of garland and wreaths adorning the street.

Fire chief Alex Larson witnessed Mayor

Hayek shaking hands with Santa at
Seliger Motor Co., 146 N. Broadway. The
gifts and toys would soon be delivered In 1941, Girl Scouts hosted a dinner party for their parents at Interstate Hall. The
to area children. girls brought gifts of toys, clothing and books to be given to the Salvation Army.

Employees of American Gas Machine Co. enjoyed a holiday party in December 1942.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 51
EVENTS CALENDAR
NOVEMBER

5
AUTUMN ELEGANCE:
A BALL IN THE MALL
When: Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Northbridge Mall in Albert Lea
NOVEMBER Cost: General admission is $100 per

3
person; higher sponsorships available.
More info.: A Ball in the Mall will be an
elegant evening of entertainment,
refreshments, silent and live auction
festivities, dancing and fun. Tickets include
beer/wine/food and a full cash bar available.
ROCK ’N’ ROLL Tickets and sponsorships are tax deductible
and can be purchased online or by pickup at
TRIBUTE FROM ELVIS the Chamber Office downtown or Leutholds
TO THE BEATLES in Northbridge Mall. The event is sponsored NOVEMBER

18
When: 7 p.m. by the Albert Lea Healthcare Coalition.
Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts
Center
Cost: $25 each
More info.: The Neverly Brothers’
concerts are a tribute to one of the most
exciting chapters in music history: the birth,
near death and resurrection of rock ’n’ roll.
JEEYOON KIM
With their one-of-a-kind, high-energy stage When: 7 p.m.
performance, you’ll be led on a guided tour
NOVEMBER Where: Albert Lea High School

10-12
of rock history — complete with vintage auditorium
wardrobe changes and stories behind their Cost: Season tickets are $50 for adults or
chronological song sequence. Plan to hear $15 for a student with a valid student ID.
hits from Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Family season tickets are $105.
Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, The Beatles, More info.: Classical pianist Jeeyoon Kim
Rolling Stones and many more. holistic in delights audiences with a sparkling
this outdoor festival. combination of sensitive artistry, broad
“BEAUTY AND emotional range and impeccable technique.
THE BEAST” She will be the second concert of the Albert
Lea Civic Music concert series.
When: 7 p.m.
Where: Albert Lea High School
auditorium
Cost: $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and
students
More info.: Step into the enchanted world
of Broadway’s classic, Disney’s “Beauty and
the Beast,” based on the Academy Award-
winning animated feature. The stage version
includes all of the songs written by Alan
Menken and the late Howard Ashman,
along with new songs by Menken and Tim
Rice.

52 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

 DECEMBER DECEMBER

1-4 12
7-11 LIGHT UP THE LAKE
When: After dark
“ELF THE MUSICAL” Where: Around Fountain Lake
Cost: Free
When: 7 p.m. except for on Dec. 4 and More info.: Enjoy a candlelight walk or
11 when there will be 2 p.m. matinee ride around Fountain Lake. This event
performances includes luminaries lined up along the
Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts sidewalk along Lakeview Boulevard.
Center
Cost: $20 for adults and $10 for students
More info.: Based on the beloved holiday
DECEMBER

8
DECEMBER
film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy

18
follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his
true identity. The would-be elf is raised
unaware that he is actually a human until his
enormous size and poor toy-making abilities
cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s
permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to
New York City to find his birth father and HOLIDAY BAZAAR
discover his true identity. AND SANTA CRUISE BLUEGRASS CHRISTMAS
ON BROADWAY
When: 3 p.m.
When: 4 to 6:30 p.m.
Where: Marion Ross Performing Arts
Where: Broadway in downtown Albert
Center
Lea
Cost: $25
Cost: Free to attend
More info.: Join Monroe Crossing for
More info.: Head downtown for holiday
some of your favorite Christmas classics
festivities, including live reindeer, photos
performed bluegrass style. Named in honor
with Santa, carolers, horse-drawn wagon
of Bill Monroe, “the father of bluegrass
rides, hot chocolate and goodies, and
music,” Monroe Crossing is based out of the
shopping opportunities. Starting at 6 p.m.
Twin Cities and is a favorite among
will be the second annual Santa Cruise on
bluegrass connoisseurs and non-bluegrass
Broadway.
audiences alike.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 53
 People can’t say
enough about
Thorne Crest
Senior Living
Community!

“Mom feels very well provided for at

Thorne Crest! She enjoys the activities!
Meals are wonderful!” -Cindy G.

“Without exception the Thorne Crest

staff was approachable, knowledgeable,
and helpful!” -Mark B.

• Limited Independent Living &

Assisted Living apartments
• Indoor Pool and Spa
• Fitness/Wellness Center
• Bistro & Indoor Heated Parking
1201 Garfield Avenue • Albert Lea, MN 56007
507-373-2311 • www.ThorneCrest.net
Thorne Crest is owned and operated by American Baptist Homes of the Midwest, a not-for-profit provider of senior health care since 1930.

54 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE

PARTING SHOT Lens and Shutter Club
member Mitch Pederson
took this photo at Myre-Big
Island State Park.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022 | 55
 WHY I LOVE ALBERT LEA | BY BECKY JOHNSON
Becky Johnson is a wife, mother and grandmother. She is the
owner of Between Friends Boutique in downtown Albert Lea.
My husband and I, together with our two children, moved to
Albert Lea in 1993.
My husband, Steve, was in the Navy, and we had the opportunity
to live in many areas around the country and Europe. We lived in the
Minneapolis area for 10 years after the Navy. When we had children,
we decided to raise them in a small community close to family and
ultimately decided on Albert Lea.
Our first impression of Albert Lea was it was small, rural and
without many options for shopping and eating out. We soon
discovered any products or services we needed, we could find right
here. And the community being small and rural are some of the
things I love most about Albert Lea.
I love living in a small community where you know your neighbors
and a trip to the grocery store is a social event greeting friends. The
people of Albert Lea are definitely our best asset!
It is amazing to watch people rally around each other with
benefits and donations during times of need. There are so many
ways to meet people here — schools, churches, service clubs, fitness
56 | ALBERT LEA MAGAZINE
Why I
Albert Lea
clubs and so on. I became involved in my children’s schools and was
welcomed by teachers and administrators and fellow parents. As the
children got older and into sports, I gained many friends with the
other parents. (To this day, I meet up with the soccer moms from
2007.)
We joined First Presbyterian Church when we first moved to town.
Our church is one of our greatest blessings, and our fellow
parishioners are our family.
Our walking and biking paths are outstanding. My husband and I
recently purchased e-bikes and are loving the bike paths around the
lake and out to Blazing Star Trail. The many parks in Albert Lea are
beautifully maintained and are regularly used. We live on the lake and
enjoy sunset cruises and fishing with our grandsons. We love
observing the seasons change on the lake. It is fun watching the
activity of the fishing, waterskiing and cruising during the summer.
And then the lake freezes over and a village of ice houses is created.
Our historic downtown is beautiful, and I am happy to have a
business there where my customers are my friends — current or
future.
There are so many things and people to love in Albert Lea. I feel
very fortunate to call Albert Lea “home.”
ALBERT LEA magazine

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