FEatured FEWs

OCTOBER FEATURED FEW

Name: Sandra Borstad

Organization/Title: Talent Development Manager at Blattner Company 

Length of time as a FEW member: Two months. It has only been a short time, but I have already seen the value of the group, enjoyed a few meetings and am impressed by the incredible women in the group. 

Hometown: Avon, Minn.

Family: I have two teenage daughters, Haille (17) and Ella (14)

What do you actually do at work? I lead a team that includes instructional designers, training specialists, audio visual group and the Learning Management System administration. We create a variety of learning experiences for people located in the home office including orientation, onboarding, personal development, job specific and leadership training. We also support field training. We are currently working on launching a buddy program for new hires, creating training paths for each position and enhancing the onboarding experience.

What was your first job? My first job was being a waitress at Charlie’s Café in Freeport. It was a great learning experience. Yes, they really did have the best caramel rolls around and possibly still do! 

How do you help others succeed? The biggest thing I do is listen and ask questions. I believe everyone has what it takes to succeed inside of them. They might not always know it, so it helps to have someone believe in them and guide them. By listening I can tell where someone is at currently. Then, I can ask questions to help them see the way to move forward.

Biggest indulgence? This is going to sound silly, but my biggest indulgence is bracelets, specifically wrap bracelets. I love them, especially if they have inspirational words or meaning behind them. It started about five years ago when I was going through a very challenging time in my life, I stumbled across a woman who made beaded bracelets with charms that had words such as faith or believe. She referred to them as armor and encouraged people to fierce forward through challenging times. That is what sparked my love of bracelets, and it has grown from there.

What do you do for fun? I love road trips and being outside, finding new walking or hiking trails. I also really enjoy playing cards and board games. 

Who is your oldest friend and where did you meet them? I have two friends I have known since I was in kindergarten.

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person? I am both. Most people would say I am a people person. However, I always have three to-do lists going–one for projects around the house, one for things I need to get done daily at home and a work list.

If you opened a business, what type of business would it be? I am not sure exactly what this looks like, but I would help people tell their stories through connection, photography and writing.

What are three words that describe you? Kind, creative and resourceful

SEPTEMBER FEATURED FEW

Name: Lori Ruhland

Organization/Title: Founder/Owner at Cinder Boutique 

Length of time as a FEW member: 1 month

Hometown: Cold Spring, Minn.

Family: I have been married to Ryan Ruhland for 16 years. We have a 13-year-old son, Jackson, and a 7-year-old daughter, Claire.

What do you actually do at work? I think a lot of people think owning a clothing boutique is just “fun” and while it is absolute fun, it is a lot more involved. I spend a great deal of time shopping my vendors’ inventory to find the perfect pieces for Cinder. Once items arrive, I organize a model shoot with the most amazing group of women, edit the photos, and then upload the photos, product information, inventory and price onto the website (www.CinderBoutique.com). Next I price tag each piece, steam them, and place them on display at our store front inside of Urban Style Salon in Waite Park, Minn. I also do website order shipments from my home office as well as packaging orders pick-up vs. ship. Starting in September, we will be doing Facebook LIVE Sales again on Thursday nights at 8 p.m.! I genuinely love every step of the process; well maybe not the steaming part lol. Nothing makes my heart swell more than helping women find the perfect piece(s) that make them feel like their very own version of CINDERella! 

What is something you’re obsessed with? I have this crazy obsession with coffee mugs! It drives my family crazy because there is literally no room for anyone else’s cups in TWO cabinets!

Who had the biggest impact on the person you have become? My late father. He was a business owner for over 30 years. He worked so hard, countless hours, yet always was there for me when I needed him. He found balance in his life. How many of us can say that?! I want to show my children that with hard work they can do anything. I also want to show them that being their mom is my number one job. He used to always say to me, “Whatever you are, be a good one.” I love that.

What is your biggest pet peeve? Boastful behaviors. I believe in modesty. Let your hard work show for itself and pass on your wisdom to those trying to achieve their goals. There is room for everyone at the top.

Do you have any silly fears? Maybe the better question would be, what am I not afraid of, lol! I am afraid of things that move fast…waterslides, roller coasters, and those wicket fast spiders!

What is your favorite way to waste time? I really enjoy playing cards, board games or putting together puzzles with my family. It relaxes me.

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person? I think I am a bit of both. Deep down I am more of an introvert so tasks are more my style, but I need people energy to keep my spirit alive.

What are three words that describe you? Genuine + Caring + Sarcastic

AUGUST FEATURED FEW

Name: Rachel Lolmasteymaugh

Organization/Title: Sales Associate at FaceTime Business Resources

Length of time as a FEW Member: 1 year

Hometown: St. Cloud, Minn.

Family: Ken (Doc) husband of 20 years, Warner (15), Eve (13), and Anna Rose (11) 

What do you actually do at work? I help businesses, organizations, marketing professionals and marketing teams communicate their messages through physical pieces of marketing and design in an effective and consistent manner congruent to their brand. That includes commercial printing, promotional products and materials, apparel, signage and design services. 

What is your biggest accomplishment? After going over my professional accomplishments, I realized it is my personal ones that are my greatest. I have a beautiful family that is happy and healthy. I have been happily married to my husband for 20 years and we have 3 wonderful, kind, caring, smart, well-adjusted children. That is not easy these days, and I feel as if my hard work and sacrifice have paid off. Having a good family is an accomplishment we don’t often celebrate, but we should! 

Is your desk/office messy or organized? My desk is my computer which is semi-organized. I could probably clean up my desktop a little though. I work from home, at the office, in my car, at the coffee shop or anywhere that has wifi. I do have to clean out my computer bag often so that stays organized.

​​Favorite vacation spot? One I haven’t been to yet. I love traveling! I am headed to Nashville with friends this fall, Playa del Carmen over MEA with the family, and New Orleans with my girlfriends this winter. 

If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? Every morning my husband makes me the most amazing eggs. Sometimes on toast or avocado toast, sometimes he will add steamed mushrooms or tomatoes. Doc is very creative and nobody can make his specialty eggs like he can. Delicious! I am so spoiled!

What do you do for fun? I love the people I have surrounded myself with and there is no end to the fun we have together. Spending time with my tribe both calms me and invigorates me. From live music to good food, events and celebrations, there is never a lack of something to do and wonderful people to do it with. 

​​What did you want to be when you were a kid? I was going to be a pilot that lived in New York City with my daughter. I didn’t quite make it as a pilot and I would never live in a big city now, but I was blessed with my daughters. The important parts of my childhood dreams came true.

What is something you're obsessed with? I love to play games, especially cribbage. I am in a league with another FEW member and we have a blast playing together. I often set up mini tournaments at my house for our cribbage-playing friends. Even my birthday cake was cribbage-themed this year. 

What would other FEW members be surprised to learn about you? Before going into sales, I used to be a teacher and own my own preschool and daycare. I love children!

JULY FEATURED FEW

Name: Megan McClure

Organization/Title: Owner of McClure Insurance Agency

Length of time as a FEW Member: Was a member back in the mid and late 90s and rejoined a few years ago.

Hometown: Hovland, Minn. (20 miles outside of Grand Marais)

Family: Small family! My dad, younger brother, sister-in-law, and one niece, daughter, son-in-law, and three grandchildren and a fourth due August 16. They live in Fairbanks, Alaska. Lost my mom to pancreatic cancer at the age of 70; October will be four years ago.

What do you actually do at work? My main focus is employee benefits and HR support as well as helping clients with Medicare coverage. We do sell ALL types of insurance within the agency; however, those are what I specialize in. Running/managing the agency and my staff takes up the rest of my time.          

What was your first job? Dishwasher at age 14. Hardest job ever and worked very long hours at that age. Knew what I was not going to be from then on! Did a lot of babysitting, but that was not my first “paycheck” job.

What is your biggest accomplishment? Running my own business for 30 years, becoming a successful agency, and generating 90% of our new clients from referrals (which speaks volumes to me).

Favorite vacation spot? Too many so this is hard. Would have to say back home to Grand Marais and Hovland.

Who had the biggest impact on the person you have become? My dad. I took over his insurance agency and worked for him a bit in high school. Very smart businessman that taught me a lot in business and school.

What is your biggest pet peeve? Right now: our government giving away so much “free” money and not encouraging people to work for it!

What are three words that best describe you? Trustworthy, kind, and fun.

If you opened a business, what type of business would it be? Wellness shop for supplements and oils and use of relaxation chairs, smoothies and other items for self-care, or a small resort that would incorporate the wellness shop and breakfast for guests.

JUNE FEATURED FEW

Name: Tonya Inselman

Organization/Title: Director of Human Resources at Rice Companies

Length of time as a FEW Member: Brand new - 2021

Hometown: Paynesville, Minn.

Family: Married with two daughters (11, 14)

What do you actually do at work? Cheerleader, creator, mediator, therapist, problem solver

What was your first job? I was 14. Opening envelopes and sorting coupons!

Is your desk/office messy or organized? Depends on the day.

Favorite vacation spot? Northern Minnesota in fall

If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? Sushi

What are three words that best describe you? Positive, ambitious, authentic

What did you want to be when you were a kid? An actress

What is your favorite way to waste time? Binge Netflix

MAY FEATURED FEW

Name: Rebecca Cluever

Organization/Title: Mental Health Therapist/Owner of Creative Connections Counseling

Length of time as a FEW Member: 1 month

Hometown: Sauk Rapids, Minn.

Family: Significant other and three children

What do you actually do at work? I have two very different roles. I first have the amazing opportunity to be with others through their triumphs and pitfalls by offering outpatient mental health (“THERAPY”). Secondly, I spend an enormous amount of time on hold with insurance companies, documenting my every move in forms that no one will look at, and completing little administrative tasks.

Is your desk/office messy or organized? Organized. I am a firm believer of going paperless whenever possible. The toys and books in my office are in their place but in no specific order.

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person? People-oriented. I prefer to spend time with my patients, customers, colleagues, community members, family and friends.

Biggest indulgence/guilty pleasure? Donuts. I have to take detours to my office to avoid the fabulous bakeries in Central Minnesota.

What is your favorite way to waste time? Puzzles of all kinds. I love brain teasers, online puzzles and cardboard puzzles. I can’t stop until I finish the puzzle. Secondly, I love bad dad jokes and watch videos with bad dad jokes. My husband has requested that I stop sending him videos with bad jokes.

What is your biggest pet peeve? Shaky legs. I can’t stand someone sitting next to me shaking their leg. I have been blessed to be part of a family that has several shaky leg shakers.

Favorite vacation spot? I love to travel all over the U.S.A. and Canada. We take several road trips each year to new spots. My recent favorite was the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. My next wish list location is a hot air balloon ride in New Mexico.

What are three words that best describe you? Genuine, assertive, kind and collaborative

APRIL FEATURED FEW

Name: Kimberly Magnuson

Organization/Title: Business Banker at Bremer Bank

Length of time as FEW Member: 3 years

Hometown: Buffalo, Minn.

Family: Husband, Chris; four children: three sons and a daughter, ages 10 to 17

What do you actually do at work? I share my financial skills, industry knowledge and expertise with business owners and nonprofit leaders to help them successfully realize the financial goals of their operations, so that together we can create prosperous businesses and thriving communities. I accomplish this by facilitating business loan, deposit and financial services through my role as a business banker at Bremer Bank. 

What is your favorite vacation spot? Anywhere by the ocean. I love the sight, sound and smell of the water. Watching the sun set over the ocean is top 10. 

What do you do for fun? Love boating and water sports with my family and friends on a warm, sunny day in northern Minnesota. Love hiking in the Duluth area or any of our state parks. Love outdoor live music, adult beverages and good conversation on a summer evening.

If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? Salad! Love the variety in salad; meat/no meat, veggies, different lettuces, variety in dressings. All good!

What is your biggest pet peeve? Being asked a question but not having my response listened to, as evidenced by a lack of thoughtful follow up comments or questions, or worst of all, a comment or question that is directly something I already said or answered!

What are three words that best describe you? Passionate, dedicated, loyal 

If you opened a business, what type of business would it be? I’d love to own/operate a Dairy Queen. Who isn’t happy coming to get ice cream?

What is something you are obsessed with? My morning coffee, brewed at home, with collagen powder and Coconut Creamer. The thought of that in the morning really helps me get through my workout and start the day!

MARCH FEATURED FEW

Name: Ashley Nations

Organization/Title: Accounting Manager at Mahowald

Length of time as a FEW member: On my third year

Hometown: Sartell, Minn.

Family: Daughter, Payton (11); Son, Sawyer (6); Pooch, Dex

What do you actually do at work? Financial Reporting, budgeting, pay employees and bills, make sure we are getting paid. Bottom line…I am known as the money and numbers lady! 

What was your first job? The apparel section at Shopko. I’m great at folding shirts.

Is your desk/office messy or organized? Organized.

Do you have or are you a mentor? I have a professional mentor, and I highly suggest one.

Last book read? “Didn’t See That Coming” by Rachel Hollis

If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? Probably anything Mexican

Who had the biggest impact on the person you have become? My father who has and is continuously pushing me to be the best version of me!

Biggest indulgence/guilty pleasure? Cheesecake...I could eat it every day!

What do you do for fun? I love to curl up with a good book and mug of tea (or adult beverage in the summer). I also love to camp and kayak. Hot yoga is my favorite way to de-stress!

What is your biggest pet peeve? People chewing with their mouth open.

What did you want to be when you were a kid? A nurse. Turns out, I’m terrified of needles.

FEBRUARY FEATURED FEW

Name: Gail Rucks

Organization/Title: General Manager at Woodcrest of Country Manor

Length of time as a FEW member: Just starting third year as a FEW member. Great organization and members, dearly miss our monthly luncheons.

Hometown: Sauk Rapids, Minn.

Family: Both of my parents; a son with a granddaughter and two great-grandkids (yes I’m great! :); a daughter, son-in-law and two grandkids; Sadie, my cockapoo; and a new “friend” from the South who is teaching me to have fun and laugh again. He makes me happy!

What do you actually do at work? Oversee the day-to-day operations of 60 senior apartments with assisted living services and 24 memory care apartments. I have a GREAT team of managers and staff. 

What was your first job? First job was as a receptionist at Country Manor in Sartell.

How do you help others succeed? I like to present an idea/concept to an individual and allow them to create a plan and an outcome, thus taking the ownership, making sure the individual has the necessary tools available to be successful.

What is your biggest accomplishment? Working and experiencing many growth opportunities for the same company for almost 48 years; thus, earning the trust to have responsibility for a brand new project.

Is your desk/office messy or organized? Desk was very messy until I read this question. As of this moment, my desk has never looked so organized. So...let’s see if it can last.  

Are you a task-oriented person or a people-oriented person? Very much people oriented. However, I have never missed a deadline.

Do you have or are you a mentor? I have an excellent mentor, my boss. He has taught and coached me “Servant Leadership” for which I am truly grateful.

Who is your oldest friend and where did you meet them? My best friend, who also ironically has the name Gail, is like a soulmate. We met when we were both members and officers of the Eagles Auxiliary in St. Cloud. Started traveling together and we always have a lot of fun and laughter. 

JANUARY FEATURED FEW

Name: Sarah Engdahl

Organization/Title: AVP, Controller at Stearns Bank

Length of time as a FEW Member: 4 years

Hometown: St. Cloud, Minn.

Family: Husband, Ryan; Kids, Ava and Bennett; Dog, Chase

What do you actually do at work? Financial reporting and analysis, budgeting, strategic planning, and all tasks that help us accomplish these things.

What was your first job? Babysitting for neighborhood kids and cashier at Scheels during high school

What is your biggest accomplishment? Having a successful career while also being an involved mom

Is your desk/office messy or organized? Organized (mostly)

Do you have or are you a mentor? I am very fortunate to have had many wonderful mentors. I continuously aspire to be a great mentor and help others achieve their goals.

Last book read? The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

If you could eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? It would definitely include chocolate!

What do you do for fun? I love spending time at the lake, recently started mountain biking, and am hoping to spend a lot of time cross-country skiing this winter. I also enjoy watching my kids in their sports and activities.

What did you want to be when you were a kid? Kindergarten teacher

What is your favorite way to waste time? Sitting around the campfire with family and friends

What is something you're obsessed with? Most recently, ice skating (not at all because of my skating skills)—I finally convinced my husband we should build a backyard rink and it has been a lot of fun!