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Sheldon Theatre 2019 - 2020 Season Make new memories that will last a lifetime at the Sheldon Theatre.

Don’t miss your chance to see Aaron Neville, Tom Papa, Cherish The Ladies, BoDeans, Golden Dragon Acrobats, The Travelin’ McCourys, and many more!

Design your own unforgettable customized experience and save up to 20% with our season packages. More info at sheldontheatre.org Tickets on sale NOW.

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CONTENT

AUGUST 2019 / VOLUME 7 / ISSUE 7

Features:

COLUMNS:

The Viral Song Phenomenon

6 A Guide to Southern Minnesota Wineries A wine tour across Southern Minnesota.

9 Distilling Scene in SoMinn

Check out some Southern Minnesota distilleries,

including 10,000 Drops in Faribault .

12 Beverage Artisans with a Twist

Some craft alcohol-producers have more than

one specialty.

16 Home Sweet Homebrewers, Winemakers

SoMinn residents have fun with beer and wine at home.

18 Pucker Up: Sour Beers are here to Stay

Schell’s StarKeller and other local spots specializing in sour beers.

20 Nearby Stunning Event Venues

Southern minn

Large spaces dedicated to entertainment are popping up all over the region.

24 SoMinn Map of Breweries

Scene

5 Mollywood BLVD

ABOUT

Have a story idea?

40 Album Review

42 Photographing SoMInn

From Merrick State Park to Maiden Rock.

45 SoMInn FOOD & DINING Review

Editor Philip Weyhe - 507-645-1115 editor@southernminnSCENE.com

Bruce Springsteen - Western Stars

Northfield’s Tanzenwald Brewing Company.

46 The Bookworm Sez:

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• Becoming a Private Investigator

(Masters at Work series) • How to Become a Federal Criminal: An Illustrated Handbook for the Aspiring Offender

• Rainbow Warrior: My Life in Color

• This One Looks Like a Boy: My Gender Journey to Life as a Man

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26 The List

A complete list of the area’s breweries and distilleries.

28 Red Wing’s Sheldon Theatre

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Sheldon Theatre is gearing up for it’s 2019-20 season.

30 The TimeLine

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Mollywood Blvd

MOLLY PENNY Molly Penny is a local radio personality and MSU Mankato alum. It was her love of pop culture that got her interested in doing a morning show gig for KOWZ 100.9. She is now Music and Promotions Director at KOWZ & KRUE Radio in Owatonna and can be heard on various airwaves in Southern Minnesota, including Hot 96.7 in Mankato. She resides in Mankato with her movie buff husband and YouTube obsessed children. Need to contact her?

Shoot her an e-mail mollyp@kowzonline.com or catch her on Twitter at @mollyhoodUSA.

The Viral Song

Phenomenon

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ne novelty song that is near and dear to us here In Minnesota is the 1958 hit “Purple People Eaters,” the name given to our Vikings defensive line in the late 60s and 70s.

I wasn’t even around for it but I know the song. The 70s also brought us the Time Warp from Rocky Horror Picture show and The Village People’s YMCA. People of all ages know the YMCA dance even though half of us spell the C backwards with our arms. The 90s brought us radio hits destined to be played at every wedding dance to come from The Macarena, Cotton Eye Joe and Chumbawamba’s Tubthumping. “The Macarena” dance is somewhat like riding a bicycle. No matter how long it has been since you have heard it, you never forget the dance.

The advent of YouTube, the video sharing website, in 2005, brought on a new avenue for artists to propel the selves into instant stardom. We saw this with artists like Justin Bieber and Carly Rae Jepsen. Not all became high selling acts, but many of these novelty songs cracked the Billboard charts. In the sludge, we got a new kind of “one-hit wonder” musical sensation, many of them being introduced to us middle aged folks by our children, and many of which, like the Macarena, inspired viral dance trends If you have gotten through the summer without hearing the song “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X, I applaud you. You have successfully resided under a

rock and evaded the latest internet and pop culture musical phenomenon. Lil Nas X originally released it on Twitter but also inserted his song into memes and got it onto the Tik Tok video app. It ended up hitting the Billboard Hot Country charts in March of this year where there was some uproar over it not “technically” being a country song. Billboard tried to remove it. That’s when Billy Rae Cyrus reached out to team up with the rapper and make a music video. It peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The rest is history … but let’s reminisce on a few of the other songs that had us whipping, nae-nae-ing and juju-ing on that beat.

Who remembers how to do “The Dougie”? “The Dougie” was a hip hop dance where you moved your body in a shimmy style while passing your hands through your hair. It actually was inspired by 1980’s rapper Doug E. Fresh who had a similar dance. In late 2007, a rapper named Lil’ Will released a song called “My Dougie” which became a local hit in Dallas, Texas, but it was the group Cali Swag who took it a step further by performing the dance in a video for their song “Teach Me How to Dougie” in the Summer of 2009. In the years to come athletes and celebrities ran with it; Chris Brown, Reggie Smith and former First Lady Michelle Obama to name a few as well as many team mascots from professional and college sports teams. Even gymnast Gabby Douglas did the “Dougie” upon winning the U.S Olympic trials in 2012. It was even referenced in a Blake Shelton song.

The Harlem Shake was another video that took off shortly afterwards and this one originated on YouTube. It was created by a YouTube personality

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known as Filthy Frank and featured an electronica version of the song by Baauer. Basically in the videos, one person is dancing and acting a fool in a room full of others who are just going about their day to day business. But once the “drop” of the song hit, everyone would start to dance and act strange. Many attempts to recreate the dance led to it going viral. The most memorable video for me was one where airline passengers starting doing the “Harlem Shake” on a plane. My husband has severe flying anxiety. I am pretty sure if the entire plane started doing that he would deploy an emergency floatation device and jump out. The awkward part about this one is in reality, people recording these videos were most likely playing it off of a phone and it was relatively quiet while everyone went wild. The louder version of the music was added later. Ah, the magic of editing.

In 2010 a YouTube singer by the name of Rebecca Black, who, at the time was only about 14 years old, went viral wither her single “Friday.”

Black’s mother paid Ark Music Factory $4,000 to have the video for the teen anthem made and it was released on YouTube and iTunes. It garnered mainly negative media coverage but was enough press to propel it to #58 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It was a flash in the pan for Black who did not become much of a star outside of her 15 minutes of fame from this video and a series of other videos she did in collaboration with comedy video website Funny Or Die. She did however get to perform it on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. My dad actually showed me the video, which now has over 130 million views on YouTube, for the first time in 2011.

“Gangnam Style” by Korean artist PSY was

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the first ever video to surpass a billion views on YouTube and it did so rather quickly within a year of its release in 2012 knocking Carley Rae Jepson’s “Call Me Maybe” out of #1 on YouTube’s Top 100 Videos. The song itself refers to the lifestyle associated with the Gangnam District of Seoul South Korea. It was not just a hit in America and Korea.

“Gangnam Style” and its related dance became a worldwide sensation. It was recognized by Guiness World Records as the most “liked” video on YouTube and won Best Video at the MTV Europe Music Awards. I don’t even know how to describe the dance, but my son could show you how it’s done. Since the “Gangnam Style” craze we have also seen a huge uptick in K-pop. Not sure I would accredit it to PSY since most of these new stars are much younger and better looking, but I do think he elevated Korean pop music to a more global scale.

Other songs that had mass appeal after being injected in videos on YouTube and other social media include “TZ Anthem,” or “Ju u On That Beat” and Silentó’s “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae)” which inspired people of all walks of life to dance along.

One song we will likely be seeing more of and perhaps inspired by the cowboy rapper Lil Nas X is a new challenge called “The Git Up Challenge.”

Blanco Brown first published the song “The Git Up” to YouTube in May of this year and it is starting to take off. The best part about these pop culture phenomena is that in an increasingly tense and complex world they give us a sense of unity and joy. Or annoy the hell out of us. Either way, it’s a break from controversy. Two-step it up. Yee haw!

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Story by Heather Kuchinka Contributing Writer

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ost Minnesotans grew up thinking they’d never be a part of the romantic, sun-soaked vineyard scene – at least not without leaving the state.

But a burgeoning hybrid wine grape industry has taken root in cold-climate states, led in part by one known for its warm people and freezing temperatures.

As experimentation with cold-hardy grapes continues by experts at the University of Minnesota, more and more Minnesotans are being bitten by the vintner bug. People from diverse backgrounds develop a shared passion that starts with dreams of a picturesque backyard vineyard or maybe a trendy DIY hobby, and leads to a combination of growing, bottling, selling, and discussing their artisan creations with visitors.

At the same time, aspiring grape growers may have been encouraged by a state law that requires farm wineries to source at least 51 percent of their grapes from Minnesota. According to an economic impact study of the American wine industry by John Dunham & Associates, there were 58 wineries in Minnesota in 2017. Today there are already more than 70.

T here are so many people taking the plunge, that Minnesota makes a strong showing every year at international-level competition. Locally grown wines can be purchased in stores and restaurants, and wine tours are not just for vacations anymore.

Below are some of the Southern Minnesota wineries you can visit this summer. Of course there are so many more, but we hope this list gets you started.

Flower Valley Vineyard – Red Wing

Southern Minnesota Wineries

Situated in the Mississippi River bluffs just outside of Red Wing, this vineyard was planted in 2002 on a gently sloping hillside of the family farm. Two generations of growing experience combined with a lifetime in catering inspire Flower Valley owners to help people deliciously pair their award-winning wines. (Several of the wines medaled in the 2018 International Cold Climate Wine Competition [ICCWC].) Founding partner Mary Mohn conducts tastings in the winery and is soon to complete her Sommelier exam; food delivery is available from the locally established Liberty’s Restaurant. Visitors wandering the grounds can spy a few of the resident animals, and leashed pets are welcome outside. Several events are hosted around the farm, including the Cannon Falls Wine and Art Festival, and one of the event facilities rented is an 1872 barn on the National Register of Historic Places. Another standout facility is their Air B+B (aka Flower Valley Inn) at the edge of the vineyard, with a view of surrounding bluffs and the country-chic style of a renovated farm house. www.flowervalleyvineyard.com

Grandview Valley Winery – Belview Grandview Valley Winery sits off a gravel road in the heart of the Minnesota River Valley in

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southwestern Minnesota. The winery building was constructed in 2011 by a couple and their son and daughterin-law, on land that has been in the family for four generations.

In 2009 their former soybean field was completely transformed into a 7 1/2 acre vineyard with more than 4,000 vines and 11 grape varieties. Weather has caused some setbacks over the years, with vine-damaging hail, extremely cold temperatures (35 to 40 degrees below zero), and excess rain. But on weekend nights the winery and patio fill up with people enjoying wine, local beer and house-made pizza. With the exception of their Cabernet Sauvignon, all of the wines are made from grapes from the vineyard or grown elsewhere in southwest Minnesota. Wine names are inspired by what’s around the vineyard, such as their popular semi-sweet Frontenac blanc, called “Night Owl.” Take a scenic drive and follow the Minnesota River Valley Birding Trail, visiting parks and wildlife refuges along the way–Audubon Minnesota published a paperback and online birding trail guide to introduce newcomers. In July, shop the annual “Vendors in the Vineyard” event for crafts, gifts and locally-sourced food. www.gvwinery.com

Indian Island Winery – Janesville Indian Island Winery was built in 2010 on a site once used by Native Americans as a summer hunting camp and almost completely surrounded by water. Intriguing artifacts discovered on the property have been displayed at the winery, and the grounds are still popular with wildlife. The winery was a natural extension for the Winter family, who focused on the newest cold-hardy varieties at the vineyard and nursery they’d run for about a decade first. The vineyard grows about 6,000 vines and 17 grape varieties. Several wines have been awarded medals at the International Cold Climate Wine Competition (ICCWC), as well as regular wine competitions. They sell an unusual dessert wine called “Indian Island Ice,” which is a true ice wine, harvested in mid-December in an air temperature of 5 degrees above zero. The winery offers a food menu that includes bison burgers and pizza, and a variety of beer is also available. Visitors can hear live music every Friday and Saturday night.

Register to participate in the 10th Annual Grape Stomp competition on Sept. 14. www.indianislandwinery.com

Javens Family Vineyard & Winery – Mankato Five miles southeast of Mankato, on the banks of the Le Sueur River, the Javens family offers up a range of locally grown white and red wines and a large outdoor patio space to socialize and enjoy weekly live music. After his retirement, winemaker Heather Javens’ father-in-law established the vineyard in 2010 in a nostalgic return to his farming roots. As the vineyard grew and expanded, members of the Javens extended family took up roles in the business, with even the kids helping to

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plant, water, prune and harvest. Over the years, their wines have taken awards at the International Cold Climate Wine Competition (ICCWC), including Frontenac Gris, La Crescent, Marquette, and “New Traditions,” a mix of Frontenac Gris and Brianna grapes that pairs well with buttered popcorn. Another Javens blend is an easy-drinking wine, called “Patio Prints,” for their two dogs who like to roam the patio and help out on the farm. The winery hosts a Bruschetta Bar workshop that combines cooking, wine pairing and crafting, in conjunction with a local company called Design & Wine.

They also have Saturday hours through December, when visitors can shop holiday gift baskets. www. javenswinery.com/wines.html

Doppeleichen Vineyards – New Ulm The owners of this rural winery decided to close the tasting room during a highway interchange project that would make travel difficult.

Now that road construction is expected to lighten soon, owner/manager Paul Neyers is tentatively planning to reopen in mid-August. www.doppeleichenvineyards. com

Montgomery Harvest Cider and Wine – Montgomery At its heart an apple orchard, this 22-acre site provides for the production of several hard ciders and wines, including a semi-sweet blend of Toka, Superior and Alderman plums that took a bronze medal in the 2018 International Cold Climate Wine Competition (ICCWC). Guests earn special bragging rights for trying the hard apple wine, dubbed “The Full Monty,” while the white apple wine can be paired with many meals. Relax on the porch during fall weekends, listening to local acoustic artists, or for more active enjoyment go apple picking or attempt a six-acre corn maze. The farm’s 2,000 apple trees occupy less than a tenth of the acreage, allowing visitors to stroll maintained paths through prairie areas, hardwood and evergreen forest. Wines are available to taste and purchase during regular business hours in the fall season. www.montgomeryorchard.com

River View Vineyard & Winery – La Crescent Take a winding trip along the Mississippi River Valley before stopping for some serious views at this small country winery in the bluffs above the river.

Bring a picnic lunch and your pup or just visit the outside tasting room, overlooking Lake Onalaska. Owner Brad Helstad and his father originally intended to sell their grapes to other area wineries when they planted their first 200 vines in 2003. But after getting established, Helstad opened the winery to the public in 2011. Nine different types of wines are available, including reds, whites and blushes.

There’s a new white Frontenac Blanc to try and two “River Boat” blends–in red and blush. About half of the wine is made from Helstad’s grapes, with the rest from grapes grown within approximately 30 miles. River View is one of a dozen wineries in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, near the Upper Mississippi, that form a group called the Great River Road Wine Trail. The winery is open April through November and can make arrangements for large groups or special events–not surprisingly; several couples have chosen this spot for their wedding. Sign up for their new monthly email newsletter to learn more. www.riverviewwinery.com

Round Lake Vineyards & Winery – Round Lake This familyowned and operated business in the southwestern corner of the state includes a Bistro with an extensive menu and an event center that hosts weddings and corporate functions. Visitors can take in a view of the lake or wander the pastoral setting with more than 19,000 vines across four vineyards.

First planted in 2007, the 30-acre operation is one of the largest in the midwest, producing more than 15 white and red, sweet and dry wines. The composition of the area’s dark soil benefits the vines with good drainage and passes on a unique mineral character. The first three varieties planted, La Crescent, Frontenac Gris and Marquette, are still producing some of the winery’s most awardwinning wines. The last grape planted was Itasca– the latest of the University of Minnesota releases.

Check out the winery’s calendar for events such as summer Sunday brunches, live music, and the Grape Harvest Party & Stomp on Aug. 24. Open year-round; visit the website for hours. www. roundlakevineyards.com/home.html

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Three Oak Vineyards and Winery – Albert Lea In the summer of 2011, Albert Lea natives Jay Enderson and Dan Sorensen purchased what was once a nursery on the outskirts of town. They converted the existing buildings for wine production and planted the first two varieties of grapes,

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CONTINUED from page 7 which had been developed at the University of Minnesota. Just a few years later they planted their west vineyard, and before they were even open, their Frontenac Gris and LaCrescent white wines picked up awards at the International Cold Climate Wine Competition (ICCWC); even more of the wines received medals at the 2018 ICCWC competition. The tasting room was completed in 2017 and the menu, available online, offers local fare from Conger Meats and Eichtens Artisan Cheese. Groups looking for celebration space can hold outdoor parties on the east vineyard’s wine porch or gather around a fireplace in the barrel room—the newest private addition, with access to a patio and an option for more space with the tasting room. Weddings are held in an outdoor event area in the west vineyard. Live music is announced via Facebook while larger concert and event details are available on their website. www.threeoakwines.com

Union Valley Vineyard & Winery – Hokah This boutique farm winery, the first to be

licensed in Houston County, began as a hobby and turned into a passion for owners Robin and Jim Schlegel.

They opened for business in 2015 on their scenic valley property near the junction of the Root River and the Mississippi River. More than 200 vines contribute to the wines on offer, including La Crescent, Brianna, Marquette, Frontenac, Moonlight, Edelweiss, and Marechal Foch, as well as strawberry rhubarb and a newly released cranberry wine. In an effort to support locally grown products, all wines are produced from fruit grown on-site or purchased from area growers. This year the winery joined forces with two of Robin’s sisters to plant a new vineyard, called River Reflections, in her hometown of Buffalo City, Wisconsin. The expansion will provide varietal wines from the Verona grape and the new University of Minnesota release, the Itasca. Visit the tasting room, then relax in the sun or shade on a spacious patio. Connect

on Facebook to learn about special events, such as wood-fired pizza at the winery. Union Valley Vineyard Winery on Facebook.

Vintage Escapes Winery & Vineyard – Kilkenny Dan and Ashley Reller just opened their winery and vineyard to the public in May, a dream venture the husband and wife team built from the ground up. While the vines currently occupy a small area of the 32-acre property, they plan to expand an acre per year. Sit and gaze over lake and countryside from an outdoor patio, or enjoy the vintage-inspired features and live music of the tasting room. All wines are made from the vineyard’s fruit or locally purchased grapes. White wines include the tropical flavored

Brianna and La Crescent and a citrusy Edelweiss.

The first red wines on the menu are a Marquette–a stroll through a Minnesota landscape–and a semisweet Frontenac. Two more are expected to join them this fall, and the winery is hoping to make a fortified red wine available soon. Supplies of the popular “Pioneer Rosé” have been depleted for the year, but will be replenished with the 2019 grape harvest. Wine flights can be paired with shareable plates of cheese with meat or charcuterie, bread with dipping oil, or dessert. The Rellers are happy to offer information or answer questions and to arrange for large groups or private parties.

History buffs should take note that Dodd Road and Kilkenny are part of the “James-Younger Gang Outlaw Trail,” the popular name for the route used by the bank robbers to flee after a shoot-out at the First National Bank of Northfield. www.vintageescapeswinery.com. SMS

ADDING TO OUR LIST In 2018, we featured these wineries that are, of course, still great choices to visit.

Alexis Bailly Vineyard – Hastings Aspelund Winery – Kenyon Cannon River Winery – Cannon Falls Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery – Kasota Falconer Vineyards – Red Wing Four Daughters Vineyard – Rochester Garvin Heights Vineyards – Winona Morgan Creek Vineyards – New Ulm Next Chapter Winery – New Prague Painted Prairie – Currie Salem Glen Winery – Rochester Whitewater Wines – Plainview

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Loon Liquors

“The learning curve is just extraordinary. You have to be really good at it, you have to have a solid business plan, you have to have a ton of money and there’s just not that many people that are able to bring it all together – if it were easy, everyone would be doing it.”

– Mark Schiller of Loon Liquors - Northfield

10,000 Drops

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Story by Abby Patterson Contributing Writer

veryone knows where to find breweries and distilleries, especially with their popularity for tastings or a fun night out. But have you ever considered visiting a distillery? If you don’t already know, a distillery is where all of your favorite spirits are created: vodka, gin, whiskey, tequila.

Distilling is essentially extracting the alcohol from beer and wine, says Mark Schiller, co-owner of Loon Liquors in Northfield.

First, you add ground grain (either from local or other sources) to a mixing vault, heat the grain to release the starches, add malt and malt enzymes to convert starches to sugar, cool it down, transfer the fermented product to the still, run it through the still once to extract all of the alcohol, and repeat the process three times. Once it is collected enough low wines, it will be transferred to still again. After running it through the still and collecting only the portions of alcohol that are favorable, says Jake Hvistendahl, chief manager of 10,000 Drops in Faribault, add proof to the barrel

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or the bottle, and then place it in a barrel or bottle for controlled storage — usually between two to 10 years at a time for the best product. On top of this, Hvistendahl highly suggests doing lots of cleaning in between the steps.

The process sounds easy enough, but it’s a lot harder than it looks.

“The learning curve is just extraordinary,” said Schiller. “You have to be really good at it, you have to have a solid business plan, you have to have a ton of money and there’s just not that many people that are able to bring it all together – if it were easy, everyone would be doing it.”

Schiller says another reason it’s not as popular is that someone needs to have capital in order to have a distillery: the equipment, the space, and the savings to age the liquors you create. There’s also not a lot you can do with a distillery, according to Schiller.

“If you went out to a brewery and you backed up a semi-trailer, you can fill it with growlers – you can buy as much beer as you want.

But with a distillery, it’s just one bottle per person per day,” said Schiller. “With distilleries, it’s much smaller.”

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Rockfilter Distillery

Rockfilter Distillery

Rockfilter Distillery CONTINUED from page 9 These may be some of the reasons why distilleries aren’t as popular as breweries, but the surge of distilleries opening in the past decade explains why they weren’t a thing in Minnesota compared to other states.

While breweries and wineries gained in popularity across the Bold North, the permit to distill was still $30,000. At the time, bigger companies were leveraging the fee to keep smaller businesses out. After passing the Surly bill in 2011 to make it “feasible for small distilleries to start up in Minnesota without having to pay

exorbitant fees,” according to Christian Myrah, founder and head distiller at RockFilter in Spring Grove, the permit is now only $1,100 — if you produce under 20,000-proof gallons — and has seen a surge of distilleries popping up all over the Land of 10,000 lakes.

With about 150 craft breweries and 75 wineries, Minnesota now has 35 distilleries since the legislation was passed.

In 2014, Loon Liquors became the first micro-distillery to produce distilled spirits in Southern Minnesota, followed by Spring

Grove’s RockFilter in 2017, and then 10,000 Drops in Faribault, which officially opened its doors in June 2018.

All of the distilleries are unique — 10,000 Drops focuses on rum, bourbon and gin; RockFilter on whiskey and bourbon; while Loon Liquors makes an array of all spirits, including whiskey, gin, vodka, even tequila.

And because this new law allows for more and more local distilleries, it is surely expected there will be more on the rise with a surge in popularity in people visiting them and expanding their

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Loon Liquors 10,000 Drops “If you went out to a brewery and you backed up a semi-trailer, you can fill it with growlers – you can buy as much beer as you want.

But with a distillery, it’s just one bottle per person per day. With distilleries, it’s much smaller.”

– Mark Schiller of Loon Liquors - Northfield horizons.

“I truly would love to see people explore their palettes and look at spirits and sort of understand the process [of distilling],” said Schiller. “You should know how your product is made.”. SMS

Rockfilter Distillery

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J. CARVER DISTILLERY

CHANKASKA CREEK RANCH, WINERY & DISTILLERY (www.chankaskawines.com – Kasota, MN)

BEVERAGE ARTISANS WITH A

(companies that brew beer, distill spirits and/or make wine) 12

Open year-round, Mike Drash, vice-president of alcohol operations, oversees the production of 18 different wines and a dozen spirits from the distillery. The company’s newest creation is their 2017 Reserve Marquette, which comes 100% from Estate Vineyard. Aged for 20 months in a mix of new and used French Oak Barrels, this wine will change your mind on how good Minnesota wines can be. Chankaska offers tours, wine and spirits tastings, along with a menu that features delicious brick oven pizzas. They sponsor various events and are able to rent spaces for corporate meetings, holiday parties, social gatherings and weddings. The majority of harvest is in September and October, and the crew works seven days a week, nonstop. “We just completed about 18 months of construction, with the addition of a 9,200 square foot event center; and a new addition to the winery; a distilled spirits cocktail room. We have 14 cocktails that our tasting room staff have created!” exclaimed Marketing Director Courtney Malone.

Story by PAT GARRY Contributing Writer

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here have always been those who like to imbibe from time to time. With the onslaught of inventive beverages sneaking their way into the mainstream, lines are being crossed, and so too are loyalties to any one beverage. More adventurous consuming is becoming the norm, breeding bi-curious indulgers and producers alike.

The latter are now approaching beverage making in a way that’s more; well, fluid.

Promiscuous partakers are discovering the budding popularity of the hybrid brewery-winery-distillery folks. Winemakers are becoming brewers, and brewers are becoming vintners; while some like to dabble in distilling. These dual fabricators bring the best of both worlds to customers, combining their expertise in wine, beer, and spirits. So swirl, sniff, sip, and soak it all in, at these winery-brewery-distillery hybrids from southern Minnesota. It’s a whole new world of frolicking!

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J. CARVER DISTILLERY

(www.jcarverdistillery.com) – Waconia, MN) J. Carver Distillery is a grain-to-glass micro-distillery. “We explore and celebrate the bounty of Minnesota grains, fruits, and botanicals, as we forge community relationships with farmers and barrel coopers from right down the road; along with unique collaborations with three wineries and two breweries in Waconia,” explained Founding Partner Gina Holman. The local farm-to-glass spirits are produced entirely on-site in the Waconia facility. “We are proud to be putting J. Carver Distillery and our Minnesota grain-to-glass barreled spirits on the map, with our award-winning line of bourbons, ryes, and wheat whiskeys, brandies, barrel gin, and specialty spirits,” added Holman. J. Carver offers discriminating clear spirits aficionados, four distinctly-different gins, and two distinct vodkas. The distillery’s newest creation is a Minnesota wheat whiskey, actually first produced four years ago; and brought back by popular demand. J. Carver offers tours, tastings and events. Every weekend, the distillery staff can be found in the

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TURNING WATERS BREWING COMPANY beautiful Cocktail & Tasting Room; where they welcome guests for a tour and tasting. J. Carver Distillery announces the introduction of Everlasting Absinthe Verte. This mystifying, once illegal spirit was inspired by a tradition of craft and curiosity. It was produced in collaboration with Minnesota Vintners; and grapes grown locally at Waconia’s three wineries located just outside the Twin Cities. Stay tuned for the new J. Carver malt whiskies, rolling-out in 2020.

10,000 DROPS CRAFT DISTILLERS

a friendly, geeky bunch that loves beer and the community we’re in. We enjoy the craft of beer (both ours and others) and we enjoy being able to give back with our craft,” Erickson said. The first weekend of August is Angry Inch’s three-year anniversary. Watch for celebration updates!

(www.10000drops.com – Faribault, MN)

Owners Jake Hvistendahl, Pat Jacobs, and Rob & Kristie Kruchoski; distill spirits from raw, mostly local ingredients. “Specifically, we make rum, bourbon, and gin, and are currently aging all of these products in 53-gallon barrels,” stated Hvistendahl. The company’s newest product is their American Gin. It’s an 11 botanical gin that isn’t overly juniper tasting. The folks at 10,000 Drops boast a large cocktail room and patio, where they serve craft cocktails, Wed-Sun. They offer tours on Saturdays; they host parties of many sizes and for many occasions. On most Friday and Saturday nights, live music and food trucks are available. The business is located in an old furniture factory, turned salvaged warehouse. “We spent three years renovating our spaces largely by ourselves and re-used a ton of salvage and other elements from the demolition; to put back into the finished space,” Hvistendahl commented. Next on the drawing board is Aged Gin and Dark Rum. The 10,000 Drops staff looks to expand its distribution throughout Minnesota; in an attempt to get their products closer to Faribault visitors.

CONTINUED page 14

ANGRY INCH BREWING

(www.angryinchbrewing.com – Lakeville) Jon Erickson is the owner of Angry Inch Brewing, a production brewery and taproom. Jon’s most recent creation is a beer called Happy Juice, an all-Minnesota ingredient East Coast IPA. Drinkers should expect crisp, bright, orange flavors with a refreshing and slightly bitter finish. The Angry Inch provides flights, special events, weekend food trucks, and Wednesday night trivia. Erickson finds satisfaction in educating those who purport to dislike beer.

“Honestly, I like having conversations with people who “don’t like beer” and find out what flavors they enjoy, their perception of beer, and then being able to convert them to someone who now seeks out craft beer,” Jon explained. The Angry Inch is not just a bar that chooses to serve only beers with funny names. Folks may be pleasantly surprised when they discover that what they are drinking has been crafted on site, brewed on site, and served on site. “We’re

10,000 DROPS CRAFT DISTILLERS

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HARMONY SPIRITS LOON LIQUOR COMPANY CONTINUED from page 13

HARMONY SPIRITS

(www.harmonyspirits.net – Harmony) Owners Andy Craig, Larry Tammel and Jim Simpson, currently distill vodka, whiskey and rum. They will have bourbon whiskey ready in September and another bourbon whiskey release in November. Their vodka is corn based and very neutral and smooth, with a creamy texture, a brown sugar finish, and a hint of almond scent. “Our whiskey is 80% corn and 20% oats. It has a very “bourbonesque” flavor, with a bit of the same bite you get with a rye whiskey and a sweet finish from the oats,” said Simpson. Harmony Spirits has a tasting room/cocktail room, where they offer tastings and hand-crafted cocktails, created on the spot. The most popular cocktails are the Blackberry Vodka Mojito and the Fillmore Lemonade.

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LOON LIQUOR COMPANY

their 5th-year anniversary. Watch for details and stay tuned for the Loon’s experimental series and food series.

Loon Liquor Company was co-founded by Mark Schiller and Simeon Rossi. Loon distills delicious locally-sourced grains to make organic-certified whiskey, vodka, gin, liqueurs, and other spirits.

They feature a cocktail room, where they make ginger ale, tonic water, simple syrups, bitters, and other mixers. “Our newest creation is an experimental series of distilled spirits. The inspiration comes from a desire to try out all different kinds of flavors to see what folks enjoy the most,” stated Schiller. Along with tours, the company offers a variety of spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks, which are crafted from scratch. Additionally, they have added delectable, local meat and cheese plates, plus other tasty treats. “It is most rewarding to watch our customers’ reactions to the first sip of their cocktails, spirits, or sodas,” Schiller added. Loon Liquor was the first, legal distillery in Southern MN in about 100 years. This year marks

TURNING WATERS BREWING COMPANY

(www.loonliquors.com – Northfield)

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(www.turningwatersbrewing.com – Wabasha)

Turning Waters Back Alley Brewing Co. is owned by Brenda and Ford Pearson. They brew craft beers of all styles; Pale Wheat, Milkshake IPA, Milk Stout, Russian Imperial Stout, Red & Brown Ales, Saisons, and Kettle Sours. Some of the ingredients utilized by the couple are: real fruits, toasted coconut, toasted almonds, and more.

“My husband, Ford, turned 50 and since everyone is making Pastry Stouts, he brewed a cake-inspired Red Velvet Stout at 7.5% ABV. We served it with fresh, whipped cream blended with Woodford Double Oak Reserve Bourbon. It is a double milk stout with red velvet

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CHANKASKA CREEK RANCH, WINERY & DISTILLERY

ANGRY INCH BREWING

cake undertones, and a light cream cheese flavor with bourbon on the nose. We also served a 9-month bourbon barrel-aged Russian Imperial Stout, clocking in at 18% as a bonus beer. Our patrons love Ford’s stouts!”

Brenda exclaimed. Turning Waters offers tours, tastings, pizza, ice cream, snacks; craft beer, wine, cider, sodas; and occasionally, they host a martini night. “We love it when we can convert a domestic beer drinker, by trying our Chubby Chipmonk, Pale Wheat Ale, or our Skinny Biever. There are funny stories behind the naming of those beers,” Brenda commented. Brenda

said that some people think brewers are tattooed and bearded. “LOL! Many think you can brew and serve a beer in days and that is not reality. We focus on small batches with BIG flavors!” added Brenda. The Pearson’s business is an extension of their home, which is a bed & breakfast. They plan to add additional outdoor seating, and more fun games, on the patio. SMS My experience spans 19-years, and I will apply my skills to help beef-up any lifeless copy within your website, brochure, press release, catalog, etc. - patgarry@charter.net

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“If I could sit down with anyone and have a beer, it would be my father. There were many things we never got to talk about. I would ask him what inspired him the most in life.” - Kevin Laird

Story by PAT GARRY Contributing Writer

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Photos by Philip Weyhe ome crafted beer and wine can deliver on a number of things – value, variety, quality, pride. The practice is more popular than ever, and a growing number of “make-your-own, brewyour-own” artisans are proving one can concoct great-tasting juice and suds, without leaving the house. Richard & Gail Chilman (Le Sueur-vintners) and Kevin Laird (New Ulm-brewer) represent a few in Southern Minnesota doing just that.

THE CHILMANS Richard and Gail made their first wines in the fall of 2014,

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and currently, the couple owns circa 500 bottles. In a nutshell, the process is to initially press the fruit (done in the garage).

Then the primary and secondary fermentation occurs in the kitchen, the dining room, or a spare bedroom. It is vital, during fruit fly season, to use an area that can be quarantined, since fruit-fly invasion can cause wine to convert to vinegar. Finally, the aging takes place (in the basement), where it is cool and dark.

The Chilmans thoroughly enjoy occasional tasting parties, where they can share their hobby with friends. “We’ll open one or two dozen different bottles of wine and people can taste the different varieties that range from dry to dessert wines,” said Gail.

Richard’s cousin is a winemaker, which is what got the Chilmans excited about becoming vintners. They like to partake in wine tasting tours in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa; and they have learned a great deal by visiting with the various artisans.

In Richard and Gail’s initial year of production, they had too many apples on their tree, to know what to do with. Richard

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had access to some wild grapes, and Gail’s favorite wine has always been cranberry. “We used what we had available to us, so those were our first three kinds: apple, wild grape and cranberry. Since then, we have made primarily fruit wines, as we did not have access to many grapes,” Gail explained. Neither of the two had any experience in making wine. They purchased an equipment starter kit from Brew-NWine in Mankato and found some recipes to use as guidelines.

The Chilmans enjoy sharing their concoctions with others, and they are not afraid to experiment. One of their more unusual wines is a cucumber flavor. “You know you have a good batch of wine when you start planning on making more batches of it as soon as you’ve tasted it. We’ve had an amazing Pinot Noir kit wine that we are making our second kit of since everyone enjoys it so much. We are also known for our various renditions of cranberry wines such as Straight Cranberry, Cranberry Melange, and Cranberry Margarita,” Gail said.

Richard said that the hardest thing about winemaking is getting the correct acid balance in some of the wines. “We made a cherry wine that we fought with and weren’t happy with when we finally bottled it, but we have learned so many new things since then, that now when we open a bottle, we are able to adjust the wine, and now it’s one of the more popular choices at wine tastings,” Richard said.

Most home winemakers will admit that if they like the wine they have made, then it is a good wine. So much about the alcohol is subjective. Some people only like dry, others prefer only sweet. Some won’t touch a white wine because they’ve only been exposed to reds. There are those winemakers who, like Richard and Gail, like to experiment, while certain other fabricators will work with only kit wines. “We had one person at a wine tasting that said she would only choose about three of the wines to drink. Richard told her we were going to broaden her horizons, and he had her sample all of the wines. She did not find one that she disliked and was excited that she was able to experience all of the wines, many of which she would never have tried,” Gail said.

As self-taught winemakers, the Chilmans like to network with other winemakers. They joined a wine club in St. Paul and found it invaluable to know that if they are experiencing a problem with their winemaking, there is someone within the group who can help them. It is encouraged for members to bring their wines to the club meetings, for evaluation. “With our membership in the wine club, we now have access to many varieties of grapes and juices, and we are still on the lower end of the learning curve for grapes. We are also learning what we need to do to have our wines balanced before fermentation, rather than struggling with them when it’s time to bottle,” Richard said.

The Chilmans advise that anyone interested in trying to make wines, is probably wise to start with a wine kit; they are fairly foolproof. Don’t be afraid to experiment; the recipes are mostly guidelines. Networking with other winemakers and suppliers are excellent resources, and there are also a lot of online sources and forums.

Some wines tend to be best consumed within the first couple of years, however, some reds don’t reach their prime until the five-year mark. “We want the wines that we bottle to be balanced, so they can all be good when they mature. The hardest part of the entire process is not being able to drink them until they are mature!” Richard exclaimed.

KEVIN LAIRD “I’ve always enjoyed the occasional beer, but I got bored with the mainstream commercial beers. There had to be a better tasting beer, and when I tasted my first home brew or craft brew, I was hooked.

That’s what beer was meant to taste like. It’s like canned vegetables versus fresh vegetables; no comparison. And when I found out about all the neat equipment and gadgets to help make the brewing process easier and more accurate, that totally convinced me to start brewing.”

That’s Kevin Laird. Kevin has been personal brewing for several years and he had no formal training or classes. He learned the process through friends that were seasoned home brewers. Laird said that the best way to learn home brewing is by trial and error and a few good books. “When visiting some of the microbreweries in Minnesota, I like to strike up a conversation with the master brewer.

It’s surprising to discover just how many of them started out as home brewers,” Laird explained.

In the initial stages of production, Laird bottled his beer and would yield about six to 12 cases per year, but bottling became tedious and a little too much work. Circa two years ago, Kevin switched over to kegging, rather than bottling his beer. The kegging method proved to be easier for cleaning, sanitizing, and executing final fermentations. “I’ve been averaging about two kegs per year. I just make what pleases my palate and what my friends will try,” said Kevin.

He uses no automated procedures during his brewing process, which provides him a lot of exercise, especially when an unplanned accident in the kitchen occurs. As is true with nearly anything, the more time spent perfecting a craft; the better and more efficient the procedure becomes. And in Kevin’s case, the better his brews become. “With practice, I can streamline the procedure and save some time, but I still spend the better part of a day brewing. I’ve done a lot of small, one-gallon batches, which allows me to experiment with yeasts, grains, hops and different equipment. It’s a great way to practice and improve on the entire operation,” Laird advised.

When asked if he ever made a bad batch of beer, Kevin said that there is no such thing as a bad batch of beer. However, he admits that he has produced a few batches that had some “off” tastes and strange aromas. His solution is a simple one. He gathers his home brewer friends together at his place on a Friday evening, and with the help of his wife, Jan, throws a bunch of fish in the fryer, maybe bakes a couple of pizzas, serves up an array of cheeses, and tops it all off with some chocolate desserts … Oh, and then discusses the horrible problem he encountered with his latest brew. Kevin says this is the best part of the home brewing experience (and it may take another batch or two before the issue is resolved). Kevin’s current concoctions include a Cream Ale and a Kolsch. Both are light beers with a clean, but slightly “hoppy” taste and aroma. He grows some of his own hops, which are used during the final stages of the brewing process.

He said that one of the best components in the home-brewery hobby is attending social/business events. “I’ve attended several festivals in the Minneapolis area, usually when the brewery is introducing a new seasonal beer. I have visited many microbreweries throughout the state: Surly, Four Corners, Breu Bros., etc. It’s a great way to get some good tips.”

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Probably the most popular of Kevin’s brews is the Bourbon Barrel Porter. It’s more likely to be what everyone expects a home brew to be: a beautiful dark red color, very strong aroma, with very strong after effects. He used oak chips in the fermentation stage and said the result was scrumptious. One of Kevin’s future hopes is to experiment with fruit in his brews. For those who can’t decide whether or not to take-up home brewing, be assured that with all the information and equipment available these days, it’s difficult to make a bad brew.

One of the great aspects of the home brew process is that when you first tap into a new batch, you taste it, your fellow home brewers taste it, and you all agree that it’s great, but you immediately start thinking you can improve it. The hook is set … the game is afoot!

SMS

My experience spans 19-years, and I will apply my skills to help beef-up any lifeless copy within your website, brochure, press release, catalog, etc. - patgarry@charter.net

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Story by meghan rook Contributing Writer

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art and fruity. Funky and acidic. Light, but citrusy. The beer scene isn’t the same as it used to be, and one thing’s for certain – the trend towards sour isn’t going anywhere, anytime soon. For a little lesson in the science of sour, we spoke with three of Southern Minnesota’s brightest brew masters who are bringing the trend to breweries near you.

Schell’s Starkeller 2215 N Garden St, New Ulm, MN

FORAGER BREWING 18

With rich history dating back to the late 1800s, Schell’s is considered something of a legend in southern Minnesota. Carrying on the family tradition is Jace Marti, a sixth-generation Schell, who got his start at the brewery in high school and has since worked his way up to assistant brewmaster.

Marti’s initial interest in sours came from years of home brewing. In 2011, he left for brewing school in Berlin, Germany, and after six months of schooling and two internships spanning an additional three months, he was back in New Ulm and ready to bring the taste of northern Germany’s Berliner Weisse-style sour to his homeland.

The introduction of this style of beer presented an opportuni-

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ty to reuse 10 Cypress wood lagering tanks, purchased in 1936 by the brewery and eventually discarded for steel tanks. These old wooden tanks provided the perfect solution, as this new line of beer – dubbed the Noble Star Collection – needed a vessel that could breathe, something their steel counterpart was just not capable of.

The restored tanks surround the walls of the latest addition to the Schell’s brewery, the Starkeller, a completely separate taproom in New Ulm dedicated to Marti’s sours.

To start, these beers use a method called “mixed culture fermentation,” a technique that differs greatly from a “clean” brewing process. For one, it takes much longer – while a standard lager can take two to three weeks to come to fruition, a mixed culture brew can take up to three years from start to release date.

The wort – the liquid product of the malted grains – is pasteurized, brewed, and then cooled to bring back to the Starkeller. The brewers then pitch a culture of yeast and bacteria and let it ferment for about a week. At this point, the mixture tastes almost sickeningly sweet, due to the lack of hops used in the process.

Once the mixture is moved to the old wooden tanks, the brewers add another yeast called brettanomyces. Over the next year, the brew will begin to develop more of an interesting, spicy and fruity bouquet. Then, it’s hand bottled, pitched with more sugar and yeast, and left to rest for two months.

It’s a tedious process, but from a portfolio offering standpoint,

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montgomery brewing

the Noble Star Collection offers a very different taste – and one that is nearly impossible to replicate. Framboise Du Nord was the first of Marti’s Berliner Weisse sours that Schell’s recreated. Though it has subtle differences, it is still very close to the original.

“This is all a part of the mixed culture fermentation,” says Marti.

“You are letting wild yeast make the culture for you – it does what it wants, and you get what you get. There are ways to create consistency through blending and we are always working on improving that.”

Montgomery Brewing 306 2nd St. NW, Montgomery, MN The historical Montgomery Brewing building opened its doors in the late 1800s, and in 2000 was purchased with the intent to renovate the building for residential apartments. Charles Dorsey, son-in-law of the building’s owner, took this opportunity to bring his homebrewing inside of the facility – and back to the city of Montgomery in northern Le Sueur County.

Now founder and owner of Montgomery Brewing, Dorsey officially opened the doors of Montgomery Brewing – a cozy 1,500 sq ft of space inside the old bottling house – in December 2015.

Nearly three years later and the microbrewery has expanded its offerings to include sour beers – starting with the launch of the Raspberry Sour in April 2019, to the Peach Sour, which is now on tap.

Dorsey uses a different method, known as “kettle souring,” to bring his sour brews to fruition. Rather than a wooden barrel (and a few years, mind you,) the mixture is soured in a steel tank using a special bacteria called “lactobacillus.”

This bacteria is a probiotic that converts sugars to lactic acid, and can take anywhere from 12-30 hours to lower the pH to the level of sour that is desired. Once the anticipated level of tartness is achieved, the normal brewing process is resumed. Boil; add hops; cool wort; pitch yeast and let ferment. Unlike mixed culture fermentation, a traditional kettle sour can be turned around and enjoyed in a matter of three to four days.

This method has allowed Dorsey to create a beer for the nondrinkers that visit his taproom and satisfy the palate of the everchanging market for interesting new kettle sours.

Dorsey is confident the trend isn’t going to sour anytime soon.

“Five years ago, the craze was more hops, more International

Bitter Units (IBUs) – who can push the bitterness boundaries,” he says. “Back then they said IPAs won’t last. Today, it’s who can make the best beer that doesn’t really look or taste like traditional beer.

Juicy, hazy, IPAs. Hops so fruity in character that you think fruit was added. Triple fruited kettle sours. I love that people are just looking to expand their idea of beer and that’s what makes this job fun.”

And though sours are relatively new to this small-batch brewery, they have been an immediate success. Currently, Montgomery Brewing is testing one recipe and learning what flavors different fruits provide and how different pH levels affect the sourness.

Ultimately, their overarching goal — sour or not — is to produce beers they are excited to share with their customers. If they don’t like it, you won’t find it on tap.

schell’s starkeller

Forager Brewing 1005 6th Street NW, Rochester, MN A casual dining venue and brewery in Rochester, Forager Brewing – which opened in September 2015 – offers it all.

Co-owner and Head Brewer Austin Jevne was brewing beer at home and picking wild Minnesota fruits for sours years before its inception.

Forager has been making sours since the beginning, and its sour program still sources local berries. Guests can oftentimes find Jevne foraging (hence the name) in the woods in search of the brightest and ripest wild berries to use in his brews.

Jevne and his crew use three different methods of producing sours: mixed culture fermentation, kettle souring (used for its Saisons and sour red ales,) and the third – spontaneous fermentation — which is brewed according to a traditional Belgian process called “lambic.”

The process and ingredients of spontaneous fermentation are very different than those used in “clean” beer production. The beer is pumped into a shallow vat and left to cool outside overnight, allowing the micro flora present in the natural environment to inoculate the wort.

No yeast or bacteria is added — only the naturally occurring yeast and bacteria in the environment ferments the mixture. It is then transferred to oak barrels where it ferments very slowly, taking anywhere from one to five years to reach the desired pH level.

Jevne says their first 100% spontaneous ales will start being released this fall.

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“I think that people willing to try a very specialized local product will love our spontaneous ales when we release them,” he says.

All the fruits in their spontaneous ales are sourced in Minnesota or Wisconsin.

On tap now is their popular “Gummies Make Us Likable,” a Berliner Weisse- style beer made with passion fruit, mango and pink guava, and a tiki-inspired kettle sour called “Tiki Killers,” a pink brew dosed with pink dragon fruit, mango and passion fruit.

If not for its unique brewing processes, come for the tasty, awardwinning beer that gets them recognized all over the world. Stay for the delicious food pairings and fun-loving crowd! SMS

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Story by PAT GARRY Contributing Writer

O

ccasions like anniversaries, weddings and reunions call for special event venues. When organizing an event, many folks are confronted by many decisions. Choosing a venue is the one decision that will have the largest impact on any event. The date of the event, catering options, and attendees’ pleasant experiences…all are affected by which venue is selected.

The 3 Ten Event Venue Faribault www.3teneventvenue.com

Ryan and Jenny Ernster, owners of The 3 Ten Event Venue in Faribault, opened their doors in April, 2018. The facility has speakers above the bar to play house music if/when needed and two 70-inch TVs that flank each end of the bar. There is 6,000 square feet of hardwood floor, for dancing. The walls are a combination of brick and stone, the floors are wood, there are crystal chandeliers throughout and floor-to-ceiling windows drape the length of the building. The venue has a capacity of 427 guests (seated).

“For all events, we provide an event coordinator, a bartender and a security guard, all included in the rent. We also offer a “day of coordination”, at an additional fee, for brides who want additional help planning and running their special day,” explained Ryan.

Armory Square Event Center Northfield www.armorysquarenfld.com

The Gardens of Castle Rock in Northfield.

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Soon to be one-year old, the Armory Square Event Center is owned by Liz and Jonathan Reppe. The facility is equipped with

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an audio system that connects to speakers suspended from the ceiling; along with a screen and projector. The stage can be configured in various formats. The main floor is wood and the dance area can be determined by the guests. Rentals of the main event space include access to the adjacent green space, which includes an outdoor stage and bar. The interior is Industrial Rustic; with wood floors, barn wood and galvanized metal accents on the walls; and string lighting and full-ceiling lights. The venue accommodates 320 seated at tables, with the use of the balcony. “We offer a choice of either in-house our outside catering. We can assist with music, band or DJ recommendations, and we offer custom beer through Imminent Brewery and custom cocktails by Loon Liquors,” stated Liz Reppe.

Hormel Historic Home – Austin www.hormelhistorichome.org

The Carriage House at Garten Marketplatz - Byron, 6 miles SW of Rochester www.gartenmarketplatz.com

Blooms of Love - Dodge Center www.bloomsoflove.com

A 15-year going concern, Blooms of Love is owned and operated

by Shari and Rex Edge. The Edges supply a complete sound system, along with the sound technician who operates it. Blooms of Love is an indoor/outdoor venue. Acreages of land allow folks to access the area for photos, games, or just to relax and visit with friends.

The venue boasts an attractive, spacious gazebo; and a 2,240 sq. ft. pavilion. “Our pavilion has retractable walls, providing protection from weather concerns and direct sunshine. It also gives everyone the opportunity to experience the beauty of the gardens that surround the area,” said Shari Edge. There is a cement dance floor, and decorative ceiling lighting. Chandeliers and sways abound. On premise is a furnished, small, private suite, where bridal parties may “prep” themselves. The basic price includes chairs and tables for 100 guests. Table covers and white satin chair covers are available upon request. “Our mantra is: we do not have enough acreage to grow crops, not enough land to raise lots of livestock, but we are just right to offer everyone love, which we do!” Shari exclaimed.

Stephanie Odegard is the event coordinator of The Carriage House, which was just finished this spring; and offers the perfect heated and cooled indoor space. The new venue is equipped with an audio system and a beautiful concrete floor for dancing. “The Carriage House seamlessly integrates with our beautiful gardens, peaceful country setting, and immense outdoor spaces. We have a large pergola patio space, garden paths, and expansive lawns that make this an outdoor paradise. When inside the Carriage House, our large windows look out on the gardens and make you feel like you’re still outside,” explained Odegard. The vintage European-Style Carriage House is adorned with poured, concrete floors and industrial pipe railing; blended nicely with dark-wood beams, leather Edison bulb chandeliers, and antiqued, exposedbrick pillars. Also, wooden farmhouse tables and elegant cross-back chairs, contrast nicely with the light-colored tones throughout. The Carriage House easily accommodates 100-plus guests, and smaller spaces, like the porches, are available for more intimate events.

“Some people might say they love the country views, chirping birds, soaring butterflies and hummingbirds, or the peaceful breeze rustling through the tree branches. Others may tell you that it’s the quaint farmstead, unique and extensive gardens, huge variety of perennials, and cute gift house that bring them out. For me, it’s the fireflies that dance in the gardens at dusk on warm summer nights. All of these things are quintessential to who we are, but what really sets us apart from other venues is our customer service.

The helpful and friendly staff, personalized attention, and positivity sets us apart and promises to make your event truly special!” – Stephanie Odegard.

“We have hosted public and private events in our current organizational model (as the Hormel Historic Home) since 1992. We added a 6,000 sq. ft. event center and commercial kitchen in 2009,” stated Executive Director Holly Johnson. The gorgeous structure contains permanent 80-inch monitors with HDMI hook up and sound, as well as a ceiling-mounted projector. There is a permanent dance floor and staging can be rented. The venue possesses a spacious patio and garden area, and the interior (250 capacity) features an elegant and charming décor; with adjustable recessed lighting. Hormel staff takes care of set-up and clean-up; table skirting is available; free wi-fi; free street and public lot parking; clients can choose from a variety of caterers; a full liquor license facility; trained bartenders on staff. “Clients have the opportunity to tour the historic home during their event. It is an opportunity to witness where the history and legacy of the George A. and Lillian Hormel family is preserved.

Mississippi National Golf Links Red Wing www.golfredwing.com

Nathan Gale is General Manager/Head Golf Professional, at the venue that is equipped with a public address system, projector, and screen. The facility has a spacious, wooden dance floor and it offers a covered patio. The 3,500 sq. ft. structure accommodates 275 guests, and its numerous windows offer views of the golf course. There is a skylight in the banquet room, with dimmable canned lighting as well. “We have a bridal room, we have the ability to host ceremonies and receptions, there is on-site catering, great views for pictures, an outside portable bar, and discounts for rehearsal dinners,” said Gale.

The Gardens of Castle Rock Castle Rock Township, Northfield www.thegardensofcastlerock.com

Venue and Event Designer Glenn Switzer, founded The Gardens of Castle Rock, located in Castle Rock Township, north of the city of Northfield. The Gardens provide a portal audio system at each of the four ceremony sites, and background audio is available throughout the venue. The facility has staging and risers available, and the circa 4,000 sq. ft. interior space hosts up to 300 guests.

The several buildings that make up The Gardens are uniquely handcrafted by the owner, using a beautiful mix of natural stone, steel and locally-harvested wood. “The Gardens is one of the most open venues in the state, allowing couples to create the most unique events. If you can dream it, we can make it happen,” Switzer commented.

Glenhaven Events - Farmington www.glenhavenevents.com

George Maverick is the Chief Joy Officer at Glenhaven Events, a large log building with soaring 24-foot ceilings and string lights, a 36’x10’ stage that seats 16, and a total capacity of 350. The property boasts a covered surround porch, seven acres of landscaped grounds for photos, including wedding garden, beauty salon, gaming arcade, groom’s cave, and a treasure room. Complete audio/ visual capabilities are in house, featuring finely tuned sound and incredible mood and dance lighting. Other atmospheric effects: floor fog, vertical fog, haze, snow, soap bubbles, sparks, intelligent spotlights, etc. “We are a full-service facility, with a complete staff, security, catering, DJ, event planning and coordination. Just add your design touches and people you like!” Maverick exclaimed.

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Oak View Weddings & Events Owatonna www.oakviewweddingsandevents.com

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CONTINUED from page 21 Oak View Weddings and Events is a spectacular wedding venue owned by Dan and Katie Haberman. The stunning reception building is heated and air conditioned, and its interior features modern glass garage doors that open to a covered patio with drop curtains for inclement weather. The bride and groom have prominence at the custom-built head table. “Contemporary blends with country with our custom barn-wood wall and fireplace, hand-crafted chandelier, ambient lighting and up-lighting throughout. Grand marches, introductions, speeches and dinner music flow seamlessly with our state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor sound system,” Katie remarked. Guests may visit one of the many seating areas, listen to the soothing water features, hang-out near the outdoor bar, or relax around one of the numerous fire displays. “Dancing under the stars or under our covered patio, will create unforgettable memories you and your guests will treasure for a lifetime!” exclaimed Katie.

512 sq. ft. Also, the venue has a large, moveable dance floor that can expand to 891 sq. ft. The Center features just over 14,000 sq. ft. of ballroom and pre-function space. The building can be broken into three different-sized rooms. “We can serve circa 725 guests for a sit-down dinner and over 1,200 theater style. Some people think that we get the food catered in from our sister company, Canadian Honker, but we have our own culinary team on site to make everything fresh, in one of SE MN’s largest kitchens,” Mathiason explained. Currently in the final stages of a major face lift, the facility has new carpeting; fresh paint throughout; wood mosaic features abound; wainscoting in the circumference of the ballroom; and additional lighting.

various chandeliers. Ballroom #2 (capacity of 200) is a blank canvas, with beautiful white walls, and a black ceiling and floor. Nine handstrung crystal chandeliers are permanent in the space, and there is plenty of natural sunlight as well. “We just opened Ballroom #2 last year, and it is very exciting to be able to offer such a glamorous space. Because of our second ballroom, we are able to hold a ceremony and reception, all in one space!” exclaimed Jimenez.

The Mill Event Center - Waseca www.milleventcenter.com

Starfire Event Center - Waseca www.starfire-event-center.business.site

Rochester Event Center Rochester www.rochestereventcenter.com

Peter Mathiason is the venue’s general manager. The facility is equipped with all of the sound, visual and audio needs to accommodate any size group. There is 16-inch-high staging that totals

Mindy Jimenez is Event & Advertising Coordinator of the Starfire Event Center, which boasts two ballrooms. Both ballrooms are set up for microphone and audio use. The newer ballroom connects via Bluetooth, to accommodate many modern devices. The Starfire staff utilizes portable, high-quality staging that can be set in either ballroom. The dance floor in Ballroom #1 is made up from old bowling alley lanes, and the floor in Ballroom #2 is a stained concrete topped with gloss. Ballroom #1 (capacity of 400) is done in re-purposed barn wood that has been sanded and re-stained to look uniform.

There are beautiful string lights above the dance floor, as well as

Owners Joe and Deb Hoehn opened the Center in May, 2018.

Fitted with a permanent P.A. system and cordless microphones, the building’s walls are perfect for displaying videos. The stage is very spacious, and the concrete dance floor is 50 ft. x 40 ft. The 10,000 sq. ft. venue with a 600-plus capacity, is a rustic rendering of old tin, barn wood, and windmills as ceiling fans. With an array of beautiful string lights, it is a must see. The Hoehns offer tables and chairs for up to 600 people, a full bar with up to eight bartenders if needed, and a shuttle bus service. “Wedding parties that reserve with us may set-up the day prior to the event. We also have a bridal suite that is available for all clients,” said Deb Hoehn. SMS My experience spans 19-years, and I will apply my skills to help beef-up any lifeless copy within your website, brochure, press release, catalog, etc. - patgarry@charter.net

Nominate us for Best Bar, Best Burger, Best Chef and Best Lunch. Best Local Beer and Cider, Best Local Wine or Spirit ORDER THROUGH OUR WEBSITE fielderstap.com

DOWNLOAD & ORDER THROUGH OUR APP Text FIELDERS to 33733

M-Th 11a - 10p • F-Sa 11a - 11p • Su 11a - 9p 2300 Gleason Ct, Northfield · 507-645-4500 22

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Adventure Avvaits • Live Armored Jousting • 7 Theme Weekends • 16 Stages of Exciting Entertainment • 250 Artisan booths for Endless Shopping • Over 50 Family Friendly Activities • Food and Drink fit for a King or Queen • Mermaids, Fairies, Vikings & more!

FREE PARKING! Open Weekends August 17th-September 29th Plus Labor Day & Festival Friday, September 27th Rain or Shine • 9am-7pm • 952-445-7361

RenaissanceFest.com Located 7 miles South of Shakopee off Highway 169

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1325 Armstrong Rd #165 Northfield loonliquors.com 507-218-9173

4609 135th St E Dundas keepsakecidery.com 413-552-8872

1306 1st St NE New Prague giesenbraubierco.com 952-758-4226

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1860 Schell’s Rd New Ulm schellsbrewery.com 507-354-5528

519 Division St S #2 Northfield imminentbrewing.com 507-646-2327

70555 202nd Ave Reads Landing readslanding.com 651-560-4777

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28 4th St NE Faribault 10000drops.com 612-978-7551

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23436 Union Trail Belle Paine u4icbrewing.com 952-873-3303

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1119 Center St N Mankato mankatobrewery.com 507-386-2337

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101 E Southview Dr Marshall braubeer.com 507-929-2337

2001 32nd Ave NW Rochester ltsbrewing.com 507-226-8280

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103 Water St N Northfield tanzenwald.com 507-366-2337

309 Main St N Austin 507-396-8808

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306 2nd St NW Montgomery montgomerybrewing.com

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2031 14th St NW Rochester littlethistlebeer.com 507-226-8014

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Not all breweries and cideries listed on page 26-27 are included on the map.

500 23rd Ave NW Austin angryhogbrewery.com 507-402-6718

40099 150th St Waseca halfpintbrew.com 507-461-9235

15 Hester Street Dundas chapelbrewing.com 507-664-1300

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4 3rd St SW Rochester grandroundsbrewing.com 507-292-1628

101 E 5th St Mantorville stagecoachbeer.com 651-387-0708

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1411 Old W Main St Red Wing redwingbrewing.com 651-327-2200

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e c S 65 E Front St Winona islandcitybrew.com 507-474-2739

228 Poplar St Manakto localbrew.com 507-779-7082

111 Elm Ave W Waseca wardhousebrewing.com Facebook

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1005 6th St NW Rochester foragerbrewery.com 507-258-7490

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1016 7th St NW Rochester kinneycreekbrewery.com 507-282-2739

Imminent Brewing

imminentbrewing.com 519 Division Street S, Northfield Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Island City Brewing Co. islandcitybrew.com 65 E. Front Street, Winona Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft, crowlers, growlers Taproom: Yes

Karst Brewing karstbrewed.com 315 1st Street, Fountain Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Keepsake Cidery

mncider.com 4609 135th Street E, Dundas Launched:: 2014 Availability: Draft, bottles Taproom:Yes

Kinney Creek Brewery kinneycreekbrewery.com 1016 7th St. NW, Rochester Launched: 2012 Availability: Draft, crowlers, growlers Taproom: Yes

Lakeville Brewing Co.

lakevillebrewing.com 8790 Upper 208th Street W, Lakeville Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Lazy Loon Brewing

lazyloonbrewing.com 209 East Wilson Street, Norwood Young America Launched: 2014 Availability: Draft, bottles, cans Taproom: Lazy Loon Lanes

Angry Hog Brewery

www.angryhogbrewery.com 500 23rd Avenue NW, Austin Launched: 2013 Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Angry Inch Brewing angryinchbrewing.com 20841 Holyoke Ave., Lakeville Launched: 2016 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

August Schell’s Brewing Co.

schellsbrewery.com 1860 Schell Road, New Ulm Launched: : 1860 Availability: Draft, bottles, cans Taproom: Sundays Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Badger Hill Brewing Co.

badgerhillbrewing.com 4571 Valley Industrial Boulevard, Shakopee Launched: 2012 Availability: Draft, bottles, cans, growlers Taproom: Yes

Bank Brewing Co.

bankbrewing.com 200 & 218 S. Main Street, Hendricks Launched: 2008 Availability: Draft, bottles, cans, growlers Taproom: Yes

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Brau Brothers Brewing Co. braubeer.com 910 East Main Street, Marshall Launched: 2006 Availability: Draft, bottles Taproom: Yes

Chapel Brewing

www.groundroundsbrewing.com 4 Third Street SW, Rochester Launched: 2015 Availability: Draft, cans, growlers Taproom: Yes

Forager Brewery

Half Pint Brewing Company

foragerbrewery.com 1005 6th Street NW, Rochester Launched: 2015 Availability: Draft, bottles, crowlers Taproom: Yes

www.halfpintbrew.com 40099 150th Street, Waseca Launched: 2018 Availability: Draft, Growlers Taproom: Yes

Foxhole Brewhouse

foxholebrewhouse.com 313 4th Street Southwest, Willmar Launched: 2015 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

giesenbraubierco.com 1306 1st Street NE, New Prague Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

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facebook.com/GravityStormBrewery 309 Main Street N, Austin Launched: 2018 Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Ground Rounds Brewing

chapelbrewing.com 15 Hester Street, Dundas Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

Giesenbrau Bier Co.

Gravity Storm Brewer

Harbo Cidery

welshheritagefarm.com 20758 528th Avenue, Lake Crystal Availability: Bottles Taproom: No

Hoppy Girl Brewing, LLC

www.facebook.com/HoppyGirlBrewing 136, Bridge Ave, Wabasha Launched: 2015 Availability: Draft

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Little Thistle Brewing Company www.littlethistlebeer.com 2031 14th Street NW, Rochester Launched: 2018 Availability: Draft, cans Taproom: Yes

LocAle Brewing Company www.localebrew.com 228 Poplar Street, Mankato Launched: 2018 Availability: Draft, cans, growlers Taproom: Yes

Lost Sanity Brewing lostsanitybrewing.com 12 West Main Street, Madelia Launched: 2018 Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

LTS Brewing Co.

ltsbrewing.com 2001 32nd Avenue NW, Rochester Launched: 2014 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

Mankato Brewery

mankatobrewery.com 1119 Center St, Mankato, MN Launched: 2012 Availability: Draft, cans, bottles, growlers Taproom: Yes

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Montgomery Brewing Co.

Red Wing Brewery

redwingbrewing.com 1411 Old West Main Street, Red Wing Launched: 2011 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

Sweetland Orchard

sweetlandorchard.com/cider 26205 Fairlawn Ave, Webster Launched: 2012 (started selling cider) Availability: Bottle Taproom: No

Waconia Brewing Co.

Montgomery Harvest Premium Cider

Roets Jordan Brewery

Take 16 Brewing

Ward House

Schram Vineyard Winery & Brewery

Tanzenwald Brewing Co.

montgomerybrewing.com 306 2nd St. NW, Montgomery Launched: 2014 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

roetsjordanbrewery.com 230 Broadway Street, Jordan Launched: 2016 Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

montgomeryorchard.com 15953 Hwy. 99, Montgomery Launched: 2017 Availability: Bottles Taproom: No

Olvalde Farm and Brewing Company olvalde.com 16557 County Road 25, Rollingstone Launched: 2011 Availability: Bottles, draft Taproom: No

oswaldbrewingcompany.com 110 South Main St., Blue Earth Launched: 2015 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

Stagecoach Brewing Co.

tanzenwald.com 103 Water Street N, Northfield Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

www.tilionbrewing.com 432 Mill Street W, Cannon Falls Launched: 2018 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

U4IC Brewing

Starkeller Brewery

rlbrewingco.com 70555 202nd Avenue, Reads Landing Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft, bottles, growlers Taproom: Yes

schellsbrewery.com 2215 North Garden Street, New Ulm Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

u4icbrewing.com 23436 Union Trail, Belle Plaine Launched: 2016 Availability: Draft, bottles, growlers Taproom: Yes

The Right Tire Changes Everything!

Honest Answers To Your Car Care Needs

The FOOD ISSUE iS COMING SOON!

1999

$

Plus Tax

OIL CHANGE

Add up to 5 quarts of 5W30 Oil, lube Most vehicles. No other discounts apply.

Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Expires 8/18/19 Faribault 507-334-4640 Morristown 507-685-4342

SEPTEMBER issue deadline is AUGUST 2 WANT TO Advertise?

Mark Nelson - 507-333-3106 mnelson@faribault.com

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www.wardhousebrewing.com 111 Elm Avenue W, Waseca Launched: 2017 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

Tilion Brewing Company

mantorvillebeer.com 101 East Fifth Street, Mantorville Launched: 1996 Availability: Draft Taproom: No

Oswald Brewing

Reads Landing

schramvineyards.com 8785 Airport Road, Waconia Launched: 2014 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

take16beer.com 509 East Main Street, Luverne Launched: 2014 Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

waconiabrewing.com 255 West Main Street, Waconia Launched: 2016 Availability: Draft, cans, growlers Taproom: Yes

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Plus Tax

Inspect A/C belts & hoses, evacuate refrigerant, recharge A/C system. Most cars & trucks, Freon (R154) extra No other discounts apply. Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Expires 8/18/19 Faribault 507-334-4640 Morristown 507-685-4342

729 NW 4th St. Faribault 507-334-4640 24628 Holland Ave. Morristown 507-685-4342 Cars • Trucks • Vans • Complete Auto & Tire Care • Tune-Ups • Brakes • Exhaust • A/C • Electrical • Tires • Computer Balancing • Alignment w w w. s o u t h e r N m I N n SCENE. c o m

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T

he Sheldon Theatre has been southeast Minnesota’s most beloved cultural center for 115 years, bringing the best of our hometown, our region, and our world into the uniquely warm embrace of downtown Red Wing’s “jewel box.” Audiences enjoy a rare alchemy of small town hospitality and world-class artists in a breathtaking place!

The 2019 – 2020 season features dozens of unique events on six different series, each with its own artistic style. Whether you yearn to revisit familiar favorites, seek out new performance adventures, or introduce a next generation to the wonders of the stage, there are shows to satisfy every taste and mood.

“The moment you arrive, you know there is something magical going on in this place,” says Executive Director Bonnie Schock. “The sights, the sounds, the people. It is a gem, where we all have the opportunity to share in unforgettable, live-arts experiences.”

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SHELDON FETE: HOUSE PARTY 2.0 The traditional September – May presenting season starts off with a bang the third Friday of September. Come one and come all. Kick off the season with a rockin’ good time for all ages featuring a special performance by TINA & THE BSIDES. Drop in for ten minutes or stay all evening long, hanging out, house party style in and around and through the one-of-a-kind Sheldon. The whole building will be alive with artsy activities, music, local food, and the promise of cherished time spent with friends, both old and new. This celebratory event is free and open to all.

PRESENTING SEASON HIGHLIGHTS BY SERIES GREAT SOUNDS SERIES The exceptional music-makers on this series are known for creating and recreating great sounds, time and time again. In the Sheldon’s unusually intimate concert setting, audiences get up close

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and personal with musical trailblazers of all genres.

Highlights of the series include: The series and the ticketed season begin with a BIG MN MUSIC SURPRISE. On September 28, the Sheldon will welcome a beloved Minnesota band with four decades of hits that has earned a reputation as a true American treasure. We can’t say who it is, due to contractual obligations, just yet. The full details will be announced for this big opener on July 14.

Don’t miss arguably the most distinctive vocal stylist on the planet in An Evening With AARON NEVILLE who Rolling Stone Magazine called “… that voice, which still floats up to one of the most sublime falsettos in pop history, remains supple and strong.”

Then, DAVINA AND THE VAGABONDS have created a stir on the national music scene with their high-energy live shows, level A musicianship, sharp-dressed professionalism, and Sowers’ commanding stage presence.

The 9th annual CARAVAN DU NORD, presented in partnership with Minnesota Music Coalition features REINA DEL CID, a singer songwriter and leader of the eponymous folk rock band based in Minnesota.

Best known for their catchy single, “Closer To

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Free,” the BODEANS defined a generation that embraced songs like “Good Things,” “You Don’t Get Much,” “Idaho,” “If It Makes You,” “Stay,” and “All The World.”

The Grammy nominated acoustic guitarist and fan favorite LEO KOTTKE, returns to the Sheldon stage for another solo evening of incomparable finger-picking music.

Honoring the genre’s tradition and driving it forward, TRAVELIN’ McCOURYS innovative style of bluegrass won them the 2019 Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album.

Joined by a big band of incomparable musical friends, THE NEW STANDARDS brings a parade of themes from cult and classic film scores with their latest extravaganza SCORE! And rounding out the Great Sounds Series is Words And Music by DAN WILSON, which The Current describes as “…spectacular compositions sung by a gifted writer and singer.” The Grammy winning singer-songwriter, producer, and Semisonic front man, whose long list of modernday classics includes “Closing Time”, “Someone Like You” and “Not Ready to Make Nice,” shares insights into the iconic hits he’s written on his own and with collaborators including Adele, Dixie Chicks and many more.

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TRADITIONS SERIES

ENLIGHTEN SERIES

Classic stories, timeless styles, and names you know and love, the Traditions Series is a little piece of then brought to life in the here and now. It’s all time-tested for toe-tapping, laughter, and that perfect trip down new memory lane. Highlights of the series include.

Straight from his hit podcast Come to Papa and regular segment on NPR’s Live From Here, TOM PAPA is one of the top comedic voices in the country delivering what Laugh Spin calls “pristinely written material about marriage, raising kids and getting older.”

In CROCE PLAYS CROCE, A.J. Croce interprets timeless classics written by his father, including songs like “Operator,” “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim,” and “Time in a Bottle,” offering what critics call an “affirmation of the power of music to bind generations.”

Next, prepare to party at MAX WEINBERG’S Jukebox, where you pick the songs! The ‘Mighty Max’ Weinberg (of The E Street Band and Late Night with Conan O’Brian fame) and his 4 piece band play your custom set list from hundreds of rock and roll classics.

Ten Thousand Things Theater presents THE WINTER’S TALE by William Shakespeare. THE WINTER’S TALE is an epic and magical story of loss and redemption, renewal and forgiveness. The characters—some with privilege, some without— populate a kingdom governed by the universal laws of justice and love.

The world-class entertainment company THE SECOND CITY presents LAUGHING (FOR ALL THE WRONG REASONS.) It’s funny ‘cause it’s true! From Steve Carell to Keegan-Michael Key, Stephen Colbert to Tina Fey, Chris Farley to Mike Myers, The Second City has been entertaining more than one million audience members a year for decades.

TRIPLE ESPRESSO, a highly caffeinated comedy.

Triple Espresso tells the story of three guys whose bid for showbiz fame and fortune ended in 4-minutes of magnificent failure on national television.

Hugh Butternut, Buzz Maxwell, and Bobby Bean tell their rags-to-rags story earnestly, with hysterical results.

RUMOURS AND DREAMS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE rounds out the series. Fans of Fleetwood Mac or 70’s melodic rock won’t want to miss this incredible tribute. The show features singer-songwriter Pamela McNeill who according to a recent Minneapolis Star Tribune article “could stand in for Stevie Nicks.” With a song list compiled of Fleetwood Mac’s most well-loved songs, delivered passionately by an incredible nine-piece band, this show is guaranteed to have you on your feet!

Explore, discover, and wonder with powerhouse performances from around the world that blend tradition and innovation. The Enlighten Series will open your eyes, expand your mind, and touch your heart. Highlights of the series include: GINA CHAVEZ is blending the sounds of the Americas with tension and grace. A multi-ethnic, bilingual Latina pop songstress and twelve-time Austin Music Award winner – including 2015 Musician of the Year – she and her band are fresh off a 12-country tour as cultural ambassadors with the U.S. State Department, uniting audiences around the globe.

THE REMINDERS unique mashup of razor sharp rhymes; raw, soulful vocals; and reggaetinged hip hop beats form the perfect backdrop for their relevant and inspiring themes, leaving a lasting uplifting impression on listeners. “…something beautiful, rare, and absolutely infectious,” says Belly Up Magazine.

Monica Bill Barnes & Company is bringing dance where it does not belong in HAPPY HOUR. This immersive show finds the cringe-worthy humor and life-changing pathos in an after work get-together. Two men played by two men attempt to bluster and seduce their way through an office party, with hilarious and poignant results.

“Like all good happy hours, this one has plentiful munchies and libations. And like the best ones, it offers abundant laughter.” (The New York Times).

ABY WOLF with Eric Mayson and friends bring CHAMPAGNE CONFETTI to the Sheldon for an evening of electro-acoustic works inspired by the universal need to find footing in an unstable world.

“You’d be hard pressed to find a better songstress, or bear witness to a more dynamic performer.”

(Rift Magazine) L.A. Theatre Works presents SEVEN by Paula Cizmar, Catherine Filloux, Gail Kriegel, Carol K. Mack, Ruth Margraff, Anna Deavere Smith and Susan Yankowitz. Seven women give voice to the voiceless in this riveting documentary play. “SEVEN emphasizes the truth that the dignity and rights of women are essential to every culture around the globe.” (Audiofile Magazine) A fusion of Ireland’s vibrant and longstanding dance form with elements of American innovation, TRINITY IRISH DANCE COMPANY dazzles audiences with hard driving percussive power, lightning fast agility, and aerial grace. They expand whatever notions you may have about Irish dance, revealing its limitless possibilities.

Ragamala Dance Company’s SACRED EARTH explores the interconnectedness between human emotions and the environment that shapes them.

Accompanied by live music, the dancers create a

Sheldon House Party w/Tina & the B-sides Great Sounds September 20 Silent Film: Buster Keaton in The General Home Grown September 27 MN MUSIC SURPRISE (NAME FOR RELEASE 7/14) Great Sounds September 28 Tom Papa Traditions October 4 An Evening with Aaron Neville Great Sounds October 5 Davina and The Vagabonds Great Sounds October 12 Caravan du Nord Great Sounds October 18 Croce Plays Croce Traditions October 19 Gina Chavez Enlighten October 25 Silent Film: Phantom of the Opera Homegrown October 31 Max Weinberg’s Jukebox Traditions November 2 Phoenix Theatre in Steel Magnolias Homegrown November 8-10 TheatreWorks USA: Rosie Revere, Engineer & Friends Family & Youth November 14 Ten Thousand Things Theatre in The Winter’s Tale Traditions November 15-17 The Reminders Enlighten November 22 BoDeans Great Sounds November 23 Sheldon Theatre Brass Band Homegrown Nov 30 & December 1 Cherish the Ladies Holiday December 6 M-Pact Holiday December 8 The Platters Holiday December 13 Continental Ballet in The Nutcracker Holiday December 20 C. Willi Myles Holiday December 28 Monroe Crossing Holiday December 31 Missoula Children’s Theatre Family & Youth January 11 Red Wing High School Musical Homegrown January 23-26 A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

sacred space to honor the divinity in the natural world and the sustenance we derive from it. Dance Magazine calls it “a visionary approach to an ancient art form.”

FAMILY & YOUTH SERIES Spend time together across generations. These fun, fresh, contemporary performances are for kids and their adults to enjoy together. Highlights of the series include: Missoula Children’s Theatre returns with THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES “Dress for success” is good advice that the Emperor takes whole-heartedly, wanting to impress new friends. But where to stop? When the clothes become more important than the people of the kingdom, trouble brews.

Then GOLDEN DRAGON ACROBATS represent the best of a time-honored tradition that began more than 25 centuries ago. Performing feats on chairs stacked 10 stories high; they are recognized throughout the United States and abroad as the premiere Chinese acrobatic touring company of today.

School day matinee performances are an important part of this series. These include Theatre Works USA original musical productions of great children’s books, ROSIE REVERE, ENGINEER & FRIENDS and MAGIC SCHOOL BUS. Last but not least, ACROBUFFOS AIR PLAY is a breathtaking homage to the power of air. Flying umbrellas, larger-than-life balloons, giant fabrics floating over the audience, and the biggest snow globe you’ve ever seen will make you gasp in wonder and laugh until it hurts.

HOLIDAY SERIES From the poignant to the vibrant; classical to hysterical, the Holiday Series lets you celebrate a special time of year with fun, laughter, and life-affirming messages to share with family and friends. Highlights of the series include: The Irish-American supergroup, CHERISH THE

LADIES, puts their signature mark on classic carols with Celtic instrumentation, beautiful harmonies, and spectacular step dancing in Celtic Christmas.

Hailed as “one of the best pop-jazz vocal groups in the world” by the San Francisco Chronicle, M-PACT is respected worldwide as a cutting edge trailblazer in the realm of vocal music.

Next, the One. The Only. The Platters®. The legendary Rock, Vocal and Grammy® Halls of Fame group bring their Very Merry Christmas Show.

A Sheldon family holiday tradition returns with Continental Ballet Company’s interpretation of THE NUTCRACKER BALLET Known as America’s everyday comedian, Minnesota’s own C. WILLI MYLES brings laughter and good cheer to the holidays in HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS: A COMEDY SPECIAL. And, MONROE CROSSING return to ring in the New Year with perfect harmony, and stellar Minnesota grown bluegrass.

HOMEGROWN SERIES Shaping life-long memories through participation and the pride of watching friends, family, and neighbors find and share their talents. Highlights of the series include: The Sheldon’s resident community theatre company, Phoenix Theatre, presents the Robert Harling drama STEEL MAGNOLIAS. A hilarious, heartwarming story of gossip, beauty shops, female friendship and resilience. By turns strong as steel and fragile as a magnolia, six women find their “favorite emotion is laughter through tears.”

Experience great films of the silent era as they were meant to be, accompanied live on the Sheldon’s Kilgen theater organ. With Buster Keaton in THE GENERAL and a Halloween favorite PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. The Homegrown Series also features annual, local favorites produced by long-time Sheldon partners including two concerts by the Sheldon Brass Band, MN State College Southeast’s Strings, Winds, and Brass Showcase, and the Red Wing High School Musical.

Leo Kottke Great Sounds February 1 Monica Bill Barnes & Co. Happy Hour Enlighten February 7 & 8 Minnesota Sinfonia Traditions February 9 TheatreWorks USA: Magic School Bus Family & Youth February 11 The Second City Traditions February 14 The Golden Dragon Acrobats Family & Youth February 23 Aby Wolf in Champagne Confetti Enlighten February 29 Travelin’ McCourys Great Sounds March 6 L.A. Theatre Works in SEVEN Enlighten March 13 Trinity Irish Dance Company Enlighten March 20 Phoenix Theatre in Backstage Briefs Homegrown March 27-29 Strings, Winds, and Brass Showcase Homegrown April 3 The New Standards & Guests in SCORE! Great Sounds April 4 Air Play Family & Youth April 17 & 18 Triple Espresso Traditions April 24 Sheldon Theatre Brass Band Homegrown April 25 Rumours and Dreams Traditions May 2 Ragamala Dance Company in Sacred Earth Enlighten May 9 Words & Music by Dan Wilson Great Sounds May 16 For tickets and more information, visit www.sheldontheatre.org.

Activities are made possible by major operating support from Red Wing Area Fund, Minnesota State Arts Board, and Red Wing Shoe Foundation, and with series sponsorship support from 3M, AlbrechtPoss Family Fund, Anne and Scott Jones, First Farmers & Merchants Bank, Merchants Bank, Rivertown Multimedia, Sievers Creative, Sorenson Financial, Speight & Lappegaard, St James Hotel, Sturdiwheat.

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T Calendar Compiled

By Anne Kopas editor@southernminnscene.com

Poseidon, Calypso, the Sirens — with an irreverent and witty twist that keeps the story feeling fresh for today’s audiences. northfieldartsguild.org

Beauty and the Beast July 26-28, August 2-3, State Street Theater, New Ulm New Ulm’s State Street Theater Company brings the beloved Disney musical to life onstage. Enjoy Alan Menken’s familiar tunes like “Be Our Guest” and the classic “Beauty and the Beast” as actors perform the story of the Beast, a young prince trapped in a spell, who must find love from Belle, a bookish young woman, in order to break the spell and return to his former self. Check with the nearby Turner Hall for a pre-show dinner deal. statestreetnewulm.org

River City Days August 2-4, Red Wing Spend a weekend on the river during Red Wing’s annual summer festival. The lineup includes a little of everything: kid-friendly games, a parade, 5K and more. Sample the area’s best eats during the three-day Taste of Red Wing food crawl. New this year, River City Days is partnering with Big Turn Music Fest for an extra day of free entertainment and live music on Sunday, featuring The Brothers Burn Mountain, Charlie Parr, Jillian Rae and Porcupine. See the website for the full lineup. rivercitydays.org

Ribfest August 1-4, Vetter Stone Amphitheater, Mankato Spend the weekend taking in rock ‘n roll ‘n ribs at Mankato’s RibFest, which the website claims as “Mankato’s tastiest music festival.” Ribbers come from across the nation to bring the best flavor to Mankato and judged in three categories: best ribs, best pulled pork and people’s choice. Of course, nothing’s stopping you from trying them all and making your own choice. Three musical acts accompany the food on Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 38 Special (with the Chris Hawkey Band), Dwight Yoakam and Vince Neil (with Great White).

Mankatoribfest.com

Vintage Band Festival August 1-4, Northfield

The Odyssey

Once every three years, brass bands of all sorts take over Northfield for four days of nonstop music. From Thursday through Sunday, nearly 50 bands take the stage around town, with the main stage outdoors in the town square. This year, bands hail from as far away as Belgium, Finland and Germany, while others make their homes locally. Some lean toward jazz and big-band, while others re-create historical military music or bring a taste of Mexican Mariachi to Minnesota. (Some participants take the “vintage” to heart every year — dressing in clothing from eras gone by is encouraged.)

August 2-4, 9-11, Northfield Arts Guild Theater, Northfield

Vintagebandfestival.org

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Berne Pizza Artisan Market Night

The Northfield Arts Guild bring a modern take to this centuries old-story of Odysseus’ perilous journey home. This performance of Mary Zimmerman’s acclaimed adaptation opens with a modern young woman struggling to understand a translation of Homer’s work. Before long, she’s joined by a classical muse, and the young woman becomes the goddess Athena. The performance combines all the iconic characters from “The Odyssey” — Circe, the Cyclops,

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5 p.m. August 7, Berne Wood-Fired Pizza, West Concord Berne Wood-Fired Pizza, located on the grounds of Zwingli United Church of Christ (about 30 miles northwest of Rochester), hosts live music and bakes delicious pizza each summer Wednesday. In August,

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• Best Burger • Best Chef • Best Place for a Steak • Best Wings

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contest, an arts and crafts vendor market, food trucks, a bean bag tournament, beer garden and family activities. Musical acts range from the Lakelanders Barbershop Chorus to Springsteen-inspired songwriter Martin Zellar and the Hardways. Headline acts require tickets, but before 6 p.m., the entire festival is free for the whole family to come and go as you please.

things heat up a little more, with the addition of an artisan market with artists and vendors from across southeast Minnesota. That night, enjoy the music of the Berne Alphorn Quintet (yes, it’s the giant Swiss horn) along with the Bavarian Musikmeisters 35-member wind ensemble. During the rest of the summer, music offerings range from country to ABBA tribute bands.

pcabbq.net

bernepizza.org

Kid Rock 8 p.m. August 10, Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Welch Kid Rock has written and performed across genres throughout his 20-year career, from rock to hip-hop to country. Since the 1990s, his 11 studio albums have sold millions of copies, with his mainstream debut “Devil Without a Cause” certified diamond and 2007’s “Rock ‘n Roll Jesus” certified triple platinum. This energetic live show is a not-to-be-missed summer event, but come prepared: it’s an outdoor concert and the show will go on, rain or shine. redwing.org

Cloud Cult

Blue Collar Music & Arts Festival

7 p.m. August 11, Mayo Park, Rochester

11 a.m.-11 p.m. August 10, Paradise Center for the Arts, Faribault This music fest claimed the 2017 Scene award for Best Music Festival. Stop in for live music all day long, with a backyard barbeque

89.3 The Current (88.7 in Rochester) presents Indie Night, as part of Rochester’s free outdoor concert series, featuring Minnesota favorite Cloud Cult. Formed in 1995, the Duluth-based experimental indie band has now sold over 100,000 albums, growing from a solo project to a full rock band with string and brass instruments. Over the course of 10 studio album releases, the band has earned atten-

Sunday, September 8, 2019

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*Preregistrants receive a free event longsleeve tech t-shirt

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tion from the New York Times, MTV and Billboard. Come early for local openers, Winona-based indie rock act Sleeping Jesus. mayociviccenter.com

Daily lunch SpecialS

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Steele County Free Fair

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Best Coffee Shop Best Breakfast Best Lunch

August 13-18, Owatonna Minnesota’s largest county fair is always free for the whole family.

There’s plenty to keep you busy for an entire week: over 100 food and drink stands, a beer garden, live music on multiple stages, livestock shows, carnival, a petting zoo and more. If that isn’t enough, other entertainment offerings include bull riding, ATV big-air and autocross shows, demolition derby, kids’ magic shows and a classic car show. There’s also a human cannonball shooting off multiple times a day, plus a dog stunt show, butterfly encounter and wood sculpture gallery.

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Big Bad Voodoo Daddy 7:30 p.m. August 16, Sheldon Theatre, Red Wing

taco tueSDayS $

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy is returning to the Sheldon Theatre by popular demand after a standing-room-only show in 2017, when the band celebrated 25 years of touring. Formed in the mid-90s, the band was among the leaders of the era’s swing revival, selling over 2 million albums with its signature mix of jazz, swing and Dixieland. The band brings a contemporary twist to classic American sounds, headed by singer Scotty Morris and drummer Kurt Sodergren.

2 tacoS 3.99 DeckerS $4.99 taco SalaD $5.50

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Sheldontheatre.org

“I Was THERE, Man!” Woodstock Experience 12-7 p.m. August 18, The Grand Center for Arts and Culture, New Ulm August 18, 2019 is the 50th anniversary of the iconic original Woodstock weekend. Bring out the tie-dying for this all-day experience. Party like it’s 1969 with music, food trunks, drinks, love beads, a hippie camp, psychedelic chalk art and butterfly photos.

At 3:30 p.m., a Chicago trouble will bring their traveling Woodstock experience interactive show (Don’t worry; kids are invited, so

@ 11 aM

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each year as crowds flock to the annual grape stomp. Teams of two vie for the title of “Best Grape Stomper,” or in other categories like costume originality or best effort. For those who’d rather keep their feet out of the grape juice, there’s also a vendor fair with arts/crafts, antiques, collectables and jewelry, along with live music and plenty of food and wine. It’s a vineyard, but the kids are still invited; there’s a kids’ grape stomp as well. roundlakevineyards.com

things won’t get too Woodstock-authentic.) Get tickets in advance or at the door. thegrandnewulm.com

The FOOD ISSUE iS COMING SOON!

Austin Artworks Festival August 24-25, Austin Area Arts, Austin

Greekfest Rochester August 23-25, Holy Anargyroi Greek Orthodox Church, Rochester

Austin’s eighth annual Artworks Festival celebrates everything arts: written, musical, visual and anything in between. This year’s featured artist is Rory Wakemup, whose work will be on display in the Austin ArtWorks Center gallery. Enjoy family-friendly performances and displays, or try out some art for yourself with hands-on demonstrations.

The two-day festival draws both locally and nationally known artists, plus as many as 10,000 visitors from across the state.

Austinareaarts.org

Since 1963, Greekfest has been a celebration of philoxenía — sharing kindness, generosity and hospitality to neighbors. The Greeks, of course, do this through food (think gyros, lamb and baklava). Visitors can also enjoy authentic Greek music and dancing, as well as tours of the local Greek Orthodox Church, founded in 1954, to showcase the Rochester area’s Greek culture and heritage. greekfestrochester.com

One Night, Two Legends 8 p.m. August 24, State Theatre, Zumbrota

Harvest Festival and Grape Stomp

Can’t choose between going to see a Buddy Holly tribute or an Elvis tribute? Don’t bother; this show has both. Minnesota Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famers the DC Drifters, led by Denny Charnecki, take the audience on a trip back to 1959 with Buddy and Elvis’ biggest hits from the poodle skirt era. The Drifters have toured the country and are known for their musical variety as well as their faithfulness to the artists to which they perform at tribute. The show is presented by Crossings at Carnegie, Zumbrota’s art gallery and concert venue. crossingsatcarnegie.com

11 a.m.-9 p.m. August 24, Round Lake Vineyards, Round Lake

SEPTEMBER issue deadline is AUGUST 2 WANT TO Advertise?

Mark Nelson - 507-333-3106 mnelson@faribault.com

Round Lake’s population is less than 500, which more than doubles

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Design: As Seen On

TV? Megan Rolloff Megan is a designer at The Design Element in the Mankato Design Center. She can help you with all your design needs from planning to product selection.

W

hen most people think of the job of an interior designer they imagine us spending all day playing with fabrics and paint colors. The statement I hear most often is “you just must love your job, it must be so much fun”.

And while fabric and paint is a part of the job, and yes, I do love my job and think it’s fun, as with most professions, that is most definitely not the whole story.

Most people’s window into the world of interior design is through home improvement and real estate shows on TV. Just as Grey’s Anatomy and Chicago PD are not 100% accurate representations of what it is like to be a doctor or a police officer, that same artistic license is taken with most (if not all) home improvement shows as well. Depending on the show’s format, the timelines can be fudged.

Since creating that TV show is the primary concern of the show and its producers, the subcontractors and other laborers are only working on that one project until it is finished. That is not a luxury any builder has in the real world. The budgets can be over-simplified to show a lower or higher cost than in reality. Showing a 4 or 5 item list on the side of the screen to show a breakdown of the work to be done is not an accurate representation of the thousands of decisions and moving parts it takes to pull off an actual renovation or new build. And the cost of labor, materials, permits, and code compliance can be completely different from one state to the next. Sometimes,

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that whole house full of furniture is packed right back up when the cameras leave. Have you ever noticed the same accessories or furniture pieces used in more than one reveal of the same show? Or noticed a price-tag peeking out from behind a pillow? Well that is because the house is only staged for the reveal and cameras. Those budget breakdowns don’t include anything that the house is filled with because, for the most part, it’s not staying. And that isn’t to mention the material discounts given to these shows in exchange for the publicity. Just like most television shows, home improvement shows are based in reality, but they don’t tell the whole story. Why? Because it would be boring. Who would want to watch a designer spend hours searching through catalogs or online sources to find just the right end table? Or calling vendor after vendor to make sure all the orders are arriving on schedule? Or drawing out carpet seams to make sure they all end up in the most appropriate places? Those are the not fun, boring, stressful, but necessary parts of the job.

Unfortunately, these are the activities that take up the majority of a designer’s time.

So, if the job is mostly “un-fun”, then why do we do it? One simple reason: The end result. Working with a client to make their dream and/or vision become the best reality it can be is what it is all about. Seeing those long-discussed kitchen cabinets and labored-over tile designs become the backdrop to someone’s life and memories is the ultimate reward. No matter how much headache and heartache or ups and downs are involved in a project, all of that stress goes out the window when we walk through the door just before move-in and see all those little features that will soon make our clients’ day-to-day life more convenient and enjoyable.

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Even though it SPONSORED BY may not be packed in the same shiny The Design Element package ‘as seen on TV’, rest assured 1711 Premier Drive that having a designer on your new Mankato, MN build or remodel will add a ferocious507.345.8708 ly invested member to your team.

Almost no one, aside from yourself, will care and be as passionate about the end result of your home as your interior designer. If you’re committed to a home makeover this summer, then stop into The Design Element and let us equally commit our time to your project.

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4 days • 40 bands • 100 concerts

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This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.

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ALBUM REVIEW

By Daniel G. Moir editor@southernminnscene.com

A

n American icon takes a look back over welltravelled roads with his most unusual sounding release. An inspired piece of timeless songwriting by a master of the form.

Album Grade: A

Bruce Springsteen Western Stars

Western Stars is the type of album long-standing artists generally release in the later period of their artistic life. This is not to say that it is the last album that Bruce Springsteen intends to release. He has already revealed that he has written the next E-Street album and intends for the band to record it later this year, but Western Stars is an album of lyrical reflection that looks back over roads previously travelled with familiar characters that have populated his work. This is not a nostalgic journey, but one that takes on regrets, mistakes and their consequences. It is about life and the pathways we all take, just expertly recounted.

The first notable thing about Western Stars is how it sounds. This is the most un-Springsteen like album yet released. In many ways, it recalls the “Countrypolitan” albums issued by artists like Glen Campbell, Jerry Reed and Bobby Goldsboro in the late Sixties and early Seventies. Sumptuous strings replace brash electric guitars, and the acoustic instrumentation lends a warm and cinematic presentation to the songs. It depicts the vastness of the American West and of wide-open spaces.

There are two different ways to approach Western Stars. While it is possible to hear them as thirteen stories of separate characters, perhaps a more interesting way it to view them as all coming from the perspective of the same person. Either strategy is valid, but the album changes as a result. In either condition, these are all characters that Springsteen has written about before. It is still the people we have met before, but

now a bit more road-worn and experienced.

If viewed as the same person, perhaps the character from “Hungry Heart” who “took a wrong turn and just kept going” nearly 40 years ago, the album moves as if from morning to night. The sense of time and movement is palpable, much in the same way that Ferde Grofé constructed his “Grand Canyon Suite” in 1931.

It begins with the melodically repetitive “Hitch Hikin’” to characterize the monotony of the event itself.

Both lyrics and the sparseness of the solo acoustic guitar accompaniment suggest the solitary loneliness of an early morning. The hiker incorporates a conversational tone to those that have picked him up along the way before settling in with a highway-bound trucker. From here, Western Stars takes on a decidedly confessional tone with the recounting of signs and struggles. In this case, it is to the 18-wheeling priest who receives his confessional.

Now with the album’s setting firmly established, it begins in earnest with “The Wayfarer” as the sound of acoustic guitar and solo cello establish the opening lines before a swelling orchestra and horn section introduce themselves midway through the track to suggest the sunrise of another day. It is a full rich moment with musical arrangements that are expressive and broad.

Album producer Ron Aniello once again proves to be one of Springsteen’s best assets as of late, and here his vision is magnificent.

There are clues found throughout Western Stars of the same character theory, from the “lost sheep from Oklahoma” in the title track who thinks she remembers him from that “commercial with a credit card” to the free drinks received by recounting the time he was “once shot by John Wayne.” Coupled with the expanded life story in “Drive Fast (The Stuntman)”, a behind the scenes life spent in Hollywood is suggested as part of the tales recounted to his trucker/priest.

While he may not have left home without an American Express Card, he has also not left without his

share of regrets. It is found in Western Stars’ center, both literally and figuratively with the darkly shaded “Chasin’ Wild Horses” and should be ranked as among Springsteen’s finest compositions. The tone is more matter of fact than anything else. He is confrontational with what lead him to start his journey in the first place. Springsteen deftly uses a minimal of lines to deliver small details that are rich in telling a much larger expressive tale. It is a brilliant economy of words mixed with a mournful string arrangement that delivers a devastating emotional punch. One of the best songs that you will hear from anyone this year.

“Hello Sunshine” shares musical DNA with Harry Nilsson’s “Everybody’s Talkin’” and is one of the album’s brighter lyrical moments. It takes the experiences gained, and filters them into something hopeful as the sun shines on the storyteller as he responds with a plea for these feelings to remain. Musically, you can almost see the colours of the western sunset as the day draws to an inevitable close.

Western Stars ends in the loneliness of “Moonlight Motel.” He has been dropped off by his trucker priest and is completely alone once again. For the character, it is a return to a place from the past. The dereliction of the current lodging reflecting the sense of damage time has done to his past relationship. Instruments are understated and spare, allowing for isolated reflection as two drinks are poured for the teller and the missing partner, only to pour the second one in the parking lot.

A nod to absence and to regret over choices made. A fitting, albeit sad, conclusion to a beautiful and incredibly well thought thru album from a master story teller.

Bottom Line: An engaging new direction from the Boss who continues to remain one of the best, and most consistent, writers in American Rock Music. One of the best, most complete, albums of the year. Every song is essential in this collection.

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(507) 451-3193 • 211 N. Cedar Ave, Owatonna Order online NOW! www.oldtownbagels.com

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Photographing SoMinn:

From

Merrick State Park to Maiden Rock Photos and text by Elizabeth Nida Obert www.nidaphoto.com elizabeth@nidaphoto.com

F

rom Whitewater to Carly to Great River Bluffs, southeast Minnesota is host to a bevy of state parks worthy of exploration. So why go to Wisconsin?

Long story short, because you can. And because sometimes it’s good to shake it up a bit, right? Most of us are creatures of habit.

But why not see what kind of critters you can discover just across the river?

Otters, egrets and muskrats make their home in the 322-acre Merrick State Park, which is located near Fountain City along the eastern edge of the state. And then there are the Mississippi River fish, which include crap-

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pies and smallmouth bass. So, don’t forget your fishing pole and boat.

The park is also a good place to camp, hike, kayak and canoe. When we were there on a weekday, we spent the majority of our brief visit exploring the park by foot and felt like we had the park to ourselves; nary a human critter to be spotted.

Truth be told – and Packers aside – I have a love affair with WI that isn’t going away anytime soon.

The Great River Road would lead us that afternoon through a host of interesting little towns that included Cochrane; Buffalo City; Alma; Pepin; Stockholm and Maiden Rock.

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Maiden Rock was host to our sleeping accommodations --The Journey Inn – so we grabbed cheeseburgers at a popular biker bar in town, Ole’s Bar & Grill.

And if you are looking for a little something to satiate your sweet tooth afterwards, be sure to grab a baked good of the highest quality at the Smiling Pelican Bake Shop.

You’ll be glad you did.

SMS Freelance writer and photographer Elizabeth Nida Obert, a former newspaper staff photographer for 18 years, has degrees in both and is passionate about telling stories in words and pictures. She thrives on travel and adventure and is always looking forward to where the next open road – or door – will lead.

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Filled with local recipes submitted by our readers!

Let’s get 2018 cookbook Southern Minn

Girlfriends

cookbooks will be on sale at:

2 for

Faribault Daily News - 514 Central Ave, Faribault Northfield News - 115 5th St. W, Northfield Owatonna People’s Press - 135 W Pearl St. Owatonna

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15 $ 20

$

Let’s Get Cooking

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SoMinn Food & Dining

Review

NORTHFIELD’S

TANZENWALD BREWING COMPANY

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pat garry JOURNALIST – COPYWRITER – EDITOR – FEATURE WRITER My experience spans 19-years, and I will apply my skills to help beef-up any lifeless copy within your website, brochure, press release, catalog, etc. - patgarry@charter.net

anzenwald (translated “Dancing Forest”) Brewing Company recently celebrated its second year in business. Jenaveve BellPittman (Co-Owner/General Manager); and Steve Pittman (Co-Owner/Head Brewer); are the navigators behind this already highly-successful establishment, which presents live music every Friday.

The couple, along with Kitchen Manager David Jasper, occasionally feature brunch specials on Sundays, but typically, they offer lunch and dinner, with a seasonally rotating menu and special weekly features.

“One of our most popular items at the restaurant is simply the Brussel sprouts. They are flash-fried, then tossed in a honey, apple cider vinaigrette and topped with a choice of bacon or walnuts; all served with a side of chipotle aioli,” said BellPittman.

Another signature item on the menu is the Just The Wurst Plate. It includes a bratwurst and polish kielbasa, by Kramarczuk’s Sausage Factory in Minneapolis, and Tanzenwald’s own roasted garlic mashed potatoes, Brussel sprouts, house-made kraut, beer cheese sauce and ale mustard. Other best-selling

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items include street tacos (choice of chicken tinga, pulled pork, breaded flounder or black bean) and three types of mac-ncheese: (Mama’s Mac; house-made beer cheese sauce, pepper jack cheese, red peppers, and sautéed onions topped with grilled Polish sausage); (Memphis Mac; house-made beer cheese sauce, Havarti cheese, pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and crispy onion strings); (Popeye Mac; Tanzenwald’s famous cheese sauce, Swiss cheese, spinach sautéed onions and mushrooms).

Steve and Jenaveve’s taproom actually resides in Northfield’s first water department, which is a rehabilitated building from 1887. It boasts a beautiful, exposed blonde-brick encasement and the original Douglas Fir woodwork. “All of our tables and bar top were custom-built locally by the fine folks at Peterson Equipment, utilizing reclaimed Minnesota Barnwood. Our chandeliers are hand-made from honeysuckle and grapevines, by a woman in Illinois. The artwork and bathrooms are muraled

by Minneapolis-based artist Arianne Zager. The ambiance of our taproom proves that breweries don’t have to be industrial man-caves. Ours is definitely romantic and clearly has a woman’s touch,” explained Jenaveve.

Tanzenwald is a fast-casual or counter service-style restaurant. Simply stated, people need to approach the bar or counter area to place an order. This type of service is becoming more and more common in the restaurant industry, and especially in breweries. Unlike brewers in many small companies, Tanzenwald’s Head Brewer Steve Pittman is professionally trained. He was a microbiologist before receiving his Master’s degree in brewing, from the University of California-Davis. He worked as a brewing manager for Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma, California, for six years. He also holds his International Master Brewers Certification from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, London.

“Our biggest and best event is our “Cowboy Chili Cook-Off” - on the Saturday of Defeat of Jesse James Days; which lands on September 7 this year. Tickets are $10 without a DJJD button and $5 with the button. There is live music, unlimited chili tasting and $5 beers. All proceeds go to the LivLyme Foundation!” Jenaveve exclaimed. Tanzenwald serves an eclectic list of beer styles in their taproom, including growlers for off-site consumption; and they also distribute kegs, locally. Head Brewer Steve Pittman spent many years developing his own recipes, which feature bold, hop-forward IPAs; clean, easy-drinking pale ales, pilsners, and unique barrel-aged and sour beers.

Additionally, Tanzenwald prepares German-inspired food, like house-made sausages, soft pretzels, and sauerkraut. The brewery’s goal is to source as many ingredients from Northfield and Minnesota farms as possible. (103 Water Street North; Northfield); Open 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. – Tue. – Thur.; 12:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. – Fri. & Sat.; 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – Sun.; Closed Mon. – (https://tanzenwald.com).

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THE BOOKWORM SEZ By Terri Schlichenmeyer

Becoming a Private Investigator (Masters at Work series)

by Howie Kahn You need to pick up one of those magnifying glasses.

Oh, and a trench coat.

You want to close cold cases and fight crime, so those must be mandatory, right?

Trench coat, magnifying glass, catch killers, solve crimes, and that’s what it takes to be a P.I. Or you need to read “Becoming a Private Investigator” by Howie Kahn.

No big surprise: your favorite TV detective show has everything wrong.

On television, the P.I. is usually looking for a murderer; in reality, says Kahn, private investigators deal with a variety of issues that need deeper research than perhaps most people are able to do. On television, P.I.s are always broke; in reality, they make up to $500,000 on bigger jobs. TV crimes are solved in an hour, minus commercials; in real life, a private investigator might work on a case for years.

If you think it’s a career for a person with patience, you’re right: private investigators are research experts and can unravel the most knotted facts, they’re flexible, and they know how to read people. They’re also good at “disrupting” stalled investigations, a talent that police sometimes hate. P.I.s are able to think sideways to spot clues, and they have the tenacity of ten terriers.

How to Become a Federal Criminal:

An Illustrated Handbook for the Aspiring Offender

by Mike Chase The minute you woke up this morning, you knew today was going to be different.

No business-as-usual for you this afternoon.

No same-old, same-old schedule-keeping. Nope, today, you’ll do something you’ve never done before and with “How to Become a Federal Criminal” by Mike Chase, you’ll know exactly where to start.

So you’ve decided to embrace a life of crime. Ehh,

it happens, and without much effort. It’s not like Congress hasn’t “passed thousands of federal criminal statues” over the past couple centuries, so there are plenty of illegalities to choose from.

All you have to do is to pick where you’re going to start.

Easy-peasy, you can break a lot of laws by mail.

Donning a USPS uniform, for one, is forbidden unless you’re an actor. You’re not allowed to disguise your junker as a mail truck. And hey, you’d best warn Grandma that reusing uncancelled stamps can land her in the slammer.

Here’s some good news: you can love animals and still break the law in a humane and non-violent way.

Bartering with a flamingo is a no go, for instance, as is

Rainbow Warrior: My Life in Color

by Gilbert Baker At its most basic, it’s just a piece of cloth.

A nice poly-blend, perhaps, or a hank of nylon in a faderesistant color. There are holes in one end to fasten to a pole or rope, but it’s otherwise just a piece of cloth. Yet, people have died for it and, as in the new book “Rainbow Warrior” by Gilbert Baker, that flag could be the fabric of revolution.

Even as a small child, Gilbert Baker knew that he was gay.

He grew up in Kansas, a child who loved to draw, create, wear fancy dresses, and dream of being an artist. Alas, art wasn’t a career in his parents’ eyes so Baker, as a young man, lied about his gayness and enlisted in the army, where he quickly realized that he was in for years of abuse (at best) or Vietnam (at worst). He “lived in terror” before filing as a conscientious objector; the Army instead listed him as a medic and sent him to San Francisco.

It was the perfect accidental gift.

“When I got to San Francisco,” he said, “I knew I wasn’t ever going back to Kansas.”

Five days a week, Baker worked in an Army laboratory; the rest of the time was his to fall in love, explore his new city, and work on his sewing skills.

This One Looks Like a Boy:

My Gender Journey to Life as a Man

by Lorimar Shenher Looks aren’t everything.

There’s a good chance someone’s reminded you of that fact at some point during your dating years: the outside pales in comparison to the inner person you love.

Appearance rarely matters… except, as in the memoir “This One Looks Like a Boy” by Lorimar Shenher, to the one who lives with it.

At four years old, Lori Shenher knew that lining up with the girls in kindergarten was somehow wrong. She

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wasn’t a girl; she belonged with the boys.

That wasn’t the first inkling that something was different about her; even her Grandma had pointed out Lori’s appearance. Indeed, Lori did look like a boy and as she grew, things got more complicated: as often as possible, she dressed in boys’ clothing or androgynous fashion because girls’ clothes felt like a lie. She was okay with people thinking she was a boy, but it also made her uncomfortable.

She was a teenager before she learned that there were people like her, and she devoured information about Renée Richards and Christine Jorgensen.

During a summer job, she met a trans man, and was fascinated. Was it possible that she might someday do what they did? Thinking that scared her.

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Terri Schlichenmeyer is a book reviewer based just across the river from SoMinn in LaCrosse, WI. She can be contacted at bookwormsez@gmail.com

As for the industry itself, Kahn cites the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which states that “projected occupational growth rate” is 11 percent, which is much higher than for other jobs. Three years ago, the U.S. boasted more than 40,000 working private investigators, all of which, presumably, are licensed, since the majority of America’s states have strict requirements on licensure.

To give readers an idea of what it’s like to work as a private investigator, Kahn followed two P.I.s, one in Tennessee and one in Texas. The former became a private eye after helping to solve the murder of her former roommate; she wanted to quit when it was over until she realized that her expertise was still needed.

The Texas P.I. gained his skills while in the military, and he shares with Kahn a case that still dogs him…

Readers who come to this book for career advice will be quite surprised at “Becoming a Private Investigator,” for two big reasons.

While this series of guidebooks is generally meant for high school students and adults looking for career

changes, this one focuses almost entirely on the latter.

Indeed, both of author Howie Kahn’s profiled P.I.s are older adults who started their respective careers well past their high-school years. Yes, teens will glean information here but adults will benefit more.

The other truly pleasant surprise is in the true-crime elements in which this book is so deeply steeped.

Kahn’s investigators and their case studies will call to mystery mavens and armchair detectives alike, perhaps aiming crime solvers toward fascinating second careers later in life.

Even if you’re not career-swapping, this different kind of business book is pure fun to read. If you’re thinking of a new job, however, and need help launching, get “Becoming a Private Investigator” and magnify your options.

riding a manatee. Federal law prohibits feeding out-ofstate garbage to your pigs, unless you cook it first. And if you’re coming from anywhere overseas, you must first quarantine your llama while you’re visiting your Mama.

You can go to prison for carrying $26 in pennies or nickels into a foreign country. Be prepared for trouble if you misspell “catsup” or try to sell the stuff watereddown. Try – just try – to sell canned pineapple in the wrong dimension and get away with it. Go ahead, see what happens by getting “annoyingly drunk” at the U.S. Mint. Double-dog dare you to hold your kid over a moat, make funny sound effects on a CB radio, or sell marbles without clearly labeling them as such. Oh, and don’t report lost dynamite; you may as well just turn yourself in…

Funny? Yes, but what you’ll find in “How to Become a Federal Criminal” is also dead-serious.

Indeed, these are real statutes that are only sometimes enforced by the government, but who would test the waters? Not criminal defense lawyer

and author Mike Chase, who also explains in his book how to read a statute, what the symbols mean, where to find them, and which arm of government can pass them. He even offers a bit of history, pointing out that the Constitution only mentions “three crimes of federal concern…” and that you’re way more likely to land in the pokey for breaking a state law.

“Unfortunately,” says Chase, “if you’re hoping to learn all the ways that you could possibly become a federal criminal in America, this book can’t help you.”

It’s impossible, he goes on to say, to even count the number of federal crimes but this book will surely get you started on a life of lawlessness. If you’re feeling like a rebel this week or if you just gotta laugh, “How to Become a Federal Criminal” could be the little difference you need.

Stitching became an obsession and by 1977, he was making costumes and banners for demonstrations.

When he was asked to make something special for the city’s Gay Freedom Day Parade of 1978, he thought about the rainbow as a flag, and dived right in.

While that first flag was a big hit, Baker writes that the symbol didn’t take off quite as much as he’d hoped. Still, it was present in every “street activists” event he was part of, at every parade, and protest.

“One pair of scissors” and a mile of fabric could “change the whole dynamic,” he wrote later. It was “a pure act of rebellion…”

“Rainbow Warrior” was compiled from several manuscripts that the late author Gilbert Baker left after his death in 2017, a fact that would have been helpful to have, early-on. You’ll be more forgiving of the overly-florid prose, knowing that.

Aside from that annoyance – one appearing throughout the book – readers may also notice a bit of pretentiousness, lot of snarky fighting, endless

drugs, and getting naked in Baker’s narrative, which is likewise forgivable because much of it takes place postStonewall, post-Summer-of-Love, pre-AIDS. And thus is the appeal here.

Baker was one of the more ferociously involved protesters, by his own account, and his anecdotes are priceless. He gives readers a good first-person look at early efforts for gay rights, and eye-opening, sometimes jaw-dropping, behind-the-scenes peeks at life as a young gay man during an uprising. It’s a lively, outrageous look at outrage, in an account that seems not to have held one thing back. That makes “Rainbow Warrior” readable and entertaining and, despite its overly-ornate verbosity, a good look at revolution cut from a different cloth.

To help deal with her feelings, Shenher threw herself into sports and attended college in Calgary, then in Alberta, on scholarship, where she was a shining star on the basketball court. After sustaining several painful injuries, she began drinking heavily and was later diagnosed with depression, which she seemingly carried with her when she gave up a journalism career to move to Vancouver – first, to check out a transgender clinic, and then to apply for work with the Vancouver police force.

And life settled down. Shenher met a woman she loved, and they had a commitment ceremony. They started a family though, hard as she tried to tamp them down, those old familiar feelings of inadequacy and misery kept nagging at Shenher’s mind.

The idea of transitioning was terrifying.

But then, so was the idea of living as a woman for the rest of her life.

First thing you need to know: “This One Looks Like a Boy” is detailed, which can be both good and bad.

Author Lorimer Shenher begins with his birth and recounts his life story in plodding, almost year-by-year

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Becoming a Private Investigator (Masters at Work series) by Howie Kahn, c.2019, Simon & Schuster, $18.00 / $25.00 in Canada, 144 pages.

How to Become a Federal Criminal: An Illustrated Handbook for the Aspiring Offender

by Mike Chase, c.2019, Atria, $26.00 / $35.00 in Canada, 320 pages.

Rainbow Warrior: My Life in Color by Gilbert Baker, c.2019, Chicago Review Press, $26.99 / $35.99 in Canada, 256 pages.

detail that often seems more tangential than not. Yes, that’s entertaining for awhile but – fair warning – don’t be surprised if you eventually find yourself skimming paragraphs in search of more action.

And yet, this book is one of the better, more definitive explanations of the feelings of isolation that trans individuals might experience, and one of the finer accounts of the do-I-or-don’t-I swings that sometimes linger without resolution. Shenher’s words ache and readers are made clear on what it’s like to know-notknow how to decide, man or woman.

Read or not?

Ultimately, it’ll come down to your tolerance for story activity: “This One Looks Like a Boy” doesn’t have much of it. For the right reader, though, it’s still worth a look.

This One Looks Like a Boy: My Gender Journey to Life as a Man by Lorimar Shenher, c.2019, Greystone Books, $26.95 / $32.95 in Canada, 304 pages.

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