Issuu

DECEMBER 2019

southernminnSCENE.com

YOUR FREE GET-OUT SOURCE TO SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

SOUTHERN Minn

SHELDON

Only in

RED WING

THEATRE

M-PACT

WHITE CHRISTMAS DEC. 8 at 7:00

CHERISH THE ADIES LADIES

CELTIC TIC CHRISTMAS CHRISTM DEC. 6 at 7:30

C WILLI MYLES Very Merry Christmas Show DEC. 13 at 1:30 & 7:30

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS DEC. 28 at 7:30

“The evening was unforgettable.”

443 W 3rd St Red Wing, MN 651-388-8700 2

– Audience member

Get your tickets today!

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CONTENT

Southern minn

Scene

DECEMBER 2019 / VOLUME 7 / ISSUE 11

Features:

COLUMNS:

Tis’ the season of merriment and family fun.

9 Holiday Events Round-Up

4 Mollywood BLVD

11 Catch a Play this Holiday

Go to a play and support the local, theatre community.

13 May your Holidays be Merry & Bright

Best SoMinn Christmas light displays.

6 Through a SoMinn Lens

20 Album Review

17 New Years Eve in SoMinn

24 SoMInn FOOD & DINING Review

Time to make your New Year’s Eve plans.

Wildwood Sports Bar & Grill.

18 ‘Tis the Season to be Shopping

30 The Bookworm Sez:

A list of some great local establishments to check-out this shopping season.

19 My Evening with Bob

THE

Seizing the opportunity to see someone of his musical magnitude before it was too late.

SoMinn’s most comprehensive calendar of things to be SCENE.

A trip to Alma, Wisconsin.

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

The Replacements – Deadman’s Pop

22 Photographing SoMInn

Have a story idea?

December Delights.

16 Visit Memphis

For barbecue, blues and Elvis, Memphis is tops.

ABOUT

Questionable Christmas Song Lyrics

HAVE A CALENDAR EVENT?

editor@southernminnSCENE.com or got to www.southernminnscene. com/calendar

• A Wild and Precious Life: A Memoir

WANT TO Advertise?

30 OOPS!

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

WE’VE MADE A FEW CORRECTIONS

7TH ANNUAL

Best

JAN/FEB 13 issue deadline is DEC 6th

20 19

SOUTHERN Minn

The Right Tire Changes Everything! Honest Answers To Your Car Care Needs

OFF

ALIGNMENT

99 Plus Tax

OIL CHANGE

Reg Price $69.95

Most vehicles with other front end services and struts. Any additional parts and labor extra. No other discounts apply. Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Expires 12/18/19 Faribault 507-334-4640 Morristown 507-685-4342

Most vehicles. No other discounts apply. Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Expires 12/18/19 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 A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent

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| DECEMBER 2019

Mollywood Blvd

ove it or hate it, Holiday Music is here…at least for the next month or so. As we ring in the holidays, let’s take a look at some of the questionable song lyrics in Christmas songs.

Baby It’s Cold Outside

Last year there was some controversy over the popular Christmas classic, “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” a call and response duet between a male guest and his female host with some radio stations actually banning the song. Most people don’t really listen that closely to song lyrics, but this one is hard to miss. The male is clearly coaxing the woman to stay the night when she is giving signs coyly that she intends to leave. The 1944 song has been recorded multiple songs by a variety of artists over the decades including Dean Martin, Johnny Mercer and Betty Carter and was even featured in the popular Will Farrell modern Christmas classic Elf. One famous line in the song: (female) “The neighbors might think...” (male) “Baby, it’s bad out there.” (female) “Hey what’s in this drink?” (male) “No cabs to be had out there.” After backlash, pop artists John Legend and Kelly Clarkson recorded a brand new version with less creepy lyrics. In it, Kelly worries what her neighbors might think if she has another drink and Legend reassures her it is “your body, your choice” and even offers to call her an Uber.

12 Days of Christmas First of all, as far as I am aware there is technically only one actual Christmas, not 12 days. According to Christians the 12 days amount for the time it took for Joseph and Mary to travel with newborn baby Jesus to Bethlehem. So why not capitalize on that and offer a gift for each day of the sojourn? But the gifts in these songs are not classy or meaningful like frankincense and myrrh. They are rather bizarre and unnecessary starting with a partridge in a pear tree. Let’s just say, the person receiving these gifts better love birds because by the

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.

end they have 23. Yep, I counted them. 23. But hey, you also get 5 golden rings out of the deal, so you take the good with the flock. My extended family has had a lot of fun with this song since about the year 2000. We take each of the 12 days of Christmas and assign them to a group in our family to sing about something notable that has happened in the past year. For example we would sing, “3 kids in college,” “four new babies” etc… One of my favorites of all time, to the tune of 5 golden rings, “Lord of the Rings” all the nerdy guys in the family celebrated the last installment of the trilogy, Return of the King in 2004. By the end of it everyone in the family (of 50 plus) is singing along to every part. It’s a hoot!

Santa Baby Even as a kid I thought the 1953 hit holiday classic, “Santa Baby,” written by Joan Javits and Philip Springer and performed by Eartha Kitt was a tad racy. Furthermore it is very evident that she seems to be a gold digger singing to her sugar daddy. She wants a yacht, and it’s really not a lot because she’s been an angel all year right? More lyrics include, “Think of all the fun I missed, think of all the fellas that I haven’t kissed.” The story checks out, she really has been an angel. But you know, if those suitors are dumb enough to fall for her trap and buy her a light blue ’54 convertible duplex or the deed to a platinum mine, who am I to judge her? Madonna recorded a version in 1987 for the charity album A Very Special Christmas and her squeaky voice takes the raciness to the next level. I will leave you to decipher what she means by, “Hurry down the chimney tonight.”

Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer Nothing needs to be elaborated on when it comes to this Elmo N’ Patsy Christmas classic. You can gauge just how ridiculous it is by the title alone! If you really dig into the lyrics it sounds like Grandma might have had a bit of a drinking problem and needed to lay of the

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sauce. “She’d been drinking to much eggnog and we begged her not to go, But she forgot her medication and she staggered out the door into the snow.” We get it, reasoning with your drunk grandma is tough. My question is, why did it take until Christmas morning for her family to discover her lying in the snow with a hoof-print on her forehead? And what is the probability of a single reindeer of Santa’s fleet trampling her? Was it an errant high five from Rudolf or is something more sinister beneath the surface of this story. Honestly, what kind of family doesn’t give their grandma a ride home- or at least call to check if she made it alright!? Something about this story seems fishy … Grandpa’s got some splainin’ to do. Like, who is this “cousin” Mel he can now be found having drinks and playing cards with?

Santa Claus is Coming to Town This song really conflicted me as a child because it seems to equate Kris Kringle with the same omnipresence as the Christian God I was raised to believe in. “He knows when you are sleeping, he knows when you’re awake. He knows if you’ve been bad or good so be good for goodness sake.” Wait, what? How does he know? It wasn’t until recently that the Elf on the Shelf fad gained universal popularity, and I know that little sneaky, magical little snitch tattles to Santa but who was spying on us before!? For real, this is super creepy. Is he planting nanny cams in the stuffed animals he puts under the tree? Are mom and dad secret spies? It’s unsettling. And beyond being creepy in the sense that he somehow knows everything about you, there is also an element of shame conferred about “showing emotions.” It doesn’t appear that this Santa character is overly concerned about the emotional health of children and if mere pouting puts you on the naughty list it’s a miracle my kids still get anything at all for Christmas. SMS

Happy Holidays to you and yours & enjoy never hearing these songs in the same way again!

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11TH ANNUAL IRIS

TURKEY

TROT OT NovEMBER 28th Thanksgiving morningg Faribault Middle School - Rain, SNOW, OR Shine!

Presented by

704 17th ST SW · Faribault, mn

5K Walk • Chip Timed 5K & 10K Runs • Gobble Wobble • Tot Trot

Early Check-In & REGISTRATION:

November 27th Faribault Middle School Gymnasium 4:00 - 6:30PM OR Day of Check-In & On-Site Registration: 7:00 - 8:00AM

Prizes for all kids and top male/female runners in each age category!

Event Times:

8:00AM Gobble Wobble / 8:10AM Tot Trot 8:30AM 10K Run / 8:35AM 5K Run / 8:40AM 5K Walk

www.irisRemembers.org 5k & 10K IRIS

All proceeds benefit Infants Remembered in Silence, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent

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| DECEMBER 2019

Through a SoMinn Lens:

Faribo Frosty close-up.

Photos and text by Audrey Kletscher Helbling www.mnprairieroots.com audrey@mnprairieroots.com

n the hurry of the holidays, when you’re rushing from one event to the next or busying yourself with too much to do, I suggest a pause. Be still. Notice the nuances of place and experiences and all that engages your senses. The scent of evergreen and cinnamon. The sweet voice of a preschooler shouting in song. The cool peppermint of a candy cane sliding across tongue. Snow stinging skin on a blustery winter evening. Strands of colored lights brightening the darkness following too-short days. Immerse yourself in the light, the joy, the delights of December. The Christmas season in southern Minnesota offers so much—holiday parades, front yard snowmen, visits with Santa, open houses and concerts and opportunities to serve others.

Pause to appreciate the local shopkeepers who create festive displays. Appreciate those who organize holiday events, decorate homes, give of themselves to help those in need. This is the season to celebrate, to wrap not only gifts but each other in kindness and care. Spread joy. Consider the reasons you love the people you love. Smile. Connect. Be grateful for all that you have and hold. Embrace this season and this place you call home with a spirit of joyfulness. SMS Freelancer Audrey Kletscher Helbling often crafts photo essays with a poetic bend and with a strong sense of place rooted in her rural southwestern Minnesota upbringing. A well-published poet, her most recent poem, River Stories, is posted in downtown Mankato as part of the Mankato Poetry Walk & Ride. She also blogs at mnprairieroots.com and writes fiction and creative nonfiction.

Atop Santa’s house, Bridge Square in Northfield.

Pinecone closeup.

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Downtown Faribault in holiday lights.

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Outside a downtown Northfield antique shop, holiday decor Dec 2018.

Wisemen in Nativity at Buckham Center Faribault.

Storefront holiday window lights, Faribault.

Snowman in Faribault front yard. A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent

Alexander Faribault House holiday decor.

Winter Fest parade unit in 2018.

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| DECEMBER 2019

Thanksgiving Day Buffet Thursday, Nov. 28 • Two Seatings: 11AM & 1PM

Over 73 Years of Pappas Family Ownership!

Feast on your holiday Favorites: Turkey, Ham, Chicken or Shrimp Scampi, Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, House or Caesar salad, Dinner Rolls, Pumpkin and Apple Pie, Cheese Cake, Apple Crisp and a Non-Alcoholic Beverage. Mimosa or Bloody Mary May Be Purchased For $3.00 With An Adult Meal.

Restaurant of the Year

Adults $18.95 Kids 12 & under $9.95 Kids 3 & under eat free.

Superb Cuisine since 1854

Reservations Required No walk-ins, please

2365 NW 43rd St., Owatonna Please call for reservations

507.446.9200

Thank You For Voting Us

Best Fine Dining!

The Hubbell House first opened as a stagecoach stop in 1854. Paul Pappas laid his eyes on the old limestone structure in 1946 and knew he had found the location of his dream restaurant. Although times have changed, Early-American hospitality is still available in Mantorville.

502 North Main Street, Mantorville, MN | 507.635.2331

(25 Miles East on HWY 14, to Kasson Exit, then 2 miles North on HWY 57)

Reservations Recommended | www.hubbellhouserestaurant.com

111 N. Walnut Ave. | Owatonna mineralspringsbrewery.com

Steele County’s first production brewery since prohibition

Along Owatonna’s Riverfront 8

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There are many other activities planned throughout the day, including a gaggle of adoptable puppies hanging out at the Red Wing Library, and a showing of The Muppet Christmas Carol at the Sheldon at 1:30pm ($5 for adults, $3 for students). Later in the evening, bundle up and you’ll be treated to a lighted parade with Santa himself pulling up the rear atop a Red Wing fire truck. For more information, including a full schedule and list of participants, visit https://redwing.org/event/18thannual-holiday-stroll/

Nutcracker Tea It’s “pinky’s up” at the historic St. James Hotel in Red Wing for their annual Nutcracker Tea. Here you’ll enjoy some delicious finger foods, as well as the opportunity to bid on the unique Nutcracker centerpieces to benefit the Hope Coalition. Participants will be treated to an afternoon of tea, finger sandwiches, scones, and petit fours, all in the historic area of the beautiful St. James. Tickets are $25 per person, plus tax and gratuity, and begins at 2pm. This event is held on December 15th. Reservation and advanced payment required. Call 651-3855549 for reservations. For more information, visit https://st-james-hotel. com/event/victorian-tea-nutcracker/

Holiday events round-up:

something for

is’ the season of merriment and family fun. Despite the dropping temperatures, we hardy Minnesotans know how to have a good time in the winter months. If you’re looking for some fun activities for the whole family, look no further. Here is a roundup of this year’s featured events, as well as updated timing for those featured last holiday season.

New Ulm Parade of Lights

Mayowood Mansion Christmas Tours

Christmas in the County Put on by the Mower County Historical Society in Austin, Christmas in the County is a great place to enjoy some holiday fun for the whole family. The event kicks off on Friday, December 13th, from 3;5:50pm, with a bake sale containing all sorts of home baked goodies. The main event is held on Saturday, December 14th, from 11-4, in the Pioneer Building. Here you’ll find lots of activities, such as a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, bake sale, silent auction with over 100 baskets to bid on, and sleigh rides. Visit their site for more information on the raffle and silent auction items available. For more information, visit http://www.mowercountyhistory.org/

Step back in time with a Christmas tour of the historic Mayowood mansion. Visit Mayowood for light refreshments and a guided tour through the mansion, which is decorated with holiday fixings. Rooms are decked out as they were when the Mayo family was in residence, complete with beautifully lit trees and garland. Tours start at the History Center, followed by a ride up to the mansion and a tour which lasts about one hour. Tickets are $25 for adults, and $10 for kids (not recommended for children under 3). Reservations are required and can be made by calling the History Center at 507-2829447. Tickets also include a free self-guided tour of the museum. This event runs from November 2nd through December 15. For more information, visit https://www.olmstedhistory. com/

Red Wing Holiday Stroll Bundle up and head down to main street Red Wing for their 18th annual Holiday Stroll. You can start the day with breakfast with Santa at the Elks Lodge. Breakfast is served 8-10am, with Santa in residence from 9-10am. After breakfast, stroll through the shops and get a head start on your holiday shopping.

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Bundle up the family and head to historic New Ulm for their 31st annual Parade of Lights. Be prepared for over 60 participants decked out in beautiful twinkling lights. In addition to the parade, downtown New Ulm will be decorated with Christmas trees and garland. After the parade, head over to City Hall for the lighting of the Christmas tree. Mayor Bob Beussman will be master of ceremonies, with the New Ulm royalty and Santa Claus in attendance. The Brown County Historical Society Museum will also be hosting their open house this evening. This event is sure to be a great time for all ages. The parade and festivities take place on Friday, November 29th at 6pm. Visitor’s Note: No parking on Minnesota Street from 2nd S to 4th N. For more information, as well as photos of last year’s event, visit https://www.facebook.com/ events/2634797206571185/ SMS

Previously Featured Canadian Pacific Holiday Trains: Dec. 5-14, 2019

https://www.cpr.ca/holiday-train/schedule-united-states

Kiwanis Holiday Lights: Nov. 29 - Dec. 31, 2019

http://kiwanisholidaylights.com

Northfield Winter Walk: Dec. 12, 2019 http://northfieldchamber.com/WinterWalk

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| DECEMBER 2019

Rock

THE

ISLAND VOTED BEST LARGE MUSIC VENUE

Thank you for voting Treasure Island Resort & Casino the Best Large Music Venue in Southern Minnesota! We had a rockin’ 2019 Summer Concert Series with Adam Sandler, Kid Rock, Reba, The Avett Brothers and more, live at the Treasure Island Amphitheater. We will keep you rocking in the new year with even more great entertainment to come in 2020. Check out our upcoming entertainment lineup at TIcasino.com.

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Story by PAT GARRY Contributing Writer

his holiday season, catch a local, theatrical performance, or two. Not much compares to the shared experience of people gathered in an audience, spontaneously reacting to a live production on stage. Theatre holds up a mirror to society, and watching a play provides the opportunity for observers to see themselves. The whole theatre experience—every play—deals with the basic aspects of life. Going to a play is relaxing, fun, and at times, shocking, when serious issues are presented. But maybe most of all, theatre helps us to better understand ourselves and our world. The time is now! Go to a play and support the local, theatre community. THE MYSTERY CAFE, Owatonna (https:// www.themysterycafe.com/) Brian Kelly, owner of The Mystery Café, presents “I’ll Be Homicidal For Christmas” (runs December 14, 21, 28 - with matinees on the 21st, 28th and January 4). The cast: Dave Gangler, Michael Lee, Wini Froelich, Dan Rooney, Ann Lees and Paul Somers (a Waseca native). The venue: The Owatonna Country Club - 1991 Lemond Road, Owatonna, MN. “We are celebrating our 30th anniversary this year, and we are very excited to bring our show to Owatonna

for the very first time,” Kelly commented. “I’ll be Homicidal for Christmas” is one of the funniest shows in Kelly’s repertoire. It takes place on the set of a 70’s holiday variety show, where guests are members of the studio audience (and depending on their talents...may even be featured extras). It’s an interactive comedy, a variety show, a mystery, and a Christmas show, all-in-one. It’s also something that the whole family can enjoy. There’s some sophistication in the jokes, but there’s also a lot of slapstick and cartoonish characters. The show is in four acts, and dinner is served between acts. The actors serve the food, and mystery money is provided, so that they can be bribed for more information. The service breaks allow guests to interact with the characters - and the others at their table, which makes it a very social evening as well. The plot: It’s December 23, 1978. Albee Humphrey used to be a household name, but his star is fading fast. He has to deliver a smash hit Christmas special or he will never work in Hollywood again. He’s got special guests, including a diva, a ventriloquist act, a knife-throwing routine, musical numbers, and there’s even a rumor of a reunion with his one-time comedy partner, who he hasn’t spoken to in 20 years. He’ll make his way back to the top...or die trying. Words from the cast: Dan Rooney: I’ve always appreciated that many roles have been written for me to highlight my strengths as a comedic actor. This is rare in theatre, and I’m very thankful for such a generous gift. Ann Lees: What I really love about the Mystery Cafe is that we get

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to perform with the people, not just for the people. They are a part of our show. Michael Lee: I have found that the Mystery Cafe trusts and supports its actors to play within the form, to find sincere interactions and a sense of freshness between actor and audience. Wini Froelich: The first thing I found at The Mystery Cafe was it is full of stock characters; that which an audience can recognize right away. To allow the interplay between the audience member and character to be real and easy with honesty, is a

challenge. Dave Gangler: My favorite part of doing Mystery Café shows is how closely we perform to the audience and interact with them. The culture at Mystery Café is one of positive friendliness and supportive teamwork amongst supremely talented people. (please view the trailer) https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=MmZRQStACao. SHELDON THEATRE, Red Wing (https://

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CONTINUED page 12 | DECEMBER 2019

CONTINUED from page

Roald Dahl’s

MATILDA The Musical

THEATER

AUDITIONS EVENT



Purple Door Youth Theater

Winter Walk at the Guild



 

Christmas Brass and Carol Sing

AUDITIONS



MUSIC

www.sheldontheatre.org/) Bonnie Schock, Sheldon Theatre Executive Director, is pleased to announce the production of the timeless Nutcracker. Performed by The Continental Ballet Company, The Nutcracker runs on December 20, 7:30 p.m.; at the Sheldon, 443 West Third Street, Red Wing. The Continental Ballet Company’s presentation of *The Nutcracker has toured throughout Minnesota and is a beloved annual tradition in Red Wing. Especially designed for families, this seasoned production develops themes of generosity, non-violence, and responsibility through the timeless tale of Clara’s fantastic voyage to the Land of the Sugarplum Fairy, with her magical godfather, Drosselmeyer. Other December performances coming up at the Sheldon...*12/6, 7:30 p.m. - Cherish the Ladies: Celtic Christmas (concert of traditional Irish music performed by an acclaimed all-female band); *12/8, 7:00 p.m. m-pact: White Christmas (concert of one of the top pop/jazz vocal groups in the country); *12/13, 1:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. - The Platters: Very Merry Christmas Show (holiday concert from legendary classic rock & roll/soul vocal group); 12/28, 7:30 p.m. - C Willi Myles Home for the Holidays (stand-up comedy); 12/31, 7:30 p.m. - New Year’s Eve with Monroe Crossing (concert with Minnesota’s most celebrated bluegrass band). “All of these are unique holiday shows you won’t hear anywhere else this holiday season--from Celtic music to comedy—jazz and soul to bluegrass,” said Sheldon Theatre Publicist Ellen Stanley. (*kids under 14 get in free with purchase of adult ticket). PARADISE COMMUNITY THEATER, Faribault Paradise Center for the Arts (https://paradisecenterforthearts. org/) Julie Fakler, operations manager; and Director Sandee Hardy Hagen, offer the fantastic Peter Pan production at Paradise Community Theatre; Paradise Center for the Arts; 321 Central Avenue NW, Faribault. Presentations: December 5 at 6:30 p.m. (ASL-interpreted and sensory-friendly performance); December 6, 7, 12, 13, at 7:30 p.m.; December 8, 14, 15, at 2:00 p.m. (Peter Pan) This superb adaptation captures all the magic and charm of everyone’s favorite story. The Darling children love to hear of Peter Pan’s adventures during

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his visits through the open window of the nursery. Then one night after Nana has taken his shadow and Wendy has sewn it back on, Peter Pan and Tinker Bell whisk the children off to Neverland to be part of the adventures. Wendy, John and Michael become friends with the Lost Boys and Princess Tiger Lily and Wendy becomes everyone’s mother. When the evil Captain Hook captures Wendy and the Lost Boys, Peter Pan comes to their rescue. Together with the ticking crocodile, Peter Pan puts Captain Hook in his place and returns the Darling children to their home. (Best of Broadway for the Holidays) Saturday, December 21 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, December 22 at 2:00 p.m.; Southern

Minnesota’s best performers return center stage for a sizzling performance, featuring Broadway’s favorite holiday show tunes. This show promises theatre and music lovers an interactive night of fun and music, including a Holiday Dessert Auction. You don’t have to go all the way to New York City to experience the Best of Broadway or worry about what you are going to bake for your holiday parties. You can find it all right here in downtown Faribault at the awardwinning Paradise Center for the Arts. “The Paradise Center for the Arts continues to be a vibrant cultural and artistic gathering place in historic downtown Faribault. We are centrally located in southern MN, less than an hour from 3 major hubs: St Paul/ Minneapolis, Mankato and Rochester,” Fakler said. COMMONWEAL THEATRE, Lanesboro (https://www.commonwealtheatre.org/) Jeremy van Meter is Communications Manager of Commonweal Theatre, 208 Parkway Avenue North in downtown Lanesboro. “We have an audience favorite on the Commonweal stage this holiday season – Sanders Family Christmas,” van Meter

commented. Alan Bailey is the co-author and director of the production which plays the majority of the month of December; closing December 22. Sanders Family Christmas is set on Christmas Eve of 1941 and on the night before 19-year-old Dennis Sanders is about to be sent overseas to World War II. On this night, the family has gathered at the fictional Mount Pleasant Baptist Church to buoy a congregation’s spirits, witness about their faith and send their loved one off to war. The most exciting and appealing aspect of the production is the fact that all seven Commonweal artists serve as their own bluegrass band for two dozen songs. Between the band they all swap out instruments such as guitar, mandolin, and upright bass, to name a few, to provide a toe-tapping, knee-slapping performance, great for all ages. It is a performance full of beautiful storytelling, both through spoken word and the tight, dovetailing harmony of bluegrass-style music. THE MANTORVILLE THEATER COMPANY, Mantorville (http:// www.mantorvilletheatrecompany. com/) The Mantorville Theater Company is located at 5 5th Street West, Mantorville,

MN. It is a community theater, based in historic Mantorville. The company produces a variety of shows, including musicals, melodramas, comedies and more. This holiday season, the MTC presents A Charlie Brown Christmas, by Charles M. Schulz. Dates: November 22 - December 8; Fridays & Saturdays, 7:30 p.m. and Sundays, 2:00 p.m. The performance is based on the television special by Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson. Stage adaptation by Eric Schaeffer and special arrangement with Arthur Whitelaw and Ruby Persson. LAKEVILLE AREA ARTS CENTER, Lakeville (www.lakevilleareaartscenter.com/) Lakeville Area Arts Center, 20965 Holyoke Avenue, Lakeville, presents A Christmas Carol Radio Play. The Charles Dickens holiday classic comes to life as a live 1940’s radio broadcast, complete with vintage commercials and the magic of live sound effects and musical underscoring. A handful of actors bring dozens of characters to the stage, as this familiar story unfolds. Don’t miss this charming take on a family favorite that will leave no one saying “Bah, humbug!” December 20 & 21 – 7:00 p.m.; December 22 – 2:00 p.m. SMS

“The stage is not merely the meeting place of all the arts, but is also the return of art to life.” - Oscar Wilde, 1891

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winonadailynews.com Story by PAT GARRY Contributing Writer

aybe the most exciting part of the holiday season is driving around the neighborhoods to see all the great Christmas lights displays. Of course, all displays are not the same, and it becomes immediately obvious which houses have just thrown-up a few strings of lights haphazardly, and which have put time, effort and a lot of love into their displays. Whether viewing the light shows from the car or doing a “stroll-by” – appreciating the hard work of those who put up holiday light displays, is a fun winter tradition.

CARTER CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SHOW, Albert Lea (https://www.carterxmas.com/)

Albert Lea homeowner Mike Carter and family, loves lights! Originally located in Austin, MN, the Carter house light show began in 2014, with circa 7,000 lights on display. “In 2015, we grew the light count to 14,000, and it was the first year we synchronized the lights to one song (Santa Tell Me, by Ariana Grande),” explained Carter. In subsequent years, the light-count increased and the music selections expanded, as the Carters became more proficient at light show designing and programming. In 2018, the family moved to Albert Lea, 1905 Brookside Drive, where the “Carter Christmas Light Show” now exists. Truly a family affair, the Carters involve nieces and nephews every year, in an attempt to give the “kiddos” an opportunity to help. “Elijah Bastura helped build some framing for the display, Miley Bastura recorded and helped edit the audio that plays between shows, and this year, our niece, Amaris, recorded the informational audio track as well,” Mike said. The display runs every night, Saturday, November 23 – Tuesday, December 31. The shows run every ten minutes (hours on Sunday – Thursday are 5-9 p.m.; and on Friday & Saturday, from 5-10 p.m.) For optimal viewing and traffic flow purposes, the Carters ask that all observers navigate to the display, via Bayview Drive (more information on the website). And in the spirit of the holidays, a number of the neighbors are hosting fundraisers on select nights; and they will be offering hot chocolate and other seasonal favorites. This 38,000 LED light display includes a 16-foot drummer boy, Santa and his reindeer, literally on the house roof and the 30-foot chimney, fully decorated. In addition to the many unique DIY elements, each year, the Carters choose a select number of songs, which allows them to focus on precise synchronization. All spectators will experience a seamless mixture of the “traditional” holiday feel with a few modern show

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pieces. Photos are encouraged in between shows to allow for onlookers to capture memories. The fascinating display is one of the largest in southern Minnesota and is conveniently located minutes away from both Interstate 35 and Interstate 90, in Albert Lea. “While it is not obvious to viewers, we developed 100% of the sequencing software and a majority of the show management software, from scratch. This has allowed us to customize the show in ways that are not readily available from other “out of the box” solutions. Also in the DIY spirit, we designed and assembled all of the hardware pieces (i.e. electrical outlets, computers, etc.) that physically turn the lights on/off,” informed Carter. Additional show information, past show videos and DIY resources, available at https://www.carterxmas.com/.

KIWANIS HOLIDAY LIGHTS, Mankato (http://kiwanisholidaylights.com) The Kiwanis Holiday Lights event began in 2012,

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at Sibley Park in Mankato. A non-profit group that focuses on giving back to the Greater Mankato area, there is a board of directors with an executive team that runs the organization. Everyone involved is a volunteer and no one is paid; for what amounts to circa hundreds of hours throughout each calendar year. Kiwanis Holiday Lights is open each year, from the Friday after Thanksgiving (this year Nov. 29), to New Year’s Eve. Sunday – Thursday, the hours are 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. and Friday/Saturday from 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. The event is FREE for all who attend (however, cash donations are accepted to benefit the 60+ non-profit partners, to grow the event for future years, and to supply non-perishable food items that go to 17 different area food shelves). The park can be both driven through, walked (about a ¼ mile loop that is paved and handicapped accessible), or both. Also, there are three different heated shelters throughout the park. Opening night features a parade with floats (decorated with thousands of lights) that enters Sibley Park and culminates with Santa - helping turn on the entire park at once, which will be more than 1.6 million lights. Some of the unique features are live reindeer throughout the event, visits with Santa every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until Christmas, horse-drawn wagon rides every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (small fee), The Mary Dotson Skating rink, a synthetic skating rink that can be used in any temperature, a 5k race under the lights on December 8, and live ice sculpting on December 20 & 21. The displays include a 50-foot center tree with over 30,000 lights, over 50 characters from holiday stories, 25-plus static displays ranging from 6-20-feet high, more than 10 animated displays from 10-35-feet high, 60-plus themed pine trees, each uniquely decorated by each non-profit partner, 200-plus tree canopies decorated up to 60-feet high, and an entire side of the park with animated lights; set to programmed music that can be listened to in the park or on the car radio while driving, which includes a 100-foot driving tunnel and a 50-foot walking tunnel. One of property’s heated buildings features a concession stand that offers hot chocolate, hot apple cider, water, snacks, candy canes, popcorn, and on busier nights, nachos and fresh mini-donuts. “We embrace the fact that we are staffed by 100% volunteers. These volunteers come from businesses, non-profits, and colleges in the area. In 2018, we had over 2,500 volunteers that spent over 15,000 hours setting-up the event, over five weekends, running the park for 39 nights, and helping tear-down the displays over the course of three days. In seven years, we never have closed due to bad weather. Additionally, over that time, we have collected over 98 tons of food, donated over $367,000 back to the greater Mankato area, and welcomed more than one-million visitors to Kiwanis Holiday Lights,” explained Spokesman Kyle Mrozek.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS PARADE, Le Sueur (https://lesueurchamber.org/events/holiday) It’s the Holiday Lights Parade in Le Sueur (Friday, December 6). Come and enjoy an evening of warmth and community. It’s a great way to kick-off the Christmas holiday season. The Holiday Lights Parade begins at 6:00 p.m. on North Main Street, followed by a Christmas tree lighting at Mother Louise Park. Fireworks will begin immediately following the tree lighting at River Park. Christmas tree lighting is sponsored by Le Sueur Rotary Club. Fireworks are provided by The Bar, The Green Mill Bar and Le Sueur Knights of Columbus. HOLIDAY LIGHTED PARADE, (Goodview) Share the Spirit of Giving…the Holiday Lighted Parade committee invites you to participate in their 18th annual parade. Once again, the focus of this parade will be to fill the Winona Food Shelf, as Merchants Bank kicks-off their 10 Days of Giving Food Drive. The parade will be held on Saturday, December 7, at 5:30 p.m., in Goodview, MN. All participants should assemble at the Goodview Pavilion, next to the Fire Station on 5th Street. There is no set fee, however, the committee will be accepting free will, and/or canned donations for parade entries. There will be food barrels at the Elks Lodge and the Merchants Bank float will be taking food dona-

tions along the parade route. Members of the Elks Lodge #327 will be serving food and refreshments, along with some fun activities at the Goodview Lodge. There will also be a bake sale to satisfy your sweet tooth. Please ask about and join us for our “Santa’s Workshop” holiday celebration. After the parade at the Elks, a reception is held where Mr. and Mrs. Claus are present; there is face painting by the Goodview Royalty; and games put on by the parade group. There is also a drawing for two bikes (one girl’s and one boy’s). The bikes are donated by the Goodview Activity Group. There is also food and of course Hot Cocoa. It is a fun family event that has a little for everyone and also promotes the community.

CHRISTMAS LUMINARIES AT SCHELL’S, (https://www. schellsbrewery.com/) New Ulm; The Schell’s Christmas Luminaries have been a part of the Christmas scene on the brewery grounds since the mid-1960s. Al Marti, who was president at the time, had seen these in Texas and brought the idea back to Schell’s, in order to illuminate the gardens for Christmas, and it has been done every year since. Each year, on Christmas Eve, family members, all descendants of August Schell, gather in the gardens to put out the luminaries. “They consist of Kraft paper bags, which are filled with about 4” of sand and then a plumber’s candle is inserted into the sand. There is usually some moisture in the sand, so when the temperature dips and the sand freezes, the candle always stays upright,” explained August Schell Brewing Company Special Projects Coordinator Jodi Marti. These luminaries are placed all along the sidewalks of the formal gardens, along the tops of the walls, around the front of the Schell mansion, the incoming roadway, and other various areas in the gardens and on the grounds. There are several open areas, where each year, the family decides what emblem to put in it; outlined with the luminary bags. On years where some of the Marti sons were deployed or unable to come home, their initials were featured. One year, all felt there needed to be more peace in the world, and a big Peace symbol or a heart was made. And of course, the August Schell

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A and S is a highlight too. This process can take hours, depending on how many family members are able to help with this. On years when there were quite large snow banks on the garden walkways, mischief and merrymaking also takes place during the putting out of the bags, and numerous family members and pet dogs, had been known to take tumbles down the snowbanks (all in good fun, and just added more memories of the afternoon). Usually between 300 to 600 bags are put out. When all the bags are completed and placed to everyone’s satisfaction, the family retreats to the family “Big House” for refreshments and warm soup and snacks. During this late afternoon, stories of past descendants are repeated, and toasts are made in their honor. On Christmas Eve the luminaries are then lit by, again, whatever family members can make it. The candles will burn on Christmas Eve from around 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Christmas night, they are again lit, and allowed to burn until they go out. The Schell’s Gardens are quite protected from the wind so, the candles burn for hours and hours, and some have been known to still be burning the next morning! All the rest of the lights are turned off around the brewery grounds, with just a big Christmas tree lit in front of the Mansion, Christmas lights around the Gift Shop and just a few other areas, so it becomes a quiet, almost magical wonderland with the illumination with all the candles. Occasionally you will see flashes as many family pictures are being taken around the grounds. You drive in, park, and walk through the gardens to enjoy the luminaries. It is really a quiet, almost serene atmosphere, with occasional “Merry Christmas” greetings being given by all the visitors. There is only one road way in and out, so traffic is slow at times, but well worth the time it takes to get onto the Schell Brewery grounds; just to experience the beautiful scene. It has become a tradition not only for all the Schell family, but it is also enjoyed by hundreds of local community families as well. “We like to say it is the Schell/Marti Family’s Christmas gift to the community. It is all really a labor of love, and something we have not missed a year of since the early 60s,” Marti commented. NEVALA FAMILY CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW, (Kasson) Glen and Tammy Nevala present their Nevala Family Christmas Light Show at 405 6th Court NE, in Kasson. The show runs from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. every night through New Year’s Eve. “We electronically control 176 channels of circa 32,000 Christmas lights. The lights are synced to 15 songs, ranging from old, traditional music like “Holly Jolly Christmas” - to recently added, Santa’s Rock & Roll Band, playing AC/DC’s “Thunder Struck”. You will see props like a mega tree, candy cane arch, elf boy & girl singing, a 25-foot giant snowman, and Santa’s Rock & Roll Band, playing with Rudy, the elf boy, on drums, the grinch on guitar, and Santa on lead guitar. It’s like going to an old-fashioned drive-in movie! You can park in front of the display, in your warm car and tune to FM 88.1 to listen to the music play,” explained Glen Nevala. The Nevalas accept donations, 100% of which go to benefit the Kasson Fire & Rescue Team. And for the kids, there is a great “Santa’s Coloring Contest”where two lucky winners get a brand-new bike (Mr. & Mrs. Claus show up to give away the bikes). On the weekends, Santa makes a special appearance to all the people who stop by. Candy canes and Christmas bells are handed out by the jolly, old guy himself. (like the Nevalas on Facebook) SMS

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Brunch with Santa Sunday, December 8th. Seatings at 9am, 10:30am and 12pm.

There will be face painTing for The kids and sanTa will be around hanging ouT wiTh us!

204 2nd Street SW, Waseca, MN 507.833.8756

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Call for information & Reservations: 507.835.1146 After 4pm: 507.837.9848

204 2nd Street South West, Waseca, MN 507.833.4700

206 2nd Ave. SW For Reservations: 507.461.1387

204 2nd Street South West, Waseca, MN 507.833.7540

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Call for information & Reservations: 507.835.1146 After 4pm: 507.837.9848

| DECEMBER 2019

RIGHT: Blues musicians came from all over the South to play on Beale Street in Memphis, beginning with W.C. Handy in the 1910s. Much of the area was demolished by urban renewal, but the twoblock district remains the heart of the Memphis blues sound. BELOW: Tops Bar-B-Que on Union Avenue in Memphis is just down the street from Sun Records, where Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and others launched their careers in the 1950s.

T Story by JAY FURST Contributing Writer

ops Bar-B-Que isn’t where you’d choose to go for a last taste of barbeque in Memphis. It’s not Rendezvous, the legendary dry-rub joint downtown, or Central BBQ, the down-home shop near the Lorraine Motel with the melt-in-yourmouth pork shoulder, slow-smoked with hickory and pecan wood. But my wife and I had to catch the 10:40 p.m. Amtrak train home to Minnesota after a three-day visit to Memphis and Nashville last summer, and the Tops shop on Union Avenue, east of downtown in a sketchy area, was our last chance for one more messy, sweet and sharp pork sandwich, with beans and slaw, so we stopped. The barbeque was so-so. But the worn-out restaurant, which had a leaky pipe in the ceiling that dripped rhythmically into a bucket behind the counter, was a temple of Elvis. The wood-paneled walls were covered with vintage photos and posters, some faded, some new, of Presley in his heyday -- young and handsome and incredibly gifted. It was perfect: one last encounter with Elvis, complete with barbeque, before we left town on the City of New Orleans. And it was just down the street from Sun Records, where the 19-year-old Elvis

made his first record, in 1954, “That’s All Right (Mama).” At the time, he lived just on the other side of downtown. The restaurant opened in 1952, so we’ll assume Elvis and friends -- Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash, Sam Phillips, maybe even Colonel Parker -- enjoyed some cheap barbeque there along the way. That’s what Memphis is like. It’s a city of music, memories, characters, sights and sounds, some of which you don’t know you care about until you get there. Don’t care about the Pelvis? I didn’t either, but you will by the time you leave Memphis -- you’ll at least want to listen to the Sun sessions. Haven’t tuned into B.B. King, also known as the “Beale Street Blues Boy”? You will after Memphis. Rock ‘n roll was more or less born here, right on Union Avenue, midwifed by gospel, rockabilly and what was called at the time “race music.” The Delta blues, practiced by musicians who arrived from all over the Deep South, were perfected on Beale Street. Soul found its groove here, as did R & B. Memphis has a rich, turbulent history, and a few connections to Minnesota, beginning with the Mississippi River, which shapes the city and is lazy, wide and lined by parks as it passes Mud River Island downtown. It’s prettier than you expect, knowing where it’s been since leaving Minnesota. And Highway 61, which we know as the North Shore highway and the river road through Red Wing, Wabasha and Winona, is the Blues Highway in Memphis and points south -- the mother road for Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, Son House and a

WHERE TO STAY

ago. Just about all the major historical events in Memphis since the end of the Civil War Hu Hotel, 79 Madison Ave.: In the heart of have had some connection to the Peabody, downtown, just a few blocks from the land- and you can feel it just walking amid the marks you see on “Bluff City Law.” Formerly stained glass and yes, the trained ducks, in the Madison Hotel, the renovated, 110-room the Grand Lobby. Reservations: 901-529Hu is elegant and affordable, with traces of 4000 the old Art Deco landmark overlaid with contemporary style. Main Street is a half-block away and it’s easy to catch a vintage trolley to Beale Street and the National Civil Rights Museum. Reservations: (833) 585-0030 Nashville is only three hours away, and Peabody Memphis Hotel, 149 Union Ave.: between the Grand Ole Opry, the Opry’s hisThe Peabody is one of the grand hotels of toric former home, Ryman Auditorium, and the South -- 150 years old this year -- and it’s all the honky tonks on Broadway, it’s a musiimmaculately cared for, with all 464 guest cal experience that complements Memphis. rooms completely renovated several years

NASHVILLE SIDETRIP

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What to see:

parade of artists, not to mention Bob Dylan. The city has had its challenges in recent years -- fast-growing Nashville has left it in the dust as Tennessee’s largest city -- but it’s currently enjoying a prime-time moment. “Bluff City Law,” an NBC courtroom drama, is set in Memphis, and when we were there, film crews were finishing floodlit location shots at the University of Memphis School of Law, a Beaux Arts masterpiece overlooking the river. At nearby Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar (www.flightmemphis.com), as horse-drawn cabs and vintage trolleys passed by, people talked about the show with some pride, as if Memphis was ready for its closeup. Downtown, though, has been down on its luck for the better part of 50 years. Our first night in town, a cop stopped us around Beale Street and helpfully said, when my wife asked if it was safe around there, “You know this is the third most violent city in America, don’t you?” That’s not how Visit Memphis would handle it, and no, we weren’t aware of the 2018 FBI report, which put Memphis at No. 3 on the homicides-per-capita list. Good to know, but it didn’t change our plans. It’s an old, diverse Southern city with a history of segregation and inequity that’s slow to change. It also has progressive leadership, a lot of jobs at Fed Ex, and a culture of people getting along and making music together. If you care about the blues, nothing will keep you from the clubs and juke joints on Beale Street, where all the greats since W.C. Handy

catch a show, take the tour. Information: (615) 889-3060

Where to stay:

Grand Ole Opry: You can’t go to Nashville without going to the Opry, which started as a radio show in 1925 and has spun off an empire of music, commercial development and tourism in Nashville. The Opry radio shows run from February to October, but there’s country-style entertainment throughout the year. Information: 1-800-SEE-OPRY

Johnny Cash Museum: If you’re at all a fan Union Station Hotel, downtown Nashof the Man in Black, you’ll want to check this ville: A spectacular Romanesque train station has been transformed into a 125-room out, also in the Music Row area. Marriott Autograph Collection hotel. For The Parthenon: Maybe it’s kitsch, but it’s location, comfort and affordable grandeur, high-quality kitsch. This full-size reproducyou can’t do better in Music City. Phone: tion of the Greek Parthenon has an interest- (615) 726-1001 ing history that goes way back in Nashville, Kimpton Aertson Hotel, near Vanderbilt “the Athens of the South.” I guarantee you’ll University, Nashville: Also fairly close to Ryman Auditorium: The old Union Gospel always remember seeing the 42-foot-tall Tabernacle downtown where the Opry had gilded statue of Athena inside. Information: Music Row is the much newer and boutiquey Kimpton Aertson, tucked into a leafy area its start. The Opry moved out in 1974 and (615) 862-8431 across North Broadway from Vanderbilt’s the Ryman went dark for years. It reopened lovely campus. The 4,000-square-foot spa is in 1994 with a radio broadcast of “A Prairie nice, but best of all is the rooftop pool, comHome Companion,” and it remains one of plete with cabana and a commanding view the country’s great concert halls. If you can’t of the city. Phone: (615) 340-6376

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New Years Eve in Southern Minnesota Story by ISABELLE WATTENBERG Contributing Writer

aking New Year’s Eve plans can be a headache -- finding the right place to go, the right thing to wear, and making sure you have the ‘best time ever.’ To ease the process, we’ve rounded up some nearby events and simple ideas so you can say goodbye to 2019 and welcome 2020 in style. Whether you’re looking for a low key get-together or a get-your-glitter-on, high energy evening, you’ll find a fun way to celebrate. We’ve even included a cheat-sheet of where to go for the best supplies for hosting your own shindig.

Year’s with Near-vana & Friends Elvis Presley and his parents are buried in a memorial garden behind the Graceland mansion in Memphis. Elvis bought the house for himself and his parents in 1957, just a few years after he rocketed to fame. His mother died a year later, Elvis died in 1977 and his father died two years later. have worked. Nashville’s Music Row district is larger and vastly more polished, more like a theme park, and the three-block Beale Street area also has been institutionalized to the point of having a neon arch and a congressional designation as the “home of the blues,” which would seem to be the kiss of death. But the 25 clubs and bars that remain are the protectors of a gritty authenticity and some rowdy, totally original music. Close by is the Lorraine Motel, where a lot of Beale Street musicians stayed over the years and where the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was killed in 1968. I remember that April night 51 years ago like it was yesterday, and when we walked down the hill from the Main Street trolley and first saw the motor court with the Space Age sign, it took my breath away. On fast glance, it looks as if nothing has changed since that awful day. There’s a low-profile addition behind the motel, which is part of the National Civil Rights Museum, but it otherwise looks frozen in time, with boat-sized cars with fins out front and a floral wreath on the balcony outside King’s room, as it was immediA bus tour guide tells about the assassination of Dr. Martin Luately after his death. ther King Jr. at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis in April 1968. The It’s a museum of the civil rights movement, not floral wreath marks where King was shot and killed. The motel is simply a memorial to King, which likely is how now part of the National Civil Rights Museum. he would want it. It opened in 1991 after a long preservation battle and was greatly improved in much as Elvis left it, is fascinating. He apparently was his own 2014. The interactive, Smithsonian-caliber exhibitions and interior decorator, and the Jungle Room, with its green shag videos outline the history of the slave trade in America, the carpeting on the ceiling and the “Blue Hawaii” tiki touches, is facts of slavery and how it was written into our Constitution, revealing all by itself. Thousands of fans filed past his open cofhow segregation flourished after the Civil War, and how the fin in the Music Room after he died upstairs in August 1977. modern civil rights movement began. Elvis is buried, along with his parents, who lived with him at Most important for Memphis, it explains what was hapGraceland, in a memorial garden out back by the swimming pening in 1967 and ‘68 that brought Dr. King to the city. The pool. As the grave marker says, “He became a living legend in final displays and videos, leading to Room 306 where he and his own time; earning the respect and love of millions.” his friends were staying at the time of his death, are unforget He and his parents moved to Memphis in 1948 when he table. There’s more to see, hear and do in Memphis, but it’s was 13. For all the twists and turns in his life, he never really the National Civil Rights Museum that will stick with you and left the city in which he invented himself. When he returned change you. from Army service in West Germany in 1960, he was asked And then there’s Graceland. Even if you don’t care about what he missed about Memphis. “Everything,” he said. Elvis, you can’t really say you’ve been to Memphis if you don’t A reporter asked where he planned to live next. “I’m going visit the mansion that the young man from Tupelo, Miss., to stay in Memphis,” he said flatly. bought not long after his overnight fame in the mid-’50s. Who Even on a quick visit, you can see why Memphis -- prodihe was, how he lived and why it happened in Memphis is all giously musical and regenerative, richly endowed but persisrepresented at Graceland, and it says a lot about the city, the tently divided, beat up and beautiful, picturesque and full of singer, the music and American-style celebrity. ghosts -- has a hold on people. All the tourist stuff across Elvis Presley Boulevard -- the museums with jumpsuits he wore in Las Vegas, the gold records and airplanes, the cars -- can be skipped, but the 17,500-square-foot estate itself, which has been kept pretty

As we enter a new decade, why not throw back to an old one. Pub 500 is celebrating the new year with a 90’s throwback party, including music from cover band Near-vana and special guests. Dig up those scrunchies and tie dye and head to the pub for food, drinks, and musical dose of nostalgia. Free. 10PM-1 AM, Pub 500.

New Year’s Eve Karaoke at Oleander Saloon Oleander Saloon is partnering with B & B Karaoke so you can sing tunes ‘til past midnight. Brad and Betty are regular karaoke hosts at venues across Mankato so they’re sure to have festive options for singing in the New Year (and also welcome your faves). Free. 8PM-12:30 AM, Oleander Saloon, Mankato.

New Year’s Eve Dance Blue Moon Ballroom has a lively soiree planned for New Year’s Eve whether you want to learn some new moves or bust out some old favorites. Come with an appetizer to share and enjoy an evening of trading recipes and dancing in styles that range from swing to Latin to ballroom. The night begins with an hour-long class to provide some foundational moves, followed by three hours of open dancing. 8 PM-12 AM. $10 adults, $5 students.

Bitter and Bleu New Year’s Eve Party For those looking for an excuse to indulge, several Rochester establishments have come together to bring you the Bitter and Bleu New Year’s Eve Party, a progressive dinner and dance party. Start with welcome drinks at the Bleu Duck Kitchen and then shuttle to Bitter & Pour for a cocktail hour that includes an Oyster Bar. Then it’s back to Bleu Kitchen for a five-course, wine paired dinner. The evening ends at The Maven, where you can dance your way into the new year with bubbly, a photo booth, and DJ’d music. $250, includes all food and drink, transportation and party favors. 7 PM-1 AM, multiple locations.

Resolution Run and Walk Leave 2019 revived and energized for the new year (or get pumped for later evening NYE activities) with a 5k run/walk along the Zumbro River. Running Room locations across the U.S. are hosting Resolution Runs and Walks, and the Rochester outpost is joining in, with cozy jackets and post-event noshes for all participants. $45 adults, $15 kids. 5:30 PM. Rochester Running Room, Rochester.

Host Your Own! As fun as a night out on the town can be, sometimes the best celebrations are those you plan yourself. There are many benefits to hosting your own party: no transportation to worry about, no cover, and you choose how fancy or laid back the evening should be. Here are our recommendations for where to pick up musthave materials for a festive gathering. Food: For a quick but elegant spread of finger foods, visit Just Foods Co-Op in Northfield for fun cheeses, crackers, spreads, and dippable veggies. If you’re hosting a larger affair, Pizzeria 201 caters pizza and pasta--and can even bring their brick oven on site. For dessert, pick up some decorated cupcakes at Sugar Rose Bakeshop in New Prague. Drink: Grab a Growler from Island City Brew, and for extra bubbles, get a recommendation from the experts at Tessa’s Office Wine Boutique. Decor: Spiff up your space with decorations from The Nook & Cranny in Faribault, which is always stocked with seasonal tablescapes, wall art and garden decor. Games: To keep guests entertained before the count down, refresh your stock of board and card games at Lucky Dice in downtown Owatonna.

The Deets:

Island City Brew: 65 East Front Street, Winona. islandcitybrew.com Just Foods Co-Op: 516 Water St South, Northfield. info@justfood.coop, 507-650-0106 Lucky Dice: 117 North Cedar Ave, Owatonna. Luckydiceshop.com, 507-412-9476 Nook & Cranny: 725 2nd Ave NW, Faribault. facebook.com/The-Nook-Cranny-Faribault-MN, 507-331-1041 Pizzeria 201: 201 1st Street South, Montgomery. pizzeria201.com, 507-3645000. Sugar Rose Bakeshop: 801 1st Ave SE, New Prague. sugarrosebakeshop.com, 952-758-2233 Tessa’s Office Wine Boutique: 4 3rd St. SW, Rochester. tessasofficemn.com, 507-2267763

Jay Furst lives in Rochester, works at Mayo Clinic and has been a journalist for more than 30 years.

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w w w. s o u t h er N m I N n SCENE. c o m

| DECEMBER 2019

A Story by PAT GARRY Contributing Writer

s much as you may want to deny it, the holiday shopping season is here, but don’t stress. Shopping for friends and family can be fun, and these great local establishments provide many opportunities to make the whole family happy, while on your shopping excursion. Find the perfect gift for that special person at these fine businesses. LARK TOYS, Kellogg (https://www. larktoys.com/) LARK Toys is best described as a unique confluence of streams. The competent, talented staff members manufacture heirloom wooden toys on site; they carefully select toys, books, games, puzzles, gifts, science and art kits, and more. “We offer rides every 30 minutes on our Carousel, hand-carved from Minnesota basswood. We make our own fudge, stock an old-fashioned candy store, and offer sandwiches, snacks, and terrific ice cream,” explained Co-Owner Miranda Gray-Burlingame. The Memory Lane antique toy museum reminds one of his or her favorite toys from childhood. In the fall of 2019, LARK opened a new event center; with a dance floor, stage, and kitchen, for Nia and yoga, musical events, and rentals. “We are honored to welcome visitors from across the country and around the world, people of all ages, family groups, and friends,” GrayBurlingame added. The work shop houses a new wooden Mrs. Claus puzzle for the holidays. Many families put the puzzles on the mantle for the season. And the LARK folks are also quite fond of Kaos soccer balls. They come in all sorts of colors, including gold. LARK Toys is family-owned and operated, and the choices they make are influenced in the staff’s desire to promote play for uplifting, healing, connecting, and fun. It is easy to spend several hours at LARK, basking in the creativity and perusing the entirety of this phenomenal store. The holidays are a fantastic time to visit LARK. The store is decorated, people are cheery, and holiday spirit is in the air. In the 20,000-plus square feet of toys, books, games, and experiences, it’s easy to find unique and meaningful gifts for people of all ages. “Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, we offer a free LARK Toys T-shirt for each $100 spent, and a free LARK mug for every $150 spent!” exclaimed Miranda. CHRISTMAS ON MAIN, Le Sueur; Christmas on Main arrives on Friday, December 6, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Christmas Boutique is held in the Valleygreen Square Mall on Friday, December 6 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 7, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Handmade and unique gift items available from local crafters and vendors. Make it a full day after shopping with Lights Parade with 30-plus units at 6:00 p.m., Friday. Parade begins on North Main Street. Community Christmas

Tree Lighting – following Lights Parade at Mothers Louise Park. All sponsored by The Le Sueur Rotary and City of Le Sueur. Mankato State University Carolers will perform at Mothers Louise Park before and after the Christmas Tree Lighting, which is sponsored by Ag-Quest MN River Insurance. Fireworks following Christmas Tree Lighting from River Park, sponsored by The Bar and Green Mill Bar. Various local businesses provide refreshments on the Pedestrian Mall or near their places of business throughout the evening activities. This event is a great way to relax and celebrate the holiday season with friends and family, in a warm and welcoming community. BARTON’S BRICKHOUSE BOUTIQUE, The Barton Brickhouse Boutique, owned and operated by AmericInn of Wabasha, is located at the intersection of 2nd street and Bailey Ave., across from the VFW in Wabasha, and was opened for business in 2017. On-premise owner is Carolynn Klees, and the manager is Barb Hansen. The BBB carries every-day décor, farm and ranch décor, kitchen and bath items, rugs, antiques, towels, candles, seasonal décor and a whole lot more. “We have a very wide customer base and our customers range from the age of 20-to-70years old,” Klees said. The popular items for the holiday season are the rustic bells, Gnomes, red trucks, snow globes with different scenes, and lamas. The Boutique is unique because it is set up in a Historic Brickhouse with big, pocket doors, wood floors and beautiful porches. In December, there is a 25%-off sale, so be sure to stop and pick up some great bargains for the holidays. (open Wednesdays thru Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). DODGE COUNTY COWBOY CHURCH, Dodge County Cowboy Church is in its 4th year in southern Minnesota. This year’s event is Sunday, December 8, at Mid-town Center Assembly Hall, 104 1st Street NW, Dodge Center. Cowboy Church ministry has been going a long time and represents itself in many ways across the world. It is a para church organization, often meeting at places other than churches. “We are now using the old Dodge Center School, meeting in the Assembly Hall, otherwise known as the old cafeteria,” spokesperson Marette Jorgenson offered. Charles Schaal and Marette Jorgenson were the original founders of the Dodge County Cowboy Church, but many other people make it work. Volunteer musicians are Gary Froiland, Linda Wenzel, Renee Larson, Larry Erickson, Charles Schaal, Marette Jorgenson, with many others coming to step in and play. Cowboy Church is about an hour of bluegrass, old western country music, mostly in the gospel genre; with guitars, stand-up bass, banjo, mandolins, fiddles and harmonica. The evening starts with a welcome and prayer and then the musicians alternate playing and singing. Sometimes there is a congregational song or two - typically old gospel devosongs. There is usually a tion by Charles about a Texas cowboy named Rowdy, and the lessons he has learned in the years of living in Texas. There are usually snacks and people do plenty of mingling. “For Cowboy Christmas, we are pulling vendors from around the area and having a time of music, singing, selling goods and eating, from 4-8. Cowboy Church will be from 6-7. There will be two groups singing from 4-6,” Jorgenson said. Vendors include: Cupcakes by Carli (caramels, honey, paparazzi accessories); Prairie Girl Designs; MN Cowgirl; Scentsy; Color Street Nails; Pampered Chef; Bangles; Wood Barn Crafts; two authors and some western Minnesota flannels. MARKETPLACE

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@ 416, Northfield; Marketplace @ 416 opened two years ago, and it is owned by Carol Fredrickson. Carol’s husband, Steve, operates the shop 6-7 days a week as Carol’s daily “volunteer”. Steve and Carol’s high school student grandson, Zach, has proven himself as a friendly and competent shopkeeper, typically running the show on Saturdays. “We describe Marketplace @ 416 as Vintage, Upcycled & New. We have approximately 3,000 sq.-feet of shop space located directly above Hogan Bro’s. Acoustic Cafe. Shoppers are often heard commenting on the delicious, fresh bread smells that we enjoy as they bake it up daily,” explained Fredrickson. The shop has a wide variety of items with 12 vendors, each bringing their own distinctive line of specialties. Some of the vendors offer things to wear such as wool sweaters, upcycled mittens, vintage & contemporary clothes and military uniforms. There’s a huge variety of everything for the home, hobby or collection; like vintage and painted furniture, antique hardware & old tools, vintage toys and games, vintage seasonal decor, hot collectibles like Pyrex, uranium glass, lighted beer signs and so much more. “When shoppers choose an item from our shop, they’re not only getting something unique and special, they are supporting an idea of preservation and recycling, rather than contributing to the disposable culture,” Carol mentioned. That gives our very grateful, small-business owners and vendors the means to keep bringing our community more treasures. Another fun feature that has created a number of frequent repeat visits is the ‘shop dog’ dachshund, Beau. Kids, college students and many others, stop in for their ‘Beau cuddle time therapy’ on a regular basis. STOCKING STUFFER SALE, Winona; This is the 3rd year of the Stocking Stuffer Sale in Winona. The event is at the East End Rec Center, Winona, from 11:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., Sunday, December 8.; and is coordinated by Shannon and Mike Doberstein, and Rebecca Hei. The Winona American Legion Riders also play a large part in the festivities. The sale, at 210 Zumbro Street, Winona, has an on-site food booth, provided by American Legion Riders; and photos with Santa; The merchants: River City Bling, Norwex, Pampered Chef, Scentsy, Thirty-One, Lilla Rose, Tastefully Simple, Carly’s Closet, Paparazzi, L’Bri, Color Street, USBorne Books, Magnolia & Vine, Perfectly Posh, Jafra, Organo Gold. There will be baked goods and foods, pet items, wreaths, kettle corn, air plants, jewelry, doll clothing, hats, light-up blocks, baby items, scrub tops, wood signs, metal yard art, blankets, accessories, aprons, soaps, salt lamps, wood crafts, oils, custom tumblers, and much more. “Our entire event is family-friendly and all items are giftable. Our goal is to have a wide variety of businesses that you can check many names off of your shopping list when you visit us,” explained Shannon. The vendors this year will be offering: designed drinkware, handmade baby items, jewelry, fishing lures, cooking wares, clothing, prepackaged treats and beverages, home décor, children’s toys, and much more! There are over 40 different businesses on-hand. Some of the proceeds are donated to a community fund for the local food shelf. Last year’s efforts raised more than $700. “I love this event. It really is a whole year commitment to pull it off, and we all work hard for it. I want each year to be better than the last, and I want everyone to remember how much fun they

had!” Shannon exclaimed. TREATS AND TREASURES, Lake City; Paul and Jil Garry opened Treats and Treasures in May of 1993. After nearly 18 years in the original location, they moved around the corner a few years ago in order to expand the shop and allow for more varied merchandise. “We currently have six employees, ranging from teens to senior citizens, who work as an amazing team to provide our customers a pleasant shopping experience. One of the most difficult questions we are asked by first time visitors is, “what’s upstairs?” We offer such a wide variety of merchandise, that it’s difficult to summarize in a few words,” Jil explained. What began as a shop selling hand-made confections, souvenirs and gifts; has expanded to include women’s apparel, decor, and kitchen wares. “Customers tell us they like our store because we offer products that they don’t see everywhere and because we carry so many Minnesota products, ranging from local art to honey. I also love the frequent customer comments I get about our helpful and friendly staff,” added Jil Garry. A HANDMADE CHRISTMAS—INDIE MAKER MARKET Austin’s Hormel Historic Home; A Handmade Christmas—Indie Maker Market, is in its seventh year in Austin, MN; and the last five years it has been held at the Hormel Historic Home. The venue is a draw on its own, as the mansion is all decked out for Christmas, and shoppers are able to tour the upstairs during the event. Kristy Rooney is the organizer and also owner of Zarooka Candle Co, a vendor at the show. AHC was started by several makers who wanted both a quality market to sell their wares at and to create a shopping event similar to the indie maker events in the Twin Cities. Each year a jury decides on the 35-plus makers and artists who will be invited to participate. Every vendor is either a maker or artist and the jury looks for new, fun, quality goods to keep the market fresh. It has become a holiday tradition that the community looks forward to. “We strive to have something for everyone. There’s nothing inspiring by roaming the aisles of a big box store trying to find something that will pass as a thoughtful gift. Our shoppers come every year because they know they are going to find original, great gifts that can’t be captured anywhere else. Our whole purpose is for shoppers to be able to cross everyone off their list with items they are excited to give, while supporting local makers,” Rooney said. Men tend to be the hardest to buy for, so there is Montplaisir Studios, with their original art t-shirts, C & L Studios, with hand-crafted wood pizza peels and cribbage boards; Rehatched, with recycled fabric rugs, and several natural soap and body companies with products specifically made with men in mind. Over half of the purchases made by shoppers at A Handmade Christmas have no intention of making it under the tree...they are treasures for the shoppers themselves. “Sometimes the best gifts are the ones we get ourselves!” Rooney added. Friday night has a very festive feel. Shoppers get their friends together and plan a night out around it. There are appetizers from Peppered Cow and any ticket bought online comes with a free wine/drink ticket from the cash bar. Your Friday ticket will also let you come back on Saturday. Saturday morning, the first 30 through the door will get a limited edition “Handmade Minnesota” pint glass, and lunch at a reasonable price, is offered by the Hormel House volunteers. The upstairs of the Hormel Historic Home is open to tour during the market. Come meet the fantastic makers of our Midwest and create a new tradition. You can get all the info and buy tickets at: AHandmadeChristmas.com. [A Handmade Christmas-- Indie Maker Market; Hormel Historic Home, Austin, MN; Friday, Dec 6, 4-8 pm, $10 (weekend pass); Saturday, Dec 7, 9

A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent

An evening with

Story by MEGAN ROLLOFF Contributing Writer

BOB

in Mankato

iving. Legend. Two words that are often used, but not always deserved. But when it was announced that Bob Dylan was coming to the Mankato Civic Center, those are the first two words that popped into my mind. And in this case, I believe rightly so. I am not old enough to have experienced first hand the impact he made in 1965 and 1966 with his protest songs and lyrics for social justice. But I have certainly read about them, heard about them on the radio, had discussions about them, and heard them in documentaries. And none of these things did I go out of my way to do. The impact of Bob Dylan’s words and music is woven into our musical and cultural history like that one miscolored thread that somehow made its way into the fabric of your sweater in spite of its obvious imperfection. I’ve read how Dylan’s music was the voice of a generation. I’ve read that it unified the young social consciousness of American at a time when discrimination and division were the themes of the day. I’ve heard how his words were prophetic warnings of times to come and were inspiration to those hoping to make a difference before it was too late. The one thing I have never heard, read, or seen is that Bob Dylan has the voice of an angel. The subject of his less-than-melodic tone is sometimes danced around, tip-toed up to, side-stepped, or just ignored completely. I am sure there are those out there that would disagree, those who would say what I write is blasphemous. However, those people would be few. And before said folks show up at my door with pitch forks, what I’m getting at is that is not, nor was it ever, the point. He never meant to bring a tear to your eye with his falcetto or to amaze you with his unimaginable range. Bob Dylan wrote lyrics that meant something. He wrote words you had to listen to. He made history and influenced a generation with what he said, not how it sounded when he said it. So here we are fifty-some years later and Bob Dylan comes to my backyard bringing all that history and legend with him. The stage was fantastic. The giant, industrial lights lit up the stage with a warm cozy glow. The velvet backdrop seemed a nod to the old theaters that used to be, and the piano at the front of the stage sat permanently awaiting its moment when it would be brought to life by the man himself. Lights down, music starts, this is it! This was my chance to see, in the flesh, true musical history - a mascot of social change and the power art can have when done just right at precisely the right time. This giant of cultural influence was surprisngly small. Not that I was expecting an ogre, but he looked a

little like the kid at the end of “Big” when he was shrinking right out of his adult clothes. He had one pant leg or the other tucked into his boot for the duration of the show and his hair had that “just-in-from-outside” look. I heard one person say he looked like he got dressed in a wind tunnel – just grabbing garments as they blew past. It was very clear that the man was closer to the end of his time on this earth than the beginning. But that is essentially how you get to “living legend” status; you’re around long enough and enough people talk about you, you eventually become something bigger than yourself. And that is something you could feel in the air. There were so many generations in one space, at one time, for similar but different reasons. Some were there to relive their youth,

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some were there to see what the fuss was about, and some, like me, were seizing the opportunity to see someone of this musical magnitude before it was too late. I missed Kurt Cobain, I missed David Bowie, Tom Petty, John Lennon, Freddie Mercury, and most regrettably Prince! These opportunities will never come back. And with the way the music industry is changing, with so many different platforms and ways to customize what you listen to, I’m afraid the “voice of a generation” concept may be coming to an end. Having so much choice and giving so many more artists the chance to be heard is undoubtedly a positive move, but there is something to be said for the unity and identity found in sharing a common cultural and generational experience. I felt like I was getting to be a small part of this experience as I sat in amongst the sold-out crowd this Thursday night. I was seeing, in person, first hand, someone whose art may have helped to change the world for the better. I loved every minute of it. Was it the most exciting concert I’ve seen? No. Did I know every word of every song like the back of my hand? No. Was the voice of a 78 year old man, who never had a great voice to begin with, like hearing the heavens open up? Absolutely not. But, like I said before, that was never the point. SMS

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toreys.Net

| DECEMBER 2019

ALBUM REVIEW By Daniel G. Moir editor@southernminnscene.com

he Minneapolis band that “could’ve been” gets an opportunity to look back 30 years later on an album that should’ve been “the one.”

Album Grade: B-

The Replacements Deadman’s Pop

Ever since the advent of the Compact Disc in the early 1980’s, record companies have looked at bolstering their corporate bottom lines through re-issues and sonic upgrades to existing back catalogs. Significant album release anniversaries have been particularly noted with “remastered” deluxe versions filled with fan-drooling extras such as lost “B-sides” and notable session outtakes. Just about every significant release has now been expanded in form and re-sold to hungry fans, from Sgt. Pepper and Born to Run to Aqualung. True to form, Minneapolis’ own The Replacements wade into this territory with a re-casted look at their penultimate (or ultimate depending on how you feel about 1990’s All Shook Down) 1989 release Don’t Tell a Soul, except they really don’t. This may very well be the very first deluxe set that DOESN’T include a copy of the regular album that was originally released. This is not to say that the songs aren’t included. They are all there, but have been significantly altered and reset in an effort to re-invision part of the Replacement’s legacy. Originally produced by Matt Wallace, the released version of Don’t Tell a Soul was mixed by Chris Lord-Alge who gave the album a bit of “polished radio sheen” to it. Band leader Paul Westerberg was reportedly not pleased with the resulting product, later remarking “I thought the little things I’d cut in my basement were closer to what I wanted.” On Dead Man’s Pop, Westerberg and the band get their wish and start the set with producer Wallace’s recasting the album with his own mixes and re-sequencing the album’s eleven tracks into a new running order that was “closer to what was originally envisioned by

the band.” For fans of the original album, there are a number of things that will instantly stand out. The first is the overall tempo of Wallace’s new mixes. They are noticeable slower in meter and lack the sizzle of Lord-Alge’s versions as a result. Former album closer “Darlin’ One” now sits in the middle of the album sequence, and begins with a distracting, over-extended “sitar-like” intro. It loses any of the poignancy previously found in the composition. Even their biggest single, “I’ll Be You” lacks the spark that pushed the released version to #51 on the charts. Overall, while mildly interesting, this reshaping of the album is a mis-fire and just serves to show the version that was released was likely the correct one. “Sorry, guys…” Sessions for Don’t Tell a Soul began at Bearsville Studios in upstate New York with producer Tony Berg before quickly falling apart due to an adversarial relationship between Berg and members of the band. A number of the tracks cut from these troubled, alcoholfueled sessions are included in Dead Man’s Pop and are well worth the inclusion. “We’ll Inherit the Earth” in particular crackles with a desperate fury missing from the Matt Wallace version presented earlier in the set. The Bearsville version of “Rock ‘N’ Roll Ghost” is of special interest. It removes the cryptic, maudlin synthesizer sounds of the released version and allows for a lighter, ultimately more satisfying, take in Westerberg’s revealing performance. A real gem no longer lost. Included in the set are five songs haphazardly recorded with singer/songwriter Tom Waits. Obviously never intended to be heard outside of the session itself, the quintet of musicians drunkenly bash through a cover of “If Only You Were Lonely” and a shambles of a track called “Lowdown Monkey Blues.” While it plays into the reputations of both Waits and “The ‘Mats” of yore, here this late night Jack Daniels-fueled session at Los Angeles’ Cherokee Studios sounds more like a commercial for an AA meeting than anything resembling a revelatory moment between the two master songwriters.

By far, the best aspect of Dead Man’s Pop is the inclusion of the entire June 2, 1989 performance from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee that live E.P. Inconcerated was originally drawn from. This is where the true essence of the band’s legacy can be found. Westerberg is loose and the band is solid behind him displaying a fire and energy not fully realized on any of their studio recordings. Songs like “I Don’t Know” and “Bastards of Young” thrash with a threat of indignant violence while “Unsatisfied” and “Here Comes a Regular” are awash in sensitive nuance. All this and there is still the bouncy fun of “I Will Dare” before the band crashes to the final chords of Kiss’ “Black Diamond.” Overall, Dead Man’s Pop gives an opportunity to re-assess a pivotal “make or break” release by the legendary band. It offers a variety of paths not taken for a band that fell short of the commercial success they so desperately deserved. In the end, it was the studio that failed them, not the material and certainly not the band itself. One has to wonder what their career would’ve been like had a decision been made to release the live tracks as a double-live album a-la 1976’s Frampton Comes Alive! Paul Westerberg’s songs were well crafted, articulate works and paired well with the band’s caustic energy and raw power. That is where The Replacements excelled and thrived. Could’ve, would’ve, should’ve. The world may never really know, but at least with this collection, we get a glimpse of what might have been. Once upon a time… Bottom Line: Over the course of 60 tracks that run 3 hours, 42 minutes, The Replacements offer an intriguing view of the period that surrounded Don’t Tell a Soul only to show that it was really the concert stage where they succeeded. Daniel G. Moir has forgotten more about music than all the rest of us know combined. Reach him at editor@southernminnscene.com

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A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent

Something for Everyone this Holiday Season! Events

Nov 21 • Waseca Specialty Shops Holiday Stroll Nov 14-17, 21-24 & 29–30 • Touch of Country Class Never Enough” Christmas Boutique Dec 5 • Canadian Pacific Holiday Train Jan–Feb • 70th Sleigh & Cutter Festival (sleighandcutterfestival.org)

Restaurants

Specialty Shops

• Burger King

• Awaken Vibrance

Bars

• 4 Seasons Athletics

• Glitter and Grace

• Bardens Liquor Bar

• Club 57

• Pica A Dilly Boutique

• Katie O’Leary’s Beef & Brew*

• Boat House Grill & Bar

• Dairy Queen

• Domino’s Pizza

• El Molino Mexican

• El Tequila Family Restaurant

• Pippi Lane Boutique

• Speckled Hen

• Jonnie Beans

• Zinnias

• McDonald’s

• Past & Present Antiques & Gifts

• Lush Cakes

• Summerhouse Farms

• Mi Tres Flores

• Homestead

• Pheasant Café

• Hammer & Stain

• Oscar’s All American Food & Drinks

• Pizza Ranch

• Starfire Grill

• Subway

• American Legion Post 228*

• Half Pint Brewing Co.

• Lindner Liquor

• The Boxcar Bar

• VFW Post 1642*

• Ward House Brewery *Also serves food

• Suburban Furniture & Flooring

• Ultra Beach

• Pearl Button Primitives

discoverwaseca.com for updated events and times Event dates & times subject to change.

• Taco Johns

• Tasty House

• Trio Coffee, Wine & Ale House

• Yellow Mushroom

Life is Better Here A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent

w w w. s o u t h er N m I N n SCENE. c o m

| DECEMBER 2019

Photographing SoMinn:

A trip to

Wisconsin

Photos and text by Elizabeth Nida Obert www.nidaphoto.com elizabeth@nidaphoto.com

he view atop Alma was stunning. The Mississippi River stretched for miles and the buildings looked like Monopoly toy models. We’d hiked three miles to Buena Vista Park along a winding and moderate trail that began on Main Street in the little Wisconsin town. Now we were atop a 500-foot bluff and reaping the reward of our efforts. November was closing in and the rich

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palette of gold and red would soon fade to brown. Our breakfast at the Pier 4 Café & Smokehouse was a good place to start our day and provided fuel for our exploration. The prices were low and the food quality high. A good combination. The passing trains and boats were a bonus. Fire and Ice serves elegant desserts and boasts gardens worth the stop alone; not a bad place to sip a cup of coffee or tea. We browsed and purchased two small paintings by local artist Gail Pommerening at

Art & Soul, where gallery items range from jewelry to purses to photography. There is generally nothing fancy about this river town of less than 1,000. But what Alma lacks in sheen it makes up for in charm. Quaint. Interesting. Quirky. Just a few of the adjectives that come to mind. 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.

A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent

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| DECEMBER 2019

SoMinn Food & Dining

pat garry

Review

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

Wildwood

Sports Bar & Grill

im Nicholas, owner of Wildwood Sports Bar & Grill, Rochester, has now opened a second Wildwood in Byron. Nicholas’ Byron outlet is anchored by Chef Matt Leyson and Front-of-House Manager Dan Bilderbach. Currently, Byron Wildwood features lunch and dinner, but Tuesday through Friday, there is a pizza buffet, which includes salad, pop and unlimited pizza slices for just $9.99. “Our Byron menu is very similar to our Rochester menu, with some subtle changes,” Nicholas mentioned. Some of the signature items highlighted at the restaurant include: Firecracker Shrimp; battered shrimp tossed with house-made honey sriracha sauce and served with mandarin slaw; Duck Poppers; bacon-wrapped cream cheese and sliced duck breast, baked and finished with chipotle-raspberry sauce; Wildwood boneless wings; hand-cut and fresh chicken tossed in a signature sauce with home-made ranch or blue cheese dressing. Fashioning the majority of their menu items from scratch, Wildwood has comprehensive cuisine choices. Shareables: Totcho’s: crispy-fried tots topped with homemade cheese sauce, melted cheddar-jack cheese, cowboy sauce, chopped

bacon, sour cream and green onions; Portobello Fries: sliced portobello mushrooms lightly breaded, fried golden and served with ranch dressing. Ginger-Lime Lettuce Wraps: peppers, onions, carrots, mushrooms, water chestnuts and toasted almonds, tossed in ginger-lime sauce and served with Bibb lettuce; also grilled chicken and shrimp. Loaded Nachos: crispy-fried tortilla chips with home-made cheese sauce, melted cheddar-jack cheese, Pico de Gallo; also chicken and pulled pork. Premium Burgers: (all burgers are hand-made, seven-ounce beef patties. Not a fan of beef? Have any of the delicious burgers made with portobello mushroom or turkey burger. Lettuce, tomato, pickle, and red onions are available by request, at no charge. Burgers served with choice of French fries, home-made chips, tots, coleslaw, cottage cheese, or fresh fruit. Elk: grilled elk burger topped with melted muenster cheese and bacon, on a toasted brioche bun. Avocado Swiss: melted Swiss, crisp bacon and fresh avocado, on a toasted brioche bun. All-American: smoked bacon and melted American cheese, on a toasted brioche bun. Burger Stacker: (3) slider patties layered with tomato, portobello mushrooms, bacon, on a bed of Bibb lettuce. High Plains Burger: loaded with portobello mushrooms, fried onions,

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Swiss and American cheese, and plenty of cowboy sauce. Patty Melt: served on thick-sliced toasted marble rye bread, topped with melted provolone cheese and caramelized onions. Angry Oinker: topped with chipotle pulled pork, home-made pickles, melted pepper-jack cheese and cowboy sauce, on a toasted brioche bun. Portobello & Swiss: sautéed portobello mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese, on a toasted brioche bun. Desserts: Caramel Apple Crisp a la mode: home-made apple pie filling topped with cookie crumb topping and baked bubbly. Chocolate Brownie Sundae: rich double chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream, chocolate and caramel sauce. Apple Pie Pizza: home-made apple pie with crumb topping on a buttered crust, topped with gooey caramel. Wildwood Sports Bar & Grill, Byron, is a casual bar and grill, with a bowling alley. Burgers and Bowling…the perfect match! “Join us at our Byron location for not just great food, but bowling, too. When we purchased the property in 2018, the 12lane bowling alley was included. We’ve refreshed the space and now you can bowl, eat, and drink – all in one place. Plan your next birthday party, get-together, or night out at the bowling alley in Byron,” explained Nicholas. Open the same hours as the sports bar and grill, the Wildwood Bowling Alley is a great place to hold your next fun event. For assistance in scheduling and planning your

event, please contact Wildwood in Byron at (507) 624-0442. There is always something fun and interesting to do at Wildwood. February is Mardi Gras, featuring food and beer from the New Orleans angle, with a Wildwood twist. October is Oktoberfest, which highlights German beers and cuisine. March Is Taco Madness, where the chef creates some different and awesome tacos; that are served all month. April is Wild Game month, which means a variety of exotic burgers, from camel to rabbit and everything in between. “We are small, family-run business that makes food we like to eat and we hope everyone else does too. We have a happy hour Monday-Friday from 4-7 and Saturday and Sunday from 3-6 pm; $3.00 off apps and 2 for 1 tap beers,” Nicholas said. SMS

“If you’re wild about food that’s seriously good, you’ll be wild about Wildwood Sports Bar & Grill!” - Jim Nicholas (501 Frontage Rd. NE, Byron, MN); Open Mon. – 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Tue, Wed, Thu, – 11 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Fri, Sat – 11 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Sun., 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.) (https:// www.wildwoodsportsbarandgrill.com/).

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Jen Swenson Jen is the showroom manager at The Design Element, located in the Mankato Design Center. She can assist with all of your questions regarding product selection and get you into contact with the right designer for your next project.

MARKET TRENDS

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argot and I are just back from our trip to the Furniture Market in High Point and oh boy do we have things to share with you! For those of you that are unaware of what this is, it’s basically an entire small city, not unlike St. Peter’s size but completely taken over by HUNDREDS of showrooms from Furniture to Lighting to Accessories and more! If I’m perfectly honest, I’m like a kid in a candy store there. It’s my happy place! As Interior Designers, it’s our job to stay on top of what’s trending in design. Attending events like High Point allows us the chance to get expert insight on the latest looks and emerging trends. However, it’s not just in picking out pretty things (though that’s our favorite part). It’s just a small part of what we do as Interior Designers. Trends are made of tremendous amounts of data that comes from things like human behavior, social patterns, spending habits and accessibility. So, we look below the surface of form, style & texture to consider the needs and passions of us as humans. In this overly digital era, we all feel the need to re-connect with ourselves, our families and nature itself. This theme has presented itself through out the past few years as natural looking materials and continues to spread and evolve into our dwellings. We cruised through as many showrooms as we possibly could. Tried out chairs and sofas, touching and seeing as many of our favorite lines as we could. This allows us to be able to vouch for our wonderful vendors to our customers. Here are some of the things we were seeing:

Colors Trends:

• An assortment of green tones like jade, mossy green and fresh palm. • Jewel Tones like deep teal, scarlet, currant & plum • Earth Tones like cream, gold and coral & blush • Mixed Metals • Geometric Textures • Black and White Look for these trends in the new products in The Design Element’s ever-evolving showroom displays and vignettes. Every market we bring in select finds to enrich local interiors and inspire new designs.

SPONSORED BY

The Design Element 1711 Premier Drive Mankato, MN 507.345.8708

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| DECEMBER 2019

THE Calendar Compiled By Anne Kopas editor@southernminnscene.com

A Charlie Brown Christmas November 22-December 8, Mantorville Theatre Company, Mantorville For more than 50 years, Charles M. Schulz’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” has held a place as a treasured holiday tradition in many households. This stage adaptation, faithful to the original 1965 television special, follows Lucy, Linus, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang as Charlie Brown attempts to direct a Christmas play, finding the true meaning of the season along the way. Local cast members from the Mantorville area theater communities have put together a classic, heartwarming show full of nostalgia for the adults and surprises for kids seeing the story play out for the very first time. mantorvilletheatrecompany.com

Lindsey Stirling: Warmer in the Winter

Draughts & Laughs

8 p.m. November 29, Mayo Civic Center, Rochester World-renowned electronic violinist Lindsey Stirling is touring in support of her latest holiday album, “Warmer in the Winter.” Along with performances across the United States and Canada, Stirling is bringing her tour to Tochester. Stirling’s concerts are a festival of music and visuals, with signature dance routines and on-stage effects. Get ready to hear some familiar holiday standards like “Santa Baby” and “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” plus a few Stirling originals like “Christmas C’mon” and “Warmer in the Winter.” Since her debut, Stirling has released five studio albums including “Artemis,” which just dropped in September, and has won a variety of awards, including YouTube Artist of the year (2015) and Top Dance/Electronic Album at the Billboard Music Awards (2015, 2017). mayociviccenter.com/events-tickets

7 p.m. December 5 Little Thistle Brewing, Rochester Grab a beer, sit back, and let yourself be entertained by a cast of comedians from around the nation while knowing you’re supporting a good cause. Comedians from the North American Comedy Tour group — including comics with credits at festivals, television shows and more — travel the country’s breweries, providing plenty of laughs along the way. Host venue Little Thistle Brewing, a familyrun business in Rochester, will be serving a variety of brews, from IPAs to sours to others with names like “Wake Me Up Before You Coco” that are too good not to try. Plus, a portion of the evening’s proceeds will support organizations placing rescue dogs into loving foster homes. comedybrewerytours.com/upcoming-show

Red Wing Holiday Stroll November 29, Red Wing Spend your Black Friday out on the town, wandering the streets at Red Wing’s annual Holiday Stroll. Events begin in the morning with a pancake feed featuring Santa Claus and include a variety of activities throughout the day: wreath festival/auction, holiday film showings, visits from rescue dogs, horse-drawn wagon rides, ornament making for kids, a book sale, story time, gingerbread house building, train displays, music and more. In the evening, get your fill of winter lights with a lighted parade, tree lighting ceremony and fireworks display (with even more live music to follow). Dress warmly; you’ll want to stroll outdoors all day long. Check the website for a detailed schedule of events. redwingstroll.com

Hollydaze Winter Festival

St. Olaf Christmas Festival December 5-8, St. Olaf College, Northfield

Enjoy the city of Le Center by night, with parks and sidewalks illuminated by holiday decorations and lights, located within a half hour of Mankato and an hour of the Twin Cities. Don’t miss the evening’s main feature, when local businesses and organizations compete for the title of best entry in the 19th annual light parade. There’s also a laser and light show, live music and more, along with a visit from — who else? — Santa Claus. Stay toasty along the way with warm treats like popcorn and hot chocolate.

Take part in a century-old musical holiday tradition with this year’s St. Olaf concert, “A New Song of Grace and Truth.” Each year, more than 500 student performers from the school’s five renowned choirs and one orchestra gather for a musical extravaganza that attracts audiences of all ages from around the state — each year, up to 12,000 guests attend. Participating ensembles include the St. Olaf Choir and Orchestra, Contorei, Chapel Choir, Manitou Singers and Viking Chorus. Tickets for this event are in high demand, so be sure to get yours as soon as possible! (But if you do miss getting tickets, you won’t miss out completely; St. Olaf also provides a live-stream of the concert each year.)

facebook.com/hollydazewinterfestival

Christmas.stolaf.edu

6 p.m. November 30, Le Center

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FEAST! Local Foods Marketplace Peter Pan December 5-8, Paradise Center for the Arts, Faribault Looking for a kid-friendly show but need a break from all of the Christmas plays and festivals? Head to Faribault for the Paradise Community Theatre’s production of J. M. Barrie’s classic “Peter Pan.” Take flight with Peter Pan, the Darling siblings, Tinker Bell and the cast of much-beloved characters that have stood the test of time. It’s the whimsical, adventurous, magical story loved by kids and adults alike, presented by southern Minnesota actors for a more local touch. The Dec. 5 performance will be ASL-interpreted and sensory-friendly.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. December 7 Rochester Mayo Civic Center, Rochester Spend a Saturday eating your fill of...well, of just about everything. Rochester’s local foods network, FEAST!, brings together hundreds of locally produced foods and beverages from Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin each year for a celebration of the region’s best-tasting offerings. Learn a thing or two at a cooking demonstration, vote for your favorite local foods in the People’s Choice Awards, help build a life-size vegetable carpet, wander a farmer’s market and more throughout the day. With dozens of vendors, it’s an opportunity to buy gifts for the foodie on your list — or just to learn more about all of the food and drink being made in the Rochester area.

Winter Walk 5-9 p.m. December 12 Northfield Northfield’s annual winter festival typically draws crowds from the Twin Cities and beyond for an evening of bright holiday cheer. Store fronts are lit with wintery displays, luminaries line the sidewalks, model train displays enchant the kids, and horse-drawn wagons take visitors on a ride downtown. While there’s plenty to see outside, drop in at the local coffee shops, restaurants and stores when you get cold for holiday music and goodies. While you’re at it, take advantage of Winter Walk-only deals at downtown businesses to get those gifts crossed off your list. Santa is busy throughout southern Minnesota this year — he’ll also be making a stop in Northfield for the evening. northfieldchamber.com/winter-walk

local-feast.org/festival2019

I’ll be Homicidal For Christmas December 14-January 2 Owatonna Country Club, Owatonna Twin Cities comedy theater group The Mystery Cafe is back in Owatonna with its new comedy “I’ll Be Homicidal for Christmas.” Enjoy a three-course meal while attempting to solve the mystery of Albee Humphrey, a fading celebrity attempting a comeback through a Christmas television special. He’ll either revive his career or die trying and it’s up to you and your tablemates to use the clues available to figure it out. You may even get the chance to get in on the act, as the cast often uses audience members as extras. Whether you solve the mystery or not, you’ll still get a good laugh (and maybe even a prize for “most creative” answer). themysterycafe.com/ill-be-homicidal-forchristmas

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paradisecenterforthearts.org/paradisecommunity-theater

Trainwreck Due 6 p.m. December 6 Indian Island Winery, Janesville Acoustic/piano duo Trainwreck Duet, a Minnesota favorite, performs a little something for everyone, from rock to pop hits to blues, vintage throwbacks and classic country. And if there’s something specific you want to hear, musciains Trent Shaw and Adam Daniel also take requests, so don’t hesitate to ask for your favorites! Founded in 2009, the duo now travels extensively throughout southern Minnesota, entertaining with its musical multitasking and audience banter. While you’re there, check out the winery’s selection of wines both grown and made locally. indianislandwinery.com

Lorie Line: 30th Anniversary Tour 7 p.m. December 10 Paramount Theatre, Austin Minnesota Music Hall of Famer Lorie Line celebrates her 30th year of touring this season, bringing her Pop Chamber Orchestra and signature piano skill on the road (along with the glamorous, sparkling costumes she’s known for). Since her humble beginnings playing the piano at Dayton’s department stores, she’s now performed for audiences worldwide, including two U.S. presidents. Her music includes a mix of original piano pieces as well as covers of well-loved songs, from Broadway themes to hymns to pop tunes. If you can’t make her Austin show, she’ll also be performing in a few others spots in Minnesota and the upper Midwest throughout the month. austinareaarts.org/paramount-events

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| DECEMBER 2019

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Home Free: Dive Bar Christmas Tour

M-F 3:30 – 6:30 PM

7:30 p.m. December 22 Mankato Civic Center, Mankato Amid discussions of what really defines the genre of country music, Home Free has opted to go another route altogether: forget the instruments and form an all-vocal country band. In celebration of their fourth studio album, “Dive Bar Saints,” the group is hitting Mankato for a country show like you’ve never seen before, with a holiday twist. Since winning NBC’s “The Sing-Off” competition show in 2013, they’ve toured worldwide and earned more than 3 million YouTube views, attracting both fans of country and a capella music alike. (Trust us: you won’t even miss the banjos here.)

A Christmas Carol Radio Play December 20-22 Lakeville Area Arts Center, Lakeville

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Experience Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday tale as a 1940s-style radio broadcast, told through live voice acting, sound effects and musical underscoring, all unfolding onstage in real time. Follow along as the ghosts of Christmas past, present and yet-to-come visit elderly miser Ebenezer Scrooge, complete with a few interruptions from vintage radio ads to round out the 1940s experience. Much like Scrooge himself, you’ll walk away feeling a little warmer and in-tune with the spirit of the holidays. No “bah, humbugs” here!

homefreemusic.com/tour

lakevillemn.gov/552/A-Christmas-Carol-Radio-Play

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Sanders Family Christmas Through December 22, Commonweal Theatre Company, Lanesboro Travel back in time to Christmas Eve, 1941, just days after Pearl Harbor, when a North Carolina Baptist church aims to keep the congregation’s minds off the war in the only way they know how: with music. The Sanders Family Singers team up with the Reverend Mervin Oglethorpe for a hilarious evening of bluegrass music and good cheer as the cast sends Dennis Sanders off to war to the sound of classic Southern Gospel Christmas tunes. Bring the whole family for a night out just before Christmas; performances run most Thursdays through Sundays until Dec. 22. Commonwealtheatre.org

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7:30 p.m. December 28 Sheldon Theatre, Red Wing As the cold and dark Minnesota winter sets in, we all need something to laugh about. Few know this better than comedian C. Willi Myles, an Alabama native who moved to Minnesota during his college years. Through storytelling and humor, Myles connects with audiences through his stories of a southern-born student struggling to acclimate to the cold, along with a variety of other everyday experiences we can all relate to. Myles’ hilarious, downto-earth performance style has connected with audiences around the globe, including appearances on national television and tours that span legendary New York City theatres to cruise ships to Minnesota’s own Sheldon Theatre. Myles’ specialty as “America’s Everyday Comedian,” as he calls himself, is a style of non-offensive humor that you can take your grandmother to see. sheldontheatre.org/event/home-for-the-holidays-acomedy-special

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t l u a b i r a F MI

NOVEMBER

A NNESOT

Experiencing American Stories

December 5-7

Winterfest Downtown Faribault

Live Music, Ice Carving and Wagon Rides

Saturday, December 7 Parade of Lights, Fireworks and Street dance

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Holly Days at Paradise Center for the Arts

PopRocks at Grampa Al’s Old Country Boys at Boxers Relativity at Corks and Pints Shop Small Saturday!

DECEMBER

6-15

Peter Pan, or the Boy Who Would Not Grow Up at Paradise Center for the Arts

Joseph Hall - Elvis N’ Remember Christmas Show at Paradise Center for the Arts

Like us on Facebook facebook.com/FaribaultTourism/

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| DECEMBER 2019

THE BOOKWORM SEZ By Terri Schlichenmeyer

A Wild and Precious Life: A Memoir by Edie Windsor with Joshua Lyon There’s a long line of people behind you. Some are afraid to be seen, to speak up, or to show up. Others don’t want to get involved, so they’re sitting this one out. One thing, though: they’re all watching to see what you do next because, as in the new memoir, “A Wild and Precious Life” by Edie Windsor with Joshua Lyon, someone’s got to be first. There was never any doubt that little Edie Schlain was fiercely adored.

The youngest child of the family, Edie grew up wanting to be like her big sister, protected by her big brother, and the apple of her parents’ eyes. She admits that she was “spoiled” then, not in a bad way but just enough to give her the confidence and brass a child of the Depression might need. She remembered the beginning of World War II, although not in the sense that most did: her recollections were of a houseful of boys, her brother’s friends, laughing and eating and gathering in her parents’ home before going off to war, and mourning when word arrived of those who’d never come home. Edie always liked boys and as she matured, she bantered with her brother’s friends although she occasionally thought it odd how much she liked

- CORRECTIONS 7TH ANNUAL

Best 20 19

SOUTHERN Minn

Corks & Pints in Faribault BEST SMALL MUSIC VENUE When David Hvistendahl bought the building at the corner of Fourth Street NE and First Avenue NE in Faribault in 1996, he envisioned it as an entertainment complex. Since the beginning of last year, that vision took one step forward and one step back. Hvistendahl’s son Jake and his business partners opened 10,000 Drops Craft Distillers with a cocktail lounge at 28 Fourth St. NE, but neighboring F-Town Brewing Co. closed in December. But Hvistendahl took another step forward by opening a beer and wine bar, Corks & Pints, in the old F-Town space. The bar opened Feb. 9, the same night as the Flannel Formal, which will be held between Corks & Pints and 10,000 Drops. “Everything will work better,” David Hvistendahl said. “10,000 Drops needs a partner that can serve beer and wine, so that’s what got us thinking about it.” Eventually, he said, the goal is to get a brewery back into the building. “That’s the best use of the space,” he said. “Everything that we’re doing will benefit the future brewer.” That doesn’t mean Corks & Pints can’t be a Faribault mainstay, however. Hvistendahl said the bar could move into another part of the interconnected buildings, with all complementing each other. For now, Corks & Pints and 10,000 Drops complement each other, with 10,000 Drops’ craft cocktails in one space, and beer and wine next door, connected through a separate room and outdoor patio. Corks & Pints serves 24 beers on taps, all from Minnesota, except McGolden. There are six Minnesota wine options available by the bottle, with over 30 total. And music is a big part of what the venue has to offer, featuring a rather large stage for a small venue, artists are able to perform in an intimate setting, complete with string lights, stone walls, and even a couch. “It’s been really beneficially, especially in the summer, because we have it out on the patio, and the atmosphere has been just amazing,” Corks and Pints General Manager Ashley Herda said. “It really helps

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

watching other girls. “The idea that anything physically intimate with a girl could happen simply did not exist,” she said. But eventually, it did, with a tennis partner in college, then with a female roommate she loved before realizing that there was “no other available reality” than to fall into lockstep with other young women of the 1950s, settle down, and marry a nice man. The marriage lasted six months. At the end, Edie, who’d convinced her husband to adapt the surname “Windsor,” realized that she needed to tell him the truth. Pondering how to tell him, she immersed herself in Judy Garland “fantasy” musicals, and she planned: “Guess what, Judy? I’m a lesbian.” “If you’re looking to read about Edie’s Supreme Court case, put this down…” says co-author Joshua Lyon in his preface. But don’t be too hasty: “A Wild and Precious Life” has enough to offer, all by itself. Indeed, though he still touches upon the fight

to split the space with 10,000 Drops … There is a shared space where drinks from both establishments can be carried, and that’s where we usually have the music. Outdoor and an indoor.” Hvistendahl added that bringing in live music is one way the area can truly become an entertainment hub in town. “We’re hoping to get more live music in here too, because there used to be a lot more of that in town and it’s kind of gone downhill,” Herda said. “Most places just do DJs or karaoke now and we kind of want to cater to the fans of live music.” https://corksandpintsfaribault.com By SCENE Staff

that helped achieve marriage equality, Lyon says that Windsor “desperately wanted” readers to know about her pioneering work in computers and technology, which was a “core part of her identity” and of which she was enormously proud. In her words here, which Lyon indicates that she edited herself, Windsor also woos readers with breezy wit, racy love stories, and seemingly casual-not-casual, semi-nonchalant depictions of being a lesbian in the mid-twentiethcentury, and what it was like living in the shadows but flirting hard with the light. Early in this book, Lyon says he fretted about how to finish it after Windsor died, but he needn’t have worried. Though its ending feels a little rushed, “A Wild and Precious Life” flows perfectly and entertains delightfully, making it a book you’ll want in front of you. A Wild and Precious Life: A Memoir by Edie Windsor with Joshua Lyon, c.2019, St. Martin’s Press, $27.99 / $37.99 in Canada, 274 pages.

surrounding areas. Tone Music has provided musical instruments and lessons to the Southern Minnesota area for nearly 30 years. Their vast range of services includes instrument repair, rent to own, and trading: everything from guitars to trumpets and flutes -- just about any musical note you want to make. Tone Music also sells amps, sheet music, CDs, DVDs, as well as instrument accessories and supplies. Seasoned staff is on hand to offer suggestions and guidance, so you leave with the best size and sound. A large selection of vinyl records provides inspiration and ideas. https://tonemusic.net By Isabelle Wattenberg

K&K Boutique in Montgomery

Prairie Ridge Orthodontics in Owatonna

BEST DENTIST/ORTHODONTIST

BEST BOUTIQUE K&K Boutique prides itself on offering trendy duds for all sizes and styles that won’t break the bank. Run by owner Kristina Emerson, the shop carries clothes and accessories, specializing in versatile tops and a vast selection of handbags. You can peruse and shop online or with their new app, but it’s worth a visit to the Montgomery store to meet the staff (and get their expert advice) and browse the full collection. Emerson also runs a Facebook group for VIP shoppers where she posts new collection items for members to get a first look at the latest additions. The shop carries sizes small through 3XL, plus a selection of accessories and gifts. “My favorite part running this Boutique, I would have to say, without question, is helping people find something that they not only look great in but they feel great in,” Emerson said. “A day where I can help someone find something they feel amazing in or even something they would have never otherwise tried is everything for me--it honestly makes my day.” Emerson said she was astonished and happy to win Best Boutique. “There are so many great shops in Southern Minnesota, and to have even been nominated, I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am for that,” she said. “I am truly blessed.” Shopkandkboutique.com By Isabelle Wattenberg

Tone Music in Owatonna BEST MUSIC STORE Since 1990, Tone Music has been the premier musical instrument store for the city of Owatonna and the

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Dr. Jeff Loveless, DDS, MS, loves his job and the communities he serves. “I am grateful to serve the community and surrounding area where I grew up—people here are exceptional.” Prairie Ridge Orthodontics is this year’s Best Dentist/Orthodontist. “We believe that one of Dr. Loveless’s most valuable tools is his willingness to explain things in a way that everyone understands,” their website says. According to Dr. Loveless, “My goal is that every person always has their questions answered—whether it is their first or last appointment.” Dr. Loveless’s passion for orthodontics stems from “being able to witness a person’s change in self-confidence from the creation of a beautiful smile they are proud to show the world!” At Prairie Ridge Orthodontics, the focus is always on the individual patient – their orthodontic needs, their timeline, and their comfort. The staff treats its patients as members of their family, gently and respectfully, while providing professional and effective treatments that create healthy, beautiful smiles their patients can be proud of. Dr. Loveless and his team believe in establishing a one-to-one relationship with each patient and the family, working with them to determine the best way to achieve the patient’s goals in an affordable and timely manner. They also have an emphasis on patient education, explaining the technologies they use and talking about orthodontia: how it works, why it is important, and how having great oral health affects one’s overall health. The offices are warm, inviting, and filled with laughter. Because of the relationships with the patients, who they consider friends, the staff looks forward to their visits as a time to catch up on their lives. Prairie Ridge Orthodontics is located at 475 26th St. N.E. www.prairieridgeortho.com By Beth Forkner Moe

A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent

WHAT SETS US APART... ONE LOW PRICE... PLAIN AND SIMPLE...

Always!

Best price shouldn’t come from negotiation, but from integrity. Whether you’re shopping online or in the store, be conﬁdent knowing that we’ve already done research for you. It’s never made sense to us why someone who’s a worse negotiator should pay more. Most car salesman negotiate every day, so they’ve already got the advantage. We give you our best price upfront so you don’t have to work for it.

RELAXED SHOPPING EXPERIENCE & CONSULTATIVE SALES PROCESS Our sales team isn’t paid on how much we make, but rather on ﬁnding the right vehicle for you and your satisfaction. So it doesn’t matter what vehicle you choose or how much you spend. What matters to us is that you have a relaxing experience, assured that you’re making the best and wisest decision for you.

REAL CASH VALUE FOR YOUR TRADE We believe the value of the car you trade in is based on the current market value, not the vehicle you want to buy. That’s why we have an interactive trade evaluation process designed to ensure you get every penny you deserve on a trade-in vehicle. No unfair negotiation, just truthful documentation. We sell a lot of used vehicles, and we’ll purchase yours even if you don’t purchase ours!

OWATONNA MOTOR COMPANY PHILOSOPHY The Owatonna Motor Company Philosophy is based on ﬁve areas that we believe are critical to business success. Those areas are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Customer Enthusiasm Employee Satisfaction Financial Performance Market Effectiveness Ongoing Improvement

Our philosophy holds that all are of equal importance. However, in any planning or decision making process, CUSTOMER ENTHUSIASM will always carry the most weight.

OUR VISION IS:

THE RIGHT VEHICLES AT THE RIGHT TIME Having limitless vehicle options is the standard we set to achieve. Various levels of reconditioning are performed on each vehicle according to its need, and that information is always accessible to you! So shop with ease, knowing our best marked price is fair and transparent.

“To be so effective that we are able to be helpful to others”

FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR TODAY & YOUR FUTURE

“To be the best liked car company in Southern Minnesota”

You don’t have to worry about your credit history changing the price of the vehicle, because our ﬁnancial service process was designed to generate the highest value for the customer today and in the future.

YOU CAN’T BUY THE WRONG VEHICLE FROM US Circumstances change, and sometimes we don’t like things as much as we thought we would. That’s why we have a 7-day money back guarantee on new and pre-owned as well as a 30-day exchange on most pre-owned vehicles. Which means that all you have to do is bring it back in the same condition it was in when purchased and get a full refund or money towards your exchange. We won’t ask any questions, or beg you to reconsider. 3 months, 3000 miles drive train warranty on most pre-owned vehicles.

DEPENDABLE SERVICE TO MEET YOUR SCHEDULE We know that efﬁciency and convenience are essential elements in providing great customer service. Our professional technicians are here to help you with full maintenance and repair services when you need them–that includes Saturday’s! We have extended service hours on nights and weekends. Get an oil change at our no-appointment-necessary Quick Lane, or experience top-notch repair at our Collision & Glass Center.

OUR GOAL IS: OUR MISSION: • Our goal is to be an industry leader to providing unmatched quality automotive products and services. • We will constantly strive to meet the changing needs of our customers. • Our aim is to provide an atmosphere that encourages employee teamwork, integrity and excellence. • Together we will set and continually improve sales, service, and operational standards • It is our mission to exceed our customers’ and employees’ expectations and maintain their loyalty for a lifetime.

(507) 451-7860 • 1001 HOFFMAN DRIVE · OWATONNA, MN

OWATONNAMOTORCOMPANY.COM

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| DECEMBER 2019

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A dd y o u r e v en t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E ca l endar . 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 ic k + A d d a n E v ent