SCENE Jan/Feb 2019

Southern minn

JAN/FEB 2019 southernminnSCENE.com

Scene o t e m o c l e W A year in Review Also inside ...

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Growing Blues Star

An interview with Southern Minnesota’s own Mike Munson.

In Memoriam

A look at some of those we lost in 2018.

YOUR FREE GET-OUT SOURCE TO SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

SHELDON THEATRE

WINTER 2019

Stuart Pimsler Dance & Theater

Matinee FEB 2 @ 7:30

Cirque Mechanics

42ft

A Menagerie of Mechanical Marvels

Minneapolis Guitar Quartet

FEB 10 @ 7:00

FEB 16 @ 7:30

“My new favorite memory just became tonight. It just doesn’t get any better than this.” – 2018 Audience Comment 651-388-8700 I 443 W 3rd St, Red Wing, MN. 2

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69th Annual

Cel

rsar y ebratin g our 69th Annive

January 26th-February 24th & March 23rd

Parade & Attractions $1,750 FROSTY Contest sponsored by Culligan, Latham Place, iWealth - Brad Connors, Dominos, Mediacom, Lake Shore Inn & Melcher’s Power Vac

$1,750 Medallion Hunt sponsored by Ace Hardware, Cash wise, Waseca County News, First National Bank, KOWZ/KRUE Radio, Waseca VFW Club Post 1642 & M. Peters Enterprises

PARADE: Feb 9th

Downtown Waseca Starts at noon: Open to sleighs, cutters, bobsleds, wagons, buggies and riders; animal units only.

Events

Cross Country Ski Western Entertainment Ice Sculpting Grand Ole Opry Show Ice Curling Family Movie Night Card Tournaments Snowmobile Events Car on Ice ATV Rides Fat Tire Bike Ride Miss Sleigh & Cutter Pageant

Dinner & Dance Dinner: Feb 8th, 5-7 p.m. at VFW Purchase tickets at the door. Meat Raffles Red Dirt Road Band 8:00 - Close Sleigh & Cutter

Festival Supporters: Local businesses & individuals The City of Waseca Waseca Area Foundation Waseca Area Chamber of Commerce Discover Waseca Tourism

Children’s Dream Catcher 15TH Annual Fundraiser March 23RD

2:00 PM STARFIRE EVENT CENTER Bingo, meat raffles, silent and live auctions

Check out the website for date and times: www.sleighandcutterfestival.org Festival continues to focus on family winter fun! Most events free!

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| JAN/FEB 2019

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CONTENT Features:

8 2018 Arts and entertainment

year in review

Creative placemaking inclusion, connection.

What stood out in SoMinn A&E in 2018

9 One last gift to buy?

Why not head to the bookstore for one of the books

on our list.

12 Dancin’ and Swingin’ Along

A talk with Southern Minnesota’s growing blues star.

13 Best local albums of 2018

The best of the best from Minnesota.

14 Going Medieval

The Society of Creative Anachronism, Inc.

16 In Memoriam

A look back at those we lost this year.

20 3...2...1...

Ring in the New Year around Southern Minnesota.

24 The TimeLine

SoMinn’s most comprehensive

calendar of things to be SCENE.

Southern minn

JAN/FEB 2019 / VOLUME 7 / ISSUE 1

Scene

COLUMNS:

6 Minnesota Music BREAK

ABOUT

Good-bye for now.

22 Mollywood BLVD

Have a story idea?

A 2018 Year in Review.

30 Photographing SoMInn

Don’t doubt Dubuque.

32 Album Review

The 1975 - A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships.

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

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HAVE A CALENDAR EVENT?

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

33 The Bookworm Sez:

• Hiding Out: A Memoir of Drugs,

Deception, and Double Lives • The Library Books

• National Geographic Almanac 2019

• Never Home Alone: From Microbes to Millipedes, Camel Crickets, and Honeybees, the Natural History of Where We Live

• The Mystery of the Exploding Teeth and other Curiosities from the History of Medicine

WANT TO Advertise?

Pam DeMorett - 507-333-3117 pdemorett@faribault.com

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MARCH issue deadline is FEB 1

After your lobster dinner head over to Club 57 for Drink Specials and

Celebrate New Year’s eve

by Long Time gone until close

at the starfire Grill Open from 4pm-9pm with a limited Fine-Dining Menu.

Please call for reservations:

507-833-8756

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

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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

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

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MINNESOTA MUSIC BREAK

RIAN-Dicke MICHELS Rian-Dicke Michels, can be reached at editor@southernminnscene.com.

Good-bye for now

T

he musical arts have always been an item of my appreciation. Despite having played the guitar briefly and the violin for 10-plus years, reading and writing music remains a skill that evades me.

Having this minor understanding of music and what it takes to create it, I have great respect for artists that bless our ears with up and coming sounds. As I’ve mentioned in previous articles, I grew up listening to a wide variety of music. From what played at home to what I listened to on my own, my life had a soundtrack, albeit sometimes poor in taste. (Thank you, teen angst.) For these and many other reasons, I have enjoyed writing about the music that has come out of Minnesota over the years.

However, with the impending birth of my son, I have chosen to pass this torch on to someone who will have the time and focus to truly dedicate themselves to our readers. *Writer’s Note: Our son, Evander, was born 6lbs 11oz, 20.5in. To our shock, he arrived in the passenger seat while we drove 80 mph on Highway 14 in an attempt to make it to the birth center in time.

We clearly did not! He is in perfect health and we are settling in well at home. I will miss being a columnist for SoMinn Scene, as it greatly satisfied a creative outlet for me, but I

know that my attention would be divided.

I wanted to leave on a personal note with this one, so rather than spotlight any one artist and then disappear into the history of SoMinn Scene columnists, I have compiled my own Minnesota Musician’s playlist for you to inspect and, hopefully, enjoy. Perhaps I have helped to expand your knowledge of the artists that hail from our home turf, whether you discovered something you liked or disliked, or simply the experience of a new ‘flavor.’ I don’t claim to be edgy or original in my choices, these are only personal selections from growing up, or that I’ve found in my time researching for this column.

Thank you to all the reader’s out there! Enjoy.

1. Prince – Kiss 2. Dessa – Good Grief 3. Doom Tree – String Theory 4. Atmosphere – She’s Enough 5. Suburbs – Life Is Like 6. Dessa – Velodrome 7. Prince – Let’s Go Crazy 8. The Trashmen – Surfin’ Bird 9. Quietdrive – Time After Time 10. Owl City – Not All Heroes Wear Capes 11. Marcy Playground – Sex and Candy 12. Andrews Sisters – Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy 13. Polica – Lately 14. Brother Ali – Street Preacher

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2018 Arts and entertainment year in review:

Creative placemaking, inclusion, connection

By ANNE KOPAS editor@southernminnscene.com

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I

f you search “top trends of 2018,” the new ideas and cultural shifts of Southern Minnesota arts organizations probably won’t top the list, but local artists were growing their regional presence all the same. After all, local food, local beer and local merchandise have trended over the past few years. Why not local art?

As regional arts leaders looked back on the year, there was both a sense of accomplishment and a nod to the future as they look to carry the year’s momentum into 2019.

Art as public experience Many Southern Minnesota arts organizations spent 2018 working to integrate art into communities in a very literal way — through public art. For Emily Guida Foos, executive director at Red Wing Arts, it’s a push to “incorporate art into other things.”

It’s no longer just for museums, but also buildings, parks and other public spaces. The organization will use grant money to create a community mural downtown, and other cities are developing similar projects. The work adds visual appeal, of course, but Foos noted that it can also drive tourism, helping the local economy.

“A lot of people used to think of art as an extra, but there is such a value when public art exists,” said Foos.

Creative placemaking projects— where cities work with artists to implement art, either visual or experiential , in downtown spaces—are also moving art out of galleries, into the everyday experience of walking down the street. The cities of Red Wing, Faribault, Northfield and Mankato, among others, have either established creative placemaking projects or are on their way. Mankato, for example, offers a walking sculpture tour, while in Faribault, a series of murals adorned downtown for much of autumn.

Along these same lines, some arts organizations like the Rochester Art Center saw a push in 2018 to invite audiences deeper into the process of understanding art. Whether it’s through book clubs, discussion groups or other interpretive frameworks, art is about more than hanging it on a wall and walking away.

The goal is to “create a series of engagements and interactions to help people understand art,” said Brian Austin, executive director at the

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Rochester Art Center. “It’s really about helping people explore art across a variety of ways on their own terms.”

A prime example is the “Art(ists) on the Verge 9” exhibit, a Minneapolis-based gallery that visited the center in late 2018. Through a series of five interactive installations, viewers experience art via virtual reality, iPads and motion-sensing devices—a far cry from viewing a painting on a wall. At the same time, the exhibit explores the impact of technology on modern life, echoing a larger cultural discussion emblematic of 2018 that will no doubt continue into 2019.

Including all artists This year’s theater season was defined by a response to current events and the topics on people’s minds.

Performances at the Northfield Arts Guild included “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” (gender issues), “Les Miserables” (mental illness, poverty) and original student-developed productions in the Young People’s Theater Workshop responding directly to climate change. Rochester, along with several locations throughout the state, hosted Somali artist Ifrah Mansour’s multimedia show “How to Have Fun in a Civil War,” engaging in the conversation around global refugees.

“People seem to be very engaged about what’s happening locally and in the world,” said Tim Peterson, executive director at the Northfield Arts Guild.

The Rochester Art Center is looking toward hosting a group show featuring Somali artists in 2019 as part of an effort to showcase the cultural and creative diversity of the region. It’s among the many organizations looking to be mindful of not only what art is displayed or performed, but also who is represented on the art scene.

In Northfield, it’s part of an effort to draw more artists into local programs, making it easier for newbies and experienced alike to get there work out there. Northfield and Red Wing are among the many whose arts organizations have begun to offer professional development programs for artists, including photography services, networking opportunities and professional panel discussions.

“We see hundreds of artists in a given year, so it’s really exciting to see the new work, the evolution of work and the continued exploration of the present moment and our culture,” said Peterson.

Foos expressed similar sentiment, noting southern Minnesota’s growing attraction of artists.

“People are moving into this region who are artists because communities support it, cities support it, and the culture supports it,” she said.

Southern Minnesota connections Throughout the past few years, Southern Minnesota’s galleries, theaters and arts organizations have embraced the notion that many heads are better than one. Instead of operating separately, leaders are banding together for networking, sharing grant opportunities and swapping ideas about policies and procedures.

While the success of each individual organization is important, it’s arguably just as important to collaborate toward defining the area as an arts region, which helps everyone flourish.

“We’re building towards this broader scene and greater strength, and we’re building out these collaborations and building out these networks with others. And we’re finding that resonated with audiences, and we’re really looking forward to continuing that trend not only next year, but in the years to come,” said Austin.

This year, many arts nonprofits have gotten together for brainstorming sessions and worked together to market their opportunities. When one program tries something new, they not only have the benefit of initial input from other organizations, but they can also report their success (or lack thereof) back to the larger group, helping everyone move forward.

Artists themselves are also jumping on this trend and doing more collaborative projects, according to Peterson. Events like the Cannon River Clay Tour and annual Art Swap provide a chance to connect—something that is often more of a challenge when you’re located outside the density of the metro. Whether it’s creating together, sharing equipment or simply cleaning out studios and swapping tools, connection is key for regional artists. And art centers are happy to facilitate this. “[We’re] the lens to focus it as a hub that it can all take place in. We just love to be the place that can elevate it and draw attention to it and get people involved,” said Peterson.

In other words, it appears there’s never been a better time to participate in art—either on the creating or the receiving end—in southern Minnesota as 2019 kicks off.

SMS

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One last gift to buy?

Try one of the books from our list

By Terri Schlichenmeyer editor@southernminnscene.com

T FICTION

he mistletoe is hung, and so are the garlands, the ornaments, window decorations, and lights. You’d be ready for the holidays, too, if you weren’t hung up on a gift for that one certain person.

Now what? Now head to the bookstore with this column in-hand, and look for one of these great books….

If your giftee a lover of memoirs, “Woman at 1,000 Degrees” by Hallgrimur Helgason is a novel she may like, too. It’s told in the voice of 80-year-old Herra Björnsson, who is at the end of her life and she’s in the mood to share… Wrap it up with “The Clockmaker’s Daughter” by Kate Morton, a novel of an archivist, a very old manor, and a bit of a mystery that transcends time.

Your cat lovers will take to “Talk to the Paw” by Melinda Metz like catnip. It’s a little bit romance, a little bit angst, a theft, and a purr-fect ending.

If it’s not too timely to be a good gift, look for “Only Child”

by Rhiannon Navin. It’s a book about a school shooting and a mother’s actions when her son is injured in ways that can’t be bandaged.

The short story fan will be glad to unwrap “Sweet & Low” by Nick White. This book is full of Southern fiction, characters you forget are not real, and situations that make a good yarn great. For true short-story fans, pair it with “Everyday People: The Color of Life – A Short Story Anthology” edited by Jennifer Baker.

For the giftee who sometimes wishes for a life-rewind, “The Dinner List” by Rebecca Serle could be a good choice to give.

It’s a story about one evening, one meal, a lot of loved ones (past and present) and a chance to make things right. Pair it up with “The Dream Daughter” by Diane Chamberlain, a book about a mother’s first chances.

If you give “The Witch Elm” by Tana French to your suspense-novel lover, be prepared to be ignored for the rest of the day. Not on purpose, but because this is a story of an injured man, a decades-old mystery, and plenty of spine-tingles.

For the historical fiction fan, look for “A Well-Behaved Woman” by Therese Anne Fowler. It’s a multi-generational tale of wealth and high-society (and the Vanderbilts), set in the years following the Civil War, and one woman’s desire – need? – to make it to the top of New York’s social scene.

GENERAL NON-FICTION For the person who can’t get enough of John, Paul, George, or Ringo, “Visualizing the Beatles” by John Pring and Rob Thomas is something they’ll want to hold in their hands. It’s a graphic history of the Fab Four, so lots of pictures, easy to browse, fun to have. Pair it with “The Cutting Edge” by Leslie Cavendish, who was the woman who cut and styled the Beatles’ hair.

For the armchair detective or CSI fan, “The Handy Forensic Science Answer Book” by Patricia Barnes-Svarney and Thomas E. Svarney will be a welcome gift this year. In a Q&A format, this book teaches and answers the kinds of questions any detective-show fan can come up with. It may also chill you…

Wrap it up with any good murder mystery, of course! Or better yet, wrap it up with “Murder, Lies, and Cover-Ups” by David Gardner, a book about conspiracies and the whodunit deaths of celebrities your giftee will surely remember.

Yes, Earth is a pretty good place to live. Oxygen, water, trees… but what is our presence doing to the planet? “Darwin Comes to Town” by Menno Schilthuizen is one of those books that’ll answer your giftee’s questions while it also invites him to think.

How is our world thriving and surviving? Pair it up with “The Simpol Solution” by John Bunzl and Nick Duffell, a book about fixing the global problems we face today and our children could face tomorrow. Consider more with “The Disaster Survival Guide” by Marie D. Jones, a book that’s a good primer for coming out the other side of nature’s worst and mankind’s unthinkable.

If your giftee would love something otherworldly, try “Sister of Darkness: The Chronicles of a Modern Exorcist” by R. H. Stavis with Sarah Durand. Yes, this book is for real. Yes, it could scare the Dickens out of someone.

For the fashionista, you can’t go wrong when you give “Fierce: The History of Leopard Print” by Jo Weldon. Yes, that’s what this book is about – the evolution of a wild fad that shows no signs of slowing down. You know what kind of paper to wrap this book

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in, don’t you? Wrap it up for the perfect gift for the giftee who mourns the end of summer from October to May: “Hollywood Beach Beauties” by David Wills. It’s a large picture book full of starlets on the beach, circa 1930 into the 1970s. Not just fun for sun lovers, but for fashion followers, too. Another book to try: “An Atlas of Natural Beauty” by Victoire de Taillac and Ramdane Touhami. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a book of recipes for her to naturally enhance her gorgeous looks.

The writer / reader on your gift list will truly enjoy “The Handy Literature Answer Book” by Daniel S. Burt, PhD, and Deborah G. Felder. It’s a book about books, authors, reading, and more books. Pair it up with “1,000 Books to Read Before You Die” by James Mustich, which is a gigantic tome filled with suggestions that will keep your giftee busy for a lot of Christmases to come. Might also want to think about “Atticus Finch: The Biography” by Joseph Crespino, a biography of Harper Lee and the first man in her life.

New homeowners and those who are still looking may like “A Place Called Home” by Kim R. Manturuk, Mark R. Lindblad, & Roberto G. Quercia. It’s a rather scholarly look at why we own homes, who owns them, and the financial issues that surround owning your own home versus renting. Filled with data and stats, this book is also great for your favorite Realtor. Pair it up with the historic “The Finest Building in America: The New York Crystal Palace 1853-1858” by Edwin G. Burrows, or “Homeplace” by John Lingan, a story of a town, its future, and its musical legacy.

So your giftee likes to have something to take while waiting for his or her part in the community theatre? “Shakespeare’s Ear”

by Tim Rayborn couldn’t be a better book, then. It’s filled with interesting tales and little-known secrets from the world of theatre.

For your favorite actor, it is to be. Also look for “Messiah: The Composition and Afterlife of Handel’s Masterpiece” by Jonathan Keates.

Where would you favorite pal be without you – or vice versa?

In “Text Me When You Get Home” by Kayleen Schaeffer, your giftee will see how female friendships are forged, nourished, and kept strong and what happens when they don’t. Will youknow-who share this book with you? Wrap it up with “Girl Talk”

by Jacqquline Mroz, a book about female friendships from a scientific perspective, and she might.

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For the giftee who needs a specific understanding boost (and be careful when you give it!), look for “It Takes One to Tango” by Winifred M. Reilly, MA, MFT, a book about fixing a marriage.

If it feels right, pair it with “Infidelity: Why Men and Women Cheat” by Kenneth Paul Rosenberg, MD, but be cautious!

The person who loves to explore will love reading “Walking the Americas” by Levison Wood. He’s a British explorer who walked 1,800 miles through eight countries and this is the story of the people he met, the things he saw, and his thoughts on it all.

Pair it up with “Tip of the Iceberg” by Mark Adams, a story of a long journey across the wilds of Alaska.

If there’s someone on your list who wonders what the future holds, wrap up “The Next American City” by Mick Cornett, a book about small cities and what the future holds for them and their citizens. Pair it with “Without a Net,” edited by Michelle Tea, an anthology about just getting by.

So you say your giftee has been following politics closely. He read “Hillbilly Elegy.” So now give “What You are Getting Wrong about Appalachia” by Elizabeth Catte. This book nicely balances fact from fiction, and it’ll give your giftee more prospective. It could even be a mind-changer. Pair it with something your political watcher will like: “Type R” by Ama Marston and Stephanie Marston, a book about resilience and how to get more of it in today’s world.

For the person who’s facing That Certain Age in the New Year, wrap up “The Happiness Curve” by Jonathan Rauch. It’s a book about the wonderfulness of turning 50 and how life is so much sweeter. Pair it up with “The End of Old Age” by Marc E. Agronin, M.D., which is about making the latter half of your life the best part.

For a reader who craves hard, true facts, “A Book of Book Lists” by Alex Johnson might be just the thing. It’s, well, the title is self-explanatory but it also contains a harder look at the classics, literature, and authors’ perspectives on both. Just be aware that it’s very British. Wrap it up with “The Weather Detective” by Peter Wohlleben, making these books a perfect duo for your fact-hungry giftee.

Everybody with a job will love reading “Danger, Man Working” by Michael Perry. It’s a series of essays on having a job.

Also fishing, freelancing, living on a farm, veterans, and other things that’ll make you laugh and / or know you’re reading the words of a kindred spirit. A good book to add to the package before you wrap it is “A Little Tea Book” by Sebastian Beckwith with Caroline Paul, illustrations by Wendy MacNaughton. A good book, a cuppa tea, and a good book about tea will all make an excellent gift.

For the political animal in your family, “Hugs from Obama,” edited by M. Sweeney might be just the right gift. It’s filled with pictures and quotations from the Obama years in the White House, including the end. Pair it up with “The Watergate: Inside America’s Most Infamous Address” by Joseph Rodota, for a scandalous look back in history. More books for the current events fan: “Chosen Country: A Rebellion in the West” by James Pogue is a peek at the militia movement in America; and “My Brother Moochie” by Issac J. Bailey is a book on poverty and racism.

The giftee who loves to laugh will love having “Laughter Totally Is the Best Medicine” by the Reader’s Digest folks.

Filled with jokes, cartoons, and other funnies, it might also make a great stocking-stuffer. And if your giftee loves to laugh, look at “The Incomplete Book of Running” by Peter Sagal, for a fast chuckle.

And for the cook on your list, “Buttermilk Graffiti” by Edward Lee would make a great gift. It’s part history, part memoir, part foodie paradise with recipes and it’s yummy. Pair it with a brand-new cookbook for a tasty 2019, or wrap up “Moonshine: A Celebration of America’s Original Rebel Spirit” by John Schlimm with it. See what your giftee can cook up now.

PARENTING Parents and parents-to-be may get a kick out of “Achtung Baby” by Sara Zaske. It’s about Zaske’s time spent living in Berlin, Germany, and what she noticed about the way the Germans parent their children. If that person on your list tried being a Tiger Mom, give this book a whirl and see if selbstandigkeit, is right for her kids. Pair it with “The Power of Presence” by Joy Thomas Moore, a book about being a lingering positive influence for your children.

For the new dad, “Rap Dad” by Juan Vidal might make a great First Christmas gift. It’s an examination of what makes a Dad in America today, how stereotypes come into play in being a Dad, and how Vidal learned to father. Pair it up with “Beyond Birds & Bees” by Bonnie J. Rough. It’s a book about teaching children about love and equality between the sexes.

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MEMOIR / BIOGRAPHY What does it take to be a man? Can a boy learn it from his father? In “Air Traffic” by Gregory Pardlo, the author looks at the legacy his father left him, and how it made him the man he is today. And if your giftee loves to read about legacies left, wrap up “Jackie, Janet & Lee” by J. Randy Taraborerelli, a book about the former first lady, her mother, and her younger sister.

For the teacher who’s most important in your child’s life, look for “Once a Professor: A Memoir of Teaching in Turbulent Times” by Jerry Apps. It’s a book about education – both of students in the 1960s, and the teacher who watched them protest.

If the first thing your giftee turns to each morning is a weather forecast, he’ll love “The Man Who Caught the Storm” by Brantley Hargrove. It’s the story of Tim Samaras, who was a legend in storm chasing, until his death by…. Uh, nope, read the book.

For the giftee who’s considering adopting, “Someone Has Led This Child to Believe” by Regina Louise could change the path. It’s the story of Louise’s life in and out of the United States foster care system and what happened to her after she “aged out.”

Wrap it in tissues. Seriously. And for more current-events memoirs, look for “A Dream Called Home” by Reyna Grande, a story by a woman who immigrated to Mexico by herself at age 9, to find her parents who came here before her.

Here’s to the hobbyist: the car lover on your gift list will love to have “Driven” by Melissa Stephenson. It’s a memoir about loss, bittersweet memories and keeping them alive, all written with vehicles as backdrop. For the nostalgia lover (and Hollywood fan), “My Days: Happy and Otherwise” by Marion Ross (with David Laurell) will be a delight to unwrap. It’s all about “Mrs. C” and the woman behind her, and it’ll leave someone rocking and rolling all week long.

Another highly-anticipated (and much-desired) gift to look for is “In Pieces” by Sally Field, a book by the girl America has grown up with. It’s filled with behind-the-story stories and celeb names you’ll also recognize. Wrap it up with a “The Flying Nun” DVD or two, or a copy of “Smokey and the Bandit.”

If you’ve got someone on your gift list who’s a Kennedy Watcher, they’ll love reading “Eunice: The Kennedy Who Changed the World” by Eileen McNamara. It’s, of course, about Eunice Kennedy Shriver, her life, and her times. Another celeb biography to try is “Marilyn Monroe: The Private Life of a Public Icon”

by Charles Casillo. It’s for the giftee who only thinks she knows everything about MM that there is to know.

And for the Vietnam veteran on your list, look for “Striking Eight Bells: A Vietnam memoir” by George Trowbridge. It’s a memoir set in the waning days of the war and what it was like before, during, and after being a solder in the Navy then.

HEALTH & MEDICINE For the giftee who loves to study humans and what makes then tick, “The Fear Factor” by Abigail Marsh is going to open eyes. Yes, there’s a darker side of humanity and March exposes it. It all has to do with fear, and she’ll explain how. Speaking of fear (and the lack thereof), wrap it up with “On Call in the Arctic” by Thomas J. Sims, a memoir of a doctor’s life in the Alaskan frontier.

You may want to put “Tooth and Nail” by Linda D. Dahl with it, too; that’s a book about a woman who became a ringside doctor in New York City.

If you know someone who has surgery planned this year, give “Counting Backwards” by Henry Jay Przybylo, MD. Dr. Przybylo is a pediatric anesthesiologist, and he not only shares stories in this book, but he’ll also put a mind to rest. (Hint: even if your giftee isn’t having surgery, it’s still a don’t-miss). Pair it with “The Pain Companion” by Sarah Anne Shockley, a book about living with pain.

For the person who asked for a genealogy test, wrap it up with “She Has Her Mother’s Laugh” by Carl Zimmer. It’s a book about heredity, genetics, and what you inherit from your family and your family’s family. Also look for “Because I Come From a Crazy Family” by Edward M. Hallowell, MD, a memoir about inherited afflictions, childhood, and the ways that even a beloved family can be a challenge.

The forever dieter might enjoy reading “The Weight of Being” by Kara Richardson Whitely. It’s a book about being overweight, losing a whole lot of weight, and finding out why we fat-shame in America.

If there’s someone on your list this year who’s suffered tragedy after tragedy, a gentle reminder that things will be better is “Resilience: by Linda Graham, MFT. Its subtitle says it all: it’s filled with “Powerful Practices for Bouncing Back from Disappointment, Difficulty, and Even Disaster.”

For the person who loves to read about cutting-edge medicine, wrap up “The Breakthrough” by Charles Graeber. It’s about what’s new in the effort to cure cancer with immunotherapy. Pair

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that good news with “Sound: A Memoir of Hearing Lost and Found” by Bella Bathurst, for medical updates you should hear.

The giftee who loves to read about bravery in the face of illness will want “We Know How This Ends: Living While Dying” by Bruce H. Kramer with Cathy Wurzer, which couldn’t be a better gift. Until his death in 2015, Kramer had ALS, but it didn’t stop him: he was a teacher, a blogger, and a radio personality at the end of his life. This book was published just after Kramer died. Pair it with “I Found My Tribe” by Ruth Fitzmaurice, a memoir about Fitzmaurice’s family, including her husband, who has ALS. And here’s a book you might to buy for yourself this year: “Guardianships and the Elderly: The Perfect Crime” by Dr. Sam Sugar. It’s about the various ways that guardianship can go wrong, how to recognize any problems, and how to deal with them.

For the diabetic on your gift list, a copy of “Hardhead Diabetic in a Nutshell” by Rica Rich might be the thing to unwrap.

This book takes a look at new treatments and old ideas; it dispels myths, and offers nutrition information.

DEATH & DYING Loss doesn’t stop during the holidays. If your giftee needs any kind of comfort, try “The After Death Chronicles” by Annie Mattingley. It’s a book filled with stories of everyday people who were surprised to receive communication from “beyond the veil.” If your loss was a child, then pair it with “The Unspeakable Loss”

by Nisha Zenoff, PhD, which is a book especially for parents.

The history buff who is also interested in historical cemeteries will want to read “Birth of a Cemetery” by John F. Llewellyn.

It’s the story of the beginning of Forest Lawn Memorial Park, but it’s also somewhat of a history of California and of fame as well.

HISTORY In the middle of World War II, when armed personnel were needed more than ever, the U.S. Army Air Forces finally allowed something that was long overdue: they let their 1,100 female pilots in the air. In “Fly Girls” by P. O’Connell Pearson, your giftee will read about the brave service of those women and how they did what they did – with less pay, harder duty, and no military benefits.

For the political watcher, there’s a lot to choose from this year.

One of the neutral books you can give is “Partner to Power” by K. Ward Cummings. It’s a book about the people who have surrounded Presidents, listened to them, and advised them on matters large and small.

If your giftee has devoured everything on Custer, hold on. Have they read “Thieves’ Road” by Terry Mort yet? It’s a book about why Custer focused on the Black Hills and it’s your golden opportunity for more on the soldier and the battle. On a similar note, horse lovers who also crave history books will love to have “Ghost Riders” by Mark Felton, a book about saving white Lipizzaner horses during World War II. Here’s a book steeped in history, and it may be perfect for someone on your list: “Our Year of War” by Daniel P. Bolger. It’s history, but the unique thing is that it’s also a memoir about two brothers who end up in Vietnam together. One was a supporter of the war. His brother was not. It’s a book about bravery, differences of opinion, and brotherhood, both in war and at home. For another side of the coin, look for “In Search of the Lost Chord”

by Danny Goldberg, a look at the Hippie Era, circa 1967.

The cook who also loves history will enjoy “Stirring the Pot with Benjamin Franklin: A Founding Father’s Culinary Adventures” by Rae Katherine Eighmey. It’s a book that’s perfect if someone on your list likes American history, cooking, or reading while she eats.

For the giftee who loves ancient history, you can’t go wrong when you wrap up “Rome: A History in Seven Sackings” by Matthew Kneale. Yes, it’s about war. But it’s also about natural disasters, Emperors, and travel. How could your giftee resist?

Early American history buffs will whoop when they open “Marooned: Jamestown, Shipwreck, and a New History of America’s Origin” by Joseph Kelly. It’s a big thick history book that will take your giftee back, so remember to wrap up a bookmark, too.

PETS AND ANIMALS Who doesn’t love a day at the beach? Your dog lover and the dog they love do, so they’ll want to unwrap “Dogs on the Beach” by Lara Jo Regan. It’s filled with photos of doggos in the surf & sand, enjoying warm weather and taking every advantage of summer there is.

Here’s something you don’t have to tell an animal lover: animals have personalities. Even so, your giftee will enjoy “Mousy Cats and Sheepish Coyotes: The Science of Animal Personali-

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ties” by John A. Shivik. It’s all about the science, yes, but it’s also about the stories, you know? Wrap it up with “How to Be a Good Creature” by Sy Montgomery, illustrated by Rebecca Green. It’s a memoir that includes thirteen animals Montgomery knew and loved.

For the future farmer or the person who is clucking awesome, wrap up “Hen and the Art of Chicken Maintenance” by Martin Gurdon, a book about raising chickens of all kinds. It’s helpful, interesting, and it contains full-color pictures. Your giftee will crow about it!

LGBTQ INTEREST Who doesn’t like a mystery? Your giftee sure does, and if there are chills inside it, all’s the better so wrap up “Sodom Road Exit” by Amber Dawn. It’s the story of a small but dying village that’s lost its last reason for tourists. Even so, one young woman lives there with her mother because she has nowhere else to go. She wishes she did, though, because her small hometown holds terror… Wrap it up with “Ruin of Stars” by Linsey Miller, the second book in a fantasy series in which the main character is gender-fluid.

For the reader who loves books that may make him think, look for “So Famous and So Gay” by Jeff Solomon. It’s a book about Truman Capote and Gertrude Stein and how their fame still lingers while so many other almost-celebrities barely get a nod today, no matter what they did for LGBTQ rights….

The person on your list who is thinking about transitioning (or who recently has) will love unwrapping “Trans Like Me” by CN Lester, a series of essays on gender diversity, being trans, and how to tackle tacky people whose questions are too nosy.

Pair it with “Being Emily” by Rachel Gold, a book about a trans woman, now updated to include new material.

For the traveler on your list, the person who also loves history, you can’t go wrong with “Riviera Dreaming” by Maureen Emerson. It’s the true story of an architect and an ex-officer in the British Army, how they teamed up to create a mansion that took society by storm, and who vied to hire these two men to decorate their Riviera mansions. Wrap it up with “Global Gay: How Gay Culture is Changing the World” by Frédéric Martel, for a very well-traveled gift.

More fiction for the gay reader: “You Can’t Tell By Looking” by Russell J. Sanders, a romance about love between two high school boys, one of whom is also dealing with his anti-gay Islamic family; and “Aesop Lake” by Sarah Ward, a unique book based on three of Aesop’s Fables to tell a tale of a hate crime and its aftermath.

PICTURE BOOKS Here’s a great read-aloud for your little one: “In Your Hands” by Carole Boston Weatherford, Illustrated by Brian Pinkney. It’s a quiet, comforting story of holding hands and protecting, and will be a great bedtime tale. Also look for “My Magic Breath” by Nick Ortner and Alison Taylor, pictures by Michelle Polizzi. It’s a book about mindful breathing and calming thoughts.

The birthday kid will appreciate “I Got a Chicken for My Birthday” by Laura Gehl, illustrated by Sarah Horne.

Yes, it’s about a chicken and the fun his girl has with him. If the birthday kid is an animal lover, pair it up with “Mela and the Elephant” by Dow Phumiruk, illustrated by Ziyue Chen.

Parents of toddlers will definitely want to unwrap this book: “People Don’t Bite People” by Lisa Wheeler, art by Molly Idle. Yes, it’s about the appropriate use of teeth, in a format that 2-to-3-year-olds can absolutely understand.

Children who appreciate the friends they’ve got will love “May I Come In?” by Marsha Diane Arnoml, illustrated

by Jennie Poh. It’s the story of a wet raccoon, a stormy night, and the love of a true friend. Wrap it up with “Friends Stick Together” by Hannah E. Harrison, a book about friendship between personalities.

Children who are on the edge of Too Old for Picture Books, Too Young for Chapter Books may still like to see “Nature’s Friend: The Gwen Frostic Story” by Lindsay McDivitt, illustrated by Eileen Ryan Ewen. It’s a biography in picture form about a Detroit artist and nature lover, and your little one would surely love it read aloud. Wrap it up with “Aim for the Skies” by Aimee Bissonette, illustrated by Doris Ettlinger. It’s the true story of two women who dreamed about following in Amelia Earhart’s footsteps and flying around the world.

For kids who are looking for more than a picture book or for the most curious kid you know, wrap up any of the “Tell Me” books by the Barron’s Educational people. These handy-to-have books cover a wide variety of subjects, including geography and

science, they’re indexed plainly so answers are easy to find, and they’re written so they’re understandable by kids ages 6 or 7 and up. Here’s a hint: they’re great for parents, too.

MIDDLE-GRADE READERS For the kid who’s computer-crazy (and what kid isn’t?), “Cool Coding” is the book to find because it teaches without “dumbing-down” and kids, of course, appreciate that. For your 10-to-17-year-old, it’s a “LIKE.” Wrap it up with another science book: “The Hyena Scientist” by Sy Montgomery, photographs by Nic Bishop. It’s perfect for the budding zoologist or die-hard animal lover.

For kids who love books that let them do fun things, why not wrap up “Turn This Book into a Beehive!” by Lynn Brunelle, illustrated by Anna-Maria Jung. It’s a book that will teach your child about bees and environmentalism, and then it turns into the coolest craft around. Wrap it up with “The Brilliant Deep” by Kate Messner and Matthew Forstythe, which is a nonfiction book about coral reefs.

Remember those old “Choose Your Own Adventure” books that you used to love? Well, those are updated now: imagine what would happen if you took a graphic novel and let kids pick their own storylines and endings? That’s what’s behind “Knights Club” by Shuky, illustrated by Waltch and Novy; and “Hocus & Pocus” by Manuro Gorobei. Are they comic books? Are they games? Your kids might think they’re both!

Young historians will thoroughly enjoy reading “Time for Kids Presidents of the United States.” This book offers a quick biography, stats, and fun-to-know facts about the men in office, and includes a chapter on our current Commanderin-Chief. Pair it up with “Weird but True! Know-It-All U.S. Presidents” by Brianna Dumont or any of the “Heroes of History” books, like the one on George Washington or the book about Alexander Hamilton.

The child who craves a most meaningful gift this year will enjoy opening “The World of the Bible” from the National Geographic folks. This book includes Bible stories and the science behind them, as well as trivia, and excellent artwork.

For the kid who’s interested in animals, “Book of Bones” by Gabrielle Balkan, illustrated by Sam Brewster is perfect.

This book takes a look at the skeletons of animals – the biggest, the longest, the thinnest – and the animals who need those bones to live and thrive. Pair it up with “Stuff You Need to Know About the Human Body” by John Farndon & Tim Hutchison, a book about human insides.

And for the child who’s into adventure plus weirdness, look for “The Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide for The World’s Most Adventurous Kid” by Dylan Thuras and Rosemary Mosco, illustrated by Joy Ang. It’s a book filled with maps and sites and places your child can go, even if they do it through paper and imagination.

YA BOOKS The teen who has embraced STEM will also want to read “Radioactive!” by Winifred Conkling. It’s the parallel story of two women: Irene Curie, who discovered artificial radioactivity; and Lise Meitner, who, four years after Irene’s discovery, learned the secret of nuclear fission. Get it for your teen and read it yourself.

The scientist on your list will love “Junk Drawer Geometry” by Bobby Mercer, especially if she is also a mathlete.

This book is full of experiments and gee-whiz coolness. Wrap it up with any other book in the “Junk Drawer Science” series.

For the budding activist on your list, look for “You Are Mighty: A Guide to Changing the World” by Caroline Paul, illustrated by Lauren Tamaki. This hardcover book offers ideas to create change in many different aspects of society, and it includes places for your teen to take notes and jot down ideas. Pair it with “Illegal” by Eoin Colfer and Adnrew Donkin, a graphic novel about a boy who crosses the Sahara desert and beyond to forge a new life elsewhere.

The basketball fan in your life will love “Here to Stay” by Sara Farizan. It’s a novel about a boy who saves the day and becomes a school hero and, oh, incidentally, he’s Muslim. Who’s friend and who’s enemy? Who can resist such a book?

So there you are. A bunch of different ways to use that gift certificate for fun, learning, and winter reading anticipation.

Remember: if none of these suggestions seem to fit that Special Someone on your list, ask your weary-but-smiling bookseller.

She’s the one who has all the right answers.

Happy Reading!

SMS

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and features blues legend Jimmy “Duck” Holmes. Munson has been a regular at Holmes’ studio and performance space for a few years, dating back to when Holmes first heard Munson’s skills.

Learn more about Munson and Rose Hill from his recent Q&A interview with The Scene below.

What made you want to perform live music? And what makes you want to continue doing it?

Well, I don’t suppose I set out to perform music, though I always wanted to play music. Through wanting to play as much as possible there’s no choice but to perform. Most days it doesn’t really matter if anyone is listening.

That said, I have really come to love performing for people who come to listen, dance and participate. Stylistically speaking, country blues and hill country blues are art forms meant to bring people together socially. This is dance music. In Minnesota that doesn’t necessarily always happen, but in Mississippi, dancing always happens. Seeing that was such an important lesson in my understanding of the music.

What is it like to perform on stage, and what is your favorite part?

Minnesota musician Mike Munson poses for a photo with blues legend Jimmy “Duck” Holmes. Holmes appears on Munson’s newest album, Rose Hill, out now.

LEFT: Winona Musician Mike Munson’s newest album, Rose Hill, features Blues legend Jimmy “Duck” Holmes and is out now.

There is a lot to that question. Some nights it can really be transporting. I know that sounds a little out there but that’s the best I can explain it. You take off, and then eventually you land.

How would you describe your music style? What influences this style?

My first trip to Mississippi was eight or nine years ago, and since then I have been visiting as often as twice a year. Though I go to various places throughout the state, I always go to the Blue Front Cafe in Bentonia, MS. The entire album, Rose Hill, is influenced by the “Bentonia Blues” tradition. Such players as Jack Owens, Jimmy “Duck” Holmes, and Skip James are all from Bentonia and have much in common in the way they play guitar, construct songs, tune their instruments, and use common analogies or characters in their songs.

My own personal music style comes through in songs that are not directly associated with “Bentonia style,” but the influence of blues fingerpicking and slide playing is always right there. Even though songs like “Sinner” and “Rose Hill” are quite far from what people think of as blues, they are what I have come to call “Minnesota blues,” a combination of my style and the styles I have studied and heard in Mississippi.

I understand your new album, Rose Hill, has some connections to Jimmy “Duck” Holmes.

What’s that connection, and what’s the album like? What influenced this new album?

Dancin’ and Swingin’ Along:

A Talk with Southern Minnesota’s Growing Blues Star

G

By Samantha Stetzer editor@southernminnscene.com rowing up just north of Saint Paul, Mike Munson says music found him.

“A guitar eventually made its way into my life, and it became a major outlet for me and a few friends of mine,” Munson said in an interview with Southern Minnesota Scene a few years back, adding that as a group, he and his friends were always playing and learning together.

Since that discovery, Munson has become a Southern Minnesota favorite, pulling from Mississippi and Midwestern styles to create unique tunes for audiences at many local joints and festivals.

When he isn’t playing boot-stomping, soulful music, Munson can be found cooking, gardening, biking around Winona, and canoeing the Mississippi River. But it’s his lifelong musical passion that keeps him motivated.

Munson’s latest album, Rose Hill, which is out now, pulls from a deep tradition of Mississippi Blues,

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Rose Hill was recorded at Jimmy’s place in Bentonia, Mississippi, the Blue Front Cafe. It’s the oldest juke joint in the country that was started by Jimmy’s parents over 70 years ago. I have had the opportunity to play with Jimmy there a few times.

As for the album, Jimmy sings on “Broke and Hungry” and plays harmonica on “Jack Ain’t Had No Water,” an amazing song by Jack Owens. Playing with Jimmy on that song was really crazy for me because Jimmy had known Jack Owens well while he was alive; for Jimmy to want to play that song with me was really amazing.

From what I can tell, it feels like Winona is a big part of your life and your music. What is it about this river town that means so much to you? How does Winona show in your music?

You are totally right! Winona is a big part of my music and life. I really love living here. There are so many amazing people here trying to make Winona better, more interesting, more fun, and more weird.

I think Winona shows in my music in this mix of Mississippi blues and Midwest winter. In addition to that, Highway 61 and the Mississippi River are two direct connections between Minnesota, Mississippi, the people and so much history.

Winona is known for being a little artistic hub in southeastern Minnesota. How does it motivate you as an artist? What events or regular performances do you take part in?

Living in Winona is great motivation. There is a great sense of community and support amongst many artists, not just those who play music. There is such encouragement to do interesting artistic projects for the sake of experimentation, creation, and risk that rises above other common motivators.

Ed’s (no name) Bar is hands down my favorite place to play music, see other bands, and just hang out! Boats and Bluegrass and Mid West Music Fest have been amazing to participate in as a player and a listener, but for me Winona really excels at one time events in unassuming spaces, house shows, odd SMS parties, random get-togethers, and stuff like that.

Learn more about Mike Munsun, his style, and his new album, Rose Hill, and stay up-to-date on his performance schedule online at www.mikemunson.net/?page_id=10. You can also find him on Facebook.

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2018

2018

Hippo Campus - Bambi Breakout stars in 2015, Hippo Campus has put out an album each year since. On Bambi they moved away from their sunny West Coast tiki vibe, to a more serious emo punk feel. They are not shy about taking sonic liberties with an all instrumental first track, getting anthemic on “Anxious” and injecting an almost random outburst in “Bubbles.”

Bambi shows Hippo Campus is definitely not a one trick pony. They will continue to evolve and rework their sound as they see fit, devoid of any musical rule following.

By Sarah Osterbauer editor@southernminnscene.com

produced a slew of new music from local artists.

The birthplace of one Prince Rogers Nelson is fortunate not only to have hoards of talent running through it, but talent across many genres.

From rap and hip hop to country to folk, bluegrass and everything in between, Minnesota has something for everyone.

In no particular order, here are the best of the best from the last year.

Atmosphere Mi Vida Local Local hip hop veterans came out with their 12th studio release after 20+ years in the game, still going strong. Slug, now a husband and father, has grown into what many like to call “grown ass man rap” or “dad rap”. Bluntly articulating the ups and downs of navigating a husband and wife relationship with two young kids and touring schedule, Slug does not sugarcoat it. Vocally political via social media platforms, even preTrump era, Atmosphere doesn’t shy away from expanding on their worldview the best way they know how, through music. Mi Vida Local is the Atmosphere you know and love, yet older, wiser, grumpier and more world weary. They still use basement beats with the signature Minneapolis DIY sound. This album feels like a harsh hug you weren’t quite ready for but desperately needed from a relative you love but don’t see often.

Now, Now - Saved After undergoing some label and bandmate changes, Now, Now made a reappearance onto the scene as a duo. Their earworm, 2017’s “SGL” was an instant hit, gaining national attention in Fader. Saved is very much a collection of tunes in the same wheelhouse of SGL, moody casual emo that’s sometimes ambient ethereal, sometimes dusty grunge.

Lead singer Cacie Dalager’s vocals recall the breathy feigning of indifference ala Mazzy Star. Saved is the album you want on low key moody days, when making a decision feels like too great a task to bear.

Bad Bad Hats Lightning Round Only their second full length release, Lightning Round continues to showcase Kerry Alexander’s stellar songwriting, illustrating the complexities of the human heart and the battles waged within and against it. Lead by the irresistibly catchy “Write It On Your Heart” many of Alexander’s tunes harken back to 90’s pop sensibility.

Recorded live, the songs could easily come from a crowded basement college party or equally so, the soundtrack to Clueless. If I had decided to put the albums in order this one might have been #1.

Your Smith - Bad Habit (4 song EP) Sparse airy tunes that leave room to breath between the spaces or her expertly crafted love lorn lyrics. Formally known as Caroline Smith, Your Smith relocated from Minnesota to LA and her sound

seems to have done the same.

There’s a scent of sea spray in her songs where the time feels slower, easier and carefree. Her single “The Spot” reminiscent of Sheryl Crow’s “All I Wanna Do” exudes the lifestyle of a woman free from the constraints of a 9-5 job, living on a dream near the ocean.

Prof - Pookie Baby

Jeremy Messersmith Late Stage Capitalism On his fifth studio album, Jeremy Messersmith crafts orchestral pop tunes with a distinctively throwback mod vibe. His songwriting has a way of shining a light on everyday mundane observations and turning them into well thought prose and philosophies.

In tried and true form Messersmith delivers songs that pack punches in unsuspecting corners, like small slaps in the face to take you out of the trance his soothing voice often leads one into. Late Stage Capitalism blends modern observational commentary, throwback instrumentation and shear wit for a result that is the best kind of ear candy.

Trampled By Turtles - Life Is Good On The Open Road Homegrown bluegrass kings Trampled By Turtles took a bit of break while lead singer and frontman of the band, Dave Simonett promoted and toured behind his other outfit, Dead Man Winter.

With Life Is Good On The Open Road, they return to their musical roots of Duluth and Palomino styling. On Stars and Satellites and Wild Animals they created lush cinematic sounds. Life brings us back to their signature lightning fast banjo, fiddle and mandolin playing. The strings are raw and rustic, as if recorded inside a cozy north shore lodge or alongside a blazing campfire. Simonett’s songwriting captures depth of feeling without being overly wordy or showy. This album is the musical equivalent of a warm hot chocolate, spiked if that’s your fancy.

Dessa - Chime On her fourth album, released in the same year that she would become an accomplished author, Dessa expands to create her most pop sounding album yet. A philosophy major who traditionally weaves the stories of ancient literature into analogies for her own modern struggles, this time around she sheds much of that armor in favor of more naked truth telling. On the first half of the album she harshly defends the female right to wander the world as she pleases without fear and stands up to archaic ideology of how women should see their worth. On the second half she returns to her constant source of strength, writing relatable, devastating songs about failed attempts at love. Chime is bold and fearless in the face of her revealing memoir that puts places and faces to Dessa’s musical narratives. It’s a solid endeavor from front to back, absent of filler.

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Prof has been the Twin Cities local party boi for some time now. Always entertaining, rarely going any speed other than full throttle, this guy injects energy and debauchery into any scenario. Pookie Baby is dripping in bangers, head bob-worthy jams begging to blast through any and all speakers. Never taking himself too seriously, Prof does not depart from his usual antics.

His rhymes cover all manner of things, often silly, very often vulgar, more often comical. If you only examined the subject matter of Prof’s songs, you would perhaps assume him a lesser rapper but he is quite the contrary. Similar to Nicki Minaj, Prof can spit at warp speed with needlepoint accuracy and morph from his regular voice to any number of exaggerated character voices without pause. Pookie Baby isn’t your grandma’s rap album. It’s not mature or daring. But it is a raucous good time which is what we all need sometimes in 2018.

Kari Arnett When The Dust Settles Kari Arnett, a WI native who now splits her time between Madison and Nashville, has been a staple on the Minneapolis Americana scene in recent years.

Her rich velvety vocals and classic Americana sound make her a local gem. When The Dust Settles is her first full length studio release. It’s full of warm classic country lullabies dripping in dirt road charm and backwoods grit. Arnett’s songwriting is heartfelt, sincere and confessional in a straightforward way. Glistening pedal steel decorates these tunes that have a distinctive old timey flavor without being a copy of something we’ve heard before. Every track from When The Dust Settles would be at home on any country radio station worth its salt. They combine traditional country elements with Kari’s stellar storytelling ability. This album is a must have for anyone who goes around boasting that they’re a “real country fan.”

Static Panic - Chrome By all accounts Static Panic is a relatively new band, only playing together for the last three years or so. But they managed to make a big splash on the local scene by creating music that fuses together funk, shiny 80’s synth pop and EDM for unique sound not to be found on any corner of the warehouse district.

Their debut EP Chrome pops with brassy guitar and bright vocals. Lead vocalist and producer Ro Lorenzen identifies as gender fluid and writes tunes through that voice. By keeping options open for themself, it also opens them for the listener as well. They fearlessly engage in addressing sexuality and desire inclusive of all parties. In an interview with The Current they admitted they wanted this first album to be loud and dancey, something that would get people’s attention and it worked. They will play First Avenue’s Best New Bands show on Jan 4.

These albums are available wherever you purchase/stream/consume music.

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By GRACE WEBB editor@southernminnscene.com t’s a cool winter morning, and the sound of steel against steel rings through the air. Two knights are battling in a small fighting ring. A sword thuds against a shield. Armor clangs.

Finally, the first knight knocks the second to the ground, delivering the finishing blow… …Then he helps his opponent back to his feet, and the two of them head out of the ring, chuckling and teasing each other.

Nearby, a squire huddles over a campfire, cooking some stew, while a weaver cards wool to spin into yarn. A little further off, a blacksmith toils over a red-hot anvil, sparks flying as she shapes a new tool.

This may sound like something out of a history book, but it goes on in present day thank to the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc.—a living history group that invites people to learn firsthand what medieval times were really like.

California roots

The mission of the SCA “The Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) is an international non-profit volunteer education organization. The SCA is devoted to the research and recreation of pre-seventeenth century skills, arts, combat, culture and employing knowledge of history to enrich the lives of participants through events, demonstrations, and other educational presentations and activities.”

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The SCA is made up of 20 “kingdoms” around the world, with more than 30,000 members—but it all began in California back in the ancient times of 1966. UC Berkeley students studying medieval history formed a group to “protest against the 20th century” with a medieval tournament, parade and singing. Eventually, the group expanded across the United States and into Canada, Europe, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, Panama, Thailand and South Korea.

Fairmont resident Bart Saxton first learned of the SCA right before he joined the Army in 1985 and easily found a local group when he was stationed in California.

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“Looking back, I think I was just going to be a victim of whatever first historical reenactment group got a hold of me,” he said. “I love living history.”

For Saxton, the biggest draw was the chance to learn medieval-style fighting. He had fenced in college and thought he would be prepared to jump into the ring, but he soon discovered he was wrong.

“I watched these guys in armor waddling around, and thought, ‘I’m going to kick these people’s butts,’” he said. “They gave me some loaner armor that sort of fit and put me out in the field, and I took that first swing with that big stick… and I went, ‘Oh my God, I’m slow.’ I just got hit like three times. I had to completely relearn how to do things.”

By the end of that first practice, Saxton had bought a helmet for Photo $20, which he still uses today. He also managed to snag his first set of armor for cheap, though he started making his own armor afterwards. His outfit consists of metal, padding, leather and chain mail, and it can weigh up to 60 pounds when he’s wearing everything.

Saxton is also interested in other areas of medieval culture: metalwork, blacksmithing, brewing, venting, handmade inks, minting coins, sewing, and 13th-century violin.

“I like to call it the good parts version of the Middle Ages,” he said. “We do all the fun stuff and skip the bad stuff. We don’t reenact the Plague; we don’t kill each other over religion.”

Taking care of business According to Saxton, each shire has a monthly business meeting, and within his

courtesy of Myah Nelson. shire (the shire of Northshield), they have weekly armored combat practice. There are also sporadic arts and crafts get-togethers, as well as workshops and other bigger “events” once or twice a year.

According to Saxton, you’re a member of the group if you “show up and make an attempt at pre-1600s clothing.” But people can also pay for an official membership if they’re interested in becoming officers. And officers can advance through the ranks to eventually become King or Queen of the entire kingdom—as long as they’re able to defeat all comers in armored combat during the Crown Tournament. The winners are declared King or Queen (bringing along their consort) for one year.

Members also choose new names, based on research into areas of their personal interest. Saxton’s name is Bartel fitz Neel, based

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est. Saxton’s name is Bartel fitz Neel, based around 13th-century post-Norman England.

Meanwhile, MSU-graduate Barb Anderson goes by the name Emma Grimkelsdotter, creating an eighth-century Viking persona who lived in the part of Scandinavia that is now Norway.

Anderson got involved with the SCA during her senior year of high school and is now a member of the Shire of Avonwood (located in Marshall).

“I thought it would be fun to create someone from the Middle Ages,” she explained. “As I got into the group more, I realized that it’s much more than that.

In the SCA, you not only get to be a person from anytime and anywhere, you also learn how they lived, what they would do in their spare time, how they ate, how they survived and how they dressed. That was a really fun idea to me, because I love learning new things. Plus, I think everybody fantasizes about knights in shining armor or romanticizes the Middle Ages.”

Anderson’s main interests are clothing, archery, some heavy combat and food. She also enjoys just digging into the real history behind her persona to find out what life was truly like.

“I want to learn more about what happened in Scandinavia,” she said. “The eighth century would’ve been just about the start of the Viking age.”

She stressed, though, that people can do as much or as little research as they want when they’re building their SCA character.

“Even though I want to do a lot of research into my persona, you can do as much [or little] research as you want as long as you’re learning about the Middle Ages,” she said. “Besides education, the most important thing is having fun. And the people in the SCA really become family.”

Everyone is welcome While Saxton said local membership “waxes and

wanes,” there is still enough interest across the southern Minnesota area that more people are checking out the SCA and its area chapters. In fact, Marshall resident Jenny Parkhurt (known in the SCA as Lady Christiana Gaylard de Caen) recently founded the Marshall chapter (the Shire of Avonwood) and serves as its president.

Like Anderson, Parkhurt became involved in SCA during her time at MSU-Mankato, citing her childhood love of “all things medieval.”

“When I found a student group that boasted of fencing and medieval studies, I knew I had found my group,” she said, mentioning how she had become the campus club’s secretary and then president before founding the Marshall chapter. “As a kid, I love the idea of royalty and, like many girls, pretty dresses. In my teen and collegiate years, the idea of chivalry and honor really took precedence. Not only does the SCA capture the romance of the ‘old values’ of chivalry and honor, it also strives for them in a way that we don’t typically see as much in the modern world.”

Parkhurt said they have about 10-12 members right now, with another handful of folks who participate less frequently. Her own interests include calligraphy and illumination, sewing period-appropriate medieval clothing, baking, weaving, ink making and medieval dance.

She added that as an introvert, she is grateful to the SCA for providing a welcoming community where she could find equally passionate friends.

“The SCA is an accessible and open community to explore any number of topics and interests, and to share that passion with like-minded people,” she said. “When I walked into my first SCA event, it was as though I’d walked into the family reunion for a family I’d always had, but never realized I was missing.

There’s a place for everyone, and if someone did it in the Middle Ages, we can get you connected with someone who does it now.”

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Photo courtesy of Tracy Knight-Shaw.

Upcoming events Feb. 23 - Lupercalia. Taking place in the Shire of Rivenwood Tower (Garden City), this is one of the largest events in the area and is a day full of armored combat, arts and sciences display, rapier combat and food. Adults are $15 and kids under 18 are free. Lunch is $5.

April 13 - Northshield Spring Coronation May 11 - Northshield Spring Crown Tournament August - St. Ratigan’s Fair. Hosted at Jack MacGowan’s farm outside of Mankato, the fair is a weekend of classes where members educate the public and demonstrate medieval techniques and customs.

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In Memoriam

By Philip Weyhe

I

List and descriptions from US Weekly

t seems that celebrity deaths didn’t hit quite as hard in 2018 as they did in years past, perhaps because they didn’t seem to come one right after the other as in 2016 and 17.

But taking stock at the losses over the last year, one can put the damage in perspective. We lost some geniuses in their fields – a scientist (Stephen Hawking), a screenwriter (William Goldman, The Princess Bride), a comic writer (Stan Lee), a chef (Anthony Bourdain), and a soul singer (Aretha Franklin). We also lost some prominent politicians in former President George H.W. Bush and Sen. John McCain.

And some music makers who died young, like Aviici and Mac Miller.

We can never expect to live without loss; but we can remember those who impacted us. So here’s a look at just some of those famous faces and personalities who took their leave in 2018.

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Luis Valbuena and José Castillo The Cardenales de Lara teammates, and former Major League Baseball players, were reportedly driving from a game in Caracas to Barquisimeto when their car collided with a boulder on the highway.

George H.W. Bush The former president of the United States died on November 30 at the age of 94, just seven months after he lost his wife of more than 70 years, Barbara Bush. “He taught me and my family about service, family, decency, the power of gentle words and a beautiful heart,” his granddaughter Jenna Bush Hager wrote in a tribute. “I will miss him desperately but so happy he and my Grandmother are back together.”

Stephen Hillenburg The SpongeBob SquarePants creator died on November 26, more than a year after announcing he had been diagnosed with ALS. He was 57 years old.

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William Goldman The novelist and screenwriter, who won Oscars for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and All the President’s Men, died at age 87 on November 16 from complications with colon cancer and pneumonia. He was also known for writing the cult hit The Princess Bride. “So much of what’s he’s written can express who he was and what he was about,” William’s daughter, Jenny Goldman, told the Associated Press.

Stan Lee The legendary Marvel Comics writer died at age 95 on November 12. He was best known for co-creating characters including SpiderMan, the Hulk, Thor, Iron Man, the X-Men and Doctor Strange. In more recent years, he helped Marvel become a multi-billion-dollar movie empire. The creator is still to be seen in a few upcoming cameo roles filmed prior to his death.

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Paul Allen The Microsoft cofounder died from complications of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma on October 15. He was 65. A second company he founded, Vulcan Inc., released a statement with the news: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our founder Paul G. Allen, co-founder of Microsoft and noted technologist, philanthropist, community builder, conservationist, musician and supporter of the arts.”

Peggy McCay The Days of Our Lives star, who played Caroline Brady since 1983, died from natural causes at age 90 on October 7. Her longtime costar Deidre Hall remembered her on Facebook as a “friend, an activist and a real scrapper.” McCay won a Primetime Emmy in 1991 for her guest role on The Trials of Rosie O’Neill.

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Scott Wilson

Neil Simon

Charlotte Rae

XXXTentacion

Wilson, who played Hershel Greene on The Walking Dead, died at the age of 76 after battling leukemia, TMZ reported on October 6.

“Scott will always be remembered as a great actor and we all feel fortunate to have known him as an even better person,” AMC said in a statement to Us Weekly. “The character he embodied on The Walking Dead, Hershel, lived at the emotional core of the show. Like Scott in our lives, Hershel was a character whose actions continue to inform our characters’ choices to this day. Our hearts go out to his wife, family, friends and to the millions of fans who loved him. Scott will be missed.”

The American playwright died at the age of 91 in the early morning hours of August 26 after being taken off life support, according to TMZ. A rep for Simon told the publication that the Tony winner, best known for Broadway hits such as Come Blow Your Horn (1961), The Odd Couple (1965), Brighton Beach Memoirs (1982) and Biloxi Blues (1985), died of complications from pneumonia. In addition to his work as a playwright, Simon was an Oscar-winning screenwriter for films such as The Out of Towners (1970) and Lost in Younkers (1991), for which he won the Pulitzer Prize. He penned more than 30 plays in his lifetime.

The acting veteran, who played Mrs. Garrett on Different Strokes and Facts of Life, died on August 5 after battling cancer. She was 92. “I love life. I’ve had a wonderful one already,” she said in a statement in April 2017, revealing that she had bone cancer, seven years after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. “I’ve had a great life, but I have so many wonderful things happening.

I’d like to choose life. I’m grateful for the life I’ve already had.” Her former costars Kim Fields and Mindy Cohn paid tribute to the Emmy and Tony nominee, with Cohn writing on Instagram, “She was my champion, a teacher, a proud example of the tenacity and perseverance needed to live as a creative, along with your talent and gifts. I love you char.”

The rapper (real name Jahseh Dwayne Onfroy) died on June 18 after being shot while shopping for motorcycles in South Florida.

TMZ reported that the 20-year-old was leaving a dealership when he was shot at in a “possible drive-by.” XXXTentacion had barely left his house over the past few months, according to the Miami New Times, as he was on modified house arrest while awaiting trial for a number of criminal charges including domestic battery strangulation, false imprisonment and aggravated battery of his pregnant girlfriend. Stars including Kanye West and Travis Barker paid tribute to the rapper, with West tweeting, “I never told you how much you inspired me when you were here thank you for existing.”

Mac Miller The “Self Care” rapper died at the age of 26 on September 7. The LAPD confirmed to Us that authorities responded to his home in the San Fernano Valley after 11 a.m. TMZ reported that he was pronounced dead at the scene from an apparent overdose. Miller, who dated Ariana Grande for two years until their split in May, spoke candidly in the past about his ongoing battle with substance abuse.

Burt Reynolds Us Weekly broke the news on September 6 that the Boogie Nights actor died at age 82 after he went into cardiac arrest at a Florida hospital. His family was by his side at the time. Reynolds, who is survived by his son, previously underwent heart surgery in 2010.

Susan Brown The beloved General Hospital vet, who played the role of Dr. Gail Baldwin for more than two decades, died at the age of 86 on September 1. The show’s executive producer, Frank Valentini made the announcement on Twitter: “It’s a very sad day in Port Charles as the wonderful Susan Brown (“Gail Baldwin”) passed away today,” he wrote. “My sincerest condolences to her family and to all who knew this amazing woman.” Brown, also known for her role as Adelaide Fitzgibbons on As the World Turns, was remembered by costars Kin Shriner, who played her stepson Scotty, and Jackie Zeman, who both tweeted their condolences.

John McCain The Arizona senator died at his Arizona home on August 25 after a battle with cancer.

The Vietnam war hero was diagnosed with a brain tumor in July 2017 after undergoing surgery to remove a blood clot above his left eye. His family announced one day before the former presidential candidate’s death that he was discontinuing medical treatment for his condition. McCain’s daughter View cohost Meghan McCain paid tribute to her late father on Twitter hours after his death, writing that “he was a great fire who burned bright, and we lived in his light and warmth for so very long. We know that his flame lives on, in each of us.” McCain is survived by his wife, Cindy, and his seven adult children: Douglas, Andrew, Sidney, Meghan, John, James and Bridget.

Aretha Franklin The Queen of Soul, who was best known for hits such as “Respect” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” died at age 76 on August 16 at her home in Detroit. She had been battling pancreatic cancer. “In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart,” her family said in a statement to Us. “We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family. The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins knew no bounds. … We have felt your love for Aretha and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will live on.”

Ray Emery The former NHL goaltender died by drowning on July 15 in Hamilton, Ontario. The 35-year-old’s body was recovered approximately 70 feet from where he was last seen.

“At this time, we do not believe there to be any suspicious or foul play. We do believe this is a case of misadventure,” Inspector Marty Schulenberg of the Hamilton Police Service told reporters at the time. “Mr. Emery had gone for a swim and did not surface after he dove in the water.”

Joe Jackson The father of Janet Jackson and the late Michael Jackson died on June 27 after a battle with cancer, a source confirmed to Us Weekly.

He was 89 years old. Us confirmed that Joe had been hospitalized in the final stages of terminal cancer. News of Joe’s death comes just two days after the ninth anniversary of Michael’s death.

Charles Krauthammer Fox News contributor and Pulitzer Prize winner Charles Krauthammer died on June 21 after a battle with cancer at 68 years old.

The network confirmed his death nearly two weeks after he revealed in an emotional letter that his cancer had returned and he had just “weeks” to live. He is survived by his wife, Robyn, and their adult son, Daniel.

Jackson Odell The former teen actor and songwriter, best known for guest roles on TV shows including The Goldbergs, iCarly and Modern Family and the film Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer, died on June 8, at the age of 20. He was found unresponsive at a sober living house in California, sources tell Us Weekly. Odell also wrote several tunes for the soundtrack of the 2018 country musicthemed film Forever Your Girl, including the Lauren Alaina song “Wings of an Angel.” “The Odell family has lost our beloved son and brother, Jackson Odell,” the family said in a statement to TMZ. “He will always be a shining light and a brilliant, loving and talented soul. He had so much more to share. Our family will always carry that truth forward.

Our wish is that the rest of the world does as well. We are now going to try to make sense of our immeasurable loss privately.”

Anthony Bourdain The celebrity chef died of an apparent suicide in France at the age of 61. “It is with extraordinary sadness we can confirm the death of our friend and colleague, Anthony Bourdain,” CNN said in a statement on June 8. “His love of great adventure, new friends, fine food and drink and the remarkable stories of the world made him a unique storyteller.

His talents never ceased to amaze us and we will miss him very much. Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughter and family at this incredibly difficult time.”

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Margot Kidder The actress who was perhaps best known for her role as Lois Lane in 1978’s Superman, opposite Christopher Reeve, died May 13 in Montana, according to TMZ. The cause of death is unknown. She was 69 years old.

Verne Troyer The Austin Powers star died on April 21 at the age of 49. “Verne was an extremely caring individual,” his spokesman said in a statement to Us. “He wanted to make everyone smile, be happy, and laugh.

Anybody in need, he would help to any extent possible. Verne hoped he made a positive change with the platform he had and worked towards spreading that message everyday.” Troyer, who had been to rehab for alcohol addiction, was hospitalized at the beginning of April after a friend reportedly called police to say that the Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone star was upset, drunk and suicidal.

Avicii Swedish DJ and producer Avicii, whose real name was Tim Bergling, died on April 20 at age 28. The Grammy-nominated artist was found dead in Muscat, Oman, his rep confirmed in a statement. “The family is devastated and we ask everyone to please respect their need for privacy in this difficult time. No further statements will be given,” the rep said. Avicii, who gained acclaim with his hit “Wake Me Up,” retired in 2016 due to health issues, including acute pancreatitis.

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Barbara Bush

John Mahoney

Dolores O’Riordan

“A former First Lady of the United States of America and relentless proponent of family literacy, Barbara Pierce Bush passed away Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at the age of 92,” her husband George H. W. Bush‘s office said in a statement. “She is survived by her husband of 73 years, President George H. W. Bush, five children and their spouses; 17 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and her brother, Scott Pierce. She was preceded in death by her second child, Pauline Robinson “Robin” Bush, and her siblings Martha Rafferty and James R. Pierce. The official funeral schedule will be announced as soon as is practical.” Days earlier, it was announced that she would no longer be seeking medical treatment for her ailing health.

The Frasier star died on February 4 at the age of 77 while in hospice care in Chicago. He was best known for his role as Kelsey Grammer’s father, Martin Crane, on the NBC sitcom for 11 seasons from 1993 to 2004. He was nominated for two Golden Globes and two Emmy Awards for his role.

Dolores O’Riordan’s publicist confirmed on January 15 that The Cranberries singer died in London. She was 46. “The lead singer with the Irish band The Cranberries was in London for a short recording session,” O’Riordan’s publicist said in a statement to BBC at the time. “No further details are available at this time.

Family members are devastated to hear the breaking news and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.” The late singer rose to fame as the lead singer of The Cranberries in the ‘90s, providing distinctive vocal work to the band’s greatest hits, including “Zombie” and “Linger.”

O’Riordan is survived by her three children: 20-year-old son Taylor, 16-year-old daughter Molly and 12-year-old daughter Dakota.

Winnie Madikizela-Mandela The South African anti-apartheid activist and former wife of Nelson Mandela died on April 2 at age 81. She was hospitalized earlier after complaining of the flu. A family spokesperson told Us, “The Mandela family are deeply grateful for the gift of her life, and even as our hearts break at her passing, we urge all those who loved her to celebrate this most remarkable woman.”

Reg E. Cathey The House of Cards actor died on February 9 at age 59. TMZ reported that the actor had been battling lung cancer and died in his home in New York surrounded by loved ones. The Emmy winner was also known for his roles on The Wire and in movies including The Mask, Fantastic Four and S.W.A.T.

Mark Salling The Glee alum died at age 35 on January 30. The LAPD confirmed to Us that he died from an apparent suicide just three months after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography. He faced up to seven years in jail.

Stephen Hawking Famed theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking died on Wednesday, March 14, at age 76. “He was a great scientist and an extraordinary man whose work and legacy will live on for many years,” his children Lucy, Robert and Tim told the Associated Press in a statement. “His courage and persistence with his brilliance and humor inspired people across the world.”

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“Fast” Eddie Clarke

The former Motörhead guitarist died at the age of 67 on January 10. The English rock band wrote in a statement on Facebook that Clarke “passed peacefully in [the] hospital where he was being treated for pneumonia.” He was the last surviving member of the group’s classic trio, with drummer Phil “Philthy Animal” Taylor and vocalist Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister both dying in late 2015.

Jerry Van Dyke The Emmy-winning actor and comedian, who was also the younger brother of actor Dick Van Dyke, died at his Arkansas ranch on January 5. He was 86. His wife Shirley Ann Jones confirmed to CNN that he passed due to heart failure after never really recovering from a “horrible car accident” two and a half years prior in which he was “injured very badly.” Van Dyke received critical acclaim for his role on the

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t l u a b i r a F Where American Stories are MADE

M

[

Faribault [fair-uh-boh] French n 1852 translates; great people, incredible fun.

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P

By Anna Vangsness op the cork, grab a party hat and a noise maker because it’s almost time to bid adieu to 2018.

Whether you’re looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve out on the town or at home with your family, we’ve got your covered. We’ve compiled a list of some unique events taking place in Southern Minnesota to help you ring in 2019. Whatever you decided to do, enjoy and be safe.

Yoga Core Flow

Start your New Year’s Eve off on the right foot with a Yoga Core Flow class taught by Katie Berg from 10-11:15 a.m., Dec. 31 at Yoga Core Flow, 685 W Bridge ST., Ste E, Owatonna. During the course, the instructor will be going through a flow focusing on strengthening the core and toning the abdominal muscles. All levels are welcome. The cost for this special event is $15.

Kato Ballroom The Kato Ballroom (200 Chestnut Street, Mankato) is hosting their 71st annual New Year’s Eve Party beginning at 6:30 p.m., Dec. 31 and continuing until 12:30 a.m., Jan. 1. The gala opens with an elegant buffet dinner in the banquet room. Following dinner, strap on your dancing shoes and get ready for Sandra Lee and the Velvets who are slated to wow the crowd with music of the 50s, 60s and 70s. The music plays from 830 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

“At midnight, we ring in the new year with your typical New Year’s Eve style hats and noisemakers,” Kato Ballroom owner Tania Cordes said. “It’s honestly what your stereotypical New Year’s party is like. People get dressed up, have a great meal and then dance the night away un-

til the countdown at midnight.”

The cost for dinner is $20 per person, and the cost for just the dance is $20 in advance or $24 at the door. Find more information at katoballroom.com.

Chankaska Creek Ranch and Winery Chancaska Creek Ranch in Winery (1179 East Perl Street Kasota) in Kasota) is hosting a pre-year’s Eve celebration rom 12-8 p.m., Dec. 31. They will be offering free samples of wine, spirits and food. Each hour, they will be handing out hourly samples on everything from mini crab cakes and whiskey to Napa Valley Cabernet and stuffed mushrooms. This even also gives you the perfect opportunity to stock up on wine and liquor for later in the evening.

Rochester Trolley and Tour Company A wonderful event for the whole family, the Rochester Trolley and Tour Company is offering a light tour every night in December, including New Year’s Eve. Now in their 8th season, the Jolly Trolley Holiday Lights Tours last 75-90 minutes, and guests can choose between two light tours. Jolley Trolley “North” features fun, creative and family-oriented residential light displays of Rochester’s north residential neighborhoods. According to their website, the North tour is perfect for kids and families.

The Jolley Trolley “South” tour embarks on the classical elegance and old world charm of Rochester’s south residential neighborhoods. This tour is best suited for adults and older children.

Both tours depart from Peace Plaza in front of downtown Marriot Hotel, 101 1st Ave. SW. Tours run Monday through Friday until Dec. 31 at 6 p.m. (North tour) and 7:45 p.m (South tour); and Saturdays and Sunday’s through Dec. 31 at 5:30 p.m. (North tour) and 7:30 p.m. (South tour).

For more information, visit rochestermntours.com.

Spare Time Entertainment Owatonna bowling alley Spare Time Entertainment (333 18th St SE, Owatonna) will be hosting a New Year’s Eve Bash with J. Remedy beginning at 9:30 p.m., Dec. 31. Party goers can hit the pins while DJ J Remedy spins the latest hits. If bowling isn’t your thing, SpareTime also offers a three level laser tag arena and an arcade.

Paradise Center for the Arts NBC’s The Voice finalist Kat Perkins will ring in the New Year a day early on Dec. 30. She performs 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 30 at Paradise Center for Arts in Faribault. Her family rock n’ roll concert is a great way to end the year. Tickets are $22 for members, $27 for non members and $15 for students. For more information, visit paradisecenterforthearts.org.

Stay home If staying home with your significant other or as a family is more your style of celebrating the New Year, plan a night of popcorn, your beverage of choice and enjoy the comfort o your home on Dec. 31.

Join Anderson Coper and Andy Cohen as they say goodby to 2018 on New Year’s Eve Live, which you can watch on CNN, or catch Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve 2018 with Ryan Seacrest on ABC. To make your night even more special, blow up balloons and pop one each hour leading up to the ball drop at midnight. Place different notes inside each ballon that instructs participators to share their favorite memory of the year, what they are looking forward to in 2019, something they want to accomplish in the year to come or a New Year’s resolution.

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Shattuck-St. Mary’s

Faribault, MN

FESLER-LAMPERT PERFORMING ARTS SERIES

Thursday, January 17, 2019

Thursday, February 14, 2019

LIZZY THE DREAM GIRL Adults Ad lts $18, Students St d ts $11

Explore the mysterious world of hypnosis and discover the amazing power and creativity of the human mind!

Lizzy’s show is enlightening, entertaining and suitable for all ages. www.lizzythedreamgirl.com

Voted Best Liquor Store - for many years - for all the right reasons!

For All Of Your Holiday Needs, Wee Have You Cover Covered!

THE SECOND CITY – IT’S NOT YOU, IT’S ME Adults $25, Students $15

In the world-famous improv comedy company’s latest laugh-filled show, THE SECOND CITY takes shots at heartbreak, missed connections and human relationships. This is a perfect Valentine’s Day date! Recommended for mature audiences. www.secondcity.com

HOLIDAY HOURS

Monday, March 18, 2019

OPEN XMAS EVE 8 AM – 6 PM CLOSED XMAS DAY

Thursday, March 21, 2019

OPEN NYE 8 AM – 10 PM

THE NATIONAL PLAYERS PRESENT WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S “TWELFTH NIGHT”

JOHN O’CONOR

America’s longest running touring theater company, The National Players, perform Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night”, a classic tale of reckless revenge, mistaken identity, and mismatched lovers. www.nationalplayers.org

Irish pianist John O’Conor has been gathering wonderful reviews for his masterly playing for over forty years. “This artist has the kind of flawless touch that makes an audience gasp” (Washington Post). www.johnoconor.com

Adults Ad lts $18, Students St d ts $11

OPEN NY DAY 10 AM - 8 PM

Adults $18, Students $11

RAGAMALA DANCE COMPANY presents NOCTURNE *

Seniors save e 10% everyday, just ask.

Adults $18, Students $11

Celebrating 25 years in Minnesota, Ragamala Dance performs the South Indian Bharatanatyam dance form.

Nocturne is, “an enchanting journey—for one hour we are transported into an exquisite dream state” (Star Tribune). www.ragamaladance.org

Great selection of craft beer, liquor and huge selection of wines - all at the best prices!

Thursday, March 28, 21, 2019

Save 15%

ACOUSTIC ROOTS MUSIC SERIES

on wine everyday, buy it by the case!

JEREMY MESSERSMITH * Ad lts $25, Students Adults St dents $15 (Adults $30, Students $15 at door)

Thursday, January 24, 2019

HigHway 3 S., DunDaS

Singer-songwriter Jeremy Messersmith is one of Minnesota musical treasures. He receives high praise from The New York Times, NPR, USA Today, Time Magazine, Spin, The Rolling Stone and others. Jeremy tours extensively throughout the world. www.jeremymessersmith.com

ALL SHOWS AT 7:30 IN NEWHALL AUDITORIUM PAckAgE DIScOUNTS: Pick 4 or more shows (can be in combination with Fesler-Lampert Series and Acoustic Roots Music Series)) - SSave 10%. Call for Groupp R Rates.

Order Tickets Online: www.s-sm.org/feslerlampert

SSM Box Office: 507-333-1620 • www www.s-sm.org

Store HourS: Mon-Sat 8aM-10PM M-10PM Sun 11aM-4PM

* “This activity is funded, in part, by the Minnesota State Arts Board through the arts and cultural heritage fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the Legacy Amendment vote of the people of Minnesota.”

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Mollywood Blvd

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

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

Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo A 2018 Year in Review Doo

O

ne of the fun and unique things about being a pop culture columnist is the challenge of taking an entire year and summing it up in about 1,000 words.

At a glance, the Baby Shark song went viral, we had a Royal Wedding, power couples like Jay-Z and Beyonce flooded the tabloids, everyone was pretty much offended by everything, Roseanne was cancelled, Bill Cosby was sentenced to life in prison for sexual assault, California wildfires devastated, Red Sox won the World Series, Labron James became a Laker, Colin Kaepernick signed a deal to be the new spokesperson for Nike, romaine lettuce killed 3 people ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, a rogue MPR Raccoon scaled a building in downtown St. Paul making national news, America debated whether Die Hard was in fact a Christmas movie and it seemed like every kid was playing the video game Fortnite.

Things started off with a bang in the world of sports with the “Minneapolis Miracle” when our hopes to win an NFC Championship game were almost thwarted once again in a game against the New Orleans Saints. Then, in the final seconds of the game, Vikings quarterback Case Keenum completed a throw to wide receiver Stefon Diggs that he ran along the sidelines for a shocking touchdown. The entire country was talking about this play. This was our shot to finally play a Super Bowl conveniently hosted at US Bank Stadium! But, in Vikings fashion, those dreams were crushed the next week in Philadephia. The Eagles advanced and went on to beat the Patriots and become Super Bowl LII Champions. During his halftime performance, Justin Timberlake paid tribute to our late superstar, Prince.

Naturally there were some carry over from 2017 including the “Black Lives Matter” aand “Me Too” movements and unfortunately mass shootings. The first highly publicized mass shooting of the year took place at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida in February with 17 casualties. It was a tragic start to the year. There would be several more, including a bar in Thousand Oaks California and a synagogue in Pittsburgh.

Naturally, this prompted national discussion about gun laws in a very polarized time and amidst a midterm election season. I pray that this theme does not continue in 2019.

Marvel ruled the box office again in 2018. Black Panther was a record crushing machine! It was the highest grossing solo super hero film ever, highest grossing film by a black director, highest opening weekend gross for a predominately black cast ($370.8 million), highest grossing February release and more. It out preformed Titanic becoming the 3rd highest grossing film of all time and the 2nd highest grossing film of 2018…only because a few months later Marvel released Avengers Infinity War. Infinity War was the 18th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Josh Brolin debuted among a star studded cast as the villain, Thanos. More super heroes die in this one than ever before, it was enough to make the toughest of comic book nerds cry.

We had a Royal Wedding! The world watched as the second son of Prince Charles and Princess Diana of Whales, Harry, was married to American actress Meghan Markle. The

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Royal Wedding was held on May 19th at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor castle. Of course, it was televised. One hymn that was sung by the congregation was Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer. I watched as Prince Harry wiped a tear from his eye as that song was a favorite of his mother and sung at her funeral in 1997.It was also the opening Hymn to Prince William’s wedding in 2011. .In addition to more traditional numbers by the Choir of St. George’s chapel, the Kingdom Choir, a gospel group, sang “Stand By Me.” Markle is the first person of mixed race to marry into the Royal family. It was quite a powerful moment. And if that wasn’t fodder enough for you Royal family followers, she and Harry have announced a baby coming in the Spring of 2019!

Politics continued to be both exciting and divisive in 2018. Mueller’s Russia investigation continued, mid-term elections took center stage and we had the controversial Kavanaugh hearings as we swore in a new Supreme Court Justice amid sexual assault allegations. Saturday Night Live ran with the numerous political of the year. Rachel Dratch even impersonated our own Senator Amy Klobuchar! After President Trump and Kim Jong Un’s Twitter “war” in 2017, it stunned the world when the North Korea-United States summit occurred in June. It was the first ever meeting between leaders of these two countries in which they signed a joint statement agreeing to new peaceful relations, the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, among other things. This was one of the more positive political moments of 2018. Relations between Trump and the press, however, remained pretty hostile.

A less hostile topic: The internet debate that divided America in the form of a sound clip! Remember the black and blue/ yellow and white dress? The new version of the “dress” debate took us by storm with an audio clip that half of us heard as “Laurel,” while the other heard as “Yanny.” Like many internet phenomenon, the audio was first released on Reddit. It took off from there. For a good week, you could not log onto a social media platform or turn on a television or radio station without hearing this sound clip of Laurel/ Yanny. Several websites made a tool where you could change the frequency so you could hear both. A poll revealed that 53% of America hear Laurel, while 47% hear Yanny. For the record, I first heard Yanny, now all I can hear is Laurel. Mind boggling.

Some of the most notable celebrity deaths of 2018 included the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, comic book icon Stan Lee, creator of Marvel, iconic actor Burt Reynolds and Verne Troyer (Austin Powers’ “Mini Me”). We lost celebrity chef Anthony Bordain and fashion designer Kate Spade to suicide and a couple young musicians lost their battles with addiction including DJ/Producer Avicci and rapper Mac Miller. We also lost Senator and former Presidential candidate, “Maverick” John McCain and two figures we grew to love, former First Lady Barbara Bush followed by her husband and 41st President of the United States, George H. W. Bush.

As we enter a new year I want to wish all of our readers a happy, healthy and prosperous 2019. I look forward to seeing the new dance moves the kids will be doing and hope that they retire “flossing” and “the shoot” as well as that Baby Shark song. Please, no more. Thank you for reading!

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40th Annual

Carriage & Cutter Day Kenyon, MN

February 23rd, 2019 Parade • Free Petting Zoo • Vendors • Medallions Hunt Live Music • Silent Auction • Food • 5K Run/Walk Basketball & Softball Tournaments • Open Skate

Good times in bloom in Kenyon MN Bring the whole family!

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THE

The Wickhams Dec 22, 25, 30, 2018 7:30 pm | $37-$47 The Jungle Theater 2951 Lyndale Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55408

by Lauren Gunderson & Margot Melcon dir. by Christina Baldwin DECEMBER 1 - 30, 2018 The event of the season!

Take a trip to the downstairs residence at Pemberley - the house a-twitter with the bustle of servants and the arrival of the Bennet clan as seen in last seasons hit, Miss Bennet.

From the most produced living playwright, hailed by New York Magazine as a rare theatrical talent, comes a twinkling tale of family, honor, and love. Add on your tickets to this very special premiere, and spend the holidays wrapped in Edwardian charm.

WORLD PREMIERE

Outdoor Christmas Market Villa Bellezza in Red Wing – Dec. 23

Experience the tradition of a European outdoor Christmas market close to home. The winery’s piazza is transformed into a beautiful and lighted market, welcoming guests to shop local artisans and retailers for the holiday season.

A variety of market vendors are tucked into the arched porticoes. Shoppers will find special and unique treasures including freshly baked artisan breads, artful, fresh holiday greens, jewelry, knitwear, casual clothing, holiday and home decor, artisan crafted candles and scents, toys, hand-turned wooden gifts (even see the artist at work!)

-- wooden bowls, vases, pens, wine stoppers. And of course there is Villa Bellezza’s own shop of wines for your holiday table, for gifting, wine related merchandise and Chef Antonio’s own collection of edible gifts from il Forno’s kitchen. www.redwingchamber.com/events

Banff Mountain Film Festival DECC Symphony Hall in Duluth – Jan. 5 & 6 Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is annual series of film screenings that traverse the world to

bring revelers an action-packed lineup of amazing sports films. The festival screens films featuring extreme and adventurous athletic activities such as arctic climbing and slack-lining. During the world tour, revelers can expect stops not only in the United States and Canada, but also in countries like Austria, Lebanon, Korea, South Africa and many others.

Specific films being shown each night vary, and are not announced prior to the event, per BMFF. If you attend both nights, you will not see any duplicate films. www.duluthxc.com/banff

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Snowta NYE 2018 Minneapolis Convention Center – Dec. 30 & 31

Your resolutions fizzled out last January, but that doesn’t mean you can’t finish the year off strong.

The soundtrack of almost every New Year’s celebration is a combination of cheerful, personal reflection and off-beat countdowns to midnight. Snowta punctuates the wild atmosphere with an eclectic mix of electronic dance music DJs and hip-hop artists across multiple stages. Face-melting wubs, vibrant lighting, and Paradox production on the main stage add to the overall chaos as the time ticks closer to midnight and beyond.

Snowta packs a lot of action for an indoor music festival. When you aren’t busy busting moves out on the dance floor, you’ll notice a highly interactive environment that’s filled with art, giant slides, an arcade, a skatepark and an assortment of activities www.snowtanye.com

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Sat Dec 22, 2018

Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden Tour Dec 22, 26, 27, 30, 2018 10:00 am | $12 Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden 2500 4th Street SW Rochester, MN 55902 The Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden is Rochesters crown jewel of cultural institutions. Here you can learn more about the exceptional bronze sculptures of Charles Eugene Gagnon.

When Chuck passed away

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in 2012, the museum was founded to honor his legacy of 50 creative years in bronze sculpture. The residence houses his studio and bronze sculptures created by this Minnesotan sculpture. The home and studios provides a tranquil environment to enjoy beautiful examples of Chucks figurative sculpture. You can experience a sense of the museums special ambience on our scheduled tours.

Hooray for Saturday: Family Dance Party Dec 22, 29, 2018 10:30 am | Free Rochester Public Library Auditorium 101 2nd St SE, Rochester, MN Rochester, MN 55904 Lights, shakers, dance! Put on your dancing shoes for 30 minutes of non-stop dancing fun!

Good Morning Bedlam (All Ages Concert) - 7:30 pm | $18-$20 Olde Pine Theatre 113 2nd St SW Pine Island, MN 55963 Good Morning Bedlam (All Ages Concert) December 22, 8:00 PM Olde Pine Theatre Good Morning Bedlam has become an innovative force in the midwest folk scene and beyond with 10 national tours in over 30 states. Their shows are known for their contagious energy, with members careening about the stage, jumping and dancing with a wild playfulness. With tight soaring three part harmonies, and thumping kick-drum, they captivate their audience night after night with no intention of slowing down. Every song is a unique twist on what is generally dubbed as folk music. We want to surprise our audience from song to song. Rather than creating our music to fit a genre, we allow it to be an outpouring of our own stories and unique sound, says Isaak, frontman of GMB. Songs of Light for the Winter Solstice - 7:30 pm | $20 Crossings 320 East Ave Zumbrota, MN 55992 Under a December full moon, Ann Reed and bassist/instrumentalist Joan Griffith will make their annual pilgrimage to Zumbrota to warm up the night with old favorites, new tunes and, as always, a couple of surprises. Join us as we celebrate the last darkest day of the year and welcome the

return of light. Tickets are $20 in advance and $23 at the door, available through Crossings. To reserve tickets, visit www.crossingsatcarnegie. com, call 507-732- 7616 or stop in to Crossings at 320 East Avenue in Zumbrota.

Saturday Night Glow Party Dec 22, 29, 2018 8:00 pm | $16 Rockin’ Jump Trampoline & Indoor Recreation Park 2015 Silver Bell Rd., Suite 195 Eagan, MN 55122 https://rockinjump.com/ eagan/park-events/ Our Saturday Night Glow Party is our All Ages open jump night party in a glow in the dark environment. Be ready to jump, laugh with friends, and enjoy an evening of fitness and competition disguised as fun. There is something for everyone at the Rockin Jump Eagan indoor trampoline park, whether you want to climb, jump, dodge, dunk or relax and have a bite to eat, we are the place for you.

Fri Dec 28, 2018

The Mystery Cafe presents - “Alma Murder - A Killer Class Reunion” Dec 28-29, 2018, Jan 4, 11, 18, 25, Feb 2, 8, 2019 7:00 pm | $66.50 Sheraton Hotel West 12201 Ridgedale Drive Minnetonka, MN 55305 The Alumni of Mellencamp Sr. High have learned that their old Alma Mater is soon to be demolished. To show their school spirit, they’ve decided to throw one last all-class reunion. So get together with long absent friends and classmates. Find out whatever happened to that old flame.

Get chewed out by your former gym teacher, just like the good old days. Its guaranteed to be the party of a lifetime if you live that long!

Fri Jan 4, 2019 Mike Munson House Concert - 7:00 pm | $10 The Jive Mill 3542 Kenosha Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Mike Munson makes his home in Winona, Minnesota, a town sandwiched between the Mississippi River and the bluffs, with train tracks cutting through its middle. Well known for playing outstanding slide guitar blues, the driving

A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

TLA Live Jazz Music Imminent Brewing in Northfield – Dec. 30 TLA is the combination of three top tier Twin Cities jazz players who happen to have deep connections to Northfield.

Bassist Kevin Clements taught jazz bass at Carleton College for years when he wasn’t flying as a commercial pilot or gigging with folks like Rosemary Clooney, Robert Goulet or any number of Twin Cities jazz greats. Like wise drummer Eric Hanson has been a mainstay in the Twin Cities jazz scene for decades. Dave Hagedorn is among the most in-demand vibes (the vibraphone is that thing that looks like a xylophone) players in the country, having played with some of the most prestigious musicians and organizations in music from Brian Setzer and Phil Hey to the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra and The Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

These three guys will come together at Imminent Brewing on Sunday afternoon to help you wind down your weekend with some cool jazz and a couple relaxing pints.

MUSIC

www.redwingchamber.com/events rhythms in his songs are reminiscent of the trains that barrel through his neighborhood. He’s a humble fellow who loves making food and playing guitar and singing.

Sat Jan 5, 2019

Epiphany Concerts 2019 Jan 5, 6, 2019 7:30 pm | $0-$25 Chapel of Saint Mary - Saint Paul Seminary 2260 Summit Avenue Saint Paul, MN 55105 Consortium Carissimis annual Epiphany Concerts continue to bring the larger works of the Baroque to the Twin Cities audience including Vivaldi Magnificat, and motets & cantatas for voice & orchestra. Consortium Carissimis annual Epiphany Concerts continue to bring the larger works of the Baroque to the Twin Cities audience. On January 5 and 6, founder and artistic director Garrick Comeaux will lead the ensemble in performing motes and cantatas by G.B. Mocchi, Bonifazio Graziani, Giacomo Carissimi and the Magnificat of Antonio Vivaldi.

Fri Jan 11, 2019

Acoustic Gallery - Annie Mack - 7:00 pm | $5 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 Join national awardwinning blues artist, Annie Mack, and her three-piece band for a listening room experience in the Paradise Galleries and Lobby. Enjoy 2 FREE tickets to the show with an overnight stay at the Historic Hutchinson House B&B, located just 3 blocks from the Paradise Center for the Arts in beautiful, historic downtown Faribault.

Sat Jan 12, 2019

The Children Jan 12, 15, 22, 29-31, Feb 1, 5, 10, 2019 7:30 pm | $37-$47

The Jungle Theater 2951 Lyndale Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55408 The Children by Lucy Kirkwood dir. by Casey Stangl JANUARY 12 - FEBRUARY 10, 2019 On the lonely British coast, two retired nuclear scientists reside in a quiet cabin while the outside world erupts in utter chaos. An old friend arrives, revealing a frightening request. Winner of Best Play by The U.K. Writers Guild Awards, The Children is a thought-provoking and haunting drama (The New York Times).

Sun Jan 13, 2019

Cello & Organ Duo Recital - 2:30 pm | Free Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist 11 4th Ave SW Rochester, MN 55902 The Svyati Duo will offer a recital including works

by Vivaldi, J. S. Bach, Rheinberger and Piazzolla.

This duo, made up of cellist REBECCA HEWES and organist JULIAN COLLINGS, is the only regular cello and organ duo in the United Kingdom, and has gained an outstanding reputation around the world.

AUDITIONS GALLERY Purple Door Youth Theater Nov 26 | 5-7 pm

Mankato Craft Beer Expo

Nov 27 | 4-6 pm

New Year, New Perspectives

Sign up for a time online

Verizon Center in Mankato – Jan. 12

Northfield Area All School Show

The Annual Mankato Craft Beer Expo will be at the Verizon Center from 3 to 6 p.m. The expo will showcase the offerings of craft breweries here in Minnesota, as well as all over the United States. Attendees to the expo will have the opportunity to sample beers from over 40 different craft breweries in a commemorative sampling glass. In addition to this, they can enjoy educational seminars throughout the day covering subjects such as Food Pairing, Homebrewing, and the History of Brewing in Minnesota. With brewery and distributor representatives on hand to answer questions, attendees will be able to have an enjoyable and educational experience learning about beer, its components and flavors.

EVENT

www.mankatocraftbeerexpo.com   

Tue Jan 15, 2019

Paris Combo-Live Jan 15, 16, 2019 7:00 pm | $30-$40. Pricing based on location within venue (see map on ticket website for details) Dakota Jazz Club and Restaurant 1010 Nicollet MinneapolisMi, MN 55403 Labelled ‘marvelously eclectic’ by the LA Times, Paris Combo are returning to the US for their 20th tour in January 2019. The musically devious Parisians will be showcasing songs from their latest studio release, Tako Tsubo, as well as favorites from their previous six albums. Their set will once again highlight their signature blend of

GIFT GIVING

Bold & Cold Owatonna – Jan. 19-27 A week-long winter celebration with events and activities and activities that are designed to highlight the Minnesota psyche of “cold noses and warm heart.”

The festival features two busy weekends sandwiched around a week full of activities for young and young-at-heart participants, including a medallion hunt, a candlelight cross country ski, hockey tournament, ice sculpture contest, Crazy Days shopping event and much, much more! Festival buttons will be available for purchase, a percentage of the funds raised will go towards replacing the holiday lights in Central Park.



www.boldcoldowatonna.com

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SocialIce Downtown Rochester – Feb. 7-9

Bloomington Winter Fete Bloomington – Jan. 19-27

SocialICE – Rochester Minnesota’s Ice Bar – transforms the Peace Plaza in the heart of downtown Rochester into an outdoor ice bar experience. At SocialICE, you’ll experience seven 12-foot uniquely designed and themed ice bars – each with signature drinks – lighting effects, live DJ entertainment nightly, ice sculptures, a wide selection of beer and wine, and more. This event is FREE to attend and open to the public.

Bar Buffalo: Jumanji; Chester’s Kitchen & Bar: Pirates of the Caribbean; Dooley’s Pub: Day of the Dead; The Half Barrel Bar & Kitchen: The State of Hockey - MN Wild; Kathy’s Pub: Ghostbusters; The Loop: Three Days of Ice, Fun, & Cocktails - 50th Anniversary of Woodstock ; Martinis at the Kahler Grand: The Incredibles. www.downtownrochestermn.com/events/socialice

The annual Bloomington Winter Fete welcomes winter to the city with a week full of outdoor activities. Kick off Winter Fete by attending the Fat Tire Bike Race in the Minnesota River Valley. Be sure to attend other great events during this winter celebration, which include ski jumping competitions, the Ice Harvest Festival and the Pond Dakota Winter History Festival.

Bloomington Winter Fete is provided free of charge unless otherwise noted.

Sun Jan 27, 2019

Twin Cities Bridal Show 12:00 pm | $15-$20. General Admission= $15-OR- General Admission= $20 Saint Paul River Centre 175 West Kellogg Boulevard St Paul, MN 55102 The Twin Cities Bridal Show is your Go-To for everything you need for your wedding. It is your one opportunity to experience everything up close and in person; taste delicious cakes, see beautiful flowers, and find your dream dress.

Come get inspired, compare options and discover things you never thought of.

www.bloomingtonmn.gov/pr/winter-fete

Fri Feb 1, 2019

Springsteen Tribute St. Cecilia Theater in Winona – Feb. 9

St. Paul Winter Carnvial St. Paul – Jan. 24-Feb. 3 Since 1886, the Saint Paul Winter Carnival has brought family-friendly events and community pride to Saint Paul and the Twin Cities metro area. Through city-wide special events, fun activities and more, the Saint Paul Festival and Heritage Foundation celebrates winter like only Minnesotans can.

St. Paul is the Midwest champion of snow and ice. No one else knows how to waffle back and forth between hardcore survival mode and the let’s-make-the-most-of-it type of fun. The bitter cold won’t hold residents back from lively parades throughout the city, steep sledding hills, hundreds of craft beer selections and a snowplow competition. You’ll soon realize that the Winter Carnival offers many more activities, wondering if the locals have ice coursing through their veins. www.wintercarnival.com

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swinging gypsy jazz, cabaret, French pop, Latin and Middle Eastern rhythms.

Fri Jan 18, 2019

Absolute Theatre’s Blood Brothers Jan 18, 24, 26, 2019 7:00 pm | $25 Rochester Civic Theatre 20 Cvic Center Drive SE Roch-

26

ester, MN 55904 A musical by Willy Russell Directed by Kathy KeechJan. 17-19 and 24-26 at 7 pm and Jan. 27, 2019 at 2 p.m. ‘Tell me it’s not true. Say it’s just a story...’ A contemporary nature versus nurture plot, revolving around fraternal twins who were separated at birth, one raised with wealth, the other in poverty. Not knowing they are twins and despite attempts to keep them apart, they become fast friends until they both fall in love

with the same girl, causing a life altering rift. ‘A genuine crowd pleaser...Blood Brothers remains a one-of-a-kind show...and no musical theater fan should fail to experience it.’ - Theater Week Run Like Hell - America’s Premier Pink Floyd Show 7:30 pm | $15-$27 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 Run Like Hell celebrates the sights and sounds of one of

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composer best known for The Godfather film scores, comes to Minnesota Opera for the first time ever. Groom-to-be Fadinard gallops around Paris on his wedding day in search of a straw hat to replace the one his horse has inadvertently eaten. The bright and breezy score perfectly captures the increasingly ridiculous situation that rides on the edge of chaos. After seeing this 1950s madcap romp, youll never look at a hator a night at the operathe same way again! DATES: Jan 26 (7:30pm), Jan 29 (7:30pm), Jan 31 (7:30pm), Feb 2 (8pm), Feb 3 (2pm) COMPOSER Nino Rota LIBRETTIST Ernesta Rota LANGUAGE Sung in Italian with English translations projected above the stage.

Led by Minnesota Music Award Recipient Mick Sterling, the show is fueled by a 12-piece powerhouse band channeling the mighty E Street Band including a 3 piece horn section. The night will feature performances of hits and deep tracks from Springsteen’s classic catalog.

The Highway 61 Concert Series is held at the historic St. Cecilia Theater on the campus of Cotter Schools and consists of 11 live music events between October 2018 and May 2019. In 2017, the theater underwent a major renovation, boasting excellent sight-lines and acoustics and seats 408 patrons. The spacious lobby area features beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverage sales before and during all performances. www.visitwinona.com/events the world’s most successful and influential bands of all time. Featuring six highly accomplished Minnesota musicians and vocalists, Run Like Hell meticulously recreates the unique sound an spectacular visual show of Pink Floyd. Relive all the hits from classic albums such as Dark Side of the Moon, The Wall, Wish You Were Here and many others. Make it a night to remember with an overnight stay at the Historic Hutchinson House B&B, located just 3 blocks from the Paradise Center for the Arts.

Receive 2 FREE tickets with your overnight stay. ($54 value).

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Sat Jan 26, 2019

Blame Not the Bard - 7:00 pm | $5-$10. $10 adult / $5 student / FREE for RCC students Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College 1900 8th Ave NW Austin, MN 55912 Blame Not the Bard is on a mission: to bring the stories of Ireland alive...and to have fun doing it. Featuring a broad range of Irish songs, fiery fiddling, and their very own one-man-band, this young eastern Iowa trio plays with the kind of energy that makes it tough to believe they’re not

a bigger group. Whether you fancy a jazzy twist on ‘My Son John,’ an energetic take on ‘Finnegan’s Wake,’ or the more traditional stylings of the classic, ‘Whiskey in the Jar,’ Blame Not the Bard is sure to have something for everyone. http://blamenotthebard.com/ MN Opera” The Italian Straw Hat” Jan 26, 29, 31, 2019 7:30 pm | $25-$215 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 THE ITALIAN STRAW HAT Brimming with Laughs. This uproarious comedy, by the

Lyra Baroque Presents: Music for Baroque Spas 7:30 pm | $5-$25. Adult $25; Senior/MPR Member $20; Student $5 Mount Olive Church 2830 18th Avenue NW Rochester, MN 55901 Featuring the velvety tone of Wilbert Hazelzet on baroque flute, this charming program will transport us to the spas of Baroque Germany with joyful selections that will be the perfect mid-winter remedy.

Sat Feb 2, 2019

The Buddy Holly 60th Anniversary Show - 7:30 pm | $12-$25 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 Gary Rue (Fab 6 and Sensational Sleepers) is proud to present the original Buddy Holly Story band for the History Theatre’s production of ‘Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story’ starring Nicholas Freeman as Buddy Holly. This quartet will perform songs from the original playlist of the show along with a few hidden gems which will

A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

suprise and delight. Make it an extra special evening with an overnight stay at the Historic Hutchinson House B&B, located just 3 blocks from the Paradise Center for the Arts in beautiful, downtown Faribault.

Receive 2 FREE tickets to the show with your overnight stay.

MN Opera” The Italian Straw Hat” - 8:00 pm | $25-$215 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 THE ITALIAN STRAW HAT Brimming with Laughs. This uproarious comedy, by the composer best known for The Godfather film scores, comes to Minnesota Opera for the first time ever. Groom-to-be Fadinard gallops around Paris on his wedding day in search of a straw hat to replace the one his horse has inadvertently eaten. The bright and breezy score perfectly captures the increasingly ridiculous situation that rides on the edge of chaos.

Fri Feb 15, 2019

My Romance: The Singers’ Valentine Gala - 6:00 pm | $70-$100. $70-Regular Ticket$100-Support-a-Singer ticket (includes a ticket for you & a ticket for a Singer) Oak Ridge Country Club, 700 Oak Ridge Rd Hopkins, MN 55305 My Romance: The Singers’

Valentine Gala February 15th, 2019- 6pm Oak Ridge Country Club (700 Oak Ridge Rd, Hopkins) Join the Singers at their annual Valentine Gala, held at Oak Ridge Country Club. A dinner, auctions, and karaoke make for a fun-filled party in support of The Singers’ mission and music making. Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/ events/366848734076678/

Love is in the

The Singers Main Website: www.singersmca.org The Singers Box Office: https:// www.mkt.com/the-singers/ Snow White: The Queen’s Fair Daughter - 7:00 pm | $6-$10. Adults $10.00 Youth 14 & under $6.00 Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Come see the original 1808

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two young people navigate through the tough times of a country at war, discovering what they have to give up to get what they really want.

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Last Train to Nibroc - 7:30

pm | $12-$25 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 May and Raleigh meet in 1940 on an eastbound train that carries the bodies of F. Scott Fitzgerald and Nathanael West. Raleigh wants to be a writer and May wants to be a missionary. Nominated for Best Play in 2000 by the New York Drama League, these

Minnesota Restaurant Association’s 2012 Restaurant of the Year

Sun Feb 3, 2019

MN Opera” The Italian Straw Hat” - 2:00 pm | $25-$215 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 THE ITALIAN STRAW HAT Brimming with Laughs. This uproarious comedy, by the composer best known for The Godfather film scores, comes to Minnesota Opera for the first time ever. Groom-to-be Fadinard gallops around Paris on his wedding day in search of a straw hat to replace the one his horse has inadvertently eaten. The bright and breezy score perfectly captures the increasingly ridiculous situation that rides on the edge of chaos.

version of this well-known fairy tale. What truly happened to Snow White according to the Brothers Grimm?

Will Snow White’s prince still save the day? Tickets available at Austin Artworks Center, Downtown Austin, MN, austinareaarts.org or 1 hour prior to performance time.

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.

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Warm up with good

beer & Music

VOTED SoMinn SCENE 2018 Best Local Beer & Small Music Venue LOOK WHO’S COMING in JAN. & FEB. Pushing Chain • Mark allen trio • Mestifonía matthew griswold • LOUIS & Dan • Captain Kaliber FRED the bear • Matt Arthur & the Bratlanders Urban Hillbilly Quartet • Mark Kreitzer The frothy band • tower soudan • TLA live jazZ

Check our Website for Dates & Times

519 Division Street South - Unit 2 • Northfield, MN 55057

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Saturday 12-11 • Sunday 12-9

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Ian Laird Ian is a Lighting Specialist and designer at The Design Element, located in the Mankato Design Center. He can help you with all your lighting and design needs from planning to product selection.

The Ins and Outs of Custom Tile

P

lanning a custom tile installation may seem simple on the surface, but there’s a lot involved to make it happen. There are various types of tile per surface application, varying tile widths, grout selection, finishing pieces (bullnose or edging profile), and underlayment to consider not to mention the relevancy of shape, style, and SPONSORED BY color of the tile The Design Element itself. The art of 1711 Premier Drive tile design really Mankato, MN requires a keen 507.345.8708 eye and a deft hand to achieve a lasting look. I suggest doing some research before you begin and I’ll provide a few suggestions to help you on your way.

First, start with your design. Do you want the impact of the layout to be based on color, style, shape, pattern, or a combination of these? Is grout a factor in the design or do you want its presence to be minimal? Is the texture important

or is the size of the tile important – or both? How do you want the tiles arranged? Many of the answers to these questions will determine the style or – more aptly – the decade to which the style was popular. Knowing a little something about popular tile arrangements and what is on trend today could help your design from appearing “dated” too soon.

Second, choose the right type of tile. Sometimes a wall tile can only be used on the wall – and sometimes even if a wall tile has a matte texture for the floor, make sure it’s strong enough to be used on the floor. Porcelain tiles are the way to go for a durable floor tile, but are heavier and should be installed professionally. Ceramic tile, although easier to cut and less expensive, is not nearly as durable as a porcelain tile and should never be installed outdoors. Oftentimes the handcrafted, decadent tiles you see are ceramic tiles and should only be used on the walls.

However, there are now patterned porcelain and cement tiles on the market that have their own rules for use.

Third, choose the right edging profile. Generally, there are five ways you can “edge” a tile

A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

design. The first, easiest, and best way to do this is to have it die directly into another material seamlessly. This would be when there’s a transition either to an opposite wall (perpendicular to the tile) or possibly to another tile or material of equal height. The trick is to match tile thicknesses or else you end up with edging option # 2 : a transition piece. Getting the correct transition piece seems minor but can make or break a design. Tile is unforgiving and smoothly connecting disparate elements affects the balance of the whole and the further function of the space. If you’re lucky to find a cohesive decorative transition piece, such as a decorative “pencil” piece for your tile this might be your saving grace and is option # 3 for your edging. Option # 4 is closely related and is a bullnose tile. Bullnose tile refers to the rounded or finished end of a tile that is made from the same material as your field tile, but often only comes in certain sizes and is rounded or finished on only one end of the tile. Sometimes this interrupts the pattern you’re trying to make and is not always ideal, nor does it always solve difficulty in transitioning from one material to the next. The final option available for finishing a

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tile edge is to pick a substance that doesn’t need a finished edge at all. This generally refers to using a through-body natural stone or a glass tile.

Since both of these types are naturally finished throughout, you can end the grout when the tile ends and keep an open look. Whether you want this look of the open grout is up to you, but is nevertheless an option in those two scenarios.

Fourth, choose the right professionals. I am a professional designer and work with professional installers every day and we’re here to help with your project. There’s something about a professionally tiled space, both designed and installed, that elevates the look and function. Tile is intricate and fussy in the details and involving a designer early on in the project will save so much time and effort! Let someone who’s made all the mistakes in the past with years of experience help you avoid the same pitfalls in your own project.

We at The Design Element want to see your project be a success if not for the beautiful pictures at the end than for the satisfaction of achieving a cohesive stylish and functional space. But, mostly it’s for the beautiful pictures at the end!

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Photographing SoMinn:

Don’t Doubt Dubuque 30

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

S

ometimes Iowa gets a bad rap.

But the cornfields, open spaces and winding roads are quite serene to my husband and me; Carl has biked them for years on the Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI).

The landscape is equally lovely with a blanket of snow on a sunny November afternoon that fades to dusk, lending itself to silhouetted cattle and barns along the

horizon.

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Our destination was Dubuque. When I later told a friend we’d enjoyed a short getaway to the “birthplace of Iowa,” she looked puzzled and essentially asked, “Why?” The answer was easy.

Located along the Mississippi River, Dubuque is host to a wide variety of attractions.

The first is the abundance of interesting architecture.

Shortly into our urban hike, we meandered into the Redstone Inn & Suites. Later we would wander into the Richards House Bed & Breakfast, where host Michelle gave us a tour of what has been described as “one of the finest and most original Victorian homes” in the city. The “wow” factor was off the charts.

We sipped hot beverages in the Millwork District; a friendly gentleman lead us to the expansive warehouses and spoke

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with pride of successful efforts to revitalize the once thriving riverfront.

We learned that Dubuque is the home of four colleges and universities. And we learned it is home to the Fenelon Place Elevator, the “world’s steepest, shortest scenic railway.” We climbed into the cable cars and enjoyed a thrilling but short ride to the top, where a photo-worthy view of the business district awaited.

Carl sampled beer in a hip brewery or two. And we admired

the colorful and expansive murals that decorated downtown. We received affection from a darling dog at All Paws Salon & Spaw.

And we were in awe of the stained glass windows at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.

Finally, we hiked extensively at the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area, where the Julien Dubuque Monument draws visitors.

Aren’t you glad she essentially asked “why?”

SMS

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ALBUM REVIEW

By Daniel G. Moir editor@southernminnscene.com

A

Masterpiece about a Generation raised and living in a digitally online age. Pure eclectic pop perfection. One of the best albums of 2018.

Album Grade: A+

The 1975 A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships

Say what you will about Manchester’s The 1975; you can’t say they lack ambition. Prior to recording their third album, bandleader Matthew Healy stated the band’s goals were to match the standings of Radiohead’s OK Computer and The Smiths’ The Queen Is Dead among British Music. No small feat considering the regard that these other third album releases are held on their native isle.

An Inquiry Into Online Relationships not only meets those lofty objectives, it surpasses them. As an exploration of life lived online, the genres incorporated are as varied as the subject matter found on social media.

Simply put, none of the album’s 15 songs bear any stylistic similarity to each other. There are musical references to both John Coltrane and The Blue Nile to be found. While such variance in musical genre would normally be disjointed, here The 1975 deftly incorporate this dis-similarity to tell a greater story.

The band opens each of their records with a different rendition of their “Theme Song” and here the version is heavily auto-tuned and disorienting to set the stage. The album then kicks off with the propulsive “Give Yourself A Try.” Borrowing the riff from “Disorder” by fellow Manc city heroes, Joy Division, Adam Hann’s discordant guitar replicates the sound of an old 56K modem using phone lines to log on the Internet and is the fitting first full album track. Reflecting on the anxieties of growing up in the online age, Healy uses the suicide of a fan (“Jane took her own life at 16.

She was a kid who had the box tattooed on her arm”) to share his own insecurities and failings. The lyrics are pointed with music that reflect the uneasiness of the

times.

“TOOTIMETOOTIMETOOTIME” follows with an undeniably candy-coated melodic hook that provides comforting release from the preceding song. While the music is easy to swallow, the challenging lyrical content doesn’t let up. Using such upbeat dance-styled music as a cover for a song about deception and unfaithfulness works on more than just a few levels.

Pulling lyrics directly from recent headlines, the dizzying “Love It If We Made” it is decidedly topical in nature. Much like Billy Joel’s “We Didn’t Start The Fire,” this song incorporates two chords to deliver an exhausting snapshot of events over the past year, referencing immigration, the opioid crisis, fake news, police brutality while also managing a quick shout out of respect to late rapper Lil Peep.

Late Jazz trumpeter Roy Hargrove guests on the strange “Sincerity Is Scary” to excellent effect. Drumbeats by George Daniel are seemingly out of place with the cacophony of trumpets, horns and the soulful melody that Healy sings. This song about romantic disconnection is uneasy and musically conveys the lack of cohesion between the lovers. Straddling the line between avant-garde jazz and Gospel, this track sits with a delightfully bitter aftertaste that is jarring among the more conventional pop songs found on the album.

While the music matches the lyrics on “Sincerity Is Scary,” Healy and the band again take an opposite approach on “It’s Not Living (If It’s Not With You).” The music is bright, bouncy and catchy and is likely be misunderstood by the casual listener, much like the Police’s “Every Breath You Take” was for a previous generation.

The verses chart out heroin as the true object of the singer’s devotion and draw from Healy’s real-life experience. The lyrics are unflinching and personal set to an engaging melody and danceable beat.

One of the unexpected highlights of A Brief Inquiry… comes midway on the album with “The Man Who Married A Robot/Love Theme.” This track is a Sirivoiced spoken word piece about a lonely man who falls

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Daniel G. Moir has forgotten more about music than all the rest of us know combined. Reach him at editor@southernminnscene.com

®

Monday, Dec 31

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Bottom Line: Audacious, brilliant, complex, engaging and challenging. The 1975 prove themselves to be unique and unmatched in both skill and ambition.

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in love with, and relies on, the Internet for companionship. This song in particular oddly defines the power and significance of the album. Incorporating detached detail, the song leaves it to the listener to draw his or her own emotional judgments. From “Eleanor Rigby” to “Me and My Shadow,” isolation and loneliness are commonly mined songwriting themes, but it is unusual to hear it so descriptively humanized by an automated voice. In the context of the album as a whole, it clarifies the focus of the album.

While The 1975 have incorporated ambient textures in their music in the past, this time around there is liberal use of strings in addition to the synthesizers usually employed. This gives songs like “Inside Your Mind” and “I Like America & America Likes Me” a symphonic gravitas rarely found in pop music.

The soaring “I Always Wanna Die (Sometimes)” is the definition of the BIG song and effectively closes the album. Healy’s voice is completely stripped of effects as he responds directly to Jane from “Give Yourself A Try,” this time more explicitly. Reflecting on the confusion, isolation, and despair of the online experience, he sings, “You win, you lose, you sing the blues. There’s no point in buying concrete shoes. I’ll refuse, and I always want to die sometimes.” This is a different person than he was on their debut album just five years ago. He has grown and learned from fame, drug addiction and life to share that while he may still feel the confusion and angst of his generation, he has perhaps gained greater understanding through experience to develop coping skills. Sometimes it really IS about the journey and The 1975 are excellent guides.

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THE BOOKWORM SEZ By Terri Schlichenmeyer

Hiding Out:

A Memoir of Drugs, Deception, and Double Lives

by Tina Alexis Allen

The Library Book

by Susan Orlean

National Geographic Almanac 2019

Never Home Alone:

From Microbes to Millipedes, Camel Crickets, and Honeybees, the Natural History of Where We Live

by Rob Dunn

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

“Ready or not, here I come!”

Hear that, and if you hadn’t hidden by then, hadn’t found a secret spot, you had a real chance of losing at Hide & Seek.

Get out of sight, though, and you might’ve managed to sneak back home, ready to play another game. As in the memoir “Hiding Out” by Tina Alexis Allen, that game could last for decades.

Growing up, Christina Worthington knew her father hated her.

Her twelve siblings knew it, too, and they reminded her of it often: she was the youngest, her mother’s “lucky thirteen” and the victim of much of her father’s wrath. Starting at about the age of nine, Tina was also the victim of sexual abuse from two of her then-adult brothers.

But she never told anyone about it. Instead, she acted out at school until the nuns were at their wits’ end and her “saint” of a mother was exasperated. At age eleven, a

younger teacher finally took Tina under her wing – and into her bed.

Two years later, by the time her teacher-lover sent her away, Tina knew she was more attracted to girls than to boys. By her mid-teens, she had a college-age girlfriend who lived near her parents’ Washington D.C.-area house, from which she managed to mostly stay away; there was more comfort in the girlfriend’s apartment than there was at her childhood home, where hiding her real self was necessary.

But no one can hide forever.

When her father invited her and her girlfriend to lunch one day, Tina was guarded – and rightfully so, because he figured out her secret and she couldn’t deny. Then he revealed a shocker of his own: he was gay, too.

Within weeks, Tina went from hated daughter to favorite; from ignored to invitee to her father’s dinners and clubs.

They agreed to keep one another’s secrets from the rest of the family, partying, drinking, and doing drugs until the stress of it all bubbled over, Tina couldn’t take the lies anymore, and her lips spilled the truth.

Years later, there was one last secret…

Memoirs, by their very nature, are generally focused

inwardly, to a greater or lesser degree. Count “Hiding Out” on the latter side.

Starting with a raucous anecdote of sibling rivalry before Christmas Mass, you’re in for more than a look-at-me memoir. This is, in fact, a whole-family tale in which author Tina Alexis Allen puts the focus mainly on her parents, with sibs ringing the action as needed. Using that as a base, tales eke out tantalizingly slowly over the course of this book, and some are shocking, told so casually that you’ll get a “Wait. What?” backlash. Don’t be surprised if you read the occasional sentence twice, in disbelief.

Add a tight window of time and a deep unsubstantiatedrumor-type mystery that feels like a character unto itself, and you’ve got a compulsively readable book that’s, at its close, very unique. If a memoir like “Hiding Out” is what you want for a long winter’s night, then get ready.

The possibilities seem endless.

Row upon row of books awaits you, each representing a fact to learn, a crime to solve, a future to visit, a place to explore, or a life to share. Your local library holds old tales and new stories but in “The Library Book” by Susan Orlean, it can hold a community together, too.

The fire alarm was known to be faulty at the Los Angeles Public Library. It was always going off for no reason; patrons knew it, as did staff. So when the alarm screamed again on the morning of April 28, 1986, most people there vacated the library with an air of unconcerned been-there-done-this.

Within minutes, it became obvious that this was no false alarm.

Because of how the library had been constructed decades prior, what started as a small fire in a small area soon became

a conflagration. Boosted by architecture, the fire fed on itself until, mere hours later, millions of books, manuscripts, priceless documents, maps, collector’s items, and operating equipment were lost. It was the largest library fire at that time in the United States.

Throughout its existence, the LAPL had seen its share of history within the city. It had become a beloved home for bookworms, a resource for the homeless, and a place for learning. Recognizing what its loss could represent, Los Angelinos sprang into action, filmmakers made donations, citizens held fundraisers, and institutions around the world showed their support. Alas, many of the materials were lost forever.

In the days after the fire, tips poured in and one of them led investigators to Harry Peak, a charming gay “people pleaser” who was also unreliable. Peak ultimately confessed to the crime of arson.

And then he unconfessed. In months to come, in fact, he changed his story as easily as he changed clothes, baffling authorities. Was Harry Peak a firebug? Or was he just a guy who craved attention and would stretch a story to get it?

Here’s why you’re going to fall in love with author Susan

Orlean: in her quest for full knowledge on this subject, she decided to burn a book (gasp!), a task that gave her knifesharp anguish that only a booklover can know. Indeed, much of this account will hurt your soul, if you’re someone who loves books.

But that’s not all you’ll find in “The Library Book.”

While crime solving itself is fascinating, Orlean takes her book to a most satisfying next step, and reading it is like wearing a piece of jewelry: the story of the LAPL fire and its aftermath is the gold at the base, holding everything together – irresistible, but not quite enough. Orlean’s curiosity for and explanations of the inner workings of a large library are the jewels. They are what make this book sparkle.

Book lovers and library users should read it for its behindthe-scenes not-so-secrets. This book seems meant just for you who adore the written word, so clear your calendar and open “The Library Book.”

You know where to find a copy.

You know?

Of course you do, because you’re no dummy.

You’re on top of things, ear to the ground, you make it your business to have the 4-1-1. Yes, you know – until you don’t, which is when you need “National Geographic Almanac 2019.”

For several years now, the NatGeo folks have put out a children’s almanac each fall, in which kids could find information and fun facts that they can drop into conversations to impress grown-ups and others. National Geographic Kids almanacs are fun, but while you’re certainly welcome to read them, they’re more for the under-13 set.

Finally, though, adults can know things, too.

Take, for instance, the planning of your next vacation or weekend getaway. “National Geographic Almanac 2019” has ideas for hiking, exploring, diving, camping, and eating

in America and around the world. That, of course, includes photos of spectacular places you’ll want to add to your itinerary.

With the legacy like the National Geographic magazine behind it, you shouldn’t be surprised to know that science, oceanography, environmental concerns, and wildlife have their own sections inside this book. Learn about the Spinosaurus (and be glad you didn’t live near a river 97 million years ago). Read a mini-biography about astrophysicist Jedidah Isler, “the first African-American woman to earn a Ph.D. in astrophysics from Yale.” Read about coral reefs, dolphin brains, and ancient humans.

Speaking of us, learn about languages, their evolution, and how new languages become new ways to communicate.

See how researchers are working to make sure we all have enough to eat in coming decades. Find out why you can compare a virus to “a kind of vampire,” read about inventions that we can’t live without, check out a few quick bios of America’s First Ladies, see why addictions take hold of your brain, find out how to be happy, learn about the benefits of spending some time in a park today, enjoy photographs snapped around the world, and take a light quiz or two.

Why leave all the fun to the kids?

Indeed, you shouldn’t have to, which is why “National Geographic Almanac 2019” is an easy pick for any home.

Filled with the goodness you’ve come to expect from its parent publication, this book is part reference, part browsing fodder, and part irresistible. Dive in on any page and pop back out in a minute or three; jump back in anywhere and learn about something else. Articles are brief - which leads to this: brevity could be an advantage or it may rankle a reader, since subjects are presented on pages long enough to pique interest but not quite long enough to satisfy a deeply curious mind.

Consider this, then, a spring-board book, or a good argument settler for anyone ages 13 and up. Consider it as homework helper or a supplement to the National Geographic Kids almanacs. Consider it, if your family needs a good full-color, all-around general-interest time-killer but beware: with photos, fun facts, and maps inside, “National Geographic Almanac 2019” will be addicting, you know.

Ahhhhh, a quiet night at home.

You’ve been promising yourselves that for a long time. A nice dinner. Maybe a movie, or soft music and conversation. It’s gonna be perfect: just you, your beloved and, as in the new book “Never Home Alone” by Rob Dunn, a few billion bacteria, a hundred insects, a parasite or two, and maybe a fungi.

Back when you were a child, chances are that you spent a lot of time outdoors getting dirty, sweaty, and germy. Today’s kids, says Dunn, spend an average of 93 percent of their week inside, in what’s often a place that’s as germ-free as possible. Dunn and his colleagues learned, however, that our homes are actually teeming with life we rarely notice, critters we can’t see, and creatures we share without even trying. We live amidst abundant biodiversity, and it’s “beneficial to us, necessary

even.”

Bacteria, for example, get an overall bad rap. Of all the millions of bacteria known, “Just fifty” or so are dangerous to humans; we absolutely need the rest to exist. Without the bacteria in your gut, you’d be in a world of hurt. Without it in your food, some dishes wouldn’t taste as good. Says Dunn, we need bacteria so much that the kindest thing you could ever do to your kids is to let them get filthy dirty, or to take a page from the Amish and buy your kids a cow.

Bacteria are everywhere, including space stations, shower heads, and that glass of water you just drank. Your house is loaded with fungi that are slowly eating it - so many kinds of fungi that some aren’t even named yet. The average home holds “at least a hundred species of arthropods,” and cockroaches don’t make you nearly as sick as will the people you come in contact with.

So. It’s pretty unsettling to think of those germs in your home, your food, and your bed, isn’t it? Argh, what can you do to eliminate the creepy-crawlies that are in, on, and around you?

“The answer,” says Dunn,” is that you shouldn’t.”

If you could somehow infuse the curiosity of a six-year-old with PhD-level intelligence, imagine what wondrous things you could learn. Or why not make it easier on yourself, and just read “Never Home Alone.”

Yes, that delightful, open-minded gee-whiz is exactly what makes this book so enjoyable. Surprisingly, it’s doubly so for a germophobe, an arachnophobe, or anyone who can’t stand the idea of intruders. Author Rob Dunn has a way of brushing fears aside so he can tell you about something that’s too cool to miss, or a fact that makes you say, “Wow!” You’ll kind of forget that fear for a moment, you’ll be almost impressed, and more likely to relax more, clean less.

Science-minded readers will love this book. It’s filled with things you’ll want to know for the health of it. Really, for anyone who’s alive, “Never Home Alone” is a book to share with a few million of your newest best friends.

A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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Hiding Out: A Memoir of Drugs, Deception, and Double Lives by Tina Alexis Allen, c.2018, Dey St. Books $16.99 / $21.00 in Canada 288 pages

The Library Book by Susan Orlean, c.2018, Simon & Schuster $287.00 / $34.99 in Canada 321 pages

National Geographic Almanac 2019, c.2018, National Geographic $19.99 / $25.99 in Canada 399 pages

Never Home Alone: From Microbes to Millipedes, Camel Crickets, and Honeybees, the Natural History of Where We Live by Rob Dunn, c.2018, Basic Books $28.00 / $36.50 in Canada 325 pages

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THE BOOKWORM SEZ By Terri Schlichenmeyer

The Mystery of the Exploding Teeth and Other Curiosities from the History of Medicine

by Thomas Morris

Grandma knows best.

For every sore throat, broken bone, and cough, she had a remedy. It might not’ve been exactly pure medical science, but she swore by it. It might’ve tasted terrible and worked only half the time, but hey! It could’ve been worse, as you’ll see in ‘The Mystery of the Exploding Teeth” by Thomas Morris.

Not long ago, in a library far, far away, Thomas Morris was doing research on heart disease and found something much more interesting: old medical journals from the days when doctors believed that leeches and laxatives were perfect cures for what ailed their patients. Morris was fascinated and he “could not stop reading.” The entries he found were horrifying but “just as intriguing.”

Here, he presents the best of the worst, starting at the bottom, literally, with items that were delicately removed from places they never should have been. That includes cutlery which, if you’ve ever believed that eighteenth-century

Southern minn

Scene

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

folks were stuffy, will make you re-think your stance.

In many cases, diseases that we’ve conquered or can easily treat today were perceived as complete unknowns, two centuries ago. Life was harder then: there was no anesthesia for any kind of surgery, kidney stones “were far more prevalent,” childbirth was a dicey thing, and being healthy depended on a balance of “humors,” which has nothing to do with laughter.

Even so, some “cures” are downright hilarious, given what we know now.

In the late 1700s, for example, the acid from a crow’s stomach was used in ointment to relieve pain. Pigeon butts were popular in nineteenth-century pediatrics. Arsenic and mercury were common medicines and were often smoked.

And if you had a tapeworm, no problem: there’s a trap for that.

And yet – we survived, as a species. People lost limbs and lived. They had things driven into their skulls, and walked away. They got really, really bad advice and didn’t die.

And, sometimes, you have to wonder how…

The very first thing you’ll need to know when you find “The Mystery of the Exploding Teeth” is that it’s not a mystery in the sense that you’re used to. No, author Thomas Morris tells, up-front, about every crushed limb, every

dynamite burp and pigeon butt in wince-worthy, laughable detail.

But even though these things are humorous from today’s vantage point, Morris pokes fun in a respectful manner that isn’t mean-spirited. It’s more on the playful side, pulling old medical reports from the dust, explaining where needed, and cringing along with readers. Even better, these accounts go beyond the usual leeches-and-mercury tales; instead, most of what Morris presents hasn’t had a good exam in decades.

Despite their age – and many are 200-plus years old – these articles seem fresh.

While Morris says that this book consists mostly of stories “written by doctors, for doctors,” there’s certainly no reason why it can’t be enjoyed by anyone who has interest in medicine, history, or humor. Even Grandma would agree: if boredom is what ails you, “The Mystery of the Exploding Teeth” is an excellent remedy.

The Mystery of the Exploding Teeth and Other Curiosities from the History of Medicine by Thomas Morris c.2018, Dutton $26.00 / $35.00 in Canada 353 pages

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Start Your Bachelor’s at SCC

Complete your Associate Degree at SCC and then transfer your credits directly to a Minnesota State university as a Junior.

CHOOSE FROM: Associate of Arts and Associate of Fine Arts

Transfer Pathways in Business, Communication Studies, and Pre-Social Work

Transfer Agreements to Specific Bachelor’s Programs

er Options at: f s n a r T s ’ C C S t u o ab Learn more u/transfer

ed . l a r t n e c h t u o s . www

An affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and educator.

This document is available in alternative formats to individuals with disabilities, consumers with hearing or speech disabilities may contact us via their preferred Telecommunications Relay Service.

A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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