Rochester Magazine | May 2024

Living Spaces + Best Breakfasts

FASHIONSpring

Where to shop local for the latest trends.

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8 Junk Drawer

10 Shortcuts

Always see this blooming around Mayo? It's their Flower of Hope; 31 Days of May, 31 Things To Do; "Legally Blonde" at RCT; Three Ways You Can Help ...; more.

12 Oddchester

24 Spring Fashion, Rochester-Style

Colored denim. All things oversized. Barbie. 2024's trends, and where to try them on right now.

38 The broken backboard. The upset of a Rochester powerhouse. How the 1963 Plainview High School boys basketball team almost made their "Hoosiers" run.

46 Rochester's top breakfast spots

The Cubano Benedict. Elvis pancakes. “Pannekoeken!”

Seven of your favorite restaurants. You voted. We breakfasted.

59 Outdoor living

Dining-height fire tables. Native landscaping. Pergolas. How to create your ideal backyard getaway.

14 Random Rochesterite

Lisa Brunnette, vice president of Park Lane Jewelry, talks about a number of things, including— most importantly—meeting writer Jennifer Koski on the dance floor at the North Star Bar ("We were all dressed up from the gala!").

23 Three Ways You Can Help

One group doing good in Rochester. And how you can help.

68 Rochester, Retro

70 The Walk Through

Inside one cool home you could own right now.

74 Ten (or so) questions

Heather Nessler, Executive Director of Spark (the children's museum of Rochester), talks about, among other things, how she "rocked an epic clarinet solo" in the St. Charles Flower Fest Queen pageant.

On the cover: Ashley Moberg, owner of Real Deals, models for our Spring Fashion shoot. Photo by Olive Juice Studios.

Advertising Director

TESSA OLIVE 507-281-7469 tolive@rochestermagazine.com

Advertising

MELISSA CHERRY

GEHLING

Graphic Designers

BURLINGAME

Contributing Writers

ALEXA ANDERSON

JENNIFER HAUGEN KOSKI HADLEY LANGE

JOHN MULLIGAN

THOMAS WEBER

Photo Supervisor JOE AHLQUIST

Contributing Photographers

MAYA GIRON

KEN KLOTZBACH

OLIVE JUICE STUDIOS

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For $29.95, you’ll get a year’s subscription to Rochester Magazine. Or $50 for two years. $65 for three years. Just call 507-285-7676.

Junk Drawer

1. When we were looking for a cool location for this month's photo shoot—indoors, with a classic fashion vibe—we reached out to Christine Stahl and Natalie Victoria at The Tap House. Whenever we—or anyone, really—need help with something like this, Christine and Natalie always step up. This was no exception. They let us in before they opened. They let us set up whatever we needed.

2. When I say "us," above, I really mean Roch Mag Ad Director Tessa Olive as well as Scott and Kelly from Olive Juice Studios Photography. These shoots center around lots of logistics— scheduling models, coordinating outfits, scouting locations (see above)—and Tessa and Scott and Kelly took care of all of that.

3. One last plug for The Tap House: Whatever the season, they offer some of the best backdrops—and views—in the city, from their ultra hip downstairs booths to their old-school rooftop summer seating. We'd also like to thank them for creating the best Buffalo Cheese Curds we've ever eaten.

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shortcuts LEGALLY BLONDE, THE REMIX RCT stages the classic comedy, in musical form

BY HADLEY LANGE

PHOTO BY JOE AHLQUIST

You probably know the story: Elle Woods, a sorority president and fashion merchandising major, decides to go to Harvard Law School in an attempt to win her ex-boyfriend back. Along the way Elle makes new friends, defends a murder suspect, and defies expectations.

But here's what you might not know about RCT's production.

You Chose It: Legally Blonde: The Musical is the first Rochester Civic Theatre show chosen by you, the audience. In an RCT first, they opened up voting for show options in a Facebook poll.

It Features Four-Legged Talent: Rochester’s pup population showed out in force for auditions, with more than a dozen dogs vying for two parts. Bruiser (Elle Woods’ pink sweater-wearing dog), will be played

by Uzi (left), a long-haired Chihuahua. Rufus (Paulette's dog) will be played by a Corgi named Clank (right).

You’ll Be Seeing Double: Elle Woods will be played— alternating—by Gabrielle Barnidge (right) and Anna Brenna (left). Barnidge is reprising her role as Elle Woods (Wits’ End Theatre) after 10 years. She most recently played the fashionably evil Lily St. Regis in Rochester

Civic Theatre’s production of Annie. Brennan is a senior at Byron High School and has been in several Rochester Civic Theatre productions including The Little Mermaid (Adella).

There Will Be Music To Our Ears: The actors and actresses will be accompanied by a pit orchestra directed by John Davis. If that’s not enough, the Mayo High School Drumline will also make an appearance.

Legally Blonde: The Musical will be at the Rochester Civic Theatre May 17 through June 2 with shows at 7pm Thursdays through Saturdays and 2pm on Sundays. Tickets start at $30 ($27 for seniors and $22 for students); rochestercivictheatre.org, 507-282-8481.

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Three weekends. 4,000 miles.

BY STEVE LANGE

The Total Solar Eclipse. April 6-9. In 2017, I witnessed my first total eclipse.

Since that moment, I've spent seven years on a mission to tell everyone about my experience, and why they need to experience exactly what I experienced.

The next total eclipse would take place on April 8, 2024. I used every opportunity I could find to bring that up to whomever would listen.

You didn't want to be in an elevator with me—or, say, in line at Kwik Trip—if Bonnie Tyler's "Total Eclipse Of The Heart" came over the speakers.

I have explained to complete strangers how they could see Bailey’s Beads ("the sparkling effect caused by the sun shimmering through the moon’s mountains!")! Witness a 360-degree sunset! High-five total strangers from the excitement of it all!

Whenever someone talked about seeing a partial eclipse, I couldn't stop myself from saying the following:

"Well, about that. This is a quote from Michael Bakich of Astronomy magazine: 'Likening a partial eclipse to a total eclipse is like comparing almost dying to dying.' It's the difference between night and day. Literally."

If only one person took my advice, it was worth it.

On Sunday, the day before this year's total eclipse, our family headed to West Lafayette, Indiana for a VRBO booked months ago.

We taped our "Totality Or Bust" signs in our windows. Wore the matching eclipse T-shirts wife Lindy had bought.

I woke up my family at 6 a.m. on Monday and we headed to chase cloud-free skies. Lucked into a small festival in Greensburg, Indiana by 11 a.m.

A band played 80s music. The mayor walked through the crowd handing out Moon Pies.

We got a family photo taken in front of a backdrop that included the photographer's teenage daughter and son dressed in giant sun and moon costumes.

Then we sat in lawn chairs next to hundreds of strangers and watched the moon slowly cover the sun until, at 3:06 p.m., we experienced nearly four minutes of total eclipse.

We saw Bailey’s Beads! Witnessed a 360-degree sunset! High-fived total strangers!

On the drive back, we stopped for dinner. The waitress commented on our T-shirts.

"My boyfriend and I were going to drive into the total eclipse," she said. "But we figured we were already at like 99 percent here, so ..."

My mouth started to open, but my wife and kids shot me the kinds of glares that scream "Do NOT explain to this poor woman about Bailey's Beads."

"And please, for god's sake, do NOT repeat that Michael Bakich quote again."

Chess Tournament. April 12-15. Son Henry and I have played chess almost every day. We send moves through the mail for games that last months.

A few weeks ago, Henry, 22, casually mentioned—in one-sentence of an hourlong phone conversation—that it might be cool to be in Toronto for the Candidates Chess Tournament, in which the world's best players vie for the chance to play the reigning World Chess Champion.

He did not mention me going with him. Or anything more about it really.

I immediately checked on ticket availability. Scoped out hotels. Mapped out the 1,000-mile (one-way) route.

Then called Henry, who lives in Milwaukee, to see when he could go.

"I don't have anything on the weekend, though I have to work on Monday

morning," he said. "But I'm not sure if ..."

"I'll pick you up on Friday!" I told him.

We were in Toronto by midnight Friday. On Saturday morning, as we walked to Toronto's Great Hall, a crowd of people waited outside, hoping to catch a glimpse of the chess players as they entered the venue.

A couple of passersby, seeing a crowd of people waiting to get photographs and autographs, asked Henry and I what celebrity we were waiting for.

"This is the Candidates Tournament," I said. "You'll get to see the best chess players in the world."

They did not stick around for autographs. Anyway, we got to watch—watch!—hours of chess, live and in person.

We left Toronto at 5 p.m. on Sunday. Got back to Milwaukee by 2 a.m. so Henry could work on Monday morning.

Catan Nationals Qualifier. April 20. During COVID, with our entire family quarantined together, we played various board games every night, Codenames or Telestrations or Act Your Wage (a game created by financial expert Dave Ramsey).

Then we discovered Catan. We were hooked. During one three-month period, we played Catan 300 times. I know because we kept a giant Dry Erase board on the wall tracking everyone's wins and losses.

This year, the Catan National Championships will be held in Minneapolis.

And—this upcoming weekend as I'm writing this—they will be holding a Catan Nationals Qualifiers in Burnsville.

On Monday, after getting back from Toronto, I asked Lindy what we had going on this weekend.

"I don't think we have anything," she said. "But I'm not sure if ..."

"We'll leave at 8:30 a.m.!" I told her.

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RandomRochesterite

One resident, numerous anecdotes |

Name: Lisa Brunnette

Age: 56

Occupation: Company vice president, Park Lane Jewelry

Where we found her: North Star Bar

We met on the dance floor at the North Star. That was kind of crazy. I was at a fundraising event with my friend Dianna that night. While we’re sitting there, she goes, “I don’t want this night to end. We need to do something!” I’d probably been to the North Star five times in my life at that point, but every time I’ve gone, I’ve had a blast. It really is a great place to go when you want to hear great music.

I’d been at the same event. Yes! And then you came along and we were dancing and the entire night was perfect. You couldn’t redo it. We were all dressed up from the gala!

Are you originally from Rochester? No, I grew up in Fairmont, Minnesota. I was born in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, on an Army base during Vietnam time. My dad had been drafted into Vietnam. But we moved to Fairmont when I was three, four years old and I grew up there.

What brought you to Rochester? I moved to Rochester in 2013, when I married my husband Dave. But I had a tie to Rochester before that. My first husband, Tom, had a rare blood disease called myelofibrosis, so we came to Mayo Clinic and he ended up having a transplant. We lived in the Gift of Life transplant house for 10 months in 2006-2007. Tom passed in June 2007. But we had been coming here for 10 years as he was doctoring—he was diagnosed when he was 37 and passed when he was 47.

I’m sorry to hear that. So many crazy things happened while we were there. I feel like I’ve had two different lives—and this was God connecting them. There was a woman, Julie, staying at the Gift of Life when we were. She’d had a heart transplant. We were both 30-something and became friends. She said to me, “I’ve got to show you this house I love.” So we drove there and she says, “Could you imagine yourself

By JENNIFER KOSKI Photo by MAYA GIRON

living in this house?” And now it’s the house I live in.

Wow. How did that happen? When Dave and I got married, we wanted to find a house together in Rochester. Dave found one for us to look at, and as he’s driving me to it, we’re driving the same road that Julie had taken me on—and it’s the house Julie brought me to. Seeing this house felt like a heavenly appointment. Julie had passed away the day before Tom did in 2007. They’re both in heaven.

How did you meet Dave? Before Tom passed away, he said, “I want you to move on. I want you to be happy. I don’t want you to grieve for a long time.” And I was like, “Oh my gosh, don’t say that.” It was too much. But I had already grieved for 10 years when he died. I was 39 years old and had a teenage son and I was lonely. My cousin told me to go online to meet someone, and I’m like, “I’m not desperate.” But she said it was good—you can ask questions and get to know each other. So I thought, “OK, I’ll sign up.” Dave was one of the first hits I had. We started messaging each other, but a week or two in, he said, “I need to step back because my dad just passed away. He was my best friend, so I’m grieving.” I said, “I understand grieving.” I told him my husband had died the previous year. I told him, “I’m praying for you. Take care of yourself.” And he knew I got it.

Five things you love?

God, my family, my husband, my friends, and my dog Trooper. Actually, it would probably go God and Trooper and then Dave and family and friends! Trooper is just a bundle of joy! Within one second of meeting him he was my best friend.

Tell me about your job? I was a former executive director with Mary & Martha, a home goods company, and then my world turned upside down. It’s a direct selling company, and they changed their model. I started a new gig with Park Lane Jewelry earlier this year, and am a company vice president.

What do you do? I had always worked traditional jobs—in corporations, in manufacturing, in medical offices. Then, when Tom passed away, I realized life is short. What you do with your time is important. For me, working for someone else to help get their dream built … well, I wanted to build my dream. I got invited to a Mary & Martha home party and my cousin asked me, “Would you want to become a consultant?” I said, “Absolutely not.”

What changed your mind? I laid in my bed one night and basically I felt like I had my first big encounter with God. I heard, “Go find a Bible.” I didn’t have one, so I found my son’s that he got when he was confirmed. And I opened it straight up to Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you … .”

A life-changing moment? I read that verse, and the Mary & Martha magazine was still sitting there. I thought: “There’s your opportunity. Share your story. Share your faith.” That was 16-1/2 years ago. My life has not been the same. I built that business up. I had $2 million in sales a year. I earned six figures. And then that door shut, but another opportunity came with Park Lane Jewelry. They believe I can do it again.

Best advice you give?

Life is short. So live it full out—and enjoy every moment of it.

MAY 2024

WHAT'S PAST IS PROLOGUE.

It’s Dr. Rick Kvam's final concert as the conductor for the Choral Arts Ensemble, which he founded in 1985. “What’s Past is Prologue” features some of Kvam’s choral favorites—new and old—and includes the world premiere of a new piece commissioned by Dale Trumbore. rochestermusicguild.org

THE SHOW WHERE EVERYTHING'S MADE UP. Whose Live Anyway? (the improv tour version of Whose Line Is It Anyway?) is at the Mayo Civic Center. Cast members Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, and Joel Murray incorporate audience suggestions into improvised comedy, musical numbers, and games. mayociviccenter.com, 507-328-2220

WE'VE GOT A RUNNER! The 28th Annual Med City Marathon has something for everyone, even those who don't want to run 26.2 miles.

Partnering with Ronald McDonald House to raise funds for families with kids receiving medical treatments, the Med City Marathon weekend boasts a 5k, kids run, and live music. medcitymarathonmn.com

BECOME A SPELUNKER. Quarry Hill Cave was first carved into sandstone to serve as a cool place to store vegetables, now it serves as a reminder of Quarry Hill Park's history as a part of the old State Hospital's grounds. Come learn more about the history of Quarry Hill and maybe see a bat or two! qhnc.org, 507-328-3950

$5 5K. For just $5 you can run, walk, or wheel a 5k (pre-marked with chalk). Meet at TerraLoco, bring your water bottle, and run easy knowing your entrance fee goes to a good cause! This month's run benefits the Gift of Life Transplant House. runterraloco.com, 507-289-5626

GOLF FOR GOOD. The 27th Annual Kid's Cup Golf Tournament, held at Somerby Golf Club, raises money to make hospital stays easier for children and their families. Funds raised benefit Mayo Clinic Children's Center and Olmsted Medical Center. kidscuprochester.org, 507-288-3772

HIKE FORESTVILLE STATE PARK. Park near the old-timey downtown of Historic Forestville—with its turnof-the-20th century-buildings—then climb Sandbank Trail to Overlook Trail. It’s a moderate climb, but then you’re downhill all the way back. dnr.state.mn.us, 507-352-5111

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PEANUTS AND CRACKER JACK. Whether you come for the snacks, the game, or the weather, Honkers baseball games are fun for the whole family. Tonight the Rochester Honkers face off against the Thunder Bay Border Cats in their first game of the season. northwoodsleague. com, 507-536-4579

SINGER-SONGWRITERS. Brittany

Ann Tranbaugh is an Americana singersongwriter whose song "Kiss You" won Song of the Year in the 2021 John Lennon Songwriting Contest. Sadie Gustafson-Zook is a "Midwestern folky songwriter" who won the Kerrville Folk Festival's 2022 New Folk Contest. Both are at Forager Brewery tonight. foragerbrewery.com, 507-258-7490

GAGA FOR YAYA! The annual Young Authors, Young Artists for 3rd-8th graders will be held at the Heintz Center. Here, students can learn to use soft pastels, act in readers theater, and bring imaginary creatures to life in sessions led by professional authors and artists. resourcecoop-mn.gov, 507-288-1282

FIND YOUR NEXT FAVORITE BOOK. The Cover 2 Cover Book Club at the Rochester Public Library features "The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" by Taylor Jenkins Reid, which chronicles the life of Evelyn Hugo, a famed (though fictional) Old Hollywood actress. rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

SIDEWALK SESSIONS. Peace Plaza hosts Sidewalk Sessions, a lunchtime performance by a local musician. Grab lunch from a local restaurant and soak up the sun and the tunes! downtownrochestermn.com

IS IT POP OR SODA?

READ LOCAL. Grab your favorite book by a Minnesota author and join Books and Brews at South x SouthEast Brewing Company. The club meeting starts with an overview of the history of Minnesota authors; club members share books they've picked, and why. pineisland.lib.mn.us, 507-356-8558

Spring Grove Soda Pop (in Spring Grove) opened in 1895, and the formula has remained the same since! Send an email to tour the bottling process, find out why "Thanks Ove" is printed on every six-pack, and try a pop or two. springgrovesodapop. com, 507-498-3424

TICKLE THE IVORIES. Horacio Lavandera is an award-winning Argentine pianist who won the International Piano Competition Umberto Micheli at the age of 16. He will be performing at the Co-Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. rochestermusicguild.org

MAY THE FOURTH BE WITH YOU.

The MedCity Roller Derby team takes on the Fargo Moorhead Derby Girls in “Derby Strikes Back: Roller Wars.” Jammers—in their special helmets marked with stars—try to score points while the blockers try to stop them in this fast-paced, physical derby held at Graham Arena. medcityrollerderby.com

MAKING (ARCHITECTURAL)

HISTORY. Join architectural historian Ken Allsen online for his talk The Secrets of Assisi Heights Motherhouse Blueprints. Allsen takes you through the architectural history of Assisi Heights from its design to its first days as home for the Sisters of St. Francis. rochesterfranciscan. org, 507-282-7441

SPRING HAS SPRUNG. It's the 85th (yes you read that right!) Rochester Garden and Flower Club Annual Plant Sale. Local gardeners sell succulents, annuals, native plants, and more at Graham Park. rgfc.org

IMMIGRATION STORY. Gary Heyn talks about his book "Standing at the Grave: A Family's Journey from the Grand Duchy of Posen to the Prairies of North Dakota" at the Olmsted County History Center. olmstedhistory.com

FURRY FRIENDS ON THE FARM.

Red Barn Learning Farm hosts Farm Fridays from May to the beginning of September! Come pet goats, bunnies, and donkeys, enjoy fresh popcorn, slide down the slides, and roll in the hay. redbarnlearningfarm. com, 507-272-7465

GOLDEN GIRLS, GOLDEN TIMES. Sophia, Blanche, Rose, and Dorothy are together again in Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue at Mayo Civic Center. This play follows the Miami foursome through their experiences with drugs, new relationships, and dating apps—of their own creation. mayociviccenter.com, 507-328-2220

PAST AND FUTURE. Join Mike Nigbur (the Rochester Director of Parks & Forestry) and Bill Hickey (architect) at the Olmsted History Center for "The Plummer House Restoration." Learn about the history of the Plummer House--dating back to 1917--and the current restoration of the Plummer water tower. olmstedhistory.com, 507-282-9447

PHYSICS IS FUN! How do you survive a sledgehammer swing? Is it safer to lay on a bed of nails or a bed of roses? Join the Physics Force at Mayo Civic Center to answer these questions and more! mayociviccenter.com, 507-361-5040

TUNE UP. The Rochester Community Bike Club-Pata de Perro hosts their first community bike workshop of the year at 115 1/2 N. Broadway. Volunteer bike mechanics can give your bike a tune-up or you can try your hand at a bigger fix using tools provided by the club. patadeperrobikeclu.wixsite.com/ rochester-bike-club, 507-398-8009

FORE THE KIDS. The 6th annual Kids' Dreams Come True Golf Tournament, a 4-person best shot held at Maple Valley Golf and Country Club, features 18 holes of golf and helps support Kids' Dreams Come True, an organization providing hope and fun to children with life-threatening illnesses and injuries. kidsdreamcometrue.com

PRIDE. Rochester Pride is back at Soldiers Field Memorial Park with vendors, exclusive merch featuring the slogan "Equal rights for all!," and a performance from the Rochester Rainbow Choir. rochmnpride.org, 507-216-7996

WHAT'S IN A NAME? The Dorothy Day Hospitality House in Rochester provides housing to people who need it. Join the Real Reads Nonfiction Book Club at the Rochester Public Library to read Day's book "The Long Loneliness: The Autobiography of the Legendary Catholic Social Activist." rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

WHAT, LIKE IT'S HARD? Based on the movie (which was based on a novel by Amanda Brown), "Legally Blonde--The Musical" tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl-turnedHarvard Law student. Watch as she navigates ex-boyfriends, murder trials, and costume parties (at Rochester Civic Theatre). rochestercivictheatre. org, 507-282-8481

CELEBRITY FRIENDS. It's the opening reception of Pat York: Fame & Friendship at the Rochester Art Center. This exhibit features "portraits of 20th century icons," from Steve Martin to Tennessee Williams to Whoopi Goldberg by famed photographer Pat York. rochesterartcenter.org, 507-722-2552

TOAST (BEERS AND MARSHMALLOWS). LTS Brewing is hosting Bonfires & Brews. Sit around a campfire with your favorite LTS beer, soda, or seltzer and listen to live music from Chase Burkhart. ltsbrewing.com, 507-226-8280

THEY SEE ME ROLLIN’. BikeMN and We Bike Rochester are hosting the Med City Meander. This 32-mile bike tour takes you from Cascade Lake to Quarry Hill to Mayoowood and back with stops along the way for food and drink. Not feeling 32 miles? There is also a 2.5 mile Cascade loop option. bikemn.org

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20 1st St SW (Peace Plaza)

Rochester

Discover the diverse menu at Green-n-Fresh, located in Rochester, MN Peace Plaza. We specialize in salads but also offer delectable fried southern chicken. Our chicken and waffles dish is a must-try, with its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Enjoy it with our fluffy signature waffles and choose from refreshing beverages like fresh fruit smoothies or Greek yogurt parfaits. If you prefer lighter options, our salads are made with only the freshest ingredients, including classic Caesar salads and seasonal creations. Whether you need a quick bite, a healthy meal, or a satisfying indulgence, Green-n-Fresh is ready to serve you. Experience our fresh and delicious cuisine today.

507.361.7910

217 14th Ave SW

Rochester redcowmn.com/rochester

Red Cow’s founder and owner, Luke Shimp, was born and raised in Lake City, MN! Family owned and locally operated, Red Cow provides a modern tavern feel and celebrates finally crafted eats and drinks with a focus on gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, wine & beer. #Followtheherd to Red Cow!

South- 1201 S Broadway North- 5231 E Frontage Rd NW Express- Downtown Skyway Apple Valley - 15610 English Ave creativecuisineco.com

A local tradition since 1980, is the only place for great burgers and cold beer. Hand pattied fresh burgers, grilled to perfection, piles of nachos, tasty sandwiches, loaded bloody mary’s and much more!

507.282.6572

1203 2nd St SW

Across from St Marys Hospital Rochester

Celebrating 40 years! Since 1984, the Powers family and the Canadian Honker Restaurant have taken great pride in serving fresh, home-cooked meals to you and your family. Whether you enjoy our award winning Eggs Benedict, Walleye Sandwich, or Filet Mignon, one thing is for sure, you will not leave hungry! Stop by today, and don't forget to order a piece of our world famous Bunnie Cake.

507.361.1208

10 East Center St Rochester skyway level benedictsrochester.com

Benedict’s is the place for warm, approachable food with new takes on familiar dishes and killer morning cocktails (it’s never too early). Great food and hospitality shouldn’t be relegated to dinnertime, and at Benedict’s, we are ready to champion the morning. Bring your family, become a part of ours. Open 6:00am - 3:00pm daily.

the local table {where we eat}

Specialty Coffee| Breakfast

Lunch | Wine | Small Plates

507.285.2516

120 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester

FOLLOW US @novioscafe on Instagram and Novios Cafe on Facebook. Use your phone camera to scan the QR code and order online now!

507.536.4748

212 1st Ave SW Rochester creativecuisineco.com

Voted Rochester’s Best Deli and Sandwiches. A bustling, urban deli set in the heart of downtown Rochester, featuring big New York style sandwiches, filled with large portions of fresh sliced meats, gourmet cheeses, crisp vegetables, and one-of-a-kind spreads on bakeryfresh breads. Signature salads and soups with quick and easy delivery service. Catering as well as box lunch delivery.

507.258.4184

332 Broadway Ave S Rochester marrowmn.com

Marrow offers a seasonal, ingredient and chef-driven menu - utilizing classic French technique, with a touch of humor and fun. Stop by to enjoy a quick bite and a drink or stay longer to visit with friends and family over dinner and wine. Scan the QR Code to make a reservation or just come on through. Walk-ins are always welcome! We are open Tuesday - Saturday from 5 - 10 pm. Happy Hour at the Bar Tuesday - Friday from 4 - 6 pm.

1155 16th St SW, Rochester

507.516.0641

Sorellinasmn.com

Open Mon-Sat at 11AM

Open Sunday at 10:30AM

Cousins Nadia Victoria and Jordan Victoria are excited to introduce you to: Sorellina’s Italian by Victoria’s. The latest Italian kitchen next to Apache Mall. You will find classic Victoria’s Italian dishes, as well as a few modern takes. Scratch pizzas, our famous sauces, cheesecakes and craft cocktails. Enjoy dining on the pizza counter side, the enclosed four-season patio, the swanky dining room, or sit at the bar and enjoy the view!

244 Soldiers Field Dr SW

507.516.1050

towniesubs.com

Best Philly in Rochester! Stop in for our signature Grill’d Philly, a Grill’d Bowl or one of our delicious Smash’d Burgers. There is something for everyone to enjoy. We are open year-round at Soldiers Field Golf Course. Dine in or carry out. Voted Best Sandwich Place 2023 & 2024.

507.258.4550 1635 Highway 52 N Rochester PappysPlaceRochester.com

Locally owned by the Pappas family; same family as former owners of Michaels and Hubbel House. Whether it’s our salad bar, onion ring appetizer, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, steaks ribs, seafood, cocktails or craft beers there’s something for everyone. Daily lunch and dinner specials on Facebook or PappysPlaceRochester.com. Now serving brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-2pm.

the local table {where we eat}

507.288.0206

401 6th St SW Rochester

twigstavernandgrille.com

After many months and many trials and errors, we finally mastered our Gluten-Free Chicken & Waffles recipe! I’ll bet you can’t even tell that it’s gluten-free! In addition, come try our Waffles & an Omelet, Waffle Sandwiches, and Melts. WE GET IT. BECAUSE WE LIVE IT. Rochester’s only restaurant with a separate dedicated GLUTEN-FREE kitchen. Seasonal Cocktails & Desserts | Small Plates | Bowls.

2043 Superior Dr NW Rochester

507.288.5283 zenfusionmn.com

Zen presents a globally accented American, Mexican, Asian, and Sushi menu that draws upon the vibrancy and culinary genius of all of its chefs, creating a menu as culturally diverse as Rochester itself. Our live Hibachii chefs give the flare to any meal, creating a fun, entertaining dining experience for everyone. WE CATER, let us make your event special. Voted Best Place For Seafood 2024 by Rochester Magazine Readers!

507.206.3019

1625 South Broadway Ave Rochester

crookedpint.com/rochester

Crooked Pint Ale House is a nouveau urban pub with the feel of a local neighborhood restaurant. The menu includes classic pub fare with nearly 60 choices for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch as well as kids’ menu selections. We feature the best Lucys in town and you will be back again and again for our Pub Pot Pies, Pub Tacos, and our Jumbo Tator Tots. At Crooked Pint, we are known for our beer list, but we don’t forget about the wine and spirits! Open Monday - Sunday!

507.635.2331

502 N Main St Mantorville hubbellhouserestaurant.com

The Hubbell House has been Rochester Magazine’s Best Restaurant within 30 minutes for the past fourteen years. Our extensive menu includes appetizers, salads, sandwiches, choice steaks, prime rib every day, chops, & seafood. Just a short drive from Rochester, whether you’re looking for a formal experience in one of our dining rooms, or a more relaxed setting like the Stagecoach Bar, the Hubbell House is the place for you.

507.258.9064

Voted Best Taco 2020 & 2021! Live Music Fridays & Saturdays. Brunch served Sat. & Sun 9:30-3. We believe that good food and friendly faces bring a community together. We are locally owned and love living in Rochester! Hours: Wed. & Thurs. 11 am-1:30 pm, 5-7:30 pm, Friday 11 am-1:30 pm, 5-9 pm, Sat. 9:30 am-9 pm, Sun 9:30 am-7:30 pm. Closed Mon. & Tues.

507-322-5041

161 13th Ave SW Rochester Saintson2nd.com

We are located in the Courtyard by Marriott across from Saint Marys Hospital. Whether you are a visitor or a lifelong resident of the city, we hope to embody everything that Rochester has to offer. Enjoy our “Minnesota Nice” hospitality while eating breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Chef Lela Tweed has crafted a menu sure to please – try our legendary sticky chicken sandwich!

the local table {where we eat}

507.281.2978, 300 1st Ave NW Rochester creativecuisineco.com

Rustic comfort food, hand-crafted cocktails, and an intimate, romantic ambiance define this hidden gem of a restaurant. Live local music every night makes this a top-notch date night spot for any day of the week. Make the Redwood Room your new go-to! Voted Most Romantic Ambiance and finalist for Best Fine Dining.

(507) 289-9200

3120 Wellner Drive NE Rochester www.whistlebinkiespub.com

Locally owned for 22 years tucked in NE Rochester. Providing a pub atmosphere that makes you feel at home with comfort. Awesome summer patio, two private spaces for events, with one of the largest menus and beer selection in all of Rochester. We are happy to be serving you all for years to come.

507.226.8146

4 third St SW Rochester thaipopmn.com

Lunch + Dinner + Happy Hour + Event Space. Voted Minnesota’s Best Thai Restaurant 2023, Rochester Magazine’s Best Ethnic Restaurant 2023 + Best New Restaurant 2022. We serve unique cocktails and cuisine on historic 3rd Street in downtown Rochester. Open Monday - Saturday.

507.424.7800

2024

130 5th St SW Rochester pnpizza.com

Chef Pasquale Presa is serving the food he grew up with....authentic NY style pizza along with simple, traditional Italian food including fresh salads and amazing desserts. Daily lunch and dinner specials. Dine-in or carry out. To place orders call 507.424.7800. Voted Best Pizza Place 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 by Rochester Magazine readers.

507.258.4663 14 Fourth Street SW Rochester bleuduckkitchen.com

Bleu Duck Kitchen offers brunch every Saturday from 10am-1pm and for Mother’s Day we will be offering Sunday brunch in celebration of all those amazing Mother’s out there from 10am-2pm. Make your reservations today at www.bleuduckkitchen.com or call 507-258-4663

507.346.7300 fourdaughtersvineyard.com

78757 State Highway 16 Spring Valley

Visit Four Daughters Winery, Loon Juice Cider, and The Traditionalist Bourbon Distillery in one spot! Wine, cider and bourbon flights available 7 days a week, plus wines by the glass/bottle, a full cocktail bar, and a restaurant. Spend time inside the spacious tasting room or outside on the large patio bordering the vineyard at the largest winery and cidery in Minnesota. Rated as the #2 Winery Restaurant in the country by USA Today!

the local table {where we eat}

507.226.8885

2280 Superior Dr NW

507.206.6799

4576 Maine Ave SE Rochester roostersbarngrill.com

Swing by Rooster’s for a delicious breakfast 7 days a week starting at 7am. Try our daily lunch specials or order off our great menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, wraps, broasted chicken and so much more. Weekday happy hour 11 am to 6 pm. We’re home of the GOLIATH 34 oz. draft beer mug on special every weekend.

507.424.7800

130 5th St SW Rochester pnpizza.com

Little Italy Marketplace. Shop Pasquale’s quality Italian Ingredients direct from Italy. Everything from frozen meals, amazing sauces, scratch-made pasta, and our farm-to-table Olive Oil. Our products are available at Pasquale’s or Hyvee Stores.

507.361.3636

300 1st Ave NW Rochester TildasPizzeria.com

Tilda’s Pizzeria is a locally owned one-of-a-kind wood-fired pizza restaurant in Downtown Rochester. Unique flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone! We offer dine-in, online ordering, and delivery. Mon-Sun 4 pm - 9 pm.

507.280.6232

7 1st Ave SW, Rochester victoriasmn.com

Locally owned for 25 years. Specializing in traditional Italian. All sauces are scratch made. Victoria’s has four private dining rooms for all your events. Looking for a quick lunch? Victoria’s Express (Grab and Go) is adjacent to the restaurant and is open Mon through Fri from 10 am to 1:30 pm. Join us Wednesdays for Bottomless Wine.

507.424.1227

Woodlake

Situated in a business district on a small lake with beautiful patio views, two private dining spaces, a large dining room, and an extensive menu with something for everyone, and a beer list to impress. WBOTL is thankful for their guests, friends, and family that make us a destination that all love and enjoy.

507.361.5144

3708 N Broadway Ave Rochester creativecuisineco.com

Chef inspired Casual American restaurant that is family friendly. Some menu features include our Rotisserie Chicken, Kranz Smash Burger, Sheet Ton Chicken Nachos, or Chipotle Salmon Rice Bowl. Dine next to our 16 foot fireplace, or on our patio during the summer that includes fire pits, an outdoor bar, kid play area, and yard games. We also feature plenty of screens inside and out to catch your favorite games!

Ristorante & Wine Bar

Ways YOU CAN HELP

Gift of Life

BY ALEXA ANDERSON

Gift of Life, founded in 1984, recognizes the need for housing for individuals and families going through the transplant journey. The organization strives to provide high quality, affordable accommodations to transplant patients and their caregivers in a supportive, home-like environment. During their 40 years, Gift of Life has grown to include 84 guest rooms between their two facilities.

“There are not enough words to say how wonderful it has been staying at Gift of Life Transplant House,” says grateful guest LM. “It has been an experience we will never forget—not just because of the kind staff, but also because of the cleanliness of the facility, the home-like atmosphere and the life-long friendships we have developed.”

Here’s how you can help Gift of Life:

FOOT THE BILL. Making a generous donation of $30 pays for a family’s night stay. However, donations can be made in any amount. Gift of Life’s website also allows for recurring donations if you would like to show continuous monetary support. If you’d prefer to give a gift instead of a monetary contribution, Gift of Life has a wish list at the bottom of their donation page.

HOLD A QUARTER DRIVE. Collecting quarters from family and friends to donate is a simple and helpful way to show support. The clothes washers and dryers used by the organization’s guests cost $1.25 each. In addition to quarters, well-wishers are encouraged to create and send in care packages to brighten guests’ days. Gift of Life asks supporters to note that flowers and live plants can present a potential hazard to transplant patients and are not permitted in the houses.

REMEMBER THAT EVERYONE LOVES DONUTS!

The organization encourages supporters to bring treats from local bakeries or grocery stores to donate to the houses. The guests love a special treat and this simple generosity would show your support and lift spirits.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Anyone interested in supporting Gift of Life, in any of the ways listed above, can find more info at gift-of-life.org.

3 WAYS YOU CAN HELP IS SPONSORED BY:

At Eagle Rock Bank, formerly ONB Bank, we’re proud to give back to our community. As a locally owned and managed bank, it is so important to us to support our local non-profit organizations through sponsorships and hundreds of volunteer hours through our employee volunteers.

Always see this blooming around Mayo?

It’s their Flower of Hope.

Back in 2014, for Mayo Clinic’s Sesquicentennial in 2014, the grounds crews looked for a flower that would grow at each Mayo site.

They wanted something that would be perennial in warmer climates and an annual in cooler areas and would bloom from late spring through fall. They decided on “a newly developed hybrid coreopsis—the Mayo Clinic Flower of Hope.” This brilliant yellow flower—which grows up to two feet high and spreads up to 18 inches—“expresses the spirit of hope and healing which, in turn, supports our primary value, ‘The needs of the patient come first,’” according to the Mayo description.

Another bonus of the flower? It’s “road salt tolerant.”

Want to plant your own? Contact one of the local nurseries and ask for the Mayo Clinic Flower of Hope.

—source: history.mayoclinic.org/ toolkit/mayo-clinic-flower-of-hope

FASHIONSpring

Local Styles. LoCAL SHOPS.

Photos by Olive Juice Studios (shot on location at The tap house)

Style by Hanny's

Taylor wears a made-in-Italy St. Croix patterned sport shirt ($228) under a St. Croix quilted microfiber layering vest in the oyster color, also made in Italy ($525). These are paired with made-in-Europe five-pocket St. Croix jeans in dark wash ($245), a St. Croix Crystal Stitch v-neck pullover in pewter ($465), and a Dobbs 100% black linen fedora ($48).

Danielle accessorizes her Nic + Zoe Bold Petals Jessie dress ($228) with a Longchamp Xtra Leather Le Pilage medium shoulder tote in ecru ($540), Dainty Gold chainlink hoops ($24), and a Gold Lariat necklace ($42).

Poppi Italian Leather

Becky wears a colorful floral dress from Club Voltaire Spring/Summer Collection. Made in Italy ($295).

Real Deals

Ashley wears a cute Bodysuit ($39.99) paired with a vibrant pair of Jeans ($69.99) and a stylish Jean Jacket ($64.99). She accessorizes her outfit with a fun pair of Corky Wedges ($69.99) a stylish purse ($69.99) and some fashion jewelry—a necklace ($16.99) and earrings ($7.99).

Ama La Vita

Ginger (left) wears a perfect white T Alanis cotton v-neck ($70) and Elliot Natural striped oversized buttonup ($64) with Lydia long linen pants ($76). She completes the look with a fashionable ABLE Naomi Wristlet in Whiskey ($90). Kennis (right) rocks a White Boulevard tube top ($59) under an Audrey Boxy Fit blazer ($85) and Mavi Rosie jean shorts ($88) accessorized with an ABLE Ashlyn Belt in Whiskey ($78) and Pure White Serenity Ro sneakers ($120).

On Track Boutique

Brenda wears a white scoopneck 3/4 sleeve top ($48) under a multi-color blazer ($89) paired with cropped denim jeans ($109) and pink sneakers ($49.99). She accessorizes with a white weave crossbody ($58), a heart necklace ($55), and a long necklace ($65).

Tyrol Ski & Sports

Tracy wears a golden cream Aventura Dell tank top ($69) under a Marmot Precip Eco Pro jacket in golden sun ($160) paired with a Prana Koen skort in grape leaf ($69) and Chaco Z2 Classic Sandals in dark forest ($105).

Scheels

Mariah wears a Thread & Supply Lewis long-sleeve button-up shirt ($58) with an Eden Ruth basic t-shirt and Kut from the Cloth ab meg relaxed-fit wide-leg jean ($99). She completes the look with Candy Pink Birkenstock Boston Chunky Clogs.

Spring

Fashion fever at Scheels

Written by Jennifer Koski

Want to put a little spring in your step? Look no further than SCHEELS.

Michaela Moser, Assistant Store Leader at SCHEELS, offers the inside scoop on the season’s hottest trends—available right here in Rochester.

Western styles. From bell bottoms to cowhide prints, SCHEELS is all-in on spring’s western trends. “We’re seeing a lot of cow prints, country music tees, Wrangler denim, Levis,” says Moser. “If you’re looking at a trip to Nashville, we have all the pieces for it!”

Layers (and more layers). SCHEELS has you covered (literally) for the season’s layered looks. This spring, pick up a few long-sleeved mesh and lace tops to wear under graphic tees.

Colored denim. Whether you’re looking for a dad jean, a mom jean or a boyfriend fit, SCHEELS has your denim—and in a rainbow of colors.

“Olive green is a big color right now,” says Moser. “But we also have pinks, yellows, and some fun oranges.” Of

course, blue denim is always in style, including trendy new light blues.

Comfort-first for your feet. “Casual footwear is trending all over the place,” says Moser. “You can feel good and look good at the same time.” Pair Nike’s Blazer sneaker with a cute tee, or slip into tried-and-true Birkenstocks.

Leather (or leather look-alike) purses. Can you say comeback?

Leather purses are all the rage— including with the younger generation, says Moser. “The trend is moving from the athletic-style bags toward real or faux leather,” she says. “And we’ve got a whole bunch of fun pieces in all colors—from white and pink to black, orange and cowhide.”

Traditional seasonal colors. It wouldn’t be spring without those light

hues. Look for whites and off-whites in addition to soft lilacs, yellows and blues. “The light spring and neutral colors are colors that we’re seeing across all brands, fashion and workout wear alike,” says Moser.

The SCHEELS Difference

“Our goal is to be the best retailer in the eyes and minds of our customers, associates and business partners,” says Moser. “And that’s not just me saying that—that’s our business model.”

A big part of that shopping experience— in any season—is being happy with how you look.

“I want you to leave feeling so confident about the outfit you bought that you wear it out of the store,” says Moser. “If you leave the store in your outfit, I’m happy.”

Featured Michaela Moser and Chance Hammermeister

2024's trends

Colored denim.

...and where to try them on right now.

The trend: Pretty pastels

THE EXPERT: Jessica Murphy, buyer, Hanny's Men's Wear, Style by Hanny's, Couture by Hanny's, Hanny's St. Croix

"Pretty pastels and bright florals remain at the top of our favorite spring fashion trends this year. The tea-length full print dress and wide bottom trousers are on everyone’s must-have list. Even men’s fashion has embraced a similar color palette with pale pinks, lemon yellows, and the color ecru in place of bright white."

WHERE CAN I SEE THIS?

Both Danielle and Taylor are wearing go-to spring fashion trends on page 26.

WHERE CAN I BUY THIS?

Hanny’s and Style by Hanny’s, K ahler Hotel Subway; 20 Second Ave. SW; 507-287-0028; hannys.com

Photos by Olive Juice Studios | Thanks to The Tap House

for the location

The trend: Cropped flare denim jeans.

THE EXPERT:

Brenda Dahlstrom, Co-Owner of Hers and On Track Boutique

"T he cropped flare denim jean is the perfect length to show off your shoes. That bit of flare at the leg opening balances out your hips, just like fulllength bootcut pants do. And we know that a wider pant opening lengthens the legs. Plus a frayed hem is the most polished form of distressing."

WHERE CAN I SEE THIS?

Brenda is wearing a pair from On Track Boutique on page 31.

WHERE CAN I BUY THIS?

On Track Boutique, 200 N. Broadway; 507-281-6877; ontrackboutique.com

The trend: Functional, fun and fashionable.

THE EXPERT:

Kristin Welch, Tyrol Ski & Sports

"The fashion trend that we are seeing from many of the outdoor brands we carry is functional, high quality designs, in fun and fashionable colors!

Tracy's Marmot rain jacket is made of a 3-layer Nanopro fabric that is durably waterproof, windproof, and breathable. The jacket is just as appropriate for town as it is for the trail. And we love it in the cheery 'Golden Sun' color!"

WHERE CAN I SEE THIS?

Tracy is wearing this jacket on page 32.

WHERE CAN I BUY THIS?

Tyrol Ski & Sports, 1923 Second St. S W; 507-288-1683; tyrolskishop.com

The trend: Wide-leg jeans. And all things oversized-fit.

THE EXPERT:

Bryttin Henderson, Women's Clothing Expert at Scheels

"In 2024 we expect to see a large demand in wide-leg jeans and all things oversized-fit. One popular jean that we carry is the Jean Good 90’s pant from Good American. We also anticipate seeing lots of pastel colors. Not only are we seeing pastel tops and jackets, but there are multiple styles of pastel jeans and pants that would look great in anyone's closet as well!

In the jewelry world, detailed gold and pearls have been a hit. One of our favorite jewelry trends is double or triple stacking necklaces!

WHERE CAN I SEE THIS?

"The trends that we are anticipating were 100% in the outfit we chose! Mom jeans look great with any type of shoe, the fun gold hoops, and our favorite; the pink Birkenstocks! We cannot wait to see all of the fun trends that continue to come in this summer." See page 34.

WHERE CAN I BUY THIS?

Scheels, Apache Mall, 1220 12th St. SW; 507-281-2444; scheels.com

The trend: denim. denim. denim.

THE EXPERT:

Ginger Knapp, Owner/CEO of Ama La Vita

"Denim is very strong for 2024. Jeans in wide leg, cuffed, barrel, and straight. Denim overalls, skirts, shorts, jackets, vests, jumpsuits, and dresses are also trending. White, all shades of blue, black, and colored denim. Wearing denim on denim is totally on trend! Pair the denim skirt with a vest or jeans with jacket, jumpsuits and jackets, basically anything goes when it comes to denim!"

WHERE CAN I SEE THIS?

Kennis Tipton is wearing jean shorts on page 30.

WHERE CAN I BUY THIS?

Ama La Vita, 1624 Highway 52 N; 507-281-1401; shopamalavita.com

THANK YOU! We'd especially like to thank The Tap House for letting us use their Historic Third Street location. Whenever we—or anyone, really—need help with something like this, Christine Stahl and Natalie Victoria always step up. Whatever the season, The Tap House offers some of the best backdrops—and views—in the city, from their ultra hip downstairs booths to their old-school rooftop summer seating. We'd also like to thank them for creating the best Buffalo Cheese Curds we've ever eaten.

The trend: Effortlessly classic

THE EXPERT:

Rebecca Calhoun, Owner of Poppi Italian Leather & Fashion

"It aly is undeniably a style capital— think Gucci, Ferragamo, Prada. This spring seen on the runways in Milano were Wide-Leg Pants, Vests, and Maxi Dresses—all fashion styles that are effortlessly classic pieces. Emerging colors that Milan designers are embracing are blush pink, mossy green, sky blue, and colors that complement the Mediterranean countryside such as Poppy coral, pink, and red. Invest in several pieces of quality that can be mixed and matched in colors and styles to create a fresh new spring/ summer wardrobe.

WHERE CAN I SEE THIS?

The Maxi Dress is featured on page 28.

WHERE CAN I BUY THIS?

Poppi Italian Leather, Galleria at University Square (street level), 111 S. Broadway; 507-282-3088; poppiit alianleather.com

The trend: Colored denim. Barbie.

THE EXPERT:

Ashley Moberg, Owner of Real Deals

"One thing that we are seeing is colored denim, from corals and pinks to sages and brown tones. Helps make those spring and summer outfits extra fun, and sure to get compliments! Also, the Barbie effect is still strong, and women are loving pink more than ever!"

WHERE CAN I SEE THIS?

Ashley is wearing coral colored jeans on page 29.

WHERE CAN I BUY THIS?

Real Deals, 2050 Jordyn Rd. SW; 507-322-6777; realdeals.net/rochester

Plainview High School players Dennis Lee (on the floor), Van Harrington (foreground), and Dan Hall (background) during the playoff game against Lake City in 1963. Photo courtesy Post Bulletin archives.

THE BRoKEN BACKBOARD

by John Mulligan, from his book "It Actually Happened," which focuses on the overlooked history in Plainview.

The upset of a Rochester powerhouse.

How the 1963 Plainview High School boys basketball team almost made their “Hoosiers” run.

Photos courtesy Post Bulletin and the Plainview Historical Society

In the early 1960s, the annual Minnesota boys’ basketball tournament had only one class of participants. All schools, regardless of size, played in the same tournament.

Describing it as the “boys” tournament for that era is unnecessary. There were no high school sports for girls in that era and consequently no girls’ tournament. The single-loss elimination tournament began in early March with every school in the state participating. It culminated in an eight-team State Tournament held at Williams Arena on the University of Minnesota campus in late March.

It is undoubtedly difficult for those who did not experience the era of the one-class tournament to understand how important the state basketball tournament was in that era to Minnesota sports fans. All the

State Tournament games at Williams Arena sold out, which at that time before its major modernization, held approximately 14,000 spectators at capacity.

All of the games were broadcast on Channel 9, which had only a black and white signal that could be received throughout the state. For Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights in late March, the entire state paid great attention to what was happening in the basketball tournament.

A trend was developing in the late 1950s and early 1960s that only teams from the largest schools won the tournament. In the 1950s, teams from Twin Cities suburbs won twice, and Minneapolis city high schools won three times. There was one victory for Austin, a thriving factory town of almost 28,000 people. The trend was

interrupted in 1960 when the Flying Dutchmen from Edgerton (population 1,019 and a total school enrollment of 94) won the tournament, defeating large schools along the way.

Edgerton’s win inspired the hopes of small-town teams and their fans for many years to come.

For the 1962-63 season, there was only muted optimism that Plainview High School Gophers could have a decent season. ... There were three seniors returning who would start each game.

Benji Mahle, a six-foot forward was the team’s best player and the leading scorer in the previous season. Danny Hall played guard. Hall was fast and a tenacious defender, but small, standing 5-foot-4 and weighing 140 pounds.

Logan Grummons was muscular, though not particularly tall. He was

a stoic and determined rebounder. A junior, getting his first chance to start, was LaVerne “Butch” Kronebusch, who played guard alongside Hall. Kronebusch was fast, a good shooter and lean, with spidery arms. The fifth starter was a sophomore, Dennis Lee. Lee was 6-foot-3, the only starter taller than six feet.

The coach was Al Sorenson who also served as a Social Studies teacher at Plainview High. It was Sorenson’s third season as Plainview’s basketball coach. Sorenson looked the part of a combination basketball coach and Social Studies teacher, commonly found across the Midwest in high schools large and small. He was in his thirties, tall and fit, and looked like he had played the game in earlier days.

The season did not start well for the Gophers. In its first seven games, Plainview went 2-5. The team’s poor start and the coach’s style caused great concern to team captains Mahle and Hall. The duo’s main concern was that they believed Sorenson had a random approach to determining who played. There was no definitive starting five, and Sorenson’s approach seemed to be to have players taking turns on the floor. Sorenson was open about his intentions, having told the team that he believed in an approach where all players would have an equal opportunity to play. His ideal game, he said, would be 10 players scoring 6 points each.

Mahle and Hall were demoralized, not having fun playing, and mainly concerned that the team wouldn’t come close to reaching its potential. They took action. In a bold and arguably cheeky move, they paid an unannounced evening visit to the home of the Principal James Hanson.

Mahle and Hall were aware that Hanson was not only an experienced basketball coach, but also one who had met considerable success recently at the State Tournament. They made their pitch to Hanson in his living room. They outlined their grievances. Things were not going well with Sorenson as their coach. Would Hanson be willing to step in to coach the team? Hanson gave the two a sympathetic hearing but declined. Hanson had given up coaching. It would be extraordinarily awkward for a principal to supplant one of

his teachers in a coaching capacity. The two left feeling quite dejected.

When Plainview lost to the team from Dover-Eyota, a small school, in the holiday tournament, Hanson changed his mind. He indicated that he could contribute in a small way by holding a practice. Mahle and Hall called a captain’s practice at the gym. Coach Sorenson was out of town for the holiday vacation and there was no need to inform him. At the practice, Hanson taught the team the fundamentals that led to success for his teams. He worked on the pick and roll involving both sides of the court.

Recognizing the players’ speed, he coached them on fundamentals of the fast break (rebound, outlet pass, lead pass) and more importantly, strongly encouraged them to implement it in their offense. By implementing Hanson’s suggestions, the team went 6-3 after the Dover-Eyota game.

The 1963 tournament

The post-season tournament began each year with “sub-district” play. The subdistrict system was structured to give the big schools in the region a bye and have smaller schools play each other. The big schools in Region 1 were the schools belonging to the Big 9 conference, which included Rochester, Winona, Red Wing, and Austin.

Expectations were not high for success by Plainview in the tournament, even among the team’s players. But Plainview won its first two games, defeating the small schools of Wabasha and Lewiston. It then faced Lake City for the sub-district championship and the right to play in the district finals in Rochester. Plainview was the underdog in the game. The two teams had met twice before during the season and Lake City won both, first by 18 points and then by 27 points.

At the practice, Hanson taught the team the fundamentals that led to success for his teams. He worked on the pick and roll involving both sides of the court.

The broken backboard

What followed was one of the most extraordinary and memorable games in school history. The game was played in Plainview’s gym. Plainview stayed even in the first half, but Lake City began to pull away in the second half, taking a 10-point lead. A 10-point lead in that era was formidable because the threepoint shot—and the shot clock—had yet to be implemented.

With 2:07 left in the third quarter, Dennis Lee, defending close to the basket, jumped and got his hand entangled in the net. As he came down, he inadvertently pulled the hoop down. Hoops didn’t have hinges in that era, and so the sudden stress on the hoop caused the Plexiglas board to honeycomb, and then shatter completely.

The game was stopped. Custodians began to use push brooms to clear the floor. An iconic photo appeared in the area’s papers, and eventually went national, showing Dennis Lee sitting under the broken backboard among the shards of the broken backboard.

While the crowd was in a state of disbelief, a group of men in suits met on the court to figure out what to do. The group included both teams’ coaches, PHS superintendent Elliot Whoolery, and PHS principal James Hanson. The game needed to be finished because it was a singleelimination tournament, and so the discussion centered on the alternatives of how that might be accomplished.

Hanson proposed what he thought was a fair solution. He suggested that the folding bleachers be retracted, the metal practice backboards be lowered, and that the game be completed on one of the two smaller practice courts. Some fans could watch from the stage and the rest would have little option except to leave.

The Lake City coach was adamantly opposed. “What are you trying to pull, Hanson,” he said angrily. He argued for completing the game the next night on Lake City’s court. Hanson immediately thought that the Lake City coach’s

proposal was not in Lake City’s best interest. Lake City had the momentum in the game, and Plainview players were getting tired. Plainview typically played only its starting five, along with sixth man Van Harrington.

Hanson speculated that the Lake City coach wanted to clinch a win on his home court. Hanson and Sorenson agreed to the completion of the game the following night and an announcement was made. The game would be resumed on Saturday night

in Lake City, with 2:07 minutes left on the clock in the third quarter. It would be a 10-minute game with Lake City holding a 10-point lead.

The Plainview team approached the game’s second night as if they had nothing left to lose. The Lake City team, quite possibly overconfident, likely looked upon the game as merely putting the finishing touch on their success the night before. Benj Mahle recalls that when the Plainview team arrived, the Lake City players

were already dressed in their uniforms and in the gym. Rather than any organized drills, they were playing horse or 21, with some attempting to make shots from midcourt.

Mahle talked to some of the Lake City players as the teams warmed up. Mahle recalls this about the Lake City players: “There wasn’t a thought in their minds that they could lose the game.”

Plainview implemented a full-court press from the start,

The Plainview team approached the game’s second night as if they had nothing left to lose.

taking Lake City by surprise. With only a 10-minute game to play, Plainview’s starting five could give their all. As Plainview began to shrink the lead, the Lake City players tensed up. The game ended with Plainview winning 57-56.

All games in the District tournament were played at Rochester’s Mayo Civic Auditorium. Plainview’s first opponent in the District tournament was KassonMantorville, the winner of the other sub-district tournament. KassonMantorville (called the KoMets) was an experienced tournament team, with veteran players returning after it had defeated largeschool Winona the previous year. Though it was a close contest, Plainview led the entire game and won by four.

Playing the mighty John Marshall Plainview’s next game was for the District championship against Rochester John Marshall. Rochester was a heavy favorite.

Rochester had only one public high school at that time. The graduating class each year was about 750 students, more than 10 times the size of each class in Plainview. Rochester had enjoyed a successful season, having finished second in the Big 9 conference.

Any doubts of the Plainview players that they could give Rochester a competitive game were dispelled by the first practice to prepare for the game. Sorenson turned the practice over to Hanson. Hanson had been at Rochester’s first tournament game to scout the team. He gathered the Plainview players around him at practice and pointed out the weaknesses he’d observed in each of Rochester’s players. And Hanson demonstrated to Dennis Lee how to handle their center, Dave Daugherty. (Daugherty was 6-foot-7 and went on to play college basketball for William and Mary.)

To demonstrate, Hanson stuck his posterior into Lee and backed him up off the court and into the padded gym wall.

Hanson was familiar with the assigned crew of referees and assured the team that the referees were unlikely to call fouls except on only the most obvious contact, and encouraged the Plainview players to defend aggressively. Hanson’s presentation gave the players, for the first time, the feeling that they could play evenly with Rochester.

The team was confident and loose on the bus ride to Rochester. Dennis Lee, a Catholic, was observed praying to his rosary, which, when discovered, caused his teammates to give him some good-natured ribbing.

When the Rochester game started, the Plainview players realized a couple of things. First,

Hanson had been correct in his insightful scouting of the John Marshall team and the refereeing crew.

Second, the Plainview players could match the Rochester team in athletic ability. Plainview played its best game of the season. Although outrebounded by the larger Rochester team, they committed only 9 fouls and had only 5 turnovers.

By its aggressive defense, Plainview held one of the topscoring teams in the Big 9 to only 38 points. The game came down to the final shot, [with Plainview trailing 38-37]. The shot was taken by Plainview’s Dennis Lee from short range. The ball bounced around the rim, and then in for the win as the buzzer sounded.

The atmosphere in Mayo Civic Auditorium was electric; the Plainview fans were joyous, and the Rochester fans were stunned.

The Rochester Post-Bulletin would go on to give the PHS team extensive coverage in the days following the loss to the hometown team because it made a good story.

The angle was that Plainview, the giant-killing small town, could possibly become an echo of the Edgerton win just two years ago.

In the days after the game, it seemed the entire town of Plainview shook off its characteristic reserve, and a festive atmosphere took over. A Plainview businessman treated the entire team to a steak dinner at Michael’s, Rochester’s finest

restaurant. One afternoon, other adult fans commandeered one of the town’s fire trucks, picked up all the players and cheerleaders, and drove them through the town to the cheers of the townspeople, a one-vehicle victory parade.

There were four teams left in the Region finals. In its next game, Plainview dispatched Chatfield by the score of 52-49. Chatfield was another small town, led by outstanding athletes including Wayne King (who went on to become a star on the U of M’s football team a few years later).

The Region 1 championship game was against Austin. The winning team would go to the state tournament and play on TV with the whole state watching. However, the good fortune which

The atmosphere in Mayo Civic Auditorium was electric; the Plainview fans were joyous, and the Rochester fans were stunned.

had buoyed Plainview on its winning streak in the tournament disappeared in the Austin game.

Bad omens appeared immediately. Sixth man Van Harrington arrived in Rochester without his game shoes, and he had to run with his father Don to a store in downtown Rochester to buy a substitute pair. He didn’t return in time to properly warm up.

Logan Grummons sprained his ankle early in the game and was thereafter unable to contribute. Harrington, wearing brand new shoes (these were the days of canvas high top shoes with slab rubber soles), stiff and not broken in, lacked sufficient traction and flexibility to keep up with the Austin forwards.

Dennis Lee got into foul trouble and had to spend much critical time in the second half on the bench. Plainview had to improvise on defense.

The final score was Austin 60, Plainview 53. The miracle tournament run that started with a broken backboard had ended.

Plainview’s extended run in the State Basketball Tournament of 1963 can be considered as being among the last gasps of small-town schools achieving statewide fame in high school sports. In retrospect, Plainview’s ‘63 basketball tournament run is a great story, which commenced with the infamous “broken backboard game” on its home court.

John Mulligan is a graduate of Plainview High School (1966), the University of Minnesota (1970), and the University of Minnesota Law School (1976).

He served on active duty in the Navy from 1971 to 1973, and practiced law in Minneapolis for 42 years. John has been married for 53 years and has two adult children and three grandchildren. He has published four novels, in addition to It Actually Happened. You can buy It Actually Happened on Amazon.com for $12.95. We highly recommend it.

by

Hadley Lange

Photos by Joe Ahlquist, Maya Giron, and Ken Klotzbach

Benedict's #1 Best Breakfast

FLIGHT OF FANCY:

Mix and match a flight of three pancakes with flavors ranging from blueberry to pineapple upside down to Elvis (with bacon, banana, peanut butter.)

NO GLUTEN? NO PROBLEM:

Benedict’s offers a number of gluten-free options, including their Loaded Tots (tater tots, bacon, sour cream, green onion, cheese sauce, and eggs over easy).

OUR FAVORITE:

Benedict’s, as it should, of fers a variety of eggs benedicts. If you’re looking for breakfast with a fancy twist, we recommend The Nordeaster (poached lobster, avocado, and Old Bay hollandaise). Or, wait, the Cubano (arepa, black bean puree, carnitas, fresno chile, cilantro, and hollandaise).

Brothers Bar & Grill

DELICIOUS DISASTER:

The Mess lives up to its name by combining hash browns, onions, green peppers, tomatoes, meat, and two eggs. Make it even messier by adding hollandaise or sausage gravy.

WHAT’S BETTER THAN CAKE FOR BREAKFAST?:

How about cheese cake for breakfast! Choose from pancakes or French toast topped with fruit, whipped cream, and bits of cheese cake.

OUR FAVORITE:

The French Toast. It’s a classic for a reason—Brothers Bar & Grill has been serving up the eponymous Brothers French Toast “for years and years.” You can also get it as the “bread” on their breakfast sandwich.

Canadian Honker

I’M STUFFED:

Canadian Honker of fers French Toast stuffed with sweet cream cheese and Banana nut or Triple Berry sauce.

PICK ME UPS: Get your caffeine fix with specialty drinks including the Turtle Latte, Mocha Joy, and Mounds Latte.

OUR FAVORITE:

Canadian Honker’s namesake Honker omelet—filled with honey baked ham, onions, mushrooms, mozzarella, and cheddar. They also offer Prime Rib (with sauteed onions, Swiss, and chipotle Aioli), Meat Lovers (with sausage, bacon, and honey baked ham), and Feta Florentine (with fresh spinach, tomatoes, and homemade hollandaise) omelets.

Best Breakfast

DINNER FOR BREAKFAST… KIND OF:

The Breakfast Flatbread is basically pizza for breakfast. Except instead of marinara and mozzarella, it’s sausage gravy and cheddar jack cheese. The flatbread is also topped with scrambled eggs, bacon, red peppers, onions, and hash browns.

NO FIRE REQUIRED:

The S’More Waffle br ings the best summer dessert to breakfast with toasted marshmallows, chocolate sauce, and Graham cracker.

OUR FAVORITE:

Oh, the Berries and Cream: Satisfy the cr aving for this classic flavor combo with Cinnamon French Toast (with strawberry whipped butter and fresh strawberries) or Raspberry White Chocolate Pancakes (with raspberry sauce and whipped cream).

Grandma's Kitchen Best Breakfast

A ROCHESTER STAPLE:

Grandma’s Kitchen opened in 1977. In 2019 new owners Sudati Villalobos and Noel Gomez took over preserving much of the decor, atmosphere, and menu Rochesterites know and love.

ORDER UP:

Grandma’s serves breakfast from 8 am-8 pm six days a week (and 8 am-3 pm on Sundays). That means there’s about 79 hours a week to try their omelet, waffles, and breakfast sandwiches.

OUR FAVORITE:

A self-proclaimed “unpretentious diner,” Grandma's advertises an “old fashion breakfast,” and that’s what they do here better than anyone else. We highly recommend one of their oldschool,classic options–biscuits and gravy, country fried steak, or a stack of buttermilk cakes.

Hollandberry Pannekoeken

TRADITION:

The recipe for Hollandberry’s P annekoeken–an "oven baked souffle” pancake–hasn’t changed in more than 30 years. This traditional Dutch pancake can be topped and stuffed with additions ranging from chocolate chips to bacon to apples.

HEARD HERE:

Waiters announce every fresh-made Pannekoeken with a shout of “Pannekoeken!”

OUR FAVORITE:

Their muffins. Oh, lord, their muffins. And they are baked fresh daily in flavors like blueberry, cinnamon streusel, and chocolate cappuccino. Oh, and you can’t forget almond poppyseed, Oreo cookie, or caramel pecan (or the 11 other flavors available).

RULE THE ROOST:

Rooster’s Too! serves up Corned Beef and Hash with their own house recipe, served with eggs and potatoes.

HOW MINNESOTAN:

Try an omelet featuring Minnesota’s state grain, wild rice! Also inside are mushrooms and Roosters’ signature house ham.

OUR FAVORITE:

Their skillets. Rooster's Too skillets feature cheddar jack cheese and scrambled eggs served over hashbrowns topped with onions, peppers, and sausage (Southwest skillet); onion, sausage, and sausage gravy (Farm Hand skillet), or taco meat, pico de gallo, and black olives (Mexi-Scramble).

Native landscaping. Pergolas. How to create your ideal backyard getaway. Dining-height fire tables.

by Elliot Mann

The weather is nice—it’s time to put the drinks on ice and food on the grill.

Need to update your outdoor space? Our experts are ready to showcase the biggest trends this season in terms of how to turn your brown sod backyard into an outdoor oasis with comfy chairs, functional eating areas that can turn into lounge spots around a firepit, and an attractive paver patio with inviting foliage.

Mosquitoes not invited.

Our experts find that these days, people want to enjoy their outdoor areas, not pick up a second job pulling weeds, slapping gnats, or setting up chairs and tables each time out. Everyone has their flat top grill

or smoker tuned up and ready for the season, but what else are people putting on their patio?

Poly-wood chairs—maintenance free seats that are heavier than their plastic counterparts, but are also more durable than their metal ones—have been popular for a few years, says Tyrol Ski Shop Co-Owner Kristin Welch.

Plantwise, it’s a similar theme.

“I think 15 years ago, it was more of a thing where everyone loved to garden,” says Brandon Delaney, a landscape designer with DeCook Landscaping and The Plant Shack. “Everyone was outside trying to keep their lawn as nice as the neighbors,

that sort of thing. Now, they want plants that are low-maintenance and drought tolerant. In today’s world, everyone is gone every weekend for their kid’s sports or other things. They just don’t have the time.”

While the lack of sustained rainfall has left some lawns looking brown, it has also given homeowners the chance to replant using better and more advanced grass seed, needing less water to keep their backyard sod barefoot friendly.

Regardless of the specifics, the overall trend has held true for the last few years, according to all of our experts: Rochesterites are spending more time outdoors, and they want a welcoming outdoor space.

Kristin Welch, co-owner, Tyrol Ski Shop

“Dining-height fire tables.”

“It runs the gamut in terms of what people are doing to expand their living area to the outdoors. Traditionally, we were selling mostly dining sets, and we still are, but we also see families choosing fire tables, and what we call deep seating— sofas, loveseats, lounge chairs, and chat chairs that have cushions. They are comfy, cozy and great for entertaining.

New for us is dining height fire tables (see opposite page). Rather than being lower down, at chat height, these are multi-functional. You can cover the burner, sit around the table and have a meal. Then after your meal, as it cools down, you light the fire for evening conversation. The ease of a gas fire table is a big part of the popularity— you don’t have the wood and the smoke to worry about. The reflective fire glass enhances the ambiance.

One of my favorites pieces we carry would be the high-back swivel rocker chairs. They can be used for dining as well as sitting around the fire table—very multi-functional. They are so comfortable, look great, and are super low maintenance.”

“The native landscaping is really coming back.”

Br

andon Delaney, Landscape

Designer, DeCook Landscaping and Plant Shack

“The native landscaping is really coming back. Everyone wants to have the pollinators, with monarch butterflies and hummingbirds. We’re seeing a lot of yarrow, milkweeds, allium, and butterfly weeds.

Design-wise, we’re seeing customers wanting it to be low maintenance. Plantwise, people are selecting native plant material that doesn’t require as much care or babysitting along with your tried-and-true plant material. If I were to say one shrub that is our biggest seller, it is the hydrangea. There are dozens of varieties out now, with so many different colors and styles of flower heads. The dwarf varieties are a big hit these days because you can put them in a container by your front door, and they require less maintenance.

They just came out with the eclipse hydrangea (see photo), and that is pretty cool looking. The leaves are almost black; it has a real showy pink flower head.

With porch pots, one big thing that has come along now is self-watering pots. You fill it up, they water from the bottom and you can leave, go on vacation, and in the summertime it’s still getting water.

Keeping with low maintenance, if you’re in full sun, that screams perennials to me. Another option with fairly low maintenance is the evergreens; you only have to trim them once a year or not at all depending on the variety. If you’re looking at partial shade, I’d go with hydrangeas all day. And full shade, you can go with hostas, of course, but I’m a bit tired of those. I’d look at some ligularia or some pulmonaria.”

AWARD-WINNINGLANDSCAPEDESIGN

•Patios

•Pergolas

•Outdoorkitchens

•Landscapelighting

•Pools

•Retainingwalls

• Firepitsand fireplaces

•Waterfeatures

•Turfandsportcourts

YEAR-ROUND,FULL-SERVICELAWNCARE

•Lawnmowing

•Powerraking

•Aerationandoverseeding

•Fertilizerandweedcontrol

•Irrigation

•Horticultureandgardening

•Snowremoval

Letusguideyouthroughasuccessfulremodel,TheBKWay.

“Seating walls, fire features, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, arbors.”

Michael Blazing, Landscape Architect, Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals

“We’ve been getting a lot of interest in different colors and different textures, with more complex paving layouts. That way the patio doesn’t feel quite so big, or so cold and sterile. It brings it down to scale.

We are doing one outdoor kitchen and fireplace, and the main area has several accent pavers to go along with the pavers. The large paver accents have a slate texture, but the main pavers are smooth. That brings down that scale, so the space doesn’t seem quite as big, and then you lounge furniture and it makes it feel more intimate.

We are not doing 'just patios' anymore. They now have seating walls, fire features, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, arbors. Some of those simple things work really nicely to add a bit more of a finish to the space. It really broadens the appeal of the space.

Lighting is an easy thing to overlook, but well-done lighting makes a big difference in a space. A lot of homeowners might have a flood light shining down. It’s fine, but maybe not very appealing; it can be harsh and too bright. Accent lighting makes a huge difference for the space. It’s one of those things that takes a design from a nine out of 10, to a 10 out of 10.”

“A pavilion will bring more than a lifetime of pleasure to your patio.”

Burnell Martin, Owner, The Country Barn Yard

"Folks are seeing the benefits of living and gathering outdoors these days. As the temps move upwards, I can’t wait to fire up the grill, invite some friends for dinner, and enjoy nature from the patio. A popular addition to the backyard is the pavilion. This beautiful structure creates a space to gather and enjoy the outdoors, while offering protection from the summer sun. Take in nature’s treats of fresh breezes, birdsongs, blue sky, and chattering squirrels, while relaxing in the shade of your pavilion. Available in attractive stained wood colors, or maintenance free vinyl, a pavilion will bring more than a lifetime of pleasure to your patio. Pergolas and gazebos are also popular structures with similar benefits. The Country Barn Yard is here to help you decide what will enhance your outdoor living space.

Short on storage? We sell many sheds that are practical, stylish, and can help you make the best use of your space. Choose from many designs and colors to fit your needs."

“Succulents entirely can change how your yard looks.”

Joel Flemke, Owner, Joel’s Greenhouse

"...most succulents thrive on neglect, so go ahead, take that two-week vacation and they will be just fine when you get back."

“Succulents entirely can change how your yard looks. The shapes, textures, and colors are amazing, and can be used outside in your gardens. They are also great plants for fairy gardens. But here’s a warning: Studying and collecting succulents can be an addicting hobby. The architecture of the plants is fascinating. The colors vary widely by plant, from reds and greens to purples and blues. Color also varies by amount of sunlight. Some succulents look totally different in the summer than winter. And if you plant them right, most succulents thrive on neglect, so go ahead, take that two-week vacation and they will be just fine when you get back.”

“We’re

Marv Kottke, President, Spring Touch Lawn and Pest Control

“Because of the drought, and with almost three years of below average rainfall, the biggest shift we're seeing is that a lot of people are aerating and reseeding their lawns. The new seed varieties have really improved. There is a big change from, say, 10 to 20 years ago. These seed varieties need a lot less water, and they are drought resistant, more

insect resistant, and fungus resistant, too.

Years ago, fescue was good for shade, but it was really lazy. If you walked across it, it would leave a footprint. Now it bounces back. And typically the grubs aren’t as interested in fescue.

One change from last year for us is that we are spraying all of our lawns on our second application for grubs. They have really been bad the last few years, and they can do a lot of damage.

We’re going to see a lot of creepy crawlers out there this year with the warmer winters

we have been having. Our climate has been more like Des Moines, Iowa, than Southern Minnesota lately.

We also spray thousands of lawns for mosquitoes. We spray the lawn, the trees and shrubs because the mosquito has to make contact with the chemical. For example, if you

have a mosquito in a neighbor’s yard, and it comes to your deck, it’s not going to control that.

You can’t eliminate the mosquitoes, but you can greatly reduce them. It controls about 90 to 95 percent of the mosquitoes, and basically makes it bearable to be outside, even if it’s a really bad night for bugs.”

ROCHESTER RETRO

(ONE IMAGE, ONE MOMENT IN THE CITY’S HISTORY)

W.J. Mayo Home

(now the Mayo Foundation House)

The home of W. J. Mayo was built on West College Street (now 710 Fourth St. S.W.) in 1918 by Ellerbe & Associates. The house showcases a unique combination of Renaissance Revival and English Tudor styles. The materials, however, are native to the Midwest. Exterior walls are of Kasota stone, quarried in Minnesota near Mankato and St. Peter; the roof is green slate from Lake Superior. The 24,000-square foot home contains 47 rooms on six floors. “In 1938, Dr. and Mrs. Mayo donated the home to Mayo Clinic as a meeting place ‘for the good of mankind,’” according to the Mayo Clinic. “Known since then as Mayo Foundation House, the home is reserved for Mayo Clinic meetings and events, and not open to the public. The Board of Trustees meets at Mayo Foundation House, and many dignitaries have been guests there. The Mayo Foundation House property includes several other buildings, including Damon House, formerly Dr. and Mrs. Mayo’s retirement home, and Walters House, formerly the home of their daughter, Phoebe, and her husband, Waltman Walters, M.D.”

source: National Register of Historic Places

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•Applyat mayocreditunion.org

•Call800-535-2129

•Text855-913-3131

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Second St. SW

The Walk-Through:

INSIDE A $719,000 HOME IN ELY, MN

The home: 1.3 Acres, 550 feet of shoreline on White Iron Lake. 1,800 square feet, 3B/1BTH

The info: A private point retreat at water’s edge on the White Iron lake chain. It’s like driving to your own island! This location offers direct BWCA access, but is only 5 miles to Ely. The property features an open 1.3 acre lot with a gentle slope to 550 feet of excellent swimming shoreline. The vintage cedar cabin includes

original handmade doors, a lakefront living room with wood floors and double doors to the huge wrap-around porch. The kitchen, dining room and guest bedrooms are all lakeside. The kitchen has been updated with a new dishwasher and stove. A walkout basement could be a workshop, a rec room, or even a 4th bedroom. The solid building has a metal roof, renovated windows, a new bathroom, pex water lines, a new water heater, a new furnace and central a/c. The home also has updated electric and a compliant septic. The grounds feature a grandfathered-in boat slip for protected docking.

Local Professional Expertise

Global Network | Unrivaled Personal Service | Ethics Committee Member

We listen to our clients and make buying or selling a straight-forward, transparent experience. Give us a call or send us an email and let’s get started today!

Here’s a few comments from the judges:

“What followed was pure amazement with article after article that grabbed my attention.”

“The photos catch your eye immediately.”

“Engaging and interesting ...”

“Colorful, well-placed artwork {in the advertising}.”

Place)

Place)

Lange, Jennifer Haugen Koski, Tom Weber, Abby Ashbacher, Hadley Lange for the September 2022 issue

Place)

MARKETPLACE a selection of shops & services

SPECIALTY STORES

Galleria.

111 Broadway S.

Shoppers will find a range of unique gift items, home decor, housewares, men’s apparel, games, and fashions for all ages.

Clothing stores include: Hers, Poppi, Counterpoint, The Nordic Shop, and others. Gift items and housewares can be found at The Nordic Shop, Counterpoint Home, and Games by James.

Garten Marketplatz. Located six miles SW of Rochester on Olmsted Co. 15, this Civil-War era farm has beautiful display gardens, a great selection of Minnesotagrown perennials and garden art. The vintage brick “Garten Haus” is filled with gifts and home decor that changes with the season. The European-inspired carriage house is ready to host your meeting or special event year-round. 5225 Co. Rd. 15 SW Byron. 507-365-8891. gartenmarketplatz.com

Tyrol Ski & Sports. 1923 Second St SW.

Selling quality outdoor gear since 1965. Featuring patio furniture, kayaks, canoes, camping gear, outdoor apparel, footwear. Online at tyrolskishop.com. Open Mon & Thurs 10-8; Tues, Wed, Fri 10-6; Sat 9:30-5:30. 507-288-1683.

DELI & SANDWICH SHOPS

Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches. The Kahler Inn & Suites, 9 Third Ave. NW; Marketplace Mall, 2986 41st St NW; Crossroads Plaza, 90 14th St SW. Jimmy John’s is unlike any sub shop in the industry; no games or gimmicks, just old-fashioned, homemade sandwiches made from fresh-baked bread, all-natural meats and vegetables that are sliced daily. Downtown hours: 10:30-8; 507-289-9900. NW hours: 10:30-10; 507-424-0100. SW hours: 10:30-10; 507-424-2000. Catering and delivery available. Order online at jimmyjohns.com. V, M, D, and AE accepted.

ENTERTAINMENT

Rochester Civic Theatre.

20 Civic Center Dr SE. Just off Broadway in downtown Rochester, the Civic Theatre delivers a year-round slate of musical, drama, comedy, and young people’s theater productions. For a schedule of events, go to rochestercivictheatre.org, or call the box office at 507-282-8481.

Treasure Island. Just minutes north of Red Wing. Whether you’re looking for great food and drink, big cash drawings, a new car or free weekend entertainment—odds are you’ll find it at The Island. For more information call 800-222-7077. treasureislandcasino.com. The Island is calling! (See ad page 5)

BANKING

Home Federal Savings Bank. When it comes to your personal, everyday banking needs, Home Federal has you covered. Ask us about the great advantages of our personal checking accounts. Start saving smart with a savings account, IRA, CDs, and more. Finance any of the larger purchases in your life with a customized personal loan. Manage your accounts at any of the four convenient locations in Rochester or in the comfort of you own home via your smartphone or computer—24 hours a day, 7 days a week—with Home Federal’s mobile banking. All of the amenities of a national chain, along with the personalized, friendly service you expect from a community bank. Local bankers. Local service. Local decisions. Bring your banking home. Find out more at JustCallHome.com. Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC.

Mayo Employees Federal Credit Union.

We are dedicated to helping members achieve their financial goals. 100% financing to qualified borrowers, first-time home buyer programs, fixed rate conventional mortgages, FHA and VA financing, competitive rates and fair fees, up to 100% home equity financing, residential loan program. Apply at mayocreditunion.org. 507-535-1460. (See ad page 69)

Eagle Rock Bank. Formerly ONB Bank. Where community banking means more than a new account; we build relationships! Offering a wide variety of banking products for both your personal and business needs. Two convenient locations with experienced bankers to assist you with your financial journey. Call us today at 507-280-0621! www.eaglerock.bank. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. (See ad page 11, 18)

WHERE TO WORSHIP

First Presbyterian Church. 512 Third St SW. Worship Sunday: 10 a.m., 507-282-1618, fpcrochester.org. Please visit our website for up to date information.

Grace Lutheran Church. LCMS 800 East Silver Lake Dr NE. Worship services: Wednesday 6 p.m.; Saturday 6 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. Sunday School and Bible Class 10:30 a.m. “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith...” Eph.2:8 NIV. We welcome you by God’s grace, will help you grow with God’s love, and prepare you to do His work. In addition to many mission projects in Rochester, Grace supports Lutheran Hour Ministries and is a member of Rochester Central Lutheran School Association. 507-289-7833, gracebythelake.org. Email: office@gracebythelake.org.

Redeemer

Lutheran Church. 869 7th Ave SE. Saturday: Worship 5:30 p.m. Sunday: Worship 8 and 10:40 a.m. Sunday School & Education Hour: 9:20 a.m. Welcome to Redeemer Lutheran Church where you’ll find a small neighborhood church atmosphere of friendship and fellowship. Redeemer’s members are dedicated to doing the Lord’s work. Our mission and purpose at Redeemer are to glorify God through the gifts of the Holy Spirit and to provide opportunities for spiritual growth. 507-289-5147, redeemer-rochester.com. Email: office@redeemer-rochester.com.

ADVERTISERS INDEX

BY STEVE LANGE

10 (or so) questions with ... Heather Nessler, Executive Director of Spark, the children’s museum of Rochester

Rochester Magazine: What song did you play on the clarinet when you “rocked an epic clarinet solo” in the Miss St. Charles pageant in the late 1990s?

Heather Nessler: “Rocking an epic solo” is one way to put it. The pageant was for the title of Flower Fest Queen. I think the year I was in the pageant was the final year it was known as Flower Fest. The town festival became known as Gladiolus Days after that. I played “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham! It was truly something.

RM: Wow. We’re meeting at Cafe Aqui (inside Sargent’s on 2nd). Is this because this greenhouse is like being inside your house? I’ve heard you have a crazy amount of plants.

HN: Café Aqui is one of my favorite places, but I am a huge homebody, too. Yes, I love plants. I have hundreds of them. They make me happy. I could live in a jungle, except I despise humidity and bugs. So I guess I couldn’t really live in a jungle.

RM: How did you and [husband] Bo meet?

HN: We actually met when we were little. Our parents would go to the [Mississippi] river together. And so we grew up as little river rats together. But we weren’t buddies until high school.

RM: And now you have two kids?

HN: We have two daughters. Dempsey’s 17. Finnley is 13.

RM: I’m going to give you some names. Aaron Nienow, Robert Nowlan, Sarah Oldre, Janny Pagel, Reid Pulley, and Heather Rainey (that’s you) ...

HN: Yeah, those are all from my high school class in St. Charles.

I love the fact that what we do can make a difference in the lives of children.

RM: That was the St. Charles honor roll of 1997. Were you a nerd in high school?

HN: I’m totally a nerd. I’ve always identified as a nerd. I played basketball and softball in high school, but I’m not like a super athlete, right? That was never my thing. I was more involved with social concerns and things of that nature.

RM: So that’s kind of been your trajectory, right? And you spent 10 years, from 2013-2022, as the Communications, Marketing & Technology person for Rochester Public Schools. What drew you to that job?

HN: I wanted to make sure I was doing something where I felt fulfilled. I wanted to make a difference. At the end of the day, I want kids to be good human beings and to grow up to be good human beings. That’s what drew me to that job, was knowing that there was an opportunity to really improve

the lives of kiddos.

RM: Why did you always make us go to school when we didn’t want to on snow days, and why did you always cancel school and then it was beautiful out?

HN: I know. I was waiting for that question. The beautiful part is, I didn’t make those decisions.

RM: Yes, but you communicated them to us. It was your voice on the recorded calls.

HN: Did you ever get the call from me where my dog was barking in the background?

RM: Ha. Speaking of dogs. Tell me about your dog, Indie.

HN: Indie. She’s terrible. She’s my 6-year-old English bulldog/ French bulldog rescue. She has the most quirky personality, she makes me laugh all the time, and I love her. She was born deaf and so we taught her sign language. I am not making

this up. She knows several signs: bathroom, dinner, no, down, up, ball. And sometimes, when she doesn’t want to listen to me, she will look away. It’s ridiculous. Her favorite thing to do is to toilet paper the house. She will grab the roll of toilet paper from one of the bathrooms and run with it in her mouth from room to room. It’s a daily thing unless we remember to close the bathroom door.

RM: That’s one of the greatest stories I’ve ever heard. SPARK sounds like the perfect job for you.

HN: Absolutely. Two reasons. One, everyone’s there because they want to be there. Two, I love the fact that what we do can make a difference in the lives of children.

RM: Do you have an example?

HN: So many. Just the other day, we were watching this little girl in the cafe, and she put on the apron and chef hat. She just was bigger than life in that moment. Kids have that opportunity to just figure out who they are in that moment, maybe who they want to be. You can just see the light bulb moments for kids.

RM: One more example?

HN: We had someone come in and read. His name is The Dyslexic Dude. He was a child who had dyslexia, and when he was younger was told that, with his learning disability, he would not be successful. That’s what he believed. He has a PhD now, he is a published author, and he came in and he read to kids. Kids can see themselves in that, especially if you have a learning disability. There are these moments where kids can see themselves, and it’s about identity for me. I just think that’s the coolest thing.

Photo courtesy Gina Marcucci.