Rochester Magazine August 2023

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24 Rochester’s Forgotten “Renaissance Man”

Born into one of Rochester’s only Black families in 1898, William O’Shields led Rochester High to (unofficial) state football titles, won the U of M Alumni Award for Outstanding Achievement, cemented a coaching and teaching legacy, and had a college football stadium named after him. Yet he’s been seemingly forgotten in his hometown.

37

Six of the city’s best cocktails

Old Fashioned. First World Problem. Peachy Keen. NY Sour. Purple Goat Punch. Oaked Cherry Blossom. You voted. We drank.

48

Our Guide To Higher Ed

Local college kids answer your “What do we really need to know about college?” questions. Plus, your cheatsheet to area higher education.

Julie

46

The Walk Through

Inside one cool home you could own right now.

One

66

Ten (or so) questions

Armin Budimlic, executive director of the Intercultural Mutual Assistance Association, talks about growing up in Yugoslavia, surviving the war in Bosnia, and learning English through rock music and “Dynasty.”

Junk Drawer

Three things you

know about this issue. Until now.

1. This month’s cover story—on William O’Shields—started with an email back in January. “Have you ever done anything extensive on William O’Shields?” asked Tom Weber, who regularly writes historical pieces for Rochester Magazine. “He was reportedly the first Black person to graduate from Rochester High School, where he was a star athlete. He went on to earn letters in track and field at the ‘U,’ then had a lengthy career as a track coach and administrator at Historical Black College and Universities, ending at Cheyney U. in Pennsylvania, where the stadium is named for him. In 1945 the RHS school paper said he was the greatest athlete in school history.”

2. So, yeah. We immediately said “Yes.”

3. A few weeks later, Tom turned in his usual excellent piece for us. The story was so good—and, honestly, one of those historical profiles that seemed like it had never been done in-depth—that we decided to turn it into a cover piece. Which meant we needed some follow-up. So, we tried to track down any relatives of William O’Shields. We sent out lots of emails to possible acquaintances and relatives of O’Shields, who had died in 1981. In late February, we heard back from Kimberly O’Shields. “Thanks for reaching out,” she said. “This sounds like a wonderful opportunity to share the story of my grandfather’s legacy.” And share she did. Photos. Stories. Handwritten letters from William to his family. We could go on and on about all of the behind-the-scenes work to bring William O’Shields’ story to life. But, really, you should just read it.

THE POST BULLETIN COMPANY

Publisher

FORUM COMMUNICATIONS CO.

Editor STEVE LANGE 507-285-7770

slange@rochestermagazine.com

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

Advertising

ADAM GEHLING

LOGAN ODELL LISA SCHELL advertising@rochestermagazine.com

Graphic Designers

MOLLIE BURLINGAME

BETH KROHN

Associate Editor

JENNIFER HAUGEN KOSKI

Contributing Writers

ALEXA ANDERSON HADLEY LANGE

PAULA LAROCHELLE

THOMAS WEBER

Photo Supervisor

JOE AHLQUIST

Contributing Photographers

ALEX HOPFINGER

KEN KLOTZBACH

OLIVE JUICE STUDIOS

TRACI WESTCOTT

GET HOME DELIVERY!

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.

Volume twenty-four I Number eight Rochester Magazine is produced monthly by the Rochester Post Bulletin, and distributed throughout Rochester, MN. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. Editor, Rochester Magazine, 1700 Greenview Dr. SW, Rochester, MN 55902 or SLange@rochestermagazine.com. Call 507-285-7676 for home delivery ($29.95 for 11 issues).

didn’t

18 Years in the Making

JASON ALDEAN BRINGS HIS TWO DECADES’ OF HITS TO TI

BY HADLEY LANGE

In the 18 years since Jason Aldean released his first album, he has released 38 singles (27 of which hit #1 on the Hot Country Songs or Country Airplay charts), served as a battle advisor for Kelly Clarkson on “The Voice,” and won three Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year awards.

What’s Better Than Gold?

Platinum, of course! Of Aldean’s 10 albums, four have been certified platinum, one double platinum, and his 2010 album, “My Kinda Party,” was certified quadruple-platinum.

It Ain’t Country Without the Hat.

Aldean poses in his signature light brown cowboy hat on all of his studio album covers. His cowboy hats are so iconic that he has a self-titled collection at Resistol.

Country Covers.

Aldean has a knack for putting his own spin on songs by other artists:

• “Amarillo Sky” (first recorded by McBride and the Ride) earned him a CMA nomination for song of the year.

• “Johnny Cash” (first recorded by Tracy Bird) hit number 6 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

• “Dirt Road Anthem” (first recorded by Colt Ford and Brantley Gilbert) has sold over 4 million copies (making it the best-selling song by a solo male country artist in the US).

Jason Aldean is playing at the Treasure Island Amphitheater on Saturday, August 19th at 7pm. Tickets start at $45; ticasino.com, 800-222-7077.

BY STEVE LANGE

It’s 1 a.m. on Monday morning—I have to figure the time and even the day out later—and we are on a long, fast, northwest tack across the northern half of Lake Huron in maybe 20-knot winds and four-foot seas in a 33-foot sailboat.

We—our four-person team of the eight-person crew—are 36 sleepdeprived hours into the Port Huron to Mackinac Island race, and we can’t see anything.

Well, anything good, at least. We can see the lights of a downbound freighter that seem closer than I would like. We can see a few sailboats tacking through the fog next to us.

But we can’t see any land or lighthouses or buoy lights. We can’t see any clouds, even. Or stars. Just a hazy, disorienting darkness.

I’m the helmsman for our team. I am steering the boat. I have been staring at—and steering to—the compass for the past two hours of our six-hour shift. And not doing a very good job of it.

No one says anything. But when I get more than a few degrees off course and the wind drives us into one of those waves and the crew gets a face full of Lake Huron, I know they’re thinking it.

Every time I veer too far off course, the crew has to retrim the sails. It’s a lot of work.

Staring at nothing but a compass in the darkness for two straight hours after 36 hours of racing can make you hallucinate. And I know firsthand all about hallucinating on long sailboat races.

At roughly the same point during this race in 2019, we spent hours getting mercilessly hammered by six-foot waves and 25 mph winds.

There came a point—having been up for maybe 24 straight hours— that I felt possibly the most spent I have ever been in my life.

Physically. Mentally. Emotionally.

We had to drop out of the race and take safe harbor in Presque Isle, a small marina 50 miles from the finish.

It was 4 a.m. I walked off the boat and sat on a bench on the main dock, just staring at the other boats in the harbor. There, on the

back of an old wooden sailboat, I saw what I was certain was a small monkey clinging to the rudder. A live monkey.

I knew in my heart it could not have been a monkey hanging off the back of that boat, yet I had no doubt that’s what I was looking at. I swore it was smiling at me. I swore I heard it ooking quietly.

I once saw an actual monkey in a diaper swimming in a public pool, and the people around me seemed less surprised and interested than I would imagine. So, maybe.

Did the boat owner have a pet monkey that slipped out to go swimming? The same monkey from that pool?

I went to our boat and fell asleep in a wet cot. The next morning, when I walked back to that sailboat, I saw the rudder featured an ornate wooden carving. Not a monkey.

So, yes, I have hallucinated during long sailboat races. Right now, we are 36 hours into the 99th annual Mackinac Island race, which runs the length of Lake Huron and is one of the nation’s longest (200-plus miles), largest (200plus boats), oldest (99 years), and most prestigious regattas.

We are sailing on my nephew Konnor’s new-to-him Farr 33 with an eight-person crew including my brother Dave, his girlfriend, three of his kids and two friends.

We have already endured hours of wind-less doldrums, hours of pouring rain and storms, wet cots, a bathroom that feels like a tiny outhouse, especially if a dozen people were violently shaking that tiny outhouse as you tried to use it.

Now, with no visibility, I’m at one of those emotional lows that you can expect during the Mackinac race. Every year, at some point during the race, I swear I will never do this again. But I will never do this again.

Then, a faint light.

It’s a single visible star in the entire sky, and it lines up perfectly with our heading when I steer right to it.

After two hours of following that star, the clouds and haze and rain start to clear and I realize it’s Arcturus, the brightest star in the northern hemisphere, 37 light years away. (I mean, I didn’t realize it then—I had to Google it.)

When the shift change comes, all eight of us are together on deck and the sun is rising over the lake. Konnor takes the helm, and later that afternoon, sails his boat across the finish line to cheers and toasts of gas station champagne.

We cross the finish line after 48 hours, 59 minutes, and 20 seconds. 227 nautical miles. Three stints trapped in the doldrums. Two of the hardest rainstorms I’ve ever been in. One star shining through the darkness.

And seven people I trust my life with.

48 hours, 59 minutes, 20 seconds. 227 nautical miles.

RandomRochesterite

One resident, numerous anecdotes

By JENNIFER KOSKI Photo by JOE AHLQUIST

Name: Julie Yost

Age: 63

Occupation: Textile artist

Where we found her: Jeremiah Program gala

Are you originally from Rochester? I am not. I grew up in Lakeville and then, when we got married, my husband took his first job as a schoolteacher in Eyota. So we lived in Eyota for 39 years while I drove into work every day. We didn’t actually move to Rochester until three years ago.

What did you drive into Rochester for? Oh goodness. My very first job in Rochester was managing the Singer sewing machine store inside the JoAnn Fabrics at Northbrook, across from Silver Lake. That was so long ago. That’s when there was a movie theater and Bridgeman’s ice cream store there. For five years, I managed that sewing machine center. Then I heard about this new company coming to town. I applied there, and I was one of the original group of people hired to open the Best Buy store in Rochester. That was October of 1985. This group of us were the first salespeople, but we were also helping to finish the building, putting up shelves and merchandise so we could open in November for prime Christmas season. The hot new item was VCRs. I sold VCRs! It was fabulous, but this was back when Best Buy was 100% commission. We were selling hand over fist when we opened, but when Christmas season was over and it was January, oh my. At a certain point I said to myself, “I wonder if there’s a job where I can get paid just for being nice and helping people and not having to sell?” And that is when I applied to Mayo Clinic. I had eight jobs at Mayo over the next 33 years.

Where does the “textile artist” part come in? Well, that’s why I had to retire from Mayo. I was starting to think about artsy stuff more than my Mayo work stuff! I’ve always been a tad bit creative and an

artist wannabe. But with no training and no talent as an artist, you can’t actually put food on the table! So that’s why I had to get real jobs until I didn’t have to do a real job anymore. That’s how we got to Rochester, too. My wonderful husband knew I wanted a studio. And our house didn’t have that. So shortly after I retired, we started looking for a new house, and eventually found one in Rochester—the best house in the best neighborhood. What do you make in your studio? My husband’s favorite thing, when he tells people what I’m doing, is to say, “Oh, she’s downstairs dying.” It’s true! I do a lot of dying— natural dying, ice dying, tie-dying. I spend my days dying, or preparing to dye, or planning to dye! And if I’m not dying, I’m sewing. I’m macrame-ing. I’m creating out of fabric or fibers or things like that. I’m turning bedsheets into clothing. I’ve always been creative, but I didn’t have the time until I retired. And then I had to retire, because the drive to create was becoming stronger than my desire to keep working and getting paid. And how’s it been? I love it. I’m trying to break into the Rochester arts community. I’m a member of Threshold Arts, and we should say how wonderful Threshold Arts

is. Naura Anderson is a visionary leader and she’s doing great things for the local art community. And that extends to the Rochester community as a whole, because that makes Rochester a better place, too. I have some of my items at Threshold’s storefront, like three dozen other local artists. For next year, I’ve already been asked to have an exhibit at 125 LIVE. I have an Instagram presence at @ consistentlydifferentdesigns. It’s super long because when I joined I didn’t know any better. But it’s a good description of me. All of my things are one of a kind. Do you have kids? We don’t have kids— we have grandchildren and their parents! I tried to deliver some of my daughters’ high school things to them, diplomas and stuff, because I have to make way for the grandchildren things! Share some words of wisdom? I believe in failing. If you don’t fail once in a while, you’re not trying hard enough. It’s kind of like “if you don’t strike out, you aren’t swinging the bat often enough.”

That’s my try at sports analogies, as someone who isn’t sporty. Take risks. Try things.

What have you tried and failed at? Certainly some artistic things.

What have you tried and succeeded with? A couple of my macrame things have been home runs—dresses and beach cover ups. I have a firm belief that macrame is not just for plant hangers anymore.

STILL EN VOGUE. 90’s R&B/soul/ funk/pop staple En Vogue brings their hitlist to Down by the Riverside. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets down to Mayo Park to hear “Hold On”; “Whatta Man”; and, oh, “My Lovin’ (You’re Never Gonna Get It).” rochestermn.gov, 507-328-2900

TODAY IS PURPLE HEART DAY.

Honor that at Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial, one of Rochester’s great monuments. Take time to read the Memorial and take the Walk of Remembrance, made up of roughly 6,000 pavers honoring U.S. veterans and allies. soldiersfieldmemorial.org

READ ON THE GO. The Rochester Public Library’s Bookmobile makes stops at Sunset Terrace School and Roy Watson Field. The Bookmobile runs most days during the summer and carries more than 4,500 items including audio books, movies, picture books, and novels. rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

FROM THE ARTIST TO THE CIRCUMCENTER. Meet at “The Artist,” the big metal sculpture outside the Mayo Civic Center, to join the Rochester Art Center’s public art walking tour. An Art Center expert will take you on a journey through some of Rochester’s best outdoor art, ending with ”Circumcenter” (another big metal sculpture outside Mayo Civic Center)! rochesterartcenter.org

GO FOR THE GOLD.

Get double the deals today with two Gold Rush antique shows. Hit the Downtown Oronoco Gold Rush Days (Aug. 18-20). Then head to the Olmsted County Fairgrounds for the Olmsted County Gold Rush (Aug. 18-20). goldrushmn.com, townsendshows.com

FRESH AIR FITNESS. Join fellow Rochesterites in Central Park to enjoy the sunshine and a guided fitness class. Bring a yoga mat and a water bottle! downtownrochestermn.com, 507-216-9882

SEE SOME RACIN’! Deer Creek Speedway, in Spring Valley, hosts the 32nd Annual Harris Class, with IMCA Modifieds and IMCA Sport Mods tearing around the dirt track. deercreekspeedway.com

HEY BATTER-BATTER SWING!

The Roosters—the city’s old-timey base ball team—play against Brooklyn and the Baltics in a double header. See base ball how it was meant to be played (in 1864, and spelled as two words, that is)! olmstedhistory.com, 507-282-9447

BE GLAD(IOLUS). Celebrate

Carl Fischer, an innovative florist responsible for many of the varieties of gladioli we see today. He also planted beautiful (looking and smelling) gladiolus fields in St. Charles. Come for the floristcentric history, stay for the parade. stcharlesmn.org, 507-932-3020

SLOW IT DOWN. Assisi Heights’ “Mindfulness in Nature” walk isn’t the strenuous hike or fast-paced stroll you might be used to. Instead, this walk, guided by Minnesota Master Naturalist Loretta Mogan, urges you to slow down and take it all in. olmstedcounty.gov, 507-328-7350

K-9 TIME! The Rochester Police Department hosts six Safe City Nights, with demos from RPD, Rochester Fire Department, Rochester Public Works (“sewer demonstrations”!), and the K-9 team. Tonight’s event is at Watson Field. rochestermn.gov/government/ departments/police, 507-328-6800

SING YOUR HEART OUT.

Hit the risers with Med City Harmony, an adult a cappella choir featuring voices of all ranges and experience (you’ll be assigned a singing buddy to help you out). Held at the Masonic Center, this barbershop group will have you singing with joy (and in tune). medcityharmony.org

JERSEY BOYS. Jersey Boys, a jukebox musical, follows the journey of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons from kids in New Jersey to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Chanhassen Dinner Theatres show includes hits like “Sherry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” and “My Eyes Adored You.” chanhassendt.com, 952-934-1525

NITE SHIFT, CLOSING.

Summer is coming to a close and so is the Bear Cave Summer Concert Series in Stewartville. The season closes out with Nite Shift performing covers of songs from classic to contemporary rock (their cover of “Dirty Deeds” is our personal favorite!). stewartvillechamber.com, 507-533-6006

IS THIS THING ON? The mic is hot and the drinks are, too—it’s open mic night at Cafe Steam. Whether you’ve got originals or covers, poetry or songs, a guitar or just yourself, everyone is invited to perform. steam.coffee, 507-208-4160

ASHLEY FOR THE ARTS.

IT’LL BE A HOOT. Celebrate International Owl Awareness Day with free admission to Houston’s International Owl Center. Meet the Center’s owl ambassadors (of the Great Horned, Burrowing, and Screech varieties), register to win door prizes, and attend a program (or 6)! internationalowlcenter.org, 507-896-6957

CURIOSITY EMPORIUM.

The Friends of the Library are hosting a “Curiosity Emporium” in the Rochester Public Library’s atrium. This flea market features some of the most interesting, uncanny, and collectible items the library has amassed through the years. All proceeds benefit the Rochester Public Library! rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

MIDWEEK MUSIC. The Rochester Public Library is hosting a children’s concert put on by musician and Minnesota-native Amanda Grace. Hear hits from Music Makes it Right! and Trains, Cars, and a Trip to Mars, Grace’s two albums geared towards kids. rplmn.org, 507-328-2300

IT WILL BE FABBAULOUS.

Celebrate 11 years of Berne WoodFired Pizza with Brewfest! Lost in Austin opens up for Rochester-based ABBA tribute band fABBAulous. Grab a slice of ‘za and hear hits including “SOS,” “Mamma Mia,” and “Dancing Queen.” (Bring chairs and plates). bernepizza.org

REN FEST (IN SONG FORM).

It’s the second-to-last show in the forWARD Neighborhood Park Concerts series. Head to White Oaks Park to hear Loreweavers, a band hailed as “reminiscent of a Renaissance fair” that incorporates traditional Irish instruments (the uilleann pipes, bodhrán, and accordion). rochestermn.gov, 507-328-2900

REO Speedwagon is at the Ashley for the Arts festival. What more could you ask for? Well, how about OneRepublic, Tyler Hubbard, Walk The Moon, and Raelynn? Oh, and even more bands, an old-timey circus, fireworks, and more (at Memorial Park in Arcadia, Wis). 608-863-6700, ashleyforthearts.com

BLUEGRASS, BLUEGRASS, AND MORE BLUEGRASS!

The 31st annual Southeast Minnesota Bluegrass Festival features performances by the Paul Family, Janine Sherry, Kevin Prater— and that’s just today! Bring your instrument for the chance to “jam” with bluegrass enthusiasts. semba.tv, 507-864-8109

GOODHUE COUNTY FAIR. Bryan Anderson is at Goodhue County Fair with plenty of original country songs (check out his newest EP “Anywhere but Here” for a sneak peek). Don’t miss the rest of the week’s festivities including lawnmower and demo derbies, lumberjack shows, and 4-H events. goodhuecountyfair.com, 507-732-5001

76 TROMBONES (MORE OR LESS ...DEFINITELY LESS).

The 56th annual Western Days parade and concert features the Chatfield Brass Band. Check out the Best of the Midwest horse pull, the flea market, and the classic car, truck, and antique motorcycle show. ci.chatfield.mn.us, 507-867-3870

THE HOG DAYS OF SUMMER.

It’s the first day of the second annual Sleepy Eye Summerfest Weekend, so get ready for a classic car and cycle cruise, a street dance, and pork chops galore! There’s also a parade on Saturday! sleepyeyesummerfest. com, 507-794-4731

DON’T STOP THINKIN’ ABOUT THIS CONCERT.

HIGHWAY DESPERADO.

Jason Aldean brings his Highway Desperado tour to Treasure Island. This show features hits including “If I Didn’t Love You,” “Dirt Road Anthem,” and “Got What I Got.” ticasino.com, 800-222-7077

GET TOGETHER

at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. 500,000 corn dogs. 25,000 gallons of milk. 200,000 people (hopefully) per day. Today’s the first day of the Minnesota State Fair (Aug. 24-Sept. 4). mnstatefair.org.

Rumours & Dreams: The Music of Fleetwood Mac is back at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. Three accomplished singers backed by a six-piece ensemble perform Fleetwood Mac hits including “Rhiannon,” “Don’t Stop Thinkin’ About Tomorrow,” and “Little Lies.” chanhassendt.com, 952-934-1525

BOB AND WEAVE. Autocross is like an obstacle course for your car—take tight turns, weave in and around cones, and race against the clock. You can watch (or try your hand at) autocross in the High Octane Challenge held in the RCTC parking lot (don’t forget a helmet!). allevents.in/rochester/high-octanechallenge/200024122166619

Sponsored by

LOCAL TRIVIA.

Little Thistle hosts Wednesday trivia ... and tonight includes trivia from the PB. littlethistlebeer.com, 507-226-8014

MISSISSIPPI SIPPIN’.

Food, drinks, and late gallery hours at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona. mmam.org, 507-474-6626

minnesotasrochester.com

the local table {where we eat}

Proud Sponsor of Local Table— Supporting local restaurants.

Locally Owned. Locally Managed. Local Decisions. Rochester Main 507.280.0621 Stewartville 507.504.1060

Your Community Bank bankonONB.com

507.258.4663

14 Fourth Street SW Rochester bleuduckkitchen.com

Bleu Duck Kitchen and Oyster Bar, where the kitchen is the focus by sourcing local ingredients as much as possible. We strive to be innovative and welcome each customer as a friend hoping to create a memorable experience. Join us for happy hour every day from 4pm-6pm. Reservations are preferred but not required.

Voted Best Restaurant 2019 - 2023.

507.258.7555

187 16th Ave SW Rochester jerseyjos.com

Minority Owned, Family Operated restaurant since 2015, Jersey Jo’s offers Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks, Jumbo Jo Wings, Thick Cut Chicken Fingers and More. We have In-House Seating, Patio Seating, Pick-up and Delivery available. Offering catering options, we can satisfy any size group. Come by and see us for our Daily Lunch Specials (11am - 2pm) or Dinner Specials (5pm - Close). Open Monday - Saturday from 11am - 9pm.

507.285.2516

120 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester blueplatedinermn.com

Day-Brightening Eats, Smooth Brew. Serving fresh, locally sourced comfort food favorites, quesadillas, sandwiches, soups, salads, and all-day breakfast. Dine-in, order online, and delivery available through Waiters Express. Visit blueplatedinermn.com to order online.

507.346.7300

78757 State Highway 16 Spring Valley fourdaughtersvineyard.com

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!

507.288.0206

401 6th St SW Rochester twigstavernandgrille.com

Awarded Best Outdoor Dining for 8 years! Enjoy cozy tables & chairs among glowing fires and a meandering stream, with views of colorful flowers by day and dozens of lanterns by night. WE GET IT. BECAUSE WE LIVE IT. Rochester’s only restaurant with a separate GLUTEN-FREE Kitchen. Seasonal Cocktails & Desserts | Small Plates | Bowls.

the local table {where

we eat}

507.361.7910

217 14th Ave SW Rochester redcowmn.com/rochester

Family owned and locally operated since 2013, Red Cow provides a sophisticated twist on the classic neighborhood tavern. We celebrate finely crafted eats and drinks with a focus on gourmet burgers, craft beers and fine wine. #Followtheherd to Red Cow!

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.

507.226.8146

4 third St SW Rochester thaipopmn.com

ThaiPop brings the past to the present, Thailand to Minnesota, and the passion for good food and drinks to you. We serve unique cocktails and cuisine on historic 3rd Street in downtown Rochester. Open Monday - Saturday. Voted Best Ethnic Restaurant 2023 and Best New Restaurant 2022 by Rochester Magazine readers.

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.

Lunch buffet from 11-2 Tuesday thru Friday. Closed on Mondays.

507.424.1227

247 Woodlake Drive SE Rochester whistlebinkiespub.com

As a staple in Rochester’s dining scene for 18 years, with new owners as of November 2021, Whistle Binkies on the Lake continues to honor long-time traditions. Situated in a business district on a small lake with beautiful patio views, two private dining spaces, a large dining room, 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!

507.280.6232

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.

the local table {where we eat}

507.281.2978, 300 1st Ave NW Rochester creativecuisineco.com

Enjoy gourmet pasta, pizza, culinary twists and rambunctious martinis while listening to live music all in a stylish rustic atmosphere. Voted Most Romantic Ambience.

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 bakery-fresh breads. Signature salads and soups, a terrific coffee bar, with quicke and easy delivery service. Catering as well as box lunch delivery.

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.

507.529.9599

230 20th Ave SW Rochester beetlesbar.com

Conveniently located 2 blocks west of St. Mary’s Hospital on 2nd Street. We feature full lunch and dinner menus with everything from burgers to broasted chicken, wraps to wings, and steak. Enjoy the outdoor patio and plenty of TVs to watch games! Pull Tabs and E-Tabs with the proceeds benefiting the Rochester Youth Hockey Association! Live Music on Saturdays and DJ Trivia on Tuesdays. Dine-in, take-out, and delivery!

507.512.3800

220 Broadway Ave S Rochester craverochestermn.com

CRAVE was built out of a passion to create a dining experience unlike any other. We combine quality-sourced ingredients, chic ambiance, outstanding service, and diverse menu choices to create an unforgettable dining experience.

507.282.6572

1203 2nd St SW

Across from St Marys Hospital Rochester

For over 30 years, 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.

the local table {where we eat}

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!

507.252.8800

1643 Broadway Ave N Rochester Glynnerspub.com

“Greatest staff in the business! Small batch, made from scratch, cooking! Cold beer and great specials with live music and other entertainment!”

507.258.4550

2023

507.424.7800

130 5th St SW 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 and 2023 by Rochester Magazine readers.

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.

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 thirteen 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.

South- 1201 S Broadway

North- 5231 E Frontage Rd NW

Express- Downtown Skyway 15610 English Ave, Apple Valley 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!

the local table {where we

eat}

507.258.5001

255 1st Ave SW, Rochester TheWellDining.com

The Well features comfort food with a unique style, in a beautiful new space in downtown Rochester. Now offering live music this summer! Come to The Well for a unique taste and let us serve your mind, body, and soul!

507.361.Ribs

2291 Commerce Dr NW Rochester smoakbbqmn.com

SMOAK is part of the Rocket Restaurant Group. We offer a wide array of menu items featuring, burgers, sandwiches, salads, broasted fried chicken, SMOAK’d Meats, and more! We have the perfect atmosphere for happy hour 7 days a week. We also offer brunch on Saturdays & Sundays, as well as catering services!! Come dine in, or take out today!! We have a 100% dog friendly patio featuring a full dog menu.

244 Soldiers Field Dr SW Rochester 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 and Best New Restaurant.

507.258.9064

808 Broadway Ave S Rochester TacoJed.com

Voted Best Taco 2020 & 2021. Live Music Friday & Saturdays. Great Brunch Sat & Sun 11-2. We believe that good food and friendly faces bring a community together. We are locally-owned and love living in Rochester!

Hours: Wed & Thur 11am–1:30pm & 5–7:30pm; Fri 11am–1:30pm & 5–9pm; Sat 11am–9pm; Sun 11am–7:30pm; Closed Mon and Tues.

1155 16th St SW, Rochester

507.516.0641

Sorellinasmn.com

Open Mon-Sat at 11AM

Open Sunday at 9AM

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!

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.

Three Ways You Can Help ... Elder Network

BY ALEXA ANDERSON

Formed in 1988 and incorporated in 1991, Elder Network is dedicated to helping those age 55 and better thrive and lead rewarding lives. The organization offers many services focused on supporting seniors and caregivers as they maintain their well-being and mental health, and retain their independence and quality of life.

Elder Network relies heavily on volunteers to assist with these programs. Needs include transportation, friendly visitor, caregiver respite, fundraising, and more. “Whether you have three hours a week, or one hour a month, there is a match for you,” says Becca Herbstritt, Elder Network development manager.

HERE’S HOW YOU, TOO, CAN HELP ELDER NETWORK: DON’T MISS THE PARTY. Elder Network’s 35th Anniversary Celebration Gala will be held on September 23 at Rochester International Event Center. Buy tickets to attend yourself or purchase a table and invite family and friends to fill it. The evening will include opportunities to bid on items through live and silent auctions. Tickets are available for purchase at www.elder-network.org through September 2.

ASSIST THOSE IN NEED. Volunteering your time is a great way to help Elder Network’s cause so they can keep program fees low. The organization has many opportunities for those interested in volunteering. Find an area that works for you—a friendly face and a kind, helping hand can have a huge impact on someone’s day.

For more information:

If you’re interested in supporting Elder Network in any of the ways listed above, you can find more info at www.elder-network.org/ or by calling 507-285-5272.

DONATE. 100% of monetary donations are put toward furthering Elder Network’s mission. Through the generosity of Mayo Clinic and other funders, all 35th Anniversary Celebration Gala donations $5 up to $2,000 will be matched. Elder Network is also accepting auction items for the gala.

3 WAYS YOU CAN HELP IS SPONSORED BY:

At 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.

Dr. Will: 5 Quotes

Five quotes from William J. Mayo (1861-1939)—Dr. Will–the son of Mayo Clinic patriarch W.W. Mayo and one of the Clinic’s founders, along with brother Charlie.

1. “I would admonish you, above all other considerations, to be honest. I mean honesty in every conception of the word: Let it enter into all the details of your work.” (1910)

2. “Science knows no country.” (1914)

3. “The ills of today must not cloud the horizons of tomorrow.” (1926)

4. “I look through a half-opened door into the future, full of interest, intriguing beyond my power to describe, but with a full understanding that it is for each generation to solve its own problems and that no man has the wisdom to guide or control the next generation.” (1931)

5. “Our father recognized certain definite social obligations. He believed ... that the important thing in life is not to accomplish for one’s self alone, but for each to carry his share of collective responsibility.” (1934)

source: Mayo Clinic History and Heritage

photo courtesy Post Bulletin archives

he WAS A ROCHESTER

FEW IN ROCHESTER

REMEMBER

HIS NAME.

Born into what may have been one of Rochester’s only Black families in 1898, William O’Shields led Rochester High to (unofficial) back-to-back state football titles (1917 and 1918).

Starred in track at the University of Minnesota. Won the University of Minnesota Alumni Award for Outstanding Achievement.

Coached in two Olympics. And covered the Olympics for the Associated Press.

Left a coaching and teaching legacy at Pennsylvania’s Cheyney University. Had a college football stadium named after him.

Yet has been seemingly forgotten in his hometown.

BY TOM WEBER AND STEVE LANGE

“Things were tough in those days,” O’Shields, the only Black athlete at the school during his time at RHS, recalled many years later. “And I guess I was a little distant. But I believe that by keeping my cool, and I’m not bitter about anything, progress has been made.”

O’Shields made those remarks during a return visit to Rochester in 1971—shortly after retiring from a long and storied career as a coach, teacher, and administrator at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. At Cheyney University in Pennsylvania, where O’Shields spent 22 years, the school’s stadium is named for him, and he was inducted into the university’s Hall of Fame.

But O’Shields is little remembered locally these days, despite leading Rochester High School teams to state championships in football and basketball.

In 1945, nearly 30 years after he graduated, the Rochester High School student newspaper touted O’Shields as “probably

William O’Shields was a star in football, basketball, and track in 1917-1918 at Rochester High School, but he has never received the acclaim locally that often accompanies athletic prowess.

the greatest athletic star ever to come out of this city. In football and track, this Negro sensation was without peer, and he led the Rochester 11 to state honors two consecutive years.”

There have been outstanding athletes, including Olympians, from Rochester since that claim was made. But O’Shields, for whatever reason, has largely faded from community memory.

Granted, his athletic exploits took place a century ago, when football players still wore leather headgear.

He was, according to author and historian Michelle Sikes, “the first AfricanAmerican to make the [Minnesota] high school all-state team.”

But his accomplishments came at a time, with the Ku Klux Klan becoming active in Rochester that being a highly visible Black person was not necessarily accepted. Rumors of Klan activity in Rochester first appeared around this time.

On September 28, 1923, the city awoke to find copies of the KKK’s Minnesota publication, Call of the Wild, on the

doorstep of every home and business in town. The Ku Klux Klan sponsored a float in Rochester’s Fourth of July parade of 1926.

“Life might have gotten more uncomfortable and even threatening for Black people at that time,” says Virginia Wright-Peterson, author of “Rochester: An Urban Biography.”

13,700. (In the 1920 Census, Minnesota’s population was 2.4 million, with just 8,800 Black inhabitants—0.3 percent).

In Rochester, the O’Shields family lived in what is now the 500 block of Third Avenue Northwest, just a few blocks west of what is now Kemp’s and, even then, not many feet north of the railroad tracks. The house is gone, but the tracks are still there. Richard O’Shields, according to the 1919 city directory, was a shoemaker with a shop at 25 First Ave. SW, where Victoria’s Restaurant is now.

“The guidance of my father played a major role in my understanding of the situation,” William later said in reference to navigating society as a Black man.

According to some reports, William’s parents—Richard and Esther O’Shields— and their three children may have constituted the only Black family in town, in a time when Rochester’s population was

William was born on Nov. 21, 1898, in Rochester. He attended Northrop School, and then Rochester High School, where he joined the football, basketball, and track and field teams. The football team won unofficial state titles two years in a row.

In 1918, with O’Shields as captain, the squad looked to be on track for another stellar season. Then the influenza epidemic

“THE GUIDANCE OF MY FATHER PLAYED A MAJOR ROLE IN MY UNDERSTANDING OF THE SITUATION.”

The 1917 RHS football team, with O’Shields standing second from right. Opposite page: O’Shields in his football uniform (handpainted by Jeff L. from a photo).

hit. By October, a few games into the season, Rochester officials closed churches, theaters, schools, and other meeting places.

The St. Marys Isolation Hospital— specifically set up for influenza patients—treated 360 patients during the epidemic. Forty-one of them died, including six of the Franciscan sisters who had volunteered to serve as nurses in the unit.

When O’Shields registered for the military draft that year, he was listed as six feet tall and of medium build.

O’Shields was known around town for more than just team sports. The school paper recalled that “Bill also did a lot of motorcycle racing and stunting, which was popular in those days.” Supposedly, he was able to ride his motorcycle while standing on his head on the seat. In 1919, the 21-year-old O’Shields had to pay a $10 fine for “speeding on a motorcycle.”

After graduating from RHS, O’Shields enrolled at the University of Minnesota, where he earned three letters in track

and field.

Wright-Peterson says the family relocated to the Twin Cities in the early 1920s.

“If the family had stayed here, perhaps we would have heard more about William as his career evolved,” she says.

O’Shields attended the University of Minnesota for three years (1925-27), and lettered in track all three seasons. He also played varsity football for one season before “temporarily dropping out for financial reasons,” according to his bio on the U of Minn. website. He returned to finish his B.S. degree in education in 1932.

O’Shields started the recreation program at the Hallie O. Brown Settlement House in St. Paul, a nonprofit founded in 1929 to “serve African Americans denied services from other agencies.” It was, for O’Shields, the start of a long career in social organizations and educational institutions that served Black Americans.

William O’Shields, right, fresh off a stint as a wartime advisor on African American troops, spoke at a 1947 discrimination forum at the University of Minnesota.

“TO BE HONORED BY YOUR SCHOOL IS A WONDERFUL THING.”

From St. Paul, O’Shields went to Tuskegee Institute in Alabama as a physical education instructor and track coach.

“In 1934, he accepted a job from the legendary Cleve Abbott, the leader of Tuskegee’s vaunted track and field program for both men and women, as head track and field coach and assistant football coach,” according to a 1938 profile of O’Shields in the New York Amsterdam News. “At Tuskegee, O’Shields began to enter his students in major inter-racial track and field meets, in particular the prestigious Penn Relays.”

Under his guidance, the school’s track team became a national force in the sport.

“Those 10 years in the South were rewarding,” O’Shields said in 1971. “And we saw change there. When I first went there, you had trouble finding a washroom which you could use. Later, you were almost invited in.”

William married Myrtle Dejoie, from New Orleans. They had one son, William Richard, who was born in January of 1938.

During World War II, O’Shields spent three years with the American Red Cross as Assistant to the Director of Operations for Colored Personnel in the South Pacific.

Immediately after the war, O’Shields returned to the University of Minnesota to complete a master’s degree in 1946, and then took a position at Cheyney

William O’Shields is presented with the University of Minnesota Outstanding Achievement Award in 1969.

University of Pennsylvania as a coach, teacher, and director of athletics in 1947.

“O’Shields arrived at Cheyney in 1947 as the first male teacher in the health and physical education program and the leader of the school’s athletic program,” according to his bio on the Cheyney website. “During his long career at Cheyney he coached track and field, cross country, basketball, and football.”

In 2005, Cheyney’s football stadium was renamed O’Shields-Stevenson Stadium, to honor the former Rochesterite.

He was a member of the U.S. Olympic Committee in 1948 and 1952, and coached Olympic sprinters and a gold medal winner in the women’s high jump. While in Helsinki, Finland, during the 1952 Olympics, William served as a correspondent for the Minneapolis Spokesman newspaper: He wrote regular columns covering the events for the Associated Negro Press. Although his teams at Tuskegee and Cheyney won numerous championships, O’Shields later said the University of Minnesota Alumni Award for Outstanding Achievement he received in 1969 was his greatest honor. “It gives me great pride,” he said. “To be honored by your school is a wonderful thing.”

During his career as athlete, coach, and administrator, O’Shields often counseled that progress on racial issues would take time and would require resilience.

“I have pioneered advances which I don’t feel would have been accomplished without patience,” he said later in life. “From the personality of the grandfather that I knew, he was very level-headed and a very strategic thinker, extremely smart,” says Kimberly O’Shields, William’s granddaughter. “I think you needed those survival techniques in order to learn how to not just survive, but how to find your way.”

And he has left a long family legacy as well.

“My grandfather wanted us to be well-rounded, even as little kids,” says Kimberly, who says William was like “a second dad” to her mom, William’s daughter-in-law. “We grew up in Gary, Indiana, so golf was not something we were exposed to, but my grandfather exposed us to golf anyway. One of my first memories of him was teaching us to play golf. He wanted us to play tennis. He encouraged us to try everything.”

Kimberly is the founder and CEO of Continuum Solutions, a group that focuses on creating healthier living environments in educational and corporate settings, especially HBCUs (Historically Black College and Universities). And that includes Cheyney University.

“It’s meaningful to be involved with Cheyney,” says Kimberly. “They know the impact my grandfather had in shaping

“MY GRANDFATHER WAS REALLY A RENAISSANCE MAN”

The mural adorns the wall of the O’Shields-Stevenson Stadium in Cheyney, Penn.

and molding students at Cheyney University and especially with athletics. He left a legacy at Cheyney University, which is also the first HBCU.”

One of William’s great-grandchildren, also named William O’Shields, was just accepted at the University of Minnesota, nearly 100 years after his great-grandfather attended the school.

“It means something to have those ties to Minnesota, especially knowing how important that was to our family,” says Kimberly. “My grandfather was really a Renaissance man, especially for an African-American in the early 1900s. He was doing things that a lot of Black people of that generation weren’t afforded opportunities to do.”

Even after many years living elsewhere, O’Shields never forgot his youth in Rochester.

In 1976, when he was invited to a centennial celebration at Northrop School, O’Shields responded with a warm letter of acceptance. “Northrop will always occupy a very important place in my memories,” he wrote.

O’Shields died on July 7, 1981 in Cheyney, Pennsylvania. Per his wishes, he was returned “home” to Minnesota, and was buried in Oakland Cemetery in Saint Paul.

William O’Shields with his daughter-in-law Dr. Joy O’Shields and grandkids William and Kimberly.

“I wouldhighlyrecommend Renewal by Andersenifyou areinthe market fornew windows.The processwas so easy,and thewindows lookand work great.I regret that Idid notreplace thewindows sooner. ” Gary

photo by

OLD FASHIONED. FIRST WORLD PROBLEM. PEACHY KEEN. NY SOUR. PURPLE GOAT PUNCH. OAKED CHERRY BLOSSOM.

SIX OF YOUR FAVORITE COCKTAILS. YOU VOTED. WE DRANK.

By Hadley Lange

The ingredients: Bourbon, rye, turbinado, house batch bitters. The drink: The whiskey old fashioned has been a drink of choice since the late 1800s. While the recipe remains largely the same, what sets Bleu Duck’s old fashioned apart are the hand-picked, high quality ingredients— from the alcohol to the sugar to the housemade bitters.

photo from Post Bulletin archives

FIRST WORLD PROBLEM

AT BITTER & POUR

18 THIRD ST. SW LOWER LEVEL 507-322-6320

BITTERANDPOUR.COM

The ingredients: Buffalo Trace bourbon, demerara sugar, house bitters. The drink:

Perfect cocktails need perfect ice. Bitter & Pour takes ice seriously (they have a whole Facebook post dedicated to it), and the First World Problem is no exception. The drink has a single square cube of clarified ice which, aside from looking cool, allows for a chilled drink that won’t water down quickly.

photo by Joe Ahlquist

1232 THIRD AVE. SE WORKSHOPFOODHALL.COM

The ingredients:

Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom vodka, white peach puree, pineapple juice.

The drink:

What’s better than a garnish that adds a pop of color?

How about one you can eat! Topped with a peach ring, the (unofficial) candy of childhood summers, the Peachy Keen, served up at The Workshop’s full service bar, is the (unofficial) drink of adulthood summers.

photo by Ken Klotzbach

The ingredients: Bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, wine foam.

The drink: In the (just over) one year Sorellina’s has been open they have: graced the cover of the Rochester Magazine, been voted one of Rochester’s five Best New Restaurants, and made the top cocktails list. This success shouldn’t be surprising considering her sister restaurant, Victoria’s, is a longtime Rochester favorite.

Fun fact: Sorellina’s owners, cousins Nadia and Jordan Victoria, are the children of the Victoria’s owners (hence their last name!).

photo by Ken Klotzbach

#5

PURPLE GOAT PUNCH AT PURPLE GOAT

3708 N. BROADWAY AVE. UNIT 160

507-361-5144

CREATIVECUISINECO.COM

The ingredients:

Don Q silver rum, Tempus Fugit

creme de banane, strawberry puree, passion fruit puree, orgeat syrup, lemon.

The drink:

The Purple Goat Punch is an Orange

Julius-inspired drink for the 90s mallrat in all of us. A purple flower garnish, tiki glass, and some high quality rum help turn this slushie into a beverage fit for even the classiest adult. It’s truly da bomb.

photo by Joe Ahlquist

The ingredients: Woodford bourbon, cherry vanilla bark bitters, simple syrup, splash soda, flamed orange peel. The drink: While there’s no dog-themed cocktails (yet!) Zen Fusion does offer a full dogfriendly Pup Grub menu. Served on their pup friendly patio, K9 diners have the option to order steak, chicken, or sushi rolled by Sushi Chef Andy. Join your dog, order off the human menu, and try the Oaked Cherry Blossom, reminiscent of Japan’s famous cherry blossom festival.

photo by Ken Klotzbach

The Walk-Through:

INSIDE A $749K HOME NEAR ELY.

The home: 2,882 SF, 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath

2 acres, 232 feet of lakeshore

The info: This home features easy one level lake living on the coveted White Iron Chain. The White Iron Lake chain flows into Farm, Garden, Fall Lake, and the Kawishiwi River with direct access to the BWCA. The property is set on 232 feet of excellent swimming shore and two gradual acres and is just five miles to Ely or three

to the airport. Amenities include a vaulted living room with a fireplace and a wall of glass open to the covered lakefront cedar deck. The kitchen features oak cabinets, a hickory floor, quartz counters with an island open to the living room, and lakeside dining. A main floor primary bedroom includes an ensuite bath and walk-in closet. There are also two main-floor guest bedrooms, another bath, and main-floor laundry. The garden level has an office and rec room, both with lake views. Mechanical

Local Professional Expertise

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!

systems feature economical off-peak in-floor heat, a propane furnace, and central air. Rounding out the property are two garages, a storage shed, a boathouse, and a dock.

The price: $749,500

3D tour: https://my.matterport.com/ show/?m=5KfkBWbdhEX&mls=1

OUR GUIDE TO HIGHER ED

Three area college students offer their “been there, done that, wish I’d done that instead” advice for high school grads and other prospective college students. Plus, our cheat sheet to area colleges.

STORIES BY PAULA LAROCHELLE

PHOTOS BY JOE AHLQUIST AND ALEX HOPFINGER

Jessica Cormican, 25

Rochester Community and Technical College: Associates in Mass Communications and Graphic Design; Photography certificate

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking at colleges today? Look outside of your comfort zone. Everything good happens outside of your comfort zone.

How do you choose the right college, or how do you know if a school is right for you?

Knowing if a school is right for you is different for everyone. My biggest tip would be to visit if you can, and listen to your gut feelings you’re having during your visit. The way you feel when you’re there will tell you a lot about the place.

If you’ve chosen a major, how did you decide? What advice would you give students who are having a hard time

picking a major?

Because I’m in three different programs, some could say that I had trouble deciding which path to choose, but I would disagree. I started out with Mass Communications and added the other two programs once I had some experience with them during school. I originally started with Mass Communications because the outcomes and coursework excited me and aligned with experiences I had enjoyed in the past. I definitely had help along the way from my advisor, my professors, and my family, so make sure to ask them what they think. They can see your strengths possibly better than you can.

What’s something incoming students should do in their first few weeks of school to help with academics?

Get to know your campus. I have a work study that had me hang up posters around school, so that helped me get to know the building quickly. Those first few weeks feel a little less overwhelming when you know where you are and where you’re going.

What’s something incoming students should do in their first few weeks of school to help with their social life? Any advice for students worried about maintaining a work/study/life balance?

Join clubs! Clubs are a great way to make friends, as they

already have a similar interest as you. Also, don’t be shy during your classes. Introduce yourself, and you’ll make friends and study partners. As for maintaining a balance, I’m doing my work study, I’m in school full time, and I heavily participate in theatre and other extracurriculars, so I’ve had to learn about balance during my school experience. My advice is to make sure you’re not overdoing it and make your schedule according to your priorities. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Those who care about you (professors included) want to make sure you succeed. I had a professor once tell us that we need to let others help us so they can earn their own good karma.

Was there anything you were worried about before starting college that you now realize was overblown?

I was really worried about making friends and keeping up with homework. I’m a non-traditional student, so I was worried I wouldn’t “fit in” with the other students. Once I started school, I realized there is such a diverse student body, and even the people who weren’t like me were kind and welcoming. The only one who cared about my differences was me. As for the homework, it turned out not to be so bad. Since I’m studying things I genuinely enjoy, I don’t find much of the work to be unbearable. And for the homework I maybe don’t enjoy

as much, I try to do it early in the week so it’s out of my way. College can be a costly endeavor; do you have any advice for students on budgeting or financial planning?

File your FAFSA, and do it early. Sign up for a work study, which also adds experience to your resume. Make sure you’re applying to scholarships, and attend an affordable school like RCTC.

Any study tips, tricks or advice you’d like to pass on?

Take better notes in class than you think you’ll need. Take the few extra minutes to write down not only what’s on the board or slideshow, but what the professor is saying as well.

What’s the biggest mistake you see from new college students?

I’ve seen a lot of new college students who are fresh out of high school treat college the same way. College is a different experience, and you’re only going to get out of it what you put into it. Also, you’re the one paying for it, so make sure you get your money’s worth. Do the work and learn all that you can. Any other piece of advice you want to add?

Get to know the people who work at your school. Get to know your professors. But also make sure you get to know the custodians, the people who work in the cafeteria, and anyone else who works

at your school. They deserve just as much respect as your professors. There have also been [some] times when [I’ve needed] help getting into a room or finding a room, and a helpful custodian has been eager to show me. I’ve also made many connections through these workers. You never know what or who somebody knows until you get to know them. Another example of this is our theater technical director. Once I got to know him and he learned more about me, he set me up with the Rochester Repertory Theater, where I am stage managing a production this summer. If I hadn’t gotten to know him better, I don’t think I would’ve ended up there.

Spencer Pfeifer, 36

3rd (final) year, M.A. in Counseling and Psychological Services at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Any advice for someone who’s considering restarting higher education later in life, or in enrolling in a program after some time away?

Look at your different options. Some schools have a “fresh start” program, where if you hadn’t been to school for a couple of years, all your prior withdrawals or failing grades get wiped away and you’re able to start fresh. If there’s a program like that, utilize it, and then set small goals for yourself. My initial goal was to pass every class that semester. And then my goal was to get my associate’s degree. And then my goal was to get my four-year degree.

How do you know whether a particular school is a good fit, or how do you know if a school is right for you?

Look at the course offering, if it’s online, in person, or both. What does the schedule look like? Is it full-time? And then look at how you’re paying for it. If you’re going to be utilizing financial aid, make sure that you are going to be able to do a program fulltime with your current schedule.

You’ve completed your bachelor’s and are in the third year of your master’s, so you’ve been in school for a while. Any study tips or tricks that you’ve gained over the years?

Figure out what works best for you and do it. I graduated from college at 28. When I went back to school, I sat in the front row and took notes and made sure I did all my homework and just looked at it as if it were another job. By the time I finished my generals and was working on the psychology courses that were for my degree, it didn’t feel like work. It was fun. I enjoyed it.

And talk to your teachers; talk to your professors. They’re just regular people. And they are usually very willing to explain things a little bit more.

You’re going to school at night and work full-time as a counselor during the day. How do you maintain your work-life balance?

It’s always going to be a struggle to find that balance. Regardless of how much you have going on, whether you’re working full-time or part time. I’m married; I have two kids. And my wife works full-time. I tried to find that sweet spot where my kids were out of diapers and a little bit older. They’re four and seven now, so we tried to catch that spot before they started getting into sports and a lot of extracurricular activities. And my wife is really supportive; she’s home with the kids at least two nights a week. My in-laws and my mom come over and help, so we have [additional] support. Even if you don’t have kids but

are working full-time, you still need to find time [for yourself], because there’s homework on top of classes. Just remind yourself that it’s temporary— you’re not going to be in school forever. Life comes and you have to adjust, and find whatever that balance means to you. Look at your syllabus, find out the times when you don’t have classes, and if there’s a break, try to plan something. Try to set aside a day just for your family, or to do whatever hobbies you enjoy.

Any other advice you’d like to add? When I told my dad I was going to go back to school for my masters, he had three questions. One: Are you going to make more money? Two: Are you going to have less work? And three: Is it something that you’re going to enjoy?

So that was what I considered when I went back to school?

Are those questions that you would also recommend people evaluate before taking on a second program? Or do you think they apply for any kind of higher education, college, bachelor’s, master’s or beyond?

Yeah, I think it applies to everything. The money is not the only thing. It’s certainly something that helps, right? But ultimately, if [the subject] is not something you enjoy, it’s a waste of money. But if it’s something you truly enjoy, even if it’s only going to pay you a little bit more, then it’s worth it. If it can give you more peace and help you in your career, then it’s almost always worth it.

Rosa Melgoza, 20

Junior, Nursing Major; Biology, Psychology and Spanish Minor at Augustana University

What advice would you give a prospective student who’s trying to pick a college today?

Try to look at all different types of colleges: bigger schools, smaller schools, public and private. Neither my parents nor anyone super close to me had gone to college, so I didn’t know what to expect. So I would just say, to definitely try it all.

Anything you’d recommend that someone doing a campus visit try to seek out in particular?

Something that I noticed on my campus [at Augustana] is that we have so many great amenities, beyond just academics or the dorms. I think that people my age get kind of caught up in the academics and what it’s going to be like living on campus, which is very important. But also take time to consider those other resources the campus might have. And then make use of them: they’re there and you’re paying for them.

How do you choose the right college, or how do you know if a school is the right fit for you? What helped me was looking at what they were offering me in total, not only with financial aid, but what I could get out of my education. Another thing that I tell students when I’m giving tours is that, if it’s feasible, come back for another visit. I went to tour Augustana probably two or three times to see if I could really see myself being there.

You work three different jobs during the school year and you’re a student full-time. Any advice you have for someone who’s looking at trying to work while they’re in school?

When I first started my first semester of college, I didn’t work right away. And I usually give that advice to students: Give yourself some time, even if it’s a month, to adjust to that transition, before seeking out a job. Be patient with yourself. College is different from high school, or whatever you were doing before.

Photo by Alex Hopfinger

Anything you’d recommend an incoming student do within their first few weeks of arriving on campus to help them with academics?

The best thing that I’ve done is planning out my day. If I know that I have a class and that I’m going to rest a bit before doing homework for a few hours, that really helps me know that I can [get it done]. Visit your teachers’ office hours, and take advantage of that time. In my first semester, I definitely didn’t do that as much as I wished. But I think once you get yourself out there, you realize, oh, it really wasn’t that bad.

Anything you’d recommend that new students or incoming freshmen do in their first

weeks on campus to help with their social life?

Be open to trying things. Academics come first, but if you have some free time, just go to [a club] meeting to see what it’s about. You don’t have to join right away. I definitely met some people doing intramurals, so I would say do something like that, too. It gives you a study break and it gets you moving.

Was there anything that you were worried about or nervous about before you started college that now you realize was overblown?

Grades. I never really studied during high school, but in college, that definitely changed. I had to study and

put in more work, and it was sometimes difficult not to get 100% or 90% on an assignment or exam because that was new to me. It was a little disappointing at first, but then I realized that your grades aren’t necessarily the best indicator of what you’re learning or how you’re doing. As long as you feel that you’re getting better and that you’re doing the best you can—that’s the most important.

What would you say is the biggest mistake you see from new college students or incoming freshmen?

On the dorm side, I think people end up buying and bringing things that look fun or cool but that they don’t really use. Bring

stuff you have already and the essentials. But then go a week or two and see how you’re doing with the things you have before you go shopping. People end up bringing random things that sometimes just get put in a corner and never get used.

Any other advice you’d like to add?

Just be really patient when you’re starting out. I expected myself to make the transition [to college] easier and faster than I did. And sometimes you might feel frustrated or confused, but give yourself some time to adjust. And if it’s really just not working out, you can always transfer, or try something new. So be open to that, but be patient.

Augustana University

2001 S. Summit Ave., Sioux Falls, SD

605.274.0770

Augie.edu

Why choose Augustana? Beyond the classroom, Augustana University students have the opportunity to be involved in more than 100 clubs and student organizations, 22 athletic programs and 20-plus visual and performing arts ensembles. AU is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with an estimated population of more than 200,000 people. Sioux Falls was named the most affordable city to live and work in by GoodHire in 2022. One-hundred percent of full-time undergraduate students receive scholarships, grants or both, making Augustana more affordable!

What makes your institution different? Augustana University is nationally recognized for academic excellence, student life, graduate outcomes and affordability. Ninety-nine percent of recent graduates achieved a positive career outcome. In addition, Augustana was named a Best Regional University in the Midwest by U.S. News &World Report. Augustana also places an intentional focus on diversity and inclusion through its Diversity Advocate Certification and Journey Scholars programs.

Programs offered: With more than 100 majors, minors and preprofessional programs—along with graduate degree and continuing education programs—Augustana is committed to combining a foundation in the liberal arts with professional skill, advanced study and career-ready graduates.

Enrollment: Augustana’s community includes more than 2,000 students from 37 states and 50 countries.

The student-to-faculty ratio is: 12.1.

Advice from an Augustana student: “Remain dedicated to mental and physical well-being, and be diligent in connecting with people who’ve already experienced success. In the future, you can pass on your own advice to students looking up to you!” —Ben Limburg ’23, chemistry and philosophy double major, from Rochester

Why choose Augustana (student’s perspective): “The community at Augustana is different from any other campus I have stepped foot on. From the professors and students to all of the other faculty and staff, we want each other to succeed. The opportunities available to get hands-on experience within the community are endless, regardless of one’s major, which gives Augustana students an advantage in the professional world.” —Erin Micke ’25, psychology and sociology double major, from Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science

200 First St. SW, Rochester 507-284-3745 college.mayo.edu | mccm@mayo.edu

Why choose Mayo Clinic College? Our students learn from some of the most highly-recognized medical professionals in their fields, benefit from training with the most advanced technology and equipment, and gain practical hands-on patient care experience.

Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences: We offer programs in clinical, laboratory, and operating room settings. Undergrad programs range from short-term certificates (9-20 weeks) to associatelevel and bachelor’s level programs in a wide range of health science professions. Grad programs offered in Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant, and Nurse Anesthesia. Students graduate career-ready, are highly sought after in their professions, and are often offered employment at one of our Mayo Clinic or Mayo Clinic Health System sites.

Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences: Students pursue Ph.D. degrees in one of eight fields of research study on any of our three campuses. Areas of study include biochemistry and molecular biology, immunology, biomedical engineering and physiology, clinical and translational science, molecular pharmacology and experimental therapeutics, neuroscience, virology and gene therapy, and regenerative sciences. The school offers a unique model that allows students to be mentored by principal investigators doing research in areas that align with their research interests and passions. Admitted students are offered a stipend for living expenses and do not pay tuition.

Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine: As a national medical school, students can study at any of Mayo Clinic’s destination medical center locations. With class sizes of around 50 students, the school has one of the most desirable faculty-to-student ratios in the country— and is recognized as one of the nation’s most affordable medical schools.

Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education: As the largest Graduate Medical Education School in the country, we offer more than 270 residency and fellowship programs to physicians from around the country and throughout the world. The school enrolls nearly 1,700 trainees, all of whom deliver an enormous amount of care to Mayo Clinic patients.

Rochester Community and Technical College

851 30th Ave. SE, Rochester 507-285-7557

rctc.edu

Why choose RCTC? Rochester Community and Technical College has been providing affordable, accessible, and exceptional higher education opportunities in Rochester for over 100 years. The college offers 90 credit-based programs with nearly 100 credential options and over 300 different online classes in liberal arts and sciences, healthcare, business, human services, transportation, STEM, fine arts, and technical and career pathways. Through RCTC’s Transfer Pathways, students can complete an associate degree at RCTC, then seamlessly transfer their credits to any Minnesota State university where they will be guaranteed junior status. The College has partnerships with more than 35 local organizations including Rochester Public Schools/CTECH/PTECH535, Mayo Clinic, Olmsted Medical Center, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, plus many more. Activities and clubs include everything from student government to tabletop gaming.

Enrollment: 6,500

Degrees offered: Associate of Applied Science, Associate of Science, Associate of Arts, Associate of Fine Arts, Certificate, Diploma.

Programs offered: Liberal arts and sciences, aviation/pilot, radiography and MRI, nursing, health information technology, business and accounting, cardiovascular invasive specialist, cancer registry management, clinical neurophysiology technology, dental hygiene, environmental science, histology technician, intensive care paramedic, surgical technology, veterinary technology, welding technology, and many more.

Over 100 years of student success: Founded in 1915 on a motion by Dr. Charles Mayo to the Rochester School Board, RCTC is Minnesota’s oldest public, two-year college and one of the nation’s oldest original community colleges. RCTC remains a top choice for Rochester Public School graduates, 25 percent of whom attend RCTC after graduation. The RCTC Foundation awarded $460,000 in scholarships to more than 300 students in the 2022-2023 academic year.

Why choose RCTC (student’s perspective): “Everyone at RCTC that I have come across has been so kind and genuine. I’ve never felt apprehensive about asking someone for help. I also love the wide range of classes and programs RCTC offers, and how affordable it is. I’ve been able to study what I love and taken fun classes I never thought I’d take at a much smaller price than other schools.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

2900 19th St. NW (Rochester campus at Cascade Meadow) 877-768-4545

rochester@smumn.edu | smumn.edu

Why choose Saint Mary’s? At Saint Mary’s, the people who get to know you—faculty, peers, staff—all become allies. It’s here, in an intense give-and-take setting, where each of us discovers just how much we can grow. You’ll find, in every one of our classrooms, both online and in-person, a relationship-driven, person-centered education. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to make an impact, to achieve beyond expectations, to be known.

Programs offered: Saint Mary’s offers more than 20 majors on our Winona undergraduate campus, as well as over 50 programs through our Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs in Rochester, the Twin Cities, and online.

Enrollment: 4,700 total undergraduate and graduate students. When classes meet: Classes conveniently meet throughout the week, with graduate and bachelor completion classes usually meeting on weekday evenings. Blended and online classes have mixed schedules that allow students the convenience of learning on their own time.

Class size: There are an average of 16 students in undergraduate classes. Graduate and bachelor’s completion vary depending on the course and modality of the program.

Shared purpose: Whether you study in Minneapolis, Winona, Rochester, online, or at any of our centers throughout the world; whether you’re an adult wishing to improve your career or you’re fresh out of high school seeking your personal frontier; whether you’re with us for a short time as a student or working together here as faculty or staff, there’s a shared sense of purpose and respect across our entire institution.

Why choose Augustana (student’s perspective): “I would highly recommend Saint Mary’s for anyone looking at going to school, whether they’re right out of high school or up to the point where they are empty nesters. It’s never too late to learn.” —Kim Positer B’23.

—Current RCTC student Jessica Cormican

SUCCESS IN MEDI CI NE

Ma

To setpre-med students up forsuccess, UMR provides the followingresources:

Experiential learningopportunities in mentorship,research and hands-on patientcareexperiences.

Adedicated StudentSuccessCoach thatprovides individualized suppor t.

Small class sizes with dedicated faculty who ensurestudents truly understand important concepts.

GET STARTED TODAY R.UMN.EDU/APPLY

UM-Rochester

111 South Broadway, Suite 300, Rochester

877-280-4699

r.umn.edu

Why choose UMR? The University of Minnesota Rochester is the public undergraduate health sciences university that empowers students to solve the grand health challenges of the 21st century. UMR’s integrated curriculum provides students with a foundational undergraduate education that allows them to pursue a wide range of careers in the health sciences including medicine, physical therapy, research, public health, health care administration and more.

Programs offered:

• B.S. in Health Sciences (BSHS), including early assurance/ accelerated programs in Nursing, Respiratory Care, Pharmacy, Physician Assistant and NXT GEN MED.

• B.S. in Health Professions (BSHP), an educational collaboration with Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences offering career tracks in Echocardiography, Respiratory Care, Radiography and Sonography

• Master’s and Ph.D. in Biomedical Informatics and Computational Biology

Enrollment: UMR serves approximately 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students.

When classes meet: Weekdays during the school year.

By the numbers:

• 80% students from Minnesota

• 20% from out of state

• 78 percent of graduating seniors had a meaningful experience at Mayo Clinic.

• Approximately 2/3 of UMR’s students are “underrepresented,” which includes BIPOC*, first-generation students, and/or low income students.

Why choose U-MR (from a former grad): “UMR’s Health Sciences program offered a health care-centric education that allowed me to pursue a wide variety of opportunities after graduation.”

—Rachelle Johnson ‘15

Viterbo University

900 Viterbo Dr., La Crosse, Wis. 608-796-3010

admission@viterbo.edu | viterbo.edu

Why choose Viterbo? Viterbo University offers more than 40 academic programs (traditional and online) that prepare students for outstanding careers. Whether it be at the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree level, classes are taught by faculty members dedicated to the success of their students. With an 11:1 student-faculty ratio and an average class size of 16, Viterbo students are known by name and build strong connections with the campus community both in and outside of the classroom. Most programs feature internships, study abroad, co-op, service, and field research opportunities that enhance the classroom experience. The focus on individual student success pays off, as proven by Viterbo’s unmatched placement rate for graduates. Students at Viterbo also learn about the importance of living a purpose-driven life, centered around the university’s core values. Viterbo has a generous transfer-credit policy, accelerated bachelor’s degree completion programs, and comprehensive graduate degree offerings specifically designed for working professionals and aspiring leaders. Viterbo’s beautiful campus and vibrant community are located in La Crosse—a city nestled between scenic bluffs and the Mississippi River, named a top college town in the U.S.

Degrees offered: Viterbo offers more than 40 academic programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees both on-campus and online. They also offer several Bachelor Completion programs, including Accounting, BSN Completion (RN to BSN), and Health Care Management.

When classes meet: Days, evenings, or online.

Enrollment: 1,400 undergraduate and 1,100 graduate students. Tuition for 2023-2024: $32,350 before financial aid and scholarships for traditional undergraduate students. All first-year students are awarded merit scholarships. Bachelor completion and graduate programs costs are per credit and vary by program. Around 98 percent of full-time students receive financial aid.

Historical tidbit: Founded by the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (FSPA) in 1890, Viterbo is a Catholic, Franciscan university welcoming to all.

What I loved (a student’s perspective): “Viterbo has some amazing opportunities, such as study abroad experiences and unique supervised practice sites that would be difficult to find on our own, like the Phoenix Suns and the Minnesota Vikings.” — Mackenzie Wanta, Nutrition Science major.

Student loans to pay?

Winona State UniversityRochester

859 30th Ave. SE, Rochester 507-285-7100

admissions@winona.edu | winona.edu/rochester

Why choose WSU-Rochester? As a WSU-Rochester student, you can expect an exceptional student experience while obtaining a quality education at a great value. Winona State UniversityRochester has served the Rochester community with bachelor’s degree completion programs and graduate degrees for over 100 years. Our faculty know your name, and with a faculty to student ratio of 19:1, you are never just another face in the crowd. Approximately 46 resident faculty are located on the Rochester campus and our fulltime Rochester campus staff assist with admissions, financial aid, advising, registration, career services, access services, veteran support, and more. Transfer scholarships, student employment, and graduate assistantships are just a few ways we help our students afford their college education. More than 1,500 students attend WSU-Rochester each year through day, evening, weekend and online/hybrid classes, and more than 8,000 WSU alumni currently live and work in a variety of professional careers in the Rochester area.

WSU-Rochester has had a long tradition of a high-quality, college presence in Rochester. WSU-Rochester is deeply immersed in the communities that we serve, with classes being offered online, on/ off-campus and at multiple community sites. We have an extensive history of collaborating and offering services and programs that complement those offered at Rochester Community and Technical College. Our newest building in downtown Rochester (on Broadway) affords students fabulous lunch and dinner options when studying in the evenings and on weekends. This modern facility reflects the energy and vibe of Rochester and offers relevant programming including community and business outreach events and graduate education programs.

Programs offered: Undergraduate degree completion programs in Business Administration online, Human Resource Management online, Individualized Studies, Computer Science, Elementary Education online, Early Childhood Education online, RN to BS online, Nursing, and Social Work hybrid. Graduate programs in Nursing, Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP), Social Work, Addictions Counseling, Clinical Mental Health, Education Leadership, Principal licensure, Superintendent licensure, and advanced licensures. Enrollment (student population): Approximately 2,066.

All Hands on Deck

Bolder Options hosts their Tailgate Sportacular on August 12 at Mayo Field.

By ALEXA ANDERSON Photo courtesy BOLDER OPTIONS

Join Bolder Options as they celebrate 30 years of impact with their annual Tailgate Sportacular. (And nab a few more big names for your autograph book in the process.)

Bolder Options’ Tailgate Sportacular helps raise funds for the organization’s youth mentoring program—with 100% of proceeds directly benefiting the mentoring program in Rochester. This means more mentoring pairs, more impact, and more great outcomes, which sets our city’s youth up for success.

Held on Saturday, August 12, the 2023 Tailgate Sportacular will include refreshments, live music and demonstrations, community engagement, and professional face painting (so you even have the opportunity to leave the event with a cool, if temporary, souvenir!).

And then, of course, are the event’s biggest draws:

Professional athletes. Attend the Meet & Greet for a chance to speak with professional athletes and bring an autograph (or three) home.

Expect to see Bryant McKinnie

(Minnesota Vikings), Marcus Sherels (Minnesota Vikings), Cheryl Ford (Detroit Shock), Vince Workman (Green Bay Packers), Troy Williamson (Minnesota Vikings), Roo Yori (American Ninja Warrior), Darrell Thompson (Green Bay Packers; U of MN Gophers), Robert Tate (Minnesota Vikings), and more.

These athletes can serve as an inspiration, especially for youth as they look for role models and discover the type of person they aspire to be.

Live and silent auctions. The evening will include a live auction and, for those who wish for a more relaxed scene, a silent auction. Come see what you can bid on—or just have fun increasing the bid for others! You can also visit bolderoptions.org to donate an auction item.

Bolder Options’ Tailgate Sportacular takes place Saturday, August 12, from 5-8 p.m. Tickets ($35 for adults, $15 for kids ages 6-8, and free for kids 5 and under), are available at https://one.bidpal.net/2023tailgate/ticketing. If you’re unable to attend, but want to support Bolder Options’ mentoring program, consider donating at bolderoptions.org.

BOLDER OPTIONS: THE PLAYBOOK

Bolder Options focuses on making mentoring fun. The organization matches youth (ages 10-14) with one of their volunteer mentors. Once matched, the pair meet every week for a year. The sessions are focused on four outcome areas and when their year comes to an end, Bolder Options holds a graduation to celebrate the accomplishments of the youth-mentor pair.

The group focuses on:

Lifelong Learning: Bolder Options hosts events focused around future education and career options, culture, and art in order to inspire lifelong learning, which will benefit youth later in life.

Healthy Living: The organization believes in a broader sense of health and prepares youth for a wellrounded, healthy life. Along with offering access to 5K runs and bike rides, they also host nights focused on cooking, oral health, and financial literacy.

Emotional Development: Developing a strong sense of self is important for youth. Bolder Options encourages this with goal-setting sessions, meditation nights, and body positivity events.

Community Connectivity: Fostering a sense of community results in better youth outcomes and safer environments. They offer tickets to events, volunteer opportunities, game nights, and more.

“Throughout their year together, participants focus on holistic, personal development through weekly activities hosted by staff. We make mentoring fun, easy, and meaningful,” says Sarah Schaller, Director of Bolder Options’ Rochester Program.

MARKETPLACE a selection of shops & services

SPECIALTY STORES

Garten Marketplatz. Located six miles SW of Rochester on Olmsted Co. 15, this Civil-War era farm has beautiful display gardens and a great selection of Minnesota-grown perennials and garden art. The vintage brick “Garten Haus” is filled with gifts and home decor and the large front porch invites you to sit and relax. The European-inspired carriage house is ready to host your meeting or special event year-round. gartenmarketplatz.com 5225 Co. Rd. 15 SW Byron, MN 55920. 507-365-8891.

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, Chico’s, Counterpoint, The Nordic Shop, and others. Gift items and housewares can be found at The Nordic Shop, Counterpoint Home, and Games by James.

Tyrol Ski & Sports.  1923 Second St SW. Rochester’s local outdoor gear store since 1965. Featuring ski and snowboard equipment, snowshoes, winter clothing and footwear. Online at tyrolskishop.com. Winter Hours: Mon - Thurs. 10-8; Friday 10-6; Sat 9:30-5:30; Sun 11-5. 507-288-1683.

DELI & SANDWICH SHOPS

Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches. The Kahler Inn & Suites, 9 Third Ave. NW and Marketplace Mall, 2986 41st St NW and 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 location hours: 10:30-8; 507-289-9900. NW location hours: 10:30-10; 507-424-0100. SW location hours: 10:30-10; 507-424-2000. Catering and delivery available. Order online at jimmyjohns.com. V, M, D, and AE accepted.

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.

(See ad page 2)

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 57)

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. Three convenient locations with experienced bankers to assist you with your financial journey. Call us today at (507) 280-0621! bankonONB.com Member FDIC.

Equal Housing Lender.

(See ad page 35)

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. Their Civic Live collaborations and performances create opportunities for local, national, and international writers, dancers, musicians, poets, and performance and conceptual artists to collaborate with the Theatre’s directors, designers, technicians, and teachers in the creation and presentation of new work. 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)

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

BY STEVE LANGE

Rochester Magazine: All right. I’m going to butcher the pronunciation of some names. Tell me the tie. Mladen Stojanović, Nermin Alukić Čerkez, Zlatan Arnautović ...

Armin Budimlic: The names are all from my neck of the woods. They are all from Prijedor, in the former Yugoslavia.

RM: You were born in Prijedor in 1964. Tell me a little bit about growing up there.

AB: The city of Prijedor was about the same size as Rochester. It was in the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina at the time. I was born during the Socialist Federative Republic of Yugoslavia. My father worked in one of the paper factories in town. My mom stayed home, taking care of six kids, which was plenty of work. I remember my early ages being really happy, having a lot of friends. I enjoyed playing outside, playing soccer. My dad had a bike—which was kind of a luxury— and we could earn the chance to ride it.

RM: How did you learn English?

AB: As a teenager, I was listening to the Beatles and Rolling Stones, even Creedence, all of big ones back in ‘70s and ‘80s. We could watch a couple of government-run TV channels. On one of them, we would watch American soap operas, “Dynasty” and “Dallas.”

RM: Hey! I was a big “Dynasty” fan. Here’s a terrible transition: Everything changed for you—and for your country—in the late 80s.

AB: In the 1980s, the political unrest in Yugoslavia unraveled. That’s when it kind of fell apart. The war moved into Croatia and eventually moved into Bosnia in 1992.

RM: It’s hard for us to imagine how devastating the war in Bosnia was. The ethnic cleansing is hard to fathom.

AB: And Bosnia, as a whole, was probably the most diverse republic when it came to different religious groups. In our city, for the most part, everybody either had somebody in the family or knew somebody in their immediate family who was married to another religious group or another ethnic group. So nobody, at that time at least, thought that something like the war that happened in Bosnia was even possible.

RM: You were out of the country when the war broke out. You lost contact with your wife [Samka] and daughter for a few months ...

AB: My daughter was three years old. I was

working in Croatia when the war broke out. All of the bridges between Croatia and Bosnia were taken down. All of the communication was down. We didn’t even know about the existence of the concentration camps and killings. Close to 4,000 people were killed in Prijedor and the neighboring county.

RM: Your wife and daughter escaped?

AB: They were able to make it to the border between Croatia and Bosnia. I was eventually able to find them and bring them to Croatia.

RM: You spent some time in a refugee camp.

AB: My younger brother Elvis was the first Bosnian refugee in Rochester. He came in June of 1993. He was in one of the notorious [Bosnian] concentration camps at the age of 18. Those survivors were the first ones to be resettled by the United Nations to the United States. He was actually doing an interview with a U.S. State Department official in Zagreb [Croatia], and they asked, “Where would you like to go?” There was a magazine on that gentleman’s desk that had Rochester, Minnesota, on the cover and it said “Number One City.” So Elvis said, “Well, how about here?” And sure enough, he ended up being resettled to Rochester.

RM: So, the 1993 Money magazine that listed Rochester as number one on its “Best Places

To Live” was sitting on the desk? And that’s how he picked Rochester? Wow.

AB: Yes. Catholic Charities got community support to bring Elvis and his wife here in 1993. Six months later, my sister and her family came to Rochester. And then myself and my wife and our two children. And then my mom and my oldest brother with his family. Right now we have probably about 30 family members living in the area.

RM: IMAA seems like a perfect fit ...

AB: The importance of the IMAA is that it really is an intercultural organization that serves everybody, which is very unique. If we would all just take time to understand each other, imagine the world that we would live in.

RM: I usually ruin these moving moments by asking something irrelevant. I mean, I was going to ask about your favorite song by Bijelo Dugme, Yugoslavia’s biggest rock band in the ‘70s and ‘80s. But I probably shouldn’t, since your last answer was so good.

AB: Well, I would have said “Lipe Cvatu [Lime Trees Are Blooming].” But, oh man, they have so many good songs.

RM: I’ll have to check them out. But, really, that other quote you had—about all of us understanding each other—was a great one.

AB: Thank you.

10 (or so) questions with ... Armin Budimlic executive director of the Intercultural Mutual Assistance Association “If we would all just take time to understand each other, imagine the world that we would live in.”

Photo courtesy Armin Budimlic

Jill Bailey Sydney Ellefson

Lyle Andreen Greg Anthony

Jen Clark

Wendy Byers-Danen

Jill Wylam

Sharon Wass

Trina Solano

Rami Hansen

Jessica Koepp

Donna Johanns

Cindy Hughes

Isabelle Housmans

Marion Kleinberg

Sylvia Rogers

Jennifer Mitchell

Melissa Niichel

Dean Mack

Kris & Arlyn Nelson

Kara Gyarmaty

Chris Fierst

Jacki Faulhaber

Linda Gates Lee & Emily Fleming