EDITORS’ NOTES
A
common reality with this time of year is that you can usually only count on one thing — being busy. With so many things taking up this time of year, it seems like all we’re doing is running around. That feeling of rushing from one thing to the next will only be compounded when the holidays are officially upon us. But on a late September afternoon when the sun coated Austin and pushed temperatures into the mid-70s, Kaye Perry brought me forward to a time to experience one of the things that takes away all the stress — the Christmas cookie. It’s just one of the holiday-themed stories we have in this issue of Austin Living. It is our hope that these stories will make you anticipate the lighter and more reflective aspect of the season. Perry took us through her love of baking and her own traditions as well as those handed down through her family (Page 48). Letting an editor take some cookies home didn’t hurt either. Then we took a slightly different look at our drinks page and gave it a specific theme. We tasked Hormel Historic Home bartender Luke Harrington with giving us modern spins on drinks that Charles Dickens would have recognized, and we can only hope the drink he featured in his seminal story “A Christmas Carol” would make him smile on the most bitter of days (Page 14). Staying with the Hormel Historic Home, Executive Director Holly Johnson explained just how important the historic home of Jay C. Hormel and his wife, Germaine, has been to the holidays through the years (Page 20). And if you’re looking for a new and unique way to decorate your home, Jill Jones of Willow Cove came up with a do-it-yourself project that will allow you to make your own wreath with simple instructions and minimal supplies (Page 18) We’ve got more, of course, including some die-hard Minnesota Vikings fans (Page 32), a killer meal at The Old Mill (Page 22) and a look behind the scenes of staging a Riverland Community College play (Page 40). We hope all of this will put you into the spirit of the season and make things just a little warmer when Old Man Winter comes knocking.
– Eric Johnson and Jason Schoonover Austin Living co-editors
PUBLISHER Jana Gray EDITORIAL Co-Editors Jason Schoonover Eric Johnson Contributing Writers Jason Schoonover Eric Johnson Rocky Hulne Sarah Lynse Photographer Eric Johnson ART Art Director Colby Hansen Graphic Designers Susan Downey Colby Hansen Eric Johnson Kathy Johnson Kim Ehrich SALES & PROMOTION Advertising Manager Jana Gray Sales Representatives Heather Ryks LeAnn Fischer Brenda Landherr Mike Delhanty NOVEMBER–DECEMBER 2016 Volume 4, Number 6 EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE: Editors, Austin Living 310 2nd Street NE Austin, MN 55912 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or reproduced without written permission. For comments, suggestions or story ideas call 507-434-2235. To purchase advertising, call 507-434-2220 © A Minnesota Publishers Inc. publication
Co-Editors Eric Johnson and Jason Schoonover 2 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
CONNECT WITH US ON FACEBOOK! VISIT WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ AUSTINLIVINGMAGAZINE
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 3
WHAT’S INSIDE
NOVEMBER – DECEMBER 2016
A KITCHEN OF CONVENIENCE
Jen Haugen shows what simple organization can do for your kitchen
36
BEHIND THE CURTAIN
You’ve seen the plays now see the work that goes into the productions
SWEET TRADITION
Kaye Perry sets the table with all sorts of treats at the holidays
40 48
4 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
SEEN 6 BACK TO SCHOOL 2016-17
Pictures from the first day of school.
8 AUSTIN AREA CHAMBER OF
10
COMMERCE’S AMIGO DAY
The chamber’s biggest fundraiser.
10 HIGH SCHOOL FALL SPORTS
14
Action on and off the field and court.
WHAT’S IN STORE
22
12 SOMETHING OUT OF NOTHING
St. Charles artist makes bowls out of wood from cut down trees.
HOME & HEARTH 14 RAISING A GLASS TO DICKENS
Find out how you can experience Charles Dickens with these holiday drinks.
18 A NEW APPROACH TO WREATHES
Jill Jones, from Willow Cove, demonstrates a do-it-yourself wreath.
20 WHY THE HHH DOES CHRISTMAS
12
Read how the Hormel Historic Home gets into the Christmas season.
AUSTIN EATS 22 CASUAL FINE DINING CLOSE TO HOME
Freelance writer and her husband enjoy what The Old Mill has to offer.
OUT AND ABOUT 28 NEW FACES BRING NEW TECHNOLOGY
Hormel Institute scientists bringing new technologies up to speed.
32 SHOWING THEIR COLORS
32
18
36
Read how a young Austin familiy supports and follows the Minnesota Vikings.
EXTRAS 52 TRAVEL
Austin men tell their fish stories.
56 LOOKING BACK
A Mower County Ghost Town, Renova, Minnesota.
58 AUSTIN LIVING MARKETPLACE 60 AREA HAPPENINGS
The biggest upcoming events in Austin.
62 BOOK REVIEW
52
“Good Night, Mr. Woodhouse,” by Faith Sullivan.
64 WHY WE LOVE AUSTIN
Because Austin boasts treats LA couldn’t. November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 5
SEEN | Back to School 2016-17 Whether the children wanted it or not, the 2016-17 school year kicked off for students in August and September, and proud parents shared with us pictures of their kiddos on their first days. From preschool to high school, we had pictures from several parents showing plenty of smiling faces.
1 2 3
4
5
6
6 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
7
8
(1) Aubrey Green, 4, prekindergarten at Austin Community Learning Center. Parents are Amanda and Kyler Green. (2) Jaime Miller, seventh grade at Ellis Middle School, and Justin Miller, ninth grade at Austin High School. Parents are Dan and Kelli Miller. (3&4) Kinsley Tieskoetter, Pre K at Montessori, AppleLane Child Care Center. Brekyn Tieskoetter, first-grade at Southgate Elementary. Parents are Shane and Evan Tieskoetter. (5) Camryn Deters, second grade at Neveln Elementary. Parents are Nick and Melissa Deters. (6) Justice Nelson, 4, of Pacelli Catholic Preschool. Parents are Amber Barclay and Brandon Nelson. (7) Beau Sathre, second grade, and Addy Sathre, kindergarten, at Sacred Heart in Adams. Parents are Kevin and Jill Sathre. (8) From right: Micheal Jochumsen, third grade at Banfield Elementary; Savanna Jochumsen, fourth grade at Banfield Elementary; Kryslynn Baker, sixth grade at I.J. Holton Intermediate School; and Aaron Baker Kindergarten at Woodson Kindergarten School. Parents of Micheal and Savanna are Erica Baker (mom), Kurt Jochumsen (dad) and Isaac Baker (stepdad). Parents of Kryslynn and Aaron are Isaac Baker (dad) and Erica Baker (step mom).
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 7
SEEN | Austin Area Chamber of Commerce “AMIGO Day” On Sept. 12 the Austin Chamber of Commerce held its annual AMIGO Day golf fundraiser, the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Chamber. More than 130 people took part in the event on a beautiful sunny day at Meadow Greens Golf Course. The tournament was followed by a meal at Lansing Corners. The money raised goes to all the programs the chamber promotes throughout the year.
1 2
3
4
5
(1) Chris Lukes, Cindy Engelman, Jane Crowley and Jill Schultz. (2) Scott Schultz and Andrew Sieren. (3) Jeanine Nelson, Brenda Landherr and Sandy Forstner. (4) Jackie Bumgardner, Danielle Morem, Kayla Knutson and Judy Enright. (5) Lisa Dunlop and Kasey Petznick. (6) Judy Callahan and Randy Arhart. (7) Joe Smillie and Dan Goshorn. (8) Ryan O’Hara, Derek Gessell and Lee Hansen. (9) Jim Marx and Jack Koppa. 8 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
6
7 8
9
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 9
SEEN | High School Fall Sports With the start of school comes the fall sports season where high school athletes hit the field and court. If you can count on one thing, it’s that there will be plenty of energy both on the field and in the stands from the Austin boys soccer team’s success on the soccer pitch over to the Grand Meadow and the Superlarks historic chase after what they hope will be its fourth-straight Nine-Man title
1
2
4
10 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
3
5
6
7
8
9
(1) Grand Meadow fans reach for plastic footballs thrown by the team after players introductions in Grand Meadow. (2) Austin’s Awenia Nywesh celebrates a kill in game two against Blooming Prairie in Packer Gym. (3) Austin’s Corey Waller stands for the National Anthem before the team’s season opener at Art Hass Stadium. (4) Members of the Austin student section cheer after a Packers touchdown against Rochester Mayo. (5) LeRoy-Ostrander’s Zach Hanson hits the field for the Cardinal’s games against West Lutheran in LeRoy. (6) Austin’s Mooday Wah, right, celebrates with teammate Kevin Ortiz after Ortiz’s goal against Rochester Century. (7) Fans hold up a birthday sign for Lyle-Pacelli’s Patrick Murphy during pregame announcements at Art Hass Stadium. (8) The Grand Meadow football team comes together before its game against Alden-Conger/Glenville-Emmons in Grand Meadow. (9) The LeRoy-Ostrander and West Lutheran captains come together for the coin toss on the teams’ season opener in LeRoy. November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 11
g n i h t e m o s from hing t o n
WHAT’S IN STORE
g n i k Ma
Lisa Trueax
Porcelain bowls and other items, about $24 to $375 This $68 porcelain bowl gives a good example of the vibrant and soft colors and unique designs of Winona artist Lisa Trueax. Several of Trueax’s pieces are for sale. Along with bowls, pitchers and mugs, she also sells small porcelain milk cartons for $24.
Margie Kline
Ceramic bowls and other items, about $16 to $160 This $20 ice cream bowl is a great, affordable starting piece by St. Ansgar, Iowa, artist Margie Kline. She does a lot of soda glaze in her various pieces, which include a variety of ceramic items such as trays, mugs, bowls, omelet dishes and more. 12 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Tom Blahnik
Wood bowls, about $100 to $350 Tom Blahnik’s most striking Austin pieces will be these bowls crafted from the burls of oak trees taken out in Austin. But the center sells many other of Blahnik’s bowls, some with colors like turquoise added in for a unique touch. Blahnik, a St. Charles resident, was named Best in Wood at the Uptown Art Fair in Minneapolis in August 2016.
Artist uses cut down oaks to create one-of-a-kind bowls By Jason Schoonover • Photos
The Austin ArtWorks Center strives to offer unique, oneof-a-kind pieces of art by local and regional creators, but it jumped on a unique opportunity to sell and preserve a small piece of Austin by creating art. The ArtWorks Center, 300 N. Main St., is selling four wood bowls crafted from the burls of the oak trees that used to stand along Interstate 90 and Fourth Street Northwest. After Hardees bought the 1406 Fourth St. NW property and announced plans to build a restaurant, concerned citizens approached Spruce Up Austin about saving the old oaks that stood on the land, which the organization couldn’t do since Hardees owned the land. But Gretchen Ramlo, a volunteer involved with Austin Area Commission for the Arts and Spruce Up Austin came up with an idea: They could make bowls out of the trees. They thought of St. Charles artist Tom Blahnik, who sells his wood creations at the center. Spruce Up and the ArtWork Center contacted him to make bowls from the burls of the trees taken out of Austin. He agreed, and Hardees had its contractor help harvest the burls.
by
Eric Johnson
About a year later, the bowls, which vary in size, are going on sale for an estimated $100 to $350. “Aren’t they just amazing?” Ramlo said. The proceeds from the four bowls will be split between the Austin Area Commission for the Arts and Spruce Up Austin, so all the money will got back into the community. But the wooden bowls are just one of the unique decorative gift items available at the center, including many other styles of decorative bowls too. Many people, Ramlo notes, forget the ArtWorks Center has a retail space that’s perfect for giftgiving with items ranging from $5 to $3,000 and everything in between. “The most unique thing about doing your shopping here is the fact that it’s handmade and its one of a kind,” Ramlo said. “Nothing comes from China. Every thing’s handmade by an artist and it’s one of a kind.” The Austin ArtWorks Center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. It’s closed Sunday and Monday. November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 13
HOME & HEARTH
aising Ra glass to Dickens Hormel Historic Home bartender Luke Harrington puts a modern twist on Victorian era drinks.
“A Merry Christmas, Bob!” said Scrooge with an earnestness that could not be mistaken, as he clapped him on the back. “A merrier Christmas, Bob, my good fellow, than I have given you for many a year! I’ll raise your salary, and endeavour to assist your struggling family, and we will discuss your affairs this very afternoon over a bowl of smoking bishop, Bob!” —“A Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens
Story
and
Photos By Eric Johnson
Christmas, for many reasons, is a special time of year, but few things can truly capture the spirit of the season like food and drink. While many will enjoy a glass of wine or a glass of brandy during the season, the drinks of today stand in stark contrast to how people enjoyed drinks during the Victorian era. Those drinks, generally warmed and spiced, personified Christmas and the spirit of the season and helped set the stage for those that celebrated the time period. Three drinks in particular stand out from that time period, all of them served warm to make those colder days pass a little easier. Perhaps the most common was mulled wine. Mulled wine, 14 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
possibly the oldest of the three mentioned here, dates back to ancient Rome, and can be found in various versions throughout Europe, but in England the drink was made very popular during the Christmas season. Right behind that is the drink known as Smoking Bishop. The drink is featured in one of Charles Dickens’ most famous lines from “A Christmas Carol,” spoken by the reformed Ebenezer Scrooge to his underling Bob Cratchet toward the end of the popular story. A Smoking Bishop is made from wine and port, boiled and simmered with various spices and fruits for a long period of time. During Dickens’ time, the drink would be simmered overnight.
Vic Wylde and Lindsey McAlister toast with warm glasses of Hot Gin Punch, held by McAlister, and Smoking Bishop, enjoyed by Wylde.
The third drink — A Hot Gin Punch — has its roots in Dickens’ famous book of redemption itself. In a blog post by Bryan Kozlowski on Slate.com, it is described as a gin-infused drink mixed and cooked with lemon. All three drinks were not generally something one made on a whim, but Austin Living asked Hormel Historic Home bartender Luke Harrington to create modern day versions of the drink with his own twist while keeping to the general flavor profile of each. Harrington found the drinks easy enough to make, admitting that in many ways they were very similar, although not without some challenge. “Just simmering them on a warm spot,” Harrington said.
“We don’t have the wood stove they had.” Like they were originally served, Harrington’s versions were served warm while admitting they weren’t something he was able to simply throw together. “They do take some prep,” he said. “They’re not something everybody has. They would be more of a party drink.” But if you want something different this holiday season and want to enjoy your very own taste of Dickens, then Harrington suggests a good reason for giving them a try. “They’re something different,” he said. “They are good and warming.” See Harrington’s versions of these three drinks on Page 16 November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 15
Vic Wylde and Lindsey McAlister toast with warm glasses of Hot Gin Punch, held by McAlister, and Smoking Bishop, held by Wylde.
Smoking Bishop
Hot Gin Punch
Mulled wine
The Smoking Bishop has obvious citrus flavors infused through orange and lemon. The cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg add a nice spiced flavor that serves to enhance the warmth of the drink. Harrington added to his version ginger beer to give it a modern connection.
Featured in “A Christmas Carol” The Hot Gin Punch is bolder from the strong influence of the gin, but it’s not overpowering. The orange and pineapple add a nice tang to the profile.
Mulled wine is the easiest to make of the three with the longest history. While still strong in spice, it is lighter than the other two despite having a similar taste. Because it doesn’t have so much spice, it allows for a smoother finish. Harrington also added two ounces of Jagermeister.
1 bottle of cabernet 1 bottle port q 1 orange q 1 lemon q 1/2 cup sugar q 20 whole cloves q 1 tsp cinnamon q 1/4 tsp nutmeg q 1 ginger beer q q
Boil the wine and ginger beer with the sugar to dissolve it. n Submerge a coffee filter filled with the orange, lemon, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the wine and simmer. Let sit overnight in a warm place, reheat in the morning. Add the port wine, which will cause it to steam. n
16 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
1 cup of gin 1 cup of sweet port wine q 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar q 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon q 1/2 tsp cloves q Pinch of nutmeg q 1 lemon (juice and rind) q 1 orange (juice and rind) q Pineapple slices q q
n Mix the ingredients and simmer for about 30 minutes. Serve warm.
Hot Gin Punch, right, Smoking Bishop, left, and mulled wine, back.
2 ounces Jagermeister 1 bottle of red wine q 1 cup brown sugar q q
n Mix together and simmer for about 30 minutes. Note: Letting it go further will make the drink sweeter.
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 17
HOME & HEARTH
A new approach to wreathes Story
and
Photos
by
Jill Jones of Willow Cove takes you through the steps to make your own, unique wreath for this Christmas season
Eric Johnson
As Willow Cove owner Jill Jones lays out the supplies needed to craft your own wreath — cedar shims, poster board and a hot glue gun — she promises the project won’t be too difficult. “I wanted it to be very simple so anybody could do it,” Jones explains. Options abound for holiday wreaths every season from those using real pine boughs to fake wreathes that can be used year after year. But for a special touch, we went to Jones, who hosts several craft classes and sessions at Willow Cove, to come up with a unique take on the Christmas wreath — a simple design you can make at home. The project starts with the shims. They vary in size and can be purchased in hardware stores or at box stores like Runnings, while poster board can be picked up in most retail and crafting stores, as can the hot glue gun. For Jones, what makes this project fun is not only the simplicity but its versatility. “This type of wreath can be made into anything,” Jones said. Jones made two wreathes — a smaller wreath involving 17 shims and a larger wreaths needing 24 shims, but again it all depends on the size of wreath. 18 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Want to find out more about what Jill Jones is offering at Willow Cove in terms of projects and workshops? Head to her new website at www. willowcove.com. The website offers people a chance to see what’s coming but also sign-up at home. “You can view descriptions, see a picture of the product that they will be doing and register and pay online,” Jones said. With new workshops always being added, the website will make it easier to get the word out. “It’s a new way for people to access workshops,” Jones said. “There’s more of a variety where there weren’t as many as before.”
Items needed H Cedar shims
(number will depend on size)
H Poster board H Hot glue gun
1 2
Cut out the size of form you want from the poster board. This will be your initial guide as well as the base for your wreath. This will depend solely on how big you want your wreath to be.
Laying your form on a flat surface, arrange the shims, fanning them out around the form so you can see how many you will need and how it will lay out. This should be done without gluing the shims. “It’s kind of like putting a puzzle together,” Jones said.
3 4
Slide the shims off of the form, still keeping the rough circle so you can see where the shims should be placed when gluing.
Begin with the first shim and gradually continue placing shims around the form, sliding each shim underneath the previous shim using just a dot of glue. The glue dries quickly, but don’t be afraid to pull it up if you’re not happy with its placement. An easy way to place the shim is to put your thumb on the shim to be glued and with your index finger pull up on the previous shim to place the glue.
5 6
As you near the finish begin looking at how you will finish the wreath. If you have a gap or the shims are slightly off, Jones recommends using embellishments to finish the project off. “If you have a gap, it’s a good place to add embellishment,” she said.
Finish your wreath off any way you like: Paint, pine boughs, trinkets or glitter are just some of the things you can add to really enhance the project. November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 19
HOME & HEARTH
Why the HHH does Christmas The Hormel Historic Home has been a centerpiece to many holiday celebrations By Holly Johnson, Executive Director
of the
For over 25 years, the Hormel Historic Home has been showcasing the beauty of the facility with a Christmas Season Open House. Each of the 14 rooms, plus common areas, is elegantly decorated by dedicated volunteers for this special event. Guests can enjoy the décor at their own pace and partake in a variety of events throughout the holiday open house weekend. Entertainers complete the annual soirée, including choral groups, pianists, brass quartets and string ensembles. The 1871 home of George A. and Lillian Hormel becomes a holiday attraction that is sure to lead its visitors into the fervor of the season. The open house tradition at the Hormel Historic Home started in November of 1988, under the direction of Evie Mohrfeld and her own devoted team of volunteers. The first event was called “Christmas Fantasy at the Hormel Historic Home” and was held on Nov. 19 and 20. According to the YWCA minutes from Feb. 6, 1989, the profits from the event were significant enough for the board of directors to decide to use the money “to redecorate the SW bedroom and the upstairs bathroom.” It was also noted in the minutes that a second 20 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Hormel Historic Home • File Photos
Christmas Fantasy would be held in November of 1989. A solid tradition had begun that would help preserve the HHH for future visitors. The mission and philosophy of most house museums is to capture a period of time and share it with visitors as a glimpse into the lifestyle of previous occupants. It is quite common, and unofficially mandatory, that house museums create historically accurate interior designs that tend to stick with their mission — and amp up the cheer — during the holidays. Hormel Historic Home holiday tours invite visitors inside to experience the elegance and charm of a home all dressed up for Christmas. Guests enjoy a step back in time while being inspired by beauty, creativity and history. Prior to the Victorian Era, decorations during the holidays tended toward the religious. In the middle 1600s, there was actually a law against observing Dec. 25 with any activity other than a church service, and people were fined for hanging decorations. This strict guiding principle continued until the 19th century, when the influx of German and Irish immigrants undermined the Puritan legacy.
Upcoming Holiday Activities v Thursday, Nov. 17: Card Party and Luncheon, sponsored by Y’s Women. All of a merry Christmas for all. Other According to www.history. card groups welcome. Cost: $10. happy occasions during the year com, “the early 20th century saw v Friday, Nov. 18: Enchanted Evening manifested a busy household, but Americans decorating their trees Tours and Bissen Concert. Light food will Christmas outdistanced them all mainly with homemade ornaments, be served. Tours start at 6 p.m., concert at in the many preparations that were while the German-American sect 7 p.m.. $10 per person. going on.” continued to use apples, nuts, and v Saturday, Nov. 19: Public Open House, Although I was unable to find marzipan cookies. Popcorn joined 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with cranberry cake reference to how George and Lillian in after being dyed bright colors served. $10 per person. Hormel decorated their home in and interlaced with berries and v Saturday, Nov. 19: Soup and Santa, 4 to Austin during the holidays, there nuts. Electricity brought about 7 p.m. Doors open: 4 p.m., comedy show: was at least one Austin business Christmas lights, making it possible 4:30 p.m., soup and refreshments, Whitnei capitalizing on the rising popularity for Christmas trees to glow for days Abel Photography, Santa Claus, crafts: 5 to of Christmas decorations in 1909. on end. With this, Christmas trees 7 p.m. $5 per person, $25 per family. On Dec. 15 of that year the Austin began to appear in town squares Plumbing, Heating & Electrical across the country and having a Company ran an ad in the Austin Christmas tree in the home became Daily Herald encouraging people to an American tradition.” decorate safely and avoid the dangers George Hormel was raised in a of candles. They publicized that they German family so it is likely that his could “provide a complete circuit preference for decorating followed which will illuminate the tree much the style mentioned above. George’s better than candles and with no risk childhood Christmas celebrations of fire.” were described by his brother We know the Hormels enjoyed William Henry. “Father and mother sharing their home with friends and family. They loved their were doing their best to prepare their plans as a surprise for home and the holidays. Decorating it and sharing it with you us. But it is impossible to hide all clues from the eager and just seems to be a natural fit. expectant eyes of children so filled with happy anticipations November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 21
AUSTIN EATS
Casual Fine Dining, Close to Home The Old Mill in Austin offers both great-tasting food and a little bit of history By Sarah Lynse • Photos
by
Eric Johnson
22 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
My job as a freelance reporter for Austin Living Magazine gives me the opportunity to do some interesting things. This month I dined with my husband Todd at the Old Mill Restaurant in Austin. We visited with the owner, Dave Forland, about the Old Mill’s rich history. Dave bought the restaurant in 1987 and he and his wife Ann manage the restaurant together. The Forlands take pride in providing their customers with unique menu items. Ann enjoys finding new recipes to add to all of the favorites that they already offer, and she makes all of the desserts.
Sarah and Todd Lysne had lunch at the Old Mill Restaurant to sample some of the best the popular establishment has to offer.
I asked Dave what makes their restaurant stand out from the many restaurants in the area. “We specialize in homemade products, from bakery items, to salad dressings and desserts,” Forland said. Dave said he also puts time into making sure he offers the best quality meat and seafood products available. He uses many Hormel Foods Coirp. products, and he serves seafood from the wild when available. “I can’t believe the amount of salmon we serve, it is really popular,” Forland said. Continues on Page 24 November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 23
Continued from Page 23 We enjoyed a full lunch complete with appetizer, main course and dessert.
Appetizer
To start off our meal, Todd and I both ordered a cup of the Mill’s delicious French onion soup. The Old Mill has always been famous for their homemade French onion. The soup is offered daily and served steaming hot with melted Parmesan and provolone cheese melted over the top.
Entree
I ordered broiled haddock served with lemon pepper, dried parsley and a special fish seasoning. It was a wonderful combination of flavors, and came the side of freshly steamed broccoli made me feel less guilty about ordering dessert. Todd enjoyed the popular Reuben sandwich with a salad. The sandwich was a combination of sliced pastrami grilled with thousand island dressing, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut served on marble rye.
Dessert
We had to have dessert. Who can resist the dessert tray brought to the table for you to gaze at? I selected a generous slice of the triple chocolate mousse cake, topped with whip cream. It was any chocolate lovers’ dream. It was rich, but not too rich, and I was able to finish it all. Todd chose the Malibu Rum coconut cake. I had to sample it too, and it had a definite coconut taste with just the right amount of rum flavor. It was just as wonderful as it sounds.
24 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
The view of the dam is one you will not find anywhere else in Austin. The restaurant is nestled in the woods with the opportunity for guests to view the dam as they are dining. Preserving the history of the Old Mill is a passion for Dave and Ann. The individual dining room walls are lined with framed black and white photos depicting the early days when the restaurant was actually a flour mill in the 1850s. A few facts you may not know about the Old Mill Restaurant • The Forlands have hosted three indoor weddings and two outdoor weddings at the restaurant. • There are three rooms in the restaurant that can be used for meetings or private parties any time of the day. These rooms include two dining rooms and the wine room. • The restaurant offers a unique craft beer and wine selection with over 160 different wines. • The Old Mill offers a catering service and delivers box lunches to businesses in the area. • If you have a favorite menu item, you can order it any time of the day. “We want people to know that they don’t have to wait for a special occasion to come out here, it is also a place to come anytime and to enjoy a beer and some cheese curds,” Forland said. You can find more history about the Old Mill, a list or the menu items and more, on the restaurant’s website.
The Old Mill Restaurant
3504 11th Place NE Austin, MN 507 437-2076 www.oldmill.net Reservations taken for lunch or dinner. Walk-Ins welcome! Closed Sundays and Mondays November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 25
26 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 27
OUT & ABOUT
New faces bring new technology
Bob Ashley preparing samples for cryo-EM use.
Hormel Institute scientists bringing Cryo-Electron Microscope up to speed By The Hormel Institute • Photos Provided The labs in the new expansion at The Hormel Institute are starting to fill up and the team occupying one of the lab suites is bringing technology at the Institute to new levels with the world’s most powerful microscope — a Cryo-Electron Microscope. The Cryo-EM and Molecular Cell Biology lab team, currently including section leader Dr. Anna Sundborger hired from National Institutes of Health and technician Bob Ashley from Pennsylvania State College of Medicine, are currently prepping the new microscope for full use this fall. Both scientists are newcomers to Austin who were drawn here by the level of research — and cutting edge technology— available at The Hormel Institute. The Titan Krios G2 captures two-dimensional and three-dimensional images using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). As part of the recent building expansion, a specialized laboratory was designed to house the Titan Krios G2, developed in the Netherlands and purchased from FEI. The Hormel Foundation supported the acquisition of the microscope to further the cancer research of The Hormel Institute. The Titan Krios G2 is the newest addition to The Hormel Institute’s ICRT “International Center of Research Technology,” which also includes two IBM supercomputers and a confocal microscope, among other technology. Continues on Page 30 28 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Image of Titan Krios G2 and smaller cryo-EM microscope.
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 29
Continued from Page 28 Dr. Anna Sundborder standing next to Titan Krios G2.
30 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Cryo-EM is a method used for imaging frozen-hydrated samples at cryogenic temperatures — temperatures below -238 degrees Fahrenheit. Freezing the samples eliminates the need for dyes or fixatives, which enables scientists to study cellular structures and protein complexes at subatomic resolution. “Cryo-EM allows us to visualize the organization of molecules that control critical cellular functions,” Dr. Sundborger said. “It provides us with a better understanding of the cellular events that lead to diseases, like cancer. Even more importantly, it provides us with the information we need to design drugs to act in preventing and treating disease.” Dr. Sundborger, originally from Sweden, and an expert in using this technology, joined The Hormel Institute earlier this year to head the new technology. On her first visit to The Hormel Institute last winter, she noticed similarities between southeastern Minnesota and her native Sweden during the ride to Austin from the Rochester airport. For Dr. Sundborger, there is something special about working as a scientist in Austin. “It’s a rare privilege, to live and work in a town where you can see the impact of your work so directly on the community. There is such support here for us, for our cause. The attitude is ‘Glad you’re here! We’re all in this together, so what can I do to help?’ For me it’s a daily reminder that research is not about realizing my abstract ideas by whatever experiments, it’s about helping people, helping communities.” In August, another member of the Cryo-EM team was hired. Bob Ashley serves as Cryo-EM facility manager. He, like Dr. Sundborger, was drawn to Austin because of the technology and high level of research occurring at The Hormel Institute. “People would never suspect that this charming small Midwestern town is home to one of the most sophisticated and advanced electron microscopes in the world,” Ashley said. “This powerful tool will provide researchers the capability to see and map out the fundamental building blocks of life itself and is something I am both humbled and grateful be a part of. I can’t wait to see what new insight this microscope brings to the already great cancer research being done at The Hormel Institute.” The field of structural biology is entering into a new era mainly due to the technical advances in cryo-EM and The Hormel Institute will gain worldwide recognition with the arrival and utilization of this technology. The cryo-EM laboratory at The Hormel Institute is state-of-the-art and has already generated much interest in the scientific community, as it is the only microscope of its kind in the Midwest region to be used for biological samples. Dr. Sundborger will host a Structural Biology Symposium in October, bringing together other cryo-EM scientists from across the country, including world-renowned cryo-EM experts, to speak about the newest research being conducted with cryo-EM technology.
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 31
OUT & ABOUT
G N I W O H S S R O L O C THEIR d Joa nn Th e Ra ma ke rs: Tro y an n so an d th eir 5-y ea r-o ld ing s Vik rd Ca rte r are die -ha le. rp pu ed fan s wh o ble
of r e n n a b e h t s carrie LOcal family s Fans g n i k i V a t o s e J E •P H diehard Minn B R y
Whenever Troy Ramaker of Austin sees a Chad Greenway jersey, his mind goes back to one of his very first games as a season ticket holder for the Minnesota Vikings. Since then, Troy and his wife, Joann, who are two of the biggest Viking fans in Austin, have compiled plenty of memories while watching the Vikings play on Sundays. 32 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
oc ky
ul ne
ho to s by
ric oh ns on
Troy said it’s a little surreal to see that Greenway is now in his final season with the Vikings. “It’s different when you see a guy get drafted and then all of the sudden he’s in the final game of his career,” Troy said. “It’s always neat to follow guy’s careers and I think I’ve been to close to 100 games now. It’s been very interesting to see players come and go.” Continues on Page 34
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 33
Continued from Page 32 If you want to see how dedicated Troy and Joann are to the Vikings, you simply have to take a look in the basement of their home. Inside, you will find the makings of a Vikings ring of honor that includes photos of the couples’ favorite players, you’ll see autographed Vikings helmets and you’ll also notice the various framed Sports Illustrated covers featuring the Vikings. Not to be missed is the large mural adorning one wall of their basement featuring life-sized images of quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and running back Adrian Peterson. But Troy and Joann really showed their fandom when they named their 5-year-old son Carter, after former Vikings wide receiver Cris Carter, Troy’s favorite Vikings player. Joann’s favorite Viking player is Jared Allen. Troy and Joann, who is originally from Albert Lea, both had dads who influenced them to become big Viking fans, and now they’re sharing that tradition with their son Carter. They haven’t taken him to a game yet, but they plan on taking him next year. “Our dads both got us into it,” Joann said. “I still have my Warren Moon jersey, and Troy grew up that way too. It really instilled with us and that’s what we hope to do with our son.” Through the years, the Ramakers have seen plenty of great moments and some tough ones as well. Joann recalled Brett Favre’s game-winning TD pass to Greg Lewis against the 49ers in 2009 as her favorite Viking memory, and Troy remembered seeing Adrian Peterson break the single game rushing record when he ran for 296 yards against the Chargers in 2007.
The view of US Bank Stadium from Troy and Joann Ramaker’s seats. Many of the Ramaker mementos of the Vikings include signed footballs, signed helmets and plenty of Sports Illustrated covers featuring the team. Below, A seatback from the Metrodome is adorned with a painting of Randy Moss and hangs in the Ramaker’s basement.
34 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
One of the least favorite memories for Troy was when he went to a Vikings playoff game at Lambeau Field in 2013 that the Packers won. “That was a rough one,” Troy said. “It was a long walk back to the car.” But the losses don’t haunt Troy or Joann. Every year, they look forward to going to the games and hanging out with the other season ticket holders they’ve gotten to know over the years. “A lot of people get down on the losses and you’re going to take the good years with the bad years,” Troy said. “We’ve just always enjoyed the camaraderie with our group, and we have fun whether we win or lose.” Of course, there’s always the draw of the new U.S. Bank Stadium that gives the Ramaker’s a view of the Minneapolis skyline while watching the Vikings. “You walk in and it’s jaw dropping,” Joann said. “It’s absolutely beautiful.”
Troy, who saw plenty of games in the Metrodome, agreed, saying the new stadium is 10 times better. When the Vikings are on the road, the Ramakers try to make as much of the game day experience as they can. They try to get together with friends and treat it just like they would a home game. “We’ll get pizza and kind of do some of our own tailgating,” Joann said. While they love the Joann Ramaker shows off a game day experience and framed picture from the back they never turn off the of the Vikings program when her and Troy were chosen as Vikings, Joann knows Verizon Ultimate Fan that the Minnesota franof the Week. chise has had some letdowns over the years. She and Troy are hoping one of these years the Vikings can make history and win it all. “When you grow up as a Vikings fan, you don’t always want to say there’s always next year,” Joann said. “But it seems like every year there seems to be something good, and then we go back to having to come back from something bad.”
Life-size versions of Teddy Bridgewater and Adrian Peterson adorn the wall in the Ramaker’s basement.
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 35
36 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
A
kitchen of convenience A balanced kitchen can be just a simple idea away By Story and Photos “It helps me t was a big by E ric J ohnson know what people step for me want to concentrate and my girlfriend to on,” she said. open our kitchen up to Jen After learning about our Haugen. situation, Haugen turned her attention to our In many ways, the kitchen is the window cupboards. A lot of what Haugen does for to people’s lives. A personal view into the people is create an air of convenience that makes personality and in this case personalities that it easier to adhere and sustain a healthier way don’t always eat the best. of life. But, like so many people, we wanted to eat In no time at all, Haugen had our cupboards better and live a little healthier, and that’s where emptied and arranged on our counter top, Haugen comes in not only for us, but for so explaining that the easiest path to convenience many others. is simple organization. Working as a consultant, Haugen offers “There is value in convenience,” Haugen something called Nourishing Kitchen Makeovers, said as she started replacing items, setting up a process that has Haugen enter a home and help our cupboards in zones. We now had desserts homeowners create a healthier environment and snacks, baking items and dinner items centered on kitchens and pantries. grouped together. “People want help, but sometimes it’s hard “Set up your kitchen in zones,” she to ask for help,” Haugen said, recognizing the explained. “Make it more efficient.” personal space that is a kitchen. “I want them to After awhile Haugen turned to our live longer and happier lives.” refrigerator and showed that many of the things With us, Haugen started much the same you can do for a cupboard you can do for a way she normally would: a questionnaire that refrigerator. gives her an idea of what people are hoping to Continues through Page 39 do with their kitchen and their motivations.
I
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 37
To get the kitchen organized, Haugen first disassembles cupboards to reorganize them into zones for better efficiency in the kitchen.
38 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
The beauty of Haugen’s system is that none of it is very difficult and can be centered on one determinate fact. “Just take a look at your diet,” she said. For many, change can be a scary thing and in some cases its easy for a person to assume that change in diet means a change in how you prepare meals. That in order to do it right you have to have every tool available to you in the kitchen. Haugen however says that’s not the case and her makeover process extends even to that area. “I can help you with the cooking equipment you need and the skills required,” Haugen said. Either way, the process to best help change your life is simplicity, something Haugen strives to show each person she helps. That process involves lifting the curtain on how people see certain foods — frozen foods in particular. “There is some preconceptions on frozen foods,” Haugen said. “The umbrella is that they are convenience foods.” That preconception extends to the health benefits of frozen foods, but Haugen dismisses that, saying that frozen fruits and vegetables can be just as healthy and just as importantly can make your meals easier to make, especially for people who are on the go either from jobs, family or other activities. Pairing that idea with precut items can make the transition to healthier eating that much easier. “To set up for success, choose frozen foods, precut fresh stuff,” Haugen said. “It’s just one more step to get you ahead.” That idea of getting — and staying — ahead is paramount. Haugen points to several ways of achieving this, but a big part is just thinking and cooking ahead. Haugen said that eggs are a perfect for this. Easy and quick to make, eggs can be used in a variety of ways and can add a healthy punch to a person’s meal. “Eggs are good for you,” Haugen said. “The protein is fabulous. There is cholesterol in an egg that doesn’t raise the blood cholesterol at all.” Haugen suggests making eggs ahead of time, freezing them and then warming them up when ready to eat. This is especially handy for egg sandwiches which will help people continue on the go. Another way is to buy a dozen eggs and hardboil them, storing them in the fridge for later consumption. Of course this idea can be extended to a number of things including things like premade smoothies or simply cutting up fruits and vegetables so they are ready to eat. Part of the concern Haugen hears often is keeping up with a new pattern of eating. Part of the problem in my own home is getting to foods before they go bad, especially fruits and vegetables. The convenience that Haugen preaches can help in this area as well by simply doing one thing when rearranging the refrigerator. “Fruits and vegetables should be at eye level,” Haugen said, suggesting a move from the crisper in the lower portions of the refrigerator to the top shelf, thus always acting as reminder that the food is there. It all falls back to Haugen’s simple idea. “Whatever you can do to help yourself,” she said.
On the way to a healthier kitchen From Jen Haugen’s website at www.jenhaugen.com where you can find this and more.
Nourishing Kitchen Makeover
• One-on-one instruction with a registered dietitian and culinary nutritionist in the privacy of your own home. • Kitchen coaching to discuss your work zones, essential kitchen tools, and essential foods to stock in your kitchen • Easy and delicious recipes that will nourish you and your family, featuring foods you can feel good about. • General nutrition coaching to answer your food and nutrition questions
How It Works
• After you schedule a kitchen makeover, you will receive a questionnaire to help me tailor the makeover to your goals, cooking skills, and food preferences. • I will send you a grocery and equipment list 5 days before your scheduled class. You may purchase all the ingredients yourself, or, for an additional fee, I will purchase the food. • On the day of the class I will arrive at your home at the specified time, and we will assess your kitchen work zones, essential kitchen tools, and essential foods to stock in your kitchen. We will then cook up to four recipes together based on your needs listed in the questionnaire. During this time, you also have the opportunity to ask me any general questions about healthy diets and nutrition. • Post-cooking class clean-up is optional for an additional fee.
Your investment in good health
• Nourishing Kitchen Makeover: $249 for 2 hours (You can invite up to 3 people to share in the experience and the cost) • If you would like me to grocery shop, the fee is an additional $50 • If you would like me to clean up, the fee is an additional $35
Recipe to help you on your way Triple Berry Overnight Oats
1/2 cup oatmeal 1/2 cup low-fat milk 1/4 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon chia seeds 1/3 cup sliced strawberries 1/3 cup blueberries 1/3 cup blackberries
1. Combine oats and milk in jar. 2. Top with yogurt, chia seeds and fresh berries and refrigerate overnight. 3. In the morning, stir the jar contents together and enjoy for a quick and easy breakfast. November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 39
The cast of “Cabaret” rehearse a dance number at Frank W. Bridges Theatre.
40 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Behind The Curtain By Jason Schoonover • Photos
A
by
Eric Johnson
A collective vision drives Riverland theatre from start to finish
s director Lindsey Duoos Williams leads part of the “Cabaret” cast through a dance routine on the Frank W. Bridges Theatre stage, actress Emily McAlister, playing Sally Bowles, stands in a dressing room across the hall as costumer Madlain Vander takes in a finished outfit: A maroon-wine shawl covering a light-colored slip with thigh-high stockings, a garter, a black 1920s choker necklace and above nude-colored heels. Vander drapes her finishing touch, a light-colored boa, around McAlister’s arm and the other shoulder before the two walk across the hall to the theater to run it by Williams. Taking her eyes off the cast and half-finished set, the director looks at McAlister’s outfit and gives her quick approval. “I love it,” she says. It’s Sept. 8 and the cast and crew have just under four weeks to piece together their staging of the show before its Oct 5-9 run. The Riverland Community College Theatre Department stages four shows each year, and each requires the collective work of a team led by a director over several weeks — if not months — of work and planning before an audience hits the seats. As “Cabaret” director, Williams’ job is to set and lead the vision. “I’m not a puppet master,” she said. “I’m not a dictator. I’m there to provide an overall artistic vision for the show and make sure that everybody is working toward the same vision — the actors, the costumer, the designer, the crew — and I’m there to help get the best out of all of those people.” To show the work required to stage a Riverland show, Austin Living went behind the scenes to chronicle just a slice of the journey: Continues through Page 47 November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 41
Dathen Johnson, left, and Garrin Loveland work underneath the set of “Cabaret.”
C
lassic rock plays on the Frank W. Bridges stage that is growing up and out into the audience as Designer and Technical Director Mark Spitzer and a few students walk between the boards holding elevated platforms well above the stage and work to reinforce them for safety. The raised platforms will hold the orchestra during “Cabaret” and feature a walkway for actors and two staircases. In the middle of the stage, one of the spiral staircases rests on its side. In a deadpan, Spitzer jokes about leaving it on stage: “I was going to leave them here for the next month or two, but I guess —” “Perfect,” Williams interrupts with a laugh. “That won’t get in the way at all when we choreograph our big dance number tonight.” For Riverland Theater, multiple elements come together at the same time. On this afternoon, Spitzer and his crew are building the set, a process that will take up to six weeks, before the cast comes in to rehearse choreography a few hours later. During that night’s rehearsal, Vander pulls actors back into the dressing room for costuming. A musical like “Cabaret” requires even more work because it features singing, dancing and a live orchestra. With the work of people like Spitzer and Vander to the dedication of the actors to the attentiveness and attention to detail of a stage manager, Williams said the average audience
42 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
member doesn’t know how much work it takes to bring a play to life. “It’s months and months and months of work,” she said. “Before the actors are even cast, we’ve been doing months of work. I think most people don’t realize everything that goes on behind the scenes just to put on that one two-hour performance.” Setting the season Each January and February, Williams and her crew set the season for the upcoming school year, focusing on shows they’ll be able to cast with the actors they expect to have, stage with their technical capabilities and afford on a limited budget. And perhaps the biggest factor: Are these shows that will appeal to an Austin audience? “There’s all these different things that we take into consideration,” Williams said. Then Williams and Spitzer complete a set design for the fall show before summer so Williams can think about staging, choreography and other notes over break. Williams assembles her crew over the summer: vocal director Laurie Helmers, orchestra director Cheryl Collins and Vander as costume director. With each, she discusses details and ideas to match the collective vision.
Staging As Spitzer builds the risers above the Frank W. Bridges stage, he needs to leave space for the actors to sing, dance and perform for rehearsals. And as soon as possible, the crew wants the set in place for the actors to get used to the space. But Spitzer and Williams are utilizing environmental staging to make the audience feel like they’re walking into the Kit Kat Klub and the world as the Nazi rise to power. Cabaret tables are already set up on special staging along the theater walkways where actors would be stationed during the performance. “It’s like they’re going to be entering into the world of the Kit Kat Klub,” Williams said. With “Cabaret,” the set takes on an added importance because the curtain never closes — it’s the first thing the audience will see before any of the music or costumes come into play, and the lighting, mood and tone will also come into play. He wants to utilize some German expressionism in the design with angles and different aspects of the set and a 1930s, pre-Nazi Germany mood — anything to help tell the story. But they need the set to help to tell the story: The Kit Kat Klub is a cabaret club a bit past its prime; it’s not an A-list club anymore. But all of that needs to be done within the theater’s budget and has to get students involved. In the theater, materials are reused to save money. As Williams and Spitzer look at the stage platforms, they pick out which performance it was last used in from the paint. First, they’ll get the structure in place before painting them later to give the actors time to rehearse on stage. Spitzer also does the lighting and sound, which will be a big portion of the show. With the lighting and sound, Spitzer and Williams admit much of the challenge is to remain invisible — if the audience notices the lighting and sound amplification, they’re not getting the desires effects. Casting Auditions came about seven weeks before the show opens. “You never really know who’s going to show up,” Williams said, noting sometimes she’ll have a person in mind who doesn’t come out or a new person that will show up and surprise her. Williams staged “Cabaret” with an ensemble because she had students who didn’t have a named role that she wanted to have involved, but she also wanted it to help provide the atmospheric feeling. They’ll be patrons of the Kit Kat Club, audience members, partygoers and more. Auditions go two to three hours a night for two nights with each potential castmate acting, singing and dancing. It’s a process Williams says always takes a lot of thought. “I think of casting like putting a puzzle together,” Williams said. “You’re trying to find the best pieces, but they have to be the best pieces that also fit with the other pieces around them. It’s a really hard thing to do. It’s fun but it’s very challenging.” She also needs to balance strengths, as she’ll often find an actor or actress who may be a great singer but not as strong as an actor, or she’ll have a great actor who isn’t as strong a dancer. “You have to try to balance what’s most important to that 44 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Costume designs sit out for Madlain Vander to reference as she makes alterations to costumes.
role,” she said. “Do you need the really great singer and you can work with them and coach them on their acting or do you take the person who’s a really great actor but maybe will need some more coaching and work on their singing. You have to weigh all of those things.” Dedication A few hours after Spitzer and his crew work on the set, McAlister is busy getting ready for her role without taking to the stage. That’s because she and Vander are trying on McAlister’s outfits for the show. McAlister admits shows require dedication. She’s at the theater rehearsing from about 6 to 9 p.m. before she goes home to do her homework until about midnight, then she wakes up and goes to school in Riverland’s teachers program and repeats the day over again. “It’s a lot right now,” she admits with a laugh. “I’m still kind of figuring things out. It’s fun. I love it. Sometimes I wonder why I keep doing it, you know, because in these moments I’m like, oh, I need to do my homework and I need to sleep, but I love performing. I love it a lot. Once everything starts getting together, by the first performance it’s worth it. It’s so worth it.” To prepare for the role, McAlister watches performances to see what she likes or doesn’t like, and she’s researched 1920s makeup since the actors and actresses do their own makeup. To McAlister, the music is the easiest part to learn: She pops a CD in her car and starts singing along to the music, even a song where she’s screaming and crying as she sings. She admits learning lines is the most difficult part. But it’s not just lines for the actors. McAlister has researched the time period of the cabaret scene to ensure she understands it and what people were doing at the time, what they were wearing and how they were doing their music. It’s a big time commitment and she joked that friends will ask her to go to a party or to hangout, but she’ll have to skip it for rehearsal. The actors are responsible for memorizing the songs and lines, because Williams notes they can’t choreograph music and run scenes if they’re buried in a page.
But Williams has to keep in mind her actors and crew often are participating in the play on top of school and/or a job and balancing their personal lives. “They squeeze it in wherever they can,” she said. And McAlister notes one actor reflects on the whole ensemble, and while it’s a group effort, and she told stories of urging past cast mates to run lines. “I’ve seen people who come here and they don’t take it seriously,” McAlister said. “Like I take it seriously. Even though it’s a hobby, I want us to look really good.” Vander As “Cabaret’s” costumer, Vander’s goal is to tell a story, but she has a limited budget to find the costumes to provide the backdrop for the characters’ lives and the world right before
I love it a lot. Once ever ything starts getting together, by the first performance it’s worth it. It’s so worth it. — Emily McAlister
World War II. “It’s in the air but it hasn’t happened yet, but you see the elements,” Vander said. “The show shows the buildup, the change in the culture to the war starting, and you can see it in the costumes. A good costumer will show that.” She rummages through the Riverland, Matchbox and Summerset costume cooperative to look for unique pieces but she looks beyond too. Williams wants vintage and lace in the attire. To Vander, there’s never enough stock to find costumes and it can be even more challenging when they have to construct costumes. But costuming for “Cabaret” is more a matter of finding the right garments and making a few changes to get the right look. While vintage items are hard to come by, Vander has a unique source of more material: the 1980s. Vander tries to get into the head of the characters down the minor details that help bring a character to life. “That’s what’s going to make the character,” Vander said. While “Carbaret” requires some reconstruction, a show like “It’s a Wonderful Life” will require almost no reconstruction or construction, but “Seussical” could be a challenge to forge costumes in 2017. Piecing a show together As McAlister tries on outfits with Vander, Williams leads other cast members through scenes for a musical number.
Madlain Vander makes alterations to a costume worn by Emily McAlister for “Cabaret.” November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 45
Dathen Johnson walks through the workshop area behind the stage. Inset, Ian Gearhart mans the soundboard during a rehearsal for “Cabaret.”
They’re learning the dances having not staged a single scene, about a month out from first performance. For a musical, the first thing Williams does is have the cast learn the music, because it’s difficult if not impossible to learn choreography and perform a scene if the actors don’t know the music. Then comes choreography to give the actors time for repetition in getting the moves and steps down. On Sept. 9, they start piecing dances with scenes before blocking through parts of the show, taking some time to clean up the music and the choreography. Then they have a short amount of time to just rehearse the show and find key moments and emotional scenes to really bring out. She calls that the make it or break it part of the show, where strong actors will really bring out their characters if they’ve done the work. 46 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
“That’s a really critical time,” she said. Williams noted it’s difficult to balance a rehearsal schedule and give enough time to each step in the process. They continue polishing the show as technical details are added in, using that time to focus on lighting, props sound and cues. “We try to utilize their time as wisely as possible,” Williams said. After the first rehearsal where they run through everything, Williams often just sits in the audience and takes detailed notes, only stopping the show for big things. At the end of the night, she gives notes on little things — tuck your shirt in, carry the prop off stage — in two note sessions before the final dress rehearsal, where they do it as close to the final show as possible. After that, she gives few more
doesn’t change anything anymore or give actors any pointers by that point. “At that point, we’ve done our work, we’ve got a great show and we just need to give the audience the best possible experience that we can each night,” Williams said. After months of work, the stage is set for opening night. On to the next But the process isn’t done. After the last show, the cast and crew does what’s called “strike,” where they stay behind to help tear down the set, put everything back into storage, wash costumes, erase notes on music sheets, and more. It takes six weeks to set up the set, and they leave an empty stage after about three to five hours after strike, and Williams says it can be an emotional process. “Because it’s never going to be that show with that exact group of people ever again,” she said. But rehearsals for “It’s a Wonderful Life” will start just days after strike. With Riverland performing four shows within a relatively short school year, Williams, Spitzer and Hanson are almost always prepping the next show. “You always have to be thinking kind a show ahead and looking down the line because they come really, really fast here,” Williams said. As Williams sits in the Theatre office on Sept. 8, a student walks in and asks Williams for a script for “It’s a Wonderful Life.” “Cabaret” is still a month from taking the stage, but work is already underway on the second play of the year. notes because she wants the actors to be focusing on the show by that time. She wants them to feel good and be excited, not thinking over changes. By that point, it switches to her giving them a pep talk to have fun and have energy in their performances. Despite a few nerves, the cast is usually excited because it’s the first time working with an audience to respond to the funny and emotional moments. “They’ve been putting out all this work to just empty seats,” she said. “So for them it’s the first time that they get that feedback from the audience. They get to hear the applause and the laughter and it just, I think, always energizes a show.” As director, Williams is hands on until the show opens when she steps back and lets everyone do their work — she
You always have to be thinking kind a show ahead and looking down the line because they come really, really fast here. — Lindsey Duoos Williams November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 47
Sweet Tradition
For Kaye Perry, Christmas cookies are memories of the season Story and Photos by E ric J ohnson
48 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 49
I weeks before Christmas.
t’s late September, but just one step through the front door into the home of Kaye and Scott Perry and suddenly it’s a couple
The smell of ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon hung heavy in the air and on the table an assortment of cookies and pies were arranged as if the snow is just beginning to fall and the family will be home any minute.
Perry said that This is the power many of her recipes of the holidays. This are tried-and-true is the power of the and handed down Christmas cookie. from her mother and Kaye loves baking, grandmother with especially during some added ideas from the holidays, and it’s friends, all the while evident in the variety straying somewhat of cookies on the from looking for table. There are bright Kaye Perry rolls recipes on the Internet. colors and unique ginger snap dough into a balls. For Kaye, they just combinations featuring aren’t the same. a variety of ingredients “I know friends as well as cookies that that have given [recipes] to me and I know it’s probably good will make anybody think of their own home and families. stuff,” she said. “It’s tradition,” Kaye said. “Everyone knows when they come Perry’s own traditions and baking habits have developed [home] it’s going to be here. It’s just another part of, ‘Oh yes, this into a routine she looks forward to as much as the cookies and is what we get to enjoy when we come home for Christmas.’” the baking itself. Perry’s own traditions, like many family bakers, go back “Especially at Christmas, I have the same routine,” Perry generations to her mother and grandmother. Being in the explained. “I have the routine that I put the same Christmas kitchen was just another part of the experience and its those music on every year and I just listen. It’s soothing preparing for experiences as well as recipes that stuck with her. the season kind of thing. Knowing that families are coming and “My mother was quite a baker,” Kaye said. “She did a lot you’re getting together and the anticipation of what’s coming.” of breads. I remember as a small child, her in the kitchen just Some of Kaye’s traditions go even further back including kneading away at that.” the slower-paced baking of the Krumkake, a Norwegian waffle “My mother also baked a lot as well,” she added. “I think cookie, made on a special iron. that was kind of where I really, really got into it more.” What makes it unique to Kaye is that she doesn’t have a bit Like many traditions, exact measurements weren’t of Norwegian in her. included. It was a hurdle Kaye had to learn to adapt to with her “I’m actually 100 own baking. percent German so “I also remember how we got that I do at first I would ask not know,” she said, a mom about the broad smile overtaking recipes,” she said. “And her face. she would say, ‘Just A normal baking put a little of that in day for Kaye will and a little of that,’ and include the prep and I would say, ‘Mom, I of course the baking, don’t know what that but it also includes the means.’ Well, now I do relaxation that comes because I do it all the with it, which for time. There’s always Perry is just the simple tweaking.” A holiday table can feature a wide variety aspect of soaking in the But it returns to of sweet delights for the holiday season. atmosphere. tradition. 50 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
The Christmas cookie can be adorned with many different treats to make it unique.
“I like it when it’s cool out,” she said. “I like it when I’m not interrupted. I can just put some music on and just bake away and a lot of the time I’ll just come out here [sitting room] and sit and look outside and enjoy the weather between each pan. “It’s a time to reflect. Thanksgiving and Christmas you get so busy and we’re doing a million things,” she continued. “I mean you just kind of relax and use your hands.” It’s that atmosphere that permeates and overtakes any of the stress that can sometimes overtake the holidays. It’s also the reason why Christmas baking feels so much different from any other baking at other times during the year. “I don’t get that same feeling when I make a batch of chocolate chip cookies,” Kaye said. “I don’t get that same sense and again maybe it’s because you’re attaching memories to it and you have a lot of different smells because you’re not just making the one, you’re making several.” Don’t dream of asking Kaye, however, what her favorite cookie is. “Ooo, that’s tough because I like them all,” She said laughing. “That’s really hard for me because I make what everyone’s favorite is so I guess to me the perfect one is whatever’s perfect for that individual. That’s what’s perfect for me. For me I eat them all so they’re all perfect.” Also perfect is the hope Kaye has for others during the holiday season — a simple hope. “I would hope everyone has a chance to enjoy Christmas cookies,” she said. “I think a lot of people buy things now. It’s not the same. It’s just not the same as making them yourself. It’s something you can give to your family or friends or your neighbors. I get that smile back and it’s great. It’s a win-win all the way around.” November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 51
TRAVEL
What a catch
Austin residents share trips to a secluded Canadian paradise By Jason Schoonover Photos Submitted
David Hagen holds up a fish he caught during one of his many trips to Canada.
52 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
As David Hagen flips through his photo albums from decades of trips to Canada, the repetition is obvious: Most show him and others proudly holding whopping northern pike, walleye and other lake fish before a few divert to show people on the lakes and fish lined on docks. “You can only take so many pictures of a fish, you know,” Hagen jokes. But the photos accurately depict a key part of Hagen’s trips to secluded Canadian lakes: People have little trouble catching fish. “People don’t realize what really great fishing is,” Hagen said. Two or three times a year, Hagen travels about 730 miles from Austin to Pickle Lake Outposts in Pickle Lake, Ontario, Canada, where he and those traveling with him take a float plane about 100 miles to cabins and a series of secluded lakes. Hagen has done more than 60 of these fly-ins, and he usually takes others along with him. “I’ve taken many, many people from the Austin area,” Hagen said. Hagen’s taken about a third of his 60 trips with friend and longtime Hormel Foundation Treasurer Jerry Anfinson, and the two usually have a friendly competition over who catches the largest fish. On their most recent
trip, Hagen admits Anfinson caught the largest northern at 41 inches. “I’m not a good fisherman,” Hagen said. “I just go where it’s easy to catch ‘em.” “He just has a good guide,” Anfinson jokes. Both men have traveled to Canada for decades — Hagen for about 40 years, while Anfinson has visited Canada for 40 to 50 years and has a cabin on the Churchill River. But the Pickle Lake Outposts trips started when Warren Sorenson of Sorenson Appliance in Geneva arranged a Pickle Lake Outposts fly-in for Hagen, an Austin City Council member who worked for KSMQ Public Television, around 1991. Hagen took a video camera and gave a copy of the video to an outfitter in Canada and got a call asking him to take video of all her lakes. “Which I didn’t mind a bit,” Hagen said with a smile. After building a rapport with Pete Johnson, owner of Pickle Lake Outposts as well as a certified mechanic and pilot, Hagen started doing sports shows for and with the outpost and started taking two to three trips a year between the end of May when the ice goes out and around Sept. 14. The group is taken by float plane from Pickle Lake to a secluded Canadian wilderness, where there’s only one cabin per lake. “You don’t see anybody else,” Anfinson said. “I mean, what a treat to have your own body of water just to your group,” Hagen added, but he jokes that they never take anyone that might ruin a trip because you can’t kick them out. The trips make for a true getaway, as Hagen recalls many people telling him they’ve never slept so good because it’s quiet without roads and population, while Anfinson says you get to enjoy the natural beauty. Continues on Page 54 November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 53
Continued from Page 53 “There’s no TV, there’s no iPhone, there’s no iPad, there’s no computer,” Anfinson said. “You get to enjoy the wilderness for what it is; there’s no fabrications.” That means only a few of the cabins have solar energy or generators, while many have no electricity and just an outhouse. But the sparse population makes it so the fish grow large and are frequent biters. Anfinson joked the fishing is hard to explain to people because they think you’re stretching the truth of how great the fishing is — both in terms of size and frequency. “You just get so many fish you can’t believe it,” Anfinson said. With such prevalent fishing, Hagen says it doesn’t matter what you use — you’ll catch fish with even cheap equipment. “It doesn’t matter what you use,” Hagen said. But the rugged, rocky terrain and secluded area can combine for potentially dangerous situations, which means Hagen and Anfinson must be knowledgeable and responsible, and they only go with people they trust and people who are responsible. Above: David Hagen holds up a fish he caught during one of his many trips to Canada. Middle: Hagen and Dale Hessman of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, watch a float plane moving on a Canadian lake. Below: Hagen and one of his groups fish.
54 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Anfinson tells stories of having to scare away a female wolf and her pups when walking on a trail, and he’s come close to black bears before. As long as you’re cautious and use common sense, Hagen and Anfinson said they don’t run into any problems. They serve as their own guides too, even though one lake is 35 miles long with islands where they can get lost somewhat easily. Though Hagen, Anfinson and the groups they fish with release the majority of the fish they catch, they of course serve up many of the ones they keep. On a five-day trip, they often have fish about four nights and otherwise just bring in bread and breakfast items or have fish hors d’oeurves. Anfinson loves to wrap Hormel bacon around walleye before deep frying it, while Hagen says he loves boiling walleye before adding garlic powder and melted butter and eating it on a Ritz cracker. “It’s heaven,” Hagen said. Anfinson used a northern recipe where he cooks it in tomato juice, which makes it firmer. They also just tried a new delectable item this year: walleye shrimp, where they cut a piece of the double fin under the underbelly and some belly meat with it, which looks like a few shrimp tails. They put a little flour on it and deep fry it. “It’s just as tender as can be,” Anfinson said. “Much better than walleye cheeks.” But the men also are sure to take good care of the natural world when they visit, noting they take out all the trash they bring in and aim to be good stewards of the natural world. Hagen feels fortunate to be able to go to these places and enjoy the wonderful fishing in great places. But Hagen noted he loves the environment as he talked about his years participating in Pheasants Forever “It’s not just fishing, it’s all of God’s creation,” Hage said. November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 55
LOOKING BACK
A MOWER COUNTY GHOST TOWN
RENOVA, MINNESOTA
The early years of Renova, Minnesota. The large house on the right is the Renova Store and boarding house. Â The original house was built in 1880 by Fred Mulford with the boarding house addition added in 1900.
The original cash register from Renova Store, used by Herman and Lottie Stern.
56 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Left, Art Culbert and his sisters, Mable Smith of Rose Creek and Ruth Iverson of La Crosse, Wisconsin, are pictured in front of the grain elevator in Renova.
A small town’s decline from a boom By Jaimie M. Timm, Mower County Historical Society Curator Photos courtesy of the Mower County Historical Society Like many towns and villages in Mower County, Renova’s roots lie with the railroad. It began in 1887 when the Chicago Great Western Railroad arrived. Located on County Road 2 between Brownsdale and Dexter, it once boasted two grain elevators, a lumberyard, livery stable, general store, and train depot. It was a small station along the line with a population of less than 40. W. J. Johnson platted the town in 1900 and the newspaper at the time expected the area to “boom” shortly thereafter. The rise of the automobile led to less and less train traffic in the early 1900s. When the train station and post office both closed in 1934, it seemed Renova would quickly disappear. However, one family business, Herman and Lottie Stern’s Renova Store, kept the village on the map for a few more years. Lottie’s father bought the store in 1892 and she was born in the house attached to it. Her future husband, Herman, purchased the business in 1905 and they married in 1912. In Lottie’s own words, they “carried a little of everything” in the store. The post office was also in the store and it often became a kind of gathering point for the town. Herman and Lottie continued to run the store after the post office and train depot closed. Herman passed away in 1953, but Lottie kept it open for another 19 years. The Renova Store closed for the last time on May 31, 1972, with Lottie Cross Stern being Renova’s last resident. Today, the legacy of Renova lives on at the Mower County Historical Society. The long, wood store counter can be seen in the Ghost Towns of Mower County exhibit in the Original Fair Building. The original cash register used by Lottie and Herman and a recent donation to the historical society, will soon join the display. Family photographs, like those of the Culbert Family, can also be found in the photograph collection at MCHS. Although the arrival and departure of the railroad led to the rise and fall of Renova, the Mower County Historical Society continues to preserve and honor the memory of the hard-working pioneers who made Renova their home.
Herman and Lottie Stern inside Renova Store around 1900.
The Renova Store counter and account book cabinet (on top of the counter) on exhibit at the Mower County Historical Society.
Railroad section crew Art Culbert (with the pipe), George “Jud” Kirchner (railroad hat), and Elmer and George Walterman. Culbert worked as the Section Foreman and was responsible for taking care of the Chicago Great Western track from Taopi to Hayfield. November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 57
AUTOMOTIVE DAVE SYVERSON AUTO CENTER: 2310 East Main Street, Albert Lea, MN www.davesyverson.com (507) 373-1438 Experience the difference with Dave Syverson’s non-commissioned sales team. Visit your local Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Jeep, LINCOLN, Nissan, Volkswagen, Ram dealership serving Albert Lea and surrounding areas. Access the most up-to-date internet car buying tools on their website. HOLIDAY CARS OF AUSTIN: 2701 West Oakland Ave., Austin, MN www.holidaycarsaustin.net www.holidayford.net (888) 267-1356 Holiday Cars of Austin is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in the area. From the moment you walk into our showroom, you’ll know our commitment to Customer Service is second to none. We strive to make your experience with Holiday Cars a good one – for the life of your vehicle. Whether you need to purchase, finance, or service a new or pre-owned vehicle, you’ve come to the right place. FINANCIAL BREMER BANK: 805 North Main, Austin, MN (507) 433-8822 www.bremer.com Full-service banking, wealth management, investment, trust and insurance for personal or business banking. Online banking anywhere, anytime. FIRST FARMERS & MERCHANTS: 128 N. Main St., Austin, MN (507) 433-3473 www.ffmbank.com First Farmers & Merchants Bank is a financial institution serving a number of southern Minnesota communities. We provide premium banking services, including agricultural and consumer loans, mortgage lending, mobile and online banking, small business banking, and deposit products. HEALTH DRAAYER CHIROPRACTIC: 109 1st Ave. SE, Suite 1, Austin, MN (507) 396-8088 www.draayerchiropractic.com Dr. Patrick Draayer looks forward to helping you reach you optimum health. Draayer utilizes the most advanced chiropractic techniques, offers advice on supplements, and works with you to help you reach complete wellness. Patients are treated like part of the family - your health and comfort are Draayer Chiropractics number one priority! HOME IMPROVEMENT AREN’S HEATING: 103 3rd St. SE, Austin, MN (507) 433-5652 www.arensheatingandcooling.com Steve and Penny Arens working hard to make “Our Furnace Company Your Furnace Company” for 32 years since 1983. Selling “Top Rated” Bryant Equipment. We will service any make or model. 24 HR Emergency Service. Free Estimates. Call Today (507) 433-5652. BRICK FURNITURE: 504 North Main St., Austin, MN (507) 433-8833 www.brickfurnitureaustin.com Locally owned. Specializing in great quality. Low sale prices every day. Top service after the sale. Name brands such as La-Z-Boy, Smith Brothers of Berne, Sealy, and Daniel’s Amish. Lots of wall decor. Many other varieties of decor to choose from!
HOME IMPROVEMENT (CONT.) NEW DIMENSION ELECTRONICS: (507) 433-2122 Having been in business for over 35 years, providing your home entertainments needs with Dish Network, Directv, Antenna Service, and Home Theater. Visit our website at www..Newdimensionelectronics.net or Come See our showroom located next to Jim’s Super Valu at 209 11th St NE, Austin Mn. TIMBERLINE ROOFING: 405 13th St. NE, Austin, MN (612) 363-6158 www.timberlineroofingmn.com Timberline Roofing & Contracting specializes in the installation, maintenance and repair of residential and commercial roofing and siding. We also provide additional contracting services for windows, chimneys and skylights. Our well-established company has the resources and staff to complete any general contracting job to our customers’ satisfaction. POLITICAL JEANNE POPPE, MINNESOTA STATE REPRESENTATIVE - 27B: (507) 438-7857 email: jeannepoppe@hotmail.com Jeanne recognizes the importance of sustaining strong and vital rural communities and schools. She strongly supports providing state assistance to improve our transportation infrastructure and for community water projects. She understands the need to have a balanced and fair tax system. Jeanne is a proud graduate of a small, rural, public school system and advocates for continued support for all of our youth to have the same opportunities for education. SERVICES AUSTIN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: 329 North Main St., Austin, MN (507) 437-4561 www.austincoc.com The Chamber represents about 400 business members who collectively employ nearly 10,000 people in the Austin and Mower County area. We organize major events that showcase the community, including Freedom Fest and Christmas in the City. We promote our members through programs such as Buy Mower/Grow Mower. And we serve as a voice for a strong business environment. AUSTIN AEROFLIGHT: 710 21st St NE, Austin, MN (507) 433-1813 www.austinaeroflight.com Austin Aeroflight, Inc. is a full service FBO located at the Austin Municipal Airport. We offer both Jet A and 100LL fuel services. We provide flight training and ground instruction. Along with training, we also offer a complete line of CATS computerized testing. All FAA or FCC written tests can be taken here. Your major or minor aircraft repairs may be completed by our professional maintenance personnel. Austin Aeroflight also has the heated hangar space you need to protect your aircraft in all weather conditions. We’re here to meet all your aviation needs in Southern Minnesota. AUSTIN HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: 308 2nd Ave. NE, Austin, MN (507) 433-1866 www.austinhra.org The Austin HRA provides affordable, decent and safe housing to low-income individuals or families. Further, it is also their mission to remedy the shortage of housing in situations where private enterprise was not available. This housing his not subsidized and is called Market Rate Housing.
BUDGET BLINDS: 310 1st Ave. S., Albert Lea, MN (877) 373-8535 www.budgetblinds.com/AlbertLea We proudly serve the local community by offering high quality and stylish window coverings for any occasion. Our lavish selection of window treatments includes shutters, blinds, draperies, shades and even window film. Call us today to schedule your free in-home consultation. Looking forward to helping you beautify your home!
CRIME VICTIMS RESOURCE CENTER: 101 14th St NW, Austin (507) 437-6680 www.facebook.com/CVResourcecenter The CVRC provides advocacy and support to crime victims in Mower County, Minnesota. The CVRC is here to serve you and those close to you with support and options and works for changes which will enable all citizens to live in a community free of fear and violence through advocacy, actions and education. The CVRC will help individuals who have been victims of many different types of crime.
DOLAN’S LANDSCAPE CENTER INC: 3108 4th St NW, Austin (507) 433-3239 www.dolanslandscapecenter.com Dolan’s Landscape Center specializes in landscape design and landscaping installation. We offer many landscape services including outdoor patios, pergolas, fireplaces, retaining walls, stairs and steps, water feataures, landscape design, and sod. Visit our full landscape center stocked with most anything you may need for those weekend DIY landscape and gardening projects.
GERARD ACADEMY: 1111 28th St. NE, Austin, MN (507) 433-1843 www.nexustreatment.org At Gerard Academy, we believe in strengthening the inherent goodness and potential of every child and family, no matter what challenges they face. Since 1969, we have offered therapeutic care for children, adolescents and their families, providing the foundation for them to re-imagine and rebuild their lives.
FREEBORN LUMBER COMPANY & DESIGN CENTER: 971 Plaza Street West, Albert Lea, MN www.freebornlumber.com (507) 377-4284 A family owned business that began in 1946. Stop in and visit their new facility and design showroom. Freeborn Lumber features quality building materials, new home design, kitchen remodels, cabinet design, agricultural buildings and outdoor living spaces.
SMYTH COMPANIES: 1201 27th Ave. NW, Austin, MN (507) 434-5918 Smyth offers full-service design and prepress services to our commercial clients. From simple two-color flyers to complex layouts for annual reports or product brochures, we can do it all. Eight station presses enable the application of a world of colors along with gloss or matte coatings. Digital printing is also available for short run and prototype work.
GREENMAN HEATING & REFRIGERATION: 1001 4th St. SE, Austin, MN (507) 437-6500 www.lennoxdealer.com/greenmanhvac Your local Lennox Premier Dealer staffed with Austin’s finest NATE Certified installers and technicians, ready to assist you with your heating, cooling, fireplace, and ventilation needs. Family owned for over 50 years, our family cares about your family. Voted Best of Mower County. Go Green, Save Green, call Greenman HVAC.
SHOPPING HY-VEE: 1001 18th Avenue NW, Austin, MN (507) 437-7625 www.hy-vee.com “Where there’s a helpful smile in every aisle.” Austin’s Hy-Vee is a full-service supermarket featuring a bakery, floral department, dine-in and carryout food service, wine and spirits, pharmacy, HealthMarket, Caribou Coffee, and fuel station.
58 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 59
Oct. 30
Austin Symphony Orchestra’s “Heroes”
When: 2 p.m. Where: Austin High School’s Knowlton Auditorium The Austin Symphony Orchestra will kick off its 60th season with “Heroes,” a show featuring The Matchbox Children’s Theatre acting out parts of “Peter and the Wolf” by Prokofiev. Selections will include “Night on Bald Mountain,” John Williams’ “The Superman March,” “Batman” by Danny Elfman, and other orchestral treats. Area children in grades 4-6 are invited to attend a shortened version of ‘Heroes” the following morning through a concert and costume party from 9 to 10:45 a.m.
Nov. 4-5
And That’s My Story Storytelling Festival
Where: Hormel Historic Home, 208 Fourth Ave. NW Storytellers, through music and story, will share experiences in a theatre/ concert show at the Hormel Historic Home, Austin, Minnesota.
Nov. 4-6
Matchbox Children’s Theatre’s “Nick of Time! (A Detective Red Mistletoe Mystery)”
When: 7 p.m. Nov. 4, 2 p.m. Nov. 5-6 Where: Historic Paramount Theatre Detective Red Mistletoe is tasked with finding Santa after he disappears at the height of the holidays.
Nov. 5
Northwestern Singers: “Why We Sing” When: 7 p.m. Where: St. Olaf Lutheran Church, 301 First St. SW This group of Austin singers kick off their 2016-17 year.
Nov. 5
Annual Thanksgiving Feast
When: 5-9 p.m. Where: Holiday Inn Austin Conference Center, 1701 Fourth St. NW The event will include social hour, a silent auction, raffles, music, a turkey dinner, a short program and a live auction. Tickets are $35 per person for Friends of the Nature Center, $40 for non-members. All proceeds go to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center Operations Fund. For more information or to obtain tickets, call 507-437-7519, or 507-433-6928.
Nov. 6
Piano Master Class: “Music, Math, Myths … all Marvels” When: 2 p.m. free Where: Hormel Historic Home, 208 Fourth Ave. NW 60 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
Watch the leaves change color and feel the chill in the air as fall finishes up and winter begins. Get in the holiday spirit this Christmas the with some tuba music, listen to some great storytelling and enjoy several theater productions this fall and winter. —All dates, times, and locations subject to change
Nov. 14
History Happy Hour
When: 5:30 p.m. social hour, 6 p.m. presentation. Where: Hormel Historic Home, 208 Fourth Ave. NW “History of Mower County Cemeteries” presented by Mower County Historical Society Curator, Jaimie Timm. Free for members of Mower County Historical Society, Hormel Historic Home and Friends of the Library. $5 for nonmembers. Light snacks included. Cash bar available.
Nov. 15
Hearth & Home Series
When: 10 a.m. Where: Hormel Historic Home, 208 Fourth Ave. NW This free program will focus on creative crockpot cooking presented by Hy-Vee’s Chef Kristine.
Nov. 16-20
“It’s a Wonderful Life”
When: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 16-19, 2 p.m. Nov. 20 Where: Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College Riverland’s theater program brings to stage the classic holiday story of George Bailey, based on the beloved movie.
Nov. 17
Lunchbox History Series
When: noon to 1 p.m. Where: Mower County Historical Society, 1303 Sixth Ave. SW, Austin. Director John Haymond will present about the history of the Grand Army of the Republic, the veterans’ organization that was formed following the Civil War.
Nov. 17 -19
Hormel Historic Home Holiday Events
Turn to page 20 for a list of all the holiday celebrations the Hormel Historic Home has to offer.
Nov. 25
Christmas in the City
When: 5:30-7 p.m. Where: Downtown Austin Official kickoff of the holiday season in downtown Austin, with tree-lighting ceremony, songs and music, hot chocolate and treats, activities and celebrities — including everybody’s favorite jolly old elf. Call 507-437-4561 for more information.
Nov. 25
Jane Taylor Academy of Dance performs scenes from “The Nutcracker”
Where: Historic Paramount Theatre For a suggested donation, Jane Taylor dancers return to perform scenes from the holiday classic “The Nutcracker.”
Nov. 29
Christmas in the Northwest
When: 4-7 p.m. Where: 18th Avenue Northwest and the surrounding area A variety of Christmas activities will be offered at participating businesses.
Dec. 1
Christmas in the Southwest
When: 4-7 p.m. Where: Sterling Shopping Center & Surrounding Area A variety of Christmas activities will be offered at participating businesses.
Dec. 3
Annual Merry TubaChristmas Concert When: 2-3 p.m. Where: Historic Paramount Theatre Free community Christmas concert. Players of the tuba, sousaphone, euphonium and baritone are invited to join the fun. Contact the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau at 507-4374563 for more information about this event.
Dec. 2 and 3
A Handmade Christmas
When: 4-9 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday Where: Hormel Historic Home, 208 Fourth Ave. NW A Handmade Christmas returns with 30-plus vendors for the annual craft market. From 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday, there will be wine, walking hor d’oeuvres, massages and music. Then from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday there will be tours of the decorated house, treats and holiday drinks.
Dec. 7
Austin Public Schools concerts Nov. 1 �������������AHS Fall Concert, 7 p.m. in Knowlton Auditorium Nov. 3 �������������AHS Fall Prep Concert, 7 p.m. Knowlton Auditorium Nov. 17-19 �����AHS Fall Musical, 7 p.m. Christgau Hall Dec. 6 �������������Fifth Through Eighth-grade Winter Band Concert, 7 p.m. Knowlton Auditorium Dec. 7 �������������Neveln Holiday Concert, 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. in Ellis Auditorium Dec. 8 �������������Fifth Through Eighth-grade Orchestra Concert, 7 p.m. Knowlton Auditorium Dec. 9 �������������Banfield Holiday Concert (Times TBD) Dec. 15 �����������Sumner Holiday Concert, 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. in Sumner Gym Dec. 15 �����������Southgate Holiday Concert (Times TBD) Dec. 15 �����������Fifth Through Eighth-grade Winter Choir Concert, 7 p.m. in Knowlton Auditorium Dec. 16-17 �������Christmas at Home, 7 p.m. both nights and also 2 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Historic Paramount Theatre Dec. 19 �����������AHS Holiday Concert, 7 p.m.Knowlton Auditorium
Pacelli Catholic School holiday events All events are in the evening with times to be determined
Nov. 17-20 �����Pacelli Fall Play, “Father Know’s Best” starring Pacelli fourth through 12th grade actors, directed by Tim Brennan. Dec. 12-13 �������Pacelli Preschool Christmas Programs Dec. 14 �����������Pacelli Middle and High School Vocal Choirs, Band, & Orchestra Christmas Concerts Dec. 15 �����������Pacelli Elementary School Vocal, Band, & Orchestra Christmas Concert
Christmas in the East
When: 4-7:30 p.m. Where: 11th Street Northeast and surrounding area A variety of Christmas activities will be offered at participating businesses.
Dec. 10
Christmas in the County
When: 3-7 p.m. Where: Mower County Historical Society Holiday crafts, bake sale, festive displays, and fun for the whole family. Call 507-4376082 for more information. The annual presale for the bake sale will be 4-6 p.m. Dec. 9.
Dec. 11
Austin Symphony Orchestra’s “Christmas Past, Present, and Future”
When: 2 p.m. Where: Austin High School’s Knowlton Auditorium This show will feature the children’s chorus from the MacPhail School of Music and tuba player Mark Woeste.
Dec.12
History Happy Hour
When: 5:30 p.m. social hour, 6 p.m. presentation. Where: Hormel Historic Home, 208 Fourth Ave. NW A presentation on holiday traditions. Free for members of Mower County Historical Society, Hormel Historic Home and Friends of the Library. $5 for non-members. Light snacks included. Cash bar available.
Dec. 20
Hearth & Home Series
When: 10 a.m. Where: Hormel Historic Home, 208 Fourth Ave. NW This free program will focus on holiday cookies and candy. November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 61
BOOK REVIEW
A SLIVER OF SMALL TOWN LIFE Novel pulls reader into characters’ world By Sue Grove, Austin Page Turners Reading “Good Night, Mr. Wodehouse” by Faith Sullivan is like visiting old friends and filling in the blanks of their histories. We revisit the small town of Harvester in southern Minnesota and view life there from the perspective of Nell Stillman, a beloved teacher. The novel begins with a prologue discussing her unique obituary that she had written in 1944 — at the age of 68 — long before her death in 1961. In it, she highlights her lifelong love of P.G. Wodehouse and credits him for being her savior. We are drawn into Nell’s life, and we observe her views about events and people in the town of Harvester that Sullivan introduced in her earlier novels: “The Cape Ann,” “Empress of One” and “Gardenias.” We learn of the heartbreak and joys of her life, the impact of World War I on rural towns, and the importance of friendships. We learn Faith Sullivan how Nell survives Photo by Sandra Kjarstad Bloom terrible circumstances with the help of her favorite author and loyal friends Faith Sullivan takes you into the world of her characters and makes you want to learn all you can about them and their lives. We also discover more details of her relationships with her students and friends and catch a glimpse of small town life — the good and the bad. If you have read the earlier novels, it is fun to discover details of the characters from a different vantage point. If you have not read the other books, you will want to read them to fill in the gaps. After reading “Good Night, Mr. Wodehouse,” I went back and read her earlier novels set in Harvester, and am now reading
62 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
“Mr. Wodehouse” for a second time. As Julie Schumacher, author of “Dear Committee Members,” wrote in her review, “For all those fans of ‘The Cape Ann,’ ‘Gardenias,’ and ‘The Empress of One:’ here is your priceless ticket back to Harvester, Minnesota, where Lark, Sally, and others vividly await. ‘Good Night, Mr. Wodehouse’ is an homage to the struggles and moral choices of Faith Sullivan’s terrific women, and to the act of reading itself. An extraordinary book.”
November–December 2016 | Austin Living | 63
WHY WE LOVE AUSTIN
Lindsey and Sean Williams with their daughter Ingrid.
Because Austin boasts treats LA couldn’t By Lindsey Duoos Williams
and
Sean E. Williams
Austin couple gives up the big city for Austin In 2011, we were going on 10 years of living in Los Angeles. We’d both begun to tire of the big city: the crowds, the prices, the stress, the never-ending traffic. While walking our rescue dachshund around our neighborhood, we’d fantasize about living somewhere else. A small town, perhaps. Maybe in the Midwest. Someplace quieter with less hassle, friendlier people, affordable housing, no traffic. Flash forward a few months, and Lindsey is applying for theatre teaching jobs all over the country. There was an ad for a job at a community college in Austin, Minnesota. Small town — check. Lindsey’s home state, not too far from her family — check. Enough distance from the big city for some peace and quiet, but close enough for an afternoon shopping trip — check. Somehow, without really giving such a huge life change enough reasonable thought and consideration, we just took the plunge and packed our bags. We’ve been living in Austin for over four years now. Are there things we miss about southern California? Absolutely. There are times when we long for a stroll on the beach. There are days — usually in January or February — when we wonder what we were thinking giving up perpetually 75-degrees-and64 | Austin Living | November–December 2016
sunny weather. We still get cravings for In-N-Out burgers. But then we look at what we’ve gained: familiar faces everywhere we go. A more relaxed, slower-paced lifestyle. Friends who live just a quick drive (with no traffic!) or walk away. Beautiful parks and wildlife. A community with a passion for art, music, and theatre. A house with a back yard and a garage. A local watering hole where — no, really — everybody does know your name. Things we never could have had in L.A. Sure, there are things about Austin that could be improved. But what impresses us is how dedicated this community is to making improvements. Everyone, from Riverland to Hormel to Vision 2020, is saying, “Austin is great, and here’s how we can make it greater.” And what’s even better is that it’s possible in our small community to be a part of that change and actually see the difference you can make. Now we have moments as we walk our dogs through our neighborhood — or during a long run through Todd Park, or strolling around the ArtWorks Festival, or watching the Fourth of July fireworks over the bandshell — when we realize we no longer fantasize about living somewhere else.