Southern Exposure by Austin Daily Herald

18 Hole Championship Golf Course

Pasta Night every Tuesday • 4-8pm Sunday morning Breakfast • 8-11am Sundays Kids 12 & under eat FREE off of Kids Menu Friday & Saturday Prime Rib Available Happy Hour Daily • 3-6pm

“The Vineyard” Ballroom

• Perfect location for wedding receptions, banquets, holiday parties, meetings and private dinners. • Seats up to 480 people

• Small groups are welcome • Two-sided full service bar

• Outdoor area by lake for wedding ceremonies.

Wedgewood Cove Golf Club 2200 West 9th Street Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-373-2007

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

Soaring through the 2010 Southern Exposure The Austin Daily Herald’s 2010 edition of Southern Exposure aims to give you a slice of life in southern Minnesota. Whether you’re planning a staycation or just an afternoon away, we hope you to get out and see what southern Minnesota has to offer. Inside, you’ll find stories and guides on three different topics: Relocation: Southern Exposure provides pertinent information on local businesses and organizations. Stay informed about your area schools and leaders. Out and about: From apple orchards to campgrounds, trails to parks, there’s more than one way to watch the leaves change across

the region. Destinations: If the weather doesn’t cooperate, there are many places to visit indoors. From museums to businesses, there are plenty of unique spots to visit in the region. Look inside to learn about a christian-based camp and other places to visit. While we can’t show all there is to see in the area, Southern Exposure aims to give you snapshots of the many different places to visit in southeast Minnesota. If you want to share your favorite destination — whether it be a bike trail, business or park — post a comment to our website at www.austindailyherald.com.

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

Herald file photo

Along with Austin Skate Park, there are many other parks and destination spots for picnics, sports and entertainment this fall.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

DESTINATIONS: MIDWEST GARDEN ART

Brownsdale couple keeps rare art alive By Jason Schoonover BROWNSDALE — They quit the business twice, but they kept coming back. It’s in their blood. Larry and Karen Sheely own Midwest Garden Art, 23200 State Highway 56 between Interstate 90 and Brownsdale, where they make and sell cement lawn statues. For the Sheely’s, their store is far

What’s your favorite spot? Have a favorite destination not mentioned in Southern Exposure? Visit www.austindailyherald.com and post a comment about your favorite spots in Mower County and Minnesota. We just may include them in one of our upcoming publications.

more than a retail business, it’s a way of life. Larry makes all his own molds and pours the concrete statues himself. Karen handles all the painting. Larry described pouring concrete as a lost art that is only done by about five other people in Minnesota. Larry and Karen combine their skills to make and sell a variety of cement statues. Many of the figures include things like angels, dogs, fireman, deer, eagles, birdbaths, flower planters and many more. Eagles and deer are some of the biggest sellers, Karen said. Since the Sheely’s are retired and op-

erate the business out of their home in a garage converted to a shop, they don’t have set daily hours. According to their business cards, they’re open by hit, miss or appointment. While Karen admits Larry first sparked an interest in the art before she did, she said it becomes a passion that’s hard to shake. “I always tell everybody it gets in your blood,” she said. “You just can’t quit. It’s so challenging making the new molds and seeing them come out and painting them the first time. It got in my blood.” Larry and Karen have quit the busi-

ness twice. The two sold their molds twice to leave the business, selling about 325 molds each time. As Karen said, it was in their blood, and they were back in business within a year. However, Larry doesn’t regret selling his molds. They made good money selling the molds, and Larry said he kept many of his master molds. “Every time I remake them, I make them better than I did the other time,” Larry said. “I can take my master and say, gosh that should have hair lines. The face should be different, and I make it different.”

ELDERLY DISABLED INDEPENDENT Apartments For Rent Rent Based On Income OPENINGS NOW: Friendship Village, Brownsdale

For More Information Call 507-434-5556 or email: lori.amick@myclearwave.net Mower County Housing Authority

59039 220th Street Austin, Minnesota

Century Plastic Inc. Proud To Be A Part Of The Community Hayfield • Minnesota 4

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

OUT AND ABOUT: PUMPKIN PATCHES

Fall is all about pumpkins By Matt Peterson The Mower County Historical Society holds a Fall Harvest Celibration at the Mower County Fairgrounds Saturday, Sept. 25. Sample pumpkin pie, make your own apple cider, candles, dolls and churn butter. There will also be a toy tractor raffle and a bake sale. For more details visit www.mowercountyhistory.org or www.exploreminnesota.com •Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch is just off Mower/Freeborn Road (Co. 36) and less than a mile south of State Highway 251 at Corning. Directions: north of Austin on 218, turn left (west) at Lansing Corners Restaurant (large red building) onto County Road 2 ( 270th St); go three miles; go around the curve to the north 1/4 mile. Then turn left onto 273rd Street. Visitors can pick their own pumpkins and vegetables, enjoy picture taking and let their kids play. It opens for activities on Saturday, Sept. 25. Farmer

John’s is open 7 days a week, 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. weekdays and until 6 p.m. on weekends. However, it is also open to school and pre-school groups in the mornings. Farmer Johns’ Pumpkin Patch is located at 90537 273 Street in Austin. For more information, call 507-437-9180. •Oak View Nursery in Owatonna, a landscaping and horticulture business, opens a pumpkin patch fall weekends from Sept. 25 through Oct. 31. Visitors can enjoy the corn maze, wagon rides, animals, photography, pumpkin painting, wooded trails, a snack shop and gift shop, mini golf, football toss and several other games for kids. Oak View is open Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Oak View is located at 7921 Country Road 45 South Owatonna, MN 55060. Please call 507.451.0454, or visit www.oakviewnursery.net. •Tweite’s Pumkin Patch in Byron has more activities than one can expe-

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

rience in a day. That’s because it is more than just a pumpkin patch; it is a large acreage with plenty of things for children, as well as adults, to do. For kids, it starts with Pumpkinville. It is a huge play center with a three-tower castle, fort, pirate ship, sand pit, games, puppet shows and several mazes. Adults can enjoy picking their own pumpkins, concessions, walking trails, wagon rides and Tweite’s infamous corn maze. This year’s festivities open weekends from Sept. 25 through Oct. 22. Tweite’s is now open weekdays from Oct. 4 through 22, too. Tweite’s is located at 1821 Frontier Road SW Byron, MN 55920. For more information call (507) 365-8035 or visit www.tweitepumpkins.com. Willing to travel farther? Minnesota has many more pumpkin patches. Several directories can be found online: www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org, and thepumpkindirectory.com.

Herald file photo

Pumpkins — like this one at Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch last year — are ripe and ready for picking as the calender turns to fall.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

DESTINATIONS: STAYCATIONS

Small towns offer staycation spots • ADAMS — Adams is the “Dairy Capital of Mower County” and its pride in dairy farming shows 24/7 throughout the year. For more than 50 years, the Mower County American Dairy Association has hosted the annual dairy princess pageant. In addition, Adams City Park along the west edge of the city is the perfect place for picnics, family reunions and camping, and the Cedar River Golf Course is a hotspot for golfers throughout the season. • BROWNSDALE — Welcome to the roller skating hotspot of Mower County. This is not just another “cute” little town to visit. It’s a destination and a roller rink helps make it so. Brett and Ronda Rohler own and operate the Rohler Rink located at the south edge of Brownsdale off Minnesota Highway 56. The Rohler Rink has become popular

for businesses and industries, as well as organizations, who book parties at the recreation center. The Brownsdale attraction attracts skaters from the Twin Cities and other out-of-the-area places, according to the Rohlers. It also has its share of “regulars,” who enjoy rolling around the rink on skates to music beneath the bright lights. For more information, call (507) 5672133 or (507) 273-0650.

• LEROY — It could be called the “anchor” of the Shooting Star recreation trail. The trailhead is here and from LeRoy, the biking and hiking trail takes visitors through Lake Louise State park and westward across the Mower County prairie. It’s approximately 15 miles long stretching from LeRoy through Taopi and now to Adams; www.visitleroy.com.

• GRAND MEADOW — Grand Meadow resembles the typical Minnesota small town. With a population of 945, the community boasts a downtown that features a city hall, a community center and a library, not to mention a post office, a hardware store, a grocery store and a bank. Located along Highway 16 east of Austin, Grand Meadow is anchored by a cemetery and features an elaborate school facility that houses all grades. “I like Grand Meadow,” says library director Brenda Johnson. “I feel a little bit safer. People are friendly and a lot of people know each other.” Dining options include a diner, a bar/restaurant and a convenience store

• BLOOMING PRAIRIE — The city of Blooming Prairie belongs to four different counties. Located in the extreme southeastern corner of Steele County, it touches Mower, Dodge and Freeborn Counties, too. Blooming Prairie began as a railroad town. An official of the Minnesota Central Railroad gave the town its name. Incorporated in 1873-74, the one thing that has remained constant in the community’s existence is its annual Independence Day celebration. Local historian Harold Severson (now deceased) claimed the Fourth of July celebration was “as big then as it is now.”

that offers sandwiches and pizza.

Other nearby towns:

• ST. ANSGAR, Iowa — St. Ansgar is as good as advertised. Perhaps not enough can be said about the Blue Belle Inn, one of the region’s most popular bed and breakfast establishments. The dining is superb with cuisine unrivaled anywhere. The accommodations are elegant, part old world charm, part modern day pampering. Just to see it is to appreciate Victorian era homes, and St. Ansgar has more of them. First Lutheran Church, the oldest Lutheran church west of the Mississippi River, adds history to spiritual ambiance. The industrial park is completely full across U.S. Highway 218 from giant Grain Millers Inc. The downtown central business district has — take the St. Ansgar Chamber of Commerce’s words for it — something for everyone. Window-shopping, browsing, buying ... whatever the reason, it’s a treat for every visitor. The Cedar River runs through it to add to the natural pleasures at visitors’ disposal.

UPCOMING EVENTS NOVEMBER 4TH - WINE TASTING @ SERVICEMAN’S CLUB DECEMBER 3RD - HOLIDAY DAZZLE

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Welding • Welding Repair Pipe & Tube Bending Metal Fabrication

583-2144 • Blooming Prairie

314 East Main, Blooming Prairie, MN

538 Highway 218 South Blooming Prairie, MN 55917

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

507-583-7528 • 1-888-933-6828 Fax: 507-583-2389 SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

DESTINATIONS: IRONWOOD SPRINGS

Stewartville’s Christian-based getaway By Matt Peterson Ironwood Springs, a Christianthemed camp and ranch, hosts an array of activities for various groups that seek peace and fun. The ranch started in 1976 when Bob Bardwell, camp director, decided to realize his vision. This vision, to open a Christian camp, grew when he worked at a Christian ranch in Colorado years before. In 1973, Bob finished seminary and got married. That same year, he was paralyzed in a construction accident. Bob was able to see the Lord’s calling; the land that his father had purchased had begun its transformation into the camp it is today. It gets its name from its numerous ironwood trees; the bubbling, nearby springs; its primary focus of Christianity and its layout as a ranch. In 1978, the first lodge was built. And after that, the camp continued to grow. Today it encompasses a pool, tennis courts, barns, cabins, a dining hall, camping, animals and a horse riding facility. It also offer horse riding classes and hold other seasonal activites such as the chuckwagon: a horse-drawn wagon ride with a western-style camp and cookout. The camp’s most recent addition was a Miracle Lodge built in 2007. The lodge, which features housing for retreat groups, was built through the extensive help of volunteers. It welcomes many visitors each year. Along with the lodge, Ironwood also has a log chapel for services. For recreation, Ironwood offers trails, wagon rides, horse rides, zip

The Miracle Lodge is just one of many things to take in at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch near High Forest.

Photo by Matt Peterson

Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch is located at 7291 County Road 6 SW Stewartville, MN 55976. Its operation relies heavily on the support of volunteers. For more details on upcoming events, reservations or volunteer work, visit www.ironwoodsprings.com or call 507-533-4315.

Many trails for both walking and horse riding weave throughout Ironwood Springs.

lines—and sleigh rides and tubing in the winter. Furthermore, Ironwood is home to the National Wheelchair Recreation Camp every year. Participants can enter the wheel chair race or take in wheelchair softball, a pulling contest, wheelchair accessible climbing wall, wheelchair basketball, trail riding, the wild wave, water skiing, canoeing, scuba diving and bowling. Ironwood springs is open for reservations for weddings, reunions, youth camps, retreats, church groups, clubs and even single families.

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JOIN US FOR LUNCH!

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Free Lunch Delivery Thank you Mower County for voting us Best Pizza 7 years in a row!

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SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

RELOCATION: AREA FACILITIES The local hub for city government and public works is the Austin Municipal Building, located blocks from downtown on Fourth Avenue Northeast. For non-native residents, visit the Welcome Center on 308 Fourth Ave. NW for language and other services. More information is available at (507) 434-2863.

ing with a Qwest operator, who will need to know the address to apply the account and if and how names will appear in the directory. Cable television/Internet Charter Communications 2206 Oakland Ave. N.E. (888) 438-2427

Important facilities include: Electric, gas and water Austin Utilities 500 Fourth Ave. N.E. (507) 433-8886 www.austinutilities.com Freeborn-Mower Cooperative 2501 E. Main St., Albert Lea (507) 373-6421 Austin Utilities serves households in the Austin area; the Freeborn Mower Cooperative is responsible for rural residences outside the city. Telephone Qwest (800) 244-1111 www.qwest.com Have information ready prior to speak-

Driver’s license Austin Driver’s License Exam Station 430 10th St. N.E. (507) 434-2675

1111 Eighth Ave. N.E (507) 437-9551 Austin Medical Center: Located on 1000 First Drive NW, the AMC is part of the Mayo Health System and offers a wide range of services, including flu shots. Main number: 507-433-7351 Austin Area Chamber of Commerce: Representing local businesses, the chamber organizes a number of events, including the annual Fourth of July celebration and is a good source for community information.

Sandy Forstner is the executive director. Main number: 507-437-4561 execdir@austincoc.com Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau: The CVB works to attract visitors to Austin. It’s a good source for information on upcoming meetings, tours and conventions, as well as lodging contacts. Cheryl Corey is the executive director. Main number: 507-437-4563 visitor@austinmn.com

Mower County License Bureau is open Monday through Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Applicants must go to Albert Lea for services Thursday and Friday; (507)3775125 License plates Minnesota Auto License Branch US Bank Building 301 North Main St. (507) 433-8744 To register a vehicle, contact the Minnesota Auto License office. Individuals need a vehicle title and proof of insurance. Mower County Recycling Center

TI NY’S B ODY S H OP

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604 18th Ave. NW • Austin (507) 437-2611 Fax (507) 437-4260

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Audibel Hearing Centers Austin’s Center For Hearing Excellence 608 1st Drive NW • Austin, MN Call Today 1-507-433-6214 • Toll Free 1-877-333-6125

Stop in and see our Testimonial Book! Cresco and Albert Lea Service Centers

See Austin’s Board Certified Hearing Care Professionals

Amy Baarsch, BC-HIS & Nina Best, BC-HIS

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

DESTINATIONS: LOCAL GET AWAYS

The perfect destinations for autumn drives real log cabin that houses visitors and tourists year-round. The Rose Pedaler features an old-fashioned interior with wooden furniture and a wooden spiral staircase. It contains three guest sweets where visitors can enjoy the feel of what a frontier hotel was like. It also has an event room large enough for weddings, family get-togethers, hunting parties and more. Rose Pedaler also offers a continental breakfast, houses a gift shop and is right next to the Shooting Star Scenic Byway and Recreational Trail. Rose Pedaler resides at 16931 Highway 56 Rose Creek, MN 55970. For more info, call 434-0500, or visit www.rosepedaler.com.

Laura Ingalls Wilder’s home, Spring Valley Just a 45-minute drive from Austin, Spring Valley is a home of luscious fall colors, antique shops, Mystery Cave and a historical tribute to Laura Ingalls Wilder. Wilder and her husband, Almanzo, once made Spring Valley their home and attended the area Methodist Church built in 1876. The church’s museum is open daily during the summer months and on the weekends in September and October. Admission is $4 for adults and $1.50 for students; (507) 346-7659.

Brownlow’s Red Owl, LeRoy To Kay McCloud, Brownlow’s Red Owl is more than a family business, it’s an identity for her family and the city of LeRoy. Located in downtown LeRoy, Brownlow’s Red Owl is one of only two remaning Red Owl grocery stores along with Masons Red Owl in Green Bay, Wis. To mark the history of the chain, which spanned the Midwest until about 20 years ago, McCloud, has turned the store into a sort of Red Owl museum. McCloud, manager of Brownlow’s, has been collecting Red Owl antiques for as long as she can remember because her grandfather and father owned the store before her. “I think it’s important because it’s been in my family for 80 years,” she said. “My grandpa, he loved Red Owl. We always

Grand Meadow Veterans Memorial

Herald file photo

Inside the Wilder House museum across from the historic church in Spring Valley. called him Mr. Red Owl when we were growing up.” Many of McCloud’s collectibles are items she collected from the store over the years, and things from the shop’s basement. Once she became the manager for her father, Robert Brownlow, about seven years ago, she’s continued her search for

collectibles at antique stores and online though eBay. The store also sells T-shirts and Red Owl memorabilia.

The Rose Pedaler, Rose Creek Just minutes from Austin, the Rose Pedaler in Rose Creek is a frontier-style,

Austin isn't the only area town with a monument to honor local veterans. The Grand Meadow American Legion made major additions to their memorial this summer at Veterans Memorial Park. "It's to honor those who served," said Leland Ottman, commander of the Harry T. Anderson American Legion Post 140. "Whether it was during war time or not, if you signed on the line, you're signing up to do whatever they tell you needs to be done." The memorial is shaped like an octagon of benches with two open sides. In the center of the octagon is a large flag pole, donated by a legion member who recently died, at the center of a star.

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Adams Health Care Center 507-582-3263 • Adams, MN

Adams Home Health Agency 507-582-7704

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Cedar Court Apartments

Independent Living • 507-582-3263 • Adams, MN

HAMILTON AUCTION CO. We Are Here For All Your Auction Needs Real Estate • Farm Equipment • Household

(507) 584-0133 130 State Hwy. 16, Dexter, MN 55926 Located Off I-90 at Dexter, MN Exit them 1/4 Mile E. on Hwy 16

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

OUT AND ABOUT: BIKE TRAILS

More than 90 miles of trail and counting AUSTIN DAILY HERALD

Southeastern Minnesota has a wide variety of bike trails, each with its own unique set of scenic landscapes. The longest of area trails, the Root River Trail spans 60 miles and includes towns like Lanesboro, Preston, Whalan, Rushford and Houston. The trail passes through 300-foot bluffs and scenic valleys. The shooting Star Trail currently runs from LeRoy to Adams, and the trail will eventually reach Rose Creek and Austin. The 15-

mile trail offers views of farmland, Lake Louise State Park natural grasses and flowers which make for an enjoyable fall ride. Blazing Star Trail currently starts along side Albert Lea Lake and runs through MyreBig Island State Park toward Hayward. When completed, the trail will span 20 miles and connect with the Shooting Star Trail. Despite recent funding concerns, organizers envision a set of combined trails that will one day cross all of southeast Minnesota.

Main Street Dental Clinic Open Monday-Saturday and 2 Evenings We welcome new patients!

405 East Main Street • Blooming Prairie • (507) 583-2141 159 18th Street SW • Owatonna • (507) 455-1000 3142 Wellner Drive NE • Rochester • 507-536-7700 132 North Broadway • New Richland • 507-463-0502

After Hours Emergency Only • 507-456-5822

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Herald file photo

Two men start a bike ride on the Shooting Star Bike Trail in Adams.

600 2nd Street NW Austin, MN

433-1817

INTERNATIONAL PAPER 507-433-3467 www.ipaper.com

1900 8th Street NE Austin, MN

FUNERAL HOME

www.usbank.com

301 North Main Street • Austin, MN 55912

TI NY’S BODY S HOP

Since 1961 Lifetime Written Warranty • Free Estimates Free Loaner Car • State of the Art Shop Family Owned & Operated 604 18th Ave. NW • Austin, MN • (507) 437-2611

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

OUT AND ABOUT: APPLE ORCHARDS

Just ripe: Visit an apple orchard this fall By Trey Mewes It’s a ripe time for apples, and Southeast Minnesota is home to some of the best apple orchards in the Midwest. With dozens of apple varieties and wagon rides aplenty, there’s few better ways to enjoy the fall than to visit your local apple orchard. Be sure to act quick, as these orchards tend to wither on the vine come November.

—Apple Ridge Orchard & Vineyard 47418 240th Avenue, Mazeppa, Minnesota 55956 507-843-3033 www.appleridgeorchard.com Open: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through October, varying hours in November. Apple Ridge specializes in family fun, according to owner Vince Steffen. The orchard gives wagon rides, builds corn mazes (this year’s adult maze is more than four acres large), and barnyard animals along with alpacas. With more than 23 varieties of apples, seven varieties of grapes and nine varieties of pumpkins, you’re guaranteed to find fresh fruit and old fashioned family entertainment at every visit. Apple Ridge is open until around Thanksgiving every year, with wagon rides ending in November.

Whitewater Valley Orchard, he thought dehydrated apple chips would put the orchard on the map. To this day, about a third of every year’s apple crop goes to the dehydrators and ends up in more than 20 stores in Minnesota and South Dakota. Whitewater also sells pies, apple butter, and other fruits and vegetables like cherries, strawberries, plums, pumpkins and squash. If you want a tour of the orchard, simply call Cindy ahead of time and arrange a meeting.

> APPLES continues on 12

—Whitewater Valley Orchard

Herald file photo

Honeycrisp apples, originally from Minnesota, are among the most prized apples every fall. Look for great deals on this popular variety at local apple orchards throughout Southeast Minnesota.

E-mail: stjohns@smig.net www2.smig.net/stjohns Saturday at 6:00 PM l Sunday at 9:00 AM Christian Education Hour 10:15 AM

24496 Highway 74 N., St. Charles 507-932-4003 Open: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. When Cindy Mueske’s father started

Tom Ogilvie, Pastor l Troy Miller, Director of Christian Education

Sunday Worship

Sunday School for all ages 9:00 a.m.

Beautiful Savior 10:45 am Trinity 9:00 am

Sunday Worship! 10:00 a.m.

Sunday School

Nursery provided

Beautiful Savior 9:30 am Trinity 8:15 am

Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Awana Teen Ministry

Adult Bible Study Trinity, Sunday 8:15 am Beautiful Savior, Sunday 10:00 am Wednesday Evening 7:00 pm

Beautiful Savior’s Sunday Worship Services are Broadcast on Cable Channel 6, Thursday Evening at 7 p.m. & Saturday morning at 11 a.m.

Pastor Dale Christiansen cranechapel@smig.net www.cranechapel.org

Pastor David Fleischmann revdcf@hotmail.com SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

OUT AND ABOUT: APPLE ORCHARDS From Page 11

—Sekapp Orchards 3415 College View Rd. E, Rochester Phone: (507) 282-4544 Open: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. July 15-Dec. 31. Fred Kappauf ’s parents bought what would eventually become Sekapp Orchard in 1962, turning a small, rundown apple orchard into close to 30 acres of apple trees. Now, Kappauf is in charge of about 25 varieties of apples as well as other crops like sweet corn, pumpkins, pears, plums, squash, zucchini, beats and other fruits and vegeta-

bles. Pick Your Owns for pumpkins and apples are held on weekends.

—Johnson Oakside Orchard 9824 SW 75th St., Ellendale 507-465-8398 Open: 12 to 5 p.m. Sundays. Gary and Judy Johnson first planted apple trees in 1985 as “kind of a retirement thing.” It’s slowly becoming a fulltime job for the Johsons, as their reputation for making the best $3 caramel apple sundaes in the area is growing. The 12 varieties of apples they sell at $6, $8 and $12 a bag don’t hurt either.

Turtle Creek Industries can do:

Janitorial, Clerical, Light Assembly, Laundry Work, Lawn Care, Farm Work, Restaurant Work

2909 West Oakland Avenue • Austin, MN

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

Though Big Woods doesn’t sell apples at their farm, they are at the Winona Farmer’s Market every Saturday through November. During the past decade, the orchard’s grown to hold 1,500 trees on four acres with six varieties of apples to sell.

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

TURTLE CREEK INDUSTRIES

Over 30 years serving the Austin area & beyond.

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Hours: 8am-5pm Monday-Friday • Saturday 8am-Noon

If you have work available, call our staff: 433-9025

106 W. Oakland Avenue Austin, MN • 437-7217

Homemade apple pie, 28 apple varieties, apple cider, honey, maple syrup, jams and Sunday afternoon wagon rides are what Preston Apple and Berry Farm offer this fall. In the Spring, Preston of-

—Big Woods Orchard

Dedicated to Providing Quality Care For Your Pets and Livestock

SPECIAL NEEDS:

Apold Music

645 Highway 16 and 52 E., Preston 507-765-4486 http://www.bluffcountr y.com/appleberr y.ht m Open: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. April through October 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday from November to Januar y 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays from November to Januar y

fers garden seeds, bedding plants and other gardening essentials. Strawberries and raspberries are offered in the summer.

Austin Veterinary Clinic

Individual employers needs for special jobs as seen by the employer • Turtle Creek Industries specializes in employment for the developmentally disabled individual thru individual job training.

• Music Books • Acoustic & Electric Guitars • Rentals & Repairs • Band & Orchestra Accessories • Keyboards & Digital Pianos • Sheet Music • Gift Boutique • Drums • AMPS

—Preston Apple & Berry Farm

J.P. Stevenson, D.V.M. L.E. Meyer, D.V.M. S.K. Olson, D.V.M.

L.A. Meeks, D.V.M. D.C. Rauser, D.V.M.

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3100 W. Oakland Avenue • Austin, MN

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

RELOCATION: MOWER COUNTY GOVERNMENT Mower County has a number of public officials who can help you with a variety of topics. Here are some of the most useful contacts in the area.

Mower County Board of Commissioners: •Tim Gabrielson, First District commissioner (507) 433-2598 District includes the following townships: Lansing, Red Rock, Udolpho and Waltham. The following cities are in the First District: Brownsdale, Mapleview, Waltham and Ward 1, Precinct 1 of the City of Austin. •Raymond Tucker, Second District commissioner (507) 584-6366 or (507) 584-6767

District includes the following townships: Adams, Bennington, Clayton, Dexter, Frankford, Grand Meadow, LeRoy, Lodi, Marshall, Pleasant Valley, Racine and Sargeant. The following cities are in the Second District: Adams, Dexter, Elkton, Grand Meadow, LeRoy, Racine, Sargeant and Taopi. •David Hillier, Third District Commissioner (507) 437-4216 District includes the following townships: Austin, Lyle, Nevada and Windom. The following cities are included in the Third District: Lyle, Rose Creek and the Ward 2, Precinct 2 of the City of Austin. •Dick Lang, Fourth District Commissioner Home: 437-3414

Huseby Insurance

507-583-7971 • Blooming Prairie, MN

507-567-2279 • Brownsdale, MN

507-373-6446 • Albert Lea, MN

First American Insurance

507-437-3282 • Austin, MN

507-451-3450 • Owatonna, MN

Sterling State Insurance

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Security Insurance

Heartman Insurance 507-437-4503 • Austin, MN

•Mike Ankeny, Fifth District Commissioner 507-433-4157 District includes Ward 1, Precinct 2 and Ward 2, Precinct 1 of the City of Austin. County coordinator: Craig Oscarson doesn’t vote at board meetings, but he helps the county government run smoothly in all aspects. (507) 437-9459 coscarson@co.mower.mn.us Auditor-treasurer: Questions about elections, birth certificates and property taxes, among other items, can be directed to Douglas Groh.

507-437-9536 auditor-treasurer@co.mower.mn.us County attorney: Kristen Nelsen is in charge of the Mower County court system. 507-437-9428 kristenn@co.mower.mn.us Sheriff: Terese Amazi has been sheriff of Mower County since 2003. 507-437-9400 tmamaz@co.mower.mn.us Environmental services: Angie Knish directs this department and also handles planning and zoning issues in the county. 507-437-9560 angiek@co.mower.mn.us

R&R Insurance

507-582-3253 • Adams, MN

First American Insurance

Work: 437-7897 or 434-0589 District includes all of the Third Ward of the City of Austin.

507-553-4486 • Stewartville, MN

United Prairie Insurance

• Land Drainage • Backhoeing • Consulting • Conservation Construction • Wildlife Ponds • Road Boring

Free consumer checking Free or low cost business checking 5 Star Package discounts Variety of credit cards with rewards Free Bill Pay and Internet banking Home equity loans and lines Vehicle loans Business and Agriculture loans Mortgage Loans Investments S.T.A.R.T. - We reward you to save! And much more!

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

DESTINATIONS: THE SPAM MUSEUM

History in a can When Tom Brokaw helps open a building’s doors, the place must be pretty important. That was a case with the SPAM Museum, which ceremoniously opened in June 2002 with a little help from the famous NBC news anchor. In the years since, the canned-ham shrine has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors. Hormel spokesman Bill McLain said he thinks people are drawn to the museum because the unique meat has become an “iconic symbol.” “Everyone seems to have a SPAM story,” he said. “People come and are intrigued by a museum dedicated to it.” Upon first entering the museum, guests can gaze upon the SPAM wall — a collection of nearly 3,500 cans on display. Next, it’s time for a video history of SPAM — who knew that it’s so popular in Hawaii? — before entering a replica of an old George Hormel meat market. After learning about how George Hormel transferred the company to his son, Jay, museum-goers can see how important SPAM was during World War II. No, the ham and pork product was never fired at anyone, but it did play a pivotal role in the food line as a number of soldiers gobbled it up. In fact, Dwight D. Eisenhower — a five-star general in the war and later a U.S. president — commended the meat in a letter that is on display. Also in this section is a war monument, dedicated to Hormel workers who lost their lives while in service. Brokaw first unveiled the tribute when on-hand for the museum’s grand opening. For those looking for less history and more interaction, the museum offers a few

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

hands-on displays as well. There’s a SPAM canning factory, where you can try your hand with stuffing the meat — actually, beanbag replicas — into cans while racing against a clock. If you’re really looking for the full experience, you can don a Hormel lab coat and hard-hat while working. The SPAM Museum is located on 1937 SPAM Blvd. (yes, SPAM was invented in 1937) and is open 10-5 Monday through Saturday; 12-5 on Sunday. Admission is free.

LEAVE IT TO BRYANT

TO FIND A WAY TO MAKE EFFICIENCY

MORE EFFICIENT. What could be better than a Bryant® heating product? Two, of course. And we’re calling it the HYBRID HEAT® dual fuel system. The premise is pretty simple. By combining the benefits of both our gas furnace and electric heat pump, now you can get the ultimate in heat efficiency. In fact, the cost to heat with the HYBRID HEAT dual fuel system by Bryant is less than that of any gas furnace alone. So now, regardless of how cold it gets outside, you can be sure you’re getting the most out of your heating dollar. It’s just another reason Bryant is making sure you can feel comfortable this winter.

433-5652

Heating & Cooling, LLC Sales and Service

*Federal tax credit 30% of cost up to $1500, subject to a $1500 per homeowner for all improvements combined.

Up To $1,370 with add-ons

Bryant Rebate Up To $550 Utilities Up To $1,500 Tax Stimulus* Total Possible Savings of

$3,420

Rebates End Deember 31, 2010

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

MJ O’Connor Inc. Over 43 Years Experience Mike

Jan

Mick

Over 29 years in Business

MN LICENSE #58584-PM

Plumbing • Heating • Cooling • Refrigeration & Boilers • Sales Service • Installation • Commercial • Residential • Service Contracts

Residential & Commercial

1507 14th St. NE Austin, MN 433-5017

Experience Counts

24 years Law Enforcement experience • Jailer • Deputy Sheriff • Use of Force Instructor • Undercover Narcotics Investigator • Child Protection Investigator

22 years in Mower County

• Welfare Fraud Investigator • Chief Deputy Sheriff • Narcotics K-9 Handler • Elected your Sheriff in 2002

Since 2004 all budgets controlled by the Sheriff have been $700,000.00 under budget

$440,000.00 saved in the radio communications project by partnering with the State Of Minnesota.

This Radio Communications Project benefited Public Safety for every citizen of Mower County. There are countless users including 60 Law Enforcement professionals, Fire Departments & Ambulance Services of Mower County/Austin.

Involvement in a number of Community/Volunteer Organizations

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

MAPLE SPRINGS CAMPGROUND INC. & COUNTRY STORE 21606 Country Road 118 Preston, MN 55965

STAY CLOSE TO HOME, HAVE MORE FUN AND SAVE MONEY!

We have 69 sites * 24 tent sites * 45 E/W sites with 30/50 Amps * Come - Fish - Watch & Listen to the Birds * Hike Nature Trails * Relax & Listen to the Sounds of Nature. Our Country Store has Groceries * Camping & RV Supplies * Fishing Tackle & Bait * Schwan's Ice Cream Treats * Fire Wood * Ice * Pop * Snacks & Much more to fill your Camping Needs. FREE Wi-Fi

Located West of Forestville State Park on Beautiful Forestville Creek For Reservations Call 507-352-2056 or E-Mail us at maplecamp@hmtel.com Our internet address is:

www.maplespringscampground.com

Go south of Wykoff on County Road 5, then East 1.5 Miles on County Road 118

Owners: John & Doris Palmer, Lois VanderPlas

Coordinates: N.46.63514/W.092.23598

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

Largest & Freshest Apple Selection in the Area Hand Dipped Caramel Apples

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS!

Highways 14 & 61, LaCrescent, MN Phone: 507-895-4583

BLUFF COUNTRY

Dexter

•

ssed Fresh Pre er id C Apple

WWW.BAUERSMARKETPLACE.COM

Austin

Hours: Open Daily 8am - 8pm Gift Certificates Available Firmly rooted in LaCresent, MN since 1957

Fresh Fall Produce

Minnesota

•Elkton 56

• Spring Valley

7 Adams

•

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special

Oakenwald Terrace

Bauer’s Apples

• Chatfield

43 30

Minnesota

• Rushford

Preston Apple & Berry Farm

Wykoff

•

CRAFTS

• Fall Decor • Apple Turnovers • Hand Dipped Caramel Apples & Turtle Apples • Gourmet Honey • Jams & Jellies • & Many Other Wonderful Items

LEIDELʼS

Stand 507-895-8221

Branding Iron

Honeycrisp, Honeygold, Fireside, Regent, Haralson, and Lots More!

Open Daily thru mid November

Preston Maple Springs Campground

Over 30 Varieties of Eating & Baking Apples

Fresh Apple Cider

•Lanesboro

•

APPLES

Apple Stand: 2 blocks South of Hwy. 16 stop lights.

52 43

Amish Tours of Harmony

l supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

Harmony •

Generations of Harmony

Leidel’s Apples

139

• Mabel

•

Cresco

• Decorah THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

Nancy Ulwelling Cell 279-0427

www.semnrealtors.com

Art Hollerud Cell 438-1090

William Danielson Cell 438-7728

You are always welcome here!

SKILLED NURSING HOME FACILITY Individual Care To Meet Each Resident’s Needs: Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy

ASSISTED LIVING APARTMENTS The Privacy of Individualized Apartments, Combined with the Ease of Living that comes from Fully Prepared Meals, Housekeeping and Laundry Services

HOME HEALTH CARE

• Swimming • Whirlpool • Family Fun • Youth Sports Nights • Afterschool • Basketball • Group Exercise • Indoor Track Classes • Raquetball • Licensed Pre• Tennis school • Gymnastics • Child Care • Fitness Equipment Center

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

Providing Assistance in the Comfort and Privacy of Your Home

ADULT DAY PROGRAM Live At Home But Spend The Day With Us

ADULT DAY PROGRAM 2 Separate Day Program Specializing in Memory Loss Disorders

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

OUT AND ABOUT: BLUFF COUNTRY

Plenty to do, see in bluff country The Bluff Country of Southern Minnesota is a perfect autumn getaway, woven with bursts of color, rolling paved roads and acres of corn as far as the eye can see. Noted as a best-kept secret, the affectionately nicknamed “mountains of Minnesota” do not lure thrill-seekers or adventurists, and they like it that way. A drive from Rushford — the entrance to the bluffs, nestled in a deep valley — to the cornfields of Caledonia and back into the picturesque scenery of Harmony, is a day or even a weekend vacation away. Herald file photo

Relaxation in Rushford

A view of a cornfield beneath the bluffs of Bluff Country east of Rushford.

Step back in time in Rushford, where a museum and replica chapel speak of days gone by. A small town surrounded by big hills, the quaint community draws bicyclists to the trailhead of the Root River Trail, where the Rushford Area Historical Society’s Rushford Depot now sits.

> BLUFF continues on 20

Downtown Lake City 108 E. Lyon Ave. • Lake City, MN Mon-Sat 10-5:30 • Sun 10-4 651-345-2882

Luxury Condominium Resort Perched on the Shores of Lake Pepin among the bluffs in Lake City, Minnesota. “The most romantic spot on the river.” Fantastic views from each Suite. Rent by the day, week or month.

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

OUT AND ABOUT: BLUFF COUNTRY From Page 19 The museum, on the National Register of Historic Places and built by the Southern Minnesota Railway in 1867, features the 1890 Grinde School building, presented to the historical society in 1991 by the City of Rushford. A tiny, restored Episcopal chapel stands next to the museum. Established in 1867, the church has a red door and traditional steeple. Take in the scenic overlooks on Magelssen Bluff Park; canoe the Root River, or sample the area eateries and do some shopping. Camping is available at the Creekside Park Campground and North End Park, and lodging is also provided by Meadows Inn Bed & Breakfast.

Another world

Herald file photo

Amish men heading south into Harmony.

Harmony takes pride in its otherworldly neighbors — its Amish community. According to Rosella Peterson, assistant director at the Harmony Visitor Center, an estimated 1,000 people live in the Amish community, known for their simple living , plain clothing and black,

As the warm days of late summer linger on, it is difficult to think about snow and cold weather. However, autumn will be here soon and how much you save on energy bills this winter will depend largely on what you do now. The heat and humidity of summer can be hard on your home's exterior surfaces and on your heating and cooling system. The following are steps you can take to help make your home more warm and cozy—and energy efficient—when the cold weather comes.

Doors and Windows • Replace worn weather stripping around all doors and windows. • Caulk around gaps in windows and door glass. • Install storm doors if you have them. • Consider replacing older windows with newer, more efficient models.

Sealing and Insulation • Proper attic insulation is essential both for keeping your house warm and saving on winter heating bills. Add or replace attic insulation as necessary. • Add foam insulation to electrical outlets and switches on external walls. Remember to turn off power first! • Check for and seal holes hidden in attics, basements, and crawlspaces that can cause drafts and air leaks.

horse-drawn wagons. Five Amish farms sell merchandise, ranging from the popular furniture to honey. Tours are available year-round; guides will accompany you in your vehicle, or you can rent a CD. Tours are typically about two hours. “Each Amish has their own line of work that they do,” said Rosella Peterson, assistant director at the Harmony Visitor Center. “If there is a sign out front, they are open to tourists.” Amish tours are available at www.amish-tours.com and www.rmamish.com.

Discover wilderness Birdwatchers, campers, wildflower enthusiasts and trout anglers will want to check out Beaver Creek Valley State Park near Caledonia. The park has picnic areas and eight miles of hiking trails, and its bubbling stream is the highlight of the woods. Drive-in, walkin and electrical sites are available for RV campers and tenters.

> BLUFF continues on 21

Heating System • Have your heating system checked by a certified professional before cold weather arrives. • Clean vents and other heating system components. • Replace your furnace's filter and continue to replace it regularly throughout the heating season. • Consider installing a programmable thermostat to more efficiently regulate temperature.

Tax Incentives & Rebates Many of your home energy-efficiency projects are eligible for tax credits and rebates. Visit www.energystar.gov for tax credit qualifications and www.austinutilities.com for rebates available to Austin Utilities customers.

Don’t forget our November Conserve & Save House Call Workshop Monday November 8th 7 p.m. at the JC Hormel Nature Center. Call Dave at 507-4338886 to reserve your spot today.

Autumn Energy-Saving Tips

TODAY’S TOPIC:

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

OUT AND ABOUT: BLUFF COUNTRY From Page 20 One of the oldest cities in Minnesota, Caledonia bears the nickname “Wild Turkey Capital of Minnesota,” and is home to the state’s oldest jail. For more information about Beaver Creek Valley State Park, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/beaver_creek_va lley/index.html.

Fluff in the bluffs About 15 stay-at-home moms serve as vital employees at Austin’s Angora Goats & Mohair in rural Harmony, where signature mohair socks are spun and shipped across the country. Angora goats, miniature fainting goats and Old English babydoll sheep produce yarn, blankets, sweaters, cheese and meat for owners Jim and Ada Austin. Visit www.austinsmohair.com for more information about merchandise, store hours and visits.

Treasures found Whether you are a window shopper or antique fanatic, Harmony offers a wide variety of art galleries, Amish gift shops, antique stores, bed and breakfasts and restaurants. A walk down Harmony’s downtown sidewalks will bring you to On the Crunchy Side, which advertised a chalkboard a chicken enchilada lunch and chocolate cream pie dessert that day. A can’t miss is Slim’s Woodshed, the country’s largest woodcarving museum that includes

antiques, a gift shop, classroom, woodcarving supplies and more. Visit www.slimswoodshed.com. I Love Antiques, Ann-tiques & Collectibles, Meadow Lane Art Gallery are just a few of the quirky stops during your visit. Harmony is busiest from May through the end of October.

Head underground “Niagara Cave is a big attraction,” Rosella Peterson emphasized. Open for more than 75 years, the cave has been rated one of the Top Ten Caves in the United States by gorp.com. At a constant 48 degrees, Niagara Cave features stalactites, stalagmites, fossils and even a 60-foot waterfall. There is also a gift shop. More than 430 weddings have been performed at its Crystal Wedding Chapel since 1934. Niagara Cave is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily in September and weekends in October; offseason appointments are available. Discounted rates are available for schools, churches, 4-H clubs, scouts and other groups. Visit www.niagaracave.com to learn more.

> BLUFF continues on 23 • Manufactured in Minnesota since 1925 • New Austin location, serving all Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa • Quality, Reliable Service • • • • •

Water Softeners Iron Filters RO Drinking Water Systems Water Coolers and Bottled Water Bacteria and Virus Drinking Filters

• Winona, Rochester, Austin and Albert Lea store locations.

Mower County Fairgrounds 700 12th Street SW • Austin, MN

Winter Storage Space Now Available!

Excellent for RVs, Boats, Campers, Vehicles, Equipment, Farm Machinery. Call 433-3376 for rates and space availability. Also, consider reserving the fairgrounds now for your event next year.

Auctions/Estate Sales, Flea Markets, Class Reunions, Wedding Receptions, Company/Group Picnics, Livestock Shows/Sales, Car Shows/Sales, Music Events, Horse Shows

Fair Office Phone: 433-1868 - www.mowercountyfair.com

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

OUT AND ABOUT: CLEAR LAKE

Clear Lake Harvest Festival The sixth annual Harvest Festival in Clear Lake, Iowa offers it all: a chance to stroll down a crowded Main Street, a chance to sample some great wines and a chance to hear some jazz music. The event takes place Saturday, Oct. 2. The wine tasting runs from noon to 5 p.m. Live music will also take place all day throughout different locations. There will also be the popular grape stomping contest from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Other events throughout the day will include wine charm making, salsa making, flower pounding, pumpkin roll relay and a fall colors tour “aboard the main street trolley.” There will be a Harvest Vendors/Farmers Market that runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., which includes fresh produce, mums, pumpkins, dried flowers, baked goods, mennonite and amish goods, harvest related vendors, street artists and food. For more information, call (641) 3572159; or visit www.clearlakeiowa.com for event times and descriptions.

Herald file photo

The Clear Lake Harvest Festival is returning for its sixth year October 2.

Let us fill your quilting fabric needs... Now at TWO locations St. Ansgar & Mason City! Full Service Finest fabrics, notions, Quilt Shop Classes & friendly, helpful staff.

• Families Book Your • Seniors • Children Fall Family Portrait • Pets • Weddings Now! Lisa Dockstader, Photographer

www.saintlystitches.com

308 W. 4th St. ~ St. Ansgar 641-736-2300 1631 4th St. SW ~ Mason City #115 Willowbrook Mall 641-423-5176

211 East 3rd Street • St. Ansgar, IA

CLEAR LAKE HARVEST FESTIVAL The Clear Lake Harvest Festival sells wine kits each year; this year’s bag includes a festival pass to all activities, 15 wine-sampling tickets, a wine glass and other gifts. The Harvest bags are only for tasting wine, but visitors can still buy bottles of wine.

Number of bags (for wine tasting) sold in the past five years: 2007 2008 2009 2010

— — — —

680 875 950 (will be selling 1,000 bags)

P i c k e t Fe n c e A n t i q u e s 244 W . 4th , Bo x 49 2 S t . A n s g a r, I A 5 0 4 7 2

641-736-GIFT

LARSON’S MERCANTILE

Unique Signs & Gifts • Fall & Holiday Decorating Hardy Mums • Scrapbooking • Fabric & Crafts

323 Main Avenue • Clear Lake, Iowa 641-357-7544

Monday - Saturday 9am - 6pm • Sunday Noon-5pm

Stop in during the Harvest Fest October 2nd and see what’s new!

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

“Simply Char ming”

H o u r s : Tu e s d a y - S a t u r d a y 1 0 - 5

• Candles • Jewelry • Antiques • Jim Shore • Lang Center • Willow Tree Angels • Rugs • Wall Decor • Folk Art • Pottery • Books • Byers’ Carolers • Williraye Studio • “Life is good” Clothing & Accessories

Whirlpools for Two • Air Conditioning Romantic Fireplaces • Murder Mysteries Retreats/Seminars • Private Parties

Open for Lunch Monday-Saturday. Open for Dinner every Friday & Saturday Evening.

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

OUT AND ABOUT: BLUFF COUNTRY From Page 21

Minnesota’s B&B Capital Lanesboro prides itself on its unique bed and breakfasts, arts and entertainment, eateries and expansive bike trail system. The town’s old buildings and shops attract visitors yearlong; however, fall is the most scenic season to visit Lanesboro. Nestled below vast hills, bluffs and fields, Lanesboro offers visitors a scenic look at every juncture. Notable attractions are the Commonweal Theatre, which boasts plays from renowned writers and performers, and the Root River/PrestonHarmony Valley Trail system for bikers. The bike trail spans 60 miles and joins the towns of Harmony, Preston, Lanesboro, Whalan, Peterson, Rushford and Houston. There are multiple places to rent bikes and plenty of parks and rest areas. For more area info visit www.lanesboro.com.

1855 3714 4th St. NW, Austin 507 433-3454

1868 www.usbank.com

301 North Main Street • Austin, MN 55912

1891

1912

Austin Daily Herald

1917

Herald file photo

Amish tours out of Harmony.

Austin’s only source for local news since 1891 310 2nd Street NE • Austin, MN

Call 433-8851 to subscribe today!

www.austindailyherald.com

1929

C.O. Brown Insurance Agency Agents:

Richard Fischer Celeste Krause

Your policy comes with an agent!

Professional Insurance with Personal Service 329 N. Main St., Suite 103 • Austin • 433-4998 www.cobrown.com

1930

“Austin’s Premier Performing Arts Center & Gathering Place” 125 4th Ave NE • 434-0934 or toll free 866-434-0934 For a Calendar of Events Please Visit www.paramounttheatre.org

1936

1940 437-4561

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

RELOCATION: CITY GOVERNMENT

Austin City Council Not sure who to contact about local government? Need to schedule a doctor’s appointment? This list should help you find some useful resources in Austin. Austin City Council: Meets on the first and third Mondays of each month at 5:30 at city hall, 500 Fourth Ave. N.E. The public is encouraged to attend. •Brian McAlister, First Ward councilman Home: 507-433-4661 bwmcal46@smig.net •Jeff Austin, First Ward councilman Home: 507-433-2367 bgyglfr6@hotmail.com •Dick Pacholl, Second Ward councilman Home: 507-433-1760

•Steve King, Second Ward councilman Home: 507-433-2777 stevek@co.mower.mn.us •Marian Clennon, Third Ward councilwoman Home: 507-433-5746 marian.clennon@ci.austin.mn.us •John Martin, Third Ward councilman Home: 507-436-8677 john.martin@ci.austin.mn.us •Janet Anderson, at-large councilwoman Home: 507-433-1081 janet.anderson@ci.austin.mn.us •Mayor: Tom Stiehm, a retired detective of the Austin Police Department, has been mayor since January 2007. City hall: 507-437-9965 Home: 507-437-4092

1952

1940

DRS. ELROD, GREEN & HYLAND, D.D.S Originated by Dr. Swift

Welcoming New Patients!

David A. Elrod, D.D.S. Peter B. Green, D.D.S. Bobee J. Hyland, D.D.S

507-437-8208

800 First Avenue SW • Austin

www.elrodgreendds.com

1954

1952 507

433-3467

1900 8th Street NE, Austin, MN 55912

1961

1960

TI NY’S B ODY S HOP Since 1961

AUSTIN, MINN.

Austin’s Oldest Locally Owned & Operated

604 18th Avenue NW • Austin, MN

(507) 437-2611 Serving the people of Mower County in areas of Employment and Contracted Services by building buisness partnerships for 50 years.

GARY GROH CONSTRUCTION

1962

433-2303

Residential & Commercial Parking Lots Concrete Slabs • Garage Slabs • Driveways • Sidwalks Curb Cuts • Curb Gutter • Colored Stamped Concrete 911 5th Ave NE, Austin, MN

1966

1967

www.cedarvalleyservices.org

437-4264 or 437-4980 GROHCONCRETE.COM

Commercial & Residential Asphalt Paving Seal Coating

CHECK US OUT ONLINE! 24

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

Parking Lot Sweeping & Striping

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

1969

DESTINATION: MOWER COUNTY SENIOR CENTER

Austin, MN

GERARD ACADEMY For emotionally & behaviorally challenged adolescents.

433-1843

1970

1973 Mower Council

1974

For The Handicapped

507-433-9609

111 North Main Street, Austin, MN

1975

Locally Owned & Operated

Free Estimates

The Exhaust Specialists

1204 West Oakland Ave. • Austin, MN 55912 1-888-433-2307 • 507-433-2307

HILL, LARSON, WALTH & BENDA, P.A.

1975

CPA

The CPA. Never Underestimate the Value.

433-2264

Certified Public Accountants

326 North Main Street, Austin www.hlwb-cpa.com

1976 Siding & Windows Blown Insulation • Walls/Attics Seamless Gutters

ERV SCHIECK & SON Since 1976

1976 Main Street Dental Clinic Open Monday-Saturday and 2 Evenings We welcome new patients!

After Hours Emergency Only • 507-456-5822 SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

437-3853 Lic 0002800

1976 1301 18th Avenue NW Austin, MN 507-437-7634

Herald file photo

Charles Mills shows off the Nintendo Wii system for Liz and Earl Day during the Mower County Senior Center's open house.

A bigger, better senior center AUSTIN DAILY HERALD

The Mower County Senior Center, which spans 15,000 square feet, kicked off a capital fundraising campaign July 27, 2009 to raise $100,000 for upgrades and remodeling. The renovation project, which cost $237,000, received $92,000 from The Hormel Foundation and $45,000 from the City of Austin. The Senior Center had its grand re-opening June, 24, 2010, and celebrated the building’s 35th year of existence. Items that were renovated included lobby walls and flooring; the advocacy/chore offices, which provide services such as helping seniors with odd jobs or providing information on renters’ rebates and legal advice; refurbished executive and transportation offices; upgraded handicap restrooms; new flooring in the dining hall; additional recreation space for active seniors; and a coffee shop with computers and the use of wireless Internet that replaced the Used a Bit store. The Senior Center also now offers more evening programs.

NUMBERS TO KNOW: Mower County Senior Citizens Center: (507) 433-2370; 400 Third Ave. NE.

PROGRAMS AT THE CENTER: Advocacy program: (507) 433-3462 — This program strives to keep seniors independent. The advocates work with seniors and their families on a variety of areas, from budgeting, finding housing appropriate to senior needs and recovering from being scammed. Chore: (507) 433-8376 — This program assists seniors with their chores, be they lawn care or painting. It is responsible for the repainting of several homes owned by seniors in the past few years. Austin-Mower County Area Transit: (507) 437-9459 — Many seniors use this method of public transport to get around the area. Senior Dining: (507) 433-3120 — This program provides inexpensive, nutritious meals for seniors at the senior center every weekday at lunch starting at 11:30 a.m. Price is $3.50 for seniors and $5.50 for those under 60.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

OUT AND ABOUT: PARKS, CAMPGROUNDS

List of Austin Community Parks —Bustad, 8th Street & 14th Avenue SW —Bandshell Community, Fourth Street & Ninth Place SW —Crane, Eighth Street and 16th Avenue NE —Cullen, Between 10-12th Street & 11th Avenue SW —Decker, 19th Street & Sixth Avenue NE —Early Morning Lions, Oakland Place NE —East Side Lake, Eighth Avenue & Oakland Place NE —Galloway, Eighth Street & Second Avenue SW —Honor Guard, Eighth Street NE —Horace Austin, North Main Street —Kaufman, Eighth Street & 11th Avenue SE —Lafayette, South Main Street & Eighth Avenue SE —Lafayette East, South Main Street & Seventh Place SE —J.C. Hormel Nature Center, 1304 21st St. NE —Murphy’s Creek, Seventh Street & 24th Avenue NW —North Driesner, Eighth Street & Oakland Place SE —Northwest, 12th Street & 13th Avenue NW —Orchard Creek, 16th Avenue SW —Rotary Centennial, Main Street & Eighth Avenue SE —Sherman, 14th Street & Sixth Avenue NW —Shirley Theel Memorial, 400 25th St. SW —South Driesner, Oakland Place SE

—South Grove, 21st Avenue & 4th Drive SW —Sterling, 17th Street & Fifth Avenue SW —Sutton, 12th Street & Oakland Place SE —Todd, 11th Street & 21st Avenue NE —Whittier, Seventh Street & Third Avenue SE —Wildwood, 10th Street & 16th Avenue NE —Worlein, 606 1 Drive NW

1978

Call

Oakwoods Trails Campground is a six-acre facility with 21 campsites just outside of Ausitn. It has horseshoes, sand volleyball, fishing, and wildlife. Electricity, water and showers are available. It is located at 23614 890th Ave. Austin, MN 55912. Phone: 507-437-6165. River Bend Campgrounds, 13380 State Highway 105, Austin, MN 55912, of-

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

fers pleasant riverside sites. It has new owners and nice residents. Phone: (507) 325-4637.

Other nearby campgrounds Albert Lea Austin KOA—12 mi NW, 84259 county road 46, Hayward, MN. Phone: (507) 373-5170. Crystal Springs RV Resort—15649 SW 35th Ave, Ellendale, MN 56026, (507) 684-2406; (507) 951-6320 (Mobile). Maple Springs Campground Inc—39 mi E, 21606 County 118, Preston, MN (507) 352-2056. Riverview Campground—2554 SW 28th St, Owatonna, MN 55060-5055, (507) 451-8050. Valleyview Campground—23750 US 52, Preston, MN 55965-1183, (507) 765-2227.

Burglar and Fire Alarms, Closed Circuit Videosystems

Austin Communications, LLC 433-9650

2001 29th Avenue SE • Austin, MN

Always FREE Delivery!

1979

507-437-3249 VOTED BEST PIZZA 7 YEARS IN A ROW

421 North Main Street

1981

TRUCKING Brownsdale, MN I-90 & Highway 56

507-437-4636

Southeastern Minnesota camping guide Yogi Bear Campground Resort at Beaver Trails is just east of Austin on I90. It offers many things to experience, such as a giant jumping pillow, pool and waterslide, bean bag toss, cart and scooter rentals, petting zoo, mini golf, mini train rides and more. See all their seasonal activities online at www.beavertrails.com.

Over 40 Years of service!

Park Regulations —All city facilities and parks are tobacco free. —Pets are prohibited from the following parks: Todd; Marcusen; Morning Lions; Shirley Theel; Lafayette and Nature Center. —Pets are allowed at all other parks with the following restrictions: must be on a leash except for designated areas, owners must clean up after pets. —Permits are required for kegs in any Austin park and can be obtained at the Park and Recreation Office. There is a two-week waiting period and $10 fee. Glass is not allowed in the parks —Parks are closed from 10:30 p.m. to 7 a.m. Speed limit is 15 mph. Camping is not allowed, no driving on the grass, no hitting golf balls. —The bandshell is available by filling out a request form from the Parks and Recreation Office. Electricity is available for a $25 fee —Burning in parks is prohibited.

Piece of Mind is Priceless

1978

1982

House of

Lincoln Webster Apartments

A NICE, QUIET, SECURE, CLEAN, SAFE PLACE TO CALL HOME

Total Hair Care Barber & Beauty Cathy Murphy • Deb Morgan • Marv Steiff

507-433-5122

437-4264

301 1st Avenue NW • Austin, MN

1983

1983 Heating & Cooling LLC SALES & SERVICE

43 3- 5 65 2 103 3rd Street SE • AUSTIN

Screenprinting • Embroidery Advertising Specialties

701 18th Avenue NW, Austin • 433-7593 SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

1985

1984

OUT AND ABOUT: PLACES TO PLAY

1986

1987

Herald file photo

Disc golf is just one of the many fall activties available around the area.

REAL ESTATE & AUCTION COMPANY

Cash for your house in 30 days.

OFFERING THE BEST SERVICE SINCE 1987

437-8232 • 1-800-890-8232

GEORGE MOLINE • STEVE MOLINE

Development Corporation of Austin 1987

Aggressively supporting new and existing industrial enterprises for the economic betterment of Austin and Mower County. John Garry • 507-433-9495

329 North Main Street, Suite 106L Austin, Minnesota

www.austindca.org

1988

1990 Bring your friends & family for excellent home cooked meals and fresh baked goods. We’re open 365 days a year.

701 17th Ave. NW • Austin, MN • 433-6720

1994

1992 2000 8th Street NW, Austin

507-437-2400 www.crc.coop

Stacey L. Johnson

PO Box 328 Owatonna, MN 55060 sljohnson3@fedins.com (507) 455-5299 • (800) 533-0472 Fax: (507) 455-8434

Convenient Insurance Service

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

Property And Liability • Umbrella • Key Employee Life • IRAs Funding Buy/Sell Agreements • Group Health

Austin boasts plenty of spots for sports Disc Golf

Greens also can facilitate events. For information call 433-4878 or see www.meadowgreensgc.com. —Cedar River Country Club, located in Adams off of State Highway 56, is an 18-hole design with a range and dining area. For info, call 507-582-3595; also see www.cedarrivercountryclub.com.

—Todd Park at 11th Street NE and 21st Avenue NE, has a 27-hole course located throughout the wooded and rolling train of the prk. Course maps and scorecards are available at the Prks and Recreation office at 121 Fourth Ave. NE. For more information, call 433-1881. —Driesner South at Eighth Street SE and Oakland Place SE, also offers a ninehole course. Maps and scorecards are available at the Austin Parks and Recreation office.

—Riverside Arena Parking Lot, 501 Second Ave. NE —Rotary Centennial Park, Main Street & Eighth Avenue SE —Sherman Park, 14th Street & Sixth Avenue NW —South Grove Park 21st Avenue & Fourth Drive SW

Golf

Sand Volleyball

—River Oaks Golf Club, an 18-hole layout on the Cedar River, is open to the public and houses a spacious meeting and events room for special occasions. Green fees are $15.00 for nine holes or $25.00 for 18. Cart rentals are $7.50 for nine holes or $12.50 for 18. Memberships are also available. River Oaks is located at 54384 244th St., Austin. For more information call 433-9098 or visit www.rivergolf1.com. —Meadow Greens, located at 25238 540th Ave., is another Austin course with 18 holes, practice range and chipping green. Nine hole green fees are $14, $20 for 18. $21 for 9 with a cart or $30 for 18 holes, range fees are $3 for 30 balls; memberships are available, too. Meadow

Basketball

—Lions Park, Eighth Street NE and Oakland Place NE —Todd Park, 11th Street NE and 21st Street (two pits) —Horace Austin Park along Main Street North

Soccer —Todd Park, 11th Street NE and 21st Street

Tennis —Wescott Field, 1300 block of Oakland Ave. West (six courts) —Ellis Middle School, 1700 Fourth Ave. SE (six courts) —The Austin Country Club (four courts) THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

DESTINATIONS: ED’S MUSEUM

Collector’s treasures still alive at museum 1994

1995 Dr. Joseph P. Ray FAMILY DENTIST

(507) 582-3563 ADAMS DENTAL CLINIC

407 LINCOLN STREET NW • ADAMS, MN HOME (507) 582-1019

Dental Care with a personal touch

1995

Submitted photo

In this photograph, Ed Krueger places his hand on a box of Wheaties that featured a playable phonographic record. A Minnesota Food Retailers Association sign tacked to the shelves reads: “The trouble with doing nothing is that you can't stop and rest.”

Road trips may not be as American as apple pie and baseball, but for some people, the ones who enjoy venturing out to some place new, they are an essential part of life. Today, the journey begins in Austin, although Albert Lea works just as well. From here, it’s due east on Interstate 90 and then to State Route 16, onto U.S. Route 63, back onto State Route 16, then onto State Route 80. The destination is Ed’s Museum in Wykoff, which has become a national sensation and where Ed’s dead cat is still in a box. The trip goes through Grand Meadow and Spring Valley, which both have the feel of typical Minnesota towns, complete with the homestyle diners and the friendly faces.

> MUSEUM continues on 30 28

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

1996

Complete Truck & Trailer Repair

437-9000 1-888-900-2205

Specializing In Finding Employees For Your Business

Located 4 miles east of Austin on I90 at Hwy. 56 (Exit 183)

*Clerical *Seasonal *Construction *General labor *Temporary *Permanent

1997

117 4th Ave NE, Austin 433-5570

433-6000

Drive Thru Service • 433-7123 Instant Access to the Pharmacist

1109 W Oakland Ave, Austin

1998 Herald file photo

A back room at Ed's Museum in Wykoff features a treasure of old-time player piano rolls. SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

1999

2000

Ser ving Austin & Rochester Areas!

• Weekly service • Bi-monthly service • One time service • Easy montly billing

The Doo Crew eliminates the most unpleasant aspects of dog ownership. For a surprisingly low price, we will find, scoop & haul away all those nasty “canine calling cards”!

(507) 438-6415 • w w w.doocrewmn.com

2000 Diamond Ridge Printing

Quality Printing at Competitive Prices 910 2nd Ave. SW • Austin • 434-7580 www.diamondridgeprinting.com

2001 THERMO KING SALES & SERVICE

Regular Paramount Hours: Monday - Friday • 9am to 1pm

Tickets Available at: Chamber Office, HyVee, Hardy Geranium & Tone Music in Albert Lea

Scott Anderson, Theatre Manager, will be happy to update you on the restoration, tell you about upcoming events, arrange tours, etc.

Call or e-mail the Historic Paramount Theatre: 507-434-0934 E-mail: paramounttheatre@smig.net

709 11th Street NE • Austin, MN 55912

507-434-8000

2003

www.bleckerrealty.com

Blecker Realty,Inc. & Auction Service

433-6456

1304 1/2 10th Drive SE • Austin, Minnesota

“Better Call Blecker” TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU BETTER Austin • 433-3536

Albert Lea • 379-9009

2004 Smaller Facility

• On-Site supervisor • heated floors • indoor/outdoor runs • air conditioned

More Individualized Care For Your Pet!

www.usbank.com

301 North Main Street • Austin, MN 55912

• scenic wooded location • flexible drop-0ff & pick-up • Close Access to I-35

Callahan

2008

PLUMBING

Drain Cleaning • Video Camera Service

Emergency Service on Weekends

507.434.7521 SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

INTERNATIONAL PAPER 507-433-3467 www.ipaper.com

1900 8th Street NE Austin, MN THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

DESTINATIONS: ED’S MUSEUM

Herald file photo

A scarecrow version of Edwin Julius Krueger greets folks as they mosey into Ed's Museum, a former Jack Sprat Food Store he ran for decades.

From Page 28 Wykoff, which is rich in history, boasts a population of 460. Wykoff ’s claim to fame is Ed’s Museum, also known as the Jack Sprat Food Store that opened in 1933. Ed Krueger ran it from 1933 until the late 1980s. He died in 1989 at the age of 91. Local historians say the building once housed a saloon and a brewery in the 1800s and then later became a grocery store. Ed’s Museum, which is open every weekend from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day Weekend or by appointment, is jammed-packed with history. Inside are newspaper clippings from the numerous articles that have been written about it, shelves filled with collectibles and the candy and the pop that was for sale when Krueger died. “He willed it to the city six years prior to his death,” said Esther Evers, who helps keep the museum in prime condition as part of the town’s historical society. “It was his dream that it would become a museum. He collected when anyone wanted to get rid of something.” His collection is extensive and so is the merchandise. Visitors can still see the 10-cent Bottlecaps candy; the Slo-Pokes; and the Three-

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

Musketeers bars still sealed in the classic white wrappers. While the candy was for sale in 1989, it can no longer be purchased and is simply a part of the museum, Evers said. The store’s collection doesn’t stop there. It is filled with Jack Sprat products, lots of them; Kool-Aid packets, orange and cherry, that look brand-new; and cans of strawberry soda, cola and Diet Pepsi back when it still had one calorie. “Wykoff meant everything to him,” Evers says. “He wanted to save the history of Wykoff by collecting items nobody wanted. You bet he was proud of his collection.” Other museum items include Krueger’s gallstones in a jar, his gold teeth and his cat Sammy, who died in 1986. The box, which Evers says still smells sometimes in the summer, is located down in the basement. Krueger has been called eccentric, but he was also a lot of other things, including a well-respected resident of Wykoff and an excellent record keeper. Visitors can still see his first grocery list, which included cheese, cocoa and coffee. He also kept every copy of Life magazine from October 1938 to December 1972. “He saved everything,” Evers said. Upstairs, visitors can tour where he

lived, from the805 pantry filled with dishes to 11th St NE • 433-9384

the dandruff remover in the bathroom. “He had a lot of unique stuff,” Evers said. Ed’s Museum, the home of one man’s possessions, is located on 100 S. Gold Street in Wykoff.

• Acclaim Studio of Dance • Anytime Fitness • Austin Area Art Center • Cost Cutters • Family Dollar • GNC • Just for Kix • Minnesota Discount Sunglasses • Mower County Human Services • Regis Hairstyling • Two Bears Trading Post • Vision World • Weight Watchers

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

When you look around town, what do you see? You see homes, schools, parks, playgrounds. But it始s more than that. It始s our hometown.

Shop locally, invest locally, and support our local economy. You qualify for membership if you live, work, worship or attend school in Mower or Freeborn Counties.

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - A special supplement to the Austin Daily Herald

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

At Comforcare Good Samaritan Center, health is about the whole person. Our focus on the whole-person approach allows residents to live their lives to the fullest while their physical, emotional and spiritual needs are met.

FREE hearing aid consultation from a Doctor of Audiology. We offer many different brands of hearing aids.

Audiologists have the education and training to recommend the best hearing aid for you.

800-804-3361 www.amyswainhearingcenters.com

Austin • Owatonna • Waseca

• Community or Supported Employment • School to Work Transition • Center-Based Employment • Mental Health Services • Specialized Transportation

Serving the people of Mower County in areas of Employment and Contracted Services by building business partnerships for over 48 years. www.cedarvalleyservices.org