Southern Exposure 2011 by Austin Daily Herald

he Historic Paramount Theatre was built in 1929 as a first run movie house, it is a unique atmospheric theatre with a Spanish motif. Restoration of the Paramount began in 1989. Today, The Austin Area Commission for the Arts presents a full season of performing arts and makes the theater available to the community and artists for private rental.

Saturday, October 1st at 7:30PM Deborah Elias, Flamenco Tickets: $12 Advance, $14 Door, Students $5

Saturday, October 8th at 7:30PM Tracy Silverman, Electric Violin Tickets: $15 Advance, $17 Door, Students $5

Saturday, October 22nd at 7:00PM Austin’s Got Talent Tickets: $10 Advance, $12 Door, Students $5

Saturday, November 26th at 7:30PM Katie McMahon Tickets: $12 Advance, $14 Door, Students $5

Friday, December 16 at 7:30 PM 5 by Design “Radio Holly Days” Tickets: $15 Advance, $17 Door, Students $5 VIP Dinner available at the Hormel Home Tickets for Dinner and Show: $45

Southern Exposure WHAT’S INSIDE: • OUT AND ABOUT Read about where to visit a pumpkin patch, an apple orchard or other spots around Austin and Mower County.

• LOOKING

BACK, LOOKING FORWARD

New to the area or behind on local happenings — no need to worry. Read about what local groups and boards have been up to and what they have in store for the future.

• DESTINATIONS Up for a road trip? Head out of the county spots around Southern Minnesota.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

Fall colors should be fantastic Austin Daily Herald Minnesotans are encouraged to keep the camera batteries charged and the tents and picnic baskets out of storage because the upcoming fall color season could be the best one in the past 10 years, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). “With adequate rain during the growing season for two consecutive years and recent weather patterns that have included the ideal combination of warm, sunny days and cool evenings, we’re predicting an especially vivid display of color across the state in the weeks ahead,” DNR Forest Health Specialist Jana Albers said in a news release. And the DNR has a tool to help color gazers find the best spots to see fall foliage. Start-

ing this week, reports at dnr.state.mn.us/fall_colors/ind ex.html will include percent of color change, peak color projections, flowers and grasses in bloom, and three state parks considered hot picks of the week. The reports are updated by noon every Thursday and are accessible on smart phones, as well. According to DNR officials, colors usually peak between mid-September and early October in the northern third of Minnesota, between late September and early October in the central third, and between late September and mid-October in the southern third (which includes the Twin Cities). Many Minnesota state parks have planned programs and special events to coincide with peak color projections, as well.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

OUT AND ABOUT: AUSTIN BRUINS

Bruins are back By Eric Johnson

ustin has plenty of reason to be excited about the Austin Bruins. The team is coming off a year that saw them miss the playoffs with a 23-31-4 record, but at the same time the junior level team offered itself as a solid option on the weekends for the city of Austin. As the season went on, interest in the team climbed due to a combination of competitive hockey and plenty of community involvement. Now, with half the team returning and the other half filled with new faces, the organization is ready for a new year with even more to offer. “I thought (last year) was as good as it could have been,” owner Craig Patrick said. Little will change this year when it comes to the Bruins being involved in the

Bruiser the Bear interacts with fans before the Austin Bruins' inaugural game Saturday night at Riverside Arena. — Herald file photo community. Players will be plenty visible both on and off the ice. “They’re going to be out all the time,” Patrick said. “We want them to be better human beings, helping to inspire young kids to be better.” In that way, the team and organization worked last year to gain the respect of the town they knew would have to support them. And in a lot of ways that started with the players and head coach

Chris Tok. “Chris requires a certain level from our guys,” Patrick said. “They have to be good guys.” That mentality works with the three main goals the team is striving to reach. “We have players developing the younger players and we’re helping the kids in Austin with someone to look up to,” Patrick said. “And overall it’s good fun and family entertainment.” The overall commitment for the Bruins is to reach the playoffs and, like every other team, win the Robertson Cup. “We want to win,” Patrick said. “We want to put together a winning team.” A winning season can only help a team that has become a part of the community. The more community involvement, the more support the team receives and the more the team can give back. It’s a revolving cycle. “We want people to come to the game and then we want them to come back,” Patrick said.

Focused on the net

As the Austin Bruins prepare for their second season in the NAHL, there’s one thing they’re most focused on — getting the puck in the net. Austin returns its top scorer in Charlie Adams, who had 41 points last season, and it will turn to three Minnesota products to give the squad even more firepower this season, which began in Blaine Wednesday. Bruins head coach Chris Tok pointed out Riley Colvard, who had 43 points at Lino Lakes, Minn. last season, Austin Nelson of Hastings, Minn. and Brandon Wahlin of White Bear Lake, as three possible goal scorers. “The thing we lacked last year is guys who could put the puck in the net,” Tok said.“Those guys have strong career track records in high school and we’ll lean on those guys, as well as Charlie Adams to score goals.” After a four-game series in Blaine, the Bruins open their home schedule against Aberdeen Saturday, Oct. 1, at 7:05 p.m. —Rocky Hulne

Austin Veterinary Clinic Dedicated to Providing Quality Care For Your Pets and Livestock

Hours: 8-5 Mon-Fri • Sat 8-Noon 24 Hour Emergency Service

• PET FOODS • SUPPLIES 507-433-5225 • 24 Hour Phone (5pm-8am Emergency)

Day Phone • 507-433-1261 Adams • 507-582-7828 3100 West Oakland Avenue • Austin, MN

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

Austin Bruins’ home games •Aberdeen at Austin - Oct. 1, 7:05 p.m. •Alexandria at Austin - Oct. 22, 7:05 p.m. •Minot at Austin - Oct. 28, 7:05 p.m. •Minot at Austin - Oct. 29, 7:05 p.m. •Alexandria at Austin - Nov. 4, 7:05 p.m. •Alexandria at Austin - Nov. 5, 7:05 p.m. •Alexandria at Austin - Nov. 10, 7:05 p.m. •Aberdeen at Austin - Nov. 18, 7:05 p.m. •Aberdeen at Austin - Nov. 19, 7:05 p.m. •Alexandria at Austin - Dec. 3, 7:05 p.m. •Aberdeen at Austin - Dec. 10, 7:05 p.m. •Bismarck at Austin - Dec. 16, 7:05 p.m. •Bismarck at Austin - Dec. 17, 7:05 p.m. •Coulee Region at Austin - Dec. 31, 7:05 p.m. •Minot at Austin - Jan. 13, 7:05 p.m. •Minot at Austin - Jan. 14, 7:05 p.m. •Coulee Region at Austin - Jan. 18, 7:05 p.m. •Bismarck at Austin - Jan. 27, 7:05 p.m. •Bismarck at Austin - Jan. 28, 7:05 p.m. •Alexandria at Austin - Feb. 4, 7:05 p.m. •Aberdeen at Austin - Feb. 17, 7:05 p.m. •Aberdeen at Austin - Feb. 18, 7:05 p.m. •Coulee Region at Austin - March 2, 7:05 p.m. •Coulee Region at Austin - March 3, 7:05 p.m. •Minot at Austin - March 16, 7:05 p.m. •Minot at Austin - March 17, 7:05 p.m. Austin Bruins' wing Edgar Rybakov checks Owa•Bismarck at Austin - March 23,7:05 p.m. tonna Express forward Ben Otto up against the boards at Riverside Arena. — Herald file photo •Bismarck at Austin - March 24, 7:05 p.m.

Please join in and participate in Mower County’s Recycling program. As a Mower County resident all you have to do is stop at the Environmental Services office at 1105 1/2 8th Ave. NE, Austin and pick up a set of three recycling bins. FEEL FREE TO CALL IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT RECYCLING.

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 AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

Take a walk through Austin’s parks

SKILLED NURSING HOME CARE 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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

While zipping through Austin on Interstate 90, one wouldn’t be able to tell the city has some nice parks — more than 20 of them, that is. •Bustad, 8th Street & 14th Avenue SW •Bandshell Community, Fourth Street & Ninth Place SW. Bandshell, by its name, has a nice shell where bands play frequently throughout the summer, including several per formances by the Austin Community Band. Among its music capabilities, Bandshell is a highly rented facility. It has the Veterans’ Pavilion, with plenty of place for playing and family picnics. •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 •Jay C. Hormel Nature Center, 1304 21st St. NE •Murphy’s Creek, Seventh Street & 24th Avenue NW

•Marcusen, South Main Street and Eighth Avenue SE. Marcusen Park is the historic ball park of Austin and a fan favorite. The park features a large grandstand for plenty of seating and an announcer’s booth. The host to the former Southern Mini All-Stars, Marcusen now hosts the Austin Greyhounds, Blue Sox, American Legion and plays part in the annual Spamtown Classic baseball tournament each year. •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. Todd Park is by far Austin’s largest park and likely most used. With 10 baseball diamonds, play sets, disc golf and plenty of open, grassy area, it’s per fect for all ages. In fact, it’s also a good picnic spot, as the Izaak Walton League cabin can be rented. It is air conditioned and has chairs and kitchen space for organizing. Todd Park is a stepping stone for the outdoor enthusiasts to travel through the city. A bike path from east of town meanders through Todd Park and takes one all the way to Wildwood Park behind the Hormel Institute. •Whittier, Seventh Street & Third Avenue SE •Wildwood, 10th Street & 16th Avenue NE •Worlein, 606 1 Drive NW

HOME HEALTH CARE 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

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD: AUSTIN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Election to decide fate of new 5-6 grade school By Trey Mewes With a $28.9 million bond referendum and a school board election up for vote this November, Austin Public School officials will be busy this fall.

Looking Back District officials will be watching Sumner Elementary School students closely this year, as Sumner switched to a 45/15 calendar at the beginning of August. While Sumner students started a month earlier than other district students, they will get periodic three-week breaks and finish the year with the rest of Austin schools next June.

Looking Forward Austin residents will vote on a $28.9 million bond referendum for a possible new fifth and sixth-grade school and a Woodson Kindergarten Center expansion. The projects created in response to the district’s pro-

Austin School board members

BY THE NUMBERS bond referendum for a possible new fifth and sixth-grade school and a Woodson Kindergarten Center expansion

$28 million

400 students more students could increase school populations by 2014

David Ruzek Director 433-8477 david.ruzek @austin.k12.mn.us

Six candidates are vying for four open board seats this November. •Incumbents: Kathy Green and Don Fox will compete for their seats against Greg Larson •Challengers: Jeff Olman, Angie Goetz and Carol McAlister. •David Ruzek, an appointed board member after the board forced former member Curt Rude out of office in March of 2010, and board clerk Diane Wangsness said they wouldn’t seek reelection.

Jeff Kritzer Treasurer 434-7466 jeff.kritzer @austin.k12.mn.us

new students could attend Austin 10 years from now

800 to 1,000

jected increasing enrollment over the next several years. According to a 2009 demographics study, Austin could increase by as many as 400 students by 2014 and between 800 to 1,000 new students could attend Austin 10 years from now, according to demographic projections based on Mower County birth records. School enrollment is up at almost every Austin school this year as well.

Kathy Green

Diana Wangsness

Aaron Keenan

Richard Lees

Don Fox

Director 437-8667 kathy.green @austin.k12.mn.us

Clerk 433-4686 diana.wangsness @austin.k12.mn.us

Chairman 434-4796 aaron.keenan @austin.k12.mn.us

Vice-chairman 433-2606 dick.lees @austin.k12.mn.us

Director 433-3016 don.fox @austin.k12.mn.us

Fall Energy Savings Tips As the warm days of late summer linger on, it is difficult to think about snow and cold weather. However, fall 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.

Chimney and Fireplace • Have the chimney and fireplace checked and cleaned by a professional. • Repair or replace poorly- or loose-fitting fireplace dampers; they allow warm air to escape. 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. Doors and Windows

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

• Replace worn weather stripping around all doors and windows. • Caulk around gaps in windows and door glass. • 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.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD: MAYO CLINIC HEALTH SYSTEM IN AUSTIN

With new name, clinic moves ahead with $28M expansion By Adam Harringa

Looking Back Mayo Clinic has given Austin’s medical facility quite the face lift. The medical center in Austin has been a part of Mayo Clinic since 1995, and as of May, its name has reflected that. On May 23, Austin Medical Center officially became Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin, and as of May 2011, all 70 Mayo Health Systems locations had transitioned to using the new name. “It’s one of the most recognized health care brands in America,” said Dr. John Coppes, medical director at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin, in May. “And they want all facilities throughout the Mayo Clinic Health System to be identified with Mayo, not to be thought of as separate entities, but actually part of all of Mayo Clinic.” The medical center also launched its new electronic medical records in April, allowing physicians to access patient records from anywhere in the Mayo Health System.

1000 First Drive NW 507-433-7351

Both the name change and the new record system are part of Mayo’s effort to create a streamlined system, Coppes said.

Looking Forward The name isn’t the only thing changing at Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin. A $28 million expansion project is underway and slated to last 20-24 months, with most of the construction taking place in 2012, followed by remodeling in

Mohawk Fall Sale!!!

September 23rd - October 31st BEST • Mohawk Berber Carpet starting at $1.19 per sq. ft. Mohawk Smartstrand Sorona Lifetime Stain Warranty as low as $2.05 per sq. ft. PRICES •• Mohawk Laminate Wood 20 Year Warranty starting at $1.59 per sq. ft. OF THE • Mohawk Prefinished Hardwood as low as $3.59 per sq. ft. YEAR! • Mohawk Ceramic & Porcelain Tile starting at $1.69 per sq. ft. Only $70/month for 3 room makeover with 36 month interest free financing to qualified buyers!

tbredcarpets.com AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

2013. The goal of the 86,500-square-foot, three-story expansion is to help the hospital more effectively take care of patients, as physicians and departments that may see the same patients will be located next to one another. The lower level of the building will include a musculoskeletal center with services relating to orthopedics, sports medicine, a pain clinic, podia-

try and rehabilitation. The Specialty Clinic will be redone and moved near General Surgery. Family Medicine will expand on the second floor and an expanded Cardiology Department will move there as well. The OB/GYN Department will move to the third floor, along with the Pediatrics Department and Finance and Administration. The first floor will add an eye clinic, as well as a new Mayo Clinic retail and pharmacy outlet. The cafeteria will also expand, something that hasn’t happened since 1938. The entrance area will also include a main desk in the middle of the front hall for volunteers to greet patients, staff and visitors. The expansion is expected to create 70 full-time jobs, including nine new physician positions. Architectural drawings and details of the project are available at www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org. Click on Minnesota, then Austin, and then Building a Healthier Community.

The Hormel Institute is making progress in finding answers to cancer but your support is needed to provide cancer-fighting tools: the cutting-edge equipment and technologies that accelerate cancer research discoveries. Please help us make progress and send your donation or memorial today.

201 11th Street NE Austin • 507-433-6440 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

OUT AND ABOUT: PARAMOUNT THEATRE

Plenty coming at the Paramount fter a jam-packed summer, the Paramount has settled into a A lighter shade of busy. Davina and the Vagabonds kicked off the Paramount’s 201112 Performing Arts Season Sept. 16. Flamenco dancer Deborah Elias will bring the styles of southern Spain to Austin. Paramount general manager Scott Anderson said the Twin Cities artist will feature a unique style and will be accompanied by Flamenco guitars. World-class violinist Tracy Silverman will play at the Paramount Oct. 8. “He is actually one of the best electric violinists in the world,” Germain said.

Coming soon There’s plenty more going on outside the theater’s featured season. Underhill Promotions and Bookings scheduled a rock concert for Oct. 15. The concert will be the third put on by Brian Under-

Busy season features Holiday season Though Veldman and world-renowned acts Friend’s show, one of the most at historic theater successful Paramount shows,

hill in Austin. The concert was scheduled for the summer but was later pushed back. “We really love what Brian’s done, because that definitely brings in young kids. … We just love that,” said Scott Anderson, theater operations manager. Austin’s Got Talent will return Oct. 22, and entries are already being accepted. Up to 30 performers will get to showcase their talents with no entry fee. “Any type of talent is welcome,” Germain said. The Rose Ensemble will return to the Paramount for the third time Nov. 17. They’ll be doing workshops in the community the day of and the day before the show.

ended its run last year, the Paramount will have multiple shows scheduled to kick off the holidays. “It was a phenomenon, that’s for sure,” Anderson said. The annual Christmas in the City performance will be held Nov. 25, followed by Katie McMahon, the original Riverdance singer, on Nov. 26. “It’s a nice way to kickoff your holiday season,” Germain said. A holiday special hosted by 5 by Design will be hosted by 5 By Design Dec. 16. A V.I.P. dinner with 5 By Design will be at the Hormel Historic Home. The holiday season will close with a country themed New Year’s Eve Extravaganza. —Story by Jason Schoonover

UPCOMING AT THE PARAMOUNT Davina and the Vagabonds, Sept. 16* Deborah Elias, Oct. 1,* Tracy Silverman, Oct. 8* Matchbox Children's Theatre presents Halloween Warm-ups, Oct 7 & 8 at the Hormel Nature Center Rock show by Underhill Promotions and Bookings, Oct. 15 Austin’s Got Talent, Oct. 22 Austin Symphony Orchestra, Oct. 30, Dec. 11 at the Austin High Electric violonist Tracy Silverman will School play at the Paramount Theatre Oct. 8. — Matchbox Children’s Theatre Photo provided presents Peter Rabbit & Me, Nov. 10 to the 13 Rose Ensemble, Nov. 17 Lehto & Wright, March 17, Christmas in the City, Nov. 25 2012* Katie McMahon, Nov. 26* Take It To the Limit, An Eagles The Whitesidewalls, Dec. 1 Tribute, March 31, 2012* Deer Camp, Dec. 10 My Sweet Patootie, April 28, 5 by Design presents Radio Holly 2012* Days, Dec. 16* New Year’s Eve Extravaganza * Denotes shows put on by the (country theme), Dec. 31* Paramount Theatre through its George Kahumoku Jr., Feb. 19, annual Performing Arts Series. 2012* Schedule is subject to change.

BECKER AUTO SALES 80944 County Road 46 Hayward, MN

Phone: 507-373-3170 Cell: 507-676-0192

www.findcars.com

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

DESTINATIONS: COMMONWEAL THEATRE

Theater offers taste of Broadway in southern Minnesota

utumn wouldn’t be complete in southeastern Minnesota without a trip to Lanesboro. The small-town hub of bluff country features bike trails, antiques, art, fine food, ice cream and nearly something for everyone. But even for those who don’t make it in time to hit the bike trail or see the fall colors, there’s more. Enter the Commonweal Theatre, a professional theater company right in downtown Lanesboro. The Commonweal is open the beginning of spring through the end of winter, with at least five productions running at different times of the year. Its actors, who come from all places, often settle in Lanesboro and find a sustainable lifestyle for themselves, according to Stef Dickens, director of development. The Commonweal has been hosting performances since it opened in 1989; and in 2007, it moved its operation next door and expanded. Since then, it has increased attendance by about 50 percent. Last year alone, the theater saw 21,000 visitors, according to Dickens. How does a small town support big-time theater? Dickens said there are several reasons why their theater is successful. “One of the beauties of where we are located in Lanesboro, is we are in the hub of much bigger metro areas around us,” Dickens said. She added, “We are a professional regional theater

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

The cast of last year’s “Picasso at the Lapin Agile” toasts the crowd at the Commonweal Theatre in Lanesboro. — Photo provided company, and I would say that we really try to appeal to people of our region.” Because of that approach, the Commonweal pulls visitors for shows five days a week. But they’re not all from the region. Dickens mentioned some season-pass holders come every year from as far as Virginia and Kansas. Many

viewers watch the same performances multiple times. Dickens added the cast performs all types of roles, from comedies and musicals to dramas. Another sustaining aspect is the company’s infrastructure. All employees have dual roles. “We have a very unique model at the Commonweal,” Dickens said. For example, even though Dickens works in an administrative position, she is also a full-time actress. The entire full-time staff runs the business, as both administrators and actors. “This is actually my job,” Dickens said. “I’m a salaried employee, and not a lot of artists can say. that.” Among full-timers, the Commonweal also nabs regional and national talent during the winter for future apprenticeships and full-time positions. “A lot of people think we take vacations, but we actually work just as hard in the winter as we do in the summer,” Dickens said. The Commonweal cast will be working hard the rest of this year, too, as it finishes its three showings of “Little Shop of Horrors,” “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “Parfumerie.” Single-person tickets are available for $30 with group and student discounts available. A full calendar of shows is online at www.commonwealtheatre.org. —Story by Matt Peterson

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

OUT AND ABOUT: PUMPKIN PATCHES

Fall in full bloom at pumpkin patches • Farmer John’s Pumpkin Patch is weekends from Sept. 24 through Oct. 30. just off Mower/Freeborn Road (Co. 36) and Visitors can enjoy the corn maze, wagon less than a mile south of State Highway 251 rides, animals, photography, pumpkin at Corning. Directions: north of Austin on painting, wooded trails, a snack shop and gift shop, mini golf, football toss 218, turn left (west) at Lansing and several other games for Corners Restaurant (large red kids. This year will also feature building) onto County Road 2 ( WILLING some special events for grand270th St); go three miles; go TO TRAVEL parents, kids and the Humane around the curve to the north FARTHER? Society of Minnesota. Oak 1/4 mile. Then turn left onto View is open Saturdays 10 a.m. 273rd Street. Minnesota has to 5 p.m. and Sundays 12 p.m. to Visitors can pick their own many more 5 p.m. Oak View is located at pumpkins and vegetables, enjoy pumpkin patches, 7921 Country Road 45 South picture taking and let their kids and several Owatonna, MN 55060. Please play. It opens for activities noon directories can be call 507.451.0454, or visit Saturday, Sept. 24. Farmer found online: www.oakviewnursery.net. John’s is open 7 days a week, www.pumpkin and is also open to school and patchesandmore. • Tweite’s Pumkin Patch in pre-school groups in the mornorg; thepumpkin Byron has more activities than ings. There’s free admission and one can experience in a day. free pumpkins for newborns directory.com; and born after Oct. 5 this year. 90537 www.gardens.com/ That’s because it is more than just a pumpkin patch; it is a 273 Street in Austin. For more go/browse/pump large acreage with plenty of information, call 507-437-9180. kin/Minnesota/all things for children, as well as adults, to do. For kids, it starts • Oak View Nursery in Owatonna, a landscaping and horticul- with Pumpkinville. It is a huge play centure business, opens a pumpkin patch fall ter with a three-tower castle, fort, pirate

Natalie Guanella brings her pumpkin, along with her classmates, up to Farmer John Ulland so he could put it in a bag during a visit to Farmer John's Pumpkin Patch in September. — Herald file photo 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 Oct. 1 and go seven days a week until Oct. 23, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tweite’s is located at 1821 Frontier Road SW Byron, MN 55920. For more information call (507) 365-

When you look around town, what do you see? You see homes, schools, parks, playgrounds. But it’s more than that. It’s our hometown. Shop locally, invest locally, and support our local economy.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

• Willing to travel farther? Minnesota has many more pumpkin patches, and several directories can be found online: www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org; thepumpkindirectory.com; and www.gardens.com/go/browse/pump kin/Minnesota/all.

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

600 Second Street NW • Austin, MN 55912 (507) 433-1817 14

8035 or visit www.tweitepumpkins.com.

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 AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

OUT AND ABOUT: LOCAL DESTINATIONS

Spam, splats and sledding By Amanda Lillie Regardless of your age or interests, Austin has something to offer for a fun or relaxing time. Here are five options to keep you busy in the fall and winter this year.

1. Splat! Paintball Field Located at 17722 Highway 218 South just outside of Austin, this paintball field is open from April to November. Although it’s not meant for winter play, fall offers the perfect weather to suit up in camouflage and dodge whistling paintball fire with your friends. The field is open Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and throughout the week for private parties by calling 507-279-1096.

2. Skinner’s Hill If you have an inner child and live in Austin, chances are you know about Skinner’s Hill. Located near Fourth St. SW and Ninth Place SW, this hill is one of Austin’s hubs of outdoor winter entertainment. Kids and adults alike can be found sled-

CHRISTMAS BRANSON

ding or tubing down the hill all winter, especially after a fresh snowfall. The best part? It’s completely free.

3. Spam Museum For less chilly entertainment, some people may prefer an indoor activity. The Spam Museum is free and offers more than 16,000 square feet of Spam history and interactive activities. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. To schedule a group tour, or for more information, call 1-800-LUV-SPAM.

4. Senior Center The Mower County Senior Center not only offers social activities for seniors, but it also offers informational classes and exercise sessions. Classes vary throughout the year, but some include tai-chi, meditation, cardio and Medicare classes. The senior center also has monthly blood pressure checks available. Stop by to play cards or a board game sometime, or call ahead to sign up for a class at 433-2370.

NOV. 3-6, 2011

539

Shoji Tabuchi, Daniel O’Donnell, Neal McCoy, Miracle of Christmas

CHRISTMAS BRANSON

NOV. 10-13, 2011

539

Andy Williams, Gatlin Brothers with Debby Boone, Daniel O’Donnell, SIX

CHRISTMAS BRANSON

NOV. 17-20, 2011

Tony Orlando, Johnny Mathis, Daniel O’Donnell, Legends in Concert

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IN CHICAGO, IL NOV. 25-27, 2011 A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS IN NASHVILLE, TN NOV. 29-DEC. 4, 2011 HAWAII - HONOLULU & MAUI (COMPLETE PACKAGE) JAN. 21-29, 2012 DEEP SOUTH TEXAS FEBRUARY 11-24, 2012 Great 14 Day Winter Get-A-Way NEW ORLEANS MARCH 9-19, 2012 CIVIL WAR IN VIRGINIA APRIL 16-24, 2012 SPRING MYSTERY (All New 6 Day Tour) MAY 1-6, 2012 HOLLAND, MI MAY 11-13, 2012 NEW YORK CITY MAY 12-19, 2012 ALASKA - LAND & CRUISE (COMPLETE PACKAGE) MAY 23-JUNE 2, 2012 starting at

THE PRICES ARE BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

O N L Y A F E W S E A T S L E F T O N S O M E TO U R S!

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

539

339 1049 $ 3299 $ 1899 $ 1539 $ 1289 $819 $419 $1399 $3399 $

The Spam Museum is just one of the many places to see around Austin. — Herald file photo

5. Frank W. Bridges Theatre The Frank W. Bridges Theatre, which is part of Riverland Community College, is home to a number of plays and musicals throughout the year. Riverland theater students put on anywhere from five to 10 shows

each year, spanning from musical comedies to serious pieces reflecting on issues like racism and homosexuality. Prices usually range from $12 to $15. Call the Riverland Box Office at 433-0595 for ticket information and showtimes.

You’re his biggest fan, his agent and his dad. Secure his dreams, no matter what, with life insurance from Auto-Owners Insurance. Call or visit us today!

“SERVING SOUTHERN MINNESOTA”

203 North Main Street Austin, MN

507-437-4503

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

DESTINATIONS: APPLE ORCHARDS

Orchards ripe for the picking PINE TREE APPLE ORCHARDS County Road 17 Preston, MN 55965 Fillmore County Phone: (507) 765-2408 Directions: On-farm sales outlet located 1/2 mile northeast of Hwy 52 in Preston on County road 17. Open: August - December; Seasonal hours There are many varieties of apples, cider, apple bakery with pies, breads, donuts, caramel apples, apple gifts and gift baskets, jams and jellies. Tours are available from September through October by reservation. In addition, there are pick-your-own pumpkin specials.

JOHNSON OAKSIDE ORCHARD 9824 SW 75th Street Ellendale, MN 56026 Steele County Phone: (507) 465-8398 Open on Sunday afternoons from

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

noon to five, the Johnson Oakside Orchard is up and running with Paula Reds, Zestar and more than 12 kinds of apples ripe for the picking. They’ve got apples, homemade caramel, popcorn and delicious caramel apple sundaes ready for eager travelers.

PRESTON APPLE AND BERRY FARM 645 Hwy 16 and Hwy 52 E Preston, MN 55965 Fillmore County Phone: (507) 765-4486 Directions: Located on the south edge of Preston across from rest area. Open: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily, May - Dec.; 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Jan - April; Website: www.bluffcountry.com/ appleberry.htm There’s free samples of 28 varieties of apples and cider. Fresh frozen apple pies, baked pies, other bakery products, caramel apples, honey, maple syrup, jams, popcorn, cheese and Watkins Prod-

Various kinds of apples sit out on display at an apple orchard that recently opened for the season east of Lansing. — Herald file photo ucts. Preston Farms has locally grown Christmas trees, April and May garden seeds and bedding plants. Apples are

available August through February.

> APPLES continues on 17

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

DESTINATIONS: APPLE ORCHARDS Continued from Page 16

SEKAPP ORCHARD 3415 College View Road E Rochester, MN 55904 Olmsted County Phone: (507) 282-4544 Directions: Orchard sales room located one mile east of Rochester on County road 9. Open: July 15-Dec. 31; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily Fresh vegetables in season including sweet corn, cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes. Squash, pumpkins, apple cider, honey, jams and maple syrup. Website: www.mnfarmtours.com/sekapp.html Open every day from Aug.1 through Christmas and weekends in January and February, this family-owned venture has been around since 1962. There are plenty of things to pick, whether it’s apples during weekends through the orchard or pumpkins, squash, pears and plums, tart pie cherries in August, and a lot of summer vegetables.

NORTHWOODS ORCHARD Oronoco 1 mile west of Douglas on Olmsted County Road 14, then 1/2 mile north on 75th Ave. (507) 280-0591

September: Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sundays, 1-6 p.m.; Sundays,Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sundays, 1-6 p.m. Website: anorthwoods@gmail.com, www.northwoodsorchard.com Northwoods Orchard’s fall activities include corn mazes, hayrides and farm animal interaction area. Apples and fall ornamentals are available in season, prepicked or pick-your-own. With advance reservation, Northwoods offers several group activities, such as wagon rides around the farm and apples, gourds and small pumpkins.

pumpkins, pies, jams, honey, real maple syrup and more. Grapes in the vineyard are a highlight to a festive harvest atmosphere. Activities include pick-your-own apples (from 23 varieties), grapes for eating or wine-making and pumpkins. There are tractor-pulled wagon rides; alpacas, peacocks and barnyard animals, mazes and more activities.

APPLE RIDGE ORCHARD & VINEYARD 507-843-3033 (call for information or tour scheduling) 47418 240th Avenue Mazeppa, Minn. Open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Website: www.appleridgeorchard.com There are apples galore at the Apple Ridge Orchard & Vineyard, around since 1977. Located about 15 minutes north. of Rochester, Apple Ridge has plenty of already-picked apples and caramel apples, along with fresh-pressed apple cider,

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.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

OUT AND ABOUT: BIKE TRAILS

Out on the trails: Pedal for miles on regional bike paths By Rocky Hulne

Local trails moving forward

When the weather cools off and the leaves show the color, it’s a great time to get on a bike and go for a cruise. As the season blooms, there are plenty of trails in Southeastern Minnesota to check out. Dan Urlick, a bike enthusiast in Austin, Minn. offered his list of places to go:

Canon Valley Trail Cannon Falls to Red Wing: 20 miles Pluses: Gradually descends through Cannon River Valley from Cannon Falls to Red Wing. Prime fall color territory. Minuses: Trail pass required ($4/day $25/season). Ascends on the return trip. Consider doing it in reverse to save the easiest ride for last plus see the colors a second time on the drive to Red Wing.

•Shooting Star Trail: On Sept. 13, the county board accepted a $369,000 bid by Rochester Sand and Gravel to continue work on the Shooting Star Trail from Adams to Rose Creek. The county previously received about $500,000 in funding from the county board earlier this year. The plan has long been for the Shooting Star and Blazing Star trails to meet in Austin. •Blazing Star Trail: Bikers and hikers could soon be blazing to a new portion of a local trail. About $500,000 has been allocated for the Blazing Star Trail to extend the trail from Myre-Big Island State Park to Hayward.

Root River Trail

Shooting Star Trail

Preston, Harmony, Lanesboro, Fountain, Rushford: 60 miles Pluses: Prime bluff country, Root River Trail sets the standard for southeastern Minnesota trails. Minuses: Becoming very popular, a little touristy and at times congested for serious bikers.

Rose Creek to LeRoy: 18 miles Pluses: Many fall wildflower varieties line the trail from Rose Creek to LeRoy. Low to no grade makes for consistent ride. Short drive and you’ve got the lovely Rose Pedaler positioned at the trail head. Minuses: Construction has been stalled for years over land rights and funds, though

it was recently completed to Rose Creek. Full potential of trail won’t be realized until it reaches Austin.

Douglas State Trail Rochester to Pine Island: 13 miles Pluses: Level grade and well maintained state trail. Short drive from Austin. Minuses: Not the most spectacular view of fall colors, but easily worth the short trip.

Blazing Star Trail Albert Lea to Hayward: 10 miles Pluses: Runs through beautiful Myre Big Island State Park. Location nearby, easy twenty minute drive. Minus: A little short for seasoned riders, also desperately needs to reach Austin as planned for years.

• Community or Supported Employment • School to Work Transition • Center-Based Employment • Mental Health Services • Specialized Transportation 18

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

Bluff Country offers plenty of scenic backdrops for bike riders. — Photo provided

Serving the people of Mower County in areas of Employment and Contracted Services by building business partnerships for over 50 years. www.cedarvalleyservices.org AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD: CEDAR RIVER WATERSHED DISTRICT

Blooming Prairie: Beyond the Fourth

Rules drafted, CRWD board focuses on education By Matt Peterson

The Cedar River has two problems, flooding and pollution. But one group, founded in 2004, is trying to change that. For the last two years, particularly, the Cedar River Watershed District worked on drafting a set of rules on which to govern the entire watershed. CRWD Administrator Bev Nordby shared her thoughts about the future of the watershed.

Bev Nordby CRWD Administrator 507-434-2603

Question: In your words, describe the scope and length of the rules? Answer: The scope of the rules is to look at the problems and clean up our rivers and streams and water bodies in the watershed, as well as trying to control the flows. We are hoping that we will not necessarily reduce flooding, but keep it from getting worse. Question: The rules were the biggest part of the

WE HAVE...

SOLUTIONS TO YOUR METAL PRODUCTION CHALLENGES NO PROJECT TOO BIG OR SMALL! We can produce & fabricate entire projects or parts for your project. Tube Bending • Punching • Shearing • Rolling Breaking • High Definition Plasma • Production Welding• Prototypes • Deliveries

FREE ESTIMATES • CERTIFIED WELDERS • MAINTENANCE

last year and a half, what progress do you think CRWD made elsewhere? Answer: What we’re doing is we’re spending quite a bit of time on Dobbins Creek area. Dobbins is most flashy in terms of flood waters. There, we can get the most bang for our buck. (CRWD has received and continues to apply for clean water funds for projects near Dobbins.)

Question: What’s the process for getting public awareness and education out there? Answer: That’s actually going to be going on for the next three months, so that’s what we’re going to be working on — getting the word out that there are rules, and what the rules contain. (In the meantime, CRWD already has project applications that are downloadable at its website: cedarriverwd.org)

Blooming Prairie is most well-known for its Old Fashioned Fourth of July celebration, but that doesn’t mean the town of nearly 2,000 people is lacking in winter activities. In the snowy months, Blooming Prairie has an ice rink that is staffed by high schoolers and offers free skate use. “We have a warming house and the kids use it as kind of a social venue,” Blooming Prairie City Administrator Mike Jones said. “It’s the place to go.” The city of Blooming Prairie recently acquired 100 extra pairs of skates

FLOOR TECH

that will be available for people to use at the rink for free this winter. Jones said the city will make ice once the weather permits, since the rink is outside. “We hope to have ice made by the holiday vacation for the schools so the kids have a place to go when they’re out of school,” Jones said. The rink’s hours on school days are 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; weekend hours are 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. —Amanda Lillie

MAIN STREET DENTAL Open Monday-Saturday and 2 Evenings

Carpet • Vinyl • Window Treatments Ceramic Tile • Wallpaper Vacuums Laminate • Hardwood

322 East Main • Blooming Prairie 507-583-2276 • Tim Wacek Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-4pm Saturday 8am-Noon, or by Appointment

“AUGERS ARE OUR SPECIALTY”

605 5th Street NE & 380 6th Avenue SE Blooming Prairie • 507-583-2144

www.metal-services.com

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

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 * 18 tent sites * 45 W/E Sites * 9 Elec. Sites * 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

APPLES

Over 30 Varieties of Eating & Baking Apples • • • • • •

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

CRAFTS

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

BLUFF COUNTRY

52 30

Austin

Dexter

•

Minnesota

Wykoff

•

•Elkton

• Spring Valley

Maple Spri Campgrou

Adams

•

LEIDELʼS

Fresh Apple Cider Open Daily thru mid November

Stand 507-895-8221

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

LaCresent, MN 20

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

90 Oakenwald Terrace

Leidel’s Apples

• Chatfield

43 30

Minnesota

• Rushford

Preston Apple & Berry Farm

Bluffscape Amish Tours

•Lanesboro

•

Preston

Branding Iron

ings und

52 43

Harmony •

139 Mabel • Mabel House Hotel

18 23

Mabel House Hotel

Located at the ‘hub’ of Bluff Country Friendly Hospitality - Affordable Rates

Great place for Family Reunions, Weddings or a Private Getaway.

Check out our Mystery Dinner Theater!

www.mabelhousehotel.com 117 South Main • Mabel, MN

507-493-5768

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD: AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL

Council turns focus to budget, local quality of life By Amanda Lillie Austin City Council members have had a busy summer filled with budgeting for 2012 in the aftermath of Minnesota’s state government shutdown. Despite much of the council’s focus being on the budget, council members have been working to improve the quality of life for Austinites. These three projects have been in the works for several months and council members are hoping they will come to fruition soon.

Yellow Ribbon program Mayor Tom Stiehm and City Council members are working to make Austin a Yellow Ribbon community. The Yellow Ribbon project was put in place nationally to support deployed servicepeople’s families. “The Yellow Ribbon program will help our community learn how to support our troops and their families in what can be very stressful times for them,” Stiehm previously said. Involved council members and people from the community are still working on

“The Yellow Ribbon program will help our community learn how to support our troops and their families in what can be very stressful times for them.” -Mayor Tom Stiehm forming a steering committee for the project, but they’re hoping to get things rolling soon. Some projects other communities have done for deployed servicepeople’s families through Yellow Ribbon include household chores, providing transportation, grocery shopping, cooking, yard work and carpentry. The group is on Facebook under “Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Austin.”

Austin dog park Local dog owners have been hoping a dog park will come to Austin for years, and they may finally get their wish. At a Sept. 19 meeting, the City Council approved the proposed location for the dog

park, although an official vote is still pending. The location of the proposed dog park is the south end of the 500 block of Second Street SE; Bandshell Community Park is across the street with water and restroom access at the Veteran’s Pavilion. Efforts to bring a dog park to Austin have been spearheaded by a citizen group called S.P.A.R.K. (Start a Park for Austin’s Respectable K9s). S.P.A.R.K. members plan on raising up to $25,000 for fencing and maintenance costs at the park to lower cost for the city.

GreenStep Cities In an effort to make Austin a more sustainable community, City Council members

voted in July to form a GreenStep Cities Task Force to direct the city as it moves toward becoming a greener, more environmentally friendly community. City Administrator Jim Hurm said the council will likely approve the Task Force members in October. “I think the council feels its important that the city is environmentally concerned and should be doing things to try to be a sustainable community,” Hurm said. “There’s a lot of ways that can be done.” Hurm said the GreenStep program outlines 28 areas in which cities can work to make communities more environmentally friendly. Some of GreenStep’s ideas include reusing existing buildings instead of building new ones, constructing new buildings that meet a green building standard, improving the efficiency of lighting and signals, and encouraging higher housing density. “The council has considered this for several years so we’re excited the task force is going to get started in October,” Hurm said.

Residential & Business Hauling “A family-owned, hometown business operated locally for over 40 years.”

Tree & Stomp Removal • Trimming & Topping Tree Moving • Lot Clearing • Backhoe/Skidloader Hauling General Construction • Year Round Work 24 Hr. Emergency Services • Licensed & Insured

319 2nd St. SW • Blooming Prairie

507-583-7562

KYLE JOHNSON • 507-583-7592 AUSTIN & BLOOMING PRAIRIE

William P. Walsh, Owner

Custom Colors • Sand Blasting Exhaust Coating 521 Industrial Drive NE • P.O. Box 415 Blooming Prairie, MN 55917 507-583-7448

“THINK OF IT AS PAINT WITH AN ATTITUDE”

314 East Main, Blooming Prairie, MN

507-583-7528 • 1-888-933-6828 Fax: 507-583-2389

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD: CITY COUNCIL Janet Anderson

Tom Stiehm

Jeff Austin

Member-at-large 433-1081 jkanderson @gofast.am

Mayor 437-9965 mayor@ci. austin.mn.us

First ward 438-7730 bgyglfr6 @hotmail.com

Brian McAlister

Roger Boughton

Steve King

Judy Enright

Marian Clennon

First ward 433-4661 bwmcal46 @smig.net

Second ward 437-7331 rwbought @smig.net

Second ward 433-2777 stevek @co.mower.mn.us

Third ward 440-3326 judy.enright @yahoo.com

Third ward 433-5746 marian.clennon @ci.austin.mn.us

Brownsdale: Smooth skating A Brownsdale landmark since 1960, Rohler Rink, LLC, has something for kids of all ages. The roller skating rink, located at 316 SE Market St. in Brownsdale, is one of the biggest attractions in a town of fewer than 700 people. Rohler Rink, a play off the name of its owners, Brett Rohl and Ronda Rohl, is 260 feet long and 50 feet wide. Other family members include disc jockey Jeremy Rohl, concessions manager Tya Rohl and entertainment manager Erika Rohl. The rink was resurfaced in 2006 and features a sound, light and video system. The Rohls offer 13 different party packages, plus special rates for birthdays, church groups and school groups. Private parties can be arranged during non-business hours by calling 507-567-2133 or 507-273-0650.

ROHLER RINK, LLC 316 SE Market St., Brownsdale Hours: 7-10:30 p.m. Fridays, 1-4 p.m. and 7-10:30 p.m. Saturdays and 2-5 p.m. Sundays Call 507-567-2133 during business hours or 507-273-0650 during nonbusiness hours Owners: Brett Rohl and Ronda Rohl DJ: Jeremy Rohl The rink is open during the winter (through Memorial Day) 7-10:30 p.m. on Fridays, 1-4 p.m. and 7-10:30 p.m. Saturdays and 2-5 p.m. Sundays Regular admission is $6 and skate or blade rental is $2. —Adam Harringa

LP Tanks • Kerosene • Fuel • Diesel

102 North Mill Street • Brownsdale 507-567-2142 • www.greenway.coop Hours: M-F 5 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sat. 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. • Sun. 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Growing With You Serving South Central Minnesota with Petroleum and Agronomy Products 477-2251 • 75530 State Hwy 56 • Brownsdale

www.centralvalleycoop.com

BROWNSDALE P.O. Box 157 507-567-2219

SARGEANT P.O. Box 1 507-477-2112

AUSTIN 128 North Main Street 507-433-3473

www.ffmbank.com

browns@ffmbank.com

austin@ffmbank.com

Rod & Ron Kester

• WELDING • SAND BLASTING • PROP REPAIR

507-567-2016 305 West Main Street Brownsdale, MN Come in and check out our selection of quality Snapper® Lawnmowers!

Brownsdale, MN • 507-567-2483

WE REPAIR ALL TYPES OF FARM EQUIPMENT! Hours: Mon-Fri 8-5 • Sat 8-12

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

ELDERLY DISABLED INDEPENDENT Apartments For Rent Rent Based On Income For More Information Call 507-434-5556 or email: lori.amick@myclearwave.net

Mower County Housing Authority 59039 220th Street Austin, Minnesota FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

Hayfield: A community effort Maintaining an 18-hole golf features 18 holes (par 72), course is a tough job, but Tom watered fairways, a clubhouse, Vizina, PGA golf professional at a restaurant and a pro shop. Oaks Country Club Vizina said there is in Hayfield, has a a community feel to OAKS COUNTRY the country club lot of help from volunteers. because it was CLUB TIDBITS “The great part founded on —Par 72 about this golf volunteerism and —6,410 yards course is their continues to thrive on —Slope 126 willingness to volunteer work. —Rating of 70.4 come out and “The community —Club professional volunteer,” Vizina members use the club on staff said. “It’s a to raise money for c o m m u n i t y causes or families in effort.” need,” he said. “The The golf course, located two volunteerism is as active as the miles west of Hayfield and day it was built.” about 25 minutes from Austin, —Amanda Lillie

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

OUT AND ABOUT: AUSTIN FACILITIES Austin City Hall 1205 S Main St Austin, MN 55912-3504 507-437-7645 Mower County Government Center 201 1st Street NE Austin MN 55912 507-437-9549 Mower County Department of Human Services and Public Health 1301 18th Avenue NW Austin MN 55912 (Public Entrance to Offices located on South Side of Oak Park Mall facing I-90 ONLY) Public Health: 507-437-9799 Human Services: 507-437-9700

Mower County Jail and Justice Center 201 2nd Ave. NE, Austin MN 55912 Jail is on first floor Courts, correctional services are second floor Mower County Highway Department and Environmental Services 1105 8th Avenue Northeast Austin, MN 55912-3699 Highway: 507-437-7718 Env. Services: 507-437-9527 Freeborn-Mower Cooperative 2501 E. Main St., Albert Lea 507-373-6421

Austin Utilities 500 Fourth Ave. N.E. 507-433-8886 www.austinutilities.com Welcome Center 308 Fourth Ave. N.W. For language and other services. More information is available at 507-434-2863. Qwest 800-244-1111 www.qwest.com Charter Communications 2206 Oakland Ave. N.E. 888-438-2427

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD: AUSTIN CONVENTION AND VISITORS’ BUREAU

After busy summer, CVB to debut new website Austin Daily Herald Austin had a big year for tourism, especially with one event that only makes it around here every so often. Austin Convention and Visitors’ Bureau Executive Director Cheryl Corey explained some of 2011’s key points and what the future holds. Question: TRAM (The Ride Across Minnesota) was one of the biggest events Austin has seen in some time. How important was that for the community?

Answer: TRAM brought in an estimated $50,000 economic impact to Austin. Approximately 800 riders and a couple hundred MS Society organizers spent July 26 and 27 here. Question: What were other highlights of 2011 that stood out to you? Answer: Other highlights certainly included the Model T Car Club’s visit in July, bringing in 240 cars and 535 club members. Also, we enjoyed the visit from our Southern Minnesota Tourism Association

Convention and Visitors’ Bureau Staff

members July 20 and 21. The Milwaukee Road Historical Association held their convention in Austin for five days in early July. Question: What big things can people expect from Austin this fall and next year? Answer: “New CVB website and other target marketing methods. We continue to sell Austin to tour operators, motorcoach companies and travel planners. We expect to see people continue to travel as we move into a new year.”

104 11th AVE NW, Suite D Austin, MN 55912 Office Hours: 8AM-5PM (Monday -Friday)

Cheryl Corey

Heidi Murray

Executive Director 507-437-4563 visitor @austinmn.com

Tourism Coordinator 507-437-4563 visitor @austinmn.com

Insurance and Financial Services

Tim Gabrielson Insurance Agency

Jason Gabrielson Insurance Agency

1105 W. Oakland Ave. • Austin, MN 507-433-5859

TURTLE CREEK INDUSTRIES can meet your service needs:

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

Scanning/Indexing, Clerical Work, Copying, Collating Cleaning, Light Assembly, Production Work Yard Work, Farm Work, Laundry Work, Restaurant Work

Apold Music

GARBAGE BAGS for Sale (Commercial & Residential) *To Place Orders: CALL 433-9025 or STOP IN 15 Gallon (Light Weight ~ 100 bulk) 33, 40 & 55 Gallon (Extra-Heavy ~ 100 bulk)

106 W. Oakland Avenue Austin, MN • 437-7217 Over 30 years serving the Austin area & beyond.

Turtle Creek Industries, 2909 W Oakland Ave, Austin Ph: 507-433-9025 FAX: 507-437-006

E-mail: stjohns@stjohnsaustinlcms.org www2.smig.net/stjohns Sunday at 9:00 AM l Saturday at 6:00 PM Sunday service live on KAUS AM 1480

Christian Education Hour Sunday 10:15 AM Tom Ogilvie, Pastor l Troy Miller, DCE

HAND MADE in our kitchen.

Sunday School for all ages 9:00 a.m. Sunday Worship! 10:00 a.m. Nursery provided

HOME BAKED in your oven. 433-3333 402 1st Ave. SW Austin, MN AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

377-7075 142 Bridge St. Albert Lea, MN

Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Awana Teen Ministry

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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

DESTINATIONS: CAMPGROUNDS

Still time to camp

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

•Yogi Bear Campground Resort at Beaver Trails is just east of Austin on I-90. 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. •Oakwoods Trails Campground is a sixacre facility with 21 campsites just outside of Austin. 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: 507-4376165. •River Bend Campgrounds, 13380 State Highway 105, Austin, MN 55912, offers pleas-

OTHER NEARBY CAMPGROUNDS Albert Lea Austin KOA — 12 miles NW, 84259 county road 46, Hayward, MN. Phone: (507) 3735170. Crystal Springs RV Resort — 15649 SW 35th Ave, Ellendale, MN 56026, (507) 684-2406; (507) 9516320 (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. Hickory Hills Campground — 15694 717th Ave, Albert Lea 56007, 507-852-4555 . Oct. 14 and 15 is the last Weekend to Camp Myre-Big Island State Park — 19499 780th Ave., Albert Lea 56007, 507-379-3403.

There are plenty of opportunities for camping including Jellystone Campground east of Austin. — Herald file photo

• • • • • • • • • • • •

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!

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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

St. Ansgar: Across the border 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. The city has a water park that is the envy of other towns twice as larger. Visit it once and expect to return again and again. —Austin Daily Herald

DESTINATIONS: OUTDOORS AND UNDERGROUND 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.

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, walk-in and electrical sites are available for RV campers and tenters. 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_ valley/index.html.

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 60foot 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, 4H clubs, scouts and other groups. Visit www.niagaracave.com.

LARSON’S MERCANTILE Your Hometown Variety Shop featuring...

Swim Toys / Beach Accessories / ZhuZhu Pets Clear Lake Apparel Sandals / Toys Flags / Winsocks Moda Fabrics / Crafts Gift Items / Cards Party Supplies 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.

• 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

P i c k e t Fe n c e A n t i q u e s 24 4 W . 4t h, Bo x 49 2 S t . A n s g a r, I A 5 0 4 7 2

641-736-GIFT

“Simply Charming”

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

LUNCH & DINNER...

Main Ave, Clear Lake • 641-357-7544

Something for the whole family!

• PIZZA • SANDWICHES • ICE CREAM

• Open 7 Days a Week • Lunch Specials Daily Tuesday - Saturday 11am-2pm

202 West 4th Street St. Ansgar, Iowa 641-713-2431 • 800-353-2434

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

DESTINATIONS: REGIONAL STOPS

Road trips: Outdoor stops before snow flies Fall can mean great family fun in a variety of outdoor activities before the winter makes everything hibernate. What’s more, there are plenty of fall adventures to be had here in southern Minnesota. So get out and start soaking up the crisp air, since it won’t last for long.

MYSTERY CAVE/ FORESTVILLE STATE PARK $55 per person Through Mid-October 1-507-937-3251 Take in a cave tour, try the horse trails or get ready for a little camping at Forestville State Park. Open through mid-October, the park also offers tours through Mystery Cave, the longest cave in Minnesota. With onehour, two-hour and a few off-the-beaten-path tours, Mystery Cave is a geological wonder ready to be explored.

MYRE — BIG ISLAND STATE PARK Albert Lea 1-507-379-3403 www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/myre_big_isl and/index.html Make time this summer for hiking, camping, canoeing and even a little geocaching at Albert Lea’s own state park, just three miles southeast of town. While stomping in the woods so close to a convenience store isn’t exactly living off the land, the park offers plenty of camp sites, outdoor activities and a lot of family fun.

well as Native American history as it relates to the eagle. With several exhibits and a river-level deck for bald eagle viewing, the NEC is a great stop for some wildlife fun.

CARLETON COLLEGE JAPANESE GARDEN 1 College Street Northfield 507-222-4000 The famous Japanese garden behind Watson Hall’s Carleton College is a wonder to behold. Completed in 1976, the garden features Zen aesthetics and traditional Japanese landscaping, making it the go-to place for a relaxing, albeit foreign, trip.

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

AMISH TOURS Lanesboro www.lanesboro.com/lanesboro-arts-main.php Ready to step back in time? Several Amish tour companies in Lanesboro offer guided tours through local Amish communities, where visitors can learn about Amish history, buy baked goods and homemade crafts and possibly ride a horse and buggy, depending on the tour company. —Austin Daily Herald

NATIONAL EAGLE CENTER 50 Pembroke Ave. Wabasha, MN 55981 651-565-4989 www.nationaleaglecenter.org Come visit some of the most majestic birds of prey at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha. Home to five eagles, the NEC offers up close experiences with the birds along with eagle outreach information as

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

OUT AND ABOUT: PLACES TO PLAY DISC GOLF —Todd Park at 11th Street NE and 21st Avenue NE, has a 27-hole course located throughout the wooded and rolling train of the park. Course maps and scorecards are available at the Parks and Recreation office at 121 Four th Ave. NE. For more information, call 433-1881. —Driesner South at Eighth Street SE and Oakland Place SE, also offers a nine-hole course. Maps and scorecards are available at the Austin Parks and Recreation office.

GOLF —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 for nine holes or $25 for 18. Car t 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 4339098 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 car t or $30 for 18 holes, range fees are $3 for 30 balls; memberships are available, too. Meadow 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 18hole design with a range and dining area. For info, call 507-582-3595; also see www.cedarrivercountr yclub.com.

BASKETBALL —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 & Four th Drive SW

SAND VOLLEYBALL —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 Nor th

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

TENNIS —Wescott Field, 1300 block of Oakland Ave. West (six cour ts) —Ellis Middle School, 1700 Four th Ave. SE (six cour ts) —The Austin Country Club (four cour ts)

Joe Tessen winds up his shot on the third hole of the Meadow Greens Golf Course earlier this year. — Herald file photo

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

DESTINATIONS: LEROY, ADAMS, ROSE CREEK Lockers, where there will always be plenty of bacon and large cuts. Need more food? There’s also the new L & S Grocery, recently taken over by Owner Luke Hanson and manager Stacy Erkeneff.

LeRoy: Just across the border Hey, don’t go to Iowa just yet. LeRoy is the last stop before the border, and it’s worth it. LeRoy has its very own state park — Lake Louise — with room for paddling and fishing, and trails for hiking and horse-back riding. A smaller park, Lake Louise doesn’t have the hustle and bustle of big-time, camper-reserved parks. It’s pretty quiet. It caters to the twowheeled traveler as well, as the Shooting Star bike trail juts through it, meandering to Taopi, Adams and Rose Creek. Another LeRoy attraction is up and running just in time for fall. It’s the Three Arrows Hunting Preserve, just two miles northeast of LeRoy. The preserve offers pheasant and quail hunting and the occasional field trial for serious game-birders. Hunters can buy birds and hunt at their pleasure. Don’t want to clean them? Take your kills to owner Ben Jacobsen, and he’ll exchange pre-cleaned one with you. For other attractions, head into town for the rustic old businesses, such as an old grocery store, cafe and hotel.

Adams: Mower’s dairy capitol For the bike enthusiast, Adams is a central stop on the Shooting Star Trail. Known as the “Dairy Capitol of Mower County,” the area is the quintessential Minnesota farmland: easy-rolling hills, grassland, corn and bean fields abound. It’s the host to the annual dairy princess pageant. For farm techies, a stop at GPS services could be interesting. The tech busi-

Lyle: The Little Town that Could

A Llewellin Setter hurdles its way into corn at the beginning of its first field competition near LeRoy. Hunters and their dogs were being judged on several categories while they hunted for quail. — Photo by Matt Peterson/matt.peterson@ austindailyherald.com

ness offers the latest steering, GPS and planter technology for the serious farmer moving into the future. In addition, Adams City Park along the west edge of the city is the perfect place for picnics, family reunions and camping. For those willing to take it a little further, the next stop is Taopi, with a public nature trail, and LeRoy a little bit farther, which features a quiet state park.

Rose Creek: Country living

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 gettogethers, 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, so bring a bike. Rose Pedaler resides at 16931 Highway 56 Rose Creek, MN 55970. For more info, call 434-0500, or visit www.rosepedaler.com. While swinging through Rose Creek, don’t forget to stop at one of the few remaining small-town lockers, Rose Creek

It’s become a year-round venture to raise funds for a cure in Lyle and around the area. The Lyle Area Cancer Auction’s efforts used to just warm up in January, but now the auction has events scattered throughout the year and around the area. In August, the Delmar Ramaker Memorial Concert for the Cure used country music to raise funds. Other fundraisers include the Crop for a Cure (a scrapbooking event), an annual pool tournament, a barbecue, a Harley raffle and much more. Last year, the auction brought in more than $130,000. But there’s more to Lyle than a cancer auction. The town has many businesses, and it’s community park features a historic caboose. —Austin Daily Herald

Just minutes from Austin, Rose Creek offers a little taste of country living. The Rose Pedaler, a frontier-style, real log cabin that houses visitors and tourists year-round, sits just southeast of town. The Rose Pedaler features an old-fashioned interior with wooden furniture and a wooden spiral staircase. It

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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

OUT AND ABOUT: AUSTIN COFFEE SHOPS

What’s brewing: Many options for favorite fall coffees, teas Coffee House On Main

Gymocha Owners: Russell and Cynthia Pihlstrom Address: 1300 14th St NW Years of operation: 1 Hours: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Fridays; 7 a .m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday; 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sundays. Wifi availability: Yes ADH: Why is fall a good season for coffee, tea and other similar beverages? Pihlstroms: Fall is a good season for hot, comforting drinks.There is nothing better than a hot cup of coffee or tea on a crisp fall day. ADH: What are some good fall beverages? Pihlstroms: Hot chocolate,TeaSource spice tea, apple cider and white chocolate pumpkin spiced lattes ADH: What brand of coffee do you serve? Pihlstroms:We serve Peace Coffee. Our beans are all Fair Trade, organic and shade grown. They roast to order in Minneapolis. We order every week so our customers have the freshest beans possible.

Manager: Kyle Keenan Address: 329 North Main Years of operation: 17 Hours: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday; 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday; Closed Sunday Wifi availability: Yes ADH: What sets your coffee shop apart from others in town? Pihlstroms: There are many aspects that make Gymocha unique. We have a large building that seats 50 plus people, an outdoor patio, drive through and meeting room. We also have unique menu offerings that features fairtrade organic beans, fresh baked cookies, scones, breads, sandwiches and other goodies. All are offered at the drive through. We have awesome customers that are like no other. The relationships formed between employees and customers are amazing. We also feature an artist of the month and a crafter of the month. It is always exciting to showcase the talent of others around the area.

ADH: Why is fall a good season for coffee, tea and other similar beverages? Keenan: With the change to chilly weather, everyone wants to warm up with a hot chocolate, mocha, latte or gourmet black coffee. ADH: What are some good fall beverages? Keenan: Our customers have really enjoyed our cinnamon mochas, pumpkin spice coffee and chai tea. ADH: What brand of coffee do you serve? Keenan: Lavazza espresso, Gourmet Roastery coffees and beans.

ADH: What sets your coffee shop apart from others in town? Keenan: We are a locally, independentlyowned coffee shop located in a refurbished century-old building. We have lots of large tables for group seating and offer homemade pastries, gourmet sandwiches, (including our very popular chicken salad croissant and Packer panini). We also serve flavored coffees along with a light roast, dark roast and decaf coffee every day.

> BREWS continues on 32

Kitchen, Bath & Home Cabinetry Interior & Exterior Doors Mantels, Wainscot, Molding

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.

-DESIGN SHOWROOM800-804-3361 www.amyswainhearingcenters.com

Austin • Owatonna • Waseca

641/423-6922

3277 9th St SW z Mason City, IA Hours: Monday-Friday 8-5; Saturday by appointment www.woodharbor.com

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

OUT AND ABOUT: AUSTIN COFFEE SHOPS

The Brickhouse Coffee House

Caribou Manager: Julie Maloney, Hy-Vee manager Todd Hepler Address: 1001 18th Ave. N.W. Years of operation: 3 months Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 7 days a week Wifi availability: Yes ADH: Why is fall a good season for coffee, tea and other similar beverages? Maloney: As the season changes to cooler temperatures nothing better than a good hot turtle mocha, hot chai tea latte or just a wonderful cup of coffee to sit and relax by the fireplace and enjoy. ADH: What are some good fall beverages? Maloney: White chocolate pumpkin mocha, Chai tea latte, Hot cinnamon spice tea.

Owners: Gorman and Babadt Address: 412 Third Ave. Years of operation: 9 Hours: Vary Wifi availability: No. We like our guests to unplug and enjoy the peaceful ambience of The Brickhouse. ADH: What brand coffee do you serve? Maloney: We proudly brew Caribou coffee, a Minnesota based company. ADH: What sets your coffee shop apart from others in town? Maloney: Knowing that by the end of October 2011, caribou will be 100 percent Rainforest Alliance Certified, along with the love and passion that we have toward our coffee, and most of all the warm, inviting atmosphere we offer to all of our guests from our drive-up lane or the outdoor patio seating, to relaxing by the fireplace enjoying the TV or just a great conversation.

ADH: Why is fall a good season for coffee, tea and other similar beverages? Gorman and Babadt: Every season is a good season for coffee and tea. Ice it or drink it steamy, for your health or with some friends, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll make it tasty. ADH: What are some good fall beverages? Gorman and Babadt: Fresh brewed, hot, dark coffee and green tea. Lattes like salted caramel, pumpkin spice, pumpkin cheesecake, chai tea, or steamed milk with your favorite flavor combinations.

Continued from Page 31 â&#x20AC;˘ See more on Page 33

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

ADH: What brand coffee do you serve? Gorman and Babadt: We serve coffee from a local artisan roaster: Great River Roasters out of Pepin, Wis. ADH: What sets your coffee shop apart from others in town? Gorman and Babadt: History (a rare commodity in Austin). The original Brickhouse building was built in 1858, the year Minnesota became a state. Variety: We have more than 40 different flavored Torani syrups for you to try and mix and match in your latte, brewed coffee, tea, Italian soda or steamed milk. Culinary delights: Gourmet sandwiches, salads, soups and sweet treats. Private parties: We customize menus to accommodate the event, from showers, reunions, groom dinners to birthdays and meetings.

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

OUT AND ABOUT: AUSTIN COFFEE SHOPS

This dog and the animals at the Mower County Humane Society could soon have a new home.

Morning Grind Owners: Brian & Daneen Theobald Address: 301 1st Ave. SW Years of operation: 7 years Hours: Monday to Friday: 5:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Sunday: Closed Wifi availability: No ADH: Why is fall a good season for coffee, tea and other similar beverages? Theobalds: When school starts and the weather turns cooler, it seems that there is comfort found in a nice warm cup of coffee. Although we do have an extensive cold smoothie and coffee beverage line, fall still seems to bring in more customers. ADH: What are some good fall beverages? Theobalds: Chai Tea is always very popular. We also have many fall flavors for lattes & coffees, such as; pumpkin spice, cinnamon, gingerbread, maple spice & a few others. We carry quite a large selection of sugar free flavors as well. However, when in doubt nothing beats a good cup of plain ol' coffee.

—Herald file photo

Looking forward to a new home ADH: What brand of coffee do you serve? Theobalds: We get our roasted beans from a roaster in Edina, Minn., Roaster 7. We have been serving their coffees for approximately four years now. ADH: What sets your coffee shop apart from others in town? Theobalds: We were and still remain the only drive thru coffee "house" in Austin. We do business from our 120-year-old house on one of Austin's oneways. Many of our customers have been faithful since we opened in February 2004. We know them, their families and most importantly, how they like their coffee. We are family owned and family run, which we feel is pretty unique and important.

Continued from Page 32

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

By Trey Mewes Mower County Humane Society volunteers are planning for the future. Volunteers are about to go public with a fundraising campaign for a new animal shelter. They’ve got the land, a decent amount of money and now all they need is public support. “It’s extremely exciting,” said Jane Roden, MCHS vice president. MCHS volunteers have long known their current shelter isn’t equipped for the needs of the ani-

mals they rescue. More than 100 cats and about 20 to 25 dogs have become the normal population size at the animal shelter, the result of unwanted pets and feral births. Yet volunteers weren’t serious about a new shelter until around May, when they discussed what it would take to make a new shelter a reality. That’s why volunteers are busy drawing plans for a new shelter, though nothing has been completed yet. Volunteers are still researching how much a new shelter will cost, and what necessities are required to make a good shelter.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

Grand Meadow: Decades of history Heading to bluff country from Austin? You’ll likely pass through Grand Meadow, home to some serious history — not only Mower County history, but Minnesota History. That history is the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Hall, a historic meeting place for Civil War Veterans that was built in 1891. The facility, near downtown Grand Meadow, is one of only two GARs left in Minnesota and features some artifacts from that era. Thanks to local Girl and Boy Scouts, the facility is restored to the shape it is in today and can be toured by the public with reservations.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

To arrange a tour of the GAR Hall, please contact the Mower County Historical Society at (507) 437-6082. Like trains? Well, there are some smaller ones in Grand Meadow — much smaller. The Railrunners Railroad Club has a full room dedicated to scale model trains. Its track features working lights, sounds, industrial yards and more. The club meets every Wednesday during the day in their leased building at the Grand Meadow business center. —Austin Daily Herald

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

1868

1887

www.usbank.com

301 North Main Street • Austin, MN 55912

1912

1913

Lawnboy, Toro, STIHL, Hustler Turf Equipment

PARTS, SALES & SERVICE

507-433-8245

104 Main Street • Rose Creek, MN 55970

1930

1929

1917

C.O. Brown Insurance Agency Agents: Joshua Torgerson Celeste Krause

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

1930

201 West Oakland Avenue • Austin, MN

433-2355

www.justcallhome.com

1940

WE WELCOME NEW PATIENTS!

437-4561

Member FDIC

1952

Preventive Family Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening, Dental Implants, Sedation Dentistry, STOP SNORING • Sleep Enhancement

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

Over 50 years of Experience Sand & Gravel • Fill Sand Limestone Washed Sand • Mason Sand • Pea Rock Hot Mix • Top Soil • Decorative Stone

BITUMINOUS PAVING ROADS & DRIVEWAYS

373-1960 Albert Lea

433-1819 Austin

WWW.ULLAND.COM

125 4th Ave NE • 434-0934 or toll free 866-434-0934 For a Calendar of Events Please Visit www.paramounttheatre.org

DRS. ELROD, GREEN & HYLAND, D.D.S

1920

DOZING • GRADING • FREE ESTIMATES COMMERCIAL SITE GRADINGS

“Austin’s Premier Performing Arts Center & Gathering Place”

Originated by Dr. Swift

Sargeant 103 Main Street Sargeant, MN 55973 Phone: 507-477-2112 sargeant@ffmbank.com

Austin 128 North Main St. Austin, MN 55912 Phone: 507-433-3473

Your policy comes with an agent!

Serving our members financial needs for over 80 years.

1934

Brownsdale 106 W. Main St. Brownsdale, MN 55918 Phone: 507-567-2219 browns@ffmbank.com

Greg L. Meyer 1946

Insurance

Providing Insurance and Financial Services

1110 First Avenue SW • Austin, MN

507-433-3489

1959

1964

1967

1969

800 First Avenue SW • Austin

507-437-8208

www.eghdds.com

1965

Austin, MN

Commercial & Residential Asphalt Paving

Daily Lunch & Evening Specials

437-4135

307 West Oakland Ave. Austin AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

Seal Coating Parking Lot Sweeping & Striping

GERARD ACADEMY For emotionally & behaviorally challenged adolescents.

433-1843 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

1969

1971

507-437-7519

www.hormelnaturecenter.org

1976

1973 Mower Council

For The Handicapped

507-433-9609

111 North Main Street, Austin, MN

1970

1974

Locally Owned & Operated

Free Estimates

The Exhaust Specialists

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

1978

1979

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

405 East Main Street • Blooming Prairie • (507) 583-2141 1170 East Frontage Road • 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

1981

Development Corporation of Austin

Online Ordering Coming Soon!

507-437-3249 421 North Main Street

1984

Total Hair Care Barber, Beauty & Massage Cathy Murphy • Deb Morgan • Marv Streiff

507-433-5122 301 1st Avenue NW • Austin, MN

1988

1992 507-433-7023

Daily Happy Hour 4-7pm

Serving Food Daily 11am-2pm & 5pm-9pm

2000 8th Street NW • Austin, MN 507-437-2400

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

1982

433 10th Street NE

329 North Main Street, Suite 106L Austin, Minnesota

1979

Hiawatha Bar

1992

www.austindca.org

433-2264

Certified Public Accountants

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

House of

1988

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

CPA

The CPA. Never Underestimate the Value.

MN LP LIC # 038716-PM

VOTED BEST PIZZA 8 YEARS IN A ROW

1987

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

1975

www.crc.coop

1995 Dr. Joseph P. Ray

Grand Meadow

FAMILY DENTIST

Healthcare Center

(507) 582-3563 ADAMS DENTAL CLINIC

1996

407 LINCOLN STREET NW • ADAMS, MN

and The Meadows Assisted Living ...because the journey matters.

HOME (507) 582-1019

210 E. Grand Ave • PO Box 365 • Grand Meadow, MN

Dental Care with a personal touch

(507) 754-5212 (Tealwood facility since 1996)

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

LOOKING FORWARD: WINTER HAPPENINGS

One season away

WINTER CALENDAR

By Amanda Lillie Snow will soon be falling in place of colorful leaves, and with snow comes winter and holiday events throughout the city. Cheryl Corey, executive director of the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), said this winter will see family-oriented events, festivals and holiday concerts. “The Austin community invites visitors from far and away to come for our wonderful, family-oriented Christmas events,” Corey said. “There is truly something for all ages as we celebrate the holidays in a big way.” Of course, Austin’s annual Christmas in the City celebration will be in full swing at the end of November. Corey said Tuba Christmas will be presented again for its second year in early December. However, the CVB is still looking for people who play tuba, sousaphone, baritone and euphonium. “From inspiring holiday concerts to lighting displays to dances or bake sales, you will be able to get in the holiday spirit by attending any of them,” she said. “We encourage you to take all of these events in this year.”

A little boy tells Santa what he wants for Christmas during the 2010 Christmas in the City. The annual seasonal kickoff will return Nov. 25. — Herald file photo

1996

Nov. 5 — Benefit concert for youth music program at the St. Olaf Church. Contact the church at 433-8857 for details and times. Nov. 10-12 — 24th Annual Christmas Open House at the Hormel Historic Home. Contact the Historic Home at 433-4243 for details and times. Nov. 23 — Austin Big Band’s annual Thanksgiving Eve Dance at the American Legion. Call Nathan Wradislavsky, Big Band organizer, at 271-5745 for details. Nov. 25 — Christmas in the City kickoff downtown. Call the Chamber of Commerce at 437-4561 for more details. Nov. 25 - Dec. 31 — Austin Festival of Lights at Jellystone Park from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. each evening. Dec. 3 — Second Annual Merry Tuba Christmas at 1 p.m. at the Oak Park Mall center court. The concert is free. Dec. 9 - 10 — Christmas in the County at the Mower County Historical Society. On Dec. 9, there will be a bake sale from 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 10 will include holiday crafts and a lighting display.

1997

Specializing In Finding Employees For Your Business

117 4th Ave NE, Austin 433-5570 *Clerical *Seasonal *Construction *General labor *Temporary *Permanent

1999

2003

Blecker Realty, Inc.

2003

& Auction Service

1106 1st Ave SW, Austin • 433-3536 143 West Clark, Albert Lea • 379-9009 “Better Call Blecker”

DAVE’S LAWN CARE

2004

2005

LAWN AERATION • POWER RAKING MOWING & EDGING SPRING & FALL CLEANUP DAVE DONAHUE Ph: 507-567-2689 Cell: 507-438-3975 Brownsdale, MN

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD: MOWER COUNTY BOARD

Shakeup in Public Health

Potential move, merger may be in board’s future By Trey Mewes

Despite four commissioners serving their first full terms and two in their first year, the county board hasn’t shied away from big decisions.

Looking Back Recently, the county board has focused on trimming costs. One big move came when the board combined Human Services and the Highway Department to form Public Works. “It shows an effort by the board to run more efficiently,” County Coordinator Craig Oscarson said. Though there will always be new things to learn, Oscarson said Commissioners Jerry Reinartz and Tony Bennett have come a long way in their first year. “I think they’re well ahead of the curve,” he said.

Tim Gabrielson

Raymond Tucker

Jerry Reinartz

Tony Bennett

Mike Ankeny

Craig Oscarson

1st District, chairman 507-433-2598 tim@mowercounty commissioner.com

2nd District 507-584-6767 tuckercompany @frontiernet.net

3rd District 507-219-2205 jerry@reinartz appraisals.com

4th District 507-440-1203 tony @robsp.com

5th District, vice-chair 507-433-4157 mlankeny@ankenys minimart.com

County Coordinator 507-437-3549 coscarson @co.mower.mn.us

Looking Forward The board has similar decisions on the horizon. With the recent resignation of Public Health Director Margene Gunderson, the board will study whether it’s a viable and efficient option to combine Public Health and Human Services. Once that decision is made,

the board will also be looking at whether to move the offices, currently located at Oak Park Mall, back downtown. Even if the board decides to move the offices downtown, it’s still ripe with complications. The board will have to decide when to remodel the vacant space in the government cen-

ter. Do they do it now, when Oscarson said taxpayers are strapped, but construction prices and interest rates are low. Or, does the board wait until the economy improves, but the project would cost more over time. “It’s a tough decision for the board,” Oscarson said.

After more than 20 years in Mower County, Gunderson is leaving her role as director of Public Health to take a job as one of four associate directors of Public Health in Olmsted County. As Public Health director, Gunderson has been one of the community’s key proponents of health. A new Margene full-time director won’t Gunderson be appointed right away — if at all. The county board appointed Nursing Supervisor Lisa Kocer as interim director, so the board can discuss whether to merge Public Health with Human Services.

MEMBER

FDIC

Huseby Insurance

First American Insurance

Heartman Insurance

Sterling State Insurance

R&R Insurance

Security Insurance

507-582-3253 Adams, MN

507-567-2279 Brownsdale, MN

507-437-3282 Austin, MN

507-583-7971 Blooming Prairie, MN

507-553-4486 Stewartville, MN

507-451-3450 Owatonna, MN

First American United Prairie Insurance Insurance

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011

507-437-4503 Austin, MN

507-373-6446 Albert Lea, MN

Harmony State Agency 507-886-2100 Harmony, MN

AUSTIN DAILY HERALD - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE

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.