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GREENER DAYS AHEAD Great golf happens on great courses. And courses don’t get better than the ones on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. With 11 locations, 26 courses and more than 400 championship holes, the toughest challenge may be deciding which one to play first.

Our golf courses and staff are ready to welcome you back to the legendary RTJ Golf Trail.

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2 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

FEATURE S JULY 2020 Volume 15, Issue 7

The Free Press

16

Simply the best Our annual Best of Mankato issue is here …

Just in time to take your mind off the mayhem in the world

ABOUT THE COVER Each year for our annual Best of Mankato issue we choose one of our winners for the cover.

This time we choose photographer Christy Bode. She was photographed by Pat Christman.

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 3

DEPARTMENTS 6 From the Editor 8 This Day in History 9 Avant Guardians Jenny Haugen

9

10 Beyond the Margin

Sign, sign, everywhere a sign

12 Familiar Faces

Lindsey Nicole Schaefer

14 Day Trip Destinations Bike trails

10

50 Let’s Eat!

The Knotty in Elysian

52 Community Draws Biking

55 Beer

July Beer Sail Set for Off-sale

56 Country Minutes

12

50

Dogs of Oshawa, part 6

58 Garden Chat

Quarantine thoughts on gardening

60 From This Valley

The annual Steinie Awards

Coming in August

52 4 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

58

Evaluating Mankato’s singles scene.

We are Honored to be voted #1 Best of Mankato. We’d like to acknowledge our wonderful clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and most importantly our amazing team members who make what we do possible. Thank You!

DeMars Construction

www.demarsgc.com

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 5

FROM THE ASSOCIATE EDITOR

By Robb Murray JULY 2020 • VOLUME 15, ISSUE 7 PUBLISHER Steve Jameson EDITOR Joe Spear ASSOCIATE Robb Murray EDITOR CONTRIBUTORS Bert Mattson Diana Rojo-Garcia Jean Lundquist Kat Baumann Dan Greenwood Nicole Helget Pete Steiner Grace Brandt Katie Roiger

PHOTOGRAPHERS Pat Christman PAGE DESIGNER Christina Sankey ADVERTISING Danny Creel SALES Jordan Greer-Friesz Josh Zimmerman Marianne Carlson Theresa Haefner ADVERTISING Barb Wass ASSISTANT ADVERTISING Christina Sankey DESIGNERS CIRCULATION Justin Niles DIRECTOR

Mankato Magazine is published by The Free Press Media monthly at 418 South Second St., Mankato MN 56001.

To subscribe, call 1-800-657-4662 or 507-625-4451. $35.40 for 12 issues.

For editorial inquiries, call Robb Murray at 344-6386, or e-mail rmurray@mankatofreepress.com.

For advertising, call 344-6364, or e-mail advertising@mankatofreepress.com.

6 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

A well-deserved distraction

W

ell, the last few months have been a wild ride.

Heck, the last few years have been a wild ride.

In an age where we were already more divided than ever politically, a new threat came to our world.

The coronavirus pandemic emerged earlier this year and transformed our lives like nothing else has. In short order, we came together to stay apart. Social distancing has been difficult for a tightly knit community such as this one, but we’ve been doing it.

Wearing masks hasn’t been a joy either. But we all powered through our initial apprehensions — it’s a hassle, it’s awkward, it feels funny, where does one even obtain a mask? — and today mask wearing has become the norm. On any trip to the grocery store, you’ll find more people wearing masks than not. (I was lucky enough to have a friend make me a pair out of University of Wisconsin fabric … and then my son absconded to Madison with them both. Thanks, Sam. #SMH.) COVID-19’s toll has been especially hard in the Twin Cities, with 9,500 and 1,500 cases in Hennepin and Ramsey counties, respectively. But southern Minnesota hasn’t escaped.

Between Blue Earth and Nicollet counties, there were more than 250 cases as of early June. Statewide, more than 1,200 people have died.

And then, as if things weren’t bad enough, a few weeks ago an old threat let us all know that our failure to deal with systemic racism is still getting black Americans killed at alarming rates. Minnesota became ground zero for the largest worldwide protest movement since the 1960s. The killing of George Floyd, a black man, by a white Minneapolis police officer has prompted unprecedented unrest. It started on the streets of Minneapolis as angry citizens

erupted in protest marches and violence. A Minneapolis Police Department precinct building was destroyed and hundreds of others were damaged and looted.

Soon similar protests took place around the country. Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago and New York City, among others, all saw major protests.

But it wasn’t just big cities.

Even cities the size of Mankato (and smaller) organized mostly peaceful protests. More than a thousand people, police say, gathered on Veterans Bridge in Mankato and at the Mankato Law Enforcement Center to speak out against police treatment of the black community.

In the midst of all this, it seems almost silly to bring you our Best of Mankato issue. While it is true the issue remains our most popular, it’s also true that, at the end of the day, in light of recent events, its significance seems a bit neutered.

But we’d like you to consider this: In a world that seems like it’s been turned upside down and where profound, deep wounds have been reopened, maybe a list like this is just what we need right now. Maybe a celebration of our community’s people, businesses, restaurants and retailers is the perfect distraction — if only for a few minutes. We hope so.

We want to sincerely thank everyone who took part in the Best of Mankato voting. It means a lot to us and to everyone nominated, and it truly helps us celebrate the best of southern Minnesota.

Robb Murray is associate editor of Mankato Magazine. Contact him at 344-6386 or rmurray@ mankatofreepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @freepressRobb.

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JULY 2020 • 7

THIS DAY IN HISTORY Compiled by Jean Lundquist

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Bright Colors! Bright Ideas!

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10th anniversary of the Bend of the River Festival July 2, 1986 The Bend of the River Festival was a weekslong celebration in the Mankato area for several years. On the 10th anniversary, there were some traditional elements and some new elements. Here are just a few: Golf Tournament and Social at Minneopa Golf Club BMX Bicycle Race Radio-controlled model airplane demonstration by the Bald Eagle Club Farmers’ Markets at Old Town Plaza and Madison East Center Watercraft Parade on Lake Washington with prizes for most Patriotic, Prettiest, Most Humorous and Most Unusual Buttons were available for $2 each and were good for discounts at several area merchants, plus prize drawings. A commemorative set was available for $5.

Capitol Days in St. Peter July 3, 1964 St. Peter was to become the capital of the State of Minnesota until a scoundrel made off with the paperwork, and St. Paul won the honor and the Capitol building was built there. But St. Peter residents always have been proud of their “almost the home of the state Capitol” status. Capitol Days was celebrated for two days in 1964, culminating with a giant parade Sunday afternoon with 10,000 onlookers. A new Miss Capitol Days was crowned, and it was 17-year old Ann Martell. Ann was the daughter of the Martells who owned and operated the Holiday House just outside of St. Peter. She went on to attend Gustavus Adolphus College and then to marry John Denver, who wrote the hit song “Annie’s Song” for her.

The circus returns – at last July 7, 1982 After a two-decade hiatus, the Carson and Barnes Circus visited Le Sueur, and on a Tuesday drew 4,000 people. There were elephants, lions and tigers (no bears, it was noted), plus a camel, a rhinoceros and a giraffe. There were giant snakes on display and performers of all sorts coaxing people out of their money. The show was set up in the Le Sueur airport for just one day. The day before the circus performed in Hutchinson and the day after in Faribault. The circus had a one-show-per town/day schedule for eight months of the year.

Sleepy Eye Jubilesta parade set July 24, 1958 Long known for its musical units, the 1958 Jubilesta parade was set to offer the most ever. Corps were coming from all areas of Minnesota, plus Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Floats, clowns, saddle clubs and majorettes with the bands were scheduled to strut their stuff Sunday afternoon through the town, along with the Schell’s Hobo Band and other oompah bands. With a centennial theme, many queens representing area towns were expected to attend. And, of course, there was a midway with attractions from Merriam shows. The celebration was to start Friday night and end after the parade on Sunday.

DOGGONE IT

A late addition from last month’s pet issue.

Stacy and Lisa Ohme - Jaden Ann

AVANT GUARDIANS

By Leticia Gonzales

Vocal work

Jenny Haugen stays busy with gigs, education

J

enny Haugen’s career in music is limitless. It ranges from being an adjunct music professor and voice instructor at Martin Luther College in New Ulm, a voice instructor at Mankato’s Bethany Lutheran College, a private voice instructor at Jenny Haugen Voice Studio and soprano soloist.

“Music, singing specifically, has everything that I love intertwined within it: melody, harmony, poetry, drama, complex human emotions, playfulness, physical connection to the body, and the science and health of how a voice works and what keeps it working,” Haugen said. “It’s fascinating to me, and I can’t believe this is what I get to do with my time every day.”

Haugen received a Bachelor of Arts degree in music from Bethany Lutheran College in 2005 and also took voice-specific courses at Minnesota State University.

“After I graduated, I traveled to Greve-in-Chianti, Italy, for The Daniel Ferro Vocal Program where I was able to continue learning and singing.”

Following the program, she participated in a summer voice program in Minneapolis called The Wesley Balk Opera/Music-Theater Institute.

“This program is what officially ‘turned my head’ to singing,” Haugen said. “Instead of looking at singing as a static art form with set yeses or noes, I was shown how one can be playful and dig into the meaning of each role or song, no matter the genre. It was so exciting, fresh and fun to play with classical music, and the result was better than before.”

Haugen then received a Master of Music in vocal performance from Boston Conservatory in 2010.

“The genres that I focused on were within the classical area— art songs from various eras, opera, operetta and oratorio.”

She has since spent most of her time teaching students one-on-one.

“The level of students that I teach varies since the majority of my students are not pursuing music degrees but are looking to improve their skills,” she said. “Because of the fact that each student coming in has different talents and backgrounds, it makes my teaching day constantly varied. My day could be filled with ear training, breathing exercises with a straw, teaching how to sing in French or Russian, interpreting a poem and a student beginning the learning of how to read music.”

As a performer, Haugen said

her preferred genres are classical art song, opera, oratorio, jazz, and musical theater. She also gravitates toward songs “that have surprising harmonies, complex but beautiful melodies, and text that is chock-full of emotion and meaning.”

“In addition, if the meaning and emotion isn’t obvious at first read, it receives extra points.” Haugen said.

“A beautiful song sung well is good, but a beautiful song sung with a backstory, personality and unfettered emotion is endlessly better.”

As a member of the Blue River Combo, jazz and musical theater have become newer performing genres for Haugen. She is also working on a communication and connection themed-recital as part of a grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, featuring voice and piano, tentatively scheduled for February 2021 in New Ulm and Mankato.

“The idea of communication and connection came out of the gravitational pull of songs that sounded like an intimate letter or a prayer or a passionate monologue,” she said. “These points of view are most interesting because it’s where we hear what a person is really feeling and thinking.”

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 9

BEYOND THE MARGIN

By Joe Spear

“Sign, sign, everywhere a sign Blockin’ out the scenery, breakin’ my mind Do this, don’t do that, can’t you read the sign?”

T

he Five Man Electrical Band won international acclaim in 1971 for its song “Signs.”

It’s a brilliant and playful little ditty that spoke to a whole generation that was getting over the ‘60s but embraced the challenging of authority those years represented.

Pyschologist E.S. Geller, who has been published in Psychology Today and other prestigious journals, has determined effective signs: (1) are displayed in close proximity to the point of action of the requested behavior (2) they specifically state what behavior is desired or describe alternative behaviors (3) the requested behavior is relatively convenient and (4) the prompt is presented in a polite, non-demanding language.

But signs also tell a story of the places they hang. You can find those stories in and around Mankato.

“And the sign said long haired freaky people need not apply.”

Down at the Once Read Bookstore on South Front Street, owner Mark Hustad offers readers myriad options to explore books from the music of the 1960s to the Cold War of the 1980s.

But should you enter, there are certain expected behaviors. There are “prompts” and signs, though some may be beyond the margin of presentation in a “polite, nondemanding manner.”

A sign in the window reads “Fight Prime Time. Read a book.”

A sign with a slash through a circle with the words “cell phone talk” sticks on the front door.

My favorite is a hand-written sign as an ode to the Mitt Romney campaign: “We’ll know corporations are people when Texas executes one.”

“The sign said anybody caught trespassing will be shot on site.”

10 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

Trespassing laws in Mankato seem mainly aimed at skateboarders. There are at least three signs prohibiting skateboarding downtown.

There was one at the Wells Fargo office on Second and Hickory streets. There was one in the back parking lot of the post office. And there is another multipurpose sign under the old Inn Town hotel building prohibiting

“loitering, skateboarding and rollerblading.”

But these signs don’t seem to have deterred skateboarders. I once saw a young man zooming down the middle of Second Street in strict defiance.

I guess the sign meant don’t skateboard on the sidewalk, but the street was OK. Skateboarders fight back.

“So I jumped on the fence and-a yelled at the house “Hey! What gives you the right?”

“To put up a fence to keep me out or to keep Mother Nature in” “If God was here he’d tell you to your face, man, you’re some kinda sinner.”

As kind of an answer to the no

skateboarding sign, the lawbreaker posted a god-looking like bearded man, blue face sticker right next to the “No skateboarding sign” at the post office.

“Now, hey you, mister, can’t you read?

You’ve got to have a shirt and tie to get a seat You can’t even watch, no you can’t eat You ain’t supposed to be here” Adhering to Geller’s principles of good signage, several prominent and large signs prohibit consumption of alcohol in a recreational facility’s parking lot in the Mankato zip code.

The proximity of the sign to the prohibited behavior couldn’t be closer, nor more often violated.

This particular recreational activity usually involves out-ofshape white men who mainly do this recreational activity so they can drink a beer with their buddies afterward.

So this sign isn’t working, according to Geller’s principles.

Still, they ain’t supposed to be here doing that.

“The sign said you got to have a membership card to get inside Ugh!” The fire alarm on the outside of the Earl Johnson furniture store downtown looks like a relic from an era gone by but offers its own bit of common sense with a sign underneath that says: “Anyone hearing this alarm, please call police or fire department.”

And skateboarders beware when they show up.

Joe Spear is editor of Mankato Magazine. Contact him at jspear@mankatofreepress.com or 344-6382. Follow on Twitter @jfspear.

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 11

Familiar Faces

Java Jive Fillin’ Station’s manager brings art to the shop

W Photo by Pat Christman

NAME:

Lindsey Nicole Schaefer Age: 28 Occupation:

Barista, Manager, & Art Coordinator of the Fillin Station Coffeehouse

Hometown: Fond du Lac, WI

Favorite Quote:

“Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness.

How do you know this is the experience you need? Because this is the experience you are having at the moment.”- Eckardt Tolle

Current Netflix Binge

The last true TV show binges were “Community” and “Midnight Gospel.” But lately I’ve been watching an array of random 2000s movies like “Moulin Rouge,” “A Knight’s Tale,” and “Donnie Darko.”

12 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

hen it comes to coffee in Mankato, consumers have many options.

But wherever you choose to fill your cup, you’re not likely to find a friendlier face than Lindsey Schaefer, manager at one of Mankato’s oldest java haunts, The Fillin’ Station.

Schaefer is the coffee shop’s manager, and prides herself on getting to know her customers and making them feel like family. She’s also responsible for making The Fillin’ Station a great place for artists to display their work.

Here’s more from Lindsey Schaefer, a Wisconsin transplant who plans on sticking around for a while.

Mankato Magazine: So you’ve been at the Fillin’ Station for a few years now. Is Coffee Shop work as glamorous as it seems?

Lindsey Schaefer: I don’t think I’d use the word “glamorous” since being a barista means being hot and sweaty behind multiple machines producing large amounts of steam, haha, but it is an art and a science that requires attention to detail and a genuine love for the product. I would say, there’s definitely an allure to being a barista. Perhaps that comes from the intimacy of the job. You see a lot of the same people and get to be a memorable part of their day. Whether a customer is coming in to meet up with a good friend, getting some productive work done, enjoying a moment to themself, or getting caffeinated-up right before the work commute, a barista helps get your day going with a treat that warms your soul. Who isn’t instantly happy after taking a sip of their favorite latte? Going to a coffee shop is always a treat and it’s fun being a facilitator of that.

MM: The Fillin’ Station has a lot of regulars. Tell us about the relationship you have with them and how they contribute to the “Fillin’ vibe.”

LS: Regulars are essential! They are the ones that keep small business alive! I love regulars! It’s great getting first timers, of course, but it’s the people that keep coming back I truly appreciate. I’m pretty introverted naturally so it can be anxiety inducing to make conversation with strangers (ha ha). But when you start seeing the same person over and over, to me there’s no choice but to allow your personal timelines to get crossed. You start

by memorizing their order, then you know their name, and eventually we start exchanging stories and we become connected. That connection creates such a sense of comfort and excitement when I see a regular passing through the door, like being a little kid looking out the window and grandma and grandpa just pulled up to the house! That comfy casual, safe, at-home, family-like feeling is absolutely a part of our vibe at the Fillin.

MM: How does the Fillin’ Station stay alive and kicking with all that corporate coffee out there?

LS: I feel that local independently owned coffee shops like the Fillin’ provide an authenticity that we as humans naturally seek. Most people who frequent coffee shops are themselves unique and interesting individuals who I think want to be in a space that invokes inspiration or intrigue. It’s just boring walking into a place with all white walls and identical signage that was printed and sent out to hundreds of other locations. Also, it probably comes back to that connection you get from being a “regular.” People really enjoy the sense of pride and ownership that comes from the intimacy of a smaller setting. They love feeling like it’s “their coffee shop” where everybody knows your name. Even if you think you’re a regular at a Starbucks, they’re still going to spell your name wrong hahaha. You aren’t just dollar signs to us. We value you as an individual human and I think it shows.

MM: What’s the most popular drink at the shop right now, and what is the trend right now in coffee drinks?

LS: Our most popular drink is the Vanilla Bee, which is one of our Top Ten flavored lattes with vanilla, honey, and cinnamon. It’s a classic, you really can’t go wrong with that one. A close second would be our Cold Press.

What’s been trending in the coffee scene over the last couple of years is non-dairy milks. And we have a great selection — almond, oat, coconut and soy.

MM: How do you feel about the downtown atmosphere right now? Is it getting better?

LS: The 600 block of South Front Street still needs more entrepreneurs, unique shops, and

ART that could flow into the 700 block. I think it’d be valuable for our community to lengthen the pedestrian journey from the 500 block all the way down South Front St. It is getting better! We have really great bone structure right now with some staple businesses like The Fillin’ Station, our friends over at Union Market and Sun Moon Yoga, and our newest friends across the street at PULP Comics, as well as some quirky shops like the Once Read Used Bookstore and Mystic Emporium, but there are still a few empty storefronts that would be nice to see filled with character rather than offices. I hope to see a revitalization similar to what’s recently happened in the Old Town District and perhaps extending the CityArt Sculpture Tour into our block.

MM: What brought you to Mankato and your job at the Fillin’ Station?

LS: I actually was considering going to Bethany Lutheran College and decided to go the public school route for my generals until I “knew what I wanted to do” and ended up getting my Bachelor of Fine Arts in watercolor painting from Minnesota State University.

I had always envisioned myself continuing on to graduate school but didn’t quite know what direction I wanted to go so I stuck around to gain some experiences. And that led me to the Fillin’. I was just looking for a job in general, but hoping for something I could still have some level of creativity in and at the time a friend who also was also in the art department at MSU with me had been the manager of the Fillin’ Station and he suggested I apply.

M M : Yo u ’ r e a l s o t h e a r t coordinator there. Tell us why you wanted to raise the profile of the coffee shop as a place where artists could display their work.

LS: Coffee and art are both some of the finer things in life and therefore go hand in hand. It just makes sense to me to have art in a coffeehouse! And although there had been some art displayed at the Fillin’ before my time, there just wasn’t a lot of energy put into it as a main facet of the Fillin’. It was more like decoration than a focal point. With our large walls I saw the potential to be a great addition to the gallery scene in Mankato. We do have a handful of formal galleries

which is fantastic, but it can be intimidating as a new artist to submit works to a formal gallery. So I wanted to make the Fillin’ a casual stress free opportunity for emerging artists to gradually step into the gallery scene. My favorite thing is observing artists that have been one of our Artists of the Month and see their progression whether its having their own formal exhibition at the 410, submitting works into the Emy Frenz and Carnegie, or seeing their art expand into a recognized brand, I love supporting and helping others get one step closer to their goals.

MM: Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people.

LS: Kinda going back to what brought me to Mankato … I was raised in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod and went to private Lutheran schooling my entire life until college, until MSU. And I LOVED everything I was exposed to in the public setting. Before transferring to MSU I spent my freshman year at Martin Luther College in New Ulm and had every intention to become a pastor’s wife.

But that wasn’t my path. It certainly may be a great path for someone else, but not me. And I’m so thankful I evolved. Now I am allowed to live in alignment with my true self and I feel so much more spiritually connected to others and this earth because of it. You cannot face this world unless you’re being your true self.

MM: Where will Lindsey Schaefer be in five years?

LS: I’m probably going to be here, in Mankato. I’ve grown to really feel at home here even though I wasn’t born and raised in Mankato. I am always open to the universe changing my course but at this point I plan to stay with the Fillin’ Station, maybe even take over ownership at some point. All I know for sure is I will continue being active in our community’s progression towards a thriving inclusive arts and cultural scene as well as improving environmental standards and policies in southern Minnesota. Who knows where those passions will place me!

Compiled by Robb Murray MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 13

DAY TRIP DESTINATIONS: Bike Trails

By Robb Murray

Root River Trail near Lanesboro. Photo credit: Wikipedia photo by Kstoerz

GEAR SWITCH Southern Minnesota is blessed with hundreds of miles of prime biking trails

W

hether you’re a seasoned bike hobbyist or just feel like you need to get away from all stress, turmoil and viruses in the world, hopping on a bike might be just the cure for what ails ‘ya.

Luckily, southern Minnesota’s got plenty of places to satisfy your needs (provided you’ve already strapped on your bike helmet, of course; we wouldn’t want you to be unsafe!)

If you’re living in the Mankato area, you no doubt know about the Red Jacket and Sakatah Singing Hills Trail. But if you’re willing to leave the immediate area, you’ll find there’s a world of exploring to do — and a lot of it within an hour or two from Mankato.

Click in. We’re taking off.

Casey Jones

Before you ask, yes, the Casey Jones Trail is named after the famous railroader who died in a railroad accident in Mississippi in 1900. But you’ll find no danger here, only tall pines, scenic views and wooded ravines.

14 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

The trail consists of three segments, the longest of which is 13 miles that sits on a former railroad line. Some of the trail is paved and some of it isn’t, which just adds to the feel of being whisked away to another time. The trail runs by Lake Shetek in southwestern Minnesota and surrounding sloughs.

Blazing Star

The Blazing Star trail may not be a big deal yet, but this trail, which runs for six miles between Albert Lea and Myre-Big Island State Park, is an up-and-comer.

When it’s done it will connect Albert Lea and Austin’s city trail

Don’t have a bike?

Not sure how to take your bike cross-country?

Here are some tips

N

Root River Trail Biking. Photo credit: Wikipedia photo by Kstoerz system. It offers great views of Albert Lea and Goose lakes, and includes both paved and unpaved sections.

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the Blazing Star trail runs through some of the best bird-watching territory in southern Minnesota.

Shooting Star

This trail features 20 miles of paved bikeway between LeRoy and Rose Creek, and runs through Lake Louise State Park.

The highlight of this trail is the abundance of wildflowers. Among the varieties you’ll see are: prairie smoke, rattlesnake master and wild indigo, sunflowers, asters, goldenrods, and blazing stars.

According to the DNR, “The trail passes by several additional interpretive/recreational opportunities, including Rustic Retreat Wildlife Management Area, Shooting Star Prairie Scientific and Natural Area, Taopi Prairie Interpretive Area, and Mower County Natural and Scenic Area.”

Douglas

This 12-mile trail begins near Rochester and cuts through acres of agricultural land.

Douglas Trail has two separate “treadways,” as they’re called: one for biking and hiking, and another for horseback riding and crosscountry skiing.

The trail goes through the town of Douglas, and ends at Pine Island.

Glacial Lakes

Biking this 22-mile trail, you’ll be able to visit the towns of Willmar, Spicer, New London and Hawick.

(When you’re in Spicer, stop at Little Melvin’s on Green Lake for a cold brew and tasty burger.)

This trail is known for its wildlife.

Along the way you’ll spot deer, fox, various birds, reptiles and butterflies.

Root River and Harmony-Preston Valley

The 42-mile Root River and Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail system — one of the state’s most popular — begins in Fountain and connects a series of quaint Minnesota towns, including Lanesboro.

This trail includes stunning views over river bluffs and ravines. If you love exploring the state on two wheels, this one should be on your bucket list.

Great River Ridge

Great River Ridge boasts 13 miles (soon to be 15) of paved trail. Like Root River, it’s got some stunning river bluff views.

This trail also has a parallel treadway that is used for horseback riding and snowmobiling in the winter.

Goodhue Pioneer

This trail is a work in progress but, when it’s complete, it’ll be a path more than 40 miles in length connecting a series of towns in southeast Minnesota.

A companion treadway for horseback and carriage riding connects with an equestrian trail system near Hay Creek.

ot everyone has a bike for touring the state’s bike trails. And even among those who do, most don’t have a bike rack for their vehicle.

Fear not.

While the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a run on bike sales and exercise equipment, things are starting to loosen up out there. If you’re looking for a decent bike or bike rack, try these local retailers:

n Nicollet South Bike Shop

One of the oldest and most trusted purveyors of bikes and accessories, Nicollet South can get you squared away with a new ride or whatever else you might need.

Nicolletbike.com (507) 399-9390 607 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato

n Scheels

Don’t let the corporate sheen fool you. Located in the River Hills Mall, Scheels has been a trusted source of quality bikes — and sporting goods and apparel of all kinds — for years. scheels.com (507) 386-7767 1850 Adams St., Mankato

n Key City Bike

This one’s a little different.

You can’t just walk into Key City Bike and buy something.

You have to earn the right to purchase through volunteering.

See their website for rules, and then grab a wrench! Do some good, earn some points, and eventually earn a bike.

Keycitybike.org (507) 304-1936 204 E. Vine St., Mankato

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 15

Simply The Free Press

BEST Photos by Pat Christman

A

nd so, here we are. Finally.

After months of preparation, countless hours of adjusting algorithms and weeks of hand-wringing and gnashing of teeth, we can finally bring you the results of the Best of Mankato contest. The results have been kept highly secret, known only to a select few Free Press Media accountants who, working in locked isolation, labored without sleep to meet a publication deadline, the results of which you’ll see on the following pages. As you can see this is very, very important stuff.

Seriously, though, we hope you enjoy our annual Best of Mankato issue. Please keep in mind that it’s really just a snapshot-in-time survey, and doesn’t mean that anyone who didn’t “win” isn’t very good at what they do.

We love all of our Mankato businesses and professionals. That said, we’re very proud of this issue, and thrilled for all the winners. You represent the best of southern Minnesota, and the Best of Mankato. MM

16 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

the

PEOPLE Architect/Engineer

1st Jeremy Wiesen, ISG 2nd Bryan, Paulson, ISG 3rd Adam Steinke, Strange Design

Financial Planner

1st Douglas Helget, Northwestern Mutual 2nd Ryan Spaude, Eide Bailly 3rd Matt Norland, Meyer & Norland Financial Group

Photographer

1st Christy Bode, Christy Bode Photography 2nd Gregg Anderson, Gallery 19 3rd Zak Rivers, Zak Rivers Photography

Auto Mechanic

1st Nick Zuehlke, Nick’s Car Care 2nd Lynn Austin, Austin’s Auto Repair Center 3rd Joe Miller, Joe Miller’s Modern Garage

Bartender

1st Jeni Bobholz, Circle Inn 2nd Peter Whiteman, Pub 500 3rd Daniel Marshall, Tav on the Ave

Insurance Agent

1st Steve Hasse, State Farm Insurance 2nd Aaron Hatanpa, Hatanpa State Farm Insurance 3rd Chris Willaert, Farmers Insurance

Local Musician/Band 1st IV Play 2nd Murphy Brothers Band 3rd Switchroad Band

Chiropractor

1st Keith Kuch, Kuch Chiropractic 2nd Mark Dehen, Back to Wellness Chiropractic Clinic 3rd Jennifer Stuvek, Aurora Chiropractic

Dentist

1st Dr. James J. Kalina, James J. Kalina DDS 2nd Dr. Daniel Osboda, Oz Family Dentistry 3rd Dr. Tom Pooley, River Valley Dental

Family Physician/ Primary Care Provider 1st Deb Schilling, PA-C, Mankato Clinic 2nd Chaun Cox, MD, Mayo Clinic Health Systems 3rd Katie Anderson, MD, Mankato Clinic

Newspaper Reporter

1st Robb Murray, The Free Press 2nd Shane Frederick, The Free Press 3rd Tim Krohn, The Free Press

Optometrist/ Ophthalmologist

1st Nataliya Danylkova, MD, Mankato Clinic 2nd George Lach, OD, Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic 3rd Matthew Downs, OD, Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic

Pediatrician

1st Katie Smentek, MD, Mankato Clinic 2nd Donald Putzier, MD, Mankato Clinic 3rd Brian Williams, MD, Mankato Clinic

Radio Personality

1st Stunt Monkey, Hot 96.7 2nd George and Jess in the Morning, Country 103.5 3rd Lisa Kaye, MN 93

Real Estate Agent

1st Angie Van Eman, American Way Realty 2nd Jen True, True Real Estate 3rd Shannon Beal, JBeal Real Estate Group

Television Anchorperson 1st Lisa Cownie, KEYC 2nd Mark Tarello, KEYC 3rd Stacy Steinhagen, KEYC

Waiter

1st Alberto Alonzo Lara, Mazatlan 2nd Daniel Marshall, Tav on the Ave 3rd Jake Petersen, Pub 500

Waitress

1st Rachel Schienke, Pub 500 2nd Meghan Peterson, Big Dog Sports Cafe 3rd Layla Pappas, Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 17

BEST HEALTH CARE PROVIDER: DEB SCHILLING

‘You laugh with them, and you cry with them’

D

eb Schilling, a physician assistant at North Mankato Clinic, estimates that she has a patient base of “several thousand” people—yet she still thinks of each of them like members of her family.

“You laugh with them, and you cry with them, and you give them hugs,” she said. “Right now, I can’t (because of COVID-19), and it’s driving me crazy because I’m such a hugger.”

Schilling grew up in the Twin Cities and earned her bachelor’s degree at Midwestern University in

Illinois. She has been a physician assistant-certified (PA-C) for 24 years, starting at a satellite office in Blue Earth before coming to North Mankato in 2002 (with a brief detour at Mayo).

As a family practice physician assistant, Schilling sees just about everyone. Her youngest patient was 4 days old, while her oldest

patient is 103. She helps patients with illnesses, injuries, mental health concerns, routine checkups, education and much more.

One of her biggest goals is to help her patients learn how to help themselves, she said.

“That’s what really drew me to the physician assistant versus being a medical doctor,” she said. “I like being able to have that time to get to know and educate and focus on the person. I love that aspect of helping our patients understand, ‘You’re taking this pill for this reason, and that’s why we want you to do it.’”

Winning the “best of” distinction is especially touching, she said, because she knows it was her patients who made it possible.

“To have this honor of people actually taking the time and voting (for me), that tells me that I make a difference to them.”

Safe, clean and ready to welcome you back!

11-5pm Tues-Sat St. Peter on 169 18 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER: CHRISTY BODE

Capturing moments in time

W

hen Christy Bode started her photography business in 2012, she only meant it to be a part-time gig in addition to her marketing career at Taylor Corporation. But two years later, her photography grew into a full-time opportunity.

“I was really drawn to child and family portraiture, capturing moments in time, wanting to take great images of my own children and somewhere along the way, someone asked me to take pictures of their kids, and the rest is history,” said Bode, who is married with three children.

While Bode started off capturing anything from weddings, engagements, pets and corporate events, her speciality is newborn

and maternity portraits. She has photographed nearly 700 newborns since 2012.

When scheduling a portrait session, Bode suggests being mindful of the time of day.

“I shoot a lot of family sessions just after sunrise, as kids are typically happiest in the morning and we can still get some great light at that time of day,” Bode shared.

When it comes to clothing, Bode said she has an ever-growing

collection of maternity gowns in her studio for expectant mothers to borrow during photo shoots.

“Clothing can be hard and stressful, something I hope to take a more active part in the future to help my clients out,” she said. “As for newborn sessions, I provide all of my families a prep guide that helps make for a sleepy baby as best we can and hopefully eases any worry they have about their upcoming session.”

Thank you for entrusting us with your pet’s care!

20765 Foley Rd., Mankato, MN | 507.387.2434 | 507.726.2411

Minnesota Valley Pet Hospital P.A. 1541 Adams Street. Mankato, MN

507-345-5900

www.mnvalleypet.com

399453-1001

Voted #1 Veterinary Hospital

Four Time National Award Winners

Thank you to all who voted for us! We appreciate your confidence and trust in our agency!

100 Warren Street Suite 204 507.387.4081 Katoins.com

Best of 2019 The Free Press

Mankato’s locally owned independent agency.

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 19

474 MARVIN BLVD, NORTH MANKATO MLS# 7023934 $229,900

BEST AUTO MECHANIC: NICK ZUEHLKE, NICK’S CAR CARE

Where car care is AUTOmatic 617 MARIE LANE, NORTH MANKATO MLS# 7022001 $584,900

1913 LEXINGTON LANE, NORTH MANKATO MLS# 7023742 $579,900

C

ustomer courtesy is the cornerstone of Nick’s Car Care, owner Nick Zuehlke says. That and, of course, excellent auto care.

Zuehlke opened his own car repair shop 10 years ago. Then, in 2013, he purchased The Muffler Center, and now houses both businesses under one roof at 215 West Mabel Street in Mankato.

The services offered now range from custom exhaust systems to state-of-the-art service for newer cars, older cars -- including classic cars, motorhomes and trailers, and even manlifts. “We can work on them all,” says Zuehlke.

Oil changes and brakes make up the bulk of business at Nick’s Car

Care. But, he says, he has carved out a niche working on classic cars.

“I like taking care of old cars,” says Zuehlke. “I have a few of my own.”

This portion of his business, he says, includes sometimes having to make parts for the vehicles when the part cannot be found.

Zuehlke takes pride in the fact that 70% of his business comes from word-of-mouth referrals. “We treat everybody the same … the way I’d want to be treated.”

The biggest challenge, says Zuehlke, is keeping up with the latest in auto repair. He says his staff of three, “including me,” takes classes and gets training “all the time.”

Thank you for your support!

141 KESTREL DRIVE, MANKATO MLS# 7023920 $749,900

SEE MORE LISTINGS AT

WWW.JBEALHOMES.COM

507-625-2021 20 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

BEST BAND: IV PLAY

IV Play keeps it fun

W

hen it comes to cover band IV Play’s philosophy on music, front man Tyler Dylla sums it up easily: “It’s all about the show.”

IV Play (pronounced—ahem— foreplay) has been around since 1998, formed by a group of high school students in Madison Lake.

Dylla, who was only in eighth grade at the time, recalled how they practiced in his garage and how his father acted as their manager—an especially important role because they wouldn’t have been legally allowed access into the bars where they performed otherwise.

“We were just buddies who got together,” Dylla said. “Things have really evolved and changed over 22 years.”

That’s a bit of an understatement, considering how IV Play now tours across the Upper Midwest and has been solidly booked every weekend

of the year. The band’s lineup has changed throughout the years (Dylla is the only original member), with six performers onstage and at least four crew members at every show—and there are a lot of shows. Dylla estimated the band had more than 150 performances last year, ranging from small venues such as Buster’s to town festivals that drew more than 2,000 audience members.

IV Play performs a variety of covers, ranging from country to

’80s rock. Band members are also batting around the idea of coming up with some original music in the near future, too.

But the biggest draw, Dylla said, is simply how fun their shows are.

“The band has really invested a lot into the production of putting on a live show,” he said. “There’s a lot more than just playing music.

We try to put on an event with it. I think that’s kind of the reason that we’ve been around for as long as we have.”

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 21

Thank You for voting Us one of the

Best Of MankatO!

We have the BEST Clients and Patients and appreciate all of you!

nicolletvet.com Nicollet Veterinary Clinic 1020 3rd St Nicollet, MN 56074 507-225-3401 Join the PetDesk app to make appointments and request your refills

BEST OPTOMETRIST/ OPHTHALMOLOGIST: NATALIYA DANYLKOVA

Sight plan

W

hen it comes to eyes and eye problems, Dr. Nataliya Danylkova has seen it all.

Her patients trust her for a wide range of issues, including macular degeneration, glaucoma and neuro ophthalmological disorders, cataracts, and eyelid surgeries.

“We are a very satisfying specialty because a lot of surgeries that we perform do restore patients’ vision,” Danylkova shared.

Danylkova originally trained as an ophthalmologist in Ukraine before finishing her residency at Northwestern University in Chicago. Although currently based in Mankato, Danylkova regularly travels to Africa as part of the Kenya Relief Program’s optometrist and ophthalmologist team.

“That’s another way to give back to the world community in helping people that don’t have the access to

MANKATO’S PET RESORT

507-625-7070

www.thepawmankato.com

eye care,” said Danylkova. “It takes them about twelve hours to get to the closest surgical facility, and most of them cannot get there because they don’t have any transportation.”

Her concern for all her patients near and far has made Danylkova a popular figure at the Mankato Clinic. On her part, Danylkova is grateful for the relationships she has gained during her six years of serving the Mankato area.

“Mankato is a small enough community that I can actually develop strong relationships with my patients,” Danylkova said. “It makes my practice much more meaningful.”

The Paw: 507-625-7070 Pet Expo: 507-625-2505

Boarding · Daycare · Grooming · Training · Swimming · Parties

Your voices have been heard!!

The Paw and Vanity Fur Family would like to THANK YOU, for voting us #1 Kennel & #2 Pet Grooming!

We hear each and every bark!

22 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

ONE OF MANKATO'S BEST JEWELRY STORES

Thank You FOR VOTING

DOWNTOWN MANKATO & ST. PETER | JULEESJEWELRY.COM

We Are Truly Grateful for Being Voted #1 in HVAC & Plumbing

Thank You For Putting Your Trust In Us

Front: Brooke, Chris, Peg, Keith, Greg, Julie; Middle: Monica, Wendell, Austin, Jared, Mike, Korey, Alex, Jay, Denise; Back: Jesse, Tim, Travis, Austin, Tayler, Rex, Paul, Lori, Mike

For 45 years your comfort has been our business! Heating • Cooling • Plumbing Northern Comfort offers heating, air conditioning and plumbing services to residential and commercial customers.

Call today for a FREE in-home estimate for any replacement work!

917 Southbend Ave | Mankato, MN

507-387-6596

www.NorthernComfortInc.com MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 23

SHOPPING Antiques

1st Salvage Sisters Mercantile 2nd Mankato Vintage Market 3rd Pond Road Market

Automotive Dealership (New Vehicle) 1st Mankato Motors 2nd Luther Mankato Honda 3rd Snell Motors

Automotive Dealership (Used Vehicle) 1st Mankato Motors 2nd Heintz Toyota of Mankato 3rd Lager’s of Mankato

Bridal Shop

1st Inspire Bridal Boutique 2nd Valerie’s Bridal 3rd The Silhouette

Children’s Clothing 1st Bumbelou 2nd Old Navy 3rd Kohl’s

Grocery Store

1st Hy-Vee 2nd St. Peter Food Co-op 3rd Cub

Home Entertainment/ Electronics 1st DeGrood’s Home Store 2nd Best Buy 3rd Sam’s Club

Home Improvement Store 1st Menards 2nd Home Depot 3rd C & S Supply

24 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

Place to Buy Furniture

Independent Boutique/ Shop

1st Mainstream Boutique 2nd Salvage Sisters Mercantile 3rd Creekside Boutique

Jewelry Store

1st Kay Jewelers 2nd Exclusively Diamonds 3rd Julee’s Jewelry

Liquor Store

1st MGM Wine & Spirits 2nd Sam’s Club 3rd Joseph’s Liquor

Meat Market

1st Schmidt’s Meat Market 2nd Hy-Vee 3rd Mocal’s Super Market

Men’s Clothing

1st J. Longs 2nd Graif Clothing 3rd Scheels All Sports

Nursery/Garden

1st Drummers Garden Center & Floral 2nd Hilltop Florist & Greenhouse 3rd Edenvale Nursery

Place to Buy Appliances 1st DeGrood’s Home Store 2nd Menards 3rd Quality Appliance & TV

1st Rooms & Rest 2nd Johnson Furniture & Mattress 3rd Covered Bridge Furniture

Place to Buy a Mattress 1st Mankato Mattress Man 2nd Slumberland 3rd Rooms & Rest

Place to Buy Pool/Spa Supplies

1st Sawatzky Pools and Spas 2nd Sweet Living Pools & Spas 3rd Midnight Sun Spas

Power Sports/ATV/ Motorcycle 1st Mankato Motorsports 2nd Benny’s Powersports 3rd Starr Cycle

RV Dealer

1st Kroubetz Lakeside Campers & Motors 2nd Keepers RV Center 3rd Gag’s Camper Way

Thrift/Consignment Shop

1st MVAC Again Thrift & More 2nd Goodwill 3rd MRCI Thrift Store

Tire Dealers

1st Discount Tire 2nd Mankato Oil & Tire 3rd Tire Associates

Women’s Clothing 1st Kohl’s 2nd Maurices 3rd TJ Maxx

BEST BRIDAL SHOP: INSPIRE BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

The experience she deserves

B

rittany Jones, owner of Inspire Bridal Boutique in St. Peter, knows that buying a wedding dress is more than just making a financial transaction—it’s about the experience.

“We’re not sales-based at all,” Jones said. “Obviously, we want to sell things, but our actual goal is to make sure that the bride gets her bridal experience that she deserves.”

Jones took over ownership of Inspire Bridal Boutique three years ago after working there for about a year and falling in love with the industry. She has about six parttime employees, and she recently opened a second location in New Ulm. Her bridal gowns cost from $900 to $2,700, and she finds them by

attending bridal events twice a year. She keeps an eye on what’s trending and balances that with what her brides have been requesting lately. Right now, she said a trend she’s noticed is minimalist dresses that don’t feature much lace or sparkle.

However, more traditional gowns with much more embellishment are still “just as popular as ever,” she added.

“Every bride is so different. It really depends on the person that

walks in the door.”

A typical bridal appointment at Inspired lasts between two to four hours, and Jones said her priority is simply to help brides figure out what they truly want.

“Sometimes, they (hit it) right on the doornail, and sometimes they’re off,” she said. “We just keep going back to the inventory and helping them navigate through things. We take the pressure off of making decisions.”

Thank you all for your continued support!

(507)625-4647

Hwy 22 South (east on 200th St.), Mankato www.Keepersrv.com

Come and See the New RVs for 2020

Celebrating 57 Years in Business

Silverback • NuCamp • Cedar Creek • Cottage • Flagstaff • Catalina • Little Guy

Mon-Fri 8-5 Sat 9-3

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 25

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING: BUMBELOU

One-of-akind originals

I

ERICKA MIKKELSON REALTOR@

(507) 469-5323

"I hold the keys to your happiness!"

Ericka@C21LandmarkRealtors.com www.C21LandmarkRealtors.com 931 Madison Ave | Mankato, MN 56001 LIC: 40674839

EACH OFFICE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

26 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

f designing their own custom babywear wasn’t enough to make them special, Bumbelou Baby and Children’s Boutique also claims the distinction of an allwomen staff – most of whom are mothers themselves.

“It’s wonderful!” said Bumbelou of her talented staff. “We’re like a small family. We’re supportive of each other.”

Bumbelou began in Odegard’s home as a micro manufacturer of children’s clothing. When her daughters were younger, Odegard loved dressing them in handmade outfits with matching hair accessories and soon found other mothers who wanted her pieces.

Her Mankato and New Ulm storefronts first offered custom babywear and expanded to include boutique baby clothes and toys.

“We really try to offer a different take on kids and babies for our community,” Odegard said. “I don’t like to carry a brand. We want people to come here and find something unique.”

Bumbelou’s signature line is still Odegard’s custom creations. The team does everything from designing the fabric, sewing the pieces, and shipping them locally and worldwide. Thanks to the hands-on process, every Bumbelou original is truly one-of-a-kind.

“You literally cannot find the Bumbelou pieces anywhere else,” Odegard said.

Besides their exclusive selection, Bumbelou’s “best children’s clothing” win most likely has a lot to do with the store atmosphere.

Odegard and her team consider every customer a potential friend and aim to make each store visit more than a simple shopping experience.

“We often get to hear about who’s just meeting a milestone with their baby,” Odegard said. “We get to celebrate those things with our customers and it’s really fun.”

Thank you from all BEST BEST of us for your AUTO BODY continued support! AUTO REPAIR SHOP SHOP

ThaYnoku FOR VOTING US ONE OF MANKATO’S BEST BANK OR CREDIT UNION & PLACE TO GET A MORTGAGE

GREATER MANKATO’S COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION SINCE 1934

POWER EQUIPMENT

WE ARE HONORED TO BE RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE TOP BANKS OR CREDIT UNIONS FOR THE LAST 8 YEARS. WE ARE GOING TO WORK EXTRA HARD TO REGAIN OUR #1 SPOT IN 2021.

2013 – 1ST 2014 – 2ND 2015 – 1ST 2016 – 1ST

Thank you for your votes!

2017 – 1ST 2018 – 1ST 2019 – 1ST 2020 – 2ND

MORTGAGE

CHAINSAWS, BLOWERS, TRIMMERS, POLE PRUNERS, MULTI TASK TOOLS AS WELL AS BATTERY POWERED EQUIPMENT An Authorized Servicing Stihl Dealer

1951 Riverfront Dr., Mankato

507-387-1171 1-800-879-1938

Mon.-Fri. 8am-7pm • Sat 8am-5pm • Sun. 11am-5pm

www.candssupply.com AN EMPLOYEE OWNED & LOCAL BUSINESS SINCE 1957

Since 1934

507-387-3055

www.mnvalleyfcu.coop

Yes You Can! MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 27

BEST INDEPENDENT BOUTIQUE: MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

Striving to be the best

M

ainstream Boutique in Mankato has been open since 2015 at 1901 Madison Avenue. Before that, co-owner Shannon Lang owned a Mainstream Boutique franchise in New Prague with another person.

In Mankato, she co-owns the store with Laura Factor.

Some things unique about Mainstream Boutique, Lang says, is its customer service.

“We strive to be the best.”

Mainstream Boutique is also

unique in that it is multigenerational. Lang says her daughter and her mother both are just as comfortable shopping there as she is. She says the average age of her customers “may be 50,” though she hasn’t done a survey.

Sizes in the store range from extra small to XXL, so Lang says they have everyone covered. They also offer several styles , colors and price points.

During the lockdown, Lang says the fact that so many of the store’s customers have become their friends helped keep the business afloat. She and Factor tried to be creative during the time they were closed. They offered live video feeds, “try-on” videos, and curbside service.

Lang says Factor was a stay-athome mom for many years, but she came to Lang believing Mankato could use something like a Mainstream Boutique, and the two opened the store.

THANKS FOR VOTING US #1 WINDOW, SIDING & ROOFING 507-625-6412 | SchmidtMankato.com 28 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

BEST MEAT MARKET: SCHMIDT’S MEAT MARKET

A meaty tradition

R

yan Schmidt is the third generation of Schmidts to own and operate Schmidt’s Meat market in Nicollet.

In 1947, Schmidt’s grandparents bought the business and it has been in the family ever since.

Schmidt worked at the meat market while in high school and in college, then took 15 or so years off. In 2005 his father decided to retire, and Ryan purchased his share. He and his uncle were in business together until Ryan bought his share, too.

Since then, there have been many changes at the store, though most are not visible to the customers.

“We have the same building and the same retail space,” he says.

But new equipment with new efficiencies have been added. One thing that is still in use, however, is

the old-fashioned gravity woodfired smokehouses used for smoking sausages and the like. He says they give a better flavor than newer smokehouses can. He thinks that may be why their smoked products are so popular and stand out.

He also credits the 50 full- and part-time employees at Schmidt’s

Meat Market for providing excellent customer service.

Will there be a fourth generation of Schmidts to operate the business? Schmidt says he has a couple of younger sons who are involved in the business now, but it’s too early to tell where their interests will fall as adults.

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 29

REFLECTIONS

By Pat Christman

T

hanks to the novel coronavirus it would seem that fun itself has been canceled.

Everything from North Mankato Fun Days to Mankato’s RibFest, Fourth of July fireworks displays, parades, concerts and town festivals are all canceled to stop the spread of COVID-19. To some, it looks like it could be a long summer.

Perhaps it’s an opportunity, though. An opportunity to make our own fun, without the need to rush from event to event all summer long until the leaves fall and the snow flies. Perhaps it’s a chance to sit by a lake and watch a sunset, go boating with family, do some fishing, take a bike ride or a myriad of other activities that don’t require months of planning.

Maybe all we really need to have fun is ourselves, a sunny day and a little outside-the-box thinking. MM

30 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 31

GOODS & Accounting Firm

1st Eide Bailly 2nd CLA Mankato (Clifton Larson Allen) 3rd Abdo, Eick and Meyers

Alterations

1st Pins & Needles 2nd Artistry Sewing & Design 3rd Barb’s Sewing Room

Auction Services

1st Daily Auction Services 2nd Miller Auction Services 3rd Bid Kato

Auto Body Shop

Best Taxi/Shuttle Services

1st Uber 2nd Blue Earth Taxi 3rd Land to Air Express

Cabinetry

1st Cherry Creek 2nd CZ Construction LLC 3rd Cabinet ReNu

Car Wash

1st Snell Auto Wash 2nd Kwik Trip 3rd Gerring’s Car Wash

Carpet Cleaning

1st Jerry’s ABRA Auto Body Shop & Glass 2nd Mankato Motors 3rd Hughes Automotive

1st Vanderberg Clean 2nd Shine Way Services Inc. 3rd MV Carpet Cleaning

Auto Repair Shop

Cell Phone & Wireless Provider

1st Jerry’s ABRA Auto Body Shop & Glass 2nd Mankato Motors 3rd Fromm’s Auto Repair

Bank or Credit Union

1st SouthPoint Financial Credit Union 2nd Minnesota Valley Federal Credit Union 3rd Community Bank Mankato

Barber Shop

1st Verizon Wireless 2nd Sprint 3rd T-Mobile

Child Care Center

1st Lil Bee’s Learning Center 2nd Jesus Loves Me Learning Center 3rd Little Stars Early Learning Center

Computer Repair

Dry Cleaner

1st Like Nu Cleaners & Laundry 2nd Madison Avenue Laundry & Dry Cleaners 3rd Laundry Max

Electrical Service

1st Master Electric Company Inc. 2nd BLK Electric Inc. 3rd Ploog Electric Inc.

Employment Agency

1st Express Employment Professionals 2nd Masterson Staffing Solutions 3rd Manpower

Fitness Center 1st Mankato YMCA 2nd Fitness for $10 3rd Kato CrossFit

Florist

1st Hilltop Florist & Greenhouse 2nd Drummers Garden Center & Floral 3rd Becky’s Floral & Gift Shop

Funeral Home

1st Mankato Mortuary 2nd Woodland Hills Funeral Home 3rd St. Peter Funeral Home

Golf Course

1st Liv Aveda Salon & Spa 2nd Northside Hair Co. 3rd Sport Clips

1st Geek Squad-Best Buy 2nd Mankato Computer Technology 3rd Geeks 2 U

1st North Links Golf Course 2nd Terrace View Golf Course 3rd Mankato Golf Club

Best Place to Get a Mortgage

Construction Company

1st Liv Aveda Salon & Spa 2nd Indulge Salon & Tanning 3rd Allure Salon

1st SouthPoint Financial Credit Union 2nd PrimeSource Funding 3rd Minnesota Valley Federal Credit Union 32 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

1st DeMars Construction 2nd Goodrich Construction, Inc. 3rd Deichman Construction

Hair Salon

SERVICE Hearing Care Service

1st Mayo Clinic Health System Audiology 2nd Mankato Clinic Hearing Care Center 3rd River Valley Hearing

Heating/Air Service

1st Northern Comfort Inc. 2nd Davis Comfort Systems 3rd Schwickert’s Tecta America

Hotel/Motel

1st Country Inn & Suites 2nd Courtyard by Marriott 3rd Hilton Garden Inn

Insurance Agency

1st Kato Insurance Agency 2nd Hatanpa State Farm Insurance 3rd Community Insurance Mankato

Kennel

1st The Paw Pet Resort 2nd Kind Veterinary Clinic 3rd Heartlund Kennels

Law Firm

1st Knutson+Casey 2nd Gislason & Hunter LLP 3rd Blethen | Berens

Lawn Care

1st Spring Touch Lawn & Pest Control 2nd GreenCare 3rd Peters Lawn Service

Massage

1st Liv Aveda Salon & Spa 2nd Mankato’s Chiropractic & Mankato Healing Touch 3rd Indulge Salon & Tanning

Nail Salon

1st Nails by Jordan 2nd Liv Aveda Salon & Spa 3rd Kim’s Nails

Nutrition & Weight Management

Siding

1st Schmidt Siding & Window 2nd Mike Hansen Roofing 3rd Ron Boelter Window, Siding & Roofing

Snow Removal

1st JP Fitness 2nd Mad Ave Nutrition 3rd Inspire Health & Wellness

1st Mankato Snow Removal 2nd Affordable Lawn & Snow 3rd Csizmadia Lawn Care

Pet Grooming

Specialty Printing

1st Fur’s a Flyin’ 2nd The Paw Pet Resort 3rd Calling All Paws Pet Grooming

Place to Take the Kids 1st Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota 2nd Sibley Park 3rd WOW! Zone

Plumbing Service

1st Northern Comfort Inc. 2nd Kaduce Plumbing & Heating 3rd Kopp Plumbing & Heating

Real Estate Agency

1st JBeal Real Estate Group 2nd True Real Estate 3rd American Way Realty

Roofing

1st Schmidt Siding & Window 2nd Heyn Brothers 3rd Kato Roofing, Inc.

Senior Living/ Retirement Facility

1st Ecumen Pathstone Living 2nd Primrose Retirement Community 3rd Oak Terrace Assisted Living

1st B.Stark & Co. 2nd Insty-Prints 3rd Paragon Printing, Mailing & Specialties

Tanning Salon

1st Indulge Salon & Tanning 2nd Sun Tan City 3rd Liv Aveda Salon & Spa

Travel Agency

1st Amber Pietan Travel Agency 2nd Emerald Travel & Cruises 3rd Hometown Travel

Veterinarian Office

1st Minnesota Valley Pet Hospital 2nd Nicollet Veterinary Clinic 3rd North Mankato Animal Hospital

Water Service/ Conditioning

1st McGowan Water Conditioning 2nd Culligan Water Conditioning of Mankato 3rd Ecowater Systems

Windows

1st Schmidt Siding & Window 2nd Ron Boelter Window, Siding & Roofing 3rd Lindsay Window & Door LLC MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 33

Thank you for your votes!

PATIO NOW OPEN!

BEST LAW FIRM: KNUTSON+CASEY

Community partners

F

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or the attorneys at Knutson+Casey, being involved in the community goes far beyond simply contributing to the latest fundraiser.

“Our philosophy is that we’re going to be involved in the community, and we’re going to give back to the community—we’re not going to do one or the other by itself,” Randy Knutson said.

Knutson and his law partner, Patrick Casey, met while practicing law at another firm and decided to start their own in 2014. Since then, the firm has grown to five attorneys and seven other employees, as well as a second location in Madelia.

In only six years, Knutson+Casey has carved out a distinct presence in the southern Minnesota area, and Casey said a large part of it is because of how they behave outside of the courtroom.

“Our involvement in the

community is first and foremost the positivity that we get from the community,” he said. “It’s not just the fact that we’re good at what we do; then we wouldn’t be successful.

I think it’s the philanthropy piece.”

The “philanthropy piece” comes with an extensive list. There’s the Maverick Veteran of the Game, where the firm honors a veteran at each home Maverick game, and the Run For Shelter 5K that raises funds for the Mankato Salvation Army. Last July 4, the firm’s attorneys all got their Uber licenses to volunteer as sober cab drivers, and in the fall, they handed out no-obligation gift cards to any local teacher who needed funds for school supplies.

“We want to be involved,” Knutson said. “It’s not so much just giving money for a banner or a billboard in the outfield. We’re trying not to just say, ‘Here’s some money.’ We’re saying we’re going to be involved with this. We believe in this. We’re all in.”

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34 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

BEST SNOW REMOVAL: MANAKTO SNOW REMOVAL

‘One less thing to worry about’

J

oe Menjivar, equipment operator, has owned Mankato Snow Removal in Mankato for nearly seven years.

“I used to clean the snow for close friends and family with a snowblower as a hobby,” said Menjivar. “Since I already owned a pickup truck, I decided to invest in a blade to make the job easier.”

Having worked in the construction industry for the past 20 years, Menjivar said he was familiar with the equipment needed to run a snow removal business for residential areas, rental properties, and small parking lots in Mankato.

Menjivar said his operation is small, run solely by himself and an assistant. When selecting a snow

removal business, he said customers should consider experience, quality and reasonable rates.

“What makes me unique from other companies is the extra help I get from others to get the job done,” shared Menjivar. “I discuss with people affordable and reasonable rates for them.”

Customer satisfaction also contributes to his success. Menjivar said a lot of his clients know him for his quality of work.

“Most of my accounts are elders, and they’ve all told me they’re satisfied with the job I do,” he added. “What I do gives them one less thing to worry about.”

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BEST SPECIALTY PRINTING: B. STARK & CO.

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36 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

B

rian Stark has locally owned and operated B. Stark & Co. in Mankato for 32 years.

“I started B.Stark & Co. by printing T-shirts for resorts and tourist gift shops,” shared Stark.

“Eventually, doing this work locally for schools, businesses and other groups in Mankato was a more fulfilling path. I was drawn to the combination of art and business, and the challenge to bring it all together.”

The business specializes in screen printing and embroidery on a variety of apparel items.

“Our most popular services are printing and embroidery on clothing used as business apparel, sports uniforms, promotional incentives, recognition products, and as part of fundraisers and other community events,” added Stark.

In addition to their clothing decoration services, B. Stark & Co. can design and set up free online stores for distribution of individual orders for sports teams, school activities or other groups. Stark said he helps his customers with the signup process, which includes collecting sizes and money. The company even offers group orders of face masks.

“We offer a personal approach to the design and production of personalized clothing items,” he stated. “Many of our staff have been practicing their craft for 15 years plus, giving us the knowledge and experience to do a great job for our customers. All the work is done in house, including the customized online stores. We aim to make the entire process easy and fun.”

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY: JBEAL REAL ESTATE

Your home-buying concierge

F

or the JBeal Real Estate Group, it’s never been enough simply to sell a client’s house.

“Our focus is to make the transaction enjoyable,” said founder Jason Beal. “I think that’s what’s built the company up.”

After more than 18 years in business, there’s no question that the real estate agency has found success through satisfied customers. Jason and co-owner and wife Shannon built the company up to 16 agents who stage, list, and sell houses within a business radius of 45 miles around Mankato.

“We pride ourselves on having agents who are truly experts in the business,” Shannon said. “We really value having agents that are

equipped to handle every situation.”

One key reason for the JBeal Real Estate Group’s success is their reputation for personalized assistance.

“In a way, we like to think of it as a concierge service,” Jason said.

“We’re happy to help in any way that we can. We do want them to love where they live.”

From finding that perfect home to fixing a former client’s garage door, the Beals and their agents stay in touch with the house

hunters that they come to view as friends.

“A fun part of our job is being the first friends people make when they come to Mankato if they’re moving here, or being that last goodbye as they’re leaving town,” said Shannon. Clearly, the clients feel the love in return.

“We never asked any of our clients to vote, so it’s truly humbling,” Shannon shared. “For us, it’s an honor to have this award.”

WWW.CHERRYCREEK.BUILD MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 37

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY: AMBER PIETAN TRAVEL AGENCY

Memory maker: travel agent fights for her clients

A

where your policy comes with an agent

Mankato | Amboy | Vernon Center| cimankato.com | 507-385-4485 38 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

mber Pietan took many vacations with her family when she was a child. She recalls how she and her sister would pretend to be travel agents in the back of the family Econoline van, picking up travel brochures at wayside rests and camping along the way.

To this day, she still finds it exciting to learn how people live and the differences in what they eat, not only around the world, but even across the USA. In 2013 she began the Amber Pietan Travel Agency, located at 340 Pierce Avenue in lower North Mankato.

Pietan says many people have the mistaken idea that using a travel agent means a trip will cost more.

However, she says a travel agent is able to find better deals, lower prices, coupons, etc. that a regular person may not be able to find.

That includes domestic travel, she says, even including stays in local hotels.

A good travel agent knows the industry, and will fight for a traveler’s rights, including finding refunds when travel plans are upended by, say, an airline. They will know when a refund is in order for delays and changes, even when an airline might just offer vouchers.

Pietan says many travel plans are being toppled by Covid-19 concerns. She had planned to visit Amsterdam during tulip time, but instead, is hoping to make a trip to St. Martin in October.

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MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 39

DINING All-Around Restaurant 1st The Boulder Tap House 2nd La Terraza Mexican Grill and Bar 3rd Pub 500

Appetizers

1st Number 4 American Bar & Kitchen 2nd The Boulder Tap House 3rd Applebee's Grill & Bar

Asian Cuisine

1st Shogun Sushi & Hibatchi 2nd Tokyo Sushi & Hibatchi 3rd China Buffet

Atmosphere

1st Number 4 American Bar & Kitchen 2nd Pub 500 3rd The Boulder Tap House

Bakery

1st 2 Pins Bakery by Tony Friesen 2nd Hy-Vee 3rd Wooden Spoon

Beer Selection

1st Mankato Brewery 2nd The Boulder Tap House 3rd 7 West Taphouse

Breakfast

1st Weggy's On Campus 2nd Perkins 3rd NaKato Bar & Grill

Buffet

1st Olives by Massad's 2nd Pizza Ranch 3rd Mongolian Grill

Catering

1st Najwa's Catering 2nd Hy-Vee 3rd Absolute Custom Catering 40 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

Coffee Shop

1st Fillin' Station Coffeehouse 2nd Coffee Hag 3rd Caribou Coffee

Date Night

1st Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar 2nd Number 4 American Bar & Kitchen 3rd Dino's Pizzeria

Dessert

1st Mom & Pop's 2nd Bakers Square Restaurant & Bakery 3rd Olives by Massad's

Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt 1st Cold Stone Creamery 2nd Mom & Pop's 3rd Dairy Queen

Italian Cuisine

1st Olive Garden Italian Kitchen 2nd Dino's Pizzeria 3rd Pagliai's Pizza

Live Music Venue

1st Vetter Stone Amphitheater 2nd Circle Inn 3rd Mankato Brewery

Locally Owned Restaurant

Family Restuarant

1st NaKato 2nd Tav on the Ave 3rd Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar

Fast Food

1st Jersey Mike's Subs 2nd Panera Bread 3rd Pub 500

1st Buffalo Wild Wings 2nd The Boulder Tap House 3rd Applebee's Grill & Bar

1st Chipotle Mexican Grill 2nd Culver's 3rd McDonald's

Fine Dining

1st Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar 2nd Number 4 American Bar & Kitchen 3rd Olives by Massad's

Hamburger & French Fries

1st Five Guys 2nd The Boulder Tap House 3rd NaKato Bar & Grill

Happy Hour

1st Ummie's Bar and Grill 2nd Circle Inn 3rd Tav on the Ave

Lunch

Margarita

1st Mazatlan 2nd El Agave 3rd La Terraza Mexican Grill and Bar

Mexican Cuisine 1st Mazatlan 2nd La Bamba Mexican Taco House 3rd La Terraza Mexican Grill and Bar

Patio Dining

1st Mazatlan 2nd Tav on the Ave 3rd Blue Bricks

Pizza

1st Pagliai's Pizza 2nd Jake's Stadium Pizza 3rd Dino's Pizzeria

Seafood

1st Red Lobster 2nd Olives by Massad's 3rd Shogun Sushi & Hibatchi

Sports Bar

1st Big Dog Sports Cafe 2nd Buffalo Wild Wings 3rd Tav on the Ave

Steak

1st Pappageorge Restaurant & Bar 2nd Charley's 3rd Grizzly's Wood-Fired Grill & Bar

Sub/Sandwich Shop

1st Jersey Mike's Subs 2nd Erbert and Gerbert's 3rd Potbelly Sandwich Shop

Vegetarian

1st Noodles & Company 2nd India Palace 3rd Curiosi-Tea House

BEST OF MANKATO: ARCHITECT

Congratulations!

Simplified Solutions. Focused Approach.

Wine Selection

1st Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery 2nd MGM Wine & Spirits 3rd Number 4 American Bar & Kitchen

Winery/Brewery 1st Chankaska Creek Ranch & Winery 2nd Mankato Brewery 3rd August Schell Brewing Company

Wings

Jeremy Wiesen AIA, LEED AP ISG Senior Architect

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1st Buffalo Wild Wings 2nd Tav on the Ave 3rd Buffalo Wings and Rings

Thank you for your votes!

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BEST BREAKFAST: WEGGY'S

It’s the most important meal of the day Moving?... Call Karla and Start Packing!

Consistently a Top-Producing Agent in Greater Mankato Area Karla Van Eman, Owner/Broker ABR, CRS, GRI

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© 2020 Ecumen. All rights reserved.

42 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

When it comes to breakfast eateries in Mankato, there’s one place that’s clearly king: Weggy’s.

Hungry for pancakes? Weggy’s got nine choices for you, including banana walnut and bacon (yes, the bacon is in the pancakes). Maybe you’d prefer an omelet… OK, there are 11 of those on the menu, including the Elvis Omelet (which incorporates creamy peanut butter and banana slices) and the Lobster Omelet. The menu also includes French toast, waffles, eggs Benedict, biscuits and gravy, breakfast tacos, breakfast sandwiches and breakfast platters.

All in all, there are more than 45 breakfast choices and combinations possible, and they’re available all day long.

Weggy’s is run by husband-wife team Steve and Dani Wegman.

Steve’s the one who comes up with the menu, Dani said.

“He’s very, very creative and very good at what he does,” she said.

“He comes up with weird, weird ideas on a random day, and he’ll just go with it. He’s just amazing.”

One of Steve’s latest creations was inspired by Krusty’s Donut Shop, which they opened up next door to Weggy’s in December. It’s a twist on their “Breakfast Sammy,” using a doughnut for the outside and stuffing it with eggs, cheese and sausage or bacon on the inside.

But Dani Wegman said the most popular item has always been The Brunkie, an infamously heaping platter of two biscuits, two sausage patties and two eggs of choice piled onto a pound of hash browns and covered in sausage gravy.

“It’s one of the largest things on the menu, and it’s a huge fan favorite,” she said.

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE: VETTER STONE AMPHITHEATER

‘Amazingly beautiful place’

T

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he first acts booked at the Vetter Stone Amphitheater in downtown Mankato were Martin Zeller and Fish Frye (now just called The Frye). It was a great beginning for what was voted this year as the Best Live Music Venue in Mankato.

Eric Jones, Co-Director of the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center and the Vetter Stone Amphitheater, says he “loves what it has become.”

The acoustics at the Amphitheater are nothing special, Jones says, though they are good.

But he credits the ambiance -- with trees, grass and the river providing a great place to hear music and meet friends -- for the award.

“It’s just an amazingly beautiful place.”

Since “live music is how musicians earn their money,” he says, the biggest challenges facing the Vetter Stone Amphitheater are weather, but also competition with other venues and festivals.

Hoped-for improvements at the Amphitheater include a permanent covered structure, so smaller shows are feasible. It’s expensive to rent the stage covering, he says.

Summer events at the park this year are uncertain because of the COVID-19 outbreak. For example, Ribfest, a staple at the Amphitheater, had been on hold for weeks, but ultimately was canceled.

Jones says he hopes that, by late summer or early fall, the use of the Vetter Stone Amphitheater will be in full swing.

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Thank You for Choosing Us!

#1 Mexican Restaurant 9 Years In A Row

#1 Margarita and #1 Patio Dining 1525 Tullamore Street (right off Madison Ave.) Mankato 507.625.2406 MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 43

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US PAGLIAI’S #1 BEST PIZZA #3 BEST ITALIAN CUISINE

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Triple threat

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BEST MARGARITA/ MEXICAN/ PATIO DINING: MAZATLAN

l Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant has been a part of the Mankato restaurant scene since 2003. In addition to its diverse menu, the restaurant features an outdoor patio and full bar.

“A lot of people come here for the margaritas and because of the food, and they tell us we have good prices too,” said Karina Felix, general manager.

Among customer favorites are the chimichangas, which come with two flour tortillas, soft or fried, filled with beef tips or shredded chicken. The finished entree is topped with cheese, sauce, lettuce, tomatoes and sour cream, and is served with a side of refried beans.

The Mazatlan Plaza fajitas are one of their speciality items. The signature dish includes steak, chicken, Mexican sausage (chorizo) and shrimp, mixed together with onions, tomatoes and bell peppers.

Diners can choose from a wide selection of margarita flavors, including, regular and flavored, including strawberry, piña colada, raspberry, banana, strawberry, peach and mango. A Texan variety is also available, which is made with Jose Cuervo and Grand Marnier.

Other unique concoctions include Cotorrita, a frozen lime margarita and upside down Corona, as well as Arcoiris Margarita, a combination of strawberry, mango and lime.

“If they (customers) come to Mankato and if they want the best Mexican food, this is the place,” said Felix. “Not only food, but margaritas, service and the atmosphere.”

Steven Hasse Agent Agent

Carmen Burgess

Putting you first made us #1

Office OfficeManager Manager

1235 1235 Madison Madison Avenue Avenue Mankato, Mankato, MN MN 56001-5229 56001-5229 Bus Bus 507.625.6671 507.625.6671 Fax Fax 507.625.1320 507.625.1320 steve@stevehasse.com steve @stevehasse.com

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MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 45

BEST COFFEE SHOP: FILLIN’ STATION

The "Cheers" of coffee shops

W

ith so many coffee shops in the Mankato area, the qualities that really make the Fillin’ Station stand out are variety, atmosphere, and great company.

“I kind of joke about how we’re the “Cheers” of coffee shops, where we know everyone’s name,” laughed manager Lindsay Schaeffer. “We know what they’re going to order; we know all their favorite things.”

The inside of the popular hot drinks hangout is specifically designed for that cozy, familial feeling. Bright 1970s colors mingle with comfy couches and board games strategically placed for study breaks – plus lots and lots of art, most of which is local talent.

The Fillin Station holds artistic and musical events year-round in

their back parking lot. To the staff, coffee and creativity are natural partners.

“There seems to be this connection between coffee and artists,” said Schaeffer. “Whenever artists need to get a bunch of their creative work done, they always seem to come here, sprawl out, get comfy, and drink coffee for hours.”

Fortunately, the Fillin’ Station offers more than just your average mochas and cappuccinos. Besides a huge variety of flavors, including year-round “seasonal” choices like peppermint and more exotic choices like lavender, rose, and blood orange, the coffee shop has a tasty nitro brew and a rotating

selection of in-house baked goods.

Owner Jeff Palmer is proud of his team of coffee connoisseurs, who make each and every drink a carefully crafted work of art and whose customer service is second to none.

“I’m old-fashioned: the customer is right no matter what,” Palmer said. “I’ve always had that theory.

The customers’ needs come first.”

“My baristas are all very, very consistent when they mix their lattes and their mochas,” said Palmer. “It doesn’t matter who is waiting on you; the consistency is the same in the drinks and the food.”

Thank you Mankato!

Mexican Cuisine

Thank You FANS for your votes to complete our TRIPLE PLAY in the Best of Mankato Categories:

501 S Front St Mankato, MN

507-779-7073 Find us on FB 46 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

1st – Best Wings

1st – Best Family 2nd – Best Sports Restaurant Restaurant

301 ST. ANDREWS DR. • MANKATO • 507-385-9464

Over 25 Years of Excellence We provide excellent service to our clients Ron Boelter Window Siding & Roofing has been serving southern Minnesota for over 25 years as the premier provider of the highest quality products and service with great prices and the best manufactures warranty available. We’ll go to any length to beautify your home.

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MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 47

BEST HAPPY HOUR: UMMIE'S

Come on get happy at Ummie's

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Heating & Cooling

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o doubt about it – a fun time is easier to come by when the food and drinks are delicious and plentiful. At Ummies Bar and Grill in Mankato, the rustic interior and double patio serve as the perfect happy hour spot for anyone looking for a memorable night out.

“Amazing food and cocktails!” is the visitor consensus for Ummies’ menu, especially during the happy hour sweet spots of 3pm-6pm and 9pm-11pm when all appetizers are $2 off the regular prices. Ummies’ huge selection of pre-meal treats, from fried reuben balls to classic spinach dip, is said to be just the ticket when paired with one of the bar’s many brews.

What is a happy hour without drinks? Ummies keeps a hefty supply of beer on tap, including crowd favorites such as Grain Belt Nordeast and Premium Light, Bud Light, and Michelob Ultra. They also proudly carry local specialties including selections from the Mankato Brewery and Madelia’s Lost Sanity Brewing.

For those who prefer their liquor hard, Ummies provides house wines and rails starting at $3.50 during happy hour. Are you looking for a house specialty? “Try the Ummies Tea!” recommend local guides. While the full recipe is a carefully-kept secret, it has been compared to a long island with pineapple juice – refreshing!

Thank You for your Votes!

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48 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

Madison East Center, Suite 604 • Mankato, MN 56001 507-345-8797 • www.emtravel.com

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BETTER TOGETHER MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 49

Food & Beer

LET'S EAT!

By Dan Greenwood

southern mn style Head chef Nick Sunderland

‘They’re going to be able to get something different’ The Knotty Bar and Grill cooks up loyalty from customers Photos by Matthias Leyrer

A

s real estate partners, Angie Jenkins and Emily Swalve knew an opportunity when they saw one. When a bar and grill on the outskirts of Elysian went up for sale in early 2018, the two sisters – with experience in the service industry – bought the building that spring.

“We both grew up on a farm, so are used to the rural life. It’s a beautiful setting with all the trees and a couple acres of woods,” 50 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

Jenkins said. “We thought it would be fun to offer some dishes and experiences that people can’t get in the franchise restaurants in Mankato.”

After five months of remodeling and refurbishing, the sisters opened the Knotty Bar and Grill that fall.

As the two connected with food and beverage vendors before a soft opening in September 2018, one name kept coming up. Chef Nick

Soderlund, of Elysian, has been the man behind the homemade specials and desserts that attract a diverse clientele, from locals to world travelers.

That’s because the population in and around Elysian triples during the summer months, attracting tourists to the lakes in the area who come not only from other parts of Minnesota but other states and even other countries.

“We have tourists who tell us

that they fly all over the world for business meetings and for their jobs, and they love the food here,” Jenkins said. “For all the places they get to go, it’s fun to hear that their favorite dish is at the Knotty in Elysian.”

Along with staple menu items, such as prime rib, burgers, ahi tuna skewers and walleye sandwiches, the Knotty is known for its specials, from freshly caught sea scallops and Chilean sea bass to braised lamb shanks.

Swalve, whose personal Knotty favorite is the bourbon-braised steak tips, said they redo the staple menu every four to six months.

Popular specials sometimes make their way into the staple menu.

“We like to keep rotating and changing our menu up,” Swalve said. “A lot of our guests like to bring friends here or have birthday parties or anniversaries because they know every time they come here, they’re going to be able to get something different.”

Jenkins and Swalve work with a seafood vendor in the Twin Cities that flies freshly caught fish in from the coast. Those seafood specials have included everything from lobster, crab and sea scallops to trout, sol and wreckfish. Even side dishes, vegetables and desserts change with the seasons to ensure freshness.

“Our desserts are homemade, like house made rhubarb cake, it’s always something different,” Swalve said. “Our dressings are homemade. Even the sides that we offer with our meals, our chef creates all of them. Everything is made to order and fresh.”

The relatively new restaurant has built up a loyal base of customers as they begin their second summer in business, with their staff growing to 44 employees. Jenkins said they couldn’t have made the restaurant what it is without their employees and a supportive community rallying behind them.

“We’re very blessed for the people who walked into our lives at the right time to help us through this process,” Jenkins said. “The support we’ve received from the community has been amazing.

We’ve felt very welcomed from day one, from the city to every business in town. We’re proud of what we did the first year and can’t wait to show our guests what we can do in years to come.”

What:

The Knotty Bar and Grill

Where:

510 State Highway 60, Elysian, Minnesota

What they’re known for:

fresh fish and seafood, steak, burgers, chicken, homemade desserts and continuously changing specials updated on their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ TheKnottyBar/) Server Cassie Balts

Top: Potato Gnocchi. Bottom: Bourbon Braised Steak Tips.

MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 51

COMMUNITY DRAWS

By Kat Baumann

52 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

FULL - RELAY - HALF

MARATHON NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL 10K PORK POWER BACON 5K

BOLD CHALLENGES + YMCA KIDSK The perfect blend of Mankato’s scenic countryside, trails and historical urban landscape, highlighting the beautiful Minnesota River Valley!

OCTOBER 16-17 2020 MA N K A T OMARATHON. C OM MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 53

Choose the to Feel Your

Joe Stratton, CEO River’s Edge Hospital

To Our Patients:

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed so much of what we once knew as normal. One thing that has not changed is the superior level of care you will receive with OrthoEdge. The Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic, Mankato and River’s Edge Hospital, St. Peter are committed to continuing to provide a safe environment for you to receive care. When you choose OrthoEdge you can expect: • • •

Both of our locations are screening all employees, patients, and visitors for symptoms of COVID-19 and require everyone inside the building to wear a mask.

All surgical patients will be screened and/or tested for COVID-19 prior to surgery.

At River’s Edge Hospital surgical patients will stay in a wing separate from medical patients and therapy will take place in the room.

We care about you and your safety. Thank you for trusting OrthoEdge to feel your best. Learn more at OrthoEdgeMN.com

54 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

Andrew Meyers, CEO The Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic

Recognized for Being the Best!

River’s Edge Hospital has been recognized as a DNV GL Healthcare certified Orthopaedic Center of Excellence for: • Hip & Knee Replacement • Shoulder Surgery • Spine Surgery

Plus, River’s Edge Hospital is top rated for patient experience!

BEER

By Bert Mattson

T

July Beer Sail Set for Off-sale

his summer social patterns seem a step behind. Outdoor areas and patios continue to increase access, but there’s uncertainty. In my opinion we’d be at the tail end of optimal taproom patio weather.

Many people have eyed public social settings conservatively. My wife and I have largely written it off as unattainable. We’ve supported our cherished spots with online orders and curbside pickup, but at the time of writing this, our activity is mostly limited to private patios.

It stings. It stings because we know hospitality outlets are hurting, and it stings because hitting patios is something that’s fit into our lifestyle. We don’t use sitters a lot. Taprooms are great about integrating kids into their outdoor spaces—perhaps this is somewhat unsung, and I’d carry some blame for that. Sometimes there are outdoor games for kids.

Often there are other kids, which can be key for short attention spans.

The taproom scene isn’t as gritty as bars.

One of our favorite events has been Bad Weather Brewing’s Outdoor Arcade. For a cover charge, you let loose your children on a patio lined with tents of classic video games. I’m a little slow, so it took me a dollar to realize the coin slots were bypassed. You can pretty much survey the entire gated area from one position. There are a handful of food trucks. We always run into friends and acquaintances.

The Arcade is off the table this season. Fortunately, we realized a while back that taprooms were springing up around scenic areas. So we plotted out a few solid routes with off-sale options.

On principle, when we plan a day trip, we incorporate an element of physical activity. It seems to make the car ride go more smoothly. A scenic walk also can be a pleasant way to work off a split flight.

Northfield

and surrounding areas offers such scenarios. Imminent Brewing spent some time cautiously planning this patio season. The spot boasts a nice, historic setting and, with a little planning, there are beautiful walking routes— some along the river connected to other venues, including Tanzenwald Brewing Company. Imminent offers solid variety and Tanzenwald intriguing series.

In nearby Dundas, nestled alongside the Cannon River, is Chapel Brewing. The site has a history dating back to 1880… and a balcony. They specialize in American-style ales. Also of note is Keepsake Cidery, and The Gear Resource Outfitters –kayak and paddleboard rentals.

On a different heading is Badger Hill Brewing in Shakopee. They’ve worked on expanding their patio area. They’ve got bike racks and award-winning pours. Nearby is The Landing, a Minnesota River Heritage Park that includes shady walks, historic buildings (that you can tour under normal conditions), and a few farm animals for the effort. There is also a trailhead for the Minnesota Valley State Trail— hiking, biking and horseback riding. SandVenture Aquatic Park, a wonderful resource, sadly called the season for COVID-19.

Check sites and social media for hours and updates.

Bert Mattson is a chef and writer based in St. Paul. He is the manager of the iconic Mickey’s Diner. bertsbackburner.com MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 55

COUNTRY MINUTES

By Nicole Helget

The Dogs of Oshawa Township Part 6

W

e were covered in mud, the puppies and me, and I was bug bit to high heaven. I picked up the laundry basket and climbed out of the crevice with Pony at my heels.

The den was maybe 30 feet from the front door. She had been right here the entire time. She’d heard every time I called for her. She just hadn’t wanted to be found. Some bitches like to be alone, the vet had said. And sure enough, when it came time for her to deliver, Pony preferred isolation.

Before I brought the puppies in the house for their bath, I set down the basket and threw Pony’s ball.

She raced after it, chewed it, and sat outside under a cedar tree and took a nap.

I filled the kitchen sink with warm water. One by one, I scrubbed the mud from Pony’s puppies and then rinsed them until the water ran clear. I placed them in a heap on a blanket in the corner where they, too, promptly fell asleep. I photographed them and sent the images to pretty much everybody I knew in the whole world.

Next, I went outside, turned on the hose, and called Pony for a bath outside.

“What did you like about that old hole? Huh?” I asked her. I shampooed her back and massaged her fur. “Cool down there?” I rubbed her ears and her neck. Dog hair came out in clumps. Yuck. I shook them off. “No bugs. Nice and private.” I remembered my six births of my six kids in bright, shiny, sanitary hospital rooms with a dozen people wandering in and out and how I always wanted to shout “Get away from me!” but didn’t because I was too polite and how I wished I could have given birth in a small, dark closet in a basement 56 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

with a bone in my mouth.

Pony has the best face. I stroked my thumb along her jawline and her nose and cleaned the gunk from the corners of her chocolate eyes. “You’re a smart girl, aren’t you?” I said. She shook her whole body, drying her fur in the July heat and pelting me with loose hair and water droplets. nnnn For a week or two, Pony was a pretty devoted mother, rarely leaving her pups. Soon, though, she grew tired of their constant needs and was visibly relieved when they began eating solid foods. As they got older and more playful and ambulatory, it seemed as though Pony was leading them on extended walks in an effort to get rid of them.

One early morning, our neighbor came by in his pickup truck and carefully unloaded them one by one back into our yard after Pony had taken her brood for a sun’s-up stroll to their place. Was it an innocent stroll? I wondered. I asked Pony and she wouldn’t look me in the eye. She seemed to sigh.

Finally, after eight weeks, the new owners of the puppies had all claimed theirs and made arrangements to take them to their forever homes. Pony focused all her attention on her ball.

All the puppies were gone, except Polar Bear.

The minute I touched him I knew that he was my dog. Pony will be a one litter and done mother. Mostly, she allows me to take care of Polar Bear. When I get mad at him and want to shame him into behaving, I always say, “I pulled you out of a hole.” He responds really well to my martyr-syndrome mothering.

n n nn Polar Bear smells. He smells like snow and he smells like cheese and he smells like the boot he chewed up last night. He smells like the squirrel he killed and the cat he didn’t. He smells like a knit stocking cap he shredded and the paper towels he unrolled. He smells like the pizza crust and cream of mushroom soup can he dug out of the garbage.

Polar Bear smells like the ravine. He smells like the clay. He smells like the sand. He smells like tree roots, mushrooms, and jack-in-the-pulpits.

He smells like deer droppings. He smells like a gopher hole. He smells like moss. On some days, he smells like rocks and sticks. On other days, after the farmer has gone, he smells like crap.

Mostly, he smells like the hole he was born in, a den on the banks of Seven Mile Creek. He smells like a cool escape from a July sun. He smells like freshly scraped earth and a rotting log ceiling. He smells like the dark. He smells like worm burrows and spores. He smells like a sodden disguise from coyotes.

His coat is drenched in the scent of birth pangs and afterbirth and the membrane sacs of his siblings. His breath is a tinged with an ancient animal instinct. On his breath hangs an elegy to a watery lifesource. And, always, always, Polar Bear smells like wet dog.

Nicole Helget is a multi-genre author. Her most recent book, THE END OF THE WILD, is a New York Times Book Review Editor's Choice, a Parents' Choice Award Winner, a Charlotte Huck Award Honor Book, a New York Public Library Best Books for Kids, a Kirkus Best Middle-Grade Book, an Outstanding Science Trade Book

for Students, a Best STEM Trade Books for Students K-12, a Georgia Children's Book Award Nominee, and the Minnesota Book Awards Middle Grade Winner. She works as a teacher, manuscript guide, On behalf of Team Helget (Doug, Steven, Max, Correna and OnCheryl), behalf of we Team HelgetOn (Doug, behalf of Team Steven, Helget (Doug, Max, Steven, Correna Max, Correna andand Cheryl), Cheryl), wewe editor, and ghostwriter.

She liveslikeinto say thank youwould sayour thankclients you to all offor our clients this honor. would like to say thank you to all of our clients for this honor. would tolike alltoof thisfor honor. rural St. Peter with her family and dogs. You can follow the Dogs of Oshawa Township at @TheOshawa on Twitter.

MANY THANKS!

Douglas Helget, CLU®, ChFC® Wealth Management Advisor 507.625.9400 doughelget.com

MANY THANKS! MANY THANKS!

Steven Helget , Douglas Helget, CFP®, RICP® CLU®, ChFC® Wealth Management AdvisorWealth Management Advisor 507.625.9400 507.625.9400 stevenhelget.nm.com doughelget.com

Douglas Helget, Steven Helget Steven , Helget , CLU®, ChFC® CFP®, RICP® CFP®, RICP® Wealth Management Advisor Wealth Management Advisor Wealth Management Advisor 507.625.9400507.625.9400 507.625.9400 stevenhelget.nm.com doughelget.com stevenhelget.nm.com

07 1016 2 © 2020 Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), (life and disability 07 1016 insurance, 2 © 2020 Northwestern annuities, and life Mutual insurance is the with marketing long- name for 07 The 1016 2 ©Northwestern 2020 Northwestern Mutual Mutual is the marketing Life Insurance name for The Northwestern Company Mutual (NM), Life Insurance (life and Company disability (NM), (life and insurance, disability insurance, annuities, annuities, and and life insurance life insurance with long- with longterm care benefits) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), a subsidiary term ofcare NM,benefits) broker-dealer, and itsregistered subsidiaries investment in Milwaukee, adviser WI. Northwestern term care benefits) Mutual Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), a subsidiary ofa subsidiary NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and itsInvestment subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), of NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and member FINRA and SIPC. Douglas A Helget, Steven Michael Helget is an Insurance Agent(s) of NM. Douglas A Helget, Steven Michaeland Helget, member is a Registered FINRA and Representative(s) SIPC. Douglas A Helget, of NMIS. Steven Michael Helget is FINRA an Insurance Agent(s) of Michael NM. Douglas A Helget, Michael is a Registered and member and SIPC. Douglas A Helget, Steven Helget is an Insurance Agent(s)Steven of NM. Douglas A Helget, Helget, Steven Michael Helget, is a RegisteredRepresentative(s) Representative(s) of NMIS. of NMIS. Douglas A Helget, Steven Michael Helget, is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, (NMWMC) (fiduciary Douglas andAfee-based Helget, Steven financial Michael planning Helget, services), is a Representative a of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning a Douglas A Helget, Steven Michael Helget, is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth(NMWMC) Management Company®, (NMWMC) (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services),services), a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed Representativessubsidiary who operate of NM from and agency federaloffices savings of bank.

NMWMC. Certified All NMWMC products subsidiary and services are offered by properly credentialed Representatives who operate fromfrom agency offices of NMWMC. Certified of NM and federal savings bank.only All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed Representatives who operate agency offices of NMWMC. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP® (with flame design) Financial in thePlanner U.S., which Board it awards of Standards to individuals Inc. owns who the certification marks CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP® (with flameanddesign) in the U.S., ititawards to individuals who Financial CFP®, Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ CFP® (with flame design) in thewhich U.S., which awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

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GARDEN CHAT

By Jean Lundquist

Fertilizing thoughts I

’ve taken advantage of my time in isolation to expand my horizons a bit. With the help of the Internet, I’ve explored more “natural” ways to fertilize my garden.

I’ve also added to my collection of looms.

The latest “best thing” I’ve found for fertilizer is pretty benign in terms of impacting the environment: milk and molasses.

According to the sources I read, these two things will explode the population of beneficial bacteria in your soil.

The milk can be any milk, including powdered. It’s touted as a fungicide and great for foliar development.

You can make your own molasses by growing and processing sugar beets. You won’t be able to make granulated white sugar from it, but you will be able to easily make molasses.

Or, if you prefer, dried molasses used for cattle feed will do the same trick in your soil. If you are buying grocerystore molasses, unsulphered molasses is preferred. If you use black strap molasses, it is made from the third boiling of the sugar beets, so it will be more concentrated for 58 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

minerals and also more bitter. Not that your plants will taste it.

I’m not willing to try this because I fear the damage that varmints drawn to it could do to my garden. But I might try it on the plants in my greenhouse.

The formula is 1 cup milk to 4 cups water, and 1 tablespoon of molasses. Frequency is once or twice a month.

Just be sure to water your soil first so the nutrients reach the roots evenly.

I might be inclined to try this in my compost pile, if not my garden. The more microbial activity in the compost pile, the better.

If you try it and it works, will you let me know?

I also talked to a gardener who uses a fish buried with his plants to fertilize them, as we’ve been taught the Native Americans did for years and years.

I’m afraid to even use fish emulsion fertilizer because of the raccoons and skunks it draws. But he says he digs a foot down, puts a carp in the hole, layers soil on top of

it and sets his plants. He says he has had no problems with varmints or odor. He also says he has never had healthier plants or better production.

I’d like to believe that, but I think my raccoons are wilier than his. I raised chickens and the raccoons absconded with them. One night I had two chickens left out of 40. I put one chicken in the coop but left the other out because she wouldn’t go in and I wanted to go to bed.

In the morning, the coop hen was gone, but the outside chicken was fine. I fear my plants would fall prey to such a wily raccoon digging for a fish beneath my tomatoes or green beans.

For now, I’m using the old stand-by Tomato-Tone and Veg-Tone for fertilizer.

But because I’m using grow bags, fertilizer is essential. I have nothing planted in my lovely fenced-in garden this summer, opting for all grow-bags. Even my green beans are growing in my bags.

All the time I save weeding, I’m spending watering. I’m not sure it’s an even trade-off. Weeding is hard on my back, but water sure isn’t light to tote around the yard, and my back still protests a bit.

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nn n n If you’re feeling cooped up and longing for something a bit wild to do, forage around your yard for edibles.

Bachelor button petals taste like cloves. Borage flowers and leaves taste like cucumber. Nasturtium leaves and blooms taste peppery.

Pansies taste a bit like wintergreen.

Dianthus (Sweet William) tastes like cloves.

But the big surprise may be sunflowers. Collect the unopened heads, steam them, and they can be eaten like artichokes. Or sprinkle the petals on a salad to add some sunshine. nn n n And about my looms. I just bought my seventh one. I don’t think that’s too many, do you?

Jean Lundquist is a Master Gardener who lives near Good Thunder. gardenchatkato@gmail.com MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 59

FROM THIS VALLEY

By Pete Steiner

The second annual STEINIES W

e are reassured, in these unusual times, when any ritual remains unchanged.

Thus, I eagerly plunged into my contribution to the “Best of” issue of the magazine, reprising last year’s granting of the inaugural STEINIE awards – with categories not included elsewhere in the issue.

May I remind you of the unique rules? Except for the category of favorite all-time restaurant, there was only one vote: that of yours truly. Also, I wanted to include a new category: greatest local superhero. That is not some comic book or blockbuster movie hero, but someone who lives among us. Eligible candidates, however, overwhelmed the category. They were checking us out at the grocery and hardware stores. They were driving trucks that brought goods to the stores or packages ordered online to our houses. Superhero candidates also were the postal workers getting us the mail, utility and appliance repair folks, day care and nursing home workers, pharmacists, and reporters and the media bringing us the information we needed. And of course, they were the doctors and nurses and other frontline health care workers striving to keep our bodies and minds functioning. So just like PPE, there were not enough capes to go around for our real-life superheroes.

Give each one a STEINIE! Last year we had seven categories; several of them, such as Best Malted Milk and Restaurant Wine List, have been nixed this year by the COVID19 pandemic. A couple of new categories invented means we can award these five: 1) Favorite Mankato restaurant of all time: A couple of months back, I wrote about Mankato’s late, great Michaels, proclaiming it my alltime local favorite. I invited reader response, and it seems I am not alone. In my informal survey, Katha 60 • JULY 2020 • MANKATO MAGAZINE

of St. Peter told me that when she came from New York to college in St. Paul, she loved meeting her Aunt Olga and Uncle Irvie from Iowa for special meals at Michaels. The Q-man, returning to this page for the first time in a decade, remembered a number of special times there, and especially the immense copper popcorn bowl. Dr. Mike told me it was Michaels where he discovered the sublime voice of Chad Mitchell in their Walnut Room. Several people asked if I remembered their Bird Bath martinis. Although I never tried one, I do remember them, and suspect it was all a ruse to give plausible deniability to businessmen accused of enjoying, in that Mad Men era, a three-martini lunch.

I was surprised no one weighed in for the Century Club, but my survey was maybe untimely, as it was right when most of our attention was being consumed by the new plague.

I did get one strong vote for Cub’s, with its great Chinese food out on “the Prairie.” Plus, Jim said, Cub Ferris’ five enormous shrimp for just $5 helped seal the deal with his future wife.

A STEINIE to Michaels!

2) Neighbor of the Year: In these times, a helpful neighbor is so comforting, especially when we see fewer friends and family. You no doubt have your own nominee here; I have two. With every snowstorm, neighbor Kevin cannot wait to fire up his snowblower at 6 a.m. He clears his own sidewalk and driveway, then does ours and a couple of other neighbors’, then does our entire alley, where most of us have our garages. I don’t know how many big storms he’s battled over the last couple of years, but it’s amazing. If Kevin doesn’t get us out, Terry will.

Plus, Terry brings me a hunk of venison sausage for Christmas every year. A tie: STEINIES to Kevin and Terry.

STEINIES 3) Best columnist: My own column is a fulfillment of a junior high dream: That’s when I started reading Joseph Kraft and other newspaper and magazine columnists -- Pat Reusse, Riley the Eye – I could fill this entire space with names. Since the rules prevent me from naming myself, and since last year’s winner, Mark Fischenich, is ineligible, I bestow the award on a writer who is consistently amusing and insightful -- and often quirky: Tim Krohn, please accept a STEINIE! 4) Cruelest Month (annually in honor of T.S. Eliot) – Was it March?

Not because of the weather, which this year was rather tame. But it was March 17 when we all got slammed with the order to “hunker down” because of the virus. April is also a candidate because it was the first fullmonth preview of how dramatically our lives would change. Or maybe May, when Minnesotans love to get out to celebrate the end of a sixmonth winter. Instead, Mother’s Day and graduation parties and spring sports, all disrupted. Now just imagine a July without parades…

Hmm, NO STEINIE here this year!

5) Story of the Year? No contest: COVID-19. The George Floyd story was still metastasizing as this went to press, yet COVID’s vast social and economic disruption seems to overshadow every story this year.

Reluctantly, a STEINIE to “the COVID.” Like so much else in COVID times – staff meetings, birthday parties, graduations – the STEINIES are virtual. But hey, cut out this page and tape it to some cardboard, and treasure it forever!

Longtime radio guy Pete Steiner is now a free lance writer in Mankato.

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MANKATO MAGAZINE • JULY 2020 • 61

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