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Make the rounds at SoMinn breweries & distilleries

By TOM NELSON Guest Contributor

In 2012, there were less than 40 breweries operating in the state of Minnesota. Fast forward to 2023, and that number has grown to over 260, thus highlighting the popularity of locally produced craft beverages, such as beer, cideries, wine and distilled spirits throughout the state and in Southern Minnesota.

In 2012, there were less than 40 breweries operating in the state of Minnesota. Fast forward to 2023, and that number has grown to over 260, thus highlighting the popularity of

locally produced craft beverages, such as beer, cideries, wine and distilled spirits throughout the state and in Southern Minnesota.

The industry has certainly surpassed the ‘trend’ stage and breweries, cideries, wineries and distilleries have become well established businesses throughout the region. An example of this would be the neighboring cities of Northfield and Dundas, which feature three breweries (Imminent Brewing, Tanzenwald Brewing and Chapel Brewing), a cidery (Keepsake Cidery) and a distillery (Loon Liquors).

“A lot of folks said this was going to be a trend, and it will go away, but I think we’ve been doing this long enough now to see that this is not a trend that’s going away,” Imminent Brewing’s co-owner Laura Meyers said. “This is something that people are really satisfied with

… I think there is something about the uniqueness of our product to the point where the big breweries are catching on and thinking like ‘oh, we better start making more unique beverages for folks to enjoy because that is what people want’.”

Imminent Brewery co-owner Derek Meyers added, “A general interest from customers in local products and local businesses is a big part of it,” Imminent Brewing’s Derek Meyer said. “People like enjoying products that are made from the agricultural goods that are around them and they also enjoy supporting businesses and the people they see working in those businesses that are their friends and neighbors.

“I think breweries have become a place for communities to gather in a different way than a bar, at least that is one of our driving forces. It is not just about the product but it also about the environment that you are creating for people to enjoy.”

Located in the converted motor pool area of the former National Guard Army in downtown Northfield since its opening in 2017, Imminent’s beverage menu includes ales, lagers, stouts, seltzers and its popular Dragon Squirrel IPA. Non-alcoholic choices include on-tap kombucha along with a selection of locally bottled soft drinks and flavored seltzer water.

In addition, Imminent’s tap room features food trucks on most days of operation along with live music and special events on selected days throughout the year. Unlike a typical bar, most craft beverage venues feature earlier closing times and limited days of operation.

Mineral Springs Brewery (MSB), which is located in downtown Owatonna, is another popular beer destination in the area. MSB has been in its riverfront location since 2019 and President Bill Cronin provided his insight into the growth of the locally produced beverages.

“For the industry as a whole, I believe the attraction to local craft beer has been the quality of the product and the community setting in which it’s served. The ‘feel’ of these local distilleries and breweries is one of fellowship and connection, and it ties in so well with a great product,” Cronin said.

He continued, “Our customers appreciate that we’re local, that we have a place in their backyard. There’s no doubt the Owatonna area was extremely supportive to us during COVID, to ensure we’d make it through those times. During that time, for sure the ‘local’ customers were supporting ‘local’, and we greatly appreciated that. I don’t know now that it’s so much supporting ‘local’ as it is to have the convenience of great craft beer, a great patio, bands, food trucks, etc. all within a few miles of home. I think that’s what we offer that meets our ‘local’ clientele’s needs and interests.”

Chankaska Creek Ranch Winery and Distillery in Kasota planted its first grapes in 2009 and has been producing wines at its location set

amongst the rolling hills of the southern MInnesota River valley since 2012. In recent years, Chankaska has expanded into small batch spirits such and whiskey, gin, vodka, rum, bourbon and brandy under the Ranch Road label. Winemaker John Taylor and marketing coordinator Kelsey Long added their thoughts on why the craft beverage movement continues to push forward.

“Focusing on quality raw materials, products and experiences make the consumer happy to revisit the establishment and the products,” Taylor and Long said. “We have a lot of local customers who are very supportive of the Minnesota wine industry. It certainly does not hurt when you are able to sell the local flair in addition to the quality of product and experience… locally produced in a great environment are the drivers for our loyal customers.”

A key component to the growth is the quality of the product. Derek Meyers highlighted some of the advantages of the locally produced beverages.

“I like the fact that our beer doesn’t have any preservatives in it other than hops, and nothing is filtered or processed. It is all really fresh, and that may be the bigger thing. You know, when you are drinking a beer at the brewery that beer hasn’t been sitting on a shelf or in a truck. It has never been warm, our beer is cold all the time and it is fresh. Sometimes the beer is just out of fermentation and you are drinking beer that is kegged that day.”

Cronin also talked about quality and the impact it has for his customers. “Our product is as pure as it comes! We brew it just 40 feet away from our taps, with some of the best water in the upper midwest. Our kegs don’t get placed on a truck and bounce around on delivery. They rest in the cooler until tapped, and that content is as fresh as the day it was brewed.”

Locally grown products are also featured in many of the beverages. Chankaska grows many of the grapes it uses on site and Imminent uses ingredients such as basil, rhubarb and raspberries sourced from area farmers in some of its popular seasonal brews.

Along with quality is the diversity of flavors and types of beverages available in the industry.

“There is enough runway still, I think, for breweries to keep innovating and do unique things. In the 1990s, nobody was making anything like a Smoothie Sour (beer) because nobody had to differentiate themselves from anybody else. So now, there are all these breweries out there and in order to be more interesting people are trying strange things. Some turn out awesome and some of them fall…and then you figure out what is going to work,” Derek Meyers said.

Laura Meyers noted about the variety offered by craft beverage businesses, “It adds to the fun. People are trying something new and it

Inside the tap room at Imminent Brewing in Northfield. (Tom Nelson/southernminn. com)

Many of the area’s breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries offer a dog friendly environment for their customers. (Tom Nelson/southernminn.com)

feels like a little adventure. Last week, I was at Chapel Brewing in Dundas and they were doing their ‘Experiment Ale,’ and they do a super small batch release most Thursdays, and last week, it was the Pickle Beer. It tastes like a dill pickle, and the place was busting at the seams, and they sold out of the pickle beer in like 3.5 hours.”

She continued, “We are so excited for them to be doing this thing, and people really love it and want to go and try something new. Keepsake Cidery also comes to mind, because the way they are doing all their ciders is so unique that people will come from far away if they understand cider.”

Outside of the beverages sold, the area’s breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries

strive to offer a welcoming location to enjoy their products. Family friendly and dog friendly environments help create this ambiance along with special events, live music and tasty food options including food trucks and locally sourced snacks.

“I’ve never seen our brewery/taproom as a bar. First, we’re licensed to sell malted beverages only, so we don’t sell mixed drinks and a few other standard alcoholic offerings,” Cronin said. “We sell what we brew, and those who appreciate that come out to see us. Secondly, for sure, our taproom is a community. It simply isn’t a place to go to get drunk, stay out late, and cause trouble. It’s a place to go to enjoy a beer or two with friends and family in a very family-

friendly setting. An interesting supporting note is that we’ve sold more than 10,000 cans of Northern Soda since we opened, which speaks to the family atmosphere we have.”

Imminent’s Derek Meyers added, “We were out at Keepsake (Cidery) yesterday, and like a lot of places, they have created this lovely environment where people and families of all different backgrounds can come out there and there is something for everybody to do.”

At Imminent, part of the brewery’s mission is to create community and give back to the community that supports it.

“Breweries like O’Dell and New Belgium in Colorado were big inspirations to us because of that vibe. It is more of a relaxed energy and

more focused on the community aspect,” Laura Meyers said. “That is tied for a top priority for our mission - make great beer and be community focused. We want to make sure the relationships with the people - whether that’s folks working for us or folks coming in the door that all of those relationships are a high priority…making sure everyone is being respectful, feeling respected and safe in this space is so important to me that I can’t even describe it.” She added, “Being family friendly is really important to us too. We really try to gear any events towards that and we want it to feel like an overall fun, joyful, loving experience when

The staff at Imminent Brewing together in the brewhouse. Front row, left, is Laura Meyers; second row, left to right, are Jared Allerson, Stephen Neis, Justin Holden and Derek Meyers. (Tom Nelson/southernminn.com)

Chankaska is a popular spot for those who want to relax indoors or outdoors on a nice day. (Tom Nelson/southernminn.com)

you are here…from the food trucks to the music to the game nights - all of that.”

Craft beverage businesses are often a popular

Breweries/, Wineries, Cideries & Distilleries

10,000 Drops

28 Fourth St. NE, Faribault 10000drops.com

Availability: Bottles

Taproom: Yes

Angry Hog Brewery 500 23rd Ave. NW, Austin angryhogbrewery.com

Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Aspelund Winery 9204 425th St, Kenyon aspelundwinery.com

August Schell’s Brewing Co. 1860 Schell Rd., New Ulm schellsbrewery.com

Availability: Draft, bottles, cans Taproom: See website Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery

1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota 507-931-0089 chankaskawines.com

Chapel Brewing

15 Hester St., Dundas chapelbrewing.com

Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

Foremost Brewing Cooperative

131 W Broadway, Owatonna

foremost.coop

Availability: Draft, cans, growlers

Taproom: Yes

destination for day trips or weekend trips. At Chankaska, the scenic location is another attraction that makes the winery a favorite.

“We attribute much of the experience guests can have to our atmosphere,” Long said. “The

Giesenbrau Bier Co. 1306 1st St. NE, New Prague giesenbraubierco.com

Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Gravity Storm Brewer 309 Main Street N, Austin facebook.com/GravityStormBrewery

Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Half Pint Brewing Company 40099 150th St., Waseca www.halfpintbrew.com

Availability: Draft, Growlers Taproom: Yes

Imminent Brewing 519 Division St. S, Northfield imminentbrewing.com

Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Indian Island Winery 18018 631st Ave., Janesville indianislandwindery.com

Keepsake Cidery 4609 135th St. E, Dundas mncider.com

Availability: Draft, bottles Taproom: Yes

Kinney Creek Brewery 1016 7th St NW, Rochester Kinneycreekbrewery.com

Availability: Draft, crowlers, growlers Taproom: Yes

LocAle Brewing Company 228 Poplar St., Mankato localebrew.com

Availability: Draft, cans, growlers Taproom: Yes

grounds outside allow for relaxing on the patio, listening to the creek, enjoying live music and complimentary s’mores while watching the sunset, or staying inside either the Tasting Room or Spirit Room while taking in a bird’s eye view

Loon Liquors in Northfield 1325 Armstrong Rd., Northfield loonliquors.com

Availability: Bottles Taproom: Yes

Mankato Brewery 1119 Center St., Mankato, MN mankatobrewery.com

Availability: Draft, cans, bottles, growlers Taproom: Yes

Mineral Springs Brewery

111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna mineralspringsbrewery.com

Availability: Draft, cans, growlers Taproom: Yes

Montgomery Brewing Co. 306 2nd St. NW, Montgomery montgomerybrewing.com

Availability: Draft, growlers Taproom: Yes

Mousse Sparkling Wine Company 115 1st St E, Jordan moussewinery.com

Next Chapter Winery 16945 320th St., New Prague nextchapterwinery.com

Roets Jordan Brewery 230 Broadway St., Jordan roetsjordanbrewery.com

Availability: Draft Taproom: Yes

Schell’s Brewery 1860 Schell’s Rd, New Ulm schellsbrewery.com

Availability: Draft, cans, bottles, growlers Taproom: Yes

of the property. There is something for everyone, and enough space to explore the grounds, which makes Chankaska special.”

South x Southeast Minnesota Brewing Company 51146 US-52, Pine Island Sxsebrewingmn.com

Availability: Draft, cans

Taproom: Yes

Tanzenwald Brewing Co. 103 Water St. N, Northfield tanzenwald.com

Availability: Draft, growlers

Taproom: Yes

Tilion Brewing Company 432 Mill St. W, Cannon Falls tilionbrewing.com

Availability: Draft, growlers

Taproom: Yes

Vintage Escapes Winery & Vinyard

8950 Dodd Rd, Kilkenny vintageescapeswinery.com

Availability: bottles, glass & flights

Tasting room: Yes

Ward House 111 Elm Ave. W, Waseca wardhousebrewing.com

Availability: Draft, growlers

Taproom: Yes

Whitewater Wines 10832 Fischer Hill Dr, Plainview Whitewaterwines.com

Tom Nelson is a freelance writer. Reach the editor at editor@apgsomn.com.

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A crowded taproom at Mineral Spring Brewery in downtown Owatonna. (Tom Nelson/southernminn.com)

A canine friend enjoying the outdoor music scene at Mineral Springs Brewery in Owatonna. (Tom Nelson/southernminn.com)

Keepsake Cidery consistently holds events and offerings to keep the community coming. (Photo courtesy of Keepsake Cidery)

Hit up SoMinn’’’s attractions

By JANE TURPIN MOORE Guest Contributor

If modern days are getting you down, take a stroll back in time with a visit to the restored circa-1900 Mankato homes of fictional characters Betsy Ray and Tacy Kelly.

History buffs and readers alike can revel in the past, thanks to the longtime efforts of the Mankato-based Betsy-Tacy Society (BTS). Around 20 years ago, the BTS purchased the former homes of both Betsy (the fictional persona of author Maud Hart Lovelace) and Tacy (the fictionalized version of Maud’s best friend, Frances “Bick” Kenney) and restored them in period-appropriate fashion. Tacy’s house also functions as the BTS gift shop and museum.

Located at 332 and 333 Center St., Mankato, the houses are just two of the Mankato spots fans of Lovelace’s beloved “Betsy-Tacy” series can check out to catch glimpses into the “Deep Valley” (Lovelace’s thinly disguised alias for Mankato) that was occupied by the cast of characters Lovelace brought to life in endearing detail.

Lovelace, who is also recognizable as name-

sake of the Maud Hart Lovelace Minnesota Youth Reading Awards program, lived at 333 Center St. (a street referred to as “Hill Street” in her novels) with her family from shortly after her birth in 1892 until 1906, when the Harts/Rays moved to a bigger house on Mankato’s Fifth Street.

The Betsy-Tacy series has been extolled in such diverse media as the Meg Ryan/Tom Hanks 1998 romantic comedy “You’ve Got Mail” to articles by the former New York Times columnist Anna Quindlen. Another renowned contemporary author, Judy Blume, complimented Lovelace’s works as follows: “Some characters become your friends for life. That’s how it was for me with Betsy-Tacy.”

In the course of the series, Lovelace takes readers from Betsy’s fifth birthday—when she meets her new neighbor, Tacy—through her childhood, junior high and high school years, and early adult adventures. The years covered are 1897 to 1917.

Adults eager to explore a simpler past, one that nonetheless still highlighted relatable social, emotional and political issues experienced today, will enjoy delving into Lovelace’s books. At the same time, Lovelace’s “Betsy-Tacy” series is an excellent and accessible means of introducing young readers to a different era.

Most exciting is the fact that people of all

ages may visit the original homes of Betsy Hart and Tacy Kelly, as well as other landmarks mentioned in Lovelace’s writings. Make a day of it with a stop at the Blue Earth County Library, where the children’s area is known as The Lovelace Wing, followed by a tour of the historic Hubbard House—another Mankato property that was a factor in Lovelace’s childhood years.

In advance of a visit with children, consider ordering a copy of former longtime Mankato Free Press editor Ken E. Berg’s 1994 non-fiction children’s book “Maud Hart Lovelace,” which contains several photos of the real-life Lovelace and her many pals.

Adults with more time and longer atten-

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The Betsy-Tacy houses in Mankato are considered historic landmark. (Jane Turpin Moore/southernminn.com)

The Betsy-Tacy houses in Mankato are restored circa-1900 homes of the fictional characters of Betsy Ray and Tacy Kelly. (Jane Turpin Moore/southernminn.com)

CONTINUED from page 7

tion spans will appreciate Julie Schrader’s 2002 volume “Maud Hart Lovelace’s Deep Valley,” a thorough guidebook of Mankato places mentioned in the Betsy-Tacy series. Photos, addresses of pertinent sites and intriguing anecdotes in it bring the entire Lovelace experience

Local Attractions

Ahlmans Guns/shooting range 9525 2. 230th St., Morristown

507-685-4243 ahlmans.com

Arlington Raceway

801 W Chandler St., Arlington 507-380-6998 arlingtonraceway.com

Berne Wood-Fired Pizza & Concert Series

23148 County Rd 24, West Concord 507-356-4340

Concert nights Wednesday

5-9 p.m. (June through August)

Betsy-Tacy Houses

332 and 333 Center St., Mankato 507-345-9777

Book a tour at betsy-tacysociety.org

to life, albeit in black-and-white.

The public is welcome to visit the BetsyTacy houses on Saturday afternoons during the warmer months, though private tours may also be scheduled. Enjoy these right-next-door, affordable opportunities to be safely transported to an earlier century with appealing characters you’re sure to love.

Cannon Valley Farmers Market 1814 2nd Ave NW, Faribault

Thursdays 4-7 p.m. (June through September)

Caribou Gun Club 30649 380th St., Le Sueur 507-665-3796 caribougunclub.com gun club, hunting preserve Drive a Tank 550 Cherry St. W, Kasota 507-931-7385 driveatank.com

Faribault Family Aquatic Center 1830 Alexander Dr, Faribault ci.faribault.mn.us/404/FaribaultFamily-Aquatics-Center

Faribault Farmers Market Central Park, Faribault Saturdays 7am-noon (June through October)

Wednesdays 1:30-5:30 pm (July through September)

The Betsy and Tacy houses, located at 332 and 333 Center St., Mankato, are open for tours and shopping each Saturday from May to October from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, visit betsy-tacysociety.org, call 507-3459777 or email to info@betsy-tacysociety.org. To request a private tour, call 507-345-9777 or email to tours@betsy-tacysociety.org. The Hubbard House, 606 S. Broad St., Mankato, is open

Kasota Prairie Scenic & Natural Area

367th Ave., Kasota Park on road shoulder dnr.state.mn.us

Kenyon Farmers Market

First Evangelical Lutheran Church, Kenyon

Third Thursday of the month

4-7 p.m. (May through October)

Mineral Springs Park

1025 Mineral Springs Pkwy., Owatonna ci.owatonna.mn.us

disc golf, horseshoes, paved trails

Minnesota Zoo

13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Valley mnzoo.org

Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm 41142 160th St, Waseca 715-523-0857 pleasantgrovepizzafarm.com

music, pizza, farm

Enjoy fruit picking, greenhouses, nurseries

Owatonna Farmers Market Central Park, Northfield

Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. Call 507-345-5566 for more information.

Freelance writer/collaborative pianist Jane Turpin Moore grew up in the Mankato area and is now based in Northfield. She blogs at timeformoore566445504.wordpress. com and fields emails at jturpinmoore@gmail.com.

7 a.m.-noon (May through October)

Riverwalk Farmers Market

419 8th St. W, Northfield 847-441-1848

Saturdays 7:30 am-12:30 pm

RadZoo

6750 W Frontage Road, #402, Medford 507-455-1465 theradzoo.com

reptiles and amphibians

Red Barn Farm

10063 110th St E, Northfield facebook.com/RedBarnFarmPizza

Red Wing Splash Pad

1333 Mason St. Red Wing red-wing.org

zero depth

River Springs Water Park 3065 St Paul Rd, Owatonna owatonna.gov/306/River-SpringsWater-Park

St. Olaf Natural Lands 1520 St. Olaf Ave., Northfield wp.stolaf.edu/naturallands

forest, prairie, wetlands, bluebird trail St. Peter Farmers Market Corner of Mulberry Street & Minnesota Avenue, St. Peter facebook.com/stpFarmersMarket

Saturdays 8:30-12:30 (May through October)

Traxler’s Hunting Preserve 37699 Hunting Preserve Lane, Le Center 507-357-6940 traxlers.com

Waseca Water Park 200 26th Ave NE, Waseca ci.waseca.mn.us/waseca-water-park

By PAT GARRY Guest Contributor

hether it’s pruning, planting, or (the inevitable) weeding, these local greenhouses, nurseries and garden specialists can help check off springtime to-do lists and help you enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labors. The next time you have the urge to get out of the house and enjoy the spring and summer seasons, be sure and make the jaunts to local garden centers, greenhouses, and nurseries — and you’ll be a’ pickin’and a’ grinnin.

Here’s a tour of some of the options. After that, check out the full Scene Daytripper lists. Souba Greenhouse, Owatonna - When seeking a cornucopia of gardening knowledge, check with the good folks at Souba Greenhouse. Owners Bill and Debi Souba, Jody Hugley and Jon DeMars, have all of the solutions for annual flowers, vegetables, custom planting and planting workshops. “We offer planting workshops in spring, September and November, where we teach customers how to create a beautiful planter and how to properly care for it throughout the season,” said Bill Souba. The greenhouse is situated on Souba’s 5th-generation “Century Farm”. The owners grow everything they sell, right there on the farm, and customers can shop inside over an acre of connected, covered greenhouses. “We have many farm animals around the property that customers love to check out as well,” added Souba. Too, there are many unique garden center items for sale, including numerous goods made by locals. While visiting Owatonna, check out the beautiful hanging baskets around the downtown area. The Soubas have grown them for the Chamber

of Commerce since the beautification program began/

WTurtle Creek Nursery and Landscaping, Owatonna - TCN is owned by Eric and Patty Cornell. Along with manager Jessica Lutgen, the Cornells, among other things, sell lots of fruiting plants and trees. They offer full-service landscaping design as well as a retail garden center. Eric and Patty host a Spring Open House and a Christmas Open House during the year. They boast huge selections of annuals, perennials, herbs, tropicals, trees, shrubs, potting soil, fertilizer, pottery, bird baths, fountains, and lots of garden decor. “We are a full-service garden center with a great selection of pretty much anything that people would need for their homes or gardens,” Patty said.

Traverse Des Sioux Garden Center - Fred and Joy Struck started the business in 1980, and while still involved in the day-to-day activities, it is now managed by two of their sons, Karl and Keith. “We are a true year-round garden center,

and for every time of year, we offer something “green”. We grow our own flowering annuals and vegetables start in the spring. We offer a full line of trees, shrubs, and perennials, along with convenient installation of these items as well,” said Karl. When the holidays roll around, Traverse is a great spot for Christmas trees, and they have all that one needs for winter decorating. However, what they might be best known for is offering the greatest selection of house plants south of the Twin Cities. The spectacular

Souba Greenhouse

Traverse des Sioux Garden Center

venue attracts numerous out-of-town visitors, who love to spend time with the plethora of house plants and tropicals. It is such a relaxing time to walk through the greenhouses and be immersed in a different world.

Miracle Strawberry Farm - Owners Barry and Marybeth Mosier offer fun and exciting “pick-your-own” strawberries. They have three acres of the fruit, and the pickin’ begins circa the third week in June and lasts nearly a month. “We enjoy gardening! The joy of raising most of the food for our own table—from our large garden, was part of the motivation for our family to start Miracle Strawberry Farm. It is fun to watch what God can do with sun, water, seed and soil,” explained Barry. The Mosiers are very

particular about what they eat, and they want to be just as particular with the food they grow for their customers. Visit miraclestrawberryfarm. com.

Afton Apple Orchard - Since the late 1980s, owner Cindy Femling, and managers Sarah Parkos, with Ryan Femling, have operated the fabulous Afton Apple Orchard. Folks can do lots of pickin’ at Afton Apple. “We offer pick-your-own strawberries from mid-June to mid-July; raspberries from mid-July until about mid-October; apples from mid-August thru October; and pumpkins from late September until Oct. 31,” said Cindy. The acreage is fun for everyone. Cindy and crew also offers hayrides all day Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.

to 6 p.m.; and Monday thru Friday from noon to 6 p.m., starting after Labor Day weekend. “We have a huge playground, a petting farm, straw mountain, retread hill, yard games and concessions. We add a jump pad on the weekends only,” Cindy added. Typically, the good folks at Afton feature some sort of event every weekend, like anniversary weekend, touch-atractor weekend, apple festival weekend, etc. Throughout the year, goodies and luncheon items are available (many apple time favorites, frozen unbaked apple and pumpkin pies, apple cider, jams, jellies, maple syrup, honey, crafts, and more). Afton Apple Orchard is a great place to enjoy Mother Nature at her finest. There are scores of memories created here, and it’s a great experience for all ages, young and old alike.

Firefly Berries, Rochester - Tonya and Dean Sanner own Firefly Berries, and they will be open to the public in September, when the Concord grape season begins. “We will also be set-up at the Rochester Farmers Market on Saturday mornings (May-October) with our smaller quantities of fresh fruit (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, elderberries, etc.) when available,” said Tonya. Too, there will be naturally-dyed yarn, raw honey, grape juice, and jams and jellies.

Paisley Gardens, Northfield - Owner Rachel Kinny operates the Gardens, and is in her third year of that venture. Paisley Gardens is a boutique garden center, offering sustainably

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Turtle Creek Nursery

Afton Apple Orchard

CONTINUED from page 9

and certified organic vegetable starts, annuals, perennials, natives, small trees and shrubs, tropical plants and houseplants. For the holiday season, Rachel sells pesticide-free, WI-grown Christmas trees and custom-made patio pots, wreaths and garland. Some of the fun activities planned at Paisley Gardens are; Girls Nite Out on May 12, Small Business Saturdays and Winter Walk.

“May is one of our busiest months, so we always have great music playing and all are welcome to sing and dance with us while we work,” Kinny said. Also, there are gifts, pottery and plants for the gardener in anyone’s life. “Paisley Gardens is always on the lookout for quality, earth-friendly, made in the USA products, to support our belief in keeping the community moving toward sustainability,” added Rachel.

Paisley Gardens Miracle Strawberry Farm

Donahue’s Greenhouses/Clematis Specialists, Faribault - For 51 years, the Donahue family has operated this destination garden center, that has numerous day-trippers every year. Now open for the spring season, Donahue’s takes pride in offering great customer service and beautiful plants. “We have full garden centers specializing in clematis, perenni-

Fruit Picking/, Garden Centers and Nurseries/ FRUIT PICKING

Aronia Acres

15470 355th Ave Waseca

facebook.com/purplepowersus

aronia berries

Emma Krumbee’s 311 E Enterprise Dr., Belle Plaine emmakrumbees.com/apple-orchard

Apples, raspberries, summer vegetables

Firefly Berries

5542 23rd St. NE, Rochester fireflyberries.com

Strawberries, blackberries, grapes

Fireside Orchard & Gardens 2225 Lonsdale Blvd E, Northfield firesideorchard.com

Apples

als, vegetables, unique annuals and gift/garden items,” explained spokesperson Kathy Nass.

Customers can shop over 25,000 square feet of indoor greenhouse space, with no worries about weather. There are over 100 varieties of clematis on display, as that is Donahue’s specialty crop.

“We carry over 150 varieties of Proven Winners and we are Proven Winners Headquarters

Irish Mountain Orchard 24214 480th Street Elysian irishmountainorchard.com

Apples, pears

Little Hill Berry Farm 4339 320th St. W., Northfield littlehillberryfarm.com

Blueberries, strawberries

Lorence’s Berry Farm 28625 Foliage Ave., Northfield lorencesberryfarm.com

Strawberries, raspberries, asparagus

Minnesota Harvest Orchard 8251 Old Hwy. 169 Blvd., Jordan minnesotaharvest.net

Apples

Miracle Strawberry Farm 60687 T-41, Dodge Center miraclestrawberryfarm.com

Strawberries

Montgomery Orchard 15953 MN-99, Montgomery montgomeryorchard.com

Apples

for people looking for the #1 Brand in plants,” added Nass. Too, there is a huge assortment of vegetables and many different kinds of tomatoes and peppers. The venue’s perennial selection is very unique and the knowledgeable staff is on hand to make helpful suggestions. One may find lots of unique yard and garden decor, as well as many gift items from which to

Silkey Gardens 5561 115th St. E, Northfield silkeygardens.com

Apples, raspberries, blueberries

Straight River Farm 3733 220th St. E, Faribault straightriverfarm.com

Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, apples

Trumps Orchard 1020 St Paul Ave., Faribault trumpsorchard.com

Apples, plums

Welsh Heritage Farms 20758 528th Ave Building 2, Lake Crystal welshheritagefarm.com

Apples, jams, cheese and pie

GARDEN CENTER + NURSERIES

Donahue’s Greenhouses 420 10th St. SW, Faribault donahuesclematis.com Greenhouse, outdoor area, clematis specialists, more

choose.

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Drummer’s Garden Center 281 St Andrews Dr #8584, Mankato drummersgardencenter.com

Greenhouse, outdoor area, landscape design, more Houston’s Greenhouse

914 Mantorville Ave N, Kasson houstonsgreenhouse.com Greenhouse, gift shop

Knecht’s Nurseries & Landscaping

1601 Hwy 19 W, Northfield knechts.net

Tree, shrubs, evergreens, perennials, hostas

Paisley Gardens

600 Division St. S, Northfield paisley-gardens.com

Seeds, plants, pots, bagged products, landscaping, more Sargent’s Nursery

3352 N Service Dr, Red Wing sargentsnursery.com

Greenhouse, garden center, outdoor area, more

Souba Greenhouse

4003 Crane Creek Rd, Owatonna soubagreenhouse.com

Greenhouse, outdoor area, wholesale, hay, more Traverse des Sioux 1702 US-169, St Peter tdsgardencenter.com

Greenhouse, nursery, outdoor area, more Turtle Creek Nursery & Landscaping

2449 Rose St, Owatonna tcnursery.com

Greenhouse, outdoor area, nursery, landscaping, more Twiehoff Gardens

917 St Paul Ave, Faribault twiehoffgardens.com

Greenhouse, vegetables, bird seed, more

Firefly Berries

Donahue’s Garden Center

By MEGAN ROLLOFF megankrolloff@gmail.com

hen most people plan a vacation or a weekend away, they focus on rest, relaxation, a sandy beach, or maybe proximity to a beach and/or pool. Personally, I can’t think of anything I would less like to do than sweat or wear a bathing suit.

My idea of a good time almost always involves at least one art center/gallery/co-op/ shop/museum. And most of the time, the entire trip revolves around these sites. And if I don’t bring home at least one piece of local art, did I actually visit the place at all?

Looking at my personal collection of art, you would assume I am a world traveler, based on volume alone. In fact, I am not — not even close. But that is because there is good, meaningful art everywhere. You just have to look for it.

Some of you may have guessed this by now, but I am a bit of an introvert. Like most introverts, I am situationally an extrovert, so that I can survive in this life. But it takes work and can be exhausting. So, from a young age, I learned to cope with this “roadblock,” shall we call it, by finding ways to communicate and connect with others without the burden of the inevitable awkward conversation.

Writing is, of course, one of those coping mechanisms, but my first and favorite mode of communication is the visual arts. I have been making art since I could dip a finger in paint. Few things give me the peace and relief of selfexpression quite like making art does.

There is no wrong answer.

It’s me putting a little piece of myself out there for others to take or leave. It wasn’t long before I came to the realization that, if that is my way of communicating and connecting, then others surely do the same.

To me, that is why these institutions of art and culture are so unbelievably important. They are not just buildings housing pretty pieces of the past and paintings to match your decor. They are houses of human communication. They are

Get your Art and History kicks

Art fills practically every inch of the walls of the Northfield Art Guild’s main gallery for the 2023 Art Attack student show.

a tether to keep us connected to each other, past and present.

WWhen I visit a gallery or museum, I am actively looking for a connection. I sometimes feel guilty about how fast I can buzz through some of these places, but I need to leave time to really hang out with the pieces that resonate with me. That is when I really feel like I got the most out of my experience.

There is nothing like standing in front of a piece of art that someone, somewhere, sometime, poured their heart and soul into and having it actually inspire an emotion within your own self. It feels like you have actually met that person, found some common ground, and now understand each other just a little bit better, all without the embarrassing small talk.

And you don’t need to be looking at a Monet or a Picasso for this to happen, though it’s possible to connect with those giants of the art world just the same. There are small, local art and history centers all over the world where you can connect with someone just around the corner without ever looking them in the eyes.

Some of my favorite local places to frequent are The Grand in New Ulm, The 410 Project and the Carnegie in Mankato, and the Arts Center of Saint Peter.

I consider The Grand my home base of art centers. I helped get it going over a decade ago and continue to volunteer and participate with their programming on a pretty regular basis. A few times a year I hang some of the shows that exhibit in the Four Pillars Gallery on the 2nd floor. I really get to hang out with the art in those instances. And there is usually at least one piece that stands out and sticks with me after I leave. The Grand also holds classes and books the stage in The Kabaret on the first floor. But probably the best feather in their cap is the Cellar Press in the basement. A printmaking studio had long been a dream of those of us who helped start this thing, and it finally came to be. There are several classic presses and a nice collection of letterpress equipment and materials. A good number of education opportunities center around the Cellar Press. I highly recommend checking it out if you are at all curious. No experience needed. There are plenty of beginnerlevel classes.

The 410 Project, in downtown Mankato, is a small community art space that truly reflects the creative spirit of the people that inhabit it. I love this place. It just feels good inside. The shows switch out pretty quickly, but that means

more artists get a chance to be seen, and gives you more reasons to go back on the regular. Their back room also frequently holds live music performances, writers’ readings, and art education opportunities. I have been to quite a few exhibit openings in this space and they always feel like parties. They are usually packed and full of delighted chatter.

The Carnegie has a soft, serene feel when you walk inside. It seems like you can feel the history in its walls. It has beautiful natural light and high ceilings that give the art a feeling of real importance. There’s room to breathe it all in. There are two galleries that exhibit work and a really great gift shop.

The Arts Center of Saint Peter has a two-level exhibition gallery and gift shop space that I often find things in that are very worth purchasing. They also have a clay and fibers studio that offer unique art-making opportunities. The location of the ACSP feels particularly metropolitan to me. Just a few doors down is River Rock coffee shop. You can sip your latte, go for a stroll through downtown Saint Peter, and stop in to see what’s on. PSA: probably finish your coffee first. No one needs any unintentional additions to their work.

My brief descriptions of each of these places is just a tiny snapshot, and one person’s perspective, of what these institutions really mean to their communities. I could not possibly write

about all they have to offer or all they do in just one article. Check out their websites, their social media, or better yet, go for a visit. Artists are only half of the equation. You are the other half. Art is a conversation, after all.

I have exhibited in at least one show in each of these locations, and a full solo show in a couple of them. Each time, whether it was one piece or ten, it felt like I won the lottery. It means so much to the artists around you to be able to share their work with you. Sharing art is sharing ourselves.

And each time you purchase a piece and take it home to live in your space, it’s like saying, “I get it. I understand. I want to remember this connection.”

The Walker and MIA in Minneapolis are great. The Tate Modern and the Nelly Duff gallery in London are completely thrilling. But the opportunity to connect with art and artists is probably right around the corner.

These places are important. They are important to artists and they are important to the communities in which they exist. And, I am willing to bet, that they would become important to you once you step inside and see all that they have to offer.

Megan

Rolloff is an interior designer in Mankato, who lives in New Ulm with her doting husband Tom. She loves music, especially of the Minnesota variety, and now she writes about it. Reach her at megankrolloff@gmail.com.

Art, Music and History Centers

Alexander Faribault House

12 First Ave. NE, Faribault Call for tours: 507-332-2121 rchistory.org

Arts & Heritage Center 206 1st St N # 2, Montgomery sites.google.com/site/montgomeryartsandheritage

Arts Center of Saint Peter 315 S Minnesota Ave., St Peter 507-931-3630

artscentersp.org

Blue Earth County Historical Society

424 Warren Street, Mankato 507-345-5566 blueearthcountyhistory.com

E. St. Julien Cox House

500 N Washington Ave, St. Peter nchsmn.org/visit/e-st-julien-coxhouse

507-934-2160

Farmamerica

7367 360th Ave., Waseca 507-835-2052

farmamerica.org

Geldner Saw Mill & Park 46542 Beaver Dam Road, Cleveland co.le-sueur.mn.us

Harkin Store 66250 County Road 21, New Ulm mnhs.org/harkinstore

507-628-5591

Kenyon Area Historical Society at The Gunderson House 107 Gunderson Blvd, Kenyon 507-298-1127

Le Sueur County Historical Society, Museum and Genealogy Center 301 Second St. NE, Elysian Phone: 507-267-4091 lesueurcountyhistory.org

Little Prairie School 2980 130th St E, Dundas 507-332-2121 rchistory.org

Mayo Civic Center 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester mayociviccenter.com

Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center 1 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato mayoclinichealthsystemeventcenter. com

Millersburg Schoolhouse Museum

3300 Millersburg Blvd, Faribault 952-270-8764

Minnesota State Public School

Orphanage Museum

540 West Hills Circle, Owatonna Orphanagemuseum.com 507-774-7369

Northfield Arts Guild 304 Division Street, Northfield info@northfieldartsguild.org 507-645-8877

Northfield Historical Society Museum 408 Division St. S, Northfield 507-645-9268 northfieldhistory.org

Owatonna Arts Center 435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna oacarts.org

Owatonna Farmers Market Central Park, Owatonna Saturdays 7am-3pm

Ottawa Stone Church 39024 Whittier St., Le Sueur 507-267-4091

Paradise Center for the Arts

321 Central Ave. N, Faribault paradisecenterforthearts.org

507-332-7372

Red Wing Marine Museum

935 Levee Road, Red Wing 651-442-7661 RedWingMarineMuseum.com

Rice County Historical Society Museum

1814 NW Second Ave., Faribault 507-332-2121 rchistory.org

Sibley County Historical Museum

700 Main St., Henderson 507-248-3434 sibleycountyhistoricalsociety.com

Steele County Historical Society Museum and Village of Yesteryear

1700 Austin Road, Owatonna 507-451-1420 steelehistorymuseum.org

The Music Space of Owatonna 216 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna facebook.com/musicspaceow

Vetter Stone Amphitheater 309 W Rock St., Mankato vetterstoneamphitheater.com

Village of Yesteryear 1431 Austin Rd, Owatonna schsmn.org/village-of-yesteryear

Waseca Art Center 200 State St. N, Waseca 507-835-1701 wasecaartscouncil.org

Waseca County Historical Society Museum 315 2nd Ave. NE, Waseca 507-835-7700 historical.waseca.mn.us

West Concord Historical Society Museum 600 W 1st St, West Concord 507-527-2628 westconcordhistoricalsociety.org

Nicollet County Historical Society/Treaty Site History Center

1851 N. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter 507-934-2160 mnhs.org/traversedessioux

Sheldon Theatre 443 W 3rd St., Red Wing sheldontheatre.org

W.W.

House 118 N. Main St., Le Sueur 507-665-3250 mayohouse@mnhs.org

Kids show off their work at the Waseca Art Center. (Photo courtesy of the Waseca Art Center)

kids in any combination, including babysitters) to two games of bowling per day from May 1 through Labor Day.

Sure, summer corn hole and volleyball leagues are a thing, but kids and parents can also play corn hole before or after a meal.

Wednesday night’s “Bar Bingo” at 7 p.m. is hosted by and benefits the Northfield Area Fire and Rescue Service, thus contributing to the greater community’s overall safety.

And Flaherty’s VIP room is available to rent for events of all kinds—birthdays, company gatherings, holiday or retirement parties, class reunions, fantasy football drafts, bridal or baby showers—you name it and they’ll be happy to help you make it happen.

Bring the entire family to bowl a couple of games and enjoy an affordable meal, watch your favorite team on a big screen or schedule a double date topped off with some keen corn hole competition to keep things interesting.

There’s a lot for everyone to love at Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes. It may begin and end with bowling, but every activity in between at this fun-loving spot is a guaranteed strike.

Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes, 1700 MN-3, Northfield. 507-645-8322, flahertysnorthfieldlanes.com. Open daily beginning at 11 a.m. Freelance writer/collaborative pianist Jane Turpin Moore grew up in the Mankato area and is now based in Northfield. She blogs at timeformoore566445504.wordpress. com and fields emails at jturpinmoore@gmail.com.

Activities for adults and families

By JANE TURPIN MOORE Guest Contributor

Who says nobody bowls anymore? No one with Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes on their radar.

A significant remodel of the former Jesse James Lanes was completed last summer following the 2021 purchase of the facility by fatherson duo Dan and Adam Flaherty.

The Flaherty family, which also owns Flaherty’s Arden Bowl in Arden Hills, has been in the bowling business since 1938 and knows well how to operate a first-rate bowling alley. In fact, their website and menu proudly proclaim them to be the oldest family-owned bowling business in the United States.

But bowling at Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes — which offers seasonal leagues, open bowling times, cosmic bowling, college night specials and birthday party packages — is just the start.

The Flahertys added a sizable arcade room that features an air hockey table plus a number of other video and claw machines. Conveniently, the arcade is adjacent to the sports bar; players of all ages are readily visible through a wall of windows and a glass sound-buffering door, making it easy for parents to enjoy a drink while simultaneously keeping an eye on the kids.

And how ‘bout that sports bar? Numerous large-screen TVs display every streaming sports

competition any fan could hope to view. The bar itself is distinguished by an attractive stone wall that’s lit with contemporary pendants. Guests can pull up a bar stool or choose from pub tables, regular height seating or cushy, sage-colored booths.

Another dining room, separate from the sports bar, is available for those seeking an even quieter dining experience.

Outdoors, a spacious flagstone-paved patio is brightened by alternating orange- and turquoise-colored umbrellas and beckons lovers of sun and fresh air. Overhead strings of lights make it a cool place to hang out after dusk on warm summer evenings.

General manager Adam Tulkki is proud to say Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes has a full-service kitchen that provides hungry customers with plenty to choose from. Highlights include nine different burger options, quarter-pound all-beef hotdogs, fish-and-chips or butterfly shrimp baskets and Flaherty’s “famous pizzas.”

Tasty appetizers are on tap, and when purchasing one of the six different kids’ meals, customers may get a $5 arcade card at a 50% discount. Additional weeknight specials include $2 off soup/salad combos on Monday nights, $2 off burgers on Tuesdays, 25% off pizzas on Wednesday evenings and $2 off fish & chips baskets each Thursday. Happy hour drink specials run each weekday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and again from 8 to 10 p.m.

But it’s not a stretch to say that Flaherty’s, which aims for excellent customer service, updated facilities and clean surroundings yearround, is family friendly.

For the summer of 2023, Flaherty’s is selling a “Summer Pass” that entitles holders (up to

four adults and six

Two enthusiastic customers enjoy some friendly competition in the arcade room at Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes. The sports bar can be seen through the windows at rear. (Jane Moore/southernminn.com)

Flaherty’s arcade room has a variety of games to try. (Jane Moore/southernminn.com)

Thursday evening bowling league competitors focused on their games at Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes. (Jane Moore/southernminn.com)

Even on an overcast early April afternoon, some customers couldn’t wait to dine on Flaherty’s patio. (Jane Moore/southernminn.com)

Family Friendly Activities

Adventure Bound

Camping Resorts

21943 630th Ave., Austin 507-607-0620 abcamping.com/beavertrails

Air Insanity Indoor

Trampoline Park

1607 US-14, Rochester 507-322-6197 airinsanity.com

Bent River Outfitter

530 N Riverfront Dr B, Mankato 507-388-2368 bentriveroutfitter.com

Bounce Town

1860 Adams St., Mankato 507-345-7737 bouncetownmankato.com

Bounce World 4430 19th St NW, Rochester 507-316-0788 bounceworldmn.com

Broken Paddle Guiding Co. 213 Main St. W, Wabasha 651-955-5222 brokenpaddleguiding.com kayak and stand up paddleboard tours & rentals

Cannon Falls Canoe and Bike Rental 615 N 5th St, Cannon Falls 507-407-4111 cannonfallscanoeandbike.com

Chesley Skate Park 161 Jaycee Ct., Mankato 507-387-8222 mankatoymca.org

Children’s Museum of Southern Minnesota 224 Lamm St, Mankato 507-386-0279 cmsouthernmn.org

Escape Challenge

6301 Bandel Rd NW, Rochester 507-722-2728 theescapechallenge.com

Escape MSP 20730 Holyoke Ave SUITE 150, Lakeville 612-424-3845 escapelkv.com

Flaherty’s Northfield Lanes

1700 Highway 3 S #CO, Northfield 507-645-8322 flahertysnorthfieldlanes.com

Grand Slam

12425 River Ridge Blvd, Burnsville 952-224-0413 grandslammn.com

International Owl Center

126 E Cedar St,, Houston 507-896-6957 internationalowlcenter.org

Jack McGowans Farm 20001 Hawkeye Ln., Mankato 507-625-2257

facebook.com/McgowanFarm

Kato Escape

619 S Front St, Mankato

507-327-4045 katoescape.com

Kerfoot Canopy Tour

30200 Scenic Byway Rd, Henderson 952-873-3901

kerfootcanopytour.com

zipline, aerial adventure park, sightseeing tours

Lake Area Clubhouse

117 E Main St, Elysian 507-267-4611

Minnesota’s Largest

Candy Store

20430 Johnson Memorial Dr., Jordan facebook.com/MinnesotasLargestCandyStor

Motokazie Supercross

7000-7462 W 195th St., Jordan 952-601-1169 motokazie.com

National Eagle Center

50 Pembroke Ave, Wabasha 651-565-4989 nationaleaglecenter.org

Northfield Skatepark 801 Seventh St., Northfield

Owatonna Archery Range 711 N Elm St., Owatonna ci.owatonna.mn.uc

2 acres, 10 shooting lanes

Owatonna Bike/Skate Park 350 School St., Owatonna Helmets required

River Rock Disc Golf Course

1025 Mineral Springs Pkwy., Owatonna 9-hole course

Sand Creek Adventures

3101 220th St W, Jordan 952.492.5333 sandcreekadventures.com

Sibley Park Petting Zoo 900 Mound Ave, Mankato mankatomn.gov/city-services-a-z

SkyDive Northstar 35493 110th St., Waseca 507-291-5867 skydivenorthstar.com

SPAM Museum

101 3rd Ave NE, Austin spam.com/museum

Sparetime

333 18th St. SE, Owatonna 507-451-2524

bowling, laser tag, arcades

St. Peter Disc Golf Course Riverside Park, St. Peter Near the intersection of Hwy. 22 & Hwy. 169 18 holes

The 300 Club 504 North Main St., Le Sueur 507-665-6015

bolwing, restaurant, bar

The Bowling Center 1802 4th St. NW, Faribault 507-334-3262 faribaultbowling.com

Toners Lake Karting 8747 415th Ave., Janesville 507-835-1413 tonerslakekarting.org dirt oval karting

Waseca Skatepark 527 6th Ave. SE, Waseca ci.waseca.mn.us

Winona Marine Art Museum 800 Riverview Dr, Winona mmam.org

Art galleries, youth and adult programs

WOW! ZONE

2030 Adams St., Mankato 507-625-26952030 Adams Street wowzonefec.com

bowling, mini golf, arcade, laser tag

Shopping around

birthday parties,” a service advertised on their website (theradzoo.com).

Another MOC shop serving animal-lovers is Happy Tails Pet Store, which carries a broad range of animal and pet supplies and also sells reptiles, fish, rabbits, birds and more.

But back to the shopping front. Still on-site at MOC are Famous Footwear, Maurice’s, j.jules fashion, Old Navy Outlet, Carter’s Oshkosh B’gosh, Eddie Bauer, Bath & Body Works and Leggs/Hanes/ Bali/Playtex. Shoppers can find a bounty of discounted name-brand items, ranging from shoes to hosiery to lotions, in those stores.

moderate to upscale price point. Yarno stocks women’s clothing (and a smaller array of kids’ clothing), jewelry, shoes, accessories, home decor and designer handbags.

A short list of brands almost always on hand at Off Like a Kite Boutique include Michael Kors, Coach, Lululemon, Athleta, Silver Jean Co., The North Face, Lane Bryant, Lucky Brand, Keen, Converse, Nike, Free People and Gap. (Note: that is a partial listing of brand-name items available at Off Like a Kite Boutique.)

The Medford Outlet Center still has plenty to showcase in 2023. (File photo/southernminn.com)

By JANE TURPIN MOORE Guest Contributor

kay, so the number of stores at Medford Outlet Center, conveniently situated just off I-35 between Owatonna and Faribault, isn’t quite what it used to be.

But 13 options in one concentrated area still make for a handy one-stop shopping experience and some great browsing, minus a lot of running around.

With a parking set-up more akin to a strip

mall than to a sprawling indoor mall’s vast and unwieldy parking lot, MOC is easier to navigate for parents with small children, those with mobility issues or busy folks looking to target one or two destinations before moving on.

OIf you haven’t stopped at MOC in awhile (like, since before the pandemic?), be aware there are at least two service-oriented spots on site: Bella Vita Salon and Heather Anne Photography, the latter of which specializes in family and milestone photographic moments.

Or, if you’re trying to keep the young ones occupied, check out Rad Zoo, a Reptile and Amphibian Discovery zoo at MOC. Billing itself as “Minnesota’s premier reptile destination,” Rad Zoo has over 150 different kinds of animals from all over the world.

Alligator, turtle, snake and lizard-loving kids would certainly appreciate Rad Zoo’s “traveling

And for about the last 14 months, MOC has been home to one distinctive local and woman-owned shop — Off Like a Kite Boutique.

Owner Susan Yarno marked the boutique’s one-year anniversary in early April with loads of special offers — but the reality is deals abound year-round at Off Like a Kite.

The boutique is truly unique to the area, since Yarno set it up as a name-brand consignment store with a

As a former managementlevel retailer with Macy’s, Yarno has decades of retail experience; she knows her way around brands, styling advice, fashion trends and product quality.

Unlike the atmosphere one might find at more corporate outlets, Yarno prizes the personal relationships she develops with her customers. She is happy to supply fashion advice and function as a personal shopper, if clients wish to bring in elements from their existing wardrobes when looking for seasonal style updates or options to better suit their age-range

Off Like a Kite is a clothing and decor store in the Medford Outlet Center, owned by Susan Yarno.

A variety of brand name items are available at Off Like a Kite in the Medford Outlet Center.

Rad Zoo is a popular spot inside the Medford Outlet Mall. or shifting body size.

Speaking of size, Off Like a Kite has women’s clothing ranging from small to “plus.” Yarno says Off Like a Kite currently has an excellent selection of dresses for weddings and graduation events, so it’s a perfect stop for spring shopping.

Oh: and Yarno is always on the lookout for new brand-name products to fill her store. People are welcome to contact her via Off Like a Kite’s Facebook page (message her) or by calling the boutique at 507-451-1974 to schedule appointments for potential consignment buys.

But be advised that Yarno will review items for consignment purchase by appointment only, and demand for her store and services is high enough that her appointment calendar is

typically four- to six-weeks out.

“Our price points are reasonable,” said Yarno, “and we welcome everybody here.”

That alone might be enough to make MOC a top priority for your next shopping excursion.

Off Like a Kite Boutique is located at the Medford Outlet Center. Call 507-451-1974 or visit offlikeakite.com for more information about product availability and consignment appointments. All stores at Medford Outlet Center open at 10 a.m.; contact individual stores for specific closing times and days of operation.

Freelance writer/collaborative pianist Jane Turpin Moore grew up in the Mankato area and is now based in Northfield. She blogs at timeformoore566445504.wordpress. com and fields emails at jturpinmoore@gmail.com.

Downtown Le Sueur South Main Street, Le Sueur facebook.com/Downtown

LeSueur

Downtown Northfield Division Street, Northfield

downtownnorthfield.org boutiques, gift shops, coffee shops, restaurants

Downtown Owatonna Cedar Avenue, Owatonna visitowatonna.org/historic-downtown boutiques, gift shops, coffee shops, restaurants

Downtown Red Wing Bush Street, Red Wing downtownredwing.org

Downtown Rochester Broadway Avenue South, Rochester downtownrochestermn.com

Downtown St. Peter Minnesota Avenue, St. Peter boutiques, gift shops, coffee shops, restaurants

Downtown Waseca State Street, Waseca discoverwaseca.com

Faribault Main Street Central Avenue, Faribault visitfaribault.com/historic-downtown

Old Town Mankato

300-800 Riverfront Dr., Mankato facebook.com/oldtownmankato

River Hills Mall 1850 Adams St, Mankato riverhillsmall.com

Ultra Outlets 6750 W. Frontage Road, Medford ultraoutlets.com

Connecting with nature in this spring awakening

along a packed path that sometimes presents obstacles of roots and fallen trees. No matter, I appreciate the solitude of what seems mostly an undiscovered park.

Likewise Richter Woods County Park, 1.5 miles west of Montgomery along a gravel road, offers the quiet seclusion of alone-ness, at least on the day I visited. Paths wind through the woods in the Hansel and Gretel way of wondering whether I would find my way back.

of people.

Water is a main feature in so many of our parks, including Mineral Springs in Owatonna. As the story goes, Princess Owatonna drank from the healing springs, her health restored. Whether legend or not, being outdoors is good for one’s physical, emotional and mental health.

By AUDREY KLETSCHER HELBLING Minnesota Prairie Roots

fter a relentless, snowy winter, I welcome the greening of Minnesota with exuberance. To see buds form in spring, then unfurl into lush leafed canopies, uplifts me in a way that no other season can. The greens of May appear so intense, so vivid, after months of living in a black-and-white world.

In this time of renewal, I take it all in—the earthy scent of overturned soil, low-lying wildflowers flourishing among decayed leaves, the chorus of songbirds, muck sucking at my shoes, water flowing free of ice. My senses seem heightened, alert to every detail in this spring-

awakening.

AIt’s an ideal time to break loose from winter with a walk in the woods, along a trail, in a park. Southern Minnesota offers an abundance of places to fully appreciate nature. I gravitate toward water, which soothes me with its steady flow, its rushing spillage over rocks, its glass-top surface.

Falls Creek Park, a mile east of Faribault off Minnesota State Highway 60, rates as a favorite hiking site with its secluded, wooded location. Crossing over the arced footbridge spanning Falls Creek, I feel like I’ve entered another world with a tree dense hillside banking the narrow dirt trail, the creek curving and bending to the right. The water usually runs clear here. Hiking requires careful navigating

Another lesser-known rural spot that draws me is the prairie at Valley Grove—two historic churches and surrounding acreage set atop a hillside near Nerstrand Big Woods State Park. An uneven walking trail cuts through the open countryside where tall prairie grasses sway, where wildflowers flag the landscape with color, where immigrants once trod. A prairie restoration project is underway here. This is a scenic location deeply rooted in the land and in history.

Likewise, a sense of connecting to the land leads me to Faribault Energy Park, with wide gravel roads routing around ponds. Even with the drone of traffic from adjacent Interstate 35, this park quiets the spirit in the distinct trill of a red wing blackbird, in the span of waterfowl in flight, in the rise of cattails along water’s edge. Other than a few people fishing the biggest pond near the power plant, this park is usually absent

I’ve explored/ walked Kaplan’s Woods Parkway in Owatonna; River Bend Nature Center in Faribault; the downtown Riverwalk and the

Cowling Arboretum in Northfield; Rice Lake, Nerstrand Big Woods, Sakatah Lake and Minneopa state parks; and countless city parks and trails. In these places, I’ve immersed myself in nature, experienced a sense of calm and wellbeing envelope me. The outdoors await with a promise of renewal in this season of spring.

Audrey Kletscher Helbling embraces nature at an unhurried pace and from the perspective of a writer and photographer with her senses attuned to details. She often finds herself lagging far behind her husband as she pauses to photograph nature. To view more of her creative work, visit her blog at https://mnprairieroots.com

Sunset at Shager Park on Cannon Lake, along the Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail.

Richter Woods is just off this gravel road west of Montgomery in rural Le Sueur County.

Woodland flowers flourish in Kaplan’s Woods, Owatonna.

“Spring” at River Bend Nature Center, Faribault, holds a dual meaning in this season of spring.

OUTDOORS

Beaver Lake County Park

Steele County Road 28, Ellendale co.steele.mn.us

hiking trails, boat dock, fishing pier

Byllesby Park (Goodhue County)

Hwy. 19, 1 mile west of Cannon Falls

boat launch, picnic area

Cannon Wilderness Park

3471 151st St. E, Faribault co.rice.mn.us

Canoe launch, hiking and horseback trails

Carleton College

Cowling Arboretum

One North College St., Northfield 507-222-4543

apps.carleton.edu/campus/arb

Camping, /Trails, Hiking, +Biking, Parks, +Nature, Lakes & Rivers

CAMPING

Camp Faribo

21851 Bagley Ave., Faribault

507-332-8453

www.campfaribo.com

Clear Lake Park & Campground

35194 Clear Lake Lane, Le Center

primitive campsites, first come-first served

Flandrau State Park

1300 Summit Ave., New Ulm

507-233-1260

dnr.state.mn.us

camping, swimming, hiking

Frontenac State Park

29223 County 28 Blvd., Frontenac

651-345-3401

dnr.state.mn.us

camping, hiking trails

Lake Washington Regional Park & Campground

47102 Washington Park Road, Kasota

507-357-8201

co.le-sueur.mn.us

camping, fishing, canoe launch, playgrounds

Land of Memories Campground

100 Amos Owen Lane, Mankato mankatomn.gov

fishing, canoeing, boat landing

Kamp Dells

14842 Sakatah Lake Road, Waterville

507-362-8616 www.kampdels.com

Kieslers

Campground & RV resort

14360 U.S. Hwy. 14, Waseca

507-835-3179

kieslers.com

boat rentals, mini golf

Mill Pond/Riverside Park & Campground

227 S Front St., St. Peter

Boat launch, fishing pond, playground

Sakatah Lake State Park

50499 Sakatah Lake State Park Road, Waterville 507-698-7851

dnr.state.mn.us

hiking, biking, camping

TRAILS+HIKING+BIKING

Cannon Valley Trail

19.7-miles trail from Cannon Falls to Red Wing cannonvalleytrail.com

Cannon Wilderness Park 3471 151st St. E, Faribault co.rice.mn.us canoe launch, hiking and horseback trails

City of Faribault trails

8.4 miles of trails

Map: bit.ly/319fqsT

City of Northfield trails

22 miles of trails

Map: bit.ly/3g4b7nd

Goodhue-Pioneer State Trail

When finished, the 47-miles trail will connect the Cannon Valley Regional and the Douglas State trails

High Island Creek Park 26428 341 Lane, Henderson co.sibley.mn.us

Lebanon Hills Regional Park 860 Cliff Road, Eagan, 651-554-6530

Mountain biking trails

Kaplan’s Woods Park, Kaplan’s Woods Parkway 1205 SW 18th St., Owatonna ci.owatonna.mn.us

paved trails, boat access, swimming

Mill Towns Trail

3-mile multi-use trail currently links Dundas and Northfield

Plans to run from Faribault to Cannon Falls

Rasmussen Woods 555 Stoltzman Road, Mankato mankatomn.gov hiking, wildlife

Sakatah Singing Hills Trail

39-mile trail runs from Faribault to Mankato dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/sakatah

Traverse des Sioux Trails 1851 N. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter facebook.com/TraverseTrails

Cedar Lake Regional Park

25875 Juniper Ave., New Prague 763-694-777

fishing, trails, picnic areas

Courthouse Park

Wilton Brideg Road, Waseca co.waseca.mn.us/Facilities

Camping, walking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding trails

CONTINUED page 20

City of Owatonna trails

17 miles of trails, including Buxton and Muckle ci.owatonna.mn.us/304/Trails

Courthouse Park

Wilton Brideg Road, Waseca camping, walking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding trails

Falls Creek Park 20506 Carr Ave., Faribault 507-332-6112

Artist Adam Turman painted Dwarf Trout Lilies on one of the seasonally-themed murals in a pedestrian tunnel in Northfield. The rare lilies are found in nearby Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.

The historic Ames Mill backdrops the Cannon River dam along the Riverwalk in downtown Northfield.

The Princess Owatonna statue at Mineral Springs Park.

Ponds at River Bend Nature Center are nesting grounds for waterfowl.

Loon Lake, Waseca

Hwy. 14

DNR-assisted boat ramp 10th St. NW motor boats only

Roberds Lake, Faribault

Roberds Lake Boulevard

Campgrounds and boat launches all around

Straight River Canoe Landing

5218 N Co Road 45, Medford

Tetonka Lake, Waterville

City-owned access off First Street

Campgrounds and boat launches all around

CONTINUED from page 19

Covill Park

507 Nymphara Ln, Red Wing red-wing.org/facilities/facility/details/ Colvill-Park-9

Boat launch, tennis courts, volleyball, walking paths

Falls Creek Park

20506 Carr Ave, Faribault ricecountymn.gov/facility/details/ Falls-Creek-Park-6

61 acres, mailnly wooded, with about 3,000 feet of creek frontage

Flandrau State Park

1300 Summit Ave., New Ulm dnr.state.mn.us

Camping, swimming, hiking

Frontenac State Park

29223 County 28 Blvd., Frontenac dnr.state.mn.us

Camping, hiking trails

Harmony Park

79503 298th St, Clarks Grove

507-402-8733 harmonypark.com

Kaplan’s Woods Park

1205 SW 18th St., Owatonna ci.owatonna.mn.us

Paved trails, boat access, swimming

Lake Byllesby Regional Park

8150 295th St. E., Cannon Falls co.dakota.mn.us/parks/parksTrails/

LakeByllesby Campground, boating, trailhead

Lake Kohlmeir beach

1550 Mosher Drive, Owatonna

507-774-7372 ci.owatonna.mn.us

swimming, acquatic and trail

equipment rentals

Lake Washington Regional Park & Campground

47102 Washington Park Road, Kasota co.le-sueur.mn.us

Camping, fishing, canoe launch, playgrounds

Linnaes Arboretum

800 W. College Ave., St. Peter gustavus.edu/arboretum

interpretive center, gardens, prairie

Minneopa State Park

54497 Gadwall Road, Mankato

507-386-3910 dnr.state.mn.us

camping, fishing, bison herd

Myre-Big Island State Park

19499 780th Ave., Albert Lea

507-668-7060 dnr.state.mn.us

camping, hiking, canoeing

Nerstrand Big Woods State Park

9700 170th St. E, Nerstrand

507-384-6140 dnr.state.mn.us

self-guided interpretive trail, Hidden Falls waterfall

Ney Nature Center

28238 Nature Center Lane, Henderson 507-357-8580 neycenter.org

historic farm site, trails, wildlife

Okaman Park

E. Elysian Lake Road, Janesville co.waseca.mn.us boat launch, walking trail

Rasmussen Woods 555 Stoltzman Road, Mankato mankatomn.gov

Hiking, wildlife

Rice Lake State Park

8485 Rose St., Owatonna 507-414-6191 dnr.state.mn.us

canoeing, nature observation

Richter Woods Park

35674 173rd Ave, Montgomery co.le-sueur.mn.us/Facilities/Facility/ Details/Richter-Woods-Park-10

Wildlife,picnic shelters, firepits, basketball, volleyball, more

River Bend Nature Center

1000 Rustad Road, Faribault 507-32-7151 rbnc.org

trails, interpretive center, picnicking

Sakatah

Lake State Park

50499 Sakatah Lake State Park Road, Waterville dnr.state.mn.us

Hiking, biking, camping

Seven Mile Count Park

Hwy. 169 south of St. Peter co.nicollet.mn.us

multiuse trails with equestrian parking, boat landing

Sibley Park & Farm

900 Park Lane, Mankato mankatomn.gov

farm animals, playground

Rush River Park

33503 Rush River Park Road, Henderson co.sibley.mn.us Horseback & hiking trails, swimming, camping

Traverse Des Sioux Park

1851 N Minnesota Ave, St. Peter mnhs.org/traversedessioux

Walking trails, biking trails, scenic views

RIVERS + LAKES

Clear Lake, Waseca

Boat launches:

Off Clear Lake Drive across from Kieslers . Handicapped accessible fishing pier. North side of lake along Clear Lake Drive and adjacent to Lakeside Golf Course.

GEM Sailing MN

201 S Franklin St., Lake City 507-261-7473

GEMSailingMN.com

Sail the boat or enjoy the ride.

Henderson Station River

Access & Park

29030 River St., Le Sueur

Lake Jefferson Fishing Pier

28211 470th Street, Madison

Lake

Water

A pedestrian bridge spans the Cannon River in the heart of Northfield.

A pedestrian bridge spans the Straight River at Moorhouse Park in Owatonna.

Walking paths edge Lyman Lakes at Carleton College, Northfield.

rushes over a dam along the Cannon River Reservoir by North Alexander Park, Faribault.

Rice Lake State Park, seven miles east of Owatonna, is a popular bird and waterfowl watching spot.

This waterfall constructed in the 1970s is a feature of Owatonna’s Mineral Springs Park.

Rants & RAVES

Red Gate Alpaca Farm

are huacaya (pronounced wah-KI’-ya) and suri (pronounced surrey). The huacaya fleece is commonly described as looking like a “teddy bear” and the suri fleece as looking like “dreadlocks.” The fiber of the suri alpaca is rarer and more highly prized than that of the huacaya. Suri fleece is soft as cashmere, warmer than wool and has the luster of silk.

livestock such as cows, horses, goats & sheep, yet it’s perfect enough to improve soil texture and water holding capacities. It has the added benefit of not needing to be composted (aged or cured) prior to using and doesn’t carry the salmonella bacteria. It’s also an effective deer repellent, yet almost odorless to humans.

The third income source is the actual fiber of the animal. Teri is the one in charge of selling this end product. Llamas and alpacas are both used for fiber production, but the alpaca is the true champ. Alpacas sport an incredibly soft fleece that is highly prized for being strong, yet surprisingly lightweight and warm. Some fiber from RGAF gets sent out in bulk to be made into yarn and samples of final products are sold in their on-site store.

For me, summer means jumping in my car and finding hidden gems in my backyard that can be enjoyed during a day trip. This is what led me to Red Gate Alpaca Farm (RGAF) in Dundas.

The first thing I wanted to know was what’s the difference between alpacas and llamas? The owners, Teri & Kraig Quamme set me straight. Contrary to popular belief, they’re not the same animal. It’s like saying St. Paul and Minneapolis are the same thing.

The most notable difference is the actual size of the animals. Alpacas are much smaller than llamas (approximately #150 vs. #400) and llamas tend to be more comfortable interacting with humans. Alpacas, though cuddly looking, are more aloof. “Alpacas are more like cats, while llamas are more like dogs,” says Cindi Hassrick, founder of Aurora Alpaca and Llama Farm. Alpacas are mild tempered creatures who thrive in a herd environment.

An alpaca is a hybrid between a llama and a vicuña, two camelid species native to the Andes Mountains in Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and Chile. Alpacas were never wild but rather were developed by the Incans about 6,000 years ago as a source of fiber for royal clothing. Alpacas have been used by humans for transportation and fleece production for thousands of years.

The second thing I asked about is the tendency for the animals to spit. With alpacas, spitting is generally observed between herd-mates to assert dominance and is rarely done towards humans unless they’re provoked. Llamas have a slightly more aggressive nature and have been known to spit at the casual passer-by. Alpacas display affection by gently bringing their noses to you and they may briefly kiss or nuzzle.

“I have always loved animals…probably to a fault” said Kraig when I asked him how he and his wife got into this business back in 2005. Teri fell in love with the whimsical creatures the minute she saw them and was interested in “raising livestock that you don’t eat.”

Kraig spent two years researching and thinking about genetics before making the big decision to start raising the animals on their secluded farm. They brought in animals with genetics from the East and West coasts, the middle of the country, as well as Wisconsin. Kraig knew that if there were other farms in their proximity, they could do some cross-breeding and create different genetics to distinguish themselves. Genetics include things like fiber quality, fineness of fleece, volume of fleece, etc. Each year RGAF strives to improve on fiber qualities to benefit their flock as well as their standing in the national alpaca network.

There is only one species of alpaca - but two fleece types, often referred to as breeds. They

All 75 of the RGAF flock are suris and range in hue from white to jet black. Light rose grey is the rarest color and accounts for only 1% of registered animals in the Alpaca Owners Association (AOA). I met Boreus and his sister, Aurora, who both had this gorgeous unusual coloring. Alpacas are very intelligent animals, amazingly alert and easily trained to halter and lead. They constantly communicate with each other through body posture, tail and ear movements as well as a variety of sounds.

Alpacas are herbivores meaning they only eat vegetation. Some of their favorite treats include carrots, apples, broccoli stalks, and turnips. The average lifespan is 15 to 20 years. The females will spend most of their life pregnant starting at age 2-3. An average pregnancy can last 11-12 months although RGAF had one female that went an amazing 373 days before giving birth.

The babies (aka cria) stay with mom for about 6 months to nurse. A healthy female can be rebred within 21 days of giving birth. Teri mentioned the animals like being pregnant and really enjoy being moms. “They can take one sniff and know immediately which cria belongs to them,” said Teri. Kraig said they also see color which helps the young animals identify their mom in the midst of a large herd.

When discussing alpacas as a business, there are several different ways they produce income. Using the animals as breeding stock brings in different fees depending on the rarity. I met SW (Secret Weapon) who had produced (40) champion offspring and had a stud fee of $2,500.

Yet another valuable business component is alpaca compost which is commonly referred to as “Black Gold.” One of the unusual things about alpacas is that they fully utilize their food within 50 hours of eating. This results in manure pellets that have very little odor and are able to be placed directly on and around even the most delicate plants. Alpaca compost is lower in organic matter than the manure of most other

The animals are also shown at alpaca shows and compete with farms from all over the United States. A big farm might have hundreds of alpacas and a huge investment which could run up to $50,000 per animal. Teri and Kraig have a smaller herd but consider themselves lucky to compete at a high level due to the quality genetics and care they put into their animals.

The fleece is left long when the animals are going to be shown which gives them their slightly quirky appearance. Alpacas should be sheared every year but generally, no bathing or brushing is required. They have long bangs covering their huge dark eyes and are usually accompanied by a wonky set of teeth protruding from their lower jaw.

RGAF is a currently a part-time business for the Quammes, but as they head toward retirement, it will become full-time. Kraig spent years as a self-employed contractor and is currently a full-time Senior Project Manager for Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare. Teri spent years as a Surgical Assistant to a periodontist and then transitioned into her current position as an educational assistant in the Special Education program at Northfield High School.

What a fun way to spend a day learning about these strange, sweet creatures. I was nuzzled by a girl named Sable and got the sideeye from a teenager named Ricco. These gentle animals were as curious about me as I was about them.

“You can have the worst day at work and come out to the barn and get some love. That’s why we do it. That makes all the hard work worthwhile,” said Kraig.

If you want to visit the farm, you need to make an appointment. Teri and Kraig welcome visitors and are soon to roll out an “Adopt an Alpaca Program.” So, if you’re interested in having an animal named after you, volunteering at the farm, or just supporting an interesting small business, give them a call. 

Mary Closner lives in Northfield, making bad decisions so you don’t have to. Reach her at 1964minx@gmail.com.

MARY CLOSNER

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

CHECK OUT THE SCENE CALENDAR ONLINE FOR ADDITIONAL HAPPENINGS! SEE MORE @ SouthernMinnSCENE.com

Calendar events compiled by Philip Weyhe.

THURSDAY, APR 27

Generative

Writing - St. Peter-- 5-6:30

p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter.

Join writer/ instructor Alex

French for a one-time generative writing experience to limber up your creative muscles. Participants will create short pieces of creative non-fiction, fiction, and poetry, with prompts and guidance from the instructor. Suggested drop-in fee $10. No prior registration necessary.

FRIDAY, APR 28

Convocation with Diana FraserNorthfield-10:50-11:50

a.m., Skinner Memorial Chapel, 405 1st St. E.

Diana Fraser

14’ values critical thinking, social dialogue, and uplifting systemically marginalized and excluded communities. She leads savvy, relevant content creation for audiences with effective, streamlined, data-informed systems. At PBS Digital Studios, she drives a $5.5M grant portfolio that creates original digital-first series, workshops, and events.

American Legion Family

Day - St. Peter-- 5 p.m., St. Peter American Legion.

Celebrating the accomplishments of the legion as part of the national holiday. Everyone invited for chicken dinner, meat raffle and prize giveaways.

Arboretum Garden Party - St. Peter-- 5-8 p.m., Gustavus Arboretum, St. Peter. An outdoor (tent) gathering of arboretum friends, donors, volunteers and supporters to celebrate and commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Arboretum. Reservation is required. Contact Cassandra Nelson at 507-9337577 or cnelson2@gustavus.edu.

Paradise GalleryFaribault-5-7 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. In the Carlander Gallery are works by Jodi Reeb; in the Lois Vranesh Boardroom Gallery are works by Pamela Christensen; in the K&M Gallery are works by

Ethan Edvenson and Members’ Corner; and in the Corey Lyn Creger Memorial Gallery are works by Shattuck-St. Mary’s students. Shows regular hours through May 6.

GTXJanesville--

6-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Enjoy live music this evening by GTX performing old and new hits.

Machinery Hill - New Ulm-- 7-9 p.m., Grand Center for Arts & Culture, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm.

The band has been performing since 1985. Having performed with such acts as Beausoleil, Buckwheat Zydeco, Frente, Phish, Black 47, Brave Combo, Eugene Chadbourne, Jimmy Carl Black and Queen Ida; they’ve also played The Great River Folk Festival, among others.

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?Owatonna-7:30 p.m., Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna.

George, a professor at a small college, and his wife, Martha, have just returned home, drunk from a Saturday night party. Martha announces, amidst general profanity, that she has invited a young couple — an opportunistic new professor at the college and his shatteringly naïve new bride — to stop by for a nightcap. For mature audiences. Tickets are $19 for adults and $14 for students. Purchase online or at the box office. Shows at 7 p.m. April 28 and 29, plus 2 p.m. April 30.

A Night of Gladys KnightFaribault-7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. MsArnise made a reputable name for herself in the Twin Cities as a background vocalist for international vocal artists and entertainers. Her tribute to Gladys Knight debuted in May of 2021 in Mick Sterling’s The Relief Sessions Summer Concert Series with an encore performance at Crooners Supper Club.

Did we miss something?

SATURDAY, APR 29

Pioneer Power Swap

Meet - Le Sueur-- 6 a.m.-5 p.m., Pioneer Power Showgrounds, 34605 265th Ave., Le Sueur. The 46th annual Le Sueur County Pioneer Power Swap Meet & Flea Market is two months away. Starting at 8 a.m. Friday, all vendors can get set up and start swapping. Then Saturday and Sunday, the grounds open at 6 a.m. to the general public. The swap meet runs through 5 p.m. all three days.

Souba’s Spring Celebration

- Owatonna-8 a.m.-5 p.m., Souba’s Greenhouse, 4003 Crane Creek Rd, Owatonna.

Celebrate the spring with flower and gift card prizes, food and drinks from local providers, coffee samples, an animal petting zoo, and all kinds of gardening and landscaping products.

Maple Syrup

Pancake

BreakfastDundas-- 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas.

Celebrate syrup season in Minnesota with from scratch pancakes, local maple syrup and bacon with specialty cider cocktails in this annual event at the cidery.

How to FestivalWaseca-- 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Waseca Public Library, 408 N. State ST. Learn a wide variety of skills at this communitybased interactive learning event. From homesteading to growing microgreens, from creating a felt garland to attracting birds to your yard, add a few tricks up your sleeve in these short sessions. Free and open to the public.

Día de Los Niños CelebrationNorthfield-11 a.m.-1 p.m., Northfield Public Library, 210 Washington St., Northfield. Día is a nationally recognized initiative that emphasizes the importance of literacy for all children from all backgrounds. Puerto Rican-born author Pamela Michelli will read from her picture book at 11 a.m. Musical group Boriken will perform at 11:45 a.m. We’ll have craft activities, and all children will get to choose a free book to take home. Geared to kids preK-fifth grade and their caregivers.

Chris BertrandOwatonna-1 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. Enjoy some tunes with your beverages.

Manitou Singers and Viking ChorusNorthfield--

3-5 p.m., Boe Memorial Chapel, 1500 St Olaf Ave., Northfield.

The Manitou Singers and Viking Chorus present a joint spring concert, led by Therees Hibbard and guest conductor Adam Reinwald. Live stream available at stolaf.edu/multimedia/ streams/upcoming/concerts.

Dan Israel - Northfield-6-9 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. Dan Israel is a multiple Minnesota Music Academy

(MMA) Award winner. American Songwriter magazine in Nashville calls Israel a “hometown hero who can pack a local venue to the gills,” describing his sound as “combining pop hooks with the rootsy orchestration of Neil Young’s slower material.

Jeff Reinartz - Owatonna-6:30-8:30 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna.

Independent Bookstore CelebrationNorthfield-- 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. On the 10th annual Independent Bookstore Day, Content is celebrating with golden ticket prizes, limited edition merchandise, mural painting, a scavenger hunt and more.

Jeff Reinartz is a singer/ songwriter from Austin. He’s been performing live for over 30 years and is a veteran of several bands. He is now a solo acoustic performer and has released two EPs that were produced by Scotty Rohr at Zension Studio in Austin.

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Melissa Schulz - Le Center-- 7-10 p.m., Le Center Municipal Liquors, 20 N. Waterville Ave.

One-woman band Melissa Schulz brings her unique style of performing with keyboard and drum tracks to LC Muni for the first time.

Los Rebeldes - Faribault--

7-10 p.m., 10,000 Drops, 28 4th St NE, Faribault. Los Rebeldes (The Rebels) is a Mexican-American group based out of southern Minnesota and has been performing since the early 1980s.

Kayla Daniels - Kasota--

8-11 p.m., Prairie Saloon & Grill, 140 N. Webster St., Kasota. It’s Prairie Saloon’s first time booking Kayla, an acoustic solo act. She is a powerhouse and has the ability to mesmerize a crowd.

HickTown MafiaKasota-- 9 p.m.-1 a.m., The Blue Moon Bar & Grill, 300 S. Webster St., Kasota. HickTown Mafia is a five-piece, Southern Minnesota-based, country and rock party band that averages over 70 shows a year, bringing the party to bars, casinos, street dances/city celebrations, weddings, private events and festivals.

SUNDAY, APR 30

Ben Scruggs & Chris

Bertrand - St. Peter-4-7 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. Ben & Chris return to the Patrick’s patio stage to play their local original music. As always, dancing is encouraged.

TUESDAY, MAY 02

Ag Career Exploration - Waseca-- 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Our Ag Career Exploration days are designed for students in seventh and eighth grade. We explore all six sectors of the Minnesota Career Wheel and show how every sector connects back to agriculture through a hands on experience. Professionals in ag-based careers teach the sectors and talk about their jobs to students. Open to public, private and homeschool groups.

Pressed Flower Crafts - Le Sueur-- 5:30 p.m., Create summery lanterns and unique bookmarks using delicate pressed flowers. This event is free and geared to teens.

THURSDAY, MAY 04

Textural Narratives Gallery - Northfield-- 6-8 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild, 304 Division St. S.,

Northfield. Rebecca Tolle, Mary Ellen Frame, Cheryl Ramette, and Fred Gustafson present us with work celebrating a variety of mediums and their ability to tell stories and evoke emotion. This collection includes works of photography, paintings, ceramics, and mixed media work. Reception is 6-8 p.m. May 4. Open during Guild hours through May 13.

FRIDAY, MAY 05

Corky’s Early Bird Softball ClassicOwatonna-12 a.m., The mega popular annual men’s softball tournament returns for its 43rd edition. The three day event (May 5-7) includes music, food and of course softball.

Convocation with Steven Levitsky

- Northfield-- 10:3011:30 a.m., Skinner Memorial Chapel, 405

1st St. E. Steven Levitsky is David Rockefeller Professor of Latin American Studies and Professor of Government at Harvard University. He is also Director of the David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies at Harvard. His research focuses on democratization and authoritarianism, political parties, and weak and informal institutions, with a focus on in Latin America.

Nick HensleyKasota-- 6-9 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Nick Hensley is the former lead singer and co-creator of The District, a regional act from the upper Midwest, co based out of St. Paul and Chicago. He created Love Songs For Angry Men shortly after The District called it quits in 2002.

Family TraditionJanesville-- 6-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Family Tradition performs old and new hit country music.

1950s Murder Mystery Dinner - Waseca-6:30 p.m., Starfire Event Center, 206 2nd Ave SW, Waseca. It’s 1955, and Fontaine City has a problem with teenage street gangs. If either of these gangs ends up on the other’s turf, a white knuckle rumble may break out and cause chaos in the streets. Help solve the crime. Contact Starfire to reserve tickets. Cost is $35 per person.

Cinco de Mayo Party - Northfield-7-11 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Music from Some Sh#tty Cover Band. Drink specials all night. Tickets are $10 in advance or at the door.

Mom! The Musical - Northfield-- 7:30-10 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. Mom! celebrates the twists and turns, delights and dilemmas, rewards and

regrets of parenting. From losing control with a tantruming toddler to panicking at the prospect of a parentteacher conference, this musical celebrates the humor and the terror of parenting. Tickets online. Shows May 5-6, 12-13 and 19-20 from 7:30-10 p.m., plus May 7, 14 and 21 from 2-4:30 p.m.

Laney Lou & The Bird Dogs - Northfield-- 9 p.m., Contented Cow, 302B Division St., Northfield. No Depression Magazine says “… this is a group that’s having more fun than may be legal.” Come and see for yourself when Laney Lou & The Bird Dogs bring their energetic Americana from Bozeman, Montana all the way to Northfield. $10. Advance tickets are available.

SATURDAY, MAY 06

The Rustic Mamas Market - Owatonna-9 a.m.-3 p.m., Four Seasons Centre, 1525 S. Elm Ave., Owatonna. An upscale market with some of thebest vendors in Southern Minnesota. With over 100-plus vendors, you will find everything farmhouse, metal work lawn decor, candles, jewelry, food, boutiques, furniture flippers, vintage, antiques, authors, artists, and everything else you didn’t know you needed.

Letterpress BasicsNew Ulm-- 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Grand Center for Arts & Culture, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm. Learn to print like Gutenberg. In this class, you will learn the basics of printing using a small platen press. You will hand-set type, “lock up the form,” and set up a printing job, printing a card with a favorite saying or other short text. No experience required. Cost is $35. Register online.

Spring Craft MarketFaribault-- 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Come and grab some gifts for that special mom in your life. With a cocktail in hand, you can shop for handmade goods from dozens of local craftspeople.

of classic hits where everyone attending knows every song. Many styles of music are included, and by trading off on guitar and piano, he is able to offer a very diverse evening of entertainment.

Mythical Gardens of the Future

- St. Peter-- 3 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. Mythic Gardens of the Future, the latest gallery from artist Brian Fink, imagines a utopian future. Included in the exhibition will be large and small paintings, watercolors, drawings and printed digital IPad drawings. Open during regular hours through the month of May.

Kentucky Derby Fundraiser - Owatonna-11 a.m., Owatonna Elks, 126 E Vine St. Join in cheering on the Kentucky Derby while raising money for Owatonna High School Kids in need with silent and live auction items, meat raffles, live music and more! Gates open at 11 a.m.

Bruce Burniece - Owatonna-- 1-4 p.m., Owatonna Eagles 1791, 141 E. Rose St., Owatonna. Bruce’s shows feature a huge list

Acoustic View - Owatonna-- 6-8 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna.

Bee Balm Fields

- Owatonna-- 7 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. Bee Balm Fields is a Mankato-based folk rock band with a growing following.

Summer Comedy Show - Faribault-7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Join us for our Summer Comedy Showcase, a special night of comedy, featuring a unique blend of some of the best and most original headliners the Twin Cities has to offer. Hosted by Drew Hehir. Tickets from $15-$25.

KillinTime

- Kasota-- 8 p.m., Blue Moon, Kasota. Brad Ingalls and Mark FitzSimmons have teamed together to form country variety duo KillinTime.

LOTLOwatonna-8:30 p.m., Reggie’s Brewhouse, 220 N. Cedar Ave., Owatonna. LOTL playing all your favorite rock hits medley style.

SUNDAY, MAY 07

Blessing of the BikesOwatonna-10 a.m.-1 p.m., Steele County Fairgrounds, 18th St SE, Owatonna.

The annual motorcycle lovers event will this year feature speaker Ponch Iniguez, music from Lights of Litomysl, and food from The Scream, El Rey Del Taco and Young Life.

Spring Jazz Showcase

- St. Peter-1:30-3:30

p.m., Gustavus Adolphus College,

800 West College Ave, St. Peter. The Gustavus Department of Music is proud to present the first of two concerts for the Spring Jazz Showcase. This concert will feature performances by the Adolphus Jazz under the direction of Dr. Masa Ishikawa, as well as the Gustavus Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Dave Stamps. Open to the public.

Music at the MuseumWaseca-- 3-5 p.m., Waseca Co. Historical Society, 315 2nd Ave NE. Fiddlin’ Mary DuShane, as Garrison Keillor called her, played in the original Powdermilk Biscuit Band on A Prairie Home Companion. She pairs her fiddle stylings with Nick Jordan on guitar, vocals, flute, and foot percussion. A wide-ranging repertory of Southern traditional roots music, featuring bluesy old time and jug-band songs, plus Appalachian and Irish dance tunes, spiced with Swing and Cajun tunes. Free.

MONDAY, MAY 08

Author

Bao PhiFaribault-4:30-5:30 p.m., Buckham Memorial Library, 11 Division St. E, Faribault.

Hear Bao Phi speak about his journey to becoming an acclaimed writer and poet. Bao will share one or two of his children’s books and there will be time for Q&A.

TUESDAY, MAY 09

Author William Kent Krueger - Le Sueur-- 7 p.m., Le Sueur Public Library, 118 Ferry St. Join us for a conversation with the author of the Cork O’Connor series, “This Tender Land,” and “Ordinary Grace.” William Kent Krueger is a Le Sueur Library favorite, so this event is not to be missed.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Andy HughesOwatonna-- 6-8 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna.

Andy Hughes is an award-winning

songwriter. As a live performer, he has been a staple of the Midwest music scene for over 20 years. Andy is a difficult artist/performer to categorize. He is a member of many acts/ groups.

Fewer Emergencies - St.

Peter-- 8-9:30 p.m., Gustavus Adolphus College, 800 West College Ave, St. Peter. A tryptic of powerful theatre minimalism where the distinctions between theatre performance and narration are contested. Martin Crimp has been labeled a “radical innovator,” his work is caught up somewhere between the mundane and the magical. Tickets available at gustavustickets.com two weeks prior to opening.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

Mid West Music Fest - Winona-- 12 a.m., Winona. Your Smith headlines the annual music festival in beautiful Winona, along with Nnamdi, Nur-D, Ultrabomb, Raffaella, Early Eyes, Humbird, Sleeping Jesus and many more. Tickets at midwestmusicfest.org. Event runs May 12-13.

Paradise Gallery

- Faribault-- 5-7

p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. In the Carlander Gallery is The Story Quilt Projects; in the K&M Gallery is the spring/summer pop up shop; in the Lois Vranesh Boardroom Gallery is Jane Horton; and in the Corey Lyn Creger Memorial Gallery is the After School Art Club. Gallery opening is May 12. Open regular hours through June 24.

The WreckNorthfield-- 5-9:30 p.m., Armory Square Event Center, 519 Division St., Northfield. The Wreck bring fun, funky, grooveoriented treatments of an eclectic mix familiar-yetnot-worn-out. Occasional Jazz opens.

You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown - Faribault-- 7 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault.

“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” is a musical comedy with music and lyrics by Clark Gesner, based on the characters created by cartoonist Charles M. Schulz in his comic strip “Peanuts.” Tickets from $14 to $20. Shows May 12, 13, 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m., plus May 14, 20 and 21 (ASL interpreted) at 2 p.m.

Donegal Band - Northfield-7-10 p.m., Grand Center for Arts & Culture, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm. The Donegal Band brings a mix of Celtic and bluegrass music to their album release show. Featuring special guest, OMG Irish Dancers. Tickets online.

Watermelon Slush - New Ulm-- 8 p.m., Grand Center for Arts & Culture, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm. Down-home country music born right in the heart of rural Minnesota. Pete Klugand and Ben Scruggs grew up across the field from each other, strummin’ geetars and walkin’ gravel roads. Austin native Jason Felten joins the ruckus on stand up bass. Come expecting hot guitar pickin’, big bass grooves and all original songs that get your feet movin’ and your gut bustin’.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Arboretum Bird Count - Northfield-- 6-9 a.m., Carleton Aboretum, 710 Three Oaks Dr., Northfield. Join for the annual spring bird count. All levels of birders welcome. Gather at the Arboretum office to get organized and return there afterwards for hot drinks, bakery treats and bird stories.

Mother’s Day Spring Flowers Hike - Henderson-12-1 p.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson. During this hike, participants will explore Ney and observe the vibrant colors and scents of spring wildflowers in bloom. Led by a

Ney naturalist, this hike is mostly flat with some elevation, so wear good shoes and dress for the weather.

The Jazz 10 - Janesville-5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville.

The Jazz 10 is a 10-piece band performing familiar swing, Latin and other music for dancing.

Kid DakotaFaribault-- 5:309:30 p.m., Cathedral of Our Merciful Savior, 515 NW 2nd Ave., Faribault. Kid

Dakota is the musical moniker of Darren Jackson. Formed in 1999, Kid Dakota has released two albums on LOW’s Chairkicker’s Union. Darren is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, engineer, teacher, and producer. He owns and operates Homesteader Studio in Minneapolis.

Thrift Store

Prom Night - Le Center-6-11:30 p.m., Le Center

Municipal Liquors, 20 N Waterville Ave.

Dress in the best thrift store attire (i.e. dress and suits). The muni will have snacks and punch, a place to take pictures and DJ Kern Bros from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Best dressed king and queen crowned at 10 p.m. Free horse drawn carriage rides from 6-8 p.m.

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Adam MoeOwatonna-7-9:55 p.m., 10,000 Drops, 28 4th St NE, Faribault.

Adam has decades of performance and studio experience. He plays ukulele, fiddle, tenor guitar and vocals - songs old and new.

The Mill’s 5-Year Anniversary - Waseca-8:30 p.m., The Mill Event Center, 310 2nd Ave SW, Waseca. The Blue Ringers will provide the music. Blake’s BETtor Spread will serve cowboy tacos, cheese curds and boneless wings. First 50 in the door get a free drink ticket.

Comedian Kevin Craft - Kasota-9-11 p.m., Blue Moon, Kasota. Kevin has over 75,000 YouTube fans, has been seen on

CNN, TMZ and was a semifinalist on the 2006 season of ‘Last Comic Standing’. Kevin has also appeared as a guest on the Tyra Banks show and Shaq’s Comedy All-Stars.

craft brew at the finish line, a collector’s pint or seasonal swag, a chance at door prizes, and access to live music, games, goodies and more festivities. Cost is $35-$48.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

Matt Herzog Band - Northfield-- 9 p.m., Contented Cow, 302B Division St., Northfield. Matt Herzog artfully blends pure vocals, harmonic instrumental textures and overdriven guitar hooks. Folk, rock & roll, jazz, funk and soul influences combine for his diverse, but cohesive, sound. See him perform with his full band live in concert. $10 suggested donation.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

5K Beer Run - Owatonna-- 11 a.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. 5K-ish course starts and ends at the Owatonna taproom. All participants receive

Street Fair & Business ExpoLonsdale-5-7:30 p.m., Ash Street NE, Lonsdale. Business vendors, food, freebies, music, drawings, inflatables, entertainment and more.

Author Dr. Artika

TynerFaribault-6-7 p.m., Buckham Memorial Library, 11 Division St. E, Faribault. Dr. Artika Tyner will speak about her journey toward justice. Dr. Tyner will share about her writing journey, introduce three or four books from her collection that focus on history, leadership and social change, and will teach writing prompts throughout.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

prizes: $50 Pub 500 Gift Card or a $50 Tav on the Ave Gift Card

Contest

The Music of Patsy Cline with the Joyann Parker Band

Saturday, June 24th at 7:30 pm

Member: $20 / Non-Member: $25 / Student: $15

Line-up AT THe pArADiSe

Mick Sterling Presents: FROM BARRY - The Perfect Songs of Barry Gibb and The BeeGees

Member: $20 / Non-Member: $25 / Student: $15

Gallery

Opening