Scene 11 2017 by Kate Noet

YOUR FREE GET-OUT SOURCE TO SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

NOVEMBER 2017 - southernminnSCENE.com

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Craig Berg

VOTED BEST director Posthumous

WINNE R S ANNOUNCED !

SHELDON

NOVEMBER 2017

THEATRE

“Manual Cinema is talent incarnate…[their] elegant live-scored ‘silent THE SUBURBS films’ evoke sweetness, poignancy and fright.” NOVEMBER 18 at 7:30

– Time Out New York

MANUAL CINEMA

MEMENTOS MORI OCTOBER 7 at 7:30 With a unique blend of cultures and styles, this soulful ensemble will connect you to the heart of Israel.

SOFI AND THE BALADIS NOVEMBER 3 at 7:30

MN Music Coalition and 89.3 the Current present

CARAVAN DU NORD

ABY WOLF, PAVIELLE, AND

TONY CUCHETTI

NOVEMBER 4 at 7:00

Thank you for voting the Sheldon Theatre Best Place for Live Music and Best Theatre! 651-388-8700 I 443 W. 3rd Street I Red Wing, MN 2

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| NOVEMBER 2017

Congratulations to all this year’s winners!

NOVEMBER 2017 / VOLUME 5 / ISSUE 11 6 2017 Best of SoMinn SCENE

And the winners are... 6 Theater 8 Restaurants 16 Bars 18 Arts 20 Miscellaneous 24 Retail Services 36 Music 38 Sports/Outdoors

Southern minn

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Features:

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The SoMinn’s most comprehensive calendar of things to be SCENE.

COLUMNS: 42 Get Fit In SoMinn

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51 CD Reviews:

• The Killers - Wonderful Wonferful

52 The Bookworm Sez:

A peek into the life of a Figure Competitor

51 The PHILm Column Sequals get a bad rap.

• • • •

‘Mask of Shadows’ by Linsey Miller ‘Big Chicken’ by Maryn McKenna ‘Caroline Little House, Revisted’ by Sarah Miller ‘From Here to Eternity’ by Caitlin Doughty

ABOUT

Have a story idea?

SCENE

HAVE A CALENDAR EVENT?

Editor Philip Weyhe - 507-333-3132 editor@southernminnSCENE.com

editor@southernminnSCENE.com or got to www.southernminnscene.com/ calendar

WANT TO Advertise? Pam DeMorett - 507-333-3117 pdemorett@faribault.com

Copyright 2017 SouthernminnSCENE.com retains the publication rights to all content produced or supplied to the SCENE. Use of said materials without the written consent of SoutherminnSCENE.com is prohibited. Contents copyrighted; all rights reserved.

Thank you for voting us Best Food Truck 2017

and honorable mention Best BBQ! Voted Best BBQ 2015 Voted Best Food Truck 2016

to see where we are at & for daily specials! Call ahead for special orders! 507-210-4858

BEST

Win um’s Shady

Acres

Restaurant & Resorts

Located on Beautiful Roberds Lake SPECiALS AT 5 PM

PiZZA

BuRgERS

Monday - All Pizzas $9.95 Tuesday - italian Spaghetti Marinara Wednesday - Chicken, Steak or Shrimp fajitas Thursday - All you Can Eat BBQ Pork Ribs friday - All you Can Eat fish Saturday - Prime Rib - While Supplies Last Sunday - Loaded Bloody Mary’s and evening Oven Roasted Chicken dinners

Pepperoni Sausage & Pepperoni deluxe Sausage Carnivore Taco

California Burger Black and Bleu Patty Melt farmer Bacon Cheeseburger Slaw Burger Jalapeño Burger Lumberjack

APPETiZERS

Pork Egg Rolls nachos Supreme Chicken Quesadilla Chicken Tenders fish Tacos

Bursting Onion Mexican Queso dip Totchos Chicken Wings 6 • 12

Shrimp Basket House-Made Jalapeño Wontons fried green Beans Cheese Curds SALAdS

Cowboy Steak Salad fisherman’s Salad Classic Caesar Add Chicken

Mandarin Crispy Chicken Salad Chicken Craisin Salad

401 Division Street, Northfield · 507-645-4257 4

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EnTREES

Mahi Mahi BBQ Ribs Shrimp dinner Pork Loin fish dinner STEAk dinnER

Beer Battered Mushrooms or Onion Rings Mushrooms • Onion Rings

Add Jalapeños

Half Rack • Full Rack

Two Taco • Three Tacos

ThaNk you for voTiNg uS beST STore froNT

THAnk yOu fOR VOTing uS BEST BRunCH HOnORABLE MEnTiOn. COME OuT And SEE WHy!

8oz Manhattan 12oz new york Strip 8oz Top Sirloin 16oz Ribeye SuRf-n-TuRf

8oz Top Sirloin & 3 Jumbo Shrimp 8oz Top Sirloin & fish fillet PASTA

Chicken Milano Chicken fried Rice with Wontons Jambalaya Seafood Pasta Baked Rocky Mountain Pasta Shrimp diablo Chicken fettuccine Alfredo

SAndWiCHES & WRAPS

fish Pastrami Sandwich Prime Rib french dip Chicken fajita Wrap Shrimp Poeboy Wrap Chicken Bacon Swiss grilled Ham & Swiss Turkey Bacon Wrap BCT Wrap kidS

Spaghetti Marinara Chicken Tenders Mac & Cheese fish Sticks kids Quesadilla dESSERT

Peach Cobbler Crisp a la Mode Cheesecake Apple Crisp a la Mode Vanilla Bean ice Cream Sundae

Substitute Shrimp

Oven-Baked Macaroni and Cheese Add Chicken or kielbasa

On West Side of Roberds Lake (near public access) SW of Hwy 21, take left at Cty 11 & 68 to Echo Ave.

Restaurant 507-334-8778 · Resort 507-334-6661 · www.winjumsshadyacres.com

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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE BEST OF SOUTHERN MN – FARIBAULT

Best Restaurant, Best BBQ, Best Fries, Best Wings Smoqhouse Best Chef -Andy Kubes (Smoqhouse)

Best Local Beer/Brewery F-Town Brewing Co.

Best Bed & Breakfast Historic Hutchinson House B & B

Haskell’s can help with your wedding receptions, Best Sports Bar Carbone’s Pizza bridal showers, holiday &parties Sports Bar or any occasion where wine, beer and spirits will be served.

Best After Bar Food Perkins Restaurant and Bakery

Best Music Festival Blue Collar Festival

Best Hair Salon Best Massage & Spa Studio 14 Salon & Spa

Haskell’s Wine & Spirits

Best Asian Food Mizuki Fusion

Best Wine List The Cheese Cave

Best Place for a Steak The Signature Bar & Grill

Best Margarita El Tequila

Best Photographer Klik Photography

Best Food Truck Uncle B’s Last Chance BBQ

Best Grocery Store Hy-Vee

2921 Lavender Parkway, Faribault (507) 332-7173 Best Liquor Store

haskells.com

THE HEART OF THE HOME

JOHN’S BAIT & TACKLE Best Bait and Tackle John’s Bait & Tackle

Best Vet Heartland Animal Hospital

Best Municipal Swimming Pool Faribault Aquatic Center

Best Kennel/Pet Hotel Muddy Paws Resort

Best Hardware Store Faribault ACE Hardware

Best Home Furnishings Erickson Furniture

Best Gift Shop Finally a Gift Store

Best Green House Donahue’s Greenhouses Inc.

Best Tanning Salon Haute Skin Spa & Tanning

Dedicated to your success! 530 Wilson Avenue • Faribault • 507-334-4381 • faribaultmn.org A d d y o u r even t f or F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l en d ar . G O T O w w w. s o u t h ernminn s c ene . c o m / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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AND THE WINNERS ARE...

nother year, another enormous voting turnout for the Southern Minn Scene Magazine Best of Southern Minnesota competition. We continue to be amazed and grateful for the amount of interest shown by you, the readers, in our little (not so little, though) annual competition. But not just your interest – it’s also your participation. In all honesty, it’s easier to do nothing. You don’t have to nominate businesses. You don’t have to vote for winners. You don’t have to share your businesses and ask your customers for support. And if you’re the customers, you don’t have to show that support.

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But you do. And because of that, our writers and team members get to reach out to these Southern Minnesota artists, musicians, chefs, business owners and more to give them some good news. And that’s something special in an age when the good news seems sparse. So here’s your list for 2017. Throughout theater, restaurants, bars, miscellaneous, arts, retail services, music, and even sports categories, we’ve got old winners and new. It’s your favorite places to see a show, to eat a cupcake, to get your car fixed. It’s the best actors, bands and radio stations. It’s anything and everything Southern Minnesota Scene. Let’s start with someone special – our first ever posthumous Best Of winner…

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Craig Berg of Owatonna BEST DIRECTOR

urrounded by his friends — and that was a veritable gaggle of friends — Craig Berg took the stage of Wings Tavern on a Saturday night in early 2017, sat on a stool, crooning an old Sinatra favorite, “My Way.” It was where Craig wanted to be, what Craig wanted to do that Saturday evening -- sing karaoke with those friends. And sing Craig did. “And now the end is near, and so I face the final curtain,” he began the song. The lyrics, no doubt, seemed hauntingly appropriate, for Craig Berg was dying, and the end was much nearer than either he or his many, many friends would have wanted. That end came in April when Craig died after a three-plusyear battle with multiple myeloma, a rare cancer that is formed by malignant plasma cells. The cancer attacks the bone marrow, which, in turn, attacks the bone itself. He was just 51 years old. You may not have known him. I can see why. He never ran for political office, never was a sports hero, never guided a company or corporation. Still, Craig’s influence was great and will be felt for years to come, especially in the arts community of Owatonna and most especially in the theater community of which Craig was an important and much beloved part. And in 2017, for the second year running, Berg was voted Best Director for Southern Minnesota. He was consummate actor and a fine director, guiding such wonderful productions as, among others, “Little Shop of Horrors,” “Grease” and most recently “Prelude to a Kiss,” which ran at Little Theatre of Owatonna this past February. But more than that, Craig was a wonderful person who was greatly loved by those who knew him and an inspiration to those who watched him battle the disease that so cruelly took his life. And it was a very public battle, with Craig going on social media — Facebook was his medium of choice — sharing where he was in that battle, from the initial diagnosis to the final reports of his doctors. On occasion, he would post pictures of the tubes running in and out of him or photos of the bruises on his arms that came from the treatments he was receiving. “Battle scars,” he called them. And always Craig would rally the troops, as it were, with his battle cry. “DCD!” he would write, often with multiple exclamation points. DCD!!!! Die, cancer, die! In February, as his last directorial effort was about to open at LTO, Craig took to Facebook to give what he called a “status update.” It was not one anyone wanted to hear, and certainly one that was difficult for Craig to write. “Yesterday I received some very bleak news,” he wrote on Feb. 12, describing the cancer with an expletive that was — and is — quite appropriate. “The myeloma has morphed into a type where it is very difficult to treat. I can say that I’m not giving up. In fact, I go over to Rochester tomorrow or Tuesday for treatment. The problem is, is the expectations for any effectiveness are very low. We are trying to stretch this life as long as we can (with quality). It’s quite surreal to hear those dreaded words, ‘Get your affairs in order.’ It’s kind of like a punch in the stomach. It takes your breath away a little.” And he didn’t give up. Even when he decided to stop treatments and undergo in-home hospice care, it wasn’t a surrender. He was at peace. “I don’t know how appropriate it is to put something like this on FB, but with all the support I’ve received by everyone, I think I need to keep you informed,” he wrote in mid-March. “With the lack of viable options, I’ve decided to discontinue treatment for the multiple myeloma. The plan is to be as comfortable for as long as possible.” He had hoped it would be a couple of months, though he said that no matter how long it was, “it won’t be long enough.” “I thank everyone for your support during the last three-plus years,” he concluded. That was Craig. Gracious to the end. Indeed, one of his last posts on Facebook was an internet meme that seemed to sum up the attitude that was Craig. “Today is a perfect day to just be happy.” Back in 2014, when Craig was directing “Time Stands Still,” a very serious drama about a photojournalist who is injured while covering the war in Iraq, Craig, still in the opening stages of his journey, sat down with me and talked to me very openly and candidly about his fight with cancer. “I have my good days and bad days,” he

told me at the time. The first sign that something was going on was in the summer of 2013, when Berg was working his day job as the “bread man” delivering bread to area markets and spending evenings rehearsing “Footloose: The Musical” for the Merlin Players in Faribault. He developed a dull backache that made it difficult for him to walk by the end of the day. It got better and he was able to do the show. The pain would return periodically over the next few months, he told me, including the time he was rehearsing and performing in the play “Hay Fever” for LTO. But the show went on and so did Craig. Then in last December of that year, he injured his shoulder while working. Following an MRI, a radiologist noticed abnormal bone marrow in his shoulder, sending him to Mayo Clinic in Rochester. Though the doctors there suspected, the official diagnosis of multiple myeloma didn’t come until late in January. In the months and years that followed, he developed a number of complications that would have crippled many of us, if not most of us. Yet he remained surprisingly optimistic and upbeat. And he continued working in community theater even to the end. He knew and he lived the well-worn theatrical adage: “The show must go on.” For Craig, that had a special meaning. One of the last times I saw him, he stood in front of an audience at Little Theatre of Owatonna, telling the theatergoers that it would be his last show. The curtain, as it were, was closing. When I heard of Craig’s death on Saturday, I could not help but remember the words spoken by Walter Mondale at the funeral of his friend and mentor Hubert Humphrey after Mr. Humphrey had himself succumbed to his long battle with cancer. His voice cracking with emotion, Mr. Mondale quoted Shakespeare — a passage from “Henry V” — then concluded his eulogy. “He taught us all how to hope, how to win and how to lose,” Mondale said. “He taught us how to live, and finally, he taught us how to die.” The same could be said for Craig Berg. So back on that stage at Wings, surrounded by those friends, Craig sang. “My friend, I’ll say it clear, I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain. I’ve lived a life that’s full. I’ve traveled each and every highway. But more, much more than this, I did it my way.” And when he was finished, the crowd stood and applauded.

Honorable Mention: Rachel Haider By Jeffrey Jackson of Owatonna People’s Press

Dan Yoder of Merlin Players in Faribault BEST ACTOR Daniel Yoder fell in love with acting after a high school teacher encouraged him to audition for a high school play. And over the last 14 years, Yoder has acted in 50 performances, including a successful production of “Cabaret” this past summer. “Cabaret” follows the loves of Sally Bowls, a singer in a shabby cabaret in 1931 Berlin during the Nazi’s rise to power. Yoder was the Emcee, but not for the first time. Both Yoder and Betsy Cole played the same roles in 2005 for the Albert Lea Community Theatre and returned for this year’s past production. But Yoder said the experience was completely different than in 2005. “It was a completely different experience [than in 2005], but we also had different script, new amazing cast members and crew that was dedicated to making a high quality production,” He said. The process felt different and the audience’s reaction was different for Yoder. Many people came to him and thanked him. “I’m not used to people thanking me after a show, but it meant so much since the audience was taking away something from the story. It’s so meaningful and moving as actor to see that,” Yoder said. He said winning was great recognition but seeing the show and Cole being recognized as well really reflects the work and dedication the crew had during the show. “It was the highest quality production that I’ve been on,” He said. “And I will always see it as a powerful experience.” Yoder performs with the Merlin Players and other groups in Rice County area.

Honorable Mention: Cody Jensen By Kelsey O’Hara

Betsy Cole of Merlin Players in Faribault BEST ACTRESS Betsy Cole wasn’t a theater kid growing up. You could call her a “late-bloomer.” It wasn’t until after college where Cole would dip her toe into acting. But you wouldn’t guess that based on her performance as Sally Bowles in Merlin Players’ production of “Cabaret.”

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“It seemed right to bring that story [to Faribault], especially at this time with these messages relating to politics,” Cole said. Artistic Director Julianna Skluzacek said Cole was a great fit for the role of Sally since Cole conveys likability while showing the character’s poor decisions in the process. “You need charisma to pull off making Sally likable, and Betsy really does that for the audience,” Skluzacek said. Cole recognized the importance of the cast and crew for making this production as great as it was. She said the cast was like a family and seeing the recognition for the production as a whole is incredibly satisfying. Yoder performs with the Merlin Players and other groups in Rice County area.

Honorable Mention: Brynn Artley By Kelsey O’Hara

Cabaret by Merlin Players in Faribault BEST PRODUCTION “It was such a new experience acting this time around, but it a great way,” Cole said. “Cabaret” follows the loves of Sally Bowls, a singer in a shabby cabaret in 1931 Berlin during the Nazi’s rise to power. Cole had played the role before in a 2005 performance in Albert Lea Community Theater, but she said the experience felt different. “There are several different versions of this play, and we did the 1998 Broadway version with new songs but the same theme,” She said. Although the story can been seen as ‘dark’ or ‘edgy,’ Cole said it discusses important themes that are related to where we are at in the political climate.

The Merlin Players’ production of the musical “Cabaret” opened in late July in Faribault and followed the loves of Sally Bowls, a singer in a shabby cabaret in 1931 Berlin during the Nazi’s rise to power. This award winning Kantor and Ebb musical may be remembered for its Oscar winning 1972 movie, but now it is remembered by the Merlin Players’ high-quality production. When Artistic Director Julianna Skluzacek overheard a conversation between teenagers in a coffee shop about WWII, she realized she could communicate the history of WWII while providing entertainment. “I directed this show 10 years ago for the Albert Lea Community Theatre, and after that conversation, I thought it was time to teach some lessons again,” Skluzacek said. Skulzacek first contacted Mary Hahn, who had choreographed

“Chicago” when she directed it in Northfield. “I knew Mary was an amazing choreographer and she would be great for this production. The dance numbers are fun and original,” she said. After that, she called Betsy Cole and Daniel Yoder, who had played Sally Bowls and the Emcee. Both actors brought a special flair to their performances. Shulzacek s knew they could bring the roles to life in a way that audiences can root for them. Skulzacek expressed she was happy with the recognition of the production, but there are many quality productions and shows that weren’t even nominated. “This area is rich in quality theatre and musical productions, and even though we had more than someone else, it’s important to recognize the overall excellence of the groups in Rice County,” she said. The troupe performs at the Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave. N. www.themerlinplayers.org

Honorable Mention: Beauty and the Beast By Kelsey O’Hara

RESTAURANTS

candy season. Schultz said they ship out thousands of boxed chocolates during the holidays, “even though we actually don’t have online sales.” That’s right. The demand would be far too much with a website, so people call in to place orders. “It’s a good problem to have,” she said. Costa’s Candies and Restaurant is located at 112 N Cedar Ave. in Owatonna. www.costas-candies.com

Honorable Mention: Quarterback Club Family Restaurant By Kim Hyatt

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“Having been here for almost 100 years, it’s not a surprise. We have people come back all the time. It’s part of Owatonna’s traditions.” - Julie Schultz

Costa’s Candies and Restaurant in Owatonna BEST “MOM & POP” DINER

ulie Schultz, co-owner of Costa’s Candies and Restaurant, is a beloved “mainstay” in downtown Owatonna, even for those hundreds or thousands of miles away. I, for one, adore this establishment as it was the very first place in Owatonna I dined during an interview with Jeffrey Jackson at the Owatonna People’s Press in 2014. When he walked into Costa’s, he casually talked to a city council member, a few business owners, acquaintances and strangers alike. I was immersing myself in tradition, a community cornerstone I would come to quickly realize. People come for the delicious food, but return for the feelings simply being there brings: comfort, and a sense of community uncompromised and unchanged in an ever-changing world. Now living in Fargo, N.D., 300 miles away, I write this suddenly missing Costa’s and craving the Greek gyro salad. I think I’m due for a visit back soon. I’m sure others can relate to the impulse and affection.

“It was my go-to spot for pretty much any meet-up with friends and family,” said Owatonna native Andrea Sellner. “Now that I live 3,000 miles away (in California), when I have a rare visit to Owatonna I always stop in for their Greek gyro salad and a chocolate.” This taste bud and nostalgia-induced devotion is fairly common, Schultz said. “Having been here for almost 100 years, it’s not a surprise. We have people come back all the time,” she said. “It’s part of Owatonna’s traditions.” Just the other weekend was the 50th class reunion at Owatonna High School and she said many people stopped in to say hello and have a burger like back in the good old days. Fifty years ago, George Boosalis ran the restaurant, but aside from ownership – Shultz and her husband, Grant, have owned Costa’s the past eight years – not much has changed. “People who have grown up with it their whole lives or those who come here by accident and continue to come every year when they pass through at Christmas time – all our customers we love hearing stories of how they’ve come to find Costa’s,” she said. “We’re like a family here.” There are the regulars who come in for lunch weekly, some daily, and soon the business will gear up for the busy

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UR O Y R T D N A N STOP I LS A I C E P S Y L I A NE W D

1510 NW 7th St, Faribault

507-333-5378

joessportscafe.com

Thanks for voting us Honorable Mention: Best Sport Bar

OR F U O Y K N THA R US O F G N I T O V NTION E M E L B A HONOR

Shattuck-St.Mary’s Faribault, MN

Upcoming Acoustic Music Series Concerts Thursday, February 15, 2018 Malamanya Malamanya is a Twin Cities-based band known for their vintage Afro-Latin music with a respect and enthusiasm for traditional rhythms and melodies from Cuba and Latin America. Adults $18, Students $11. www.malamanya.com Thursday, March 15, 2018 – Ring of Kerry Ring of Kerry is a bursting-with-energy Irish music group that captures the hearts of listeners. For this special show, Ring of Kerry is joined by a pair of Irish dancers. Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day! Adults $20, Students $12. www.ringofkerry.us

Fesler-Lampert Performing Arts Series

e n i F t s e B Dining!

1101 St. Olaf Avenue, Northfield 507-786-9400 Weekdays: 11am to 9pm, Friday until 10pm Saturdays: breakfast 7am-noon, lunch & dinner noon-10pm Sundays: breakfast 7am-1pm, closed after 1pm

www.olestorerestaurant.com

Thursday, November 16, 2017 Vienna Boys Choir The most famous boys choir in the world is coming to Faribault! Audiences and critics worldwide have praised the talented singers of the Vienna Boys Choir for their celestial voices, pure tone, irresistible charm, and above all a wide-ranging repertoire spanning centuries. Adults $30, Students $18 *Tuesday, December 12, 2017 All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 presented by Theater Latte’ Da Back by popular demand! The Western Front, Christmas, 1914. “All is Calm—a theatrical concert—feeds our need for heroes, gives space to our dreams for human nobility, allows us to approach the enigma of Christmas and puzzle over the miracle that has stopped enemies from killing each other for one day.” – Minneapolis Star Tribune Adults $20, Students $12 Thursday, January 11, 2018 Buckets and Tap Shoes Buckets and Tap Shoes are a super-charged blend of music, dance and drumming who started as performers on the streets of Minneapolis. “Utterly brilliant… they are virtuoso percussive players on, yes, buckets, and extraordinary tap dancers, as capable of channeling hip-hop as Astaire-like suavity.” -- New York Times Adults $18, Students $11

We’ve been your engagement ring headquarters for nearly 100 years....

Voted Best Jewelry Store in Southern Minnesota 2015, 2016 & 2017

*Thursday, January 18, 2018 – In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theater presents The Story of Crow Boy An imaginative, theatrical piece that combines puppetry, actors, music, projections, shadowplay and other devices to explore the intriguing life story of Japanese artist and author Taro Yashima. Adults $18, Students $11

On-Line Ticket Sales now available! www.s-sm.org/FeslerLampert *“This activity is funded, in part, by the Minnesota State Arts Board through the arts and cultural heritage fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the Legacy Amendment vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.”

Stop in and let us help you design a ring unique and as special as your love.

Featuring one of the largest selection of engagement rings in the area, 115 N Cedar, Downtown Owatonna T-F 9AM—5PM Sat 8AM– Noon www.kottkejewelers.com

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package discounts: pick 4 or more shows (from either series) & save 10%! call for group Rates.

All performances at 7:30pm in Historic Newhall Auditorium. SSM Box Office: 507-333-1620 | www.s-sm.org • feslerlampert@s-sm.org

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Perkins Restaurant & Bakery in Various Locations BEST AFTER-BAR FOOD Famished bar-hoppers have spoken: the best place for greasy after-bar food to sop up a night of drinking is Perkins. The franchised home-style restaurant was voted Best After-Bar Food in southern Minnesota. Offering greasy specialties like mozzarella sticks, cheeseburger fries, chicken strips and sampler platters, late-night dinners have their choice of late-night delights. Fried pickles and chorizo flats are also options along with burgers with friend onions or BBQ and bacon. For the diner who stays out way into the night and into morning, breakfast options on the Perkins menus include muffins, omelets and hearty pancakes. And for the late-night diner in need of a sweet fix, Perkins daily assortments of pies also offer sustenance after a long night on the southern Minnesota town. Perkins is located throughout Southern Minnesota. To find a local store, visit the website. www.perkins.com.

Honorable Mention: Torey’s Restaurant & Bar

Mizuki Fusion in Owatonna and Faribault BEST ASIAN FOOD The only place to get specialty Asian food in the middle of Steele or Rice County corn country is Mizuki Fusion, and they don’t skimp on selection. With sushi entrees, kitchen items and lunch specials, Mizuki sees many repeat customers who have tastes for variety. There are the sushi standards, as well as noodle, teriyaki and tempura dishes. There’s also a long list of house rolls. A standout is the Black Dragon, which includes cheese, an eel topping and is quickly seared before serving. Mizuki also boasts a variety of sashimi options, house specials like curry dishes and more hearty hibachi meals. And last in the prep process, though not least, is a nice presentation of the sushi. The stuff looks good on a plate. Mizuki Fusion is located at 119 W Bridge St in Owatonna and 609 4th St NW in Faribault.

people. I love being able to create one of a kind things. I love being able to do desserts that are different.” The bakery is a sweet-craving commuters dream, featuring more than 160 cupcake flavors that change every day and 40 different donuts. The bakery also utilizes its presence to fundraise for the community, reaching back to the trying times Farrington has had to work through in her life. The business recently purchased Central Park Coffee in Owatonna, Minn. will keep working to expand their business, which currently employs three-to-five people depending on the season. The bakery can be found at 324 N. Cedar Ave. in Owatonna. www.perfectdaycakes.com.

Honorable Mention: Bluebird Cakery By Samantha Stetzer

Honorable Mention: Tokyo Grill Scene Staff

By Samantha Stetzer

Old Town Bagels in Owatonna BEST BAGEL SHOP

La Plaza F!esta in Madelia BEST APPETIZER, BEST MEXICAN FOOD Fantastico. Rico. Delicioso. These are just a few ways to describe the food at La Plaza F!esta, a Mexican restaurant in Madelia that keeps people coming back with its mouth-watering ethnic dishes. According to owner Krystal Hernandez, most of the dishes come from husband Daniel Hernandez, the restaurant’s chef, and are helped by using fresh ingredients and top quality food. One customer favorite is “Molcajete F!esta,” which is served in an authentic lava rock and has shrimp, steak, chicken, carnitas and homemade chorizo mixed with peppers, onions, tomatoes, and cactus “nopales” (the pads of the cactus). Another popular dish is the Vallartas Especial, which comes with chicken, steak and shrimp over veggies and covered with white cheese dip. For Hernandez, though, the best dish is the Chipotle Alfredo, which includes homemade Alfredo sauce over fettucini noodles, with chicken, shrimp and kielbasa sausage. “It sounds like a crazy combo, but it’s so good,” she said. Even though the food is definitely the star of any visit, Hernandez stressed that the experience wouldn’t be possible without her amazing staff. “Everyone knows all of our employees, as we have been the same since 2011,” she said. “We now have had to hire more help since we got bigger in size, but those employees have become like family too! I have been blessed with the best!” In addition to the restaurant, Hernandez said they’re currently constructing “F!esta Market,” a Mexican grocery store, and hope to open by the end of 2017. La Plaza F!esta is located at 15 E Main St. in Madelia. www.laplazafiesta.com

Honorable Mention BEST APPETIZER: Depot Bar & Grill Honorable Mention MEXICAN FOOD: El Tequila Mexican Restaurant By Grace Webb

Mark and Stacy Wilson came across the bagel business by chance—but all their hard work has afforded them the title of Best Bagel Shop in southern Minnesota. Before owning the bagel shop, the Wilsons knew the previous owners and had been looking for a while for a business they could make their own. “One thing led to another,” Stacy said. “It was just the opportunity.” Located in Owatonna, Minn., Old Town Bagels offers a variety of 35 menu options, Stacy said. Options for bagel diners includes breakfast, classic spreads and international flavors all paired with a bagel. Other options include fruit, brownies, cookies and drinks. The shop also offers catering services for bagel lovers in need of large quantities. Serving up the bagels they never thought of one day owning, Stacy said the Wilsons have noticed they have a strong community behind them but are still surprised to receive the accolade. “Wow, that was kind of a surprise to us,” Stacy said. “It’s great that we won it; we were up against some pretty good competition. We have a pretty loyal following here in town.” Bagel fanatics can find Old Town Bagels at 211 N. Cedar Ave. in Owatonna. www.oldtownbagels.com

Honorable Mention: Tandem Bagels By Samantha Stetzer

Perfect Day Cakes & Bakery in Owatonna BEST BAKERY, BEST DESSERT, BEST DONUT, BEST TREATS TO BRING TO THE OFFICE Growing up with diabetes and experiencing a premature birth of her daughter are life experiences Thea Farrington bakes into every one of her pastries at Perfect Day Cakes and Bakery in Owatonna, Minn. The bakery was named Best Bakery, Best Dessert, Best Donut and Best Treats to Take to the Office in southern Minnesota. The honor is a testament to the support Farrington said she has received through the bakery she opened in 2005. “I have a good community, good people supporting me,” Farrington said. “We just keep growing… I love

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Smoqehouse in Faribault and Northfield BEST BBQ, BEST CHEF, BEST FRIES, BEST WINGS Smoqehouse Head Chef Andy Kubes doesn’t fancy himself a chef. Instead, he believes he should be called a home-taught cook. His skillset, which has translated into four awards for his Smoqehouse restaurants in Northfield and Faribault, stemmed from his love of cooking television shows and cook books. “I have a fairly refined palette and a high sense of what I expect and what I want the flavors to be,” Kubes said of the reason Smoqehouse took home best barbecue, best chef, best fries and best wings honors this year. “If it’s not good, I’m not going to sell it. I’m just going to sell by best food. I want to make people happy and make their day a little better.” Smoqehouse is a barbecue fusion restaurant that strays from the typical, sauce-doused offerings at traditional barbecue restaurants. “What makes us fun is that we really focus on how people around the world do barbecue,” Kubes said. “I really like to cook food with smoke or on fire. We try to be diverse and be different and have fun with it.” Along with Smoqehouse’s barbecue offerings, his restaurant also saw recognition for its wings, which Kubes said was unexpected, as his restaurant only prepared them in limited batches. “We made a ton of them for the Super Bowl last year and people went absolutely nuts,” he said. “They went crazy. We use our special rub that I’ve made up over the past couple of years and smoke them for about two hours.” The Super Bowl special is a frequent request for the regular menu since they made the small batches and the notoriety of the wings landed the Smoqehouse with the best wings victory this year. A more frequent offering, their fries, also earned the “best of” distinction this year. Created in a two-day process, Smoqehouse chefs hand cut potatoes, soak them for 24 hours and fry them a low temperature. After, the fries are cooled once again and fried once more at a high temperature for about a minute. While the Smoqehouse simply uses salt to season the fries, Kubes believes the process makes them unique. “We want to make sure they are crispy and perfect,” he said. “Also, our fry sauce is part of what makes it a little unique.” Smoqehouse’s Faribault location is in the Faribo West Mall at 200 Western Ave. NW. Its Northfield location is at 212 Division St. S. www.smoqehouse.com

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Honorable Mention BEST BBQ: Uncle B’s Last Chance BBQ Shack Honorable Mention BEST CHEF: Jay Scholljegerdes Honorable Mention BEST FRIES: The Black Sheep Burgers and Brew Honorable Mention BEST WINGS: Froggy Bottoms River Pub

“comfort food” (such as turkey and mashed potatoes) buffet. Another popular draw is the burgers. There are 20 different types on the menu, and most of them are named after places in Dundas, like the “Who Dundas to Me” Burger and “The Duke’s Burger.” Kruse said she hopes to start offering desserts this winter and eventually add Broaster chicken to the menu. Dawn’s Corner Bar is located at 200 Railway St. S. in Dundas. www.facebook.com/dawns.cornerbar

Honorable Mention: Pizza Ranch By Grace Webb

By Gunnar Olson

We all know young adults in college love good food. The Ole Store, located conveniently close to St. Olaf, is the go-to spot for your brunch needs. They have the classics, along with Huevos Rancheros, Corned Beef Hash, and a Crab Cake Benedict, topped with their special from scratch hollandaise sauce that is to DIE for. Everything made from scratch, never frozen, or deep fried. Straight from the griddle, to your platter and into your hungry face. Meanwhile, with entrees like pesto cavatappi, salmon papillote, chauteau sirloin and more, it’s a good choice to impress your love interest – new or old. The Ole Store is located at 1011 St. Olaf Avenue in Northfield. www.olestorerestaurant.com

The Tavern of Northfield Restaurant BEST BREAKFAST The Tavern of Northfield once again wins Best Breakfast, and rightfully so. They’ve been knocking breakfast out of the park since 1984, for over thirty years, with no plans of stopping. The menu is small, but each dish is prepared with accuracy and love. The Tavern special is your classic breakfast – eggs, meat, hash browns, served with Tavern toast, which I could eat a loaf of in one sitting, and I’m not that big a fan of bread. Did I mention that it’s baked fresh EVERY morning? With The Tavern being a true scratch kitchen, you can taste the home-cooked feel with every bite of every entree. And how can you beat steak and eggs for under $10? You can’t. Each day they have a daily special for under $5, including their euphoria-inducing biscuits and gravy. When they realized just how popular their biscuits and gravy were, instead of just making it special on Thursday and Sunday mornings, they started serving it EVERY DAY. This place listens to their customers, making every new menu item that much more personal and delectable. The Tavern serves you home-style breakfast at an amazing price, in a comfortable atmosphere. How can it get any better than that? The Tavern is located below the Archer House at 212 Division Street in Northfield www.tavernofnorthfield.com

Honorable Mention: Kernel Restaurant Scene Staff

The Ole Store in Northfield BEST BRUNCH, BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT If you are between the ages of 18-34, you likely love two things: craft beer and brunch. Northfield houses two elite colleges, Carleton and St. Olaf. If you’ve gone to college you know it’s hard to find time to get a good meal in, and its usually on the weekends. This is why brunch is some people’s saving grace. It’s also totally acceptable to drink a mimosa for 5 during brunch since it’s the weekend and all, at least that’s what I tell myself.

Honorable Mention BEST BRUNCH: Winjum’s Shady Acres Restaurant and Resort Honorable Mention BEST DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT: Torey’s Restaurant and Bar Scene Staff

Dawn’s Corner Bar in Dundas BEST BUFFET Growing up, Dundas native Dawn Kruse always dreamed of owning her own bar. Now, that dream is a reality thanks to Dawn’s Corner Bar—and dozens of happy customers are reaping the rewards of her work ethic, friendly service and delicious food. Kruse worked for the previous bar owner for about ten years before buying the bar and renaming it in 2006. For the first several years, she focused more on the “bar” aspect, with limited food options. In 2014, though, she opened the grill/restaurant section. “We knew people don’t like just coming to a bar anymore,” she explained. “We decided that we needed food to give people a reason to stop.” It worked—her customer base grew by the week. One of the reasons is her famous buffets. There’s the weekly taco buffet, which quickly became a staple, and a Sunday breakfast buffet that includes everything from scrambled eggs to cheesy hash browns to pancakes. They’ve also tried special buffets as a Chinese buffet and

The Black Sheep Burgers and Brews in Owatonna BEST BURGER, BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS Diana and Adam Rodgers took a chance on The Black Sheep Burgers and Brews 15 months ago, but that chance has awarded them the accolades of Best Place to Take Out-of-Town Guests and Best Burger in southern Minnesota. Located in Owatonna, this family-oriented restaurant prides itself in serving up unique burger flavors and local beers to match. For example, Diana said the restaurant had great success with its burger that was a twist on a pickle roll-up. Diana maintains the kitchen area as the chef, while Adam satisfies the bar needs while being in charge of the beer. But they also place an emphasis on making a quality product with what they have to offer. With current hours that run from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Diana said the restaurant decided to limit its hours due to its small kitchen and emphasis on providing fresh ingredients. During their first openings, they were running out of food too early and recognized the need for restricted hours. But with the success they’ve seen, Diana said they likely won’t change their style anytime soon. “Just keep on what we’re doing. It’s working,” Diana said with a laugh. The Black Sheep Burgers and Brews is located at 206 W. Rose St. in Owatonna. Find on Facebook.

Honorable Mention BEST BURGER: Smoqehouse Honorable Mention BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS: Froggy Bottoms River Pub By Samantha Stetzer

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Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store in Jordan BEST CANDY SHOP In between Jordan and Belle Plaine, a large yellow building sticks out along Hwy. 169. A giant vibrant sign brings out the inner child in all who read it; “Minnesota’s Largest Candy Store.” Shopping carts aren’t a common site at candy store, but plenty are available for visitors. The problem is deciding where to begin. Of course there’s the sweets’ section, which lives up to the name. The big yellow barn houses more than 3,000 varieties of candy, organized by type, from sour to sweet and everything in between. For those not a fan of sugar, a large selection of jerkeys, syrups, salsas and pumpkin, among other treats and toys, can easily make visitors lose track of time browsing around. Guests should be sure to keep money on hand, as it is a cash-based business. The aptly named business kept growing this spring the addition of a 60-foot-tall yellow dome, giving the former family apple barn even more of a rural feel. The inside of the dome features a spacethemed planetarium with a rotating ceiling, painted by Jordan High School art teacher Jessica Barnd. Just make sure to stop by before it’s too late. The seasonal store is only open from June through November, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

Online and call ahead service is available for Southern Minnesota’s Best Lunch, but stay tuned, Thea says she would like to see Central Park Coffee expand to delivery in the near future! www.centralparkcoffeeco.com

ing said. Their menu offers a variety of sandwiches (both panini and signature styles), salads, appetizers, breakfast items, kids items and delicious desserts. For drinks, there is a local craft beer list, rotating wine lists and, of course, coffee. The Hideaway also hosts many events, including the Wine and Art Night on the first Tuesday of each month, Trivia Night on the second Monday of each month and movie night on Fridays for the kids. Specials are offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays to get a halfpriced bottle of wine all day, and don’t forget to stop in on Saturday for half priced appetizers from 5-9 p.m. And on your birthday, stop in for a free lunch or dinner up to a $10 value. To top it all off, The Hideaway does catering now, with a large selection of entrees, sides, appetizers and desserts and even the option for a buffet lunch. Customers can choose to have The Hideaway bring food to their event or, for smaller groups, to rent out the back room of the shop. Spaulding summed up her feelings for The Hideaway. “I believe in this, I’m thrilled that people are recognizing what we’re trying to accomplish here - it’s a feel-good place,” she said. The Hideaway Coffee Shop and Wine Bar is located at 421 S Division St., Northfield. www.thehideawaynorthfield.com

Honorable Mention BEST COFFEE HOUSE: The HideAway Coffehouse and Wine Bar Honorable Mention BEST GRILLED CHEESE: The Cheese Cave Honorable Mention BEST LUNCH: Smoqehouse By Molly Penny

Honorable Mention BEST CATERING: Torey’s Restaurant and Bar Honorable Mention BEST VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY: Smoqehouse Scene Staff

Cakewalk in Northfield BEST CUPCAKE

Honorable Mention: Costa’s Candies & Restaurant By Alex Kerkman

Central Park Coffee Co. in Owatonna BEST COFFEE HOUSE, BEST GRILLED CHEESE, BEST LUNCH

The HideAway Coffeehouse and Wine Bar in Northfield BEST CATERING, BEST VEGETARIAN FRIENDLY The Hideaway opened in 2006 and is family owned and operated by Joan and Jim Spaulding, along with their six kids. Along with hosting many fun events and gatherings, a stellar food and drink menu consistently calls people back to the Hideaway. “Our whole idea here is to create a place that is like our home where everyone feels welcome, and everything we serve when we bring it out is something we would want to eat or drink,” Spauld-

No, it’s not Central Perk from friends, but the name rings pretty close, and it’s a cozy haunt to boot! When new owner Thea Farrington took over Central Park coffee about 10 months ago, she decided to keep the name. “It’s a staple of our community,” says Farrington, “and Owatonna is a great town.” Located on the 100 block of Cedar Avenue, Central Park is the hub of downtown Owatonna, and winner of three “Best of Southern Minnesota 2017” awards. When asked why Central Park Coffee seemed to sweep the awards, Farrington smiled and said “the buzz! It’s a very busy lunch spot. People love being there. We offer amazing service.” Her face beamed with pride. “It is the employees,” she says, “who put a smile on your face.” Get there between 6-10:30 a.m. and you may even see a familiar smiling face, former owner Sue Papp, who still makes soups fresh daily and helps out with ordering coffees, syrups, and with daily sales reports. Farrington also cites that her husband has been a great help in economizing the business. Central Park Coffee is warm and inviting, with coffee roasted right here in Minnesota, and the food is top notch. The grilled cheese consists of cheddar with herb cream cheese on bread of your choice, panini grilled. I have had it, and it deserves Best Grilled Cheese in SoMinn, bar none.

There’s not a sweeter place in Northfield to nosh on a cupcake and voters showed their appreciation for CakeWalk once again by voting it as the place for the Best Cupcake. Since opening in 2012 Teara Myers and Jody Breathwaite have made CakeWalk the first stop and last stop for visitors coming to Northfield. The former Byerly’s pastry chefs ventured out on their own five years ago and haven’t looked back. In fact, business is often so good that they have to cut off cake orders since they’re the only two who do cakes. Though known for their signature black velvet cupcake, Myers and Breathwaite, make sure they have 18 varieties of cupcakes available daily. Cupcake flavors include: blueberry pancake, peanut butter and jelly, German chocolate, cookies and cream and Boston cream. They also feature “CakeWalk push pops” which is basically a cylinder shaped contraption that holds layers of cake, filling, frosting, and toppings that you can literally push up. “We love our customers,” Myers said. “We’re always focusing on our customers.” Cake Walk is located at 303 Division St. S. in Northfield. www.cakewalknorthfield.com

Honorable Mention: Perfect Day Cakes & Bakery By Nick Gerhardt

Hubbell House in Mantorville BEST FINE DINING Behold a delicious, wonderful gem in southern Minnesota. The Hubbell House, a historic treasure in Mantorville, has provided elegant meals with family-like service, real china, linen napkins and a 1800s atmosphere to presidents, senators, professional athletes, actors among the hundreds of area residents and visitors each day. According to the restaurant’s website, early-American hospitality is still available right here in Minnesota. Since 1946, when Paul Pappas purchased the Hubbell House and set the precedent to provide customers of the house with nothing less than excellent food and service. And little has changed today under the ownership of Pappas’ son, Don.

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Blast Soft Serve is located at 206 West Rose Street in Owatonna. www.facebook.com/Blast-Softserve-191513700884142

Honorable Mention: Hogan Brothers By Autumn Van Ravenhorst

That could be because he follows the Pappas’ family motto, “Put a good meal on the plate, charge a fair price, offer a pleasant atmosphere and treat your customers and employees right. If you do, people will come back.” It’s evident that’s the case. The Hubbell House’s diverse menu for lunch, dinner and events speak for themselves featuring an assortment of fresh appetizers, hearty entrees and homemade desserts. The Hubbell House is located at 502 N. Main St. in Mantorville. www.hubbellhouserestaurant.com Honorable Mention: Ole Store Restaurant Scene Staff

Quarterback Club Family Restaurant in Northfield BEST FRIED CHICKEN Quarterback Club in Northfield came to be in 1967 and was partly owned by some of the players from the Minnesota Vikings. There were many of these around the state but sadly all of them closed down or were sold in the 70s, leaving the Northfield spot the only one standing and for good reason. Is it the cozy small diner atmosphere? The friendly staff and small town appeal? Or is it the fact that their prices seemed to have stopped going up since the early 90s? Good deals and good food continually come out of this establishment. You want a fresh grilled cheeseburger? That’ll set you back only $2.35 so I suggest you buy three of them, you know, just in case you get snacky later on. If you aren’t a burger fan, you can always go for the best fried chicken this side of the Mississippi. If you’ve never had pressured fried chicken at Quarterback Club, you basically haven’t lived a full life. Crispy skin, and chicken as juicy and flavorful as...the most juicy and flavorful thing in existence. You can buy a 4 piece for just under $5, but I suggest buying the 16-piece that rings in at just under $19. Because remember, you might get snacky later on. The Quarterback Club is located at 116 3rd St. W. in Northfield. www.quarterbackclubrestaurant.com

Honorable Mention: Broaster

Keep Calm Scene Staff

Uncle B’s Last Chance BBQ in Faribault BEST FOOD TRUCK

Uncle B’s Last Chance BBQ Shack is not aptly named. It is not a “shack.” It’s a palace. Brian Freed creates some of the best BBQ in Southern Minnesota and then, benevolently, seeks to bring the food right to you by setting up in some opportune locations. The “Shack” is a sweet little, tricked out, smokin’ kitchen on wheels. Quite often you’ll find him in the shared parking lot that belongs to ACE Hardware and the VFW on the corner of 4th St and 2nd Ave in Faribault. Other times you’ll find him in the parking lot at Firehouse Liquors on Highway 3 in Dundas. He’s also staked out a pretty good space over by the F-Town Brewery in Faribault. He can be kind of a moving target. Trust us when we tell you that he’s worth finding. The brisket is tender, with a good peppery flavor. The pulled pork is juicy, and not greasy. The Barbecue Baked Potatoes are huge. He offers deep fried hot dogs, something called a WOW Burger and seems to be particularly proud of his Garlic Fries. Ribs day is on Friday, so find him early. It is our opinion that the true secret to his success, aside from his ridiculously friendly demeanor, is his sauce. He offers two kinds, one for beginners and one with the absolute perfect amount of kick. The sauce is so good in fact, that he recently began bottling it and selling it in Faribault grocery stores (as well as the aforementioned ACE Hardware). The best way to track his whereabouts is to find him on Facebook. Wherever he is, just get there. The food is that good. www.facebook.com/UncleBsLastChanceBBQ

THe

Scene Staff

Norman Butler hails from England, and we all know there are two things the Brits love: Pubs and Pakora. So naturally after opening up The Contented Cow he proceeded to make himself feel more at home in this small town and opened up Chapati, located on the first floor of the Archer House hotel in downtown Northfield. Chapati does the classics of Northern Indian food very well -malai kofta, channa masala, tikka masala are all satisfying. And from the tender lamb to their spicy (but not overwhelming, I’m assuming to comply with Minnesotan’s gentle palates) tandoori, they got it all. Did I mention they have a daily lunch buffet? Because they do. If you plan on coming, make sure to bring friends because you get what you pay for; with huge portions its almost family-style. The ambiance and feel inside of Chapati makes you feel like you’re in a different country, which makes the experience that much better. If you are hesitant on eating Indian (which apparently is a thing) trying the buffet will open your mind, and taste-buds, to so many new and different flavors without having to commit to just one plate. Chapati is located in the Archer House at 212 Division Street South in Northfield. www.chapati.us Scene Staff

Blast Soft Serve in Owatonna BEST ICE CREAM

It is every child’s nightmare to have their ice cream fall to the pavement, but at Blast Soft Serve there is plenty to spare. In fact, it would be unusual for ice cream not to be making a trail back to the car because the serving of a small size is enough to make adults’ eyes gleam. A bare cone isn’t even a complete disappointment as the Blast makes their waffle cones on site, something new this year added by owners Zach Von Ruden and Tyler Morgan. This is the third year the Blast has taken home Best Ice Cream of SoMinn. “Jamie Evans, the previous owner, did a great job at building up the Blast. We are just glad we have been able to carry on the tradition,” said Von Ruden. He and Morgan took over the business last August. Blast offers nearly every flavor imaginable and extends its service to those who maybe aren’t catered to typical ice cream, like the ill-fated lactose intolerants. With ice cream, frozen yogurt, lactosefree options, toppings galore and Dole pineapple whip, a discovery from a visit to Hawaii by his mother, there is something for everyone.

WeeKend Is ComIng

Honorable Mention: Russell’s Traveling Kitchen

Chapati in Northfield BEST INDIAN FOOD

What sets Pizzeria 201’s pizzas from everyone else? The homegrown meat products and locally sourced ingredients certainly give the pizzas their freshness. But what really stands out is the uniqueness of the menu. “When we set out to open a pizzeria, we said ‘we can’t compete with the big chains.’ We were going to create something that is unique, and we’ve worked hard with our customers (to find) what

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Pizzeria 201 in Montgomery BEST ITALIAN FOOD, BEST PIZZA

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CONTINUED FROM page 13 they’re looking for,” Troy Domine, who owns Pizzeria 201 with his wife Diane, said. “We paid attention to how our customers react. It’s how we built our menu.” No matter a person’s preference in taste, chances are they’ll find something that suits them on the menu. Meat lovers can’t go wrong with the Hog Heaven pizza and its pinched sausage, ham, Canadian bacon, pepperoni and bacon, while vegetarians will want to check out the California Dreamin’ (mozzarella, mushroom, green pepper and Roma tomato). Other pizzas such as the German, Greek, Hawaiian, and Thai Pie offer a taste from all over the Earth. And for desert, why not try another pizza. The Montgomery restaurant’s menu also includes three different type of 10-inch sweet pizzas; peanut butter and jelly, dessert fruit and cinnamon. “We’ve got about 16 or 18 specialty pizzas on our menu … we really try to hit all four corners of the world in terms of people’s interests,” Domine said. Domine noted it’s their homegrown ingredients that set their food apart. “We have fresh house-made sauces, Italian beef sandwiches and pulled pork raised in Le Sueur County,” Domine said. “It’s really about using a good product and knowing how to handle it in the kitchen.” www.pizzeria201.com

Honorable Mention BEST ITALIAN FOOD: Chianti Grill Honorable Mention BEST PIZZA: Basilleo’s Pizza Restaurant By Alex Kerkman

usual crowd that swarms into The Kernel for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is definitely one of the places where you say to your meal date, “We need to go, it’s going to be packed!” Even if you do arrive a bit behind schedule, the staff will get you the seat of your preference within minutes. The Kernel has been in business since 1981, offering home cooked favorites and legendary desserts. They serve breakfast any time of day which means you can eat their celebrated pancakes whenever you please. It is difficult to leave without bumping in to someone you know, and given the family friendly atmosphere, the people in the next booth over are likely to join in your conversation. It is a gathering place for many age groups who look to sit with their friends and chat about news, gossip, family, and how old shoes make your feet hurt. The Kernel Restaurant is located at 1011 Hoffman Dr. NW in Owatonna. www.kernelrestaurant.com

Honorable Mention: Quarterback Club Family Restaurant By Autumn Van Ravenhorst

Daniel Hernandez Tovar. Eventually, in 2012, the two of them purchased La Plaza F!esta, giving it its new name. In 2016, Hernandez and her team weathered tough times when a devastating fire swept along Madelia’s historic Main Street and totally destroyed several buildings, including hers. Thanks to an outpouring of community support, La Plaza F!esta was able to temporarily relocate before eventually reopening in 2017 at their new location at 15 W. Main Street. “Our community has always been tight knit and strong but after the fire we really felt the support and love shared by everyone,” Hernandez said. “We are very blessed. We definitely couldn’t have rebuilt by ourselves. We truly never will be able to say thank you enough for that.” This passionate support is just one testament to how Hernandez has touched the lives of so many people in Madelia and other places—and will continue to do so, no matter where her restaurant is located. www.laplazafiesta.com

Honorable Mention: Karlee Kanz By Grace Webb

Olives Restaurant in Mankato BEST MIDDLE-EASTERN FOOD Some restaurants like to say they treat customers like family. At Olives, a fine Mediterranean dining experience in Mankato, that’s really true. Olives is run by John and Najwa Massad, who have been creating historically delicious food for the Mankato community since 1984. Both John and Najwa were born in Lebanon, though Najwa spent some of her childhood in Mankato since her grandmother had immigrated there. After they married, they lived in Lebanon, surviving the country’s brutal civil war, which started in 1975. They eventually immigrated to Mankato in 1982. Drawing from their experience running restaurants in Lebanon, the couple opened their first restaurant in Mankato in 1984. Olives opened in 2007, serving higher-end Mediterranean dishes. A unique feature at this restaurant is the open kitchen, so guests can watch their food be prepared and see how much care goes into it. Of course, the highlight is the food itself: everything from tasty schwarmas to roasted duck to wood burning pizza. “Our motto is: American fast, Mediterranean healthy,” Najwa said. “We don’t fry things; all we fry is the French fries. We don’t want to skip on the quality.” But the secret that makes everything work is how the Massads treat everyone they meet, from employees to customers. “When you come into [our restaurants], it’s like you’re coming into our house,” she said. “You need that connection with people, that kindness. Some of my best friends were my customers to begin with, and now they’re considered part of our family. That’s the Massad trait—that welcoming. That’s who we are.” Besides Olives, the Massads also run Najwa’s Catering and Massad’s, a fast-food version of the family’s famous food, available at the River Hills Mall. www.olivesmankato.com

Honorable Mention: Nupa By Grace Webb

The Kernel Restaurant in Owatonna BEST PANCAKES A hidden gem of Owatonna hides between a Ford dealership and the Budget Host Inn. The sheer number of cars parked in the lot is often mistaken for being part of the dealership it sits so closely to. Those who have been acquainted know that it is simply the

Signature Bar & Grill in Faribault BEST PLACE FOR A STEAK As we settle in for the long and chilly winter, finding a great place for steak and a cocktail is essential. That’s where Signature Bar and Grill comes in. Voted ‘Best Place for a Steak’, steaks at The Signature Bar and Grill are “hand cut and never frozen”. According to Bryan Schuenke of The Signature, that is what pushes the steaks over the edge in quality. In business since 2003, The Signature Bar and Grill is a time-tested establishment with a loyal client base who have no qualms in raving about the tasty treats that fill the menu. Some even compare it to “Cheers”. Their menu spans from traditional pub fare, such as a variety of pizza (both specialty and build-your-own) and burgers, to cutto-order Sirloin and Ribeye steaks, as well as a full bar with several beers on tap. With your hand-cut steak, be sure to grab a cold one from their selection on tap. The Signature Bar and Grill also hosts weekly Bingo nights, so grab some friends and come ready for a good time. Signature Bar and Grill is located at 201 Central Ave. N. in Faribault. www.sigbarandgrill.com

Honorable Mention: George’s Fine Steaks and Spirits

Hogan Brothers in Northfield BEST SUB/SANDWICH I might sound like a broken record, but Hogan Brothers has the best hoagies. The best. If you disagree, I’ll be in the parking lot of Econo Foods in Northfield every day from 2-3 p.m. if you want to fight me. All joking aside, Hogan Brothers has been wonderfully serving the Northfield community since 1991. With their secret sauce and freshly baked bread, it’s hard to beat. Along with the hoagies, they also offer freshly baked cookies and muffins daily, and if you’re feeling the summer time has got you down, and insanely hot, try out any of their 12 flavors of ice cream. With its relaxed atmosphere, every college student flocks to this place. Not only for their always delicious hoagies, but the fact that you get a lot of bang out of your buck, with their half a hoagie (which is the size of a subway, I kid you not) and soup special being under seven dollars. I never dared to get the whole hoagie, since it’s the size of my arm. But for college kids it’ll crave their insatiable hunger after writing a thesis a million times longer than this review. So eat up, kids. Hogan Brothers is located at 415 Division Street in Northfield. www.hoganbros.com

Honorable Mention: Best Ice Cream

By Justine Krueger

Scene Staff

Krystal Hernandez at La Plaza F!esta in Madelia BEST SERVER

Ranchero Supper Club in Webster BEST SUPPER CLUB

Krystal Hernandez knows a thing or two about customer service. The owner and manager of La Plaza F!esta in Madelia, Hernandez has formed a special bond with the countless customers who walk through her doors. “Serving has always been my favorite job,” Hernandez said. “Service is everything! You can have the best food on the planet, but if your service lacks, people will not come back.” Hernandez honed her customer relations skills for years, starting when she was 11 and working at her parents’ roller rink in Owatonna. In 2009, while working at a Mexican restaurant in Owatonna owned by some friends, Hernandez met (now) husband

If there was one complaint to come from the Ranchero Supper Club in Webster, it would be that it is just too hard to pick one item from their delicious menu. The supper club has been home to many regulars for 42 years and has recently been passed on to the next generation. Heidi Elwood, owner and operator of Ranchero, believes it’s the tradition at Ranchero’s that got them to the top of Best Supper Club. “We’re more of a home-style, from scratch, local place where people can come in and find good food and a great beer assortment,” she said. The three-page menu filled with everything under the sun is only one of the many attractions.

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The Cheese Cave in Faribault BEST WINE LIST They also offer Friday fish fry, daily specials and their hit item, Rudy’s Signature Steak. The steak is named after owner Heidi Elwood’s father. Although Ranchero has continually focused on truly figuring out the business all these years, Elwood said the title of Best Supper Club in Southern Minnesota confirms it, “This makes us feel like we’re doing it right,” she said. The Ranchero Supper Club is located at 4452 40th St. Win Webster. www.rancherosupperclub.com

Honorable Mention: Widerholt’s Supper Club Scene Staff

“A gourmet destination” is more than just a slogan for The Cheese Cave of Faribault. In fact, it holds true for the majority of the year, as people from across the world come to visit, either in person or online, what started as The Caves of Faribault. What started as a simple retail store, the company has evolved to an online outlet for award winning cheeses across the United States. In 2014, The Cheese Cave continued its success with more accolades winning two 2014 Good Food Awards, which selected St. Pete’s Select Blue Cheese and Jeff’s Select Gouda. Well, Southern Minnesota wants you to know it’s not just about the cheese at this cave. The retailer also sells wine, and darn good wine, according to voters. The best wine list in the region, mind you. The Cheese Cave is located at 318 Central Ave North in Faribault. www.cheesecave.net

Honorable Mention: The HideAway Coffeehouse and Wine Bar Scene Staff

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301 Cedar Avenue North Owatonna 301 Cedar Avenue North Owatonna Phone 507.444.0400 Phone 507.444.0400 301 www.kristisclothing.com Cedar Avenue North, Owatonna, MN 55060 www.kristisclothing.com Phone 507.444.0400 • www.kristisclothing.com Expires 1.31.18 Expires 1.31.18 A d d y o u r even t f or F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l en d ar . G O T O w w w. s o u t h ernminn s c ene . c o m / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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BARS

Imminent owners and the Reppes intend to make the building a cohesive entertainment space. Imminent’s role in the grand design is to simply run their business within it.

On tap Imminent opens Friday as a beer-only microbrewery and taproom. Their space includes a bar, indoor and outdoor seating areas and a brew area, visible to customers. The outside design features three large, window-filled garage doors, which bring in plenty natural light. The inside features handmade wood pieces, including the bar, in addition to a concrete floor and dozens of tables and chairs. Seven house-brewed beers are on tap to start: Monticello Mild, Factory Settings, Question Mark Hill Wheat, Lil R&R (raspberry and rhubarb), Guard Down IPA, Prairie Creek Porter and Well Grounded. All service will be provided at the bar, where customers can speak with employees about the different beers on offer. The beers are also numbered, so customers can use chalk to write on flight boards, indicating which beers they’d like to sample. Imminent will also sell growlers, which can be taken home, and the company will eventually sell kegs of its homemade beers to other establishments with liquor licenses. Food trucks and caterers will be allowed to pull up right against the outside of the building near one of the garage doors, and customers are welcome to bring food from anywhere else into the taproom. Live music will be featured regularly. It’s all coming together at Imminent, and its owners are thankful for that. As noted on the business’ website: “It’s about time” Northfield’s newest brewery opened up. Imminent Brewing is located at 519 Division St. S. in Northfield. www.imminentbrewing.com

Imminent Brewing in Northfield BEST BREWPUB/MICROBREWERY

he owners of Imminent Brewing have felt the demand and interest for breweries in Northfield ratcheting up for years. And now, two months after the city’s first brewery opened its doors, Derek and Laura Meyers (both 33) and Randy and Tonja Clay (both 45) will open theirs. “There is a sense of relief, of excitement,” Randy said of opening day. “There is also a sense of switching into the next gear and a recommitment [to the business].” Imminent, located in the Northfield downtown in the old Armory building, hosts its grand opening from 3-11 p.m. Friday, continuing 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. The weekend will feature the taproom’s first line of seven house-brewed beers, plus live music and food provided by trucks and caterers. All four owners will buzz around throughout the weekend. Though duties naturally overlap, official titles have been distributed. Randy is the brewing operations manager. Tonja is the marketing director. Derek is the distribution manager. Laura is the taproom manager. The couples — Randy/Tonja and Derek/Laura — are venturing into unknown territory. Randy, Laura and Derek have some experience brewing from home. Randy has further experience in the restaurant industry. And Tonja has experience being selfemployed. But none of them have owned and operated a multiemployee organization, no less a full-stop brewery taproom and distribution business, which required significant financial contributions and came with a lot of unknowns. “Of course we were terrified,” Derek said. “We were thinking ‘is this totally crazy, really stupid?’” Laura added. “But we kept coming back to ‘if we don’t try and see this through, we’re always going to look back with regret.”

Coming together Derek and Laura moved to Northfield in 2013. They soon joined the Milltown Mashers club, started by Randy, who was already considering opening a brewery, but kicking the idea around with another club member. In 2014, Randy’s original partner dropped out right around

Honorable Mention: Tanzenwald Brewing Company

Fielder’s Choice Tap & Table in Northfield BEST BEER SELECTION You like beer? Of course you. You like a vast selection of beer, that isn’t riddled with Budweiser, Coors Light, and MGD? Look no further and make a stop at Fielder’s Choice Tap and Table. After learning Northfield was getting a restaurant with more than 10 taps (whoaaaaa) I immediately had a panic attack. Not one of those bad ones, but the kind where you imagine all the possibilities of beers you can have in one place and you start to shake and forget how to breathe. With 36 taps, it can be a bit overwhelming (like that panic attack kind of feel) but their selection is ever changing. Did I mention EVERY. SINGLE. BEER. IS. LOCAL?! It’s like going to every single tap

By Philip Weyhe

the time he started speaking with Derek and Laura. The couples talked some more and soon they were moving ahead on a brewery dream full throttle. The group had a purchase agreement for space in Northfield in 2015, but it fell through. Though it felt like a crushing blow at the time, the foursome are now thankful it happened, feeling they came across an even better situation at the old Armory. In fact, they feel a lot of the pieces have fallen into place. “We realized those obstacles were steering us in the correct direction,” Laura said. “Now we’re in this space, this location, this team, it feels like this is what is meant to be.” “So many things have happened that it’s just like ‘yeah, this is what was supposed to happen,’” Randy added. The two couples agreed to take over a space in the Armory in 2015, before Johnathan and Liz Reppe put in a bid for the building. The

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house in Minnesota, without all of that silly traffic, driving, and parking. You don’t like beer? They always have a few ciders ready for your consumption. Most bars are very IPA heavy, but don’t you worry, their selection is evenly weighed out. With west coast pale ales, wheat, stouts, porters, maibocks, imperial lagers, amber ales, and brown ales, you’ll be able to find the right beer fit for you. Fielder’s Choice is located at 2300 Gleason Court in Northfield. www.fielderstap.com

Honorable Mention: The Black Sheep Burgers and Brews Scene Staff

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PORTERHOUSE Steak & Seafood Restaurant in Lakeville BEST MARTINI Froggy Bottoms River Pub & Lily PADio in Northfield BEST BLOODY MARY, BEST PATIO, BEST HAPPY HOUR Let us take a moment to celebrate the fact that, by and large, the danger of flooding has passed for another season and Froggy Bottoms River Pub and Lily PADio are still there on the Northfield Riverwalk. That means the Best Patio, Best Happy Hour and Best Bloody Mary in Southern Minnesota remain available to all. When Froggy’s expanded its outdoor seating in 2014 it became a top destination for outdoor drinks and dining along the river. The patio area tripled and now features around 15 tables after previously having just seven tables on the pub side in the past. Froggy Bottoms now hosts musical acts on the patio all summer long to enhance the experience for customers. Owner Laurie Hoheisel felt the addition would go well because “it’s Minnesota and we like to be outside as much as possible.” Whether it’s enjoying the weather or enjoying time while visiting with friends and family, Froggy Bottoms’ Lily PADio gives people a chance to be outside while overlooking the Cannon River. Froggy Bottoms Lilly Padio is located at 307 Water St. S. in Northfield. www.froggybottom.com

Honorable Mention BEST BLOODY MARY: White Front Saloon Honorable Mention BEST PATIO: Brooktree Golf Course and Master’s Bar & Grille

Do you want a martini experience that leaves you stirred, not shaken? Then head over to PORTERHOUSE Steak and Seafood in Lakeville to try their famous martini. Well, technically, they’ve got at least a dozen types of martinis, not including the standard martini. Do you have a sweet tooth? Try their Chocotini, which comes with vanilla vodka, white crème de cacoa and Frangelico. Maybe you’re more of a tequila fan. Then go for the Margatina, made with 1800 Tequila, lime and Cointreau with a salted rim. There’s the Appletini, or its southern cousin, the Key Lime Martini, or its other cousin, the Lemon Drop Martini. There’s a Nuts & Berries martini, a Royal Flush martini and, of course, a basic Cosmopolitan. There’s even a martini for die-hard Minnesotans, the Dirty Minnesota Martini, concocted from Opulent vodka (made in Minnesota) and olive juice, with hand-stuffed bleu cheese olives thrown in for good measure. According to General Manager David Hyde, every drink at the PORTERHOUSE bar is made to a standard recipe, ensuring that you’ll get a quality drink no matter when you order it. However, bartenders are still able to offer their own twist on Minnesota nice hospitality. “Our bar staff gets to know a lot all the guests,” Hyde said. “They take time to talk to them, get to know them, make them feel welcome. It’s not just able serving drinks—it’s about the whole guest experience.” If martinis aren’t your thing, or if you want to branch out, Hyde suggests trying the PORTERHOUSE Manhattan or a classic Old Fashioned. PORTERHOUSE is located at 11211 205th St. W in Lakeville. www.porterhousesteakandseafood.com

Carbone’s Pizza & Sports Bar in Faribault, Northfield, New Prague, Lakeville, Farmington BEST SPORTS BAR Carbone’s co-owner Julie Marvets believes that her restaurant won best sports bar because it breaks the mold. Marvets calls Carbone’s in Faribault a family-friendly sports pizza restaurant, shying away from the traditional concept of a bar. “It’s not your regular drinking place because that’s not what we wanted to be,” she said. One year ago, the Marvetses purchased Carbone’s and have had a positive response from patrons, especially for their sevenday-a-week all-you-can-eat buffet, which she called a “phenomenal” deal. As for why she thinks they won the award, Marvets pointed to her staff and their commitment to making pizza the right way. “When we first opened, we were hiring kids, basically, and people from Faribualt, and our way was a new concept,” she said. “It was hard to train them in the Carbone’s mold.” Simply, Marvets hopes Carbone’s “is a fun place to go.” www.carbonespizzeria.com

Honorable Mention: Joe’s Sports Café By Gunnar Olson

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Honorable Mention: Froggy Bottoms River Pub By Grace Webb

START YOUR WEEKEND OUT THE RIGHT WAY.

By Nick Gerhardt

BREAKFAST STARTING AT 10AM ON SATURDAY & SUNDAY

Loon Liquors Distillery in Northfield BEST SPECIALTY COCKTAIL El Tequila Mexican Restaurant in Faribault, Northfield, Owatonna, Waseca and New Prague BEST MARGARITA No matter who is in the kitchen you can be sure to get the same great Mexican meal or Margarita at any of the five El Tequila locations. They pride themselves on everything being made inhouse (including the chips!) and from the same recipe. Everything served is consistent and authentic. And Erica Manuel and her family have been doing this for twenty years! The first location was the Faribault location but Minnesotans couldn’t get enough! Over the years they had to expand to meet the demand until they grew to five stores! Who knows how far this can go?! The Faribault Assistant Manager, Alejandro (Alex) Lara has been with the family for 8-10 years and is always amazed how popular their house-made chips and salsa remains. He attributes not only the house-made everything but the friendly and consistent staff treat all of their customers like part of the family! El Tequila has locations in Faribault, New Prague, Northfield, Owatonna and Waseca. www.eltequilarestaurant.com

What can you do, as a bar or cocktail room, to make yourself stand out from the crowd? Loon Liquors has the answer for the second year running. Their go-to, most popular drink, the Strawberry Pineapple Gin Fizz, again wins best cocktail in Southern Minnesota. Every single ingredient is made in house, including their tonic, bitters, flavored simple syrups, and ginger ale. How about that, eh? A drink that is truly homemade, Minnesotan, and full of flavor. If you’re feeling thirsty right now, head over to their web page, where they are kind enough to even give you the ingredients to this crisp, fruity, and flavorful drink. But make sure you use their Metropoligin (trade mark, because that name is THE BEST NAME EVER, you guys) when making it, if not, then you’ll just be making the cousin twice removed who moved to the mountains to find herself a version of the drink. Good, but not what you hoped for. So take some time out of your busy life and head on over to Loon Liquors, tell Simeon and Mark that Karlee sent you. Loon Liquors is located at 1325 Armstrong Road No. 165 in Northfield. www.loonliquors.com

Honorable Mention: Froggy Bottoms River Pub By Scene Staff

Honorable Mention: Gran Plaza Mexican Grill

Lunch & Dinner Specials from 11 am -11 p.m.

BEERS ON TAP!!!

Happy Hour: M-F, 3-6pm $1.00 Off pints Private Parties & Catering Available Outdoor seating available

Scene Staff

125 S. 3rd St., St. Peter 931-9051

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ARTS

Northfield Arts Guild BEST ART CENTER, BEST GALLERY, BEST THEATER TROUPE

rom the outside, the Northfield Arts Guild seems like an ordinary building, enticing people in with a bright purple door. But on the inside, the Guild offers a bright artistic flair to their programing for theatre, visual arts and music performances. According to Rachel Haider, performing arts manager, there are three main purposes for the NAG: performance, artistic development and education. Theses purposes are represented through their different events and programing. One example is the NAG works with Northfield schools to host three different art shows throughout the seasons where students can exhibit their work. They hosted all-school show where 900 students participated with different art forms. The Visual Arts Manager Heather Lawrenz said the student shows are only one example of how the guild works across art disciplines with different art levels. She pointed to how the guild is collaborating with professional artists to host “artist conversations” where emerging or professional artists can discuss general tips and tricks for the field whether that’s applying for an exhibit or obtaining a grant. “We are trying to encourage people across their journey, whether they are emerging or a professional, full-time artist,” Lawrenz said. “That why we try to bring programing that appeals to multiple levels of artists.” That is one of the benefits of having an arts guild in a city.

Riverfront Fine Arts Festival in Northfield BEST ART FAIR

There are more opportunities for artists, across mediums, to grow and display their work in a professional environment. The gallery is core aspect of the guild as exhibits range in types of art, style and theme. The gallery committee is always looking for new artists and original concepts to incorporate into their season. Lawrenz said the committee members are looking for three components when deciding proposals in April. “We want to see quality, concept and cohesiveness. It’s crucial we have all three so the exhibit be as successful as possible,” she said. Along with their successful gallery programming, they run a flourishing theatre program where a theatre committee develops the show ideas for the upcoming season and works with directors, actors and producers to have a great season. Haider said the goal of the committee is to create highquality productions, every single time. This always contributes to what shows are selected and the final performances.

Honorable Mention BEST ART CENTER: Owatonna Arts Center Honorable Mention BEST GALLERY: Owatonna Arts Center Honorable Mention: BEST THEATER TROUPE: The Merlin Players By Kelsey O’Hara

Since the 1970s, the Riverfront Fine Arts Festival has drawn crowds to explore the rich variety of art that is annually displayed and sold. Over 65 artists are featured during the two day festival, revealing a range of mediums and styles perfected for art lovers to enjoy. Show coordinator Heather Lawrenz noted a few quotes from some of her fellow artists after the show in a previous year. One said “This was the most support I have felt as an artist after 10 years of exhibiting - this was the best.” Another said, “It is a well-attended event and the arts guild did a great job organizing the show.” A third pointed out, “I felt well informed all along, and coordinators and volunteers always got right back to me if I had a question or needed anything.”

Honorable Mention: Art on the Hill Scene Staff

As a part of the annual Defeat of Jesse James Days in Northfield, the Riverfront Fine Arts Festival takes place along the picturesque Cannon River and showcases the talent of many local and regional artists.

“We want our productions to be a high-quality experience, every time for our patrons,” Haider said. “That’s one of the reasons why we try to bring different shows each season, to encourage different audiences to come and enjoy our theatre.” The current season will include shows like Death of a Salesmen, God Girl, Fiddler on the Roof and more events throughout the 2017-18 year. Although artists are core contributors to the guild, both of the managers agreed they wouldn’t be as successful without their volunteers. Volunteers make up the committees, promote events to friends and family and help the day-to-day activities. “Without our volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to host as many events and programs as we do. So we definitely have to thank our volunteers for all they do,” Lawrenz said. The NAG plans to continue reaching out more into the community and increasing their presence for artists and community members alike through their resident teaching artist and collaborating with community partners. The Northfield Arts Guild is at 304 Division St S, Northfield. northfieldartsguild.org

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Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum in Owatonna BEST MUSEUM/HISTORY CENTER Home to the only museum of its kind in the U.S., the Minnesota

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Julie Fakler BEST VISUAL ARTIST

State Public School Orphanage Museum was built in a commemoration of the children who resided in its halls in Owatonna, Minn. for nearly 60 years. Voted Best Museum and History Center in southern Minnesota, Director Ann Peterson said she knows visitors are going to see a unique tourist destination while honoring the children who relied on the orphanage as home. “If people can have the time to come in and experience it, they’re going to get a one of a kind experience,” Peterson said. The original home was built in effort by the state legislature in 1885 and adopted a cottage-style plan for children who were orphaned. By 1945, the orphanage was phased out, and it became a vocational training center for mentally ill children. The building is now owned by Owatonna and is used as an administrative office space and museum. Peterson said she recognizes the home has some harsh memories for some of its former residents, but it’s also a connection to a past that some may not know. “It’s the state schoolers’ home hometown, for good or bad,” Peterson said. “The best part is really rewarding to give them some sort of information that helps them understand.” The orphanage museum is located at 540 W. Hills Circle, Owatonna. www.orphanagemuseum.com

Julie Fakler stands out as an artist who truly loves what she does. Her paintings draw the eye to the bold colors and soft brush strokes that are used to create realistic and beautifully rendered portraits of cats, dog and other domesticated animals. “I’ve been making art my whole life and it’s just something that’s in my DNA, and I have an extreme love for animals and that’s what I paint,” she said. Fakler graduated from the Minnesota College of Arts and Design in 1996 and has been in Faribault for 20 years. She has been with the Paradise Center for the Arts for 5 years and is currently the Director of Operations. “I’ve been fortunate to network with artists in southern Minnesota and in the metro,” she said. Her work has been featured in galleries across Minnesota and at the state fair several times, and her studio has been a part of the annual Studio Artour since 2009. “Lots of people come hang out and look at the artwork,” she said of the Artour, noting that the tour is the only time that people get to see where she works. Fakler also creates handmade quilts and does commissions of pets for people who would like a memorable keepsake of their cherished animal companion. www.jmfstudio.us/julie_fakler.htm

Honorable Mention: Northfield Historical Society

Honorable Mention: Corrie Erickson

By Samantha Stetzer

Scene Staff

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MISCELLANEOUS

Martha’s Eat & Treats in Dundas BEST KEPT SECRET, BEST SCONE

artha Schuetzle doesn’t have customers—she has friends. And for the last 10 years, she’s been feeding her friends delicious treats and succulent eats she has made herself and the business known for. “We have so many [people] we call them friends,” Schuetzle said. “[I] enjoy seeing people on a weekly basis.” As owner and creator of Martha’s Eats and Treats in Dundas, Minn., Schuetzle appreciatesthe people who purchased her food. From homemade soup to luscious desserts, Schuetzle offers delicious meals for her friends from either her stand at the farmer’s market or via her store every weekend. Schuetzle’s work at her shop and at her stand have afforded her as the winner of Best Kept Secret and Best Scone in the Southern Minnesota area. Every weekend she can’t wait to see her friends come through her doors and every day she has her spot at the farmer’s market, she is ready and willing to serve up some of their favorite sought after treats. “I think it’s unique because [the store is] only open two days a week, but it takes all week to get ready for those two days… lots of man hours,” Schuetzle said. Digging back into her roots of a family restaurant in Dennison, Minn., Schuetzle said the restaurant and food business is in her blood. “I grew up above a bar and restaurant,” Schuetzle, whose

Historic Hutchinson House B&B in Faribault BEST BED & BREAKFAST 20

parents owned the Fireside Lounge & Supper Club for 20 years, said. “It was great. There was always people around. It helped you to have good social skills. It was busy. I learned how to work hard because of that. Still standing today, Schuetzle’s parents haven’t owned the restaurant for nearly 20 years, but their daughter continues to keep the tradition they started alive with her passion for good food and bringing people together. Despite her cooking background with the family business, Schuetzle said she originally sold vegetables from her stand at the farmer’s market but didn’t notice too many baked goods or treats available. “So, I started to bake some simple things, and then it was a hit,” Schuetzle said. “Then I just proceeded on expanding each year.” The secret to Schuetzle’s success most likely lies in her passion for creating delicious food and keeping it simple. With fresh ingredients and preparations that last all week, her brick-and-mortar coffee shop and bakery are open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Dundas, Minn. Each weekend Schuetzle features a different soup and dessert, posting the options to Martha’s eats and treats Face-

When Tami and Doug Schluter bought the John Hutchinson House in Faribault 10 years ago, they were struck by the woodwork. “When we saw that, it put it at the top of our list,” said Tami Schluter of the hand-crafted woodwork in the historic home that dates back to 1892. When the Schluters purchased the place, it was an old home, but they turned it into a bed and breakfast called the Historic Hutchinson House B&B. The home was built in the Queen Anne, Victorian style in 1892 for John Hutchinson, an area businessman. Nicknamed the “Painted Lady,” the building is unique because of its three-story octagonal tower, wraparound porch, fireplaces and decorative staircases, among other things. In 1982, the building earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Now, after nearly a decade running the business, the Schluters are looking to move on. Despite multiple Best of Southern Minnesota and endless positive reviews, Tami knows that it’s time to consider moving on. “I’m not a morning person, so it’s time to get out the bed and

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book page. And her reviews tell a staggering story, each one having a different personal favorite. One Facebook user said Martha’s Eats and Treats’ products were “surely made by an angel in Heaven and only baked here on earth,” while another user claimed they were the best pastries this side of Paris. Yet, having treats so sought after and loved isn’t something Schuetzle dwells on. Rather she enjoys what attracted her to her parents’ business all those years of growing up: the personto-person connection. “I’m happy that people have a place to come to where it’s community based. It brings people joy,” Schuetzle said. “I know that, so that’s rewarding.” As for the future of everyone’s favorite southern Minnesota’s best kept secret and scone shop? Schuetzle said it’s simple: “just keep on keeping on.” Martha’s Treats and Eats can be found at 236 N. Railway St., Dundas, Minn. and is open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Schuetzle’s cart at the farmer’s market can be found throughout the week. Martha’s Eats and Treats is located at 236 Railway St. N. in Dundas. www.facebook.com/MarthasEatsTreats

Honorable Mention BEST KEPT SECRET: Zensational Honorable Mention BEST SCONE: The HideAway Coffeehouse and Wine Bar By Samantha Stetzer

breakfast business,” she joked. So get in while you still can. Who knows the future of this historic home. The Historic Hutchinson House is located at 305 Second St. NW in Faribault. www.historichutchhouse.com

Honorable Mention: Contented Cottage B&B By Gunnar Olson

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake BEST CASINO When you hear the word “casino,” you probably envision Hollywood stereotypes of smoky rooms with clanging machines and desperate people—maybe even a mobster or two. But Mystic Lake Casino and Hotel, Minnesota’s largest casino, is far and away better than anything Hollywood can come up with. The casino, located in Prior Lake, is far more than a casino. It’s also a luxury hotel, a pool, a sports center, 11 types of restaurants and bars, a spa, and an entertainment venue, pulling in big

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names like Cirque du Soleil, Jeff Foxworthy and Jewel. Oh, and it’s also a casino that offers more than 4,000 slot machines, nearly 100 blackjack tables, Bingo games that can net you up to $150,000, and quick-and-easy pull tabs that cost as little as a dime but offer you the chance to scratch off a $4,000 prize. All in all, it’s a pretty fun place to visit. “Our motto at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel is ‘let’s go,’ a simple way of saying that we take great pride in being a destination for memorable experiences,” said Johnny Mackin, director of brand marketing. “It is an honor to be voted best casino by the residents of southern Minnesota because it means our commitment to being a place for fun is working.” Mystic Lake Casino is located at 2400 Mystic Lake Blvd. NW in Prior Lake. www.mysticlake.com

Bridge Square is almost something that would be seen in a movie, and Division Street hosts multiple unique shops and restaurants. Parking, which is normally an issue in small towns, is easy to find. But it’s the friendly residents that make this place interesting. Frequent events are held downtown, boasting happy people with a genuine interest in supporting the town’s wellbeing. The Arts Guild shows off its gallery and hosts frequent performances. The Riverwalk Market Fair, held each Saturday through the summer, brings out the best in local products, and those who enjoy biking will love the bike-friendly roads. The environment is clean and landscaped, and the convenient location of the restaurants and music venues is perfect for a night out on the town. There is always something for everyone to find and love about downtown Northfield.

Honorable Mention: Red Wing compete against each other on little blown up horseys, watching actual live reenactments of the raid, rodeos, parades, carnivals, craft shows and a multitude of other engaging activities, then you best not miss next year’s Defeat of Jesse James Days. The Defeat of Jesse James Days is held annually in Northfield the weekend after Labor Day. www.djjd.org

Scene Staff

Honorable Mention: Kolacky Days Scene Staff

By Grace Webb

Defeat of Jesse James Days in Northfield BEST COMMUNITY EVENT, BEST RACE/RUN Spanning several days, starting on the anniversary of the famed attempted bank robbery by the James-Younger gang, the Defeat of Jesse James Days brings thousands of people to Northfield to experience a variety of entertaining events. T.J. Heinricy, coordinator for the DJJD events, noted that this is the third largest celebration in Minnesota, and they are dedicated to providing the best entertainment possible. “This is the only totally volunteer celebration in all of Minnesota and the history goes way back, everybody celebrates since we celebrate the town’s people, not the outlaws,” he said. For four days, the downtown area of Northfield becomes a hotspot of history and entertainment, made easier due to the central location for nearly every activity. “We couldn’t do it without volunteers and community members,” he added. So, if you like fair food, drinking, live music, watching kids

Riverwalk Market Fair in Northfield BEST FARMERS MARKET

Northfield BEST DOWNTOWN Northfield is known as a hub for arts and culture. This town has a historic, famous and endearing feel, complete with easy access to shops, restaurants and parks. Downtown Northfield has a uniquely peaceful vibe - its leisurely atmosphere makes visitors want to linger and causes residents to continue calling it home.

There are lots of charming things about Northfield, and many of them can be found in its downtown. One of those things occurs EVERY Saturday morning, from the beginning of June until mid-October. Just having closed up its sixth year, the Riverwalk Market Fair blends the charm, the vitality of the arts, great local farmers and food artisans into one event. “It’s become both a regular part of weekend life in Northfield and a destination for folks from the Twin Cities,” said market manager Nancy Stroessner. It’s the diversity of the market, Stroessner said, that makes a venue where the community can celebrate its talents and have fun together. CONTINUED page 22

70 Years of Pappas Family Ownership! nA collection of

HISTORIC PageS 1915-2016

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CONTINUED FROM page 21 So come for the food, and stay for the arts. Or come for the arts, and stay for the food. Either way, come check out the event that was named this year’s best farmer’s market, and won last year’s best art fair by our readers. www.riverwalkmarketfair.org

THEATER

Honorable Mention: Owatonna

you’ll feel like you’re in a period piece. It’s no surprise since it was built in 1887. The rooms have the comfort of a home, with amazing views of the Cannon River. Staying at Archer House is in my humble opinion the best way to experience Northfield. The Archer House is located at 212 Division Street South in Northfield. www.archerhouse.com

Honorable Mention: GrandStay Residential Suites Hotel

Scene Staff

Oct 19 & 20 7:30 pm If you don’t want to be frightened, don’t see

AN EVENING OF FEAR.

Arts Guild Theater 411 Third Street W. 2017-18 Theater Season Sponsors: Neuger Communications Group & Engage Print

Production Sponsor: Labor Arbitration Institute

MUSIC

Winter Walk in Northfield BEST HOLIDAY EVENT

Oct 28 | 7 pm Cathedral of our Merciful Savior

512 2nd Ave W, Faribault

Oct 29 | 3 pm St. John’s Hall

500 3rd Street W, Northfield Season Sponsor: Community Resource Bank Media Sponsor: 95.1 FM The One

Concert Sponsors: River Valley Eye Professionals & Vision of Northfield

Fiddler on the Roof

THEATER Book by Joseph Stein, Music by Jerry Bock, Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick

Nov 17 - Dec 3 Love, Family, Tradition!

F-Town Brewing Co. in Faribault BEST LOCAL BEER/BREWER

The Northfield Winter Walk, sponsored by the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce, sets the bar high as the “Best Holiday Event” again for 2017. The picturesque Northfield downtown area is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with cozy shops and fun activities for the whole family. Sleigh rides travel up and down Division Street while shops offer discounts and welcome visitors with warm drinks and a cheery atmosphere. The town it lit by candles and bonfires, and carolers serenade folks as they tour the area. Santa and his elves will even makes an appearance, despite their busy schedule so close to Christmas. Members of the James-Younger Gang will also be available for photo opportunities. Fresh food is available in a variety of restaurants, perfect for a full meal or a sugary snack. Visitors can stay at the beautiful historic Archer House, which overlooks the frozen Cannon River. Crafts, wreaths and other objects will be for sale for that perfect Christmas gift. Even the grinchiest of souls will have a heart full of cheer after enjoying Northfield’s Winter Walk. The Northfield Winter Walk takes place in downtown Northfield each year. This year, it will be held from 5-9 p.m. Dec. 8. northfieldchamber.com/WinterWalk

It feels like a new thing. A few years ago, the Minnesota legislature made a couple changes in the laws to allow for small breweries to pop up and sell their product right on site. The advent of the brew pub and the tap room in Minnesota has re-invigorated the brewing industry in this state and has established us as a true rival to our neighbors on the Eastern border for the creation of quality brew. But 150 (or so) years ago when our German and Scandinavian ancestors were settling this region, a lot of towns were established around breweries. They were common houses, meeting places and community centers. The same thing is happening now, as all these local breweries are now once again uniting communities and bringing people together. Opened in 2015, F-Town’s leadership trifecta of Travis Temke, Noah Strouth and Chris Vogel have quickly established their company as a purveyor of fine beer. From the American Red Ale to the newly released seasonal Maple Stout to the absolutely flawless Faribo Lager, F-Town has combined science with art to offer exceptionally good beer. The taproom, which sits just adjacent to the criminally (until now) underused Peterson Furniture warehouse is a cozy space filled with long tables that promote neighborly conversation whether you’re there with a large group of people or just stopped in on your own for a pint. F-Town Brewery is located at 22 Fourth St. NE in Faribault. www.ftownbeer.com

Honorable Mention: Kiwanis Christmas Lights Scene Staff

Arts Guild Theater 411 Third Street W.

Honorable Mention: Tanzenwald Brewing Company

2017-18 Theater Season Sponsors: Neuger Communications Group & Engage Print Production Sponsors: Carleton College & Hideaway Coffeehouse and Wine Bar

Scene Staff

GIFT SHOP We are gearing up for the holidays...support your local artists! Shop features 100+ Guild Member Artists

Remember: Small Business Saturday is on November 25!

Northwoods Cinema 10 in Owatonna BEST MOVIE THEATER

GALLERY Fine Craft Collective Nov 9 - Dec 24 Main Gallery 304 Division Street S. 2017-18 Gallery Season Sponsor: First National Bank of Northfield

Northfield Arts Guild NorthfieldArtsGuild.org  (507) 645-8877

Archer House River Inn in Northfield BEST HOTEL Whether it’s Defeat of Jesse James Days, Winter Walk, Crazy Daze, or just taking a nice weekend away from the cities or your town, THE place to stay is Northfield’s Archer House. When you stay here, you’re right in the thick of this whimsical town, you don’t need to go far for anything. In the quarters of the Archer House there’s the Bittersweet Cafe where you can find delicious baked treats, a juice bar, and a variety of coffee drinks. Feeling like more than a snack? Archer House has two restaurants, including a cozy scratch kitchen, The Tavern, and if you are thinking of something more daring, try out Chapati, known for its fantastic Indian fare. Within this vast building also has two very unique gift shops, Paper Petalum is known for its gift cards, assortment of candles and quirky and fun Scandinavian gifts. If you’re more into super sparkly, colorful presents look no further than A Bag Lady. I dare you to go in there and not buy anything. With the Archer Houses welcoming lobby and old Victorian feel

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Movie Theater – Northwoods Cinema 10, Owatonna I love movies, but in this day and age the only thing that will pull me into a movie theater is the special effects laden blockbuster. For my money – and I mean that literally, because going to the movies ain’t cheap (especially on a journalist’s salary) – there is no better place in SoMinn to get that experience than Northwoods Cinema 10 in Owatonna. As much as we love to be transported away to worlds of fantasy and wild imagination, the real secret of Northwoods Cinema’s success is the staff. The people selling tickets and popcorn, cleaning the theaters and helping you find your movie aren’t just polite – they’re personable and helpful. They smile. They make a joke or two. When you order a large popcorn with “butter,” they stop filling the bucket halfway to put a little extra in there. And, by the way, the popcorn is outstanding. Northwoods Cinema 10 is located at 300 Allan Ave. in Owatonna. cectheatres.com/theatre/?tid=70

Honorable Mention: Emagine Lakeville Scene Staff

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RETAIL SERVICES

It might be the matching side dish to complete a set, or a red and white step ladder stool just like the one grandma had. The challenging part, Doug Klatt said, is trying to tell someone that the one-of-a-kind item they see and want today may not be there next week. The store space, with a showroom in front and a large, newly renovated warehouse in back, holds a lot of product. Small household items, decorations, books, glassware and tools fill the shelves, and larger furniture pieces are displayed throughout. The Klatts have some items that are old enough to be considered antiques, but they didn’t set out to be antique dealers. There’s a great deal of vintage material, and interest in repurposing has certainly sparked sales. Fact is, a person could find just about anything at SIFT, and searching through the aisles is a good part of the fun. “It’s a no-pressure environment,” Doug Klatt said. People come into SIFT to browse, have a conversation and tell stories. Since there isn’t a set price list for common items, people often like to barter, which is part of the fun as well. The store fills a need in the community. A young couple starting their life together can find everything they need at SIFT to set up a household, saving money for more permanent furnishings later on when they are better established.

Rising up through adversity

SIFT Thrift Store in Kenyon BEST SECOND HAND STORE

ocated on Hwy. 56/60 in Kenyon across from the grocery retailer, the SIFT Thrift Store is a frequent stopping place for locals as well as a growing number of out-of-town visitors. The appeal is more than any one thing, but the combination of a constantly changing inventory and honest, friendly service certainly keep people coming back for more.

Reduce, reuse and SIFT

Owners Doug and Mary Klatt found a niche market in cleaning out family estates, which is where the bulk of SIFT product originates. They review the contents, make an offer and then come in with a crew to box everything up and take

it back to the store. The home is left “broom clean” and the family has one less thing to deal with at a trying time. “It’s satisfying to see their relief. I can literally see their stress and emotions change because it’s all done,” Mary Klatt said. Other inventory items come from garage sales and donations from people who don’t know where to go with their excess stuff. The Klatts don’t do consignments, but they will purchase items outright.

In with the new and the old too The store’s acronym name was an easy choice: Save It From Trash. Useful items shouldn’t find their way to the dumpster. The Klatts, along with loyal volunteers and staff, organize the inventory and sell it at reasonable prices. Often, items are just the thing someone has been looking for and couldn’t find in a regular retail store.

Now, two years after starting the business, she was voted Best Acupuncturist in Southern Minnesota. “I’m humbled and gracious,” she said. “Having a practice open just less than two years ago, it feels quite the accomplishment to get this award. It’s gone beyond my expectations. I attribute that to my training and education and dedication to my patients.” Witmer believes acupuncture is a healthy and fruitful method for dealing with pain and other ailments. She said the opioid crisis in the United States proves Americans need other options for dealing with physical problems. “Drugs are not working in this country, and we are seeing a huge upswing in the patients in our field,” she said. “We treat the whole person -- he body, the mind and the spirit.” Harvest Seed is located at 205 Division St. S. in Northfield. www.harvestseedacupuncture.com

Honorable Mention: Jade Community Acupuncture Clinic By Philip Weyhe

When an electrical fire in June ruined the back warehouse inventory and left the front showroom floor with water damage, Klatt said he didn’t know how they would get past it. The community rose to their aid, with volunteers helping to move shelving, tear out carpet and box up inventory. Others brought food and cold water for the workers. SIFT was closed one month for renovations, then volunteers appeared again to move everything back into place for the showroom to reopen in July. The warehouse, with clean white walls, dropped ceiling and LED lighting, reopened in August, just in time for the Kenyon Rose Fest. Life had dealt the Klatts a big lemon, but the community helped them make lemonade. Now the store is brighter and better, attracting more visitors than ever to sift through SIFT for life’s little treasures. SIFT is located at 26 Red Wing Ave. in Kenyon. www.facebook.com/SIFT4YOU

Honorable Mention: Used-A-Bit Shoppe By Terri Lenz

Prange hasn’t quit since, and now Past & Present Antiques is named the best in Southern Minnesota. “It’s just a wonderful thing to be acknowledged,” she said. “You always feel you can do better, but something like this tells you you’re doing OK.” It’s not always easy running a small business. “They say after five years, it gets better, but I haven’t figured out what the better part is,” Prange joked. “I think you just become aware everything changes.” But she keeps pushing ahead, opening each day, and offering Waseca a quaint, enjoyable space to shop and peruse. Prange’s hard work is answered by her customers. “Without our loyal customers we wouldn’t be here,” she said. Past & Present Antiques is located at 1101 N State St. in Waseca.

Honorable Mention: Uncle Tom’s Antique Mall By Philip Weyhe

Harvest Seed Acupuncture in Northfield BEST ACUPUNCTURIST When Rhonda Witmer was 13 years old, she was involved in a motorcycle accident, injuring her spine and developing chronic allergies. She dealt with side effects over the next several decades. “My neck and back pain was always present and dull,” she said. It was an acupuncturist that relieved her pain on a particularly difficult day. She wondered to herself what else this form of medicine could help with? She found out, quitting her human resources job, obtaining her master’s in acupuncture, and eventually starting Harvest Seed in Northfield’

Past & Present Antiques & Gifts in Waseca BEST ANTIQUE STORE Twenty years ago, Sandy Prange – with help from husband, Randy – turned in old gas station garage into an antique store.

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Apple Chevrolet Buick in Northfield BEST AUTO DEALER Everyone knows that buying a car is supposed to be a stressful and time consuming task, right? That is, of course, unless you go to Apple Chevrolet, where the customer is always put first and is

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treated right every time. This company stands out in that it is always dependable and willing to help find the perfect fit for each individual customer. Whether you’re looking to find great deals, getting the safest car for toting the kids around or searching for something flashy and fast, Apple Chevrolet in Northfield is the place to go. Plus, they sell both new and used cars, so there really is something for everyone. And if car trouble strikes or you just have regular maintenance work that needs to be taken care of, Apple Autos in Northfield has a stellar certified shop to handle anything. The staff is not paid on commission and they are honest and open to try to find the right fit for you. This family owned business has the right attitude and drive to make sure you drive something amazing. Apple Chevrolet is located at 1600 Cannon Lane in Northfield. www.applechevroletbuick.com

Robert went into business together. But the business is not the only thing this uncle and nephew share. A year and a half ago, Art underwent a kidney transplant. When Robert tested positive, he stepped up to the plate and donated a kidney. The team pushes through about 10 cars a week. “Work on the car like it’s your own,” Art tells the crew. The hope for the future is to purchase a larger building and eventually offer more services. Boats, RVs campers, hopefully even semi-trailers. For A&R Detailing, hard work and integrity is paying off, and the sky is the limit. A&R Auto Detailing is located at 1524 Cedar Ave. in Owatonna. www.arautodetailing.com

“We have people stop in just to give the dogs a treat,” he said. And that, he agreed, is reflective of the close-knit community and loyal, dog-loving customer base. Houdek established his business 18 years ago and has been at the same location, 505 W North St., the past 10 years. Ron’s Repair Shop shares tips, giveaways and cute photos of the dogggos on Facebook. Ron’s Repair Shop is located at 505 W North St. in Owatonna. www.ronsrepairinc.com

Honorable Mention: Reed’s Central Auto Repair By Kim Hyatt

Honorable Mention: Automotive Detailing Professionals Inc. By Molly Penny

Honorable Mention: Cartime of Owatonna Scene Staff

Johnson Barber Shop in Owatonna BEST BARBER SHOP

A&R Auto Detailing in Owatonna BEST AUTO DETALING SHOP “Failure is not an option.” That was one of the first things Art Ortega, co-owner of A&R Auto Detailing said to me when I gave him the news they had won Best Auto Detailer. That is a motto he and his nephew and business partner Robert employ when it comes to their work. Together with honesty, their faithful hard-working employee Ty Brewer, and pride in the job, they built this business from the ground up. Both Art and Ty have two decades of detailing experience, and there is hardly a job they will turn down. In 2011 Art and

This is a true barbershop — three chairs, 50-cent soda in the corner and no frills. No appointments, either. “If someone’s sitting there, you know you’re next,” said a man Ron’s Repair in Owatonna sitting in the shop. It was started in 1959 in the old Owatonna Hotel building. BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP Current proprietor Gary Johnson was on hand when his father Although his website describes Ron’s Repair Shop as “a founded the business. Through all those years cutting hair, Gary general automotive repair and service shop in Owatonna,” Ron said he has a lot of regulars. Houdek isn’t so general. This is not your typical place to change It’s just how you would picture a classic barbershop. There’s your brake pads. It’s got personality. ��one ��room �� with a TV in the corner, three old chairs lined up with For one, his tagline is “The best place in town to take a leak.” three sinks behind and a nice-looking man with a comb in his And he has a crew of six, including three mechanics and three breast pocket lines you up with a solid haircut. dogs: Junior, Ozzy and River. A sign in the lobby reads:DeMorett “Beware: Pam Johnson’s Barber Shop is located at 316 N Cedar Ave in OwaDog Kisses.” Forget reading a stale magazine – let an adorable tonna. dog steal your attention and perhaps ease some stress as you Find the business on Facebook. wait. In an average week, they fix and care for 50 cars and his clienHonorable Mention: tele “leave here happy and satisfied,” Houdek said, which is his Bridge Square Barber Shop goal every day at Ron’s Repair Shop. Scene Staff “I like when they feel like they got what they came here for,” he said. But his business is more than bumper-to-bumper service. CONTINUED page 26

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Little Professor Book Center in Owatonna BEST BOOK STORE – NEW/USED John Meixner recalls as a high schooler searching basement bookshelves in the former bookstore right beside his business in downtown Owatonna. The 1976 grad came back to his hometown with a masters in arts and history, but couldn’t find a job (that’s right millennials, the struggle has always been real). “My mother suggested that I have a lot of books and I read a lot of books, maybe I should try selling books.” A franchise at the time, Little Professor, would teach bookworms how to run the store and he decided that it would “be my occupation for as long as I worked” (OK, millennials may not relate). Meixner has owned and operated his store for more than three decades now and has won Best Book Store the past four years – all but SoMinn’s inaugural “Best Of” five years ago. His success is due to maintaining a good selection and knowing loyal customer’s preferences, but also mixing it up with new, appealing titles and a slate of local authors who frequently come in for book signings. An avid reader – “that’s part of the job,” he said -- who enjoys thrillers, Meixner’s favorite book is Jack London’s “Call of the Wild.” A classic, like the TV show “Cheers,” which theme song he used to describe his store: a place where everyone knows your name and what’s next on your reading list. Little Professor Book Center is located at 110 W Park Square in Owatonna. Find the business on Facebook.

Honorable Mention: Content Bookstore By Kim Hyatt

Kristi’s Clothing in Owatonna BEST BOUTIQUE Kristi Larson gets a taste of fashion trends she finds on trips to Chicago and New York and brings those looks back to her boutique here on Broadway. “Our whole goal is to carry something different and be helpful and provide really great customer service,” said Larson, who has owned and operated Kristi’s Boutique for the past 21 years. Despite the competition of online shopping, customers keep coming back to Kristi’s for the unique wardrobe options and an unmatched style. “It’s just a fun place to be and a fun atmosphere,” she said. “We’re very much about women in our store – there’s a camaraderie here.” Larson often hosts social events like happy hours and trunk shows focused on creating “more of an experience and making

shopping still fun for girlfriends to do.” She also has three ladies regularly model the latest arrivals that she promotes like a lookbook on her website. Callan Paffrath, of Paffrath Jewelers, Tanya Henson, of The Hat Chic Boutique, and Patty Jessop, who own Reupholstery and Furniture with her husband, Steve, all partner with Larson and bond over their love of fashion while supporting other local women business owners. The models are in their 20s, 40s and 60s because Larson said it’s her intent to cater clothing for all ages.“Some stores go either younger or older,” she said, but at Kristi’s Boutique, there’s a selection for moms, daughters and grandmas to find a new closet favorite. When Larson is not busy in her boutique, she’s attending high school sporting events cheering on her daughter, Liv, who is quite the fashionista herself. But that’s to be expected with a boutique in the family, right? Kristi’s Clothing is located at 301 N Cedar Ave. in Owatonna. www.kristisclothing.com

Honorable Mention: The Rare Pair By Kim Hyatt

Northfield Clinic Manager Barb Barlau. “The credit goes to the people that work here. Our providers and staff are extremely committed to providing excellent care and service to our community.” That staff also got recognition from Allina by having staff courtesy scores that rank in the top 5 percent in nationwide Allina clinics, Barlau said. It’s evident in the service the staff provides each day whether over the phone or in person. “The work we do here can be very stressful — we care for people in their happiest and most difficult moments along their healthcare journey,” Barlau said. “The system can be difficult to navigate through as it is constantly changing.” The staff at Allina Health Northfield Clinic has excelled in navigating through the healthcare system and putting patients at ease. “I couldn’t be more proud of our providers and staff for the work they do here,” Barlau said. “I feel honored to be part of this team.” Allina Health Northfield Clinic is located at 1400 Jefferson Road in Northfield. www.wellness.allinahealth.org

Honorable Mention: Tareen Dermatology By Nick Gerhardt

Cannon Pointe Chiropractic in Northfield BEST CHIROPRACTOR Once Jacob and Bridget Conway saw Northfield they knew it was the place where they wanted to settle down and run their chiropractic business. That was back in 2011 and their business, Cannon Pointe Chiropractic, has stayed strong, earning this year’s award for best chiropractor. “When we got done with school thought this was the most perfect town we’d ever seen,” Bridget said. “It was just a cute small town.” Patients think the Conways are about the most perfect chiropractors around. It’s a family-run business, which means the Conways son, Wyatt, is often in the office as well. The Conways remain focused on patients and offer services that range from acupuncture to muscle therapy to cranial adjusting. “I think we try to be as quick with our treatment plans as possible and be in line with their goals,” Bridget said. “We’re not big on you’re going to be on a treatment plan for six months. When you’re better it’s up to you to keep up with your health.” Cannon Pointe Chiropractic is located at 1040 S Hwy. 3 in Northfield. www.cannonpointe.com

Honorable Mention: Cedar Chiropractic and Dow Chiropractic Natural Health Clinic By Nick Gerhardt

Allina Health Northfield Clinic BEST CLINIC Those who voted Allina Health Northfield Clinic as the Best Clinic in southern Minnesota are pretty savvy. Not only is Allina this year’s winner of our Best Clinic award, it’s also known as one of the clinics ranked in the top 10 by Allina nationwide for patients to recommend to friends and family. Obviously, something is working at Allina if people are recommending a visit to the doctor’s office to others. “I am very proud of the work we do here and not surprised that our patients would vote for us,” said Allina Health

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Just Food Co-op in Northfield BEST CO-OP Since 2004, Just Food Co-op has been serving the Northfield community and surrounding area. Located in downtown Northfield, they offer high quality, fresh, local, organic food and produce, and a variety of natural household products. Their aisles are filled with unique and healthy items, including dietary sensitive baking supplies, gourmet oils, vinegar, soups and an area dedicated to buying bulk quinoa, rice, oatmeal, etc. Every time you visit, there’s always something new and exciting to try, especially their meat and cheese department. Are you on the go and hungry right now? Don’t fret. Every day they have two hot bar items with your health and hunger in mind. They also have a full salad bar, with toppings galore. You also can’t go wrong with their cold bar, including their Fog City salad, and Garlic Lovers salad (which everyone should try once in their life). Are you so busy between jobs, driving kids to practice, and running errands? Try out their multitude of probiotic, energy, cold pressed tea, coffee, chia-seed, and protein drinks. And if you feel a bit run down, their wellness section filled with vitamins, supplements, and oils will cure what ails ya. Just Food Co-op is located at 516 Water St., Northfield. www.justfood.coop

Honorable Mention: St. Peter Food Co-op & Deli Scene Staff

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Minnesota Orthodontics in Northfield BEST DENTIST/ORTHODONTIST We’ve all avoided a long-overdue dental appointment. It’s a common instinct, when you’re worried about someone messing around in your mouth and causing even more pain than that one tooth that aches every time you eat something cold. But there’s no need to worry when you walk into Minnesota Orthodontics, located in Northfield. The experts there are serious about providing the best service while also keeping you comfortable. Part of that experience comes from working with the most upto-date dental practices, according to clinical treatment expert Shelley Langar. For example, their offices use the Damon Brace system, which allows them to avoid extractions and palatal expanders for most patients. In addition, Minnesota Orthodontics are the top 1 percent provider of invisalign and invisalign teen products. “Not all braces are alike, and they pride themselves on using the top products available,” Langar said. “Invisalign is the orthodontics of the future. [It] can treat simple to very complex cases, oftentimes more efficiently than braces.” In addition, because their Northfield office is a “digital office,” that means the gooey impressions most patients remember sitting through are now a thing of the past. But perhaps the best part of the appointment is the end—when patients are treated to ice cream as they depart. Maybe going to the dentist isn’t such a bad thing after all. www.minnesotaorthodontics.com

Honorable Mention: Prairie Ridge Food Co-op & Deli By Grace Webb

The store endeared itself to voters due to the humorous selection. Finally a Gift Store is located at 18 Second St. NE in Faribault, just off of Central Avenue. www.facebook.com/FinallyAGiftStore

Honorable Mention: The Sketchy Artist By Nick Gerhardt

SCENE’s rating list this year; her connection with customers. Bailey said she enjoys talking with her clients to discern exactly what they want in an arrangement. No cookie-cutter work here, although she can use a photo guideline if desired. She loves designing and eschews the ordinary to deliver the extraordinary. Bailey said she loves her job and knows the community. She doesn’t mind being flexible with her hours to accommodate clients. “People feel comfortable taking with me about special flowers for a wedding or funeral. Clients share their story and have made a friend by the time they leave the shop or hang up the phone,” said Bailey. Bailey provides free estimates and will travel as far as the Twin Cities and Rochester for larger events. Mary’s Rustic Rose is located at 510 Second St. in Kenyon. www.marysrusticrose.com

Honorable Mention: Forget-Me-Not Florist By Terri Lenz

Donahue’s Greenhouses Inc. in Faribault BEST GREEN HOUSE/GARDEN CENTER

Ashley HomeStore BEST FURNITURE STORE Grand Events Center in Northfield BEST EVENT CENTER In December 1899, the Grand Event Center (then called the The Ware Auditorium) first opened its doors, offering Opera and theater, many years later it transformed into a movie theater, and in 1985, 84 years later, the Grand showed its last movie. But The Grand Event Center wasn’t done entertaining. In 2001, it was reopened to host wedding receptions, reunions, parties, concerts, and special events. With its recent restoration, it now resembles the swank auditorium that it was in the early 1900s. Its large stage equipment with a full sound system is perfect for musical performances, especially since it was originally built as an opera house. The acoustics are still surprisingly on point. This event center is a shining diamond, with cozy corners, and a magical feel. It doesn’t only host weddings; it houses many fundraising events, including the 2016 “Garrison Keillor Helps Save the Northfield Depot”. You read that right, Even Garrison Keillor approves, and that is saying something. I’ve attended a wedding at The Grand once and I completely understand why this place is constantly booked. So whenever there’s an open event at The Grand, make sure to check it out. The Grand Event Center is located at 316 Washington Street, Northfield www.thegrandnorthfield.com

Honorable Mention: Owatonna Country Club Scene Staff

Mary’s Rustic Rose in Kenyon BEST FLORIST Even beyond the amazing scent of fresh flowers and the artsy gift items, customers at Mary’s Rustic Rose often say that it’s the warm and creative service that keeps them coming back. Located in downtown Kenyon, proprietor Mary Bailey has built a loyal clientele through artistic floral arrangements that stay fresh. But there’s something more that propelled her to the top of

You might think all furniture stores are the same: giant showrooms stuffed with perfectly posed living room sets, endless collections of dining room tables, and salespeople who are eager to sell you the biggest, glossiest, most expensive pieces possible But not Ashley Furniture HomeStore. It has the benefit of a national brand, which means hundreds (or thousands) of options for pretty much every room in the house—or even out of it, with an outdoor collection that includes everything from hammock stands to fire pits. Then there are the silverware sets, the wall hangings, the clocks, the rugs, the mirrors, the mattresses, the floor lamps, the curtains, candles… The list is basically endless. But what really makes Ashley Furniture HomeStore stand out is its impeccable customer service. “First and foremost, customer service comes first,” said Mankato store manager Chris Maxa. “We’re not like your traditional furniture stores… We let people come in and respect their privacy. When they’re ready, we approach them and ask questions. We’re more like consultants than salespeople. The biggest goal we have is to make sure all our guests are taken care of when they walk through the door. We’re here to help.” According to Maxa, the Mankato location recently opened up a new mattress gallery and clearance center, adding 7,000 square feet to its building. “Anything you want, we have it,” he said. Ashley HomeStore is located throughout Southern Minnesota, including in Mankato, Medford and Rochester. www.ashleyfurniturehomestore.com

Our winters in Minnesota are long, dark and cold. We patiently wait for that last bit of snow to melt away so we can start digging in the dirt and planting gardens. As soon as we can we jump into our cars and head to our favorite greenhouse. Oh, we are so excited! Donahue’s Greenhouse in Faribault is where thousands of visitors from near and, as far away as Oklahoma, venture as early as mid-April to get their green on. This exceptional garden center has been providing a wide variety of bedding flowers, perennials, vegetables, shrubs, trees, tropical plants, and those hard to find and out of the ordinary plants for 43 years. Walking through the doors you will find a sea of flowers and green vegetation that appears to go on forever. It’s without a doubt a sight to see and it is the garden center to go to for quality, selection and outstanding customer service. The doors open for spring and summer planting season midApril through the end of June and they reopen for the holiday season mid-November through December 23. So, when you’re feeling like winter may never end, just remember that soon you’ll be filling your garden with all the beauty that Donahues can offer. Donahues Greenhouse is located at 420 10th St. SW in Faribault. www.donahuesclematis.com

Honorable Mention: Shellee’s Greenhouse Scene Staff

Honorable Mention: Erickson Furniture By Grace Webb

Finally a Gift Store in Faribault BEST GIFT SHOP At the heart of what Finally a Gift Store provides for its customers is their slogan. “Sense of humor required.” The downtown Faribault store features random and affordable gifts for anyone in the family or anyone of your friends. Owner Janna Viscomi asserts that her items are lovable and won’t collect dust.

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Hy-Vee BEST GROCERY STORE District Vice President John Griesenbreck has been spending his days in one Hy-Vee store or the other for 21 of the regional

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CONTINUED FROM page 28 chain’s 86 years. To say he knows the way Hy-Vee operates and why they were our readers’ favorite would be quite the understatement. Only the back of his hand is more familiar! When I asked him to tell me what might be the number one reason, in his opinion, he immediately said “each store’s ability to run their store autonomously; according to what their individual customer wants.” Each Hy-Vee carries some of the same merchandise (like the company brand items) but that is where the real similarities end. The Corporate office knows that the Community surrounding each store has its own personality and lifestyle. The Management in each store runs their operation as if it is their own; as if it belongs to their Community; because it does. There is one thing that is exactly the same across all stores though: every employee keeps all their focus on their customer and the customer ‘experience’. Hy-Vee has Southern Minnesota locations in Austin, Faribault, Mankato, Owatonna and Waseca www.hy-vee.com

Honorable Mention: Just Food Co-op Scene Staff

30 years of experience,” said owner Cheryl Kleeberger said. Studio 14’s staff ranges in ages and backgrounds, too, making it easy for any client to walk in and find a stylist they can connect with. “Our salon is colorful and full of personality,” Kleeberger said. Visit Studio 14 for everything salon: haircuts, colors, styles; manicures, pedicures, skincare and waxes; makeup application, massages and facials. Massages are a known way to ease muscle tension and improve mental clarity; with three massage therapists and two rooms dedicated to massage services, clients are surely in for a blissful and relaxing time. Plus, that room is easily morphed into one for couples’ massages. Studio 14 has recently debuted Farmhouse Fresh products, too. Farmhouse is 80-95 percent natural for the eco-friendly. Kleeberger has been working her magic on tresses since 2001. She’s Faribault born and raised, but spent time working in salons in the Twin Cities before returning to town. “I just love my clients,” she said. People don’t just visit salons for cut, colors and waxes; they are often seeking the comradery and conversation. Kleeberger most certainly provides both. “I get to make my clients feel better all day,” she said. Kleeberger’s specialty: Updos, brides and bridal parties. Studio 14 is located at 204 Central Ave. N in Faribault. www.studio14salonandspa.com

Honorable Mention BEST HAIR SALON: Sisters Salon and Day Spa Honorable Mention BEST MASSAGE AND SPA SERVICES: Sisters Salon and Day Spa Scene Staff

cleaning supplies, building hardware, outdoor living furniture, electrical supplies, lawn and garden supplies, plumbing, paint and even sporting goods. The store has been noted for their variety as well as their expert staff. This hardware store has so much more to offer than simply what you can find on their shelves. Owners Kathryn and Joe Donahue have found a way to keep good employees around. As a way to say thank you for the commitment and hard work from their employees, the Donahue’s give their high school employees a little something when they head off to college. After four months of employment, the Donahue’s start tracking their employee’s hours, and after high school graduation, the funds are sent to the college of the student’s choice. So if you’re in high school you better apply now. And if you’re looking to repair the toilet, build a deck, or throw around a football, head into Ace Hardware of Faribault. Faribault Ace Hardware is located at 421 Second Ave. NW in Faribault. www.acehardware.com Scene Staff

Northfield Area Family YMCA BEST GYM For those that enjoy doing a variety of workouts, the Northfield Area Family YMCA is the right place to go. Not only does it encourage joining youth, adults and families together to enhance the community, it offers many opportunities to develop a healthier lifestyle. “The Y just celebrated its second anniversary this month and we couldn’t be more happy with the level of involvement and participation already, said Virginia Kaczmarek, of the Northfield YMCA. “We focus on programs that promote wellness, reduce the risk of disease and help people reclaim their health.” The Y is an active part in Northfield, providing scholarships, a Youth Initiative, a State Alliance, camps and special events. On top of all of that, it’s a place to engage the mind and body with its state of the art features. The Northfield YMCA boasts a group fitness studio, full gym, indoor walking track, aquatics center and cardio and wellness floor. Members have access to free Child Watch for young children, open swim and gym, free group exercise, and reduced rates on camps, lessons and training, among many other things. “Being selected as the Best Gym in Southern Minnesota is fantastic and is definitely a reflection of all the hard work of the YMCA staff team in support of our community,” Kaczmarek said. The Northfield Area Family YMCA is an encouraging and friendly place to go for the perfect exercise experience. It also stands as a symbol for a community that works (and works out) together to create a more healthy, socially responsible lifestyle. The Northfield YMCA is located at 1501 Honey Locust Dr. in Northfield. www.northfieldymca.org

Honorable Mention: Anytime Fitness Scene Staff

Zach Spinler Construction in Owatonna BEST HOME BUILDER, BEST REMODELER

Cindy Kline of Professional Designs Salon in Owatonna BEST HAIR STYLIST Cindy Kline’s chair is always open. The Owatonna, Minn. hair stylist has been doing hair in the area for years at Professional Designs by Cindy in Owatonna, Minn. and was recently named Best Hairstylist in Southern Minnesota. For Kline, the best part of doing hair is seeing the families she cares for grow up—even as their hair does too. Furthermore, She said she never turns away a new client and the opportunity for a new friend into her ever-growing community of clients. “That door’s always open for anyone. I welcome anyone. Just give me a call,” Kline said. “It’s always nice to see new faces and just lots of wonderful conversations. I like it to be a fun welcoming friendly atmosphere for people to come in and really enjoy their hair.” Kline added she enjoys using her expertise to provide advice and information about maintaining a healthy hair lifestyle. “Just because they get a haircut, doesn’t mean they have to wear them the same way,” Kline said. “[I] like to let them know there’s more.” Kline added she enjoys the community she works in and is thrilled to be part of it. Kline’s studio can be found at 216 N Elm Ave. in Owatonna.

Since 2006, Zach Spinler had been doing the grunt work of his construction business, building and helping others construct their dream homes in Oawtonna and its surrounding area. In April 2017, Spinler hired his first employee. Now his construction business has reached another milestone by being been named Best Remodeler and Best Home Builder, leaving the small construction worker surprised. “It’s pretty exciting,” Spinler said. “It’s kind of a shock.” Spending most of his days outside, Spinler said he enjoys the variety of his job. One day he might be building a home and another day he’s helping with an addition. His business does two-to-three custom builds a year, Spinler said, and keeps busy with remodeling, miscellaneous work and additions. He enjoys working on the custom builds because it allows him to do the whole work from the ground-up. He said he’s there every step—or hammer and nail—of the way, trying to keep as much work in his hands as possible. “We try to do as much possible in house as oppose to hiring every little thing out,” Spinler said. To reach Spinler, call 507-213-4443.

Honorable Mention BEST HOME BUILDER: Mohs Homes Honorable Mention BEST REMODELER: Knockout Renovations, LLC By Samantha Stetzer

Honorable Mention: Brenda Christensen By Samantha Stetzer

Studio 14 Salon and Spa in Faribault BEST HAIR SALON, BEST MASSAGE AND SPA SERVICES It’s a four-time celebration at Studio 14 Salon and Spa in Faribault. The Central Avenue shop has been named Best Hair Salon for the fourth time in the five-year history of Best of SoMinn. “It’s our experience. Our staff varies from new to having up to

Ace Hardware in Faribault BEST HARDWARE STORE It is certain you will find what you need, when you need it, at a price you’ll love and even a snack at Ace Hardware in Faribault. Stroll through this store with a free bag of popcorn and you are sure to find the supplies to get any job done. Southern Minnesota says to visit Ace Hardware if you need absolutely anything that falls in to the following categories: tools,

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Erickson Furniture in Faribault BEST HOME FURNISHING AND DECORATING CENTER Erickson Furniture is a fantastic place to visit whether you’re looking for a stand out piece of décor for the fall season, or

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Southern MN 2017 Best Salon & 2017 Best Massage /Spa

The Finest in Salon and Spa Pampering

204 Central Avenue, Faribault 507-331-3250

Cheryl, owner Manager, Stylist 11 years

Melissa Salon Manager, Stylist, 9 years

Samantha Stylist 11 years

Amber Stylist 9 years

Suzi Stylist 8 years

Vanessa Stylist 8 years

Jessi Stylist 5 years

Sarah Stylist 2 years

Cheri Stylist 2 years

Sam Stylist 2 years

Nichole Stylist 2 years

Kristen Stylist 1 year

Gina Stylist 1 year

Erica Massage Therapist 10 years

Michelle Massage Therapist 10 years

Amy Massage Therapist 4 years

Rose Nail Technician 10 years

Janet Nail Technician 2 years

2014 Best Salon, Best Massage/ Spa Services 2015 Best Hair Stylist â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cheryl Kleeberger 2016 Southern MN Best Salon 2016 We offer: Manicures, pedicures, gel and acrylic nails | Full haircare services Massage, couples massage | Facials and skincare, body wraps Spray tanning | Face and body waxing | Makeup www.studio14salonandspa.com A d d y o u r even t f or F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l en d ar . G O T O w w w. s o u t h ernminn s c ene . c o m / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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you’re considering a complete remodel. Erickson Furniture has a large showroom full of both modern and classic design, staffed with a team of helpful design experts to help pick the right pieces for your home with any budget. Their offerings span from bedroom to dining room, and everything in between. The Erickson showroom boasts a large variety of offerings, but still maintains that small-town feel to help you feel comfortable in seeking advice in making your house a home. They have been in business since 1956, and have a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to assist in making your house a sanctuary. Along with a furniture showroom, Erickson Furniture also offers flooring and window treatment installation, and interior design services. Tip: before setting out on your furniture and décor adventure, take a photo and measurements of the space you’re looking to update. Having this information in hand when furniture and décor shopping will help ensure you select pieces that fit the space both physically and aesthetically. Erickson Furniture is located at 30 Fifth St. NW in Faribault. www.erickson-furniture.com

“We have a very strong reputation and customer following here,” Kottke said. Kottke’s grandfather, Carl, opened the store in 1919 on North Cedar Avenue in Owatonna, and then, Kottke’s father, Bill, ran the store until his death in September 2014, and with the business, Matt Kottke now carries the tradition they both had before him. “I take a lot of pride in this business,” he said. Kottke Jewelers offers a “wide variety of quality jewelry,” including a large bridal and engagement assortment from vintage to modern. And Kottke said it’s the product and the services that have set the family jewelry store apart from others for decades as well as the staff and the customers, which including the surrounding area. And although the store is almost 100 years old, Kottke said the business won’t show it. “We’ve done a lot of updating of the store, but we maintain the same charm people know and admire about Kottkes,” he said. “We’re positioning ourselves to be here long into the future.” Kottke Jewelers is located at 115 N. Cedar Ave. in Owatonna. www.kottkejewelers.com

Honorable Mention: Paffrath Jewelers

Honorable Mention: Suburban Furniture & Floor

Scene Staff

By Justine Krueger

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Better Air Inc. in Dundas BEST HVAC COMPANY When it comes to heating, ventilation and air conditioning, you might be tempted to think that they’re just a normal, boring part of everyday life. But that’s not really the case. Just ask Kevin Betterly, of Better Air Inc. in Dundas. Betterly helped start an HVAC company in Northfield back in 1978 after seeing what a need there was for a local HVAC service. He was so passionate about helping customers that he did even went door-to-door introducing himself and his company. Eventually, in 1985, he purchased the assets and renamed it “Better Air Inc.” “Developing a business from the bottom up, I will never lose focus of the little guy or the small jobs,” Betterly said. “Many of my employees have been with Better Air for several years and have come to know our customers as I do. We have built up a substantial data base over the years because of our commitment to the individual customer.” Over the years, Betterly explained, the company has grown into all areas of the HVAC industry in both residential and light commercial equipment. In addition to conventional heating and cooling products, they offer geothermal and dual fuel heat pumps. “I always felt it important to listen to my customers and then offer them the right options to satisfy their needs,” Betterly said. “The outlook to the future looks very strong in our industry. Technology is always changing, so we will continually stay on top offering the latest products, and of course the best service possible.” Better Air Inc. is located at 607 North Stafford Rd. in Dundas. www.betterairinc.com

Honorable Mention: K & M Heating & Air Conditioning By Grace Webb

Muddy Paws Resort in Faribault BEST KENNEL/PET HOTEL/DOGGIE DAYCARE Offering boarding, grooming, daycare and puppy training services, Muddy Paws Resort owner Jessica Stricker believes her business thrives because of trust. “It’s a relationship-based business,” she said of why her customers keep coming back. “People are trusting us with their babies.” The tagline for Muddy Paws Resort is, “we love what we do and it shows,” and Stricker is pleased that love has reached her loyal customers. “We have an awesome clientele,” she said. “They are amazingly loyal clients who bring dogs out for daycare and have had some boarding clients for 20 years.” As for winning this award, she is proud to have made an impact on the voters. “It reaffirms their trust in us,” Stricker said. “It’s a cool thing to be recognized.” Muddy paws Resort is located at 20225 Canby Ave. in Faribault. www.muddypawsresort.com

Honorable Mention: In The Dog House

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Kottke Jewelers & Gifts in Owatonna BEST JEWELRY STORE For Matt Kottke, a third-generation owner of Kottke Jewelers, receiving the recognition of Best Jewelry Store in southern Minnesota was quite an honor. “It’s heartwarming knowing customers recognize the reputation we have and the products and services we provide,” he said. And that’s something the business has been doing for local and area residents since 1919 — making it the oldest store in Owatonna still run by the same family in the same location.

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Firehouse Liquor in Dundas BEST LIQUOR STORE Immediately walking into Firehouse Liquors it feels like an adult Willy Wonka and the Liquor Factory, with 30 coolers dedicated to an overabundance of beers, and their craft beer selection growing tenfold within the last year. With every visit there’s new and exciting beer choices, based

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Thursday November 30

Downtown Open House Window Decorating Contest Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides Ice Carving Display

Winterfest

Saturday November 25

Saturday, December 2 Parade • Street Dance

VisitFaribault.com Faribault [fair-uh-boh] – French n 1852 translates;great people, incredible fun.

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CONTINUED FROM page 30 on seasonal or new release. If you want something in particular, they will try their hardest to order it for you. Their staff is very informative and friendly, given they don’t have a professional sommelier on hand, but every time I bought a wine from there to pair with dinner I was never disappointing. They are also very handy when it comes to deciding on which beer you’re craving. They are basically beer psychics – “beerchics” if you will. Not a beer or wine person? Smack dab in the middle of this vast store is their selection of spirits, and with such great prices it’ll be hard to just choose one thing when visiting Firehouse Liquors. But don’t fret, I’m sure they’ll always have your favorite in stock, and will be ready to see you again, with a smile, the next time you come in. Firehouse Liquor is located at 607 N Stafford Rd. in Dundas. www.firehouseliquor.blogspot.com

and care make sure to set up an appointment soon. Each nail technician is well rounded when it comes to their skill set and just by being in there for a moment you can see how well they work together. It’s a cheerful and happy place to go and relax and pamper yourself. After working too many hours on your feet and using your hands get yourself a mani or pedi (Or both!) because you deserve it, and they deserve the business. LA Nails is located at 1500 Clinton Lane E in Northfield. www.facebook.com/pages/LA-nails

Honorable Mention: Sisters Salon and Day Spa Scene Staff

Honorable Mention: Hy-Vee

will show you why it was voted Best Music Store in Southern Minnesota. They literally have everything. Furthermore, they have a strong commitment to enriching the community. Jerry has been involved in the Owatonna music community as long as he has owned the business, from the Owatonna Music Boosters who supplement and assist in school music through scholarships and instruments, to chairing the Music in Owatonna Committee and also coordinating the “11 at 7” Concert Series which utilizes the renovated band shell and brings live music to Central Park at 7 p.m. every Thursday night of the Summer. Open six days a week for nearly 30 years, it is needless to say the Bessers are ready to retire and pass the torch along, but sale arrangements are on hold for now. You can still find Jerry working behind the counter with a joke and a smile. The plan is to sell the store intact and maintain the traditional music store presence in Owatonna. We couldn’t imagine downtown without it. T one Music is located at 114 N Cedar Ave. in Owatonna. www.tonemusic.net

Honorable Mention: The Music Mart

Scene Staff

By Molly Penny

Nerstrand Meat & Catering BEST MEAT MARKET

It’s not too often that you can walk into a liquor store and find whatever type of wine it is you’re looking for. Whether you’re on a college budget or looking to stock your wine holder, Haskell’s in Faribault can fill your glass. But, that’s to be expected when they work to bring its customers the vineyards of the world. It all started in 1934, when the rest of the world was drinking gin, they say, but, Haskell’s was busy “championing fine wines.” It’s clear that Southern Minnesota residents already know where to go to find the best wines, as Haskell’s once again took the best wine selection award. Whether it’s a bottle of wine or planning events, “that’s what we do,” said Mike Ferrise, store manager. “Not only do we have a huge selection, we’re constantly updating and expanding,” he added. And if those who voted weren’t up to speed with the type of wine they were buying, then we can bet it was the staff, which can match a bottle to your Saturday evening dinner. All of these highlights truly only accommodate the sales, that often times feel like a steal. Whatever it was that led to Southern Minnesota vote for Haskell’s, once again, here’s your toast. Haskell’s is located at 2921 Lavender Pkwy. in Faribault. www.haskells.com

The Nerstrand Meat Market has been around for a while—128 years, to be exact. Former owner Clyde Heggedahl was the brain behind many of the mouth-watering flavor combinations available at the meat market, according to his wife, Mary. “My husband is the one that’s responsible for the success of everything we have there,” Mary Heggedahl said. “He was really gifted with spices and how to put flavors together.” Clyde Heggedahl passed away in 2016, and the plan was for the couple’s son to take over running the shop. Unfortunately, he also passed away shortly after, leaving Mary in charge. She said she would never have been able to keep the shop running without the support of their wonderful employees. “If I didn’t have the phenomenal help I have, I don’t think we could have hung in there,” she said. “We’re so blessed.” Mary Haggedahl said the shop’s best sellers have always been baloney, wieners, country sausage and dried beef. Nowadays, beef sticks and jerky are also popular with customers. “People tell us no matter where they try [the beef sticks], they don’t taste as good as what we make,” she said. Nerstrand Meat Market’s meats are also available at the Fariabult Hy-Vee, and the market does catering as well. “We’re nothing fancy,” Mary Haggedahl said. “We’re just an old-fashioned meat market. The product is good, or we wouldn’t be there. We’re proud of what we have, very proud, and thankful for every person that walks through the door. We sure thank whoever voted for us. We have pretty loyal customers. It makes us proud that we’re carrying on the legacy of my husband.” Nerstrand Meat & Catering is located at 231 Main St. in Nerstrand. www.nerstrandmeatsandcatering.com

Honorable Mention: Hy-Vee

Honorable Mention: Fareway Grocery

Haskell’s Wine & Spirits in Faribault BEST LIQUOR STORE WINE SELECTION

Scene Staff

By Grace Webb

Scheels in Mankato BEST OUTDOOR/ATHLETIC STORE For years, Scheels has been a staple of the Mankato community. Whether it was in the old Madison East Center or at its new location as an anchor of the River Hills Mall, generations of Mankato residents remember buying everything from plumbing supplies to mowers from them. They’ve expanded a lot in recent years, especially since they built their current store in 2006, evolving from a hardware store to an “all sports” store that focuses on sports equipment, clothing and accessories. But what sets the store apart from all the other sports stores in the area isn’t their crazy big selection that sprawls out over two floors, the top level quality available on their shelves, or even the delicious fudge they sell. According to store manager Brandon Scheel, it’s their customer service. “We build stores that are impressive and fill them with great products, but it’s how we treat our customers that really separates Scheels from other places you can buy product,” Scheel said. “We simply aim for First Class Customer Service at all times.” Scheel said part of that customer service comes from their extensive employee training, ranging from intensive training for new hires to ongoing training for current employees. They also price match any physical or online retailer so that shoppers know they’re getting the best deal. Scheel added that the Mankato location just updated its shoe/ footwear shops, in addition to bringing its fudge shop (Gramma Ginna’s Coffee and Fudge, named after his grandmother) to the front level. And the changes aren’t done yet. “We will continually look to update our store and change our product mix to match what customers are looking for,” Scheel said. www.scheels.com

Honorable Mention: Straight River Sports Fitness By Grace Webb

LA Nails in Northfield BEST MANICURE And here we have LA Nails getting ANOTHER Best Of win. It’s hard to deny that LA Nails is the quintessential place to get a manicure. Right when you walk in, you are greeted with some of the nicest employees you’ll ever came across at any store. They get to know your name and actually want to TALK to you about your day, not trying to fill that awkward void of silence. The area is open and comforting, and Tu Quach and her husband Minh make sure their place looks sparkling clean from the tippy top to the bottom. Along with the manicures they also have a wonderful set-up for pedicures, in which they have the most sterile and clean practices in town. So if your feet need a soak and some extra loving

Tone Music in Owatonna BEST MUSIC STORE Tone Music is a full line music store on Cedar Avenue in downtown Owatonna that was established in 1990 by Janet and Jerry Besser. When the college sweethearts, who met a South Dakota State University and married in 1971, purchased the shop, the plan, according to Jerry, was, “let’s give it five years.” Well, 27 years later, they are still in business, selling everything from guitar and amp combos, banjos, ukuleles, print music, to new and used CDs, DVD’s and a vast array of used vinyl. Acoustic guitars continue to be one of their top sellers. It has been a good, steady business for the Bessers, maintaining a close relationship with the school music programs and also offering music lessons. And “Uncle Jerry” as he is known to the locals, has been the face of Tone Music throughout. One step into the store

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KLik Photography in Faribault BEST PHOTOGRAPHER Krystle Foley has been capturing moments since she could hold a camera in her hand. She even recounted holding photoshoots at 10 years old. “My mom had a baby when I was 10 years old, and I would set him up, with a fabric background, and

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take photos with my own camera,” she said. Foley has turned a lifelong passion into a flourishing business as she began with photo shoots to friends and family. Her business continuously grew into her current space off of Central Avenue in Faribault, and she is now venturing into a seven-acre lot where she can incorporate more time for her customers inside the studio and outdoors in the wilderness. “It’s out in the country, so we have more opportunities to let people take photos indoors or move outdoors,” Foley said. “It lets us not decided ahead of time and makes it easier for everyone.” Foley is excited to expand her business and continue to work with her customers, some who have been with her since she started nine years ago. “I appreciate that my customers trust me with their most precious moments,” she said. Foley takes photos for any occasion including: newborns, weddings, engagements, corporate events and more. KLiK Photography is located at 533 Central Ave., Faribault. www.photosbyklik.com

Honorable Mention: Images 4 Life Photography By Kelsey O’Hara

Tri M Graphics in Owatonna BEST PRINT SHOP/GRAPHICS BUSINESS Looking at a piece of direct mail printed by Tri M Graphics in Owatonna, you might never believe the company started in the founder’s garage with a single table top printing press. Their work is bold, artistic, and professional. When Jon Jensen ventured into opening a full-fledged printing company, he originally called it M&M (after his children Mike and Mary). Once business picked up, due to conflict with a company in the Twin Cities by the same name, Jon added the third M, representing the family dog, Max (rest in peace). Tri M Graphics now operates out of an impressive facility on E. Main Street in Owatonna. It underwent major renovations in 1990 to facilitate the multifaceted print shop it is today. Tri M Graph-

Allina Health Northfield Clinic

ics prints direct mail to the tune of 1 million pieces per year. They work mostly with local companies and non-profits, but print for some international non-profit organizations as well. With five graphic designers on the team, they can design anything down to the smallest print need. In 1997, they added stamping, scrap-booking and paper, a part of the business known as Studio Getaway. “One of the greatest challenges,” according to President and co owner Mike Jensen, “has been keeping up with technology.” But he says they have seen the “pendulum swing” from digital advertising back to print. Oversized postcards have become a great value for people trying to “cut through the clutter” of email and spam filters to reach the consumer. And technology has actually aided in their ability to personalize those pieces. Tri M Graphics is located at 625 E Main St. in Owatonna. www.trimgraphics.com

Honorable Mention: By All Means Graphics

Experience the special touch of small-town charm combined with the expert knowledge of primary and specialty care providers. With over 12 specialties in one location, you’ll rarely need to go elsewhere for care. See how we can help you or your family feel stronger and do more than you ever thought possible. We make care convenient with: • eVisits • same-day care for urgent medical needs by appointment • primary and specialty care for all ages • integrative, complementary medicine For a full list of services we provide, visit allinahealth.org/northfield

Schedule an appointment 24/7 or online with your Allina Health account. 1400 Jefferson Rd | Northfield, MN 55057 | 507-663-9000 Thank you for choosing Allina Health Northfield Clinic for you and your family’s care.

By Molly Penny

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THANKS FOR VOTING US SOUTHERN MINN SCENE 2017 BEST VET! Our pets are a part of our families, and we treat your pets like they are part of ours too. WE WELCOME NEW CLIENTS! Call us today to schedule an appointment. Schedule a New Pet visit with us and receive a FREE puppy/kitty kit.

-Vaccinations and Well Care -Spay and Neuter Surgery -Stem Cell Therapy -Ultrasound

-Breeder Services -Cardiology Services -Dentistry -In House Laboratory -Pharmacy

-Dietary Counseling -Orthopedic Surgery - LASER Surgery - LASER Therapy

1200 LYNDALE AVE N FARIBAULT, MN 55021 507-332-0716 1220 E. FRONTAGE RD OWATONNA, MN 55060 507-214-7387 HEARTLANDANIMALVETS . COM A d d y o u r even t f or F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l en d ar . G O T O w w w. s o u t h ernminn s c ene . c o m / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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Tim Freeland BEST REALTOR Tim Freeland, of Edina Realty, has many years of experience and knows the greater Northfield area like the back of his hand. He works closely with his clients to ensure they find property that they are truly comfortable and happy with. To add to his repertoire, Freeland has a great deal of knowledge for Northfield and the surrounding areas of Rice County. “It’s working in an area I know well with people that I usually know in some manner, he said. “I always try to deliver my services in a unique and effective way so that I can be different in some way.” Freeland is also actively involved with events in the Northfield area, including the Defeat of Jesse James Days. On top of this, he hosts his own radio program on weekdays to discuss technology and mobile devices. With a healthy appreciation for the town and the clients he serves, Freeland proves he is an all-around Northfield expert who loves every minute of his job. “When it comes down to something as emotional and as personal as a home sale or purchase, it requires I be ready for everything so I can lead, advise and organize each transaction to success,” he added. www.timfreeland.com

The store will be celebrating its 10th year here this fall under the ownership of Dani McNutt. Susan Sinning, the manager, noted that she enjoys how interesting the store is because it is often full of things that do not have duplicates. “We have a really wide array of things, most of its one of a kind of we’ll just have one of something,” she said. “The clothing is usually one selection of sizes and there’s new stuff coming in every week.” The store features items that can’t be picked up commonly at chain retail stores, and seeks to keep things affordable for customers. “When I wear something from there or have something on, I get a lot of questions because it’s so unusual and unique and that’s been fun, and I think that’s why people keep coming back,” Sinning added. So if hunting down that one special scarf necklace or purse makes your day, then A Bag Lady is the perfect treasure hunt waiting to happen. A Bag Lady is located at 212 Division St. in the Archer House in Northfield. www.facebook.com/abagladynorthfield

Haute Skin Spa & Tanning in Owatonna and Faribault BEST TANNING SALON

Buck Thrifty in Northfield BEST STORE FOR AN UNEXPECTED FIND

Honorable Mention: Urban Finds & Bistro By Nick Gerhardt

The Bag Lady in Northfield BEST STORE FOR ACCESSORIES If the phrase “one-of-a-kind” stands out to you regarding accessories and fashion, look no further than A Bag Lady in Northfield.

Scene Staff

Husband and wife duo Joe and Sherry Morgan opened Northfield Olive Oils and Vinegars back in 2013 with the desire to bring the freshest olive oils to Northfield. Four years later, they’ve succeeded in doing that as well as building a loyal clientele. The Morgans bring in seasonal olive oils from across the globe to stay fresh. The olive oils come in from as far as Tunisia, Italy, Australia and closer to home in California. “We try to keep the freshest extra virgin olive oils on hand,” Joe said. “We want our products to turn over very quickly.” Northfield Olive Oils and Vinegars is our winner for best speciality store, though Joe likens the shop to more of a grocery store. The Morgans have made Northfield Olive Oils and Vinegars like a local grocery store by becoming part of the community. Each year the store has hosted a performance at The Grand Event Center as a “thank you” to customers. The location, 18 Bridge Square in Northfield, helps make Northfield Olive Oils and Vinegars convenient for the community. But the Morgans go out of their way to help find pairings for their olive oils for customers. They also include pairings for vinegars. Northfield Olive Oils and Vinegars is located at 18 Bridge Square in Northfield. www.northfieldoliveoilsandvinegars.com

Honorable Mention: Owatonna Shoe

Honorable Mention: Buck Thrifty

Honorable Mention: Jose Mendoza

Northfield Olive Oils and Vinegars BEST SPECIALTY FOOD STORE

Dr. Martens and TOMS, among many others. Don’t forget to pick up a few pairs of Happy Socks as well. Excellent customer service and a friendly smile will always be found upon entering the store, and customers will leave with the feeling that they’ve found the perfect place to maintain a casual, comfortable and, yet, completely adorable wardrobe. The Rare Pair is located at 401 Division St. in Northfield. www.rarepair.com

Sheri Israel has a fun way to make a living. She’s a storage locker auction hunter. It provides a rush — scoping out a garage-full of possessions in 30 seconds, deciding whether to bid and then competing for the spoils. It brings surprises — rummaging through the new possessions she now owns. It brings money — turning the items for a profit. But the task also brings with it a moral dilemma. She’s taking over people’s forfeited property — their collections, their memories, their past. Whether its previous owner is now dead or living elsewhere, Israel always feels a need to respect the person in the locker before her. One way she’s looked to solve both the moral and technical problems in years past was through grandiose garage sales. She took the many items in her personal storage, gathered them under tents and sold everything for a dollar: clothes, trinkets, books, violins, pianos. The events were quite popular in Northfield, and now she has an idea to expand on them. Rather than hosting bi-annual dollar sales, she’s opened up a part-time store: Buck-Thrifty. The thrift store, which opened in May, is located at 1001 S. Hwy. 3. The space is not much larger than a storage locker, but in it, Israel has packed shelves and racks with clothing, sporting supplies, bedding, knick-knacks, and countless other goods. And it’s all cheap. Buck Thrifty is located at 1001 Hwy. 3 S in Northfield. www.facebook.com/pg/ShopBuckThrifty

Taking the time to relax and restore our bodies is an indulgence most of us do not make the time for. We expend the slightest bit of effort only to inevitably return to our department store products we bought on clearance. Unknown to many, this is likely due to a lack of knowledge on where to start. Haute Skin Spa and Tanning provides superb customer service that can enlighten even the most inexperienced individual on beauty products, therapy and fundamentals. Haute has some of the most elite tanning equipment in the area, but they also carry full product lines including Hempz, Pure by Katy Clayton and organic scents made by Owner and Creative Director, Cole Johnson who has put a lot of time and detail in to his business. His line of Haute & Company products introduced fragrances for him and her, organic Castile soaps and sugar scrubs. He has brought eyelash extension services, an array of natural alternatives to tanning such as organic airbrushing, skin rejuvenating red light therapy and laser liposuction—a painless substitute that quite literally blasts apart your fat cells. Promotions are continuously being launched, the most recent being a D-Feat Breast Cancer pledge, which will submit a donation to breast cancer research at the end of October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Haute Skin Spa & Tanning has two locations in Owatonna and one in Faribault. www.experiencehaute.com

Honorable Mention: Sisters Salon and Day Spa Scene Staff

Honorable Mention: Uffda Shop By Philip Weyhe

Rare Pair Inc. in Northfield BEST STORE FRONT The Rare Pair in Northfield offers an array of stylish, comfortable clothing to meet anyone’s fashion criteria. The store has been around since 1977 and has become a staple for the town’s clothing and footwear needs. To keep things fresh, the Rare Pair is displayed tastefully and seasonally, drawing customers in with cute sweater and handbag combinations or brightly colored scarves that can be spotted in the windows. They specialize in shoes that are fashionable and of great quality. Popular brands that can be found there include Birkenstock,

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Kinship Collective Tattoo in Northfield BEST TATTOO PARLOR For Michael Hansen, tattooing is not just about putting ink on skin—it’s about making art. Hansen opened his first shop, High Noon Ink Shop, in 2012, but he’s been doing tattoos for 17 years. He said he found his passion for tattooing as a kid, when he’d pass a tattoo shop, Mainline Tattoo, on the way home from the local movie theater.

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While the shop’s sign said “no kids allowed,” the owner used to let him come in anyway and look through all the portfolios. Eventually, Hansen started trying his own hand at tattooing, creating such a good name for himself that he was voted “Best Tattoo Artist” in SCENE Magazine in 2014. But in late 2016, he decided it was time for another change, and he moved across the street to his shop’s new location. The new move came with a new name: Kinship Collective Tattoo. “I was taught to have a standard in tattooing and not treat everybody walking through the door like they’re money,” he said. “You should sit down and take your time with them and walk through the tattoo process, beginning and end. That’s why I named it Kinship… we are kin. We all gather around the same thing. I want people who come into my shop to feel like they’re friends.” Hansen credits much of his success to the many tattoo artists he’s known along the way. “Thank you to all the tattoo artists in Minnesota who inspired me, from Brian Grover to Shawn Anderson to many others,” he said. “There’s a lot of great ones. I’ve got to give credit to them. We feel honored to do it.” Kinship Collective Tattoo is located at 515 Division St. S. in Northfield. www.facebook.com/kinshipcollectivetattoo

land has a vet to suit your family. Heartland Animal Hospital offers a variety of services from routine vaccinations and check-ups, to in-house lab work and an array of surgical procedures. The staff at Heartland Animal Hospital stresses the importance of preventative medicine, so consider making a wellness appointment for your pet. Each member of the team works tirelessly to ensure that you and your beloved companions are at ease and comfortable, no matter what the situation. Check out Heartland’s website for biographies on each doctor on the veterinary staff. Heartland Animal Hospital is located at 1200 Lyndale Ave. N in Faribault. www.heartlandanimalvets.com

The Beer People!

Best Vet: Owatonna Veterinary Hospital By Justine Krueger

Honorable Mention: Kat’s Tat’s By Grace Webb

Games N’ Geek in Northfield BEST VIDEO GAME/GAMING SHOP

Aldrich Technology Consulting in Northfield BEST TECH TO FIX YOUR COMPUTER It’s been a big year for Chad Aldrich and his business Aldrich Technology Consulting. Aldrich secured a downtown storefront location on Division Street in Northfield in the building that formerly housed Rocky Top and he was able to make that move in part of his expanding client base. Aldrich, a certified Apple technician, provides assistance for businesses, nonprofits and residential. He can help with server management and installation, mobile device management, backup solutions, data migration for Windows or Mac and networking and wireless networks whether on site or remotely. Aldrich is the only vendor south of the Twin Cities in the Apple Consultants Network. Aldrich has gained esteem among his colleagues in the IT world to the point where they refer Aldrich to their customers if they can’t fulfill a need. Customers have taken notice of the work he does and he’s this year’s winner of Best Tech to Fix Your Computer. Though he’s got a nice location, he makes a point to continue on-site work. “Elderly people don’t want to carry their computer in,” Aldrich said. “They appreciate me going on site. That helps a lot.” His patient and calm demeanor provide a soothing presence for those stressing out over a broken computer. Plus, he’s also one of the few computer technicians who can repair both Macs and PCs. www.aldrichtechmn.com

Honorable Mention: Mr. JST Technology Consulting, LLC By Nick Gerhardt

Heartland Animal Hospital in Faribault BEST VET Pets are valued members of your family, so you want the best when it comes to their health and well-being. This is evident in their motto “Quality, Compassionate Medicine”. If you are in the market for a new doctor to tend to your furry friend, be sure to check out Heartland Animal Hospital, voted Best Vet and it’s easy to see why. Whether you have an oversized equine or a tiny lizard, Heart-

Landon Young had a dream that one day he could finally own a gaming store, and this year his dream came true with Games N’ Geek. The business is nestled in downtown Northfield and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended Friday evening hours until 10 p.m. This place is filled with everything your little gaming heart desires, you guys (and gals!). You like Magic cards? They have probably a billion of them (overestimate, but you catch my drift) along with many other card games. Besides the HUGE selection of Magic the gathering singles and sealed products, they also carry Video Games, Force of Will singles and sealed products, and Board Games along with TCG accessories. Games N’ Geek also offers weekly tournaments for all of their supported games and have open tables for gaming, if you just want to swing by to hang out or play some games and have some fun with the locals who enjoy gaming just as much as you do. Games N’ Geek is located at 306 Division St. S in Northfield. www.facebook.com/gamesngeek

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Heartwork Yoga in Northfield BEST YOGA STUDIO Each week, Heartwork Yoga Studio draws in people from around Southern Minnesota with its excellent staff and class options. The studio has been a part of the community for 16 years and continues to thrive. They offer classes ranging from the relaxing, slow moving yoga forms to the more intense heated power yoga. There are classes for beginners, experts and every level in between and there is even a chair Yoga class offered for those who may have mobility issues. Amy Machacek, the studio owner and director, is proud of the studio’s success. “We love seeing people from not just the local area, but from up to 40 miles away, every week,” she said. “We believe that the most wonderful people come to learn and practice yoga here.” She noted that the studio is unique because it cares so deeply for its students. “Our teachers and fellow yogi’s are so kind and welcoming to everyone who comes through the door.” The prices for these classes are great too, with student specials, punch cards and options for unlimited classes. Certain classes are offered for $5 per session during the week, so keep an eye on the calendar for those days. “Every day we hear our studio is a peaceful respite in a hectic world,” Machacek added. “Even our location, tucked down below our main street in town, has the perfect entrance for letting go of your stresses and slipping into a beautiful space of calm.” Heartwork Yoga Studio is located at 101 Fifth St. W in Northfield. www.heartworkyoga.com

Honorable Mention: Solid Yoga Scene Staff

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MUSIC

Sheldon Theater in Red Wing BEST PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC, BEST THEATER

n 1904, Theodore B. Sheldon’s dream was rectified. He bestowed upon the city of Red Wing a monetary gift of $83,000 that was to be used for the public benefit with a nonsectarian purpose. His wife, Annie, and directors agreed the money would be put toward the United States’ first municipally owned theatre, and the T.B. Sheldon Memorial Auditorium was born. Now, 113 years later, the theatre, now called the Sheldon Theatre of Performing Arts, is still making its own history. “This is a venue that has been essential to the community

of Red Wing since 1904,” Executive Director Bonnie Schock said. “…talk about it as this warm friendly community space where people feel welcome, so it sort of combines that specialness of a small town with a great work that people get a chance to see.” Employing four full-time employees, The Sheldon, though small in stature, Schock said, is able to host a wide variety of meaningful talent with recognizable names and contributions to the arts and its community. Bringing in top-quality entertainment for the community, including this season’s line-up of OK Go, The Drifters, “Sweet Land, The Musical” and “The Goonies,” the theatre was named Best Theatre and Best Live Music in Southern Minnesota. “It’s really heartwarming to be recognized by the region for the role that we play and for the quality of the work

that’s happening here,” Schock said. This season alone, Schock said the theatre is hosting 48 live events and a different show every weekend. Boasting seven different series, The Sheldon features performances for theatre lovers, those looking for a musical fix and film buffs, offering the revolutionary and recognizable names on the business, Schock said. “That’s really the draw in my opinion,” Schock said. The series include the Great Sounds Series, the Tradition Series, Homegrown Series, the Enlighten Series, Holiday Series, Family and Youth Series and Film at the Sheldon. The Sheldon also offers workshops for artists of all platforms, fostering an environment of support for the arts. And the theatre is an art form in itself, Schock said. The unique shape and style of the theatre create an intimate viewing experience for all spectators, said Schock, who has a hard time putting the experience into the right words. “It has a warm embrace. The space the horseshoe shape at the back of the main house, and it just kind of holds you in this way in relationship to the performers and the performance that I don’t know how to describe it,” Schock said. “It’s unusual and unexpected. It’s also a remarkable community feel at play here.” The closeness and the smallness of the theatre give audiences what Schock believes is a closeness they cannot receive with other theatres of larger capacity. The space creates what she called a “real dialogue in a great space.” In 2008, the theatre went under a construction renovation that prompted a $1.5 million bond for restoration. Another $2 million was raised, a testament to the public’s commitment to their small theatre that Schock said is often called the jewel box of Red Wing, Minn. And now, with their most recent accolades, the theatre is more than honored to continue its work, Schock said. “I’m just incredibly honored,” Schock said. “We have been really building in the last couple of years on more than 100-year legacy, intentionally building on that in an effort to share this hidden gem.” The Sheldon theatre is located at 442 W Third St., Red Wing. www.sheldontheatre.org

Honorable Mention BEST PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC: Froggy Bottoms River Pub Honorable Mention BEST THEATER: Paradise Center for the Arts By Samantha Stetzer

Honorable Mention BEST BAND: Lost Highway Honorable Mention BEST SOLO ACT: Mark Allen

Next year, the 10th iteration of the event, Voracek expects the event to be twice as large, with another music stage and more food. “Winning this award means that we’ve created something that is loved by people,” he said. “We have even more work to do in our 10th year to maintain our status as best music festival.” The Blue Collar Festival is located on Central Avenue in downtown Faribault and takes place in August each summer.

By Kelsey O’Hara

Honorable Mention: Smokin’ in Steele

songwriting during his solo performances. His songwriting will take the emphasis in his upcoming album that he will wrap up in November in Nashville. www.chadjohnsonandthe8stband.com

By Gunnar Olson

The 8th Street Band and Chad Johnson BEST BAND, BEST SOLO ACT Chad Johnson and Russell Franek grew up playing music together. And they both saw music as a way to tell stories of the everyday working men and women with voice and musicianship as honest as the words they sing. As they continued honing their songwriting and musical techniques, they would develop multiple bands until they found the 8th Street Band. The 8th Street Band still holds that ability for storytelling by blending country, rock, soul and blues to build a sound that is familiar yet completely its own. Johnsons said the band strives to produce quality covers with original music sprinkled in. It is no wonder this seasoned band has become a staple in the southern Minnesota music scene. The band won the past two years, but Johnson said this year’s win was extra special due to the talented bands included on the ballot. “We really pulled off a special win this year since we were included with great bands with big name recognition, like American Highway. It makes this win such an honor,” he said. Along with best band, Chad Johnson won best solo act. Johnson said he enjoys working with the band, but he tends to focus on

Blue Collar Festival in Faribault BEST MUSIC FESTIVAL Downtown Faribault transforms for the Blue Collar Festival each summer so guests can wander Central Avenue sampling food trucks, playing games and perusing the various art offerings. According to Blue Collar Festival board chair and Faribault Mayor Kevin Voracek, however, music is at the festival’s roots. “You can expect that we are going to have terrific music,” he said. Voracek feels the festival allows people to meet up with old friends and hang out downtown among the artisan marketplace and food offerings.

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Molly Penny BEST RADIO PERSONALITY Well, it happened again. Your very own Molly Penny has won Best Radio Personality of Southern Minnesota for the second year in a row, and nobody is less surprised than me, her husband. Someone thought it a clever idea to have me do her little write up and I have accepted the challenge. Everyone has heard her origin story, so I figured I’d take this

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Thank you for your votes and support. BeST TeCh To FIx Your CoMPuTer oF So MInn SCene It’s been an honor to serve Southern Minnesota!

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In November 2016, the 49-year-old radio station added an FM tuner, which News Director Teri Knight said is “huge” for the station. The station’s offerings are now broadcast at the old 1080 AM channel and the new 95.1 FM channel. With the change, KYMN leaders decided to revamp the website and do a little rebranding. They now go by the moniker “95 The One.” “We’ve really been able to freshen things up,” Knight said. KYMN focuses on local programming to best serve its Northfield and nearby listeners. The people that work there are local, the news is local, the music is selected locally. “We’re sort of an anomaly in the radio world,” Knight said. “We feel a real connection to the community and a desire to make sure we keep that up as well as we can.” The station features shows like On Tap (all about beers and brews), ArtZany!, El Super Barrio Latino, Wayne Eddy Affair and more. The music programming is adult eclectic, which Knight described as a mix that will open people up to different genres. Monday-Friday All-Wheel Drive host Jessica Paxton tries to bring in a lot of local music, including live performances. KYMN Radio is located at 200 Division St. S in Northfield. www.kymnradio.net

time to highlight her other victories. She is the undisputed heavyweight champion of napping. Also, she is known around home as the spaghetti queen. In all seriousness, nobody has worked harder at leaving an impression on the community than Molly, whether it be one of her various radio jobs, or helping individuals on a personal level. It doesn’t matter how large the work load stacks, she is there for everyone and anyone who needs her. When she’s not being super mom… or napping… you can catch her on “The Morning Mix” on KOWZ 100.9 FM, afternoon drive on KRUE Country 92.1 in Owatonna, where she is also Music and Promotions Director, or evenings on HOT 96.7 FM in Mankato, and Q102 FM in Wilmar… (yeah, I know). If you need some reading entertainment, she also has her own column, Mollywood BLVD, right here in our very own Southern Minnesota Scene.

Honorable Mention: Teri Knight By Wesley Johnson

KYMN Radio in Northfield BEST RADIO station KYMN Radio just can’t stop winning in our Best of Southern

Minnesota competition. For the fifth year running, it’s been voted Best Radio Station. “It really feels good. I want to thank all the people voting for us – the loyal listeners,” said KYMN Owner Jeff Johnson. “It’s real special.”

Honorable Mention: KOWZ Radio By Philip Weyhe

SPORTS/OUTDOORS

Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail BEST BIKE TRAIL

hen it comes to enjoying the outdoors, Minnesota is full of places for nature lovers to explore. There are bluffs, woods, lakes, prairies and more. There are hundreds of trails that wind around the state, paved and unpaved, in state parks and outside of them. And they all

John’s Bait & Tackle in Faribault BEST BAIT AND TACKLE STORE 38

for snowmobilers and eventually for hikers, bicyclists and cross-country skiiers. It’s also sometimes used for horseback riding. People can visit Sakatah Lake State Park as they travel the trail as well. The state park is located outside Waterville and includes a separate bicycling campground, picnic grounds, boat access and additional hiking trails. More than 62,880 user hours were logged on the trail from Memorial Day to Labor Day in 2013, according to the last trail study conducted along the Sakatah (which means “Singing Hills” in Dakota). Beckman said the majority of users—around 45 percent—are bikers, many of whom use the trail to commute to work. In 2016, a six-mile portion of the trail was closed down for construction between Blue Earth County Road 12 and Madison Lake until mid-November. It was part of a five-year project to reconstruct the trail and lay new blacktop. So far, $4 million has been spent. Beckman said the next step is to repave the trail between Madison Lake and Elysian in the spring of 2018. In addition to that work, 2.5 miles of the trail is closed between Le Sueur County Road 6 to the city of Waterville because of road construction in Waterville. There is no designated detour around the road closure, warns the MN DNR website, so trail enthusiasts should be aware of that if they’re planning to travel the area. The trail is also closed from the Lime Valley parking lot south to near State Highway 14 until further notice, due to storm damage. Finally, if you’re hankering to travel the trail between Madison Lake and Waterville, the MN DNR recommends bringing mountain and fat tire bikes rather than road bikes because of rough trail conditions. The Sakathah Singing Hills State Trail runs 39 miles from the Mankato area to Faribault. www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_trails/sakatah

have something great to offer. But one trail stands out above the rest: The Sakatah Singing Hills Trail. The Sakatah Singing Hills Trail is a 39-mile paved trail that winds from Mankato to Faribault. Along the way, it takes travelers through farmland, prairies and the Big Woods, as well as Sakatah Lake State Park and Waterville. “You can be in farm fields and then just like that, you’re in a wooded area,” said Craig Beckman, Parks and Trails Area Supervisor. “It connects so many communities, and each community along the trail has something different to offer.” The trail was converted from a railroad line by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in the 1970s, first

Honorable Mention: Cannon Valley Trail Access By Grace Webb

As the weather cools and we prepare for winter, many are also preparing for ice fishing season. Voted Best Bait and Tackle Store, John’s Bait and Tackle is king for all of your summer and winter fishing needs. From fishing poles to bait, John’s has just about everything. But, if you don’t find what you need, just ask them to place a special order. Good bait can mean the difference between a successful fishing trip or coming home empty-handed, so put your bait and tackle needs in the hands of a small-town shop that knows the business. John’s Bait and Tackle also boasts a great location that “provides a convenient driveway that allows you to pull in and out easily.” It doesn’t matter if this is your first time casting a line or if you’re an advanced fisherman, John’s Bait and Tackle is the place for you. John’s Bait & Tackle is located at 19826 Roberds Lake Blvd. in Faribault. Find the business on Facebook.

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Honorable Mention: Ziggy’s By Justine Krueger

Fairgrounds Softball Complex in Owatonna BEST BALLPARK The four-field Fairgrounds Softball Complex is located on the Steele County Fairgrounds. The nice restroom and concession facilities are attributed to contributions from the Owatonna Softball Association. If participating isn’t your thing, stop by to spectate and cheer on one of the adult or youth leagues that practice at the complex. Whether you’re playing or cheering, the Fairgrounds Softball Complex is a well-maintained facility that is worth a visit. The fall softball leagues are winding down for 2017, but be sure to check out the schedule for next year’s Spring, Summer, and Fall leagues.

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If you’re interested in participating in a softball league, be sure to check out the city of Owatonna’s Parks and Recreation website for dates and registration information. www.owatonna.info/parksrecreation

manager Grant Pope said, who’s part of the third generation of the family-owned campground. “Building this water park hit all facets of the family. There are things to do for all ages … it’s brought us up to the level we want to be at, including everyone in the family.” The first question kids have is “where to begin?” A pair of winding 32-feet tall water slides certainly catches the eye; while the more daring will want to give the 23-feet tall AquaClimb wall a try, dangling over the open pool as they make their way to the top. The Aqua Playland, Khaos Kove and Lazy Lagoon are also popular destinations. Families wanting to spend the night have a number of options to choose from, including campsites with free wireless internet and cable television hook-ups. Four two-bedroom, two one-bedroom and a five-bedroom cabins with a view of nearby Lake Sakatah are also available for rental, each complete with air conditioning, and a fully-equipped kitchen. Between the petting zoo, mini golf and the lake, visitors may need more than one weekend to visit Kamp Dels amenities. www.kampdels.com

Honorable Mention: Memorial Park

Honorable Mention: Kiesler’s Campground & RV

By Justine Krueger

By Alex Kerkman

Spare Time Entertainment in Owatonna BEST BOWLING ALLEY

Mineral Springs Park in Owatonna BEST DISC GOLF COURSE

While everyone else is looking for ways to survive the frigid Minnesota winter, those in the southern region are just hanging out, sipping on a brew, knocking some pins down and eating the beefy, cheesy, crunchy pile that is the loaded nachos at Spare Time Entertainment. You’re not impressed? Well allow us to retort. This is a first-class bowling center providing the latest in entertainment. Since it’s reopening, the Owatonna business has added various updates and additions making it the undisputed champion of Best Bowling Alley. Virtual games added to the lanes and sleek seating makes it a comfortable and clean place to bowl. Volleyball is held outside in the sand courts specifically built for the occasion in the summer and both a laser tag area and game zone are set to open in the coming months. One of their main attractions has been the cuisine provided by Gar Olson, a chef with 40 years of experience in catering events. The business has a full menu ranging from paninis and wraps to homemade pizza and Gar specialties. Continually making improvements, those who have invested in the bowling alley have provided the community with an outlet. It is the perfect spot for a night out, a drink after work or your next big event. Spare Time Entertainment is located at 333 18th Street SE in Owatonna. www.spare-time-fun.com

Honorable Mention: Jesse James Lanes Scene Staff

Thank You for Voting Us Best Vegetarian Friendly and Best Catering!

Mineral Springs Park is Owatonna’s most well-known park, according to the city’s website. From the Princess Owatonna statue and unique spring waters - said to be comparable to those in France - served on railroad dining cars, the park has evolved over the years to now accommodate various activities and interests. There was the addition of the mystical waterfall in the 1970s, followed by many trails and a playground built in 1998. Horseshoes, sand volleyball and plenty of picnic spots make up the park today, but the disc golf course may be the biggest pull. Mike Jindra has been hosting a disc golf league at the park that past seven years and membership and the number of holes on the course continue to expand. About 30 players frequent the course every Tuesday during warmer months, with players coming from all across the region “As the word spreads to nearby towns and we continue to raise money for trophies and nightly prizes, it’s exciting to see the group grow,” Jindra said. “There is something about Mineral Springs Park that keeps everyone coming back.” Jindra said what stands out about the park is the peaceful scenery, wildlife - from wild turkeys, snapping turtles along the Straight River, deer and maybe even an owl if it’s late and there’s enough luck - and course layout. “You cross the same bridge three times and often run into another group enjoying the park at a different point in their round. It’s a great sense of unity between all the golfers on the course,” he said. “It truly is a beautiful place to be!” Mineral Springs Park is located at 1025 Mineral Springs Rd. in Owatonna.

Honorable Mention: Camp Maiden Rock West By Kim Hyatt

Brooktree Golf Course in Owatonna BEST GOLF COURSE

Kamp Dels in Waterville BEST CAMPGROUND Family is a big part of Kamp Dels, in terms of ownership and atmosphere. When the owners of the Waterville campground decided to build a brand-new water park in 2016, it was with families of all ages in mind. “At Kamp Dels, a big family atmosphere is what we strive for, a place where families can come together and have tons to do,”

Taking pride in the way their golf course looks and plays has paid off for the grounds crew and employees at Brooktree Golf Course in Owatonna. Not only has the well-groomed, picturesque course remained busy with a lot of rounds being played by locals during the spring and summer and now into fall, the municipal golf course is considered a destination course by many outside the city limits. Out of the many great courses dotting the Southern Minnesota countryside, Brooktree was voted the Best Golf Course by the readers of Southern Minn Scene for the third consecutive year. “Brooktree is a very well-manicured course, especially for a municipal course,” said Mary Jo Knudson, Recreation Superintendent for the city of Owatonna. “It is a very welcoming course to golfers of all skill levels. Some holes will be more challenging than others, but it really depends on how you hit the golf ball any given day. Our front and back nines are quite different, too.”

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NEW! Friday Night Flight Night!! Sample 3 wines at a reduced price!

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The Aquatic Center is closed for the 2017 season, but keep an eye on their website for details on the 2018 season. If you are looking for somewhere to swim during the cold winter months, including a pool for lap swimming, check out the Faribault Community Center pool. The Faribault Family Aquatic Center is located at 1830 Alexander Dr. in Faribault.

Honorable Mention: River Springs Water Park By Justine Krueger

Knudson said the condition of the golf course itself is a big draw for locals and out-of-town visitors alike. And, she said the Clubhouse Grill offers quite a variety for a small kitchen. And if you are lucky, she said coming across an array of wildlife is not out of the question. “We are tucked away in a quiet area of town that has much wildlife,” she said. “While you’re out on the course, you may see deer, geese and quite a variety of birds among the brook and the trees. The course itself is very picturesque.” Brooktree Golf Course is located at 1369 Cherry Street in Owatonna.

from the Twin Cities area—but there is no “typical” customer. He also recommends starting with a raft if you’re interested in exploring the river but haven’t had any experience. “That’s more forgiving and really can’t tip over, but [you’re] going to learn the basic mechanics of how to navigate down the river,” he explained. “We’ve never had anyone tip over in a raft. You could probably just float down and you wouldn’t get into any trouble.” Cannon Falls Canoe and Bike Rental is located at 615 N Fifth St. in Cannon Falls. www.cannonfallscanoeandbike.com

Honorable Mention: The Gear ReSource Outfitters

Welch Village Ski & Snowboard Area BEST SKI SLOPE

By Grace Webb

Honorable Mention: Willingers Golf Club Scene Staff

Cannon Falls Canoe and Bike Rental BEST KAYAK/CANOE RENTAL Minnesota offers a lot of things for the outdoor lover, but nothing really beats a day on the water. There’s something about heading to the local river, whether you’re planning an exciting solo trip by kayak or a lazy afternoon with friends on a raft, that everyone can enjoy. And the folks at Cannon Falls Canoe and Kayak are here to help you with that. Cannon Falls Canoe and Kayak, located in Cannon Falls, connects people with all the equipment they need to enjoy Cannon River. The business was started 25 years ago by Randolph local William Lacefield, who was looking for something to do after he retired. The business offers canoe, kayak and raft rentals for water lovers, as well as bike rentals. There are three routes that customers can take, with folks from Cannon Falls providing the shuttle to and from dock points: an 8-mile trip from Cannon Falls to Miesville Ravine Park, a 13-mile trip that goes to Welch, and an 18-mile trip that goes all the way to Redwing. Life jackets, paddles and the shuttle ride are all included in the rental price. Joe Lacefield, who started working with his father William about 10 years ago, said they receive about 85 percent of their customers

Faribault Family Aquatic Center BEST MUNICIPAL SWIMMING POOL Voted Best Municipal Swimming Pool, Faribault Family Aquatic Center offers many amenities for all ages and abilities, such as two large flume slides, climbing walls, and many activities, like the sand pit play area for little ones. The Center offers an hour daily for lap swim and parent/child swim before it opens up for open swim. To ensure the safety of the Aquatic Center’s patrons, lifeguards are on duty during open hours. Also at the Aquatic Center, you’ll find a set of clean locker rooms for your convenience, as well as a concession stand to fill your belly after a full day of fun in the water.

Set in the picturesque Cannon Valley, Welch Village provides skiers with a feeling of skiing in the mountains while being in Southern Minnesota. “We’re generally regarded as having some of the best terrain in the Minnesota,” Welch Village Vice President of Mountain Services said. Welch Village features 60 runs, including four black diamonds along with some of the steepest front-face runs in the region. Welch Village also has extensive snow making capabilities, which makes it one of the first ski resorts open each season in the area. Welch Village caters to skiers of all skill levels and in fact is the only licensed Primary Movements Teaching System, which teaches direct parallel skiing. PMTS allows coaches to teach the same movements as world cup racers. Welch Village is also in the beginning stages of creating a terrain park. Welch Village spent this summer grading the hill and finishing an erosion control program. The grading process added a 15 percent grade for the hill which will allow for free-style skiing in the future. The ski resort also features live music on Saturday nights and offers discounts with its partners, Big Sky Montana, Grand Targhee Resort in Wyoming and Lutsen Mountains. www.welchvillage.com

Honorable Mention: Mount Kato Ski Area Scene Staff

Thank You for Voting Me Best Realtor!

Order local Northfield images & cards

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Thank You! Thank you for voting us

BEST GROCERY STORE! 1620 S. Cedar,

Owatonna

507.451.0138 Open 24 Hours

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Get fit in SoMinn

NICOLE SWEENEY Nicole Sweeney is a fitness freak who loves nothing more than coffee, laughter & sharing a good workout with anyone and everyone. If you think of any crazy fitness fads you think she should try hit her up on her Instagram account @sisufit or Twitter @APGnsweeney

I’m the girl in the middle.

Getting to the Stage:

A peek into the life of a Figure Competitor

s some of you may know, I am very passionate about the sport of bodybuilding. To me, there is just something about the months of hard work – both in and out of season, the patience and resilience that is required throughout the course of a prep, and having the courage to step onto a stage and show every ounce of your hard work (in the world’s smallest bikini, lol). On Sept. 30, I competed in the Natural Badger Classic, which is a show held by the North American Natural Bodybuilding Federation (NANBF). I was fortunate enough to take fifth place amongst a sea of beautiful and truly talented young women. For those of you that have no idea what a bodybuilding or fitness competition is – it’s essentially a beauty pageant for fitness people. Now, I’m not writing this story to talk about the time I spent on

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stage, but in hopes to draw light to the entire process of getting to the stage. Don’t get me wrong… the 60 seconds you get under the bright lights, in a sparkly bikini, sky-high heels and beautiful jewelry are AH-MA-ZING. But, I think pushing through a grueling workout - getting up well before the sun rises in order to squeeze in your cardio for the day - and eating 90 percent of all of your meals out of Tupperware spending a few hours cooking, weighing and divvying up your food each week – these special moments of pushing through something you didn’t think you could do… I think that this is what competitors really cherish. It helps you realize just how strong you can be! There can be so much strength and beauty found in the daily grind! Choosing a show/category. There are some very important things that you need to consider when choosing a show. What federation you wish to compete in, how far you are willing to travel, how much you are willing to spend, and what you hope to bring to the stage. Someone who wishes to look the part and compete as a female Bodybuilder is going to have a much different path to get

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to the stage than another girl who wishes to compete in bikini. Finding a coach. As you can see, there are many factors in picking the when & where – but it doesn’t stop there. How are you going to get ready? - What will your workouts look like? How much cardio will you do? What will you eat? How much do you get to eat? And when? There are SO many different ways to go about it, and this is why the majority of competitors bring in a coach to oversee their prep and to keep track of their progress. I began my journey to stage with Noel Brue, of The Body Boutique, in very early March of 2017. I met Noel at my very first competition back in 2015, and was impressed by just about everything about her. The second she walked into the event venue I thought to myself, “Man, I would love to learn from her!” I was young, nervous and completely clueless about what to expect at my very first show. Noel, was calm and collected, confident and had brought the best physique to the stage. She was a role model at the time, someone I truly looked up to (and still do) and has become the most wonderful mentor and friend after the past few months. From 2014 to late summer of 2017, Noel has gone on to not only take first place at our show in the Women’s Athletic category back in 2015, but has earned more than just one Pro Card (meaning she is a professional in her sport), and placed second to the World Champion just this past summer. I consider myself lucky to be coached by someone who is making such waves in the fitness industry. Starting a program. Together, we embarked on a prep that was over 25 weeks long. It began with a short bulking program, where we took a look at my physique and pinpointed my “weaknesses” where I might have been unbalanced, and then we attacked them in order to add as much size as we could. So, for my physique – I am considered to be top heavy. Which means that I have trouble gaining size in my legs. My upper body tends to look more muscular than my legs do. So, we went and trained my legs aggressively in hopes to eliminate this weakness while continuing to work my other muscle groups with just as much focus. We also began the process of being aware of what I was eating to set a nutritional baseline that we could work off of moving forward. I used Noel’s app to track every single thing that I ate and drank, and how much I moved and what I did in the gym. In the beginning, my prep consisted of a little bit of cardio, a lot of heavy lifting, and eating for performance and to fuel my body in order to grow. Now I won’t lie, you get to lift heavy things and eat quite a bit of food.

As you can see, it is a JOURNEY to get to that 60 seconds on stage. Truly a mission of grinding through all the hard stuff to get there – but it is SO worth it.

But it doesn’t last too long. Cutting down. Right around 16 weeks before I was to take the stage, we slowly started the process where you “cut”. In a nutshell, this is where you slowly decrease your caloric intake, and ramp up your weight lifting intensity and volume, as well as your cardio. It is a careful and deliberate process of chipping away at your body until you can slowly start to see muscle shape, definition, vascularity and striation. Now, how much of this you should see on stage, depends on what category you compete in. Again, female bodybuilders look much different than bikini competitors do. Ramping things up. Towards the end of my prep, for the last three or four weeks, I was in the gym seven days a week – doing at least 45-60 minutes of cardio, anywhere from 1-2 hours of weight

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lifting, and practicing my posing (how I present myself on stage – this can be exhausting and is a workout all on its own). Although we ramped up to this overtime so that it wasn’t such a shock to my body, I’m sure that you can see that maintaining a schedule like this requires a LOT of dedication and commitment. Especially when you need to take into account that you need to be consuming some sort of small meal every 2-4 hours (as my coach recommended). Food. Nutrition is a whole other part of a prep. Most people consider the diet to be the “hard” part. Everyone does it a little bit differently, but what I’ve found is that most competitors follow a plan that requires them to eat very clean foods. For the majority of

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CONTINUED FROM page 43 my prep I consumed lots of lean protein sources, green vegetables, some fruits, some complex carbohydrates and healthy fats. Because I have a lot of food allergies and intolerances, my list for acceptable foods that I could consume was pretty short. For the most part it was green vegetables, lean turkey & chicken breast, white fish, egg whites, protein powder, sweet potato, whole oats, berries, avocado and nut butters (or whole nuts like almonds and cashews). All very healthy foods. From 25 to about 16 weeks out I had a free meal (or a cheat meal) pretty regularly, once a week or once every two weeks. But from 16 weeks to show day I had only a handful, and they were all carefully programmed by Noel. Other than these meals, I stayed right on track with my plan, and only ate the things that I was supposed to in order to fuel my body to look my best on stage. Being in tune with your body. Towards the end of your prep too you have to experiment and be very aware of how your body reacts to different foods. For instance, I noticed that I felt bloated or my stomach felt a little puffy if I had chicken breast or potato. So, these are things that I would not consume approaching my show day. This is because you don’t want to look puffy or be uncomfortable on stage – you want to feel and look your best – in order to do that you steer clear of those foods. There is no set guide for this process either, everyone is different and so everyone tends to react to foods differently. This just makes it that much more of an adventure, that much more fun. Balance. Now, I’ll say that this is the hardest part of this whole process. There are many competitors who just go completely MIA as soon as a prep starts, and I completely understand that. It is near impossible to juggle work, gym, family and friends when you pick a show date and start a program. Just as a sneak peek into my schedule so you have somewhat of an idea of how overwhelming it can be – Monday-Friday I would get up and do my cardio from 5:30-6:30 a.m., get ready & head to work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., then go to the gym after work from about 6-8 p.m. I’d head home and pack up all my food, gym and work clothes for the following day, and do it all over again. My weekends were usually reserved for longer workouts and meal prep for the next week. I won’t even begin to lie – it is exhausting. And there are many side effects that make it even more difficult to keep trucking along every single day. These side effects can come with dieting down to be at a competition weight in hopes to place high and possibly bring home a trophy. The stuff you don’t know about getting to stage. Now, everyone is different and I have heard other people say they do not experience any of these things, and others who say that this is nothing and they have had far worse. My body responds to cutting just about the same every single time. My joints ache and are sore from all of the rigorous training. Often times my body fat percentage is so low that my hands and feet actually go a little bit numb for long periods of time throughout the day, or have a tin-

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gling sensation. It becomes very difficult to fall and stay asleep, even though you are exhausted. It’s very hard to focus and I also become the most forgetful person in the world. If you think about it, food is really fuel for your body. When you start restricting it significantly, it becomes harder for it to do certain things. Throughout the course of a prep, most people can be expected to drop anywhere from 10-15 pounds, maybe more. For me, I dropped just over 12 pounds from my normal out of season weight. A month from my show, my body fat percentage was calculated just under 10 percent, which is well below the average for women my age. Now let me say that this is only a temporary part of the process. I do NOT maintain this year-round. I would not be healthy for me to do so. This is just one of the many reasons why I hire on a coach – to monitor my progress and make sure I am not only continuing down a path to success, but to also make sure that I am healthy and well along the way. Noel is not just there for physical support, but she provided fantastic emotional support as well. While dieting down, being tired, in a pretty constant state of soreness & being so focused on your goals – I won’t lie… it’s a mind game! Some days it feels like you’re going crazy. There were many days where I felt like I was making no progress at all, and Noel stepped in and reassured me and gave me an outsiders perspective. I can now look back on all those progress pictures I sent her where I felt like I was “stuck” and laugh. Sometimes we just don’t give ourselves enough credit! As you can see, it is a JOURNEY to get to that 60 seconds on stage. Truly a mission of grinding through all the hard stuff to get there – but it is SO worth it. So, there you have it. Just a very broad overview of just ONE person’s experience getting to the stage. I LOVE talking about this, so if you have any questions at all please don’t hesitate to reach out! I expect to have stage shots from my show uploaded on the website & on my Instagram page shortly – so please check back!! Thank you to everyone who supported me during my prep – your kind words and thoughts mean more than you will ever know! SMS

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Design opportunities through

LED

lighting

Ian Laird, LS

Ian is a Lighting Specialist at The Design Element, located in the Mankato Design Center. He can help you with all your lighting needs from planning to product selection.

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ow that LED technology has been on the market for a number of years, I feel its place in design can be more fully realized. There are a number of benefits to LED lighting – the most significant ones being energy efficiency and sustainability. However, other important changes occurred in the lighting industry that augmented design at the same time. Often, these smaller advances are overlooked when finding the biggest, best, and most cost effective options for our home. One significant benefit to switching to an energy efficient and cooler-running tech is the ability to use brighter bulbs in SPONSORED BY older sockets. This gives us the The Design Element option to essentially retrofit current fixtures. However, since 1711 Premier Drive optimal light was obtained through only a few stringent Mankato, MN designs with incandescent, new 507.345.8708 fixture designs often utilize and sometimes require LEDs to function. This doesn’t mean that putting brighter LED bulbs into a small 3-light dinette fixture will automatically solve a lighting issue in the room. Oftentimes too much light from one concentrated source can create glare, cause color distortion on surfaces, and induce sharp shadowing in the far reaches of the space. Light layering and proper dispersion of light sources is always recommended when possible. What this situation does allow for is less-obtrusive lighting using smaller fixtures while keeping the same output as larger, former designs. This is achieved by using products such as disc lighting, shallower and smaller recessed fixtures, new innovations using tape lighting, and much smaller and less invasive step lighting options. Color temperature (CT) and color rendering (CRI) are two terms with much impact on the appearance of a space that many people did not know about; a concern in the era of incandescent (or even fluorescent lighting) since there wasn’t an option. Color temperature and color rendering are important values in determining the colors of a room. The color temperature (measured on a Kelvin-based scale of light intensity) is usually a value anywhere from 2,400 to 6,500. When talking about LED lighting, 2,400

presents as an amber color similar to a low-watt incandescent. And 6,500K appears as an intense daylight “blue”. The value of 2700K is often used for a warm white LED and is the color of the brightest incandescent bulbs. The CT we have seen become the “norm” is 3000K, or bright white. This is largely due to both its higher light output and its reduction of a warm tint to the space. CRI is a value based on incandescent light. The top value of 100 is based on the brightest, ideological halogen lights or natural daylight, both a form of incandescent light. Often, LED light is judged on its ability to accurately render red light. A low CRI can greatly distort the true colors of an object – with LEDs and CFL (Compact Fluorescent Light) this means a blue or green tint. Likewise, low-light incandescent tints colors red. Knowing these values and what they mean allows for the manipulation of colors or “moods” that a designer may be trying to achieve in the overall look. Similarly, color temperature (even with a high CRI) will appear warmer or

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cooler from the source. Commercial lighting is thought of as stark and cold, typically being in the CT range of 3500K to 4500K. This is best for detailed tasks and general bright ambient, light. In contrast, residential lighting is typically in the 2700K – 3500K range. This creates a warmer, more traditional, look and feel. However, for a more modern vibe 3000K can also be used residentially. The 3,500K CT is also available by request when the maximum amount of light output is desired. I hope this was helpful in explaining some of the variables that go into choosing light in the 21st century. LEDs are a superior replacement to older lighting in almost every way. They’re brighter, more energy efficient, and don’t emit UV radiation. For design, their versatility through adjustable light intensity and light manipulation is unmatched by other technologies. Now, what to do with all this fluorescent lighting? Don’t get me started.

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recording artists Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Elvis Presley. Rockabilly, country, gospel, and pure 1950’s rock and roll. Main floor advanced: $45 - Balcony advanced: $35; Main floor Day Of: $50 - Balcony Day Of: $40. For tickets or more information, call 507-434--0934.

The Lowland Lakers and The Home Fires Lanesboro Arts – Oct. 21 LANESBORO ARTS is proud to present an evening with The Lowland Lakers and The Home Fires, two female-fronted Minnesota bands that specialize in Roots, Americana and Country music at the St. Mane Theatre in downtown Lanesboro on Saturday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 p.m. The Lowland Lakers are a trio from Minneapolis with roots in Duluth consisting of Nate Case, Haley Rydell, and Taylor Donskey. The band’s music cuts a uniquely deep groove — high and tight, bright and shining. Some bands bash their songs against the rocks through over-complication. The Lowland Lakers, on the other hand, let the subtle complexities speak for themselves, allowing their rootsy songs to soar. The Lowland Lakers have a certain relaxed charm to their sound that is respectable. They aren’t looking to blow the listener away with overstuffed arrangements or busy performances. In fact, their music is fairly minimalistic, with simple acoustic chording and reserved two-part harmonies between singers Rydell and Case. Tickets are $12-15 sold online, over the phone and at the venue. www.lanesboroarts.org

Fri Oct 20, 2017 Fright At The Farm 2017 Oct 20, 27, 31, Nov 3, 4, 2017 7:00 pm | $13-$15 Willow’s Keep Farm 47385 Hwy 52 Zumbrota, MN 55992 ‘HAUNTING SOUTHERN MINNESOTA’ Come visit Southern Minnesota’s most horrifying haunted attraction located at the Willows Keep Farm (HWY 52, Zumbrota). With over 10,000 square feet of indoor haunts with a haunted corn maze. This haunted attraction is truly designed to frighten and amuse you. We have live theatrical tour guides that walk your through our attraction. Don’t be left for dead! This is a live performance you don’t want to miss! Visit the pumpkin patch and corn maze open 12-4 PM on weekends and MEA Thursday and Friday. Walk-through tour with LIVE actors. Love Letters Oct 20, 21, 2017 7:30 pm | $15-$25

Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 1987 Pulitzer Prize nominee, this charming, funny and touching play covers Melissa and Andrew’s nearly 50 years of friendship through notes, letters and cards.

Sat Oct 21, 2017 Austin Police Officers Association Presents Collin Raye - 7:00 pm | More information to follow Austin High School - Knowlton Auditorium 301 3rd St NW Austin, MN 55912 The Austin Police Officers Association presents Nashville recording artist Collin Raye on Saturday, October 21, 7:00 PM in the Knowlton Auditorium in the Austin High School. Proceeds benefit The Austin Police Officers Association, supporting youth and community organizations! Tickets are $35 in advance or at the door. Advance

tickets are available now at 507-9903892 or at the Law Enforcement Center. Choral Arts Ensemble: Speaking Truth to Power - 7:30 pm | $5-$25 Zumbro Lutheran Church 624 3rd Ave SW Rochester, MN 55902 Five hundred years ago this fall, Martin Luther risked his life to speak truth to power. Through readings presented by members of Great River Shakespeare Festival and choral works by Bach, Britten, Brahms and Paulus, Choral Arts Ensemble will pay homage to the courageous integrity of Luther, Gandhi, Oscar Romero, Susan B Anthony, and others One Night in Memphis - 7:30 pm | $45 - Balcony advanced: $35; Main floor Day Of: $50 - Balcony Day Of: $40. The Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Tribute to legendary Sun Records

Let Us Live, Let Us Love - 7:30 pm | $22-$36. Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church 1900 Wellesley Avenue St. Paul, MN 55105 Performing on Saturday October 21st in St. Paul and Sunday October 22nd in Columbia Heights, the Singers honor Dominick Argento on the eve of his 90th birthday with a rare performance of I Hate and I Love, his masterful setting of texts he translated from the poet Catullus. Exploring the connection of life and love, we also will perform Stephen Paulus Poemas de Amor, Benjamin Brittens Hymn to Saint Cecilia, Irving Fines Hour Glass Suite, and a world premiere by Benjamin Wegner. Dont miss the seasons electrifying opener! The Singers Matthew Culloton, Artistic Director & Conductor with Robert Adney and Erik Barsness, percussion. Please visit our website at http://www.singersmca. org/archives/3544 for details. Tickets available online at: http://www. singersmca.org/archives/event/whatsweeter-music.

Sun Oct 22, 2017 Heartland Marimba Quartet CONCERT - 2:00 pm | $15 Studio Z 275 East 4th Street Suite 200 Saint Paul, MN 55101 HMQ is a dynamic ensemble within the HM organization made up of four marimba specialists of excitingly different backgrounds and styles of performance. The accomplished artists are some of the most creative forces in the percussion world today. It focuses on high caliber performances of contemporary works and transcriptions by American composers. HMQ regularly tours to a variety of venues, including universities, concert halls, churches, museums, and high schools, doing concerts, collaborations, and educational events. Jazz Jam hosted by the D’Sievers - 6:30 pm | Free Forager Brewery 1005 6th St NW Rochester, MN 55901 Once again its time for the Jazz Jam. Join in with The D’Sievers rhythm section to play a jazz standard. Bring your fan club and sign up to sing or play a few songs with the live rhythm section. We’ll be in the main tap room this time! We can’t wait to see you there and hear what you’ll contribute. Bryan Wattier (keys), Kurt Savela (kit), and Steve Sawyer (bass). John Sievers (bone and emcee). Junior Brown - 7:00 pm | $30$55. Students $15 Sheldon Theatre 443 west third street Red Wing, MN 55066 [His] revisionist western swingsongs

have a cheeky quality thats as timely and infectious as his picking. Rolling Stone [Hes] a guitar god, but hes also one funny guy. Chicago Tribune With his unique voice, more unique song writing, and even more unique double necked Guit-Steel guitar (of his own invention), there has absolutely never been ANYONE like Junior Brown. Hes the American Original. Junior Browns wicked playing is unmatched. His original songwriting style employs subtle dry wit in some tunes others can be more overtly humorous, or just plain dead serious; like his playing, there is a wide range of styles that when combined can only spell Junior Brown. Seeing Junior live is a definite must, so Guit With It cause hes The American Original!

Tue Oct 24, 2017 Creative Weaving Oct 24, 26, 2017 9:30 am | $45-$50. Members $45/Non-members $50 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Weave a landscape or freeform design on a tapestry loom to make as a wall hanging or pillow which will be started the first session, taken home and finished the second session. Warped looms and supplies will be provided, Two sessions.

Wed Oct 25, 2017 Introduction to Printmaking 10:00 am | $45-$50. Members $45/Non-members $50 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 In this 3-day class learn about printmaking, and create your very own cards; make them all occasion or holiday inspired. In this class, we will draw, trace, carve, and create oneof-a-kind cards that will bring delight to those you share them with. No previous knowledge is needed and all supplies are included in the fee. Bollywood Zumba Infusioin - 5:30 pm | $10-$30. Members $10/ Non-members $30 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Named for the common style of dance found in Bollywood films. ‘Bollywood Dance’ is a fun and creative experience. Join Rimki as she guides participants through an aeorbic workout that will have everyone smiling. Each week you will learn more steps and increase your fitness level. Movie Night at the Paramount Ghostbusters (PG) - 7:30 pm | $5 The Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Only $5 for a ticket! Purchase tickets at the concession stand on the night of the show; no advance ticket sales. For more information or to request your favorite film for future shows, email info@austinareaarts.org or call 507-434-0934. Film Screening “Charged: The Eduardo Garcia Story” - 7:30 pm | $10

AMC Rosedale 14 850 Rosedale Ctr Saint Paul, MN 55113 Charged tells the true story of Eduardo Garcia, a successful yacht chef at the peak of his career, who suffers a life-changing injury. While hiking in the Montana wilderness, he is zapped with 2400 volts of electricity. After coming to, from what should have killed him, he manages to get to his feet and walk three miles to get help. Garcia spends the next 48 days in the Burn Trauma ICU with nine severe exit wounds, where he underwent 21 surgeries, including the removal of four ribs and destroyed muscle mass from his legs, arms, torso and scalp, and the amputation of his left forearm and hand. While in the ICU, fighting to survive, he is dealt another blow: stage 2 testicular cancer. Months before the accident, Garcias long-term girlfriend, Jennifer Jane, left him after he had proven unfaithful. Still struggling with the knowledge that he wasnt the man she thought he was, Jennifer flew from England to be his primary caregiver, spending 24 hours a day in the ICU, all the while documenting his recovery and rehabilitation. After undergoing aggressive chemotherapy, and finishing his surgeries, Garcia must learn how to use a prosthetic arm in his everyday life, and get back in the kitchen to fulfill his passion, and career, as a chef. Charged is a survival story built on the foundations of love and forgiveness. Its about building stronger relationships and a better life after tragedy.

Thu Oct 26, 2017 Fright - 7:00 pm | $13-$15 Willow’s Keep Farm 47385 Hwy 52 MN 55992 ‘HAUNTING SOUTHERN MINNESOTA’ Come visit Southern Minnesota’s most horrifying haunted attraction located at the Willows Keep Farm (HWY 52, Zumbrota). With over 10,000 square feet of indoor haunts with a haunted corn maze. This haunted attraction is truly designed to frighten and amuse you. We have live theatrical tour guides that walk your through our attraction. Don’t be left for dead! This is a live performance you don’t want to miss! Visit the pumpkin patch and corn maze open 12 PM - 4 PM on weekends and MEA Thursday and Friday. Walkthrough tour with LIVE actors.

Fri Oct 27, 2017 Quilting for the Soul: Pieces of Creative Expression - 3:00 pm | $150 Assisi Heights Spirituality Center 1001 14th. ST NW. Rochester, mn 55901 Come together friends, both old and new, as you create patterns for lifes journey in color and design. As you learn from one another, you will also have time to learn more about your creative ability in choice of pattern, color, texture, and hue. This retreat will feed your soul and spirit and you will leave refreshed for the week ahead. Please send a photo of a quilt that you have, or are now creating, with the title of the pattern to ahsc@ rochesterfranciscan.org , or mail to

Angie at Assisi Heights Spirituality Center. Send them at least two weeks prior to the workshop, so they can be included in one of the reflections. Diane Wrobelski and Mary Eliot Crowley, OSF, will be your hostesses and reflection guides throughout the weekend. Ghosts From the Past - 6:00 pm | $5-$8. $8 - Adults$5 - BECHS Members and Children 5-17 Blue Earth County Historical Society History Center 424 Warren Street Mankato, MN 56001 Join us for the 31st Annual Ghosts From the Past, where characters from the past are brought to live through costumed characters. This year’s program is titled: From Normal School to University: 150 Years of MSU, Mankato. Guides will lead guests around the History Center to meet different ‘ghosts from the past.’ Performances begin every 15 minutes; last performance begins at 8 p.m. This event will take place over 2 nights only, so reserve your tickets early. Tickets go on sale October 15. ArtRocks Open Jam Session 7:00 pm | Free Austin ArtWorks Center 300 North Main Street Austin, MN 55912 The house band sets up and hosts the event. Players bring their guitars, basses, horns, sticks, keyboards, washboards, etc, and singers and songwriters bring themselves, their words, and their voices. The house band will ‘back’ individual jammers, and allow for groups of jammers to get up and play. ArtRocks events are open to friends and family members of jammers, as well as the public. No need to play or perform; listening is an art too! Admission is free. Donations welcome. For more information, call 507-434-0934 or go to www. austinareaarts.org.

Sat Oct 28, 2017 Quilting for the Soul: Pieces of Creative Expression Oct 28, 29, 2017 7:00 am | $150 Assisi Heights Spirituality Center 1001 14th. ST NW. Rochester, mn 55901 Come together friends, both old and new, as you create patterns for lifes journey in color and design. As you learn from one another, you will also have time to learn more about your creative ability in choice of pattern, color, texture, and hue. This retreat will feed your soul and spirit and you will leave refreshed for the week ahead. Please send a photo of a quilt that you have, or are now creating, with the title of the pattern to ahsc@ rochesterfranciscan.org , or mail to Angie at Assisi Heights Spirituality Center. Send them at least two weeks prior to the workshop, so they can be included in one of the reflections. Diane Wrobelski and Mary Eliot Crowley, OSF, will be your hostesses and reflection guides throughout the weekend. Leaf for Lupus - 10:00 am | $5 Hidden Greens Golf Course

Dusty Heart Red Rock Center for the Arts – Nov. 10 Give a small town venue a chance! The Red Rock Center for the Arts is hosting some great Minnesota musicians in the upcoming season. Rich vocal harmonies merge with intimate layers of guitar, fiddle and banjo to define the lush sound of Dusty Heart. Barbara Jean and Molly Dean are two songwriters recognized in their own right for their poetic lyrics and distinct vocal styles that when combined create a powerful and haunting sound that takes on a life of its own. Through their shared wanderlust and love of adventure, a passion for the open road, vast landscapes, and mutual love for musical harmony, the two decided to join forces and craft a sound that bridges together the diverse musical worlds of roots, indie, and folk. Tickets are only $10 for adults and $5 for students. www.redrockcenter.org

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12977 200th St. E. Hastings, MN 55033 JUMP in the Leaves for a Good Cause! Hidden Greens Golf Course has hundreds of trees which produce enough collected leaves to create 12-foot high piles to jump in! So, come out and jump in the piles and partake in the other family activities too! $5 Admission. Jump in giant leaf piles, Hayride through the woods, crazy hair, cookie, decorating, staged photo booth (bring your own camera), silent auction, concession stand. 100 percent of proceeds from admission, concession stand sales, and silent auction items benefit Lupus Link Minnesota. Weather permitting; parent supervision required. Spooktacular crafts and vendor event - 12:00 pm | Free Eagles Club 703 307 11th Street Northeast Austin, MN 55912 Come and enjoy a great day of shopping with our great selection of vendors,crafts,direct sales and other home based businesses. * clothing * candles * kitchen accessories. * jewelry. * blankets and pillows. * make up and beauty And many other great stuff. Food and drinks available. Bingo game on the main bar Integrating Mandalas, Music and Meditation - A Capstone Event 6:30 pm | Free Assisi Heights 1001 14th Street NW Rochester, MN 55901 You are invited to an Artists Reception and Capstone Event to celebrate the artistry of Sister Bernadine Jax, OSF, at Assisi Heights, Rochester, MN. The mandala is a centuries-old, circular Sanskrit symbol, serving as an anchor point from which to meditate, in order to achieve balance, personal peace and healing. Sister Bernadines particular art form incorporates personallydesigned mandalas on vinyl records, a photo-journal, and meditative musicall packaged in a take-home DVD. Sister Bernadine will be launching this art form throughout southeastern Minnesota, compliments of an art grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council (SEMAC). Times, dates and locations for future classes to create your own mandalas will be forthcoming. Join us for dessert, chat with the artist, view and/or purchase mandalas, DVDs and other creations by Sister Bernadine. Halloween Show w/ Good Morning Bedlam, HOTD Local Sports - 7:00 pm Fox and Fern Floral 615 6th Ave. NW Rochester, MN 55901 Halloween Show w/ Good Morning Bedlam Hair of the Dog & Local Sports Suggested $10 donation at door All Ages - BYOB for the 21 and over crowd Fox & Fern Floral 615 6th Ave NW Rochester, MN 55901 This is going to be a really fun show at a really cool spot. Come out and celebrate Halloween with some great live music. Suggested $10 donation at door. Alan Jackson - 7:30 pm | $49.50$74.50 Target Center 600 1st Ave North Minneapolis, MN 55403 This concert was originally scheduled for Saturday, November 19, 2016

but was postponed due to winter weather conditions. Tickets for the original show will be honored at the rescheduled date. Craig Karges The Extraordinist 7:30 pm | $15-$25 Sheldon Theatre 443 west third street Red Wing, MN 55066 ‘Astounding KTLA-TV, Los Angeles Halloween weekend, you wont believe your eyes! Craig Karges combines the art of magic with the science of psychology and the power of intuition to create extraordinary events, live, on stage. Karges dazzles the eye and captivates the mind during his spellbinding performance as tables float, minds are read, metal bends, and your imagination is challenged. In the uncanny world of Craig Karges, there is no smoke and there are no mirrors, just an engaging personality and a powerful presentation that will leave you with the sense of having experienced something truly extraordinary! Caravan du Nord - Dead Man Winter - 7:30 pm | $10 The Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Caravan du Nord is back with this new project from Dead Man Winter featuring David Simonett of Trampled by Turtles, Good Night Gold Dust, and Lydia Liza. Tickets are $10. Doors open at 7 pm; concert starts at 7:30 pm. For tickets or more information, call 507-434-0934 or go to www. austinareaarts.org. Music From America - 7:30 pm | Free Christ United Methodist Church 400 5th Ave SW Rochester, MN 55902 Rochester Chamber Music Society presents its second concert of the season, Music from America. Rochester artists James Buchan and Horacio Nuguid join together for a unique performance of music for violin and piano. Their program will include works by American composers as well as works inspired by sojourns in the country. Visit our website rochesterchambermusic.org for more details. There is no admission charge for RCMS concerts.

Sun Oct 29, 2017 Austin Symphony Orchestra - Swingin’ At the Symphony 2:00 pm | $15 for performance; season tickets from $40 Austin High School - Knowlton Auditorium 301 3rd St NW Austin, MN 55912 Kick off the ASO’s 61st season by welcoming to the stage Austins own Big Band for a set of challenging, multifaceted, and stylistically diverse works written by Americas finest Jazz artists: Duke Ellington and Wynton Marsalis. The symphony pays tribute to George Gershwin on a significant anniversary. Life-long music educator, Brian Koser, joins us for what is sure to be a thrilling performance of Darius Milhauds most famous work for saxophone and orchestra. Tickets are also available at the Coffee House on Main Street and Hy-Vee. For more information, go to www. austinsymphonyorchestra.org.

East Metro Symphony Orchestra (Emso) - 3:00 pm | Free King of Kings Lutheran Church Woodbury 1583 Radio Drive Woodbury, MN 55125 The East Metro Symphony Orchestra (EMSO) is proud to announce the first program of its 2017-2018 Season of Celebrations concert season. A Mighty Fortress will be presented on Sunday, October 29, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. at King of Kings Lutheran Church, 1583 Radio Drive, Woodbury, MN. Corresponding with the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, the centerpiece of A Mighty Fortress will be Felix Mendelssohns Reformation Symphony, and will feature performances by the King of Kings Lutheran Churchs Kings Choir, Brass Ensemble, and JuBELLation Handbell Choir. Admission to this concert is free. Free will offerings in support of the orchestras work in the community are always appreciated. Visit EMSOs website for more information. Indian Standup Comedy Event 4:00 pm | $20 oak grove middle school 1300 W 106th St Minneapolis, mn 55431 Please join KK’s Blood Chutney Indian Standup Comedy Event on October 29th Sunday 4:30pm at OakGrove Middle School. BLOOD CHUTNEY is Karthik Kumar’s third solo standup special. Touring now across India, Singapore, United States, UK, Dubai, Oman! Blood Chutney is Comedy Catharsis, and is KK’s 3rd Comedy Special after #PokeMe & Second Decoction. A Stand-Up Comedy (16+ only-) Special born out of difficult personal situations. An effort to make you believe that all tragedy is just an opportunity for positive thinking. Come and watch KK take on life’s punches and convert them into punchlines. Buy tickets at https://www.bloodchutney.com/ Oak Grove Middle School. 1300 W 106th St, Minneapolis, MN 55431 Snacks and Dinner Boxes available for Sale by Bayleaf Indian Cuisine. FREE Kids Care (from ages 3 to 16) available at venue! Ticket Type & Price ================= Group of 10 $180.0 Group of 6 $110.0 Group of 3 $57.0 General $20.0 All proceeds will be distributed to Agaram Educational Foundation. For inquiries or sponsors, please reach out. Please cascade to your community members. Ashok @ 612.615.5270 Ranjani @ 650.274.3505 Senthil @ 612.978.2085

Tue Oct 31, 2017 Finding Neverland Oct 31, Nov 5, 2017 7:00 pm | $30 Orpheum Theatre 910 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55403 The amazing musical of the story of the creator of Peter Pan, Finding Neverland is approaching the end of its run at the Orpheum Theatre Minneapolis for on Saturday 4th November 2017. Guaranteed to be a sell out show, grab your tickets now and don’t miss out on the experience!

Wed Nov 1, 2017 Movie Night at the Paramount - Good Will Hunting (R) - 7:30 pm | $5 The Historic Paramount Theatre

125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Only $5 for a ticket! Purchase tickets at the concession stand on the night of the show; no advance ticket sales. For more information or to request your favorite film for future shows, email info@austinareaarts.org or call 507-434-0934.

Thu Nov 2, 2017 In the Next Room (or the vibrator play) Nov 2, 4, 9, 11, 2017 7:30 pm | $7-$17. $17 General public$12 U of M Faculty/Staff/ Alumni/Retirees$7 Students (any college or under 18) Rarig Center-University Of Minnesota 330 21st Avenue S Minneapolis, MN 55455 In the Next Room or the vibrator play By Sarah Ruhl Directed by Kate Powers Presented on the Stoll Thrust Stage Performance dates: November 2, 2017 November 12, 2017 A progressive comedy about marriage, intimacy, and electricity. Award-winning playwright, Sarah Ruhl, was hailed as one of the most gifted and adventurous American playwrights to emerge in recent years (NYTimes). Set in the Victorian era, Dr. Givings has innocently invented an extraordinary device for treating ‘hysteria’ in women: the vibrator. Adjacent to the doctor’s laboratory, his young and energetic wife wonders exactly what is going on in the next room. Insightful, fresh, and funny, its humor touches on race, gender, power and nature. Contains mature content. Seating is general admission. Running time: approx. 2 hours ASL performance: November 5 at 2 PM Audio Described performance: November 5 at 7:30 PM University of Minnesota Department of Theatre Arts and Dance 330 21st Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55455 P: 612-6255380 E: theatre@umn.edu theatre.umn. edu Tickets: z.umn.edu/umtad

Lives Unfurled art show The Arts Center of St. Peter – Oct. 27-Nov.26 More than 50 mixed media portraits and other work by self-taught artist and world traveler Gregory Todd Wilkins will fill the galleries of the Arts Center of Saint Peter Oct. 27 through Nov. 26, the first solo exhibition of Wilkins’ work. Wilkins, who won Best in Show at the 25th Annual Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council juried exhibition currently on display at the Arts Center, began sewing, crossstitching, and exploring performing arts as a child. This lifelong practice, combined with Wilkins’ passions for travel and social justice, form the basis of the exhibition — which features street portraits Wilkins captured across the globe and embellished with paint, fiber, and other materials. The public is invited to a free opening reception on Saturday, Oct. 28 3-5 p.m. Wilkins will give brief remarks at 3:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Find Arts Center of St. Peter on Facebook.

Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real and Nikki Lane - 12:00 am | $20 Fine Line Music Cafe 318 First Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55401 Since forming 10 years ago, the buzz surrounding Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real has been quietly intensifying. During that time, the 28-year old singer/songwriter/guitarist and his bandmates have played hundreds of shows and major festivals all over the world and built a devoted underground following. Lukas’ profile continued to rise when he contributed three songs and heavenly vocals to his dad Willie Nelson’s 2012 album, Heroes, their voices blending with potent DNA.

Sarah Ruhl, was hailed as one of the most gifted and adventurous American playwrights to emerge in recent years (NYTimes). Set in the Victorian era, Dr. Givings has innocently invented an extraordinary device for treating ‘hysteria’ in women: the vibrator. Adjacent to the doctor’s laboratory, his young and energetic wife wonders exactly what is going on in the next room. Insightful, fresh, and funny, its humor touches on race, gender, power and nature. Contains mature content. Seating is general admission. Running time: approx. 2 hours ASL performance: November 5 at 2 PM Audio Described performance: November 5 at 7:30 PM University of Minnesota Department of Theatre Arts and Dance 330 21st Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55455 P: 612-6255380 E: theatre@umn.edu theatre.umn. edu Tickets: z.umn.edu/umtad

In the Next Room (Or the Vibrator Play) - 7:30 am | $7-$17. $17 General public $12 U of M Rarig Center-University Of Minnesota 330 21st Avenue S Minneapolis, MN 55455 In the Next Room or the vibrator play By Sarah Ruhl Directed by Kate Powers Presented on the Stoll Thrust Stage Performance dates: November 2, 2017 November 12, 2017 A progressive comedy about marriage, intimacy, and electricity. Award-winning playwright,

Youth Poetry Showcase “I Remember...” - 6:30 pm | Free Studio 324 324 S. Broadway Rochester, MN 55906 Youth from our community take center stage to perform original poetic works about their lives and experiences, their travails and dreams, centered around the theme, ‘I Remember...’! We are still looking for more kids to perform! If you (or your child) would like to perform in the showcase, email Danny Solis, eldannysolis@yahoo.com or call him

Fri Nov 3, 2017

at 505-459-3574. Performance will be at Studio 324 with snacks and refreshments available. This event is part of Day of the Dead Poets Slam 2017. Other events in this series are: Very Important Pachanga later that night (Friday Nov 3), Think & Do Free Family Day (Nov 4), and Day of the Dead Poets Slam (Nov 4). For more information about these events, visit deadpoetslam.com Questions? Contact info@rochesterartensemble.org or call Danny Solis at 505-459-3574. Day of the Dead Poets Slam 2017 is a production of Rochester Art Ensemble. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund. Singin’ in the Rain Theatre Production Nov 3, 10, 11, 2017 7:00 pm | $8-$12. Tickets can be purchased online: https://www. newlifeacademy.org/arts/theatre/ singing-in-rain/ New Life Academy 6758 Bailey Rd Woodbury, MN 55129 New Life Academy Theatre presents Singin’ in the Rain Singin in the Rain pours down delight, capturing the waning days of the silent screen era as they give way to new-fangled talkies. With The Jazz Singer premiere making Hollywood frantic, the studios are forced to suddenly change all

the movie-making rules at once, to accommodate sound. In doing so, they leave silent pictures and some of their stars behind. When Monumental Studios turns silent The Dueling Cavalier into The Dancing Cavalier, a musical picture, in order to stay relevant, they are faced with a problem: their star, Lina Lamont cant sing, and cant even really talk. Linas voice sounds something like nails on a chalkboard. Enter Kathy Selden, an aspiring actress whose dulcet tones are able to cover Lina Lamonts calling into question what it means to act, how credit is distributed, and what it means to get a fair shake in the movie business. Singin in the Rain includes some of the best-loved comedy routines, dance numbers, and love songs ever written, including Good Mornin, Make em Laugh, and of course the show-stopping dance number, Singin in the Rain. Arts Midwest World Fest Sofi and the Baladis - 7:30 pm | $20 Sheldon Theatre 443 west third street Red Wing, MN 55066 Arts Midwest World Fest presentsSofi and the Baladis Experience one familys remarkable story through the heartfelt melodies of Sofi and

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Robby Vee & His Rock-n-Roll Caravan of Stars The Oak Center General Store in Lake City – Nov. 4 Robby is currently touring with a tradition from his family heritage, Fairs, Festivals, Casinos and Theaters with his rock n roll caravan of stars. The show is a celebration of the golden era of rock-n-roll featuring a video and musical tip of the hat to the architects & legends. Including musical tributes to: Twang Guitar (Chuck Berry, Duane Eddy, Ventures, Dick Dale), (father) Bobby Vee & Buddy Holly Feb 3rd “the day the music died”, Memphis & Sun Records with the music of Elvis, Cash, Lewis & Perkins, Dick Clark & American Bandstand, a salute to Vinyl Records. Also a Traditional Americana Roots tribute spanning from Hank Williams, Bob Dylan to Bluegrass, Hillbilly Music & ‘good ol’ foot stompin’ hip shaken’ a-wopbop-allu-bop rock-n-roll’! Lake City is nestled against the Mississippi River in southeastern Minnesota. The Oake Center General Store was built in 1913 and resurrected in 1976. The store carries organic meat, produce, eggs, herbs, coffee and bulk items.

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Arab identities. This is a Kids Play Free event.

the Baladis. Journey through time to explore ancient Samaritan songs and a timeless search for balance, understanding, and belonging. With a unique blend of cultures and styles, this soulful ensemble will connect you to the heart of Israel. Sofi and the Baladis, a five-member ensemble led by singer Sofi Tsedaka, features soulful and richly textured performances of an array of musical traditions that lie at the heart of Israels diverse and historic cultures. The groups multi-lingual concerts present new interpretations of songs from the ancient Samaritan community as well as compelling vocal and instrumental work from mid-20th century Arabic composers. Their music transcends genres and moves easily from deeply spiritual to an upbeat and rhythmic style that captivates and brings audiences to their feet. The commentary Sofi provides throughout the concert tells the moving and powerful story of the Samaritan Tsedaka family and their search for balance as they navigate the pathway between their Jewish and

VIP Very Important Pachanga 9:00 pm | $0-$10. Studio 324 324 S. Broadway Rochester, MN 55906 A ‘pachanga’ is a party, and you’re invited! Come to Studio 324 in the heart of downtown Rochester to meet and hang out with our performing poets, altar artists, and event organizers! This party will be festooned in bright colors and will have a mix of traditional and modern Mexican music. There will be a free salsa and samba dance lesson, open to all experience levels, so be ready to move! Suggested Donation: $10 (No one turned away for lack of funds.) Please pay at the door. Cash, check, or card accepted. Local artists have been commissioned to design and install Dia de los Muertos altars for this event: Teaki Garcia, Amarama Vercnocke, Karla R. Giguere and Genevieve Giguere, and Jeffrey Jurewicz and Miguel Pareja Cajiao.

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Sat Nov 4, 2017

Wine, Women & Musical Comedy - 7:00 pm | $12-$22. Member: $17 | Non Member: $22 | Student: $12 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 This night features free wine tasting and wine glasses and then Sisters new Hunting Widows musical comedy show. This musical theater comedy act will have you laughing and crying as Sister taps into that long, important MN tradition known as opening weekend. Stay overnight at the Historic Hutchinson House B&B in Faribault and receive two free tickets to the show! (a $44 value) Caravan du Nord with Aby Wolf and PaviElle - 7:00 pm | $15 Sheldon Theatre 443 west third street Red Wing, MN 55066 MN Music Coalition and 89.3 the Current present The 7th annual Caravan du Nord, a traveling showcase of the best in current Minnesota music created by Minnesota Music Coalition and sponsored by 89.3 The Current, features three bands on one night.

Known for their ability to identify break-out talent, Caravan introduces you to the next big thing on the scene. Headliners at the 2017 Sheldon stop of the always anticipated musical caravan are Aby Wolf and PaviElle. Vocalist and songwriter Aby Wolf has attained broad recognition as the Midwest regions premier vocal talent through stirring solo performances and collaborations too numerous to mention. Wolf continues to turn heads with her unique brand of spacious electro pop (produced by Brooklyns Grant Cutler) both at home in the Twin Cities, and more recently, in cafes and clubs across Eastern Europe. PaviElle has taken the stage professionally as a vocalist, singer songwriter and spoken word artist, working with Khalil Queen, Everyday People, and as an early member of EduPoetic Enterbrainment, a group integrating spoken word, R&B, jazz, reggae and hip-hop. Her new endeavor is a musical collaboration with bassist, producer and composer Casey OBrien and presents ten years of her songwriting, all of it deeply personal and autobiographical. Weathered Willow - 7:30 pm | $10 in advance, $12 day of The Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Discover an up-and-coming alternative band with Tinderbox, Matt Mason, Swan Solo, and Weathered Willow, the new Josh Whalen project. For tickets or more information, call 507-434-0934. Girls Night Out, The Show - 8:00 pm | $20-$190 OPINION BREWING COMPANY 374 21ST ST NEWPORT, MN 55055 Girls Night Out The Show is the hottest nationally touring Ladies Night Event! Get ready for the Ultimate Magic Mike Experience LIVE! Girls Night Out The Show, Las Vegas Male Revue is an Exciting, Sex God, Ab Party, that will drive you absolutely WILD in the best way of course! The Show is a Whirlwind of Fantasy as these ripped Adonis Men bring Down the House with a Mantastic Night of Fun and Excitement! Whether youre celebrating a Birthday, Bachelorette, Divorce, Dirty Thirty or just need a night out with the girls; Youve meet your party match with the Men of GIRLS NIGHT OUT The Show! Along With Having Your Mind Blown... Here’s a few more details about what you can look forward to: 120 minutes of electrifying entertainment numbers as the guys drive you wild; they entice, tantalize and tease leaving you wanting more... then BOOM they bust out the Hip-Hop, Contemporary Rock, Country and performance dance-moves that leave you out of your seats cheering and screaming. All of this and more happens as you watch the best live Male Revue show on the road today!

Sun Nov 5, 2017 In the Next Room (or the vibrator play) Nov 5, 12, 2017 2:00 pm | $7-$17 Rarig Center-University Of Minnesota 330 21st Avenue S Minneapolis, MN 55455 In the Next Room or the vibrator play By Sarah Ruhl Directed by Kate Powers Presented on the Stoll Thrust Stage Performance dates: November

2, 2017 November 12, 2017 A progressive comedy about marriage, intimacy, and electricity. Awardwinning playwright, Sarah Ruhl, was hailed as one of the most gifted and adventurous American playwrights to emerge in recent years (NYTimes). Set in the Victorian era, Dr. Givings has innocently invented an extraordinary device for treating ‘hysteria’ in women: the vibrator. Adjacent to the doctor’s laboratory, his young and energetic wife wonders exactly what is going on in the next room. Insightful, fresh, and funny, its humor touches on race, gender, power and nature. Contains mature content. Seating is general admission. Running time: approx. 2 hours ASL performance: November 5 at 2 PM Audio Described performance: November 5 at 7:30 PM University of Minnesota Department of Theatre Arts and Dance 330 21st Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55455 P: 612-6255380 E: theatre@umn.edu theatre.umn. edu Tickets: z.umn.edu/umtad

Mon Nov 6, 2017 Watercolor For Beginners - 9:00 am | $5-$10. Members $5/ Non-members $10. Everyone pays $10 for materials unless personal supplies are used. 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 This stand alone session will focus on paint application techniques, color mixing and equipment needs. Projects will include simple compositions from photo references and still life arrangements. No previous knowledge is needed and all supplies are include in the fee. If you already own your own supplies, you do not need to pay the materials fee of $10. Registration is required. Operetta! - 2:30 pm | $10 Assisi Heights Spirituality Center 1001 14th. ST NW. Rochester, mn 55901 Prior to the musical theater as we know it today, was the world of the operetta. Sigmund Romberg was one for the greatest writers of the musical form. We will explore his life as well as his favorite works, The Student Prince and The Desert Song. In addition, listen to famous duets from the operetta world, as sung by Jeannette MacDonald and Nelson Eddy. Frank McIlmail is such a connoisseur of Broadway musicals that it runs in his blood! Growing up in the shadow of New Yorks Broadway, he comes by this naturally. Now retired from serving as a nursing professor at the College of St. Teresa, Winona, MN, and Viterbo University in LaCrosse, WI. Frank and his wife, Judy, actively work on peace and justice issues in their local community.

Wed Nov 8, 2017 Movie Night - Forrest Gump (PG13) - 7:30 pm | $5 The Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Only $5 for a ticket! Purchase tickets at the concession stand on the night of the show; no advance ticket sales. For more information or to request your favorite film for future shows, email info@austinareaarts.org or call 507-434-0934.

Thu Nov 9, 2017 Kamasi Washington - 12:00 pm | see website First Avenue 701 First Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55403 Avant-garde jazz titan Kamasi Washington’s new EP Harmony of Difference, the first new music from Washington since his universally acclaimed 2015 debut album The Epic, is coming out in August via Young Turks. Furthermore, Washington has confirmed a very special run of North American headline shows this fall in partnership with AEG and Madison House Presents. The dates kick off November 7 in Milwaukee, with further shows in Chicago, New York, D.C., Philadelphia, Atlanta and many more. Please see below for full tour details. Harmony of Difference premiered as part of the Whitney Museum of American Art 2017 Biennial alongside a film by A.G. Rojas and also featuring artwork by Kamasi Washington’s sister, Amani Washington. Blithe Spirit By Noel Coward 7:00 pm | $15 Sheldon Theatre 443 west third street Red Wing, MN 55066 Phoenix Theatre presents Blithe Spirit By Noel Coward Phoenix Theatre, the Sheldons resident community theatre company, presents the smash comedy hit of the London and Broadway stages, Blithe Spirit. This beloved classic tells the story of a fussy, cantankerous novelist, Charles Condomine. Charles is re-married but haunted (literally) by the ghost of his late first wife, the clever and insistent Elvira who is called up by a visiting happy medium, Madame Arcati. As the worldly and other-worldly personalities clash, Charles current wife, Ruth, is accidentally killed, passes over, joins Elvira, and the two blithe spirits haunt the hapless Charles into perpetuity. Blithe Spirit is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. This is a Kids Play Free event Cirque du Soleil Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience 7:30 pm | Free Target Center 600 1st Ave North Minneapolis, MN 55403 Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to venture into uncharted territory with its brand new creation, Cirque du Soleil Crystal, exploring the artistic attributes of ice for the very first time. Specifically created for arenas, the state-of-theart production will create a fresh innovative experience, pushing the boundaries once again by combining outstanding skating and sliding, remarkable aesthetics and acrobatic feats that defy the imagination. ‘We are excited to create a unique entertainment experience on ice for all spectators to enjoy. It’s a wonderful opportunity for Cirque du Soleil as ice provides us with an entirely new field of play which also comes with a set of creative challenges. Our goal is to continuously surprise audiences by showcasing all the incredible possibilities on ice,’ explained Yasmine Khalil, Executive Producer of Crystal. Crystal will follow a young woman who shatters through reality to reach a surreal world filled with possibility. Beneath the surface, she pursues the life that has been glistening within.

Sometimes, we must first leave solid ground to find our true footing. Cirque du Soleil invites the audience to discover Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience and find out what it means to skate on the edge of reality.

Fri Nov 10, 2017 Cirque du Soleil Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience 3:30 pm | Free Target Center 600 1st Ave North Minneapolis, MN 55403 Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to venture into uncharted territory with its brand new creation, Cirque du Soleil Crystal, exploring the artistic attributes of ice for the very first time. Specifically created for arenas, the state-of-theart production will create a fresh innovative experience, pushing the boundaries once again by combining outstanding skating and sliding, remarkable aesthetics and acrobatic feats that defy the imagination. ‘We are excited to create a unique entertainment experience on ice for all spectators to enjoy. It’s a wonderful opportunity for Cirque du Soleil as ice provides us with an entirely new field of play which also comes with a set of creative challenges. Our goal is to continuously surprise audiences by showcasing all the incredible possibilities on ice,’ explained Yasmine Khalil, Executive Producer of Crystal. Crystal will follow a young woman who shatters through reality to reach a surreal world filled with possibility. Beneath the surface, she pursues the life that has been glistening within. Sometimes, we must first leave solid ground to find our true footing. Cirque du Soleil invites the audience to discover Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience and find out what it means to skate on the edge of reality. The Mystery Cafe presents “Let’s Kill the Boss” Nov 10, 11, 2017 7:00 pm | $69.75 Double Tree Hotel 1500 Park Pl Blvd St Louis Park, MN 55416 Visit www.themysterycafe.com for tickets! Mystery Cafe dishes out a hilarious comedy caper, where you and your table are invited to solve the crimeall while enjoying a delicious 3-course meal. Upon arrival, youll be seated by members of the cast. Clues are all around, and youll also be provided with Mystery Money, so you can bribe characters for more information. The evidence points to one answer, and a prize is awarded to our Super Sleuth winner. We also give prizes for the mostshall we saycreative answer. Right or wrong, youll be laughing all the way to the solution. You may not crack the case, but youll certainly bust a gut! About the ‘Let’s Kill the Boss’: Its 2Ms annual Employee Appreciation Night, and everyone is ready to celebrate. But a 10 year curse threatens to derail the proceedings. Mysterious disappearances, stolen blueprints, lax securityand the Big Cheese is in the crosshairs. But remember, you cant spell manslaughter without laughter. A perennial favorite, Lets Kill the Boss is our longestrunning show. A goofy spoof of corporate culture, youll wish YOUR workplace was this much fun! Blithe Spirit By Noel Coward Nov

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Fiddler on the Roof Northfield Arts Guild – Nov. 17 The Northfield Arts Guild continues to impress with its shows, arts, music and everything in between. To kick off the 2017 holiday season, it presents the classic “Fiddler on the Roof,” starting with an opening night reception Nov. 17. Fiddler is a lavishly produced and critically acclaimed screen adaptation of the international stage sensation tells the life-affirming story of Tevye (Topol), a poor milkman whose love, pride and faith help him face the oppression of turn-of-the century czarist Russia. The play is based on Sholem Aleichem stories by special permission of Arnold Perl, book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, produced on the New York Stage by Harold Prince. The original New York Stage was produce, directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins. www.northfieldartsguild.org Blithe Spirit By Noel Coward Nov 10, 11, 2017 7:30 pm | $15 Sheldon Theatre 443 west third street Red Wing, MN 55066 Phoenix Theatre presents Blithe Spirit By Noel Coward Phoenix Theatre, the Sheldons resident community theatre company, presents the smash comedy hit of the London and Broadway stages, Blithe Spirit. This beloved classic tells the story of a fussy, cantankerous novelist, Charles Condomine. Charles is re-married but haunted (literally) by the ghost of his late first wife, the clever and insistent Elvira who is called up by a visiting happy medium, Madame Arcati. As the worldly and other-worldly personalities clash, Charles current wife, Ruth, is accidentally killed, passes over, joins Elvira, and the two blithe spirits haunt the hapless Charles into perpetuity. Blithe Spirit is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. This is a Kids Play Free event ArtRocks Open Jam Session 7:30 pm | Free Austin ArtWorks Center 300 North Main Street Austin, MN 55912 The house band sets up and hosts the event. Players bring their guitars, basses, horns, sticks, keyboards, washboards, etc, and singers and songwriters bring themselves, their words, and their voices. The house band will ‘back’ individual jammers, and allow for groups of jammers to get up and play. ArtRocks events are open to friends and family members of jammers, as well as the public. No need to play or perform; listening is an art too! Admission is free. Donations welcome. For more information, call 507-434-0934 or go to www. austinareaarts.org. Bunker’s presents Scottie Miller Band - 9:30 pm | Free Bunker’s Music Bar and Grill 761 N. Washington Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55401 Scottie Miller was just inducted in to the Minnesota Blues Hall of Fame for ‘Blues Performer’. He has toured with three-time Grammy nominated singer since 2008. He has also toured with great, late Rock N’ Roll Hall of Famer’ Bo Diddley. His tenth CD release was held here at Bunker’s in June 2017. ‘Stay Above Water’ has been highly acclaimed and has been in the top twenty the past 2 months on the Roots

PM Tim Hawkins with special guest Dustin Nickerson

Music Reports. Piano-Blues, rock, funk & soul! Learn more at: http:// scottiemiller.com

du Soleil invites the audience to discover Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience and find out what it means to skate on the edge of reality.

Sat Nov 11, 2017

Dana Louise and the Glorious Birds - 7:30 pm | $10-$20 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 Dana brings her vibrant, melodic vocals and finger picking to a body of complex songs. She draws her sound from jazz, bluegrass, and contemporary folk. Dana Louise , backed by the Glorious Birds, including Grammynominated Ezra Ildet, work to leave their audiences glowing with the magic music can bring: genuine human connection. Help us celebrate that human connection and our veterans through this special Veterans Day concert. Ask about Veteran’s Discount!

Comedian Tim Hawkins Live 3:00 pm | $25-$75. Seehttp:// AutumnRidgeChurch.org/arts Autumn Ridge Church 3611 Salem RD SW Rochester, MN 55902 Autumn Ridge Arts Series 11th Anniversary Season! 3611 Salem Road, SW, Rochester, MN AutumnRidgeChurch.org http:// AutumnRidgeChurch.org/arts Continuing the tradition of the finest of world-class artistry on the Autumn Ridge stage, the Arts Series is pleased to announce the fall event of its eleventh anniversary season. Two Hilarious Shows with the leading clean comedian in America Saturday November 11, 2017, 3 PM and 7:30 PM doors open at 2:15 PM and 6:45 PM Tim Hawkins with special guest Dustin Nickerson Cirque du Soleil Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience 3:30 pm | Free Target Center 600 1st Ave North Minneapolis, MN 55403 Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to venture into uncharted territory with its brand new creation, Cirque du Soleil Crystal, exploring the artistic attributes of ice for the very first time. Specifically created for arenas, the state-of-theart production will create a fresh innovative experience, pushing the boundaries once again by combining outstanding skating and sliding, remarkable aesthetics and acrobatic feats that defy the imagination. ‘We are excited to create a unique entertainment experience on ice for all spectators to enjoy. It’s a wonderful opportunity for Cirque du Soleil as ice provides us with an entirely new field of play which also comes with a set of creative challenges. Our goal is to continuously surprise audiences by showcasing all the incredible possibilities on ice,’ explained Yasmine Khalil, Executive Producer of Crystal. Crystal will follow a young woman who shatters through reality to reach a surreal world filled with possibility. Beneath the surface, she pursues the life that has been glistening within. Sometimes, we must first leave solid ground to find our true footing. Cirque

The Marriage of Figaro Nov 11, 14, 16, 2017 7:30 pm | $25-$200 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 All is fair in love and war in this new staging of Mozarts timeless comedy of errors, widely considered the perfect opera. Mozarts infectious score brings humor, drama, and humanity to this story of class conflict. It should be the happiest day of their lives, but the wily servant Figaro and his charming fiance Susanna must fend off the philandering, arrogant Count Almaviva before he ruins everything. On a day filled with chaos and confusion in which disguised identities are revealed and shenanigans ensue, will the young lovers finally make it to the altar? Comedian Tim Hawkins Live 7:30 pm | $25-$75. Seehttp:// AutumnRidgeChurch.org/arts Autumn Ridge Church 3611 Salem RD SW Rochester, MN 55902 Autumn Ridge Arts Series 11th Anniversary Season! 3611 Salem Road, SW, Rochester, MN AutumnRidgeChurch.org http:// AutumnRidgeChurch.org/arts Continuing the tradition of the finest of world-class artistry on the Autumn Ridge stage, the Arts Series is pleased to announce the fall event of its eleventh anniversary season. Two Hilarious Shows with the leading clean comedian in America Saturday November 11, 2017, 3 PM and 7:30 PM doors open at 2:15 PM and 6:45

Jivin’ Ivan and The Kings of Swing - 7:30 pm | Free Signature Bar and Grill 201 Central Ave N Faribault, MN 55021 Get Your Swing on With the Kings of Swing. Music from The Golden Era. Good Music and Good Times! The New Standards - 7:30 pm | $25 in advadvance, $30 day of The Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 A jazz trio beyond the usual ‘old standards’: post-1960’s pop music in an acoustic setting. Tickets $25 in advance, $30 day of. For tickets or more information, call 507-434-0934.

Sun Nov 12, 2017 Cirque du Soleil Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience 1:00 pm | see website Target Center 600 1st Ave North Minneapolis, MN 55403 Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to venture into uncharted territory with its brand new creation, Cirque du Soleil Crystal, exploring the artistic attributes of ice for the very first time. Specifically created for arenas, the state-of-theart production will create a fresh innovative experience, pushing the boundaries once again by combining outstanding skating and sliding, remarkable aesthetics and acrobatic feats that defy the imagination. ‘We are excited to create a unique entertainment experience on ice for all spectators to enjoy. It’s a wonderful opportunity for Cirque du Soleil as ice provides us with an entirely new field of play which also comes with a set of creative challenges. Our goal is to continuously surprise audiences by showcasing all the incredible possibilities on ice,’ explained Yasmine Khalil, Executive Producer of Crystal. Crystal will follow a young woman who shatters through reality to reach a surreal world filled with possibility. Beneath the surface, she pursues the life that has been glistening within. Sometimes, we must first leave solid ground to find our true footing. Cirque du Soleil invites the audience to discover Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience and find out what it means to skate on the edge of reality.

The Marriage of Figaro - 2:00 pm | $25-$200 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 All is fair in love and war in this new staging of Mozarts timeless comedy of errors, widely considered the perfect opera. Mozarts infectious score brings humor, drama, and humanity to this story of class conflict. It should be the happiest day of their lives, but the wily servant Figaro and his charming fiance Susanna must fend off the philandering, arrogant Count Almaviva before he ruins everything. On a day filled with chaos and confusion in which disguised identities are revealed and shenanigans ensue, will the young lovers finally make it to the altar?

Phoenix Theatre presents Blithe Spirit By Noel Coward Phoenix Theatre, the Sheldons resident community theatre company, presents the smash comedy hit of the London and Broadway stages, Blithe Spirit. This beloved classic tells the story of a fussy, cantankerous novelist, Charles Condomine. Charles is re-married but haunted (literally) by the ghost of his late first wife, the clever and insistent Elvira who is called up by a visiting happy medium, Madame Arcati. As the worldly and other-worldly personalities clash, Charles current wife, Ruth, is accidentally killed, passes over, joins Elvira, and the two blithe spirits haunt the hapless Charles into perpetuity. Blithe Spirit is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. This is a Kids Play Free event

Singin’ in the Rain Theatre Production Nov 12, 12, 2017 2:00 pm | $8-$12 New Life Academy 6758 Bailey Rd Woodbury, MN 55129 New Life Academy Theatre presents Singin’ in the Rain Singin in the Rain pours down delight, capturing the waning days of the silent screen era as they give way to new-fangled talkies. With The Jazz Singer premiere making Hollywood frantic, the studios are forced to suddenly change all the movie-making rules at once, to accommodate sound. In doing so, they leave silent pictures and some of their stars behind. When Monumental Studios turns silent The Dueling Cavalier into The Dancing Cavalier, a musical picture, in order to stay relevant, they are faced with a problem: their star, Lina Lamont cant sing, and cant even really talk. Linas voice sounds something like nails on a chalkboard. Enter Kathy Selden, an aspiring actress whose dulcet tones are able to cover Lina Lamonts calling into question what it means to act, how credit is distributed, and what it means to get a fair shake in the movie business. Singin in the Rain includes some of the best-loved comedy routines, dance numbers, and love songs ever written, including Good Mornin, Make em Laugh, and of course the show-stopping dance number, Singin in the Rain.

Organist Gail Archer Tours New Album - 3:00 pm | $10 Mount Cavalry Lutheran Church 3930 Rahn Road Eagan, MN 55122 Internationally renowned concert organist and recording artist Gail Archer releases her eighth solo album A Russian Journey (TBR 09.25.17 Meyer Media) featuring works by 19th and 20th Century Russian composers including members of the Russian Five and their successors. Featuring hidden Russian gems from the organ canon, A Russian Journey enthralls listeners with Archers musicality, sensitivity, and visceral quality. Starting this fall, Archer celebrates the album release with an international concert tour at some of the worlds finest churches.

Blithe Spirit By Noel Coward 3:00 pm | $15 Sheldon Theatre 443 west third street Red Wing, MN 55066

Cirque du Soleil Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience 5:00 pm | Free Target Center 600 1st Ave North Minneapolis, MN 55403 Cirque du Soleil is thrilled to venture into uncharted territory with its brand new creation, Cirque du Soleil Crystal, exploring the artistic attributes of ice for the very first time. Specifically created for arenas, the state-of-theart production will create a fresh innovative experience, pushing the boundaries once again by combining outstanding skating and sliding, remarkable aesthetics and acrobatic feats that defy the imagination. ‘We are excited to create a unique entertainment experience on ice for all spectators to enjoy. It’s a wonderful opportunity for Cirque du Soleil as ice provides us with an entirely new

field of play which also comes with a set of creative challenges. Our goal is to continuously surprise audiences by showcasing all the incredible possibilities on ice,’ explained Yasmine Khalil, Executive Producer of Crystal. Crystal will follow a young woman who shatters through reality to reach a surreal world filled with possibility. Beneath the surface, she pursues the life that has been glistening within. Sometimes, we must first leave solid ground to find our true footing. Cirque du Soleil invites the audience to discover Crystal A Breakthrough Ice Experience and find out what it means to skate on the edge of reality.

Tue Nov 14, 2017 Russian Grand Ballet presents Swan Lake - 7:00 pm | $30-$85 State Theatre 805 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55402 Only one opportunity to see the Russian Grand Ballet’s full-length classical production of one of the world’s most famous ballet Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, including the rarely seen Waltz of the Black Swans, and featuring Russia’s brightest ballet stars. Odette, a beautiful princess, falls under the spell of an evil sorcerer. Only Prince Siegfried’s devotion can save her. Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake combines pure romanticism and tragedy, in a magical tale of love and deception. The glorious score and gravity-defying choreography have enchanted audiences for over a century, and continue to inspire new generations of dancers and music lovers of all ages.

Wed Nov 15, 2017 She Loves Me Nov 15, 16, 2017 7:00 pm | $16 Frank W. Bridges Theatre, Riverland Community College 1900 8th Ave NW Austin, MN 55912 Music by Jerry Bock, Lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, Book by Joe Masteroff, Directed by Lindsey Duoos Williams. Set in a 1930s European perfumery, shop clerks Amalia and Georg don’t see eyeto eye. After both respond to a ‘lonely hearts advertisement in thenewspaper, they now live for the love letters that they

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exchange, but theidentity of their admirers remains unknown. Inspired by the classic film The Shop Around the Corner (which alsoserved as the inspiration for the hit film YouveGot Mail), She Loves Me is a warm romanticcomedy with an endearing innocence and a touch of old world elegance. Rated PG.

WE KNOW MEAT. We "steak" our reputation on it.

Movie Night at the Paramount - What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? (PC-13) - 7:30 pm | $5 The Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Only $5 for a ticket! Purchase tickets at the concession stand on the night of the show; no advance ticket sales. For more information or to request your favorite film for future shows, email info@austinareaarts.org or call 507-434-0934.

coming to Faribault! Audiences and critics worldwide have praised the talented singers of the Vienna Boys Choir for their celestial voices, pure tone, irresistible charm, and above all, a wide-ranging repertoire spanning centuries. With a rich history dating back more than 500 years, the Vienna Boys Choir has been associated with many of the worlds greatest composers, such as Mozart and Bruckner. Haydn and Schubert were themselves, choristers. The Vienna Boys Choir performs classical and contemporary works which vary each season. In the fall, they will bring Bella Italia, a program of popular and classical compositions from beautiful Italy, to include classical pieces by Vivaldi, Rossini, Verdi, Mascagni, and other Italian composers, along with such wellknown favorites as Santa Lucia, O sole mio, Volare, and more. This will be a high-demand show. Order your tickets early! their celestial voices, pure tone and wide-ranging repertoire continue to captivate audiences worldwide. San Francisco Classical Voice

THe

casinos along the Las Vegas Strip. But in 2002 Shulis luck would change. Thats when he met the one and only Howard Stern. SHULIs love for The Howard Stern Show started in middle school. He moved to Las Vegas from Los Angeles to start his stand-up career and was a frequent caller to the Stern Show. After seven years of weekly calls, he was invited to play a round of blackjack with Stern and his gang while the show was in Las Vegas. As it happened, he won more than just money gambling at the table that day. Despite having no journalism experience, Shuli was brought on as a correspondent for the Howard 100 News team and has been reporting on all things Howard ever since. In addition to his work on the Stern Show, Shuli co-hosts The Jay Thomas Show, the Dr. Harry Fisch Show on Sirius XM, and he has contributed to the Scott Ferrall Show and Miserable Men. SHULI has toured the country as part of The Killers of Comedy and Ronnies Block Party, and he regularly performs stand-up in clubs all across the U.S. ALL ATTENDEES must be 21+ with IDs DOORS OPEN 1/2 hour before showtime ARRIVE AT LEAST 15 MINUTES prior to showtime On Thursday November 16, 2017 at 8:00 pm (ends Saturday November 18, 2017 at 9:30 pm) Category: Arts - Performing Arts - Comedy Price: General Admission: USD 20.00

WeeKend Is ComIng

Thu Nov 16, 2017

Vienna Boys Choir - 7:30 pm | $18$30. Students: $18 Adults: $30 Shattuck-St. Mary’s School 1000 Shumway Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 The most famous boys choir in the world is

Shuli Egar - 8:00 pm | $20 Royal Comedy Theatre 809 Mainstreet Hopkins, MN 55343 *Special Event - No Free Passes or Coupons Allowed* SHULI EGAR truly knows that if youre going to make it in comedy, youve got to hustle. His start in stand up began with him bombing every night in nearly empty

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has a new ballroom opening June 2018! Call for information & Reservations: 507.835.1146 After 4pm: 507.837.9848

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204 2nd Street South West, Waseca, MN 507.833.8756

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Saturday, October 28 8:00PM TO CLOSE

JOIN US FOR THE SPOOKIEST HALLOWEEN SHINDIG IN TOWN! DOOR PRIZES, DRINK SPECIALS, COSTUME CONTEST AND A DJ! 206 2nd Ave. SW For Reservations: 507.461.1387

204 2nd Street South West, Waseca, MN 507.833.7540

Call for information & Reservations: 507.835.1146 After 4pm: 507.837.9848

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The PHILM Column

PHILIP WEYHE Philip is a reporter for APG and editor for Southern Minn Scene. Need to contact him? Shoot him an e-mail pweyhe@northfieldnews.com or catch him on Twitter at @nfnphilweyhe.

Blade Runner 2049 Delivers Sequels get a bad rap. OK, so maybe “Caddyshack II” was somewhat unnecessary, “Grease 2” a tad heavy handed, and “Piranha 3DD” downright insulting. But I certainly didn’t mind “Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” and “Return of the King.” How about Terminator 2? The “Toy Story” sequels. “Godfather: Part II.” “Aliens.” And lest we forget, “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back!” So yeah, sequels can be good. “Blade Runner 2049” – released to theaters Oct. 6 – provided further proof. The original 1982 “Blade Runner” was an influential, unique, mysterious dystopian masterpiece. “Blade Runner 2049” cannot boast the same originality. It can, though, beam in its own considerable successes – stunning backdrops scene after scene, an unflinching intensity throughout, and some quite brilliant performances paired

with spot-on directing. The film takes you into the same Blade Runner setting, but 30 years after the events of the original. A nameless LAPD officer (Ryan Gosling) discovers something he’s not supposed to, something that could wreak havoc on the already unrecognizable future world. Gosling’s character eventually meets the original main character, Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a former LAPD blade runner who had gone missing. Sharing more details would only lead to spoilers, and this film isn’t all about the story anyway. It’s about the details. The intriguing connections to the original film. The displays of loneliness from even the darkest characters. The references to freedom and slavery, to hopes and nostalgia, to humanity and destruction. Director Denis Villeneuve honored the setting his predecessor, Rid-

ley Scott, created, while making this sequel his own. He managed to carry a singular – slow but intense – pace throughout the entire film, without sacrificing the thrills. The action scenes are uncommonly beautiful. Make no mistake; this was a serious achievement from a director at the top of today’s moviemaking game. It lacks the impact to claim masterpiece status, but it’s a dazzling affair, nonetheless. Similar to the original, “Blade Runner 2049” opened to disappointing first week numbers at the box office. It made $31.5 million in the United States – enough to earn No. 1 for the week but not standing up well to its blockbuster budget north of $150 million. But this is science fiction at its best people. So go see it and allow more directors and producers to aim for these kinds of heights, please. 4.5/5 STARS SMS

CD REVIEWS By Daniel G. Moir editor@southernminnscene.com

The KillersWonderful Wonderful

he Killers new album is more than aptly named. Album Grade: B+ The Killers has always been a band in the wrong era. With Wonderful Wonderful, the quartet released an album that could easily stand as a lost classic from the mid-80s. Melodies are bright and supple, lyrics delightfully quirky-smart, with pulsating beats you can dance to. If this were 1986, everyone on your block would own this record and the singles would reverberate throughout Casey Kasem’s Top 40 until next year. The bands influences are littered throughout the album’s 10 tracks. The title track invokes the moody feel of U2’s “Bullet the Blue Sky,” but with a slower tempo. It mirrors the tension U2 brought to their song and opens the record with a darker tone than typically heard from the Las Vegas band. Many of the lyrical themes found on Wonderful Wonderful relate to depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Killers’ leader Brandon Flowers draws inspiration from his wife’s history of abandonment and subsequent struggle with depression to illustrate his lyrical choices. As a result, the album becomes ultimately about hope and the gift of healing that can come from friends and loved ones as you grow older. This is especially notable on “Rut.” A woman’s auto-tuned voice intoning “Don’t give up on me” is heard in the far off sonic distance before Flowers’ warm tenor matches a major key keyboard pattern and wraps around an uplifting melody. It strives to join together the person in the center of clinical depression with the individual they really are. It is a call for understanding and support, and the musical and lyrical approach is warm, comforting and honest. The Killers have never been a band to shy from the flamboyant. It is with great humor that first single “The Man” matches the overly self-confidant lyrical swagger with a funky beat straight out of a seventies disco. It bristles with machismo and an undeniable dance beat certain to get your body moving. Faced paced, with just enough sarcastic lyrical self-recognition, this is a delight to both ears and feet. “Run For Cover” sounds like the biggest hit England’s New Order never had. A urgent guitar starts the track before bass and drums enter and interlock on this song about a desire to escape the losses experienced in life. The song also gives a sense of Flowers ability to use lyrical obscurity to help tell the story. Early in the verses there is an reference to boxing heavyweight Sonny Liston that works as a sly meta-

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phor. For those unfamiliar with his history, Liston was defeated by Cassius Clay in 1964; an upset that stunned the boxing world. A little more than a year later, Clay faced Liston again, this time under the name Muhammad Ali and Liston went down in a bout that lasted just slightly longer than two minutes. Speculation was rife that Liston had taken a dive rather than face the wild-eyed Ali. In a track like “Run For Cover” Flowers demonstrates his skill in layering this lyrical depth in engaging melodies that allow the song to work both emotionally and intellectually. The chorus of the song soars with life as the surging rhythm and melody rise and build in a luscious explosion destined to deeply embed itself in more than just a few Eighties music lover’s head. The release of Wonderful Wonderful comes at a time of potential turmoil within the band. Early in the recording process, Bassist Mark Stoermer announced that he was taking a sabbatical from the band as a touring act to pursue various educational pursuits. While no longer touring, Stoermer was heavily involved in the album’s recording, contributing much to the songwriting process and influencing the more minor key tracks. Shortly after announcing touring plans, it was also announced that Guitarist Dave Keuning would also sit out of the scheduled concerts. While credited on the album as a member, he was also the only one not appearing in any of the album’s accompanying photographs. Perhaps referencing the changing evolution of the band, the somber “Have All the Songs Been Written?” features guest Mark Knopfler’s elegantly phrased guitar work and closes out Wonderful Wonderful. The questioning lyrics depict a search for just one more song that might serve to help convince someone to stay. What is hidden is whom Flowers is imploring in the song. Is it Keuning? Is he reaching out to his wife during a bout with depression? No easy answers are given and leave the song where it begins, with a air of unsettled longing. Much like the subject matter echoed throughout the album, life is a messy affair that is oftentimes unresolved as it progresses. Wonderful Wonderful makes for a sublime and delightful soundtrack to the journey. Bottom Line: Not only is Wonderful Wonderful the first No. 1 album in The Killers career, it is also the quartet’s finest outing since Sam’s Town in 2006. A mature collection of strong material that is tuneful, fun and memorable. SMS Daniel G. Moir has forgotten more about music than all the rest of us know combined. Reach him at editor@southernminnscene.com

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BOOK REVIEWS The Bookworm Sez:

“Mask of Shadows” by Linsey Miller

The Bookworm Sez:

“Big Chicken” by Maryn McKenna

The Bookworm Sez:

“Caroline: Little House, Revisited” by Sarah Miller

The Bookworm Sez:

“From Here to Eternity” by Caitlin Doughty

By Terri Schlichenmeyer Your someday-dream job is not for wimps. That’s truth: it’ll be real work, and you’re prepared. You know it’ll take training, which will take time. You’ll have to learn to think differently, and that’s okay. You might get discouraged, and you’ll handle it. But – as in the new novel “Mask of Shadows” by Linsey Miller – are you ready to die for it? At first, Sallot Leon thought the scrap of paper might be money. Erland nobles had been doing that – making money – ever since the war, when Nacea was obliterated. But no, this bit of paper was worth more than money: it was an open call for a replacement member of the Queen’s Left Hand, an elite group of assassin-guards. Come by invitation or by skill, the poster said. Sal had the skill, for sure.

By Terri Schlichenmeyer The drummies are your favorites. Oh, sure, there’s something to be said about a pile of wings with a good buffalo sauce, and few can resist a meaty breast cut, but there’s something about a drumstick that feels like comfort food. Who could imagine, then, as in the new book “Big Chicken” by Maryn McKenna, that a bite of chicken could come to bite you back? How many recipes can you make with chicken? Many, of course, but it wasn’t until she tasted a “French market chicken” that Maryn McKenna began to wonder why a bird from halfway around the world tasted better than the ones she’d had at home. Like most Americans, she grew up eating chicken and when she began pecking at the subject, she was surprised. It all started in the 1930s. Until then, chickens were generally raised for egglaying; roosters were eaten when the flock was culled

By Terri Schlichenmeyer Packing stinks. Wrapping up all your things, cushioning breakables, putting things where you won’t find them for months. Ugh. Is it worth it to have a new home? A new life? As in “Caroline: Little House, Revisited” by Sarah Miller, is the sacrifice worth a new beginning you’re not sure you want? She loved him so. Looking at her husband, Charles, Caroline Ingalls saw the light in his face as he spoke. She knew he’d heard that the government was selling Kansas farmland at reasonable prices, just as she knew how he wanted that, and an adventure. His eyes told her that he also wanted her permission, and she loved him too much to say no. She hadn’t informed him yet that their family would increase by one, come summer. She barely knew it

By Terri Schlichenmeyer Keep your hands off. Don’t touch. It’s not for you, not safe, not to be handled. Leave it alone, it’s dirty and unclean, hands off. In most Western cultures, we think that about the deceased human body - but why? Author Caitlin Doughty pondered that as she toiled in her California funeral home, and in “From Here to Eternity,” she looks at world-wide attitudes toward our mortal remains. The phone call that arrived that afternoon was hurried: a client wanted to spend more time with her newly-dead mother before Mom was relinquished to the funeral home, but she was told that it was forbidden. No, said Doughty. It was allowed, even encouraged, but Doughty knew that some funeral directors might have disagreed. Truth is, many average citizens simply wouldn’t know what to do with a dead body. We send our dead away and look askance at others who don’t, forgetting

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Since Sal was eight years old, they worked as a street fighter and could climb anything. There was nothing they couldn’t steal, no lock they couldn’t pick. Those were skills the Queen needed, just as much as Sal needed to be Opal for the Left Hand and so, to get into the audition, they committed their first murder. That, as it turned out, was the easy part: after passing the first interview, Sal was accepted and given a mask to wear at all times, the last mask awarded. Twenty-Three people were in the competition, for which the rules were simple: kill your competitors without being seen or getting caught, but don’t hurt anyone not competing. Nine competitors were killed the first night. As other Opal Wanna-Be’s fell almost hourly, Sal had to rely on past experience and new skills to stay alive. Corestrength training helped them dodge spears and arrows from other competitors. Tutoring eliminated illiteracy. Medical training kept Sal from death by poisoning. But there was no way to avoid falling in love with someone forbidden, nor the aftermath that was sure to come… Though it starts out a little on the clunky side and it may take a minute to get your bearings, “Mask of Shadows” quickly becomes a pretty good novel.

And a unique one, too: it’s rare to find a gender-fluid character in a main position, but that’s where author Linsey Miller places hers – and yet, though unusual, fluidity isn’t the driving force behind this story. We don’t know, in fact, that Sal doesn’t gender-identify until later in the novel. That’s uncommon, too. As for character development, there’s where Miller shines. Sal starts out a bit feral, a street-wise petty thief, uncivilized but with hungry focus. There’s a lot of selfishness in that early Sal, but as they mature into a trained assassin, egotism is replaced by allegiance and a much finer character. Add in a cast that could, one-by-one, die at any minute and, well, you’ll be hooked. For fans of The Hunger Games-type fiction, that’s gonna be too appealing to pass up. It’s gonna be too delicious to deny yourself. “Mask of Shadows,” for readers age 15 and up, is gonna be a dream book. Mask of Shadows by Linsey Miller c.2017, Sourcebooks $17.99 / $24.99 in Canada 352pages

and hens were eaten after they stopped laying eggs. Chickens, in other words, were not yet a major crop, but they would be soon and they’d need feeding. In search of more efficient, cheaper chicken chow, researchers tried a product that had been mixed with antibiotic, and they discovered that it made chicks grow bigger. “Word got around,” says McKenna, and soon, every scientist and farmer wanted some Aureomycin mash. Nobody seemed to think that was a problem, although Nobel Prize winner Alexander Fleming expressed fear that “self-medication” of that sort could lead to problems with penicillin-resistant infections. But the chicken was out of the coop by then, and antibiotics were the new thing in science and in society. Penicillin could be bought over-the-counter and in cosmetics; it saved countless lives but by the late 1940s, hospitals began to note infections that medicines couldn’t stop: those chickens had come home to roost, and they brought dangerous antibiotic-resistant bacteria with them. “It was not solely an American problem, either,” says McKenna; it was happening around the world… Ask anyone who lived through World War II, and they’ll tell you that today’s meal of chicken isn’t what it

was back then. But why? The answer is only part of the shocker inside this book. Reading somewhat like a medical detective novel with personal-interest inserts, “Big Chicken” examines two sides of the same feathered coin: meat, and what we’ve done in our appetite for it. It’s the latter that’s chilling: author Maryn McKenna draws a long line between antibiotic-resistant infections and meatraising, in anecdotes that you won’t want to read while you’re eating. There’s heavy-duty science in this book, and exciting tales of research; readers will also be charmed by McKenna’s tale of a man who rescues heritage chicken breeds from extinction. And as for the potential-meal-on-the-grill you picked up for tonight? Let’s just say Great-Grandma might barely recognize it. Readers looking for hope will find it here, but there’s an urgency to heed within and it’s going to take real work. If you eat meat you don’t raise yourself, “Big Chicken” sounds a drumbeat of caution. Big Chicken by Maryn McKenna c.2017, National Geographic $27.00 / $36.00 in Canada 400 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer is a book reviewer based just across the river from SoMinn in LaCrosse, WI. She can be contacted at bookwormsez@gmail.com

herself, and she couldn’t imagine giving birth without family nearby. Still, she could never deny her husband his hearts’ desire, so she said yes to making plans, to packing their belongings in a canvas-topped wagon, to estimate what supplies they might need for their travels. They’d depart from Wisconsin in late winter, when the river was still frozen solid. They would be in Kansas by mid-summer. It was cold when they started: five-year-old Mary and three-year-old Laura needed mittens until they reached the southern part of Iowa. Caroline’s own quilts ensured the girls’ comfort; supper often came from an open-pit fire. They might go days without seeing anyone but each other and oh, how Caroline missed her sister! She missed her little cookstove, the rocker that Charles made for her when Mary was born, and the feel of solid floorboards. She missed everything there was to miss about Wisconsin, but the state was weeks behind her. In front of her was a promise, and a husband who sang when he was happy. She imagined a garden, and crops spread beneath a big sky dome, family, new friends, and a new baby. She could also imagine danger… Remember thrilling to tales from “The Little House on

the Prairie”? If you do, then author Sarah Miller has this: there’s another side to the story and in “Caroline,” it’s no less exciting. At the outset of this novel, you know you’re in for something good. Miller makes this a love story, first: Charles and Caroline Ingalls are sweetly bashful and still courting, even though, as this novel opens, they’ve been married a decade. Caroline adores her husband and her girls, but Miller lets her be flawed: the title character is unsure of herself, prone to seethe silently, and there are times when she briefly wishes she was childless. Truly, that introspection drives this novel as much as does the new world Caroline encounters, making it a perfect addition to a beloved story. In her afterword, Miller explains how she used Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books to make a “marriage of fact and fiction,” and fans are going to love it. If you grew up devouring “Little House” books, the covers of “Caroline” pack a great story. Caroline: Little House, Revisited by Sarah Miller c.2017, Wm. Morrow $25.99 / $31.99 in Canada 371 pages

that what’s odd in one place is perfectly permissible in another. Says Doughty, “we consider death rituals savage only when they don’t match our own.” And so, she went in search of a “good death.” In a tiny town in Colorado, she visited “the only community open-air pyre in America.” Its founders worked hard to gain acceptance from locals and to change laws regarding open-air cremation; today, people relocate in order to take advantage of the pyre. In Indonesia, Doughty visited cliffside graves with “a scholar of the macabre,” who also took her to a village where people live with (and sometimes sleep next to) their dead – perhaps for years. She went to Mexico, where she met a grieving young mother who “just wanted to engage with death… frequent it, mock it, caress it.” Doughty’s travels took her to North Carolina, and a new method of body disposal. She visited glass coffins in Spain; a crematorium in Japan, where nearly all residents are cremated; and Bolivia, where skulls are said to dispense advice. And everywhere, she saw “grief, unimaginable grief. But in that grief there was no shame.” It’s that which “helps the mourner begin to heal.” From the time we are children, we learn that certain things are off-limits. Some kids grow up asking “why?”

One of them, it seems, is author Caitlin Doughty. In a sort of grisly travelogue-cum-cultural-studies, her book, “From Here to Eternity” takes readers on a journey from cave to grave in several cultures and countries, in search of answers to our aversion to mortality. Yes, there’s dark and ritualized wanderlust here but, though death-as-serious-subject is all over the book’s pages, there’s also surprising playfulness: seemingly not the squeamish sort, Doughty allows herself to sometimes become so, and she’s goodnatured about it. Still, this book is not disrespectful; if nothing, it goes to an extreme in the opposite direction, with a hefty abundance of gentleness and kindness. While that all makes this an enjoyable, fascinating read, it’s also a thought-provoker that may ultimately change your death. For you, “From Here to Eternity” is a book to get your hands on. From Here to Eternity by Caitlin Doughty c.2017, W.W. Norton $24.95 / $33.95 in Canada 248 pages

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Terri Schlichenmeyer is a book reviewer based just across the river from SoMinn in LaCrosse, WI. She can be contacted at bookwormsez@gmail.com

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