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CONTENT

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DECEMBER 2018 / VOLUME 6 / ISSUE 11

Features:

COLUMNS:

Southern Minnesota businesses are continuing their giving spirit.

6 Give Back during Holidays

9 Rundown of SoMinn Holiday Plays

Get out and about this month to get your holiday show fix with these offereings.

12 Unique holiday shopping in SoMinn

Our list of unexpected, hard-to-find and one-of-a-kind gift ideas.

Have a story idea?

20 Mollywood BLVD

28 The Tigger SCENE

Talking to Bill Sullivan about his book, “LEMON JAIL: On the Road with the Replacements.”

37 Album Review

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A journey to the othe side of the river.

Steve Perry - Traces

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38 The Bookworm Sez:

Get out and enjoy what the area has to offer during the holiday season.

32 Family Fun at the Racetrack

Editor Philip Weyhe - 507-645-1115 editor@southernminnSCENE.com

12 days of Christmas Movies.

22 The TimeLine

27 Holiday events round-up

ABOUT

New Credits on an Iconic Album.

34 Photographing SoMInn

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

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4 Minnesota Music SCENE

16 An Interview with Justin Courtney Pierre Motion City Soundtrack lead singer goes solo.

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Death Checks In Dracul My Love Story Nine Pints: through the Monday, Medicine, and Mysteries of Blood

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Billy Peterson Facebook Kevin Odegard kevinodengard.com

inger, songwriter, author, artist; Bob Dylan has dabbled in many of the expressive arts. Born in little Hibbing, Minnesota, and yet will go down as one of music’s most influential all-time figures. He’s received numerous awards including 11 Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and an Academy Award. Dylan has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Minnesota Music Hall of Fame, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Songwriters Hall of Fame. The Pulitzer Prize jury in 2008 also awarded him a special citation for his impact on popular culture and American culture. As a Minnesota native, many folks around here have been fans dating back to his earliest days. Some from when he was known only as Robert Zimmerman. Now with a little over 50 years of popularity under his belt, it was an interesting turn of events when it was announced that a few new artists will be recognized for their work on one of Dylan’s most popular albums, Blood on the Tracks. It was in 1974 that Bob Dylan recorded an album in New York, but was dissatisfied with the results and decided to seek out a slightly different sound. Some of the original sessions were already set to release, yet he chose to set up at his brother’s production studio in South Minneapolis, Sound 80. It was in these recording sessions

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Rian-Dicke Michels, can be reached at editor@southernminnscene.com.

Chris Weber Facebook Bill Berg sabrewery.com

New Credits

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Iconic Album

that six artists were hired to work with Dylan. According to the personal accounts by these gentlemen, Dylan was experiencing a lot of angst due to a failing marriage and struggling with issues of the heart; which in turn fed the music. All in their 20s at the time, what started as a little jam session turned into Dylan’s most popular album, as determined by results of a 2012 poll released by Rolling Stone Magazine. It is 44 years later that we’re officially hearing the names of the men behind the music. 1 Billy Peterson, guitarist - One of Minnesota’s most recorded bass players. 2 Kevin Odegard, guitarist – Co-authored the book “A Little Twist of Fate: Bob Dylan and the Making of Blood on the Tracks.” Advocate for songwriter’s rights. 3 Chris Weber, guitarist - Ran a guitar shop in

Dinkytown and now does guitar repairs in California. 4 Bill Berg, drummer – Later he worked with Disney as an animator for movies such as Beauty and the Beast. 5 Gregg Inhofer, keyboardist – Has released a couple solo albums and is still an active performer. 6 Peter Ostroushka, mandolin – Became a

regular on Prairie Home Companion, but suffered from a stroke in January 2018.

The rerelease features the sessions unedited, since a couple of them were recorded in one cut. In fact, you

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can actually hear Dylan’s buttons on the back of his guitar as he plays. Many agree that the Minneapolis sessions truly feature the raw sound Bob Dylan’s pain and struggle with harsh realities of love. Although, he swears that the album had nothing to do with the personal turmoil he was living in at that time. Dylan had a knack for songwriting and a love for poetry, but these musicians had the pleasure of working with him on the album, even suggesting some of the changes that made those songs successful. Just one of many reasons why they also wanted their names on the album. To be recognized for their work and what they helped to create. At the time, these men were young and wide eyed at playing with Bob Dylan himself. They had no idea what they were in for when they entered the studio that day and it brings pleasure to know that credit is being given where it’s due ... perhaps one could say overdue. The only disappointing truth about the re-release is that some of the original recordings from the Minneapolis session have been lost in time. Still, as of Nov. 2, the album has been re-released under the title More Blood, More Tracks and contains six CDs, a booklet with the original, handwritten song lyrics, among other unreleased materials. But what’s greatest about learning the names of the guys behind the music? We can lovingly claim them as ours, and Minnesota is finally able to acknowledge musicians that have added value to our musical history. SMS

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The Hideaway Coffeehouse in Northfield was filled with Christmas spirit, as workers served dinner to over 175 community members in 2017, during the shop’s annual Christmas dinner. (Photo courtesy of The Hideaway)

By Samantha Stetzer editor@southernminnscene.com

Merchant’s Bank representatives and kids open 10 Days of Giving 2017 in Winona.

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iving back during the holiday season comes in many different forms and from many different places, but it all serves one greater purpose: building and supporting community. Merchant’s Bank in Winona created its own giving back tradition 30 years ago. The Spaulding family and The Hideaway Coffee House and Winebar in Northfield have added it to their family gatherings since 2013. And Madonna Living Community in Rochester is offering help to dozens of families in Southern Minnesota with a new tradition this holiday season. These businesses in Southern Minnesota are continuing

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their giving spirit this holiday season by offering to help supply food shelves for months, making connections with those who are alone, and providing education to families that need support.

Merchant’s Bank: 10 Days of Giving Growing up in Winona, Jen Welch remembers the inception of 10 Days of Giving – and felt its impact on feeding those who need it the most early on. Now Merchant’s Bank’s cash management expert, the events and adventures coordinator, and co-chair of the 10 Days of Giving committee, Welch recalls when a former teacher of hers spoke to the school about the impact a food shelf had on her life. The teacher’s parents went through a period of financial stress, and her family had to

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ABOVE: Workers delighted in setting the table and gathering the foods for the 2017 Hideaway Coffeehouse Christmas dinner in downtown Northfield. (Photo courtesy of The Hideaway) RIGHT: A kid poses with Santa at the Holiday Train. LOWER RIGHT: A kid sits on Santa’s lap at 10 Days of Giving’s Snow Village tour.

rely on a food shelf. “I can’t imagine what it would be like to struggle every day,” Welch said. “I love seeing the community of Winona come together for this cause, to see this spirit of giving spread.” Nearly 30 years later, the campaign has ballooned, becoming a Winona phenomenon and holiday favorite. During the 10 days of the campaign, schools, businesses, local leaders, and families band together to help their neighbors in Winona County. But its beginnings were relatively humble. Around the time Greg Evans was hired as Merchant Bank’s new marketing and communications coordinator in the late 1980s, the administration at the Winona branch was considering ways it could give back to the community. Organizers wanted to coordinate an event that would be memorable, helpful, and become tradition – something they could fully commit to. Not being one to sit around without work to do, Winona native Evans picked up on this discussion and ran with it, as the bank worked through what his role, which was new to the bank, would be. Evans reached out to Winona Volunteer Services, which offers food, clothing, and shelter help to residents in need in the Winona area. The goal was simple: educate the community about the fact that there are people who go hungry and help the service that’s helping them.

The impact of the event is widespread for Winona Volunteer Services, according to 18-year director Sandra Burke. “It ensures that people who need food have a place to go. (It) makes sure no one goes hungry,” said Burke, who explained that 96 percent of Winona Volunteer Services work is funded through the local community. During her early tenure with Winona Volunteer Services,

“I can’t imagine what it would be like to struggle every day. I love seeing the community of Winona come together for this cause, to see this spirit of giving spread.” - Jen Welch

The output resulted in 15,000 pounds of food being donated to Winona Volunteer Services in the first year of 10 Days of Giving. Evans, who is now the Winona branch’s president and CEO, called the first campaign modest, as the bank was able to get some participation from local schools and businesses. Today, Winona Volunteer Services can anticipate around 200,000 pounds of food in donations. The donations have shifted to more monetary contributions, Evans said, but they still get a significant amount of non-perishable food items. The organization utilizes the money that is donated to the event to buy food, contributing to the total pounds collected. It’s an impact that Evans still can’t believe to this day but one he knows the community is dedicated to. “No, I never envisioned that it would become such a community staple,” Evans said. “We wanted to become a leader; we wanted to become a catalyst. The partnerships we have with businesses and schools, that’s what drives the results.”

Burke didn’t get to see the drive’s impact on the organization, but when her role shifted to where she could become more actively involved with that portion of the organization, she was blown away. Food, Burke added, is a vital resource for the organization. Most people will come to them needing help feeding their family, and in turn, the organization can help them get started with other services they provide. Food opens that door. The 10-day food drive is still rooted in Merchant’s Bank 30 years later. The event is coordinated and ran by committees of employees

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at the bank, including 2018’s cochairs Welch and Assistant Vice President/ Mortgage Lender Dawn Stenberg. Stenberg, who isn’t from Winona but moved to the coastal community with her husband a few years ago, has seen an impact in her short tenure and was excited to get actively involved. “Since it is home,” Stenberg said, “we want to give back to the community.” Stenberg has helped with 10 Days of Giving in the past, but this is her first year as the co-chair. Welch has been co-chairing the event for the past five years, as the position is a natural extension of her job at Merchant’s Bank. In addition to collecting food and money at various Winona business locations, 10 Days of Giving also hosts multiple events, Welch and Stenberg said. These include a snow village tour, an opening ceremony with children, a Santa event, a fish fry at the Elks Club, the

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Goodview Holiday Lighted Parade, a Culver’s giveback day, events with the Holiday Train, and a holiday concert for the hungry at Winona State University. The once humble tradition has transformed into a large community effort, but feeding the community is rooted in simple meaning, Evans said. “Community banking is a tremendously rewarding profession because of the difference we get to make in people’s lives,” Evans said. “It’s a great place to do business and we take great pride in doing a good job of honoring our community banking roots and the charter

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Madonna Living Community’s Alzheimer’s Family Classes Sometimes the best holiday offering is the bounty of education – and Madonna Living Community in Rochester and Byron doesn’t want to see any of their families miss out. The community is comprised of the Madonna Towers and Meadows in Rochester, and the Madonna Summit in Byron, said Spiritual Care Director Annie Kee. Residents at the towers live in nursing, assisted, memory care, and independent living, but the care for members of the community is more than medical assistance, Kee said. “I think, throughout our communities, we recognize that our care goes beyond the residents in our walls,” Kee said. “(We’re) not caring for an individual but for a community and just a tribe of people.” On Nov. 17, the living community hosted Alzheimer’s Association class, geared toward families with loved ones who are living with dementia. The focus of the class was to target the already stressful holiday season and give families reminders for how to help their loved one through it. Attendees learned techniques to help their loved one navigate the traditional minefield of the holidays, and provide them with tips on how to include their loved one in traditions. “Even if their loved one may be dealing with dementia, that doesn’t mean they can’t be part of the many wonderful things we have during the holidays,” Kee said. The class was offered to families for free, thanks to grant funding, Kee added. The class is part of an ongoing effort by Madonna Living Communities, Kee said, to provide more memory and dementia care classes for residents and their families. As part of that effort, the community will host a support group for families living with dementia, which will meet the third Saturday of each month, beginning in January. For families still struggling with how to support their loved one and enjoy their holiday season, Kee is hopeful that continued events like November’s class will help them find sense of relief. “I’m hoping they just feel encouraged and they go out and feel maybe energized and maybe incorporate their loved ones into traditions,” Kee said. “Maybe their holidays won’t feel the same, but I hope they feel maybe at peace.” Learn more about the Dementia Support Group and Madonna Living Communities at www.madonnalivingcommunity.org.

Hideaway Coffee House and Winebar’s Free Holiday Dinner

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responsibility that we have.” This year’s 10 Days of Giving will begin Friday, Nov. 30. Interested participants can anticipate an event nearly every day and can learn more at blog.merchantsbank.com/tag/10-days-of-giving/.

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The Spaulding family is taking the concept of feeding the community literally.

In 2013, Joan and Sarah Spaulding were chatting like mothers and daughters do. One of six children, Sarah had spent her whole life in her parents’ coffee shop. Coffee and the business is in their blood, their mom jokes, but that day in 2013, Sarah and Joan would start a new family tradition. The duo decided that with Hideaway’s space, kitchen, and mass food output, they could host a holiday meal for the community. The shop was already hosting a free scone and coffee special on Thanksgiving morning, but on Christmas, they wanted to do more. They wanted to offer meal that was for everyone and that that didn’t just feed the hungry. They wanted a meal that fed the those who were alone. “’Why don’t we do a full-fledged Christmas dinner’,” Joan recalled being said. “We have each other. The whole idea behind it is that no one should be alone on Christmas.” Thus was the inception of Hideaway Coffee House’s free holiday dinner. The meal features all the classic holiday fixings, like turkey, ham, potatoes, stuffing, and salads, and is complemented with conversation with local residents. Great Harvest has also partnered with the shop and provides a loaf of bread to each guest that joins for dinner. Tables line the coffeehouse in a family style formation, snaking through the Northfield shop. The tables are decorated for the holidays, and the Spauldings work for dozens of hours beforehand to make sure the dinner is homemade for their guests. “It’s such a joy-filled day,” Joan said. The entire Spaulding family makes an effort to help during the day, and a handful of other volunteers offer support, Joan said. One such volunteer, she added, decided he wanted to join in because he wanted to make sure that anyone who comes in alone has someone to talk to. As their kids have aged and added their partners to the mix, the tradition has only grown, as each kid makes an effort to be there at least for a few hours during the busy day. It just wouldn’t be Christmas day without the dinner, Joan said. “We love it. We absolutely love it,” Joan said. “It’s one of our favorite days. We have so much to be thankful for.” They’ve had guests who were snowed in, couldn’t make it to their family holidays, and didn’t have any food to prepare due to last minute complications. Some diners have stopped in because their holiday plans don’t happen on Christmas Day, and they didn’t want to be alone. Others, were stuck at the hospital, praying for healing, and needed peace. And some just need a warm meal and a place to call home for a few hours. No requirements, no explanations, and no donations are needed to come and dine – just be prepared for great food and good company. Joan said she is amazed and appreciative of the way the community has latched onto the idea. Each year they get offers for help and donations, and some yearly diners have become close friends with one another, she said. “The community as a whole and our customer base have taken it under their wing as well,” Sara said. Hideaway Coffee House and Winebar will host a Christmas Day dinner this year from 1 to 5 p.m. The Spauldings are always open to donations and those that want to help. Visit www.thehideawaynorthfield.com/ for more information. SMS

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Rhythmic Circus Holiday Shuffle at the Sheldon Theater.

By Anne Kopas t’s that time of year again, when families gather around the television to rewatch classic Christmas movies. Old standbys like “It’s A Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Carol” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” are staples, alongside newer favorites like “Elf” that never seem to get old. Still, there’s something unique about seeing a story play out live onstage instead of through a screen seen from the sofa. Southern Minnesota is full of Christmas and holiday plays this season, some even adapting or reimagining those ubiquitous old stories. Get out and about this month to get your holiday show fix with these offerings:

ing tongues on icy metal in wintertime. Fans of the movie will enjoy seeing the leg-shaped lamp and exploding furnace come to life in real-time onstage. The play is directed by Justin Cervantes, who has previously directed with the Eagan Theatre Company, Locally Grown Theatre and others. It’s Cervantes’ third production with the Northfield Arts Guild. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 with an opening night reception, and continue Dec. 8, 13-15, with 2 p.m. matinee performances Sundays, Dec. 9 and 16 at the Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third St. W., Northfield. There will also be a post-show discussion after the Dec. 9 show. Tickets are $17 for adults or $12 for seniors/ students. Purchase at northfieldartsguild.org.

It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play at the Little Theatre of Owatonna

A Christmas Story at the Northfield Arts Guild In this holiday classic, 9-year-old Ralphie Parker begs his parents for the perfect Christmas morning gift: a Red Ryder BB gun. “You’ll shoot your eye out!” his mother famously responds. The play version adapts the much-loved 80s movie for the stage with all the same antics, including stick-

For a new take on the ubiquitous Christmas special “It’s a Wonderful Life,” head to the Little Theatre of Owatonna. This year, the theater is presenting the much-loved story of George’s Bailey Christmas Eve ponderings on his purpose and value in life as a live radio broadcast, adapted by Joe Landry. A small cast brings characters to the stage accompanied by a radio broadcast narration.

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Performances began Nov. 29 and 30, and continue with a 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1 show and a matinee at 2 p.m. Dec. 2. Buy tickets at littletheatreofowatonna.org.

Finally, finish out the year at 5 p.m. Dec. 30 with “A New Year’s Celebration,” featuring “The Voice” finalist Kat Perkins. Her Christmas show last year was Paradise’s largest sell-out ever, so be sure to get your tickets early for this family-friendly rock and roll concert. Buy tickets at paradisecenterforthearts.org/ purchase-tickets.

Grand Ole Opry Christmas

Holiday Shows at Paradise Center for the Arts Faribault’s Paradise Center for the Arts has a whole slew of holiday shows in store this year. The month kicks off with Mick Sterling’s “At Christmas” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, with a 90-minute comedy, drama and musical performance featuring a 6-piece band and a collection of Christmas stories for all ages. Next up at 2 and 4 p.m. Dec. 2 is “The Nutcracker Prince,” the tale of a young girl’s Christmas Eve dream adventure into the realm of the Rat King, locked in battle with the Nutcracker prince. Students in grades five and up play the bigger speaking roles, while younger students play smaller roles. On Dec. 20, the Grand Ole Opry Christmas comes to Faribault with Mick Sterling’s Memphis and the Meantimes band. The show is a celebration of both Christmas songs and classic country, featuring the music of Cash, Haggard, Lewis, Obisoin, Elvis and more.

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Holiday Lineup at Red Wing’s Sheldon Theatre Start off your holiday season with the Sheldon Theatre’s production of “Inspecting Carol,” a delightful comedy that goes behind-the-scenes at a small theater’s disastrous attempt at “A Christmas Carol.” Everything goes wrong: Tiny Tim’s actor threatens to follow a better offer, and Scrooge keeps making changes to the script. Performances include matinees and evening shows Nov. 30 through Dec. 2. The all-women Good Lovelies band comes to town at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7 as part of their annual Christmas tour, performing classic Christmas music that a Spill Magazine reviewer called “quite simply brilliant. Come back at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 for

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Rhythmic Circus’ “Holiday Shuffle,” a toe-tapping swing show that’ll have the whole family dancing along. The Doo Wop Project will perform at 7 p.m. Dec. 15, with “doowopified” Christmas music, plus covers of contemporary favorites by Jason Mraz, Adele and Maroon 5. For a more traditional musical selection, don’t miss Cantus at 7 p.m. Dec. 16 with “Lessons and Carols for Our Time, an evening of musical reflection inspired by the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, a service organized in the 1880s (designed to keep men away from pubs at Christmas). And, of course, the Continental Ballet Company presents “The Nutcracker” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 21, telling the classic story of a girl in the Land of the Sugar Plum Fairy through music and dance, just in time for Christmas. Get tickets at sheldontheatre.org/buy-tickets.

authenticity to the “radio” experience. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and 5, with a 2 p.m. matinee Dec. 16. Adult tickets are $15; ages 60 and up are $12. Purchase tickets at ci.lakeville.mn.us/552/A-Christmas-Carol-RadioPlay, or call 952-985-4640.

Miracle on 34th Street at Riverland Theater

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!) at the Rochester Repertory Theatre

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If you can’t decide which Christmas play you’d like to see, the Rochester Repertory Theatre has you covered with “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)” This comedy, written by Michael Carleton, Jim FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez, follows three actors who feel burned-out replaying “A Christmas Carol” yet again and opt for a crazy adventure through every holiday story ever, from pop culture to ancient times. It’s your chance to see Kermit the Frog, Buddy the Elf and Frosty the Snowman on the same stage. If that wasn’t enough, the cast also performs every Christmas carol in existence – or so the website claims. The show is recommended for ages 13 and up. Performances began Nov. 23, 24 and 29. December shows run Dec. 2 and 6-9. Visit rochesterrep.org for ticketing information.

This live-action play adaptation of the 1947 film “Miracle on 34th Street” takes the story to the stage at Riverland Theater in Austin. The heartwarming tale follows Kris Kringle and his work as Santa Claus in a New York Macy’s store, leading up to wind up in a court competency hearing. Through it all, one little girl just wants to believe that Santa Claus is real. The cast is made up of theater students from Riverland Community College, with Susan V. Hansen directing. The show begins at 7 p.m. Dec. 5 and continues each evening through the 8th , with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Dec. 9. Buy tickets for $12 at riverland.edu/student-life/fine-arts/theatre/ current-season.

A Christmas Carol Radio Play at the Lakeville Area Arts Center

The Nutcracker at Mayo Civic Center

In this unique take on “A Christmas Carol,” Dickens’ classic is reimagined as a live 1940s-style radio show at the Lakeville Area Arts Center. Actors portray the beloved story onstage, accompanied by live sound effects and musical underscoring. For a vintage touch, you’ll also get to enjoy periodic vintage commercials, bringing

If you’re in the Rochester, you have two options to see Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet. First, dance students from Rochester’s ballet school, Ballet Blake, will present “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies” and all of the show’s other beloved music, featuring both traditional choreography and new additions. Showtimes are 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1. If you miss the first show, catch another version of The Nutcracker, presented by Rochester Dance Company and performed by young dancers from the area joined by professional guest artists. The production will appeal to both children and adults with its intricate costumes and enchanting sets—including a Christmas tree that appears to “grow” throughout the show. Performances are 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, plus 2 p.m. Dec. 9. Standard tickets for both shows are $22; purchase at mayociviccenter.com. SMS

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Measuring Cup, Cheese Cave, St Peter Woolen Mill and A Beautiful Soul

in

Southern Minnesota

O By Isabelle Wattenberg

nce the endless errands and obligations of the holiday season start to pile up, it’s easy to fall into a gift-giving rut. With packed schedules and family responsibilities, relying on a standby set of options means one less item on the to-do list. But shopping for out-of-the-box ideas can be an escape and adventure of its own: spend time seeking out tucked away shops and off Main Street boutiques, and you can discover a new culture and community (and stockpile presents along the way). To get you started, here is our 2018 list of unexpected, hard-to-find, one-of-akind gift ideas.

For the friend who wears oven mitts more than mittens Measuring Cup - Northfield Snugged onto Division Street in historic downtown Northfield, the Measuring Cup beckons students,

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parents, and locals alike with tempting window displays of bright cookware, sleek silver utensils, and cookbook covers spotlighting inspiration for your next dish. Although it’s a tiny shop, the Measuring Spoon feels spacious, with sections artfully arranged by cooking type, making it easy to scoop up gifts and goodies. Find everything from the latest gadget to kitchen essentials to jams and spices. Hours & Contact Info Monday-Friday 9:30 am - 8 pm Saturday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Sunday 11 am – 5:30 pm 320 Division Street S Northfield, MN 55057 measuringcupofnorthfield.com

For the Wisconsin Transplant Cheese Cave - Faribault Local cave-aged cheese makes its way from the Caves of Faribault to line the shelves of the Cheese Cave retail store, just across the Cannon River. For the true loyalists, you’ll find plenty of Wisconsin-made cheese too and all the accouterments--cheese knives, graters, and display pieces. Pick a four-variety pack or create your own selection alongside honey from Cannon Falls. (Grab a bag of curds to eat on the

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way home so you aren’t tempted to touch the gifts). Hours & Contact Info Tuesday - Thursday, 10 am - 7 pm Friday-Saturday, 10 am – 8 pm 318 Central Ave N Faribault, MN 55021 cheesecave.net

For the homebody St. Peter Woolen Mill - St. Peter Wool-filled comforters: the words alone invite thoughts of cozy days, fireplace-flame shadows on living room walls, and noses warmed by swirls of steaming cocoa. Creating these clouds of warmth is the business of St. Peter Woolen Mill, a 150 year-old, fourgenerations-strong company that sells comforters, throws and pillows. They’re made with custom-processed wool, and anyone can bring in their own wool to be transformed into a one-of-

a-kind bedding piece. They also accept heirloom quilts that need some TLC for refurbishment. Hours & Contact Info Monday-Friday, 9 am – 5 pm 101 West Broadway St. Peter, MN 56082 woolenmill.com

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Concerts

Classes

DECEMBER 1 Branson on the Road: Christmas Style

DECEMBER 2 Holiday Cards in Watercolor with Courtney Armstrong

Americana, Bluegrass, Rockabilly, Classic Country, Comedy & Rhinestones

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7:30pm State Theatre $25/29 at the door Hornucopia: A Tribute to Horns in the Rock Era! Rock & pop music filled with horn-driven groups from the ‘60s to now.

7:30pm State Theatre $28/32 at the door 15 Christmas with the King! An Elvis Presley Tribute with Anthony Shore and his All Star Band 7:30pm State Theatre $28/32 at the door 22 Songs of Light for the Winter Solstice: Ann Reed with Joan Griffith Warm up the night with old favorites, new tunes and a couple of surprises.

7:30pm Crossings Stage $20/23 at the door 29 Bill and Kate Isles

Try this artform if you are new to watercolor, or use the class to brush up on skills.

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Sunday, Dec 2 1-3pm $25 Wine & Acrylic Pour Painting with Tamsin Barlow A thrilling and simple way to make beautiful, colorful, abstract art. Saturday, Dec 8 6:30-8:30pm $28 + $14 supplies Holiday Cards in Watercolor with Courtney Armstrong Try this artform if you are new to watercolor, or use the class to brush up on skills.

Sunday, Dec 9 1-3pm $25 14 Wine & Wheel with Emily Wartsbaugh Come for a fun & relaxing evening of learning the basics. No experience necessary.

Friday, Dec 14 6:30-9pm $28 + $8 supplies & $3 firing 16 Transform Photos into Enamel Keepsakes with Amy Johnson Learn the basics of enameling & leave the class with artwork to treasure.

This folk singing-songwriting couple are not to be missed.

Sun Dec 16 12-3pm $58 + $15 supplies

7:30pm Crossings Stage $18/20 at the door

Only half hour north of Rochester 320 East Avenue, Zumbrota 507-732-7616 www.crossingsatcarnegie.com

Gallery open: MTWF 10-5, Th 10-8, Sat 10-4

THE LANDING AT JEFFERSON LAKES

HOME CONSTRUCTION • ONLY 17NEW BUILDING LOTS STILL AVAILABLE:REMODELING ALL LOTS COME WITH LAKE ACCESS TO THE 4-LAKE JEFFERSON CHAIN

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507-345-3007

1711 Premier Dr Mankato MN 56001 www.rhenryconstruction.com Builder License BC180205

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For the nature enthusiast Sanborn Canoe Company - Winona Sanborn Canoe Company’s bread and butter is brightly-painted, artisan-crafted canoes—not exactly stocking stuffers (let’s face it, they wouldn’t really even fit on a sleigh). But they have plenty of smaller swag to slip under the tree. Find bright Tshirts, beanies, and camp accessories--think flashlights, mugs, and pocket knives--for the outdoor adventurists in your life. Plus you can peruse the in-store models while you’re picking out gifts and start planning your next Boundary Waters trip. Hours & Contact Info 460 West 3rd Street Winona, MN 55987 sanborncanoe.com

For the friend who likes to know what the future holds A Beautiful Soul - Rochester From psychic readings to astrology chart design, treat a friend to an afternoon at A Beautiful Soul Boutique for a fun, other-worldly gift. Their shop shelves are stocked with calming and healing lotions, gemstones and herbs, too, so you can gather a bag of treat-yourself items. Hours & Contact Info Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am-7 pm. 2801 55th Street NW Rochester, MN 55901 Beautifulsoulgifts.com

For the eco-conscious friend Wild Ginger Boutique - Zumbrota

Shop for garments made from organic materials and gifts sourced from fair trade organizations at Wild Ginger Boutique, located in downtown Zumbrota. The boutique specializes one-of-a-kind jewelry, but you’ll find a huge variety of items, including blouses, bags, and more. With an everchanging inventory and pop-up sales, an excursion to the store is an event in of itself. Hours & Contact Info Monday-Friday 10 am – 5 pm Saturday 9 am – 4 pm 320 Main Street S Zumbrota, MN 55992 http://www.shopwildginger.com

For the kid (or kid at heart) Whimzy Toys and Party Albert Lea Located in historic Albert Lea, Whimzy Toys offers a paradise of captivating crafts and toys: plan to schedule some time to wander the aisles. It’s a superlative spot to find stocking stuffers, with a range of items to peruse including puzzles, costumes, board games and more. Plus the store dedicates several aisles to party supplies, so you can pick up entertainment effects for family gatherings and holiday parties in one fell swoop.

Merry Christmas from our family and staff to yours! Thank you for allowing us to serve you.

Mac or PC, we have you covered.

427 Division Street S., Northfield (507) 581-5037 | AldrichTechMN.com Info@AldrichTechMN.com

Hours & Contact Info Monday – Friday 10am – 6:00pm Thursdays 10am - 7:00pm Saturdays 10am – 4pm Sundays 12 – 4pm 122 S. Broadway Avenue
 Albert Lea, MN 56007 heywhimzy.com

Driftless Books, Wild Ginger Boutique and Whimzy Toys and Party

For the Bookworm Driftless Books - Wabasha Snugged into downtown Wabasha, Driftless Books is a haven for fans of the fine arts, carrying classic literature and local artwork alongside essential accessories for readers, including mugs, tea and candles. From new releases to kids books, they serve a spectrum of bookworms and host occasional live readings and music. Hours & Location Thursday – Saturday 10am – 5 pm 159 Main Street W Wabasha, MN 55981 651-380-9035 SMS

Thank you!

for making Donahue's greenhouse "The BesT greenhouse of souThern mn"

GREENHOUSES Donahue's greenhouse gift Certificates make the perfect Christmas gift.

420 10th St SW, Faribault, MN www.donahuesgreenhouse.com

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LET US HOST Or caTEr YOUr HOLIDaY EvEnT! Offering a large selection of Hors d’oeuvres, Entrees & Desserts.

Shattuck-St. Mary’s

Fesler-lampert perForming arts series season tHe national plaYers present William sHaKespeare’s “tWelFtH nigHt”

Monday, March 18, 2019 • adults $18, students $11

The National Players, America’s longest running touring theater company, brings one of Shakespeare’s most delightful plays, “Twelfth Night”, to Shattuck-St. Mary’s. “Twelfth Night” is a classic tale of reckless revenge, mistaken identity, and mismatched lovers. Don’t miss this opportunity to see one of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies performed on the Newhall stage! www.nationalplayers.org

liZZY tHe Dream girl Thursday, January 17, 2019 • Adults $18, Students $11

(We’ll customize to fit your budget)

Explore the mysterious world of hypnosis and discover the amazing power and creativity of the human mind. Lizzy presents a vibrant, high-energy show that amazes audiences when they witness the power of hypnosis firsthand. Her show is enlightening, entertaining and suitable for all ages.

Book Before NovemBer 23rd for free chips aNd salsa

www.lizzythedreamgirl.com

(or an equal value item)

tHe seConD CitY – it’s not YoU, it’s me Thurs, Feb 14th, 2019 • Adults $25, Students $15 The Second City has been laughing at love and its infinite scroll of side effects for decades. In the world-famous comedy company’s latest laughter-inducing undertaking, IT’S NOT YOU, IT’S ME. - THE SECOND CITY takes shots at heartbreak, missed connections and the mire of human relationships. This is a perfect show for Valentine’s Day! Recommended for mature audiences. www.secondcity.com

Go to Winjumsshadyacres.com to see our extensive menu or give us your special requests! Call 507-339-0492 to book your date!

**NoW throuGh DeC 24th, reCeive a Free $10 boNus CarD WheN you purChase $50 iN GiFt CarDs.

JoHn o’Conor Thursday, March 21, 2019 • Adults $18, Students $11 Irish pianist John O’Conor has been gathering wonderful reviews for his masterly playing for over forty years. “Impeccable technique and musicality… it would be hard to imagine better performances” (Sunday Times – London). “This artist has the kind of flawless touch that makes an audience gasp” (Washington Post). Come see him perform in the intimate space of Newhall Auditorium. www.johnoconor.com

**Bonus cards are valid after January 1st

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

Thank You for voting

ragamala DanCe CompanY present noCtUrne * Thursday, March 28, 2019 • Adults $18, Students $11 Now celebrating their 25th year in Minnesota, Ragamala Dance approaches the South Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam as a living, breathing language with which to speak about the contemporary human experience. The Star Tribune praised Nocturne as, “an enchanting journey—for one hour we are transported into an exquisite dream state.” www.ragamaladance.org

Best Cupcake

aCoUstiC roots mUsiC series season

Cakewalk and

simple gifts with Billy mclaughlin Thursday, December 6, 2018 • Adults $25, Students $15 (Adults $30, Students $15 at door) SimpleGifts, led by national recording artist Billy McLaughlin, makes musical magic by bringing a modern flair to traditional Christmas carols and hymns. Staying close to the heart of Christmas by avoiding commercial and pop repertoire has become the trademark of this award-winning ensemble. They perform acoustic instrumental and vocal music that harkens back to a quieter, simpler time. This is what Christmas is all about! www.sim plegiftsmusic.net

Cake

Jeremy messersmith* Thursday, January 24, 2019 • Adults $25, Students $15 (Adults $30, Students $15 at door) Born in Charleston, South Carolina and raised in rural Washington, singersongwriter, Jeremy Messersmith, has become one of Minnesota’s most recognized and celebrated artists. He’s received praise from The New York Times, NPR, USA Today, Paste Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine, Spin, The Rolling Stone among others. Jeremy tours extensively throughout the world – even opening for Barack Obama. His latest album, “Late Stage Capitalism” was released in the spring of 2018. www.jeremymessersmith.com

in Southern Minnesota

Cakewalk

Package DiScOuntS: Pick 4 or more shows (can be in combination with Fesler-Lampert Series and acoustic Roots Music Series) - Save 10%. call for group Rates. Order tickets Online: www.s-sm.org/feslerlampert

303 Division St. S., Northfield 507-786-9255 • Cakewalknorthfield.com A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

Faribault, MN

All pricing: Adults $20 • Students $11 unless noted. SSM Box Office: 507-333-1620 www.s-sm.org All Performances at 7:30pm in Historic Newhall Auditorium unless noted.

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* “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.” w w w. s o u t h e r N m I N n SCENE. c o m

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An with

Justin Courtney Pierre, Motion City Soundtrack Singer Turned Solo Act

W

By Sarah Osterbauer

hen Motion City Soundtrack effectively ended their nine year, six album run in 2016, lead singer Justin Courtney Pierre wasn’t sure what the future would hold. He took some time off, savoring quality time with his wife and daughter. In pondering his next chapter, Pierre briefly considered trading in his microphone for a CPA license (yes, for real), but he couldn’t shake off the songs coursing through his veins. After employing the production expertise of former bandmate Joshua Cain, he found there were enough songs to make an album. Epitaph gave that album a listen and decided to add Pierre as a solo artist to their roster. The result? In The Drink was released on October 12, 2018 to mostly positive reviews and the welcoming arms of loyal Motion City fans. Justin was kind enough to give us a call to chat about his new album and how he sees the current musical landscape.

Terrifying and exciting, thrilling... yeah..kind of all of--I don’t know it was weird. It was like feelings that were in direct opposition to each other. I think that, you know, being in a band, with a bunch of people for such a long time, you kinda know that people have your back um, and I guess I was the only one who had my back and I wasn’t sure if I even did? Yeah, I don’t know it was weird . . . As opposed to knowing that you have other people you can count on to kinda fill in the gaps. And there’s a certain amount of uncertainty that always surrounds me whenever I do anything so when I’m the one calling the shots, there’s a lot more of that uncertainty. I’m kind of a tinkerer and a fiddler. I could always be working on things forever. I’m not somebody who just writes it all out and it’s done.

It hasn’t been too long since you’ve put out an album but how did it feel to be calling your own shots and recording songs that were yours?

I think a lot of artists are like that aren’t they? Where unless someone says stop you just wanna keep refining things or changing it.

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I don’t know yeah, like, ideas happen daily. Like you could feel differently about something each day. When did you write these songs? Have they been in the A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent


works for a long time? Or did they all pop up while you were on hiatus? I think some of the ideas had been floating around for a while but they were just ideas. The brunt of it was written several months after we played our last show I think, somewhere in the winter of 2016, [20]17. I just started working on it and things just started happening. I feel like I went for so long without writing anything, that then when I did and when I eventually do again, the ideas just kind of are overflowing. And then you hit a spot where if you’re working on something for one month or two months straight the ideas just stop flowing and you just have to be patient I think and show up for work and and sometimes you just stand there waiting for things to happen. And nothing happens. Then eventually things will and do happen. Kinda sounds like weird, like existential ethereal bullshit but that’s kinda how this went.

have a few more days to finish this. I have to finish these lyrics. So some of those songs ended up on the record too. Sometimes I know exactly what the songs are about and sometimes I don’t and it’s not until later that I figure it out or I piece things together. So I’m kinda going way off here. But I think that’s how it’s changed. Instead of keeping these projects separate. I’ve kind of combined them completely. They’ve kind of been combined into one. Because it’s just me writing it. So that’s a really long winded answer. Sorry about that. Good luck! When you did an interview with Billboard you talked about how when you were on hiatus you considered being an accountant. Were you serious about that? Uh I think I was. For a hot minute I was on tour with MC I think it was 2016, before we ended and we knew it was ending. I didn’t know what to do. I can’t do anything. I come up with ideas where there are no ideas. And then I tell stories about those ideas and that’s like a real specific thing and I don’t know how to do anything else. I don’t even know if I know how to do that well. I was thinking what are things that I enjoy doing? I love numbers and math and money in terms of calculation and things of that sort and I was like, oh wait, accounting! That makes sense. So then I started looking into it and then I was like oh yeah, this is pretty much like being a lawyer if you wanna do

No I get it. What I’m saying is, to condense it. It was an intense short period of time writing followed by a lengthy time of tinkering. How has becoming a parent shaped how you make music or how you see art or how you go about making it? I think in terms of the art itself, it seeps in there. I think as you, I don’t know it’s weird. I can both put myself in a place that I used to be in but I’m no longer there. So I don’t know how authentic that is, but I remember things a certain way. And then there’s these new things like being married or having kids or your life changing or getting older. Those things seep in there as well. And then you can kind of mix them up and it gets a little confusing but I think that’s a good thing. I forget who it was, I think it was Malcolm Gladwell, a podcast he had and he was talking about how there’s two different types of musicians. There’s like a Leonard Cohen type and there’s Bob Dylan. Bob Dylan just writes it all out and then it’s done. It’s a song. It’s the end. It’s over. But Leonard Cohen will write it and then he’ll rewrite it. And then rerecord it. Ten years later he’ll do it again, a different version just constantly evolving and changing. I think there’s probably some sort of mix in between that. I know this will connect back to your question. I feel like in a way I’m sort of writing, not necessarily the same songs, but there’s a lot things that are just ever present and I can’t shake them. But having kids and being married and getting older, I think those are 3 things that have happened to me. I guess being sober is another thing. It sorta changes that thing, the song that I’m writing. It’s like a slow burn. It’s like slowly evolving over time so yeah, I don’t know. I have also I guess since having my daughter, being a dad. I feel like I have changed. It’s hard to do but I’m getting better at it. Putting everything out of my mind and just focusing on the moment especially with her. Whether she’s playing or doing something or whatever random thing it is that we’re doing, trying to focus on that. In that moment sometimes I remember that in the grand scheme of things nothing really matters other than these moments that we have with each other. I think that that’s affected the writing in terms of not being so precious with it and just letting things happen. And I sort of discovered something around 2007 2008, when I started playing with Farewell Continental, which was just an exercise in writing without thinking. And I loved it. Finding words that sounded like you could eat them. The sound of the words were almost more important than the actual words. After that point I feel like I kinda started weaving that into Motion City records like from My Dinosaur Life on. And I feel like I’ve been taking things from all these projects that I’ve been working on and doing. They found their way into this new record. I think that writing really fast, some of the songs just ended up writing themselves in a way and then other songs were like, I’ve been at it for seven months and I only

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the accounting and stuff, way more work than I thought it would actually be. And my wife pretty much said I would be a miserable person if I did that. It was very short lived. Within a course of a week the dream was already dead. The accounting dream.

 

Did you determine at the end of that, you weren’t meant for a 9-5 job? Or do you think down the line that it could be something you’d be interested in? I’ll do anything if it comes down to I need to make money in order to eat, for my kids, I’ll do anything I don’t care what it is, but I don’t know that I’m good at certain things. I don’t know. I figured out -- a lot of it too that’s changed since having a kid is money. Just sort of like, ok, I just gotta figure out what I need to survive. I think as long as I can do that. I don’t need a shitloads of money. I just need enough to survive. So trying to figure out what that number is and how much money I have in the bank and how much I can set on fire in the name of art to make this record. I rolled the dice and I took a chance and made a record. It just started out as just ideas then they became songs and then these

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my ideals and ideas. And especially seeing what happened in the wake of Bernie Sanders and the resolution so to speak. I think that I am all for the people. It starts with people and ends with people for me. Basically I think, I’m all for the reign of the old white man being over. I know that that’s not like, I have nothing against them. It’s cool, you did great, alright, take a bow and let’s let some other people run this ship. That’s basically it. It’s very simple. It’s hard not to get angry. I just really hope that...it’s exciting to see all that like, I don’t know...what this country actually is and can be. It’s exciting to see that kind of start happening. We’re all from somewhere else, you know? And it would be great to see that representation everywhere, whether it’s in politics or art or on the television or wherever. That’s kinda what I’m hoping for that more of that starts happening. If somebody reads this and disagrees, then so be it and you don’t have to listen to my music. With this new album what do you want people to know about it or get from it? Is there an overall message that you’re trying to send or tell people about yourself at this point in your life? I don’t know that there’s anything… It’s hard to talk about. I don’t want to say too much. There’s no agenda. Ok that’s fair.

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ten or twelve songs worked together. And then I called my buddy Josh Cain and was like, ‘hey do you want to produce this record for zero dollars?’ He said no, but I’ll produce it for a few hundred dollars’. I paid him some money, not an exorbitant amount. We tried to keep it real simple and we made a record and we were like damn, this doesn’t sound bad. I’ve had a lot of really cool people help me out with this and keep the overhead low. And then Epitaph, played it for Mr. Brett and company and Epitaph liked it enough to put their name on it and get behind it. It just sort of happened. There is an element of that where I sort knew in the back of my head that this might be one and done. And it still could be. Who knows? I hope it’s not. In terms of people-- like a label. I just didn’t have the energy to figure out how to do this on my own. I was grateful Epitaph wanted to help me, wanted to do this. Because then I would free me up to work on the art and all the music videos and all the--. I guess art is the word that I’ve been getting behind lately as well and wanting to make as much of it in every form that I can. Where was I going with this? I think… That’s ok. I lost my train of thought. We were talking about if you could have a 9-5 and it sounds like you could if you were still able to be creative. But it sounds like you just want to create art and keep doing it for as long as you can. How do you feel about how people are receiving and digesting music now? That’s tough. I think that, this isn’t necessarily about music. This is about, I think, the United States and the way this country runs. There are good and bad things about capitalism. But I think that the negative thing is that you’ve got a few people at the top trying to figure out how they can make a few more pennies and they don’t really care about the people at the bottom. That’s the only problem I have with anything. But in terms of how people digest the music. I don’t personally care how they do it, I’m just happy that they do it and that they like it. So yeah it’s all good. Do you like being able to get instant feedback on social media? Oh yeah. Absol --Like I love the social media aspect of things. I mean for me I just like to fuck around. Or just mess around with people. Sometimes people write some really wonderful things, and personal stuff and I’m blown away. Other times I’m just messing around and stuff. It’s just fun to interact. I don’t get to do that a whole lot in person because I never talk after shows, because my voice is always… I need to preserve it otherwise I lose it easily. I tend to interact with people that way. I do like it. I don’t know if it’s good to listen to everything. But I do think you have to listen to the people that hate you as well as the people that like you, otherwise you just kind of got blinders on. But maybe it’s better not to listen to anything. But it does feel good when people say nice things about you. You know?

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Yeah, of course it does. I think that’s why most people like the internet. We’re all looking for ‘likes’ right? Yeah I know. It’s weird. Cause like a part of me wouldn’t probably use any of these sites on my own if I wasn’t making music. I just think it’s a lot of work and I’m not that interested in telling people about myself. It’s weird cause I can do it in art and I can do it in songs and music and all that but it terms of having to present it to people on Instagram a certain way and Twitter and all that. I just do whatever I want and make it weird or not weird. I’m not trying to show myself in the best looking light and all this stuff. That doesn’t interest me. I’m more interested in --well, I don’t know. I’ll just say anarchy for now. Do you feel like artists have a responsibility to voice opinions about the current climate? Do you think it’s ok to not say anything? It seems like if you stay silent on it, people view that as almost irresponsible. How do you feel about that? Going back to MC, I feel like we...this was a few years ago, well up until a few years ago but we never really got political at all because we didn’t want to-- well, I don’t want to misspeak. We just wanted to be about the music that we were doing. Personally I feel certain ways about things. I don’t like. I guess I don’t--for awhile I felt very angry and umm and then when I put angry things out in the world that just seemed like a bad idea. I remember hearing or reading a story about Sarah Silverman. How some guy on Twitter or something called her something horrible and was really just outright mean to her and she applied something like ‘oh you sound like you’re in a lot of pain. I’m sorry you feel that way.’ Something completely the opposite of this person saying horrible things and then they got into it and he revealed he had back issues and was in pain all the time and he’s sorry and all this stuff, whatever. She ended up getting him a doctor. It was like this weird thing. I don’t even know if it’s real or not. But it blew my mind. It was like, oh, that’s interesting. Also that combined with meeting some of my friends who might have different views than I have and we’re able to be friends and talk about things and not hate each other. I’ve been in this mode for the last, like, a year now, of digesting. I’ve been trying to figure out how I want to communicate my thoughts and ideas with people. But yeah, I kinda stepped back because like I said, a lot of what i was putting out was like ‘This is the way it is! Fuck you!’ I don’t think I like that anymore. I think that’s how everybody is. You’ve got people on one side or the other. I don’t know. It sucks because I definitely am on one side of things but I’m just trying not to get upset or hate. Yeah, it’s sounds like if you’re going to put something out there you want it to be beneficial versus just sounding off and being mad at the world. I don’t know that I’m smart enough to be able to talk about things in a.... There are certain people that when they communicate ideas, they’re communicated well and they’re understood. For me, going back to the music and stuff it takes me so long to figure things out. I’ll be writing a song for two years. Even this, doing an interview and trying to express an idea. It’s much better if I have a few weeks to think about it and ponder it and really get it right. Otherwise I’ll say something and it might not be right. But I think for the most part, for the record, I fall pretty hard left with all of

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The only thing that was specifically thought out whether you get it or not is that I tried to write all of these songs from kind of like a choose your own adventure style. Which I guess I’ve always been doing to some degree. Where you can look at it and it can mean one thing if you look at it a certain and another thing if you look at it a different way. If I’m really lucky maybe you can get three different ways you can look at it. I was listening to some people review my record on a podcast and I don’t think they liked it very much. I was listening to it [pause] and it was weird. They were like, this is a great solo artist record but I don’t think I like it. It was weird. Super passive aggressive. They got to a moment where they were talked about one of the songs and what it was about and it was completely 100% wrong and I just started laughing out loud. I was like, ‘oh, this is amazing!’ It’s great that they had their own idea. And it also made me feel good like then everything they said, it didn’t mean anything. I don’t have to accept it whether it’s good or bad. Criticism in any form in terms of art is meaningless. It’s all just personal preference. And I know that. But I had this moment where I keep telling myself that I don’t care what people say but I was kinda bummed that they didn’t like it. After that, it was like, oh you have no idea. It was great that they didn’t like it or they had a different idea about what the song was. I think I succeeded in a way despite what they were saying about it. What was the original question? You know, I’m not even sure [laughing] I read that you played all of the instruments with the exception of the drums and trumpets and some background vocals on your album, was that by design? I did some of the harmonies but all the other harmonies are Molly Solomon from Communist Daughter. And Jenny O’Neill sings on Moonbeam. Did you do that because you wanted control over the way things sounded or because you didn’t want to pay someone else to do them? I think I did it just because it’s faster. I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to pull off the bass. Josh is a great bass player so he could’ve done it but I was just there and I wrote all the parts. Josh and David said, these parts are bonkers, you’re going to have to do it. I think I did it because it’s faster because I wrote everything. It’s not a fun answer but that’s - The truth? My dream is to be like Tom Waits and to be able to hire this person to play bass on this song and this person play saxophone on this song and this person to play drums or whatever it is. I’d love to get to a place where I can hire people and do real specific sounding records. This record was my attempt at like, you know, reliving that high school experience I had. I can listen to these songs and go oh, there’s that Weezer thing, there’s that Slow Driver thing, there’s that Super Chunk thing and there’s that Boo Radley thing and there’s that Pavement thing. It was sort of an ode to the 90’s in terms of the songs and ode to my past and an ode to right now it’s all kind of mixed up and jumbled together. Justin Courtney Pierre’s album In The Drink is available now at all major music outlets. SMS

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Mollywood Blvd

is the season for holiday music, shopping galore, and more calorie intake than we want to admit. What better way to ring in the holidays and get into the Christmas spirit than settle in with a warm blanket and watch a holiday movie? Here is a rundown of my top 12 Christmas movies. Before you flood me with hate mail, I left Die hard and Gremlins off the list, because I understand that while they take place on Christmas, they are not actual Christmas movies.

12

Scrooged (1988) Director: Richard Donner

Scrooged is a modern spin on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Story, where a cynical television executive played by SNL alum Bill Murray is haunted by 3 spirits on Christmas Eve. As he looks at his life from Christmas past, present and future, just like Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol his heart is changed. It is darkly funny, mean spirited at times, but overall an enjoyable flick that leaves you uplifted in the end.

11

(1947)

Miracle on 34th Street

Director: George Seaton

It was remade in 1994, but it was after all the original1947 film that was selected for preservation in the Library of Congress for its cultural and historical significance in 2005. Starring Maureen O’Hara and John Payne and a young Natalie Wood, the story follows the trial of a man named Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) who steps in for an intoxicated Santa Claus at the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade and gets the gig as Santa at the 34th Street main store in New York. When Kringle surprises customers and employees by claiming he is the real Santa Claus it leads to a court case to determine his mental health and authenticity.

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MOLLY PENNY Molly Penny is a local radio personality and MSU Mankato alum. It was her love of pop culture that got her interested in doing a morning show gig for KOWZ 100.9. She is now Music and Promotions Director at KOWZ & KRUE Radio in Owatonna and can be heard on various airwaves in Southern Minnesota, including Hot 96.7 in Mankato. She resides in Mankato with her movie buff husband and YouTube obsessed children. Need to contact her? Shoot her an e-mail mollyp@kowzonline.com or catch her on Twitter at @mollyhoodUSA.

10

(2005)

The Family Stone

Director: Thomas Besucha

who stumbles on Christmastown and tries to bring it to the land of Halloween. Burton once again teams up with Danny Elfman who composes the songs and score, bringing this stop animation classic to life.

This one is not widely known, but it is wonderful. The drama/ comedy has a star studded cast including Diane Keaton, Craig T. Nelson, Luke Wilson, Sarah Jessica Parker, Dermot Mulroney, Claire Danes and Rachel McAdams. Parker plays an uptight, conservative businesswoman who accompanies her boyfriend (Mulroney) to his eccentric family’s annual Christmas celebration where she is a fish out of water. Diane Keaton plays the mother who is battling cancer. It is subtly hinted at but never spelled out directly. The family dynamics are hilarious but hit home. Grab tissues, you will laugh and cry a lot.

9

Elf (2002)

Director: Jon Favreau

My husband and children would disown me for not including Elf on my list. Will Farrell’s Buddy the Elf warmed audience hearts and has become a modern day classic. Buddy inadvertently wreaks havoc on the elf community due to his ungainly size and is sent to the United States in search of his real father. Tall and goofy Will Farrell.. in New York City.. in an Elf uniform. As you can imagine, it’s pretty hilarious.

8

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) Director: Tim Burton

Unlike Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer or Frosty the Snowman, which are inadvertently creepy, this animated flick is actually meant to be a little creepy. The story follows the misadventures of Jack Skelington, King of Halloweentown,

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Muppet’s Christmas Carol (1992)

Director: Brian Henson

Obviously A Christmas Carol (1938) is one of the classics, but if you want to keep your children’s attention past the opening credits, I recommend the Muppet’s rendition of the Charles Dickens holiday tale. Michael Caine portrays bitter miser Ebenezer Scrooge alongside your favorite Muppet characters. It is also a musical, adding to the fun and entertainment.

6

A Christmas Story (1983)

Director: Bob Clark

Based on the humorous writings of Jean Shepard, A Christmas Story airs TBS and/or TNT in a 24 hour marathon starting on Christmas Eve. From the leg lamp, the tongue frozen to the pole, there are many memorable scenes. It is narrated by the adult version of main character Ralphie Parker, a kid growing up in the 1940’s who wants a BB gun for Christmas more than anything in this world. Hence the famous quote, “you’ll shoot your eye out.”

5

White Christmas (1954)

Director: Michael Curitz

With music composed by Irving Berlin and starring singer Bing Crosby, this is a Christmas classic sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. A group of singers perform a Christmas show in A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent


rural Vermont where they run into one of the boy’s commanders from World War II, General Waverly, whose country inn is failing. To help out with his financial woes, they plan a fun filled musical extravaganza that is sure to put Waverly and his business in the black.

4

How The Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)

2

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

Director: Jeremiah S. Chechik

Director: Chuck Jones

I love the original Dr Seuss book, but it truly comes to life in the 1966 animated television special. The story of the Grinch, who lives atop Mt. Crumpit, tries to take Christmas from the townsfolk of Whoville below. This perennial holiday special features the voice of Boris Karloff as both the Grinch and narrator, but it is Thurl Ravenscroft who provides vocals for the famous song, “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”

3

Home Alone (1990)

Director: Chris Columbus

Hailed as a favorite across many generations, Home Alone is a stone cold Christmas classic. A young Macaulay Culkin plays bratty 8 year old Kevin McCallister who is accidentally forgotten at home while his family travels to Paris. He awakens to an empty house believing his wish that his family would disappear has come true. The movie follows both Kevin’s adventures at home alone and his mother’s (Catherine O’Hara) journey to make it back to her son. The basic plot of the movie involves Kevin’s run in with two con men played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern in which he alone must defend his family’s home.

The Griswolds return for the third installment of National Lampoon’s Vacation with an American Christmas comedy. With a screenplay by John Hughes, comedian Chevy Chase stars once again as Clark Griswold, alongside Beverly D’Angelo as his wife, Ellen. Clark decides he wants to host Christmas at his family home. Unexpected visitors like his doofus brother in law Eddie, a series of mishaps, and Clark’s wild antics make this one of the most entertaining and funny Christmas movies ever made.

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I hope you enjoy my recommendations and I wish all of our readers a safe and merry holiday season! SMS

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Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings, and every time I watch Frank Capra’s It’s A Wonderful Life, I cry like a baby. No matter how many times I have seen it! James Stewart stats as George Bailey, who is encountering so many life problems, he is thinking of ending it all… on Christmas. We see his life in flashbacks as angels discuss his life. As he is about to jump from a bridge he rescues a character who turns out to be his guardian angel, Clarence, who shows him what the town would look life if he hadn’t been around. It is a heartwarming classic, and I blame my dad for this, but probably my favorite Christmas movie of all time.

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THE

A Kat Perkins Christmas St. Cecilia Theatre in Winona – Nov. 24 Kat Perkins is an American singer and songwriter who appeared on The Voice season 6 and advanced to the television show’s semifinals. Home for the Holidays – A Kat Perkins Christmas is an incredible blend of traditional Christmas songs with Kat’s modern spin. www.visitwinona.com/events

Craft’za Minneapolis – Nov. 17 Whether you’re the DIY type or you often find yourself glued to whatever you were trying to make, the Minneapolis Craft’za is the perfect place for you! Only the best artists are selected to participate ensuring that the finest quality hand-made items are featured and sold. Browse the beautiful work, buy some gifts for yourself or your friends, and try some of the delicious food served from the food trucks outside! www.craftza.com

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Sat Nov 17, 2018

Tween & Teen Parent TuneUp! - 8:30 am | $15-$20. Individuals $15, Couples $20 (financial consideration always given with need) Bluestem Center 124 Elton Hills LN NW Rochester, MN 55901 Join us to learn how to set healthy limits AND share control with our kids as a way of teaching not punishing. We will look at small, achievable ways to create calmer, healthier connections with our kids. Time for specific situations and Q&A will be an important part of this workshop! You will leave with concrete skills and hope for raising kids who thrive as they find their own way in the real world. All parents welcome and this class will focus on tweens & teens. Tour Nov 17, 21, 23, 28-30, Dec 1, 2, 2018 10:00 am | $12

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Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden 2500 4th Street SW Rochester, MN 55902 The Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden is Rochesters crown jewel of cultural institutions. Here you can learn more about the exceptional bronze sculptures of Charles Eugene Gagnon. When Chuck passed away in 2012, the museum was founded to honor his legacy of 50 creative years in bronze sculpture. The residence houses his studio and bronze sculptures created by this Minnesotan sculpture. The home and studios provides a tranquil environment to enjoy beautiful examples of Chucks figurative sculpture. You can experience a sense of the museums special ambience on our scheduled tours. A Sleeping Beauty - 3:00 pm | $15-$20. Age 5 +, no admittance under age 5$15 in advance, $20 at the door University of Minnesota, Student Center, St. Paul campus 2017 Buford Ave. Falcon Heights, MN 55108 Join the dancers of Pas de Deux Dance Studio at our premiere production of ‘A

Sleeping Beauty’. Set to music from the classic Tchaikovsky ballet, ‘A Sleeping Beauty’ features new choreography by Zachari Wetz in the classic story ballet tradition. ‘A Sleeping Beauty’ tells the classic fairy tale of Aurora, the princess who is cursed by an evil fairy (Carabose) to prick her finger on a spindle before her 16th birthday and die. The spell is modified by the Lilac Fairy so that Aurora will fall into a deep sleep instead of dying. Our production introduces the character of Aylin, Aurora’s older sister, who will have to save her sister from Carabose’s evil spell. The Mystery Cafe presents - “Alma Murder - A Killer Class Reunion” Nov 17, 24, Dec 21, 2018 7:00 pm | $66.50 Sheraton Hotel West 12201 Ridgedale Drive Minnetonka, MN 55305 The Alumni of Mellencamp Sr. High have learned that their old Alma Mater is soon to be demolished. To show their school spirit, theyve decided to throw one last all-class reunion. So get together with long absent friends and classmates. Find out whatever happened to that old flame. Get chewed out by your former gym teacher, just like the good old days. Its guaranteed to be the party of a lifetimeif you live that long!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

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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. Whether or not you crack the case, youll certainly bust a gut! Mamma Mia! - 7:00 pm | $9-$12 Mayo High School 1420 11th Ave SE Rochester, MN 55904 Mayo Stage Door Presents a production of Mamma Mia!Tickets available online at www.ShowTix4u.com starting Monday October 8, 2018 also available at the door with cash or check prices ranging from $9-12 Mamma Mia! Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com Rochester Community Band & Rochester Community and Technical College “Fall Concert” - 7:00 pm | Free Hill Theatre RCTC 851 30th Ave SE Rochester, MN 55904 The RCB and RCTC Concert Band will play a variety of music under the direction of Tony Boldt, Mike Mangan and Jonathon Knutson. The concert is performed by music lovers from all walks of life and all ages and RCTC students. RCTC Jazz Combo under the direction of Nathan Davidson will be the guest performers. The musical selections include: A Moorside Suite, Light Cavalry Overture, Make Our Garden Grow, and Shenandoah. For more information, call (507) 285-9915.

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National Theatre Live Presents “Allelujah!” - 7:00 pm | $18-$20 St. Anthony Main Theatre 115 Main Street, SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414 Minneapolis, MN 55414 Filmed live at Londons Bridge Theatre during its limited run, dont miss Alan Bennett’s Allelujah! in your local cinema! The Beth, an old fashioned cradle-to-grave hospital serving a town on the edge of the Pennines, is threatened with closure as part of an efficiency drive. A documentary crew, eager to capture its fight for survival, follows the daily struggle to find beds on the Dusty Springfield Geriatric Ward, and the triumphs of the old peoples choir. Please note Allelujah! has a BBFC rating of 15 and contains strong language. National Theatre Live captures live performances from the UK and broadcasts them in more than 2,500 movie theaters and other venues in 60 countries worldwide. As of February 2017, the global audience reached almost 8 million people. National Theatre Live is the closest thing audiences have to experiencing the feeling of actually sitting in the theater. Broadcasts retain the feeling of a live performance and though each broadcast is filmed in front of a live audience in the theatre, cameras are carefully positioned throughout the auditorium to ensure that cinema audiences get the best seat in the house. MN Opera “ Silent Night” 7:30 pm | $25-$215 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 SILENT NIGHT A moment of peace in the midst of war. MN

Operas international sensation makes its homecoming, honoring the centennial of World War Is conclusion. Recounting a miraculous moment of peace during one of the bloodiest wars in human history, Scottish, French, and German officers defy their superiors and negotiate a Christmas Eve truce. The Pulitzer-Prize winning music underscores the yearning, despair, and hope of the soldiers living in the trenches. Silent Night masterfully juxtaposes the bombastic sounds of war with serene songs from home, and stands as a heartfelt hymn to our common humanity. DATES: Nov 10 (7:30pm) Nov 11 (2pm), Nov 13 (7:30pm) Nov 15 (7:30pm) Nov 17 (7:30pm) Nov 18(2pm) COMPOSER Kevin Puts LIBRETTIST Mark Campbell LANGUAGE Sung in English, German, French, Italian, and Latin with English translations above the stage. Beverly “Guitar” Watkins and The RD Olson Band 7:30 pm | $28-$32 Zumbrota State Theatre 88 E 4th St. Zumbrota, MN 55992 For more than 50 years Beverly Guitar Watkins has been a phenomenon in the blues community. As one critic observes, She sings and plays with enough of what it takes to make musicians half her age or younger consider alternative means of employment. Backing her is the R.D. Olson Band, whose lead-man R.D. has 30 years of blues experience and stints with Luther Allison, Chico Chism and Buddy Reed. Experience the ups and downs of blues music at the State Theater on Sat., Nov. 17, at 7:30pm. Close your eyes and let the

music seep into your soul. Tickets are $28 in advance and $32 at the door.

Sun Nov 18, 2018

Mamma Mia! - 1:30 pm | $9-$12 Mayo High School 1420 11th Ave SE Rochester, MN 55904 Mayo Stage Door Presents a production of Mamma Mia!Tickets available online at www.ShowTix4u.com starting Monday October 8, 2018 also available at the door with cash or check prices ranging from $9-12 Mamma Mia! Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com MN Opera “ Silent Night” 2:00 pm | $25-$215 Ordway Center for the Performing Arts 345 Washington Street Saint Paul, MN 55102 SILENT NIGHT A moment of peace in the midst of war. MN Operas international sensation makes its homecoming, honoring the centennial of World War Is conclusion. Recounting a miraculous moment of peace during one of the bloodiest wars in human history, Scottish, French, and German officers defy their superiors and negotiate a Christmas Eve truce. The Pulitzer-Prize winning music underscores the yearning, despair, and hope of the soldiers living in the trenches. Silent Night masterfully juxtaposes the bombastic sounds of war with serene songs from home, and stands as a heartfelt hymn to our

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Thanks for the past 5 years. Here’s to many more!

For All Of Your Holiday Needs, Wee Have You Cover Covered!

Banff Mountain Film Festival Rochester – Nov. 30 Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is annual series of film screenings that traverse the world to bring revelers an action-packed lineup of amazing sports films. The festival screens films featuring

extreme and adventurous athletic activities such as arctic climbing and slack-lining. During the world tour, revelers can expect stops not only in the United States and Canada, but also in countries like Austria, Lebanon, Korea, South Africa and many others. www.banffcentre.ca/mountainfestival/worldtour/usa

HOLIDAY HOURS

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OPEN XMAS EVE 8 AM – 6 PM CLOSED XMAS DAY

common humanity. DATES: Nov 10 (7:30pm) Nov 11 (2pm), Nov 13 (7:30pm) Nov 15 (7:30pm) Nov 17 (7:30pm) Nov 18(2pm) COMPOSER Kevin Puts LIBRETTIST Mark Campbell LANGUAGE Sung in English, German, French, Italian, and Latin with English translations above the stage.

OPEN NYE 8 AM – 10 PM

Daily senior, military and quantity discounts. Huge Selection of Wine, Liquor & Beer

HigHway 3 S., DunDaS

507-645-5717

Store HourS: Mon-Sat 8aM-10PM M-10PM Sun 11aM-4PM Truly local family owned store in the area since 1983. 24

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The Accidental Hero - 4:00 pm | $10-$25 Paradise Center for the Arts 321 Central Ave. Faribault, MN 55021 The Accidental Hero is a multimedia one-man show about a WWII American officer who miraculously liberates the Czech villages of his grandparents. Its a true story written and performed by his grandson, Patrick Dewane. This touching show runs from belly laughs to tears. Dewane takes on a dozen different roles as he powerfully recounts his grandfathers journey from Omaha Beach, the Battle of the Bulge, and the end of WWII. In the last week of the war, the story turns away from a soldiers survival tale to something from mythology. He discovers his lost identity, embraced by the tribe he never knew. As he freed the Czechs, they liberated him. The Historic Hutchinson House B&B, located just blocks from the Paradise Center for the Arts, is the perfect place to eat, play and stay while exploring everything Faribault has to offer. Stay overnight and receive 2 FREE tickets to the show!

Mon Nov 19, 2018

Evening Beading with Beaders Society of SE MN - 6:00 pm | Free

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125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 If you enjoy beading or making jewelry, then join the Beaders of SE MN for open beading. All skill levels are welcome. BYOB - bring your own beads. Third Mondays, 6-8 pm Sept. 17, Oct. 15, Nov. 19

Tue Nov 20, 2018

10th Annual Side-By-Side Concert - 7:30 pm | Free East Ridge High School 4200 Pioneer Drive Woodbury, MN 55129 The East Metro Symphony Orchestra is proud to partner with the East Ridge High School Orchestra for its10th annual Side-By-Side Concert. This annual musical event features young high school orchestra students playing side-by-side with the seasoned musicians of EMSO.

Wed Nov 21, 2018

Kids Art Studio Camp - 9:00 am | $60-$75. $60 Family of 125 Member/ $75 Non-Member 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Your kiddos can spend the day in the 125 LIVE art studios when school is out. Each of these sessions are a one-off standalone held during Rochester Public Schools’ off days. During the pottery portion they will learn about different handbuilding techniques including slabs, coils and pinch pots. Campers will have the opportunity to glaze select projects. The items will be fired and available for pick up about two weeks after the conclusion of camp. During the painting

and drawing portion, they will learn about color theory, different painting and techniques, facial composition and perspective. One Session: Wednesday, November 21, 9 am - 4:30 pm Materials: Included in tuition. $60 ($8/hr) Family of 125 LIVE Member / $75 ($10/hr) Non-Member Art Club - 4:00 pm | Free Rochester Public Library - Auditorium 101 2nd St SE, Rochester, MN Rochester, MN 55904 Come to Art Club to try out creative supplies and techniques.

Fri Nov 23, 2018

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some)! Nov 23, 29-30, Dec 1, 6, 9, 2018 7:30 pm | $22 Rochester Repertory Theatre 103 Seventh Street NE Rochester, MN 55906 Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some)! A Comedy by Michael Carleton, Jim FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez Its back by popular demand! Weary of performing Charles Dickens expected holiday classic yet again, three actors are inspired to launch their own celebration by performing every Christmas story ever told plus Christmas traditions from around the world and seasonal icons from ancient times to topical pop culture. Throw in every Christmas carol ever sung and you have a madcap romp through the holiday season. Tis the season!!!

Sat Nov 24, 2018 Johnsmith - 7:30 pm | $18-$20. $20 at the door Crossings 320 East Ave Zumbrota, MN 55992 With his faded jeans, his twinkly blue eyes, and his infectious smile,

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Johnsmith immediately connects with audiences. You get the sense of a man who loves his life, his family and friends, and who loves nothing more than sharing that love in song and stories all across this land. Hear John at Crossings on Sat., Nov. 24, at 7:30pm. By his peers, Johnsmith is known as a wordsmith; by his fans, he is known as a healer. Above all, Johnsmith is a bard: a mirror that is held up which reveals the secrets of the human heart and soul. He reveals these secrets through the mysterious alchemy of music, words and performances. His song lyrics are finely shaped and powerfully moving often to tears. To reserve tickets, visit www. crossingsatcarnegie.com, call 507-732- 7616 or stop in to Crossings at 320 East Avenue in Zumbrota.

Fri Nov 30, 2018

Printmaking with Tamsin Barlow - 6:00 pm | $98 Crossings

320 East Ave Zumbrota, MN 55992 Learn to design and produce your own cards, fancy personalized stamp or prints suitable to frame and hang in your home. Immortalize a memory and create individual gifts for everyone who shared it with you. Instructor Tamsin Barlow will teach you the basics of printmaking on Fri., Nov. 30., 6-9pm and concluding on Sat.,Dec. 1, 12:30-3:30pm. In this 2-day workshop you will learn how to design, carve, and print multi-block (offset) linocuts in color. You will learn what tools to use and how to keep them sharp, how to plan, carve and print a multi-block (offset) linocut and how to register the different layers. Through a series of exercises you will learn how to mix and control color and how to work with transparent layers to create more colors. Suitable for beginners. Price is $98 plus $25 supplies. To sign up for this class, call 507-732-7616 or stop in to Crossings at 320 East Avenue in Zumbrota.

Sat Dec 1, 2018

Baldwin DECEMBER 1 - 30, 2018 The event of the season! Take a trip to the downstairs residence at Pemberley - the house a-twitter with the bustle of servants and the arrival of the Bennet clan as seen in last seasons hit, Miss Bennet. From the most produced living playwright, hailed by New York Magazine as a rare theatrical talent, comes a twinkling tale of family, honor, and love. Add on your tickets to this very special premiere, and spend the holidays wrapped in Edwardian charm. WORLD PREMIERE

Nature Art Show - 9:00 am | Free Quarry Hill Nature Center 701 Silver Creek Rd NE Rochester, MN 55906 Youll see pottery, jewelry, paintings, photography, glass, woodworking and more. Admission is free and ten percent of all sales are donated to the Friends of Quarry Hill in support of nature education programs. Meet the artists and hear how they have been inspired by nature to create their art. The Nature Center is open during the show for hands on exploration of their many exhibits and trails. And if its cold outside, warm up next to Quarry Hills famous indoor wood-burning fireplace.

The Singers: What Sweeter Music - 7:30 pm | $22-$36. Tickets: $22-36Student Tickets: Free with ID Annunciation Catholic Church 509 W 54th St. Minneapolis, MN 55419 The Singers: What Sweeter Music- December 1st, 2nd and 9th, 2018 Harpist Min Kim and oboist Merilee Klemp join The Singers for this annual feast of carols (many in new and exciting settings) and music for the holiday season. Stephen Paulus Three

The Wickhams Dec 1, 4, 11, 18, 21, 2018 7:30 pm | $37-$47 The Jungle Theater 2951 Lyndale Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55408 by Lauren Gunderson & Margot Melcon dir. by Christina

Starfire Grill

Thanksgiving Day

Nativity Carols anchors the concert that also features two special anniversary carols arranged for this program in The Singers 15th anniversary season by conductor Matthew Culloton. The Singers Official Website: www.singersmca. org The Singers Box Office: https://www.mkt.com/thesingers The Singers Facebook Page: https://www.facebook. com/singersmca/ Christmas Concerti - 7:30 pm | Free Christ United Methodist Church 400 5th Ave SW Rochester, MN 55902 Rochester Chamber Music Society presents ‘Christmas Concerti on Saturday, December 1, 7:30 pm at Christ United Methodist Church. Musicians from Rochester and the Twin Cities will come together in the performance of works for soloists and string orchestra by Bach, Corelli, Vivaldi, and Foote. Soloists are Horacio Nuguid, piano, Catherine Ramirez, flute, and Michal Sobieski, violin. Visit our website rochestercham-

bermusic.org for more details. There is no admission charge for RCMS concerts. Bad Bad Hats w/ The Shackletons & Author - 8:00 pm | Premium Members: $10Presale: $13Day of: $15 Rochester Civic Theatre 20 Civic Center Dr SE Rochester, MN 55904 My Town My Music Presents: Bad Bad Hats w/ special guests The Shackletons and Author! Join us December 1st at Rochester Civic Theatre’s Black Box Theatre. Huge thank you to our sponsors & partners: 507 Magazine, Med City Beat, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Rochester Posse, Cafe Steam, Carpet Booth Studios, and Wondercloud Media. Bad Bad Hats is an indie rock band from Minneapolis, Minnesota. The band consists of Kerry Alexander, Chris Hoge, and Connor Davison.

Sun Dec 2, 2018

Nature Art Show - 11:00 am | Free Quarry Hill Nature Center

701 Silver Creek Rd NE Rochester, MN 55906 Youll see pottery, jewelry, paintings, photography, glass, woodworking and more. Admission is free and ten percent of all sales are donated to the Friends of Quarry Hill in support of nature education programs. Meet the artists and hear how they have been inspired by nature to create their art. The Nature Center is open during the show for hands on exploration of their many exhibits and trails. And if its cold outside, warm up next to Quarry Hills famous indoor wood-burning fireplace. Rhythmic Circus Holiday Shuffle - 2:00 pm | More information to follow Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 This season, dont miss out on a wildly-imaginative, not-so-silent night the whole family can celebrate together. A perfectly un-traditional holiday experience for the entire

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Starfire event center Brunch with Santa

Brunch

sunday, december 9th call now for reservations

(November 22nd) 10am-2pm,

$18 Adults $14 seNiors $10 Kids

507-461-1387.

call now for reservations

507-833-8756.

204 2nd Street SW, Waseca, MN 507.833.8756

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

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204 2nd Street South West, Waseca, MN 507.833.4700

206 2nd Ave. SW For Reservations: 507.461.1387

204 2nd Street South West, Waseca, MN 507.833.7540

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

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Lighted Holiday Parade Owatonna – Nov. 29 Bundle up and head to downtown Owatonna for the Lighted Holiday Parade starting at 6pm. Parade vehicles will be decked out in their finest holiday lights. The parade ends with carolers and cider in Central Park. www.visitowatonna.com

The Last Revel Mankato Brewery – Dec. 15 From Alaska to New York City and everything in between, 2017 has been an incredible year for this The Last Revel. And after talking with them they couldn’t be more excited

to finish off this year in the town where they all met and started playing music together. Mankato, Minnesota...we will see you at Mankato Brewery on December 15th. Tickets are on sale now! Consisting of three members, The Last Revel uses traditional folk-minded three part harmonies with honest and meaningful lyrics to deliver a passionate and soul stirring performance. On a backbone of rebellious rock attitude and raw traditional instrumentation, band members pride themselves on an unrelenting work ethic and a deep hunger to write, perform, and entertain. www.facebook.com/events/265140307309912

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family Four world-renowned hoofers and a swingin seven-

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piece band inject the signature Rhythmic Circus style of rapid-fire tap into upbeat holiday classics. Presented with support from the Minnesota

State Arts Board, Arts Touring Grant. For more information go to www.austinareaarts.org or call 507-434-0934. Every Christmas Story Ever

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Told (And Then Some)! - 2:00 pm | $22 Rochester Repertory Theatre 103 Seventh Street NE Rochester, MN 55906 Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some)! A Comedy by Michael Carleton, Jim FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez Its back by popular demand! Weary of performing Charles Dickens expected holiday classic yet again, three actors are inspired to launch their own celebration by performing every Christmas story ever told plus Christmas traditions from around the world and seasonal icons from ancient times to topical pop culture. Throw in every Christmas carol ever sung and you have a madcap romp through the holiday season. Tis the season!!! The Singers: What Sweeter Music - 3:00 pm | $22-$36. Tickets: $22-36Student Tickets: Free with ID Westwood Lutheran Church 9001 Cedar Lake Rd Minneapolis, MN 55426 The Singers: What Sweeter Music- December 1st, 2nd and 9th, 2018 Harpist Min Kim and oboist Merilee Klemp join The Singers for this annual feast of carols (many in new and exciting settings) and music for the holiday season. Stephen Paulus Three Nativity Carols anchors the concert that also features two special anniversary carols arranged for this program in The Singers 15th anniversary season by conductor Matthew Culloton. The Singers Official Website: www.singersmca. org The Singers Box Office: https://www.mkt.com/thesingers Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/ events/2152549825071951/ Natalie Grant & Danny Gokey in Concert! - 7:00 pm | $26-$40. More information at AutumnRidgeChurch.org/arts Autumn Ridge Church 3611 Salem RD SW Rochester, MN 55902 Seven-time Grammy nominated NATALIE GRANT is known for her powerfuland soaring vocals, heart-gripping lyrics and passionate performances, and has remained one of the top-selling Christian & Gospel artists since her 2005 breakout RIAA Gold certified album, ‘Awaken.’

Wed Dec 5, 2018

Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden Tour Dec 5, 12, 19, 21, 2018 10:00 am | $12 Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden 2500 4th Street SW Rochester, MN 55902 The Charles E. Gagnon Museum and Sculpture Garden is Rochesters crown jewel of cultural institutions. Here you can learn more about the exceptional bronze sculptures

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of Charles Eugene Gagnon. When Chuck passed away in 2012, the museum was founded to honor his legacy of 50 creative years in bronze sculpture. The residence houses his studio and bronze sculptures created by this Minnesotan sculpture. The home and studios provides a tranquil environment to enjoy beautiful examples of Chucks figurative sculpture. You can experience a sense of the museums special ambience on our scheduled tours.

Thu Dec 6, 2018

Film: ‘The Doctrine of Discovery: Unmasking the Domination Code’ - 6:30 pm | Free First Unitarian Universalist Church 1727 Walden Lane SW Rochester, MN 55902 Film and Discussion: ‘The Doctrine of Discovery: Unmasking the Domination Code’ based on book ‘Doctrine of Christian of Discovery’ based on two decades of research by Shawnee, Lenape scholar Steven T. Newcomb.

Fri Dec 7, 2018

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” Dec 7, 9, 2018 7:00 pm | $6$10. Adults $10.00 Youth 14 & under $6.00 Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Matchbox Children’s Theatre invites you to join the Peanuts gang, including Charlie Brown, Linus, and Snoopy, in this stage adaptation of Charles Schulz’s beloved holiday classic! Christmas time is here! Tickets available at the Artworks Center, Downtown Austin, MN, austinareaarts. org or at the door 1 hour prior to performance time. Lyra Baroque Presents: Bach’s Christmas Oratorio 7:30 pm | $5-$25. Adult $25; Senior/MPR Member $20; Student $5 Mount Olive Church 2830 18th Avenue NW Rochester, MN 55901 Following last Decembers dynamic collaboration, Lyra will join forces once again with the Bach Society of Minnesota to complete our cycle of the festive Christmas Oratorio by J.S. Bach.

Sat Dec 8, 2018

Free Family Day - 1:00 pm | Free 125 Live Center for Active Adults 125 Elton Hills Dr NW Rochester, MN 55901 Join us at 125 LIVE for Free Family Day, an intergenerational afternoon. The Community is invited to participate in family fitness

activities like yoga, zumba and dance parties as well as create art in our painting, drawing and pottery studios. Meets the 2nd Saturday 1- 4 PM of every month. Rochester Dance Company presents The Nutcracker 3:00 pm | $18-$22. Tickets can be purchased at the Mayo Civic Center Box Office or Ticketmaster online. Mayo Civic Center Presentation Hall 20 Civic Center Drive SE Rochester, MN 55904 The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition not to be missed! At a party in her home on Christmas Eve, Clara receives a special wooden Nutcracker from her exciting and mysterious godfather, Drosselmeyer. Her naughty brother Fritz is jealous and breaks her beloved Nutcracker. Dan Rodriguez - All I Want For Christmas Is Whiskey Tour - 7:30 pm | $18-$35. General Admission $18 OR General Admission + T-shirt $35 Rochester Civic Theatre 20 Civic Center Dr SE Rochester, MN 55904 My Town My Music is proud to be bringing Dan Rodriguez back to Rochester! You may remember Dan from the time he opened for our Jeremy Messersmith show at the Art Center and had over 350 people on their feet by the end of his set for a standing ovation.

Sun Dec 9, 2018

“A Charlie Brown Christmas” - 2:00 pm | $6-$10. Adults $10.00 Youth 14 & under $6.00 Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Matchbox Children’s Theatre invites you to join the Peanuts gang, including Charlie Brown, Linus, and Snoopy, in this stage adaptation of Charles Schulz’s beloved holiday classic! Christmas time is here! Tickets available at the Artworks Center, Downtown Austin, MN, austinareaarts. org or at the door 1 hour prior to performance time. Rochester Dance Company presents The Nutcracker 2:00 pm | $18-$22. Tickets can be purchased at the Mayo Civic Center Box Office or Ticketmaster online. Mayo Civic Center Presentation Hall 20 Civic Center Drive SE Rochester, MN 55904 The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition not to be missed! At a party in her home on Christmas Eve, Clara receives a special wooden Nutcracker from her exciting and mysterious godfather, Drosselmeyer. Her naughty brother Fritz is jealous and breaks her beloved Nutcracker.

The Singers: What Sweeter Music - 2:00 pm | $22-$36. Tickets- $22-36Student Tickets: Free with ID Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church 1938 Stanford Ave Minneapolis, MN 55105 The Singers: What Sweeter Music - December 1st, 2nd and 9th, 2018 Harpist Min Kim and oboist Merilee Klemp join The Singers for this annual feast of carols (many in new and exciting settings) and music for the holiday season.

Mon Dec 10, 2018

Lorie Line and Her Pop Chamber Orchestra - 7:30 pm | For more information, go to www.austinareaarts.org. Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Lorie Line returns to Austin with Lord of Lords, a piano celebration of the true meaning of Christmas. Tickets on sale 6 weeks prior to the show. For more information, go to www.austinareaarts.org or call 507-434-0934.

Tue Dec 11, 2018

Estas Tonne: The Breath of Sound World Tour - 7:30 pm | $35-$90. 15% discount for a group of 10 people (promo code SPIRIT) Pantages Theatre 710 Hennepin Avenue Minneapolis, MN 55403 The world famous guitar virtuoso Estas Tonne started his rise as a musician while performing on the streets all over the world. His Song of the Golden Dragon reached over 40 million views on Youtube. As a modern-day Troubadour he travels countless places and spreads an inspirational message of the new consciousness and paradigm whilst playing worldwide. His music is a deep reflection of a classical structure, Flamenco, Gypsy, Latin and Electronic soundscapes. First time in USA!

Sun Dec 16, 2018

Billy McLaughlin and SimpleGifts - 2:00 pm | Ticket information pending Historic Paramount Theatre 125 4th Ave NE Austin, MN 55912 Celebrate the season with Christmas hymns and carols in modern arrangements. Tickets on sale 6 weeks prior to the show. For more information, go to www. austinareaarts.org or call 507434-0934. A dd y o u r e v en t f o r FREE to the TIMELINE ca l endar . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ern minn s c ene . c o m / c a len d a r & C l ic k + A d d a n E v ent

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A custom, localized replica edition of the popular board game that includes local properties and game pieces – everything you need to play the game with a local twist! These “Opoly” games make great gifts and are sure to become valued collectibles!

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Order online:

Holiday events round-up:

Visit Faribault.com and click the link under “Forms” to order with your credit card or

something for

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By ANNA VANGSNESS

hat’s a better way to get in the holiday spirit than enjoying one of the many holiday events that the surrounding area has to offer? Whether you’re looking for a walk among hundreds of thousands of lights or a street dance, Southern Minnesota has an event tailored for just about everyone.

Kiwanis Holiday Lights More than 1.5 million LED lights will brighten up Sibley Park in Mankato from Nov. 23 through Dec. 31. In the seventh year of operation, the 2018 Kiwanis Holiday Light attractions include miles of lights (including animated), a lighted carousel, ferris wheel, ice skating, Santa Claus, live reindeer and ice sculptures. “Winter in Minnesota is dreary, dark and cold, but I think it brightens up people’s days to see the Holiday Lights,” Kiwanis Holiday Lights Board President Scott Wojcik, said. The Kiwanis Holiday Lights Board and Executive Board are joined by more than 100 nonprofit organizations and businesses making up 61,518 volunteer hours provided by 9,977 individuals who help make the event a success each year. “It takes a small army to put on the Kiwanis Holiday Lights,” Wojcik said. “People donate countless hours of their time and not just down at the park; it’s spent in the offseason, marketing, finding sponsorships and fundraisers, too.” Though it takes thousands of hours and many volunteers, the effort is worth it

when the lights are turned on each year, he said. “I love seeing the faces of people going through the park and watching them smile and stare in awe at what’s here,” he said. “We take pride that there is something exciting and new each year. We don’t want to get stale; we bring in different lights, different displays and set up our moving lights to different songs each year.” The Kiwanis Holiday Lights run 5-9 p.m., Sundays through Thursdays and 5-10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays. The event is free, but cash and nonperishable food donations are accepted at all entrances. Food is donated to local food banks and a portion of the money is donated back to the nonprofits who volunteer at the event. For more information visit kiwanisholidaylights.com.

Faribault Hometown Holidays and Winterfest If you’re headed to Faribault’s Hometown Holidays and Winterfest celebration, be ready for lights, glitz, a touch of magic and a dose of nostalgia said Faribault Chamber Information Specialist Kelly Nygaard on behalf of Faribault Main Street. “It’s a great time to be out enjoying the town and downtown area,” she said. “You get a sense of hometown pride with these events and it’s a great reminder of local shopping opportunities. It’s so fun for the whole family and it’s a tradition that gets passed on year after year.”

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Winterfest begins Thursday, Nov. 29 with the annual window decorating contest throughout downtown Faribault. The night will also include caroling by Due North, Santa and his reindeer and an ice carving demonstration by Sakatah Carvers, Signs and Creations. Hometown Holidays will kick off on Saturday, Dec. 1 with a fireworks show above Central Avenue immediately before the Parade of Lights at 5:30 p.m. Local organizations and families are invited to join in on the fun before attending a street dance that will follow. Nygaard said Hometown Holidays and Winterfest wouldn’t be a success without all of Main Street’s efforts. “The community involvement is essential to the Main Street program and we truly appreciate the people that take the time out of their days to assist,” she said. “Hometown Holidays and Winterfest are a multifaceted benefit for the town.” For more information follow Faribault Main Street on Facebook or visit faribaultmainstreet.org. SMS

Stop in Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm, at the Faribault Daily News, 514 Central Ave N, Faribault

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• Visit Faribault.com and click the link under “Forms” to order with your credit card. • Stop in Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm, at the Faribault Daily News, 514 Central Ave N, Faribault MN 55021 • Call 333-3111 to order by phone with your credit card.

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of the Be Local - Buy Local Committee, will also include caroling, a luminary lined downtown, a model train display at the library and holiday treats, discounts and prize drawings a local stores. For more information visit northfieldchamber.com/winterwalk.

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Carnival and Crafts, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and movie night, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Nov. 24. Daily activities include visits with Santa 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Gift Thyme Shoppe boutique, Holiday Cafe and live entertainment. For more information visit mayociviccenter.com.

If you’re looking for something more traditional, area colleges have the perfect option.

Christmas Times’s a Comin’

mlc-wels.edu/music/christmas-concert/

Enjoy a night of music at the Starfire Event Center in Waseca as you watch the country-gospel and holiday musical performance Christmas Time’s a Comin.’ Tickets are available from Waseca Music Company and are $15 per ticket. Show times are 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 1 and 7 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 2. Proceeds from the 10th annual holiday gospel who will benefit Mayo Clinic Health Systems Hospice and the American Red Cross. For more information, visit wasecachamber.com

Martin Luther College Martin Luther College in New Ulm will be holding their annual Christmas Concert at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 1 and 4 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 2. Four choirs, wind symphony and the Hosanna Ringers will share their musical talents at Chapel of Christ at Martin Luther College. There is no admission fee.

AB-Photography.us

Northfield Winter Walk You’re not going to want to miss a night of course drawn wagon rides, tree lighting and Snowflake Ornament Hunt on Dec. 6. Northfield’s 20th Winter Walk runs 5-9 p.m., beginning with a tree lighting ceremony in Bridge Square. Event goers are encouraged to stroll through Northfield by candlelight and experience unique shops and dine out at restaurants. The event, which is put on the the Northfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, along with a small group of volunteers

Gustavus Adolphus College

Festival of Trees - a celebration of giving Rochester will be holding their annual Festival of Trees Nov. 2025 at the Mayo Civic Center. The event benefits Hiawatha Homes Inc., whose mission is to provide quality support services to people with disabilities. Events include a dance party from 7-9 p.m., Nov. 23; Children’s

Gustavus also offers and annual Christmas program. The theme for this year’s Christmas in Christ Chapel is “Visions of Divine Mystery” and will include dance, music, spoken word and the visual arts. A holiday buffet, featuring Scandanavian menu options, is available before each show. Tickets are $30 and may be purchased online at gustavus.edu.

Live or work in Rice, Faribault, Waseca, Dodge, Blue Earth, Dakota, Le Sueur, Steele, or Goodhue county? Join new community-owned solar garden for monthly savings on electricity bills. Access for renters, homeowners, & small organizations is our priority. Finally - solar that’s for EVERYONE. Open through 2018! Get started here:

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The Merlin Players present

written by Laura Ambler and Mala Burt Directed by Julianna Skluzacek

December 7, 8, 13, 14, 15 * 7:30P Sundays * December 9 & 16 * 2:00P

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It’s 4 years later and we catch up with the Hawes family in Faribault, Minnesota. Written just for The Merlin Players by Maryland playrights Ambler and Burt. Find out what has happened in the lives of Sandy, Martha, Will, Jessica, Josh and Brandeee. A holiday story for the entire family. Featuring Michael Lambert, Heidi Nelson, Matt Drenth, Jerry Fox, Stephanie Weiss and Mandie Seims and the voice of Gordy Kosfeld.

Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave., Faribault

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Call 507-332-7372 during box office hours. Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat.: noon-5PM; Thurs.: noon-8PM and 1 hour before performances. Or online at paradisecenterforthearts.org Sponsored by Spectrum Reach, Faribault Woolen Mill

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Carriage & Cutter Day Kenyon, MN

February 23rd, 2019 Parade • Free Petting Zoo • Vendors • Medallions Hunt Live Music • Silent Auction • Food • 5K Run/Walk Basketball & Softball Tournaments • Open Skate

Good times in bloom in Kenyon MN Bring the whole family!

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By GRACE WEBB very family needs quality time together. For some, that means heading to a state park to do some camping. For others, it means a night at the movies. Still others pull out board games or play a round of pinochle. For the Becker family, of Belle Plaine in Southern Minnesota, quality time means a trip to the local racetrack — but not to sit in the stands. The Beckers faithfully visit Arlington Raceway in Arlington every week to participate in Saturday night races. Dave Becker has raced for 28 years, while his wife Cindy keeps his car running as his entire pit crew. Meanwhile, daughter Karlee Block joined the family fun when she was 15. Throughout the years, there has been excitement and disaster, spectacular crashes and inspiring recoveries — and the family shows no sign of slowing down. Dave started racing in the 1970s, beginning with go-karts and working his way up through motocross, racecars and sprint cars. He said he enjoys the challenge of competing with other drivers, as well as the opportunity to always get better at his sport and the

chance to make new racing friends. “The fact that my wife, daughter and I enjoy it [together] is my favorite part,” he said. “Plus, the cars are just so cool.” But while he’s had a lot of fun over the years, he was also involved in a serious car accident that could have stopped him from ever getting back onto the track. Only six races into his sprint car racing career, he crashed his car and received third degree burns on 27 percent of his body. He had to be airlifted to the hospital, where specialists fought successfully to save the fingers on his right hand. After skin grafts and months of recovering, he had to decide whether to return to racing. After thinking about it and discussing it with his wife, the answer was clear.

Raceway when she was 15, using her father’s old go-kart from the 1980s. When she tried out sprint car racing, she was hooked. “I kill for that ‘ah-ha!’ moment when I get the car just perfect on the track,” she said. “Starting on the front row with my dad is my biggest and best memory. My mom is probably the best crewchief in the world. That really makes it a family hobby.” In August 2017, Karlee was racing with some new faces at Arlington Raceway when her rear tire climbed over the back of another racer’s tire, sending her careening into an end-over-end roll that knocked her out and gave her a concussion. She had to be airlifted to the hospital, while her car was totaled. “I cried so hard when my mom told me I wrecked my sprint

“When the motor starts, those four hours are kind of serene for me. I just put my mind in 110 percent because I’ve got the most valuable thing in my life in that racecar. If we don’t wreck everything and everything’s running good, that’s the most relaxed I can be.” - Cindy Becker

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“I realized I’d lost no desire to drive,” he said, adding that the addition of new fire-retardant safety features in racing helped encourage him as well. Daughter Karlee faced a similar decision last year, after her own intense crash. She started racing in the go-kart division of Arlington

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car,” she said. But six weeks later, she was back with a new car, pushing hard to earn “Rookie of the Year” in her division—which she did. “I had a little bit of nerves,” she said, “but I thought, ‘If my dad can get back in after his wreck, so can I.’”

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“We love going … We have a blast. In the summer time, I can’t wait to get to the track. It’s a family thing.” Becker

Cindy shares her daughter’s can-do, nononsense attitude — - Cindy which was obvious in her steely determination to take care of her daughter when she crashed. “[When Karlee crashed], they came looking for me because they needed me to get the wing off the car to get her out,” she remembers. “I knew I had to be strong to take care of her. I had to be clear-headed.” Though at first she simply attended her husband’s races to cheer him on, Cindy became interested in doing more after she met another woman who worked as the pit crew for her own husband. “I watched her work on the car and asked her questions,” Karlee said. “She’s the one who got me going. I thought, ‘If she can do it, I can do it.’ I knew absolutely nothing back then… It just takes a long time to learn those cars. The more I got to do it, the more I liked it.” She said she learned how to do more and more by simply reaching out to other pit crew members and asking questions. Though it’s unusual to find a woman on the track, other pit crew members were welcoming and happy to help, she said. Now, she knows how to fix anything and everything on her husband’s car. “I pretty much set the car up for the race conditions,” Cindy said. “My husband drives and I work on the car: tires, shocks, bars… We do it as a team.” Cindy keeps busy during the entire night,

running through checklists and watching the way her husband handles the car on each lap. She does everything from changing tires to changing the car’s shocks, all while stock cars scream past. “When the motor starts, those four hours are kind of serene for me,” she said. “I just put my mind in 110 percent because I’ve got the most valuable thing in my life in that racecar. If we don’t wreck everything and everything’s running good, that’s the most relaxed I can be.” The family finds their cars all over, getting leads from friends and spotting things on Facebook. They work together to totally overhaul regular cars into racecars, gutting the interiors and taking out “non-essentials” such as dashboards and windshields. While Cindy is the expert, Karlee helps too. “My mom says if I don’t work, I can’t play,” she said with a laugh. “Plus, I learn a lot about set-up from my mom. It’s cool when someone wrecks and I can run over and help them without asking, ‘What do I do?’” This year, Karlee wasn’t at the races quite as much, since her husband is in the Navy and was preparing for a deployment in October. Dave and Cindy, however, were still at the track every week. “We love going …” Cindy said. “We have a blast. In the summer time, I can’t wait to get to the track. It’s a family thing.” SMS

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Photographing SoMinn:

A Journey to the Other Side of the River Photos and text by Elizabeth Nida Obert editor@southernminnscene.com

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he Journey Inn in Maiden Rock, WI had long been on my radar when we decided to finally circle in. The celebration of our 9-yearanniversary was the perfect incentive. And because my husband and I were coming off an unusually stressful month, we sought a restorative adventure and destination of rest. Carl and I set out from Rochester, MN and within an hour landed across the Great Mississippi River in cheese

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country – I sat on a Packer’s couch in the middle of a bar along the way despite my Vikings allegiance. We made our way through the charming river town of Maiden Rock and along a few back country roads before pulling up to the attractive establishment, where fresh fruit, cheese and crackers awaited in the common area of the bed and breakfast. The Journey Inn touts itself as an eco-retreat. Owners John Huffaker and Charlene Torchia purchased 66 acres of “dream land” in 2003 and opened their business to the community in 2006. The property, which is secluded and quiet, is about three miles from Lake Pepin. Guests have their choice of one of three natureinspired guestrooms in the bed & breakfast: the Water Room, Air Room or the Fire Room. The Cottage, which

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offers more privacy and space, is also available to rent on the property. The EarthSky BodyMind Center, located just steps from the b&b, offers an array of healing and relaxing services that include massage and a Japanese Soaking Tub just big enough for two. It wasn’t long after checking into our room that my husband stretched out for a catnap while I explored the back garden and read magazines in a chair in the spacious front yard. Wildflowers blew in the wind. Birds communicated. A bluff loomed in front of me a short distance away. A few bugs interrupted my solace. And the skies became increasingly dark. We had no TV to distract us – my husband admittedly missed the Browns football game a teeny bit – and our cellular connections were spotty. We were off the grid; it was only after the fact that we realized there had been a tornado touchdown 15 miles away during strong storms that arose that evening. Ignorance can be bliss, eh? We rolled out early the next morning to run the stretch of dirt road that unfolded in front

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of the inn. There were cornfields and woods galore and not one car in sight. During our breakfast of cereal, toast, eggs, yogurt, juice and hot beverages, we visited with our new friends, Claude and Laurel Riedel, who were fellow guests at the b&b. Laurel said she’d been to the eco-retreat almost a dozen times in as many years, sometimes with and sometimes without her husband. “I come to get replenished. To journal and walk and bike,” she said, noting she usually visits during the fall and spring. We, too, hope to someday return. For more information, go to journeyinn.net. SMS Freelance writer and photographer Elizabeth Nida Obert, a former staff photographer for 18 years at the Rochester Post-Bulletin, has degrees in both and is passionate about telling stories in words and pictures. She thrives on travel and adventure and is always looking forward to where the next open road – or door – will lead. www.nidaphoto.com

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Lauryn Schindler Lauryn is the manager and kitchen designer at Cabinet Lab @ The Design Element in the Mankato Design Center. She works with clients on a one-on-one basis and oversees the execution of all cabinet projects in the design center.

Starting a Kitchen Remodel

T

he decision to embark on a kitchen remodel is very exciting, but can also be extremely overwhelming. Envisioning your dream kitchen is the easy part, but where do you begin? When applying ideas to a real-world scenario, such as construction, things don’t always go as originally planned – especially in the case of a remodel. There is no stepby-step instruction SPONSORED BY manual for the The Design Element perfect kitchen 1711 Premier Drive remodel, unforMankato, MN tunately, as each 507.345.8708 space is dependent on its underlying structure. However, there are important areas of focus to consider that will ensure your remodel gets off to a good start. 1. Discover What You Like (not just what you dislike) When it comes to a kitchen remodel there is no such thing as over-planning. Research is a

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key part of the process. The word “research” makes this stage of the process sound tedious and stressful, but this is the fun part! Gaining inspiration is an integral part of a remodel. You are creating your dream space so it is important to gain a better understanding of your personal style. I suggest utilizing websites such as Pinterest or Houzz to gain better insight on what you like and don’t like by browsing what others have already done. 2. How You Use Your Space When designing a kitchen it is important to think about how you use the space and what is important to you. For example, if you love to cook, layout and organization is an important factor. You may also want to upgrade your appliances, which has a large impact on kitchen design and budget. If you love to entertain you will want to design a kitchen that can handle a crowd. Maybe you rarely cook and care more about the overall look of the kitchen and you simply want a space that “wows”. Features like appliance panels, luxury countertops, high end hardware, islands, microwave drawers, and custom range hoods undoubtedly elevate a space,

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but also come at a cost. 3. Choosing The Right Products For You There is no shortage of products and materials to choose from in today’s market. So how do you know which products are best for you? Selecting products goes hand in hand with your desired overall look, but also the way you utilize your space. If you have small children you may want to look into durable products with excellent warranties. For example, you may love the look of marble countertops but they may not be ideal for the wear and tear that takes place in your home. A good alternative to marble tops would be a Quartz product. You will still achieve the beauty and elegance of marble without the maintenance. I recommend taking the time to investigate the various products available. This will assist you in gaining a better understanding of your needs versus your budget. 5. Hire The Right People Hiring the right people to assist you in this process is imperative to a successful remodel project. We live in a time when DIY is in vogue. However, remodeling a kitchen is not the same as executing a craft found on Pinter-

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est. Programs like those on HGTV can make designing and remodeling a space look fun and effortless, but it is not always as glamorous as it looks on television. Who you need to hire to execute your remodel is definitely dependent on the scope of your project, but most kitchen remodels will require a professional designer and a contractor. Hiring a professional will ensure the project goes as smoothly as possible. A contractor will assist with permits, budget, hiring subcontractors, and management of the overall project. The Mankato Design Center has all these services as well as all the products needed for a kitchen remodel under one roof. The designers at Cabinet Lab @ TDE can help with almost everything including space planning, product selection, product ordering, budgeting, and endless other decisions that may pop up along the way. R. Henry Construction can handle all your construction and project management needs. And the best part about having your whole team working together is that each of us becomes invested in your project and, above all, wants the end result to be the dream kitchen you were hoping for.

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ALBUM REVIEW By DANIEL G. MOIR editor@southernminnscene.com

O

Steve Perry Traces

ne of Classic Rock’s great missing voices returns from a nearly quarter-long hiatus with a bland collection of sadly crooned ballads and light pop.

Album Grade: C Steve Perry has always been an artist out of place, both in time and genre. This disassociation was largely a benefit and helped give the singles made with Journey a timeless quality. What gave the band such force was the fire the other members brought to complement his voice. More of a crooner than a straight out “rock singer,” this missing component is most evident on Traces, his first recorded output since 1996. The standard version of the album contains 10 songs with a running time of slightly more than 40 minutes. For comparison purposes, this review reflects the expanded 15-track version found on-line and at retail outlet Target. Album opener “No Erasin’” premiered unexpectedly during the waning months of the summer and heralded the upcoming album and Perry’s re-emergence to the music world. While the initial excitement of the new song may have been initially strong, it is due more to the anticipation of Perry’s return than to the track itself. As a song, “No Erasin’” is a bland, mildly rocking ode to long-lost love and past memories. The melody is unremarkable with only a moderately interesting bridge section to give the song something resembling a lift. Inspired by the death of a loved romantic companion, Traces is awash in sadness throughout. This overwhelming sense of loss permeates even the limited number of upbeat tracks and gives the album a strange incompleteness. This is most pronounced in “Blue Jay’s Fly” that closes the album. Curiously bizarre, the whispered vocal and backing track have an otherworldly, middle of the night sound. While the tracks recorded for Traces were originally intended by Perry as a method to help process his grief, listening to “Blue Jay’s Fly” feels more uncomfortably voyeuristic, than a necessary inclusion on the album. Perry is clearly mindful of his past throughout Traces. Thom Flowers’ guitar work on “Most of All” directly channels former Journey band mate Neal Schon’s phrasing and tone used on past hit ballads while “Angel Eyes” is musically reminiscent to a slower version of “I Believe” from his far superior 1984 solo debut album, Straight Talk.

Traces is reminiscent of Frank Sinatra’s classic 1958 album Frank Sinatra Sings For Only the Lonely in a number of ways. Like old Blue Eyes, Perry is an emotive vocalist with unique phrasing and a supple instrument. This is most notable on the delightful “October in New York.” Enveloped with gentle strings and sparse piano, Perry’s voice shines brightest and his maturely restrained approach fits the composition well. It is the broader emotional nature of the recording that makes it effective. Where Sinatra emotionally connected with his subject matter on Only the Lonely, he never wallowed in the sentiment as Perry does on Traces. “Sun Shines Gray” is a much-needed “rocker” that breaks up this ballad heavy collection. It has a refreshing directness lacking from the more over-thought approach that mars the composition of the album’s other songs. The relaxed, confident nature of the song pushes Perry’s voice making it a standout and a reminder of past glories. While the material on Traces may veer towards the mediocre, the musicians assembled by Perry to execute them are top notch. Drummer Vinnie Colaiuta especially stands out and brings an artful presence to the songs he inhabits. Perry’s voice, while noticeably huskier over the intervening years, is both rich and warm. Steve Perry self-produced Traces and may be the primary reason for some of the blandness of the material. Clearly emotionally invested in the project, he may have lacked the objectivity necessary to truly assemble a top-level collection. The use of a more unbiased, and emotionally detached, sounding board might have helped to tighten up meandering melodies and lyrical themes. While Traces may not be the barn-burning release that Journey/Perry fans may have been hoping for, it is far from a disaster. While the light pop of “Easy To Love” and the orderly reggae of “Call on Me” are pleasant additions to Perry’s catalog, it is clear that he needs an equal contributor to really take advantage of his vocal gifts. While a re-union with Journey is both unnecessary and ill advised, it is apparent that a co-creator like Neal Schon is necessary to bring the much-needed fire for a voice of Perry’s quality. Bottom Line: An overly ballad-heavy return by a beloved voice lacks the fire necessary to stand out. 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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THE BOOKWORM SEZ By Terri Schlichenmeyer

Death Checks In by David S. Pederson

Dracul by Dacre Stoker & J.D. Barker

My Love Story by Tina Turner (with Deborah Davis and Dominik Wichmann)

Nine Pints:

A Journey Through the Money, Medicine, and Mysteries of Blood by Rose George

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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

A nice little getaway. That’s all you wanted: two days alone, just you and your amour, with nothing to do but follow your whims. It would be perfect, idyllic – until it wasn’t, and Responsible You won out over Romantic You. As in the new novel “Death Checks In” by David S. Pederson, it’s back to work. Detective Heath Barrington had it all planned out: he and his boyfriend, Officer Alan Keyes would take the train from Milwaukee to Chicago, grab a cab to the downtown area, check into the Edmonton Hotel, and enjoy a wonderful weekend. It was 1947 and being gay could get a man in trouble, but Heath knew there’d be more anonymity for him and Alan in a larger city. The weather would be perfect for exploring nightclubs and sightseeing; there was plenty of entertainment nearby and a live show with a band inside

the Edmonton. That, of course, meant that Alan would need a tuxedo so Heath offered to purchase one for him – which was when the men met Victor Blount, haberdasher. Blount was a small man with a French accent and a dramatic way about him. He said he was an expert tailor, that he dabbled in photography, and that he could secure “discreet” entertainment for Alan and Heath. That was odd, but Blount wasn’t the only character at the Edmonton: the hotel’s assistant manager was a blustery guy who had his eye on one of the regular guests, a “full-figured,” flirty widow from New York. A dotty old lady from nearby came to the Edmonton often enough for waitstaff to know her preferences. And the one-eyed piano player and his songstress-wife left an impression on Heath by arguing loudly with Blount, who seemed to be overcharging them. Two days. That’s plenty of time for a romantic rendezvous, had Heath left work alone. But when Blount was found dead in his back room with “W” scrawled on the floor in his blood and a spool of green thread in his hand, two days was also long enough to solve a crime… Strictly looking at “Death Checks In” as a mystery, it’s not bad. That it’s a noir whodunit is nice, the main characters

are familiar from past books, it has that old-black-and-whitemovie feel you know you love, and it’s sweetly chaste, in a late-1940s way. Charming, in other words. But tedious also describes this novel just as equally since a lot of its action comes through dialog, of which there too much and in too much fussy, stiff detail. It’s wordy and it feels like filler. It doesn’t help that author David S. Pederson added an eccentric old woman in this story, who constantly clucks like a chicken. Yes, that’s written into numerous sentences. No, it’s not fun. Overall, if you can avoid doing that “speed it up” movement with your hand, or if you like noir mysteries that are more on the light side, only then will this book fit. For you, then, “Death Checks In” is a worthwhile getaway.

It was just a little scratch. You wouldn’t have even noticed it, except for the blood – and there was a lot of that. A surprising amount, in fact, for such a small scuff on the side of your wrist, the end of your finger, the top of your thigh, or, as in the new novel, “Dracul” by Dacre Stoker & J.D. Barker, your neck. He could hear the thing breathing. It was a raspy sound, halfhowl, part-groan, and Bram Stoker was running out of items he could bless to keep the creature from the room where he sat. He watched the door, fearing he would lose the battle before daybreak. As he waited, Stoker remembered… He’d been born a sickly child, and had been confined to his bed in an attic room for much of his first decade of life. It was a time of famine in Dublin and he might’ve even

died were it not for his father’s job, which allowed for care, a decent home, ample food, and a governess for the Stoker children. Nanny Ellen Crone was stern, but loving, and the children adored her though she came and went as she pleased, which vexed Stoker’s mother. As Stoker remembered, Nanny Ellen saved his life during a particularly bad bout with his illness, but he couldn’t exactly recall how she’d done it. Not long after that, and a childishly impulsive chase through a bog (or was it a nightmare?), Ellen disappeared. Didn’t she? Many years later, Stoker’s sister thought she saw Ellen in Paris. His oldest brother thought he’d seen her in Clontarf. It was her but not her, looking as though she was still a girl. Ellen would have been middle-aged by then, so how could that be? And why did Stoker still have wounds on his wrist that tormented him when he thought of her and the night she saved his life? He thought about those things, as a beast or wraith or something scratched at his door… Before you crack the cover of “Dracul,” make sure you have enough light bulbs. You’re going to want to use them

to make your house nice and bright and safe because this may not be the most innovative premise for a novel, but it’s one of the scariest. Gone from the classic tale is its original sense of distance; here, authors Dacre Stoker (a great-grandnephew of the real Bram) and J.D. Barker put Bram Stoker directly into a tale that dives, neck-first, into horror with hinted end-notes of truth. That’s excellent and it ratchets up the fright-factor, though it’s tempered when we’re asked to believe Stokeras-seven-year-old is more intelligent and articulate than any mid-nineteenth-century adult might be. But never mind. Stay, as this gothic novel with undertones of modernism gently draws you into a snarling sense of doom until you’re fully snared in a lock-the-doors, turn-onthe-lights scare-session. Stay, as you’ll race-read to get past the goosebumpiest fright, heart galloping, hoping that the locks hold. Stay, as “Dracul” leaves you scratching for air.

Just wait. Two words that are impossible to hear, especially if you have big plans. Hold on, don’t veer off-course, work the plan, hard as it may be. Just wait. As in “My Love Story” by Tina Turner, good things really do come to those who do. If you’ve come to this book solely because of the name of the author, you probably don’t need to be told about her early adult life. Even so, it bears repeating: Anna Mae Bullock was born in November, 1939, on a farm near a tiny Tennessee town. Hers was a difficult childhood; her mother, who mostly rejected Anna Mae, tired of her marriage and abandoned it when Anna Mae was eleven years old. Two years later, Anna Mae’s father abandoned the family, too, so Anna Mae moved to St. Louis to live with her estranged mother. She took one important thing with her.

“Even as a little girl,” says Turner, “I knew I could sing… I was born with that talent. My voice was my gift and I knew how to use it.” Because her sister was old enough to go to St. Louis clubs, Anna Mae managed to tag along and that was where she met Ike Turner, a womanizer who ignored Anna Mae until he heard her sing. Not long afterward, he started paying her be onstage and they became friends. He was “ugly,” she was “skinny and all voice,” but they were a team until they started sleeping together, she became pregnant, they got married-not-married, and the fighting began. Ike seemed to feel as though he owned Turner; for sure, he owned her name, since he’d registered it as a trademark. He told her what to do and where to be, didn’t trust her, beat her, slept with other women and didn’t bother to hide it. She endured it, waiting for things to get better, until one hot July night, she fought back, and she ran… Admittedly, a story you (sort-of) already know makes up the bulk of this book. If you’ve come to it for the promise of the title, you’ll read about “My Love Story” in the first 18 pages. So why pick it up, then? Wait. There are a few rock-your-world moments inside

author Tina Turner’s memoir, things she says she’s never admitted before, memories she’d rather not revisit, nuggets that were rumors ‘til now. These come wrapped in steely pulses of determination and power, all saucy and flippant but studded with soft notes of pain as Turner also tells about illness, family, personal losses, and missed opportunities. But wait: this isn’t a poor-me tale. Though Turner writes (with Deborah Davis and Dominik Wichmann) about challenges, gratefulness beams between sentences. So do words of inspiration, so-whatever humor, and that wonderful romance. Wait. That love story you’re promised? It’s a perfect bow atop a not-anywhere-near perfect life, and for readers who want a memoir with a minimum of gratuitous namedropping, but heavy on sassitude and triumph, “My Love Story” tells it right. So why wait?

It didn’t hurt at first. At least not for a second and then – yow, that knife/scissors/ serrated edge was sharp! There’s a cut that’s going to leave a nice scar. There’s a cut that needs covering, pronto. And in “Nine Pints” by Rose George, there’s a story inside that cut. What was on the screen above her head wasn’t nearly as interesting as the clear bag near her elbow, and so Rose George studied the latter. Healthy and willing, she watched as one-ninth of the blood she had in her body moved up to three miles per hour around her limbs and out to a collection bag for donation. Once upon a time in history, blood was a commodity, the giving of which could make a person a decent living; there was a time when unions were formed for blood-givers but we know now that blood-for-bucks is considered less safe than relying on donors. Safety is key, since that anonymously

donated blood is needed “every three seconds, somewhere in the world….” That’s important news for American blood donors who contribute to one of the safest blood supplies in the world. Even so, bad things can happen, as George discovered: she looks at the history of tainted blood, unsafe sex, and how both caused the AIDS virus to be passed from person to person. Sadly, it doesn’t stop there: paid plasma donors may have contributed to a tainted plasma supply and contributed to the spread of Hepatitis C. Obviously, we need more healthy blood donors. But, of course, human blood is not just used for medical purposes or research. In her quest to get to the bottom of what keeps us upright, George traveled to Nepal where teens and women endure a monthly ritual called chaupadi, which demands total isolation from family and friends. Because products for “catamenial flow” are expensive in developing countries, she met with a male “sanitary pad superstar.” And finally, George examines what happens when blood spills… and nothing can be done about it. In the average day, your blood travels twelve thousand miles in a circuit around your body. And that paper cut you

got at work today? Your blood is splendidly capable of fixing it, all by itself. No wonder you’re tired, so go lie down – and take “Nine Pints” with you. With a strong vein of humor, total candor, and a willingness to dig in deep, author Rose George takes readers on a journey tailored to the curious: into laboratories, Nepalese huts, and several countries to examine how blood fits in with health, culture, and science. It’s a trip to open eyes and inform, but it’s never boring: along the way, George drops fact-nuggets like bread crumbs on a path, making even the most squeamish want to follow. So whether you’re a red-blooded patriot, a bit of a blueblood, or you know what’s thicker than water, this book will be near to your heart. For inquisitive readers and fans of Mary Roach, “Nine Pints” is a cut above.

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Death Checks In by David S. Pederson, c.2018, Bold Strokes Books, Chicago Review Press $18.95 / Higher in Canada 235 pages

Dracul by Dacre Stoker & J.D. Barker c.2018, Putnam $27.00 / $36.00 in Canada 497 pages

My Love Story by Tina Turner (with Deborah Davis and Dominik Wichmann) c.2018, Atria Books $28.00 / $34.99 in Canada 260 pages

Nine Pints: A Journey Through the Money, Medicine, and Mysteries of Blood by Rose George c.2018, Metropolitan Books $30.00 / $39.00 in Canada 354 pages

A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent


Something for Everyone this Holiday Season! Events

November • Specialty Shop Open Houses Nov 15–18, 23–25 & 29–Dec 2 • Touch of Country Class Never Enough” Christmas Boutique Dec 1-2 • Christmas Time’s a Comin’” Holiday Musical Performance Jan–Feb • 69th Sleigh & Cutter Festival (sleighandcutterfestival.org)

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• 4 Seasons Athletics

• Boat House Grill & Bar

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• Pica A Dilly Boutique • Speckled Hen • Zinnias

• Summerhouse Farms

• Past & Present Antiques & Gifts • Homestead • Suburban

• Craft My Party • Ultra Beach

• Pearl Button Primitives

• American Legion Post 228*

• Domino’s Pizza

• Club 57

• El Tequila Family Restaurant

• Katie O’Leary’s Beef & Brew*

• El Molino Mexican

• Half Pint Brewing Co.

• Jonnie Beans

• Lindner Liquor

• McDonald’s

• The Boxcar Bar

• Mi Tres Flores • Tasty House

• VFW Post 1642*

• Oscar’s All American Food & Drinks • Pheasant Café • Pizza Ranch

• Ward House Brewery • YaYa’s Place* *Also serve food

• Starfire Grill • Subway

• Taco Johns

• Trio Coffee, Wine & Ale House

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*Event dates & times subject to change.

Life is Better Here A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent

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A d d y o u r e v e n t f o r F R E E t o t h e T I M E L I N E c a l e n d a r . G O TO w w w. s o u t h ernminn . c o m / s c ene / c a len d a r & C l i c k + A d d a n E v ent


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