SCENE JUNE 2023

Mollywood BLVD

Summer festival checklist

Summer festival season is beginning, and you don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb with white sunblock and fanny pack, so here is a quick guide to blending in at a festival while also being ready for whatever the day— or weekend—brings.

Two-to-three-day festivals can be a slog, but if you follow my tips, you will be golden. First things first, if you know you are going to be posting a ton on social media, you will need to invest in a portable phone charger and some extra pre-charged batteries depending on how available outlets will be at the site. Sometimes a simple Reddit search can help you learn more about the landscape and electrical accessibility of the venue. When in doubt, bring backups.

Pro tip: less is more. Enjoy the festival and being present in the moment. Definitely get some pics and videos of your favorite artists or performers but do not spend the whole time watching everything through your phone screen while Snapchatting or going Live on Instagram or Facebook. Festivals are an awesome opportunity to meet new people and make great memories. Don’t do it all for the digital memories. Being mindful that photos will be taken- bring some cute outfits you look and feel great in and that you will want to be photographed in.

Even if it’s a one-day festival, it may be smart to bring an extra change of clothes. From weather to booze spills, or just getting puked on by some rando, there is a chance your festival ‘fit could get wet or dirty and you’ll want to stay looking fly. Bring a little plastic bag as well in case your clothes get wet so that you don’t drench the contents of your bag while switching outfits. If bringing an extra outfit isn’t your jam, or there are bag size guidelines that won’t allow it, at the very least, bring a disposable poncho. They take up virtually no space and can be the difference between a good, dry time and a bad, wet time.

Light layers are typically smart as well. Additionally, having a light jacket or hoodie on hand is never a bad idea as temps can drop at night. As for shoes, make sure you wear comfortable shoes that protect your toes. Feel free to wear sandals but opt for sandals with some degree of toe protection if you do. One thing is certain- you are going to be on your feet a

lot, and so is the drunk guy in front of you. A good pair of Keens or Clarks are a worthy investment- hiking sandals may not be your first choice, but they may be the wisest, and the aforementioned brands have surprisingly cute styles. Be practical while still fashionable and for the love of the festival gods, this is not the time to break in a pair you’ve never worn. Blister central.

Next, be sure to protect your skin. Most festivals are outdoor, and you are going to need sunscreen to reapply about every 80 minutes, as well as a visor or hat, a pair of sunglasses, and if you are extremely sensitive to sun exposure, you may even want to skip the tank or short sleeves and opt for more coverage with a breathable fabric. I have seen some people bring picnic umbrellas to camp out under, which is an awesome choice, as long as you stay stationed on a hill and spaced away from others so as not to block their view of the stage. If the mosquitos love you, bring some kind of insect repellent too or you will be sorry. Also, if you are single and planning to “mingle” don’t forget condoms. Protect all the skin. Don’t be the clown who tries to climb scaffolding or get in a fist fight, but be aware that you might encounter some crazy situations that could put you at risk for harm. First aid tents exist at most festivals but they are often dealing with more serious situations, like dehydration or major injuries. For the minor cuts and scrapes, it is best to be prepared with your own mini first aid kit that includes ointment and bandages. Even if you don’t end up needing it yourself, it may come in clutch for others. Accidents happen. Ear plugs are another nice thing to have on hand in case the PA is extremely loud or if you get overwhelmed by large crowd noises; Especially if it is a multi-day music fest, you will want to protect your ears.

At most festivals, cash is still king but in the post-covid era, many venues and festivals have moved to cash free. Be sure to check your ticket or the festival website to find out about important things from: Bag size, liquid allowance, and cash/card policy. Bring your ID, especially if you are over 21 and plan to drink alcohol or partake in other 21+ substances. If the festival is in another state, become familiar with that state’s laws regarding things like hemp, marijuana, alcohol etc. One place you won’t want to end up is in the back of a squad car.

Oh, and make sure you have your tickets. Many places accept mobile tickets, so another reason to be sure you are entering festival grounds with a full charge.

Look at a festival map and set times before you go and acquaint yourself with the lineup and

plan your strategy. I failed to do so, decided to show up fashionably late and missed one of the main bands I had hoped to see. Learn from my mistakes. Even if the

MOLLY PENNY

set times aren’t obvious, you can usually browse the trusty interwebs for traveling festivals and learn the order of performances from previous stops. Another good rule of thumb if you do plan to lollygag is to check out setlist.fm to see a list of songs a given band or performer is playing. If they start out or end their set with some stinkers off their newest album that you don’t care about, allow some overlap and plan to catch some other acts during that time.

Finally, check the policy on outside food and drinks and glass bottles. Some festivals will allow you to bring in a cooler, while others expect you to purchase food and drinks on-site. Plan accordingly. If they allow food but not coolers, don’t forget ice. Bring some smaller food items that pack a punch like energy bites, Cliff bars, peanut butter crackers, and small pouches of trail mix, water bottles or canteens if allowed so you aren’t dropping $7 on a 12 oz bottled water.

Stay hydrated and fed as you won’t want to get lightheaded or go hungry while trying to power through a festival. It may also be a good rule of thumb to bring a small pack of baby wipes, a roll of toilet paper, or other essential hygiene products which may be available on day one but are obsolete by day three when the festival crowd has completely destroyed the porta potties and turned over the first-aid tent. A little bottle of hand-sanitizer may not be a bad idea either.

Now that you have read this, I’d say you are festival ready. My most important tidbit: have fun. 

Molly Penny is a local radio personality and MNSU alum. It was her love of pop culture that got her interested in doing a radio show for KOWZ 100.9, and she is now the music and promotions director at KOWZ & KRUE Radio in Owatonna. She resides in Mankato with her movie buff husband and YouTube obsessed children. Catch her on Twitter at @ mollyhoodUSA.

(Harry Grout/Unsplash)

(Lionel Gustave/ Unsplash)

(Diana Polekhina/ Unsplash)

(Sandrene Zhang/Unsplash)

By JANE TURPIN MOORE Guest Contributor

There’s no excuse for boredom this summer.

In fact, if you can’t find enough to do during Southern Minnesota’s three glorious mitten-free months, you must not be trying very hard.

Festivals for families, music-lovers, crafters, human rights supporters, farmers, artists and enthusiastic noshers abound. Really, the

hardest part is deciding which ones to prioritize while you’re cramming in a year’s worth of warm-weather activities into roughly 100 days.

Here are three distinct options in the area to consider adding to your calendar, plus a list of some more possibilities. Note that another story in this edition of Scene shares community celebrations, whereas this list focuses on the events not affiliated with a specific community. Summer 2023, here we come.

Pioneer Power Show

Aug. 25-27, 2023 (34605 265th Ave., Le Sueur)

Agriculture fans and farmers, rejoice. This

one’s for you. You’ll have to wait until the end of August, but plan now to prioritize the 50th annual Le Sueur County Pioneer Power Show.

An institution in the area since 1974, the show’s 10-member board is pulling out all the stops for its golden anniversary. The headlining Pioneer Power Tractor Pull takes place both Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 p.m., with an Antique Stock Class (1959 and older) and an Antique Open Class (1959 and older).

People of all ages enjoy the all-brand tractor ride, an hour-long tractor cruise that departs from the show grounds at 5:30 p.m. Friday This is your chance to ride like a farmer.

Crafters and demonstrators of old-time techniques and products (think: broommaking, blacksmithing, wood-working) will be on hand, likely prompting attendees to ponder the super-human work ethics, industriousness and inventiveness of their pioneer ancestors.

Ever-popular at this festival are the North Central Wheel Horse Collectors, and 2023 will be no exception. The Wheel Horse tractors are a guaranteed draw for those in the know

Because it’s the 50th anniversary, special souvenir show buttons and other items will be available for purchase; exhibitors will receive a brass exhibitor plaque to mark their participation, besides.

Hearty meals are the rule at the Le Sueur County Pioneer Power Show, and insiders make

a beeline for the on-site Threshers Kitchen or Pancake House. Consider tucking into a breakfast of eggs, hash browns, ham, roll, coffee and juice (it’s an early riser’s paradise, with service beginning at 6 a.m. daily), or get a load of the hot beef commercials, homemade soups, scalloped potatoes and ham, chili and homemade pie. Just try to resist all that.

Treats like Dairy Association malts, cotton candy, kettle corn, funnel cakes, cheese curds and mini-donuts also make for easy munching while strolling the show grounds (or rent a golf cart to make it even easier on yourself to get around the extensive area).

And don’t forget about the entertainment; music and dance take place in Pioneer Hall until 11 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday, with lovable acts such as The Dakota Ramblers, Gary’s Ridgeland Dutchmen, The Old Country Boys, John Deitz and the Jolly Brewers and Mitchell Hall and the Tennessee Trio (a Johnny Cash tribute ensemble) all in the lineup.

For more details about the numerous events and activities scheduled, visit pioneerpowershow.com.

Pride in the Park Northfield

June 4, 12 - 4 p.m. (421 Fourth St. E., Northfield)

In only three short years, Pride in the Park has progressed from a relatively small event to being a community and regional draw

Emily Lloyd, a Northfield Pride committee member and one of the event’s founders, said the first Pride in the Park was considered successful with an estimated 500 attendees— but in 2022, the official count was 1,928. “The events have been so joyful,” said Lloyd. “There so much affirmation and a lot to enjoy, People

(Left to right) Autumn Johnson (front), Danny Melchert (back), Danielle Melchert (back), Grace Melchert (back), Weston Melchert and Wyatt Melchert (front) of Morristown enjoy Undeniably Dairy milkshakes at the Pioneer Power Show.

have a mellow good time and it’s also really family-friendly.” The family-friendly aspect is aided by the fact no alcohol is sold on site, though an April fundraiser for Pride in the Park at Northfield’s Imminent Brewing raised over $10,000 (organizers’ modest goal was $5,000).

Besides providing a solid financial base for the 2023 event, that fundraiser enabled Northfield Pride to establish a $1,000 flexible education scholarship for a local graduating LGBTQIAP+ senior

Located a couple blocks east of downtown in Northfield’s leafy Central Park, Pride in the Park offers booths with goods and services (books, glass, art, etc.), five local churches, health and community organizations and LGBTQIAP+ resources including RECLAIM (supporting mental health for queer youth), Transforming Families, OutFront Minnesota and more.

Three food trucks (Thai Thai Street Food, Peppers & Fries and Baldy’s BBQ) plus at least one food booth (Little Frida’s Taco Shop) will offer tasty food choices for all palates.

The Northfield Area YMCA is sponsoring a “Pride Cardio” session, drag entertainers are scheduled to perform, a self-defense demonstration is on the schedule and Twin Cities meteorologist Sven Sundgaard will serve as the event’s emcee, along with his boyfriend, metro-area realtor Robert McEachren.

“There are lots and lots of happy people and teens who are so excited this is happening in Northfield,” said Lloyd. “Pride in the Park offers a real sense of community, and every booth offers something interesting. “This is an accessible, comfortable, come-as-you-are festival.” For more information about Pride in the Park Northfield, visit northfieldpride.com.

Solstice Outdoor Music Festival

June 16-17, The Hub (512 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato)

Ah, the height of summer—and Mankato provides the perfect opportunity to dance, revel and dine on the longest days of the year. This ticketed event (though kids 12 and under accompanied by adults are free) is rich with food trucks, vendors, live art—and its signature live music, naturally. Running from 5 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, and from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, the Solstice Outdoor Music Festival brings the music acts you want to hear: Emmy Woods, Blue Cactus, Ben Scruggs, Smokin’ Joe, Dazy Head Mazy and Madam Driver, among others.

When you’re looking to combine fresh summer air with a relaxed atmosphere, live music and great food, maximize it all at Solstice Outdoor Music Festival. It should provide warm memories on a cold December night. For more information about Mankato Solstice Outdoor Music Festival, visit eventbrite.com or find Mankato Solstice Outdoor Music Festival on Facebook. 

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

Other summer festivals in Southern Minnesota to consider:

Minnesota Original Music Festival

July 19-23, St. Peter, mnomf.org

Vintage Band Festival

July 29, Northfield, vintagebandfestival.org

25th Annual RibFest

Aug. 3-6, Vetter Stone Amphitheater, Mankato, vetterstoneamphitheater.com

Winstock Country Music Festival

June 16-17, Winsted, winstockfestival.com

Lakefest

July 4, Clear Lake, Waseca, Waseca Lakefest on Facebook

Bavarian Blast

July 20-23, New Ulm, bavarianblast.com

Shop the Lot Craft and Vendor Fair

June 10, New Ulm, fairsandfestivals.net

The Pride in the Park event in Northfield includes many displays of the rainbow flag, intended to highlight the community’s support for members of the LGBTQ community. (File photo/southernminn.com)

Pride in the Park activities included dancing in 2021. (File photo/southernminn. com)

Kids watch a log cutting demonstration at the Pioneer Power Sawmill.

By PAT GARRY Guest Contributor

It’s coming up to summer in Minnesota. The season where we pack in as much outdoor time as humanly possible, before it’s time to stay inside again. We can finally shift to “what’s going on in the area” time.

A staple of Southern Minnesota summer culture are the celebrations unique to each community.

It just depends on how far you want to drive to enjoy whatever that particular town has to offer. There is something for everyone. From seasonal food and flower celebrations, to recreations of times gone by, here are some charming small-town festivals that are well worth the jaunt.

Rochesterfest, June 20-24, is a celebration of the city of Rochester. In 1983, former Mayor Chuck Hazama, appointed a committee to plan a celebration for the 125th anniversary of the city of Rochester.

An 8-day celebration was planned by chairperson, Ann Chafoulias and Sue Norris. It was a rousing success and laid the ground work for many events that are a part of the annual celebration called “Rochesterfest”. The event is now organized over 9 days with various events.

“Some are non-Rochesterfest sponsored, organizations that tag along with our celebration, but the Fest has no investment in them. Then there are Rochesterfest events that take place at Soldiers Memorial Field that

Attendees can enjoy live music and sumptuous food from vendors throughout the weekend during Smokin’ in Steele. (File photo/southernminn.com)

we organize and put together,” said Executive Director Stephen Rose.

Most of these are related to music, entertainment and food, all from noon to 10 p.m. Planning for the Rochesterfest celebration is basically all-year-round, with the majority of it happening March through June. There is a Treasure Hunt with a $500 prize and a Button

contest that has a prize of $300.

“Though Rochesterfest is obviously a funfilled occasion, its importance is that it brings the citizens of the city together, to celebrate our culture. We hope to see all of you for our annual festival,” Rose explained.

Smokin’ in Steele, June 2-3, was started 16 years ago by a group from The

Knights of Columbus Council 945, as a 100% charitable fundraiser for the local chapter of the Special Olympics.

“We rounded up a committee of volunteers to build a unique, communitybased festival. It combines a Kansas City BBQ Society (sanctioned State competition for Pro level BBQers), an amateur backyard BBQ

competition (with a People’s Choice Award based on attendees sampling), a Free Kid’s Q Competition that provides all the tools, tips and mentoring, a Free Classic Car display, food vendors, and of course, world class Blues acts on two stages,” explained John Hammer, Entertainment/Media Director.

The committee starts planning in the early fall for the next year’s event and strategy. The group aspires to add new and exciting components to the festival.

“In the past, we had a Hot Rod Garden Tractor Pull, a sanctioned, chip timed 5K Run, a Bicycle Rally, an Antique Tractor and Semi Rig display, and Cornhole Bean Bag Competition,” Hammer said.

There are circa 200 volunteers in place, to insure everything runs as planned. While the music on the outdoor stage is free, there is headline entertainment in the Beer Garden, (with full cash bar).

“Aside from the fun, the food, and the frolicking, it allows us to give back to our community, culturally, through all-inclusive blues music and the opportunity to participate in the Amateur BBQ Competitions (whether cooking or sampling). It also provides a vehicle to give back to our community, financially, by supporting worthy local charities, thus reinforcing the quality of life for the citizens of Steele County.” explained Hammer.

OTHER COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS

Waterville Bullhead Days:

(June 9-11) Waterville Bullhead days is 3 days of family fun. Classic car roll-in, street dance, fireworks, craft fair, fishing contest, bingo, food trucks, live music and more. Sunday there is a Grand Parade.

Winona Steamboat Days:

(June 14-18) Winona’s annual community wide celebration at Levee Park; enjoy five days

of carnival, live music, a grande parade and fireworks;

Faribault Heritage Days: (June 15-17) Parade, craft fair, kids activities.

Cleveland Cherry Creek

Days: (June 16) Music, food, a car show, family activities and a parade.

Phantom Car Show: (June 18) calling all car enthusiasts; attend this free event on Father’s Day; this annual event takes place along the quaint streets of Red Wing (3rd & Bush St); enjoy live music, food, and array of cars/trucks and unique rigs; antique, classic and street rods; Beer, Brats & Bourbon (June 23) join in as everyone kicks up their feet and celebrates making it to warmer summer months; save the date for BBB.

Stewartville SummerFest: (June 30-July 4) Teen night at the pool; disc golf tournament; dance; arts in the park; parade; fireworks.

St. Peter Old Fashioned

Fourth: (July 1-2) Celebrate the holiday with one of the biggest festivals around,

CONTINUED page 10

Dustin and Mary Reese of Owatonna’s own Hogline BBQ pull some pork spareribs from a smoker during Smokin’ in Steele 2018. (File photo/southernminn.com)

VISITOURNEWLOCATION!

324CedarN.Ave

Owatonna

Monday-Wednesday10-6 Thursday10-7 Friday10-5 Saturday10-4

CONTINUED from page 9

complete with a massive parade and music/ food/drinks all day long.

North Mankato Fun Days: (July 6-9) includes five days of fun for people of all ages. Fun Days offers a variety of activities including a parade, kiddie parade, carnival, softball tournaments, live music and more.

Owatonna Gem Days: (July 20-22) Ice Cream Social & Old Car Cruise-In, Crazy Days Sidewalk Sales, Kiddie Parade, Food Vendors, Music, and more.

Wabasha Riverboat Days: (July 29) Don’t miss The Katfish Kittens Car Show during the 45th Annual Riverboat Days, with the Rowdy Gents on stage at noon; free admission.

Le Sueur Giant Days: (Aug. 4-6) Big music events, a parade, fireworks and all kinds of family activities, food vendors and more.

Buffalo Bill Days in Lanesboro: (Aug 4-6) The three-day festival features golf, softball & volleyball tournaments, plays at the Commonweal Theatre, beer and brat tents, barbecued chicken, live music, bingo, dancing, karaoke and, of course, an Old West Show. Saturday night features fireworks off the bluffs, and Sunday afternoon is the grand parade for the whole family.

Kenyon Rose Fest: (Aug. 18-20)

There are street dances on Friday and Saturday nights, town-wide garage sales, book sales, a vendors and farmers market, an amazing car show on Saturday; followed by a parade at 4 p.m., which features the always exciting Shriner Units. There are plenty of food vendors for the weekend and activities for all.

Northfield Defeat of Jesse James Days: (Sept. 6-10) Close out the summer with one of the most unique and popular festivals around. You have your usual carnival, food trucks, beer tents and more, but you also have bank raid re-enactments, history exhibits, theater performances and more.  Journalist-Copywriter-Editor-Feature Writer. My experience spans over 20 years, and I will apply my skills to help beef up any lifeless copy within your website, brochure, press release, catalog, etc. Reach out at patgarry@charter.net.

FOOD & DRINK Review

Doolittles Woodfire Grill

Amainstay of Eagan, Doolittles Woodfire Grill has been a welcome, going concern for 34 years. CFO/Owner Lynn Reimer and COO/Owner John Sheehan are the anchors of the awesome establishment, and they are assisted by General Manager Brian Newman, Executive Chef Victor Rojas and Corporate Chef James Foley.

“Hospitality and the restaurant industry is such a dynamic and fun business that brings people from all walks of life together to share life. Our team loves to explore new food and flavors, and create dishes that not only satisfy, but inspire others to grow their culinary experiences. Equally important, restaurants provide the “social nutrition” that we crave. We gather to share life together, and our team loves to be the complement to those life experiences. We are challenged to do everything we can do to make those moments become memories that last forever.” explained

PAT GARRY

Reimer.

The venue offers lunch and dinner every day of the week, opening at 11 a.m. daily. Featuring woodfire cooking, their rotisserie ignites the senses. Dry rubbed with choice seasonings, these selections are slowly roasted on the woodfired rotisserie and creating self- basting, succulent wood-roasted meat. The well-received pulled-rotisserie chicken is served in all entrées with chicken, and Doolittle’s rotisserie chicken is the star of the menu.

Signature wood-roasted menu items include Woodfire Buffalo Wings (dry rubbed with special herbs and spices, roasted over an open flame, brushed with honey buffalo sauce, choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing),

Spit Roasted Chicken Entrée (half woodfired rotisserie chicken, green beans with toasted almonds, mashed potatoes), and the Rotisserie Chicken Sandwich (fontina cheese, greens, chipotle aioli, grilled brioche bun).

For non-rotisserie items, the Salmon and Hanger Steak are also very popular options. Salmon with Herb Cream (Brussel sprouts,

applewood bacon, roasted fingerling potatoes, caramelized onion, maple bacon jam). Hanger Steak with Chimichurri (8 oz, sliced over sautéed spinach, parmesan fingerling potatoes, house-made chimichurri sauce).

“Our restaurant company vision is founded on providing a dining experience for any occasion that is founded on quality at a great value,” Sheehan said. “Our restaurant design is centered around the guest experience – plenty of room at the table or booth. The colors are warm and inviting, and the lighting is set so each table has the ambiance to provide just the right mood.”

He continued, “Dining outside on our patios is also a favorite of our guests, which allows our guests to dine together in an atmosphere that takes advantage of wonderful summers, even if they are too short. Our food and beverage are of very high quality and they center around our Woodfired Rotisserie, which adds just a hint of the wood smoke to many of our entrees. We are driven to provide great beverages with a strong wine list, refreshing culinary cocktails, and a great assortment of beers from local breweries. Most importantly, we are committed to great training. All of the above ingredients require a well trained and informed staff, and we are grateful to have a staff that loves to share their knowledge and hospitality with our guests.”

Doolittles gorgeous patio is open all summer, where they serve their full menu all day, commencing at 11 a.m. It caters to sun and shade dwellers alike, as the patio umbrellas and portable heaters offer a table for every preference.

“The smell of woodfire cooking will greet you the moment you step out of the car. We do take reservations and also hold a portion of the restaurant for walk-in guests. We are quality-casual, so come as you are,” added Sheehan.

In addition to the patio, the holiday season

is also a special time at Doolittles, when guests celebrate with family and friends. Reimer and crew offer a special gift card promotion during this time, where guests are rewarded with a bonus $20 for every $100 in gift cards purchased. At Doolittles, the staff is passionate about food and rolling out the red carpet for their guests… Hospitality is their craft.

“Life goes by so fast – we all know this. We all have such busy schedules and routines that at times our schedules control us, rather than the other way around. Call some of your friends or family, and invite them out for lunch or dinner. Spend time together talking about the past memories and next year’s dreams. Laugh. Make ‘next year’ happen this year, so you can meet again at a local restaurant and plan the next big adventure” — John Sheehan.

(Doolittles Woodfire Grill; 2140 Cliff Road; Eagan, MN; doolittles.com; 651-452-6627) 

Minnesota Original Music Festival will return

Festival season, which happens to coincide with road construction season here in Minnesota, is upon us. But unlike road construction, festivals are something to look forward to.

Sometimes, way down in the doldrums of winter, looking forward to a summer festival or two is all that keeps you going. Don’t get me wrong, I love Minnesota. In fact, I’m not sure I would love it as much if festivals and nice weather were a year-round possibility. They wouldn’t be nearly as special. There would be no urgency, no anticipation of finally being able to open a window or feel the grass between your toes. Enduring winter gives us an undeniable excuse to enjoy summer. And one way to make the most of your Southern Minnesota summer is by attending a southern Minnesota music festival.

The Minnesota Original Music Festival (MNOMF) is back. Last summer was its inaugural year and it was a raging success. It drew people from all over the state to Saint Peter to perform, network, share ideas, and enjoy great original music by Minnesota artists.

I caught up with Eli Hoehn, the festival’s creator, to get the skinny on how the festival went last year and what it has in store for everyone this year.

In a nutshell, what is this event all about?

The Minnesota Original Music Festival (MNOMF) is a series of free events, workshops, and performances designed to facilitate Minnesota musicians (and those that would like to be) that perform live original music.

Last year’s festival was a week-long extravaganza of different music-related activities. Can we expect a similar scenario this year?

This year’s festival is scheduled for July 19-23. MNOMF’s 2023 events include the MNOMF 48-Hour Band Challenge, hosted by local artist, “Punk Rock” Tom Heffernan, a slate of professional workshops held at Saint Peter High School on Thursday, July 20 and Friday, July 21 (topics include booking, monetizing original music, home studio DIY, peer review

songwriting with Nate Boots, performing with looping pedals, and more), singer/songwriter showcase, music jams hosted by professional musicians, and an open stage.

At MNOMF you can sit in with a professional jazz band, perform electronic music, perform in a drum circle (drums provided), perform on the MNOMF Open Stage, listen to great original music by some of Minnesota’s finest musicians.

Since the festival is being held again this year, it kind of goes without saying that last year was a success. What was one of the highlights from last year?

A highlight of our first festival was the Band Challenge event, where participating musicians were randomly grouped to form ad hoc bands and challenged to perform music before a panel of judges. Bands were asked to perform one original tune (created for the event), and two cover tunes, one of which required special modifications.

Winners received a variety of prizes including an invitation to perform at the KMSU Main

Stage over the weekend. This year there will be more categories for winners. Our signup is currently open at mnomf. org/challenge. This year, our band draft is scheduled for Wednesday, July 19, at Patrick’s on Third, St. Peter, tentatively set for 5 p.m. Our contest is scheduled for Friday, July 21, also at Patrick’s on Third.

Is there anything new for this year?

In 2023 MNOMF is adding a second stage, The Triple Falls Stage, managed by Triple Falls Productions of Mankato. The stage will feature activity-based events like music jams, drum circle, music demonstrations, open stage and workshops.

What are you looking forward to this year?

I am looking forward to meeting other musicians and creatives, hearing their stories and music.

Just like last year, the Minnesota Original

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

Music Festival is being held in St Peter. Events and activities happen all over town, really, culminating in live shows at Minnesota Square Park on Saturday and Sunday.

The KMSU Main Stage lineup

Saturday, July 22

Esther Kinsaul, Folk, Singer/Songwriter

Joe Tougas & Associates, Roots Rock

Lonesome Dan Kase, Country Blues

Masa Ishakawa, Jazz

Stacy K, Americana Alt Country

We are the Willows, Indie Rock

Quantum Mechanics, Roots Fusion

JoJo Green, Indie Jazz Pop Fusion

Silver Summer, Indie Rock

Sunday, July 23

Ocho & Friends, Singer/Songwriter

Brian Wicklund & the Barley Jacks, Bluegrass

Poor Lemuel, Americana

Als Fona, Rock

New Salty Dog, Funk

Ian Hilmer’s Drive Station, Alt Folk

More information about all things MNOMF can be found at mnomf.org, www.facebook. com/mnoriginalmusicfest, and on Instagram @ mnoriginalmusicfest.

Get out there, people. Before you know it, your windows will be closed, your toes will be in socks, and outdoor live music will once again only be something to look forward to. 

HOTJAZZFORDECENTPEOPLE

Late-nightsoundsatearlyeveninghours

July14MASAISHIKAWATRIO,July28HANNAHBRETZ&FRIENDS, August11SITTINGINWITHEZJAZZ,August18ANJAMENKQUARTET

Allshows7-8:30p.m.,MinnesotaSquareParkPavilion

HostedbyGary“MaverickSlim” CampbellofKMSU89.7FM. BYOseating&coolers[noglass].BookgiveawayhostedSt.PeterPublicLibrary. Norainsite;weathercancellationspostedatartscentersp.org.FREE,withdonations totheArtsCenterencouraged.

ThisactivityismadepossiblethroughgrantsfromKMSURadio andfromthePrairieLakesRegionalArtsCouncil,thankstoa legislativeappropriationfromthe ArtsandCulturalHeritageFund.

Wednesday,June14

Flag DayCeremony

CentralPark-5p.m. Sponsored by Faribaul Elks

Flag Recycling FaribaultAmericanLegion-5p.m.

Thursday, June15

CityWideGarageSale

All-dayevent.

BeerGarden

CentralPark-5p.m.-9p.m.

Bingo

CentralPark-5-7p.m. Sponsored by FaribaultSenior Living.Proceeds suppor Relay

Friday,June16

CityWideGarageSale

All-day event.

CraftShow

CentralPark-3p.m.-8p.m.

RCHSChatTrailer

CentralPark-12p.m.-4p.m.

Saturday, June17

CityWideGarageSale

All-dayevent.

Farmers Market

CentralPark-7a.m.-12p.m.

YouthFishingContest

KingMillDam-9- 11 a.m. participantsget T-shirt.Rice County SportFishing Association event.

ArchaicLifeways

Walcott Township, RiceCounty, Minn. RiceCountyHistoricalSociety10a.m-12p.m.

Join Larry Ritchieashedivesinto a collectionof Bonesand Stonesfrom theArchaic periodthat lasteduntil about6,500B.C. ContacttheRCHSfor details.

LumberjacksX-Cutting

andAxe Throwing

CentralPark-10a.m.-6p.m.

MedallionHunt

Listenfor clues on KDHL920AMandstart huntingfor the solidsilvermedallion and$500in prizes. Medallion donation by Chappuis Jewelry. Buttonrequired tocollectthe prize.

FESTIVALSCHEDUL E

Thursday, June15

RCHSOpenMuseum

RiceCountyHistoricalSociety-$3

Hours:Wed.-Fri.,9a.m.-4p.m.|Sat.,10a.m.-2p.m.

OpeningCeremony

CentralPark-5:45p.m. Flagraising by CentralVets

Mayor’sReception

LibraryPlaza- 5-7 p.m.

CardboardBoatRace

FaribaultFamilyAquaticCenter-5p.m.

Participants willrace a home-madeboat - Free

CentralPark-5-8p.m.

FaribaultBMXrace

CentralPark-5-8p.m.

FreeCommunityLunch

TrinityLutheranChurch- 11 a.m.-1p.m

ArchaicLifeways

Walcott Township RiceCounty Minn RiceCountyHistoricalSociety10a.m-12p.m.

Join Larry Ritchieashedivesinto a collectionof Bonesand Stonesfrom theArchaic periodthat lasteduntil about6,500B.C. ContacttheRCHSfor details

CraftShow

CentralPark-10a.m.-7p.m.

RiceCountyHistoricalSociety

HarvestandHeritagehallswillbeopen,freetothe public,from10a.m.to2p.m.

CentralPark-12-5p.m.

MusicattheBandShell

CentralPark-10a.m.-5p.m.

Sawyer'sDream:12:15p.m. Andy Tacket:1:30 p.m.

Eclipse:2:45p.m.

Cemetery OpenHouse

OakRidgeCemetery-10a.m.and3p.m. ContacttheRCHSfordetails/tickets.

Log Rolling CentralPark-10a.m.-5p.m.

SPECIALEVENTS

BaronofBubble& RainbowLadyPlus

CentralPark-5:30-8:30p.m. BlowmassivebubbleswiththeBaronof Bubbleand build clown balloonswith Rainbow LadyPlus.Sponsored by A&W.

FamilyNight - Ninja

CentralPark-6-9p.m.

SouthAlexanderPark-Raceat7p.m, Registration at 5:30p.m.

Concert inthe Park

CentralPark-7p.m. Music by Power of 10

CannonValley Farmers Market

CentralPark-4-7p.m.

Bingo

CentralPark-5-7p.m. Sponsored by Faribaul Senior Living.Proceeds support Relay

MainStreetCarShow

DowntownFaribault-6-9p.m.

DanceandBeerGarden

CentralPark-8p.m.-12a.m. Music by Smoke Screen. Beergarden opens at 12p.m.

RCHSChatTrailer

CentralPark-12p.m.-4p.m.

BaronofBubble& RainbowLadyPlus

CentralPark-2-5p.m. BlowmassivebubbleswiththeBaron of Bubbleand build clown balloons with Rainbow LadyPlus. Sponsored by A&W.

Kid'sFun Run

TheFaribaultMill-5:30p.m.meeting,6p.m.run.

Kelley Smith lets the songs decide

To hear Kelley Smith’s music, you wouldn’t know it was written and recorded within the last couple years. Or that she was a relatively new songwriter.

Ignited with a creative spark that burst into flame during the pandemic, Kelley found her rustic, time worn sound organically. In part because her voice naturally sounds like a time traveler and part because she finds herself drawn to that style of music.

Raised in northern Minnesota, on the property of a summer camp that her parents ran, Kelley had the kind of wild free childhood city folks only know from the movies. Singing to the horses and other forest creatures was part of her daily routine. And she spent most days wandering the many trails in the woods that were the camp grounds.

Her mom, a music teacher, and her dad in a band called Nirvana (no, not that one), Kelley’s family made music a way of life. As a child she loved dipping into her dad’s record collection, playing them on a children’s record player.

Sounds of Johnny Cash and other classic rock and country artists permeated her psyche. Fast forward to her mid thirties, now a mother of four, who after a stint in Chicago returned to northern Minnesota with a desire to raise her kids similarly to how she grew up. She had just joined Instagram in 2020 as a way to connect with friends over social media without the divisiveness she had been finding on other platforms. She wrote “Dust”, the first song she says she felt at home in, and decided to share it on IG primarily for her friends. Direct messaging on IG can be fraught with nonsense so when Kelley received a DM from a man with a video of himself playing guitar along with her song, she was a bit perplexed.

“I was so confused. I’m sure he explained himself well, but I didn’t know what was going on, so I pulled my spouse aside and I said this guy on the internet, I think he’s trying to flirt with me.”

Turns out, the man was producer Joel Schwartz, who was as Kelly found out soon after, very legit. He had recently been on tour with Americana artist Allison Russell and had worked with other notable artists. He had a studio in Toronto and wanted to produce Kelley’s

album. She agreed to meet Joel via Zoom and felt an instant connection. He was someone she could trust. Despite that, she did not feel ready to make an album, so she told Joel to put the idea on pause.

Soon after their meeting Kelley found herself in a creative boom. Songs were clawing their way out of her. She describes the beginning of her songwriting journey as chaos. A song called “Open Hands” came to her especially urgently.

“I was stirring macaroni and cheese, my husband ran to the gym and my kids were downstairs having some TV time, and it was in the middle of winter. and I was running to the bedroom to write down song lyrics between stirs of the macaroni and it came to me in less than an hour.”

Kelley was jotting lyrics down on napkins, or crafting them in the middle of night during bouts of insomnia. Doing the hard work of digging out her soul, she was uncovering the roots of her unhappiness and putting those discoveries to music. She doesn’t think songs are created by her so much as they exist within her and it’s her job to peel back the onion and see what form they’re meant to take.

“Songwriting is catching something, and catching something that wants to be caught and getting those initial clues. It becomes what it wants to become if you’re surrendering to it. It can become a contemplative process, what does this song need to be about and what’s trying to come out of me?”

After her creative outpouring, Joel approached her again to see if she might be ready to work together. This time she was, she says, “even if it was just for archival purposes for my kids.” Thankfully it was not just for her kids. The resulting album, Moon Child, has been making waves on the local folk and Americana scene. Her rustic sound, combined with relatable gut punchy lyrics has been resonating with audiences up north and beyond. At the time of this piece, she is gearing up to play Winona’s Mid West Music Fest, which is stacked with some of Minnesota’s best

musicians and songwriters, Kelley being one of them. She’s already played shows alongside Dave Simonett and Charlie Parr. Not easy for someone who has been navigating what once was crippling social anxiety.

“Two years ago I wouldn’t have been able to speak in front of a crowd and three years ago…the things I could do on my guitar in my kitchen, I’d feel very ready and I would go try to play in the corner of a brewery and my hands would just shake so bad, the whole thing would just fall apart.”

What is her strategy for getting up on stage these days? She says she tries to stay in her “playful brain” and not overthink it. Her love of music and sharing it motivates her to push through any limitations that come by way of her nervous system. Patience is a big factor, giving herself grace if things don’t go as smoothly as she would like. She recognizes the massive progress that’s been made over the last two years and finds pride in that. Change cannot happen overnight, your body cannot unlearn its habits on whim. So she presses on, giving herself space to draw back into introversion on non show days, to recharge and reconnect her energy. This self care and reflection is also how she plans to approach her next project.

Yes, Kelley will be making more music. But the whens and the hows are still up in the air and she doesn’t intend to rush it. Fresh on the other side of 40 years old, Kelley is feeling free to make music on her own terms. It’s a good

feeling and we cannot wait to see what music comes out of it. 

Sarah Osterbauer is a die-hard music lover. When she does her budget each month, food comes after concert tickets. Find her on twitter @ SarahOwrites.

Spring/summer cleaning is a tough thing for those of us with a smidge of ADHD. If you’re not familiar, it stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. When I looked up the ADHD symptoms online, I realized my picture should probably be on the poster. I didn’t have SOME of the characteristics, I had them All. I guess I’ve known about what I call my eccentricities for decades, but this time of year seems to really set things off.

My problems began when I started seeing all the pastel clothes on TV and in the stores. What fun. Light colors, bright and cheery pieces that harken in a fresh season. I was feeling lighter already just thinking about what I was gonna wear this summer. I rushed to my closet and started looking for my mood-lifting seasonal gear. What I realized was that 95% of my wardrobe is black and I’m tired of all of it. While I was in there rooting around, I found some shoes I’d forgotten I bought years ago. What was I thinking with those super high heels? I started trying on shoes and decided

I should start a pile for the local thrift store. Which, of course, meant I should find my old prom dress in the guest room closet and get rid of that. I remember how my baby blue eye shadow really set off that navy Gunne Sax dress. What about Dad’s old military uniform from the Korean War? I should definitely bring that downtown and sell it at that funky vintage place.

While I’m downtown, I really could go for a bowl of chili from that sandwich place. But I’m running low on gas. I’ll just swing by the gas station first and fill up. Oh darn it, I forgot to pay the rent on my studio space. I’ll stop by quick and drop off a check and then hit the gas station. I rustle around in my handbag and realize I don’t have any checks left. No big deal. I can stagger my route a tad and go by the bank. I’m sure I have the check order blank in my purse and I’ll just go through the window drop off. Then I remember that I switched to my summer purse last night and took out a myriad of receipts and paper that are now littered all over my bed.

This is pretty much how my mind processes all the time. I have such good intentions of making a list and checking off things like “nor-

mal” people do. I have torn envelopes covered with lists laying all over my house. On occasion, I find said lists in my glove compartment right next to the stamped Christmas cards I put in there and forgot to mail or on the back seat of the car next to the dry cleaning I’ve been driving around for the last few months that’s now covered with dog hair (which is especially troubling since I don’t own a dog). At least the dirty clothes keep the glass flower vases I was gonna recycle at the florist from clanging every time I come to a sudden stop. And the boxes of bubble wrap I’ve been storing in there since last year are technically keeping me safe in a potential crash situation.

I’m actually very organized when it comes to taking care of other people and their needs. It’s just my life that never seems to flow like it should. I spend the entire day driving around only to arrive home and realize I never did complete anything I started that morning. At least it took a really long time and cost me a lot of money. Those are both fun things.

One article I read said people with ADHD are usually good at hyperfocus, resilience, creativity, conversational skills, spontaneity, and have abundant energy. These are considered

“superpowers” to some folks. What they don’t mention is the tendency to practically drive off the road if you see a cute dog or something shiny. And forget delayed gratification, ‘cuz ADHD folks will have that takeout food consumed by the time you can put your credit card back in your wallet. And even if we love you, we can’t remember your name to save our lives. We’re gonna have to call you “sweetie” until you announce where we met you, how long we’ve known each other and produce a recent snapshot of us together.

I think I’m too old to learn new tricks at this point. I’ve been so busy embracing my ADHD symptoms, that my friends probably wouldn’t recognize me without them. Pals know to turn off their radio when I’m riding with them in the car. If we go to an event that requires being silent for more than 20 minutes, they should have known better than to invite me. And, if I went in to pay for the gas, they shouldn’t be surprised when I come out with a new friend who’s joining us for a weekend at the cabin, a pot roast recipe and a stray dog. There’s a lot of commotion going on in this brain and being my friend requires sign off on a long list of rules. 

AUDREY KLETSCHER HELBLING

Bullheads & beyond in Waterville

Iadmittedly do not eat bullheads. But don’t tell that to the good folks of Waterville, who each June host Bullhead Days. The focus of the celebration — this year June 9-11 — is the slippery yellow-bellied, whiskered bullhead.

The lure of deep fried bullheads reels fish lovers in from far and wide to this small Le Sueur County community along the shores of Tetonka and Sakatah lakes. It’s all about the bullheads, which are caught, cleaned and frozen year-round, then fried and served by locals at a downtown concession stand during the June festival.

Even if you’re like me and don’t consume this fish (which I think resembles an undersized catfish), there’s still plenty to do at Bullhead Days. From fishing tournaments to a Classic Car Roll-in, Outdoor Vendor Fair, BINGO, remote control car demo derby, Truck & Tractor Pull, medallion hunt, street dance, Pedal Tractor Pull, grand parade and more, Waterville’s celebration is promoted as three days of family fun.

This is, after all, a lake region centered on fun, relaxation and the outdoors. During the busy summer months, cabins, resorts and campgrounds fill, swelling the town’s population from the off-season 1,700. The Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail also brings cyclists into town.

But Waterville is more than a summer fest and lake life. A walk about the downtown, the focus of my last visit, reveals a diverse and thriving business district—two hardware stores, a meat market, several bars, arts-centered shops, an ethnic eatery, an auto parts store...and much more extending beyond the core downtown. I appreciate local business ownership and great customer service and all those niceties that are part of rural communities like Waterville.

I notice the details defining place. Unique business signage. Notices of community events posted in storefront windows. Architectural details on stately old buildings. Even the worn wood floor in a hardware store crammed with merchandise. All comprise Waterville, including bullheads. From deep fried bullheads served during Bullhead Days to beer served at a bar with bullheads on its signage, Waterville decidedly is the selfproclaimed “Bullhead Capital of the World.” 

A native of the southwestern Minnesota prairie, Audrey Kletscher Helbling creates from Faribault, her home of 39 years. She’s grown to love this region and encourages locals to explore what’s right here in their backyard. You can find more of her writing and photography on her blog at mnprairieroots.com.

Hours posted in August 2022 for B’s Barn Door, a shop featuring handcrafted, upcycled and antique merchandise.

Vintage trucks painted on the side of a building in downtown Waterville.

Parked in the car port behind Twin Lakes Auto Parts, a Monte Carlo collector car painted in NAPA colors.

Inside Waterville Hardware Hank, merchandise banks narrow aisles upon aged wood flooring.

A tie-dyed t-shirt displayed in the front window of Make It Waterville, a community gathering place and center for creativity.

Waterville Hardware Hank is one of two hardware stores in town.

The Snack Shack, with a 1950s vibe, is open May-October and is located next to the Community Patio in the heart of downtown Waterville. The shop serves ice cream treats, regular and specialty popcorn, hot dogs, coffee and more.

Feed Store & More is located a few blocks from Main Street.

Harry’s True Value Hardware, a downtown business staple.

The Waterville Lions Club hosts pancake breakfasts benefiting many organizations. This notice was photographed in August 2022 in a storefront window.

El Molino serves Mexican fare in downtown Waterville.

By JANE TURPIN MOORE Guest Contributor

It’s fair to say that Minnesota’s county fairs are a high point of each summer for thousands of residents, especially those in rural areas and agricultural sector workers.

That’s been true for over 150 years in many parts of the state — notably, in Steele County, where the first fair took place on Oct. 17, 1860. That year, the winner of the best yoke of working oxen was awarded the princely sum of $6, while the best corn grower left 50 cents richer, according to the Steele County Free Fair’s extensive website.

On a national basis, county fairs originated to promote modern farming. Livestock judging, plowing contests and exhibits of new agricultural implements and techniques were the fairs’ meat and bones.

While most Minnesota county fairs continue to have at least most of those elements, in recent decades they’ve expanded to include more entertainment options. Sure, rodeos and country twangs are common, but other types

of music — and carnival rides — often make the cut, too.

The establishment of the Minnesota FFA (Future Farmers of America) Foundation in December 1953 further solidified county fairs’ presence and relevance, particularly in areas where agriculture was the predominant economic driver. Bringing the younger set into the farming fold, with numerous opportunities for achievement and competition (and possible paths to the Minnesota State Fair to boot) in everything from rabbit judging to woodworking to sewing to art, served to expand both interest and involvement on the part of kids and families.

And who’s to say people don’t show up at a county fair as much to indulge in pronto pups, mini-donuts, cotton candy and Dairy Association shakes as they do to critique goats and chickens?

Consider the case of the Steele County Free Fair (SCFF), which proudly proclaims itself to be the North Star State’s largest county fair. It’s also distinguished by having played host to the Minnesota State Fair in both 1883 and 1884, prior to the state fair taking up permanent residence at its Falcon Heights site in 1885.

Annie Nelson captured fairgoers Wednesday on one of the many rides found on the Gold Star Amusement midway at the Steele County Free Fair. (Photo courtesy of Annie Nelson)

(File photo/southernminn.com)

For the 2023 Steele County Free Fair, fair officials are transforming the grandstand concerts into top notch events and experiences. New to the stage this year will include country music duo LOCASH (Aug. 16), with special guest Drake Milligan. Returning after being rained out in 2021 is country music icon Craig Morgan (Aug. 18), with special guest Ashley Barron. Hairball will also return to the SCFF for the band’s usual Thursday night slot.

Scheduled this year for Aug. 15-20, and continuing to offer free admission to all (though some of its Grandstand events require purchased tickets), the SCFF has an unusually lengthy list of activities and entertainment options.

For thrill-seekers, the SCFF presents a carnival with up to 40 rides. Typically, an unlimited ride pass is sold in advance of the fair at Hy-Vee, and in past years the fair has advertised additional daily ride specials.

A petting zoo, a classic car show, carnival games, more than 100 food stands and up to 300 vendors (positioned both indoors and outside) are further attractions promising a “something for everyone” outing.

Importantly, this county fair stays true to its roots; animals including cattle, goats, sheep, rabbits, poultry, pigeons and pigs are all on display and judged during the week. A dairy show, draft horse show and the Minnesota District II Holstein show are also in the mix.

Three separate venues offer nearly non-stop entertainment options. For 2023, the SCFF’s Ye Olde Beer Garden stage will host the Johnny Holm Band on Tuesday, IV Play on Wednesday, Jacuzzi Pima on Thursday, Swerve and Shirts & Skins on Friday, Led Penny and Travis Thamert on Saturday, and the Dan Stursa Band and the White Keys on Sunday. Whew!

Not to be outdone, the SCFF’s Grandstand features the FFA Alumni Antique Tractor Pull on Tuesday, Locash on Wednesday, Hairball on Thursday, Craig Morgan on Friday, Bulls N Bands on Saturday and a demolition derby on Sunday.

At the Elmer Reseland Stage, family entertainment includes several performances by the “Moogician,” the Owatonna High School Robotics Team, Deal or No Deal and the Electrifying Magic of Jay Mattioli.

There are literally dozens of food options, ranging from coffee to ice cream to cuisine of all sorts—Greek, Mexican, Caribbean, Asian, American and good ol’ Minnesotan. Rice burgers? Deep-fried mushrooms? Bloomin’ onions? Turkey legs? Rueben sandwiches? Freshsqueezed lemonade?

In mid-August it’ll all be waiting for you, and then some, on the 70-acre site the SCFF has occupied since 1918.

So what are you waiting for? Make a Minnesota county fair a priority in your summer schedule—today.

For more information about the Steele County Free Fair, visit scff.org or send inquiries to steelecountyfreefair@scff.org. The Steele County Free Fair is located at 1525 Cedar Ave., Owatonna. 

Additional county fairs in the Southern Minnesota Scene area:

Blue Earth County Fair, July 20-23, blueearthcountyfair.org

Brown County Free Fair, Aug. 9-13, browncountyfreefair.com

Goodhue County Fair, Aug. 8-12, goodhuecountyfair.com

Le Sueur County Free Fair, Aug. 17-20, lesueurcountyfair.org

Nicollet County Fair, Aug. 9-13, nicolletcountyfair.com

Rice County Fair, Aug. 15-20, ricecountyfair.net

Waseca County Free Fair, July 12-16, wasecacountyfreefair.com

Minnesota State Fair, Aug. 24 - Sept. 4, mnstatefair.org

Jim Jacobson of Accelerated Aviation allowed for a unique view of the Steele County fairgrounds during the biggest county fair in Minnesota. (Emily Kahnke/southernminn.com)

Fair goers of all ages made new friends with the Happy Tails Pet Store inside the Great Outdoors Center at the Steele County Free Fair. (Emily Kahnke/southernminn. com)

Experience the Treasures of Summer

Get ready to turn up the heat and reinvent your summer style for all the treasured summer festivals of southern Minnesota!

Whether you’re twostepping at a country concert or soaking up the sun at summer festivals, fashion plays a crucial role in enhancing your enjoyment of these memorable occasions. So, let’s dive into some fashion advice that will have you experiencing these treasures of summer like never before!

When it comes to summer festivals, comfort is key. Embrace the carefree vibes by slipping into breezy, lightweight fabrics like breathable cottons and linen blends. These fabrics allow air to flow freely, keeping you cool even on the hottest days. Wear loose-fitting tops and dresses that allow you to move and groove without any restrictions. Choose skirts with playful prints or shorts with bohemian details to capture the essence of the festival atmosphere. For men, lightweight button-up shirts paired with comfortable shorts or trousers can strike the perfect balance between style and comfort.

Accessorize to the max! Summer festivals are the perfect excuse to go all out with fabulous add-ons. Top off your look with a widebrimmed hat that adds glamour while shielding you from the scorching sun. Those trendy sunglasses not only protect your eyes but also add a touch of mystery to your ensemble. Con-

sider statement jewelry pieces that capture the essence of summer, such as layered necklaces or vibrant bracelets. And of course, comfortable shoes are a must for long days on your feet and dancing the night away without any worries. If your most comfortable shoes are sandals or sneakers, try adding an ankle bracelet or colorful shoelaces for a bit of flare and personal style.

Channel your inner free spirit and embrace the bohemian vibes that summer festivals bring. Flowy and loose silhouettes are your go-to choices, allowing you to twirl in billowy skirts, play in loose-fitting tops and shorts, or float around in flowy maxi dresses. Maxi dresses adorned with intricate prints, off-theshoulder tops paired with high-waisted shorts, and kimono-style cover-ups can all capture the bohemian spirit. For a touch of whimsy, consider incorporating floral headbands, feather accessories, or fringed details into your festival look. Embrace the vibrant colors of summer, such as turquoise, coral, and sunflower yellow, to create eye-catching details that reflect the joyful moment.

Versatility is the name of the game when it comes to experiencing the treasures of summer. Find pieces that effortlessly adapt to the ever-changing scene. Lightweight cardigans or denim jackets not only add a touch of style but also keep you cozy during cooler evenings. This year especially, oversized vests are on-trend with the perfect amount of warmth. Layer up or down depending on the temperature, so you can seamlessly transition from dancing in the crowd to exploring food trucks and activi-

ties without missing a beat. Consider packing a versatile wrap or scarf that can double as a cover-up, a picnic blanket, or a makeshift turban to protect your hair from the sun.

Now, if you find yourself at a western concert, it’s time to embrace your inner cowgirl. Country fashion takes center stage, and you can kick your heels with confidence. Think denim cutoffs or a ruffled skirt paired with a vintageinspired band tee or a denim vest. Complete the look with a wide-brimmed hat adorned with a leather band, slip into a pair of wellworn cowboy boots, and strap on that blinged-out belt. Add a touch of western charm with accessories like star earrings, suede fringe bags, or a bolo tie necklace. Let your country girl style shine as you sing along to your favorite tunes, radiating the wild confidence that makes country music so irresistible.

And of course, let’s not forget the importance of having the right bag for the event. For concerts, be sure to check the rules and

regulations regarding bag sizes and restrictions. Look for a stylish crossbody bag or a small backpack that adheres to the guidelines while still complimenting your outfit’s vibe. Keep it compact yet functional, allowing you to carry your essentials like your phone, protective wallet, and perhaps a portable charger for those epic moments you’ll want to capture. When it comes to festivals, a bag that can withstand a day of exploration and dancing is key. Choose a bag that is comfortable to carry and has enough room to accommodate your needs. A medium-sized backpack or a trendy fanny pack can be excellent choices. Ensure it matches the overall vibe of your outfit while providing ample space for essentials like sunscreen, a water bottle, snacks, a small towel, and perhaps a lightweight jacket for when the temperature drops in the evening. This way, you’ll be prepared for any adventure that comes your way and won’t have to miss a beat of the festival fun.

Remember, finding the right bag that fits the event’s vibe and meets your needs is important for a seamless and enjoyable experience. So, choose wisely, and let your bag be the perfect

companion that completes your festival-ready ensemble while keeping your essentials organized and easily accessible.

Whether you’re grooving to the beat at

a summer festival or boot-scootin your way through a country concert, remember that fashion is the key to experiencing these treasured events like never before! Express your unique

style, embrace comfort, adaptability, and make lasting memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. 

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

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

Calendar events compiled by Philip Weyhe.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

FRIDAY, MAY 26

Matt and Laurel - Kasota-- 6-9 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Matt and Laurel are an acoustic duo hailing from Minnesota. Singing and playing sweet tunes from artists spanning over 60 decades.

Paradise Gallery - Faribault-- 12-5 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. In the Carlander Gallery is The Story Quilt Projects; in the K&M Gallery is the spring/ summer pop up shop; in the Lois Vranesh Boardroom Gallery is Jane Horton; and in the Corey Lyn Creger Memorial Gallery is the After School Art Club. Open regular hours through June 24.

Mythic Gardens of the Future - St. Peter--

1-2 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. Mythic Gardens of the Future, the latest gallery from artist Brian Fink, imagines a utopian future. Included in the exhibition will be large and small paintings, watercolors, drawings and printed digital IPad drawings. Open during regular hours through June 24.

Gustavus Wind Orchestra - St. Peter-7-9 p.m., Gustavus Adolphus College, 800 West College Ave, St. Peter. The Gustavus Department of Music is proud to present the Gustavus Wind Orchestra for their finale concert. The event is free and open to the public.

SATURDAY, MAY 27

4-Year Celebration - Kilkenny-- 12-9 p.m., Vintage Escapes Winery & Vineyard, 8950 Dodd Rd., Kilkenny. two talented musicians performing throughout the day as well as pizza being served up by Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm. Pop Prohibition play from 1-4 p.m. and Chad Johnson from 5-8 p.m.

Two Peace Suite - Kasota-- 6-9 p.m., Westwood Marina Bar & Grill, 1400 Lake Washington Access Rd., Kasota. Beth Gillman and Denny Olsen performing Americana/roots music- acoustic guitar and vocals.

Ben Scruggs - Owatonna-- 1-3 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. Singer/songwriter Ben Scruggs is a folk/blues/americana musician from Mankato. He accompanies himself with acoustic guitar and blues harmonica, weaving tales of folk-spun humor and hard luck times throughout his sets of all-original music.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Owatonna Farmers Market-- 7 a.m.-12 p.m., Central Park Owatonna, 100 E. Main St, Owatonna. Stop by every Saturday during the summer to pick up fresh vegetables, flowers and fun handcrafted items from more than 80 vendors.

Cathy Yandell Author Talk - Northfield-- 7 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. The Carleton professor will talk about hew new book “The French Art of Living Well: Finding Joie de Vivre in the Everyday World.” Join for a reading, Q&A and book signing.

Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

Riverwalk Market Fair - Northfield-- 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Bridge Square, Northfield. All kinds of fresh finds in beautiful downtown Northfield.

Amy Manette Band - Janesville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Enjoy live music this evening by Amy Manette performing jazz classics.

the Bear

Fred

Summer Vacation Celebration - New Prague-- 12-5 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague. The great TJ Brown is strumming out the tunes on the patio from 1-4 p.m. Bring a picnic to pair with

$5 flavored vodka cocktails.

Did we miss something?

Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

Fred

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

the Bear is a classic rock/alternative band known for their rich harmonies, emotive dynamics and original songs. FTB’s music reflects on life’s promises and disappointments through personal crafted lyrics and driving rhythms. Mixed within their originals is a blend of music from other Midwest artists, currently touring groups and classic bands.

Matt McAllister - Faribault-- 7-10 p.m., 10,000 Drops, 28 4th St NE, Faribault. A skilled guitar player and singer.

Gary Allan and Tracy LawrenceMankato-- 7 p.m., Vetter Stone Amphitheater, 309 W. Rock St., Mankato. Gary Allan and Tracy Lawrence are coming to town. Tickets are available at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center ticket office and on ticketmaster.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 28

Did we miss something?

Ocho & Friends - Waseca-- 5 p.m., Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm, 41142 160th St, Waseca. Pleasant Grove is back with the pizza and tunes, kicking off with some acoustic and electric guitars.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31

Kenyon Farmers Market-- 4-7 p.m., First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 309 Forest St., Kenyon. Homegrown, homemade and homecrafted only.

Scene Barry Yates - Northfield-- 7 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. Content is delighted to welcome Bart Yates for a reading from his new novel, “The Language of Love and Loss.”

FRIDAY, JUN 02

Smokin’ In Steele - Owatonna-- 12 a.m., Steele County Fairgrounds, 18th St SE, Owatonna. All kinds of music and all kinds of BBQ. Two-day event June 2 and 3.

food and drinks, music, medallion hunt, a street dance, a BBQ cookoff and so much more.

Inclusive Theater for All - Waseca-- 6-7:30 p.m., Waseca Public Library, 408 N. State ST. Join in on theater games, embodiment exercises, voice warm-ups, and more in this dramatic arts class. Contact Waseca Public Library at 507-835-2910 to register.

Did we miss something?

Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

JAM At The Grand - Waseca-- 7-11 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. An acoustic open mic experience for all ages and experience levels. Whether you’ve been practicing your craft for 20 minutes or 20 years, everyone is welcome on The Grand stage.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Dam Days - Morristown-- 12 a.m., Morristown. The annual community celebration takes place June 2-4 with a carnival, parade,

Northfield Farmers Market-- 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., Riverside Park, Northfield. Fresh finds and homemade products. Open Tuesdays and Fridays 11:45 a.m. until 1 p.m., plus Saturdays from 9-11 a.m.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Summer Reading Kick-Off Party - Le Sueur-- 1-5 p.m., Free book with reading challenge signup, prize giveaway with food shelf donation, Lloveable Llamas, Zip Zap Ice Cream truck, a balloon artist and more.

CONTINUED page 26

ExperienceOwatonna’s asMainStreetOwatonnacomes aliveforDowntownThursdays!

ScheduleofMusicalActs: June1st–EclipseandBrandedHotCountry July6th–TheShiftiesandTheDeeMillerBand August3rd–GTXDuoandTheGeoffElveeTrio September7th–LittleChicagoand JeremyPoland&LantzDale

Streetvendors,home-basedbusinessesandretailersalong NorthCedarAve.from5-7:30.

Downtownrestaurantsandbars,alongwithfoodvendorsandfoodtrucks willbealongNorthCedarAveandinCentralPark.

Awidevarietyoffamily-friendlyactivitiesalongthestreetandinthepark.

Queer Experience - New Ulm-- 6-7 p.m., Grand Center for Arts & Culture, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm. he Grand Center for Arts & Culture — in collaboration with the 410 Project, Arts Center of Saint Peter, and the Carnegie Art Center will host this exhibition beginning June 2. “Experience” can mean any thoughts, feelings, opinions, etc. that the artist wishes to portray regarding his/her/their own relationship with “queer.”

Cannon Valley Regional OrchestraNorthfield-- 7 p.m., Odd Fellows Park, 1011 Forest Ave, Northfield. A concert in the park.

SATURDAY, JUN 03

Billy Johnson - Kasota-- 6-9 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Billy Johnson is a charismatic rocker with the ability to bring good melodies to life with nothing but a guitar.

Angel Val - Janesville-- 6-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. An extremely gifted singer to accompany some wine and a sunset.

Faribault Farmers Market-- 7 a.m.-12 p.m., Central Park, 430 2nd Ave NW, Faribault. Serving fresh and local food and goods, the Faribault Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays 7 a.m. to noon from June-Oct and Wednesdays 1-5 p.m. starting in July.

vendors, remarks by Rep. Kristi Pursell and City Councilor Davin Sokup, the crowning of the Pride Ambassador, an open runway with Mrs. Moxie and Lexi D., Pride Cardio with the Y, LGBTQIAP+ resources, food trucks, and more. Emcees Sven Sundgaard and Robby McEachren.

Game Night with Mrs. Moxie - Northfield-7 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. This week will be a very special edition of Game Night featuring Mrs. Moxie and guest drag queen Lexi D, hosting 80s Trivia (dressing up is highly encouraged).

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Pride in the Park - Northfield-- 12-4 p.m., Central Park Northfield. Northfield’s third Annual Pride celebration, featuring exhibitors/

Archery for Beginners - Faribault-- 12:301:30 p.m., River Bend Nature Center, 1000 Rustad Road, Faribault. Ever wanted to learn how to shoot a bow and arrow? Learn the basics of shooting a compound bow and have time to practice your new skill. The NASP archery equipment provided for this program was sponsored by a No Child Left Inside grant through the Minnesota DNR.

Intro to Archery - Elysian-- 9 a.m., Ray’s Lake, Elysian. The program’s first hour will be spent on instruction, learning about the equipment, technique, and safety. The second hour will be spent practicing your skills with target shooting. Participants must be age 9 or older. Register online.

Helen & Mikey - Dundas-- 4-7 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas. Helen and Mikey are a folk duo consisting of banjo, cello, accordion, tenor guitar, and vocals. They play original, old-time, bluegrass, Scandinavian, and various music from traditions around the world.

Sean Benz - Kilkenny-- 2-5 p.m., Toy Box Saloon, 216 Kilkenny Rd., Kilkenny. Sean Benz enjoys singing and playing guitar to music that many enjoy, like Johnny Cash, Roger Miller, Buck Owens, Hank Williams, Sr, Eddie Arnold, Ritchie Valens, Elvis Presley, Rick Nelson, Bobby Vee, Bobby Vinton, Eddie Cochran and others.

Forrest and Josh - Kasota-- 6-9 p.m., Blue Moon, Kasota. Live music on the patio.

Bullypulpit Bluegrass - Waseca-- 5 p.m., Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm, 41142 160th St, Waseca. Bullypulpit plays for the pure enjoyment of traditional bluegrass music.

MONDAY, JUN 05

Cabin of Love - Owatonna-- 6:30-8:30 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna. Cabin of Love is Julia and Nathan Bloom, a folk pop duo in St. Paul. Since 1998, the Blooms have performed in coffee shops and breweries, living rooms, city parks, church gatherings, benefit concerts, backyards and more.

Summer Kickoff - St. Peter-- 5-7:30 p.m., Gorman Park, St. Peter. Tour emergency vehicles, register for the St. Peter Public Library Summer Reading Program, jump in the bounce house, eat at the food trucks, watch a softball game at the field and enjoy a fun evening full of activities with your family.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Le Sueur Farmers Market-- 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Second Street, Le Sueur. To promote healthy community in the Minnesota River Valley.

Riverwalk Market Fair - Northfield-- 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Bridge Square, Northfield. All kinds of fresh finds in beautiful downtown Northfield.

Shasta Kings - Owatonna-- 6:30-8:30 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna. The Shasta Kings are Scott Rogness (guitar/lead vocals) and Bruce Watts (guitars/ vocals) playing a wide variety of songs from classic rock to new country.

SUNDAY, JUN 11

Blues Fest - St. Peter-- 12 p.m., Minnesota Square Park, 1000 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. Live music, food, venders and much more.

Intro to Fishing - Elysian-- 9 a.m., Ray’s Lake, Elysian. The program’s first hour will be spent on instruction, learning about the equipment, technique, and safety. The second hour will be spent practicing your skills! Participants must be age 9+. Register online.

Rocket Soul Choir - Waseca-- 7 p.m., Trowbridge Park, Waseca. Northern Ireland native Leslie Rich fronts this three-piece band, which plays high energy rock with a ton of conviction.

WEDNESDAY, JUN 14

Absolutely Elvis! - St. Peter-- 2 p.m., St. Peter Community Center, 600 S. Fifth St., St. peter. Enjoy a 90-minute show with impersonator Todd Anderson as Elvis in a delightfully entertaining show for all ages. Todd’s voice, costumes and moves are an exciting depiction of an actual Elvis concert.

Heritage Days - Faribault-- Faribault. A ton is on offer in this annual community celebration — concerts in the park, BMX races, garage sales, craft shows, history exhibits, car shows, a parade, log rolling, axe throwing, food, drinks and so much more. A large slate of events kicks off Thursday, June 15 and they run through Saturday, June 17. Go to faribaultheritagedays. com.

TV & the Bellered Yellers - Dundas-- 4-7 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas. Americana with a twist.

The Foragers - Waseca-- 5 p.m., Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm, 41142 160th St, Waseca. Two singer/songwriters, four friends, and a gazillion instruments from St. Paul.

TUESDAY, JUN 13

Trevor & Mary with Dan LowingerNorthfield-- 3:30-8 p.m., The Gardens of Castle Rock, 26601 Chippendale Ave., Northfield. From parking lots to patios, breweries to barrooms, the duo of Trevor McSpadden and Mary Cutrufello lay down a mighty groove, embraced by music lovers across Minnesota who can’t help but love this potent combo of roots rock and country crooning.

Third Thursdays Downtown - Northfield-5-8 p.m., Bridge Square, Northfield. All ages event downtown. Each month will feature live music, specials from the downtown shops & restaurants, family fun activities, and the carefully curated mix of fine art, crafts, cottage foods, and farmers market that Riverwalk Market Fair is know for.

Real Big Band - Janesville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Established in 1998, The Real Big Band has a full 5-5-4-4 instrumentation.

No Time For Fame - Northfield-- 6 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. An indie rock band from Minnesota on a mission to create and entertain. They focus on originals, and add a cover here and there when they can make it their own.

Perpetual Pete’s Variety Show - St. Peter-10:30 a.m., St. Peter Library. All Ages. Peter Bloedel has been entertaining professionally for over 20 years. He is a charismatic “vaudeville” entertainer with a flair forworking audience members into his show. His show (a mix of magic, mentalism, juggling, music, jokes, and physical comedy) has very broad appeal and is enjoyed by both young and old.

The Double Down Daredevils - West Concord-- 5 p.m., Berne Wood-Fired Pizza, 23148 County Hwy. 24, West Concord. Born from a love for traditional bluegrass, our song list expanded rapidly as we each brought our diverse backgrounds to bear on the band’s soundscape. The result is a mix of traditional and contemporary bluegrass, country and Americana.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@southernminnscene.com.

Did we miss something?

Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

Kenyon Farmers Market-- 4-7 p.m., First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 309 Forest St., Kenyon. Homegrown, homemade and homecrafted only.

Pete Klug - Waseca-- 5 p.m., Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm, 41142 160th St, Waseca. Enjoy some music with your pizza on the farm.

Straight River Days - Medford-- 5 p.m., Medford. Includes a Pageant, Medallion Hunt, Parade, Garage Sales, Family Street Dance, Car Show, Food Vendors, Pool Party, Duck Pluck, Bean Bag Tournament for adults and youth, CoEd Volleyball Tournament, Make and Takes, Kids Games, BINGO, Ninja Anywhere, Treasure Hunt, Video Game Trailer, Build a Fur-ever Friend Stuffed Animal, Music, Food and Drinks, and more. Runs June 15-17.

Krista Burton Author Talk - Northfield-7 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. Content is thrilled to welcome Minnesota author Krista Burton for an event around her new book “Moby Dyke: An Obsessive Quest to Track Down the Last Remaining Lesbian Bars in America.”

FRIDAY, JUN 16

Russ Franek and The Biscuits - Northfield-5 p.m., Armory Square Event Center, 519 Division St., Northfield. Kick butt cover band that’s got something for everyone. Before The Biscuits come on at 7:30 p.m., Occasional Jazz will entertain the crowd.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Melissa Schulz - Owatonna-- 6-9 p.m., Owatonna Elks, 126 E Vine St. One-woman band Melissa Schulz brings her unique style of performing with keyboard and drum tracks to the Owatonna Elks for the first time. Her polished piano chops and crazy vocal versatility allow her to cover almost any genre of music, but you’ll mostly hear pop, rock, and country hits spanning the decades.

Northfield Farmers Market-- 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., Riverside Park, Northfield. Fresh finds and homemade products. Open Tuesdays and Fridays 11:45 a.m. until 1 p.m., plus Saturdays from 9-11 a.m.

Songwriters in the Round - Northfield-7-10 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Come enjoy a variety of local artists showcasing their original work, and sharing stories of how those songs came to be. Free | All Ages.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Rain Kings - Janesville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Live music from an acoustic and electric roots rock band.

Did we miss something? Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

CONTINUED page 32

Space Force - Owatonna-- 6:30-8:30 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna. Space Force plays all the classic hits.

-- 8 a.m.-12 p.m.,

Fred the Bear - Northfield-- 6 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. We are always thrilled to welcome back our friends in Fred the Bear. Rich harmonies, emotive dynamics, personally crafted lyrics and driving rhythms played by local talented musicians with hearts of gold.

Kumbayah - St. Peter-- 5:30-7:30 p.m., St. Peter High School, 2121 Broadway Ave. Kumbayah The Juneteenth Story, written by Rose McGee, is a 90-minute fictitious, two-act play that addresses a factual and traumatic time in our history — when news was deliberately withheld that Black people were no longer to be kept as slaves in this country. Although interpretation is best suited for ages 8 and up, children of all ages are welcome to attend. Free event. Register at mnhum.org.

TUESDAY, JUN 20

Miss Nelson is Missing - Owatonna-- 7:30-9 p.m., Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna. Miss Nelson can’t control her crazy classroom because she’s just too nice. But when she disappears, her replacement is the hard-as-nails, detention-loving, recess-canceling, homework-overloading substitute teacher Viola Swamp. Students will do anything to solve the mystery. Tickets online. Shows June 16, 17, 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m., plus June 18 and 25 at 2 p.m.

SATURDAY, JUN 17

Extreme Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show - Medford-- 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Anhorn’s Gas & Tire, 216 S. Main St., Medford. It’s all in the name. Attend to see a wide variety of vehicles.

Courtney Yasmineh - Kasota-- 6-9 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Eight albums mostly made in Minneapolis with music producer Rob Genadek. One novel that tells the tale. Three grown children. A lifetime that speaks through a unique voice in stories and songs. Fifty years a songwriter. A woman of substance.

David Huckfelt - Waseca-- 7 p.m., Trowbridge Park, Waseca. Haunted landscapes and spirits fill Huckfelt’s folk, protest and Native American songs, from “Bury Me Not (The Dying Cowboy)” to “Cole Younger (The Bandit).”

WEDNESDAY, JUN 21

Faribault Farmers Market-- 7 a.m.-12 p.m., Central Park, 430 2nd Ave NW, Faribault. Serving fresh and local food and goods, the Faribault Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays 7 a.m. to noon from June-Oct and Wednesdays 1-5 p.m. starting in July.

Harry Wenger Marching Band FestivalOwatonna-- 11 a.m., Main Street Owatonna. The parade consists exclusively of marching bands which display their pageantry, choreography, regimentation, and musicianship. The summer parade circuit takes place during the month of June, which is unique to Minnesota.

Severio Mancieri - Owatonna-- 7-9 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. From Duluth, Minnesota, Severio has “A sonorous voice. Like he should be fronting a full band, or an opera.”

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Juneteenth Learning Program - St. Peter-10:30 a.m., St. Peter Community Center, 600 S. Fifth St., St. peter. Kenneth A. Reid will offer a program on the history and cultural significance of Juneteenth. The guest lecture will reflect on the history of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and the laws and bills affecting African Americans in the 21st century. Youth program at 10:30 a.m. and adult program at 1 p.m.

Did we miss something?

Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

Juneteenth Celebration - Owatonna-2-5 p.m., Manthey Park, 225 24th St. NE, Owatonna. Live music, face painting, a bounce house, family activities and free food.

Owatonna Farmers Market-- 7 a.m.-12 p.m., Central Park Owatonna, 100 E. Main St, Owatonna. Stop by every Saturday during the summer to pick up fresh vegetables, flowers and fun handcrafted items from more than 80 vendors.

Did we miss something?

Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

Square Dance and Music - Dundas-- 4-7 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas.

Feelin Groovy - Northfield-- 7:30 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild, 304 Division St. S., Northfield. Some of the area’s favorite musicians bring a feminine take on Simon and Garfunkel and Paul Simon favorites. Featuring Barbara Piper and Pauline Jennings on vocals. Tickets $20. Purchase online.

Did we miss something?

Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers.

Lost Faculties - West Concord-- 5 p.m., Berne Wood-Fired Pizza, 23148 County Hwy. 24, West Concord. The Lost Faculties have performed their classic rock with a touch of country and swing across Southeastern Minnesota since 1997. They have fun on stage and create an energetic atmosphere. This fivepiece group can play a wide variety of songs ranging from “At the Hop” to “Sweet Caroline” to “Folsom Prison Blues.”

Le Sueur Farmers Market

Second Street, Le Sueur. To promote healthy community in the Minnesota River Valley.

Get down and dance.

Cannon Valley Farmers MarketFaribault-- 4-7 p.m., Central Park, 430 2nd Ave NW, Faribault. A space for Cannon Valley area residents to buy locally grown, homemade goods while promoting small farmers and food makers who support the local community.

FRIDAY, JUN 23

Sauerkraut Days - Henderson-- Henderson. This annual community festival is kraut focused, but it includes all the usual fixings, like music, food, drinks, a parade and much more. Activities run from June 23-25.

Southern Minnesota Brewery Tour-- 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Exclusive access to six breweries through Southern Minnesota: August Schell Brewing Company in New Ulm, Starkeller in New Ulm, Mankato Brewery, Half Pint Brewing Company in Waseca, Mineral Springs Brewery in Owatonna, and Foremost Brewing Cooperative in Owatonna. Enjoy beer tastings and all kinds of foods. Tour begins and ends in St. Paul. Get tickets at GetKnit Events.

Mullets, Mayhem & Murder - Waseca-12:30 p.m., Club 57, 204 Second St. SW, Waseca. Henpecked Junction is a small, charming town chock full of the best trailer parks with the most offbeat, neighborly, and, well, troublemaking residents. Solve the mystery.

Comic Stunt Juggler Tuey WilsonFaribault-- 10-11 a.m., Central Park, 430 2nd Ave NW, Faribault. From classic juggling stunts to brand-new tricks, Tuey’s show is not to be missed. Laugh, gasp, and cheer on this Guinness World Records holder and longtime library favorite. This performance will be ASL interpreted.

SATURDAY, JUN 24

Prairie Potluck - Dundas-- 4-7 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas. You never know what you’ll get. Could be bluegrass, country, gospel or folk.

30th Anniversary Concert - Northfield-3-9:30 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Join in celebrating 30 years of Northfield Union of Youth with music, dancing, and community. Space Monkey Mafia, The Big Wu and other performers highlight the musical evening.

TUESDAY, JUN 27

The Private Eye in TEAM - Owatonna-- 7-9 p.m., Owatonna Country Club, 1991 Lemond Rd., Owatonna. Come have a dinner and help solve a mystery. Tickets are $62.50. Purchase online at themysterycafe.com.

Food Truck Rally - Owatonna-- Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna. Three food trucks and music from Travis Thamert and Barefoot Winos.

The Music of Patsy Cline - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. In this powerful 90-minute stage performance, Joyann Parker and her seasoned band showcase the most popular and best-loved of Patsy’s songs. Tickets $15-$25. Purchase online or at the box office.

SUNDAY, JUN 25

St. Peter Farmers Market-- 8:30 a.m., St. Peter Food Co-op, 228 W Mulberry St. You will find locally homegrown and homemade goods.

Autofest - New Ulm-- 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Brown County Fairgrounds, New Ulm. A car and motorcycle show, with food and refreshments available.

The Gentlemen’s Anti-Temperance League - Waseca-- 7 p.m., Trowbridge Park, Waseca. One part infectious enthusiasm, one part vintage hot club jazz, one part modern songwriting, and one part hot picking swing.

‘Silver Alert’, ‘Harley Quinn’, ‘King’ and more

Silver Alert: A Novel

by Lee Smith

c.2023, Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill $27.00 224 pages

You can have whatever you want.

So g’wan: buy a new car – heck, buy three of them. Have a vacation home on both coasts and two overseas. Get a new wardrobe for every day of the week, rings for your fingers and toes, go ahead, go wild. You can have whatever you want – except, in the new book “Silver Alert” by Lee Smith, you can’t have your life back.

When Herb Atlas opened the door of his Key West villa, he couldn’t believe his eyes. His step-daughter had hired a teenager – a kid, actually – to take care of his wife, Susan.

She’d been a real looker not so long ago, his Susan was. Charming and funny, everybody loved her. Then early-onset Alzheimer’s made Susan an unrecognizable, wild-haired woman that Herb barely knew.

But here this kid who said her name was Renee was doing Susan’s nails and she had Susan calm, quiet, and not rat-a-tat-tatting. That hadn’t happened in a long time. Herb liked this girl right off; when she dropped her wallet and he saw an ID card with another name on it, he didn’t even care that she was probably lying.

He tipped her a couple $100 bills and he couldn’t wait to hire her again.

Two hundred bucks! Dee Dee practically skipped away from Mr. Atlas that afternoon, thinking about the things she could buy. She decided not to go back to the pink trailer just yet; she didn’t want to run into Tony because she was done with that life. Dee Dee liked the new work she’d been chosen to do, and she liked Susan, too.

Herb should’ve known an intervention when he saw one; even his nephew, Ricky, was there. His extended family didn’t get together for the fun of it, after all. Then again, an 83-year-old man doesn’t get scary-sick every day, either, nor does he willingly give up everything he knows and has worked hard for, before taking one last grasp at life...

Let’s be honest: the old elderly-person-and-caregiverflee-in-a-classic-car plot is suddenly everywhere, overused, almost overdone. Set it aside, though, if you can, and “Silver Alert” is a wonderful little novel.

What helps is that author Lee Smith’s two main characters are very appealing. Herb is a foul-mouthed, once-proud man who hates the fact that he’s aged, and he rails against it. Dee Dee is an under-educated backwoods girl who longs to fulfill her own promise and overcome her awful past. Their separate, but entwining, stories are the kinds you can’t wait to return to while you’re spending time with the rest who make this novel truly fun: among others, there’s an insufferably uppity doctor and his wife, a no-nonsense lesbian couple, a career-woman daughter, an absent son, poor Susan, and Ricky, a cool-headed voice of reason who’ll make readers wish they knew someone like him.

If you’re up for a fast read with a great story-line and somewhat of a surprise ending, ignore the trope and reach for “Silver Alert.” You can get it whenever you want.

Books on Babies and Family

c.2023, various publishers $18.99-$28.00 various page counts

Tiny little fingernails. Tiny little yawns. And the smallest shoes you’ve ever seen.

These are the things you’re thinking about, and “congratulations” may come your way soon. So now, while you still have the time, check out these books about babies, kids, and family...

It – we – all start with one thing: a single cell, and in “Egg: A Dozen Ovatures” by Lizzie Stark (Norton, $28.00), you’ll learn about the most awesome, humble beginnings that every creature shares.

Using mythology, science, culture, and biology, Stark takes readers on an around-the-world look at the egg in all its glory. Eggs become humans and animals, of course, but they are also dishes, symbols, a clown registry, and more, in twelve wonderful peeks.

Who knew? You will, after you read this fun book.

So what if you’re not a part of a conventional family?

If you’re alone, disabled, or have a same-sex partner or LTR, how do you make a family? In “Baby Making for Everybody” by Ray Rachlin, LM, CPM and Marea Goodman, LM, CPM (Balance, $18.99), you’ll find a guide for potential, unconventional parents and families.

What kinds of procedures are available to create today’s modern family? You’ve never truly thought about it, but what can you truly expect? How do you choose a surrogate or donor, and what’s the process to adopt?

These, and legalities, are things to consider in your journey and for any new family that doesn’t fit the heterosexual, two-parent norm, this is a book that’ll answer those important questions, and beyond.

So you already have the family you’ve always wanted. Now it’s time to think about enjoying it, so you’ll want “It. Goes. So. Fast: The Year of No Do-Overs” by Mary Louise Kelly (Holt, $26.99), a book about stopping to smell the roses – and also the gym socks, bake-sale cookies, and the college dorm room. It’s a book that all parents with packed calendars should read, and that anybody who’s said, “Not now, later” will want, because it’ll change your mind and make you happier, family included.

And finally, if you’ve made up your mind that raising a family is not for you, then read “Without Children: The Long History of Not Being a Mother” by Peggy O’Donnell Heffington (Seal, $29.00).

Despite decades of well-meaning advice to procreate, there’s been an even longer history of women not having babies for a variety of reasons, eschewing motherhood, and staying childless (or childfree). There are as many reasons for it today, as there were millennia ago, and in her book, Heffington examines the idea of not becoming a mother, and how non-mothers and women with kids have more in common than they think they do...

If these books aren’t enough for your familial journey, then be sure to ask your favorite librarian or bookseller for help. They’ve got the books you need, whether they’re pregnancy books, something to parent by, or books to confirm your choices. They’ll help you find the right book on babies and families, and the options are not tiny.

Harley Quinn: Ravenous

by Rachael Allen

c.2023, Random House $19.99 349 pages

Forget about it.

Put it out of your mind, don’t worry about it. It’s likely nothing, so let it rest. Let it go and don’t be afraid because, as in the new book “Harley Quinn: Ravenous” by Rachael Allen, fear is how they make you scream.

Being a First Year intern at Gotham University was going to be The. Best.

Having completed the University’s gap-year program last year, Harleen Quinzel was practically bouncing. She’d decided on research, possibly psychology, as a career and First Year program included mentorship and a chance to study some of Gotham’s

worst, most notorious criminal minds. The Joker, TwoFace, King Shark, Mr. Freeze, she could be assigned to any one of them at Arkham Asylum.

First Year was also going to be a bit of a relief.

Sure, she’d still have to put up with classmates like the jerk who kept asking if she was “straight now” (nope, still bi, today, tomorrow, last week) and she’d have to try to fit in, which was hard to do after what happened at the end of last year. Then, some of Harleen’s friends were attacked with a fear spray that made them scream and scream, and her best friend died from it. There was gossip but Harleen had her research to enjoy, she loved her mentor, and she was fascinated by Talia al Ghul, who’d tried to assassinate Gotham’s mayor. Talia was a great study-subject – even though Harleen wasn’t technically supposed to ever speak to her.

Until Talia said that she knew who made the fear spray. She needed information for information, tit for tat, and she hinted that she knew the truth about Straw Man, who was rumored to haunt Arkham and who had a hand in the fear spray, so...

So then Harleen woke up in the hospital, the victim of a bad accident and amnesia. But was it an accident? Were this guy, Win, and the adorable Ivy trustworthy? And the escape of Gotham City’s worst, most violent criminals... was Harleen at fault?

Let’s say a movie theatre mushed its film to a pulp and made a novel from the leftover cells. Or they used the mush to paint a Ben-Dot artwork panel, but in words. That’s kinda how you could think of this book. As a part of the “DC Icons” franchise,”Harley Quinn: Ravenous” almost screams graphic novel or comic book.

So what’s the problem?

Nothing, as long as you know that before you pick it up because that’s the sort of feel you’ll get in what only looks like a regular novel. Nothing, if you relish a story that starts with action and peppers it with chaos before dropping readers into a land of dark monsters and crime. Nothing at all, if you’ve read author Rachael Allen’s novelbefore-this-one – otherwise, you’ll be awash in humor, feminism, superheroes, and scrambling to find your footing. Be warned.

Overall, love a funny, crazy-paced dark-Gotham novel with a feminist warrior, you’ll devour “Harley Quinn: Ravenous.” As for a bookmark...? Nah, forget about it.

A Work in Progress

by Jarrett Lerner c.2023, Aladdin $17.99 368 pages

You are a work of art.

Your skin is a palette of shadow and light, like a fine pencil drawing. The color of your eyes can’t be duplicated, even by the best painter. Shades of softness top your head, your smile flashes white, you frame it all with personality. But as in the new book “A Work in Progress” by Jarrett Lerner, one bad (re) mark can ruin it all.

By middle school, Nick Fisher had probably forgotten about what he said. It happened three years ago, after all, and it was undoubtedly just another day for him then. But Will Chambers would never, ever forget. Right in front of everybody, Nick called Will “FAT.”

It wasn’t like Will had never noticed, right? It was clear that everybody in his school was skinny, including the teachers. Even his parents were thin but Will liked to eat and he didn’t think that was a problem. Neither did his friends but after Nick said what he said, Will was embarrassed and he kinda stopped being friends with Dave and Andrew and Devin.

He stopped eating lunch with them because who wanted to sit with a FAT kid?

He started asking his Mom to buy him outfits that were baggy, to hide the FAT.

He stopped eating his favorite foods, but that just made him hungrier

Mostly, Will spent time in his room, in a corner of the lunchroom, or in the alley where nobody would bother him or look at his body, and he drew pictures in his notebook. He might be too FAT to make friends and he might be too FAT to talk to Jules, the prettiest girl in school, but he was good at drawing.

But then Will – much to his surprise and kinda by accident – made a friend. Markus was a new kid in school, he was cool, he said his family moved a lot, and he

acted like he didn’t notice Will’s FAT. Would Will ever get confidence like that?

Pick up “A Work in Progress,” page through it, and you’ll notice that there’s not a lot of reading in it. Despite the page count, the story’s small and it repeats a lot, probably more than most adults would tolerate. But this book isn’t for adults, so no problem.

Your 8-to-12-year-old, though, might be intimately familiar with what’s inside author Jarrett Lerner’s story – especially if they’re different from other kids, bullied, nerdy, non-athletic, overly-teased, or self-conscious. Awkward kids will truly understand what Lerner’s Will is experiencing. LGBTQ kids have heard the laughter, and this is surely nothing new to kids who are overweight. What is new is the comfort they’ll find here.

Still, it’s possible that the repetition in this tale will turn some kids off, and its slower pace may cause others to flee. Parents will also want to know that the themes inside here practically scream for conversation, so skim it well before giving your child “A Work in Progress.” The kid who most needs this book will be drawn to it.

King: A Life

by Jonathan Eig

c.2023, Farrar, Straus and Giroux $35.00 671 pages

The life of the hero you most admire has been an open book.

For much of your life, you’ve read about him, watched him on television, and heard epic stories about him. Sometimes, your hero almost feels like a close personal friend; absolutely, he’s someone you want to be like.

So read the new book, “King: A Life” by Jonathan Eig and find out all the things you don’t know.

Head to your local bookstore or library, and you’ll find thousands of “excellent biographies” about Martin Luther King Jr. You’ll find books on his work, beliefs, and his activism.

Still, says Jonathan Eig, “the literature remains incomplete” – in part, because those books don’t tell much about King as a flawed, irritated, exhausted human.

Says Eig, “King was a man, not a saint, not a symbol. He chewed his fingernails. He shouted at the TV during quiz shows.” He cheated on his wife for so many years that “friends referred to [one] woman as his second wife.”

By the time he was a year old, young King had three names: Michael, Marvin, and Martin; his father adopted the name Martin Luther “after a few years,” and the younger King was then called M.L. As the middle child and older son, young Martin was close to his sister but tussled with his younger brother, sometimes violently. The elder Martin was a preacher, and M.L. said that God had called him to do the same – though he later claimed that he “tried to escape” the “responsibility on [his] shoulders, and grew frustrated.

King was a ladies’ man who fell in love with a white woman before meeting Coretta Scott. He often felt insecure and had a “tendency to depression.” He “found strength in words,” vowing in a fiery speech in December of 1955 that “the world would change.

Their time had come. He promised.”

Since his activism as a young man and his assassination more than a half-century ago, surely everything there is to know about Martin Luther King Jr has been told, right?

Surprisingly, no, as author Jonathan Eig shows. In “King: A Life,” readers are given a glimpse of a man who was more complicated and flawed than we’ve seen before.

Part of the revelation lies in the stories Eig tells about King and the many people in King’s circle, friends, family, and colleagues. It’s in these tales that we see a King that contemporary accounts generally didn’t reveal, but that “thousands of recently released FBI documents and tens of thousands of other new items...” have shed light on.

In that, we learn much about the turbulent relationships that King had, broadly, and specifically with politics and presidents. There’s a fair amount of edginess and intrigue in that and, given the time-frame, a sense of doom.

The size of “King: A Life” may be daunting, but don’t let it scare you. It’s a surprisingly fast read that includes things you know and things you don’t know. Truly, you’re going to want to open this book.

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

(Jacket design by Tré Seals; Used by permission of Farrar, Straus and Giroux)

JuneClasses BatikWorkshop Waldorf-StyleBeeFairyDoll Handbuilding1&2classes WheelWork2 QuiltinaDay

TheStoryQuiltProject

LunchandLearns

Saturdays 11:30am-12:30pm, June3,June10,June17

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

Friday,June9th at7:30pm

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

The Music of Patsy Cline with the Joyann Parker Band

Saturday,June24th at7:30pm

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

OndisplayuntilJune24

TheStoryQuiltProject, JaneHorton,Springpopup shop,AfterSchoolArtClub

Galleryopening June305pm-7pm

JanellHammer&MichaelFinch, EricZuccola,KarenPeters: CreativePlacemaking-Nature Prints,PCA3D,TrevorGieseke ExhibitionDates June26-August5,2023