SCENE NOVEMBER 2021

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November Events Calendar

NOVEMBER 2021

IS BACK!

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YOUR GUIDE FOR

PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

10 20

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Live Music is Back

SoMinn bands are playing their tunes again.

Surviving a Pandemic

We list some SoMinn restaurants and buisnesses that have opened during the pandemic.

24 WHERE THE FOOD’S SO GOOD IT CAN STOP A TRAIN DAILY SPECIALS CATERING OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

VISIT FARIBAULT’S ORIGINAL HOMETOWN BAR AND GRILL FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER

● THEDEPOTBARGRILL.COM 311 HERITAGE PLACE ● FARIBAULT, MN ●W 507-332-2825 W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N SCENE. C O M | N O V E M B E R

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2021

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Celebrate the Holidays with Us!

November 27 & 28 Sheldon Theatre Brass Band

December 3 A Christmas Celebration with the Steeles

December 11 North Country Christmas featuring Kat Perkins

December 16 The Nutcracker

December 18 The New Standards Holiday Show

December 31 New Year’s Eve with Monroe Crossing

More November Shows!

November 6 November 12 November 13 November 20 November 26

Flor de Toloache Kiran Ahluwalia Chris Koza Shake & Holla Tour w/VIP option Film: Arthur Christmas

“Beautiful historic theater. I highly recommend you treat yourself to at least one show here.” ~ Mark J

More December Shows!

December 5 December 8

Christmas with Lorie Line An Andy & Bing Christmas

Sheldon Theatre|443 W. 3rd St|Red Wing, MN|651-388-8700 | sheldontheater.org 2

N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 1 | W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N SCENE. C O M

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

CONTENT

NOVEMBER 2021 / VOLUME 9 / ISSUE 1

FEATURES:

COLUMNS:

12 LIVE MUSIC is BACK

SoMinn bands are playing their tunes.

15 The SCENE Calendar

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

20 PANDEMIC OPENINGS

SoMinn retail and restaurant businesses survive pandemic openings.

22 Craft & Gift Shows

Explore some of these SoMinn shows.

Scene

ABOUT

HAVE A STORY IDEA?

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

WANT TO ADVERTISE?

Deanna Walters - 507-333-3117 deanna.walters@apgsomn.com

6 Randy’s RAMBLINGS

7 Megan’s MUSIC MUSINGS

Welcome back to SCENE, plus some movie recommendations.

My discovery of Beauford Delaney.

- The Corpse Queen - It’s Your Funeral!

- I’ll Take Your Questions Now - Kids Halloween Books

19 SoMinn MUSICIAN Profile

Here’s me trying to write a music column.

Amanda Grace delivers pure 90s nostalgia.

24 Through a SOMINN LENS

8 Mollywood BLVD

Fancy like apple crisp.

With gratitude for Southern Minnesota.

27 SoMinn FOOD & DRINK Review

10 WOLDUM TV

Southern minn

14 SoMinn THE BOOKWORM SEZ

5 Philm COLUMN

A few recs for when you want more of the same.

Boonies’s Bar & Grill provides classic American favorites.

DECEMBE DEADLIN R ISSUE E IS NOV 19

HAVE A CALENDAR EVENT?

Email editor@southernminnSCENE.com or go to W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N . C O M / SOUTHERN_MINN_SCENE/ & CLICK + P R O M O T E YO U R E V E N T

©SouthernMinnSCENE.com retains the publication rights to all content produced or supplied to SCENE. Use of said materials without the written consent of SouthernMinnSCENE.com is prohibited. Content copyrighted; all rights reserved.

NEW MENU • BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER DAILY SPECIALS • CATERING • OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

From the classics to made-from-scratch recipes, that create unique dishes found nowhere else in Southern Minnesota, Chef Jeff can cook something for everyone in the family.

Stop in for a charming atmosphere, and experience our award winning dishes!

HOURS

Monday - Wednesday: 11AM - 9PM Thursday & Friday: 11AM - 10PM Saturday: 7:30AM - 10PM Sunday: 7:30AM - 9PM Breakfast served Saturday & Sunday 7:30AM - 11AM

VISIT FARIBAULT’S ORIGINAL HOMETOWN BAR AND GRILL Often imitated, never duplicated

ADD YOUR EVENT FOR FREE TO THE SOMINN SCENE CALENDAR. GO TO W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N . C O M / S O U T H E R N _ M I N N _ S C E N E / & C L I C K + P R O M O T E Y O U R E V E N T

311 HERITAGE PLACE • FARIBAULT, MN 507-332-2825 • THEDEPOTBARGRILL.COM

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| NOVEMBER 2021

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SOUTHERN MINN

JORDAN ANDREAS Multimedia Account Executive jordan.andreas@apgsomn.com 507-645-1134

AMBER CASTERTON Multimedia Account Executive amber.casterton@apgsomn.com 507-444-2388

KATHLEEN DAVIES Multimedia Account Executive kathleen.davies@apgsomn.com 507-931-8564

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JENNIFER FLOWERS Multimedia Account Executive jennifer.flowers@apgsomn.com 507-837-5450

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TIM MART Regional Digital Director tim.mart@apgsomn.com 763-486-5019

MARK NELSON Multimedia Account Executive mark.nelson@apgsomn.com 507-333-3109

TONI SCHMIDT Multimedia Account Executive toni.schmidt@apgsomn.com 507-333-3146

DEANNA WALTERS Multimedia Account Executive deanna.walters@apgsomn.com 507-333-3117

TOM KELLING Regional Advertising Director tom.kelling@apgsomn.com 507-444-2390

.COM

YOUR GUIDE FOR

PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO. Scene is a monthly arts and entertainment magazine that inserts into seven Southern Minn newspapers: Owatonna People’s Press, Faribault Daily News, Northfield News, Waseca County News, St. Peter Herald, Le Sueur County News and Kenyon Leader. Our calendar lets you know what’s to come; our columns give you local insights on music/ travel/entertainment/more, and our stories will let you know the places to shop, the things to do, the sights to see in this region.

CRYSTAL HOBART Multimedia Account Executive crystal.hobart@apgsomn.com 507-444-2385

Minneapolis Northfield Le Sueur St. Peter

Kenyon Faribault

Mankato Waseca

Owatonna

Rochester Albert Lea

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TALK WITH ONE OF OUR MULTI MEDIA SPECIALISTS TO DISCUSS YOUR ADVERTISING

OPPORTUNITIES.

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

Philm COLUMN

PHILIP WEYHE Philip Weyhe is your Southern Minn Scene editor, which means he can write about what he wants (within reason). He lives in St. Peter with his husband Ian, and they enjoy all things A&E, especially movies.

Welcome back to SCENE, plus some movie recommendations

L

ike the phoenix rising from the ashes … or maybe more like the bear waking from its hibernation … or actually maybe a squirrel or a hedgehog … Southern Minn SCENE is back, this time exclusively for readers of APG Southern Minn newspapers.

For those unfamiliar, Scene is an arts and entertainment publication that covers the Southern Minnesota area, particularly our newspaper territory, including Owatonna, Faribault, Northfield, St. Peter, Waseca County, Le Sueur County, Kenyon and surrounding areas.

Our stories and columns tell you about happenings across our region and sometimes the state of Minnesota, plus places to shop and eat, artists and musicians to know, and activities to enjoy. We’ll also tell you about movies and TV to watch, music to listen to, and trends to follow.

We had to take a break, like many operations, at the onset of the pandemic in March 2020, but our water has been simmering for months now, and we’ve reached the boiling point, kicking things off with our November edition (this one). You’ll find it inserted in the Oct. 27 Northfield News, Waseca County News and Kenyon Leader, plus the Oct. 28 Owatonna People’s Press, Faribault Daily News, St. Peter Herald and Le Sueur County News.

For those of you familiar with our brand, we hope you’ve been missing us and are excited to see us back. To those brand new, welcome and enjoy.

MOVIES! Now I can get on with my personal column, which is all about films — you know, movies, flicks, features, motion pictures. Those things that play in the big theaters that no one used to be afraid of (by the way, if you’re looking to ease back into some not-yet-post-pandemic normalcy, theaters are a good place, in my opinion, as they are thoroughly cleaned between shows, you can pick your own seats at most, and people are expected not to talk in your face).

Since it’s been so long, I’ll keep it simple. Here are some movies I’ve seen since the pandemic that you could watch. I’ll try to give a variety for this audience’s ever-eclectic taste.

TELL ME ABOUT IT!

If you’d like to be excited (action): Nobody

(rentable on several services), starring Bob Odenkirk, is a knowing, fast-paced, sometimes stylish action flick in the same vain as John Wick but with a larger dose of comedy; Godzilla vs.

Kong (HBO Max) is exactly what the title says, and while you shouldn’t expect beautifully written plot points, the big fights live up to the billing; Extraction (Netflix) is really not that good, but Chris Hemsworth is charismatic enough to make it entertaining; Gunpowder Milkshake (Netflix) isn’t perfect, but it’s all about the ladies and it’s a fun ride.

If you’d like to be super (hero films):

Shang Chi and the Legion of the Ten Rings (Disney-Plus) is standard Marvel affair, but at times it’s quite breathtaking, and it’s nice to see some new faces and cultures; The Suicide Squad (HBO Max) should not be confused for one of my least favorite movies ever, Suicide Squad, and is, in fact, everything the first movie should’ve been — namely fun; Black Widow (DisneyPlus) is a great mix of superhero tropes with a more grounded story to anchor it, along with some great actors.

If you’d like to be thrilled (mystery and suspense): Promising Young Woman (HBO Max), featuring an award-winning performance from Carrie Mulligan, will look to twist and turn you, and it’s a joy all the way through; Tenet (HBO Max), Christopher Nolan’s latest, delves into the usual time-bending madness the director loves, and it mostly works; Saint Maud (Hulu) is weird, weird, weird, but it’s also interesting and original for those who give it a chance; Pig (rentable on several services), starring Nicholas Cage, is one I have admittedly not seen yet, but I expect to be unpredictable and apparently moving.

If you’d like to be impressed (critically acclaimed): Nomadland (Hulu), the Best Picture winner from

surging director Chloe Zhao and starring the always magnificent Frances McDormand, hits at the heart of inner turmoil through the lens of modern nomads; Minari (rentable from several services), the story of a Korean family transplanting to the American south in the 1980s, tells a poignant, personal story that most any family could relate to; Judas and the Black Messiah (HBO Max), based off a true story, features actors that will punch you in the gut with their performances.

Have you seen a movie recently that you’re itching for more people to see? Do you know of a should-be classic that many might not? Do you just want to send a rant about a movie you love or hate?

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If you’d like to be frightened (horror):

Candyman (rentable from several services) is a modernized reimagining of the 1992 film of the same name, and while it can be heavy-handed with the messaging, it provides a nice mix of scares and societal metaphors; A Quiet Place Part II (ParamountPlus) takes what works from the first movie — suspense and perfect pacing — and adds a bit more budget; Army of the Dead (Netflix) is just a good old-fashioned zombie basher, and it gets the job done.

If you’d like to be laughing (comedy): Plan B (Hulu) is a hilarious gem that calls back to youthful troubles that are sometimes bigger than us adults might realize; Free Guy (rentable on several services) is a lot better than I thought it was going to be and is a breeze to watch; Cruella (Disney-Plus) was just pretty fun for me, but some non-movie snobs I know absolutely loved it; On The Rocks (Apple TV) is a cute, mild, humorous affair.

If you’d like to be warm and fuzzy (romcom and animated): Palm Springs (Hulu) shirks the

typical rom-com narrative for some thriller-style hijinks, but it remains crowd-pleasing all the way; In The Heights (HBO Max) is a fresh and fun musical that really has some fantastic numbers; The Unicorn (Hulu) is a quirky little love (and lack of love) story and, at times, is laugh out loud hilarious; Soul (DisneyPlus) shot straight up my favorites list among animated films and works for kids and adults alike.

If you’d like to be in the past (oldies but goodies): French Connection (rentable on multiple services)

proves they’ve known how to make an action movie for a long time; All The President’s Men (HBO Max) still holds up as an important tale of the work hard journalism can do — I’m biased; Singin’ in the Rain (HBO Max) does have some overt sexism, but overall, it’s an engaging tale that set the stage for so many musicals that came after. 

Send me your thoughts at editor@southernminnscene.com and I might share with the Scene audience in a future edition.

W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N SCENE. C O M

| NOVEMBER 2021

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Randy’s RAMBLINGS

RANDY RICKMAN Randy Rickman resides with his wife in Owatonna, where he serves as APG Southern Minn regional president. He is a transplant most recently from Wisconsin. He is learning about art as he goes.

My discovery of

Beauford Delaney

I

’m not an art snob, connoisseur, expert or even an amateur. I’m more like one step below amateur. I don’t get it when I look at most art.

But all that changed last weekend when I made a trip to the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis.

My wife and I decided to check out Walker, because of their indoor and outdoor art exhibits.

I promised my wife I wouldn’t speed through the gallery like I usually do. We had plenty of time, so we would check out each piece to see if it made an impact.

Giant art pieces, complicated, multi-layered on canvas, acrylic, video, photography, and sculptures. All nice, but I didn’t understand or appreciate it like most art appreciators do. And then I wandered past a smaller piece and took a second look, and then a third. I stopped and just stared at it, and it captivated me like no other.

I said “Whoa.” I crossed the line to get a super close look at the brush marks and felt the presence of a volunteer, so I backed up a little.

The painting was perfect. I could get a sense of the artist, even though I didn’t even know the name of the person who painted this amazing work. I stood there for a long time looking at every swoosh, sweep and blotch of that painting. From edge to edge, you could really get a sense of the energy the artist was casting from the canvas. I said to my wife “Whoever painted this had to be one of the most passionate lovers of art, ever!”

I snapped a photo of the plaque next to the piece and moved on. We finished looking at everything inside, but I wanted to go back to that piece for one more look before we left. I guess I had the feeling that most others have when they see a piece of art that moves them. It was just an awesome feeling.

When I got home, I looked at the photos from the day, because I wanted to do a little research on the artist who painted that “unnamed” piece. His name was Beauford Delaney.

He died in Paris in 1979, and man did he have a

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story behind him.

Beauford Delaney was about as complicated as a person could be. He’s described as an American mondernist painter who is remembered for his work with the Harlem Renaissance in the 1930s and 1940s and his later work with abstract expressionism that followed his move to Paris in the 1950s.

Mr. Delaney’s father was a barber and Methodist minister. His mother, who was born into slavery, was prominent in the church and did laundry and house cleaning. Beauford moved to New York from Knoxville, Tennessee in 1929.

He is known for his work with sharp pure colors, thickly applied paints, and taut, schematic patterning. He found little corners in the world of the Great Depression that would or could captivate his work.

Can you imagine the pressures of being black and gay in a racist and homophobic society of the 1920s and 1930s? Add to that his own Christian upbringing that disapproved of homosexuality.

In 1953, Beauford moved to Paris, France.

Europe attracted many other African American artists and writers, because they had found a greater sense of freedom there. His years in Paris led to a dramatic stylistic shift from the “figurative compositions of New York life to abstract expressionist studies of color and light.”

Beauford Delaney’s downfall was drinking and mental health. By 1961, he was a heavy drinker, and it impacted his often fragile mental and physical health. In 1970, Beauford started to display signs of Alzheimer’s disease, and in 1975, he was hospitalized and then committed to St. Anne’s Hospital for the insane. He died in Paris while at St. Anne’s on March 26, 1979.

When I finished reading all this about Beauford Delaney, I was incredibly sad. His work was so beautiful, and it came from such a tortured man. I hope he found eternal peace in death, and I hope he knows how much he has impacted the world with his art. He sure impacted me. 

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Randy stands next to a Beauford Delaney piece that had him in awe at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis.

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

Megan’s MUSIC MUSINGS

MEGAN ROLLOFF 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.

Here’s me trying to write a

S

music column

o, you’re gonna write a music column.

What are you going to write about? What is the purpose of this column? Who are you and what qualifications do you have to even write this thing?

These are the nagging questions that have been swimming around in my head for weeks now. And the most terrifying part is, even as I write this, I’m not sure I’ve figured out all the answers yet. But you can only start with what you do know, so allow myself to introduce … myself.

Hello! My name is Megan Rolloff. I am a fulltime designer at The Design Element in Mankato, a part-time artist when I can find the time, and an avid music lover, listener, and concertgoer.

I grew up in a small town just outside of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I was born in 1980, became a teenager in the 90s and escaped to Minnesota for college in 1998. From there, I earned a bachelor of science degree in art education with an emphasis in painting from Minnesota State University, Mankato (though it was still Mankato State when I started).

While at school, I met a boy, and we graduated, got married, and moved back to his hometown of New Ulm all in the spring of 2003. New Ulm has remained my home for the past 18 years.

Through it all, music has been a permeating part of my life. Sure, I took piano lessons and played trumpet in the school band, but I didn’t have much talent for either. However, listening to all kinds of music and seeing it played live by those

who do have the talent has been a passion, and borderline obsession, since before I could drive a car (which is age 14 in South Dakota).

You may recall from earlier that I “came of age” in the 90s. That basically means one of two things: I was an angsty teenager wearing flannel and listening to grunge or I was part of the great resurgence of country music brought upon by Garth Brooks and a few other wildly popular artists of the decade.

Since my parents’ favorites were bands such as Led Zeppelin, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Steppenwolf (my favorite song as a toddler was “The Immigrant Song” by Led Zepplin), what better way to rebel than to listen to the music of their parents and jump on that hay-stacked bandwagon of “modern” country music?

I would say this is where my obsession with music, musicians, and attending concerts began.

For much of the decade, I ate, slept, and breathed all things country music. I even visited Nashville twice during that time to specifically be immersed in the culture of the Music City.

As I got a little older, and less determined to make my parents roll their eyes at my every action, my tastes expanded to include all different genres of music. But I never forgot the thrill and overwhelming joy I discovered, via country music, of seeing an artist or a band live on stage with the music so loud you could literally feel it vibrate through your body. Or of hearing your favorite song, live, in person, and being belted out by

SEND ME STUFF! Are you a Southern Minnesota band, musician, singer, songwriter or know someone who is?

Drop me a line and tell me about it or send me a sample of your work. I am always on the lookout for my next musical obsession.

Tips about unique and interesting concerts, festivals and venues in our region are also welcome and appreciated.

hundreds or thousands of fans just like you.

That, in particular, has remained a feeling I hold closest to my heart to this day. There is nothing like seeing someone with awesome talent, doing what they do best, and being there to share that experience with others who feel the same way you do. It is pure magic.

So, to answer that question of “What are you going to write about?” I believe the answer is just that. I am going to write about the pure magic that is music as told from the perspective of an avid fan living her adult life in Southern Minnesota.

As for the purpose of the column, I think that is still in the “hopes and planning” phase. I plan to spotlight, highlight, and celebrate all the music that influences our Minnesota minds and brings

VESELI, MN

joy to our Minnesota ears. I hope to entertain you, relate to you, and, occasionally, educate you on these same topics.

And what qualifies me to write this column? I believe my greatest asset with which to accomplish this task is that I am just the same as you, a music fan living right here in Southern Minnesota. I hope for this column to be a fun place for music lovers to connect, be entertained, and maybe, once in a while, learn a little something they didn’t know before.

It all seems so simple and straight forward. But I must admit, I am kind of nervous. I so badly want to do a good job for you, the reader and music fan. Only time will tell if I am the right woman for the job, and I sincerely hope that I am. 

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Mollywood BLVD

The pumpkin spice latte aesthetic has trended in recent years but is considered “basic” by some. (Heidi Kaden/Unsplash)

I

never realized just how much I had to say until my column was temporarily paused. Each month that rolled by as I sat on my couch binge watching Netflix and fighting with strangers on Twitter I would come across an article, trend, or general scenario that made me think, “Shoot, that would have been my (insert month here) column!”

Big shout out to our editor, Philip, who encouraged me to bring this back and hello to any new readers: Welcome to Mollywood BLVD. This column covers all things pop culture and entertainment, including a few unsolicited observations and rants by yours truly. Today, we are going to unpack something I saw creeping into existence last fall but had no outlet, aside from social media or my daily morning show, to point

8

it out.

Basically: corporate America is trying to make “apple” the new “pumpkin.”

This year saw the earliest roll-out of the PSL since it launched at Starbucks back in 2003. For those who aren’t hip to the jargon, PSL stands for Pumpkin Spice Latte — a drink synonymous with “cheugy” women in Han Solo style puffy vests and Ugg boots, driving SUVs; essentially “basic” moms (like me). That is not to say that others can’t and don’t enjoy a good PSL; it’s a simple stereotype that I am more than happy to perpetuate.

The chain brought back the seasonal drink on Aug. 24 this year, getting a jump-start on the transition to fall. Just like you see Christmas decorations starting to go up in store aisles in early October, when something is a commercial

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MOLLY PENNY 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.

won’t stop anyone from trying! Piggy-backing success, retailers tend to want to capitalize on it on the popularity of hard seltzers in recent years, for as long as possible while still maintaining the Anheuser-Busch has released a new “Fall Flannel mystique that it is “Limited Time Only.”

Pack” of Bud Light Seltzer that includes the flavors Before it became a phenomenon, and let’s Pumpkin Spice, Apple Crisp, Maple Pear and face it, I don’t think even Starbucks realized how Toasted Marshmallow. popular it would become, so let me change that, Who hasn’t enjoyed a cider beer in their day? before it became a latte, ‘pumpkin spice’ literally It’s literally always been an option, at least as referred to a blend of spices used to flavor pumplong as I have been of legal drinking age. But the kin pie: nutmeg, ginger, allspice and clove. No addition of Apple Crisp to the fall lineup tipped actual pumpkin flavor at all.

Originating in Dutch East India, it was used me off that this was 100% intended to go along for centuries in everything from pies to pudwith your apple orchard visiting, basic fall flannel dings. McCormick even sold a blend of the exact and puffy vest (or, let’s be real, shacket) wearing spices mentioned above. The idea to put it in a Insta content and hopefully become a big money latte came from a Starbucks employee named maker for the company.

It’s not just Bud Light. Baileys has a new flavor Peter Dukes who had a hand in other successful to add to your morning Joe — apple pie. It’s apple seasonal drinks like the peppermint mocha. It launched in 100 Starbucks stores in Vancouver pie flavored Irish cream available “while supplies and Washington, but it wasn’t until 2015 that the last.” Pepsi is jumping on the trend with the PSL actually included any pumpkin flavor.

Needless to say, the change in formula was a hit. Moms everywhere were Instagramming their trendy fall drink. Worldwide sales of the PSL are now around 424 million per season accounting for an estimated $100 million in revenue in a single year. Just like the coveted McRib, sales of any products available only for a limited time have a built-in marketing impact.

As the PSL grew in popularity and basic witch trendiness, I scoffed at it. Until a co-worker brought me one in exchange for a favor. She Brands like Krispy Kreme are hopping on the apple needed me to bring a garment to a train recently. tailor in Mankato. I took one sip and was hooked. And, to be fair, I do occasionally wear puffy vests, own a few pairs of new Mountain Dew Thrashed Apple soft drink.

Ugg boots and drive an SUV, and I’m a mom who Krispy Kreme is offering new apple cider-flavored uses Instagram relentlessly, so as much as I fought donuts. General Mills, who was already famous for it, I fit the demo.

Cinnamon Toast Crunch, took it a step further this What cracks me up is how many other comfall and released a limited-time Apple Pie Toast panies have jumped on the trend. Pumpkin Spice Crunch (eye roll). Dunkin’ Donuts just released a SPAM, produced by Hormel Foods, was released new Apple Cranberry Dunkin’ Refresher drink to in September 2019. If a PSL isn’t enough for your pair with the apple cider donuts and are advertismornings, Pumpkin Spice Cheerios are back on ing it as “Apple to the Core.” OREO released a supermarket shelves for a limited time, and I wish limited edition Apple Cider Donut cookie this fall I were kidding, but Trader Joe’s just introduced and, not to be outdone, Starbucks themselves just Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce. (Just because you can introduced a new Apple Crisp Macchiato. doesn’t mean you should.)

If pumpkin spice isn’t your jam, you clearly Are you with me here? So, I came up with this have some options in the apple lane, but enjoy theory last year, but we were on a hiatus with the them sparingly, because they are all packed with print version of Southern Minn Scene at the time, sugar. “American as apple pie” is a saying for a so it’s just been taking up mental real estate in my reason. It’s always been great. But do we need to head for a year. I think that apple crisp, or apple beat everything to death with marketing and gimspice, is the new or next pumpkin spice, and I micks? In the immortal words of Paul McCartney have evidence to back it up. (incidentally a co-founder of Apple Records), “Let Apple has always been a mainstay of fall: it be.” apple pie, apple crisp, apple cider, caramel My brain can’t handle it! Stop trying to make apples etc… Traditional apple dishes don’t have ‘apple’ happen! Thank you for coming to my TED that same built-in limited time appeal but that Talk. 

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WE’RE BACK! Lets Paint the town

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| NOVEMBER 2021

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WOLDUM TV

RACHEL WOLDUM Rachel Woldum is a former television snob who has embraced the medium as it entered its Golden Age. Contact her at woldumr@gmail.com.

A few recs for when you want more of the same

H

ave you ever finished a TV show and wished desperately that there was just one more season, or another show exactly like it?

Whether a weekend-long binge or an episode a night is more your style, watching a TV show is an immersive experience. We grow attached to characters, find fictitious settings starting to feel more and more like home, and have a near Pavlovian reaction when that certain theme song plays. And so it can be jarring and even sort of heartbreaking when you finally finish a favorite show.

Unfortunately, I’ve discovered that Google searches like “TV Shows similar to Buffy” tend to yield results that share the same content (vampires: True Blood), lead actors (David Boreanaz: Angel), or genre (teen drama: The OC). What’s wrong with these results is that — while they certainly share some similarities with Buffy — they have a totally different tone and mood. And often, what makes us so attached to a show has less to do with what it’s about or who it stars and more to do with how it makes us feel. With that in mind, Veronica Mars would be a more similar recommendation, because it shares a kick-butt, teenage protagonist and quippy, campy dialogue.

This is why I’ve started mentally grouping TV shows by “vibes” — that distinct yet indescribable feeling that a show evokes — so I can better make

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recommendations to my friends and family. Because sometimes — especially “in these uncertain times” — familiarity in entertainment is an even more welcome quality than originality.

With that, here are three shows that I think deserve watching that also happen to remind me of other favorites.

The Magicians 5 seasons. Streaming on Netflix.

For Fans Of: Fate: The Winx Saga; The Order; A Discovery of Witches Perfect For: Blustery November days.

Premise: When Quentin Coldwater finds himself recruited by a magical school in a world he didn’t know existed, he discovers that the Narniaesque book series he loved as a child might be more real, and more dangerous, than he had ever imagined.

Extra Perk: It’s based on a book trilogy that’s even better than the show. So when you run out of seasons, hit up the library.

Caveat: Both the show, and the books, are dark: C.S. Lewis this is not. The Magicians is a response to the question every fantasy fan has at some point asked themselves: “What would I do if I were magic?” The answer is more complicated, and less pleasant, than we might think.

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The Last Kingdom

Lovesick

4 seasons, 5th and final season pending. Streaming on Netflix.

3 seasons. Streaming on Netflix.

For Fans Of: Vikings; The Witcher Perfect For: History buffs with hero complexes.

Premise: Uhtred of Bebbanburg (I promise that he’s better-looking than his name implies) is a man caught between two cultures. The year is 866, the start of a century-long conflict between the Vikings and the Anglo-Saxons. Born a Saxon, but kidnapped and raised by Danes, Uhtred finds himself regarded with suspicion by both groups, and must struggle to determine where his true allegiance lies.

Extra perk: As the popularity of The Last Kindgom grew, so did its budget, so watch for increased production value in the later seasons — bigger battle scenes, better acting, and more nuanced writing.

Extra, Extra Perk: Uhtred is what’s commonly referred to as a “hunk.”

Caveat: Some might find the pace of The Last Kingdom a bit grueling — major plot points can take a few episodes to fully develop. But in my opinion, this only makes the series feel more historically accurate. News in the Middle Ages — and horses, boats, caravans, etc. — traveled slowly.

For Fans Of: New Girl; How I Met Your Mother; Happy Endings Perfect For: When you’re feeling sad and need a pick-me-up.

Premise: After Dylan Witter — a bumbling, endearing, British thirty-something — finds out he has chlamydia, he feels a moral obligation to tell all of his previous sexual partners. Alternating between flashbacks and present-day, Lovesick follows Dylan and his housemates as they navigate all the ups and downs of being uncertain in love.

Extra Perk: In addition to being a love story, Lovesick is also a whodunnit of sorts – we know how things started (sex), and how they ended up (an STD), but we don’t know what happened in between, or who with. Plus, at the center of the show is a will they/won’t they romance of Jim/ Pam and Nick/Jess proportions.

Caveat: Despite the somewhat salacioussounding premise, Lovesick actually has a tender innocence to it and is almost completely devoid of snark and cynicism. It’s sweeter and more wellwritten than a sitcom originally called “Scrotal Recall” deserves to be.  Got comments? I’d love to hear them. Email me at woldumr@gmail.com.

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| NOVEMBER 2021

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Faribault’s Old Country Boys resorted to private and virtual gigs during the heights of the pandemic, but have recently returned to larger live shows.

and SoMinn bands are playing their tunes

By ISABELLE WATTENBERG isabelle.wattenberg@gmail.com

O

ver the past 18 months, local bands and musicians have found themselves facing a vastly different — and often rapidly changing — landscape for practicing their craft.

When the pandemic first hit in early 2020, artists had to pause performances completely. Then they had to rethink how to reach and connect with their audiences.

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Some jumped into the virtual performance space, while others found opportunities to perform in uniquely distanced settings — and some stopped playing all together.

Now, with vaccinations driving down COVID-19 cases and reducing the risk of its spread, artists and audiences alike are starting to feel more comfortable gathering, and musicians are beginning to perform in person again. Music venues are filling

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their calendars and inviting the public back for evenings of string and rhythm. And while there’s no definitive end to the uncertainty, bands are embracing the chance to again do what they love.

In a typical year, German folk and polka band Bockfest Boys plays 50 to 60 shows. The New Ulm-based band specializes in providing the soundtrack to regional Oktoberfests, and they

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The Bockfest Boys have been a fall staple for events, especially Oktoberfests, each fall, but they were put on hold in 2020.

“I’ve never taken [playing music] for granted. But I have to say I’m more thankful and more appreciative of the gift I was given. And the guys feel the same way.”

-

so hungry for the entertainment and appreciative. It’s been great.”

The Bockfest Boys played 10 Oktoberfests this fall and are gearing up for seasonal shows, as the holidays approach. Sparlin said the time off hasn’t changed their approach to music, but it has confirmed the band’s passion for it.

“I’ve never taken [playing music] for granted,” Sparlin said. “But I have to say I’m more thankful and more appreciative of the gift I was given. And the guys feel the same way.”

When the country entered lockdown, Faribault-based Old Country Boys, who cover early country artists, such as Merle Haggard and Johnny Cash, found themselves in a similar position to the Bockfest Boys. But they took a different approach. They had about 20 shows canceled in 2020 and ended up replacing them with smaller gigs at private events.

“We were lucky; we could have booked every weekend,” said Greg Sartor, the band’s guitarist. “When the bars started canceling, we could just field calls by private parties.”

The Old Country Boys, formed in 2015, played a few virtual shows as well, and Sartor shared a series of videos along with his brother and fellow bandmate, Jeff, on Facebook.

“It became a good outlet for me and fulfilled a need I didn’t realize I had,” Sartor said. “I was surprised at the response … it proved that people were missing it, too, and that was a good feeling. That we’re not alone in this.”

Sartor said he’s grateful for the private shows and virtual opportunities, but neither could be equated with the exhilaration of playing live for larger crowds. The band began ramping up in-person shows this spring, starting with a performance in April with Norm Hamlet at Faribault’s

Scott Sparlin

are a fixture at Schell’s annual Bockfest in March. But when the pandemic shut the world down in March 2020, all their scheduled performances were canceled. The band wouldn’t play for another 14 months.

“That was a heck of a hit,” said Scott Sparlin, the Bockfest Boys’ lead singer and guitarist. “That time when we weren’t performing was odd, to say the least.”

The Bockfest Boys waited out lockdown without performing, barely even seeing their fellow band members, until festivals and bars started rescheduling again. And they have, which is a testament to the community’s support of its local bands. Sparlin said essentially every event and venue that canceled in 2020 has rebooked the Bockfest Boys in 2021.

Oktoberfests were back in a big way in 2021, as the Bockfest Boys played 10 of them.

“It’s basically a redo,” he said. “People are really excited. We’ve gotten back on track, and we’re happy about that.”

The live, in-person experience, Sparlin said, simply cannot be replicated.

“It’s the reason we’re in the business,” he said. “It’s that human interaction … and audiences [feel] the same way. They’re

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Paradise Center for the Arts that was rescheduled from 2020.

This return to the tour track — even the behind-the-scenes tasks like setting up and tearing down the stage — has validated what ultimately fuels the band.

“People come, and they stay, and then the crowd just keeps building,” Sartor said. “We have a blast together. It just shows we wouldn’t be doing it without them.” 

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| NOVEMBER 2021

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SoMinn THE BOOKWORM SEZ The Corpse Queen

by Heather M. Herrman c.2021, Putnam $18.99 / $24.99 Canada 416 pages Everyone’s gone. The box *clicks* shut and you’re all alone.

Just you, a scratchy outfit, and the bugs. It’s dark down there underground, and not very warm, but so what? You’re in no position to care much anymore because you’re dead. Dead and buried, and in “The Corpse Queen” by Heather M. Herrman, don’t fret.

You won’t be down there long.

Her feet were frozen. So was her mind.

Riding atop a carriage with the luggage in the blowing snow, seventeen-year-old Molly Green was stunned at the turns her life had taken. Years before, her parents had left her at an orphanage with a promise to fetch her later, but they were both dead of consumption. Her best friend, Kitty, had drowned herself in the river – or so the nuns claimed. And now a supposed “Aunt” had sent for Molly, though it was Molly’s understanding that she had no living relatives.

She was told that “Aunt Ava” needed her help.

The mansion at which she arrived was framed with grotesque statues but before Molly could enter the imposing door, she was whisked away by a young man named Tom to do an “errand” for her aunt. But it was a test: told to retrieve a box that no one else should touch, Molly ultimately learned that the container held a dead man’s head.

Indeed, Aunt Ava needed help: she was Philadelphia’s “Corpse Queen,” and she needed Molly to procure bodies for medical classes that were taught in an abandoned chapel behind her mansion. Stealing corpses was lucrative, but dangerous: it could only be done at night, and avoiding the other corpse-snatchers in the city was a must.

It was likewise gruesome, but necessary; there was no other way for doctors to learn about human anatomy.

It was also the best way for Molly to find the man she believed had murdered her friend, Kitty.

She only had to make sure that she didn’t become a corpse herself...

Who doesn’t hate nightmares? Everybody does, so here’s the best advice: start “The Corpse Queen” but put it aside two hours before bedtime and read something else, maybe something with pretty pictures to distract yourself.

Forget about corpses for the night.

If you can.

Filled with dark, stormy nights; mouldering bodies, fresh graveyards, gore, mud, and disfigured figures in the gloom, this novel is exactly what you want this time of year. Author Heather M. Herrman adds gruesome to gothic to make a tale loosely based here and there on history, and that authenticity adds to the horror of it all. Yes, the ending might be somewhat predictible but getting there is like spending a night in a morgue, the power’s out, and one refrigerated drawer holds a stonecold killer. This is good stuff.

What it’s absolutely not is appropriate for young teens. This book might be found in the YA section of bookstore or library but its many adult themes should give parents pause. Better to share it with someone 17-to-adult; for them, “The Corpse Queen” will click.

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It’s Your Funeral!

Plan the Celebration of a Lifetime – Before It’s Too Late

by Kathy Benjamin

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

I’ll Take Your Questions Now

Kids Halloween Books

by Stephanie Grisham

Everything suddenly feels scary these days.

It gets dark outside earlier, for one. Tree branches are almost bare and they make a clack-clack-clack noise like a dancing skeleton. Plastic bags blowing in the wind look like little ghosts, and sometimes if you listen close, you can hear howling right outside your window. Also this time of year, there are lots of new Halloween books for your scary pleasure...

For the littlest (3-to-7-year-old) All Hallow’s Eve fan in your life, “Three’s a Witch In Your Book” by Tom Fletcher, illustrated by Greg Abbott (RCH Books) could be lots of fun. It’s an interactive book that invites kids to follow the prompts to make sure the cute little witch inside its pages won’t make a great big mess with her spells. But watch out! Because she’s crafty, she might turn your child into a host of funny creatures. It’s as much fun to read as it is to play. Get this book and gather goblin giggles, young and old.

Where else would a kid find scary stuff? Read “Hardly Haunted” by Jessie Sima (Simon & Schuster) and your 4-to-7-year-old will know. It’s the story of a house that’s very sad because nobody lives inside it. Houses were meant for people, right? And not for ghosts, because the house “did not want to be haunted.” Or maybe she did because sounding empty and haunted sure was fun! Either way, kids who like things that go bump in the night will like this book that goes bang in the night, too.

For the kid who loves reading and words and something unusual, “The Ghoul’s Guide to Good Grammar” by Leslie Kimmelman, illustrated by Mary Sullivan (Sleeping Bear Press) might be a great choice.

This language-and-grammar book masquerades as a Halloween treat with humor; kids will laugh at the scenarios inside this book while they also learn things their teachers hope they absorb.

And finally, remember those scary games you used to play when you were in high school? Well, they’re still around and in “Mary, Will I Die?” by Shawn Sarles (Scholastic), four teenagers play the Bloody Mary game.

When someone says “Bloody Mary” into a mirror, their true love is supposedly revealed but in Calvin’s case, he sees Bloody Mary and that’s not good. Fast forward five years and the friends-no-longer-friends have mostly forgotten that terrifying night.

But something that was let loose hasn’t forgotten them.

Beware: this is truly scary stuff, and you really don’t want to hand this book to a 12-to-17-year-old who’s prone to nightmares.

There are a lot more books for big and little ghosts and goblins out on the shelves so if these four, above, don’t fit your exact idea of a boo-tiful read, then look for some of your beloveds from your own trick-ortreat days or be sure to ask your favorite bookstore or librarian for help. They’ll know exactly what to put in your cold, cold hands because not having the best Halloween reading is too scary to imagine.

c.2021, Quirk Books $16.99 / $22.99 Canada 176 pages

c.2021, Harper $28.99 / $35.99 Canada 333 pages

How do you say “goodbye”?

How can you let go, knowing that it’s the last time, the last moment, that the laughs you shared, the meals, the trips are over? How do you take your leave, and leave behind nothing but good memories? You read “It’s Your Funeral!” by Kathy Benjamin, that’s how, and you go with a nudge, a wink, and some awesome tunes.

You’ll never get out of this world alive.

Kathy Benjamin thinks we all need to remember that.

She’s going to die, you’re going to die, everyone in the past who ever drew a breath has died, full stop. So, because you have no choice in this matter, you might as well make your final farewell as personal as possible.

Most people who’ve gone before you have had ground burials, but today’s decedents have choices, says Benjamin. Ground burials are not the most earthfriendly actions you can take and, most surprisingly, neither is cremation – although, if you decide on cremation, there “creative” things that can be done with your dead self.

Otherwise, you might choose a natural burial, or composting. You could become food for trees and plants, or you could be made into “sludge.” Burial at sea might be an option, or go out with a bang, become bling, or be “buried” in space. If you’re really scienceminded, you could be plastinated, or you could donate your body to a medical facility or a “body farm.” Check local laws before going wild.

As for your funeral, Benjamin touches upon the various religious services you can have, and ideas for venues. Imagine your funeral at your favorite bar, or at a bowling alley. Give out goodie bags, ask friends to sign your casket, and choose funeral tunes that mean something to you in life. Write your own obituary and be sure to give your digital passwords to your loved ones. Then leave a legacy, a bench with your name on it, a park, or a brick at a stadium. You might be gone, but you won’t be forgotten...

By now, you already know that “It’s Your Funeral!” isn’t your usual funeral planner. Nope, this planner is made for the person who cha-cha’d through life, catching every adventure, looking for the next party, and who doesn’t want to go until Last Call is announced.

Though the subject is normally quite morose, author Kathy Benjamin puts the fun in funerals by making readers chuckle, kind of in a shoulder-nudging way that lets us know it’s okay if we don’t necessarily want crying beside our crypts. In addition to helping with the tiniest details in our personalized send-offs, Benjamin writes about other things that you may wonder about: graverobbing, building your own coffin, what items lie in celebrity graves, jazz funerals, and how to ask a famous singer to perform at your send-off.

That makes this something you can read even when you’re not planning on going anywhere soon. If you’re dying for a unique book, in fact, grab “It’s Your Funeral” and say hello!

You’re not using semaphore flags.

Nope, what you’re saying is clear and concise, spoken in plain language, enunciated, not rushed.

You’re not mumbling, you’re communicating as precisely as possible but as in the new book “I’ll Take Your Questions Now” by Stephanie Grisham, it’s possible, even still, that the message is received all wrong.

It is probable today that most Americans have formed an opinion about what it might have been like to work at the Trump White House. In this slice of memoir, Grisham recounts her six years with the family, and we read her opinions – the first being that she believed serving in the White House was an honor, and the culmination of a dream.

She’d started out on a low rung and moved her way up: press secretary, communications director for Mrs. Trump, communications director for the West Wing, Mrs. Trump’s Chief of Staff, and a Trump transition team member. In particular, she best-enjoyed her time on the first lady’s team, and she says she believed she was as close to Melania Trump as any other staffer might’ve been. Seemingly irreverently, she often refers to Mrs. Trump as “my girl.”

This, curiously enough, doesn’t feel disrespectful.

It has a tone of lightheartedness and just a bit of funpoking, as does much of the rest of Grisham’s story – and yet, readers may get the sense that Grisham wants to kid, at least at first, to soften what becomes growing frustration, absolute fear of the President’s “horrible” temper, and plain old exhaustion at a White House that didn’t run by the conventional rules she hoped to find.

To be sure, readers will find a bit of contradiction here and there, and occasional dissonance when Grisham praises something in one place and condemns in another. The tale can pivot, whip-quick. She bluntly says that this “is not a book... where you need to like me” but chances are you will, since there’s an unexpected and appealing sense of balance here; watching her love for the job wane from relishing to rancor and back is also likable for its candidness. Accounts of admiration gone flat, irritations with “chaos” (a word that appears frequently), infighting and a “cat fight,” sarcasm, and wit also complete this book.

The big surprise about “I’ll Take Your Questions Now” is that there are surprises left to tell about the Trump administration. Author Stephanie Grisham shares them in a chatty, informal, just-friends manner, as though you’re standing in a tavern somewhere together, office-gossiping. Beware, though: this is great fun, but given the spin-nature of Grisham’s former job, and the genuine and faux-flippancy in much of the rest of the story, jaded readers might notice that the familiarity is engineered.

At one point in this book, Grisham states that this “book is not meant to be political” but that’s disingenuous. By virtue of its subject, it inherently is, and if you’ve enjoyed one or two or ten books almost like it, “I’ll Take Your Questions Now” is the one to flag.

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c.2021, various publishers $16.99 - $18.99 various page counts

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online for an educational talk with historical examples of invisible racism and how it continues to play out today.

The materials were created by Wahpekute/Dakota/Lakota artist Graci Horne.” https://go.evvnt.com/924748-0 editor@ southernminnscene.com

3-NOV Prairies and Potholes “Northfield Arts Guild, 304 Division St. S., Northfield” 12-5 p.m. “Art showing the work of a six-week program focusing on the prairie biome of the state of Minnesota. Audio/ video recording, descriptive writing, observational drawing and nature journaling.” https://go.evvnt.com/924768-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

3-NOV Holiday Market “Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., Saint Peter” 1-5 p.m. “Throughout November, the Arts Center of Saint Peter holiday market will sell books, prints, photography, handmade items and more. Open 1-5 W-F and Sunday, plus 10-5 Saturday.” https://go.evvnt.com/924876-0 editor@ southernminnscene.com

4-NOV Poets Talk “Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S., Northfield” 7-10 p.m.

“Content is pleased to host poets Michael Bazzett, Michael Kleber-Diggs, and Lee Colin Thomas as they read from their newest works for the first Poetry Night at the store since early 2020.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924752-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

5-Nov Holiday Bazaar “1301 Lincoln

Ave. S., 1301 Lincoln Ave. S., Owatonna” “8 a.m.- Nov. 6, 2 p.m.” “Shop from a wide selection of vendors for all of your holiday needs, while raising money for a local hospital. The event draws over 1,000 attendees yearly.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924720-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

5-NOV Chris Young Vote & Promote Live “Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Drive SE., Rochester” 7-11 p.m. This page is run by the Chris Young Fan Club. bandsintown.com

5-NOV Duelly Noted Live “State Street Theater Co., PO Box 493, New Ulm” 7:3011:30 p.m. “Duelly Noted is a one-of-akind act with both sass and class. They play all your favorite hits from the 60’s to today.” bandsintown.com

6-NOV Shopping Opener New Ulm 8 a.m.-10 p.m. “Specialty shops join together for open houses, treats, events and more. The Women’s Expo and Craft Fair offers over 100 vendors. The GnomeMade Market hosts open houses throughout the city.” https://go.evvnt.com/924779-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

6-NOV Holiday Arts, Crafts and Gift Show”River Hills Mall, 1850 Adams St., Mankato” “10 a.m.- Nov. 7, 6 p.m.” Get a jump on your Holiday Shopping. There will be a large array of vendors displaying their unique wares for you to decorate your home for the season or buy that one of a kind holiday gift. https:// go.evvnt.com/924757-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

4-NOV The Invisible Racism Toward Indigenous People 6:30-7:45 p.m. “Join

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 on the back page of the B section.

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6-NOV Deck The Halls “The Inn at Shattuck-St. Mary’s, 1000 Shumway Ave., Faribault” 10 a.m.-2 p.m. “Social hour

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CONTINUED page 16 | NOVEMBER 2021

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CONTINUED from page 15 at 10, lunch at 11;30, holiday decorating demo at noon, and shopping 10-2.

Wine and beer. A great way to kick off holiday gifting, and it’s a fundraiser for the hospital Tickets are $45.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924710-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

6-NOV Cannon Valley Regional

Orchestra “Saint Johns Lutheran Church, 500 Third St. W., Northfield” “3 p.m.- Nov. 7, 6 p.m.” The CRVO celebrates 40 years with 3 p.m. shows Nov. 6 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Northfield and Nov. 7 at the Cathedral of Our Merciful Savior in Faribault. Featuring Reinaldo Mpya’s new suite. https://go.evvnt.com/924730-0 editor@ southernminnscene.com

6-NOV Art Vandalay Show “Imminent Brewing, 519 Division St. S., Northfield” 7-9 p.m. The band celebrates its new album Champagne & Chandaliers along with friend Caitlin Robertson. The classic roots sound of The Band and the modern indie sounds of Chuck Prophet and The Black Keys. https://go.evvnt.com/924738-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

6-NOV Wine, Women and Comedy “Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave. N., Faribault” 7:30-10 p.m. “TV personality, award-winning sommelier, 16

and comedian Laurie Forster delivers an edgy, off-beat hilarious show where wine meets punchline. $20 members; $25 non-members; $15 students.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924700-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

6-NOV Cole Diamond Show “The Doublewide, 421 Saint Joseph St., Elko New Market” “8 p.m.- Nov. 7, 12 a.m.” “A night of country classics and original music. Everything from Waylon and Willie to Brooks & Dunn, mixing up an unlikely concoction of vintage rock & roll and outlaw country.” https://go.evvnt.com/924838-0 editor@ southernminnscene.com

local artisans and craft persons . Nov. 11 from 4-7 p.m., Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924785-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

11-NOV Jim Gaffigan: The Fun Tour”Mayo Civic Center Arena, 30 Civic Center Drive SE., Rochester” 7:30 p.m.

Tickets $37.25-$77.25. “Gaffigan is known around the world for his unique brand of humor, which largely revolves around his observations on life.” ticketmaster.com

11-NOV The Misanthrope “Gustavus Adolphus College, Gustavus Adolphus College Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter” 8-11 p.m. “Our misanthrope, Alceste, demands total honesty from all. Ironically, he can’t help but love the socially intelligent 9-NOV Jigsaw Puzzle Derby “Waseca Celimene. A show by the Gustavus theater department. Nov. 11-14.” https:// Le Sueur Library, 408 N. State St., Waseca” go.evvnt.com/924800-0 editor@southern10 a.m.-noon Assemble a team of up to four players to compete in a jigsaw puzzle minnscene.com competition. The first team to complete the puzzle wins a prize ... and bragging rights. https://go.evvnt.com/924726-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

12-NOV Santa’s Cellar “Steele County Community Center, 1380 S. Elm Ave., Owatonna” “9 a.m.- Nov. 13, 2 p.m.” “A tradition since 1978, shop exquisite gifts and holiday decorations made by local crafters and artists. Vendors have been busy creating and baking.” https:// 11-NOV Pastimes “Owatonna Arts Cen- go.evvnt.com/924796-0 editor@southernter, 435 Garden View Lane, Owatonna” minnscene.com “4 p.m.- Nov. 13, 3 p.m.” “This fine art and craft sale offers handmade pieces by

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12-NOV All Together Now “Trinity Lutheran Church, 609 Lincoln Ave. S., Owatonna” 7:30-9 p.m. “Featuring songs from MTI’s beloved catalogue of musicals including Rent, Into the Woods, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Fiddler on the Roof and more. Fundraiser and show.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924829-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

13-NOV The Great Kato Bake-Off “Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 105 N. Fifth St., Mankato” 9 a.m.-noon A pie bake-off for young adults in Mankato and the surrounding areas. Childrenfriendly event. Can attend without bring a pie. Free cookbook swap. Recipe collection. https://go.evvnt.com/924817-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

13-NOV Minnesota Christmas Market “Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Drive SE., Rochester” 10 a.m.-5 p.m. “The MN Christmas Market is an annual pop-up holiday shopping event that showcases homegrown brands and makers, with a charitable twist. All vendors donate 7% of sales to charity. $1 admission.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924823-0 editor@southernminnscene.com 13-NOV Walter Salas Humara Show “The Music Space of Owatonna, 216 N. Cedar Ave., Owatonna” 6-11:30 p.m. International touring recording artist Walter Salas-Humara returns. The 2019 concert sold out to our previous capacity near

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

in the presence of art. $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. https:// go.evvnt.com/924843-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

100 and many fans asked to have Walter back. Alt-country. Tickets online. https:// go.evvnt.com/924787-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

joy a rock show at a dive bar. https:// go.evvnt.com/924798-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

13NOV

Stand Up “Torey’s Restaurant & Bar, 208 N. Cedar Ave., Owatonna” 6:30-9 p.m.

“Featuring comedians John DeBoer and Bryan Miller with a social hour, complimentary appetizers, cash bar and door prizes. Tickets available online. Proceeds go to Community Pathways expansion.” https://go.evvnt.com/924791-0 editor@ southernminnscene.com

13-NOV Smokescreen Show “Blue Moon Bar and Grill, 300 S. Webster St., Kasota” “9 p.m.- Nov. 14, 12 a.m.” En-

20-NOV Rogue Valley “Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave. N., Faribault” 7-11 p.m. “Rogue Valley makes music that fills a dynamic spectrum, from surging electric guitar rock to woodsy finger-picking ballads. “ bandsintown.com

20-NOV Beer Collectibles Show “Mankato Brewery, 1119 Center St., N. Mankato” 12-3 p.m. “Buy, sell, or trade brewery collectibles from any and all breweries. Bring your own tables, no set-up fees, free admission and free appraisals. Taproom open at noon with The Pelican serving food.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924761-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

20-NOV North Mississippi Allstars “Sheldon Theatre, 443 W. Third St., Red Wing” 7-11 p.m. The Up and Rolling Tour #UpAndRolling. bandsintown.com

19-NOV Razzle Dazzle Madelia 6 a.m.-7 p.m. “A fun filled start to the Holiday Season! Lighted parade, Shopping Open Houses, Santa, kids games, tree lighting ceremony with family fun and so much more Nov. 19 and 20.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924845-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

13NOV

Wayne and the Boys Show “Minnesota Wing King, 43539 French Hill Road, Saint Peter” 7-10 p.m. “Wayne and the Boys is a one-manband from Minneapolis Minnesota featuring a wide variety of music performed by Wayne Wagner with a song list of over 900 songs.” https://go.evvnt.com/924803-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

20-NOV Victorian Tea “Steele County Historical Society, 1700 Austin Road, Owatonna” 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dunnell House in the Village of Yesteryear for a morning or afternoon tea and light food.

Listen to holiday music and a retelling of Clement C. Moore’s story A Visit with St. Nicholas. https://go.evvnt.com/924841-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

19-NOV ArtScape “Grand Hotel (New Ulm, Minnesota), 212 N. Minnesota St., New Ulm” 5-10 p.m. The annual juried art show at The Grand features a plethora of different works. https:// go.evvnt.com/924858-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

20-NOV

Thanksgiving Throwdown “Revival on Main, 213 First St. S., Montgomery” 5-10 p.m. Paradise City Wrestling brings its show to Southern Minnesota and presents Mitch Paradise vs Brandon Gore.

Tickets are $15 in online.

19-NOV Jivan Ivan and the Kings of advance https://go.evvnt.com/924835-0 editor@ Swing “Waseca Art Center, 200 N. State St., southernminnscene.com Waseca” 7-10 p.m. A night of fun music

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20-NOV The Cactus Blossoms “Armory Square Event Center, 519 Division St. S., Northfield” 7:30-11:30 p.m. “Blood Harmony. Whether it’s The Beach Boys, Bee Gees or First Aid Kit, that sibling vocal blend is the secret sauce in some of the most spine-tingling moments in popular music.” bandsintown.com

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CONTINUED page 18 | NOVEMBER 2021

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24-NOV

Old Country Boys on Thanksgiving Eve “Boxers, 429 Central Ave. N., Faribault” 7-11 p.m.

“Just a straightforward night of country and friends, a pre-celebration of Thanksgiving.” https://go.evvnt.com/924742-0 editor@ southernminnscene.com

25-NOV

Turkey Trot “Faribault Middle School, 704 17th St. SW., Faribault” 8-10 a.m. “This fundraiser for Infants Remembered In Silence has grown exponentially in recent years, and it’s a great way to get

moving before you get eating on Thanksgiving.” https://go.evvnt.com/924861-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

25-NOV

Holiday Lights Cruise “Steele County Historical Society, 1700 Austin Road, Owatonna” 4:30-8 p.m. Area homeowners will turn on holiday lights for this fun Thanksgiving evening event. These homes will be decorated throughout the holiday season. https:// go.evvnt.com/924867-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

27-NOV High Strung show “Indian Island Winery, Janesville” 5:30-9 p.m.

“High Strung is an acoustic pop trio that performs classic pop. Indian Island offers food and wine, including a tasting bar, plus beer.” editor@southernminnscene. com

29-NOV Christmas with Lorie Line 2021 “Fairmont Opera House, 45 Downtown Plaza, Fairmont” 7-11 p.m. “This sentimental and very personal show just might be your all-time favorite as I reinvent myself on the stage one more time in my career. With an all-new set, show and format, this year celebrates my 32nd year of touring.” https:// www.bandsintown.com

26-NOV

Andy Hughes Country “The Starkeller, 2215 N. Garden St., New Ulm” 7-11 p.m.

“Andy Hughes is an awardwinning, chart-topping singer-songwriter who has spent the last

"The styles of home, with an added friendliness that I've been missing. Thank you ladies!"

- Visitor from New York, NY

"Lisa knows her stuff. Fresh style and something for everyone! Great prices and quality!"

- Mom of three teenagers

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram Shop Online at HerHappyPlaceShop.com 18

20 years emerged in the music scene of brass band. Join them for their 2021 the Upper-Midwest.” https://www.bandsin- holiday show. Tickets $16 online. https:// town.com go.evvnt.com/924886-0 editor@southernminnscene.com

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27-NOV Sheldon Brass Band Holiday Show “Sheldon Theatre, 443 W. Third St., Red Wing” 7:30-10 p.m. The Sheldon Theatre Brass Band preserves and advances the musical genre of the British

30-NOV Fall History Series 7-10 p.m.

“Educational online series. The Nov. 9 edition features the untold story of the making of Fargo and the Nov. 30 edition features secrets from the James-Younger Bank Robbery in Northfield.” https:// go.evvnt.com/924883-0 editor@southernminnscene.com "Ellen, my personal stylist, reminds me that I am as young and as worthy of fashion as I feel."

- 72 year-old fashionista

So helpful! My first visit made me feel like myself again. It was a treat to have knowledgeable and friendly service in a modern setting. I highly recommend taking their help.

- New mom

217 South Minnesota Avenue St. Peter

507-931-0008

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

SoMinn MUSICIAN

Profile

Amanda Grace delivers pure 90s nostalgia

(Photo by Janelle Kieffer)

“F

or as long as I can remember, I was singing at community events, church events and fundraisers. Music was just what we did.”

Born in St. Paul to a musical family, Amanda Grace has never known a time when music was not a big part of her life. She crafted her first songs around the age of 6, and in college at Winona State University, she played in an alternative rock band — more as a hobby versus making a run at a career.

Post-college, Amanda took a break from music to focus on family. Then in 2009, tragedy struck when she lost her nephew to a hard-fought battle with leukemia. The loss affected Amanda deeply, as he requested that she sing to him in his final moments. While grieving and searching for a way to honor his memory, she decided to put out an album of children’s music. As a new mom herself, Amanda included songs she had written for her own child as well as songs her nephew loved. The result: “Trains, Cars And A Trip To Mars.”

That children’s album ignited Amanda’s desire to make music once again. To date, she has released four albums and two EPs — “Please Dear Sun” being her seventh release.

Born out of the pandemic, while the rest of us were growing sourdough starters and filling up on dalgona coffees, Amanda was channeling her

feelings into songwriting. The result is a collection of heartfelt tunes, wrought with all the tumultuous emotions of the last year and half. Unbound by genre, the bulk of “Please Dear Sun” recalls the moody 90s sounds of Joan Osborne, Paula Cole and Sarah McLachlan with a couple of dips into classic country. Amanda’s voice is clear and smooth with a gorgeous hint of richness. She soars equally on her deep, serious tones as she does beautiful, light whispers.

On the standout tune “Some Goodness” Amanda reflects on the unpredictability of life, the uncertainty of the future and begs whoever is out there with the power to do so, to “show me some goodness”.

Who, exactly, she’s speaking to is left up to the listener’s interpretation, but when asked, Amanda explained that, “I was concerned with what was going on with humanity … feeling such strong feelings of injustice, I was just sad. Part of it was a cry out to the earth. We’re just humans; what it boils down to is, what we’re craving is kindness.”

It’s a feeling that resonates wholeheartedly at a time when so much feels out of our control, and the world is full of so much turmoil and pain.

“So Long Dear Friend” is a love letter to a friend who’s fallen out of touch. Calls are made, messages are left, and they can’t seem to find the connection they once had. It’s a common scenario in friend-

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SARAH OSTERBAUER 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.

and styles. Her long-standing collaborators and band members Fletch Archerd and Peter Boysen lend their expertise to her vision.

“Please Dear Sun” was created from home recordings exchanged between them, adding and subtracting until each song became whole. Because the three of them have played together for so long, there is an inherent knowledge of where Amanda wants songs to go without her specifying, and she, in turn, has a breadth of trust concerning Archerd and Boysen’s artistic choices. It’s because of this freedom that “Please Dear Sun” explores so many varying styles, from angsty 90s alternative on “You’re Not Mine” to classic country on “Tears Upon My Hands.”

The name of the album was chosen after Amanda fell in love with the cover art and the corresponding story behind it. Rochester-based artist Amy Abts caught Amanda’s attention after providing artwork for local singer-songwriter Mary Bue. Amy pointed Amanda to some samples of her work and a piece immediately caught her eye that was based on Eris, the Greek goddess of discord.

As the story goes, Eris, upset that she was not invited to the wedding of Peleus and Thetis, drops a golden apple into the wedding festivities labeled “for the fairest one of all”. Of course, chaos ensued when the goddesses began to argue about who should rightfully get the apple.

Amanda saw this story from Greek mythology as a great analogy for the current state of the world. There is so much anger and greed as a result of people losing their common privileges in some way due to the pandemic. Folks are realizing human connections and relationships are most important. In short, this album is about that, recognizing what’s truly important, and the benefits we can reap when we allow people to truly be themselves.

You can find Please Dear Sun on your favorite streaming/download service. To keep up on shows and other news, you can subscribe to her newsletter via her website musicbyamandagrace.com. 

ships, even more so during the last 18 months.

The song highlights how easy it is to lose contact without meaning to, and underscores the need for connection and how we hold onto memories of those from the past with a certain amount of longing.

Amanda also moonlights (daylights?) as a voice over artist doing projects that range from commercials to training programs and audiobooks. This willingness and ability to explore the capabilities of her voice comes through on “You’re Not Mine”, a great kiss-off track where Amanda infuses her voice with the angst and venom of the character. It’s dripping in the revengeful sass of yesterday’s Alanis Morrisette and today’s Olivia Rodrigo. It harkens back to the simplicity of 90s feminism, where spiteful rage had its own moment in the spotlight.

When it comes to songwriting, Amanda lets the song determine its destiny. Hence, why she has no qualms about (Photo by Janelle Kieffer) venturing into various genres

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| NOVEMBER 2021

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Redemption opened in Faribault during the pandemic.

SoMinn retail and restaurant businesses

By ELIZABETH TAYLOR elletaylordesign@gmail.com

O

wning a restaurant is not for the faint of heart; even before a global pandemic, the industry has been known to chew up and spit out its fair share. Fortunately, Redemption Restaurant has had the guidance of owner Craig Korvela, an industry veteran, to successfully navigate its arrival onto the Faribault scene.

Redemption officially opened its doors on Feb. 25, 2021, but the conception of this new venture began pre-pandemic back in January 2019. The extended process allowed Korvela time to develop a thorough business plan and stay within budget, proving pertinent when COVID emerged with its unique challenges.

“We did a lot of the remodel ourselves for the restaurant level.

But we also knew, in order for this whole building to be successful, we turned our top two floors into apartments. So, we have three

20

apartments on each floor that generate cash flow for us … in difficult times … you need more revenue streams,” Korvela said.

He even revealed choosing to postpone the opening date from late 2020 into the new year, citing a lack of job applicants and contractor availability. The delay proved to be a silver lining.

Korvela explained, “I was able to feel out COVID a little bit more. I helped oversee another restaurant and consulted for them.

I could experience, and I could see the numbers … the direction I needed to go when it comes to the menu. We opened carryout only for the first weekend, and my cooks got acclimated to it. That was an easy break-in, so then I could work with my front-of-thehouse afterward, and things went really smoothly. I’ll probably open every restaurant that way now, going forward, because the technique really worked out well.”

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Another silver lining was the chance to focus and streamline the menus.

“You don’t need to have forty items on your menu,” Korvela said. “You can execute a great menu with twenty to twenty-five that hit all spots for your consumer. It gives you the freedom to change frequently too … we’re changing the menus probably every couple of months.”

With attention to these different methods and revenue streams, Redemption has continued to thrive during the pandemic. Even when a small, fluke combustion grill fire occurred in August, it would not keep Redemption down. They were able to continue to pay their employees during the downtime, while they quickly restored and reopened their doors Sept. 8.

One concern that does remain constant for Redemption is

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

staffing. Korvela said, “Things are changing dramatically. It’s not just our industry. Every industry is having difficulty with staffing.

I think it’s going to resolve a little bit over time. But our industry hasn’t been attracting staff very well for the last 10 years.”

Subsequently, Korvela asks the community for patience.

“Just to be like any other position right now, I think a little patience goes a long way. We’re all dealing with the staffing problems. I’m getting a lot of front-of-the-house people applying now; I just don’t get anyone wanting to cook in my kitchen. We’re having to adjust on menus as far as preparations so we can keep up with demand … I’m trying to do it with five cooks when I should be using seven. That’s the struggle, if we have someone waiting for their meal for 25 to 30 minutes. So, that’s kind of the hardship we’re going through,” Korvela said.

He ended with a positive note.

“But that’s where we learn and adapt. Thank you for supporting our business. I need to figure out a way that we can do this more efficiently and effectively. We’ll be there.”

Foremost Brewing Cooperative

(Owatonna)

131 West Broadway Owatonna, MN 55060 (507) 214-3462 foremost.coop Hours: Wed & Thur (11am-9pm); Fri & Sat (11am-10pm); Sun (11am-6pm) Description: This establishment is Minnesota’s first cooperatively owned brewpub. In addition to their own beer, Foremost offers a full food menu along with wine and spirit offerings for the non-beer drinker.

Old Hobber’s building gets new life as Minnesota Wing King.

Minnesota Wing King (St. Peter) 43539 French Hill Rd. St. Peter, MN 56082 507-519-1083 minnesotawingking.com Hours: W-F (3-11pm) Sat (11am-midnight) Sun (11am-11pm) Description: Your one stop wing shop. Serving 25 custom sauces and dry rubs and 14 amazing gourmet burgers.

Sailor’s Sweet Shoppe (Waseca)

Graif Clothing opening a new location in Owatonna during the pandemic.

Redemption owner Craig Korvela said it’s been tough opening during a pandemic, but there were some silver linings.

Redemption Restaurant (Faribault) 31 3rd St NE Faribault, MN 55021 (507) 323-8054 get-redemption.com Hours: Tue, Wed, Thur, Fri & Sat (4pm-9pm) *Be on the lookout for lunch hours in the next couple of weeks.

In addition to Redemption Restaurant, check out the following select Southern Minnesota restaurant, bar, and retail businesses that have made their opening debut since the pandemic began.

Cry Baby Craig’s (Faribault) 405 Central Ave N Faribault, MN 55021 (952) 292-4929 crybabycraigs.com Description: The franchise has moved its location to a new front facing-store located in historic downtown Faribault where consumers can experience and purchase some of the award-winning hot sauce.

Graif Clothing (Owatonna) 202 W Bridge St Owatonna, MN 55060 (507) 413-0114 graifclothing.com Hours: Mon-Wed (10am-6pm); Thur-Fri (10am-7pm); Sar (10am4pm) Description: A staple for men’s and women’s fashion since 1924, this family-owned business initially founded in Mankato has launched a second location in downtown Owatonna.

Janna’s Market Grill (Faribault) 129 Central Ave N Faribault, MN 55021 (507) 334-7476 jannasmarketgrill.com Hours: Mon-Fri (8am-6pm); Sat (9am-3pm) Description: An upscale Marketplace located in historic downtown Faribault, offers a wide variety of freshly prepared pre-made meals, baked goods, and grocery store conveniences.

La Ropa By K&K Boutique (Northfield) 220 Division St S Northfield, MN 55057 (507) 210-7876 shopkandkboutique.com Hours: Mon-Fri (11am-6pm); Sat (11am-5pm) & Sun (11am-4pm) Description: A latest fashions boutique store catering to women of all sizes (Small-3XL) and features local handmade products.

Cry Baby Craig’s opening in Faribault.

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405 W Elm Ave Waseca, MN 56093 (507) 833-3561 Hours: Wed-Sat (11am-8pm) Description: A yummy expansion to the existing Pippi Lane Boutique, this sweet shop named after owner Kristen Fox’s daughter Sailor offers a wide variety of ice cream and edible cookie dough flavors to choose from.

Taqueria El Jefe (Faribault) 318 Central Ave N Faribault, MN 55021 (507) 838-8027 facebook.com/FOOD-TRUCK-EL-JEFE-268238070288160/ Hours: Tues-Thur (11am-8pm); Fri & Sat (11am-9pm) Description: After four years of success within the food truck scene, this family-owned and operated business took the next step opening an authentic Mexican cuisine restaurant located in historic downtown Faribault.

The 207 Curiosities (Le Sueur) 207 Main St. Le Sueur, MN 56058 763-639-9539 facebook.com/the207curiosities Hours: Thur-Sat (noon-8pm) Description: Vintage sci-fi, aliens, cryptids, oddities, unique collectibles and much more. If it’s weird or one-ofa-kind, it’s here at The 207.

Tin Tea (Northfield) 2010 Jefferson Rd., Suite C Northfield, MN 55057 (507) 301-3886 tintea.business.site/ Hours: Wed-Sat (11am-8pm) & Sun (11am-6pm) Description: Family-owned business ready to fill your specialty bubble tea cravings with banh mi sandwiches. 

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Tin Tea opened in Northfield during the pandemic.

| NOVEMBER 2021

21

Explore local, exciting

craftgift &

shows

By PAT GARRY patgarry@charter.net

C

alling all arts and crafts enthusiasts! If you’ve been aching to attend an exciting craft show this season, we have the cure-all. Whether you’re looking to buy handmade crafts or simply seeking a wholesome arts-and-craftsthemed day, we have the solution.

Go solo; take your friends and/or family; plan a fun day with your kids; or set up a crafts date with your partner! Either way, you’ll manage to check-out the local crafts scene and have a fun, memorable, creative and enthralling time. The various shows feature a fantastic combination of handmade crafts, jewelry, bath and body products, home décor, gourmet food, concessions, wood working products, and so much more.

Come support local small business crafters!

CRAFT SHOW IN CLEVELAND (Minnesota)

(Annie Spratt/Unsplash)

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The event is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Cleveland Public School.

“Our FFA chapter at school is running it as a fundraiser. So far, we have over 20 vendors (mostly handmade crafters) registered, but we hope to add more,” Show Advisor Kelly Susa said.

Attending this show is a great idea for Christmas shopping. Admission and parking is free to the public, and this is the first of what the chapter is hoping to be an annual event. The new FFA chapter is running the fair and the concessions as a fundraiser to support the activities they sponsor throughout the year.

Some of the handmade items include women’s shirts, baby onesies, wool items,

art paintings and photographs, holiday decor, gnomes, rugs, purses and bags, signs, cards, home decor, and ornaments.

There will be a couple of food vendors selling canned goods and other edible items.

“We will also have Color Street, Tupperware, Scentsy, Avon, and a few other company sales reps in attendance,” Susa remarked.

FALL VENDOR & CRAFT FAIR

(St. Peter, Minnesota)

The St. Peter American Legion presents the Fall Vendor & Craft Fair, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13 “Come and shop local at your American Legion Post 37. We will have food available for purchase, and there are over 15 vendors on premise to start your holiday shopping,” said Angie Glassel, President, St. Peter Legion Auxiliary Unit 37.

The bar is open at 10 a.m. with specials (and Tacos-in-a-bag will be sold from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.). Visit the Vendor & Craft Fair for great bargains and great fun. Some of the vendors on premise include Craft Addict, Yellow Brick Pottery, Kristin’s Kreations, Kato Yarn, Swan Lake Photography, Limelife-by Alcone, Pampered Chef, Color Street Nails, Guileless Green, Sparkles and Glistens Tumblers, and more.

“It’s nice to get people to come into our Legion Post 37 and see what we have to offer. The Auxiliary is celebrating 100 years this year, and we’ve been busy with many activities, including participating in the Chamber of Commerce Girls Night Out by offering a four Coach purse giveaway,” Glassel said.

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

ARTS & CRAFTS AFFAIR AT CANTERBURY PARK (Shakopee, Minnesota)

The good folks at Huffman Productions look forward to welcoming everyone back in person to the 2021 Autumn Festival, an Arts & Crafts Affair at Canterbury Park in Shakopee Nov. 11-14. Hundreds of the nation’s finest artists and crafters display and sell their hand-crafted works.

Huffman’s Arts & Crafts tour of shows are consistently ranked in the “Top 100 Shows in the Country” by Sunshine Artist Magazine.

Don’t miss the excitement, including an hourly gift certificate winner, plenty of food and drink, lots of family fun, and free parking.

Show hours: Thursday/Friday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission prices: Adults $10, Seniors $9, Children Under 10 are Free. Paid admission good all weekend.

100 LADIES AND GENTLEMEN CRAFT SHOW (Kenyon, Minnesota) Curt and Marlene Morrow offer one of the greatest shows in the state.

“This fall will be our 48th annual show.

I never thought way back when I started a 15 Ladies Craft Sale in the spring in my basement that it would continue all these years. There have been some changes through the years, and now it is the 100 Ladies and Gentlemen Craft Sale,” said Marlene Morrow.

She wants only quality, handmade-inAmerica items (to clarify, there is a difference between buying a manufactured item online and then reselling it; compared to an artist that creates something from scratch that is unique and special). Morrow strives for uniqueness and always tries to not stock the same items one can get at any chain store retailer.

This show is the place to find unique fall, Christmas, and general items for the entire family or to just seek gifts for yourself. Some of the exhibitors are local and others come from as far away as Milwaukee. Marlene and husband, Curt, make baskets, which feature solid wood bottoms. The quality baskets are attractive, useful, and affordable gifts.

There are also many styles of kitchen

towels for sale; some with cute sayings. Metal wall decor is popular now, and the venue has a wall full of it. Find lots of wooden items: flags, tables, lock boxes, bowls; also handcrafted fall and Christmas decor.

“Our show is held inside a clean, welllit building. It is stroller and wheelchair accessible. We take Master and Visa, checks and even old-fashioned cash, as payment.

Our lawn is decorated for fall, and a scarecrow contest is included. I thank my wonderful exhibitors for the quality products they bring. Without them, there would be no show. Too, I thank all the customers who come back year after year. Your smiles are worth everything!” said Marlene.

This year’s show runs from Oct. 14 to Nov. 7. - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. Located at 45986 Hwy. 56, Kenyon, MN. Like them on Facebook at Morrows Gifts.

A HANDMADE CHRISTMAS (Austin, Minnesota) It’s the eighth annual A Handmade Christmas — Indie Maker Market. It takes place Dec. 3 from 4-8 p.m.; Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There will be 30 (plus) handmade artists and crafters inside the beautifully decorated Austin Hormel Historic Home.

“Friday night tickets are $10, which includes a free glass of wine, passed hors d’oeuvres, and the ability to come Saturday again for free!” Handmade Christmas Event Founder Kristy A. Rooney said.

Saturday tickets are $5. There is a bloody Mary bar and a pulled pork lunch available Sunday. Shoppers can also tour the decorated upstairs of the mansion with their ticket purchase. Tickets are on sale at the beginning of November at ahandmadechristmas.com.

The vendors offer a plethora of items: functional pottery, fresh-roasted, small-batch coffee, wood bread boards, handmade pens, pyrography on basswood, knit hats, goat soap, dry soup mixes, acrylic paintings, soy candles, home goods, and jewelry. All are “Jury-selected” goods, and all are handmade from Minnesota makers. 

(Artem Beliaikin/Unsplash))

- 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.

OTHER SHOWS TO NOTE RIVER HILLS HOLIDAY SHOW (Mankato)

the Mankato River Hills Holiday Show is Saturday, Nov. 6 and Sunday, Nov. 7. Get a jump on your holiday shopping. There will be a large array of vendors displaying their unique wares for you to decorate your home for the season or buy that one-of-a-kind holiday gift.

(Kristina Balic/Unsplash)

CHRISTMAS MARKET CRAFT AND GIFT EXPO (Dundas) join-in on the fun and excitement,

Saturday, Dec. 4. This show is located at the beautiful Dundas Sports Dome (901 Cannon Rd. S., Dundas) Be sure to visit the dome for the huge holiday craft and gift show. Come and enjoy free admission, free parking, and a family, friendly atmosphere. The facility is handicapped accessible.

ADD YOUR EVENT FOR FREE TO THE SOMINN SCENE CALENDAR. GO TO W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N . C O M / S O U T H E R N _ M I N N _ S C E N E / & C L I C K + P R O M O T E Y O U R E V E N T

GET FESTIVE FARMINGTON CRAFT & GIFT SHOW (Farmington) Sunday, Nov. 7, Robert

Boeckman Middle School (800 Denmark Ave., Farmington); 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The doors are open at 10 a.m. and there will be some of the most amazing vendors and crafters that the upper Midwest has to offer, all just waiting inside for you. Come, sip, shop, eat, and enjoy your day out with friends. Free admission, free parking, and always cordial service.

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Through a SOMINN LENS

AUDREY KLETSCHER HELBLING 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.

The Gratitude Tree, located at the Northfield Public Library, is an ongoing project of Nika Hirsch, a young girl from Northfield.

Blue cheese crafted from sheep milk at Shepherd’s Way Farms, rural Nerstrand.

“LOVE FOR ALL” by Minneapolis artist Jordyn Brennan is Faribault’s newest downtown mural.

With gratitude for

I These two youth are among the countless volunteers who make North Morristown’s popular Fourth of July celebration happen.

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n this cliché of unprecedented challenging times, I often find myself reflecting upon the simple joys in life.

Reasons to feel thankful. Reasons to smile and embrace each day with hope and gratitude.

From art to architecture, from home-grown businesses, concerts, country churches and community gatherings to woods and water, southern Minnesota offers endless reasons to feel grateful.

Beyond the places and events that define this region are the people. The neighbor we can count on. The friend who encourages. The local shopkeeper who greets us by name. The artists who create and inspire. The farmers who steward the earth. The volunteers who serve.

This November, especially this November, I think of those who live in our region—individuals with generations

rooted in this land, others transplanted to this place we call southern Minnesota. I think, too, of my immediate family, of my dear grandchildren and my aging mom and the son who lives too many states away.

When my heart aches at the absence of loved ones, when I feel overwhelmed by life, when I need peace, I seek solace nearby, in nature. Southern Minnesota brims with natural beauty from back country gravel roads to nature centers to parks to recreational trails and much more.

I focus on the details. The roar of rushing water. The warmth of sunshine on my face. The earthy scent of the season. The veined beauty of a leaf. The nutty taste of locally-grown squash and the sweetness of homemade jam. The simple joys of living here in southern Minnesota.

Countless reasons to love this place, to feel grateful. 

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

Hilltop Hall houses the Montgomery Arts & Heritage Center and more and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

This wood frame church is one of two Valley Grove churches located atop a hill in rural Nerstrand.

This stout brick barn stands near Warsaw.

Dancers entertain during the Northfield Hispanic Heritage celebration at the Northfield Public Library in 2019.

ADD YOUR EVENT FOR FREE TO THE SOMINN SCENE CALENDAR. GO TO W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N . C O M / S O U T H E R N _ M I N N _ S C E N E / & C L I C K + P R O M O T E Y O U R E V E N T

The Local Plate, a Nortfhfield-based food truck, serves locally-produced and seasonal foods.

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ABOVE LEFT: Wagons snug a bin during harvest, rural Kenyon.

TOP RIGHT: Lerberg’s Foods, a hometown grocer, serves Ellendale and the surrounding area.

ABOVE RIGHT: Rice Lake State Park near Owatonna is home to many waterfowl and a great place to observe spring and fall bird migration.

RIGHT: The sun sets across Cannon Lake at Shager Park, rural Faribault.

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YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

SoMinn FOOD & DRINK

PAT GARRY

Review

JOURNALIST – COPYWRITER – EDITOR – FEATURE WRITER My experience spans 19-years, and I will apply my skills to help beef-up any lifeless copy within your website, brochure, press release, catalog, etc. - patgarry@charter.net

Boonies Bar & Grill

provides classic American favorites

T

he history of this little bar & grill is long and colorful. It has been in the current form for many years, with typical additions and upgrades along the way. It is co-owned for the last 20 years by Tom and Barbara Weiss.

Before Boonies, it is was the Blue Horse Saloon (19892001), and prior to that, it was the Millersburg Store (1976-1988). During these times, it has always been a family owned and operated full service bar & grill; and is most recently acclaimed for its award-winning burgers.

Boonies is open at 11 a.m. every day except Tuesdays. They are open until 9 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday and until 11 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. “COVID has changed us a little, as we used to be open until 1 a.m.

We are temporarily closed on Tuesdays, due to lack of staff,” explained Tom Weiss.

While Boonies boasts a full menu of appetizers, wraps, pizzas, and salads, it is the scrumptious ll. ri G ’s it’s Boonie hamburgers that are the restaurant’s forte; and that 90. Today, tured in 18 ssociation) ic p A e, starts with buying the best. The good folks at Boonies on or ti St va g er ur es sb Pr er a ill The M e Christdal th of sy te (Photo cour ADD YOUR EVENT FOR FREE TO THE SOMINN SCENE CALENDAR. GO TO W W W. S O U T H E R N M I N N . C O M / S O U T H E R N _ M I N N _ S C E N E / & C L I C K + P R O M O T E Y O U R E V E N T

buy “never frozen” certified Black Angus beef, which they have delivered fresh, several times a week. The two most popular burgers at Boonies are the Olive burger (green olives, cheddar Jack cheese, and sour cream) and the “namesake” Millersburger (the famous burger adorned with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle and special sauce).

The venue’s covered three-season patio is a popular attraction, and it is really like no other in the area. It may also be reserved for private events, such as birthdays, groom’s dinners, and retirement parties. Boonies offers a great happy hour; Monday-Friday, 3-6 p.m. with $3 taps and $3 appetizers; bar Bingo every Thursday night at 7 p.m., and other great weekly specials. The Weiss’s host poker runs, motorcycle charity events, side-by-side runs (razors), and the eatery is conveniently located close to numerous, groomed snowmobile trails.

“Thank you to all who have supported us for the past 20 years.

Whether it is our numerous regulars from down the street who visit us several times a week or the thousands who stop off the interstate for a quick bite, we appreciate it greatly. Lastly, we invite anyone reading this to come out and try one of our famous burgers!” — Tom & Barbara Weiss 

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Joseph Hall’s Elvis Rock ‘N’ Remember

Wine, Women & Comedy Laurie Forster

Fred the Bear and Friends Bruce Springsteen’s Tribute

GALLERY OPENING NIGHT

Friday, November 5 7:30 PM

Saturday, November 6 7:30 PM

Saturday, November 13 7:30 PM

Thursday, November 18 4:00 - 7:00 PM

Rogue Valley - Chris Koza

ELF the MUSICAL

Kat Perkins

December 3, 4, 9, 10, 11 at 7:30 PM December 5, 12 at 2:00 PM

Sunday, December 19 5:00 PM

Saturday, November 20 7:30 PM

presented by The Paradise Community Theatre

GALLERY OPENING NIGHT Friday, January 7 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

For more information & tickets: www.paradisecenterforthearts.org

(507) 332 - 7372 321 Central Avenue North Piano Man

Roy Orbison Tribute

Friday, January 7 7:30 PM

Saturday, January 15 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM

Dance Party Reunion Buddy Holly and Friends Friday, January 28 7:30 PM

Faribault, MN

These activities are made possible in part by a grant provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board through appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from the State’s general fund and its arts and cultural heritage fund with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008.

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YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.