SCENE NOVEMBER 2023 by Kate Noet

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NOVEMBER 2023

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WINTER 2023-24 SIX APPEAL December 8 @7:30

Join us this winter, where you will find everything from storytelling to fingerpicking, knife throwing to sweet sounds of your favorite holiday songs. Create memories with those you love this holiday season. GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY, SHOWS ARE SELLING OUT.

Shows not pictured: November 2: I am He said, Celebrate the Music of Neil Diamond - SOLD OUT November 9 - 12: Phoenix Theatre presents Crimes of the Heart November 24: Holiday Stroll movie preceding Santa: Home Alone November 25: Sheldon Theatre Brass Band Holiday Celebration December 3: Christmas with Lorie Line December 13: The Continental Ballet presents Nutcracker December 16: The New Standards Holiday Show - SOLD OUT December 19: Blue Violin Candlelight Christmas

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443 W. 3rd St Red Wing, MN

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NOVEMBER 2023 / VOLUME 11 / ISSUE 11

CONTENT FEATURES:

COLUMNS:

4 Bats, Bones, and Bonfires

6 Mollywood BLVD

16 Through a SoMinn LENS

8 Pumpkin Patches

7 From the MUSIC SIDE

22 SoMinn THE BOOKWORM SEZ

A spooktacular tradition returns to Faribault.

Perfectly positioned pumpkin patches please patrons.

10 Trunk Treat

Your way to a spooky good time.

20 The SCENE Calendar

Scariest fashion trends of the early 2000s

Cemeteries take on new meanings.

- The League of Lady Poisoners - Democracy Awakening - Lay Them to Rest - Black AF History

Murder in Minnesota music.

12 SoMinn FASHION

Stylish Fall strategies for a budget-friendly wardrobe.

15 Rants & RAVES

Everyday horrors at the grocery store.

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

“THE HOLIDAY ISSUE” DECEMBER ISSUE DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 17

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

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A spooktacular tradition returns to Faribault

By TAYLOR HINDERMANN Guest Contributor

Bats, Bones & Bonfires has a family-friendly focus, offering an inclusive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

A tradition that endures

Fang-tastic attractions await

ith the crisp autumn air and Halloween just around the corner, the beloved “Bats, Bones & Bonfires” event is set to return to Faribault for its 42nd annual celebration. This iconic event, which began in 1982, has become a cherished tradition that brings together families, friends, and the community in a whirlwind of spooky fun delights.

The event, hosted by River Bend Nature Center, has seen various attractions and themes over the years. However, the warmth of gathering around the bonfire with s’mores and apple cider, games, costumes, face painting, and horse wagon rides has remained a constant for attendees.

A tradition inspired by memories What inspired the organizers to create this Halloween extravaganza year after year? The answer lies in the countless memories shared by attendees. Families and individuals alike reminisce about their cherished experiences at previous “Bats, Bones & Bonfires” events. Many remember attending as children and now, as adults, are eager to pass down the tradition to their own youngsters. These heartwarming stories fuel the organizers’ commitment to keeping the tradition alive.

This year’s “Bats, Bones & Bonfires” promises a festive lineup of attractions and activities. On Saturday, Oct. 28, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., attendees can look forward to face-painters, horse wagon rides, a caramel apple bar,

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s’mores and cider, games, goodie bags, and even a chance to meet the Mayo Clinic Peregrine Falcons up close. As the sun sets, the event takes a darker turn with the Haunted Trail from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. This spine-chilling experience, designed and executed by 9th-12th graders from Discovery School, is sure to send shivers down your spine. Please note that the Haunted Trail is not recommended for young children.

Community support shines bright

Local businesses and sponsors play a pivotal role in enhancing and supporting this annual event. River Bend Nature Center is deeply grateful for the support it receives through sponsorships and donations. Many local businesses contribute giveaways that add to the excitement and enjoyment of the event.

Special guests and themes Bones & Bonfires”

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will feature special guests that are sure to delight attendees. Rescue 55021 will be showcasing adorable, adoptable kittens. Additionally, Jackie Fallon from Mayo Clinic will be present, educating visitors about the conservation efforts and population restoration of the Peregrine Falcon, with live birds on-site for close encounters.

Get involved and join the fun Want to be a part of this unforgettable Halloween celebration? Whether you want to attend, purchase tickets, or volunteer, it’s easy to get involved. Visit River Bend Nature Center’s website at www.rbnc.org/bbb or www.rbnc.org/volunteer for all the details and to secure your spot at “Bats, Bones & Bonfires.” Don’t miss out on the frightful fun and family-friendly festivities this Oct. 28 in Faribault! And be sure to check out other Halloween events happening in the area to make the most of this spooky season.

Other local Halloween events Lake Front Bar & Grill Annual Halloween Party in Le Center on Saturday Oct. 28 at 8:30 p.m. with music by Smokescreen. Scary at Harry’s in Faribault on Thursday Oct. 26 from 6-8 p.m. - Harry Brown’s Family Automotive will have indoor trick or treating, food trucks, scavenger hunt, games, popcorn, and a bouncy house. Downtown Trick or Treating in Owatonna on Cedar Ave from Central Park to Rose St from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28. Halloween Festival at Vintage Escapes Winery and Vineyard in Kilkenny on Sunday Oct. 29 from 12-5 p.m. featuring food trucks, kids activities, live music, and a HalloWine Trail. Super Halloween Bash and Costume Party at Foremost Brewing Company sponsored by RE/MAX Venture with music by No Coast on Saturday, Oct. 28 starting at 5 p.m. Halloween Costume Bowling Party at Sparetime on Saturday, Oct. 28 from 9 p.m. to midnight. Call to reserve your spot. There will be a live DJ, and the event is 21+.  Taylor Hindermann is a lover of writing, based in Montgomery.

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Mollywood BLVD

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.

SCARIEST fashion trends of the early 2000s

Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake of NSYNC.

Scariest fashion trends of the early 2000s I blame Paris Hilton for most of these, but there were some atrocious fashion trends in the early 2000’s that many of us were guilty of partaking in. From Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s all-denim red carpet look (also known as the Canadian tuxedo) to frosted tips, to Paris’s lowcut everything, the new millennium came with some major fashion faux-pas, some of which are terrifyingly making a comeback.

Extremely thin eyebrows The trend of extremely thin, overplucked eyebrows made its debut in the 90s but continued into the early 2000s. Think Gwen Stefani and Drew Barrymore. The trend itself wasn’t new, in the 1920s flappers would don pencilthin eyebrows, in some cases shaving them completely and drawing them on. Unfortunately, this trend made a comeback in the early-aughts and women are still regretting it to this day. Somewhere in the past decade, thick, natural brows have made a resurgence and those of us who overplucked and waxed back in our X-Tina days cannot keep up because we literally killed our eyebrow follicles to the point that it is frightening. Good thing makeup exists.

Concealer as lipstick Speaking of makeup, I don’t know who decided this was attractive, but by the mid-2000’s it was customary to see women using their under-eye concealer on their lips, usually with a darker foundation like Maybelline’s Dream Matte Mousse. If you didn’t use straight concealer, MAC satin lipstick in the shade “Myth” was the perfect nude-beige to give you the desired sickly look. Tik-Toker Isabel Clancy has made it as a social media influencer highlighting this terrible Millen-

nial trend. In one of her posts, she is in the school restroom and realizes she “forgot her concealer” at home. The concealer starts to wear off midday giving her the dreaded “butthole lips.”

Trucker hats Definitely looking at you with this one, Paris. Trucker hats, yeah, the dingy hats worn by old truckers and farmers you would find hanging at truck stops smoking cigarettes back in the 80s made a huge resurgence in the early 2000s. The craziest part of this trend is they were worn by everyone, guys and gals, from a lesser known Kim Kardashian to your everyday hipster. Stars were even seen wearing foam front, mesh back trucker hats on the red carpet. And don’t you dare curve that brim- These trucker hats were worn with an extremely crisp and flat bill, in many cases with the shiny sticker still on

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it. It was blasphemous. After writing this, I saw a photo of a friend on Facebook at a pumpkin patch with her kids and she was rocking a trucker hat, so I am afraid they might be back?

low cut, of course. All I know is, in 2023, you’re not going to see me wearing velour pants with the word “Juicy” embellished across the butt. No ma’am.

Low-cut jeans

Platform flip flops

Low-cut, low-rise denim and really any bottom was huge in the early 2000’s. The goal was to show off your hip bones. Not everyone could pull this look back, but unfortunately there were limited choices, so everyone pretty much had to deal with it. If you look at some of the stars who rocked this trend, you will find them taking it even a step further like P!nk, who would actually cut the top off of her jeans- belt loops and all, or Christina Aguilera who often wore them so low you could see her pubic bone! Another part of the low-cut trend was pants that laced up the sides or even the front like a coreset as seen on Hillary Duff. Woof. Lately we are seeing highrise “mom jeans” phase out and lower rises coming back, but I pray that we don’t take it as far as we did in the early 2000’s.

Whoever invented these (probably Steve Madden) should be sued. Platforms were very popular throughout the late 90s and early 2000s, but things were taking a bit too far when they started selling thing sandals with either a platform bottom or kitten heel but the very premise of a flip flop with any amount of height is a recipe for disaster. Thong sandals are sketchy anyway, because the thong is prone to breaking off but imagine that happening when you are 3 inches above ground. This impractical fashion faux pas resulted in countless rolled ankles. Platform shoes are back in style but leave the platform thong sandals in the closet next to your Uggs.

Exposed thong straps To add insult to injury, exposed thongs was a major trend in the early 2000’s. The days of pulling the back of your jeans up to conceal your underwear were

over for a very brief period when things became actual parts of the outfit! It is hard to believe that it was an acceptable look, but ask anyone who lived through the early 2000’s. You would actually buy your underwear with the expectation that it would be seen outside of your clothes, so bows, rhinestones and lace detail, not to mention a color coordinated with your outfit were a must.

Velour tracksuits When you wanted to be comfortable and feel sexy, it was all about that velour. Brands like Juicy Couture, Bebe and Baby Phat put out skin-tight, velour tracksuits, often bedazzled with jewels and we all fell for it, not just millennials but Gen X and Boomers, too. This look was the equivalent of the modernday athleisure-wear; not appropriate for church but totally acceptable for grocery getting or family parties and never for actually working out. Oh, and they were flared and extremely

Blue jeans under dresses One of the worst fashion trends ever was the trend of wearing jeans under your dress. This was often seen with silk slip-dresses, accessorized with a belt or cardigan and most likely a lace trimmed cami underneath. It was all about the layers. The jeans were flared and usually paired with a pair of pointed high heels. There was just nothing classy about it. You really can’t “dress up” blue jeans by literally wearing them under a dress. It is a bad look no matter how you cut it, and if this trend ever comes back, I resign my self-proclaimed fashionista status. If that is fashion, I want no part in it. This trend also made

way for the layering craze of the mid-2000’s where young adults layered camisole tank tops and even collared polo shirts! Don’t believe me? Watch an old episode of Trading Spaces. This column mostly focused on women’s trends, but I still need to take a moment for a PSA to all the guys still rocking those wrinkly pin-striped Hollister button up dress shirts: They weren’t good then, and they certainly aren’t good now with your additional beer gut/ dad bod bursting through those bottom buttons. The slim-fit shirt was already too tight in 2006 and you know it. Get rid. Don’t even donate, because no one needs that in their lives. I bet they would make a perfect shop rag. 

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From the MUSIC SIDE

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. Reach her at megankrolloff@gmail.com.

Murder in Minnesota music

s a murder ballad a real thing? It absolutely is. Whether you realized it was an actual defined sub-genre in folk music that recounts stories of unnatural deaths or not, chances are you are a fan of at least one of these tunes from the darker side of human culture. “Goodbye Earl” by The Chicks, “Nebraska” by Bruce Springsteen, “The Night the Lights went out in Georgia” by Reba McEntire or Vicki Lawrence (depending on your preference), and “No Body, No Crime” by Taylor Swift and HAIM are just a microscopic number of examples from the truly endless list of these such songs. Some murder ballads are pure fiction meant to be a sensational way to capture public attention or to be statement on the violence in our society as a whole, while others tell of actual murders and the circumstances surrounding them. In fact, that is how the murder ballad first came to be. Its roots can be traced back to folk songs from the Middle Ages originating in England, Scotland, and the like. Like a lot of songs of the day, they were meant to spread information and news in a way that was memorable and understandable by the common people. In the U.S., the genre is most often associated with Appalachia, the region in which the aforementioned Scots and Brits first settled,

bringing the tradition with them. While many of these musical stories have been lost to time and lack of good record keeping, there are still a few golden oldies that persist. Not to mention the new ones being written in modern times. Our very own monumentally famous Minnesota troubadour, Bob Dylan, recorded three murder ballads on one album, the 1964 “The Times They Are a-Changin.’” “The Ballad of Hollis Brown” tells the story of a South Dakota farmer who killed his wife, his five children, and then himself to release them all from their life of extreme poverty and despair during the Dust Bowl. There is no clear cut evidence that this song is based on a true story. “Only a Pawn in Their Game” is about the all-too-real assassination of civil rights activist Medgar Evers. And “The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll” is a bit of a combination of truth and artistic interpretation, telling the story of the death of a 51-year-old barmaid in Maryland in 1963. In true Dylan style, none of these songs is only meant to tell a gory story. Each made a statement about the role society takes in these tragedies. No one person is solely responsible for these crimes, we all are. In 2022, Wade Forster, an Australian rodeo circuit cowboy/country singer recorded a song called “Minnesota Murderer” on his debut album. The lyrics don’t seem to reference any specific crime that I have heard of, but it makes

me wonder what rumors of our fine state are flying around in the land down-under. Haven’t they heard of “Minnesota nice”? But perhaps the most Halloween-worthy murder ballad with a Minnesota connection is “The Harry Haywood Song.” Also possibly called “The Fatal Ride,” though the possibility of some copyright infringement makes the hist According to mnheritagesongbook.net, the lyrics to this true and shocking tale were written in 1895 by Joseph Vincent Brookes but set to the tune of “The Fatal Wedding” by Gussie Davis, a popular song from just a couple years prior. The story of Harry Haywood and Kitty Ging was known as a murder that shocked all of Minneapolis. Harry Haywood was a well off high society member, who took to gambling as his chosen profession. He somehow convinced Kitty Ging, a local dressmaker, to lend him large sums of money to support his habit, as well as take out a life insurance policy on herself to which he would be the sole beneficiary. He then blackmailed a man named Claus Blixt into shooting Kitty in the back of the head while she took a carriage ride near Lake Calhoun (now Lake Bde Maka Ska). BLixt eventually confessed, with some help from Haywood’s own brother, and gave up Haywood. Haywood was put on trial, convicted, and was the second to last person to hang in the state of Minnesota. All of this happened at the old county court-

house and jail which is now the site of U.S. Bank Stadium. Before he was hanged, Haywood confessed to 3 other murders and a host of other crimes. If any of this was true, this would make Haywood the first serial killer in the United States. If you ask me, the story of Kitty Ging’s tragic death is indeed worthy of a murder ballad, but perhaps with a little more focus on the victim and a little less on the psychopath that did her in. Which, honestly, can be said about most murder ballads through the years, but perhaps we will open that can of worms at a later date. 

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Perfectly positioned

pumpkin patches please patrons

By ANDREW DEZIEL Guest Contributor

ith Halloween just around the corner, carving a Jack-OLantern, or five, is a staple for families — and a growing number are skipping the store and heading out to a local farm to buy their pumpkins straight from the patch. Interest in agritourism has risen significantly over the last decade, with diet-conscious and planet-conscious consumers helping to revitalize smaller, more boutique forms of farming after decades of consolidation produced large, heavily specialized operations. As the calendar turns to October and the spooky Halloween decorations go up, local agritourism farms are hitting their stride, with the most ambitious offering activities for the whole family, while even the most humble still offer delicious local produce. For Mike Johnston, running River View Veggie just southeast of Faribault is a labor of love. Johnston, who studied ag in college and works for Pioneer Seed by day, always dreamed of being a farmer but lacked the means to get a big operation going. With River View Veggie, Johnston has grown his backyard vegetable garden into a thriving small business which not only provides fresh corn, onions, tomatoes and peppers at local farmers markets, but also memories which last a lifetime. Drawing not only a local clientele but visitors from the Twin Cities and beyond, River View Veggie attracts families with seasonal delights, starting with a sunflower maze in the summer, then a corn maze and pumpkins that can be picked straight from the vine — or off a shelf. During the pandemic, when so many small businesses were pushed to the brink, Johnston said that River View only thrived and grew. With longer vacations and many indoor activities out

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the window, many families coveted a day spent with nature and the simple pleasures of life. The Cannon River Valley has become a hotspot for businesses like River View. Just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of the Twin Cities, farms in the valley offer relaxation and beauty particularly coveted by the many Minnesotans who grew up close to the land. Larson’s Bridgewater Produce Farm just northwest of Northfield specializes in “fall fun,” with no shortage of activities for the little ones. Along with its signature 6 acre “new and improved” corn maze, it offers a corn box, barrel rides, a hay bale pyramid and many more activities for kids. Produce farms like Bridgewater pull plenty of traffic from the most local of customers, in ad-

dition to those from further away. Local resident Scott Morgan, visiting the farm for the first time with his family, was impressed with the corn maze and the variety of activities available for kids. Northfield resident Tyler Yahnke, who comes every year with his family, said that the number of activities at the farm seems to increase every year. However, a staple of any visit to the farm is to pick out a few pumpkins that look just perfect for carving. At Bridgewater and other local farms, pumpkins and gourds are grown in dozens of varieties, ensuring that there’s always one that catches the eye. Affordable prices are another draw for Northfield resident Martin Cabiro, who always gets several pumpkins for carving with the kids.

Despite a tough, dry growing season, local patches managed to grow plenty of pumpkins this season - often with help from irrigation systems. Else Larson of Bridgewater Produce Farm said that some timely rains also helped a great deal. Other growers tend to plant lots of seeds to ensure a strong harvest. Matt Thomas of Faribault’s Thomas Gardens said that even with the strong demand for pumpkins, he might have had way more than he could sell if all the pumpkins he’d planted had made it. Though their business model might be simpler, growers like Thomas and Nelson’s Pumpkin Farm west of Northfield have plenty of demand for their one of a kind, farm fresh pumpkins. Thomas said that the kids often like to grab the biggest pumpkins, while older customers often

take smaller to medium sized ones. As the season goes on, Nikki Nelson of Nelson’s Pumpkin Farm said that buyers will get more focused on selecting pumpkins perfect for carving. By the time Halloween rolls around, she said the farm’s large pumpkin supply would almost certainly run out. Faribault resident Urive Omana visited Nelson’s for the third year running. Omana said he and his family returned to Nelson’s thanks to its appealingly low prices and the wide selection of pumpkins and gourds lining the shelves. “This is a place where you’ve got a lot of varieties,” he said.  Reach Regional Managing Editor Philip Weyhe at 507931-8579 or follow him on Twitter @EditorPhilipWeyhe. © Copyright 2023 APG Media of Southern Minnesota. All rights reserved.

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By ASHLEY HANLEY Guest Contributor ight years ago, Josh Langerfeld started the Medford Trunk and Treat, because of his love for Halloween and for all things fun. But he also did it, when he and his wife Dante noticed something else in their community. “We started to notice a decline in the typical trick or treating throughout Medford. Residents missed having trick or treaters come to their doors and seeing all the fun costumes, though also parents were expressing feeling less comfortable with sending their kids out in the dark to run around town. Therefore, it was decided to host this Trunk & Treat each year the Saturday before Halloween in the afternoon – where residents are able to host a trunk, interact with the kiddos, see all the fun costumes and families feel more comfortable about the time, day and space of the event,” Dante said. This year’s event is on Saturday, Oct. 28 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Medford Outlet Center. “We are estimating about 35 -50 trunks based on last year’s turn out, with all kinds of candy,” Dante said. Last year, they estimated they had more than 1,200 kids attend this volunteer-ran event. All activities and trunks are hosted by volunteers and all of the candy is donated by the volunteers and local community members. Dante said it’s a rewarding experience for all involved, especially the 75-plus volunteers they will have for this year. “It’s a lot of fun. The adults have as much fun as the kiddos. Also, because it is a great way to be involved in the local community,” Dante said. “Medford Civic Club was asked to partner with Josh a couple years ago because this event kept growing considerably each year, it became too large for just a handful of volunteers to run. In addition, Trunk & Treat is a positive and fun event that brings together varying members of the community – this fits right into exactly what the Civic Club is all about.” While a trunk or treat is different from traditionally trick-ortreating where you go door-to-door, Dante said participating at this event allows you to try either option. “It certainly doesn’t have to be and either/or – you can do both. Since we host this event the Saturday before Halloween, it does not interfere with traditional trick or treating and Medford Trunk & Treat is not only a place to trick and treat – there are so many other fantastic activities: corn pit, haunted school bus, horse drawn wagon rides, barrel train ride, tiny tot barrel train ride, picture op setups, gravity wagon basketball, and more.” Medford Trunk & Treat is a free event for all — Medford and communities beyond are all welcome. Another opportunity to try a different Halloween experience is the Spooktacular held at Store-It in Mankato on Friday,

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Oct. 27 from 2-7 p.m. Now in its fourth year, the Spooktacular is an event where kids can go from storage unit to storage unit, with each unit decorated for the occasion. Jamie Jacobs is the co-founder of the event along with her associate, Kelsey Hood-Melstrom of APX Construction Group. Jacobs said this event started during the pandemic. “APX Construction Group redeveloped the previous Lowes building into Store IT. An indoor, climate-controlled storage facility in our community. We created the event as a way to create a safe trick-or-treating event during COVID. We were able to trick-or-treat from six feet and slow roll our guests through the facility, on a one-way route. We had over 2,000 guests the first year and over 4,000 last year. As a mom, this was a fun way to give my kids, and the community children a “normal” Halloween. Such a fun way to use Store IT,” Jacobs said. Located at 2015 Bassett Dr. in Mankato (next to Kohl’s), they usually have around 35 units that are sponsored that hand out candy and treats. Area businesses sponsor the units, decorate them and hand out the candy. “The businesses that participate are great stewards of our community and give through their resources of time and dollars so that all families can enjoy Spooktacular free of charge. It is so much more than trick or treating… it’s a Halloween experience. Not too scary and just enough spook for kiddos to feel like they are in a haunted maze and finding candy along the way,” Jacobs said.

OTHER TRUNK OR TREATS IN THE AREA: Downtown Waseca, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 26 The past years have been amazing. Businesses are excited to offer a great event for the community, especially our children. Businesses get creative with the way they hand out treats, too, so be ready for the fun. Organizers will once again mark the sidewalks with one way arrows to help make a smoother process for our princesses and ghosts to get their treats. Apple Autos in Northfield, 3-6 p.m. Oct. 27 Trunk or Treat is back. Bring the kids for a

haunted scavenger hunt, goblin golf, ghost bowling, crafts, mortuary makeovers and more. Not to mention, trunks full of treats. Faribault Eagles Club, 1 p.m. Oct. 28 The Faribault Police Department and Rice County Sheriff’s Office will be there handing out candy and letting the kids check out their cars. The Faribault Fire department will be there with a fire truck. Local businesses and residents will be handing out candy to the kids. We will have face painting, mini pumpkin painting and a few other games as well. Associated Church, Owatonna, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 28 Bring the whole family for trick-or-treating in the church parking lot. Everyone is welcome. Organizers will have our trunks decorated and ready to hand out all kinds of Halloween treats! We’ll also have some small crafts to do and a bonfire where you can roast s’mores. John Ireland Catholic School, St. Peter 5:30-7 p.m. Oct. 28 All kinds of trunks to choose your treats from. Depot Park, Kenyon, 3-5 p.m. Oct. 29 Gather your little ghouls and goblins and head over for a hauntingly good time. Organizers will also have hot dogs and chips available for purchase in an effort for fundraising for the Depot Park building. Raven Stream Elementary, New Prague, 6-7:30 p.m. Oct. 29 The fourth annual New Prague Lions DriveThru Trunk or Treat. Bring the kids to drive- or walk-thru for some Halloween Treats. Downtown Le Sueur, 3:30-5 p.m. Oct. 31 Downtown businesses band together to give trick-or-treaters a variety of trunks and other candy containers to choose from. Ashley Hanley is a wife and mom of three kids under the age of five in North Mankato. When she’s not handing out snacks or kissing boo-boos, you can find her cheering on her favorite Minnesota sports teams and is a firm believer they will win a championship in her lifetime!

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LISA EIDE

SoMINN FASHION

Lisa Eide is the owner of Her Happy Place in St. Peter.

FALL INTO SAVINGS:

s the leaves change and the air turns crisper, the excitement of fall fashion is in the air. But for many of us, it’s essential to find a balance between staying stylish and staying within our budgets. In this column, we’ll explore the art of creating a chic fall wardrobe while making the most of your hard-earned dollars. From versatile layering to building a capsule wardrobe, here are some practical tips for getting the most mileage out of your fall fashion choices. Fall is the season of layering, and it’s a style strategy that can save you money in the long run. Invest in classic cardigans, blazers, and lightweight sweaters that you can mix and match with various outfits. These pieces not only provide warmth but also add depth and versatility to your wardrobe. Consider them as the

for Budget-Friendly Wardrobe building blocks of your fall ensembles. While it’s essential to be budgetconscious, it’s also important to stay in tune with current fashion trends. This fall, “Fiery Red” is making a bold statement, and “Electric Blue” is once again gracing the runways. Embracing these trends in your accessories or statement pieces can add a fresh touch to your fall looks. That said, classic fall colors like Olive

Green, Orange tones, and Browns radiate the warmth and coziness of the season, making them ideal choices for your capsule wardrobe. Accessories can be your best friends in the fall. A stylish hat, a pair of cozy gloves, and a warm scarf can not only keep you toasty but also elevate your look. These are items that don’t need constant

updating, making them a smart and budget-friendly choice. Opt for neutral shades that complement most of your outfits, ensuring maximum mileage from each accessory. One of the most effective strategies for getting the most out of your fall fashion budget is to create a capsule wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe consists of carefully curated essentials that are versatile and timeless. Select pieces that can be mixed and matched effortlessly, allowing you to create various outfits from a limited selection. Classic trench coats, lightweight sweaters, and quality boots are staples to consider for your fall capsule wardrobe. Fashion is everevolving, and it’s exciting to stay

up-to-date with the latest trends. This fall, “Fiery Red” is capturing attention, infusing outfits with vibrancy and energy. Whether you

opt for a fiery red dress, a bold jacket, or even red accessories, incorporating this trend can make your fall wardrobe feel fresh and trendy. Similarly,

“Electric Blue” is back in the spotlight, offering a pop of color that adds excitement to your ensemble. When integrating these trends, remember that you don’t have to splurge on entire outfits; just a few key pieces can breathe new life into your wardrobe. While it’s fun to experiment with current trends, classic fall colors remain a safe and stylish bet. Olive Green, reminiscent of the changing leaves, adds an earthy charm to your wardrobe. It pairs well with neutrals, making it a versatile choice. Orange

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tones, from burnt sienna to pumpkin, evoke the warmth of autumn and can be a joyful addition to your fall attire. Browns, in various shades, are the epitome of timeless elegance. These hues, inspired by the earthy tones of the season, provide the foundation for a cozy and well-rounded capsule wardrobe. As you embrace the beauty of autumn, remember that your style choices can be both fashionable and frugal. By focusing on versatile layering, incorporating warm accessories, and building a capsule wardrobe that includes both current trends and classic fall colors, you’ll find that your fashion budget can stretch further than you think. So, this fall, make the most of your dollars and step out in style without breaking the bank. Your wardrobe and your wallet will thank you! With a blend of trendy updates and timeless classics, you can confidently navigate the fall fashion scene while keeping your budget intact. 

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MARY CLOSNER

Rants & RAVES

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

Everyday horrors at the grocery store

peaking of scary, have you been to the grocery store lately? Not only does everything cost the earth, but the aisles are bursting with bad choices. I mean, I adore the fall season, but just how many grotesque forms of pumpkin spice (PS) products do we really need? I love pumpkin in a pie or a good ol’ pan of Midwestern bars with cream cheese frosting, but PS Goldfish crackers and PS SPAM?! Really, are we that desperate that we need that PS combo in meatballs, gum, cottage cheese and cereal? There’s a ton of terrible options out there, but as my parents always said, “Make good decisions.” Just because some nut came up with this concoction, doesn’t mean you have to buy it. If you think your eating habits are bad, just stop by the grocery store about 5:30 p.m. on a weekday. This is guaranteed to make you feel better about yourself. A 12-pack of Coke, a family-size bag of Flamin’ Hot Crunchy Cheetos and a fully-loaded meat lovers frozen pizza.

That’s what the guy ahead of me was buying. The gal at the express checkout had one item, a box of frozen Texas toast. Even with my limited culinary skills, I’ve conquered toast. What was she planning to serve with this exotic offering? Pre-cooked bacon that doesn’t need to be in the refrigerated section? Bacon, that

comes in a cardboard box, right off the shelf? I hope she at least served it with some pre-cut, bagged veggies and that glamorous condiment known as ranch dressing. I was beginning to feel like a bit of a gourmand with my gallon of milk and box of cornbread mix. One of my best pals lives on a strict diet of deep-fried mini tacos, coffee and strange-flavored creamers. I guess I can’t scoff too much, as I also have a family member who survived college on corn nuts and 7Up. It’s truly amazing any of us grow to our full height or have enough brain development to make it into the workforce. My nieces and nephews existed on a menu plan of chicken nuggets and popsicles. I’m not sure how any of them got through college. Those who know me well know my love of the Little Debbie Zebra Cakes, but I don’t put them on the top of the cart for the whole world to see. I bury them under the giant box of spring mix lettuce … like a lady would do. Maybe you can pick up some Velveeta melting cheese on your next trek to the store? According to Wikipedia, “Velveeta is a brand name for a cheese analogue.” That might go perfect with your tin of roasted eels. Who thought these

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were good ideas to bring to the grocery store shelves? Was there a run on canned eels that I missed? I adore junk food as much as the next gal, and I admit, I’m a terrible cook, but even I understand Mountain Dew and Pop Tarts should not be the foundation of an adult’s food pyramid. OK, buy the pork rinds, but have the dignity to do it at the 24-hour store away from your normal neighborhood and at a time when most folks have gone to bed. Do that kinda shopping under the cloak of darkness, for goodness’ sake. I wanna get together with the buyers who order for these food stores. Or better yet, the weirdos who decided that we needed 15 different varieties of Cheerios. I’d also like to chat with the folks at Pillsbury who came up with Funfetti Cake Mix or the TAKIS consumer relations guys (you know it was men) who developed Takis Rolled Blue Heat Tortilla Chips. And I won’t forget to call the inventors at Gatorade who came up with Frost Glacier Freeze (aka Windex flavor). Someone needs to speak sternly to these people, and I’m just the gal for the job. 

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AUDREY KLETSCHER HELBLING Audrey Kletscher Helbling creates with her Canon camera and words from her home base in Faribault. She focuses on the ordinary, on everyday life. You can find more of her work on her blog: https://mnprairieroots.com

Early on, some of the children who died at the State School in Owatonna were buried with tombstones marking their graves.

Rose art graces a gravestone at German Union Cemetery, rural Lonsdale. A majestically ornate column rises above gravestones inside Northfield Cemetery.

Cemeteries take on new meanings

Signage posted at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Faribault, details Maj. Michael Cook’s role in local, county and state history.

Lovely urn art at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Faribault.

Artfully ornate fences often border cemeteries, including this one at Christdala, rural Millersburg.

time existed when cemeteries scared me. where I’ve lingered, meandering among gravestones reading I envisioned skeletons, encased in coffins, names, dates, inscriptions; studying art; wondering about the buried beneath the earth. That stuck people and stories behind the tombstones. The deaths of the with me in my younger years, especially young, especially, leave me feeling melancholy. Illness and disafter my paternal grandfather died when ease claimed too many children back in the day, including my I was in elementary school. Aunt Deloris, dead at nine months from whooping cough. Auto Cemeteries acquired a new meaning accidents, suicide and other tragedies have claimed too many then, one of personal grief and pain. I young adults. Their stories are revealed, or hidden, within cemdidn’t like the thought of Grandpa lying eteries. My heart, that of a mother and grandmother, aches cold and dead beneath the heavy black with sorrow. soil of the southwestern Minnesota prairie. In one particularly moving cemetery stop, at the State School Today, decades and the loss of many loved ones later, I’ve Children’s Cemetery in Owatonna on the grounds of the forchanged my perspectives on death and on cemeteries. I now mer State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children find cemeteries to be (from 1886-1945), I felt places of comfort, overwhelmed by sadness. remembrance and more. Under State guardianship, Decidedly un-scary. 300 children died (from I, in fact, seek out disease, illness, accident, unknown causes) with graveyards. In them I’ve discovered history, art 198 unclaimed by their families and buried in and stories, often in the the Children’s Cemetery. most serene settings. Within cemeteries I’ve Average age of death found solace, tranquilwas just four years old, ity and natural beauty, the same age as my beloved grandson. Today particularly in rural the graves of those 198, locations. Here birds sing hymns. Here the wind most originally denoted by their case numbers whispers comfort. Here quiet settles the spirit. stamped into a cement slab, are marked by Here peace prevails, although sometimes named crosses thanks to the efforts of community replaced by angst stirred over injustices. volunteers and contribuOnly once did fear tors. Every individual Families often leave items reflecting the interests of their overtake me. And that deserves dignity in death. loved ones, including this decal left on a grave at Oak Ridge had nothing to do with As a sensitive soul, I’m Cemetery, Faribault. bodies buried beneath not surprised when I react the soil. Rather, snakes emotionally. I’ve come a slithering among tombstones at the historic Christdala Swedish long way, though, since those youthful days of fearing death, Lutheran Church, rural Millersburg, prompted my quick exit skirting around graves and mostly avoiding cemeteries. Today from this bucolic site high atop a hill in northwestern Rice I find nothing frightening within graveyard boundaries (except County. I haven’t returned since. snakes). Rather, I hold a deep reverence and respect for these But I have visited many other southern Minnesota cemeteries final, decidedly un-scary, resting places. 

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Oak leaf art on a tombstone is so fitting for Oak Ridge Cemetery, set high atop a ridge of oaks and other trees in Faribault.

Set atop a hill among an abundance of trees, Faribault’s Oak Ridge Cemetery is a beautiful place.

FAR LEFT: This crucifix inside Trebon Cemetery, rural Kilkenny, is a stunning piece of art. LEFT: An aged leaning cross at Northfield Cemetery marks the grave of Beata Udeen, born in Sweden in 1843.

Veterans’ graves are usually noted in ways that honor their service, including at Valley Grove Cemetery, rural Nerstrand.

The cemetery at Christdala Swedish Lutheran surrounds the church in rural Rice County.

Duo historic Valley Grove churches and the adjoining cemetery sit high atop a hill, surrounded by prairie, fields and woods near Nerstrand Big Woods State Park.

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A gravestone honors the Swedish immigrant who lost his life in the 1876 robbery of the First National Bank, Northfield, by the James-Younger gang.

This tombstone in Valley Grove Cemetery tells the story of the Heggedahl family in images and words.They ran the popular Nerstrand Meat Market.

A marker provides historical information about the first burial in Northfield Cemetery.

Some cemeteries post information on grave locations, including at German Union Cemetery, rural Lonsdale.

An especially interesting tombstone in Northfield Cemetery tells a tragic story.

Valley Grove Cemetery against a backdrop of autumn splendor in rural Nerstrand.

A loving memorial sign assures children buried in the State School Children’s Cemetery are loved and remembered.

Signage in Oak Ridge Cemetery shares the story of Margaret Ring Puffer.

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A guardian angel graces the State School Children’s Cemetery in Owatonna.

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Harold Safar, originally only identified by number at the State School Children’s Cemetery, Owatonna, now also has a cross bearing his name.

All of the numbered children’s graves are now marked with their names on crosses at the State School Children’s Cemetery in Owatonna.

Many cemeteries rely on donations and on volunteers, including Northfield Cemetery.

UPPER LEFT: A garter snake, one of many, slithers around a tombstone at Christdala Cemetery. ABOVE: An historic 1886 Czech church, the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, and Trebon Cemetery are situated in Shieldsville Township, rural Kilkenny, in an especially peaceful and beautiful country setting.

Signage marks the State School Children’s Cemetery near the current-day Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum in Owatonna.

The first burial at German Union Cemetery, rural Lonsdale, occurred in 1870, as noted on signage.

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SEE MORE @ SouthernMinnSCENE.com Calendar events compiled by Philip Weyhe.

THURSDAY, OCT 26

Treats on the Streets - Waseca-- 5-7 p.m., Downtown Waseca. Businesses get creative with the way they hand out treats. Organizers will once again mark the sidewalks with one way arrows to help make a smoother process for our princesses and ghosts to get their treats.

If/Then - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Paradise Community Theatre presents a fascinating, ambitious and original new musical. “If/Then” simultaneously follows one woman’s two possible life paths, painting a deeply moving portrait of the lives that we lead as well as the lives that we might have led. Shows 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26-28, plus 2 p.m. Oct. 29. Tickets are $14-$20.

FRIDAY, OCT 27

Another Time Around - Janesville-- 6-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Performing classic rock. Halloween Party Le Center-- 6-8:30 p.m., Le Center American Legion. Students prek-4 are invited. Music, dancing, games, prizes. Food includes taco in a bag, hot dogs and ice cream sundaes. Face painting and temporary tattoo station. Raffles, candy guesses and more. Haunted Hayride - St. Peter-- 7-11 p.m., Riverside Park, St. Peter. A haunted hayride around mill pond that’s sure to delight. Runs Oct. 27 and 28.

Johnny Holm Band Halloween Bash Waseca-- 7 p.m., The Mill Event Center, 310 2nd Ave SW, Waseca. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the band starting at 9 p.m. Blake’s BETtor Spread food truck. Cash prizes for costume contest winners. Mrs. Moxie’s Halloween Bash Northfield-7 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. There’ll be bobbing for pumpkins trivia (Jeopardy style), a costume contest, and drag numbers performed by Northfield’s very own drag queen. Prizes for costumes.

Trunk or Treat - Faribault-- 1 p.m., Eagles Club, 2027 W Grant St, Faribault. Anyone who wants to decorate your car, get in a fun costume and hand out candy to the kids are welcome. Faribault PD and Rice County Sheriff’s Office will be on hand, along with a Faribault Fire Department truck. Face painting, mini pumpkin painting and other games too.

Bats, Bones & Bonfires - Faribault-- 2-5 p.m., River Bend Nature Center, 1000 Rustad Road, Faribault. Fun for the whole family, goody bags, games, wagon rides, s’mores, caramel apple bar and more. $10 for member families and $15 for non-member families.

The Frothy Band - Northfield-- 6 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. The Frothy Band is MacKenzie, Vanorny, Wehling, Wehling and Klein. Affectionately combining the name of one of the greatest traditional Irish bands in history (The Bothy Band) with some finely poured tapped beers (producing froth) from Imminent Brewing, we will collaborate for at least one (more) evening to bring you jigs, reels, hornpipes, songs and more played on flute, fiddle, mandolin, uilleann pipes, and bouzouki.

Great Fall Get Together - Waseca-- 6-9 p.m., Waseca Art Center, 200 N. State St. Check out the art, take part in a silent auction, games and door prizes, photo booth and costume contest. Spirits, music, food. Pete Klug will provide music.

SATURDAY, OCT 28

Halloween Fun Run - St. Peter-- 9:30 a.m., St. Peter. Ask the goblins, princesses, runaway brides, running noses and 14-legged dragons start dreaming up their costumes. Participants can run, jog, walk or crawl the 3.1 miles however they like. Register at runsignup.com.

A Haunting We Will Go - Owatonna-11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Village of Yesteryear, 1431 Austin Rd, Owatonna. Free fun for the whole family. Dress in your favorite costume and come for some trick-or-treating. There will also be craft activities and stories. Trunk or Treat Medford-- 12-3 p.m., Medford Outlet Center, Medford, 6750 W Frontage Road. Family friendly tiny tot play area. Fall photos. Shoot some hoops on the gravity wagon. Creep your way through the haunted bus. Get a ride on the barrel train. Relax on the horse drawn hayride, and, of course, the trail of trunks.

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Trunk or Treat - Owatonna-- 5-7 p.m., Associated Church, 800 Havana Road, Owatonna. Bring the whole family for trick-or-treating in the church parking lot. Everyone is welcome. We’ll have our trunks decorated and ready to hand out all kinds of Halloween treats. Some small crafts to do and a bonfire to roast s’mores.

Super Halloween Bash - Owatonna-- 5 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. Prizes will be awarded for the best individual, couple and group costumes. Music from Petty Crimes and No Coast.

Trunk or Treat - St. Peter-- 5:30-7 p.m., John Ireland Catholic School, St. Peter. A safe and fun way to take the kids trick or treating.

Fall Festival - St. Peter-- 6-8 p.m., Sunrise Church, 722 Sunrise Drive St., St. Peter. Get ready for carnival games, a maze, photo booth, concessions and a toddler fun zone.

Halloween Bash - St. Peter-- 7 p.m.-1 a.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. A 21+ costume contest in matching sets. Music from Ben Scruggs and The Furnace of Creation.

The Wreck - Northfield-- 7-10 p.m., Armory Square Event Center, 519 Division St., Northfield. The Wreck bring fun, funky, grooveoriented treatments of an eclectic mix, familiar yet not worn out.

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

including inflatables, crafts, scavenger hunts and more. A Hallowine trail. Live music from 2-4 p.m. with Sean Benz. Twisted Chicken food truck. Pumpkin decorating.

Waseca. The Woodbury Chorus and Orchestra under the direction of Cindy Martinson will present “The Gift of Music.” This concert will benefit the Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center Food Shelf. Admission is free. Donations will be accepted.

TUESDAY, OCT 31

Halloween Bash - Owatonna-- 8 p.m.-1 a.m., Reggie’s Brewhouse, 220 N. Cedar Ave., Owatonna. Costume contest with prizes. DJ Bob playing tunes.

HickTown Mafia - Kasota-- 9 p.m.-1 a.m., The Blue Moon Bar & Grill, 300 S. Webster St., Kasota. Celebrate Halloween. classic and current country hits and classic 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s rock, HickTown Mafia’s members boast a combined 100+ years of stage experience covering everything from Johnny Cash to AC/DC. Costume party with prizes.

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.

Halloween Costume Party - Dundas-- 9 p.m.-2 a.m., Dawn’s Corner Bar, Dundas. Costume contest with prizes, plus music by Russ Franek and the Biscuits.

SUNDAY, OCT 29

Halloween Showcase & Bazaar - St. Peter-10 a.m.-3 p.m., St. Peter Plaza, 107 W. Nassau St. Movement classes from 10 a.m. to noon. Medicine show 1-2 p.m. Tarot reading and a bubble fairy. River Rock coffee and tea. Art and craft vendors with handmade spooky themed goods.

Halloween Festival - Kilkenny-- 12-5 p.m., Vintage Escapes Winery & Vineyard, 8950 Dodd Rd., Kilkenny. Fun for the whole family,

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Halloween Bash - Faribault-- 12-4 p.m., Rescue 55021. Join us for live music, food, treats, many fun fall activities and many prizes. El Jefe food truck and Mighty Fine Coffee. Treats. Activities include pumpkin painting, face painting, photo booth, bounce castles, live music from Melissa Schulz. Trunk or Treat - Kenyon-- 3-5 p.m., Dapot Park, 416 First St., Kenyon. A spooktacular afternoon of family fun. Gather your goblins and ghouls and head on over. Organizers will also have hot dogs and chips available for purchase in an effort for fundraising for the Depot Park building. To offer up a trunk, email kimandkev_85@yahoo.com. Chorus and Orchestra Waseca-- 4 p.m., Christ Community Church, 2200 Fourth St. NE,

Trick or Treat - Le Sueur-- 3:30-5 p.m., Downtown Le Sueur. Downtown businesses band together to give trick-or-treaters a variety of trunks and other candy containers to choose from. Furball Halloween Party Faribault-6-9 p.m., Furball Farm Pet Sanctuary, 3405 220th St. E., Faribault. The Furballs are ready to spook you this Halloween. Haunted cat path in the new outdoor playground. We will have pawsome Halloween decorations and tons of adorable cage free cats. $5 donation.

CONTINUED page 22

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THURSDAY, NOV 02 Gallery - Waseca-12-5 p.m., Waseca Art Center, 200 N. State St. Margie Larson, Marjie Laizure and Lisa Bierer on show through Nov. 17.

David Allen Exhibit - Northfield-- 12-5 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild, 304 Division St. S., Northfield. Eclectic, nostalgic collection of sculpture, watercolor and acrylic. Ends Nov. 3.

FRIDAY, NOV 03

Marv and Kaat - Janesville-- 6-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Enjoy some live music at the winery.

Sweet Charity - Northfield-- 7:30 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. Hapless, but unflappable, Charity Hope Valentine desperately seeks love in New York City in the 1960s. In this exuberant, groovy, hilarious musical comedy, Charity tries again and again to find her dream and make something of herself. Tickets $18-$23. Shows 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3-4, 10-11 and 17-18, plus 2 p.m. Nov. 5, 12 and 19.

Play some bean bags to raise money for the Waseca Area Food Shelf. Silent auction, food/ drinks for purchase and meat raffles. Registration is $50.00 per team - 64-team limit.

Toast to Women - Kasota-- 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Grab the girls for a day of wine, shopping and fun. Enjoy shopping local vendors. Tickets online.

Cannon Valley Regional Orchestra Northfield and Faribault-- 3 p.m., St. John’s Lutheran Church in Northfield 3 p.m. Nov. 4 and Cathedral of Our Merciful Savior in Faribault 3 p.m. The CVRO presents “Atmospheres.”

SATURDAY, NOV 04

Author Panel - Faribault-- 6 p.m., Buckham Memorial Library, 11 Division St. E, Faribault. A lively discussion with three multi-genre Minnesota authors. Moving Words is an opportunity for writers and readers to explore various themes together. Authors are John Lee Clark, Nicole Kronzer and Jess Lourey. Registration not required. Generative Writing - St. Peter-6-7:30 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. Derek Libertz leads the class. For absolute beginners and anyone looking to shake up their creative process. Participants will be encouraged but not required to share what they produce.

Lizzy the Dream Girl - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Shattuck-St. Mary’s, Faribault. Lizzy chose to continue the family tradition in entertainment and pursue a career as a stage hypnotist. She has used her knowledge and expertise to create a hypnosis show that is unique, funky, and fresh. Tickets online.

Did we miss something? Let us know! We may still be able to get an important event on one of our weekly pages that run in the newspapers. 22

Holiday Craft Sale - Waterville-- 8 a.m.-4 p.m., 43950 66th St., 43950 66th St., Waterville. One-of-a-kind crafts, all handmade. Door prizes and coffee while you shop. Gifts and goodies to kickstart your holiday shopping.

Pastimes Fine Arts and Crafts Sale - Owatonna-- 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Owatonna Arts Center, 435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna. Unique handmade items to purchase, and enjoy a bowl of homemade soup. Bazaar, Craft and Bake Sale - Owatonna-- 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Owatonna Eagles 1791, 141 E. Rose St., Owatonna. Handcrafted, holiday goods, jewelry, crocheted items, arts and so much more.

Cornhole for a Cause - Waseca-- 10 a.m., The Mill Event Center, 310 2nd Ave SW, Waseca.

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Juneau Black Author Talk - Northfield-- 6 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. The author will discuss her series, “Shady Hollow,” with most recent release “Twilight Falls.” Shady Hollow is a place where woodland creatures live together in harmony — until a curmudgeonly toad turns up dead and the local reporter has to solve the case. Maggie Faris ft. Wayne Burfiend Northfield-7 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Maggie is noted for her ceaselessly cheerful personality and seemingly endless series of quirky, intelligent jokes dissecting our fears and social barriers. Comedy Under the Bridge - Faribault-- 7 p.m., 10,000 Drops, 28 4th St NE, Faribault. Another great comedy show featuring some of Minneapolis’ funniest stand up comedians and hosted by Drew Hehir. Headlining: Ellie Hino. Featuring comedians: Ethan Pederson and Tia Hannes. Joseph Hall’s Rock N Remember - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central

Ave N, Faribault. Joseph Hall has performed all over the world and was a finalist on America’s Got Talent. He has won many awards throughout his career including the “Spirit of Elvis” award. Tickets $15-$25. Metamorphoses Theater Production - St. Peter-8-10 p.m., Gustavus Adolphus College, 800 West College Ave, St. Peter. In this contemporary revisioning of Ovid’s epic, the stories of bodies transformed take center stage in a celebration of resilience and imagination. Shows 8-10 p.m. Nov. 2-3, plus 2-4 p.m. Nov. 5.

SUNDAY, NOV 05 Harvest Festival - Owatonna-- 6 p.m., Christ Community Covenant Church, 540 18th St SE, Owatonna. Featuring The Preacher’s Daughters live in concert, plus a pie social following the concert.

TUESDAY, NOV 07

Teen Time Crafts - St. Peter-- 4 p.m., St. Peter Library. Teens 13 to 18, drop in for some free crafts and snacks. Registration is not required.

WEDNESDAY, NOV 08

Singing Cowgirl - St. Peter-- 2 p.m., St. Peter Community Center, 600 S. Fifth St., St. peter. Acoustic guitar and John Denver classics by local performer Lisa Murphy.

THURSDAY, NOV 09 Paradise Gallery Faribault-12-5 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Last chance to see Stephan McKenzie in the Carlander Gallery; Todd Harper in the Vranesh Gallery; EPIC in the K&M Gallery; Bethlehem Academy in the Creger Gallery. Runs through Sept. Nov. 11. Open during regular Paradise hours.

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

through downtown St. Peter and see a collection of a few dozen makeshift and permanent artist studios, live demos and more. Runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 11 and noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 12.

FRIDAY, NOV 10

The AGATES Poetry Tour - Northfield-- 7 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. AGATES is a poetry journal published annually by the League of MN Poets. Content will have three poets at the shop to read from their latest works. White Christmas - Owatonna-7:30 p.m., Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna. Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Shows 7:30 p.m. Nov. 9-11 and Nov. 16-18, plus 2 p.m. Nov. 12 and 19.

Santa’s Cellar Craft Show - Owatonna-- 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Steele County Fairgrounds, 18th St SE, Owatonna. Exquisite gifts and holiday decorations handmade by local crafters and artists. Rums 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 10 and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 11.

City in the 1960s. In this exuberant, groovy, hilarious musical comedy, Charity tries again and again to find her dream and make something of herself. Tickets $18-$23. Shows 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10-11 and 17-18, plus 2 p.m. Nov. 12 and 19.

SATURDAY, NOV 11

Melissa Schulz Le Center-- 8-11 p.m., Le Center Municipal Liquors, 20 N Waterville Ave. One-woman band Melissa Schulz brings her unique style of performing with keyboard and drum tracks.

THURSDAY, NOV 16 Holiday Craft Show - St. Peter-- 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Nicollet County Fairgrounds, 400 Union St., St. Peter. Shop local area crafters and vendors for all your holiday needs. Free parking. Free admission. Johnny Frost and the Heatseekers - Janesville-- 6-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Performing seven decades of music. Sweet Charity - Northfield-- 7:30 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. Hapless, but unflappable, Charity Hope Valentine desperately seeks love in New York

Art Stroll - St. Peter-- 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Downtown St. Peter. Make your way

Night Out - Le Sueur-- 5-7 p.m., Le Sueur. Bringing the community together to shop local. This is a night where businesses are showcased and residents and visitors come to support. All businesses that participate will have handouts and provide drawings.

CONTINUED page 24

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CONTINUED from page 23 Author Panel - St. Peter-- 6:30 p.m., St. Peter Community Center, 600 S. Fifth St., St. peter. Authors include Kirstin CronnMills, Julie Gassman, Julie Gilbert, Rachael Hanel, Geoff Herbach and Barbara Luker. Door prizes available. White Christmas - Owatonna-- 7:30 p.m., Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna. Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Shows 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1618, plus 2 p.m. Nov. 19.

WEDNESDAY, NOV 22

Comedy Night - Owatonna-- 7:30 p.m., Torey’s Restaurant & Bar, 208 N. Cedar Ave, Owatonna. Fifth annual fundraiser to support dental programs. The headliner is John Bush, who has performed comedy on HBO, Comedy Central, as well as on late night. The opening act is Matthew Jacobsen. Tickets can be purchased online at $30 per ticket. Includes complimentary appetizers.

Maud Hixson: Remembering Doris Day - St. Peter-- 2 p.m., St. Peter Community Center, 600 S. Fifth St., St. peter. Joining a band in her teens, Doris Day went on to find a career in movies and song. Musician Maud Hixson honors the icon.

SATURDAY, NOV 18

IV Play - Waseca-- 9:15 p.m.-12:15 a.m., The Mill Event Center, 310 2nd Ave SW, Waseca. IV Play is one of the region’s most popular cover bands, playing all kinds of hits, new and old.

Addessa & The Beat - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Regional Minnesota band with a little something for everyone! Enjoy a tasty mix of country, classic rock, and pop covers of forgotten oldies to top 10s brought to life with powerhouse female vocals and strong group harmony. Tickets $15-$25.

Thanksgiving Eve Party - Dundas-- 11 p.m.-2 a.m., Dawn’s Corner Bar, Dundas. Music provided by Russ Franek & the Biscuits.

THURSDAY, NOV 23 Tell Me A Story - St. Peter-- 7:30-9:30 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. The theme is transitions. Sometimes, you can see a transition coming and prepare for it. Other times, life surprises you, and you need to adapt. Come tell a story about a turning point in your life or just to listen to others.

Remembered In Silence. The top fundraising team will receive a prize basket valued at over $500. Every 10K participant will receive a participation medal. Other options are the tot trot, 5k run and 5k walk. Register online.

Turkey Trot - Le Sueur-- 8 a.m., Le Sueur. It’s a FUNraiser to help feed children, youth, and families throughout the year. Families of four ($50) who register by Nov. 15 will be able to sign up for a free pie at the time of registration. Families of six ($80) or more, who register by Nov. 15 will be able to sign up for two free pies at the time of registration. Individuals are $15. Four-legged family members will receive treats on route corners. Register online.

Turkey Trot - Northfield-- 8:30 a.m., Weitz Center for Creativity, 3rd St. E, Northfield. Now in its 23rd year, the 5K run/walk is a Thanksgiving tradition for Northfield households, an unofficial homecoming for the 1,000 plus folks who want to connect with old friends and neighbors. The course winds through the northeast section of town, north to south along Spring Creek Road and back towards the church along Woodley, Seventh Street, Winona and Third. The cost per person is $30. Register online.

FRIDAY, NOV 24

Smokescreen - Kasota-- 9 p.m., The Blue Moon Bar & Grill, 300 S. Webster St., Kasota. Playing a variety of rock and country music.

SUNDAY, NOV 19

FRIDAY, NOV 17

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. 24

Farmamerica Turkey Trot - Waseca-- 9 a.m.-12 p.m., Farmamerica, 7367 360th Ave, Waseca. Enjoy the fresh country air and burn off some extra calories while walking or running our 5k or 1k route. Every participant will receive a complimentary t-shirt and race medal. Register by November 17th to guarantee your t-shirt. $10 entry free; no cost for 4 and under. Register online.

Thanksgiving Market - Dundas-- 12-5 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas. This is the day to get all of your Thanksgiving feast and gifts from local producers directly in a festive, heartwarming setting while enjoying food and beverage from the local maker menu.

This month’s SCENE calendar runs through Nov. 25 . See more events at southernminnscene.

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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.

IRIS Turkey Trot - Faribault-- 7:45 a.m., Faribault Middle School, 704 17th St. SW, Faribault. This trot raises funds for nonprofit Infants

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar? Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.

SATURDAY, NOV 25

Holiday Kickoff Party - Kasota-- 3-7 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. On Shop Small Saturday, kick off the holiday season with festive cocktails, live music, wreath making and much more. Be there by 4 p.m. to celebrate the second annual holiday lights lighting. Free to the public. Live music by Tyler Herwig.

This month’s SCENE calendar runs through Nov. 25th. See more events at southernminnscene.com. Southern minn

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SoMinn THE BOOKWORM SEZ

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

‘League of Lady Prisoners,’ ‘Democracy Awakening’ The League of Lady Poisoners

Democracy Awakening:

written and illustrated by Lisa Perrin c.2023, Chronicle Books $24.95 208 pages

by Heather Cox Richardson c.2023, Viking $30.00 304 pages

The bon-bons look absolutely yummy. You heard there’s a special creme inside them, so you’ll be sure to have one or five. The pies smell delicious; sweetness and a nip of sour, your favorite. Cake, cookies, pile that plate and forget the diet. As in the new book, “The League of Lady Poisoners,” written and illustrated by Lisa Perrin, some foods are simply to die for. Poor Lucrezia Borgia. Born in 1480 and rumored to be the love child of a Pope, it’s said that Lucrezia had a ring she wore everywhere. Supposedly, inside this beautiful piece of jewelry was a hidden compartment that held a Borgia specialty – a poison that, when it benefited Lucrazia or her family (or both), was dumped into her enemy’s food. Problem is, says Perrin, there’s no hard evidence that Lucrezia did what she’s accused of doing. History likes to blame women of poisoning their lovers or others, and often for good reason: “most murderers are men,” says Perrin, but “when women commit homicide, they are more likely to choose poison than a man is...” Keeping that fact in mind, says Perrin, we can’t lose sight of another truism: centuries ago, when men held all the cards and women had few, if any, rights, women used poison because it was their best, most easily obscured way out of a bad situation. “If you can look more closely at these women poisoners,” Perrin says, “you might... see their humanity as well...” There were, for instance, “professional poisoners” like Locusta, who worked as a hired assassin in first-century Rome, and Giulia Tofana, who helped women escape “abusive relationships.” Just more than a century ago, women of Nagyrev in Hungary partook in a “poisoning epidemic” to escape violent husbands. Sally Bassett provided poison to her granddaughter for use against those who enslaved her. Mary Ann Cotton may’ve been one of England’s most prolific poisoners and in the U.S., Belle Gunness killed and killed and may have gotten away with it... Here’s something you don’t see very often: a true crime book with a somewhat-lighthearted theme that begs its readers to be kind when considering its subjects. No, “The League of Lady Poisoners” isn’t mawkishly sentimental, but it isn’t sensational, either. That offers readers a chance to look at old murders in a different light. There’s no denying that author-illustrator Lisa Perrin includes some horrible killers in this book, alongside tales of women who found themselves backed into a corner and did what they had to do. Easing the mood, there’s a little silliness tucked here and there, but you’ll mostly see that this book leans on women’s history as much as it does on true crime – and it does so with behind-thescenes info that invites you feel a surprising sense of compassion. That makes “The League of Lady Poisoners” one of the most unusual, but welcome, true crime volumes you’ll ever read, and one of the most thought-provoking. Look for it and you’ll see that this is a tasty little book.

Your neighbor isn’t talking to you anymore. She stopped waving “Good morning” months ago, as did the guy who walks his dog down your street every day, and it happened right after your brother-in-law called you names and stormed out of your house. You blame yourself for it. You blame politics even more, so read the new book “Democracy Awakening” by Heather Cox Richardson and blame history, too. So many times in the last seven years, you’ve asked yourself how we got here, politically. We never set out to divide, but here we are. Will America ever get back to where we were? To get an answer, you first must know that there’s a pattern to the politics we’ve seen lately, and it starts when a small number of people use language to convince “a disaffected population” that they were ignored in the past but that they can be “important again.” “Once people internalize their leader’s propaganda,” Richardson says, “it doesn’t matter when pieces of it are proven to be lies, because it has become central to their identity.” Some have traced this back to Nazism but Richardson takes her explanation back much further, to the Lincoln presidency, when northerners refused to respect the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. That was when the word “conservative” had a new meaning, but not exactly like the one we know now. Conservatism in the mid-1800s meant embracing equality, which butted up later against New Deal ideas in FDR’s presidency. Things changed – and so had the meaning of conservative – when Black soldiers, returning from World War II demanded real equality. By the time President Johnson had signed into law the Civil Rights Act of 1964, he astutely knew that this movement toward national equality would make room for a “certain kind of politician” to exploit the process’s events and step into a position of power. And on June 16, 2015, Donald Trump descended a golden escalator and announced his campaign for president... The holidays are coming soon, and they get harder and harder to endure. You’ve tried to ban politics from your mealtimes, but it’s getting impossible and maybe gaining an understanding will help. “Democracy Awakening” will open your eyes. Exasperation might make you think there’s no way out of this big mess, but author Heather Cox Richardson shows readers how we’ve seen this political situation before, and when. Frustration might make you feel pessimistic, but Richardson reveals an abundance of hope here, which is thoughtprovoking and surprisingly contagious. Anger could make you want to throw in the towel and scowl, but Richardson’s words are calming, and she’s unruffled in her explanations and her timeline in history. Reading this book is like installing a fresh light bulb in a dark closet. Suddenly, you can see everything that’s there and, thankfully, it still fits just right. This book seems to lean slightly to the left, but that should not keep today’s conservatives away from it. “Democracy Awakening” offers understanding and a way forward. It offers a reason to start talking.

Notes on the State of America

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Lay Them to Rest:

On the Road with the Cold Case Investigators Who Identify the Nameless by Laurah Norton c.2023, Hachette Books $30.00 352 pages And who are you? Even when nobody asks, you sometimes just go ahead and introduce yourself around because people like to put a name to a face and know who they’re talking with. Who are you, what’s your name, what do you do for a living? It’s information that, as in the new book “Lay Them to Rest” by Laurah Norton, isn’t always easy to get. It started with a creative writing interest and a “fulltime non-tenure-track job in the English department of a large university in Atlanta.” It progressed when Laurah Norton walked the halls with her newborn son, listening to podcasts to stay awake. That’s also where her obsession with true crime was ultimately cast in granite. It’s where her hope to “do something useful” was set, too, after Norton learned about John and Jane Doe cases. Those tricky cases result when a decedent’s body or body parts are discovered but their identity is unknown. Those bodies without names struck Norton hard, but none more than the one found in Illinois in 1993. Ina Jane Doe, nicknamed for a small nearby city, was discovered lying against a tree, her red hair tangled in brush. There were no clues to her identity; in fact, there was barely a body to identify: all that was left of Ina Jane Doe was a head and a few attached vertebrae. In 2022, the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) listed some fourteen thousand unclaimed bodies; forty thousand is the number the government uses. Forty percent of the missing people are “persons of color” but white people like Ina Jane Doe were more likely to be identified, overall. As Norton and her close friend, Dr. Amy Michael, a forensic anthropologist, worked their way through several methods to determine Ina Jane Doe’s identity, Norton went through a learning curve. There are many ways to ID a body: skeletal analysis, x-rays, photos, implant serial numbers, tattoos, scars. And then there’s DNA but, well, that’s all about the money... Sometimes, you find a book that’s so good, so fascinating that it’s a shame to rush reading it. “Lay Them to Rest” is that kind of book. You just want to carefully absorb everything there is to know about it – although beware, author Laurah Norton’s subject is quite unsettling. It’s also wince-worthy and sad, but it’s hard to look away. Norton’s descriptions are as methodical as was the year-long process she and Dr. Michael went through to learn more about Ina Jane Doe but the results are faster: readers will quickly feel like sleuths working right alongside Norton. That feeling is underscored when you’re presented with other cases and likewise intriguing Does throughout the country and over time. The true crime tales attached might make you want to go in search of search sites and get involved. Readers who like a little memoir with their murder will enjoy this book immensely. True crime fans should pounce on it. Really, “Lay Them to Rest” is a great read, no matter who you are.

Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America by Michael Harriot c.2023, Dey St. $32.50 426 pages Thanksgiving is coming soon and you know the story. A bunch of white folks came over in a boat, and landed on a rock. When it was November, they had a party and invited the Indians. Or not. Actually, mostly not, says Michael Harriot. In his new book “Black AF History,” you’ve been lied to. Even when he was a young boy growing up, Micheal Harriot understood that the book-filled home he lived in was more than just books, it was opportunity. There, he was able to find the words of great Black thinkers and leaders and as he read, he says “my brain fired off a dozen questions” and it opened his mind. The house full of truth and those books also sent him in search of what “white history” wasn’t saying. The first thing he learned was that “whiteness is not the center of the universe around which everything else revolves.” The Jamestown “settlers,” for instance, weren’t very bright and probably would have perished, were it not for King Wahunsenacah, the leader of a nearby group. The natives bailed the white guys out of hot water more than once. A church, says Harriot, started slavery and white guys seized upon the idea by claiming that Black prisoners would be better slaves because they seemed “’sturdier.’” European immigrants were allowed to be indentured slaves (and thus, freed after a certain time) but “African imports and their children were now considered property.” On that, he says, we have to remember not to lump all slaves together as “Africans” because of the wide variety of cultures represented on an average farm or plantation. Later, slaveholders recognized the knowledge of female Africans and exploited it. Black American history isn’t only about slavery, though. Black people were soldiers, mercenaries, and activists. They were inventors, folk heroes, and survivors. They were lynched. They were hunted. They were churchgoers, comedians, and chroniclers. And they were revolutionaries. So you’ve been living all this time with the assumption that history is dry and boring? No, in author Michael Harriot’s hands, the past is full of hidden truths that aren’t hiding anymore. You’ll find them inside “Black AF History.” You’ll also find plenty to laugh about. Harriot doesn’t just tip textbooks upside down. He includes stories from his own life in this book and while they sometimes make their own chapter, those stories often lead into a point to be made or a bit of reference to be explained. Harriot is also very adept at the art of sarcasm, and so many chapters practically drip with it. That helps readers to see how completely ridiculous it is that these tales have been ignored for dozens, even hundreds of years. The excitement and accomplishment inside these stories further serve to keep you glued to the pages. If you’ve been following current events, you know how thoroughly important a book like this is, and how much it needs to sit next to more somber history tomes. Grab “Black AF History,” and you’ll be thankful you’ve read it.

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FALL LINE-UP AT THE PARADISE Roll On! The Music of Alabama Saturday, October 14 at 7:30 pm Member: $20 / Non-Member: $25 / Student: $15 (18 & under)

Joseph Hall’s Rock ‘N’ Remember Tribute

Saturday, November 4 at 7:30 pm Member: $20 / Non-Member: $25 / Student: $15 (18 & under)

Paradise Community Theatre presents: If/Then October 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 at 7:30 pm October 22 and 29 at 2:00 pm This show is rated R Member: $18 / Non-Member: $20 / Student: $14 (18 and under)

Paradise Community Theatre presents: “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” and “The Wind in the Willows Days of Christmas” December 1, 2, 8, at 7:30 pm December 3, 9 and 10 at 2:00 pm Member: $18 / Non-Member: $20 / Student: $14 (18 & under)

Bad Bad Hats

Friday, November 3 at 7:30 pm Member: $20 / Non-Member: $25 / Student: $15 (18 & under)

Addessa & The Beat

Saturday, November 18 at 7:30 pm Member: $20 / Non-Member: $25 / Student: $15 (18 & under) Buy Tickets

For more information & tickets: www.paradisecenterforthearts.org • (507) 332-7372 321 Central Avenue North, Faribault, MN

These activities are made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural fund. 28

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YOUR GUIDE FOR PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO.