SCENE SEPTEMBER 2023

MOLLY PENNY

Postcards from

Ifinally took the plunge and planned a trip abroad with my two kids, Ramona, 19, and Elliott, 16. Over nine days in August, we visited Rome, Venice, Florence and Cinque Terre. It was the trip of a lifetime.

Throughout the years people had told me many “horror stories” about European travel, specifically Italy One person told me that the cities of Rome and Venice were “dirty” and “smelled like a urinal,” many warned of pick-pocketers (which you do need to be leery of), but I found neither of these other things to be true.

In fact, when the kids and I traveled to Seattle in July 2021 and New York City in October 2019, we encountered trash, smells, and homeless encampments galore.

People also warned me that water was not offered for free with meals and public bathrooms were scarce and required a fee to use. For the record, bathrooms were scarce, but if you spend enough time eating out or taking trains from city to city and make sure your hotel is centrally located, you should have no issues.

We arrived in Rome at this family-owned boutique hotel that was on the third floor of a building in the Federal district. It had an old lift which made getting our bags up to our room a breeze. After napping off our jet-lag, we took a tour of the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.

This was a great introduction to Rome, as you get a full view of the city from the top of

Palatine Hill. The Roman Forum ruins spanned a vast portion of the surrounding area, and we could have explored them for hours had we not been so tired from the trip — three hours to JFK Airport with a five-hour layover before the remainder of our flight.

Once we were rested and refreshed, we asked the concierge, Mario, for some suggestions of good restaurants nearby. He suggested a Nepalese pizza joint called 50 Kalo. They did not speak English, so I relied on Google Translate and my trusty “Italian Phrases” pocket dictionary. The pizza was the best I had ever had.

On day two in Rome, we toured the Vatican, including St. Peter’s cathedral with another guided tour. It was incredible. The Sistine Chapel was harrowing.

Afterwards, we explored Rome nightlife a bit. We saw Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and the Spanish Steps in the evening, and on day three, we had an time to just navigate the city by foot with no planned tours. We ended up eating at a local Thai restaurant.

We did have to pay for water but grew to

appreciate the cultural reasons for not receiving it for free. For one, in Rome especially, there are endless amounts of fountains that you can take free drinking water from, but furthermore, they always brought it out chilled and bottled and poured it for us as if it were bottled wine service. We always requested “still,” because the locals drink sparkling water. Ice was only by request.

On day four, we woke up and caught a train to Venice. Immediately upon arrival, we knew we were somewhere special. Like, there really were no cars there. The Grand Canal of Venice runs directly in front of the train station, so you show up and are immediately on the water.

We took a water ferry to the nearest port to our hotel and navigated a thick crowd of tourists to find our next hotel which sat right next to one of the canals atop a seafood restaurant.

We saw a whole lot of social media influencers taking photos of themselves with the picturesque backdrop and I would say most of the pictures I took on the trip were in Venice because every corner was stunning. We took a Gondola ride in the Grand Canal, and it was a highlight of the trip for me. At one point, we found ourselves in a cove alongside a few other gondolas and on one of them, a man played accordion while another sang a classic Italian folksong.

We learned that to be a gondolier, you must have a family lineage, specifically a father who was a gondolier. He would pass the gondola down to a son or nephew and they would then take care of it. Venice was a “vibe.” It is hard to describe, but if you have ever been to Amsterdam, considered the “Venice of the North,” you might understand.

We were told that while the city had touted 180,000 residents in the 1950s, the local population has since dwindled to about 40,000. We spent two wonderful days in Venice just exploring by foot.

Our next stop was Florence; Easily the most gorgeous place I have ever visited, but the Disneyland crowds were unexpected. Our hotel had a terrace with an incredible view of the nearby Duomo.

We visited the Uffizi Gallery on our first afternoon in Florence and saw works of Botticelli, DaVinci, Michealangelo and Raphael among other great artists of the Renaissance period. We spent hours, and had I not brought my teenage son, I could have spent all day there.

The next day in Florence, we visited Accademia to see Michaelangelo’s “David” and then took the daunting “Duomo climb” for an incredible view of the city. It was tiring but worth it. I suggest purchasing all gallery tickets in advance, whether self-guided or using a tour guide, but make sure you select “skip the line” passes or you will waste hours of your time in cues.

Our final day in Florence began with a bus trip to Cinque Terre, the Italian Riviera. We were busing through the Tuscany region of Italy, so we drove past countless vineyards and it was incredibly beautiful. When we got to the coast, we learned that I had chosen the semiindependent tour option, meaning we were to navigate trains between these coastal cities on our own. These villages were quaint and gorgeous with impressive hiking trails, gorgeous beaches and colorful houses. My kids finally got to take a dip in the Ligurian Sea in the final village we visited, Monterosso.

I would have loved one more day in Florence, but the next morning we boarded a train back to Rome where we stayed in a 4-star hotel for the first time. It was such a funky little place, we ended up spending most of the day enjoying the pool and amenities of our hotel. Everything in Rome is larger than life, and while I expected Florence to be my favorite stop, it was in fact Rome that took my heart. However, I recommend visiting all the cities we explored as Italy is so diverse from the landscape to the food and dialect, you really can’t go wrong. We are already planning our next trip abroad — Japan 2025, but I know that if time and money allows, I will visit Italy again. I am a real jetsetter now; watch out. Ciao! 

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.

highlight fall in

Oktoberfests Southern Minnesota

By TOM NELSON Guest Contributor

The origins of Oktoberfest festivities each fall date back to a wedding celebration more than 200 years ago and the party hasn’t stopped since.

Recognized as one of the largest folk fests in the world, Oktoberfest started as an event to celebrate the wedding of Bavaria’s Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen

on Oct. 12, 1810. The occasion was highlighted by days of banquets, horse races and plenty of drinking.

The tradition of Oktober fest soon migrated to the United States and has firmly established itself as a fall highlight in southern Minnesota. Part of the reason for the popularity of the event, aside from good beer and good times, is the fact that Minnesota residents with German ancestry are one of the largest groups in the state. Minnesotans with German ancestry numbered over 1,800,000 as recently as 2018 followed by Norwegian-Americans (810,300) and Irish-Americans (516,500).

“We are definitely German here in New Ulm, but

Chapel Brewing is one of the sponsors of the Oktoberfest in Dundas this year. (Photo by Tom Nelson)

Beer wagon in downtown New Ulm.

there is a lot of German here in the state throughout our history and I think that helps drive it as well,” said Sarah Warmka, who is the President and CEO of the New Ulm Chamber of Commerce, a city which annually hosts one of the region’s largest Okotoberfest celebrations.

“Our tagline here in New Ulm is that Germans have more fun, so I think that is it. People are drawn to fun. There is also a phrase in German called Gemütlichkeitt, which means a feeling of goodwill and joining arms with your neighbor and the whole feeling of a fun festival and I think people are drawn to that.”

The Oktober fest in New Ulm has been going on for over 40 years and it is just one of several celebrations that will be held in southern Minnesota during the months of September and October in 2023. One of the newcomers to the scene this year will be the Dundas Oktoberfest, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Sept. 23 from Noon to 6:30 p.m.

The main street in downtown Dundas will be blocked off that day with a large Oktoberfest-style tent.

Germanstyle food will be offered along with a full day of music from the High 48’s (bluegrass band) and the 35-piece Bavarian Musikmeisters, a traditional German music band out of the Twin Cities.

“Why there is so much excitement

annual, because one of the goals is to create a festival that is ongoing for the community of Dundas.”

According to Vranich, there had been an ongoing conversation about the potential for some type of city festival but things started moving in February when Little Prairie Church pastor Penny Bonsell and her husband Tom Hollenhorst walked into Chapel Brewing one evening.

Vranich was working that night behind the bar and Bonsell talked about the concept of an Oktoberfest in Dundas, much like the festival they had in Sandstone when she was a pastor in that community. Another built in tie was Hollenhorst’s membership in the Bavarian Musikmeisters band.

Connections were soon put together and the Dundas Oktoberfest soon became a reality thanks to the help of several local businesses and organizations. The fest takes place 12:30-6:30 p.m. Sept. 23.

“The people at the table who are bringing this together are Chapel Brewing, Keepsake Cidery, Little Prairie Church, Farmstead Outdoor Adventures and Bike Shop and the city of Dundas,” Vranich said. “The goal when the committee met was to create a new community event for the residents of Dundas that would allow them to get to know each other and learn about the local businesses. We are also incorporating a non-profit element and there will be local non-profit groups there with booths at the event.”

The fun-filled day will include German themed food from the Little Prairie Church along with beer from Chapel Brewing (including a special Fest Bier) and cider from Keepsake. Other local vendors slated to be at the event include Ruth’s on Stafford

Dandies).

There will be a variety of familyfriendly activities throughout the day including carriage rides, pumpkin painting, lawn games and crafts. Water levels permitting, Farmstead Outdoor Adventures and Bike Shop will have kayaks available for use on the Cannon River along with bike activities.

There will be no admission fee for the event but fest attendees will need to buy a $5 wrist band if they want to drink alcoholic beverages offered at the event.

“One of our goals is to make this family friendly and affordable,” Vranich said. “This celebration is in Dundas and it is about Dundas, and it is to give the citizens of Dundas a sense of pride and place, and all of the offerings that we are doing will be focused on Dundas businesses and non-profits that serve this area.”

She added, “We also wanted to have the event downtown,which was important for economic viability for the downtown businesses but also to showcase the downtown… the river, the sculpture, the mill ruins and the beauty of the downtown.”

In addition to the day-long event, Vranich said that the festivities will continue into the evening after the tent in downtown in closed. Dawn’s Corner Bar and Chapel Brewing are both scheduled to have live music that day beginning at 6:30 p.m.

“There is a lot of European heritage around here where people are familiar with Oktoberfest, whether they have been to one in LaCrosse or up in the Twin Cities…or in Munich. It is just a very enjoyable thing to do…come together with food, music, beer and celebrate the season because that is what it is about,” Vranich said.

“Those are some of the reasons it is popular and it is also pretty much timed with fall foliage and the Cannon River valley is a beautiful area for fall foliage. I also think having a festival in a small town adds to the appeal of the festival. There is also a draw to this area (Dundas/ Northfield) because I can experience a wide variety of beers with three breweries, a cidery and a distillery and I don’t have to go to Northeast Minneapolis. I can come here and do all of those things.”

For details on the Dundas Oktoberfest, visit dundasoktoberfest. com.

Listed below are other Oktoberfest celebrations in the area.

New Ulm OktoberfestDowntown

is because Dundas has not had a festival of its own for many years,” said Tracie Vranich, Co-Owner of Chapel Brewing and Dundas Okotoberfest Committee member. “We are calling it the first

and other items using Chapel Beer as an ingredient), Martha’s Eats and Treats (pretzel cart and cotton candy) and Nelson’s Apple Farm (fried Apple

The Oktoberfest celebration in downtown runs for two weekends in New Ulm. On Oct. 6-7, the festival centers around the downtown area with bands playing all day on Oct. 7. Games that day will include

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The New Ulm Oktoberfest is one of the biggest in the region. (Photo courtesy of the New Ulm

Chamber of Commerce)

A stein holding contest in downtown New Ulm.

Members of the Dundas Oktoberfest organizing committee include, front row, Michelle Millenacker and Nate Watters (owner of Keepsake Cidery). Back row includes Tracie Vranich (owner, Chapel Brewing), Jenelle Teppen (city administrator, city of Dundas), Jeff Sartor, Penny Bonsell (pastor, Little Prairie Church), Caitlyn Otis and Lee Skaar. Not pictured are Brianna Lane and Greg Lane, owners of Farmstead Outdoor Adventures, Tom Hollenhorst (member, Bavarian Musikmeisters), Steve Schmidt (owner, Chapel Brewing). (Photo courtesy of Chapel Brewing)

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a sauerkraut eating contest, stein holding competition and a yodeling contest. The beer garden will feature locally made beverages including Schell’s and Grain Belt along with wines from Morgan Creek Vineyards and Snowdrop Winery; and cider from Tall Grass Cider in nearby Madelia.

“Of course we will have the German food with the landjaegers, German potato salad, sauerkraut and spaetzle and all those things but there will also things like the historic popcorn wagon from the museum will be out there and there will be a German nut company that is going to be there and pretzels,” Warmka said.

The first weekend will also include Oktoberfest activities at the Best Western Hotel and Green Mill in New Ulm along with activities at the Morgan Creek Winery on Oct. 7. The always popular grape stomp at Morgan Creek Winery will return in 2023 after taking a break due to COVID in recent years. Often times, teams in costume participate in the grape stomp adding to the day’s fun at the winery.

“The first weekend they events focus more on kids and family friendly things and the second weekend is geared more toward adults,” Warmka said.

The second weekend of the festival runs on Oct. 13-14 with the majority of events taking place at the Best Western and Green Mill along with the annual Schell’s Oktoberfest gathering on Oct. 14 at the brewery grounds.

The original New Ulm Oktober fest started at the Best Western, which was then a Holiday Inn. A year later, New Ulm’s downtown got into the act and hosted their own Oktoberfest events. The combined festivals have now grown into one

of the biggest in the state and hotels are often booked a year in advance for these weekends.

New Ulm is an area rich in German-American influences. The Herman the German monument was placed in New Ulm back in 1897 because of the area’s German heritage and it pays tribute to Arminius, a chieftain who led Germanic tribes to victory over the Romans in 9 AD. A glockenspiel also resides in downtown New Ulm and the Kaiserhoff and Turner Hall offer German flavored cuisine year round.

Mineral Springs Okotoberfest

“New Ulm was founded in 1854 by two different groups of Germans. We were founded by Germans for Germans. Their goal was to create a utopian community on the prairie and we’ve maintained our German culture since then,” Warmka said.

Bier on Belgrade - North Mankato

The eight annual Bier on Belgrade on Belgrade Avenue in North Mankato is set for Saturday, Sept. 23 from Noon to 10:00 p.m. This 21-and-over free event will include food, live music, beer samplings from local and international breweries, games and the ceremonial keg tapping with city dignitaries. For more details visit: www.businessonbelgrademn.com/ events

Ettlin’s Ranchero OktoberfestWebster

The renowned Charlie Sticha Band will be one of the highlights of the Oktoberfest at Ettlin’s Ranchero in Webster, Minn. on Saturday, Sept. 30. The event runs from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and it will include an outdoor stage along with art/craft vendors and games. Pork schnitzel specials will be offered in the dining room at the Ranchero during the event and reservations are

downtown Owatonna will be hosting its third annual Oktoberfest on Friday, Sept. 22 and Saturday, Sept. 23. The event will run both days from noon to 11 p.m. in a large tent on the MSB property. There is no cost for admission to the celebration and entertainment each day will include professional concertina player Lori Lachner and The Brian Raichle Polka Band. Brats will be provided by SpareTime Entertainment and the Pretzel Wiz along with El Rey Del Taco on Friday and Northwoods Smokehouse BBQ on Saturday. See more at mineralspringsbrewery.com.

Foremost Oktober fest occurs a weekend earlier on Sept. 16, starting at 11 a.m. Foremost will have Wendinger Polka Band providing musical entertainment from 1-4 p.m. There will be steinholding contests throughout the day, large pretzels and festivities for all ages. See more at foremost. coop.

authentic German themed clothing and gifts during the festival. A variety of Oktoberfest beers from around the world will be on tap over the weekend and the schedule will also feature a sauerkraut eating contest, stein holding competition, best dressed lederhosen and dirndl contest and a 0.1K “non-run” fun run.

The St. Peter Ambassador group has been organizing this event for the past 12 years as a way to bring the community together but also as a way to raise funds that are invested back into the community. In the past these donations have gone to places like St. Peter Veterans Memorial, Last Man Club Vietnam War Era, Helping Minnesota Heroes, Veterans Park Baseball Diamond, St. Peter and Kasota Fire Departments, St. Peter’s St Patrick’s Day Parade, Minnesota Original Music Festival, Ambassadors’ Bluesfest, St. Peter Chamber Diplomats Annual Picnic and the Old Fashioned 4th of July celebration.

Twin Cities Oktoberfest - St. Paul

Voted one of the top five Oktoberfests in the United States, the Twin Cities Oktoberfest runs Oct. 6-7 at the Historic Progress Center on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. The event features beverages from Utepils Brewing, Lupulin Brewing, Lift Bridge Brewing and Sociable Cider Works. Food vendors will offer brats, pretzels and German potato salad. Three traditional German bands will entertain during the Oktoberfest song with contests in stein holding and Hammer-Schlagen. Visit www.tcoktoberfest.com for more details.

Minnesota Renaissance Festival Oktoberfest

encouraged for those wishing to dine inside at the Ranchero that day. If you can’t make it out on Sept. 30, the Ranchero serves several Swiss and German inspired dishes on its menu throughout the year. For more information visit: www. rancherosupperclub.com

Giesenbräu OktoberfestNew Prague

The Giesenbräu Brewer y in New Prague will host its sixth annual Oktoberfest on Oct. 6 and Oct. 7. The event will feature live polka music throughout both days and Prchal’s food truck will be on hand to serve up pork and dumplings, Reubens, brats and other favorites. Edelweiss Bakery will also be offering Bavarian pretzels on both days. The ceremonial tapping for the Giesenbräu Bräu Bräu Bräu Festbier will take place on Oct. 6. Special Giesenbräu Oktoberfest 2023 commemorative steins will be available for purchase and guests can bring their own beer steins from home for the event. Lawn games and a stein holding contest will also be included on the schedule of events. For more details, please visit: www.giesenbraubierco.com

Mineral Springs and Foremost

Oktoberfest - Owatonna

Mineral Springs Brewer y in

St. Peter Oktoberfest - Nicollet County Fairgrounds

A two-day experience, the 2023 St. Peter Oktoberfest will be held at the Nicollet County Fairgrounds in St. Peter. The action begins at 4 p.m. on Sept. 29 and will conclude on Sept. 30. The event will include two stages, eight bands, great Oktoberfest beer and food, artisan vendors and plenty of fall fun. Highlights include performances on Friday night by Crista Bohlmann and IV Play and on Saturday night by Rock of Ages and Thund-Her-Struck. The celebration is put on by the St. Peter Ambassadors and sponsored this year by Nielsen Blacktopping.

Admission is free to the St. Peter Oktoberfest on Sept. 30 from noon to 5 p.m. On Friday evening and after 5 p.m. Saturday, you will need a ticket for admission. You can purchase at the gate or in advance at stpeterambassadors.com.

Other music acts on stage in the main tent include polka favorites Larry Novotny, Kris and the Riverbend Dutchmen, the Concord Singers and the Bockfest Boys. A variety of local food vendors will be available at the festival and for the first time art and craft vendors have been invited to set up booths at the event. Visitors can also shop for

Celebrate Oktober fest on the the final weekend of the Minnesota Renaissance Festival in Shakopee. (Sept. 29-Oct. 1).

In addition to all the Renaissance Festival has to offer each year, this weekend will include Oktoberfest themed events including stein holding and yodeling contests, beer tasting and wiener dog races. Visit www.renaissancefest.com/ oktoberfest for more information.

Ward House Brewery Oktoberfest

The Dan Sturas Polka Band is slated to perform as part of the Oktoberfest festivities at the Ward House Brewery in Waseca on Sept. 29-30. Lager Schlogen, a special Munich style reserve lager, will be available this fall at the brewery and a lederhosen contest promises to be another weekend highlight. Check out the details at www. wardhousebrewerywaseca.com/ events

Das Beste! Oktoberfest USALaCrosse, Wisconsin

The longest running Oktober fest in the Midwest, the Das Beste! Oktoberfest in LaCrosse, Wisc. takes place on Sept. 28-30 at the festival grounds in downtown LaCrosse. The event features two parades, three music stages, food, beer and Oktoberfest themed activities and contests. For more details visit: www.oktoberfestusa.com

Imminent Brewing Oktoberfest

Imminent Brewing in downtown Northfield does not have a specific event related to Oktoberfest but it will be offering its Oktoberfest beer during the fall months. The brewing process under the guidance of brewmasters Justin Holden and Jared Allerson begins in the spring and the end result is a very approachable and flavorful Märzen style beer that went on tap at the end of August. See more at imminentbrewing.com.

GET DRESSED

If you are headed out to one of the area Oktoberfests and need to update your Bavarian-style wardrobe or are looking for some specialty German food items, German Speciality Imports in Prior Lake is your place to go.

The store is located at 19580 Bernard Avenue in Prior Lake and you can also shop for items online at germanspecialtyimport. com

Some of the Oktober fest items for sale include genuine German Lederhosen and dirndls in all sizes along with German hats, pins, wreaths and, of course, beer steins. Food items available include authentic German pretzels, speciality mustards, sausages and Oktoberfest flags and decorations. 

Tom Nelson is a freelance writer. Reach the editor at editor@ apgsomn.com.

at Southern Minnesota farms

By JANE TURPIN MOORE Guest Contributor

You really ought to get out more.

And this fall, there’s no better place to be on a colorful, crisp autumn afternoon than at a festive farm in the southern Minnesota countryside.

Good thing you have an open invitation to several sites sprinkled across the region. Owners of apple orchards, “fun” farms, pumpkin patches, corn mazes and beef barns are eager to welcome you for golden hours filled with family time, fresh products and the kind of relaxation only gained from slowing down.

Here are two prime spots where you can spend quality time — and likely a little cash on locally produced products this season, too:

Sasse Lake Farms 44621 Cannon River Road, Kilkenny; slfangus.com; 507-363-2345.

Beef Barn Fall Festival, Sunday, Sept. 10, 3-7 p.m.

Scenically located on Sasse Lake in rural Kilkenny, Sasse Lake Farms is becoming increasingly well-known for its high quality, dry-aged beef.

Its proprietors—Chelsea and Joel Hansen, and Erik and Jessica Danielson—are committed to not only producing local

GO AND THINGS TO DO.

Fall color enhances the agricultural landscape at Sasse Lake Farms, which hosts its Fall Festival from 3 to 7 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 10. (Photo courtesy of Chelsea Hansen)

Chelsea Hansen packs up an order of fresh Black Angus beef for a customer at the Sasse Lake Farms Beef Barn.

beef that’s tender and has a superior flavor profile but also to hosting customers for whom the agricultural life is not an every-day occurrence.

“We love inviting people to share this place with us because not everybody has access to farms,” said Chelsea, SLF’s chief marketer and customer care specialist.

“Having face-to-face conversations with people and welcoming them to relax and enjoy one another while we provide a fun farm experience is really special to us.”

Specifically, SLF is hosting its Beef Barn Fall Festival on Sunday, Sept. 10, from 3 to 7 p.m.

“We’re excited that Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm from rural Waseca will be on site with their mobile pizza oven, and the BullyPulpit Bluegrass Band will share a really authentic, down-on-the-farm soundtrack,” Chelsea said. “We want people to bring chairs, play lawn games, walk the pasture, enjoy the gardens, linger and relax,” she continued.

“All of those things don’t cost money. And there’s space for kids to run and play.”

SLF provides complimentar y games like corn hole, giant dominos, checkers and chess. And between the pasture, lake, cattle, flower gardens and butterfly-wing mural, there are plenty of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, too.

Chelsea reminds that, besides being ideal for families, the SLF Beef Barn Festival is an attractive destination for a girls’ night out or dates, as well.

Beef, of course, is at the center of it all.

Chelsea assures the SLF Beef Barn will be newly stocked with fresh-from-the-butcher ground beef, steaks and roasts, plus specialty cuts like briskets, beef bacon and Cowboy steaks.

“Those are ribeyes but with the rib still attached so when you hold it up—it’s two and a half inches thick—it looks like a roast on a stick,” explained Chelsea of the Cowboy cut. “It’s a really big steak.”

Even though fall tends to mark a descent into “roasts and soup bone season,” as

Chelsea puts it, she reminds that grilling can continue well into November so it’s a good time to stock up.

Besides an abundance of SLF beef, the Beef Barn Fall Festival includes craft vendors (like Elysian’s The Coop), homegrown/homemade foods from other area producers (think eggs, pork, canned goods) and fresh-roasted coffee from Candullo’s Coffee of Owatonna.

“Just like our beef, ever ything offered for sale here will be fresh and locally produced,” said Chelsea.

“There will be shopping for ever yone.”

For those unable to make it to SLF on Sept. 10, rest assured you can order SLF Black Angus by phone or website throughout the year.

Since the SLF crew just finished its Beef Barn in the summer of ’22, this is only their second season of fall fun.

“We learned a little bit last year and are adding something new to the experience each time,” said Chelsea.

The Hansens and Danielsons love sharing the story of their fifth-generation farm.

“There’s something very nostalgic about being on a farm in the fall,” Chelsea confirmed.

“Whether it’s corn, apples, canned items or meat, we’re all bringing in the harvest. This is the season to relish your own childhood farm memories—and we’re eager to help create those memories for new generations of children.”

Montgomery Orchard 15953 State Hwy. 99, Montgomery; montgomeryorchard.com; 952-221-1051. Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., beginning Sept. 2.

With a logo tagline of “Where friends, family and nature come together,” you know Montgomery Orchard encourages wholesome, outdoor interaction.

Sure enough, owners Barb and Scott Wardell promise that their hard work, delicious fruit and sense of adventure combine for The Sasse Lake Farms Beef Barn offers a comfortable place to buy select beef cuts and also to browse among other homegrown goods and hand-produced decor items.

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(Photo courtesy of Chelsea Hansen)

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unforgettable fall moments you won’t want to miss.

“Our goal is to become a part of people’s fall tradition,” said Scott.

A past Southern Minnesota Scene designee as “Best Orchard in Southern Minnesota,” it seems Montgomery Orchard — located four miles south of Montgomery, precisely midway between St. Peter and Faribault — is worthy of that moniker.

The Wardells have come a long way since buying the farmland on which their business is currently flourishing.

“We bought it in 1997, planted our first five apple trees in 1998, and kept planting 200 trees a year after that,” said Scott, mentioning they now tend over 2,000 fruit trees—90% apple but also a selection of pears and plums.

Besides the Wardells, there are two other “core” employees: an orchard operations manager and a Cider House/retail manager.

“We have a full winery where we make apple and plum wines and also hard ciders,” said Scott, clarifying they also have nonalcoholic “sweet cider,” which, despite its sugar-suggestive name, is pure apple juice with no additives.

Montgomer y Orchard’s tantalizing yield includes its signature Montgomery Honey Crisp apple, a fruit Scott says is uniquely

wonderful because of the ideal mineralrich, heavy soil in which the trees grow, the Wardells’ habit of tree-ripening their apples (rather than force-picking them like large orchards do, Scott reveals) and the orchard’s tiered pruning system.

“That allows more sun into the tree, making all the difference for true ripening,” Scott said. Or crunch your teeth into First Kiss, Sweetango or any of the 14 varieties grown at Montgomery Orchard.

“We have a beautiful Haralson crop coming in as well,” said Scott, noting Haralsons are great for baking as well as fresh eating. But how about that six-acre corn maze?

Fall 2023 marks the 15th year of Montgomery Orchard’s inimitable corn maze, one that takes a literal new shape each season.

“It’s designed with a nature theme,” said Scott, “and we embed 10 trivia questions to look for in the maze. Then you can return to the store with the answers and get a patch in the shape and design of the maze.”

A wild turkey is 2023’s corn maze design (2022 was a dragonfly), and Scott swears there are adults who’ve annually tackled the maze and added each year’s patch to denim jackets they proudly wear.

To make it doable for families, the corn maze has two sides, with each section taking an estimated 45 minutes to navigate.

“With small children, some people may only want 45 minutes,” said Scott, though he says many enjoy wending their way through the entire maze challenge.

“It’s a really nice big maze.”

And there’s the apple-picking, of course, which is a primary draw.

“We’re not a carnival—there’s no apple cannon here—but we’re in a spectacularly beautiful setting where you can pick your own apples, wander in the corn maze and adults can try a sip of hard cider or wine,” said Scott.

In addition, musical entertainment will be on site each weekend (check Montgomery Orchard’s website or Facebook page in advance for performer listings), as will food trucks (Pizzeria 201 of Montgomery each Saturday and Taco Bien of Lonsdale each Sunday).

“Allow enough time because you don’t want to rush your day when you’re here; there’s a lot to do,” recommended Scott.

“We say….relax, you’re at Montgomery Orchard. Slow down and spend the afternoon with us.”

Other farms for fall fun

(note: most have no dog and no smoking policies):

Bridgewater Farm Pumpkin Patch 4706 E. Lonsdale Blvd., Northfield, bridgewaterproducefarm.com. Pick-your-own pumpkin patch, giant corn maze, yard games, corn box, hay rides, hay bale pyramid, barrel rides, photo alley.

Trumps Orchard 1020 St. Paul Ave., Faribault, trumpsorchard.com. Pick-your-own apples (and pre-picked), pumpkins, gourds, squash, plums, pears, jams/jellies, pies, apple crisp.

Fireside Orchard & Gardens 2225 Lonsdale Blvd. East, Northfield, firesideorchard.com. Apples, gourds, honey, handmade pies, donuts, jams/jellies, cider, baked goods, rose garden.

Emma Krumbee’s Orchard 311 E. Enterprise Drive, Belle Plaine, Emma Krumbee’s Orchard on Facebook. Pick-your-

own apples and pumpkins, mums, pies, country store, kids’ activities.

Barten Pumpkins 5716 W. 280th St., New Prague, bartenpumpkins.com. Pumpkins, squash, gourds, straw bales, mums, broom and ornamental corn, pumpkin stilts, nature play area, photo areas.

The Little Green Wagon Pumpkin Patch & Farm 23493 MN-22, Mankato, thelittlegreenwagon.com. Pick-your-own pumpkin patch, pastured pork and duck eggs, free play area with large corn pit, straw bale maze, play truck with slides, play tractor, tictac-toe and photo boards.

Harvest Hills Farms 7561 403rd Ave., Janesville, Harvest Hills Farms on Facebook. Pick-your-own pumpkins, squash, corn stalks, other farm produce.

Autumn Acres Farm 35482 W. County Line Road, Janesville, autumnacresfarmminnesota. com. Pick-your-own pumpkins, two corn pits, giant pumpkin ring toss, pint-sized ring toss, music sticks, pumpkin bean bag toss, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, bushel basket toss, straw mountain with slide, mini-obstacle course, photo opportunities, tractor-pulled wagon/ hay rides, concessions on weekends.

Sweetland Orchard 26205 Fairlawn Ave., Webster, sweetlandorchard.com. Orchard strolls, orchard picnics, hard cider sampling, apple tasting and cider tasting kits, apples, pears, tart cherries, chickens to view.

Nelson’s Apple Farm 3010 Douglas Ave., Webster, nelsonsapplefarm.com or Nelson’s Apple Farm on Facebook. Pick-your-own apples (25 varieties), pumpkin patch, special “Apple Dandies” sold, Fall Flea Market and Craft Festival (Sept. 9 and Oct. 14; vendors may email interest to nelsons.seasonalevents@ gmail.com). 

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

A previous year’s corn maze at Montgomery Orchard celebrates the wood duck. (Photo courtesy of Montgomery Orchard)

Montgomery Orchard offers a variety of apples to pick.

From the MUSIC SIDE

MEGAN ROLLOFF

Fame and glory in New Ulm

It’s no secret that we Americans like to celebrate our accomplishments. The number of awards banquets and halls of fames throughout the country surely illustrate that point.

Even we self-deprecating, passiveaggressive, stand-in-the-back-of-theroom Minnesotans are fiercely proud of the culturally significant contributions we’ve made to society during our 165 years as a state.

Just like Ohio and Tennessee, we too have a music hall fame. It is the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame, and it is located in New Ulm. Yep, New Ulm.

New Ulm does indeed have a rich history of musical talent due to its high concentration of German heritage and the confounding popularity of polka music from the 1920s through the 1960s.

But those were some tumultuous decades, and I’ve never heard a sad polka song, and who doesn’t love being tossed around like a rag doll to “roll out the barrel?”

In the late 80s, the idea of a museum dedicated to the musical accomplishments of Minnesotans was hatched. And in 1989, it was established right here in Southern Minnesota.

My husband and I recently made a visit to the museum at 27 N. Broadway in New Ulm.

I am a little embarrassed to say that, despite living here for 20 years, this was my first time inside the former public library with the art deco exterior. But at least I didn’t wait 43 years like my husband.

We were both delighted and surprised by how much there is to see and learn. An audio tour, with information on each inductee, has recently become available for those of us who are not big readers.

While the museum’s collection is heavy on polka and “old-time” music greats, it has also kept up with the times and inducted all the important influencers you would expect. Soul Asylum, John Denver, The Replacements, Garrison Keillor, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Lorie Line, The Andrews Sisters, The Trashmen, Judy Garland, Bob Dylan, Bobby Vee, and, of course, Prince, are all inductees of the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame.

The size of each display and amount of memorabilia varies for each inductee. Undoubtedly driven by what the museum was able to procure rather than the importance placed on each artist. That said, one of the newest displays is a large collection dedicated to The Purple One himself.

Prince was inducted in 2007. I remember it well as there was much hope, and even a little effort, on the part of community members to bring the man himself on a drive (or rather a ride) south to make a surprise appearance at the induction banquet or the “Prince Party” being held in his honor that weekend at George’s Ballroom. Firsthand, I can tell you he did not show.

The museum is open seasonally from April to November, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. It’s worth the trip, and not only if it’s just across town.

Make a day of it. Come and learn a little about Minnesota music at the Hall of Fame, head to Vintage and Vinyl to grab a record or two for your collection, hit up the MN EIS ice cream shop for a cone or shake, and end the evening with dinner at George’s Steakhouse and/or a cocktail/mocktail at Sweet Haven Tonics. Or, there is bound to be a live band playing somewhere in town, and these days it may not even be polka.

See more at mnmusichalloffame.org.

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.

By ASHLEY HANLEY Guest Contributor

Back in 1972 Barb and Kal Kiesler wanted to start a family business. Their vision was to establish a campground for good, quality, family fun. Flash forward more than 50 years later, and the campground is one of the top campgrounds in Southern Minnesota. In 1998, their son and his wife Belinda took over, and now, they are currently in the process of being owned by original owners’ granddaughter and third generation, Kristi Cochran and her

husband, Mike.

“We are proud to be a family business for 51 years and counting,” Cochran said. That family tradition is built around the theory that there’s something for everyone when they come to Kiesler’s.

Families can stay busy participating in our planned activities, relax by the pool, fish off the dock, or enjoy a campfire at their site.

Located in Waseca, Cochran added what she said makes Kiesler’s unique.

“You can count on clean facilities, friendly staff and awesome, planned activities. However, our planned activities program is like no other. We host themed, coordinated activities every 30-60 minutes, seven days a week. The activities are always changing. We are known for our messy obstacle courses

and minute to win it challenges. Family relays, yard game tournaments, crafts, swimming pool contests, and so much more. Another camper favorite is our friendly mascot, KC,” Cochran said. “Each week, we host bingo and live music or a DJ. Our facilities include: volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, shuffleboard, playgrounds, heated swimming pool with slides, kiddie pool, remote control car track, updated arcade, recreation hall, snack shack and more.”

But it is not just families that come to the

campground; Kiesler’s is also home to a lot of retirees and even snowbirds. Cochran said this combination is what makes her job so rewarding.

“We have the most amazing guests. They let us be part of creating their family memories. It’s our job to make sure their memories are unforgettable,” she said.

Another great family-friendly site nearby is Kamp Dels in Waterville. They have been around for more than six decades, and now have a brand-new waterpark. The waterpark

also includes water slides and rock climbing that hangs over the pool area. Their website also said they have a sea creature water walk, fish slide and so much more.

Kamp Dels also has the lake and/or water themed activities those all over Minnesota love to enjoy, such as paddle boats and canoes.

For those that prefer a cabin, they also have those for rental. Non-water activities include shuffle-board, horseshoes, playgrounds, tennis courts, racquetball, fitness center, volleyball

courts and more.

One attraction that makes them unique is that they also have a petting zoo, catch and release fishing pond, and pony rides. Mini golf, a driving range, boat and pontoon rentals are also available.

So whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, you don’t have to travel far for a fun-filled Southern Minnesota camping adventure. 

CAMPING OPTIONS IN THE SOUTHERN MINN SCENE AREA

Camp Faribo

21851 Bagley Ave., Faribault 507-332-8453

campfaribo.com

Clear Lake Park & Campground

35194 Clear Lake Lane, Le Center

Primitive campsites, first come-first served Flandrau State Park

1300 Summit Ave., New Ulm 507-233-1260

dnr.state.mn.us

Camping, swimming, hiking

Frontenac State Park

29223 County 28 Blvd., Frontenac 651-345-3401

dnr.state.mn.us

Camping, hiking trails

Lake Washington Regional Park & Campground

47102 Washington Park Road, Kasota 507-357-8201

co.le-sueur.mn.us

Camping, fishing, canoe launch, playgrounds

Land of Memories Campground

100 Amos Owen Lane, Mankato mankatomn.gov

Fishing, canoeing, boat landing

Kamp Dells

14842 Sakatah Lake Road, Waterville 507-362-8616

kampdels.com

Kieslers Campground & RV resort

14360 U.S. Hwy. 14, Waseca 507-835-3179

kieslers.com

Boat rentals, mini golf

Mill Pond/Riverside Park & Campground

227 S Front St., St. Peter Boat launch, fishing pond, playground

Sakatah Lake State Park

50499 Sakatah Lake State Park Road, Waterville

507-698-7851

dnr.state.mn.us

Hiking, biking, camping

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!

Through a SOMINN LENS

A time of harvest, gatherings & a changing landscape

Crisp September mornings and evenings carry an anticipatory air, a heightened awareness that summer in Minnesota is ending, autumn approaching.

Everything seems sharper, more angular. Crickets chorus. Shadows lengthen. Green morphs to muted tones in a landscape that is changing. Farmers prepare for harvest, then roll combines into corn and soybean fields. Dust flies. Pumpkins and apples ripen. Churches host harvest meals that taste of Sunday dinner at Grandma’s house. Musicians entertain at outdoor country socials and other gatherings. Crafters market their creations at fall sales, while vendors sell their second-hand finds at flea markets. Everywhere, people come together. For those with agrarian roots, threshing shows hold a yesteryear appeal, an opportunity to experience farming in the ways of their ancestors. Steam engines rumble. Farmers and retired farmers, caps clamped on, cluster

around tractors and other vintage farm machinery swapping stories.

In sunny spaces, native prairie flowers flourish, blazing color into the landscape among drying tall grasses, stems of goldenrod, milkweed pods bursting with seeds, cattails exploding in puffs of white fluff.

At grocery and hardware and big box stores and at floral shops, buyers scoop up pots of chrysanthemums, the unofficial flower of autumn, to replace the withering blooms of summer on patios and front steps.

The season is subtly shifting, the earth transitioning toward dormancy, toward the quietness and starkness of winter only months away. September brings a certain urgency to gather in the crops, to appreciate each sun-dappled day, to delight in nature, to circle around bonfires, to cram onto bleachers at high school football games. To celebrate simply being together in this land we love, this southern Minnesota, this place we call home. 

A native of southwestern Minnesota and a Faribault resident for 41 years, Audrey Kletscher Helbling explores the small towns and back roads of the region, documenting her finds on her Minnesota Prairie Roots blog at https://mnprairieroots.com. Contact her at audrey@mnprairieroots.com

Inside the blacksmith shop at the September 2022 Rice County Steam & Gas Engines Show. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Steam engine show emblems. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Threshing machines displayed at rural Dundas threshing show. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

A wheat wreath decorates the entry to The White Barn Boutique, rural Faribault. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Sorghum stretches high at the Rice County Steam & Gas Engines grounds, rural Dundas. Volunteers press sorghum at the September show. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Volunteers thresh oats at the September 2022 Rice County Steam & Gas Engines Show. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

The grain elevator in Zumbrota. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Vintage paint-by-number seasonal art for sale at the 2022 Rice County Historical Society Fall Flea Market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Performing at the September 2022 Valley Grove Fall Country Social, rural Nerstrand. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Taking a break from threshing oats in rural Dundas to make repairs. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

A

one of many buildings of yesteryear located at the Rice County Steam & Gas Engines site, rural Dundas. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Purple wildflowers. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Attendees at the 2022 Valley Grove Fall Country Social enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride through the prairie. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

A picturesque autumn scene by Bridge Square in the heart of Northfield. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

granary,

Gates swing open at Valley Grove for the Fall Country Social in mid-September. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

The White Barn Boutique, 3175 122nd St. W, Faribault (near Millersburg) features antiques, collectibles, vintage finds and more at its seasonal sales. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Yellow wildflowers. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Crabapples. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

A small section of “Harvest,” a bronze sculpture by Raymond Jacobson located in Sesquicentennial Legacy Plaza along the Cannon River in downtown Northfield. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

The September 2022 harvest underway, rural Dundas. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Leaves in creek. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

A musician from Steam Machine performs at the September 2022 Rice County Steam & Gas Engines Show, rural Dundas. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2023)

Is patience really a virtue?

The first mistake Philip Weyhe made was in hiring me to write for the Southern Minnesota Scene magazine. The second was when he told me I could write about anything I wanted as long as I didn’t swear. This is a precarious situation, as I should always be given more stringent rules than that.

I named my column “Rants & Raves,” because I have myriad things that bug me. Instead of doing years of expensive therapy, I make Philip pay me while I rant about things. For example, one of the things that really sets me off is people who don’t understand the wonders of the drop-off box at the Post Office. You wouldn’t think this was a tough concept. Drive up, open your window, drop off your letter or bill, and keep it moving. I think it’s a pretty straight forward process. Why then is there a lineup of cars every time I get there? If you’re still addressing your wedding invitations,

get out of this lane. If I catch you signing your holiday cards, I’m gonna honk and gesture like a crazy woman. Stop, drop and move it, people. I used to have patience but that went away with my 40s. Now, chances are I’m going to lose my mind if you get in front of me at the coffee shop and ask for an explanation of what every beverage is before you order the equivalent of a candy bar in a glass. If you’ve never heard the term “espresso” before, now is not the time to have a lesson in the history of coffee roasting. Go home, Google it like the rest of us. Or step out of line, as I’m sure you can feel the heat of all the eyes burning into the back of your skull as the other patrons and I decide your fate.

It’s bad enough if I’m behind you at the coffee shop, but I promise, I’ll be even worse if you’re using self-checkout at the grocery store without any sense of urgency. When I see someone carefully pick up each item, inspect the packaging, check the nutrition labels and ponder each purchase as if it was a once-in-alifetime situation, I become unhinged.

Back in the day, I didn’t mind when people drove slow in the left-hand lane or put their turn signal on and forgot about it for miles on end. But once I hit my 50s, something snapped. I was in the mailing/packaging store the other day and the guy in front of me said, “Do you sell boxes here for mailing?” He was literally standing in front of an entire wall of cardboard boxes and signs describing the different kinds of shipping services they provide. I was so busy rolling my eyes and sighing that I could hardly contain myself. I had to leave the store and go back the next day when my blood pressure had gone down 20-30 points.

And if you’re at the gas station, feel free to move your car after you fill up. You may not have noticed the pile up of cars waiting behind you, but we see you. Don’t just sit in your car and attempt to plan out your entire vacation route, move your damn car and go in the store to pay. If my receipt doesn’t print and I have to go inside and hear you discussing your dog’s Halloween costume with the cashier, it’s not gonna be pretty. Not that my life is so much

more important, it’s just that I can’t take it. I’ve watched all those true crime stories and I usually end up feeling bad for the killer knowing he/ she just snapped after someone was in front of them in the drive-thru bank line while attempting to balance their checkbook. Maybe you couldn’t figure out which direction to put your card in the ATM? Or you’re trying to refinance your home or get a loan for your kid’s college tuition, get the *%&$ out of the drive-thru lane.

Oh, fast food. That’s even worse. McDonald’s has had the same basic menu since 1950, but I always manage to get in the lane behind the person who has never had a hamburger before. And don’t get me started on the Dad ordering for the entire little league team who each require a customization to their culinary selection. If you’re order costs more than $25, you shouldn’t be at the drive-thru. If you have to ask what kind of currency they take or get a printed description of the ingredients in the whip cream, you better be parking.

This is just a brief glimpse into one of the many reasons it’s hard being me. 

Fall 2023 is all about the return of cargo pants, bomber jackets, and slip dresses

As autumn embraces us.

It’s a fashion renaissance that’s all about revisiting the classics.

It’s time to welcome back three timeless favorites: Cargo Pants, Bomber Jackets, and Slip Dresses. These iconic pieces are shedding their old labels and stepping back into the spotlight, proving that true style is eternal. Join us as we unravel the history, debunk the myths, and explore how to wear these wardrobe essentials with a fresh and fabulous twist.

Cargo pants: The ultimate expression of comfort and style, not just for the working guy.

Cargo pants are a versatile canvas for creativity, perfect for all occasions. Cargo pants have come a long way from their utilitarian roots, evolving into a fashion statement that effortlessly combines style and functionality. This fall, they’re reclaiming their place in the spotlight.

cozy vibes by pairing cargo pants with cardigans, button-up shirts, or chunky sweaters. Elevate your ensemble with the sleek elegance of a fitted turtleneck, creating a harmonious blend of comfort and chic. And for a delightful twist, consider embracing the playful contrast by pairing silky cargo pants with a bomber jacket – it’s a dynamic duo that’s destined to turn heads.

Bomber jackets: Timeless coolness that defies trends, bomber jackets are a symbol of enduring style and effortless attitude.

Bomber jackets have a storied history that transcends fleeting trends, solidifying their place as an emblem of timeless cool. In Fall 2023, they’re making a triumphant return, reminding us that authentic style has no expiration date. Embrace the versatility of new bomber jacket styles by effortlessly pairing them with denim for

of cargo pants, bomber jackets and slip dresses

an everyday chic look. Elevate your fashion game by combining them with dress trousers and a classic shirt, letting your unique attitude shine through. Bomber jackets aren’t just for those trying to fit in –they’re for those who stand out and confidently own their style journey. You are going to love the selection this time around, giving up the bulk for a sleeker stylish look.

Slip dresses: The epitome of effortless elegance, slip dresses are a blank canvas, ready to express your style from dawn to dusk.

Slip dresses have undergone a transformation from sleepwear to a versatile fashion staple. Fall 2023 in

style that effortless ly blends laid-back charm with refined elegance.

Sweaters:

Step ahead to a new subtle elegance.

do away with chunky knit or warmth, it will be restyled to enhance your silhouette, instead of hiding it. It’s a celebration of understated elegance, where each piece works harmoniously to create a style that’s uniquely yours.

ith the arrival of fall, the stage is set for a fashion revival that effortlessly weaves the past with the present. Cargo pants, bomber jackets, and slip dresses return with a renewed spirit, ready to make a statement that transcends time. These classics are reclaiming their well-deserved place

vites you to take the slip dress from day to night in the most elegant and effortless way. Elevate its sophistication by adding a shrug crafted from luxurious fabrics like lace, fur, leather, or even sequins. This simple addition instantly transforms your look into one that’s fit for upscale events and special occasions. But don’t be afraid to keep it casual and comfortable by layering with a denim jacket or cozy pullover – it’s a

As we embrace the revival of classics for Fall 2023, let’s not forget the charming touch of sweaters crafted with finesse. Bid farewell to overpowering layers; this season celebrates the art of subtlety. Say hello to sweaters that gracefully accentuate and complete your overall outfit without stealing the spotlight. Imagine slipping into a lightweight sweater with natural fibers that delicately hug your curves, adding a touch of warmth and texture to your ensemble. Cashmere’s softness, wool’s warmth, or the cozy embrace of cotton can seamlessly elevate your look while allowing the rest of your outfit to shine. We won’t

in the spotlight.

As you explore their endless possibilities and create looks that define your unique style, remember that fashion is a canvas where you’re both the artist and the masterpiece. Fall 2023 is your invitation to celebrate the old and embrace the new, all while radiating confidence, grace, and a fresh sense of style, accentuated by the gentle embrace of subtle sweaters. 

THURSDAY, AUG 31

Paradise Gallery

- Faribault-- 12-5 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault.

Carly Swenson in the Carlander Gallery; Gallery Committee Show in the Vranesh Gallery; Trudi Schaefer and Susan Johnson in the K&M Gallery; Students of Kate Langlais in the Creger Gallery. Runs through Sept. 23. Open during regular Paradise hours.

Seasons Change, Awe

RemainsNorthfield-12-5 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild, 304 Division St. S., Northfield. Explore the main gallery to discover jewel-like depictions of botanicals, whimsical portraiture, and beautifully captured moments in time. Open during regular Guild hours through Sept. 2.

Community Show and Tell

- Owatonna-- 6:30 p.m., Steele County

Historical Society, 1700 Austin Rd., Owatonna.

If you have something vintage, cool, and/ or unique that you would like to share with the community, bring it to Show & Tell. All are welcome to this free event to share and listen to the stories. Light snacks and refreshments will be served.

HOSTOwatonna-- 6:308:30 p.m., Manthey Park, 225 24th St. NE, Owatonna.

A religious event open to the public. Features music with Kaisha Troe. Activites for kids include chalk, giant bubble wands, dancing, flags and streamers. Free popcorn.

Dan Duffy Orchestra - Janesville-- 6-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. The Dan Duffy Orchestra is an exciting new group from Mankato performing swing and Hot Club music from the 20s on up to today.

Sean Benz - Waterville-6:30-9:30 p.m., Corner Bar, 130 Main St. E., Waterville.

Sean Benz enjoys singing and playing guitar to music that many enjoy, like Johnny Cash, Roger Miller, Buck

Todd

Michael Jameson - Faribault-7-10 p.m., 10,000 Drops, 28 4th St NE, Faribault.

Todd Michael Jameson is a seasoned musician and Rock Steady Records recording artist, with many years of experience. Along with performing originals and covers as a solo artist, Todd also plays bass in Hawt Beir (Original Rock and Roll). Playing over 175 gigs per year, Todd travels across many genres and entertains audiences of all sizes.

CONTINUED page 22

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.

Back to School Crafts - Le Sueur-- 4 p.m., Le Sueur Public Library, 118 Ferry St. Celebrate the start of the new school year with a trio of crafts you can use at school. This event is geared for ages 8-12.

Jaspar LepakWaseca-- 5 p.m., Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm, 41142 160th St, Waseca. A child of the Sonoran Desert, Jaspar Lepak is a folk/Americana songwriter whose remarkable gift for melody is only surpassed by her poetry.

Plumstar - Northfield-- 9-11 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas. Lee Jeffrey’s original, Minneapolis-based, pedal-steel-altcountry outfit. $10 suggested donation.

FRIDAY, SEP 01

Classic Car Roll In - Henderson-- 5-8 p.m., Downtown Henderson. One of the biggest rollins across the region in a beautiful downtown. Takes places every Tuesday, June-September.

SoMinn Scene Farmers Markets-- The Faribault Farmers Market runs 7 a.m. to noon Saturdays in Central Park.The Owatonna Farmers Market runs 7 a.m. to noon Saturdays in Central Park.Riverwalk Market Fair in Northfield takes place 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays in Bridge Square; Northfield Farmers Market takes place 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays, plus 9-11 a.m. Saturdays, at Riverside Park.The Waseca County Farmers Market runs 8 a.m. to noon at the Waseca County Fairgrounds.The Le Sueur Farmers Market runs 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays on N. Second Street. The St. Peter Farmers Market runs 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays in the Co-op parking lot.

Did we miss something?

KMSU Sounds Clash - St. Peter-- 5-9 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. DJs will be spinning vinyl on the patio.

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

Owens, Hank Williams, Sr, Eddie Arnold, Ritchie Valens, Elvis Presley, Rick Nelson, Bobby Vee, Bobby Vinton, Eddie Cochran and others.

CONTINUED from page 23

SUNDAY, SEP 03

THURSDAY, SEP 07

Onward and Upward - Owatonna-- 11:30

Genealogy Assistance - Faribault-- 10 a.m.2 p.m., Rice County Historical Society, 1814 NW 2nd Ave., Faribault. Interested in your Family History? Not Sure Where to Start? Stumped on a missing relative? Sign up for a slot with our genealogist. Appointments are 50 minutes and our genealogist will work with you to dig into your family tree and help you piece together your past. Free. Call 507-332-2121 or email us at rchs@rchistory.org.

Through the Line

Opening

Reception - St. Peter-3-5 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. New paintings by Michael Callahan.

Tractorhead - Dundas-- 4-7 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas. Americana with a bluegrass twist.

Steam & Gas Engine Show.- Dundas-- 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Rice County Steam & Gas Engine showground, Hwy. 3 south, Dundas. Show runs Sept. 1-3. Food stands open daily, flea market daily, parade of tractors daily, kids pedal pull Saturday, tractor pull Sunday. Activities and demonstrations across the grounds. Live music throughout.

a.m., Steele County Historical Society, 1700 Austin Rd., Owatonna. The topic is the Changing Roles of Women Today. Four panelists will discuss their training, work experiences, triumphs, and struggles while navigating their professional career. Guests include: Janae Janicke, Metal Machine Operator; Leila Kath, Owatonna Firefighter; Deborah Lustig, former Owatonna Police Department Community Service Officer; Cindy Rohwer, Automotive Service Writer. Tickets $20-25.

Generative Writing - St. Peter-- 6-7:30 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. Join writer/instructor Alex French for a one-time generative writing experience to limber up your creative muscles. Participants will create short pieces of creative non-fiction, fiction, and poetry, with prompts and guidance from the instructor. Suggested drop-in fee $10. No prior registration necessary.

Monarch Migration and Tagging Class

- Henderson-- 1-2 p.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson. It’s Monarch migration season. These butterflies are flitting all the way to Mexico, so let’s learn how they make this incredible journey, more about their lives, and catch some to tag so we can track them when they arrive. All ages welcome. Tickets online.

The Donner PartySt. Peter-- 4-7 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. A classic country experience like none other.

The Grange - St. Peter-- 2 p.m., Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Ave, St. Peter. Agricultural historian T.J. Malaskee delves into the long-forgotten history of America’s first fraternity of farmers, the Grange, a radical post-Civil War Era movement that pushed for progressive measures to heal the nation. Tickets are $5-10.

Ayurvedic Medicine - St. Peter-- 7 p.m., St. Peter Library. Learn about Ayurvedic medicine, the world’s oldest medical science originating from India. Discover how it can help you live your most balanced and healthy life through customized nutrition, lifestyle and more.

FRIDAY, SEP 08

Shenanigans - Kilkenny-5-7 p.m., Vintage Escapes Winery & Vineyard, 8950 Dodd Rd., Kilkenny. Shenanigans is a fatherdaughter acoustic music duo.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

WEDNESDAY, SEP 06

Sew ‘n Sew

Kenyon Farmers Market-- 4-7 p.m., First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 309 Forest St., Kenyon. Homegrown, homemade and handcrafted items shared by vendors around the church parking lot. Occurs the first and third Thursdays June-September.

Forrest Hunter and Josh ReinitzSt. Peter-5-8 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter.

Bully Pulpit Bluegrass - New Ulm-- 7-9 p.m., Grand Center for Arts & Culture, 210 N Minnesota St, New Ulm. This four-piece band plays traditional bluegrass music. Members include Joe Kunkel on banjo, Tom Bierer on guitar, James Ihrke on string bass, and Dan Robinson on Fiddle.

Uncle Muskrat - Waseca-- 5 p.m., Half Pint Brewing, 10099 150th St., Waseca. Banjo, fiddle, guitar, bass and mandolin.

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.

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

- Faribault-10:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Buckham Memorial Library, 11 Division St. E, Faribault. Sewing for beginners. All ages welcome.

Classic Car Roll-In - Owatonna-- 3-9 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna.

Fall weather is perfect for both showing off and admiring these Southern Minnesota classic cars.

Forrest Hunter and Josh Reinitz are a musical duo from the Minnesota River towns of Le Sueur and Henderson. They perform original folk, country, rock and roll and a handful of traditional tunes. Their songs are inspired by the darkness and depth of life’s relationships, stories of growing up in rural MN, and appreciation for the natural world.

Cowboys & Campfires - Northfield-7-10:30 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Amazing music and fun themes. Don’t forget to wear your cowboy hats and boots. Tickets $10 in advance, $15 at door.

SATURDAY, SEP 09

Downtown Thursday - Owatonna-- 5-9 p.m., Owatonna. Live music plays throughout the evening at Central Park and in the 300 block on Cedar Ave. Food trucks line up around Central Park and on Cedar Avenue along with our local eating establishments. Vendors sell handmade goods, and local businesses stay open extended hours. Music from Little Chicago and Jeremy Poland & Lantz Dale.

Jacob’s Run - Owatonna-- 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Owatonna Eagles 1791, 141 E. Rose St., Owatonna. This year’s route is sure to please with great sights and great stops.

Half-Way to St. Paddy’s - Kilkenny-- 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Kilkenny. Runs Sept. 9-10. Live

music, parade, Division Street dance, toilet bowl races, car show, BBQ cook-off, toilet bowl races and Saturday night fireworks.

SUNDAY, SEP 10

Grape Stomp and Beer Fest - Janesville--

12-9 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Vendors from various local breweries sampling some of their featured beers. Live music from Jazz 10, GTX and Generation Gap. $2 admission at door, or $5 includes beer sampling. $30 grape stomp registration.

Fred the Bear - Northfield-- 6 p.m., Armory Square Event Center, 519 Division St., Northfield. Rich harmonies, emotive dynamics, personally crafted lyrics and driving rhythms played by local talented musicians with hearts of gold.

Shasta Kings

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

Rock Bend Folk Festival - St. Peter-- 12-10 p.m., Minnesota Square Park, 1000 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. Runs Sept. 9-10. Rock Bend Folk Festival is a free, all-ages music and arts festival held annually the weekend after Labor Day since 1991 in beautiful Minnesota Square Park. Featuring national, Minnesota and local musicians, artists, and performers entertaining the whole family. Headliners include Caballo Cosmico and The Pistol Whippin’ Party Penguins. Full lineup at rockbend.org.

Los T - Waseca-- 6:30-8 p.m., Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm, 41142 160th St, Waseca. Some country, rock, country rock, and the general nonsense audiences have come to love.

Defeat of Jesse James DaysNorthfield-- , Northfield. Festival runs Sept. 7-10. Carnival, rodeo, arts and crafts fair, tractor pulls, run/ walk, entertainment, beer garden, food trucks, bank raid reenactments and more.

Goat Yoga - Waseca-- 12-2:30 p.m., Farmamerica, 7367 360th Ave, Waseca. A yoga instructor will lead you through a 45-minute yoga practice accompanied by the friendly guest goat herd visiting from LR Acres. When you’re finished, enjoy a 15-minute goat meet and greet.

Pheasants Forever Event - West Concord--

2-5 p.m., Berne Wood-Fired Pizza, 23148 County Hwy. 24, West Concord. This family fun event will have games, live music, door prizes, an auction, and more. Purchase pizza tickets in advance. Water and root beer sold. Guests can bring own alcoholic drinks. Funds go toward Goodhue County Pheasants Forever.

Tim Goodwin - Dundas-- 4-7 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas. Tim Goodwin is a singer/songwriter from Northfield. He plays original songs and some signature covers. His musical roots are in folk and Americana.

Chubb’s Brew-BQ - Owatonna-- 4-10 p.m., Steele County Fairgrounds, 18th St SE, Owatonna. A funfilled night featuring BBQ and home brew tastings and competition, raffles, and live music. Live music provided by Martin Zellar and the Hardways. Event for 21+. Tickets online.

Wade SnakeOwatonna-- 7 p.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. Acoustic rock, country, alternative and original music.

Mark Cameron Band - Faribault-- 7-10 p.m., 10,000 Drops, 28 4th St NE, Faribault.

Minnesota based singer, songwriter and guitarist Mark Cameron has been active in live music for over thirty years. Mark began his performing career in the rich folk-rock scene of the early 1970s and brought this influence into several bands he founded during the 1980s and 1990s.

Cole Diamond - Elko New Market-- 8 p.m., The Doublewide, 421 Saint Joseph St., Elko New Market. Mixing up an unlikely concoction of vintage rock & roll and outlaw country, Cole Diamond is, depending on when you ask, either the stage name for singer/songwriter Ryan Otte or the collective handle for Otte and his Band.

Riverfront Fine Arts Festival - Northfield-10 a.m.-5 p.m., Bridge Square, Northfield. Runs Sept. 9 and 10. Began in the 1970s. Set along the idyllic Cannon River walkway, dozens of fine artists and craftspersons sell their work — ceramics, jewelry, paintings, fiber, wood and steel — there is something for everyone. Features dozens of artists.

Ecumenical Prayer Service and PicnicOttawa-- 12:30 p.m., Ottawa Stone Church, 39120 Old Ottawa Rd., Le Sueur. The public is invited to join the The Ottawa Historians in the historic stone church. After the service is a harvest picnic (potluck) at Bur Oak Park. The Mankato Riverblenders Magic Quartet will provide the music. Eating utensils and beverages provided.

Bruce Burniece - Kilkenny-- 2-5 p.m., Vintage Escapes Winery & Vineyard, 8950 Dodd Rd., Kilkenny. Bruce’s shows feature a huge list of classic hits where

CONTINUED from page 23

everyone attending knows every song. Many styles of music are included, and by trading off on guitar and piano, he is able to offer a very diverse evening of entertainment.

Citrus Stella - Waseca-- 5-7 p.m., Christian Assmbly, 900 14th Ave. SE, Waseca. Shows Sept. 8-10. Circus Stella is an east coast traveling circus featuring incredible human skills and trained rescue dogs! We help organizations create spectacular events that draw crowds, raise funds, and build altruistic communities. Tickets range $12-24. Online at citrusstella.com.

TUESDAY, SEP 12

Nature Detectives: Monarchs

- Henderson-- 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center

Ln, Henderson. In this monthly drop-off class, children will learn about a different topic during each class, have a chance to make a craft, and either meet an animal or hear a story before going home. Dress for the weather, as the group will be going on a hike each session.

(finally!) finished & freshly paved parking lot. Food & beverage vendors including Joe’s Sports Cafe, Countryside Woodfire Pizza, BJ’s Sweet Treats, and Bauer’s Southside Liquor. Live music from Mister Peabody.

Hunter Alexander Frank Memorial Ride

- Owatonna-- 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Steele County Fairgrounds, 18th St SE, Owatonna. A car and bike show, followed by the memorial ride, food vendors, a silent auction, live music and more.

Rustic Mamas Market

Hispanic Heritage Celebration - Northfield-- 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Central Park Northfield. Dancing, misoc, comedy, beer, art and more.

Benjamin Percy Book Launch - Northfield-- 6:30 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Content will be at The Grand Event Center in downtown Northfield to help Benjamin Percy celebrate the launch of his new novel “The Sky Vault,” the final installment in the epic Comet Cycle trilogy. The book follows an investigation of a mysterious weather phenomena in Fairbanks, Alaska, and a government secret buried since WWII.

THURSDAY, SEP 14

Ruthless: Monopoly’s Secret History - St. Peter-- 2 p.m., Treaty Site History Center, 1851 N. Minnesota Ave, St. Peter. Film series night. Monopoly has been America’s favorite board game for generations, a love letter to unbridled capitalism. But behind the myth of the game’s creation is an untold tale of theft, obsession, and corporate double-dealing. 75 min., NR.

FRIDAY, SEP 15

Vintage Car Cruise-In - Faribault-- 6-9 p.m., Faribault Harley Davidson, 2704 W. Airport Dr. Hundreds of beautiful classic icons on our

Anchors a Woe - Janesville-- 6 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. “A Caribbean cruise, warm tropical nights,. a soft ocean breeze, and love is in the air, but for someone on the Calamity Cruiseliner, it’s anything but a vacation in paradise. Join us at the Captain’s Luau and find out what happens and whodunnit. Wear cruise attire. Tickets online.

Crimson Roots - Faribault-7-10 p.m., 10,000 Drops, 28 4th St NE, Faribault. Crimson Roots formed to bring a fresh mix of music to the Minnesota music scene. They offer a blend of tight harmonies, solid guitar skills and a truly unique ability to arrange music. From The Beatles to U2 and nearly everything in between, there is something for everybody.

Cannon Valley Regional Orchestra - Northfield-- 7 p.m., Odd Fellows Park, 1011 Forest Ave. Enjoy the September Serenade show. Bring a chair and picnic.

SATURDAY, SEP 16

Sixth Anniversary Party - Dundas-- Chapel Brewing, 15 Hester St, Dundas. Music, specials and more.

This

- Owatonna-9 a.m.-3 p.m., Four Seasons Centre, 1525 S. Elm Ave., Owatonna.

Furniture, home decor, gourmet treats, yard art, soap, jewelry, junkie treasures, boutiques, food trucks, beverages and more.

Fall Celebration - Owatonna-- 12-4 p.m., Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum, 540 W. Hills Circle, Owatonna. This family fun event is free and open to the public. Come enjoy tours of historic areas, screening of a 1930 documentary, period lawn games and crafts, scavenger hunt, state school character reenactors, horse-drawn wagon rides, and refreshments.

Fox Hollow Trail Ride - Le Sueur-- 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Fox Hollow Saddle Club, 30745 Fox Hollow Rd., Le Sueur. Rides on Sept. 16 and 17. A horse ride (not recommended for beginners or novices) followed by music and food. Cost is $20 per person riding; $5 for non-riders.

Fall Festival - Henderson-- 12-3 p.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson. Wagon rides, prairie maze, fresh cider press, fall crafts, corn husk doll making, axe throwing and more.

Spirit Fest - Faribault-2-10 p.m., Divine Mercy Catholic Church, 139 Mercy Dr., Faribault.

Wagon rides, corn shucking, face painting and hair coloring, hay maze, volleyball, 4-square, a drive-in movie, fireworks, food trucks and beverages. Music from Sonar Worship, a Catholic band from St. Paul.

Square DanceDundas--

Oktoberfest - Owatonna-- 11 a.m., Foremost Brewing Cooperative, 131 W. Broadway St, Owatonna. Wendinger Polka Band providing musical entertainment from 1-4 p.m. There will be steinholding contests throughout the day, large pretzels and festivities for all ages. See more at foremost.coop.

This

Open Team Bass Tournament - Lake Washington-- 11 a.m., Westwood Marina Bar & Grill, 1400 Lake Washington Access Rd., Kasota. $2,000 fish limit first place. Music, food and boat rides. Register online.

4-7 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas.

No experience necessary, all are welcome. All you need to do is show up ready to dance and the rest will be done for you. Music by Steam Machine. Professional caller.

Flavors of Fall - Waseca-- 4-8 p.m., Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm, 41142 160th St, Waseca. Various local food, farming, and family businesses every weekend to create unique feature pizzas. Plenty of photo opportunities, pumpkin painting, pumpkin bowling, horse and wagon rides, mini pumpkin tic tac toe, crafts, hot apple

month’s Scene calendar runs through Aug. 30. See more events at southernminnscene.com.

month’s Scene calendar runs through Aug. 30. See more events at southernminnscene.com.

cider bar, seasonal wine and beer flavors, and constant live music.

Acoustic View - Owatonna-- 6-8 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna. Acoustic View is a two-piece acoustic Duo for all occasions playing variety from Fleetwood Mac to Johnny Cash & Pink Floyd.

Sean Benz - Le Center-- 6-9 p.m., Le Center Municipal Liquors, 20 N Waterville Ave. Sean Benz enjoys singing and playing guitar to music that many enjoy, like Johnny Cash, Roger Miller, Buck Owens, Hank Williams, Sr, Eddie Arnold, Ritchie Valens, Elvis Presley, Rick Nelson, Bobby Vee, Bobby Vinton, Eddie Cochran and others.

The Wendt Sisters - Kilkenny-- 1-4 p.m., Vintage Escapes Winery & Vineyard, 8950 Dodd Rd., Kilkenny. The Wendt Sisters play a wide variety of music from the 50s to the 90s, country and gospel.

between insects and arachnids, and how these amazing animals survive to spring. Pre-registration required.

John Gaertner Author Talk - Faribault-- 6 p.m., Buckham Memorial Library, 11 Division St.

Price is Right - Owatonna-- 6:30 p.m., Owatonna High School, 1445 SE 18th St., Owatonna. Over 10,000 in cash prizes. Check out the very first event to take place at the new high school.

Top by Joe FlipFaribault-7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Award winning musician, Joe Flip, brings his passion to the stage with his hand-made oil can guitar and powerhouse band. Performing this unique collection of Texas Southern Rock and blues/rock music and sharing stories behind the music. Tickets $15-25 online or at box office.

SUNDAY, SEP 17

Car Show & Swap Meet - St. Peter-- 6 a.m.3 p.m., Nicollet County Fairgrounds, 400 Union St., St. Peter. Classic cars and food vendors on site.

Fiber Fest - Dundas-12-5 p.m., Keepsake Cidery, 135th St. East, Dundas. Local fiber producers and their products (sheep, alpaca).

Bee Balm Fields - St. Peter-- 4-7 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. Bee Balm Fields draws inspiration from many different styles of music but has been described as an Indie Folk/Americana band. Karels is a big fan of Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline and Roger Miller. This event is free and all are welcome.

MONDAY, SEP 18

Taste of Steele County - Owatonna-- 5-7 p.m., Owatonna Eagles 1791, 141 E. Rose St., Owatonna. Costa’s Candies, Plaza Morena, Mizuki Fusion, Old Town Bagels, Owatonna Eagles, Owatonna Elks’ Club, Steve’s Meat Market, Torey’s Restaurant & Bar, Sparetime Entertainment, Confections by Karen, Smokin’ Silverback BBQ and Central Park Coffee. Tickets $10-15.

WEDNESDAY, SEP 20

Allyson Road Trio - Northfield-- 4-9 p.m., Red Barn Pizza Farm, 10063 110th St., Northfield. Allyson Road Trio mixes an eclectic blend of indie folk, roots and bluegrass music in its repertoire. Performing for over 20 years and hasn’t strayed too far from the early folk rock sounds of the 60s and 70s, intertwined in today’s Americana genre.

THURSDAY, SEP 21

Lifelong Learner Lunch - Henderson-12-1 p.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center Ln, Henderson. Have you ever wondered where bugs go in the winter? Learn about the differences

Kenyon Farmers Market-- 4-7 p.m., First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 309 Forest St., Kenyon. Homegrown, homemade and handcrafted items shared by vendors around the church parking lot. Occurs the first and third Thursdays June-September.

Chris BertrandSt. Peter-5-8 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter.

Chris performs with a unique consideration of mind and soul. His original lyrics poetically coax the listener with open honesty and self-acceptance, and, while folk is certainly his strong suit, don’t be fooled: he plays/sings a variety of genres.

E, Faribault. The author will present a talk about his book, “The Great Rock Island Route: a history of the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad Company: its subsidiaries and predecessors 1852-1984.” This train went through Northfield, Faribault (the Depot), and Owatonna, with a major hub being in the Quad Cities.

Brooks Turner Opening Reception - Northfield-- 5-7 p.m., St. Olaf College, 1520 St Olaf Ave., Northfield. An artist, writer, and educator living and working in Minneapolis.

Julie Schumacher Author Talk - Northfield-- 7 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. A reading from her latest work, “The English Experience,” the final novel in her trilogy of academic mishap. She will be in conversation with Carleton professor George Shuffelton. In store or on Facebook Live.

FRIDAY, SEP 22

Angel ValJanesville--

6-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010

631st Ave, Janesville. Angel grew up listening to her mom sing in an 80s rock band. She has a strong background and love for rock music and has grown to love country as well. Angel has taken her two favorite genres and mixed them into a more rock country style.

Did we miss something?

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

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

Do you want to submit an event to this calendar?

Send details to editor@ southernminnscene.com.

Taste of Faribault-- 5:30-8 p.m., Faribo West Mall, 200 Western Ave. NW. Sample menu selections from local restaurants, caterers, grocers, delis, along with your favorite beers, wines and spirits. Admission fee is $20 pre-sale; $25 at the door.

This month’s Scene calendar runs through Aug. 30. See more events at southernminnscene.com.

Harmonious Wail’s Simon & Simon - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault.

National award winning performers and recording artists, Harmonious Wail, draws from the soulful beats and sepia lyrics of Ryhmin’ Paul Simon, and the inspirational and timeless torch songs of Carly Simon. Tickets $15-25 online or at the box office.

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9:30 p.m. Free and fun for the whole family, featuring live music (Lori Lachner and The iPolka Band), classic pretzels, multiple food trucks, games and competitions with prizes, and, of course, beer.

town Dundas. Music all day; local beer and cider; German-themed food; family activities. Music includes The Bavarian Musikmeisters and The High 48’s.

cider bar, seasonal wine and beer flavors, and constant live music.

Library at the Market - St. Peter-- 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m., St. Peter Food Co-op, 228 W Mulberry St. Free books and information from the St. Peter Library at the Farmers Market. Storytime at 10 a.m.

Oktoberfest

- Owatonna-- 12-11 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 111 N Walnut Ave, Owatonna.

Runs Sept. 22 and 23

from noon-

Marching Classic - Waseca-- 12-10 p.m., A celebration of marching bands from around the region, all heading to Waseca for a competition. The all-day festivities also include a car show early on and fireworks at the end.

TV & the Bellered Yellers - Dundas-- 4-7

Baumgartner Memorial Concert - St. Peter-5:30 p.m., Gustavus Adolphus College, 800 West College Ave, St. Peter. The Gustavus Music Department is proud to present the Baumgartner Memorial Concert. The concert will also be streamed live in YouTube.

Oktoberfest - Dundas-- 12-6 p.m., Down-

fiddler and singer/songwriter based in Duluth, MN. An ever-changing array of classic country and folk music combined with his original songs, which have been described as both witty and poignant.

Castastrophe 4 - Northfield-- 7:30 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. The Movie Music Edition, conceived and directed by Pauline Jennings. Shows Sept. 22-23 at 7:30 p.m., plus Sept. 23-24 at 2 p.m. This show is a Broadway revue in which actors sing songs from roles in which they would never get cast. Tickets online.

Oktoberfest - Le Center-- 10 a.m.-1 p.m., St. Paul Lutheran Church, 232 W. Minnesota St., Le Center. A polka service starts at 10 a.m., followed by a German celebration at 11:30. The Jolly Ramblers will share their music. There will be food, beer, a farmers market, youth activities and the Vikings football game will be displayed.

MONDAY, SEP 25

Mixology Class - Kasota-- 6 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Our mixologist will instruct you on how to make four different cocktails; then you’ll hop behind the bar to make one by yourself to enjoy. Pick from two sessions. Tickets online.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 29

Rock of Ages - St. Peter-- 8-11 p.m., St. Peter American Legion. Listen to some rock and blues.

SUNDAY,

SEP 24

Fall Craft and Gift Show - St. Peter-- 10 a.m.-4 p.m., St. Peter Community Center, 600 S. Fifth St., St. peter. Runs Sept. 23 and 24. Handcrafted items, unique gifts, jewelry, unique clothing, wellness, skincare, woodworking, metal arts, local businesses and more. Admission is $3; free for kids under 12.

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.

Paradise Gallery - Faribault-- 12-5 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Stephanie McKenzie in the Carlander Gallery; Todd Harper in the Vranesh Gallery; EPIC in the K&M Gallery; Students of Bethlehem Academy in the Creger Gallery. Runs Sept. 25Nov. 11. Reception is 5-7 p.m. Sept. 29. Open during regular Paradise hours.

WEDNESDAY, SEP 27

Sweet Jazz - Northfield-- 4-9 p.m., Red Barn Pizza Farm, 10063 110th St., Northfield. Christina Schwietz on vocals, Peter Webb on keyboard, David Miller on drums and Rob Thompson on bass. They also regularly feature David on flugelhorn and melodica. Many of the songs are standards, some old, some much more recent. They take particular pleasure in finding songs you may never have heard before, including originals.

Oktoberfest - St. Peter-- 4-11 p.m., Nicollet County Fairgrounds, 400 W. Union St., St. Peter. Festivities run Friday night, Sept. 29 and all day and night Sept. 30. Music and beer Friday night, plus all afternoon and night Saturday. Also featuring kids activities, a sauerkraut eating contest, a bean bag tournament, and stein hoisting, lederhosen and dirndl competitions. Music from IV Play, Thund-Her-Struck and Rock of Ages. Tickets online.

WE ARE HIRING

The Faribault Daily News is seeking an energetic and creative advertising account executive to join its print and digital outside sales team. Successful candidates need to be able to understand and effectively communicate the value of the media audience to local businesses as a way to help them reach their desired goals. If you enjoy the challenge of helping local and regional businesses succeed in ROI initiatives this may be the perfect career for you.

The best way to apply is to submit a cover letter and your resume to tom.kelling@apgsomn.com

FARIBAULT

‘Cutting Teeth’, ‘The Power of Saying No’ and more

Cutting Teeth

by Chandler Baker

c.2023, Flatiron Books $27.99 320 pages

You couldn’t wait for that first little tooth to come in.

It was a milestone in your baby’s life, an indication of a readiness for big-kid food and a regular place at the family table. Oh, how you love that adorable, heart-melting toothy smile, but be careful. As in the new book, “Cutting Teeth” by Chandler Baker, a mouthful of dentin means a mouth that can bite.

Miss Ollie had to go.

Rhea didn’t like that woman at all. As the new preschool teacher at Little Academy, Miss Ollie should’ve had some boundaries, shouldn’t she? So when she said she felt as if her students were “her” kids, it was natural for Rhea to get angry.

Rhea was Bhodi’s mom, the one who fed him, bathed him, slept with him. This lying Miss Ollie, no, she couldn’t even deal with an unfortunate little preschool habit.

If Mary Beth could’ve formed a committee to solve the problems in her daughter, Noelle’s, preschool class, she would’ve done so. But no task force would fix the fact that some of the four-year-olds had started biting, hard, and slurping up the victim’s blood. No group would solve the mystery of who was pooping on Miss Ollie’s classroom floor. None of Mary Beth’s lists or notes could help solve the murder of Miss Ollie, who was found in a puddle of her own blood in a supply closet. She knew the names of the four-yearolds who witnessed the bloodbath but Mary Beth had no clue who left shoe prints in the gore. What else could she do but throw herself into volunteering at the church affiliated with Little Academy?

Spending time with yummy Pastor Ben was just icing on the cake.

Darby couldn’t understand why her husband Griff, said he wasn’t at the Academy when she clearly saw him as she dropped their daughter, Lola, off at school. Griff was usually an even-keel guy, trustworthy, never prone to drama. So why would he lie about his whereabouts on the day Miss Ollie died?

So what kind of bookmark do you prefer to use? A scrap of paper, a sticky-note, or something a bit more formal and fancy? You’ll need one when you start “Cutting Teeth” because, at first bite, this novel may take a few starts before you’ll want to continue.

You won’t need that bookmark for long, though, once you notice the wonderfully sardonic tone that’s here. Author Chandler Baker tells this tale with the most delicious sarcasm ever, and a cheeky, cynical, almost impertinent tenderness with which Baker treats the mothers in this story: Mary Beth, Rhea, and Darby are characters worthy of sympathy but they harbor secrets that are often unspoken. They worry about being judged. They love their kids and will do anything for them but don’t misunderstand: they don’t always like being mothers.

The reason why, well, that’s something to bite into when you’re feeling up for a horror-mystery novel with a twist. “Cutting Teeth” is gruesome fun, and it’s absolutely worth a nibble.

The Power of Saying NO:

The New Science of How to Say No That Puts You in Charge of Your Life

by Vanessa Patrick, PhD

c.2023, Sourcebooks $26.99 336 pages

A teammate asked you for a favor last week, and, of course, you said yes.

And ugh, now you’re stuck. You can’t back out of it without looking like a jerk. You can’t whine about it because you were the one who said yes. And you’ll never get back the Saturday you’ll have to forfeit for a task you really didn’t want to do. Obviously, you need “The Power of Saying No” by Vanessa Patrick, PhD, before this happens again.

So why did you say “yes” in the first place, if you didn’t want to do this thing?

We humans, says Patrick, instinctively want to belong and be liked, and agreeableness is often one

way to achieve that. We tend to “think in people terms” most of the time, and saying no is a “harmonybuster.” We want to maintain a relationship with the person who asked for the favor.

We don’t know how to say no and still keep our position in a group.

The easiest – and probably most frustrating – thing to do, then, is to acquiesce, even though Patrick says that very little personal good comes from doing a task you really, really don’t want to do. So what do you do?

Though it might feel as though the “spotlight” is on you, there are ways of managing that. Be prepared by knowing your values and your worth, postpone or deflect your decision, postpone your participation for another time, or simply “resist the pressure.”

Learn the “art” of an “empowered refusal” by using a mere two words to state your position. Never say you “can’t” and erase “submissive filler” words from your vocabulary. Learn to assess the benefits of saying yes to yourself and to others and remember that you shouldn’t say no all the time. Institute a few “personal policies” that are essential to you. Have boundaries. And lastly, always take care to present the right body language, personal style, and gestures. Your nonverbal communication can say a lot, and that might quickly undo a “no.”

You had very little problem saying “NO” when you were a toddler. If it felt good then, it can feel good again with “The Power of Saying No” in your hands.

The word seems so simple, just a few movements of the mouth, but author Vanessa Patrick, PhD explains why saying “no” isn’t easy for most humans. Readers learning about themselves in those chapters may squirm because what’s discovered is a sometimesuncomfortable part of an uncovery – you must know yourself, Patrick suggests, before you can see how to use “’standing-up’ words” to hold your ground. For readers who shudder at confrontation, this may seem impossible, but fear not. Patrick offers help by patiently underscoring her ideas, through step-by-step exercises, and with analogies that are universal and thus easily understood.

This is a book that the timid will want to read twice and keep handy. It’s one that abrupt-minded readers will want to consult when situations get dicey. “The Power of Saying No” is a book you’ll both favor.

Eight Bears: Mythic Past and Imperiled Future

by Gloria Dickie

c.2023, W.W. Norton $30.00 250 pages

Throughout most of your childhood, he was rarely more than three feet away

He never said much, even when you hugged him too hard or let him fall to the floor. He kept your secrets but not all his fur; and he kept watch, even after he lost one eye. Your childhood teddy was an important part of your life but as you’ll see in “Eight Bears” by Gloria Dickie, his forebears are quite another story.

When she first moved to Boulder, Colorado, Gloria Dickie was charmed. she was once “a child obsessed with wild creatures,” and “bears were frequent visitors” to her new hometown. But over time, the romance waned. Having bears everywhere was not good for Boulderites or for bears.

That’s the story around the country: we don’t know how to live alongside bears and “so-called ‘problem’ bears” often die because they’ve become habituated nuisances. Bears are stronger than they look and can ruin a car in minutes. They can annihilate a farmer’s herd or flock. Some bear species – Dickie says that a mere eight of them survive on the planet today – are downright Papa-Bear-grumpy and will kill a human in a heartbeat.

And so she went searching for bears.

Ursas, says Dickie, were once thought to be our closest relative, perhaps because they look very human when standing. Humans haven’t treated them very

well through the centuries, though, at least not until Theodore Roosevelt refused to shoot one in 1902 and people started appreciating bears a little more.

Still, today’s bears struggle.

In South America, Dickie found that climate change is hurting the shy, gentle spectacled bear that lives in the cloud forest of Peru. In India, she discovered a small bear with big attitude, one that kills dozens of humans annually and maims even more. She learned the politics of pandas and she tried to visit a bear bile farm in Vietnam. She learned about super-smart black bears, the management of grizzlies, and a North American bear species that can hold an entire town hostage...

So, it turns out that Goldilocks was correct: “Eight Bears” is just right.

Rather than go all science-y on her readers, author Gloria Dickie brings the story of the world’s bears to a level that’s understandable by almost anyone. Oh, there’s science in here, yes, but it’s accessible, even fun, and can easily be paraphrasically explained to a youngster. That’s great, if you’re going on vacation to Bear Country.

Speaking of which, the globe-trotting adventure that Dickie took to find out about the bears is good reading, too, and filled with stories. Animal lovers will enjoy knowing what’s being done for the bears around the world, while bear victims will learn what’s being done to ursines to keep them from destroying livestock and lives.

Don’t be surprised, in either case, if you’re not happy.

This is a wonderfully accessible book that’s deep enough but not fluffy, and that’s really quite informative. If you know bears – or you want to –“Eight Bears” is a book to cuddle up with.

Tangled Vines: A Power, Privilege, and the Murdaugh Family Murders

by John Glatt

c.2023, St. Martin’s Press $30.00 320 pages

You couldn’t seem to keep your mouth closed. It kept falling open in astonishment and disbelief. You never saw that coming. Or you did, but not like what happened. And everything that followed? Wow, you were absolutely gobsmacked. As in the new book, “Tangled Vines” by John Glatt, you simply couldn’t stop watching.

For more than 200 years, the name Murdaugh meant something important in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. It was a name that spoke of industry or entrepreneurship at first, of railroads and banking later, and then of courtrooms and convictions after Randolph Murdaugh, Sr. set up a solo law firm across from the Hampton, South Carolina, courthouse in 1910.

Like a Southern version of Genesis, Murdaugh Sr., begat a son who became a lawyer who begat a son, and so on. By World War II, the Murdaugh family was known by literally everyone who lived in their county and by nearly every person in South Carolina. Generations of Murdaughs won elections and served as county solicitors (what is known as a chief prosecuting attorney elsewhere). It was rumored that if you wanted out of a sticky legal situation, a Murdaugh had the power to make things go your way – or go away completely.

Nobody was surprised when Richard Alexander (Alex) Murdaugh, born in 1968, said he wanted to be a lawyer like his father and grandfather. Until then, says Glatt, Alex and his brothers were raised with an aura of entitlement and enviable, absolute privilege. As was expected, Alex grew up, went to law school, married a beautiful woman; and settled in to raise a family in the small town where his forebears built an empire.

But there was high trouble in the Lowcountry. Glatt says that Murdaugh’s two sons ran wild with almost no accountability or consequences. When Alex or either of his boys got into trouble, they used their name to escape punishment and to make things “quietly” go away.

That worked for a time, but not forever

Okay, so you know how this true crime story ends. You watched it unfold on television like a daily chapter of Movie-of-the-Week, and you couldn’t stop

watching. Now read “Tangled Vines” and see the history behind this astounding tale.

Just know that it’s a frustrating one for most Average Joes.

Seeing how decades of power held by one family meant harm to dozens of others is unsettling, even uncomfortable, and most readers will squirm, beginning almost with the opening pages. That’s long before author John Glatt even starts to tell of Alex Murdaugh’s crimes and cover-ups; long before a deadly boat accident, a double-murder, and a riveting crime. There’s so much to tell, in fact, that Glatt barely touches upon the wrap-up of the murder investigation or the trial or its aftermath or where things stand today.

But then, you know how this true crime story ends. If you need more, if you’re ready to pick up your jaw every few pages, open “Tangled Vines” and read. You won’t be able to close it.

Through the Groves: A Memoir

by Anne Hull

c.2023, Henry Holt $26.99 224 pages

You can’t see the forest for the trees. Fluffy pines, and oaks that started growing before your parents were born. Tall willows, towering cottonwoods that create a canopy far above you. The forest soothes your mind; if you have an out-of-control imagination, it offers a good scare. Nature’s there, and in the new book “Through the Groves” by Anne Hull, you’ll find memories, too.

She still recalls the smell and the heat and the pesticides.

Anne Hull was her daddy’s sidekick the summer she was six years old, riding along with him on his job as a fruit buyer in the middle of Florida where rows of orange trees stretched for miles. Together, they visited the dusty, scarred older Black men who worked the groves on her father’s route, and her father taught her all about “withholding confidential information” and not telling her mother about using a chalky field as a bathroom or about the gun in his car.

Hull’s mother already knew about the roadside stops he made, and the bars along his way home: the ridealongs Hull so enjoyed were meant to deter her father from “Friday afternoon fever” and bright neon beer signs.

Back then, Hull was only starting to notice that her family moved often, from one ramshackle house to another, and she saw the weekly checks her greatgrandmother gave her father. She already knew that adults kept secrets that weren’t so secret to a growing girl who was obsessed with being a spy someday. These were adventures, just like the adventures she had with cousins and her little brother, who was an accident-prone “calamity.”

When Hull’s mother left Hull’s father and moved in with Hull’s grandmother, that was an adventure, too – until it wasn’t. Hull had became old enough to understand genteel poverty and that hand-me-downs weren’t cool. She bonded with her grandmother over music; sneered at her mother, as teenagers do; and she thought about her dad, but only in the abstract.

He never forgot about her, though.

He never stopped trying to be her father.

Do you really want some treacly life story now? Nah, you want something solid and sincere, right? Something different. Part coming-of-age, but more, maybe.

You want “Through the Groves.”

Rather than opening this tale where most childhood memoirs start, with eye-rolling, attitudinal teen years, author Anne Hull’s story begins the summer she was six years old and they move forward from there. This gives readers the gift of an observant kid’s-eye view of life – one that’s older than its years and doesn’t miss a thing, but that’s not insufferably precious or precocious. Viewed through the lens of a grown-up, then, those early memories give readers the “more” they crave, becoming a triple-whammy of coming-ofage, coming out, and coming to terms with the frailty of family. That’s sharp as flint but also hilarious. Hull says her father was a storyteller and this orange apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Start “Through the Groves” and you’ll find that you just can’t leaf it.

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