Steele County Answer Book 2024-25

ANSWER BOOK Steele County

People’s Press

Owatonna Veterans Memorial

Steele County

HISTORY

Steele County is located in the southeastern part of Minnesota, has 432 square miles, is 24 miles long and 18 miles wide.

Steele County was officially organized Feb. 20, 1855 and originally included what is now known as Waseca County. Reorganization in 1856 established the boundaries recognized today. The new county was named in honor of Franklin Steele, a St. Anthony governmental contractor and a man of prominence.

The first county building, built in 1874 cost of $5,000, and was a onestory brick building which has since been demolished. The historic Steele County Courthouse was built in 1891 for $50,000. It has been remodeled

several times and is used solely by the courts.

In 1860 Steele County had a population of 2,863 as compared to 21,155 in 1950 and 36,933 as of the 2019 census.

From 1898 to 1940 Steele County was known as the “Butter Capitol of the World” after local butter makers won gold medals in world’s fairs and after the invention the combined butter churn, patented in 1896 and manufactured by Owatonna Manufacturing Co., which revolutionized the dairy industry. Down from a peak of 24 creameries, Steele County now has just one remaining in operation. Steele County is also the founding location of major national companies including Jostens, Malt-O-Meal, and Federated Insurance.

Steele County has numerous streams, natural springs, brooks and lakes. The largest of the streams is the Straight River and the largest lake is Rice Lake. Nine mineral springs are located in Owatonna, in an area known as Mineral Springs Park. These springs have been analyzed and show the definite qualities of celebrated springs of this country and France.

As of June 2024 the population of Steele County was 37,421. The county seat is Owatonna with a population of 26,470 as of 2022. Owatonna is also the 39th largest city in Minnesota, but the second largest city in the state that is located outside a metropolitan statistical area. It is also one of the 15 Micropolitan Statistical Areas in the state.

ECONOMIC TRENDS

Steele County had far and away the largest numeric and most severe percentage decline in jobs from 2019 to 2022, with a loss of 2,818 jobs or 12.9%. The largest decreases were found in Administrative Support and Waste Management Services, which lost 1,594 jobs, a drop of 69.5%. In addition, Finance and Insurance (1,484 or 83.5%) and Manufacturing (756 or 13.4%) had a decrease in the number of jobs from 2019 to 2022. However, Steele County had the third highest numeric change in firms and percent change in firms by adding 85 firms since 2019. There is a significant presence of employment in the Manufacturing and Retail Trade in Steele County, compared to Minnesota, with location quotients of 2.3 and 1.5, respectively.

Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

STEELE COUNTY GOVERNMENT

The Steele County Board of Commissioners is the county’s governing body. The five commissioners, elected from each of the county’s five districts normally meet in the evenings on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, with the exception of the first meeting in January when state statute requires the board meet the first Tuesday after the first Monday of the month. The meetings are held in the County Board Room, 630 Florence Ave., Owatonna.

The board operates on a committee system, with five committees in which two commissioners are members. Day-to-day operations are overseen by the county administrator.

County Offices:

630 Florence Ave, Owatonna co.steele.mn.us • 444-7400

Mission: Provide consultation, support, strategic direction, and services to the county staff and board to promote effective and efficient delivery of services to the public in a transparent and fiscally responsible manner.

STEELE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

Steele County Board of Commissioners normally meet in the evenings on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, with the exception of the first meeting in January.

NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar

U.S. Sen. Tina Smith

ADMINISTRATION

sc.admin@co.steele.mn.us • 444-7432

From Blooming Prairie: 583-2283

From Ellendale: 684-2211

Assessor: 444-7435

Attorney’s Office: 444-7780

From Blooming Prairie: 583-2283

From Ellendale: 684-2211

Auditor: 444-7410

From Blooming Prairie: 583-2283

From Ellendale: 684-2211

Community Services:

• Community Corrections: 507-444-7720

• Environmental Services: 507-444-7475

• Public Health: 444-7650

From Blooming Prairie: 583-2283

From Ellendale: 684-2211

Immunization clinics: bit.ly/2H5bLoC

• University of Minnesota Extension, Steele County: 444-7685

From Blooming Prairie: 583-2283

From Ellendale: 684-2211

• Veterans Services: 444-7460

From Blooming Prairie: 583-2283

From Ellendale: 684-2211

Emergency Management: 444-2454

Geographic Information Systems: 444-7489

Highway Department: 444-7670

To report after-hours highway hazards or emergencies, call 451-8232

Road Conditions: 1-800-542-0220

Human Resources: 444-7400

Human Services (Minnesota Prairie County Alliance/ MNPrairie)

mnprairie.org • 431-5600

Services provided: Health care coverage

Income and food assistance

Child support

Steele County Courthouse

Children & family services

Mental health services

Substance use services

Disability services

Senior services

Landfill

Located along Hwy. 218 between Owatonna and Blooming Prairie. The landfill accepts mixed solid waste, industrial waste, demolition debris and asbestos containing material for disposal.

420 SE 64th Ave, Blooming Prairie • 583-7766

bit.ly/3dBDRmY

Planning & Zoning: 444-7475

From Blooming Prairie: 583-2283

From Ellendale: 684-2211

Recorder

Call to make an appointment before arriving Land Records: 444-7450

Vital Statistics: 444-7490

From Blooming Prairie: 583-2283

From Ellendale: 684-2211

Sheriff’s Office

204 E Pearl St., Owatonna • 444-3800 (non emergency)

Emergency: 911

Tipline: 866-878-7964

District 1: City of Ellendale, City of Medford, Berlin Township, Clinton Falls Township, Deerfield Township, Havana Township, Lemond Township, Medford Township, Meriden Township, Merton Township, Summit Township

CONTINUED PAGE 8 2 1 5 4 3

District 2: Owatonna 1st Ward - 2nd Precinct, City of Blooming Prairie, Aurora Township, Blooming Prairie Township, Owatonna Township, Somerset Township

District 3: Owatonna 5th Ward - 1st Precinct, 3rd Ward - 1st Precinct, 3rd Ward - 2nd Precinct

District 4: Owatonna 5th Ward - 2nd Precinct, 2nd Ward - 1st Precinct, 2nd Ward - 2nd Precinct

District 5: 4th Ward - 1st Precinct, 4th Ward - 2nd Precinct, 1st Ward - 1st Precinct

In a non-emergency situation where you need to reach a licensed deputy, call the county’s Dispatch Center at 451-8232 to be put in contact with an on-duty deputy.

Minnesota Predatory Offender Registry: por.state. mn.us/Home.aspx

• Runaway Hotline: 1-800-786-2929

• Steele County Detention Center 2500 Alexander St., Owatonna • 446-7000 Treasurer: 444-7420

TRANSPORTATION

• Blooming Prairie Volunteer Transport: 583-7369

• Donation Based Rides for Seniors (SEMCAC): 451-7134

• Ellendale Volunteer Transportation: 684-2321

• R&S Transport: 1-800-656-5080

• Royal Transportation: 214-2781

• SMART Bus (Southern Minnesota Area Rural Transit) 507-451-7777 • Toll-free: 1-855-762-7821

smartbusmn.org

• SEMCAC Transportation: 451-7134

• Taxi First Choice 122 Mill St. W, Owatonna • 444-0020 • Toll free: 1-866-444-9696 • youarriveontime.com

• Tonna Taxi 240 Nature Valley Place, Owatonna • 507-451-4215

UTILITIES

Blooming Prairie Public Utilities: 583-6683

Center Point Energy: 1-800-729-6164

Emergency Assistance – MN Prairie: 431-5600

Energy Assistance Program (EAP): 451-7134

1-800-944-3281

Gas Affordability Program (GAP): 1-800-245-2377

Heat Share - Minnesota: 1-866-455-6472

Centerpoint Energy Emergency: 1-800-722-9326

Owatonna Public Utilities: 451-2480

Peoples Natural Gas: 1-800-764-0111

Steele-Waseca Cooperative Electric: 451-7340

Weatherization/Conservation Help (Xcel): 800-657-3710

REGISTER TO VOTE

Steele County Auditor 630 Florence Ave, Owatonna 507-444-7410 • co.steele.mn.us

Military and overseas absentee voting contact Email: brenda.blood@co.steele.mn.us

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

• Community Pathways of Steele County Income/asset-based food shelf 155 Oakdale St., Suite A, Owatonna 507-455-2991 • communitypathwayssc.org

Hours: Monday & Wednesday 9 a.m.5:30 p.m.; Tuesday, Thursday & Friday 9 a.m.3:30 p.m.; Saturday: 8-11:30 a.m.

• Ellendale Area Food Shelf

Ellendale United Methodist Church, 200 Sixth St., Ellendale

Hours: Thursdays 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. or by appointment

• Unique Find Income/asset-based 155 Oakdale St., Suite A, Owatonna 507-451-2550

Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Shopping Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon to 5 p.m., and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Donations accepted: Mondays & Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE

Owatonna WorkForce Center 333-2088 workforcedevelopmentinc.org 1850 Austin Rd Ste 102 Owatonna, MN 55060

Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

SPECIAL NEEDS SERVICES

• Advocates for Developmental Disabilities: 451-9769

• ARC (support for the disabled): 433-8994

• Disability Linkage Line: 1-866-333-2466

• Early Childhood Special Education

Blooming Prairie: 583-6615

Medford: 451-5250

NRHEG: 684-3181

Owatonna: 444-7900

• Gillette Children’s Hospital: 1-800-719-4040

• Kenny Kids (Owatonna Hospital): 977-2150

• March of Dimes – SE Minnesota: 282-0649

• MN Children w/ Special Health Needs: 1-800-728-5420

• MN State Council on Disabilities: 1-800-945-8913

• PACER Center, Inc. – MN: 1-800-537-2237

• Semcil: 1-888-460-1815

• Telephone Equipment Distribution Program: 1-800-657-3663

SUPPORT GROUPS/PROGRAMS

• Adolescent Grief Support Group: 446-0936

• Adult Grief Support Group: 446-0936

• Alzheimer’s Association Helpline: 1-800-272-3900

• American Cancer Society: 1-800-227-2345

• American Cancer Society Rochester.: 287-2044

• American Heart Association: 1-800-242-8721

• Arthritis/Fibromyalgia Support Group: 446-0611

• Autism Spectrum Disorder Support Group: 213-1323

• Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Southern Minnesota: 451-5922

• Birthright: 455-1622

• Car Seat Program – SCPH: 444-7650

• Center for Family Unity: 455-1190

• Child & Teen Checkups – SCPH: 444-7650

• Childcare Association – Steele County: 455-2840

• Children’s Support Group: 451-1202

• Compassionate Friends: 455-1636

• Down syndrome Support Group: 451-0367

• Epilepsy Foundation of MN: -800-779-0777

• Exchange Club: 455-1190/1-800-642-0089

• Family Connections – SCPH: 444-7650

• Fetal Alcohol Disorders Support Group: 272-0964

• Follow Along Program – SCPH: 444-7650

• Gluten-Free Support Group: 451-5752

• Goodwill – Easter Seals: 651-379-5800

• Grandparents Support Group: 451-3727

• Grieving Support Group (Owatonna Area Hospice) Adult/Adolescent/Child: 455-0700

• Healthy Seniors of Steele County: 774-7648

• Linea de Apoyo (Spanish): 1-877-434-9528

• Men Who Batter: 451-2630

• Minnesota AIDS Project: 1-800-248-2437

• MS Society (Upper Midwest: 1-800-344-4867

• MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers): 451-8548

• Owatonna Homestead Hospice: 446-0936

• Owatonna Solo Parents & Singles: 507-202-6195

People’s

• Parent Warm Line: 1-888-584-2204

• Parenting the ADD/ADHD Child Support Group: 507-358-8869

• Parkinson Support Group: 1-800-327-4545

• Post-Polio Awareness & Support Society: 446-0194

• Rebuilding (divorce, separation or death): 455-4104

HOW & WHERE

Where do I get a passport?

Recorder’s Office - Administration Center

507-444-7450

Where do I get a birth certificate?

Recorder’s Office - Administration Center

507-444-7450

Do you have a Justice of the Peace?

Recorder’s Office - Administration Center

507-444-7450

Where do I pay a traffic ticket? Courthouse

507-686-7012

Where do I go to get financial assistance help with child support, children’s and adult services, etc?

Minnesota Prairie County Alliance

507-431-5600

Who handles homestead applications?

Assessor’s Office - Administration Center

507-444-7435

Where do I pay Property Taxes?

Treasurer’s Office - Administration Center

507-444-7420

Information about recycling center?

Recycling Hotline

507-451-5443

Where do I dispose of Household Hazardous Waste?

Recycling Hotline

507-451-5443

• Senior Place: 444-4280

• Sib Shop: 451-9769

• Supporting Activities for Singles: 451-0200

• Survivors Domestic Abuse Support Group 1-800-451-1202

• TRIAMI: 835-7036

• Young Life: 451-9401

Where do I get a building permit? (outside Owatonna city limits)?

Outside Owatonna city limits: Building Inspection

507-444-7475

Who do I call to rent the Steele County Community Center?

Extension Office

507-444-7686

Who do I call if I have a problem with a County road?

Engineering Office 444-7670

Where do I get my driver’s license or car plates?

License Bureau

451-2040

How do I get a marriage license?

Recorders Office

507-444-7450

What’s the number for:

Food Shelf, 455-2991 Fuel Assistance (SEMCAC) 451-7134 Senior Place, 444-4280 Humane Society, 451-4512 SMART Bus, 1-855-762-7821

A Social Security Representative no longer visits Owatonna. You may reach them at: 1-800-772-1213

Where do I get a permit for prescribed burning?

Steele Co. Sheriff 451-8232

Where do I acquire information on the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act?

Steele Co. SWCD 451-6730 Ext. 3

Is it legal to drain or excavate in wetlands?

Steele Co. Conservation Office 451-6730 Ext. 3

Is it legal to tile my land, clear brush, or clean out ditches on agricultural land?

Farm Service Agency 451-1054 Ext. 2

Where can I obtain a Crop Equivalency Rating (CER) for farm lands?

Steele Co. SWCD 451-6730 Ext. 3

Where can I obtain information on Federal and State marginal land programs?

Steele Co. Conservation Office 451-6730 Ext. 3

Where can I obtain information on Conservation Educational Programs?

Steele Co. Conservation Office 451-6730 Ext. 3

Where are the best Wildlife Management Areas in Steele County?

DNR Wildlife Office 455-5841

Where can I obtain the zoning rules for tree plantings?

Steele Co. SWCD at 451-6730 or Steele Co. Zoning at 444-7475

Where can I obtain tree advice and planting plans for windbreaks and wildlife plantings?

Steele Co. Conservation Office 451-6730 Ext. 3

Where do I apply for Beginning Farmer Low-Interest Loans?

Farm Service Agency 451-1054 Ext. 2

If I buy or sell agricultural land, who do I notify?

Farm Service Agency

451-1054 Ext. 2

Where do I obtain information on all the USDA Farm Programs and benefits?

Farm Service Agency

451-1054 Ext. 2

Who do I call to report noxious weeds (thistles etc.) on farm land?

Farm Service Agency

451-1054 Ext. 2

What number do I call for the Gopher State One Call?

1-800-252-1166

Where can I obtain information on senior living options in Steele County?

SeniorGuidance.org

Yard Waste Composting sites

Blooming Prairie, 507-583-7573; Ellendale, 507-684-2681 and Owatonna’s Yard Waste Compost Site is available for use by anyone. For more information on location,

hours, what is accepted, charges and products available for purchase go to the city of Owatonna website, www.ci.owatonna.mn.us/488/ Compost-Information.

Steele County election information Steele County Election Office is located on the first floor of the Steele County Administration Center, Auditor’s Office at 630 Florence Ave.

-Am I Registered to Vote? mnvotes. sos.state.mn.us/VoterStatus.aspx

-Absentee Ballot Status? mnvotes.sos. state.mn.us/AbsenteeBallotStatus. aspx

-Find your Polling Place? pollfinder.sos.state.mn.us/

Board Meetings: How Do I get on the Board Agenda?

Requests to be on the Board agenda go through the County Administrator’s Office. The office will work to determine the most effective method to address the Board. Requests to be included on the Board meeting agendas must be made no later than the Wednesday prior to the meeting. Specific requirements can

be found on the Rules of Order. The Board meeting has an opportunity for the public to address the Board during a “Public Comment” time. Public Comment does not need to be arranged prior to that particular meeting, but the issue may be referred to staff and no action taken during Public Comment.

Court Cases: Court Date, Change My Court Date or Obtain Information on a Court Case Call Court Administration at 507-686-7012

Child Support

MNPrairie works to make sure that children get the support they need. For more information call MNPrairie at 507-431-5600 or go to www.mnprairie. org/180/Child-support

Recycling: Extra Bins, Scheduled Pick-up and more

If you would like more information about Recycling in Steele County click here. For additional information please call Planning & Zoning / Environmental at 507-444-7487.

PUBLIC SAFETY

STEELE COUNTY

SHERIFF’S OFFICE

204 East Pearl St., Owatonna 507-444-3800

Lon Thiele, Sheriff

Dial 911 for emergency situations. In a non-emergency situation where you need to reach a Licensed Deputy, please call 507-451-8232. You will then be put in contact with one deputy who is currently on duty. You can report a crime, suspicious activity, or inquire about laws, etc.

A tip line for all Steele County law enforcement agencies is 1-866-8787964. The more details you can supply law enforcement with the better they can follow through on the situation. Leaving your name and number is optional but would be appreciated and kept totally confidential.

The Steele County Sheriff’s Office is on the first floor of the Steele County Law

Enforcement Center located at 204 E Pearl, Owatonna. The exterior lobby at this location is open 24/7. There is a phone available there that will allow you to talk to a dispatcher, who will direct your call appropriately.

Get alerted about emergencies and other important community news by signing up for the Steele County Emergency Notification System at https://member.everbridge. net/453003085612579/login.

POLICE

Blooming Prairie Police Department

138 Hwy. Ave. S., Blooming Prairie Chief Greg Skillestad Non-Emergency 507-583-7885

Owatonna Police Department 204 E Pearl St., Owatonna, 507-451-8232

Chief of Police- Jeff Mundale

FIRE DEPARTMENT

Blooming Prairie Fire Department 138 Hwy. Ave. S., Blooming Prairie Chief- Dean Naatz Non-Emergency: 507-583-2088

Ellendale Fire Department 705 2nd. St., Ellendale Phone: 911

Fire Chief-Logan Busho Emergency Manager- Jerry Ibberson

Medford Volunteer Fire Department

Attached to City Hall, 408 2nd Ave. SE, Medford 507-455-0053

mfd@medfordminnesota.com

Fire Chief- Craig Helgeson

Owatonna Fire Department 107 Main St. W, Owatonna 507-444-2454

Fire Chief- Ed Hoffman

CITY OF

OWATONNA

540 West Hills Circle, Owatonna 444-4300 • ci.owatonna.mn.us

Population: 26,470

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Administration — 774-7341

City building Inspections — 444-4370

City Council — 444-4300

City ordinances — bit.ly/3kiW0IO

City licenses and permits — 774-7341

Engineering Department — 444-4350

Report a pothole — 444-4350 Fire Department — 107 W Main St. • 444-2454

Hospital

Owatonna Hospital — 2250 NW 26th St. • 451-3850 • allinahealth.org

Library — 105 N Elm St. • 444–2460

Police — 204 E Pearl St. • 451-8232 (non-emergency)

Animal Control — 451-8232

Law Enforcement Records Division — 444-3800

Nusiance complaint form — bit. ly/31qcqrz

Pearl Street 911 Dispatch Center — 451-8232

Post Office — 209 E. Broadway St. • 451-3507

Public Safety alert signup — bit. ly/3m7OYHr

Public Works

Compost Facility — 475-0206

Engineering Division — 444-4350

Forestry Division — 444-4350

Stormwater Division — 444-4350 Streets Division — 774-7051

Wastewater Treatment Facility — 444-2452

Weed/Grass Violation complaint form — bit.ly/37utznJ

Rental property license — bit.

ly/3m7OjWt

Stormwater Management — 774-7300

Owatonna Compost — 475-0206 Transit (SMART bus) — 855-SMART-B1 • smartbusmn.org

MEDIA

Owatonna People’s Press 135 W Pearl St. 451-2840 • owatonna.com News: 444-2371

Circulation: 333-3115

Steele County Times

411 Main St. E, Blooming Prairie 583-4431 • steeledodgenews.com

KAT Kountry 105 (Country) — krforadio.com

KFOW 1170 AM & 106.3 FM — newstalk1170.com

KOWZ 100.9 FM (Adult contemporary) — kowzfm.com

KRFO 1390 AM (Classic hits) — krforadio.com

KRUE 92 (Country) — krue92.com

GOVERNMENT

The city of Owatonna is governed by an eight-member council, which includes seven council members and the mayor. All are elected to fouryear terms.

The city administrator, who works under the direction of the City Council, supervises all administrative affairs of the city government. The administrator directs and supervises department heads and is responsible for all day-to-day operations.

The City Council meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of the month in the Council Chambers, Owatonna Administration Building, 540 West Hills Circle.

OWATONNA CITY COUNCIL

Owatonna City Council meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m.

CITY BOARD & COMMISSION MEETINGS

• Airport Commission — 5 p.m. second Thursday of the month in the Airport Lounge

• Charter Commission — 4 p.m. on the third Thursday of April and when necessary in the second floor conference room,, City Administration Building

• Downtown Parking Committee — 8 a.m. quarterly, on the third Wednesday of January, April, July and October lower level conference room, City Administration Building

• Economic Development Authority — 4 p.m. third on the thir Wednesday of the month in the Council Chambers, City Administration Building

• Housing & Redevelopment Authority — 4 p.m. on the fourth Monday of the month in the

second floor conference room, City Administration Building

• Human Rights Commission —5:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in the second floor conference room of the City Administration Building.

• Public Library Board — 4:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month in the library’s Gainey Room.

• Parks & Recreation Board — 4:30 p.m. the second Mondays of each month. Site varies

• Planning Commission –5:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. NovemberFebruary on the second Tuesday. All in the Council Chambers, City Administration Building

• Public Utilities Commission — 4 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday in the Morehouse Meeting Room at the OPU Office

• SeniorPlace Inc. — 1 p.m. on the first Monday of each month.

• Shade Tree Commission — 6 p.m. quarterly in January, April, July and October in the second floor conference room, City Administration Building

• West Hills Commission — Noon quarterly on the first Tuesday of January, April, July and October in the first floor conference room

PARKS & RECREATION

444-4321 • ci.owatonna.mn.us/283/ Parks-Recreation

The city of Owatonna Parks & Rec Department operates and maintains several facilties intended for the enjoyment of city residents and visitors, along with over 811 acres of parkland throughout 33 parks and has over 17 miles of trails.

Also offered are programs for adults and youth. From golf and kickball leagues to swimming and water safety instructor lessons, Owatonna Parks & Rec has something for everyone.

Brooktree Golf Course — 444-2467 • brooktreegolfcourse.com

River Springs Water Park — 774-7370

West Hills Social Commons (for seniors)— 444-4280

West Hills Tennis & Fitness Center — 444-4290

DEGNER REGIONAL AIRPORT

3400 W Frontage Road 444-2448 • ci.owatonna. mn.us/162/DegnerRegional-Airport Mission: To maintain and operate the airport to support the aviation needs of the area by providing safe and efficient airport facilities and services for general and business aviation users and enhance a positive economic impact for the region.

CITY OF MEDFORD

408 Second Avenue SE, Medford 455-2866 • medfordminnesota.com

Population: 1,347

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

City Administration — 455-2866

Building permits — 444-7475

Fire Department — 408 Second Avenue SE • 455-0053

Municipal Liquor Store — 451-5821

Public Works — 456-7676

Sheriff’s Office

204 E Pearl St., Owatonna • 444-3800 (non emergency)

Emergency: 911

Tipline: 866-878-7964

In a non-emergency situation where you need to reach a licensed deputy, call the county’s Dispatch Center at 451-8232 to be put in contact with an on-duty deputy.

Runaway Hotline: 1-800-786-2929

• Steele County Detention Center

Water and Sewer — 455-2866

Utilities —

• Gas

Centerpoint Energy — 1-800-245-2377

• Steele-Waseca Electric — 451-7340

• Cable TV

Midcontinent — 1-800-888-1300

Jaguar Communications — 1-800-250-1517

• Garbage

Archambault Brothers Disposal — 334-8910

Flom — 334-5767

Stewart Sanitation — 451-0976

Waste Management — wm.com

GOVERNMENT

The city of Medford is governed by a five-member council, which includes four council members and the mayor. All are elected to fouryear terms.

The city administrator works under

oversees all day-to-day operations.

The City Council meets at 7 p.m. on the fourth Monday of each month. Watch recorded council meetings at owatonnalive.com/Medford-CityMeetings.html

CITY BOARD & COMMISSION MEETINGS

• Economic Development Authority — 5:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of even months

• Park Board — 7 p.m. on the second Monday of odd months

• Planning and Zoning Board — 7 p.m. on the third Monday of odd months

Find Medford city ordinances and more at medfordminnesota.com

CITY OF BLOOMING PRAIRIE

138 Hwy. Ave. S.

583-7573 • bloomingprairie.com

Population: 1,945

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

City Administration — 583-7573

Ambulance Service — 583-7573

Emergency — 911

City of Blooming Prairie

City of Blooming Prairie

and Central and Fire Department

Administration (583-7573) office to Contact the recreation director at

For city residents to dispose of their residential yard and garden waste, and brush. Located in the east area of the Industrial Park. Open 24/7.

— at City Hall between 1-2 p.m. Wednesdays or at the Steele County Administration in Owatonna. Call 583- 2283 and ask for

CITY OF

ELLENDALE

106 Sixth Ave. W

684-2681 • ellendalemn.com

Population: 669

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

City Administration — 684-2681

Ambulance — 505 Third Street • 688-2745 (non-emergency)

Community Center — 684-2681 Fire Department — 705 Second St

Emergency — 911

Post Office — 514 Second St. S • 684-3951

Sheriff’s Office

204 E Pearl St., Owatonna • 444-3800 (non emergency)

Emergency: 911

Tipline: 866-878-7964

In a non-emergency situation where you need to reach a licensed deputy, call the county’s Dispatch Center at 451-8232 to be put in contact with an on-duty deputy.

Runaway Hotline: 1-800-786-2929

Utilities —

• Electric

Steele-Waseca Cooperative

Electric, 2411 West Bridge St. • 451-7340 or 1-800-526-3514

• Natural Gas

Minnesota Energy Resources

24-hour customer service — 1-800-889-9508.

24-hour emergency service — 1-800-889-4970

• Water and sewer — 684-2681

• Garbage removal service is contracted through the city. Service questions — Thompson Sanitation at 256-4370

• Internet

Radio Link Internet — 417-4176

Consolidated Communications — 844-968-7224

Midco — 800-888-1300

Frontier Communications — 800-921-8101

• Cable TV

Midco — 800-888-1300

Consolidated Communications — 844-968-7224

• Telephone

Frontier Communications — 800-921-8101

Consolidated Communications — 844-968-7224

Midco — 800-888-1300

CITY GOVERNMENT

The City Council consists of five members, four councilors and the mayor. The council determines policy while the city administrator oversees the staff who carry the council’s direction.

City ordinances — Find them at ellendalemn.com/ordinances

BOARD AND COMMISSION MEETINGS

Economic Development Authority

— 7 a.m. the third Friday of January, March, May, July, September and November in the Ellendale City Office.

Twin Cities-based artist Chandler Anderson created this design for the The Community Gathering Place Mural project in Ellendale. (Submitted Photo)

Education

The founders and settlers of Steele County brought with them certain cultural traditions that were as real and perhaps as important as the houses and stores they constructed. One of their first priorities was education.

From the first public school classes conducted in a crude pole and branch-covered structure in the summer of 1855 to the wide variety of public and private educational facilities and resources available today, Steele County has a long history of offering the finest education to all ages.

Steele County takes prides in its schools, the achievements of its students and the many opportunities its students have that help them be prepared for a successful career and to become positive and contributing members of society.

TECHNICAL ACADEMIES OF MINNESOTA

Opening in the fall of 2015 was the Technical Academies of Minnesota public, tuition-free charter school for

students in grades 7-12. The academy will employ licensed teachers and bring hands-on, project-based experiential learning to students. The project-based public charter school will focus on career and technical schools. Students will create projects based on their own interests. Students will make choices about how they complete state graduation requirements as a part of their projects. Some work will be done partially online while other experiences will be in the community, at a local business or on a college campus.

The Owatonna site is the second of four sites for Technical Academies of Minnesota. The first site opened in 2014 in Wilmar.

For more information, see the website at www. technicalacademies.org.

PILLSBURY COLLEGE PREP

Pillsbury College is a nationally accredited private school offering small classroom sizes with online individual instruction and pacing.

Open to both domestic and international students from grades 7-12, the year-round boarding school offers an entrepreneurial academic environment in which students can thrive both educationally and personally. The school has a strategic partnership with Minnesota State University-Mankato and Riverland Community College, allowing high school students to take dual enrollment and attend Riverland Community College for college credit.

For more information, see the school’s website at www. pillsburyprep.com.

COLLEGES

RIVERLAND COMMUNITY COLLEGE – OWATONNA CAMPUS

Owatonna College and University Center 964 Alexander Dr., Owatonna riverland.edu • 455-5880

OHS students Lauren Busho and Ava Carroll stand ready to guide community members through the new high school. (Josh LaFollette/southernminn.com)

Riverland Community College’s Kim Nelson, interim dean of academic affairs, and Okechukwu Ukaga, dean of food and agriculture, speak with Owatonna City Councilor Dan Boeke at a community input session about the Owatonna campus. (Annie Harman/southernminn.com) CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

OWATONNA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 761

333 East School Street

General Information: 444-8600

Superintendent’s Office: 444-8601

OWATONNA HIGH SCHOOL

333 School St. E 444-8800

OWATONNA JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL

500 15th St. NE 444-8700

OWATONNA AREA LEARNING CENTER

130 E. Vine St. 444-8000

OWATONNA ONLINE

515 W. Bridge St

K-5 Main Office: 444-8208 6-12 Main Office: 44-8006

OWATONNA

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

LINCOLN SCHOOL 747 Havana Road 444-8100

MCKINLEY SCHOOL 423 14th St. NE 444-8200

WASHINGTON SCHOOL

338 Main St. E 444-8300

WILSON SCHOOL

325 Meadow Lane

444-8400

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Owatonna Community Education 122 East McKinley Street 444-7900

BLOOMING PRAIRIE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 756

202 4th Ave NW Blooming Prairie 583-4426

BLOOMING PRAIRIE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

123 2nd St. NW

Blooming Prairie 583-6615

BLOOMING PRAIRIE HIGH SCHOOL

202 4th Ave NW

Blooming Prairie 583-4426

MEDFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MEDFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS

750 2nd Ave. SE Medford 451-6474

NEW RICHLANDHARTLAND-ELLENDALE -GENEVA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 2168

306 Ash Avenue S New Richland 465-3205

NRHEG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

600 School Street Ellendale 416-2101

NRHEG SECONDARY SCHOOL

306 Ash Avenue S New Richland 417-2601

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

EAGLE ACADEMY (ELEMENTARY SCHOOL) 2429 N Cedar Avenue 455-3205

OWATONNA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 265 26 Street NE 451-3495

ST. MARY’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

730 S. Cedar Ave. 446-2300

Medford Graduation

Blooming Prairie graduation

Hospitals, Clinics & Medical Emergency

Providers

CRISIS RESOURCE CENTER

Support and service to victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse. 125 Front St. W, Owatonna 507-451-1202 or 1-800-451-1202 helpinghandsofsteele.com/ crisisrecourcecenter.html

GOLD CROSS AMBULANCE

1005 Cedar Ave. S, Owatonna 507-451-6403

HOSPITALITY HOUSE OF OWATONNA

Emergency men’s shelter 250 E Main St., Owatonna 507-444-4042

OAK HILL COMMUNITY CONNECTS

Short term housing for all individuals and families with skill building and human services on site Coming fall 2025 oakhillcc.care

MN POISON CONTROL CENTER

(24 HR.): 1-800-222-1222

OLMSTED MEDICAL CENTER

Coming in 2025 to the Ascend building olmmed.org

OWATONNA CLINIC

(MAYO CLINIC HEALTH SYSTEM)

2200 26th St. NW, Owatonna 451-1120

OWATONNA CLINIC URGENT CARE 451-0686

mayoclinichealthsystem.org/ locations/owatonna

OWATONNA HOSPITAL

(ALLINA HEALTH)

2250 26th St. NW, Owatonna 507-451-3850

allinahealth.org/owatonna-hospital

RACHEL’S LIGHT

Women and children’s short term housing rachelslight.com 507-475-2338

SAFE RETURN

For wandering & medical emergencies 1-888-572-8566

SMOKING CESSATION

Mayo Nicotine Dependence Center & Support Group: 1-800-344-5984

Narcotics Anonymous – MN Region: -877-767-7676

Quitplan Helpline: 1-888-354-7526

Photo by Trevor Gieseke

Parks, Recreation & Trails

OWATONNA PARKS & RECREATION

A place to picnic and play games, to walk and run, to listen to concerts or watch a ball game, to ski or skate, or just to enjoy the beauty of

nature — they can all be found in Owatonna’s parks and trails.

The City of Owatonna has long been admired for its many beautiful parks. The city’s Park and Recreation Department currently maintains more

than 700 acres of park land in 24 different city parks.

The parks range from several neighborhood parks, which are less than a half-acre, to Kaplan’s Woods, which is 225 acres.

GO TO WWW.OWATONNA. GOV/283/PARKS-RECREATION TO RESERVE A PAVILION FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT, SIGN UP FOR A PROGRAM OR BROWSE THE FULL CALENDAR OF EVENTS.

LIKE OWATONNA PARKS AND RECREATION ON FACEBOOK OR FOLLOW @OWATONNAPARKREC ON TWITTER!

KAPLAN’S

WOODS PARKWAY

1205 SW 18th Street

Owatonna 507-444-4321

Outdoor lovers from the area head over to Kaplan’s Woods Parkway for the ultimate compilation of outdoor activities. From more than six miles of trails used for hiking, jogging, skiing and biking to picnic sites, boat ramps and fishing piers, this parkway is filled with pleasant greetings and scenic nature. Maps of the parkway are available at the Parks and Recreation office.

OWATONNA PARKS

A place to picnic and play games, to walk or run, attend a concert, watch a ball game or simply to enjoy the beauty of nature—they all can be found in the parks and trails of Steele County. Listed below are just a

few highlights of the Owatonna park system.

CENTRAL PARK

At the heart of Owatonna, Central Park is home to the Farmer’s Market and the 11@7 Concert Series. Visit the park to enjoy live music, shop for locally-grown food and handmade crafts or take in the beauty of the iconic fountain and scenic view of downtown.

DARTTS PARK

Dartts Park is for the active type. Featuring two tennis courts, a baseball field with spectator seating, softball field, horseshoes, a playground and more, this park offers plenty of opportunity for you to enjoy the outdoors and some friendly competition.

Owatonna:150W.ParkSquare/507-451-9000

Waseca:215E.ElmAvenue/507-835-5240

Janesville:216N.MainStreet/507-234-5106

Faribault:4152ndAvenueNW/507-332-7425

Kaplan’s Woods in Owatonna is an enjoyable place to hike in any season, but especially in autumn.

JAYCEE PARK

Jaycee Park is the perfect destination for your next birthday party celebration or family gettogether. Nestled between Main Street and Rice Lake Street, Jaycee Park features a picnic shelter, sand volleyball court and play equipment. A thank you is in order to the Owatonna Jaycees for their enormous contributions to the initial and continued development of the park.

MANTHEY PARK

A community favorite, Manthey Park has been newly redone and has played host to many family

gatherings over the years. With two large picnic shelters, tennis courts, a basketball court, softball and baseball fields, play equipment, hiking trails and a large open grassy area, families can spend some true quality time at this park.

MINERAL SPRINGS PARK

A must-visit for natives and visitors alike, Mineral Springs Park is home to the statue of Princess Owatonna. Also known for its healing mineral springs, this park features amenities for family outings as well as a disc golf course.

MOREHOUSE PARK

Bask in the beauty of the Straight River at Morehouse Park. Featuring the Warsinski Chalet, a picnic shelter,

play equipment, horseshoe courts and a softball field, residents can also take advantage of sand volleyball and a skate park. In the spring and summer months, many families visit the park to feed the ducks and geese, fish or walk on the Kaplan’s Woods Parkway.

MEDFORD PARKS

Canoe and kayak enthusiasts can enter the Straight River through the landing access available at Straight River Park, while the sports buff can enjoy the volleyball courts, tennis courts, a basketball court and baseball field. Perfect for reunions and gatherings, the park also features pavilions, a playground, kiddie pool as well as a large pool with a diving board.

BLOOMING PRAIRIE PARKS

Central Park and Victory Field Park are two that residents frequently visit. Home to the Old Fashioned Fourth of July festivities, Central Park features a pavilion, gazebo and play equipment. Across from the high school, Victory Field Park offers two softball fields and a tennis court in addition to a pavilion and playground. Other parks in Blooming Prairie are East Side Park, Green Gardens Park and the Fire Department Park.

TRAILS

IF YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT RIDING THE TRAILS THIS SEASON OR HAVE A FEW EXTRA HOURS TO VOLUNTEER, CONNECT WITH THE FOLKS OVER AT THE OWATONNA TRAILS ASSOCIATION ON FACEBOOK.

TRAIL SYSTEM

Three generous families left a lasting legacy on the Owatonna community by inspiring the Owatonna trail system as we know it today. Thanks to the Buxtons, Gaineys and Muckles, we’re able to hike, bike and explore nature in our community.

Owatonna’s Central Park.

Women’sClothing

UniqueJewelry&Gifts

Wecarrypopular brandsincluding: Democracy,FlyingMonkey, JudyBlue&Co., GraceandLace,&DownEast

Shopwithus!

Tuesday10-5

Wednesday10-5

Thursday10-5

Friday10-5

Saturday10-3

324CedarN.Ave,Owatonna ShopOnlineat HiddenRoseBoutique.com

HOPE SCHOOL HOUSE

3619 SW 91st St., Hope

BEAVER LAKE PARK

13915 SW 72nd Ave., New Richland No lifeguard services

STRAIGHT RIVER CANOE LANDING

5218 N County Road 45, Medford

OWATONNA TRAIL SYSTEM

A number of families left a lasting legacy on the Owatonna community by inspiring the Owatonna trail system as we know it today. Learn more about Owatonna’s trail system at ci.owatonna.mn.us/304/Trails.s

Libraries

For more than 100 years, the citizens of Steele County have been served by the Owatonna Public Library, located at 105 N. Elm Ave., with a branch of the library located in the City Center building, 138 Highway Avenue S in Blooming Prairie.

SERVICES

The library offers a wide range of services to adults and children, including wireless Internet.

• Children’s Services has materials and programs for children ages 13 and under. Kids can find their favorite stories, authors and books at the library or e-books through the library website. There are also DVDs, books on audio cassette and CD, and toys and puzzles available for checkout. Computers are available where they can type a paper or play with the best computer programs available.

• The local history collection in Adult Services includes a variety of resources for learning about local history or tracing genealogy. Resources include local newspapers from 1868 to the present on microfilm, city and county directories, family histories and biographies, Steele County cemeteries index, city

and county reports and proposals, Ancestry.com, passenger lists and immigration resources and the Steele County Historical Society digital photo archive.

• In addition to the books, including large print, the library

carries magazines, compact discs, DVDs, Blu-Ray and books on CD. The library’s website — www.owatonna. info — lists numerous databases available to library cardholders. Library-goers can also download ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, music and independent films with an Owatonna Public Library card.

• The OPL has added a new makerspace for patrons to enjoy, including podcast equipment and other new technology.

• Special programs and events are held throughout the year, such as story hours for children, book discussions for adults, author programs, a poetry writers group and a twice-monthly movie showing.

HOURS

The Owatonna Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. The library is closed on Sunday.

The Blooming Prairie Library is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday The library is closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Owatonna Library. Photo by Trevor Gieseke

Blooming Prairie Library

Arts &Culture

LITTLE THEATRE OF OWATONNA

Owatonna offers numerous opportunities to see live theatrical productions performed on stage throughout the year. Founded in 1966 to bring “culture, art and entertainment to Owatonna and the surrounding communities with active participation by all interested,” Little Theatre of Owatonna now mounts four to five productions a year, with the repertoire ranging from comedy to drama to musical theater. See calendar for production dates.

560A Dunnell Dr., Owatonna 507-457-0764

Littletheatreofowatonna.org

OWATONNA ARTS CENTER

Located on the historic campus of Minnesota’s only state orphanage, the Owatonna Arts Center is a place to discover surprising insights on the world around you and new talents within you. The center’s vitality is experienced in the art classes that are offered for children and adults, exhibitions by regional professional artists and musical performances. The Owatonna Arts Center, founded as a 501©3 corporation in 1974, makes its home in the main building of the West Hills Complex and has as its mission “to make the arts accessible to the community and to promote creativity.” See calendar for activities and events.

435 Garden View Lane, Owatonna 507-451-0533

Oacarts.org

ORPHANAGE MUSEUM

In 1885, the Minnesota Legislature created the Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children. After some political wrangling, Owatonna was chosen as the site for this new state orphanage which operated from 1886-1945. During this time period, 10,635 dependent and neglected children passed through this institution. Today the campus is known as the West Hills Complex. The Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum is located on the first floor of the City Administration Building. This building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Museum contains photos, artifacts and stories of the children who lived this history.

STEELE COUNTY HISTORY CENTER & VILLAGE OF YESTERYEAR

The Village of Yesteryear, operated by the Steele County Historical Society, is a setting where visitors can experience what life was like in Owatonna and Steele County at the turn of the 20th Century. There are two log cabins, railroad station with a 1850’s caboose from Steele County, gas station, general store/post office, fire station, farm machinery building, blacksmith shop, country school, Dunnell mansion built in 1868 and the St. Wenceslaus of Moravia Church built in 1891. The buildings are furnished according to the time they were built and are connected by a boardwalk.

540 West Hills Circle, Owatonna 507-774-7369

Orphanagemuseum.com

The Steele County Historical Society offices are located in the History Center Building at 1700 Austin Road. The fully-accessible and modern Center features exhibits and offers historically-related programs throughout the year. See calendar for activities and events.

1700 Austin Road, Owatonna 507-451-1420

Steelehistorymuseum.org

LOUIS H. SULLIVAN NATIONAL FARMERS BANK

The year was 1906. The National Farmers’ Bank — the largest bank in the city — had outgrown its offices on the first floor of a 40-yearold building in downtown Owatonna. Carl Bennett, then-vice president of the bank, commissioned famed architect Louis H. Sullivan to design a “true and lasting work of art” to be the home of the bank. Construction on the new bank in Owatonna — the first of Sullivan’s “jewel boxes” — began in April 1907 and was completed in 1908. The red brick structure with green terra cotta bands features two large arches displaying stained glass windows designed by Louis J. Millet. Inside are several murals by Oskar Gross and a “poem of colors,” featuring more than 200 shades, primarily blues and greens, intricate terra cotta and gold-leaf detailing.

On Jan. 7, 1976, the building was recognized as a National Historic Landmark for its architectural significance. The United States Postal Service commemorated the building in 1981, putting the image of the bank on a postage stamp.

101 North Cedar Avenue

Downtown Owatonna

Steele County

Third week in August 1525 S Cedar Ave., Owatonna 451-5305 • scff.org

HISTORY OF THE FAIR

The first fair in Steele County was held on Oct. 17, 1860.

Premiums that year were quite interesting:

• Best 6 yoke of working oxen – $6

• Best wagon made in county – $3

• Best buggy made in county – $5

• Best team and plow – $2

• Best butter churn – $1

• Best corn and best 100 lbs of flour – 50¢

From 1871 through 1917 the fair was held at various sites throughout Owatonna until 1871 when the fair was held on 40 acres of pasture land at the head of Main Street in eastern Owatonna, It eventually moved to the current site of 70 acres in 1918.

Steele County made real history when the Minnesota State Fair was held here in 1883 and 1884, and large crowds came by chartered trains to Owatonna to enjoy the fair. By 1927, the fair board decided to make the fair a “free fair,” helping the fair grow and thrive.

Free Fair

The 1930’s brought lavish stage shows with beautiful chorus lines that played before the grandstand nightly. By 1932 big car racing came to the fair. Auto racing and motor events became huge attractions, and to this day remain the most popular type of entertainment at the fair.

Free stages developed by 1979 and have hosted hundreds of talent and musical acts. The fair has also had a strong agricultural history. It still hosts about 2000 animals at the fair every year and the fastest growing show is horses.

The fair has always attracted merchandise and food vendors and now hosts over 500 booths with over 100 different food stands each year. In 2009 the fair had vendors from over 26 states. In addition to the merchandise and food stands today’s fair features 24 bands, everything from old time to hard rock and dixieland to gospel music. Attendance in 2019 was estimated at more than 322,000 visitors.

MUCKLE MUSEUM

The Muckle Fair Museum was donated by Stan Muckle (1909-95),

an ardent Steele County Free Fair supporter and leader in the vision which has resulted in Minnesota’s Biggest County Fair! The museum is full of interesting memorabilia from past fairs. The museum and all buildings are open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. during the fair.

VILLAGE OF YESTERYEAR

Be sure to walk through the Village of Yesteryear. A collection of 25 buildings from Steele County’s early years located east of the fairgrounds. Admission is free during fair week.

EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS

Along with music, food, animals, midway rides, carnival games and tractor pulls, the fair offers a wealth of performances and grandstand events. The schedule is announced every spring..

The fair also recognizes local leaders with inductions into its Equine and Livestock halls of fame. Other worthy individuals are honored each year with the fair’s Livestock Hall of Fame Service Award and Ambassador of the Year.

Steele County

ALL SUMMER LONG FARMERS MARKET IN CENTRAL PARK

City of Owatonna

Stop by Central Park every Saturday during the summer to pick up fresh vegetables, flowers, and fun hand-crafted items from more than 80 vendors. The market is open from 7 a.m. to noon.

Every Thursday:

11@7 CONCERT SERIES

In Central Park beginning at 7 p.m.

DOWNTOWN THURSDAY:

The first 300 blocks of N. Cedar Ave around Central Park on the first Thursday of June, July, August and September. Starts at 5 p.m.

JUNE

First Saturday of June (Friday-Sunday): SMOKIN’ IN

STEELE BBQ & BLUES FESTIVAL

Steele County Fairgrounds

Presented by the Owatonna Knights of Columbus to benefit Special Olympics of Minnesota.

Third week of June (Wednesday-Saturday):

STRAIGHT RIVER DAYS

City of Medford

The population may be small, but the pride of the Medford community is great. Every year since 1971, residents, sponsors and volunteers have come together to produce the most anticipated event of the year, Straight River Days. The first experience included a parade, carnival, canoe derby, street dance and the Miss Medford Beauty Pageant. Since then, it has expanded into much more and there is no sign of it slowing down. For more information, visit www.straightriverdays.com or on Facebook.

Third week of June (Thursday-Friday): KIDS SAFETY CAMP

City of Owatonna

The 25th Annual Steele County

Calendar

Safety Camp is a two-day event open to all 3rd grade students in the area. At camp, the students are split into teams, attend safety classes, and compete in various team events. For more information, call Ted Mittelstadt at 451-7946.

Third Saturday of June:

HARRY WENGER MARCHING BAND FESTIVAL

Downtown Owatonna

This annual festival honors the work of Harry Wenger, the founder of Wenger Corp. here in Owatonna. Competitive high school marching bands from across the state march downtown on streets lined with thousands of spectators who came from near and far to enjoy a spectrum of talented musicians’ performances featuring new music, new themes and new props.

Last weekend of June (Friday-Sunday): ELLENDALE

DAYS

City of Ellendale

An old-fashioned country town celebration, Ellendale continues to display their modest charm through three days of entertainment, memories and small town warmth. This event is known for bouncing pig tales and friendly smiles—don’t miss out!

JULY

OLD FASHIONED FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION:

City of Blooming Prairie

Small town, big celebration. Actually, “big” would be an understatement for Blooming Prairie’s Fourth of July weekend. The biggest event of the year for this community is also the largest Fourth of July celebration in southern Minnesota. Every year, more than 35,000 people gather in this tiny Steele County town to celebrate Independence Day the old-fashioned way.

SCHS EXTRAVAGANZA:

Village of Yesteryear

A family fun day featuring reenactments, old time hand crafts,

musical entertainment, an antique tractor show, wool spinning, printing, basket weaving, wood working demonstrations, clothes washing demonstrations, leatherworking and more! Visit www.schsmn.org for more information.

SECRET GARDEN TOUR:

Hosted by the Owatonna Arts Center Stroll through the unique and beautiful gardens on the Secret Garden Tour. Visit oacarts.org for more information.

GEM DAYS:

Downtown Owatonna

This weekend event for families in and outside of Steele County will span across three days. Businesses and entertainers go all in by bringing sidewalk sales, live music, dance and gymnastic performances as well as activities ranging from train rides to a parade. Visit owatonnabusiness.org/ gem-days for more information.

AUGUST

Third week in August (Tuesday-Sunday):

STEELE COUNTY FREE FAIR Fairgrounds

For one week each year, the fairgrounds in Owatonna transforms into an immense shopping center. Vendors from 25 states and Canada bring it all—from crystal to quilts, art to furniture and potato peelers to RV’s. Over 100 food stands will tease the taste buds of fairgoers and have them eating everything from cotton candy to prime rib. Kids and adults of all ages will enjoy events from pig races to puppet shows. Thrill-seekers will adventure over to the more than 40 midway rides provided by Gold Star Amusements or one of the many attractions in Adventure Alley. Pick up a copy of the Owatonna People’s Press during the week of the fair for the daily calendar as well as stats on how the various groups and competitions are performing! Visit scff.org for more information.

TheSteeleCounty HistoricalSocietyis devotedtopreservingand sharinghistorytoday andtomorrow.

Comemakeyourday historicattheSteeleCounty HistoricalSociety’sVillageof Yesteryear,HistoryCenter, andtheOrphanageMuseum. Offeringyear-roundactivities andprograms.

History Center

Steele County Historical Soicety

1700 Austin Road, Owatonna 451-1420 • schsmn.org

The Steele County Historical Society preserves the county’s past, shares its stories and connects people with history in meaningful ways.

The Historical Society was established in 1949 to preserve the county’s history. The Village of Yesteryear was established. in 1962 with the arrival of the Lemond Township’s Saco Church. Now with 19 structures, the latest being the 1931 Standard Oil gas station, the village has become a county landmark and historic treasure.

The History Center opened in April 2012 to provide exhibits on topics beyond the pioneer village, a research library for visitors, a venue for meetings and archival storage.

HISTORY CENTER

Hours

Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Thursday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Admission FREE

VILLAGE OF YESTERYEAR

Guided tours available at 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays from May 1 through Sept. 30.

Adult Admission: $5 Children 7-16: $3

6 and under are free SCHS members: free Group rates available

RESEARCH YOUR HISTORY

The Historical Society has been collecting documents, photographs and books since 1949 relating to wide range of local history. Guests are welcome to use the Zamboni Genealogy and Research Room. Access is free for Historical Society members and $5 for non-members. Visitors are asked to call ahead and make an appointment so that you can be properly served.

Research requests may also be submitted via email to queries@ steelehistorymuseum.org.

Anyone interested in genealogy who would like tips on researching, the Historical Society offers a Genealogy Club. The club meets at 10 a.m. on the first Tuesday of every month at the History Center. The club also offers a brown bag lunch series covering a wide range of genealogy research topics.

HISTORIC PROPERTIES

Ezra Abbott House 345 East Broadway, Owatonna Circa-1860 house of an influential Owatonna early settler.

Dr. John H. Adair House 322 East Vine St., Owatonna 1913 Prairie School house, called southeast Minnesota’s finest residential design by Purcell, Feick & Elmslie in its National Register nomination.

Administration Building-Minnesota

State Public School For Dependent and Neglected Children

West Hills Circle, Owatonna

1887 Romanesque Revival main building of a state school complex active 1886–1970. Also a contributing property to the Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children historic district. Now contains the Minnesota State Public School Orphanage Museum and city offices.

Blooming Prairie Commercial Historic District

Main Street, East between Highway Avenue and Second Avenue, N.E., Blooming Prairie

Unusually intact business district of an agricultural trade center on the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad, with 20 contributing properties built 1893–1932.

Bridge No. L-5573

Township Road 95 over the Straight River, east of Hwy. 65, Clinton Falls Township

Also known as the Clinton Falls Bridge; an early use of steel for a truss bridge in Minnesota, constructed in 1894.

Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children

Roughly bounded by West Hills Drive, State Avenue and Florence Avenue, Owatonna Campus of a pioneering public

institution for juvenile wards of the state, active 1886–1947, with 19 contributing properties. Also associated with nationally significant child welfare advocate Galen A. Merrill. Now the West Hills Complex.

National Farmers’ Bank

101 North Cedar St., Owatonna

Architecturally significant bank building designed by Louis Sullivan and George Grant Elmslie, the first of Sullivan’s late-career “jewel box” banks. Also a contributing property to the Owatonna Commercial Historic District.

Owatonna City and Firemen’s Hall

107 West Main St., Owatonna

Multipurpose municipal hall built 1906–07, significant as Owatonna’s government center and as an example of Minnesota’s common late-19th/early-20thcentury municipal buildings. Also a contributing property to the Owatonna Commercial Historic District.

Owatonna Commercial Historic District

Roughly bounded by North Cedar Avenue, West & East Broadway, and West Bridge & West Main streets, Owatonna

12-block downtown district with 75 contributing properties built 1871 to the late 1950s, associated with the growth and prosperity of an agricultural/industrial community and county seat.

Owatonna Free Public Library

105 North Elm St., Owatonna

1899 public library noted for its Neoclassical architecture and contribution to Owatonna’s intellectual and cultural development.

Pillsbury Academy Campus

Historic District

Roughly Academy, Grove, and Main streets, Owatonna

Five campus buildings constructed 1889–1914 for the only Baptist school among Minnesota’s 19thcentury private institutions of higher education. Also noted for their architecture and association with benefactors Mark H. Dunnell and George A. Pillsbury.

Daniel S. Piper House

County Highway 45, Medford vicinity

Minnesota’s only example of a New England-style interconnected farm complex, built in 1877, and a symbol of Yankee settler heritage in the state.

Steele County Courthouse

111 East Main St., Owatonna 1891 courthouse, noted for its Romanesque Revival architecture and long service as Steele County’s government seat. Also a contributing property to the Owatonna Commercial Historic District.

Fore!

Golf Courses

RIVER ROCK DISC GOLF COURSE

Mineral Springs Park, Owatonna River Rock is a 9-hole disc golf course open to the public free of charge. Leagues are organized by and for the many avid disc golfers in the area. Never tried it? Anyone out there with an extra disc would welcome you as their own.

Contact the Parks and Recreation department for more details.

OWATONNA COUNTRY CLUB

1991 Lemond Road

Owatonna

507-451-6120

The Owatonna Country Club is situated in the southwest corner of town, located on 140 acres of rolling hills, rivers and lakes. The golf course integrates a natural setting with a challenging course and offers golf cats, driving range, putting green and exceptional restaurant and bar service. Pack your bag for this 18-hole private facility with 6,296 yards of golf!

WATERS EDGE MINIATURE GOLF COURSE

175 Landmark Drive NE

Owatonna

507-451-3666

Waters Edge, located on the north side of Owatonna, is a course that is all about playing around water hazards and boulders. Holes are uphill, downhill and can present challenges for golfers of all ages. With 18-holes and Plaza Morena Campestre & Grill nearby, the family can plan an entirely pleasing afternoon.

BROOKTREE GOLF COURSE

1369 Cherry Street

Owatonna

507-444-2467

This municipal golf course has been dubbed one of the finest in southern Minnesota. From their 18 holes and golf carts to the Clubhouse featuring superb entertainment and Lacey’s at Brooktree, Brooktree Golf Course is a golfer’s destination to eat, play and repeat!

BLOOMING PRAIRIE COUNTRY CLUB

7701 SE 118th Street

Blooming Prairie

507-583-2887

Blooming Prairie Country Club

Blooming Prairie County Club

Brooktree Golf Course. Photo by Trevor Gieseke

facility features a 9-hole course and 3,026 yards of golf. Take a break in the Clubhouse for a quick bite or loosen your grip with a cold adult beverage! This course offers private memberships but is open to the public as well.

HAVANA HILLS GOLF COURSE

210 Dane Road Owatonna

507- 451-2577

From family and junior passes to corporate outings and Moonlight Golf events, Havana Hills is for the learner, the experienced and the one looking to just have a good time. This 9-hole, par-3 course is for children and adults alike.

INSIDE SWING

685 W Bridge St #5 Owatonna 507-200-2003

Inside Swing is the premier indoor golf destination in the Owatonna area. For a couple years now we have all wondered why there was no such facility in such a great community, so we decided to do something about it. Starting as a passion project between four friends in a garage, we have worked hard to bring you a full featured experience from your first tee shot to your final putt.

Owatonna Country Club.

Fun Recreation & Family

REPTILE & AMPHIBIAN DISCOVERY ZOO (RAD ZOO)

6750 Frontage Rd W Medford

507-455-1465

Venture to the RAD Zoo, Minnesota’s premier destination for reptile exhibits. Marvel at the amazing creatures of the reptile and amphibian world including snakes, turtles, lizards, crocodilians, toads, frogs and salamanders. The zoo is home to over 150 animals from all over the world exhibited in re-creations of their native environments. The RAD Zoo houses a birthday pavilion and party options available for guests wanting a unique and crocodilian birthday experience.

SPARE TIME ENTERTAINMENT

333 18th Street SE

Owatonna

507-451-2524

This is a first-class bowling center providing the latest in entertainment. Virtual games added to the lanes and sleek seating makes it a comfortable and clean place to bowl. Volleyball is held outside in the sand courts specifically built for the occasion in the summer and both a laser tag area and game zone put the place over the top. Schedule a party, meet up with friends or revel in the bar with supreme drinks and food prepared by Chef Gar.

NORTHWOODS CINEMA 10

300 Allan Ave Owatonna 507-451-1410

Catch the latest show in comfortable stadium seating at Northwoods Cinema 10 off Bridge Street in Owatonna. From popcorn and ice cream to beverages and candy galore, you’ll be more than satisfied. The theater offers private group showings and birthday party packages.

BLOOMING PRAIRIE YOUTH CLUB

401 4th Street SE

Blooming Prairie

507-583-6699

If there were ever an organization that a whole community stands behind and supports, it’s the Blooming Prairie Youth Club. The club provides a space for children from kindergarten to grade 12 to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring community members. Activities provided are hands-on activities in the areas of health and life skills, education and career development, character and leadership, the arts, sports, fitness, and recreation.

ARCHERY

For all skill levels, Steele County offers two locations to test your talents.

OWATONNA ARCHERY RANGE

711 N Elm Avenue

Owatonna

RAD Zoo

20 RIFLE & PISTOL CLUB AND STRAIGHT RIVER ARCHERY CLUB 1675 NW 50th Street Medford 507-259-7919

The club is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting enthusiasm and safety awareness through shooting sports. The area is designed for members to become experienced handling firearms and archery equipment. In the woods of Medford, the club offers indoor and outdoor targets allowing the community a secure place to practice and teach.

Archery - Photo by Trevor Gieseke

Camping

Enjoy the perfect staycation right here in Steele County with a visit to one of our many campgrounds. Camping isn’t for everyone, but whether you have a tent, camper or RV, the campgrounds of Steele County have amenities to satisfy even the most demanding needs. Let the stress of planning a big family getaway subside and enjoy summer nights lit not by cell phones but by campfires and stars. Grab your s‘more supplies because we’re going camping!

CRYSTAL SPRINGS RV RESORT

Located in Ellendale, Crystal Springs provides services that give it the reputation as one of the most charming RV resorts in southern Minnesota. The intimate and welcoming atmosphere will have you rushing to this gated community for a peaceful and relaxing stay. Check

out what Crystal Springs has to offer at www.crystalspringsrvresort.com.

HOPE OAK KNOLL CAMPGROUND

Perfect for those seeking an engaging and clean place to camp, Hope Oak Knoll offers a family fun environment with fire pits, game room, laundry, showers and more. Enjoy a game of horseshoes, set up on the pavilion or mingle with your neighbors. This old-fashioned setting will kick you into relaxation mode for a serene and friendly retreat. Call 507-451-2998 to book your next camping trip.

RIVER VIEW CAMPGROUND

Two miles south of Owatonna, Riverview Campground is surrounded by giant oak trees and bordered by the Straight River. Unwind in the heated pool, take a stroll along the river and finish the day with a campfire. Riverview will have you admiring the rolling countryside from sun up until sundown. Visit www. riverviewcampgroundminnesota.com for more information.

RICE LAKE STATE PARK & CAMPGROUND

A prime setting for viewing birds and waterfowl, this site symbolizes the peaceful and quiet getaway. Easy to get to with paved roads to the park, Rice Lake is for the laid-back camper. Take a walk to the lake or through the well-maintained trails, take a canoe across the water or set up a traditional picnic. Get out of town, smell the wildflowers and take it easy at Rice Lake State Park.

BROOKSIDE CAMPGROUND

What would you say if we told you that you can now camp with your entire family, take part in local events, and get the best possible amenities (including free Wi-Fi) just by paying an affordable, allinclusive price? All you have to do is contact Brookside Campground in Blooming Prairie by calling 507-5832979. Brookside provides camping spaces that include RV sites, primitive and modern tent sites, pull-through campsites, group campsites, and cabin/camper rentals.

Rice Lake State Park, seven miles east of Owatonna, is a popular bird and waterfowl watching spot.

Lakes, pools & water parks

LAKE KOHLMEIER

Owatonna

444-4321

Gear up your tackle box and pack your swimsuit, Lake Kohlmeier in Owatonna is a favorite for locals to catch some quick rays. Swim, fire up the grill, dive into a game of sand volleyball, or cast a line off the fishing dock to catch one of many species of fish.

RIVER SPRINGS WATER PARK

3065 St. Paul Road

Owatonna

507-774-7370

River Springs is equipped with a

lazy river that spans across the park, a large activity pool, climbing wall, lily pad walk and a sand volleyball court. Families can relax on the lounging chairs while enjoying a salty pretzel or slushie from the concession stand. Tube and body slides are the perfect combination of family-friendly and just-scary-enough and guests also have access to showers and locker rooms. Multiple experienced lifeguards are stationed from open until close and the water is checked every hour making it a clean and safe activity for all.

BEAVER LAKE

Ellendale

444-4321

Right outside of Ellendale is a 94-acre lake, complete with a swimming beach, park area and play equipment. The beach has become a summer hot spot for Steele County residents who are looking for a quiet and clean spot to cool off with the boat docks, fishing pier, horseshoe pits and volleyball courts.

PINE SPRINGS PARK

Corner of 1st Avenue & 1st Street NW

Blooming Prairie

507-583-7573

Beaver Lake

River Springs Water Park. (Photo courtesy of the city of Owatonna)

If you’re looking for a concrete swimming pool to cool off during the hot summer months, Pine Springs Pool is not the place. It’s better. The manmade pool has a sand bottom and is fed from the natural springs located beneath the city block on which it sits. The pool also offers a picnic area with a gazebo and sandboxes.

STRAIGHT RIVER

Owatonna & Medford

507-444-4321

Anything but straight, the Straight River has presented residents and visitors a place to watch for wildlife, fish various species, a beautiful place to walk along as well as kayaking and canoeing. Canoeing on the Straight is best during the spring and early

Athletic & Youth

4-H local.extension.umn.edu/local/ steele/4-h County 4-H Program coordinators: Tracy Ignaszewski • 444-7688 ignas001@umn.edu

GIRL SCOUTS RIVER VALLEYS girlscoutsrv.org

HUSKIES FASTPITCH SOFTBALL owatonnafastpitch.com

TWIN VALLEY COUNCIL, BSA/BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA twinvalleybsa.org

OWATONNA BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION owatonnabasketball.com

OWATONNA HUSKIES BULLPEN CLUB owatonnabaseball.com

OWATONNA HUSKIES YOUTH FOOTBALL owatonnafootball.com

OWATONNA LACROSSE ASSOCIATION owatonnalacrosse.com

summer; by July the river may be too low for enjoyable river travel.

MEDFORD POOL

Medford

507-455-2866

One big playground, kiddie pool, large pool with diving board and bathrooms provide all of the amenities of a great park. Don’t forget to sign the little ones up for their swim lessons!

OWATONNA SOCCER ASSOCIATION owatonnasoccer.org

OWATONNA TENNIS ASSOCIATION owatonnatennis.com

OWATONNA YOUTH VOLLEYBALL ASSOCIATION owatonnavolleyball.com

OWATONNA WRESTLING bit.ly/3mfUWpZ Daniel Johnson, president

OWATONNA YOUTH HOCKEY ASSOCIATION owatonnahockey.com

Organizations Community

OWATONNA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURISM

The Chamber has approximately 530 members that invest their resources, employee volunteerism and confidence in the Owatonna Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism and the business community. 320 Hoffman Dr., Owatonna 451-7970 • owatonna.org

• Owatonna Business Partnership OBP’s mission is to “Promote fun events and experiences in Owatonna and involve as many people as we possibly can.” OBP is the primary sponsor for many annual events and seasonal attractions.

Meets from 8-9 a.m. the first Monday of each month at The Kitchen, 329 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna. Everyone is welcome to attend. Email owatonnabusinesspartnership@gmail. com.

• Young Professionals

Helping professionals in their 20s and 30s through professional development, relationship building, and community activities. owatonna.org/young-professionals

• Visit Owatonna: visitowatonna. org

4-H

County program coordinators: local.extension.umn.edu/local/ steele/4-h Tracy Ignaszewski: 444-7688 ignas001@umn.edu

ALLIANCE FOR GREATER EQUITY

Committed to advancing equity and building a cohesive community where unity, respect and dignity create a sense of belonging for everyone. allianceforgreaterequity.org

BIG

BROTHERS

BIG SISTERS

OF SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

545 Dunnell Dr., Owatonna 451-5922 • bbbsofsouthernmn.org

BUSINESS NETWORKERS INTERNATIONAL (BNI)

Business networking

Meets from 11:30 a.m.to 1 p.m. every Wednesday at Spherion, 134 East Vine Street #1, Owatonna. Visitors are welcome.

EARLY EDITION ROTARY CLUB OF OWATONNA

Meets from 7-8 a.m. Wednesdays in the Morehouse Meeting Room at Owatonna Public Utilities, 208 Walnut Ave. S, Owatonna. owatonnarotary.org

EXCHANGE CLUB OF STEELE COUNTY

Meets at 7 a.m. the first and third Friday of each month at “The Roost,” 3052 SE 54th Ave., Owatonna. 456-4456 • nationalexchangeclub. org

INFANTS REMEMBERED IN SILENCE

Offering support, education and resources on the death of a child in early pregnancy or from premature birth.

Meetings are open ended and are held from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month. and from 7-8:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month.

101 Third St. N.W., Faribault 334-4748 • irisremembers.com

IZAAK WALTON LEAGUE OF AMERICA

IWLA chapters help build a better outdoor America by improving fish and wildlife habitat, protecting wild and scenic rivers, and fighting pollution.

Meets the second Thursday of each month at 1546 SW 58th St., Owatonna 451-5751

JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT

Offering financial literacy, college and career readiness, and

entrepreneurship education to more than 130,000 students in grades K-12 each year, JA empowers students to make a connection between what they learn in school and how it can be applied in the real world. 676-3523 • jaum.org

KIWANIS CLUB

Meets from noon-2 p.m., Wednesdays at Spare Time Entertainment, 333 18th St SE, Owatonna.

MOONLIGHTERS EXCHANGE CLUB

Meets at 5:30 p.m. every second and fourth Monday at the Owatonna VFW, 135 Oakdale St, Owatonna.

OWATONNA AMERICAN LEGION POST 77

137 W Broadway St., Owatonna 451-6080 • americanlegionpost77. com

OWATONNA BUSINESS WOMEN

Owatonna Business Women connects, amplifies and empowers women by providing education and opportunity to develop in the areas of personal growth, professional development and civic awareness. OBW meets monthly at Torey’s Restaurant and Bar from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. Monthly meetings give members a chance to network, build relationships and engage with a program that provides professional and personal development. Lean In Circles, social events and community engagement opportunities happen year round.

owatonnabusinesswomen.org

OWATONNA EAGLES #1791

Meets at 6 p.m. the first and third Wednesdays at the Owatonna Eagles Club, 141 E. Rose St., Owatonna. The Eagles Auxiliary also meets at 6 a.m. on the first and third Wednesdays at the Eagles Club.

OWATONNA ELKS #1395

Meets the first Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 126 E Vine St., Owatonna 451-1395 • elks.org/lodges/home. cfm?lodgenumber=1395

OWATONNA EXCHANGE CLUB MEETING

Meets at noon at the Elks Club, 126 E Vine St., Owatonna. 456-4456

OWATONNA LIONS CLUB

Meets Tuesday at noon at the Owatonna Elks, 126 E Vine St., Owatonna, e-clubhouse.org/sites/owatonna

ROTARY CLUB OF OWATONNA

Meets at 12:10 p.m. Mondays at the Owatonna Country Club, 1991 Lemond Road owatonnarotaryclub.org

SOUTHERN MN WOODCARVERS

Meets from 1-3 p.m. Thursday’s at Trinity Lutheran Church, 609 Lincoln Ave. S., Owatonna

STEELE COUNTY DFL

Running precinct caucuses every two years and managing party activity between caucuses, helping to identify and elect DFL candidates and mobilizing neighbors to help in that effort.

outreach@steelecountydfl.org dfl.org/local-units/steele

STEELE COUNTY

HUMANE SOCIETY

A nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to finding homes for stray animals in Steele County. Meets the third Tuesday -of the month from 6:309:30 p.m. at the Owatonna Business Incubator. 451-4512 steelecountyhumanesociety.org

STEELE COUNTY REPUBLICANS

Educates and engages local voters on political issues and to support local elected officials. 455-1709 • steelecountyrepublicans. com

TWO RIVERS HABITAT FOR

HUMANITY

Not-so-serious runners take off during the second annual Y-Pro 0.5K Fun Run on Saturday outside Mineral Springs Brewery in Owatonna. The event once again raised money for the Steele County Humane Society. (Annie Harman/southernminn.com)

Donor funded, volunteer supported nonprofit agency seeking to help qualified partner families obtain safe, decent and affordable housing. Serving Dodge, Olmsted, Steele, Wabasha and Waseca counties. 1530 Greenview Dr SW #107, Rochester 252-0849 • tworivershabitat.org

UNITED WAY OF STEELE COUNTY

1850 Austin Road, Suite 103, Owatonna 455-1180 • unitedwaysteelecounty. org

VFW POST 3723

Post meeting is from 7-8:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month. Auxiliary meets from 7-8:30 p.m. on

the third Tuesday of the month. 135 Oakdale St., Owatonna 451-1001 • owatonnavfw.com

YOUNG LIFE

A Christian outreach to junior high school and senior high school kids. 602 Hoffman Drive, Owatonna 451-9401 • owatonna.younglife.org

YOUTH FIRST

1018 NE 11th Ave., Owatonna 612-968-9192 • youth1st.com

Big Brother Big Sisters of Southern Minnesota staff show off their neon get-up at Bowl for Kid’s Sake, the agency’s annual fundraiser. (Photo courtesy of Big Brother Big Sisters of Southern Minnesota)

Fatih

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Radiant Church 1650 NE Seventh Ave., Owatonna 451-5467 churchnorthridge.com

Vibrant Life Assemble of God 702 S. 3rd St., Ellendale 684-3421 • vibrantlifeag.com

BAPTIST

Bethel Church 1611 Hemlock Ave., Owatonna 451-8548 bethelowatonna.com

First Baptist Church 104 NE 1st Ave., Blooming Prairie 583-2673 fbcbloomingprairie.org

Grace Baptist Church 265 26th St. NE, Owatonna 451-3494 gracebaptistministry.org

CATHOLIC

Church of Christ the King 205 N.W. Second Ave., Medford 451-4845

christthekingmedfordmn.org

Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Litomysl 9946 24th Ave. SE., rural Owatonna 583-2784 litomysl.webs.com

Sacred Heart Parish 810 S Cedar Ave., Owatonna 451-1588 sacredheartowatonna.org

St. Columbanus Catholic Church 114 E. Main St., Blooming Prairie 583-2784 stcolumbanuschurch.com

St. Joseph Parish 512 S. Elm Ave., Owatonna 451-4845 stjosephowatonna.org

COMMUNITY

Christian Family Church 2300 Heritage Place NW, Owatonna 455-3205 • cfcchurches.org

Iglesia Linaje Escogido Church of the Chosen Generation 2515 Harvest Lane, Owatonna

NewLife Community 160 28th St NE, Owatonna 320-3141 newlifecommunity.tv

EPISCOPAL

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 202 Cedar Avenue South, Owatonna 451-5319 • stpaulsowatonna. org

EVANGELICAL

Christ Community Covenant Church 540 18th Street SE, Owatonna 451-1032 owatonnacovenantchurch. org

Cornerstone Evangelical Free Church 1500 18th Street S.E., Owatonna 446-5850 cornerstoneowatonna.com

LUTHERAN

Aurora Lutheran Church (ELCA) 6329 SE 38th St., Owatonna 451-2819 auroralutheranchurch.org Community Lutheran Church (ELCA) 106 SE 3rd St. SE, Geneva 256-4288 commluthchurch.org

Emmanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church (WELS) 750 Jeffrey St., Owatonna 455-2729 • emmanuel-welsowatonna.com

First Lutheran Church 434 First St. SW, Blooming Prairie 583-6621 firstlutheranbp.com

First Lutheran Church (AFLC) 503 Radel Court, Ellendale 684-2451

First Lutheran Church (LCMC) 8953 SW 37th Ave., Hope 451-3854 • flchopemn.com

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (LCMS)

2500 Seventh Ave. NE, Owatonna 451-4125 goodshepherdowatonna. com

Moland Lutheran Church (ELCA)

7618 N.E. 84th Ave., Kenyon Our Savior’s Lutheran Church (ELCA) 1909 St. Paul Road, Owatonna 451-4853 oursaviorsowatonna.com

Pontoppidan Lutheran (ELCA) 9651 SW 75th St., Lemond 465-8366

Redeemer Lutheran Church (LCMS)

1054 Truman Ave., Owatonna 451-2720 redeemerowatonna.org

St. John Lutheran Church (ELCA) 1301 Lincoln Avenue, Owatonna 451-7293 stjohnowatonna.org

St. John Lutheran Church (LCMS)

4532 S.E. 84th Ave., Claremont 528-2404

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (ELCA) 2781 S.W. 92nd Ave., Meriden 451-2165 stpaulandzionlutheran.com

Trinity Lutheran Church (ELCA) 609 S. Lincoln Ave., Owatonna • 451-4520 www.tlcowatonna.org

Trinity Lutheran Church (LCMS) 108 SW Third St. Medford 451-0447 • tlcmedford.org

Zion Lutheran Church (ELCA) 7126 S.W. 98th St., Ellendale 451-2165

MENNONITE

Prairie Mennonite Church 13638 750th St., Blooming Prairie 583-7532 prairiemennonite.org

Redemption Church 123 East Main St, Owatonna 423-7850 redemptionowatonna.org

MORMON

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 902 SW 17th St., Faribault 334-7046 • lds.org

MUSLIM

Somali American Society Center of Owatonna

201 E Front St., Owatonna 573-1427 • sacso@live.com

PENTECOSTAL

First United Pentecostal Church

230 Locust Ave., Owatonna 507-363-3046 upcowatonna.com

PRESBYTERIAN

Associated Church

800 Havana Road, Owatonna • 451-1546 associatedchurch.org

First Presbyterian Church 200 East St., Claremont 528-2320

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST

Seventh Day Adventist 2373 N.E. Seventh Ave., Owatonna 651-955-4032 owatonnasdachurch.org

UNITED

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Medford Congregational United Church of Christ 211 S. Main St., Medford 451-4596 • uccmedfordmn. wordpress.com

UNITED METHODIST

Owatonna United

Methodist Church 815 E University St., Owatonna • 451-4734 owatonnaumc.org

Blooming Grove United Methodist Church 43089 180th St., Morristown 382-2483 bloominggroveumc.org

United Methodist Church County Road 14, Ellendale 684-2731 ellendaleumc.com

NON-DENOMINATIONAL Casa de Restauracion Palabra de Vida 1380 Rice Lake St., Owatonna 451-8111

Destiny Christian Church 350 E Academy St., Owatonna 952-201-6049 • destinycc.org

New Beginnings Church 332 NE 14th St., Owatonna 413-0209 • nbclife.org Owatonna Church of Christ 500 Dunnell Drive, Owatonna 363.7671 owatonnachurchofchrist. com

Simple Church 4515 NW 22nd Ave., Owatonna • 676-7045

OurpersonalizedapproachmeansTimberdaleTraceresidents aretreatedlikeanextensionofourfamilies.Everyteam membertakesthetimetounderstandtheuniquepreferences andpersonalitiesofeachresident,becausewebelieve firmlyinthepowerofputtingpeoplefirst. Call 507-446-8600 orvisit TimberdaleTrace.org formoreinformation.

Shopping

Shop locally. Enjoy the shopping experience at a variety of stores in Owatonna, Ellendale, Blooming Prairie and Medford featuring unique merchandise, antiques, jewelry and so much more.

OWATONNA

ALEXANDER LUMBER

419 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna

507-451-7710

Since 1883, Alexander Lumber has been providing area professional services needed to complete any construction or home project with building materials and decorating centers to millwork, installation and delivery services. As the area’s longest-standing lumber yard, the company remains an honest and dependable business to the community.

ARROW ACE HARDWARE

122 W Vine Street, Owatonna

507-451-4966

Ace Hardware is devoted to being the supportive place for hardware, plumbing, tools, grills, garden and more by offering customers knowledgeable advice, helpful service and quality products. This local hardware store has withstood the competition of big chains all while keeping their hometown character.

CEDAR FLORAL

DESIGN STUDIO

314 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna

507-451-7673

A locally-owned floral

shop in Owatonna, Cedar Floral Design Studio offers everything from birthday and anniversary arrangements to corsages and “just because” gifts. The shop also carries greeting cards, dried and silk arrangements, and a wide range of sympathy pieces, memorial stones and music boxes.

CENTRAL PARK FRAMING & FINDS

110 W Broadway Street, Owatonna

507-451-3460

This one-stop shop offers seasonal and year-round décor, custom framing, specialty goods, small furniture and many unique items that make perfect gifts. Stop in and be surprised by what you can find.

KLECKER’S KREATIONS

302 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna

507-475-4556

Jodi Klecker has taken her years of experience in designing beautiful floral arrangements to downtown Owatonna with her own storefront. Klecker’s Kreations is not only a floral shop, but also offers tuxedo rentals, home décor and handmade rustic items you’ll love.

KOTTKE JEWELERS

115 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna

507-451-6644

A century old this year, Kottke Jewelers is the oldest store still run by the same family and in the same location in downtown Owatonna. Shoppers will find a beautiful selection of

jewelry, gifts and watches to help you celebrate life’s precious moments. Stop in soon to see what’s new.

LITTLE PROFESSOR BOOK CENTER

110 W Park Square, Owatonna

507-455-0969

From Melissa and Doug crafts and “Where’s Waldo” books to adult dramas and a variety of mystery series, the Little Professor Book Center appeals to the entire family. Give John Meixner a hint of what you like, and he will provide intelligent and promising service.

MANKE’S EQUIPMENT & APPLIANCE

225 W Rose Street, Owatonna 507-451-2327

This third- and fourthgeneration family business has been around for more than 70 years and is one of the largest Toro dealers in Minnesota. Stop down to see 4th-generation owner Nicole and her dad Harley and ask about their highquality trailers, mowers and home appliances.

OWATONNA SHOE

121 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna

507-451-4640

Forget the blisters, kinks and sore feet! Head to Owatonna Shoe and make your feet happy again. With over 70 years of outstanding customer service, you will be presented with a fantastic selection of women’s, men’s and children’s shoes as well as Red Wing work boots and others. In this store, the term “knowledgeable staff” would be an understatement!

STRAIGHT RIVER SPORTS

222 W Bridge Street, Owatonna

507-451-1666

Your “one stop shop” for bikes, bike repair, apparel and sporting equipment. The business revolves around outstanding customer service which means no high-pressure sales and a staff who are well-informed the latest cycling and fitness products.

STRAIGHT RIVER RUG HOOKING & FIBER ARTS

104 W Park Square, Owatonna

507-413-0130

Straight River Rug Hooking and Fiber Arts offers supplies, patterns and booklets for rug hooking, knitting, crocheting, wool applique, embroidery, punch needling and needle felting. The shop is adorned with beautiful handmade rugs and if you’re looking to pick up a new hobby or craft, join those who have signed up for classes and rug hook right in the studio.

TONE MUSIC

114 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna

507-451-5196

The product selection at Tone is sure to hit the right note, offering everything from band instruments and DVDs to acoustic guitars and vinyl. And if you need help hitting the right note, lessons with one of Tone’s four instructors will set you in the right direction! Tone Music offers an intimate atmosphere where “try before you buy” is not only welcomed, it is encouraged.

URBAN LOFT

303 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna

507-382-5486

It has always been Nicole Winter’s dream to make things better – especially when she can create favorite spaces through her clever placement of hand-picked home décor items. Step in to Urban Loft (formerly located in the Medford Outlet Center as Urban Finds) and you’ll immediately feel right at home! Let Nicole help you select items to make your home beautiful. Urban Loft also provides antiques, clothing, accessories, repurposed/upcycled items and Minnesotathemed gifts.

BLOOMING PRAIRIE

PRAIRIE HOME

330 E Main Street, Blooming Prairie 507-583-7637

A quaint floral and gift shop in downtown Blooming Prairie, A Touch of Charm specializes in a combination of traditional, cottage and “countrypolitan” furnishings that will give your home a matchless finesse.

B TO Z HARDWARE

323 E Main Street, Blooming Prairie

507-583-4469

B to Z Hardware has electrical and plumbing supplies for maintenance and repairs, a complete line of paints, lawn and garden tools, fertilizers and seeds as well as tools and automotive supplies. Renting equipment for all types of projects, B to Z Hardware will help get the job done.

ELLENDALE

COUNTRY CHARM

CERAMICS

205 5TH Avenue W, Ellendale 507-688-7018

For ready-to-paint ceramics and supplies, shop Country Charm Ceramics in downtown Ellendale. Shoppers can select their piece, choose their colors and get creative. A kiln is available if needed. Ask the shop to host your next birthday party, bridal shower or school group with all tools provided and clean-up included.

MEDFORD

GLITZY FASHIONS

113 N Main Street, Medford 507-330-0694

Shop for gently-used brand-name clothing, prom dresses and accessories at Glitzy Fashions in downtown Medford.

MEDFORD OUTLET

6750 W Frontage Road, Medford 507-455-4111

Whether you’re getting ready for the beach, looking for that perfect summer outfit or just need a wardrobe update, travel no further than the 19 stores at the Medford Outlet Center. From trendy styles to antiques, you will find local, outlet, factory and clearance stores with deals to fit any budget.

CABELA’S

3900 Cabela Drive, Owatonna 507-451-4545

Getting ready for your next hiking or fishing adventure? Swing into Cabela’s for your outdoor equipment needs. No kidding – you’ll really find any tool, article of clothing or steak rub (or

Directory

AGRICULTURE, FISHING & FORESTRY

BUSHEL BOY FARMS

215 32nd Ave. SW, Owatonna

507-451-5692

AL-CORN CLEAN FUEL 797 5th St., Claremont 507-681-7100

CARGILL

800 NW 24th Ave., Owatonna 507-451-8900

CENTRAL FARM SERVICE

900 30th PL N, Owatonna 507-451-1230

FESTAL FARMS CO.

209 E Main St. STE E, Owatonna 507-451-7670

KIBBLE EQUIPMENT, LLC

3555 SW 18th St., Owatonna 507-451-4054

LAKESIDE FOODS

900 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna 507-446-7700

ANTIQUES & GIFTS

A TOUCH OF CHARM

330 E Main St. Blooming Prairie 507-583-7637

CENTRAL PARK

FRAMING & FINDS 110 W Broadway St. Owatonna 507-451-3460

COUNTRY CHARM CERAMICS

205 5th Ave. W, Ellendale 507-688-7018

COUNTRY GOODS

4515 NW 22nd Ave. Owatonna 507-451-5661

URBAN LOFT

303 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-382-5486

UNCLE TOM’S ANTIQUE MALL 2746 Hoffman Drive NW Owatonna 507-451-2254

AUTOMOTIVE SALES/SERVICES

APEX PRO KWIK LUBE 141 Allan Ave., Owatonna 507-451-4739

AARON’S AUTOMOTIVE TOWING & REPAIR 1181 Brady Blvd. NW, Owatonna 507-456-7600

CARQUEST AUTO PARTS 114 E Rose St., Owatonna 507-451-0044

CARTIME 1150 Hoffman Drive, Owatonna 507-446-9218

CITY AUTO GLASS 211 W Main St., Owatonna 507-345-8844

DEAN’S WESTSIDE TOWING 1800 Hoffman Drive, Owatonna 507-455-1950

FINHOLDT REPAIR, LLC 435 26th St. NE, Owatonna 507-413-8005

FIRESTONE COMPLETE AUTO CARE 102 N Oak Ave., Owatonna 507-451-5230

HONEST 1 AUTO CARE 1125 South Oak Ave., Owatonna 507-451-3084

HOUSE CHEVROLET BUICK

CADILLAC INC.

3700 W Frontage Road, Owatonna

507-774-7800

KAPPY’S COLLISION CENTER

3205 South Cty Road 45, Owatonna

507-451-8989

KECK’S REPAIR

7123 SW 82nd Ave., Owatonna

507-463-2679

MCCABE MOTORS & MCCABE RENTAL

425 SE 18th St., Owatonna 507-444-9494

NAPA AUTO PARTS

122 Pearl Street W, Owatonna

507-451-1790

OWATONNA MOTOR COMPANY

1001 Hoffman Drive PO Box 263, Owatonna

507-451-7860

RANDALL’S LICENSE BUREAU, INC.

1825 S Elm Ave., Owatonna

507-451-2040

RON’S REPAIR

505 W. North St., Owatonna

507-451-8678

SEYKORA AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR

195 SE 18th St., Owatonna

507-413-8010

SWEET TOWING & REPAIR, INC.

215 SE Cederdale Drive, Owatonna

507-451-3424

TGK AUTOMOTIVE

211 W Main St., Owatonna

507-451-3084

Honest 1 Auto Care

1125 South Oak Ave., Owatonna

507-451-3084

TIM’S AUTO SERVICE, INC.

123 E Front St., Owatonna

507-455-9050

WORLD OF WHEELS

910 Hoffman Drive, Owatonna

507-446-1319

BEAUTY & WELLNESS

CARRIN KATH LLC

130 E Vine, Owatonna

507-330-7013

FLOWER ORCHARD MASSAGE

1830A S. Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-351-2909

GILLESPIE BEAUTY SALON

109 W Vine St., Owatonna

507-451-4552

HAIR STUDIO ONE SALON AND BOUTIQUE

107 West Rose St., Owatonna

507-451-5450

HAUTE & COMPANY, LLC

119 W Broadway St., Owatonna 507- 214-3071

HOTWORX

116 N Cedar Ave Owatonna

507-774-050

LIGHTHOUSE NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

1090 Bixby Road, Owatonna

507-363-1711

MARY KAY COSMETICS -

Sales Director Lori Arnold 27054 State Hwy. 13, New Richland

507-390-1143

OWATONNA FITNESS AND WELLNESS CENTER AND FRESH CAFE

130 E Vine St., Owatonna

507-668-0075

PURE ELEMENTS SALON

245 18th St SE STE 105, Owatonna 507-446-1000

RED WELLNESS SPA

1534 S. Cedar Ave, STE 2, Owatonna

507-461-4438

SISTERS SALON & DAY SPA

145 W Bridge St., Owatonna

507-451-2741

VANITY SALON

210 W Main St., Owatonna

507-497-4309

VIBES STUDIO

1400 S. Oak Ave., Owatonna

507-438-5965

COMPUTER SALES/ SERVICE

BAKER TECH SERVICES

209 West Bridge, Owatonna 507-414-7800

MARCO TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

1301 S Oak Ave., Owatonna

507-455-2338

THE COMPUTER STORE OF OWATONNA

743 E Main St., Owatonna 507-451-0570

COMMUNICATIONS /CELL PHONE/ INTERNET SERVICES

CHARTER BUSINESS

1400 Cannon Circle Faribault • 507-424-5931

CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS

221 E Hickory St., Mankato 844-968-7224

CRICKET WIRELESS

1045 W. Frontage Road Suite B, Owatonna 507-414-7086

E.O. JOHNSON BUSINESS TECHNOLOGIES

2717 Hwy. 14 West Suite M, Rochester 507-252-5133

J-C PRESS, A DIVISION OF WALLACE CARLSON

143 1/2 W. Bridge St. Owatonna 507-446-5300

METRONET

213 S Oak Ave Owatonna 507-214-1000

R-U WIRELESS (T-MOBILE)

660 W Bridge St., Suite 200 Owatonna 507-214-1250

TRI M GRAPHICS/STUDIO GETAWAY

625 E Main St., Owatonna 507-451-3920

WESTBRACK MARKETING 1065 24th Ave SW Owatonna 507-220-1537

WIRELESS WORLD

685 Bridge St., Suite 11B Owatonna 507-444-9963

WIRELESS WORLD/VERIZON 1100 W Frontage Road, Suite 100, Owatonna 507-214-8255

CONVENIENCE STORES/ GAS STATIONS

CASEY’S GENERAL STORE 101 Riverview Ct., Medford 507-451-1487

CASEY’S GENERAL STORE 475 SE 18th St., Owatonna 507-451-2644

CASEY’S GENERAL STORE 590 State Ave., Owatonna 507-451-2816

CIRCLE K

330 W North St, Owatonna 507-573-5011

CIRCLE K

695 W Bridge St, Owatonna 507-446-1061

FUEL ‘N FOOD

401 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna 507-455-2436

KWIK TRIP - (South Oak) 1220 S Oak Ave., Owatonna 507-451-3384

KWIK TRIP - STORE #1088 (Hoffman Drive)

410 Hoffman Drive, Owatonna 507-213-6666

KWIK TRIP - STORE #403 (Cabela’s) 2270 46th St., Owatonna 507-446-8176

KWIK TRIP - STORE #806 (Mineral Springs Road) 320 Mineral Springs Road, Owatonna 507-455-1541

KWIK TRIP (North)

135 Landmark Drive NE, Owatonna 507-451-5099

KWIK TRIP-STORE #435 (West) 1075 W Frontage Road, Owatonna

507-446-9576

DEPARTMENT

STORES

KOHL’S 1450 NW 21st. Ave. Owatonna

507-444-0153

TARGET

301 Park Drive, Owatonna 507-451-1882

WAL-MART SUPERSTORE

1130 W Frontage Road Owatonna 507-455-0049

FASHION

GLITZY FASHIONS

113 N Main St., Medford 507-330-0694

HIDDEN ROSE BOUTIQUE

324 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna

OWATONNA SHOE

121 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-451-4640

URBAN LOFT

303 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-382-5486

FINANCIAL

1ST UNITED BANK

495 W North St., Owatonna

507-444-9950

BANK PLUS PO Box 303, Owatonna

507-676-5741

BREMER BANK

730 W Bridge St., Owatonna

507-451-0950

COMMUNITY BANK

OWATONNA

640 Bridge St., Owatonna

507-455-2265

EDWARD JONES

Jeff Hall

143 W Bridge St., Owatonna

507-446-0150

EDWARD JONES

John Havelka

143 W Bridge St., Owatonna

507-446-0150

EDWARD JONES

osh Cosens

685 W Bridge St. STE 1A, Owatonna

507-451-1324

EDWARD JONES

Matthew A Stanislav

120 Landmark Dr NE STE 3, Owatonna

507-413-0558

HERZOG SWENSON ADVISOR GROUP

125 Landmark DR STE 1, Owatonna 507-444-0064

HOME FEDERAL

SAVINGS BANK

1015 West Frontage Road STE 100, Owatonna

507-413-6420

HOMETOWN CREDIT UNION

2400 W Bridge St., Owatonna

507-451-3798

HOMETOWN CREDIT UNION

- South Branch

150 18th St. SW, Owatonna

507-451-3798

KEEN BANK

119 5th St, Ellendale

507-684-2691

LUDEWIG FINANCIAL GROUP

741 E Main Stl, Owatonna

507-214-1230

PHARMD FINANCIAL PLANNING

202 N Cedar Ave., Suite 5, Owatonna

507-200-0233

PREMIER BANK MINNESOTA

209 E Main St., STE H, Owatonna

507-451-0231

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL

Geoff Stamp

202 W. Bridge St. Suite 203, Owatonna

507-774-9221

PROFINIUM, INC.

1080 W Frontage Road, Owatonna 507-444-0111

THRIVENT FINANCIAL -

Nicholas Lewis

113 W. Main St., Owatonna 507-455-3727

U.S. BANK

132 W Broadway St., Owatonna 507-444-2200

UNITED PRAIRIE BANK

110 W Rose St., Owatonna

507-451-6300

WAYNE - NORRIDWETMORE WEALTH MANAGEMENT

(a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC)

1850 Austin Road STE 104, Owatonna 507-444-0901

WELLS FARGO BANK OWATONNA

101 N Cedar Ave., Owatonn 507-451-5670

WEST BANK

328 Hoffman Dr. NW, Owatonna 507-413-6901

FLORISTS/DESIGN STUDIOS

CASHWISE FLORAL

495 W North St.,Owatonna 507-451-8116

CEDAR FLORAL

DESIGN STUDIO

314 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna 507-451-7673

FLORAL DESIGNS BY JODI 1741 Prairie Lane NE Owatonna 507-455-1437

HY-VEE FLORAL 1620 S Cedar Ave. Owatonna 507-451-0138

KLECKER’S KREATIONS

302 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna 507-475-4556

PRAIRIE HOME FLORAL DECOR GIFTS

33 Main St. E, Blooming Prairie 507-583-7637

STARGAZER DESIGNS 134 Rice St., Owatonna 507-475-1639

FUNERAL SERVICES/ PLANNING

BRICK-MEGER

FUNERAL HOME

1603 Austin Road, Owatonna 507451-1457

MEDFORD FUNERAL HOME

310 East Central Ave., Medford 507-455-1363

MICHAELSON

FUNERAL HOME

1930 Austin Road, Owatonna 507-451-7943

FURNITURE/ APPLIANCES/ FLOORING

3-DAY MATTRESS

143 W Broadway St. Owatonna • 507-351-3710

ASHLEY HOMESTORE

6500 W Frontage Road Medford

507-446-4400

FURNITURE MART

6500 W Frontage Road Medford

507-455-3000

KARL’S TV, AUDIO, APPLIANCE AND FURNITURE

1287 21st Ave NW, Owatonna 507-446-9255

MANKE’S OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCE

225 W Rose, Owatonna

507-451-2327

NDC FLOORING & HOME

121 Oakdale St., Owatonna

507-451-3710

OWATONNA FLOORING & MIRROR

146 W Broadway St. Owatonna

507-451-1169

SLUMBERLAND

2375 NW 46th St. Owatonna

507-444-9200

SORENSON’S OF GENEVA

101 N Central Ave. Geneva 507-256-7258

TONY’S FLOORING

206 Mineral Springs Road

507-451-2286

GROCERY STORES

CASH WISE FOODS

495 W North St., Owatonna

507-451-7220

EL ALFARERO MEXICAN TREATS

2625 Hoffman Dr. NW, Owatonna

507-977-5582

FAREWAY MEAT & GROCERY

831 S Oak Ave., Owatonna

507-451-1550

HY-VEE FOOD STORE

1620 S Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-451-0138

LA FLOR DE MAYO MERCADO

147 W Broadway St., Owatonna

507-333-0779

OWATONNA GROCERY AND GOURMET

114 W. Broadway, Owatonna

507-413-0133

HOME IMPROVEMENT

ALEXANDER LUMBER COMPANY

419 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-451-7710

LOWE’S

1280 NW 21st. Ave., Owatonna

507-446-4900

OWATONNA ACE HARDWARE

122 W Vine St., Owatonna

507-451-4966

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS

125 Oakdale St., Owatonna

507-451-1304

INSURANCE

FEDERATED INSURANCE

PO Box 328, Owatonna

507-455-5200

FEDERATED INSURANCE PERSONAL LINES

1929 S Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-455-5758

AMERICAN FAMILY

INSURANCEJessica Gruenwald

212 South Oak Ave., Owatonna

507-455-3501

AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCEOscar Mazariego Agency 319 N. Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-451-7734

AMERICAN NATIONAL THE ZAPPA AGENCY

111 W Main St., Owatonna

507-451-9343

BROWN INSURANCE GROUP, LLC

310 S. Oak Ave., Owatonna

507-413-5708

CROSSCOUNTRY MORTGAGE

214 S Oak Ave., Owatonna

507-455-1858

FARMERS INSURANCELindsay Macht Agency 116 E Broadway St., Owatonna

507-451-3937

FARMERS INSURANCE GROUP - Michael Bishman 121 W Broadway St., Owatonna 507-451-0193

FARMERS INSURANCE GROUP - David Strand 634 W Bridge St. Suite B, Owatonna 507-517-3227

FARMERS INSURANCE

GROUP - Thaddeus Tuttle 420 N Cedar Ave, Owatonna 507-451-1168

FARMERS UNION INSURANCE Agency -Ben Flemke

210 W. Main St., Owatonna 507-413-6116

GENE DRAKE AGENCYSenior Care Insurance 111 W Vine St., Owatonna 507-413-0960

GMI/RITTER INSURANCE AGENCY

301 Oak Ave So, Owatonna

507-455-0161

HEINZ INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

141 W Bridge St., Owatonna 507-451-9252

HOHENSTEIN AGENCY

3095 S County Road 45, Owatonna 507-444-6246

HOHENSTEIN-MACFADYEN INSURANCE

577 State Ave. STE 1, Owatonna 507-451-0800

HUB INTERNATIONAL INSURANCE

245 18th St SE, STE 104, Owatonna 507-414-5669

IFC NATIONAL MARKETING

741 E. Main St., Owatonna 800-598-5560

JENSEN AGENCY

751 E Main St., Owatonna 507-451-7619

NORTH RISK PARTNERS TPS Insurance Agency

285 SE 18th St., Owatonna 507-451-3684

STATE FARM INSURANCE J P Kreutter Agency 203 S Oak Ave., Owatonna 507-451-4866

STATE FARM INSURANCEPlemel Agency 920 Hoffman Drive STE 1, Owatonna 507-451-4619

STATE FARM INSURANCESteve Carroll Agency

215 SE 22nd St., Owatonna 507-455-1660

STATE FARM INSURANCESteve Carroll Agency 215 SE 22nd St., Owatonna 507-455-1660

THE FLEMKE AGENCY

342 W Bridge St., Owatonna 507-413-6116

WELLS FARGO HOME MORTGAGE

101 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-451-5670

WINTRUST MORTGAGE

1434 Wildflower Lane N.E., Owatonna

507-390-5626

JEWELERS

DOUGLAS DIAMONDS

1100 Frontage Road W, Suite #145, Owatonna

507-413-6305

KOTTKE JEWELERS

115 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-451-6644

PAFFRATH JEWELERS

685 W Bridge St., Suite #8 507-451-0301

LAWN/ LANDSCAPING/ NURSERIES

BALLSTADT ENTERPRISES, LLC 1025 NW 28th Ave., Owatonna

507-451-3381

JACK’S NURSERY AND LANDSCAPING Owatonna

507-455-1434

NAGEL SOD FARM AND NURSERY

6200 W Frontage Road, Medford

507-451-9605

OAK VIEW NURSERY 7921 County Road 45 South, Owatonna

507-451-0454

OWATONNA GROUNDSMASTERS, INC. 1520 State Ave., NW, Owatonna

507-455-0081

SOUBA GREENHOUSE & GARDEN CENTER

4003 Crane Creek Road, Owatonna

507-451-1444

TURTLE CREEK NURSERY AND LANDSCAPING

2449 E Rose St., Owatonna

507-214-8733

WOLFF & SON’S YARD SERVICES

846 SE 38th St., Owatonna

507-455-3524

LEGAL

EINHAUS, MATTISON, CARVER & HABERMAN, P. A.

202 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-451-3580

PATTON, HOVERSTEN & BERG, PA

150 W Park Square, Owatonna

507-451-9000

WALBRAN & FURNESS CHARTER

140 Main St. E, Owatonna

507-451-1173

LIQUOR

CASH WISE LIQUOR

495 W North St., Owatonna

507-451-8440

ELLENDALE MUNICIPAL

LIQUOR STORE, BAR & GRILL

217 Fifth Ave., Ellendale

507-684-9422

FIREHOUSE LIQUOR

120 NW 26th St., Owatonna

507-214-2337

HY-VEE

1620 S Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-451-0138

J-B LIQUOR INC

202 S Oak Ave., Owatonna

507-451-5491

J & H LIQUORS

340 Main St. E Blooming Prairie

507-583-7557

HIGHWAY 218 OFF SALE

LIQUOR

419 Hwy. Ave. S Blooming Prairie

507-583-7711

MEDFORD LIQUORS

203 N Main St, Medford

507-451-5821

LODGING AND TRAVEL

BAYMONT BY WYNDHAM

245 Florence Ave. Owatonna

507-455-1142

COMFORT INN

2345 NW 43rd St. Owatonna

507-444-0818

COURTYARD

OWATONNA DOWNTOWN

225 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-431-4130

COUNTRY INN & SUITES

130 SW Allan Ave. Owatonna

507-455-9295

COURTYARD

OWATONNA DOWNTOWN

225 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-431-4130

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 2365 43rd Street NW, Owatonna COMING IN 2025

EXECUTIVE INN 745 State Ave., Owatonna 507-451-8712

HOPE OAK KNOLL CAMPGROUNDS 9545 County Road 3 Owatonna 507-451-2998

NORTHROP OFTEDAHL HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST 358 E Main St., Owatonna 507-451-4040

OAKDALE MOTEL 1418 S Oak Ave. Owatonna

507-451-5480

QUALITY INN

150 NW St John Drive Owatonna 507-446-0228

RICE LAKE STATE PARK 8485 Rose St., Owatonna 507-414-6191

RIVER VIEW CAMPGROUND 2554 SW 28th St. Owatonna 507-451-8050

TRAVEL LEADERS 111 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna 507-455-1170

MEDFORD OUTLET CENTER

BATH & BODY WORKS

507-455-4058

BELLA VISTA SALON 507-334-5285

EDDIE BAUER OUTLET 507-446-5866

FAMOUS FOOTWEAR OUTLET 507-599-5007

HAPPY TAILS PET STORE 507-451-1458

J.JULES FASHION

507-451-1987

L’EGGS/HANES/BALI/ PLAYTEX 507-455-2971

MAURICES 507-451-0316

OFF LIKE A KITE 507-451-1974

OLD NAVY OUTLET

507-451-3802

RAD ZOO

507-455-1465

MOVING, STORAGE & RENTALS

AMERICAN RENT-ALL 333 W North St., Owatonna 507-455-0000

GALLEA TRANSFER & STORAGE, INC.

4500 N County Road 45, Owatonna 507-451-4318

NOW SIMPLE MOVE

1796 SE 44th Ave., Owatonna

507-475-2214

STEELE CO. SELF STORAGE

1010 Hoffman Drive NW Suite C, Owatonna 507-451-1112

PETS & VETERINARY

FAIRVIEW ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER

1840 Hartle Ave., Owatonna

507-451-4591

HAPPY TAILS PET STORE

6750 West Frontage Road STE 434, Medford 507-451-1458

HEARTLAND ANIMAL HOSPITAL

1220 E Frontage Rd., Owatonna

507-214-7387

OWATONNA VETERINARY HOSPITAL

1930 S Cedar Ave., Owatonna

507-451-8153

PETS & FISH

1820 S Cedar Ave., Owatonna • 507-451-2825

PERSONAL SERVICES & CARE

CINDY’S TAILORING, ALTERATIONS & DRY CLEANING

130 E Vine St., Owatonna 507-455-0891

OLDENBURG PHOTOGRAPHY 1740 Mineral Springs Parkway, Owatonna 507-455-0959

STEEL THE MOMENT PHOTOGRAPHY

112 W Pearl St., Owatonna 951-454-0490

REAL ESTATE & SERVICES

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY

1880 Austin Rd., Suite 1 Owatonna • 507-451-7355

DWELL REALTY GROUP

127 Oakdale St., Owatonna 507-451-4315

EDINA REALTY

120 Landmark Dr. Owatonna • 507-214-7653

ERA GILLESPIE REAL ESTATE

122 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna 507-451-7488

HELP-U-SELL HERITAGE

REAL ESTATE 1534 S. Cedar Ave., Owatonna 507-451-6000

JONES, HAUGH & SMITH, ENGINEERS AND LAND SURVEYORS

415 W North St., Owatonna 507-451-4598

LAKEPLACE.COM -

OWATONNA REALTY

135 W Main St., Owatonna 507-451-3333

MANGELSEN APPRAISALS, INC./HOME INSPECTIONS

104-1/2 W Broadway Suite 205, Owatonna 507-214-1491

MINNESOTA SECURED TITLE

245 SE 18th St. Suite 101 Owatonna 507-451-6487

NORTH AMERICAN TITLE COMPANY

660 W Bridge St., Suite 100 Owatonna 507-455-3388

RE/MAX VENTURE

118 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna • 507-413-8100

RESTAURANTS

APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR

690 W Bridge St., Owatonna 507-451-0006

BASILLEO’S ON BRIDGE

685 W Bridge St. Suite 4, Owatonna

507-200-2007

BUFFALO WILD WINGS

1100 W Frontage Road, Owatonna

507- 455-2700

CARIBOU COFFEE

621 W Bridge St., Owatonna 507-444-5477

CENTRAL PARK COFFEE

113 North Cedar Ave. Owatonna • 507-451-4242

CULVER’S OF OWATONNA

1140 W Frontage Rd, Owatonna • 507-455-2000

DOMINO’S PIZZA #1943

221 Mineral Springs Road Owatonna • 507-451-3030

ELLENDALE CAFE

203 Fifth Ave. W., Ellendale

507-688-3621

ELLENDALE MUNICIPAL LIQUOR STORE, BAR & GRILL 217 Fifth Ave., Ellendale 507-684-9422

EL TEQUILA MEXICAN RESTAURANT

369 SE 18th St., Owatonna 507-444-9490

FAMOUS DAVE’S BBQ 4355 W Frontage Road Owatonna • 507-455-2900

FOREMOST BREWING COOPERATIVE

131 W Broadway St. Owatonna 507-214-3462

GILIBERTO’S MEXICAN TACO SHOP 1232 S Oak Ave., Owatonna 507-413-0903

GEORGE’S OF GENEVA 116 N Central, Geneva 507- 256-4501

GODFATHER’S PIZZA 116 Oakdale St. Owatonna 507-455-1470

GRACE’S TEX MEX 1170 N County Road 45 Owatonna 507- 451-1908

JIMMY JOHNS 670 W Bridge St. Owatonna 507- 413-0999

KERNEL RESTAURANT 1011 Hoffman Dr. Owatonna 507- 451-2585

LACEY’S AT BROOKTREE 1369 Cherry St., Owatonna 507-774-0040

MCDONALD’S 1105 W Frontage Road Owatonna 507- 451-3075

MCDONALD’S 6874 W Frontage Road Medford 507- 451-1055

MINERAL SPRINGS BREWERY 111 N Walnut St. Owatonna

MIZUKI FUSION 119 W Bridge St., Owatonna 507-214-3131

OLD TOWN BAGELS 211 Cedar Ave., Owatonna 507-451-3193

OLIVIA’S FAMILY RESTAURANT 1160 W Frontage Rd, Owatonna 507-444-4000

PERKINS RESTAURANT & BAKERY 1200 I35, Owatonna 507-451-6831

PIZZA HUT 105 S Oak Ave., Owatonna 507-451-3336

PLAZA MORENA

CAMPESTRE GRILL 160 Ne 26th St. Owatonna 507- 413-0819

PUPUSERIA LA PAZ 153 W Bridge St., Owatonna 507-413-0337

ROMA’S ITALIAN EATERY 203 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna 507-413-0278

SPARETIME ENTERTAINMENT

333 SE 18th St. Owatonna 507-451-2524

SUBWAY SANDWICHES & SALADS:

653 W Bridge St. Owatonna

507-451-6842

312 N Oak Ave., Owatonna 507- 451-6842

STARBUCKS:

641 W Bridge St, Owatonna

507-455-3624

301 Park Dr., Owatonna

507-451-1882

1620 S Cedar Ave. Owatonna 507-451-0138

TACO BELL

681 W Bridge St., Owatonna 507-444-0242

TACO JOHNS

1839 S Cedar Ave., Owatonna 507- 451-2023

TAQUERIA JALISCO

206 W Rose St., Owatonna

507-200-8650

THE KITCHEN

329 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-451-9991

TIMBER LODGE STEAKHOUSE

4455 W Frontage Rd, Owatonna

507- 444-0303

TOREY’S RESTAURANT & BAR

208 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna 507- 455-9260

WENDY’S OLD FASHIONED HAMBURGERS

2290 NW 46th St., Owatonna

507-451-7403

WINGS TAVERN & GRILLE 1805 S Elm Ave., Owatonna 507-444-9335

BIRCHWOOD COTTAGES

1905 Austin Rd. Owatonna

BRIDGEWATER AT OWATONNA

125 E Park St Owatonna

BROOKS ON ST. PAUL

2480 St. Paul Rd Owatonna

ECUMEN BROOKS

2480 St Paul Rd. Owatonna

ECUMEN COUNTRYSIDE

650 El Dorado St. SE Owatonna

HEATHER HAUS

ASSISTED LIVING

223 4th St NW

Blooming Prairie

IRISH EYES STUDIO

320 N. Cedar, Owatonna

507-214-2100

KAPLAN WOODS CARE HOME

285 Cedardale Dr. SE Owatonna,

MAPLE TRAIL APARTMENTS

165 24th Pl. NW Owatonna

MOREHOUSE PLACE

353 Lemond Rd. Owatonna

PARK PLACE SENIOR LIVING

125 E Park St. Owatonna,

PRAIRIE MANOR CARE CENTER

220 3rd St. NW Blooming Prairie

MEDFORD SENIOR CARE

108 3rd St. NE Medford

TRADITIONS OF OWATONNA

VALLEY VIEW OF OWATONNA

1212 Frontage Rd. W Owatonna

WHISPERING OAK PLACE

903 Calverly Court Ellendale

SPECIALTY SHOPS

CENTRAL PARK FRAMING & FINDS

110 W Broadway St. Owatonna

507-451-3460

HABERMAN’S PICTURE FRAMING

208 Mineral Springs Road Owatonna

507-451-6565

COSTAS CANDIES

112 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-451-9050

INSTY PRINTS

306 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna • 507-451-6004

IRISH EYES STUDIO

320 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-214-2100

KIK GRAPHICS

110 Highway Ave. Blooming Prairie 507-583-7713

LET’S RIDE BOOTS AND APPAREL

4755 W Frontage Road Owatonna 507-455-1487

LION’S DEN ADULT BOUTIQUE 1164 Frontage Road W Owatonna 507-214-3900

SALVATION ARMY

THRIFT STORE

1810 S Cedar Ave. Owatonna

507-455-2023

STRAIGHT RIVER COFFEE 435 26th St NE, Owatonna 507-413-0814

STRAIGHT RIVER RUG HOOKING 104 W Park Square, Owatonna 507-413-0130

THEE DRAGON’S LAIR TATTOOS

1154 S Oak Ave. Owatonna 507-451-8441

THE MUSIC SPACE OF OWATONNA

216 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna 507-390-4079

TONE MUSIC 114 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna • 507-451-5196

TRI M GRAPHICS

625 E Main St., Owatonna 507-451-3920

SPORTING/ OUTDOOR GOODS

CABELA’S 3900 Cabela Drive NW Owatonna 507-451-4545

COURT SPORTS & MORE 1414 S Oak Ave. Owatonna 507-451-0567

MILLS FLEET FARM

2121 W Bridge St. Owatonna • 507-455-1088

SETTE SPORTS CENTER

RETIREMENT/SENIOR CARE FACILITIES

BENEDICTINE LIVING COMMUNITY

2255 30th St. NW Owatonna

150 24th St NE Owatonna

TIMBERDALE TRACE ASSISTED LIVING/MEMORY CARE

334 Cederdale Dr SE Owatonna

MIDNIGHT SUN SPAS

2350 43rd St. NW, Suite #103, Owatonna 507-214-7727

RUSSELL STOVER CANDIES

4500 W Frontage Road Owatonna 507-451-9127

2299 Austin Road Owatonna • 507-451-6922

SPORTSTITCH

623 6th St. SE Blooming Prairie 507-583-7001

Ava Kleeberger (left) and Luca Gfrerer (right) perform in the Owatonna High School Marching Band color guard during the Harry Wenger Marching Band Festival. (Josh LaFollette/southernminn.com)

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 55

STRAIGHT RIVER SPORTS AND FITNESS

222 W Bridge St., Owatonna

507-451-1666

TRANSPORTATION

MINIMIZER

2701 18th St. SW Owatonna • 507-583-2112

OWATONNA BUS COMPANY 1145 Park Drive, Owatonna 507-451-5262

RIHM LEASING, INC.

3205 Hoffman Drive NW, Owatonna 507-451-2990

SPARK PLUG CHARGERS INC. 2435 Water Tower Lane NE, Owatonna 507-475-0595

UTILITIES & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

STEELE-WASECA CO-OP ELECTRIC

2411 W Bridge St., Owatonna 507-451-7340

MINNESOTA ENERGY RESOURCES

3460 Technology Drive NW, Rochester 651-322-8907

NEXTERA ENERGY RESOURCES

107 E Main St., Kasson 319-536-4891

OWATONNA PUBLIC UTILITIES 208 S Walnut Ave., Owatonna 507-451-2480

SKJEVELAND ENTERPRISESCLAREMONT 63614 130th Ave., Claremont 507-528-9900

SKJEVELAND ENTERPRISESOWATONNA 665 NW 32nd Ave., Owatonna 507-214-8727

STEWART SANITATION 1630 NW State Ave., Owatonna 507-451-0976

THOMPSON SANITATION 108 Independence Ave. N, Clarks Grove 507-256-4370