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FRIDAY, JANUARY 30
5:01 p.m. – Opening Ceremony Medallion Hunt, at Levee Park and sponsored by Saint Peter Ambassadors Official reading of the first Medallion Hunt Clue *All Free with bonfire, hot chocolate and s’mores
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6
5:30 p.m. – Good Neighbor Diversity Council Gala - at The Capitol Room Entertainment Food and Drinks Live and Silent Auction.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Snow Day in the Park Family Fun - Veterans Park hosted by Saint Peter Recreation and Leisure Services. Ice skating, hockey, bonfire, yard games, music and snow painting.
12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. – Polar Plunge at Hallett’s Pond - Hundreds will jump in the icy waters. Be a participant or a spectator.
4:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. – Steak Night - at the American Legion.
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. – WrestleMania 3Professional Wrestling is coming back to St. Peter at The Capitol Room.
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8
9 a.m. to noon – Belgian Waffle Breakfast by the Saint Peter Lions at the Saint Peter Community Center, Senior Center Room 219
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21
1 p.m. – Poker Walk - Start at Red Men Club, build poker hand by visiting downtown establishments, make final stop at Patrick’s for awarding of prizes.
***Visit the Chamber website for more additions to Winterfest 2026 and/or updates***
By ASHLEY HANLEY Guest Contributor
Sisters Brenda and Lynda Wendt grew up north of Elysian on a dairy farm, and they’ve been performing together since they were little kids.
“I guess you could say it all started back in Sunday School, at our little country church, St. Peter’s Bell Lutheran Church, just 5 miles north of Elysian. Which, by the way, is still going strong today,” Brenda said.
Typically, they perform in the Southern Minnesota area: wineries, breweries, bars and clubs, town festivals, fundraisers, nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
“Nothing is off limits. If someone wants music and they reach out to us, we are always excited to perform,” Brenda added.
Their favorite part of performing is connecting with the audience.
“When we’re singing a song and we can see that the audience is either singing along or even keeping rhythm to the tune, we know we’re doing something right. Making them smile, bringing back a happy memory from a song that they haven’t heard of for years, those are things that make us keep wanting to make music.”
Februar y is Valentine’s Month, so we were curious about love songs and what they mean for the Wendt sisters.
“There’s always a time in every gig to pull out someone’s favorite love song. I think one of our top requested love songs would be Anne Murray’s, Could
I Have This Dance. It was a tune released in 1980 and was featured in the movie Urban Cowboy. You would not believe the number of couples we find that used that beautiful love song as their bride and groom first dance song. And it doesn’t seem to matter your age, young or old, everyone loves that song,” Brenda said. “The most second requested love song for us would probably be, Elvis’s 1961 hit, Can’t Help Falling In Love. Always a fav.”
We also wanted to know what the Sisters thought made a good love song.
“I think if you can find a song with lyrics that touches your heart and matches the feelings between you and your loved one… you’ve got the perfect recipe for the perfect love song. I think that message is a little different for everyone, depending on their journey. Again, it’s about that connection, but everyone’s path to that connection is a little different. Couples are looking for lyrics that tell their story. Like we said earlier, we have lots of people that love the songs, Could I Have This Dance and Can’t Help Falling In Love, but then you may have the next couple that wants to hear something from us like, Devoted To You from The Everly Brothers or Sea Of Love by Phil Phillips,” Brenda said. She added, “I love to sing, Could I Have This Dance. Not only do we do it in our Wendt Sisters duo but we also do it in our Gold Star band. And, if I’m in the car with my radio blasting, one of my all-time favorite 80s love songs is Madonna’s, Crazy For You. If I have to pick one for my sister, Lynda, I love to hear her sing, When You Say Nothing At All, the Alison Krauss version.”
Brenda also shared how she would write a love song. “I’d say, it would have to be by describing all of your thoughts and feelings of that special someone and putting it on paper.
Finding the right words and wording them the right way…It’s not easy for everyone to do. I envy those that have that gift.”
The reaction from the audience to a love song is also a treat.
Brenda said, “Those that like to dance will get up and do so. But there’s some of those that just like to sit back, maybe you will see them holding their loved ones hand and possibly singing along to the tune or just smiling as they reminisce the memories of yesterday and the love that they are carrying on today. Love songs are popular no matter the month. We all hold special days with loved ones in our hearts, and it’s a blessing to celebrate that love no matter what day or month it may be.”
Brenda offered this final piece of advice: “If you do have that special someone in your life, don’t forget to let them know how important they are to you. Not only on Valentine’s Day, but any day of the week, any day of the month. And maybe, this year, treat them to a special love song and dance. You could be out at a venue or a party that is having live music, ask the musicians to play a love song and get up and dance, a simple sway is all you need. Or even if you’re at home, in your own kitchen, living room or backyard. Pick a beautiful meaningful song to play on your phone or record player, if you’re lucky enough to have one of those still. Ask that special someone to dance or simply hold their hand and listen to the melody and the lyrics and be grateful for the love in your life.”
Ashley Hanley is a wife and mom of three kids under the age of 6 in North Mankato. When she’s not handing out snacks or kissing boo-boos, you can find her cheering on her favorite Minnesota sports teams and is a firm believer they will win a championship in her lifetime.
CONTINUED page 14
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My first
When this time of year comes around, my editor always suggests we write about love. Since the world appears to be falling apart or possibly coming to an end, I think this topic is even more important than usual.
Isn’t it sad to think that we focus on celebrating love only one time a year when Hallmark reminds us!? And why is romantic love the only kind we think of?
When I think about love, I think of how lucky I am to have known it on many different levels. The first article I ever published was about a guy I loved very much, my Dad. So, I thought I’d do a refresher about the different ways love can show up and tell you about Richard Keith Closner.
He was really tall and had huge hands. He smelled like Mennen-brand lime stick deodorant and cigarette smoke. He was impervious to bugs and heat and he could do math in his head. Animals of all kinds automatically loved him.
He had a successful commercial construction business and was happily married to my Mom for a gazillion years raising six kids along the way (without either of them losing their sanity, which I find hard to even fathom).
People who wonder why I’m like I am probably never met him. I like to think I get my sarcasm as well as my common sense from him. Unfortunately, I also got his wimpy ankles but that seems like a small price to pay.
When we asked Dad about Mom, one of his most famous lines was, “I never cried before I got married, but I’ve been crying ever since.” This was usually after he told the story of getting a cut on his head while attempting to escape the ceremony and dash out the back door of the church on their wedding day.
Mom let him have his moment and regale us with this funny story for years. She gave us the real scoop at some point. He had to go to the bathroom, slipped on the ice on the back stairs of the church and hit his head on the metal railing.
When you’re the youngest of a mess of kids, your parents get tired. I think they were completely exhausted by the time I came around. We lived in the woods, and I’m pretty sure the joy of shuttling us in and out of town to meet pals at Burger King had faded years earlier.
My dad gave me “the talk” prior to Drivers Education class. He told me to take the back-
roads and drive myself to school in one of the company cars (a very large, mustard-colored V-8 Crown Vic retired police car). “Remember to park behind the school and put away your car keys before you get in the drivers ed vehicle.”
This incident was, of course, prior to the time I ran his beloved chocolate-brown Buick down a very icy, snow-covered hill and got it stuck on top of a breakaway stop sign. Did I mention I was wearing open-toe sandals and no coat when he came to rescue me?
His favorite way to wake us up on the weekends was to start a chainsaw outside our bedroom window. He was also my first official employer and the only one who has ever fired me. I was not a great cleaning lady … even then. He tried to teach me how to do a decent free throw and told me the importance of learning to work as part of a team even though I was never much of an athlete.
The day I turned 21, I was working at a luxury resort in Arizona. I came back to my desk to see a gorgeous bouquet of roses with a small hand-written card poking out of the petals on one of those plastic fork thingies. It said, “Thanks for last night!”
Suffice to say, it provided for lots of teasing from my coworkers. I had spent the previous evening with my sister going to Dairy Queen to celebrate. I had no idea who the flowers were from as the handwriting was messy and masculine. My Mom later told me that my Dad thought he was very funny when he placed the order.
There was also the time in college where I had gained the “Freshman 40” and my Dad and I had a bet to see who could lose the extra weight first. I can’t remember what I promised him if he won, but I was set to get a very cool pair of leather boots sure to make me the talk of the College of St. Thomas (as it used to be called).
After slowing down on the trips to the cafeteria’s cereal bar, I managed to lose 20 pounds. I called my Dad with the good news. I knew he’d cave and send me the boots. A week later, the slip was in my PO box saying I had a package. I opened the box to discover one boot and a large package of dried fruit.
The more stressful life seems to get these days, the more I find myself quoting my Father “Don’t let the turkeys get you down!” “Keep the faith!” “Even a blind pig finds an acorn once in a while.”
But, of course, his most classic advice that I remind myself of almost every day: “Be a lady, don’t embarrass us, and remember, your name is on the side of the truck!”
By JANE TURPIN MOORE Guest Contributor
any have dreamt about their wedding day, conjuring in their mind’s eye that perfect person to whom they’ll soon say “I do.”
But that’s not all they envision.
The ideal dress, tux, bouquets, boutonnières, guests and — ah — the site of your dreams, a flower-studded meadow with guests perched on rustic benches while witnessing your vows.
Or is it a stylish industrial-chic space where the bare, perhaps white, walls make your wedding party and their coordinating garb pop in every picture the photographer snaps?
Maybe you’ve had your heart set on a historic urban vibe, with brick walls and fire escapes supplying the moody backdrop.
Well, relax. If you’ve recently become engaged, or hope to seal the deal in the near future, finding the perfect locale in Southern Minnesota should be a
snap. With numerous wedding venues ranging from rural to uptown, finding the right place for you and your partner to wed is a goal that’s within reach — even if it stretches your budget a bit.
To get the wedding ball rolling, learn more about one venue with a decidedly urban edge and another that’s positively pastoral. And don’t miss the lengthy list of other possibilities that follows.
The 3 Ten Event Venue
310 Central Ave. North, Faribault. 3teneventvenue.com, 612-416-6351, sales@3teneventvenue.com.
Crystal chandeliers, finely weathered wood flooring, brick walls and a floor-to-ceiling bar set the scene at the 3 Ten Event Venue in downtown Faribault. With enough space to accommodate up to 430 guests, the 3 Ten’s ballroom is one of the area’s largest indoor sites.
And adjacent to it is the 3 Ten Rooftop Loft, with similar aesthetics and a slightly cozier feel, allowing a maximum of 150 celebrants. Its westward-facing outdoor balcony has hosted many a sunset snap, owner Ryan Ernster assures.
“That’s a lofted space with a main-level atrium that’s a great gathering space for a ceremony or cocktail hour,” described Ernster. “Then you can go upstairs and there’s a ballroom for up to 150 people, with a rooftop patio that lets you have an indoor/outdoor flow on nice days.
“Or, you can have dinner under the stars or sun.”
Ernster and his wife Jenny, who in 2017 bought and renovated the circa-1920 building that’s now known as the 3 Ten Event Venue, have seemingly thought of everything.
And why not? The enterprising couple previously owned a wedding décor company (Sitting Pretty Décor) that specialized in supplying all the accoutrements required to put on a spectacular event.
The Ernsters know what it takes to create beautiful environments for weddings, and bringing couples’ dreams to life is one of the joys of their business.
“For people who like the idea of getting married in a big city, we’re leaning in to providing that urban-type feel right in Faribault so couples don’t have to pay triple the price,” said Ernster.
“We’ve used the slogan, ‘Big-city aesthetic, small-town pricing,’ and I’d say close to 75% of our wedding couples are from the greater Twin Cities.”
Customers also hail from Rochester, Mankato, Northfield and of course Faribault and surrounding communities, speaking to the 3 Ten Event Venue’s success and expertise at helping make nuptial celebrations everything couples wish for.
The 3 Ten’s venue and event manager Tina Boehning brings all her considerable experience to bear—including that of having marked her own wedding at the 3 Ten.
“Tina helps with floor plans, timelines and budgets,” said Ernster, noting the 3 Ten also has a wedding coordinator who serves as a day-of assistant so hiring an additional wedding planner isn’t a necessity.
“They’ll light candles, handle vendor payments, place centerpieces and put out any metaphorical fires throughout the day,” said Ernster.
The Ernsters assure that if couples need full service— ceiling draping, votives, centerpieces, bistro lights, arches, black-string lights, you name it—or arrange for someone else to provide the wedding goods, they’ll roll with it.
“We can do everything or nothing,” said Ernster. “We allow couples to pick the route they want to go, whether that’s DIY or having us do everything.”
December could result in a 50% cost savings.
“Everybody fights for the Saturdays,” laughed Ernster. “Thursdays and Sundays are few and far between, no matter the price, but if budget is your driver, it’s definitely something to consider.”
Above all, the 3 Ten makes it possible for couples with a broad spectrum of budgets and and tastes to make the site their own for that special day.
Said Ernster, “One of our goals is to help you have the wedding that’s absolutely right for you.”
10970 Cody Lake Trail, Montgomery shepherdshillfarmmn.com events@shepherdshillmn.com.
A scenic red barn, rolling green pastures, reflective-blue prairie lakes, purple cone flowers and black Angus cattle contentedly grazing.
This colorful ambience comprises the serene setting that the decidedly rural Shepherd’s Hill Farm affords wedding couples seeking a calm environment for their nuptials.
“It sits high on a hill, has two pastoral lakes and a total of 75 acres in all, most of it pastureland,” said Cindy Calvin, who with her husband Steve owns Shepherd’s Hill Farm.
“It’s a beautiful property, and a neighbor grazes his cattle on the land from spring to fall, making for lovely scenery. We really didn’t intend for it to become a wedding venue.”
But love and marriage nevertheless found
Such flexibility extends to catering choices; the 3 Ten has an open catering policy, with a list of six preferred caterers who are proven successes at serving up the best food and service on-site. But should a different caterer be your choice, the Ernsters charge a modest additional catering fee.
“We ensure our caterers are vetted and do a great job because it can reflect poorly on our business if they don’t,” said Ernster.
Though Minnesota’s peak wedding season runs from May through November, with September and October being the busiest of them all lately, Ernster confirms there are offseason discounts as well as price reductions for certain days of the week.
For instance, rental for a Sunday wedding in
their way to Shepherd’s Hill Farm, which is defined by the fully renovated 1913 barn the Calvins shored up over a two and a half-year period nearly two decades ago.
“Towards the end of the process, our daughter Ruthie became engaged and wanted to get married at the barn so we fast-tracked it,” said Calvin.
Though that timing brought some pressure, the ending made for a happily-ever-after
“I was hanging mirrors in bathrooms on the morning of the wedding, but it turned out to be a wonderful day,” laughed Calvin.
Among the guests at Ruthie’s wedding were several young people who found Shepherd’s Hill Farm similarly idyllic.
“One of Ruthie’s good friends asked almost
immediately, ‘Can I have my wedding here?’ and hers was featured in Minnesota Bride magazine.
That set the ball rolling at Shepherd’s Hill Farm, which proceeded to play host to over 10 weddings annually (since it’s a strictly seasonal site)—until the Covid pandemic intervened.
“We had a lot of mini-weddings during the pandemic,” said Calvin, noting that the option for indoor/outdoor ceremonies and receptions coupled with the smaller capacity—100 to 125 guests is the best range for Shepherd’s Hill Farm—made it especially attractive during that period.
“When we started doing this almost 20
years ago, farm venues were kind of a novelty but they’ve become much more popular, and understandably so,” she said.
Shepherd’s Hill Farm has also operated as a retreat center for church and youth groups, thanks to its sleeping capacity.
With overnight accommodations for up to 12 people in beds and 24 “off the floor” (on cushion-lined benches that double as mattresses), Shepherd’s Hill Farm may suit couples who want to be on-site the night before or after weddings, whether with bridal parties or families.
CONTINUED from page 17
Overall, it’s a versatile space; there’s a patio outside the barn, a large fire pit, room for event tents and DIY decor and/or food possibilities.
“We provide a site manager as an extra pair of hands and a reference point to work with vendors on wedding days,” said Calvin. “And there’s plenty of parking, with a sunny little lane leading to the farm.”
The Broz Event Venue
212 Main St. W., New Prague thebrozeventvenue.com 651-253-6584 sales@thebrozeventvenue.com
Cannon River Winery 421 Mill St. W., Cannon Falls cannonriverweddings.com 651-792-5044 events@cannonriverwinery.com
The Capitol Room
419 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter capitolroom.com 507-380-0220 hello@capitolroom.com
Chankaska Creek Ranch
Winery & Distillery 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota chankaskawineryweddings.com 507-931-0089, ext. 104 cynthias@chankaskawines.com
The Gardens of Castle Rock 26601 Chippendale Ave., Northfield thegardensofcastlerock.com 651-264-9510 info@thegardensofcastlerock.com
Indian Island Winery 18018 631st Ave., Janesville Indianislandwinery.com/weddings 507-317-7914 indianislandwinery@yahoo.com
JR’s Barn Wedding Venue 21573 45th St., Waldorf jrsbarn.com 507-327-7047 jrsbarn@gmail.com
The Mill Event Center 310 2nd Ave. SW, Waseca themilleventcentermn.com 507-461-1434 themillwaseca@gmail.com
Next Chapter Winery 16945 320th St., New Prague nextchapterwinery.com/weddings 612-756-3012 nextchapterwinery@gmail.com
Northfield Golf Club 707 Prairie St., Northfield northfieldgolfclub.com/weddings 507-645-4026, ext. 3 beth@northfieldgolfclub.com
Shepherd’s Hill Farm offers a few budgetconscious packages, including one-day, twoday and two-and-a-half-day options (with the latter including overnight stay). Specific inquiries regarding packages, pricing and other amenities should be directed to Calvin via the Shepherd’s Hill Farm website or email address.
Other wedding venue options in the Southern Minn SCENE region include:
In addition to the dozens of other couples who’ve married over time at Shepherd’s Hill Farm, Calvin’s daughters Ruthie (the first Shepherd’s Hill Farm bride) and Christie celebrated their own nuptials there.
“This is a place that means a tremendous amount to our family,” said Calvin, referencing the soothing and positive vibes that emanate from the property.
Ahavah Cottage
510 MN-60 W., Elysian ahavahcottage.com 507-384-7581 ahavahcottage@gmail.com
Armory Square Event Center 519 Division St. S., Northfield armorysquarenfld.com/weddings 507-645-4386 info@armorysquarenfld.com
“We raised our children to love the pastoral aspects here and to be stewards of the land, which we’ve consecrated to God.
“It’s so full of wonderful family times, and hosting sacred unions here just elevates it to a higher level.”
Freelance writer/collaborative pianist Jane Turpin Moore grew up in the Mankato area and is now based in Northfield. She blogs at timeformoore566445504. wordpress.com and fields emails at jturpinmoore@ gmail.com.
The Barn at Crocker’s Creek 24141 Bagley Ave, Faribault thebarnatcrockerscreek.com 507-333-2989 thebarnandarena@gmail.cpm
The Blossom at Apple Creek Orchard 5524 W 185th St, Faribault theblossomweddingvenue.com 952-333-7272 tamera@theblossomweddingvenue.com
North Star Farm Event Center 34234 322nd St., Le Sueur northstarfarmevents.com 612-275-7195
Oak View Weddings and Events
7921 S. Cty. Road 45, Owatonna oakviewweddingsandevents.com 507-456-4359 dan@oakviewweddingsandevents.com
Owatonna Country Club 1991 Lemond Road, Owatonna owatonnacc.com/weddings-and-events 507-451-6120
Red Barn Farm
10063 110th St. E., Northfield Redbarnfarmweddingsmn.com 507-664-0304 contact@redbarnfarmweddingsmn.com
Starfire Event Center
206 2nd Ave. SW, Waseca On Facebook 507-461-1387 starfireeventcenter@wasecamac.com
Thyme on Main
100 State St. N., Waseca thymeonmain.com/weddings 507-201-3225 sarahkay@thymeonmain.com
Igrew up as an 80s kid and a 90s teen, and lately, more than ever, I have been longing for what felt like the simpler times of my adolescence.
I think just about everyone can relate to this, regardless of your generation.
Maybe the past is just painted with a sheen of perfectionism; maybe I just come from pretty significant privilege. But as an American, I remember a time when it did not matter who you voted for or where you were born; we all shared a common sense of patriotism and pride in ourselves, our country, our military. You always had your outliers, and we knew we weren’t perfect, but the general feeling was, in my recollection, of unity and love of country.
have seen in my lifetime and graciously using my pop culture column to hopefully inspire some of you to try to remember a less polarized, less chaotic time as well.
The pre-9/11 world was one thing, and that is probably what I yearn for the most. Sept. 12, 2001 was a day of great unity for most Americans but also opened the door to a less safe America for Muslim-Americans, something we are still reckoning with as a country.
I do not mean to get political, if you know me, you know my upbringing, it is hard for someone like me to avoid politics. But that is not my purpose. I am simply talking about the shift I
When I think of my earliest years in the public school system, I remember reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag with my hand over my heart. I remember by about second grade wondering, independently, if it was fair to say “Under God” when so many of my classmates in Northern Virginia, D.C. suburbs were not Christian.
My first sleepover was at my friend’s apartment whose mother is Cambodian-American. I saw a Buddha statue and inquired. Come Monday, we all recited it together without question. It wasn’t woke
Molly Penny is a local radio personality and MNSU alum. It was her love of pop culture that got her interested in doing a morning show for KOWZ 100.9 in 2011 where she is now brand manager for the three-cluster radio station, as well as music director for Q102 FM out of Willmar & on-air personality on Mankato’s Hot 96.7. She enjoys volunteering, time with her kids/family and cat Salem. Catch her on Twitter at @mollyhoodUSA.
teachers who pointed this out to me. I just have the privilege of growing up in an urban setting and figuring it out at a young age. It should never have become a “culture war.” In a free country, you ought to be able to opt in or out of reciting it? Right?
On the Fourth of July, Independence Day, we would gather in large numbers wearing red, white & blue and play Lee Greenwood’s “Proud to Be an American” and shoot off fireworks. Heck, we still do, but back then it was peak America. We had humane immigration reform, but a commitment on both sides to keep it under control. When people enlisted in the military, they enlisted on the core principles of justice, freedom, commitment and protection to the constitution. Fighting for what the flag stood for: RED-Valor, WHITEPurity, BLUE-Justice. Racism existed, but we celebrated peacekeepers like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Many forms of inequality existed, stereotypes and oppressive systems still existed, but there was a sense of “let’s deal with our problems as a nation” rather than let’s blame our nation’s problems only on people
who think differently, vote differently and look differently than us, or on the oppressed populations themselves.
That is not American. The fabric of America is woven with diversity and opportunity. In his last speech as president, Ronald Reagan said, “You can go live in France, but you cannot become a Frenchman. You can go to live in Germany or Turke or Japan, but you cannot become a German, a Turk, or a Japanese. But anyone, from any corner of the Earth, can come to live in America and become an American.”
But we are not unique. Our constitution only protects us from oligarchy, dictatorship and tyranny if we uphold it, if it applies to all.
Influence of the internet, entertainment news, the information and misinformation overload, AI, make it impossible to ever get back to the innocent days of our youth when you knew it was time to come inside when the streetlights came on.
But we can tr y to get back to some semblance of that sense of unity. In fact, we must, or we may not have the “greatest country in the world” anymore.
It is not power or show of force that makes us great. What makes us great is our commitment to the idea that all men are created equal. Regardless of gender, race, creed, nationality, legal status.
If that is not our foundation, we are a nation built on sand, and I know that is not true. We are a nation built on the ideal of freedom and also built on the backs of black slaves and immigrants, bought with the blood of natives. We can acknowledge both.
So, when the U.S. Department of Labor official social media sites tell us: “Remember who you are” showing only photos of our white founding fathers and Norman
Rockwell depictions of a whitewashed American dream, I implore you to remember who we were. Because it is still who we are. Parents who want to raise healthy kids. Families celebrating holidays. People facing medical debt and health challenges. Taxpayers who want accountability and transparency. Speakers of many languages. Astronauts. Coaches. Teachers. Farmers. Law Enforcement officers. Soldiers. Athletes. Artists and poets. People of all faiths, practicing freely A melting pot of cultures while still holding national ideals. Individuals enjoying a plethora of freedoms afforded to us by the millions who fought in uniform to protect them. Descendents of immigrants and immigrants, Natives and stewards of our planet. Students of all colors, hand in hand performing peaceful walkouts or choosing to stay inside. What the world, and especially our country needs now, is love.
Be kind to your fellow Americans and human beings. It doesn’t cost a thing. In this time of mass misinformation and foreign and even domestic actors who wish to divide us and fan the flames, let’s be cautious and responsible, rather than compulsive and reactionary. Let us remember that there is more that unites us than divides us.
Love is the answer. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” I think we are all tired of the division, and I am starting to see the light. Let’s go out and be the light.
Peace.
Dec. 31, 1999. I’m a kid counting down the seconds with Dick Clark as the ball drops in Times Square. 5… 4… 3… 2… 1… Boom.
Y2K is bunk and the new millennium is here. Sure, the new millennium won’t actually start until the first day of 2001, but the world doesn’t care about this technicality. If the Backstreet Boys say it’s the millennium, so be it.
Jan. 8, 2026. I’m a 30-something who just wrote a paragraph laden with references that are likely foreign to Gen Z and Gen Alpha. And I’m a columnist, reflecting on the past quarter century in film.
I’m not alone. 2025 was the year of the “best of the century” list.
Last June, the New York Times released their
“100 Best Movies of the 21st Century,” with the South Korean thriller, “Parasite,” at No. 1. Rolling Stone quickly followed suit in July with their own list, giving Paul Thomas Anderson’s “There Will Be Blood” the crown. The Ringer’s Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins – hosts of the popular film podcast, The Big Picture – just completed their “25 for ‘25” series with David Fincher’s “The Social Network” in the top spot. And their boss, Bill Simmons, recently went viral with his own chaotic ranking of the fifty “most rewatchable” movies from 2001 to 2025, choosing “The Devil Wears Prada” as his winner.
So it felt right, at the beginning of this new year, to look back on the films that guided me through my teens in the 2000s, my 20s in the 2010s, and my 30s in 2020s.
Much of our taste in movies, music, literature, and beyond is birthed in our teens. I was lucky to come of age during a golden era of studio comedies, when blockbusters looked more like “Superbad” and “Step Brothers”
rather than just superheroes and sequels. I was introduced to Martin Scorsese with the “The Departed” at fourteen (it’s still my favorite Scorsese). I was introduced to Joel and Ethan Coen with “No Country for Old Men” at fifteen (they are now on my filmmaker Mount Rushmore). And I was introduced to Quentin Tarantino with “Inglourious Basterds” at seventeen (it’s still my favorite Tarantino). 2007, in particular, was a great year to be a 15-year-old cinephile. “There Will Be Blood,” “No Country For Old Men,” “Michael Clayton,” “Superbad,” “Juno,” “Ratatouille,” and “Gone Baby Gone” are just some of the classic titles released that year.
But, for me, there’s one film that stands above every movie made in 2007: David Fincher’s “Zodiac,” the best film of the 21st century so far (and my favorite film of all time).
A box office disappointment upon release, “Zodiac” has since gained a cult following and is now widely considered a modern classic.
It ranked number 19 on the aforementioned “best of the century” lists by the New York Times and Rolling Stone. And “Parasite” director Bong Joon Ho named it one of his ten favorites in the 2012 Sight & Sound poll of the greatest movies ever made. What makes “Zodiac” so special? For starters, it’s directed by David Fincher, a meticulous craftsman incapable of making a bad movie whom I’ve written about several times in these pages. In my October 2024 column, commemorating the ten year anniversary of “Gone Girl” (his other masterpiece), I referred to him as the “poet laureate of cinematic cynicism and dread.” Who better to take on the true story of the years-long manhunt for a notorious California serial killer.
Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, a serial killer calling himself the “Zodiac” tormented the San Francisco Bay Area and taunted both the police and the press with ciphers, letters, and phone calls. Investigators
like Dave Toschi (Mark Ruffalo) and journalists like Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Paul Avery (Robert Downey Jr.) each engaged in a most dangerous game to unmask the violent psychopath.
While occasionally grisly, “Zodiac” is not some exploitative true-crime horror flick. It’s a newspaper movie in the tradition of “All The President’s Men,” a complex police procedural about the corrosive nature of obsession, and a detailed portrait of America’s transition from mid-century innocence to late 20th-century chaos.
Do not fret, though; it’s is not a slog. Yes, the screenplay by James Vanderbilt is a complex labyrinth, novelistic and deeply nuanced. But it’s a rewarding and, dare I
say, almost cozy re-watch brimming with unforgettable moments. The workplace interrogation of prime suspect Arthur Leigh Allen (John Carroll Lynch), for instance, is one of the most brilliantly staged and suspenseful scenes in cinema history.
To this day, I think about “Zodiac” multiple times a week. It’s a film to live in and get lost in. A film forever etched into my bones.
Perhaps, in this second quarter of the 21st century, something will come along to supplant “Zodiac” in my heart and mind. Just this year alone, we’ll see major releases from the likes of Fincher, Steven Spielberg, and Christopher Nolan. I look forward to writing about it all.
ABOVE: A horse-drawn wagon transports people to the Cannon City Cemetery for a Memorial
TOP RIGHT: I initially thought this skunk, carried by a re-enactor at the Riverside Rendezvous & History Festival in Faribault, was alive. It was not.
LOWER RIGHT: A woman cuddles a dog as she talks about her Dispatch Dogs Rescue Center at a fall craft and flea market in Lonsdale.
If a dog is man’s best friend, then what is a horse? A child’s dream, I say. I always wanted a horse while growing up on a southwestern Minnesota dairy and crop farm. But Dad nixed that wish. He had his reasons.
Instead, my siblings and I had to settle for a barn full of cows and calves, a dog and a whole lot of cats hunting for mice. These were not pets as much as working animals. They had their place and purpose on the farm and I learned early on not to get too attached to any of them. Now, decades removed from rural life, I still don’t have a horse. I live in town. Neither do I own a cat or a dog, by choice. Rather, the animals in my immediate environment include rabbits, squirrels, rodents, skunks, stray cats and the occasional deer. Raccoons,
possums, woodchucks and even a fox have ventured into my yard, although not in recent memory. Perhaps they come in the dark of night.
In the light of day, though, I see plenty of animals while out and about. Lots of cats and dogs. I still find myself especially drawn to horses, though. There’s something about the massive, muscular build of a harnessed workhorse, the rhythmic clop of hooves, the graceful gallop of an equine with tail flying that makes me pause in wonder. Or perhaps it’s the little girl in me yearning yet for a horse.
Memor y is a powerful thing. A mustang emblem on the grill of a car reminds me of the 1960s powder blue Mustang a high school boyfriend drove. There’s that horse fixation again.
A collection of DINO Sinclair Oil dinosaurs, discovered in an Owatonna neighborhood, reminds me of a childhood vacation to South Dakota and a stop at Dinosaur Park in Rapid City.
Then there’s the whimsical painting of a groundhog exhibited last spring at the Waseca Art Center. It reminds me that Groundhog Day is fast approaching on Feb. 2. Far from Minnesota in Pennsylvania, Punxsutawney Phil emerges to reveal whether we will have six more weeks of winter. I’d rather we didn’t. In the end, it doesn’t really matter. Spring will come when it comes.
Animals, though, will always be a consistent part of our lives, whether in the wild or in our homes, in our art or in our dreams. And sometimes, when a little girl asks for a horse, she gets one. Just not me.
February has a way of asking quieter questions. The holidays are long past. Spring still feels far away. The days are short, the temperatures are unforgiving, and mornings often begin with a sigh. It’s the month when we’re left alone with our routines—and how they actually feel.
This time of year, I think less about dramatic goals and more about whether my daily life feels supportive. Not perfect. Just supportive.
Loving your life lately doesn’t mean everything is ideal. It means noticing what makes the ordinary days feel warmer, calmer, and more manageable — and choosing more of that. For me, Februar y self-care begins with warmth. On cold mornings or slow afternoons, I take a daily soak in the tub. This isn’t an evening indulgence — it’s a reset. Warm water helps ease muscle tension, quiet the nervous system, and bring the body back to center when winter feels relentless. It turns part of the day into a pause rather than a push. That same intention carries into how I care for my body during the winter months.
Seasonal skin dr yness is real, but the science behind daily moisturizing goes deeper than skincare. Research shows that the physical act of applying lotion — especially with slow, intentional touch — can help reduce stress and support mood regulation.
Gentle massage stimulates the parasympathetic ner vous system, the part responsible for calm and restoration, while touch itself encourages the release of feel-good chemicals like oxytocin. In colder months, when low mood and emotional fatigue are more common, this simple daily ritual becomes a quiet form of self-soothing. The added benefit is comfort: consistent moisturizing still supports the skin’s barrier, helping the body feel cared for rather than ignored. Evenings slow down on purpose this month. A cup of high-quality tea has become a grounding ritual. Tea house–quality blends aren’t just a luxury - they’re different in composition and experience. Whole-leaf teas tend to retain more natural compounds, aroma, and depth of flavor than prepackaged options. There’s also a sensory element at work:
the warmth of the cup, the scent, the deliberate pause. Whether chemical or psychological, the result is the same — calm, presence, and a gentle transition out of the day. Before that first sip, I get comfortable. Cozy socks. A favorite blanket. The act of settling in signals rest. It’s remarkable how often comfort is postponed, when it can so easily be chosen.
Februar y is also a natural time for reflection — without pressure. I like to map out the year gently. What home projects would make daily life easier? Where could routines be simplified? What would make mornings smoother or evenings more rewarding? These aren’t resolutions. They’re quiet investments in ease.
I also check in with a deeper question: What’s missing lately?
More walks? More laughter? More quiet time?
The answers shift, but asking keeps life aligned.
One of the most noticeable changes this month has been how I approach getting dressed. My December wardrobe — built for momentum and events — no longer fits the mood of February mornings. Instead of rushing to replace things, I take time to reorganize my closet, rediscover pieces I’ve forgotten, and experiment with new combinations. Refreshing outfits doesn’t always mean buying something new.
Februar y also invites a quieter approach to color. Instead of reaching for bright pinks, I gravitate toward deeper, richer tones — wine, burgundy, soft plum, and warm cocoa shades that feel romantic without being loud. Even small shifts make a difference. Swapping black for brown instantly softens an outfit, adding warmth and approachability that feels right for this time of year. These colors still nod to Valentine’s, but in a way that feels elegant, wearable, and grounded in real life. That, to me, is what “Love Your Life Lately” really means. Choosing ease where you can. Letting comfort and intention work together. Making small adjustments that quietly improve how life feels right now.
In Februar y, style isn’t about standing out — it’s about choosing pieces, colors, and routines that help you feel at home in your day..
THURSDAY, JAN 29
Luminary Snowshoe and Hike - Faribault-- 6-8 p.m., River Bend Nature Center, 1000 Rustad Road, Faribault. Enjoy the quiet of winter with a luminary hike through River Bend. Trails are packed snow, participants are welcome to bring their own snowshoes. Then relax by a warm bonfire with a complimentary hot chocolate. Tickets online.
Ralph Brauer Author Talk -
Northfield-7-8:30 p.m., Content
Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. A reading and discussion of his book
“The Age of Discontent: How Workers and Farmers Reinvented American Democracy.” This revisionist view of late-nineteenth-century history credits Main Street, not Wall Street, with laying the foundations of modern America.
Adult CarnivalWaseca-- 5 p.m., Waseca American Legion, 700 S. State St. A night filled with carnival ames and prizes, plus a silent auction, live auction, food, wine wall and tastings.
Mike Feeney - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Some tunes with your food and drink.
LEGO Competition - Kasota-- 6:30 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl St., Kasota. Each team of two will receive two 3-in-1 LEGO sets to build throughout the challenge. Race against the clock — and each other — as you work to complete both sets as quickly and carefully as possible. Tickets online.
Brave New World - Northfield-- 8 p.m.-1 a.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Five bands. Five rock flavors. Slowly building up from the softest to the hardest until the night is over. Wildrose Fox (folk rock country pop), Greenvale Manitou (genre-defying tribal grunge), Clidesfeld (introspective alt rock), The Broken Rule (proglodyte conscious metal), Muder Curious (punk rock stoner metal).
SATURDAY,
Winter Farmers Market - Waseca-- 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Browse a variety of locally grown and handmade goods, from fresh produce and baked treats to artisan crafts and unique gifts. Support local growers, makers, and businesses all season long.
Razz Acoustic - Kasota-7-10 p.m., Prairie Saloon & Grill, 140 N. Webster St., Kasota. A seasoned solo troubadour known for his authentic, nofrills approach to live music.
With just his guitar, voice, and a strong acoustic presence — no tracks, no loops, no drum machines — Razz delivers a pure, engaging performance featuring classic favorites and well-known hits.
Let Er Rip - Waterville-- 7 p.m., Classic’s Pub, 125 3rd St. S., Waterville. Playing your favorite classic rock hits and possibly a pop or country song.
Little Fish ImprovOwatonna-- 7-8:30 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 210 N. Oak Ave., Suite 1, Owatonna. A group of local actors and comedians that bring Improv to life. No two shows are the same; please join us as this troupe brings comedy to life through the art of improv
Winterfest Opening
Ceremony - St. Peter-- 5 p.m., St. Peter Area Chamber of Commerce, 101 S. Front
St. A bonfire, hot chocolate, s’mores, a search for Joe Rolette’s missing paperwork that would have made St. Peter the capital, and a reading of the first Medallion Hunt clue. Free and open to the public. A kid friendly event.
Tractorhead - Northfield-5-7 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. Friends Page, Jake, Mike and Brooke are Americana artists with a bluegrass twist. Soaring vocals meets an old-timey twang for an extra-fun evening of incredible tunes.
Dolly’s Book Bash - Faribault-- 6:30 p.m., Faribault American Legion, 112 5th St. NE. An event worthy of a legend. Celebrate her 80th birthday and raise funds to provide free books to local children through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Enjoy live music, play Dolly-inspired games, sip on adult beverages, savor tasty bites, and bid on fantastic auction items.
Buddy Holly TributeFaribault-7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. “Buddy Holly: Oh Boy!” takes you back to the original lineup of the 1959 Winter Dance Party Tour. Nicholas Freeman croons all your favorite Buddy hits. Tickets online.
Sound Art in the Naked GallerySt. Peter-- 12-5 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. The Arts Center’s gallery walls are bare in January, so it’s an ideal time to showcase sound art curated by KMSU’s underground and experimental music aficionado David Perron (Free Form Freakout) and local sound collage artist I Cut People. Performers change on the hour with a DJ spinning records between live sets. Altruit will be doing live video projections on the gallery walls during the entire event.
Mike Fugazzi Harmonica - Le Sueur County-1-4 p.m., Union Trail Brewing, 23436 Union Trail, Belle Plaine. Supernatural rock hymns from the void. Harmonica heresy, blues blasphemy.
Johnny Frost and the Heatseekers - Janesville-5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Performing seven decades of music.
Little Wars - Northfield-7:30 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. Join Agatha Christie, Gertrude Stein, Dorothy Parker, Alice B. Toklas, and Lillian Hellman for the dinner party of your dreams. Someone has a secret. All of them have confessions. Drama by Steven Carl McCasland. Directed by Susan Dunhaupt. Shows Jan. 30-31 and Feb. 6-7 at 7:30 p.m., plus Feb. 1 and Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. Tickets online.
Ancia Saxaphone QuartetSt. Peter-7:30-8:30 p.m., Jussi Björling Recital Hall, Gustavus Adolphus College.
Renowned saxophone ensemble, Ancia Saxophone Quartet, will present an evening concert in Björling Recital Hall as part of the Gustavus Artist Series concerts. The concert is free, open to the public, and will be livestreamed on the Gustavus Music YouTube page.
The Schell’s Angels - Kasota-8-11:45 p.m., The Blue Moon Bar & Grill, 300 S. Webster St., Kasota. Rock & roll music.
FRIDAY, FEB 06
Book + Puzzle Exchange - Le Sueur County-1-3 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague. Bring a gently used book or completed puzzle (or a few) and swap them for something newto-you. Browse, sip your favorite wine, and connect with fellow book lovers and puzzle pros in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Bullypulpit Bluegrass - St. Peter-- 4-7 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. Traditional Bluegrass for your listening pleasure.
WEDNESDAY, FEB 04
ettiquette before heading out with the group to enjoy a leisurely ski through the park. Equipment is available to borrow, participants are also welcome to bring their own. Tickets online.
Forrest Hunter & Farmer Josh - Le Sueur County-5-8 p.m., Union Trail Brewing, 23436 Union Trail, Belle Plaine. A deep appreciation for the classic singer-songwriters that defined American folk and country music and a matching set of long, red beards to boot, it’s hard to find a more fitting musical duo.
Chris Bertrand - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. A seasoned singer/songwriter from Southern Minnesota who dedicates his life to music. Deeply rooted in folk and unafraid to stomp and howl.
Winterfest - St. Peter-- 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Enjoy events around town The Chocolate Stroll Feb. 5 is an opportunity to try a variety of chocolates while strolling shops. Enjoy a gala at The Capitol Room Feb. 6. The St. Peter Ambassadors host Wrestlemania at The Capitol Room Feb. 7. Snow Day at Veterans Park and the Polar Plunge at Hallet’s Pond also take place Feb. 7. Enjoy Dad’s Belgian Waffle Breakfast at the American Legion Feb. 8. See more at the St. Peter Chamber site.
puppet theater performance of three stories about the wild places of North America including stories about spirits, strange creatures, and magic.
Erik Koskinen - St. Peter-8-10 p.m., Tremendous Brewing Co., 228 W. Mulberry St., St. Peter. an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer, whose music is not categorized by sub-genres. Stylistically he is on his own while heavily influenced by American roots music. The rhythmic integrity and musical tone is as important as the lyrical content and the artistic intent. $10 at the door or tickets online.
Sleigh & Cutter Historical
ExhibitWaseca-- 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Waseca Co. Historical Society, 315 2nd Ave NE.
Ash St. John - Kasota-6-9 p.m., Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery and Distillery, 1179 E. Pearl
St., Kasota. A St. Paul–based singer-songwriter, violinist, and looping multi-instrumentalist whose music blends indie folk, pop, country, and hip-hop influences. Classically trained on violin, he brings a unique musical range and thoughtful experimentation to both his songwriting and live performances.
The Looney Lutherans - Faribault-- 2 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. After 20 years together, the Loonies have compiled some techniques and tricks for surviving relationships. Tips include: “How to understand what your spouse is thinking”, a Looney take on “the Dating Game,” and the Lutheran Feelings Chart. Tickets online.
Gallery Opening
THURSDAY, FEB 05
The light, fun and interactive exhibit celebrates one of the most beloved historical pastimes of a Waseca County winter. Sleigh & Cutter scrapbooks dating back to that first festival are part of the display, as are the dress and crown of Miss Waseca Jolene Hawkins, crowned at the 1970 pageant, plus many other displays. Shows through Feb. 28.
Emerging Artists
ReceptionNorthfield-6-8 p.m., Featuring works from Mariko Matsui-Bolton, Ashley Marcial Rodriguez, Emily Page and Annie Sanders. Shows through Feb. 12.
2000s Adult PromLe Sueur County-- 6-10 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague. Slip into your most iconic Y2K look — sparkly dresses, denim-on-denim, velour tracksuits, chunky belts, frosted tips — and get ready for a night of nostalgia. Dance to the decade’s hits and take part in a dance off, plus prom royalty and best dressed. There will also be mini table trivia games and a photo spot.
IV Play - Henderson-- 9 p.m.-12 a.m., River Bottom Tavern & Brewhouse, 510 Main St., Henderson.
IV Play introduced themselves in 1999. This popular regional band will have you on the dance floor in no time, playing anythin from Motley Crue to Lady Gaga. Based out of Mankato.
SATURDAY, FEB 07
Nordic Ski Skills - Henderson-10-11:30 a.m., Ney Nature Center, 28238 Nature Center
Ln, Henderson. Take advantage of a snowy winter and join us for an all ages/skills nordic ski class. Learn the basics of maneuvering, equipment care, and trail
- St. Peter-- 3-5 p.m., Arts Center of Saint Peter, 315 S. Minnesota Ave., St. Peter. KOBI is a conceptual Liberian/ Ghanaian photographer and filmmaker creating out of Minneapolis. “Oh, The Things You can be is a show in collaboration with my 4 year old daughter Indie Victoria Grace. Throughout my life, I was told that being an artist was not a sustainable thing I could be and do. The purpose is to show her that an artist is something that she can be and that there’s more to life than what’s in your bank account.” He uses filmmaking, sound design and analogue photography as a tools to display. Open through March 28.
Deadwood - Janesville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Performing classic hits and music for dancing.
Jamison
MurphyOwatonna-6-9 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 210 N. Oak Ave., Suite 1, Owatonna. A singer songwriter from the Twin Cities.
Folklore of Wild Places - Northfield-- 7-8 p.m., Northfield Depot, Linden St. S., Northfield. A shadow
Little Wars - Northfield-7:30 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. Join Agatha Christie, Gertrude Stein, Dorothy Parker, Alice B. Toklas, and Lillian Hellman for the dinner party of your dreams. Someone has a secret. All of them have confessions. Drama by Steven Carl McCasland. Directed by Susan Dunhaupt. Shows Feb. 6-7 at 7:30 p.m., plus Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. Tickets online.
SUNDAY, FEB 08
Jarrett Dapier
Author Talk - Northfield-- 2-3:30 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. A dicussion of Dapier’s graphic novel “Wake Now in the Fire.”
Based on a true story, a group of high schoolers in Chicago work to overturn the system-wide ban of Marjane Satrapi’s “Persepolis.”
MONDAY, FEB 09
Downstream Environmental Film Festival - Northfield-- 6-9 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. A celebration of art, storytelling, and environmental action. This year’s theme — “Transformation” — reflects the powerful ways water reshapes our landscapes, the ongoing changes within our environment, and the creativity required to adapt when our resources are limited. Through this lens, we’ll explore how communities, ecosystems, and individuals evolve in the face of environmental challenges. Register online.
TUESDAY, FEB 10
Soil Health 101 - Nerstrand-- 6-8 p.m., WildWood, 315 Main St., Nerstrand. An intimate evening of conversation, learning, and connection brings together gardeners, farmers, and anyone curious about growing healthier food by working with nature. Following the talk, guests are invited to a meet-and-greet and book signing, with time for informal discussion, questions, and one-onone conversation. Tickets online.
WEDNESDAY, FEB 11
Erik Koskinen - St. Peter-- 8-10 p.m., Tremendous Brewing Co., 228 W. Mulberry St., St. Peter. an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer, whose music is not categorized by
sub-genres. Stylistically he is on his own while heavily influenced by American roots music. The rhythmic integrity and musical tone is as important as the lyrical content and the artistic intent. $10 at the door or tickets online.
Zacc
Harris Trio - Northfield-- 6-8 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. An evening of modern jazz with the Minneapolis-based guitarist and composer Harris, a longtime pillar of the Twin Cities jazz scene.
Cookie Decorating & Wine Night - Owatonna-6 p.m., Grapeful Wine Bar, 306 N. Cedar Ave., Suite 2, Owatonna. Kathe of Custom Cookies by Kathe will guide you step-by-step through: basic piping techniques; flooding cookies; detail and finishing work. In addition to the cookies, you’ll get a glass of wine.
Galentine’s Market - Le Sueur County-- 6-8 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague. A vendor fair made just for the ladies. Browse a curated selection of local vendors featuring fun finds, gifts, and treats while you sip, shop, and socialize.
Red Planet - Faribault-- 7:30 p.m., Shattuck-St. Mary’s, Faribault. A bold force in the Twin Cities jazz scene. Guitarist Dean Magraw, bassist Chris Bates, and drummer Jay Epstein bring fearless creativity to originals and reimaginings of Coltrane, Monk, and Hendrix. Their recordings, including Space Dust and the DownBeat-praised Red Planet with Bill Carrothers, reveal deep grooves, otherworldly textures, and an adventurous spirit.
FRIDAY, FEB 13
TJ Brown - St. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. TJ Brown provides easy listening music with some country, classic rock, and some oldies.
Galentine Line Dancing - Le Sueur County-- 6-9 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague. Get ready to boot, scoot, and boogie. Celebrate friendship, fun, and a little foot-stompin’ flair with an upbeat evening of easy-to-follow line dancing — no partner needed. Learn three-to-four line dances from the incredible, award-winning choreographer Kerry Maus — no experience needed. Tickets online.
Pizza & Puzzles - Waseca-- 6:30 p.m., Farmamerica, 7367 360th Ave, Waseca. Each team (2-4 people, ages 18+) will receive the same 500-piece puzzle. Each team will have up to 120 minutes to complete the puzzle, and the top team will receive a cash prize. Each team keeps its puzzle. Pizza from Pleasant Grove Pizza Farm included. Register online.
The Donner Party - St. Peter-- 7-10 p.m., Tremendous Brewing Co., 228 W. Mulberry St., St. Peter. Playing the roots of classic country.
SATURDAY, FEB 14
Pour Some Brunch on Me - Waseca-- 1011 a.m., Starfire Event Center, 206 2nd Ave SW, Waseca. Celebrate Valentine’s in the morning, with a sepcial hair band singalong brunch. Register online.
Valentine’s Music and Dinner - Kilkenny-- 12-8 p.m., Vintage Escapes Winery & Vineyard, 8950 Dodd Rd., Kilkenny. Live music featuring the beautiful vocals of Laura O’Connor. Specialty Valentine’s cocktails and mocktails, plus complimentary conversation hearts.
Couples BingoDundas-- 1 p.m., Dawn’s Corner Bar, Dundas. Enjoy Valentine’s Day with a loved one and some old fashioned Bingo.
The Singing Cowgirl - Le Sueur County-1:30-3 p.m., Union Trail Brewing, 23436 Union Trail, Belle Plaine. Acoustic guitar and John Denver classics by local performer Lisa Murphy
Vintage Valentine’s Dinner - Owatonna-- 5 p.m., Owatonna Arts Center, 435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna. Tasty meal including Beef Bourguignon and ending with Cherries Jubilee. Vegetarian dinner option available upon request at time of ticket purchase. Grapeful Wine Bar will offer a cash bar.
Mike Fugazzi on Valentine’s Day - Kasota-- 7-10 p.m., Prairie Saloon & Grill, 140 N. Webster St., Kasota. Whether you’re celebrating with someone special, out with friends, or flying solo, Fugazzi brings the perfect mix of heart, energy, and talent to make your night memorable. Vocals and harmonica.
Mrs. Moxie’s Date Night Delight - Northfield-7 p.m., Grand Event Center, 316 Washington St., Northfield. Mrs. Moxie and Lexi D host a night of love. It’s Moxie’s Date Night Delight Valentine’s Day Drag Show. A fun night of drag for the gals, the bro and anybody who wants to join in the fun. Tickets online.
Fender Bender on Valentine’s - Owatonna-- 7 p.m., Owatonna Eagles 1791, 141 E. Rose St., Owatonna. Playing all your favorites to keep the dance floor moving all night long.
SUNDAY, FEB 15
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Adult Victorian Tea - Owatonna-- 10:30 a.m., Steele County Historical Society, 1700 Austin Rd., Owatonna. A fancy way to spend your Valentine’s Day. Sessions at 10:30 and 1 p.m. RSVP to 507-4511420.
The Lost Boy - Owatonna-6-7:30 p.m., Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna. Despite finding success and fame as a writer, James M. Barrie is dissatisfied with his work and his life. He returns to his hometown in Scotland to visit his mother, who still blames him for the longago death of his older brother in a skating pond. Tickets online. Shows Feb. 13-14 and Feb. 20-21 from 6-7:30 p.m, plus Feb. 15 and 22 from 12:30-2 p.m.
Valentine’s Dinner - Janesville-- 6 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Includes wine tastings and glasses of win, three-course dinner featuring Chinese cuisine, live music from Indigo Moon, a rose for each couple, and multiple gifts. Tickets online.
Sleigh & Cutter FireworksWaseca-- 6-7 p.m., Clear Lake. Lighting up the sky after sunset as part of Waseca’s beloved Sleigh & Cutter Festival. Bundle up, bring a blanket or thermos, and settle in as bright bursts of color reflect off the frozen lake, turning a cold winter night into a moment of shared wonder.
Father Daughter DanceFaribault-3:30-5 p.m., Faribault Community Center, 15 Division St. Create memories with an afternoon filled with music, laughter and quality time together. Daughter’s age 2 to 12 years old are invited to bring their favorite father figure. Music and dancing by DJ Keith King. Register online.
Jack Backbone & TJ BrownSt. Peter-- 4-7 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. Americana, blues and country duo.
TUESDAY, FEB 17
Bruce BernhartOwatonna-6:30-7:30 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 210 N. Oak Ave., Suite 1, Owatonna. Played in several bluegrass bands over the past 25+ years, having mastered the lost art of flatpicking old time fiddle tunes on the guitar
Downstream Environmental Film FestivalFaribault and Owatonna-- 6-9 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519 Division Street South Unit 2. A celebration of art, storytelling, and environmental action. This year’s theme — “Transformation” — reflects the powerful ways water reshapes our landscapes, the ongoing changes within our environment, and the creativity required to adapt when our resources are limited. Through this lens, we’ll explore how communities, ecosystems, and individuals evolve in the face of environmental challenges. Feb. 19 at Corks & Pints in Faribault and Feb. 24 at Mineral Springs Brewing in Owatonna. Register online.
The Mystery of Barbara Fritchie - Faribault-- 6 p.m., Rice County Historical Society, 1814 NW 2nd Ave., Faribault. Made iconic by the 1863 poem by John Greenleaf Whittier, Barbara Fritchie’s story was that of a patriot, waving her flag toward Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson during the Civil War. Presenter Tamara Louise Thayer is Fritchie’s fourth-great-granddaughter and has done meticulous research into Barbara Fritchie. Call 507-332-2121 to sign up; $5 for non-members.
The Secret in the Wings - St. Peter-8-9:30 p.m., Gustavus Adolphus College, 800 West College Ave, St. Peter. Mary Zimmerman’s play adapts a group of lesser-known fairy tales to create a theatrical work that sets their dark mystery against her signature wit and humor. The framing story features a child and the frightening babysitter with whom her parents leave her. As the babysitter reads from a book, the characters in each of the tales materialize, with each tale averting disaster just as it looms, giving way to the next one. Tickets online.
Country Line Trio - Kasota-- 7-10 p.m., Prairie Saloon & Grill, 140 N. Webster St., Kasota. A versatile act performing as a trio with a strong mix of outlaw country, 90s country, modern country, and recognizable rock favorites. Known for their well-blended vocals and dynamic acoustic style, County Line delivers an engaging performance that appeals to a wide range of music fans.
SATURDAY, FEB 21
FRIDAY, FEB 20
Another Time AroundSt. Peter-6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. Duo playing classic rock songs.
Country Night - Le Sueur County-- 6-9 p.m., Next Chapter Winery, 16945 320th St., New Prague.
for
and modern country favorites. Keep the fun going with country music trivia rounds. Pizza and drinks available.
Sheldon & Amy - Le Sueur County-- 2-5 p.m., Union Trail Brewing, 23436 Union Trail, Belle Plaine. Sheldon is a Nashville recording artist from back in 1996-97, who has been playing and singing for 35 years with bands such as Whiskey Rose and GTX. This duo with Amy has been singing together for the past year, and they are loving the local music scene.
New Exhibit Reception - Waseca-2-4 p.m., Waseca Art Center, 200 N. State St. Featuring Mark Braun in the Harguth Gallery and Lauren Jacobson in the Beckmann Gallery.
On The Cover - Janesville-- 5:30-8:30 p.m., Indian Island Winery, 18010 631st Ave, Janesville. Harrison and Jon are just a couple of buds who love to cover great music together. Upbeat, family friendly, and excited to play. They lit up the taproom the last time they were here, and are certainly bound to entertain again.
Do you want to submit an event to this calendar? Send details to editor@southernminnscene.com
The Lost Boy - Owatonna-6-7:30 p.m., Little Theatre of Owatonna, 560 Dunnell Dr # A, Owatonna. Despite finding success and fame as a writer, James M. Barrie is dissatisfied with his work and his life. He returns to his hometown in Scotland to visit his mother, who still CONTINUED page 30
Adams Multi Media has an exciting opportunity for a FT Inside Sales Representative:
Adams Multi Media has an exciting opportunity for a FT Inside Sales Representative: Multi Media Account Executive for our Inside Sales Division.
We offer a variety of advertising opportunities within our 10 newspapers and shoppers and 8 websites. These products include print ads, network ads, programmatic advertising and more. We are always developing new products and providing training to you on how these can benefit our customers. The ideal candidate will be competitive and creative with a desire to build strong long-term relationships with business owners and organizations.
We offer a variety of advertising opportunities within our 10 newspapers and shoppers and 8 websites. These products include print ads, network ads, programmatic advertising and more. We are always developing new products and providing training to you on how these can benefit our customers. The ideal candidate will be competitive and creative with a desire to build strong long-term relationships with business owners and organizations.
• Services existing customers to ensure that all products & services are provided as needed.
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• Meets & exceeds monthly sales goals as outlined by Sales Director.
• Type 60 wpm with basic knowledge Google & Google Programs
• Meets & exceeds monthly sales goals as outlined by Sales Director.
• Ability to meet deadlines on a consistent basis
• Type 60 wpm with basic knowledge Google & Google Programs
• Ability to meet deadlines on a consistent basis
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• Base pay range $20,000 - $40,000 (DOE), plus commission which includes a guaranteed transitional program.
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Please submit your resume to: Tom Kelling, Sales Director tom.kelling@apgsomn.com or call (507) 444-2390
• Competitive medical, dental and vision insurance; company-paid disability and term life insurance; a generous PTO policy with PTO accrual beginning on the first day of employment; company paid Floating Holidays; and a 401(k) plan.
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blames him for the longago death of his older brother in a skating pond. Tickets online. Shows Feb. 20-21 from 6-7:30 p.m, plus Feb. 22 from 12:30-2 p.m.
Jeff ReinartzOwatonna-- 6:308:30 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 210 N. Oak Ave., Suite 1, Owatonna. A singer/songwriter from Austin, Minnesota. He’s been performing live for over 30 years and is a veteran of several bands. He is now a solo acoustic performer and has released two EPs that were produced by Scotty Rohr at Zension Studio in Austin.
Kill Me,
DeadlyFaribault-7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault.
Charlie Nickels has a hard life as a gumshoe in the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, and things are only made harder by the murder of a client and the theft of her 300-karat diamond. With the help of his wise-cracking secretary, Ida, Charlie seeks out the many suspects. Packed with romance, intrigue and murder, this detective noir is a smart parody that will keep you guessing until the end. Shows Feb. 20-21 and 27-28 at 7 p.m., plus Feb. 22 and March 1 at 2 p.m. Tickets online.
Filthy Cryptid Show - St. Peter-- 8 p.m., Tremendous Brewing Co., 228 W Mulberry St., St. Peter. Lungs is one of the great Midwestern sludge acts; they are powerful, somber and unforgettable. MOLS is arguably one of the greatest punk bands to ever come out of Mankato. And Desert X offers eerie, minimalistic sonic landscapes that you can’t help but be swept along with.
Division Street South Unit 2. A joyful, Gospel-inspired singalong. Whether you’re clapping, singing along, or just soaking it all in, you’re a part of it. Celebrating inclusion, creativity, and the art of being together. ArtMakers brings together artists with disabilities and local, professional and student artists to create art and build community.
Erin Schwab with Dan Chouinard - Northfield-7 p.m., Northfield Arts Guild Theater, 411 Third Street West. A music series hosted by Chouinard with new special guests each month. Maria Jette, soprano, has appeared with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, New York Chamber Symphony, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra and many more. Her 45+ operatic roles range from Monteverdi’s Poppea and Handel’s Cleopatra through Mozart’s Pamina, Countess and Fiordiligi. Tickets online.
WEDNESDAY, FEB 25
Author Talk - St. Peter-- 6 p.m., St. Peter Library. DiCamillo, a Minnesota-based novelist, is the acclaimed author of beloved books including “Because of Winn-Dixie,” “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane,” and “The Tale of Despereaux.” She has sold more than 37 million copies worldwide and is one of only a few authors to have won the prestigious Newbery Medal twice.
THURSDAY, FEB 26
musician from Mankato. He accompanies himself with acoustic guitar and blues harmonica, weaving tales of folk-spun humor and hard luck times throughout his sets of all-original music.
Matthew AitchLe Sueur County-6-9 p.m., Union Trail Brewing, 23436 Union Trail, Belle Plaine. A singer-songwriter whose music explores the themes of love found, love lost, and the beauty of the world around us. With a diverse musical background, his performances offer a blend of heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies.
Gus Page - Henderson-- 7 p.m., River Bottom Tavern & Brewhouse, 510 Main St., Henderson. With over 15 years of experience in the music industry, Gus Page has worn many hats, including solo performer, frontman, lead and harmony vocalist, rhythm and lead guitarist, hand percussionist, live sound technician, recording engineer, and producer.
elderly and disabled viewers and their families next to the Historical Society; hot drinks also available $2 each.
Cannon Valley Regional Orchestra - Northfield-- 3 p.m., St. John’s Lutheran Church, 500 3rd St. W., Northfield. The CRVO presents “Promenade: Memories of BBC Proms” with Conductor Paul Niemisto and featuring cellist David Carter. Tickets at the door.
Strange Daze - Owatonna-- 8 p.m., Reggie’s Brewhouse, 220 N. Cedar Ave., Owatonna. This band plays newer rock covers by Weezer, Tonic, 3 Doors Down, and Nickelback. They play older rock covers by Van Morrison, Rick Springfield, Jimmy Hendrix and the Georgia Satellites. They also play some of their own original music.
SUNDAY, FEB 22
Joe & Ann
- St. Peter--
4-7 p.m., Patrick’s on Third, 125 S. Third St., St. Peter. Get loose with Joe Tougas & Ann Rosenquist Fee belting out the best.
ArtMakers Singalong - Northfield-5:30-7 p.m., Imminent Brewing, 519
Ralph Brauer Author TalkNorthfield-7 p.m., Content Bookstore, 314 Division St. S, Northfield. A reading and discussion of his book “The Age of Discontent: How Workers and Farmers Reinvented American Democracy.” This revisionist view of late-nineteenth-century history credits Main Street, not Wall Street, with laying the foundations of modern America.
FRIDAY, FEB 27
Sleigh & Cutter Dinner and DanceWaseca-- 5 p.m., Waseca VFW, 113 E. Elm Ave. Dinner, flag ceremony, royalty introductions, music by Los Tequileros, meat raffle, Frosty and medallion contest winners revealed.
Paradise Gallery
Opening - Faribault-- 5-7 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. The gallery will display the Recovery Show from Sandra Sargent’s students. Shows through April 11.
Ben ScruggsSt. Peter-- 6-9 p.m., Flame Bar and Grill, 225 Nassau St., St. Peter. An original folk/ blues/americana
Dan Israel - St. Peter-7-10 p.m., Tremendous Brewing Co., 228 W. Mulberry St., St. Peter. A multiple Minnesota Music Academy (MMA) Award winner. American Songwriter magazine in Nashville calls Israel a “hometown hero who can pack a local venue to the gills,” describing his sound as “combining pop hooks with the rootsy orchestration of Neil Young’s slower material.”
The Foragers - Owatonna-- 6:308:30 p.m., Mineral Springs Brewery, 210 N. Oak Ave., Suite 1, Owatonna. Two singer/ songwriters, four friends, and a gazillion instruments from St. Paul, serving up Americana originals and covers that stick to your soul not your ribs.
SATURDAY, FEB 28
Winter Farmers Market - Waseca-- 8 a.m.-12 p.m., Farmamerica, 7367 360th Ave, Waseca. Browse a variety of locally grown and handmade goods, from fresh produce and baked treats to artisan crafts and unique gifts. Support local growers, makers, and businesses all season long.
Sleigh & Cutter ParadeWaseca-12 p.m., Downtown Waseca. Watch as majestic teams and a variety of horse breeds clip-clop through downtown Waseca, decked out in glittering harnesses and colorful winter finery. Chairs will be available for
Razz Acoustic - Kasota-7-10 p.m., Prairie Saloon & Grill, 140 N. Webster St., Kasota. An unplugged night of pure, raw talent. Razz Acoustic is rolling in with nothing but a guitar, a mic, and the kind of gritty soul that makes acoustic music hit different. Just a real troubadour delivering outlaw country vibes, classic rock favorites, and the kind of storytelling only a seasoned solo musician can bring.
Kill Me, DeadlyFaribault-7:30 p.m., Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. Charlie Nickels has a hard life as a gumshoe in the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, and things are only made harder by the murder of a client and the theft of her 300-karat diamond. With the help of his wise-cracking secretary, Ida, Charlie seeks out the many suspects. Packed with romance, intrigue and murder, this detective noir is a smart parody that will keep you guessing until the end. Shows Feb. 2728 at 7 p.m., plus March 1 at 2 p.m. Tickets online.
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by Nick Offernam with Lee Buchanan c.2025, Dutton $35.00 195 pages
Your child needs something to do this winter. Boredom is bad, projects are good, so how about a parent-child undertaking, maybe introduce them to a new hobby, something that’s not electronic, something they’ll learn from and that you both can enjoy? Sure, grab your toolbox and “Little Woodchucks” by Nick Offerman with Lee Buchanan, and hammer out a great idea. When he gets a little down-time, Nick Offerman likes to make things with his hands, including books like this one. Creativity, he says, is really a super-power because it lets kids of all ages do all kinds of things. You can, for instance, make your own toys, or gifts for others, you can make a musical instrument and then you can make music. This will lead to learning problem-solving skills and a lot of other cool things you never thought about.
was fifteen. Babies came quick. The fourth one was named Dolly, after two great-aunts. Almost from the time she could walk, Dolly sang. Before she was old enough to attend school, she wrote poetry, and she’d begun to notice rhythms and beats she could make with her fingers. As a schoolchild, she created her own musical instruments out of scraps, and she was eager to perform whenever anyone asked her – and they asked often, because Dolly Parton was a nice girl, and her sense of humor conveyed a warmth that drew people in.
Growing up in the Tennessee mountains, Parton was independent, shunning marriage and child-raising, instead focusing on a dream of being a star. By the time she was in high school, she’d had a regular gig on local television but she recognized that there were few opportunities for fame in the mountains, so she left for Nashville the day after high school graduation, with the snickers of naysayers ringing in her ears. She stayed with an aunt and uncle there, and she beat the streets, dined on grocery store samples to get by, and missed her family and friends. And they worried about her, but they knew nothing would derail her plans. They knew Dolly would be fine. As a friend said, “’She had her head on pretty good.’”
crowbar, a horse and wagon, strength, and cunning. Bodies could be snatched from any cemetery, but especially from Potter’s Fields and Black cemeteries. Astoundingly, snatching a body wasn’t illegal, if the corpse’s clothing was left behind. Citizens were understandably outraged, which brings us to the Doctors’ Riot… It began as a coincidence on a mid-April morning, when an impertinent medical student at Columbia College taunted a boy with a corpse’s arm – one that just happened to be the boy’s dead mother’s appendage. The child ran and told his father, who was livid, and he gathered fellow citizens to angrily assemble near the anatomy lab in what eventually became “the ‘largest riot of the late eighteenth century to regulate communal mortality.’”
To start, Offerman says, it’s a good idea to get some help from a “Big Woodchuck” (also known as a parent or grandparent). They’ll need to help you find a place for your workspace, which doesn’t have to be fancy; they’ll help you to find wood; and an adult can help put together your tool kit, which also doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy. In fact, Offerman says, wood scraps are cheap or even free for the asking, and you can find a lot of decent tools at estate sales or garage sales. Just remember that “used tools are great, but dull tools are not” and a “splurge” is usually worth it. Also remember that safety is absolutely important here. Always.
Launch your new hobby by making a slapstick, which is super loud but doesn’t hurt anybody when you play with it. Then learn how to carve animals and make-believe creatures you can play with (plus, carving is fun). Later, you’ll need a sawhorse, and making your own is really satisfying. So is making gifts for parents or siblings – or even for yourself… The very first thing adults will want to know about “Little Woodchucks” is that it’s not a book for little woodchucks. From the introduction onward, author Nick Offerman uses grown-up language and one questionable photo here; that’s hilarious for you, but not so much for a kid. Lee Buchanan’s part is quite a bit tamer, but still. Fortunately, none of this ruins the fun you and your child will find together inside this book, or the projects that are organized by skill-level, or the sense of accomplishment your child will get at each step. This is a book that will make your kids want to get started right away, and you will, too — just know that for a supervising adult, one good read-through is nearly imperative before launching any endeavor. If you’re a total newbie at woodworking, “Little Woodchucks” will help you learn along with your kids. If you’re an old-hand in the shop, it offers a launching point for you both so look for this book and get ready for fun. Your child will love it. Wooden you?
The Life and Times of Dolly Parton
by Martha Ackmann
c.2026, St. Martin’s Press $30.00 304 pages Not too bright.
That’s what people once thought about you. Your language didn’t conform, you had your own sense of style, and you were ignorant about modern things and places and foods. But you were no dummy. You were different, and you had a secret: as in the new biography, “Ain’t Nobody’s Fool: The Life and Times of Dolly Parton” by Martha Ackmann, you knew exactly where you were going. When Avie Lee Owens and Lee Parton first married, they had the very basics: “two knives, two forks, two spoons, a skillet, a butcher knife, and an old iron kettle.” He was seventeen; she
Chances are that if you’ve listened to music any time in the last sixty years, you’ve heard Dolly Parton through her words or her music or both. Now you need to learn more about her, and “Ain’t Nobody’s Fool” is where to do it. Here’s a biography that grabs you on the first page with the tiniest bit of family tree, but not so much that you get bored with it. Author Martha Ackmann writes about Dolly Parton’s early life, putting hardships and experiences in context, both personally and historically. There are name-drops, but not overly so, as Ackmann takes you through Parton’s career, her heartbreaks, her marriage, and her years with Porter Wagoner, in detail but not dramatically embellished or outrageously told. It’s a biography that’s just right, sourced well and written with a fresh take that, like its subject, tells a good story. Fans, of course, will want this highly-researched book but music lovers of any age or type will eat it up. That means you, so use up that Christmas gift certificate. “Ain’t Nobody’s Fool” just shines.
by Andy McPhee
c.2026, Prometheus Books $29.95 228 pages
R.I.P. Rest in Peace.
When you breathe your last, that’s what you want. No more trouble, no drama, no moving around, just eternity in repose. It sounds almost lovely: rest in peace – or, as in the new book, “The Doctor’s Riot of 1788” by Andy McPhee, rest in pieces. In the years after the colonists separated from Great Britain, new Americans quickly assumed all formerly British public facilities. One of them was King’s College, renamed Columbia College, which was affiliated with New York Hospital. The doctors there, many of whom had studied abroad, hoped to teach the next generation of physicians for a growing American population – but they knew their mission would be nearly impossible without cadavers to dissect.
For centuries, artists and physicians recognized that they’d never fully understand the human body without seeing inside it. Dissection, therefore, was necessary, and the means for it often came from convicted criminals and those who were put to death. When the need for cadavers overwhelmed the gruesome supply, London’s doctors turned to resurrectionists, also known as body snatchers. American doctors had little choice but to follow suit. Whether the resurrectionists were an organized group, a ragtag bunch of ruffians, or medical students desperate for education, removing a dead body from its grave took a good eye, shovels, a
Ghastly? Oh, yes, deliciously so, but “The Doctors’ Riot of 1788” can also be like a wall of mud: boggy, hard to traverse, and you might get stuck. At fault, if you can find interesting information to be a fault, is an overabundance of early American history that can seem somewhat irrelevant to the main reason for the book. It’s fascinating, yes, but also belabored and confusing. Still, stick with it and you’ll be rewarded with an astounding tale that hides in the past, one that’s chilling and not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach. Get through it, read about body donations today, and you might be a little shocked. You might also think about donating your own body, as author Andy McPhee says he will do. Surely, early American history fans need this book, but readers of unusual history, medical tales, Black history, or macabre stories will enjoy it, too. So find “The Doctors’ Riot of 1788,” snatch a comfortable seat, and read in peace.
We Drink Too Much” explains why. The first thing you’ll want to know about it, though, is that it’s not the breezy book you might want. Author Dr. Charles Knowles dives deep into science, neurology, biology, and ancient history, taking the facts slow so they’re well-parsed and relatively easy to understand. He doesn’t scold or belittle anyone, but he’s quite firm when he tells readers what alcohol can do, long-term. Throughout his narrative, Knowles answers questions that readers want to know about biology, cravings, and why some people can be “social drinkers.” This is all wrapped in a stunning biography that will resonate with readers who need it, and with those they love. Before you head to your after-holiday party or that next-celebration celebration, check out “Why We Drink Too Much.”. If you’re worried about yourself or a loved one, reading it might be a good idea now.
by Ashely Alker, MD
by Dr. Charles Knowles c.2025, Celadon Books $28.00 304 pages It seemed like a good idea at the time. You had a drink. And another. Someone ordered a round and it’s always polite to reciprocate, right? You toasted to the future, to friendship, your families, and to your health – but you didn’t feel so healthy the next morning, ugh. In the new book “Why We Drink Too Much” by Dr. Charles Knowles, you’ll see why you can’t wait to do it again. So you had a few drinks on New Years Eve. Or more than a few, and you’re not alone: in 2018, the average adult on the planet drank more than 1.5 gallons of ethanol, which is “an ingredient in drinks.” That’s equal to more than 206 cans of beer per year, per person. Monkeys drink alcohol. Elephants do it, insects do it, and tree shrews do it. Humans have been drinking alcohol for tens of thousands of years. But why?
Somehow or other, you had to “learn to drink,” Knowles says, and once you did, alcohol was reinforcing because drinking was fun. Your brain was rewarded with a rush of dopamine. Pure alcohol tastes awful but the drink’s mix made it taste good. The behavior motivated you in one of two ways: if you drank to celebrate or because everyone else was drinking, your “externally generated motivations” were triggered. If you were drinking to relax, to self-soothe, to forget or feel better, your “internally generated motivations” were working overtime.
Inside your body, your organs are toiling hard, too. Alcohol goes to your stomach, then to the liver, which processes as much as it can. What it can’t process leaks into your circulatory system, to your heart and your brain, and you get drunk.
And maybe you want to stop, but you’re not sure how. Knowles, a surgeon, offers some advice, including “Twelve Guiding Principles” for those who drink too much. And he ought to know: some ten years ago, his “thirty-year relationship with alcohol” nearly made him take his own life…
New Year’s Eve was fun. New Year’s Day, not so much. You knew that was going to happen, but you drank anyhow and “Why
c.2025, St. Martin’s Press $30.00 369 pages Whew! You dodged a bullet there. The test came out well, you made the right call, your reaction time was lightning-fast, a decision came quick, and you saved yourself and the situation. Take a deep breath. You’ll live to fight another day, and with “99 Ways to Die” by Ashely Alker, MD, you’ll know what to watch out for tomorrow. As “a board-certified death escapologist” who works in emergency rooms, Dr. Alker has seen it all – including things that are “terrifying, interesting, and unfortunate.” She’s fully aware of a lot of ways for the average human to leave this Earthly life. Many of them are unnecessary, which is why she wrote this cautionary book. Say, for example, you have a rash that you can’t explain. You didn’t lie in poison ivy or rub a Carolina Reaper on your skin. Better check with a dermatologist. That rash might be something mild – or it could be leprosy. That leftover pizza on the counter looks good the next day, but don’t eat it. It could lead to botulism or another deadly food poisoning. Think an expired medicine is safe? It might be – or it might poison you. Do you really want to take a chance?
Stay away from wild animals, especially monkeys and bats. If you’re merely in a room with a bat, in fact, go directly to the hospital and get an anti-rabies vaccine. Don’t let yourself get too hot or too cold. Don’t lean on car doors during a lightning storm. Stay away from spiders, scorpions, and pretty much everything in the ocean and in Australia. Swimming in a non-chlorinated pool of water can be dangerous, Alker says, especially if you get the water in your nose. Get vaccinated for tetanus, polio, hepatitis, measles, Covid-19, and whatever else your doctor recommends. Don’t ever minimize chest pain. To be totally safe, don’t sleep around and don’t get pregnant, she says. And finally, “be nice to scientists; they have access to prehistoric zombie viruses.”
Of course, you want to live a long and healthy life. You know how to do that. Kind of. But what about the chancy things you do, the ones you don’t know might kill you? What about the ones you find inside “99 Ways to Die”? Serious, and seriously funny, author Ashely Alker, MD guides readers through all the risky things that humans do, and exactly why we should not do them. Her first-hand ER stories are wildly interesting to read, and the information she offers is solid despite a gleefully wicked sense of humor that doesn’t hold back. Having this book will help keep you alive and it’s really a lot of fun to read –even if doing or avoiding some of the things you’ll learn are dangerous is sometimes no fun at all. Grown-up readers of any age can find something in this book to learn and follow. though beware: there’s certainly some controversy here. Still, you can’t live without what you find in “99 Ways to Die,” so give it a shot.
For more information & tickets: www.paradisecenterforthearts.org
507.332.7372
321 Central Avenue North, Faribault, MN
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH AT 2:00 PM
After 20 years together, the Loonies have compiled some techniques and tricks for surviving relationships. Tips include: “How to understand what your spouse is thinking”, a Looney take on “the Dating Game,” and the Lutheran Feelings Chart. Don’t miss this hilarious show featuring the spectacular Looney Lutherans you know and love!
FEBRUARY 11 - APRIL 8, 9:00 - 10:00 AM.
Grab your mini and join us for a session of music and movement. Through creative play and a sensory-rich environment, you and your little one will learn songs and activities to take home with you while engaging with other caregivers in understanding the vital role music and movement play in your baby’s development. Ages 6 months to 2 years old! (Plus their adult!) Please only register for one spot -- It will account for the mini and adult! We ask that you please bring a yoga mat to class with you!
MEMBER - $100, NON-MEMBER - $115 (THIS PRICE INCLUDES A $15.00 SUPPLY FEE!)
PRESENTED BY PARADISE COMMUNITY THEATRE BY BILL ROBENS, DIRECTED BY PATRICK BRAUCHER
Charlie Nickels has a hard life as a gumshoe in the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, and things are only made harder by the murder of a client and the theft of her 300-carat diamond. With the help of his wisecracking secretary, Ida, Charlie seeks out the many suspects. Packed with romance, intrigue, and murder, this detective noir is a smart parody that will keep you guessing until the end!
FEBRUARY 20, 21, 27, AND 28 AT 7:30 PM
FEBRUARY 22 & MARCH 1 AT 2:00 PM
MEMBER: $19.50, NON-MEMBER: $21.50, STUDENT: $15.50 (INCLUDES A $1.50 PROCESSING FEE)
NOW - FEB. 21, 2026
Carlander Gallery - Rice County Historical Society Vranesh Gallery - Barbara Schwenk
K&M Gallery - Leo Bird, PCA Pottery Department
Creger Gallery - BA Students
FEBRUARY 27 5PM-7PM.
EXHIBITION DATES: FEB. 23 – APRIL 11
Carlander Family Gallery, Lois Vranesh Gallery, K&M Gallery – Recovery Show
K&M Gallery –Windows Sandra Sargent Students
Creger Gallery – W-E-M Students
