Minnesota Prairie Roots

Writing and photography by Audrey Kletscher Helbling

My caring community gives Christmas trees to those in need December 8, 2025

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Adopt-a-Tree Christmas trees curve along the sidewalk past the ice rink at Faribault’s Viaduct Park. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

THE GENEROSITY OF MY COMMUNITY is never more publicly visible than each December, when artificial Christmas trees are decorated, displayed and then donated to those in need.

Looking through the Christmas trees to the ice rink and the Viaduct Park community gathering space in the background. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

This past weekend I toured the trees rimming the ice skating rink at Faribault’s new community gathering spot, Viaduct Park. That park centered recent Winterfest activities.

A local 4-H club is among those decorating and donating a tree. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

As I slowly walked along the sidewalk looking at the festive trees, I thought of those who gave and those who will receive. Businesses, organizations, nonprofits, churches and more participate in the Adopt-a-Tree project with 77 trees gifted this year.

These women take their time looking at the 77 trees. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

The program was started by the Faribault Parks & Recreation Department in 2020 to bring a little holiday cheer to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each December since, those numbers have steadily grown from 20 trees that first year to nearly 80 today. That’s a whole lot of families receiving Christmas trees. Families that might otherwise go without a tree because of the cost of buying one.

A skater skates on the other side of the trees edging the rink. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

Now, more than ever, with the price of groceries and other necessities rising, the need seems especially great. We’re all feeling the pinch in our pocketbooks. But, if you’re living on an especially tight budget, the reality is that maybe you can’t afford a tree or gifts. And that’s where my community, like so many others across Minnesota and the country, steps up and gives from the heart.

So many fun Christmas tree toppers, including this snowman. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

When I think back to my own childhood, I realize my parents likely scrimped and saved to buy Christmas presents for me and my five siblings. We maybe got two gifts each. And we were ecstatic to receive those.

Skaters skate next to the trees and the Viaduct Park gathering space, which is open for warming up and to buy concessions from 3-5 pm weekdays and from 1-6 pm weekends. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

Our Christmas tree was so small that it sat on the end of our Formica kitchen table. To this day, I look for a Charlie Brown tree because of the fond childhood memories associated with a less-than-perfect tiny tree.

A festive holiday ribbon circles a tree. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

I hope the children in my community whose families receive Adopt-a-Tree trees will feel the same Christmas joy. I hope they feel the love of those who care about them, who want them to have a Christmas tree in their homes. Likewise, if they receive gifts through many of the giving programs in Faribault, I hope they feel loved.

Operation: 23 to 0, which works toward suicide prevention, participated in Adopt-a-Tree. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

Perhaps some day, they, too, will give back, reflecting on those hard times when others uplifted them during the holidays. My husband and his sibling were on the receiving end of such giving during their childhood. Today Randy and I are part of a bible study group at Trinity Lutheran Church that facilitates a Christmas Angel Program. We’ll gather soon to wrap all those donated gifts.

Generosity shines like the star topping one of the Christmas trees. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

Kindness. Compassion. Care. All shine bright in Faribault from those donated Christmas trees to every single gift purchased for someone in need. Both reflect the spirit of the season. And that is a spirit of love and of generosity.

I viewed the trees during daylight, under overcast skies. I’d encourage night viewing also to see the lights. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2025)

FYI: If you want to see the Adopt-a-Tree trees, look soon. They are coming down early this week. Thank you to all who participated in this project.

© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

Celebrating community at the farmers’ & makers’ markets in Faribault September 15, 2025

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Shopping at the Faribault Farmers’ Market on a Saturday morning. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

FUN, FOOD, COMMUNITY AND CREATIVITY drew all ages to Central Park on September 13 for two special events—the Faribault Farmers’ Market Family Day and the Faribault Makers’ Market Customer Appreciation Day.

Some of Al’s vegetables. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

Randy and I joined those shopping for local food and goods. We brought home a ginormous watermelon from our friend Al plus two pounds of ground beef from Big Woods Beef, sweetcorn from River View Veggie Farm, and four juicy and savory pears from a vendor who lives near Union Lake.

Shopping at the farmers’ market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)
A close-up of a colorful crocheted throw at Barb’s Kitchen Crafts and Homemade Goods. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)
Halloween themed pens for sale at the makers’ market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

I also snapped photos and engaged in some wonderful conversations. For me, these markets are all about celebrating community—the people who live here, farm and garden here, bake here, create here.

An ice cream truck repurposed for selling locally-raised beef. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

I learned, for example, when chatting with the couple at Big Woods Beef that their refrigerated truck is a repurposed Schwans delivery truck. That led to my reminiscing about the Schwans “Ice Cream Man.” We talked about farm prices too, about the low prices of corn and soybeans and the high price for beef. And I understood, as I did decades ago when my farmer dad struggled to support his family, how challenging the economics of farming remain.

Eggs fresh from the farm. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

At the farmers’ market, there’s a direct link to the land—in fresh eggs gathered, in bumpy pumpkins pulled from the vine, in garden fresh tomatoes ripened by the sun, in clutches of colorful zinnias and gladiolus cut from fields…

Selling gladiolus at Three Glad Girls. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

Three Glad Girls (and their mom) have vended gladiolus at the Faribault market for years, since the sisters, after whom the business is named, were young. They battled mosquitoes to bring their $10 bouquets of glads to Saturday’s market. The mosquitoes proved relentless even as they sold their flowers.

Jax enjoys a cookie while his mom sells at the farmers’ market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

Saturday’s special family day focused primarily on activities for kids. I met several of them. Jax, 1, clutching a cookie and wearing a simple black tee with the words “CAUTION instructions not included.” Now that made me laugh. His mom, Jaylyn, was selling tallow balms, lotions, sugar scrubs and more with her business, Tallow Parlor.

Margot shows off the butterfly she made. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

Over at an informational display about Scouting, Margot, 4, not old enough yet for Girl Scouts, posed with a coffee filter butterfly she crafted at a master gardeners’/University of Minnesota extension service table. The adults got a swag bag.

Kids enjoy the bouncy castle set up next to the Central Park Band Shell. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

Near the Central Park band shell, kids bounced inside an inflatable castle and played yard games while shoppers passed nearby. There was market BINGO for all ages.

Friendly and creative Amelia. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)
Pickles crafted and canned by Amelia’s dad. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)
Amelia arranges some of the items she creates for the farmers’ market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

I continued to work my way along the sidewalk, pausing to chat with vendor Amelia, a bubbly and energetic young woman who crafted a carrot and corn to wear in her hair, her contribution to the fun. I always make a point of talking to her because she makes me happy. Amelia stitches and crafts. Her dad gardens and cans.

Homemade salsa from The Viking Baker. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

I walked past piles of melons, pumpkins filling a wagon, jars of homemade salsa and a whole lot more local goodness.

I love this message on the artsy sign crafted by Ronda. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

Over on the south side of the park, where the makers set up shop, I talked to my friend Ronda, whose joyful personality matches that of bubbly Amelia. Ronda’s love of crafting is evident. She’s been doing this for years, crafting and selling at markets.

Harvey shows off his stenciled art. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

I popped into several other booths, passed by the Mighty Fine Coffee vendor, stopped to photograph Harvey, almost seven, sporting a freshly-painted spider web and spider on his arm. His smile reached to his eyes.

Selling and shopping at the makers’ market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2025)

This is why I attend community markets and events. This place, these people, bring me joy.

© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

Looking ahead to a local market, festivals & celebrations this weekend September 10, 2025

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Shoppers and vendors at a previous Rice County Historical Society Flea Market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo May 2024)

THE UPCOMING WEEKEND brings a quartet of local events that not only entertain, but also honor, support and celebrate. Count me in.

First up is the Rice County Historical Society Fall Flea Market from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, September 13, at the RCHS museum grounds along Second Avenue in Faribault. Here vendors set up shop and sell an assortments of goods with the variety of an old time mercantile.

I love browsing, and sometimes buying, at this outdoor market. But I also enjoy connecting with the sellers and other shoppers. Often I’ll see people I haven’t seen in a while, which leads to conversations. And to me, that’s what these events, at their core, are really about—connecting and reconnecting to build a strong sense of community.

Trees flooded with purple lights at a past Light of Hope Celebration and a special tent for survivors. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo September 2023)

LIGHT OF HOPE

Saturday afternoon, beginning at 4 p.m. until 10 p.m., folks will gather in Faribault’s Central Park for the Light of Hope Celebration, which focuses on cancer. Or, more accurately, focuses on those who have died from, survived or are fighting cancer. I expect every single one of you have been touched by cancer. Many of my friends and family members have endured cancer, including my dad who died of cancer in 2003. And my dear friend Barb, who died in 2024. I also know plenty of survivors.

Light of Hope aims to raise monies for local cancer patients and their families through the sale of luminaries, bench markers and donations. Recipients receive gas cards and/or monies to assist with mortgage payments, groceries, utility bills and other everyday expenses. The Light of Hope organization emphasizes “local” in their mission. I appreciate that people within my community can get financial help in the midst of a cancer diagnosis.

Among the hundreds of luminaries at a past Light of Hope luminary walk. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo September 2023)

Saturday’s celebration includes a luminary walk, personal stories, family fun, music, food trucks, raffle baskets and more. While the mood is celebratory, it can also be difficult as memories of loved ones unleash strong emotions. I know. I’ve walked the luminary path and cried as I read names of those dear to me.

SPIRIT FEST

Also on Saturday, from 5-9 p.m., Divine Mercy Catholic Church in Faribault hosts its annual Spirit Fest, a jam-packed weekend event featuring, food, music, auctions, raffles, makers’ market, bake sale, kids’ crafts, games, inflatables, outdoor movie, mini golf, cornhole tournament and much more. The fest is open to the public. Sunday, September 14, brings a second day of fun starting at 9 a.m. and running until 5 p.m. (Click here for a full schedule of events.)

Valley Grove churches and cemetery, rural Nerstrand. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo October 2024)

VALLEY GROVE COUNTRY SOCIAL

In rural Nerstrand, the focus turns to history, specifically two historic Norwegian immigrant churches set high atop a hill in rural Nerstrand. The Valley Grove Preservation Society celebrates its annual Country Social from 1- 4 p.m. Sunday, September 14, with Nordic music, a history stroll, wagon rides, children’s activities, blacksmithing and rope-making demonstrations, a book discussion and more, including coffee and treats.

Hutenanny performs under the oaks from 1-2:30 p.m. Jeff Sauve, writer and former archivist at St. Olaf College in Northfield, leads “Unbound Love at Valley Grove” history strolls from 1:30- 2 p.m. and from 3-3:30 p.m. A discussion of the book Muus vs. Muus—The Scandal That Shook Norwegian America by Bodil Stenseth happens in the wood church from 2-2:45 p.m with editor Kari Lie Dorer and translator Torild Homstad.

Attendees are also encouraged to view commissioned Norwegian tapestries inside the 1862 stone church and the renovated steeple on the 1894 clapboard church just across the lawn.

Inside the wooden church at Valley Grove. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo 2022)

Valley Grove happens to be one of my favorite spots in rural Rice County because of its natural beauty, history and peacefulness. Fifty acres of rolling prairie grasses and woods surround the two churches, which are on the National Register of Historic Places. The church buildings are beautiful in their simplicity. It’s not hard to imagine long ago Norwegian immigrants gathering here to worship, mourn, marry and celebrate.

Truly, all four of these weekend events in my area are about community, connecting and celebrating. Thank you, organizers, for offering these activities that are fundraisers for your groups and fun for all of us.

© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

Cruising into summer along Central Avenue June 24, 2025

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Faribault’s Car Cruise Night features mostly vintage vehicles parked in our historic downtown. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

ON A SULTRY SUMMER SOLSTICE EVENING, hundreds converged on Faribault’s Central Avenue for the monthly Car Cruise Night. Our downtown offers an ideal backdrop of historic buildings for the many vintage and antique vehicles and sports cars showcased in a four-block area.

Among all the full-size vehicles was this kids’ mini car. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

But this event is about much more than cars and trucks. It’s also about community. About coming together. About connecting with hugs and one-on-one conversations. Young and old alike come here, infusing energy into the downtown during a season when everyone wants to be outdoors, heat and humidity aside.

These boys were definitely interested in wheels, including this go kart. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

Some bring their dogs. Others bring their babies and toddlers and kids of all ages for an evening out. Something to do. The excitement of some—especially two pre-teens who thought they spotted a Lamborghini—felt palpable. It was not a Lamborghini. But for the boys, in a singular moment, they held high hopes.

A vintage Mercury Comet. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

I got excited when I spotted, from a distance, a car outside Boxer’s Bar that looked remarkably like a Mercury Comet. My husband confirmed that the red four-door was, indeed, a Comet. My first car was a 1976 two-door canary yellow Comet, which I nicknamed, well, let’s just say a word that rhymes with Comet. I spent way too much money repairing that vehicle. Plus, the driver’s door wouldn’t close in the winter. I digress. Perhaps the owner of the red Comet has had much better than lemon luck.

This retired Minnesota State Patrol car drew a lot of interest. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

Car Cruise participants will share stories about their vehicles if you ask. Most settle onto lawn chairs on the sidewalk and watch as people circle their treasures on wheels. A retired Minnesota State Patrol cruiser, a 2015 Ford Taurus Interceptor, attracted plenty of attention with so many flashing, pulsating lights that I had to look away. It gave me pause, especially in light of recent events in Minnesota. But signage and license plates made it clear this Taurus is no longer an active duty patrol car. I appreciated that clarity.

Historic buildings reflected on a shiny 1948 Chrysler. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

And then there’s pride in ownership showcased in shiny, spotless vehicles waxed to perfection. Flawless. Brian Boelke of Mazeppa polished his 1948 Chrysler to mirror image shine. I was fascinated by the reflection of historic buildings curving across the hood and sides of his black car. Abstract art. Beautiful. I wonder if others noticed.

The hood art of a 1973 Pontiac Firebird. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

I view Car Cruise Night through an artistic lens, Central Avenue like a gallery of auto art.

Two members of the Jason Paulson Band perform. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

The performing arts are also part of this monthly summertime event. On the longest day of the year, the Jason Paulson Band beat a rhythm of Americana music from an intersection outside the beloved hometown Signature Bar & Grill. People walked by. Some danced. Others relaxed on history-themed benches or settled onto a vintage Tilt-a-Whirl car anchored outside third-generation family-owned Burkhartzmeyer Shoes. Friends paused mid-street to talk.

Even The Oasis 55021 food stand was themed to the Car Cruise. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

For the hungry and thirsty, there were plenty of options from downtown businesses and food trucks and stands. I spotted a boy eating his last mini donut, a favorite fair food of mine. I didn’t cave to temptation, until back home when I scooped up chocolate chip ice cream.

Another crowd-pleaser, Craig and Kathy’s vintage ambulance. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo June 2025)

As cars and trucks began pulling away from their parking spots along Central Avenue with the Car Cruise winding down, Randy and I listened briefly to the band before heading home. I was feeling overheated, in need of a cool place and a long cold drink of water after taking 108 photos on this summer solstice evening in southern Minnesota.

FYI: Upcoming Car Cruises are set for 6-9 p.m. Friday, July 18, and Friday, August 15, in downtown Faribault. The final cruise will be held Saturday, September 19, at Faribault Harley Davidson.

© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

In celebration of public libraries & all they offer April 9, 2025

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Buckham Memorial Library, Faribault, Minnesota. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

I LOVE LIBRARIES for the most basic reason. Books. I love to read. And, for me, Buckham Memorial Library, only blocks from my home, is my go-to source for reading materials.

(National Library Week promo sourced online)

The week of April 6-12, National Library Week, I’ve been celebrating public libraries and all they offer. And that’s well beyond books. Libraries have evolved from a shushed setting of a stern librarian sitting behind a desk to warm and welcoming community spaces. I so appreciate the way libraries connect and grow community. I value the vast and varied services and programming they offer.

Dancers at a previous Hispanic Heritage Month event in Northfield, Minnesota. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo September 2019.

Through the years, I’ve enjoyed many author talks in the Great Hall at Buckham. I’ve even participated myself in a poetry reading and a local authors event. Likewise, I’ve attended author talks at the public library in neighboring Owatonna. In Northfield, I’ve gone to a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. I’ve checked books out from both those nearby libraries and from all over Minnesota through the inter-library loan system. Almost any book is available to me with only the click of my keyboard and mouse. You’ll even find my writing in books available at the library. That includes This Was 2020: Minnesotans Write About Pandemics and Social Justice in a Historic Year, an award-winning book published by the Ramsey County Public Library.

Books and magazines I checked out from the Northfield Library in the past. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

If I didn’t have access to books through libraries, I would struggle. Many evenings I settle into the recliner and read. Reading is an escape for me and a source of information. That I have the freedom to walk into a library and choose a book is not something I take for granted. As a child, I didn’t have easy access to books given my small rural Minnesota community did not have a library. And now, as public and school libraries face book bannings and funding cuts, I hold even more dear the freedom to choose books from the shelves of a well-stocked library.

Sunflowers burst color into the library garden where flowers and vegetables are grown for the community. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

I can also choose a whole lot more like movies and music CDs. My library also offers Adventure Kits which hold yard games, hobby-focused items (for bird watching, cake decorating, rockhounding, etc) and more. There are 3D printer labs, a Makerspace, ukulele lessons, art and gardening classes (even a community garden), a seed library, free state park passes… The list goes on and on.

This information was posted in a display at my library several years ago. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

Libraries truly are hubs for learning, and not just from books, magazines and newspapers.

Immigrant portraits by a local artist were displayed in the library corridor. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo 2023)

Occasional art exhibits in the hallway linking my library to the Faribault Community Center also teach me. Currently, the traveling exhibit “Testify: Americana Slavery to Today” spans that space. It’s an informative and emotion-evoking panel display of photos and information that left me deeply touched and near tears. In the past, I’ve viewed portraits of immigrants and second-generation immigrants by local artist Kate Langlais as part of her “I Am Minnesota” project. Creating an art gallery in a corridor that would otherwise serve as simply a functional connector between two buildings seems a wise use of space.

My poem, “Funeral during a Pandemic,” is published in this book available for check out at my local library and other Minnesota libraries. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

Libraries truly are about connecting. Connecting us to stories, knowledge, information and ideas. Connecting us to each other. Young parents gather in libraries for storytime. Youth meet in my library for pizza and book discussions. The library brings music and other entertainment to the community for kids. Years ago, my son learned to yo-yo from Dazzling Dave, a national yo-yo master. Dave is still teaching Faribault kids to yo-yo during summertime library programming.

The best book I’ve ever read on the craft of writing. It’s the only Stephen King book I’ve ever read because I don’t like his genre of books. (Book cover sourced online)

My son, who now works in software research and development, taught himself to code by checking out thick books on coding from the library. And that was in junior high. I’ve checked out books on writing and photography to grow my skills. But mostly, simply reading improves my writing.

Outside the Northfield Public Library during a past Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

I could go on and on about how much libraries offer and how much I value, appreciate and love them. So much draws me to the library. “Drawn to the Library” themes National Library Week. Whether the library in my community or one in a nearby city or a Little Free Library in a front yard, libraries are vital to our communities, to our country, and to me personally. They are an open and (mostly) uncensored place to access knowledge, to widen our world, to connect and grow community.

© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

A glimpse of Northfield on a folk art mural inside the post office February 4, 2025

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The historic post office in Northfield, Minnesota, holds an art treasure. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo May 2024)

OF ALL THE TIMES I’ve visited neighboring Northfield through the decades, I’d not once stepped inside the downtown Northfield Post Office. Until last May. I’ve frequented Bridge Square across the street, admiring the public art I often find outdoors in this park along the Cannon River. Yet, I never thought to look for art inside the impressive limestone structure angling around a corner of the town center.

The mural above a row of mailboxes was designed by Margit Carson Johnson. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo May 2024)

But inside the historic 1936 post office, I found a massive piece of public art designed by Northfielder Margit Carson Johnson. The commissioned work defines the essence of Northfield. The city is perhaps most famously known for the townspeople’s defeat of the James-Younger Gang in September 1876 as the outlaws attempted to rob the First National Bank. Johnson’s 1986 mural, though, doesn’t show that. The entire bank robbery history can be learned a few doors down at the former bank site, now the Northfield History Center.

The Dakotah Wahpekute, also known as “Leafshooters,” were the original inhabitants of the land that would become Northfield. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo May 2024)

Rather, the mural on the east side of the post office lobby visually summarizes Northfield’s early history as home to the Dakota Wahpekute, then settlement as a farming (dairy and crop) and milling (flour and sawmills) community, followed by growth as a center for education (St. Olaf and Carleton Colleges), industry (including Post Consumer Brands cereal, formerly Malt-O-Meal) and tourism.

Farmers plowed the prairie grass to seed wheat. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo May 2024)

For anyone who knows little to nothing about Northfield, the folk art style painting completed by a team of volunteers is a good starting point to learn the basics about this community. It’s a visual Cliff Notes type of guide.

Founders John and Ann North are depicted in the painting of Northfield. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo May 2024)

Like many early Minnesota settlements, rivers and railroads determined the location for new towns. Northfield sits along the Cannon River, a source of water power for early milling and a route for trade. Today the river continues to center this community, creating a picturesque and engaging downtown core with businesses along Division Street backing to the river. A River Walk leads locals and visitors riverside to appreciate the natural beauty of water flowing through Northfield.

My favorite part of the mural, probably because I grew up on a dairy farm, shows Holsteins. The buildings are actual buildings in Northfield, including the historic Archer House, destroyed in a fire several years ago. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo May 2024)

I love Northfield, once promoted with the theme of “Cows, Colleges and Contentment.” It’s still that, although with fewer dairies than once defined the area. Today the local tourism website tags Northfield as “Close to Home/Far From Ordinary.” That fits, too.

A view of the River Walk and the historic Ames Mill (to the right in the distance) from the pedestrian bridge spanning the Cannon River in the heart of downtown Northfield. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo May 2024)

Northfield ranks as a popular tourist destination with its James-Younger connection and its many home-grown shops housed in historic buildings in a downtown that fits the definition of “charming.” The setting is decidedly comfortable and homey and as picturesque as a Norman Rockwell painting. There’s a seasonal popcorn wagon in Bridge Square, anglers fishing along the river, an old-fashioned barbershop with barber pole…

Northfield’s much-beloved seasonal popcorn wagon at Bridge Square. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo May 2024)

There’s a strong sense of community and of community pride in Northfield. Art matters here. From riverside murals to poetry imprinted upon sidewalks to artwork showcased inside the Northfield Arts Guild to theatre, concerts and much more (including at the two colleges) the arts flourish.

Beautiful Bridge Square, Northfield’s town center. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo August 2022)

And inside the aged, massive post office, once slated for closing, the folk art mural designed by Margit Carson Johnson stretches above a wall of mailboxes to reveal the core story of Northfield. From the Big Woods to the once glacial meltwater-fed Cannon River, from the Wahpekute to dairy farmers, from tallgrass prairie to the city it is today, Northfield thrives.

© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

Investing in community: the story of a small town Minnesota movie theatre’s survival January 14, 2025

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Benson, Minnesota, along Atlantic Avenue. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo November 2024)

IN THE FAR REACHES of west central Minnesota, two counties in from the South Dakota border, the small farming community of Benson perches on the prairie. It’s a place many might consider the middle of nowhere. But Benson is home to some 3,400 residents, the county seat of Swift County and a town I recently passed through on my way to visit family in neighboring Morris.

A wider Atlantic Avenue street shot photographed near the Demarce Theatre. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo November 2024)

For me, Benson would not be just another dot along the map to my destination. I wanted to stop briefly and photograph the DeMarce Theatre, which my cousin Tim and his wife, Susie, own. Or so I thought. After photographing the theatre exterior, I learned from the proprietor of Rustic Class, a Benson consignment shop, that the Kletschers no longer own the business. That news never traveled to me on the family grapevine.

The Demarce Theatre, when Tim and Susie Kletscher purchased it in 2011. (Photo credit: Tim Kletscher)

I was disappointed, of course, to hear this. Tim and Susie bought the 1925 theatre in 2011, invested thousands of dollars to upgrade to digital projection and a silver screen, operating the business until May 2020. By that time, Tim, a Benson Elementary School teacher, was tapping into his retirement account to keep the business afloat. That’s all history. But I’m grateful to my cousin and his family for the near-decade they kept the theater operational.

The new owners updated the movie theatre inside and out. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo November 2024)

And I’m grateful to the new owners, Randy and Pam Marran of St. Michael for purchasing the theatre, revamping and reopening it in June 2022. I understand small Minnesota prairie towns like Benson and how even one business closure matters to the people who live there. Like anywhere, people want to see their town thriving, not dying. They want local entertainment options. Distances are far on the prairie.

The front of the theatre received a complete facelift. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo November 2024)

That the Marrans, like my cousin, recognized the value of a theatre in Benson speaks to their understanding of this rural region. Pam grew up here with family still in the area. Their daughter Tyler manages the theatre. Like the Kletschers before them, the couple has poured plenty of time and money into the theatre with interior remodeling, installation of used leather seats, and a new facade and marquee. They’ve made an investment in Benson.

No need for Benson residents to drive out of town to see a movie. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo November 2024)

As I consider this, I can’t help but think that my city of nearly 25,000 does not have a movie theatre. While I’m not privy to details concerning its closure many years ago, I do know that locals were driving out of Faribault to a south metro theatre to see shows. Today that continues with three theatres within 20 minutes of my community.

Back in November, this movie was showing at the Demarce Theatre. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo November 2024)

I expect on cold winter evenings like we’re experiencing now in Minnesota, the good folks of Benson are thankful to have a movie theatre in town—a place to escape into a film, to connect with friends and family, to down a soda or an alcoholic beverage, to purchase pizza, a pretzel or mini donuts, to dip fingers into a big bucket of buttery movie popcorn.

Likewise, movie theatres remain open in towns near Benson. There’s the Grand Theatre in Madison, the Millennium Theatre in Montevideo and the Morris Theatre in the college town of Morris. None of these prairie places are particularly large population-wise with 1,500-5,200 residents. But still they have theatres, a spot for locals to watch a movie about Minnesota native Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown” or “Sonic the Hedgehog 3.” Admittedly, I am not a movie-goer, having last stepped inside a movie theatre in May 2019, then requesting a refund not long into the film due to its violent content. (In fairness to me, I went with the guys in my family and knew nothing about the movie.)

A residential neighborhood within blocks of the Demarce Theatre. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo November 2024)

That the residents of Benson, Madison, Montevideo and Morris have movie theatres in their towns is remarkable really. In Benson, my cousin Tim and his wife, Susie, and now the Marran family, recognized the value of investing in their community, in this place perched on the Minnesota prairie just 40 miles from the South Dakota border.

© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

From Books on Central: A success story about books, dragons & community January 9, 2025

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An imaginative depiction of a dragon on the merry-go-round at LARK Toys, Kellogg, perhaps not unlike dragons featured in fantasy novels. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

I LOVE WHEN KIDS, like my 8-year-old granddaughter, Isabelle, love to read. It sets them on a path for success in school. If you can read, you can learn anything. I’ve always believed that, except perhaps when it comes to math. Reading didn’t help me there.

Book cover image sourced online.

But Izzy isn’t thinking about math; her dad is a math whiz anyway. Rather, she’s focused on reading for the love of reading a good story. On a recent visit, she could barely contain her excitement about Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke. Izzy quickly finished the first volume in the series and then breezed through the next two.

A back-to-school display filled the bookshop windows at the start of the 2024-2025 school year. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo 2024)

There’s a story here about Dragon Rider. Izzy’s mom, my eldest, found the fantasy novel while we were shopping at Books on Central, a used bookstore run by Rice County Area United Way at 227 Central Avenue North, Faribault. All proceeds go to local nonprofits supported by the United Way. Initially, Izzy wasn’t too excited about the book. But soon after we arrived home, she was snugged in the recliner reading.

I photographed the poetry section, right, during one of my visits to the bookshop. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo 2024)

This is exactly what grandparents, parents and the good folks at Books on Central like to see. The volunteer-run bookshop just completed its first full year of operation with more than $30,000 in used book sales during 2024, according to lead volunteers Dave and Jeanne Campbell. That’s a whole lot of books considering kids’ books sell for a buck or two and adult books for a bit more.

Among the books I’ve purchased at Books on Central. The book on the left features a cover photo of an elevator moved from my hometown of Vesta onto a nearby farm. The book includes writing by Larry Gavin of Faribault. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo 2025)

I’m thrilled that the Faribault community and beyond has embraced and supported this used bookstore by donating books and by buying them. It’s a win-win for everyone. People can get rid of books they no longer need, find books to read and help their neighbors. Bookshop proceeds assist The United Way in their mission of focusing on financial stability, health and education.

Previously in the display window at the bookshop. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

And education includes reading. The local United Way supports Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which provides a free book a month to registered area children for the first five years of their lives. Dolly’s Book Bash, an annual fundraiser to support the program, is set for Friday, January 24, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. at the Northfield Ballroom. The event features music, line dancing, an auction and games.

Signs marking the location as a former jewelry store remained when the bookshop opened. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo)

Back at Books on Central in Faribault, the bookshop is, in some ways, magical. The setting is in the former Dandelet Jewelry with beautiful built-in wooden shelving and drawers and a chandelier centering the space. In the back, kids have an area all their own to peruse the many books ranging from board books for babies to picture books to novels like Dragon Rider. The whole space feels inviting, enchanting.

This is a well-organized bookshop. Volunteers know the books and where to find them. Inventory changes often. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo 2024)

Sales of 2,661 books totaling about $9,000 in the last quarter of 2024 reflect the incredible support and enthusiasm for Books on Central. Those numbers are remarkable considering the bookshop is typically open only 24 hours a week and is totally volunteer-run. Volunteer hours in 2024 totaled 4,479.

Jeff Jarvis talks about the Dakota during a June presentation at Books on Central. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted file photo June 2024)

This place is more than a volunteer-run used bookstore. It’s also a place to connect, to build community, to learn. Books on Central hosts frequent literary events featuring area writers. I attended a poetry reading by published poet, retired Faribault High School English teacher and friend Larry Gavin. I could listen to Larry read poetry all day. The way language flows from his mind to his fingertips to create poems, well, it’s magical. He has a radio reading voice that mesmerizes. I also listened to a group of Northfield poets read their poems at Books on Central. I heard local historian, writer and artist Jeff Jarvis talk about the Faribault Dakota. And I delighted in the engaging storytelling of native Tanzanian Joseph Mbele, a St. Olaf College professor, consultant and author of several books, his newest Chickens in the Bus—More Thoughts on Cultural Differences.

New signage was installed on the building in late 2024. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo 2024)

I love that my granddaughter enjoys going to Books on Central. She’s discovered it’s a special place where, if you look (or let your mom look), you’ll discover a silver dragon flying between the pages of a book.

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FYI: Books on Central is open from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays. Donated books are accepted, but must be in good condition. Volunteers sort and clean the books, determining which to stock. You will not find musty and moldy smelling books here.

© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

Shopping, gathering & connecting at local holiday markets December 12, 2024

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Visiting during a recent Pop-Up Christmas Shoppe at Buckham West, Faribault. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo November 2024)

HOLIDAY MARKETS, craft sales, boutiques, bazaars and bake sales, whatever you term them, seem endless this time of year. I’ve hit many. And that’s from someone who doesn’t like to shop.

Vendors filled the Faribault American Legion on Saturday for a Christmas Market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

I should note here that I buy very few Christmas gifts—just a couple for the two grandkids and for my son. And this year for the soon-to-be-born second grandson. That’s it. Those gifts, at least for the little people, come from a big box retailer because the kids have their lists (which Grandma appreciates).

Shoppers come and go from the Craft Spirits Holiday Market at 10,000 Drops Distillery, Faribault, last Saturday. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
Caroline Jones of Graceful Mandalas marketed these mugs and other of her creations at the 10,000 Drops holiday market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
Sellers were scattered throughout the complex of buildings housing the distillery and Corks & Pints. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

Back to the one or two-day holiday markets usually held on weekends. These are not just about selling merchandise, although certainly that’s the goal. Rather such pop-up shops, whether held in a church basement, senior center, an old shed, school gym, distillery or elsewhere, are community events. A place for folks to gather, converse, embrace the holiday spirit and maybe buy a gift or two. I bought something for my son at a recent market.

I chatted a bit with Chris Delesha of Delesha’s Woods at the Legion market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
My friend Kirk Mansfield was at the Legion selling wood and metal creations crafted by him, his wife, Paula, and a friend. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
Angels, bowls and more created by Turnings by PDan and sold at the Legion’s Christmas Market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

I enjoy connecting with people, talking to friends and strangers at these sales. Everyone has a story. Something they may want to share, whether about their product or family updates or holiday plans.

Vendors chat at the holiday market at 10,000 Drops. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

I practice active listening. Not just hearing. There’s a difference. And when I do that, I find people opening up to me. I value these one-on-one conversations allowing me to show interest, empathy and care. Sometimes all people need is for someone to listen, really listen.

Sellers get creative in displaying their wares. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

These pop-up sales are also a place to learn. Vendors—from artists to crafters to bakers and more—are a talented bunch. Even if I don’t buy anything, I often chat with the sellers about their goods. I’m genuinely interested in learning and connecting with creatives, in listening to their backstories.

Linda’s Woolies, felted wool, fleece-lined mittens for sale at the Legion Christmas Market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
Multi generations engage at the Legion’s holiday sale. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
Vicky Scheiber, Nicole Boehme and Heather Berg create custom papercrafts, greeting cards, jewelry and woodcrafts under the name Scheiber Designs, here sold at the Legion’s Christmas Market. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

Creatives never get, dollar-wise, what they should for the time invested. They create because they love what they do. They hold a passion for knitting, for baking, for woodworking, for sewing, for photography, for writing, for whatever and then try to turn that into something which brings in a bit of money and brings joy to others.

A scene outside the Christmas Market at the American Legion last Saturday. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

In these final weeks before Christmas, I hope you’ve taken time to attend a holiday market in your area. They offer a great shop local option and an opportunity to experience community at its most grassroots basic.

© Copyright 2024 Audrey Kletscher Helbling

 

Building community via Christmas tree give-away in Faribault December 10, 2024

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Viewing Christmas trees in Central Park on a recent weekday afternoon. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

FIVE YEARS IN TO FARIBAULT’S Adopt-a-Tree Holiday Tree Program, the initiative to give Christmas trees to those in need continues to grow. This year 75 decorated artificial trees were donated and placed in Central Park. That’s up from some 20 trees when the program launched in 2020. Each December since, those numbers have increased.

A snowflake tree topper shimmers against a backdrop of trunk and branches on a tree in the park. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

This all started during the COVD-19 pandemic after restrictions on large gatherings resulted in cancellation of Hometown Holidays events. The trees in the park not only brought light and joy during an especially dark time, but also helped folks in my community who were struggling financially.

Here trees line the sidewalk along Second Avenue. More trees edge sidewalks leading into the heart of Central Park. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

Initiated by the Faribault Parks and Recreation Department, which paired with nonprofit St. Vincent de Paul, the Adopt-a-Tree program gives Christmas trees to those who would otherwise not have one. If you’ve priced Christmas trees, you know they are costly.

I knew Gloria, who recently passed and who absolutely exuded love and joy. I love that someone (likely family) donated a tree in her honor. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
Ours is a rural area, as evidenced by this farm sponsorship. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
Another personal sponsorship, which speaks to love and determination. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

The community quickly embraced the idea with service clubs, businesses, churches, individuals, nonprofits, schools and more buying and decorating trees to display in Central Park and then give away. These groups and individuals benefit, too, by raising awareness about their causes/organizations/businesses or simply by offering sponsors an opportunity to give back.

Trees in many sizes and colors were donated. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

Adopt-a-Tree has truly built community spirit. To view these festive trees is to see generosity, compassion and care. To view these trees is to understand that Faribault folks genuinely want to help others. When we connect on that level, we are a stronger, better community.

The historic Cathedral of Our Merciful Saviour backdrops trees along Second Avenue Northwest. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

I’ve seen the trees aglow at night from afar, a beautiful sight in Central Park along busy Second Avenue Northwest. I’ve seen the trees during daylight, too, when I walked through the park and looked more closely at the decorations and the tree sponsor information printed on signs.

The Grinch tops a Grinch-themed tree. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
An unexpected find, a sweet reindeer in pink. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
On the candy cane-themed tree, vivid red. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

Bulbs, other ornaments, garland, ribbon, lights…adorn trees, some with toppers, some without. Some trees are themed—the Grinch, candy canes, gingerbread men, reindeer…

Spotted on the tree donated by the Faribault, Minnesota, Chapter of HOG (Harley Owners Group). (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
A tub of ornaments sits in the park. Many trees blew over and ornaments fell off during strong winds last week. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
Pom poms strung together make a particularly creative and colorful garland. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

No matter the decorations or the tree size or color (from flocked to white to black to assorted greens), the visual statement is the same. We care.

Trees line the sidewalk leading into the park toward the bandshell in the background. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)
At the end of the row of trees pictured above sits this Santa ice sculpture carved by Adam Scholljegerdes and Jason Felix for Winterfest. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

When individuals and families pick up their trees from Central Park this week, I can only imagine the happiness they feel knowing that a Christmas tree will grace their homes. What a gift. This is not just about a tree. This is also about feeling loved and cared for by community. And that will last long after ornaments have been removed, the tree dismantled and placed in storage.

It takes a lot of power to light 75 Christmas trees. (Minnesota Prairie Roots copyrighted photo December 2024)

We never know what someone is going through, whether struggling financially or otherwise. So if the simple gift of a decorated Christmas tree lifts spirits and makes the holidays bright, consider the long-lasting impact. Light breaks through darkness. Joy fills hearts. Hope rises.

© Copyright 2024 Audrey Kletscher Helbling