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Beth Nordaune

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How to overcome a Bad home inspection.

by Beth Nordaune

For a potential homeowner the home inspection can be an exciting and foreshadowing experience.  When your home inspector comes to you with bad news, you may have to rethink your decision to buy the home.  For example, there's water in the basement and the cost to repair is around $10,000, hysteria can set in...Will the sellers be able to afford that? Should you just buy the home and fix it yourself? Below is a list of 5 tips that will help guide you towards decision.

1) First, use the all of the time given for your inspection contingency to reduce stress while you're gathering more information and making your decision.

2) Estimate how much work you are willing to complete after closing. You should take into consideration the financial cost as well as the personal headache.

3) Compile a list of repairs and get a bids from 2 or 3 contractors (for both your own information and to increase your negotiating power).

4) Ask the inspector to point out the repairs that do not need immediate attention and can be budgeted for in the future.

5) Here are some options to go over with your agent: (a) asking the sellers to complete some or all of the repairs; (b) if the sellers refuse to make any repairs asking to have the price reduced; (c) walk away. If it's not going to work then don't force it to work ... there are always more home out there to buy.

Real Estate Rochester MN

The Loop Restaurant and Bar Rochester MN

by Jason Nordaune

The other night after golf league our group decided to check out The Loop Bar and Restaurant here in Rochester MN.  We arrived a little after 9 pm and the place was busy ... we actually got the last table.  My initial reaction was positive.  The interior has a trendy modern feel with an exposed kitchen and a pretty sweet looking bar.  We were seated in the front right by one of the rolling glass walls which exposes the restaurant to the sidewalk and street.

On to the food!  We decided to start with an appetizer.  The waitress recommended we get the smoky chicken nachos ... so we did and the were good.  The only downside was that none of us was really sure if there was actually any chicken under the oozy mess of cheese and sour cream.  

For entree's two members of my group ordered the Tuna Nicoise Salad, one ordered the Wildcat Pizza and I ordered The Loop's Fish Tacos.  The Tuna Nicoise Salad got good reviews and the Tuna was seared to perfection.  The pizza also got a review of good.  And the Fish Tacos were okay.  Now I should tell you that I love fish tacos.  To put it into "Anthony Bourdain Terms" ... My current Death Row meal is Fish Tacos!  Just not The Loop's Fish Tacos.  They were, for a lack of a better term, blah.  There were 4 flour tortillas filled with a couple chunks of Mahi Mahi, a healthy slathering of creamy sauce and I think there was supposed to be some sort jalapeno slaw?????

At any rate, if you looking for fish tacos in Rochester MN go to Pescara ... they are awesome!

Now onto to the most important thing ... BEER!

The Loop's draft's selection was fantastic.  I always appreciate when bars deviate from the standard Bud, Bud Light, Miller, Miller Light and offer something good.  The Loop also get's extra points for having not one but three Minnesota Beers On Tap ... Summit, Surly and Fulton.

So out of 5 stars I would give The Loop a solid 3.5 stars.

 

A great resource for Real Estate in Rochester.

Weekly Heartbeat 5/16/12-5/22/12

by Morgan Stewart

Happy Wednesday! We are packed with great events this week! This weekend marks city wide garage sales all around Rochester. On Saturday go to Oxbow Park to enjoy their annual spring fest where there is something for everyone. Have a great week!

 

Wednesday May 16, 2012

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) Good News for Aging Brains and Bodies

Instructor: Tom Davis, MS, PhD Recent research into aging takes old negative stereotypes about later life and dumps them on their head. This class reviews some of the new information about older brains and bodies and explores positive possibilities for aging.

Garden of Note Voucher Sale: Rochester Music Guild

Join our Friends from the Rochester Music Guild in a celebration of spring.with the Guilds Garden of Note Sargent's Nursery Voucher Sale.  Bury as many $25.00 voucher's as you will spend, Sargent's donates 20% of each $25.00 voucher to the Rochester Music Guild. Contact information above. Exclusion's are grills, weddings and landscaping design.

Burger Nite

American Legion Post 92. Bring you family along to enjoy one of Virgil's burger creations.

Ivan Whillock, Harold Grabitske exhibit

Longtime friends and notable artists Harold Grabitske and Ivan Whillock, who often showed work together in the early days of their art careers, found each other again through a class at Crossings. Now, an exhibit of their retrospective and current works will be at the art gallery May 1-31.

Mayo Historical Trolley Tour (Hop-On Hop-Off)

Purchase Trolley Tickets online at www.rochestermntours.com.

 

Rochester Moms On The Run

John Withers Sports Complex. ROCHESTER MOMS ON THE RUN Fitness, Fun & Friendship! Learn to Run ~ Improve your Time Hundreds of women have gone from walking to running their very first race. You can too! Programs for intermediates and boot camps are also available. Have a blast getting in shape and make new friends with a great group of women from around the area!

 

Thursday May 17, 2012

History Center Annual Membership Meeting

 History Center of Olmsted County

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) The Ancient Middle East from c. 1750 BC to c. 350 BC

Instructor: Bill Bakken This class is the third of a series of three classes on the ancient middle east before the conquests of Alexander the Great. Beginning with the invasions of the fertile crescent about 1700 BC we will discuss the kingdoms and empires that formed in the area up to the formation of the Persian Empire by Cyrus and its consolidation by Darius. Included will be a brief survey of the Hebrew state and the monotheism that it proclaimed.

South Pacific

 Rochester Repertory Theatre. This musical set on an island paradise during World War II, sensitively and candidly explores the issue of racial prejudice through the telling of two parallel love stories.

Garden of Note Voucher Sale: Rochester Music Guild

Join our Friends from the Rochester Music Guild in a celebration of spring.with the Guilds Garden of Note Sargent's Nursery Voucher Sale.  Bury as many $25.00 voucher's as you will spend, Sargent's donates 20% of each $25.00 voucher to the Rochester Music Guild. Contact information above. Exclusion's are grills, weddings and landscaping design.

Bachata - Beginner Lesson

Blue Moon Ballroom. 5 Thursdays, May 3-31.  Bachata is a slow to medium paced Latin dance that can be romantic or lively with basic steps, turns, and patterns that are easy to learn and fun to dance.

 

Friday May 18, 2012

Blue Moon Mix

Blue Moon Ballroom. Blue Moon Mix Friday, May 18 & 25 Swing, Latin, Soft-rock, Blues, R&B, Pop, Ballroom 7:30pm Lesson Dance 8-11pm

Booker & Friends

Taverna at Michaels Restaurant. Classic Rock & Golden Oldies.

Stay Out of the Sun Run

 Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Certified 10K Course, 5K Run, 5K Walk - noncompetitive, awards ceremony for runners, silent auction and  post race refreshments.

Kansas

Mayo Civic Center. Fusing the complexity of British prog-rock with an American heartland sound representative of their name, Kansas were among the most popular bands of the late '70s; though typically dismissed by critics, many of the group's hits remain staples of AOR radio play lists to this day. 

Fish Fry

American Legion Post 92. May is our last month for fish until Fall.

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) Imagining History

Instructor: Gerald Anderson This class will be built on the imagination of the participants. The instructor will present historical situations and the members of the class will be asked how they would respond or react if they had lived at the time of the event. There is no right or wrong to this, of course, but only an opportunity to react, as the old television program declared, as though "You Are There."

Saturday May 19, 2012

"Ruby'sTale" Book Signing

Barnes & Noble at Apache Mall. "Ruby;s Tale" Minnesota's own, Ruby the Dog, will host a book signing at the Apache Mall Barnes & Noble starting with a great story time.  The awarding winning book will be PAW printed and personalized by Ruby herself.

2nd Annual Cannon Falls Veterans Memorial Benefit at Cannon River Winery

Join Cannon River Winery for the 2nd Annual Cannon Falls Veterans Memorial Benefit on Armed Forced Day, Saturday, May 19th from 12 pm to 5 pm. There will be a silent auction with all proceeds going to the memorial fund and $1.00 from every glass of wine sold will go to the fund. Guests will also be able to enjoy grilled food for sale, wine samples, and free live music by Tim Brown from 1 pm to 4 pm.

Americana Showcase

They come from Nashville, they come from Lyle, they end up at the Rochester Civic Theatre.  Part of the 2012 RCT Winter/Spring Americana Showcase Series.

 

Art on the Ave

 9th St & 5th Ave SE. Art on the Ave. features 30 Arts & Crafts vendors, live music, heirloom Perennial plant sale, boulevard gardening demonstrations, and Free potting station for the kids. Two blocks east of K-Mart on 5th Ave.

City Wide Garage Sales

Garage sales throughout the city.  Some may start as early as Thursday.

Civic Live: Americana Showcase

 Rochester Civic Theatre. Live music event featuring: The Honeydogs & Six Mile Grove. Tickets on sale now.

Larry Price Jazz Trio

Pappageorge Taverna at Michaels Restaurant. With Rich MacDonald on Vibraphone..

Live Music: Tim Brown

Cannon River Winery. Tim Brown is a wonderful musician who is also a full-time high school English teacher! He performs a wide variety of songs ranging from Bob Dylan to Cat Stevens to Blues to Show tunes to Sinatra and things in between. He also performs some of his own original songs. We offer wine tastings daily during all of our regular hours.

Make A Walking Stick

 Whitewater State Park. Join us for a real hands-on activity making your own walking stick. We will transform buckthorn, an invasive species, into a practical tool you can take home with you. We’ll also learn how you can stop the spread of other invasive hitch-hikers when you’re hiking, fishing, and recreating at Whitewater State Park!

Mark Rosen is coming to Barnes & Noble

For more than 40 years, Mark Rosen has been at the forefront of sports media in the Twin Cities, the region and the state - a true icon of the Minnesota sports scene. Please join us for a fun afternoon of hearing some of Mark Rosen's stories.

Orchids of Minnesota Presentation

 Whitewater State Park. There are forty-two orchids native to Minnesota, including the state flower, the showy lady's slipper. Malcolm and Rosemary MacFarlane have beautiful pictures of each one! They have journeyed to cedar bogs; bluff prairies, the Big Woods, and roadside ditches to get these photographs. Tonight they'll share with us everything from common orchids to the rarest orchid in North America. Their photography is excellent and their stories of the hunt fascinating!

Oxbow FunFest

Friends of Oxbow's Annual Spring Fest.  Bring the entire family out to Oxbow Park's Zollman Zoo for a day of food, fun, and games. This is the Friends of Oxbow's biggest event and you don't want to miss it. There is something for everyone including: animal feedings, kids games and activities, as well as a silent auction.  

PAIIR Transportation Fair

Goose Egg Park (Northrup). Bring the whole family to browse a variety of vehicles...dump trucks, snow plows, police cars and more!  Sit in the drivers' seat and learn about the vehicles from the people who drive them. 

Perenial Plant Sale

Heirloom Perennial Plant Sale, Boulevard & Gardening Demonstrations, and Free potting station for the kids. This event is held in conjunction with Art on the Ave. Two blocks east of K-mart on 5th Ave-Slatterly Park Neighborhood.

Peter Mayer in Concert

 Crossings at Carnegie. Peter Mayer’s songs have been compared to Shaker furniture – clean and light, yet hardly simple. Mayer, whose guitar skills make playing his music seem deceptively easy, will perform at Crossings.

Rochester Public Library Presents: World Music: Brazilian music workshop

 Rochester Public Library (Auditorium). Feel free to bring an instrument.

Rochester Public Library Presents:Family Films:American Folk Heros

 Rochester Public Library (Auditorium). Legend of Johnny Appleseed and Legend of Paul Bunyan. Two favorite American folk heroes come to life through the colorful animation of Walt Disney.

Ruby the Dog to Host Book Storytime and Book Signing

Minnesota's own Ruby the Dog will host a book signing at Barnes & Noble. Ruby's story has it all: fun, gritty drama, high emotion, excitement, anger, laughter and betrayal. Please join us as we welcome Pat and Ruby to Rochester.

Slatterly Park Neighborhood Art Fair

 5th Ave S.E., Rochester, MN 55904. Two blocks east of Kmart off 9th St

Whalan Stand Still Parade

The Whalan Stand Still Parade is on the move again. Meet Vincent, the Gypsy horse, bred to pull the colorful, historic Gypsy vardos (wagons). He is handsome, strong and gentle and will bring along some folks to tell you about himself, his origins and travels. This year Whalan pays special tribute to the American Farmer. Perhaps you are one, know one, or would like to meet one. At 10:55  emcee Phil Dying will introduce Arden Pederson, Grand Marshal, and long-time local farmer.

World Music Series - Maria Meu

 Rochester Public Library. Brazilian music workshop Members or Maria Meu will demonstrate and discuss the various styles of Brazilian music they will perform in a concert after the workshop.Feel free to bring an instrument. 2:30 - 4:00 pm Musical Concert Maria Meu, a four piece ensemble based in the Twin Cities and consisting of vocals, guitar, percussion and bass will perform samba, partido alto, bossa nova and choro.

2nd Annual Graham Park Legacy Festival

This year at GrahamFest the music and kids' activities are back by popular demand! The theme, "honor the past," highlights the many historic structures at Graham Park amidst free music, House of Bounce attractions, and Roscoe's serving up food all day. Plants and trees for sale, information on gardening and sustainability, antique tractors and Model A cars on display, and much more!

"Days Gone By" Amish Country Tour

Immerse yourself in the timeless culture of the Old Order Amish as we journey down roads less traveled through Minnesota's largest Amish settlements. This enriching, scenic tour affords the opportunity to observe and learn first-hand about the Amish way of life, view one-room country schoolshouses, observe horse and buggy travel, attend an Amish produce auction, visit Amish craft shops and bakeries, browse handcrafted furniture, quilts, baskets, and foodstuffs, and chat with Amish farmers.

Rochester Downtown Farmers Market

The main outdoor Market is open every Saturday, rain or shine, from the first Saturday in May through the last Saturday in October.  All of the RDFM's 100 vendors are local growers who live and farm/garden within 50 miles of Rochester, MN.  No pets are allowed in the Market vending areas (except service animals).

 

Sunday May 20, 2012

Live Music: Andrew Walesch

Cannon River Winery. Andrew performs the crowd favorites of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, along with many of his own songs too! We offer wine tastings daily during all of our regular hours. You may choose a full wine tasting, a flight of three or a glass of your favorite. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff guide you through your tasting experience while you enjoy the music!

National Eagle Center & Mississippi River Valley Tour

Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty and unique culture of the Upper Mississippi River Valley, rated among the top scenic drives in America. We'll journey through picturesque "Bluff Country" on your way to the mighty river where we'll visit wildlife refuges, apple orchards, a magical toy shop that is the largest in the country, the National Eagle Center, a marina along magnificant Lake Pepin, and scenic overlooks.

Garden of Note Voucher Sale: Rochester Music Guild

Join our Friends from the Rochester Music Guild in a celebration of spring.with the Guilds Garden of Note Sargent's Nursery Voucher Sale.  Bury as many $25.00 voucher's as you will spend, Sargent's donates 20% of each $25.00 voucher to the Rochester Music Guild. Contact information above. Exclusion's are grills, weddings and landscaping design.

 

Monday May 21, 2012

BUSH & Seether Rock Concert

Mayo Civic Center. $39 for either reserved balcony or GA/standing room only on floor (floor can't come to balcony and balcony can't go to floor).  One of the 90's most commercially successful alternative rock bands.

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) The American Revolution: Part 3 - The Fulfillment of the American R

Instructor: Bennett Smith, MA The two issues throughout human history that every society and government has had to deal with are power and liberty. The American colonists rebelled against Great Britain because of the threat to their liberty. Tyranny and despotism was the danger.

Rochester Public Library Offers Computer Basics Workshop

 Do you have a general questions about computers, using email, using the library website, internet? Come to the library the 3rd Monday of every month to practice on our computers and ask questions. No sign up required.

Rochester Public Library: Teen Library Council Meeting

Come let your voice be heard. Assist in providing insight into tween/teen reading interests, programming needs and activities, Help make the library a youth friendly space where you and your peers want to be. Any questions, contact Lynette @ 328-2305.

Rosemary and Meredith Willson Harmony for Mayo Program

 Mayo Clinic - Hage Atrium. Twilite Broadcasters, old-time country string band.  Lips Atrium. .

Sit-Stay-Read

 Rochester Public Library. Kids in grades K to 4 are invited to practice their reading skills with a certified therapy dog. Pre-register for a 15 minute reading session. Registrations open 30 days prior to each session. For a positive reading experience, only the child and accompanying adult should attend.
 

Tuesday May 22, 2012

Purchase Trolley Tickets online at www.rochestermntours.com.

 

 

5 Mistakes Made by Homebuyers

by Beth Nordaune

Purchasing a piece of Real Estate is one of the biggest decisions you'll make in your life. Getting emotionally wrapped up in the home buying process is fairly common and that's why you should have a Buyers Agent by your side. A good Buyers Agent will help you from falling victim to the following mistakes.

1) Love at First Sight vs. Long Term Relationship. Falling in love with the very first home is a fairly common event.  We see it, we want it and every other home will pale in comparison.  But is it the one?  Really?  We don't know until we view some more options ... some more candidates that maybe better suited for the "Long Haul."  That is why we recommend seeing at least 3 more home before making an offer on the home you initially fell in love with.  

2) Fantastic Deal, Nice Deal, No Deal. Everyone wants a fantastic deal, the absolute lowest price on our next dream home. But if you consistently find your self looking for that "Fantastic Deal" you'll probably end up missing all of the "Nice Deals." You can always turn a "Nice Deal" into a "Fantastic Deal" by throwing out a low ball offer but this only happens in certain markets and circumstances.  And if you do decided to go with a low ball offer you should prepare yourself that you'll likely loose the home.

3) Exceeding Your Budget. You've finally found your dream home but it's way out of your budget ... What can you do?  You might think about increasing your budget, but would it be worth it?  What cut's would you have to make to your lifestyle.  No more eating out?  No more entertainment?  Maybe you won't be able to send the kids to college. It can be tempting to overextend yourself financially to secure the home you want, but you still need to eat, entertain, and perhaps send your kids to college. Be sensible about how much a home will cost ... not only in terms of mortgage payments, but also in terms of maintenance and repair. You don't want to see your beautiful home fall into disrepair because you can't afford to maintain it.

4) Cheap Homes. Short sales and foreclosure might seem like a good deal but most times they are the opposite.  Homeowners going through a short sale or foreclosure typically stop maintaining the property.  And in some cases "Trash" the property.  So when looking at these types of homes you need to figure in how much will it cost to repair this home.  Can you do the work by yourself or will you need to hire a contractor?  Are you willing to live in a construction zone or will you end up renting while the home is being brought back to life?  These are just a couple questions you'll need to ask yourself.

5) The Right Representation. The information that you can find on the Internet can really give you a lot of confidence. You can flip through millions of photos, videos and all kinds of detailed information. However, you still deserve representation by a realtor - one who continually researches the real estate market and has access to inside information unavailable to you. As a buyer, you have the right to hire the "free services" of an Exclusive Buyer Agent (EBA) who will take the time to go over your home criteria and concerns, and can show you any available property without pressure. An EBA works only with buyers and is specifically trained and experienced in getting the best results for you. If you're looking to purchase a home and want to enlist the services of an experienced EBA please contact us at The Nordaune Real Estate Team.

Weekly Heartbeat 5/9/12- 5/15/12

by Morgan Stewart

Happy Wednesday! This Thursday head on over to Cascade Meadow Wetland and Environmental Science Center to learn about how beavers control the water levels and how they affected the Zumbro River. Gold Rush is also coming to Rochester this weekend. There is something everybody can enjoy through the wide variety of things coming from dealers across the United States. Have a great week!

Wednesday May 09, 2012

Fourty Fabulous Photo's of Historic Rochester

 History Center of Olmsted County. Dr. Alan Calavano-Local Author, Historian, and Collector.

iFilm Queen Of Hearts

Rochester Public Library. QUEEN OF HEARTS Directed by Valérie Donzelli France | 2009 | Romantic Comedy | French w/ English subtitles Synopsis: Thirty-something Adele is devastated after a painful breakup. With no close friends or family, her distant cousin, Rachel, reluctantly takes her in and graciously attempts to salvage Adele's personal and professional lives.

National Travel & Tourism Week - FREE Trolley Tours

 In celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week, the Rochester Tour & Trolley Company and the Rochester Convention & Visitors Bureau will be sponsoring FREE Mayo Historical trolley tours on Wednesday, May 9 and Thursday, May 10, 2012 from 10:30am-6:30pm both days. All guests are welcome and tour reservations must be made online at www.rochestermntours.com.

Burger Nite

 American Legion Post 92. Bring you family along to enjoy one of Virgil's burger creations.

Ivan Whillock, Harold Grabitske exhibit

Longtime friends and notable artists Harold Grabitske and Ivan Whillock, who often showed work together in the early days of their art careers, found each other again through a class at Crossings at Carnegie. Now, an exhibit of their retrospective and current works will be at the art gallery May 1-31.

Bob Miller Magician

O'Neill's Pizza. Watch Bob perform table-side magic and make balloon animals..

Wednesday Artists Happy Hour

 Rochester Civic Theatre.Wednesday Artists Happy Hour Every second Wednesday, May - August at 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. (May 9, June 13, July 11, Aug 8) The Civic Theatre is offering an opportunity for area artists' and those who love arts to come together to collaborate together. Please join us on stage for an open mic event of poetry, music, dance, monologues, spoken word... whatever you're working on, come and share with your fellow artists!

Rochester Moms On The Run

 John Withers Sports Complex. ROCHESTER MOMS ON THE RUN Fitness, Fun & Friendship! Learn to Run ~ Improve your Time Hundreds of women have gone from walking to running their very first race. You can too! Programs for intermediates and boot camps are also available. Have a blast getting in shape and make new friends with a great group of women from around the area! This cardio interval training program will focus on fat-burning.

 

Thursday May 10, 2012

Amazing Beavers: Nature's Water Control Experts

 Cascade Meadow Wetland and Environmental Science Center. Headline: Surprisingly Busy—Amazing Beavers: nature’s water control experts Summary: When people think about dams and canals, they usually think that only people build those things. But the North American Beaver has been building dams and controlling water levels in Minnesota for thousands of years. Hear how beavers probably affected the Zumbro River before Minnesota was a state and how trapping changed the river forever.

Daughters of the American Revolution - Rochester Chapter

Daughters of the American Revolution - Rochester Chapter Program Title: The History of High Tea Presenter: Jaclyn Theis History Center of Olmsted County 1195 W. Circle Drive SW – Rochester, MN May 10, 2012 10:45 am - 11:45 am Free and Open to the Public

Lands of the Dakota War of 1862: Part II

 Crossings at Carnegie. This program will touch on the main points of the brief war between the Dakota nation and American settlers in Minnesota, then move on to the conflict related to the Upper Agency, the events of Lake Shetak and Slaughter Slough, the Dakota banishment, and Gen. Sibley’s 1863 and other expeditions.

Layzie Bones of Bone Thugs N

Harmony

Wicked Moose Bar & Grill. Live Music. Lazie Bones of Bone Thugs N Harmony performs at the Wicked Moose.

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) The Story Behind the Photos

Instructor: John Weiss John will share 20-25 of his favorite photo shots and tell the story behind each. He will give some hints about photography too! If you email one photo to chrisanne.pieper@roch.edu, John will critique each photo in class. Please email photos one week prior to class date.

Bachata - Beginner Lesson

 Blue Moon Ballroom.5 Thursdays, May 3-31.  Bachata is a slow to medium paced Latin dance that can be romantic or lively with basic steps, turns, and patterns that are easy to learn and fun to dance.
 
 

Friday May 11, 2012

All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry

Stop down to the Clarion Inn (formerly Holiday Inn South) and try our All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry every Friday!

D'sievers with Diana Orbelo

 Pappageorge Taverna at Michaels Restaurant. Vocalist with Jazz Trio.

Dueling Pianos- Deuces Wild

Wicked Moose Bar & Grill. Dave and Ted of Deuces Wild take you on a variety class act adventure, where the audience paves the way to a wild and zany performance. This show includes comedy, music, and a whole lot of improv. Whether twenty-five or eighty-five, you will be on your feet and part of the action!

Lorie Line, “Live in the Sunshine” oncert

Crossings is bringing famed Minnesota musical talent Lorie Line to the Zumbrota State Theatre for her “Live in the Sunshine” concert. With 22 years of touring under her belt and more than 6 million copies of her 36 CDs sold, Lorie Line is the owner of one of the largest independent record labels, Lorie Line Music. Known for her unique arrangements and musical style, Line has been recording and producing more music than ever.

Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul & Mary) - In Concert

 Presentation Hall at the Mayo Civic Center. Peter's gift for songwriting has produced some of the most moving songs Peter, Paul & Mary ever recorded, including "Puff, the Magic Dragon", "Day is Done", and "Light One Candle". As a member of the renowned trio, he has earned many gold and platinum albums and has been awarded numerous Grammys. His musical creativity has always gone hand in hand with his commitment to social change.

The RT Autism Awareness Foundation Presents A Night of Comedy

Rochester International Event Center. The RT Autism Awareness Foundation Present's A Night of Comedy.  Featuring national Comedian Bob Zany who has appeared on the Gong Show, Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, Jerry Lewis' Labor Day telethon and hosts a weekly segment called fix a joke on the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Radio show.  Also featuring direct from the Bob and Tom show the biggest red neck on radio Donny Baker.

Civic Live: Tuesdays with Morrie

Rochester Civic Theatre. An old man, a young man and life's greatest lesson.Tuesdays with Morrie is back at the Civic Theatre by popular demand!  Maybe it was a grandparent, or a teacher, or a colleague. Someone older, patient and wise, who understood you when you were young and searching, helped you see the world as a more profound place, gave you sound advice to help you make your way through it. For Mitch Albom, that person was Morrie Schwartz, his college professor from nearly twenty years ago.
 

Saturday May 12, 2012

Chester Bay

 Wicked Moose Bar & Grill. Chester Bay is ROCK / BLUES / REGGAE in prime form. They play both cover band and original music.

Girls' Day Away at Cannon River Winery

Cannon River Winery invites you to join us for Girls' Day Away on Saturday, May 12th from 10 am to 5 pm. Bring your friends, sisters, moms, aunts, and grannies. Enjoy a glass of our award-winning wine while you shop local! We'll have a variety of unique gifts: locally handcrafted jewelry, handbags, clay pots, art, artisan soaps, barn art, wine inspired gifts, clothing, and more! There will also be food samples and chair massages! Free live music by Michael Loonan (1-4 pm).

Minnesota Promise Walk for Preeclampsia

Assisi Heights Spirituality Center. Rochester Making Strides to Raise Awareness in Minnesota of Preeclampsia Event calls attention to serious pregnancy disorder affecting mothers and babies May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month and to build awareness of preeclampsia, a life-threatening disorder of pregnancy, thousands of families in 36 cities in the U.S. and Canada are participating in Promise Walks. Minnesota’s Promise Walk will be held for the first time in Rochester on May 12 at Assisi Heights.

Swing into Spring with Jivin' Ivan and the Kinds of Swing

Zumbrota State Theatre.Get your swing thing going when Jivin’ Ivan and the Kings of Swing Lindy Hop onto the Zumbrota State Theatre stage.

The RT Autism Awareness Foundation Presents A Night of Comedy

 Events of Kasson. The RT Autism Awareness Foundation Present's A Night of Comedy.  Featuring national Comedian Bob Zany who has appeared on the Gong Show, Comedy Central, Last Comic Standing, Jerry Lewis' Labor Day telethon and hosts a weekly segment called fix a joke on the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Radio show.  Also featuring direct from the Bob and Tom show the biggest red neck on radio Donny Baker.

The Sudden Lovelys

 Pappageorge Taverna at Michaels Restaurant. Paige Prescher and Danny Ferraro, Romantic Duets.

Wine Tasting at Post Town Winery

Looking for an enjoyable Saturay afternoon event? Post Town Winery proudly opens it's doors to visitors the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month. This boutique winery will charm you the moment you step through the door. You will be welcomed with a keepsake engraved wine glass for your tasting pleasure, followed by a relaxing tasting experence with coffehouse style music, cheese and crackers and good conversation.

Music at Salem Glen-King-Townsend Trio

The King-Townsend Trio features saxophonist/clarinetist David Townsend and guitarist Michael King playing jazz and blues standards. The trio this week will include Michael Sloane on double bass.

Rochester Craft Beer Expo

Mayo Civic Center. The Rochester Craft Beer Expo is a celebration dedicated to promoting craft beer through sensory evaluation and education.  General Admission permits an attendee access to the expo, commemorative tasting glass, beer samples from craft breweries, and beer education opportunities.

Gold Rush

Graham Park. Dealers from across the United States will be displaying their wares. Antique furniture, primitives, glassware, pottery, jewelry, clocks, watches, lamps, coins, art, toys, books, hunting, fishing and more.

"Days Gone By" Amish Country Tour

Immerse yourself in the timeless culture of the Old Order Amish as we journey down roads less traveled through Minnesota's largest Amish settlements. This enriching, scenic tour affords the opportunity to observe and learn first-hand about the Amish way of life, view one-room country schoolshouses, observe horse and buggy travel, attend an Amish produce auction, visit Amish craft shops and bakeries, browse handcrafted furniture, quilts, baskets, and foodstuffs, and chat with Amish farmers.

Rochester Downtown Farmers Market

The main outdoor Market is open every Saturday, rain or shine, from the first Saturday in May through the last Saturday in October.  All of the RDFM's 100 vendors are local growers who live and farm/garden within 50 miles of Rochester, MN.  No pets are allowed in the Market vending areas (except service animals).

 

Sunday May 13, 2012

Live Music: Don Paulson

 Cannon River Winery. Don Paulson is an original singer-songwriter who performs beautiful ballads with his tenor voice along with foot stompin’ bluegrass! He also performs songs by his favorite artists such as James Taylor, Paul Simon, The Beatles and more. We offer wine tastings daily during all of our regular hours. You may choose a full wine tasting, a flight of three or a glass of your favorite. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff guide you through your tasting experience while you enjoy the music!

Mother's Day Special at Cannon River Winery

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 13th! Visit us for live music and our Mother's Day Special! Don Paulson will be performing from 1 pm to 4 pm. Mother's Day Special~Only $15: • 2 Flights of Wine, Wedge of Cheese, Box of Crackers

National Eagle Center & Mississippi River Valley Tour

Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty and unique culture of the Upper Mississippi River Valley, rated among the top scenic drives in America. We'll journey through picturesque "Bluff Country" on your way to the mighty river where we'll visit wildlife refuges, apple orchards, a magical toy shop that is the largest in the country, the National Eagle Center, a marina along magnificant Lake Pepin, and scenic overlooks that provide spectucaular views of the broad river valley.

Johnny Mango Sunday Brunch

 Barlow Event Center.Every Sunday | 10 am - 2 pm | $14.95 per person | discount for kids | Live Music. Johnny will be serving up his Sunday Brunch Menu, Every Sunday, along with a Full cash bar that includes Fresh Squeezed drinks! Visit barlowplaza.com to view Johnny's spectacular menu and to view the live music lineup for Sunday brunches.

Monday May 14, 2012

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) The American Revolution: Part 2 - The War for Independence

Instructor: Bennett Smith, MA The American Founding was forged in the battles of the American Revolution and in the spirit of those colonists who loved the mother country of Great Britain, but who loved self-government more. They embedded their cherished ideals in the Declaration of Independence and in the United States Constitution, which created an innovative approach to the control of absolute and arbitrary power that has sustained our Republic for over 200 years.

Rosemary and Meredith Willson Harmony for Mayo Program

Mayo Clinic - Lips Atrium. Laurence Juber, folk/jazz/pop guitar.  Lips Atrium. .

Scott Hosier World War II Roundtable

Submarine Warfare in the Pacific with Bill McCollum, Herb Schauer and Gordon Barnes.  Program at 7 pm, 40s music at 6:30 pm.  A different program will be presented each month on the 2nd Monday evening of each month, September through June, starting at 7 PM

Sit-Stay-Read

 Rochester Public Library. Kids in grades K to 4 are invited to practice their reading skills with a certified therapy dog. Pre-register for a 15 minute reading session. Registrations open 30 days prior to each session. For a positive reading experience, only the child and accompanying adult should attend.
 


 

 

 

Internet Marketing- Is your Agent Up to Speed?

by Kevin Hughes

 

Do you want to sell your home quickly and easily? If you do, you will want to make sure you have a real estate agent who is up to speed on internet marketing. Luckily, there are three easy ways to spot an agent who is up to speed.

#1 - They Know How to Attract Buyers
A good internet agent knows what the right keywords are that attract home buyers in a simple internet search. They use special, keyword-laden content on their site and in their blog (see #3), and their website has a clean, professional look.

Sloppy sites that are disorganized and difficult to navigate will not attract buyers. Steer clear of sites with gross misspellings and grammatical errors, and those with sloppy graphics that are difficult to view. An agent who is up to speed has a smooth looking website that is simple to search for homes.

#2 - He or She Offers RSS or Email Alerts for Buyers
A good internet agent knows that most buyers do not have time to search endlessly for their ideal home. Therefore, when a visitor comes to the site, he or she should be able to sign up for RSS or email alerts that will send homes to the potential buyer that match his or her criteria. This way, your home will practically sell itself to an interested party while your internet agent handles all the details — including answering questions and fielding bids for your home.

#3 - He or She Maintains a Blog
Any internet-driven marketing for an agency that is worth its weight in gold has a regularly-maintained blog that is helpful to both buyers and sellers of real estate. The blogs that are among the best have the following criteria:

- They are updated at least once per week.
- They are organized for easy searching by interested buyers and sellers.
- They explain complex real estate issues and jargon in plain language, and do not attempt to confuse the buyer.
- They are informational and not constantly pitching sales of services. A little of that is beneficial, but
too much can be a turn off for buyers and sellers.

Blogs do not have to be 100% perfect, but they should look professional and be helpful to the public.

These three signs are the best way to tell if your real estate agent is up to speed on using the internet for marketing your home. Find an agent who knows the right keywords to attract buyers to their site, gives buyers a regular list of email or RSS alerts, and maintains a reliable, well-written blog full of useful information for both buyers and sellers. Internet-driven marketing is becoming the way to go these days when it comes to selling homes.

Written by Kevin Hughes- Idaho Real Estate

Weekly Heartbeat 5/2/12-5/8/12

by Morgan Stewart

Happy Wednesday! Everyone should come to the 2012 Pet Walk Fundraiser this Saturday at Cooke Park to enjoy the theme "RESCUED IS MY FAVORITE BREED". The 19th annual JAYCEES Circus will be at Graham Park on Saturday and free passes for Children are available at local merchants. Have a great week!

 

Wednesday May 02, 2012

Comics Against Cancer! A Night of Comedy Benefitting the American Cancer Society

A night of great food and lots of laughs at Goonie’s Comedy Club! Includes a buffet dinner with excellent food from McGoon's and drinks available at the bar for purchase and an incredible night of comedy featuring: John Russell (www.johnrussellcomedy.com),  Michael Callahan(www.michael-callahan.com), and Mike Brody! (www.mikebrody.com).  Doors at 5:30pm, Dinner served at 6pm, Show begins at 7pm. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

RCTC LIFE (Learning is Forever) The Mississippi River: yesterday, today, tomorrow

This prominent feature of our landscape has been central in our nations history, culture, commerce, and both the exploitation and conservation of natural resources. Our illustrated river voyage will travel through the times of Indians, explorers, fur trappers, steamboats, wars, timber rafts, mussel harvests, floods, competition between railroads and river boats, and much more as we meander our way into the 21st century. April 8 class will meet in HA123. Instructor: Jim Eckblad

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) Globalization

Instructor: Stephen Troutman First we will define "globalization." We will look at the history of globalization and we will review the pros and cons in globalization theory. We will review the different perspectives inherent in the globalization (i.e. the globalizer and the globalizee).

Spring 2012 Band and Choir Concert

 Hill Theatre.You are cordially invited to an evening of beautiful music from the RCTC Concert Band and Concert Choir.  They have prepared a wide variety of music that's sure to please!  Refreshments served at intermission.  Tickets cash or check only, no refunds, reserved seating.

Bob Miller Magician

O'Neill's Pizza. Watch Bob perform table-side magic and make balloon animals..

Rochester Moms On The Run

John Withers Sports Complex. ROCHESTER MOMS ON THE RUN Fitness, Fun & Friendship! Learn to Run ~ Improve your Time Hundreds of women have gone from walking to running their very first race. You can too! Programs for intermediates and boot camps are also available. Have a blast getting in shape and make new friends with a great group of women from around the area! This cardio interval training program will focus on fat-burning. Choose walking, running or both! Women of all ages, stages and fitness levels are welcome.

 

Thursday May 03, 2012

ARTWALK

 Peace Plaza Downtown. Spend a night alone, or with a group, enjoying local art and entertainment in downtown Rochester on the ARTWALK route for an exciting arts experience. At each venue, register for your chance to win a downtown prize package… the more stops you visit, the more chances you have to win! For refueling along the route: stop and grab a bite to eat, or a beverage, at one of the participating ARTWALK restaurants! 

Leon Joseph Littlebird

 Crossings at Carnegie. Colorado musician Leon Littlebird combines acoustic guitar, Native American flutes and storytelling into a powerful, energy-filled show.

Project Birdhouse Fund Raiser

Rochester International Event Center. Come join the fun and help support the History Center of Olmsted County!  You will be the envy of your neighborhood when you purchase a beautiful birdhouse or bird feeder built and donated by local craftsmen and artisans. Plus, you will be giving our fine feathered friends a new cozy home or feeding station.  5:00 pm Doors Open, 5:30 - 6:30 pm, Social Hour with appetizers, Silent Auction - Viewing of entries (birdhouses and bird feeders) Zumbro Valley Audubon Society Informational ... 

CHICAGO

 Rochester Civic Theatre. Premiering in 1975 and the hit of the 1997 Broadway season in a production that originated at City Center’s Encore! series, Chicago won six Tony Awards including Best Revival and later the Academy Award as Best Picture of the Year. In roaring twenties Chicago, chorine Roxie Hart murders a faithless lover and convinces her hapless husband Amos to take the rap... until he finds out he’s been duped and turns on Roxie.

Bachata - Beginner Lesson

Blue Moon Ballroom. 5 Thursdays, May 3-31.  Bachata is a slow to medium paced Latin dance that can be romantic or lively with basic steps, turns, and patterns that are easy to learn and fun to dance.
 

Friday May 04, 2012

All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry

 Three Crowns Dining. Stop down to the Clarion Inn (formerly Holiday Inn South) and try our All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry every Friday!

Cinco de Mayo - Dance

 Blue Moon Ballroom. Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue, ChaChaCha 7:30pm Salsa lesson Dance 8-11pm Cash Bar.

CUMC Documentary Club

Christ United Methodist Church presents A Documentary Film Series. Join us the first Friday of each month for a new showing.  See the church web site for the movie playing each month.

Lost Highway

Wicked Moose Bar & Grill. Live country band.
 
 

Saturday May 05, 2012

"Harmony Collage" Presented by Zumbro Valley Chorus of Sweet Adelines

 Trinity Lutheran Church. Come listen to a cappella music and enjoy refreshments at the Spring Tea. Families are welcome.

2012 Pet Walk Fundraiser

 Cooke Park. Pet Walk 2012 has become one of the must attend events of the spring social season! The excitement will take place on Saturday, May 5th at Cooke Park in Rochester. Our theme this year is "RESCUED IS MY FAVORITE BREED!"

Jonathan Edwards

 Zumbrota State Theatre. Edwards’ first big hit was the Vietnam War-era protest song, “Sunshine,” earning him a gold record in 1971. These days Edwards, who was born in Minnesota but has lived in various spots in the U.S. and Canada, is a barefoot troubadour preparing for the next stage of his journey.

Kickoff for May Bike Month at Cannon River Winery

May is National Bike Month! Cannon River Winery will host a Bike Month kickoff event on Saturday, May 5th from 11 am to 5 pm. All Cannon Valley Trail pass holders* will receive $1 off a glass of wine when they visit us during the day. We will have complimentary healthy snacks (while supplies last) and pitchers of water available. There will aslo be live music by The DitchLilies (1-4 pm) and Jagged Ease (5-8 pm). *Must show a valid pass.

Live Music: Jagged Ease

 Cannon River Winery. Jagged Ease is a five piece acoustic group that plays original music ranging from a lounge feel to a blues driven sound. We offer wine tastings daily during all of our regular hours. You may choose a full wine tasting, a flight of three or a glass of your favorite. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff guide you through your tasting experience while you enjoy the music!

Music at Salem Glen- Miles Johnson Trio

Miles Johnston on cornet, Larry Price on keys and Mike Sloane on upright. The Trio will play a variety of Jazz and vocal standards.

NAMI SE MN Walk for Research & Education

 University Center Rochester - Regional Sports Center. Stick around for Post Walk refreshments and program.

Shorewood Garage Sale

Neighborhood Garage Sale! Multiple couches, chairs, desks, lamps, kitchen tables, coffee tables, books, jewelry, electronics, kitchen items, home décor, holiday décor, crafts, games/puzzles. Everything must go!

CF Great Strides

 Silver Lake Park. Great Strides: Taking Steps to Cure Cystic Fibrosis is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's largest national fundraising event. Tens of thousands of co-workers, friends and family come together each year as one community for one cause…to help find a cure for CF.

Barnes and Noble @ the Apache Mall 10th Anniversary Party

Barnes and Noble @ the Apache Mall is celebrating their 10th Anniversary all weekend.  Please join us for a party in the store.

Choral Arts Ensemble: An American Spring

 Zumbro Lutheran Church. Choral Arts Ensemble’s concert season will close with music for the springtime from some of America’s favorite composers and folk traditions. Guest conductor Matthew Culloton will lead the singers in a program that includes traditional concert works.

Rochester JAYCEES Circus

 Graham Park. 19th Annual Circus. Free passes for Children available at local merchants.

 

Sunday May 06, 2012

A Festival of Music

A Festival of Music.  First Presbyterian Church presents the final performance of its 21st season concert series. Featured will be The Svyati Duo, an internationally acclaimed UK organ-cello duo. The talent and rapport of organist Julian Collings and cellist Rebecca Hewes provides an innovative concert with colorful musical playing. Free will offering.

Bella Voce Young Women's Choir presents To Life We Sing

Bethel Lutheran Church. Tickets: www.singoutloud.org or call 507.269.7114 Bella Voce brings a slice of Americana to you, joined by a group of precious young singers "The Bellettes" and the All-American classic Dixieland Turkey River All-Stars band. The program features American composers, spirituals and classics such as "Bye, Bye Blackbird" and "What'll I Do?" Continuing Bella's 5-year tradition of community outreach, this concert will benefit Ronald McDonald House.

Live Music: Daniel Switch

Cannon River Winery. Daniel Switch is a fantastic and engaging acoustic artist who plays a large variety of well-known covers! We offer wine tastings daily during all of our regular hours. You may choose a full wine tasting, a flight of three or a glass of your favorite. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff guide you through your tasting experience while you enjoy the music!

Walk MS- Rochester

 Soldiers Field Veterans Memorial. Walk MS helps raise funds for research, as well as comprehensive programs and services for people affected by the disease, to move us closer to a world free of MS. Sponsored by the National MS Society, Walk MS is a simple but incredibly powerful way for you to share in the hope for the future. It's a day to come together, to be together, to celebrate the movement together. Walkers can choose a 1 or 5 mile route.

National Eagle Center & Mississippi River Valley Tour

Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty and unique culture of the Upper Mississippi River Valley, rated among the top scenic drives in America. We'll journey through picturesque "Bluff Country" on your way to the mighty river where we'll visit wildlife refuges, apple orchards, a magical toy shop that is the largest in the country, the National Eagle Center, a marina along magnificant Lake Pepin, and scenic overlooks that provide spectucaular views of the broad river valley.

Johnny Mango Sunday Brunch

 Barlow Event Center. Every Sunday | 10 am - 2 pm | $14.95 per person | discount for kids | Live Music. Johnny will be serving up his Sunday Brunch Menu, Every Sunday, along with a Full cash bar that includes Fresh Squeezed drinks! Visit barlowplaza.com to view Johnny's spectacular menu and to view the live music lineup for Sunday brunches.

 

Monday May 07, 2012

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) The American Revolution: Part 1 - The Origins of the American Revol

Instructor: Bennett Smith, MA The American Founding was forged in the battles of the American Revolution and in the spirit of those colonists who loved the mother country of Great Britain, but who loved self-government more. They embedded their cherished ideals in the Declaration of Independence and in the United States Constitution, which created an innovative approach to the control of absolute and arbitrary power that has sustained our Republic for over 200 years.

Rosemary and Meredith Willson Harmony for Mayo Program

 Mayo Clinic - Hage Atrium. Choral Arts Ensemble, choral music.  Hage Atrium. .

Sit-Stay-Read

 Rochester Public Library. Kids in grades K to 4 are invited to practice their reading skills with a certified therapy dog. Pre-register for a 15 minute reading session. Registrations open 30 days prior to each session. For a positive reading experience, only the child and accompanying adult should attend.
 

Tuesday May 08, 2012

Hed2Head3 Tour! Brought to you by Redline Entertainment, LLC!

 Wicked Moose Bar & Grill. (Hed)pe and Mushroomhead have announced they will join forces with American Head Charge, Corvus, and Tenafly Viper for the “Hed2Head” co-headlining tour. 21+ show.  Don't miss out this is the ONLY Minnesota stop on the Tour!!!

Inside Cirrus

Event

Signature Aviation (KRST). Your exclusive invitation to see what Flying magazine calls the "most sophisticated single...ever." The All New 2012 Cirrus: Now Seating 5 The Cirrus Vision SF50 is scheduled to fly at 6:00 pm. Hors d'oerves, beverages and brief presentations by Cirrus Executive staff members will round out the evening.

Instrumental and Voice Recital

 Hill Theatre. Hear vocal and instrumental performances by the Applied Music Classes.

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) Pulse on Health

Instructor: Jeff Hansel A discussion with Post-Bulletin columnist and health reporter Jeff Hansel. What disease does this journalist with a decade of health-reporting experience think is on the cusp of a cure or effective treatment? Of what should people treated for Parkinson's disease be aware? Which Mayo Clinic researchers should we keep our eyes on? Why did Saint Marys Hospital originally open before it was supposed to? What were some of Jeff's favorite assignments?

 

 

Real Estate Market Update for Rochester MN 2012

by Beth Nordaune

Here are some current Real Estate Market Stats for Rochester MN 2012 YTD.

Northwest Rochester

Active Listings: 342

New Listings: 458

Pending: 204

Sold: 184

Average Sales Price: $156,871

Average Days on Market: 111

Northeast Rochester

Active Listings: 105

New Listings: 117

Pending: 44

Sold: 52

Average Sales Price: $188,639

Average Days on Market: 127

Southwest Rochester

Active Listings: 210

New Listings: 192

Pending: 67

Sold: 85

Average Sales Price: $244,973

Average Days on Market: 153

Southeast Rochester

Active Listings: 149

New Listings: 134

Pending: 45

Sold: 70

Average Sales Price: $117,832

Average Days on Market: 144

 

Information is deemed to be reliable, but is not guaranteed. © 2012 MLS and FBS.

Weekly Heartbeat 4/25/12- 5/1/12

by Morgan Stewart

Happy Wednesday! The calendar is full of great events at the end of April including Earth Day. Quarry Hill Nature Center is hosting an Earth Day FANfare. Bring your family to enjoy activities throughout the day. Have a great week!

Wednesday Apr 25, 2012

Americana Showcase

 Rochester Civic Theatre. They come from Nashville, they come from Lyle, they end up at the Rochester Civic Theatre.  Part of the 2012 RCT Winter/Spring Americana Showcase Series.

Civic Live: Americana Showcase

Rochester Civic Theatre. Live music event featuring: Matthew Ryan, Brandon Sampson, Erik Koskinen. Tickets on sale now at 507-282-8481 or www.rochestercivictheatre.org. Ticket: $17.50 in advance / $22 at the door

Spring 2012 Jazz Band and Aires Concert

Hill Theatre. Join us for an evening of high-energy, toe-tappin', rock the house music from the RCTC Jazz Band and show choir, the RCTC Aires.  Refreshments served at intermission.  Tickets cash or check only, no refunds, reserved seating.

RCTC Art Portfolio

Exhibition

Rochester Community & Technical College, College Center 200. A Thousand Words, the 2012 RCTC Art Portfolio Exhibition at the University Center Rochester Art Gallery.  Reception on Tuesday, April 17 from 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm.  This exhibit is made possible with the support of the Rochester Community and Technical College Art + Design Department and RCTC Student Life.

RCTC LIFE (Learning is Forever) The Mississippi River: yesterday, today, tomorrow

This prominent feature of our landscape has been central in our nations history, culture, commerce, and both the exploitation and conservation of natural resources. Our illustrated river voyage will travel through the times of Indians, explorers, fur trappers, steamboats, wars, timber rafts, mussel harvests, floods, competition between railroads and river boats, and much more as we meander our way into the 21st century. April 8 class will meet in HA123. Instructor: Jim Eckblad

Mayo Historical Trolley Tour (Hop-On Hop-Off)

Purchase Trolley Tickets online at www.rochestermntours.com.

Bob Miller Magician

 Recurring weekly on Wednesday at O'Neill's Pizza.Watch Bob perform table-side magic and make balloon animals..

Rochester Moms On The Run

John Withers Sports Complex. ROCHESTER MOMS ON THE RUN Fitness, Fun & Friendship! Learn to Run ~ Improve your Time Hundreds of women have gone from walking to running their very first race. You can too! Programs for intermediates and boot camps are also available. Have a blast getting in shape and make new friends with a great group of women from around the area! This cardio interval training program will focus on fat-burning. Choose walking, running or both! Women of all ages, stages and fitness levels are welcome.

 

Thursday Apr 26, 2012

Merengue: Beginner Latin Dance

Lessons

Blue Moon Ballroom. Merengue: Beginner Latin dance lessons. Four Thursdays, April 5-26 An upbeat, energetic Latin dance that is one of the easiest to learn. Merengue has a 2-step beat with the partners going to the side or in a circle with very small steps.

RCTC LIFE (Learning is Forever) Ancient Egypt to c. 1200 BC

This class is the second of a series of three classes on the ancient middle east before the conquests of Alexander the Great. Beginning with the earliest small polities along the Nile we will look at the formation of a United Kingdom during the Old Kingdom era and then the elements that fractured that unity twice during the ancient period.

RCTC LIFE (Learning is Forever) Hollywood Goes to War: The Making of Warner Bros. “Casablanca”

In 1942, “Casablanca” was simply another Warner Brothers motion picture. Today, it ranks as the American Film Institute's number two movie of all time, listed among “Gone with the Wind,” “Citizen Kane,” and the “Wizard of Oz.” This two-hour class examines how history, Hollywood and Humphrey Bogart came together with a young Swedish actress and a cast of European refugees to create this enduring classic.

Rochester Public Library Foundation Hosts An English Evening

 Doubletree by Hilton Rochester - Mayo Clinic Area. This is the second event in the Rochester Public Library Foundation's Cultural Event Series.  On Thursday, April 26, at the Doubletree Hotel in downtown Rochester, the Rochester Public Library Foundation's English Evening will celebrate all things English - from its ales to its entertainment.

West Coast Swing: Beginner Lessons

Blue Moon Ballroom. West Coast Swing: Beginner lessons. Four Thursdays, April 5-26. This fun and funky dance is smooth, fluid, & stylish and is danced to some of the most popular music today blues, R&B, hip-hop, funk, jazz, & country music.

CHICAGO

 Rochester Civic Theatre. Premiering in 1975 and the hit of the 1997 Broadway season in a production that originated at City Center’s Encore! series, Chicago won six Tony Awards including Best Revival and later the Academy Award as Best Picture of the Year.
 

Friday Apr 27, 2012

All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry

 Three Crowns Dining. Stop down to the Clarion Inn (formerly Holiday Inn South) and try our All-You-Can-Eat Fish Fry every Friday!

Blue Moon Mix

Blue Moon Ballroom. Swing, Latin, Soft-rock, Blues, R&B, Pop, Ballroom 7:30pm Lesson Dance 8-11pm

Diana Parks, Kevin Kleist & Friends

 Pappageorge Taverna at Michaels Restaurant. Acoustic Favorites of the Beatles, Linda Ronstadt, Faith Hill, Adele and more.

Elks Scholarship Fundraiser; Dinner and Comedy Club

Cordon Bleu Chicken Dinner by Canadian Honker with Open Mic and Comdedy Show with Comedians David Harris and Kevin Cahak. Kelly Powers will MC the event.

Grace Potter and The Nocturnals

Presentation Hall. Grace Potter and The Nocturnals ((LIVE)) at the Mayo Civic Center - Presentation Hall.  Opening act : Rayland Baxter.  Tickets at the Mayo Civic Center Box Office , all Ticketmaster locations, and at Tickemaster.com.  Get a preview this coming Sat night 04/21 (10pm cdt) as Grace and her band perform at Coachella via You Tube http://www.youtube.com/Coachella.

RCTC LIFE (Learning is Forever) How to Survive the Stress of Life in the 21st Century. What We Never

Dr. Edward Creagan, a professor of Oncology and Hospice Medicine, will share with us in an engaging and humorous manner what we really need to understand about stress and burnout. He will focus on three major areas. 1. The frequency of this pandemic which cuts across all countries and all professions. 2. How do we know if we are on the verge of a major meltdown?

Storyhill in

Concert

Zumbrota State Theatre.With harmonies that have been compared to The Everly Brothers and Simon & Garfunkel, melodies that sink into your skin and clever tale telling that sticks with you, it’s no wonder fans demanded the reunion of childhood friends Chris Cunningham and John Hermanson, a duo known as Storyhill.

Artists Clearing House Indoor Art Fair

 Crossings at Carnegie. At Crossings’ 8th Annual Artists Clearing House indoor art fair, visitors can feast their eyes on many beautiful works of art, at prices that make it easy to bring home one-of-a-kind pieces.  A wine tasting starts at 5:30 p.m. Friday. See artist demonstrations on Sunday! This indoor art fair is open to the public, free of charge.

Blithe Spirit

 Mantorville Opera House. Blithe Spirit AN IMPROBABLE FARCE IN THREE ACTS BY Noel Coward “Produced by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc.” Novelist Charles Condomine wants to include the occult in his next work. For research, he arranges for the somewhat eccentric (Aren't they all?) medium, Madame Arcati, to conduct a séance. Of course, Charles does not expect anything to come of it, but of course something does.

 

Saturday Apr 28, 2012

"Best Seat In The House" with Mark Rosen

 Barnes and Noble. For more than forty years, Mark Rosen has been at the forefront of sports media in the Twin Cities, the region, and the state-a true icon of the Minnesota sports scene. Please join us as we welcome Mark Rosen to Rochester for an afternoon of stories from his newly published book "BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE" Mark Rosen's Sports Moments and Minnesota Memories.

Chanticleer - In Concert

Presentation Hall. Tickets on sale August 8 (members), August 22 (public). This Grammy winning classical vocal ensemble is known around the world as "an orchestra of voices" for the seamless blend of its twelve male voices ranging from countertenor to bass and its original interpretations of vocal literature, from Renaissance to jazz, and from gospel to venturesome new music. Called "the world’s reigning male chorus", by The New Yorker magazine.

Comedy Night at Cannon River Winery

Our first ever comedy night in January was a huge hit, so we're doing it again! Join us for a night of laughter on Saturday, April 28th with some great comedians from 7 pm to 9 pm. Ron Lamprecht will be back and this time Todd Andrews and Jodie Maruska will be joining him. Tickets are $25 in advance and space is limited. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Call the winery at 507-263-7400 to reserve your seats! Complementary light appetizers will be served.

Doghouse John and the Misbehavors

 Pappageorge Taverna at Michaels Restaurant. Chicago-style Blues with Soulful Harmonica Riffs.

Earth Day FANfare

Quarry Hill Nature Center. Take your family outdoors and connect with nature at this Free “Families Active in Nature Earth Day Celebration.” Activities are ongoing throughout the day and include guided fossil hunting with Minnesota Master Naturalists, Geo-caching, Creek Critter Explorations led by Rochester Storm Water Management, live animal presentations, and guided bird hikes with local Audubon members. Detailed schedule can be found at www.qhnc.org

Live Music: Michael Loonan

Cannon River Winery. Michael Loonan, a professional piano player since 1984, performs a wide variety of music including: popular standards, contemporary classics, jazz and classical. He not only plays the piano really well...he sings too! We offer wine tastings daily during all of our regular hours. You may choose a full wine tasting, a flight of three or a glass of your favorite. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff guide you through your tasting experience while you enjoy the music!

Music at Salem Glen- John Paulson & Eric Heukeshoven Jazz Duo

Salem Glen Vineyard and Winery. John Paulson (sax & flute) and Eric Heukeshoven (piano) have been performing together for over 25 years and they are both on the music faculty at Saint Mary's University in Winona, MN. They will be playing their usual superb blend of recognizable jazz standards, light bossa novas and blues.

"Days Gone By" Amish Country Tour

Immerse yourself in the timeless culture of the Old Order Amish as we journey down roads less traveled through Minnesota's largest Amish settlements. This enriching, scenic tour affords the opportunity to observe and learn first-hand about the Amish way of life.

Wine Tasting at Post Town Winery

Post Town Winery - Plaza 14 Building Suite Six. Looking for an enjoyable Saturday afternoon event? Post Town Winery proudly opens it's doors to visitors the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month. This boutique winery will charm you the moment you step through the door. You will be welcomed with a keepsake engraved wine glass for your tasting pleasure, followed by a relaxing tasting experience with coffeehouse style music, cheese and crackers and good conversation.
 

Sunday Apr 29, 2012

Bruce Molsky in Concert

 Crossings at Carnegie. Grammy-nominated Molsky is revered for his fiddling, and sings and plays guitar and banjo. In fact, he stands today as the defining virtuoso of Appalachia's timeless folk music traditions, a feat even more incredible because he didn’t start playing until age 18, and didn’t make music his full-time profession until after his 40th birthday.

Live Music: Joel Kachel

Cannon River Winery. This original singer-songwriter is sure to get your attention with his engaging stage presence and lively music. We offer wine tastings daily during all of our regular hours. You may choose a full wine tasting, a flight of three or a glass of your favorite. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff guide you through your tasting experience while you enjoy the music!

National Eagle Center & Mississippi River Valley Tour

Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty and unique culture of the Upper Mississippi River Valley, rated among the top scenic drives in America.

Johnny Mango Sunday Brunch

 Barlow Event Center. Every Sunday | 10 am - 2 pm | $14.95 per person | discount for kids | Live Music. Johnny will be serving up his Sunday Brunch Menu, Every Sunday, along with a Full cash bar that includes Fresh Squeezed drinks! Visit barlowplaza.com to view Johnny's spectacular menu and to view the live music lineup for Sunday brunches.

Monday Apr 30, 2012

Civic Live: Melvin Gray Owl & Nakoma

Rochester Civic Theatre Patio. Native American presentation.

Melvin Grey Owl and Nakoma (Native American presentation)

The Native American Studies class at RCTC, taught by Dr. Robert Sanborn, along with RCTC Student Life will present an evening with Melvin Grey Owl and Nakoma, as well as other local Native American speakers and performers at the Civic Theatre Patio! The event will run from 5:30pm till 8:00pm with the presentations shifting to the lobby in case of rain. The public is cordially invited to attend. Admission free. Open to the public.

Rosemary and Meredith Willson Harmony for Mayo Program

 Mayo Clinic - Lips Atrium. Leon Joseph Littlebird, Native American flute.  Lips Atrium.

Tango: Beginner Dance Lessons

Blue Moon Ballroom.Tango: beginner dance lessons. Five Mondays, April 2-30.  Learn fans, swivels, cortes, pivots, la puertas, kicks & points in classy patterns in this smooth and dramatic South American dance called Tango.

Sit-Stay-Read

 Rochester Public Library. Kids in grades K to 4 are invited to practice their reading skills with a certified therapy dog. Pre-register for a 15 minute reading session. Registrations open 30 days prior to each session. For a positive reading experience, only the child and accompanying adult should attend.
 
 

Tuesday May 01, 2012

RCTC LIFE (Learning Is ForEver) Lands of the Dakota War 1862

A power point presentation reviewing the events of the U.S. Dakota War on the 150th commemorative anniversary year of the event. This program will touch on the early relations of the Dakota people and westward expansion, Treaties, build up to conflict, the six week war, trials and aftermath.

UMR CONNECTS~Silent Spring: Fifty Years Later

 University of Minnesota-Rochester. In 1962, Rachel Carson, a soft-spoken former U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologist published her fourth book. Silent Spring had an immediate and profound impact upon the nascent environmental movement and, 50 years later, is widely regarded as one of the most influential American works of the 20th century. We will discuss the book, the controversy it initially created, and the not-often mentioned relationship between Ms. Carson and the Mayo Clinic.

Scott Hosier World War II Round Table Schedule 2011-2012

 Assembly of God Church. A different program will be presented each month.

 

Radon Buzz

by Carrie Klassen

Radon, mold, lead, asbestos, allergens, insect, and pest infestation.. oh my.  How are we still alive?   I'm serious, I know that when I was a kid I scraped my fingers on the ceiling from the top bunk bed in an old house, put painted toy blocks in my mouth, and drank out of a garden hose, so I'm probably sick and I just don't know it.


I'd like zoom in on radon, as it's become more common for a buyer to ask me if they should get a radon test done these days as part of their general home inspection. 


A few Radon facts:

  • Unmitigated new homes have the same potential for having elevated radon levels as existing homes.  Homes with basements are more likely to have elevated radon levels.
  • About half  of the homes tested in Olmsted county have Radon levels higher than 4pCi/l. 
  • At 4pCi/l your chances of death are .0001 if you are a nonsmoker spending 18 hours a day for 74 years in the home. 
  • The EPA estimates a non-smoking person exposed to an average radon level of 4pCi/L for 18 hours a day for four years will increase their risk of developing lung cancer about 2%
  • High radon levels is the second leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers.
  • Smokers can reduce their risk of lung cancer by reducing their exposure to RADON.  A smokers risk to radon - induced lung cancer is 17 times greater than those of non-smokers.
  • The longer the radon test sits in the home, the more information it can provide you.  90 days is a good test. Certain factors like a windy day can make the test results vary.


So.. do I recommend a radon test to my clients?  I don't tell them not to, but there's no way for me to use my years of experience to aid in their decision, because there's no way at all for anyone to predict which homes with basements will have higher radon levels.  If you're worried about it, it's peace of mind to have it done.  That is very unsatisfying answer to a buyer and I always get the "that was of little help" expression in return.  But the honest truth: I can't help make that decision.  Would I remedy the situation if I knew it was there?  Yes.  Have I tested for it?  My honest answer:  No, I have not tested my own home, but at least I don't drink out of the garden hose anymore.

http://www.epa.gov/radon/

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Beth Nordaune
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Rochester MN 55901
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