New Ulm’s Benny’s Bar, tucked into the mezzanine level of The NU Franklin at 126 N. Minnesota Street, came alive on a recent Tuesday evening with the unmistakable sounds of accordion, guitar, and heartfelt vocals.
Local favorites Scott Sparlin and Tony Berg (better known as Polka Anton) delivered a lively, community-driven performance that perfectly captured the spirit of Minnesota’s German heritage and small-town camaraderie.
The duo kicked off the night with classic polkas and waltzes, including “The Happy Wanderer” and the rousing “Red Wing Polka,” quickly drawing the audience into the fun.
Guests clapped along, sang choruses, and even participated in crowd favorites. The energy stayed high as the musicians moved seamlessly between traditional German beer songs,
Hank Williams classics like “Jambalaya,” Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire,” and heartfelt ballads such as “Before the Next Teardrop Falls.”
Highlights of the evening included: A spirited beer-themed sing-along that had the room toasting and cheering. Audience requests honored on the spot, including “Saginaw, Michigan” and “Hey Good Lookin’.”
Scott Sparln’s masterful button accordion playing, which brought authentic polka flavor to every set.
Warm banter and storytelling between songs from memories of chugging bock beer at Bockfest to local “you betcha” humor and Minnesota mosquito jokes.
The atmosphere at Benny’s was exactly what locals love: casual, welcoming, and packed with multigenerational fun. Patrons enjoyed cold beers, conversation, and plenty of dancing space while the band kept the good times rolling.
Post-show, the room buzzed with goodbyes, well-wishes for upcoming surgeries and events, and plans for future gatherings — the kind of neighborly connection that makes New Ulm special.
Sparlin and Berg embody what makes Polka Tuesdays at Benny’s a hit: they’re not just performers but community connectors who make every guest feel like part of the show. Whether you’re a lifelong polka fan or just looking for a lively night out with great music and even better company, this weekly series delivers.
Mark your calendar for future Tuesday nights at Benny’s Bar. Bring your friends, your favorite sing-along voice, and an appetite for pizza and pints. In a world that often feels too rushed, evenings like this remind us how good it feels to make our own fun right here at home.
Prost! To Scott, Tony, and the wonderful crowd at Benny’s keep the music playing.
am absolutely thrilled to share my latest story for The Journal! This week, New Ulm got a little more mysterious—and a lot more inspiring—as a trio of award-winning mystery and thriller authors brought their “Women of Mystery Tour” to town.
If you love a gripping page-turner, a cozy independent bookstore vibe, or just celebrating incredible regional talent, this was an event you didn’t want to miss.
We had a lively crowd of about 25 dedicated readers pack into Lykke Books and the NU Brew Cafe for an intimate evening of literary discussion, audience Q&A, and book signings. The panel featured an incredible lineup of authors:
Jess Lourey:New York Times bestselling author who took us inside a thrilling, dystopian “locked room” world set right here in southeastern Minnesota.
Erica Ruth Neubauer: Shared insights into her brilliant 1920s historical sleuth mysteries.
Shannon Baker: Charmed the audience with tales of her Kate Fox mystery series set in the rugged Nebraska Sandhills.
From historical crime to modern-day psychological thrills, it was a fantastic masterclass in storytelling and the craft of suspense.
A Huge Community Thank You
Events like this don’t just happen—they take a village of passionate book lovers! A massive thank you to:
Brie Taralson of Lykke Books for organizing and hosting this wonderful literary escape.
Tamara Quinn Klawitter for doing a fantastic job moderating the panel discussion and keeping the conversation lively.
All the wonderful authors and readers who showed up to support local arts and independent business!
A trio of award-winning mystery and thriller authors brought thrills and inspiration to New Ulm’s Lykke Books this week. Read the highlights from the “Women of Mystery Tour” panel!
Summary of Tonight’s Open Mic Night at The Grand (New Ulm)
A cozy, low-key open mic night with a small but enthusiastic crowd of locals, artists, musicians, and friends. Amy (Molly) and Jim (Sonny Boy) hosted and kicked things off with two original songs: the relaxing “Relax Your Mind,” the fun country tune “Tired Old Maid” (written for the Brown County Moo Off), and a solid cover of “Mama Tried.”
Highlights:
Jess delivered heartfelt performances of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” and Michael Bublé’s “The Way You Look Tonight.”
Comedian Isaac made his debut with sharp, funny new material — family stories, therapy woes, a wild Paris airport incident, and more. The small audience loved it!
Jerry brought strong folk/rock energy with Bob Dylan’s “Shelter from the Storm,” America’s “Sandman,” and R.E.M.’s “Radio Free Europe.”
Artist Craig Groe closed the music with a nice set of covers (including “San Antonio,” “A Red, Red Rose,” and “Hurt”) plus an original, while his art exhibit (on display until May 29) was open upstairs.
There was plenty of friendly chatting beforehand — catching up on family, karaoke at Rodney’s, art, local events, health updates, and NUCat’s video filming. People enjoyed treats, explored the gallery, and appreciated the intimate vibe. A few folks had to leave early, but the night felt warm and supportive of local talent.
Overall: Small turnout but big heart — great music, laughs, and community connection. Next open mic is Thursday, June 11. Hope to see more faces then! 🎤🎨
Small crowd but big heart.Artist and musician Craig Groe
Clint Black Delivers Sold-Out Night of Country Classics, Stories at Jackpot Junction
Amy Zents
JACKPOT JUNCTION, Minn. — Clint Black turned a sold-out crowd into a singalong family Thursday night at Jackpot Junction, blending decades of hits with fresh material and the easy storytelling that has defined his career.
The Minnesota stop on Black’s tour drew a packed house eager for the Texas native’s signature mix of traditional country and heartfelt ballads. From the opening notes, Black’s rich baritone filled the venue, proving age has not dimmed the voice that made him a 1990s superstar.
Black, backed by a tight six-piece band, opened with crowd favorites that had fans on their feet early. He quickly settled into a rhythm that mixed familiar radio staples with deeper cuts. Longtime collaborator Hayden Nicholas joined him on stage for several numbers, including songs they wrote nearly 40 years ago. The easy chemistry between the two underscored Black’s roots as a songwriter first.
One of the evening’s highlights came when Black paid tribute to Merle Haggard. He recounted how Johnny Cash inspired the young Haggard during a prison performance at San Quentin, then delivered Haggard’s “Mama Tried” with quiet reverence. The room grew still before erupting in applause.
Midway through the set, Black slowed the pace for emotional ballads such as “When I Said I Do.” He joked about skipping the “dance numbers and wardrobe changes” that mark more theatrical shows, drawing chuckles from an audience that clearly preferred the no-frills approach. “I can’t do that,” he said with a grin. “It’s hard for me to understand you with these things in my ears and your funny accent.”
Black shared several anecdotes that brought the audience closer. He described proving his father wrong at age 22 by writing his own material, then launched into a barroom classic about longnecks, steel guitars and sawdust floors. Another story referenced an Albert Einstein quote about using only 10 percent of the brain, leading into the witty “Nobody’s Home.” Fans leaned forward as Black explained songwriting inspirations drawn from everyday life.
The band earned its own spotlight. Black introduced each member with humor: bassist Jake Rulon-Meade, who has shared the stage with him for nearly 40 years; multi-instrumentalist Jason Murray on fiddle, acoustic guitar, dobro and lap steel; drummer Andy Hall; keyboardist Dwayne Rowe; and his cousin Wes Bauer on acoustic guitar and pedal steel. Their versatility shone on instrumental breaks that ranged from soaring fiddle solos to driving rhythms.
Later, Black premiered a new song co-written with the artist known as Ernest. The upbeat “The Devil Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” drew especially warm applause from fans navigating their own life changes. He also reached back to his 2015 album “On Purpose” for the title track-inspired “Better and Worse,” a self-aware reflection on life’s ups and downs that showcased his knack for clever wordplay.
Signature hits such as “Killin’ Time” brought the entire venue to its feet. Black closed strong with a Waylon Jennings cover that nodded to the outlaw spirit, complete with swelling pedal steel and driving energy. The encore featured thunderous applause and a heartfelt thank-you to the crowd.
Throughout the night, production stayed straightforward: strong sound, mood-appropriate lighting and projected career photos. The intimate venue setting made even upper-level seats feel close to the action.
Black’s performance reminded the crowd why he remains a cornerstone of country music. At a time when the genre sometimes chases trends, he stays rooted in authentic songwriting, sharp musicianship and direct engagement. The sold-out show delivered exactly what fans wanted: memorable songs, engaging stories and the timeless sound of real country.
For those in attendance, it was more than a concert. It was a celebration of an artist who still loves what he does, and proves it every time he steps on stage.
Louie Anderson: A Comedy Legend’s Journey from Minnesota to Stardom
By Amy Zents
When you think of comedians who made you feel like family, Louie Anderson immediately comes to mind. With his soft voice, warm demeanor, and uncanny ability to find humor in everyday family chaos, Louie became one of America’s most beloved entertainers.
From his humble beginnings in Saint Paul, Minnesota, to winning Emmy awards and breaking Guinness World Records, his journey is a testament to the power of authenticity, kindness, and clean comedy in an industry that often rewards the opposite.
Louis Perry Anderson was born on March 24, 1953, in Saint Paul, Minnesota. As the second youngest of eleven children, his household was a whirlwind of activity, noise, and sibling rivalry—the perfect training ground for a future comedian.
His father, Louis William Anderson, was a talented trumpeter who once played for Hoagy Carmichael but struggled with alcoholism, giving Louie material for more reflective comedy. He represented the complexity of family life—both its challenges and its humanity.
His mother, Ora Z. Anderson, a descendant of the Mayflower, was the heart of Louie’s comedy and greatest inspiration. She taught Louie how to find humor in hardship.
Growing up with ten siblings meant hand-me-down clothes that never quite fit, crowded dinner tables where seconds were fought over, and rivalries ranging from hilarious to heated. Louie credited all his siblings with shaping his resilience and providing the authentic material that resonated with millions.
His youngest brother, Thomas Anderson, who passed away in 2016, was even featured in Louie’s first major comedy special, Mom!, highlighting the family’s central role in his art.
By his late teens in the late 1970s, Louie was performing stand-up in Minnesota. His observations about family life, Midwestern upbringing, and everyday struggles quickly resonated with audiences.
Louie’s big break came when he appeared on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in 1984. The debut was so successful that Carson invited him back immediately—a rare honor signaling the arrival of a major talent.
His clean, observational style proved that humor didn’t need shock value to succeed. Louie’s dedication earned him a Guinness World Record for the longest career in stand-up comedy, spanning over four decades. From the late 1970s through the 2010s, he never stopped making people laugh.
One of Louie’s most significant achievements was creating Life with Louie, an animated series based on his childhood. He not only produced the show but also lent his distinctive voice to the main character—himself as a young boy.
His soft, gentle, and instantly recognizable voice brought humor and warmth to every episode, making the characters feel real and relatable. Beyond Life with Louie, Louie’s voice talent extended to other projects including The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters, and various guest roles in animated specials and voiceover commercials.
His ability to convey emotion, comedy, and nuance through voice alone was remarkable and made him a sought-after talent in animation. His voice was not just a tool—it was a signature of his warmth and relatability, instantly connecting with audiences of all ages.
Louie brought his warm, family-centered humor to Family Feud from 1999 to 2002, connecting naturally with contestants and audiences alike.
In FX’s Baskets (2016–2019), Louie played Christine Baskets, the hilariously over-the-top mother of Zach Galifianakis’s character. His performance earned him a Primetime Emmy Award and showcased his deep understanding of maternal figures, inspired by his own mother.
Louie also wrote books blending humor and heartfelt storytelling. Hey Mom: Stories for My Mother, But You Can Read Them Too was a humorous yet emotional collection, while Dear Dad: Letters from an Adult Child reflected on his complex relationship with his father.
These works offered readers a closer look at Louie, showing the man behind the microphone.
Louie’s soft, inviting voice was perfect for both stand-up and voice acting. His warm, approachable demeanor and willingness to embrace his size as part of his persona set him apart.
His clean, observational comedy rooted in family stories proved timeless. Louie proved that kindness, warmth, and clean humor could achieve lasting success in an industry that often favors shock and controversy.
Everything Louie did came back to family: childhood experiences, sibling rivalries, parent-child relationships, and the enduring love that persists despite imperfection.
Even with national fame, Louie remained connected to Saint Paul, returning often to celebrate his Midwestern roots—authenticity that audiences admired.
Louie actively supported charities focused on children’s welfare, family support services, and community programs. His generosity reflected the same values as his comedy: kindness, empathy, and a desire to make the world a better place.
Louie married twice in the 1980s; both marriages ended in divorce. Despite this, his commitment to family—blood and chosen—remained unwavering.
Comedy also served as therapy, helping him process his father’s alcoholism and turn hardship into humor. His mother remained his guiding inspiration throughout his life.
Louie Anderson’s impact on comedy extends far beyond laughs. He proved that kindness works, showing that warmth and authenticity can achieve lasting success.
His stories about family were universally relatable, and his self-acceptance—embracing his size, voice, and Midwestern roots—inspired countless others.
Through cross-medium storytelling spanning stand-up, television, books, animation, and voice work, he touched multiple generations.
At its core, Louie Anderson’s comedy was a love letter to his family. Every joke, story, and observation came from a place of deep love and appreciation.
Through decades of performing, Louie never lost sight of what mattered most: family, authenticity, and finding humor in everyday struggles.
Rest in peace, Louie Anderson (March 24, 1953 – January 21, 2022). Thank you for the laughter, the warmth, and for reminding us that family—with all its chaos—is what makes life worth living.
The signature of Benjamin Franklin is on The Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Treaty of Paris that ended the Revolutionary War with Great Britain
I just read a book on Benjamin Franklin, the statesman & inventor whose face is on the American 100 dollar bill.
It was a short little book produced by kappabooks.com, yet it was considerably informative.
B.F was a very wise & witty man
Some look at Mr. Franklin as a natural-born genius, and so do I!
“If you would not be forgotten, as soon as you are rotten, either write things worth reading or do things worth the writing.” Ben Franklin was a gentleman who practiced what he preached.
I recently watched a Ken Burns documentary on Ben Franklin. It was very good.
Born in 1706, Benjamin Franklin is still worth reading about, and if you travel to Philadelphia, you’ll find the Franklin Court and the Benjamin Franklin Museum.
These sites are part of Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
In retrospect, she seemed to be a product, as well as a person.
Colouring her hair light blonde, affecting baby talk now and then, along with her wiggle-walk, seemed to cement her reputation as a vixen, automatically discounting her innate intelligence, and setting herself up as a target for exploitation and envy.
Sadly, she was not able to find serenity in her life, although she seemed to seek it by drinking booze, smoking cigarettes, and swallowing barbiturates.
(Judy Garland also passed away from overdosing on barbiturates.)
Marilyn left a lot behind when she died at the young-ish age of 36 in 1962.
Mostly captured on film, her lovely face and figure, along with her sweet voice, is forever available and easily accessible for all to enjoy.
What are some of your favorite films with Marilyn Monroe?
I really liked her in “Bus Stop,” and “Niagara.”
I’m sorry that she had to endure all kinds of emotional and mental issues, along with addiction problems.
When you consider it, addictions and drug abuse seem to be a sad fate of many rich and famous stars.
Many of them die young, or else prematurely.
Readers are leaders
In the end, what people see when they look at Marilyn Monroe (Norma Jean Baker) depends on how you perceive her in the light of hindsight and our modern-day mindset.
Was Marilyn just a tragic beauty? Or was she just an enviable person out of touch with life’s realities?
Or was she like you and me, someone looking to live life, make friends and be happy.
Chances are, not being famous may be better than all the pressures of dealing with the public, and the share of criticisms, sufferings and insecurities that are often brought on by other people’s demands and expectations!
We will never know what really happened to Marilyn, since conspiracies abound surrounding her death, but in life she certainly made a splash!
Zents Music Studio 