From poker and local music to Lutefisk, Bootlegger’s has it all

Although the Hollywood Theatre has garnered a fair amount of attention, Berends has not let it diminish any of the offerings at Bootlegger’s; if anything, he’s increased them.

One of the most popular events at the Supper Club has been the weekly “Poker Night.”

Having opened for the first night of the season this last week, owner, John Berends, said that he had his best turnout for an opening night ever.


“One thing I’ve noticed is the level of play has gotten really good. From one year to the next you can see the improvement in every single one of the players that come back, and they really have a ball,” he said.

And just because the level of play is improving, newcomers don’t need to be discouraged. Berends said that newbies are always welcome and that the close knit group is more than happy to teach and work with those looking to get a handle on the game.

The once a week session runs through January and February, and individuals are welcome to come to one or all eight weeks, he said.



Local music

If you’re not a poker player, Bootlegger’s hosts live music every Friday through March that largely stems from local talent.

Tommy Listul and brothers Ben and Clint Lecy drew rave reviews this past week, and more great music is ahead.



In the coming weeks, in order, Guy Stevermer, Steve Barber and Jerry Ostensoe are on the docket.

While Ostensoe is a household name, Berends says he amazed at the talent that comes to light totally to his surprise, such as the case with Barber.

Berends said that Barber handed him a CD recently and based on its content the Bootlegger’s owner was quick to book his act.



“We have huge resources, a lot of really talented people in the area. And most people aren’t really aware of it.”

He had to include himself in this statement in regards to Barber,

“I had always just known him as the girls’ tennis coach,” he mused.



Much more

While his catering business booms, Berends acknowledges that the economic hardships have correlated with a drop in his patrons.

In response to the times, Bootlegger’s is now offering special lower cost dishes for those of us on a budget. Berends says it a natural change that the Supper Club employs in order meet people’s varying dining habits.



Though it is not a new event, Bootlegger’s annual, professionally facilitated, beer tasting event may also be timed right with the recession when it pops it top on January 31. A fundraiser for the Yellow Medicine County Food Shelf, the benefit is twofold: Those in need see an increase in the amount of food available at the “Shelf,” and what better way to deal with recession than to taste some beer?

On January 22, Norwegians, and wannabes, will enjoy a lutefisk and meatball feed. On February 7 there is a Lion’s Buck Yuker Tournament and the Firemen’s Dance in the evening.

In short, there’s always something going on for everybody, and Berends says he has even more ideas stewing for the coming months.