It is truly the end of an era as Barney Neseth steps away from his 10 years of owning JB's Tavern. New owners Dan and Randi Romo are excited to be taking the reins, keeping some of the old favorites, and adding their unique touch as they begin a new chapter in a Wanamingo icon that began in 1909. The Tavern, as it was first named, has changed hands a few times, each time adding upgrades to make it even more than it was before, and this time will be the no different. Dan and Randi have already added a pizza menu, and about 18 appetizers to the menu, while keeping the good ol' burgers and fries we all love. There is more to come, but my lips are sealed until the January issue of the Messenger, so be sure to "stay tuned" for more changes!
About a month ago, Dan asked Barney if he was going to have a "going away" party, and Barney didn't think so. After a bit of coercion, and some more thought, Barney decided to throw a party to thank all his loyal customers and friends for 10 years of support in the venue he began with Justin Nesseth and Angie Anderson. Justin moved to California in 2017, and Angie opened another restaurant with Barney this past June, so when Dan and Randi approached him with a desire to own the bar/restaurant, a deal was signed, sealed and delivered, and as of December 1st, it is beginning anew!
Dan wanted to thank Barney for everything he does for Wanamingo, and the surrounding communities. I want to touch on a few of the myriad of things Barney has been involved in over the years. A man of vision, he dabbled in retail with a Dollar Store and a grocery store. He was County Commissioner for awhile. He started Hometown Liquor, which he sold about a year ago, and it's now Jake's Liquor.
Barney served free meals to the fire department, and had appreciation meals served on various occasions. He is heavily involved in the Kenyon/Wanamingo School system for fundraisers and various activities. He is also a big promoter for fund raising activities for the community. He was an active member of the Commercial Club, and loved doing the planning for the 4th of July activities.
His wife Laura told Dan that Barney loved to put on bean bag tournaments, and that he had as much fun as the people who came out to play! She said he always wanted to use local businesses for whatever he was doing, from Wanamingo, Zumbrota, Pine Island and Kenyon. He is always thinking up something new, and loves to dream big and turn his ideas into reality. He liked hiring locals to work in his businesses, and gave so many people the opportunity to work in their hometown. (Even my uncle Bobby bartended at JB's on his 80th birthday!)
Some of the words used by his friends to describe Barney are Fearless, Generous, Fun, Hardworking, and in the words of the late Bobby Carlson, "Nesseth Good!" Thanks, Barney, for all you have done, and all you will do for the people in this area. We wish you all the luck in the next journey in your life, and know we will still see you around. and most likely be amazed at what you will come up with next!
