Rudlong takes the helm at Kasson American Legion

Mary Rudlong is ready whenever you get off from work. 
That’s when many people visit Kasson American Legion Post 333, where she recently became the new manager.
One of the reasons she enjoys her job so much is because she can “mingle and chat with everybody that comes in,” she said.
Rudlong said the crowds for Minnesota Vikings games have been so-so this season, but she’s hoping that the game-day crowds get bigger if the Vikings advance in the playoffs. 
The American Legion sometimes serves 150 customers on its burger nights and steak nights, she said. 
She said it’s a fun job, regardless of how busy it gets. 
Sherry Zodrow, a customer from Pine Island, said Rudlong does a good job balancing her work with building relationships with her customers.
“She’s the best damn bartender I’ve ever known,” she said. “She always makes sure that everybody has a drink, and always makes time to do a little small talk with her customers.”
Rudlong’s success can be attributed to her years of bartending experience. She spent 12 years managing the Pine Island sports bar and five years working at the Mantorville Saloon. What’s even more impressive is that she did both of those jobs at the same time. 
Zodrow said that experience is very evident. 
“I’ve seen her, by herself, serve one hundred people, and she just keeps going,” she said. “To me, watching her is just amazing.”
Rudlong, an Eyota native, said she doesn’t plan to make any big changes, but she hopes to host more musical acts and karaoke nights (the next one is Saturday, Jan. 27).
After that, the next big event at the Legion is an appetizer cook-off, starting at about 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4 during the Super Bowl. 
Judging starts at 4 p.m.
- See the Kasson American Legion Post 333 Facebook site for more information.