A Little About Our Staff

Travis Foster, a native Californian, is known as one of the most prolific and successful classical and studio musicians in the US.   Travis has performed clarinet on nearly 300 major motions pictures and television shows including the last three installments of the famed Star Wars saga with John Williams, Toy Story 3 & 4, Frozen, The Mandalorian, The Simpsons, the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, and The Incredibles series. A respected educator, Travis is a full Professor in the Riverside Community College District of Southern California.  Mr. Foster has traveled the world for both business and pleasure. In every region he visits, he always makes sure to check out the “local” establishments, especially those places encompassing his love for sports, leisure, and great food. Since 2005, he has been “steeped” in the bar and restaurant world, getting to know the inner workings of some of the most well-known establishments in Palm Springs, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Travis has many old friends (and getting new ones by the minute!) in Red Wing and has traveled here several times over the last decade and is excited to have this project be his new adventure in life, sharing his love of sports and friendly competition and his thirst for great, casual food in an awesome environment.

  Born in Germany, raised in small town South Dakota,

schooled in Rochester MN.

Work life started at the Apache Mall at the age of 15, working a variety of jobs from knick knack kiosks to clothing stores to multiple food vendors. Opportunity came and took off to visit the birthland. 

In Germany, aside from becoming a full time mother, worked in the kitchen of a Schnitzel Haus for multiple years and traveled by train along the grapevine lined train tracks of the Mosel river to experience the land of good food and good wine.

After moving to Red wing in 2008 to be closer to family, worked at the local Perkins, serving. Red Wing shoe factory for 4 years in shoe production, Olivers wine bar in the kitchen with the best employers a person could ask for. USPS as a full time rural route mail carrier for 6 great years with amazing customers. In 2021 approached with an opportunity to learn more and grow. Strive for great management and comfortable work environment we can all call a home away from home and our colleagues are as much family. 

Boom.

"Kevin, General Manager at Home Plate Grill & The Dugout Lounge, has dedicated more than 30 years to the hospitality industry, building his expertise from the ground up. His journey began as a dishwasher, followed by managing a pizzeria. He consistently achieved management positions at each restaurant throughout his career, including owning and operating his own bar right here in Red Wing. Developing his bartending skills in diverse settings, from a casual dive bar to upscale fine dining restaurants, further enhanced his skillset. Kevin's passion for live music, delicious food, and expertly mixed cocktails perfectly aligns with the atmosphere and offerings of Home Plate Grill & The Dugout Lounge.  He also shares the local enthusiasm for Minnesota sports, particularly when the Vikings and Twins are making a push for the playoffs. This progressive experience, local ownership, shared passions, and sports interest give him a comprehensive understanding of the restaurant business and the local community. He is passionate about creating a positive and enjoyable experience for every guest." 

Born and raised in Fresno, California, she put herself through college at California State University, Fresno, working as the shift leader at Wendy’s. She received her BBA and also, minored in computers.

After graduating she worked for Carlin Manufacturing (they built the Oscar Meyer Winer Mobile), as their receptionist and accounts payable. 

She made her way to Lake City, Minnesota, via Amtrak, in 2004. When she arrived in Minnesota, she took a year off and just enjoyed her new surroundings. She ended up working at the Mayo Health System as a housekeep for a few years to fill the time.  

She started working at First Student bus company in 2007. She started as a bus monitor and then started part time in the office as the accounts payable/receivable. She eventually worked her way through the ranks and became the Lead Dispatcher, where she handled all the routes, the bus drivers, all the bus issues, and set up the charters for athletics and field trips. After 17 years, she departed the bus company in May of 2024. 

She joined our team in March of 2024 as a part-time office assistant, while still working at First Student. She became a permanent fixture at Home Plate in June 2024. She handles all of the daily office task, from payroll, human resources, accounts payable/receivables, and then some. You might even see her in the Front of the House as our hostess or bar back, she will even expo food now and then, or be sitting at the bar on Wednesdays playing Boingo, make sure to say Hi.