Vacationer May/June 2021

21 May/June 20

BigOleandthe RUNESTONE

CentralLakes

SYMPHONY

OLEOPPE Fest Your

Free guide to the Alexandria Lakes Area

Alexandria

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Express Care Everyone knows, health issues don’t limit themselves to weekdays. Which is why we don’t either.

Express Care Hours: Weekdays 8am–8pm Saturday & Sunday 9am–3pm

Thanks to our Saturday, Sunday and evening hours, when your daughter spikes a fever or your husband has a fishhook mishap, you’ve got a local option for care—other than needing the emergency room.

Whatever your needs, we’re here for you—all week long, and all weekend too!

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During this time of extreme precaution, try using our virtual visit options through MyChart.

If you still need to be seen by a provider in person, please call in advance.

May/June 2021 • Vacationer 3

VACATIONER magazine

T

he pandemic has left us all a little stir crazy, but spring is here, and that gives us an opportunity to get outdoors and help relieve the feelings of cabin fever that social distancing has caused. And while we need to be cautious and follow the guidelines set for us, there are still many opportunities to be outside and appreciate our beautiful area of the state.

From the first hint of spring to the drop of the last leaf, Minnesotans revel in the outdoor life we have available to us, and the Alexandria lakes area has much to enjoy.

We Minnesotans are a hardy bunch and bounce back quickly, taking life as it comes in this part of the country. The return of summer is marked

by Memorial Day and Ole Oppe Fest. The festival includes the Memorial Day parade and ceremony to Lori Mork honor our troops as well as music, food and enterEDITOR tainment.

Love the water? Then head for one of the many lakes for swimming, skiing, boating or fishing. Don’t forget, Minnesota’s fishing opener is one weekend later than normal this year – May 15 – due to the lateness of Memorial Day. Prefer to stay on dry ground? There are nine golf courses for you to choose from. Or skate, hike or bike along the Central Lakes Trail. You have plenty of opportunities to go mountain biking, or try out one of the self-guided walking tours in the area. There are many state, county and city parks where you can enjoy camping or maybe a picnic.

You can browse for antiques, shop Alexandria’s historic downtown or the Viking Plaza, see a movie at the nine-screen theater or tour a winery.

You can explore the area’s fascinating museums and history, including the controversial Kensington Runestone.

Still haven’t found your niche? If your taste runs toward the artistic, there are many wonderful theater productions and concerts to enjoy.

Alexandria and the surrounding area provide a variety of parades, celebrations, and arts and crafts shows throughout the summer.

The annual Art deTour is coming up in June, giving you a chance to see all the fine visual art pieces created right here in the lakes area by local artisans.

There’s an amusement park, go-cart racing, horseback riding and a water park for you to enjoy. Browse through our Vacationer for the endless opportunities that await you. Enjoy!

Echo Press • (320) 763-3133 • www.echopress.com A publication of the Echo Press Publisher: Diann Drew

May/June 2021

Inside this issue

Central Lakes Symphony page 5

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Central Lakes Concert Association..............................................6 Ongoing events.......................................................................................6 Fire Pit Productions............................................................................... 7 Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn...............................................8 Lakes Area Theatre...............................................................................9 Alexandria Art Guild Art deTour................................................... 10 Churches................................................................................................... 13 Calendar of events............................................................................... 18 Shop downtown.................................................................................... 19 Taste of the Lakes Area................................................................... 23

Fishing opener

page 11

ACTIVITIES

National Safe Boating......................................................................... 11 Guided walking tours......................................................................... 12 Big Ole webcam.................................................................................... 12 Memorial Day/Ole Oppe Fest........................................................ 14 Alexandria area golfing..................................................................... 15 Area golf courses.................................................................................. 16 Viking Speedway................................................................................. 20 Sift through antiques.......................................................................... 21 Mountain biking....................................................................................22 Awake the Grapes foot races.........................................................22

Lake Carlos State Park page 28

LAKES, PARKS, MUSEUMS

Legacy of the Lakes Museum....................................................... 24 Runestone Museum/Big Ole......................................................... 26 Area parks............................................................................................... 30 Central Lakes Trail/Public beaches........................................... 32 Area lakes................................................................................................ 34 4 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

CENTRAL symphony LAKES orchestra

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community organization based in Alexandria and dedicated to enriching the lives of audience members through its beautiful orchestra music, the Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra is an organization more than 50 members strong from the communities of Alexandria, Brandon, Carlos, Fergus Falls, Garfield, Glenwood, Miltona, Nelson, Osakis, Villard and Vining.

The orchestra, led by Alexandria Area High School Director of Orchestras Brad Lambrecht, gives musicians a venue to participate in serious music with a symphony orchestra and helps to give back to the community through donations and student scholarships. Rehearsals are held in the Alexandria Area High School Orchestra Room on Tuesday evenings. Membership is open to musicians age 16 and older.

For more information or to find the most up-to-date concert schedule, visit www. centrallakessymphony.org. The CLSO mailing address is 1210 Broadway Street, Suite 240, PMB 105, Alexandria, MN 56308.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCE IMMORTAL WORDS Featuring the Central Lakes Symphony Chorale Sunday, May 23, 2021 , 2:00 p.m.

Performing Arts Center, Alexandria Area High School

Flinn – Concerto for Tuba Featuring Mike Odello, Tuba Bernstein – Chichester Psalms Featuring CLSO Chorale

Giuseppe Verdi – Macbeth Prelude and Che Faceste Featuring CLSO Women’s Chorale

Dedicated to that little place on the lake

The CLSO Chorale is directed by Steve Dietz and welcomes all voices. You can register through Alexandria Community Education.

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CENTRAL LAKES concert association

A

dding to the diversity of entertainment in the Alexandria lakes area, the Central Lakes Concert Association brings beautiful musical performances right to the community.

The CLCA will be bringing in many of the performances that were cancelled last year, including The Folk Legacy Trio, a trio of singers/guitarists, including one long-time member of the Diamonds.

The group performs hits from The Limeliters, Kingston Trio, Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie, The Weavers, The Brothers 4 and Peter, Paul and Mary.

The season line-up also includes Masters of Soul, featuring many of Motowns greatest hits; Janoska, a Viennese classical/jazz ensemble; The Everly Set, a tribute to the Everly Brothers; Barron Ryan, a piano

soloist; Veritas, a male vocal quintet with piano; Josh Young and Emily Padgett, a husband and wife duo singing classic Broadway hits; and Sons of the Pioneers, the famed ensemble originally led by Roy Rogers and now led by his son, Roy Dusty Rogers.

Formed in 1983, the first season of CLCA included four concerts and has expanded to include reciprocity with the Sauk Centre Concert Association, as well as Ortonville/Milbank, Brainerd, Fergus Falls and Wadena, giving patrons an enormous variety of entertainment from September through May. All Alexandria performances are held at the Alexandria Area High School.

For more information on the Central Lakes Concert Association, call (320) 491-6308 or visit www.concertassociation.net.

ONGOING AREA events BLIZZARD HOCKEY

September-March Runestone Community Center, Alexandria www.alexandriablizzard.com

WISSOTA CAR RACING

RED WILLOW ARTS COALITION SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Thursdays, May 27-Sept. 2, 7 p.m.

Douglas County Courthouse lawn, Alexandria www.redwillowartscoalition.org

Saturday, May 8-Labor Day weekend, 6:30 p.m.

Additional specials on other dates, including Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends.

Viking Speedway, Alexandria (320) 491-9249, vikingspeedway.myracepass.com

OPEN MIC NIGHTS

GO-KART RACING

FIRST FRIDAY CONCERTS

Every other Friday, May 14-Sept. 3, 7 p.m.

Douglas County Fairgrounds, Alexandria (320) 267-5186, www.runestonegokart.com

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS First Thursday of each month, 7 p.m.

Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com

6 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

Third Thursday of each month, 7 to 9 p.m.

March-December Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com First Friday of each month March-Dec., 7 to 9 p.m.

Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com

LIVE MUSIC

Year round: Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Memorial Day-Labor Day: Sundays, 1 p.m.

Carlos Creek Winery, Alexandria (320) 846-5443, www.carloscreekwinery.com

VIKINGLAND CORVETTE CLUB'S SUNDAY CRUISE AND DINNER

Sundays, May-September, 4:30 p.m.

All classic and muscle cars included on first Sunday of each month Alexandria Clinic parking lot www.vikinglandcorvetteclub.com

ALEXANDRIA FARMERS MARKET Saturdays, beginning May 8, 9 a.m. to noon.

Thursdays, beginning June 24, 3 to 6 p.m.

Tuesdays, beginning June 29, 9 a.m. to noon.

Last market day will be Saturday, Oct. 30 Big Ole Central Park, Alexandria

HOLMES CITY FARMERS MARKET AND COMMUNITY BREAKFAST Saturdays, beginning May 22, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Breakfast through 10:30 a.m.

Trinity Lutheran Church parking lot, Holmes City

FIRE PIT productions

B

egun in 2018 by Quincy Roers, Fire Pit Production uses the stage at the Lakes Area Theatre for small production plays and provides the community with edgy thought-provoking stage plays. The performances are locally cast.

In the summer, shows are performed outdoors, so bring a lawn chair. Tickets are $10 and are available at the door one hour prior to show time.

First up on the schedule is Gruesome Playground Injuries, from the book by Rajiv Joseph. A dark comedy/drama that’s not your typical love story, this play centers around Doug and Kayleen, who meet at the nurse’s office in their elementary school. The story line follows the two main characters over the next 30 years as they meet multiple times over their injuries, and create an unconventional love story.

Shows will be performed outdoors, weather permitting, with drive-in style theater parking and radio broadcasting available. Masks are not required when seated. A free will offering will be taken.

For more information, visit lakesareatheatre. com/firepit, call 320- or to reserve seating, email lakesareatheatre@gmail.com.

UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS GRUESOME PLAYGROUND INJURIES, May 20, 21, 22; 6:30 p.m. A love story, written in the scars, a play by Rajiv Joseph.

ART, June 24, 25, 26; 6:30 p.m. Revolving around the discussion between three friends, whose discussion not only asks about the nature of art, but the true nature of their friendship.

RUN FOR YOUR WIFE, July 23, 24 29, 30, 31; 6:30 p.m. This British farce revolves around a taxi driver with two wives, each in a different area of London, and the driver’s desperate attempts to keep his double life from exploding.

DEATHTRAP, August 20, 21, 26, 27, 28; 6:30 p.m.

A successful writer of Broadway thrillers is struggling with writer’s block and a shortage of cash.

He has a potential break when he receives a script from a student.

THE CHRISTIANS, September 23, 24, 25; 6:30 p.m. Pastor Paul began his church in a small storefront, but has progressed to encompass thousands in his church. He is about to preach a sermon that could bring everything down.

CAT’S-PAW, October 21, 22, 23; 6:30 p.m. A briliant terrorist is the head of a group responsible for a bomb attack plays a game of cat-and-mouse with a reporter.

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CONCERTS on the courthouse

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lues, country, rock and roll.

The music menu at the Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn each Thursday throughout the summer holds a variety that appeals to the toe-tapper in everyone.

The season opener for 2021 is Schjei Country on May 27. These weekly concerts run through the end of August and are presented by the Red Willow Arts Coalition (RWAC).

The concerts have become one of the area’s most popular social gatherings, where friends and family get together to listen to music.

The RWAC, formed in 2009 to promote the arts and provide entertainment in the lakes area, has been bringing this all together for music fans on the lawn of the Douglas County Courthouse free of charge for several years and plans to provide entertainment again this summer.

Just bring your lawn chair or blanket

8 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

and grab a seat. All concerts begin at 7 p.m.

For more information on the Red Willow Arts Coalition, visit www. redwillowartscoalition.org.

CONCERT SCHEDULE Thursdays, 7 P.M. All concerts are free. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating.

May 27: Schjei Country, country June 3: Livewire, ‘60s/’70s music June 10: Nathan’s Old-Time Band, old time June 17: Honky Tonk Stardust Cowboys, country June 24: Country Roads, John Denver July 1: Blue English, ‘60s July 4: Special Patriotic Concert July 8: Bob and the Beachcombers, surfer rock July 15: Stone Road, country July 22: Rockin’ Hollywoods, ‘50s July 29: Blonde and the Bohunk, country

August 5: 70s Magic Sunshine Band, ‘70s rock August 12: 57 Chevy Reunion Band, oldies August 19: Cimmaron, country/rock August 26: Red Letter Band,

lawn

Christian Rock, ‘50s/’60s September 2: Robby Vee

LAKES AREA theatre

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pening in October 2010, Lakes Area Theatre has entertained audiences, both live and on the radio, for more than a decade, bringing to life mysteries, comedies, detective stories, suspense, drama and westerns.

Lakes Area Theatre performs its shows before a live audience, recording the shows and playing them back on KXRA 1490 AM and from a network of radio stations.

The Lakes Area Theatre troupe is a group of dedicated regional writers, directors, voice actors, musicians, sound effects technicians and recording engineers, all combining their talents to bring you family-friendly and affordable entertainment.

Due to Covid-19, live performances will be held outdoors the second Friday of each month at 7 p.m. on the Hilltop Lumber Stage. Performances are taped at 2214 Geneva Road NE in Alexandria. Tickets are $8 and available at the door only.

You can find the most up-to-date information on performances by visiting the Lakes Area Theatre’s website at www.lakesareatheatre.com or by calling (320) 815-7664.

LIVE PERFORMANCES

The 20201 summer schedule begins in May. MAY 14 •The Nick Files: Spoiler Alert, •My Favorite Husband: Dinner for Twelve

JUNE 11 •Sherlock Holmes: The Yellow Face •A Beary Twisted Tale, The Tale of Two Foodies, and Red, Granny and Wolfowitz JULY 9 •Ray and Iver!

AUGUST 13 •A Night of Short Stories SEPTEMBER 10 •The Great Gildersleeve’s New Secretary, •Life of Riley: Are we ever going to get a car?

OCTOBER 8 •Sully’s, •Ozzie and Harriet: Haunted House WHERE YOU CAN LISTEN

MINNESOTA KASM 1150 AM - Albany, Sunday, 7:30 p.m.

KXRA 1490 AM - Alexandria, Saturday, 12:30 p.m.

KRWC 1360 AM - Buffalo, Sunday, 11:30 a.m.

KBRF 1250 AM - Fergus Falls, Sunday, 6:30 a.m.

WNMT 650 AM - Hibbing, Sunday, 6:30 a.m.

KLFD 1410 AM - Litchfield, Sunday, 4:00 p.m.

KLQP Q92 FM - Madison, Sunday, 1:30 p.m.

KMHL 1400 AM - Marshall, Saturday, 11:05 a.m.

KBEK 95.5 FM - Mora, Sunday, 8 p.m.

KMRS 1230 AM - Morris, Sunday, 6 p.m.

KYMN - Northfield, Sunday, 5:30 a.m.

KRUE 1170 AM - Owatonna, Sunday, 10 a.m.

KWLM 1340 AM - Willmar, Sunday, 8 p.m IOWA .KWQQ 1610am - Farmington, Thursday, 4:30 p.m.

KICI-LP 105.3 FM - Iowa City, Tuesday 9:30 p.m., Friday 6 p.m.

WISCONSIN WIDE-LP 99.1 FM - Madison, Thursday, 10 p.m.

WPCA-LP 93.1 FM Amery, Wednesday, 9 p.m.

NORTH DAKOTA KUAK-LP 102.5 FM - Bismark, Wednesday, noon and Saturday, 1 p.m.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

visit www.lakesareatheatre.com, call (320) 815-7664 or email lakesareatheatre@gmail.com

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ALEXANDRIA art guild A non-profit organization of visual artists in the Alexandria lakes area, the Alexandria Art Guild was formed in 2018 to help create a sense of community among area artists and bring more visibility and unity to Alexandria’s art scene.

The group is not restricted to actual artists but also welcomes art supporters, holds monthly meetings, plans art events and publishes a directory of local artists.

This group organizes the annual Art deTour, a self-guided driving tour of Alexandria area artist studios offering sales direct to the tour-goer.

ART DETOUR Art deTour is a multi-location weekend art tour with two or more artists at each location. Along with their art for sale, many artists will be demonstrating their craft. There is no charge to attend the tour.

Along with hand-crafted jewelry, the Art DeTour will include art glass, mixed media works, paintings, pottery, wood, photography, fiber art and drawings.

This year’s Art deTour will be held Friday-Sunday, June 18-20.

For more information on specific locations and times, vist alexart.org closer to the event.

STUDIOS/ARTISTS ON THE TOUR CLAYHOUSE POTTERY • Sandra Shaughnessy: Functional and food

safe pottery high-fired in a soda kiln in unique forms.

ARTHOUSE • Shirlee Daulton: Woodcuts, handmade paper from plants, fish prints, clay, paintings, fiber arts and unusual jewelry.

PINE MILL FARM FURNITURE • Sharon & Roger Krause: Custom built solid wood lacquer finished furniture.

POMME DE TERRE POTTERY • Sean Scott: Hand-built functional and decorative stoneware pottery.

JD JOHNSON CREATIVE SERVICES • Surf inspired art including resin, acrylic, oil, mixed media, and photography.

KATHERINE BOCKELMANN FINE ARTS • Portraits and drawings of nature in graphite and charcoal.

ART BY MELISSA • Melissa Werpy: Wheel thrown and hand-built pottery with colorful imagery; and pastel, acrylic, oil paintings.

STEVE KING • Stained glass art and functional pieces.

POTTERSMITHS • Kate Smith’s beautiful, durable, food safe, porcelain and stoneware for daily enjoyment. Phil Smith makes whimsical, functional pottery.

BARBARA JOHNSON • Wildlife, nature, and travel photography; prints and functional items.

CHANDA KRAFT ART & DESIGN • Paintings in oil or watercolor and

drawings of landscapes and nature.

WOLF RUN POTTERY • Emily Wolf: Hand-built or wheel thrown functional pottery with dipped glazes.

THREE HAVENS ARTWORKS • Linda Gaugert: Oil, acrylic, watercolor, mixed media, landscapes, home portraits paintings, more. Busy Squirrel Creations • Matt Bakke: Woodwork including turned bowls, art pieces, and wooden games. Donna Dean • Watercolor, multimedia collage, clay, hand-dyed and beaded silk scarves, and seed bead jewelry.

ARTSCAPE STUDIO • Kathy Grundei: Watercolor painting, collage, botanical art, journals and cards.

CANE TOAD STUDIO • Leanne Larson: Original oil paintings, live wedding day paintings done on site.

HANDCRAFTED BY NONI • Naomi Bjorklund: Oil portrait, landscape, and floral paintings. Colorful, handmade enamel jewelry.

TURNING LAKE DESIGNS • Bill Seykora wood turned bowls, colored pencil Lazy Susans, Charcuterie boards, and more. Merodie (Mimi) Seykora stoneware, Raku pottery, and jewelry.

SONG OF RUTH • Ruth Hanson:

Watercolor batik, watercolor and gouache, oil pastel, acrylic, and calligraphy. Prints/cards available.

JT MAUI DESIGNS • Jon Thompson: Jewelry with hammered metals, precious gemstones, and found objects into unique styles.

ART DETOUR ACTIVITIES & DEMONSTRATIONS CLAYHOUSE POTTERY Pottery wheel throwing demonstration ARTHOUSE Demonstration of handmade paper from plants PINE MILL FARM FURNITURE Furniture building demonstration JT MAUI Creating jewelry on site throughout the day POTTERSMITHS Studio tours and wheel-thrown pottery demonstrations 10 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

POMME DE TERRE POTTERY Hand-building pottery techniques demonstrations and studio tours

WOLF RUN POTTERY Wheel thrown pottery demonstration and other process activities

JD JOHNSON CREATIVE SERVICES Music, BBQ, and a demonstration of resin painting

CANE TOAD STUDIOS Live oil painting demonstrations

CHANDA KRAFT ART & DESIGN Kids and kids-at-heart can make a beginner printmaking project FREE watercolor kits for kids while supplies last!

TURNING LEAF DESIGNS Pottery wheel throwing demonstrations SONG OF RUTH Watercolor batik demonstrations

MINNESOTA FISHING opener

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t’s one of Minnesota’s favorite pastimes - fishing – and at this time of year, enthusiasts are gearing up for the opening of fishing season on Saturday, May 15.

Minnesota statute sets the fishing opener as the Saturday two weeks prior to the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. Since this year Memorial Day is the latest it can be, on May 31, that makes the fishing opener on Saturday, May 15.

A great excuse to get out on one of the many lakes in the Alexandria area, fishing is a wonderful way to enjoy the sun, relax and unwind.

If you’re going to fish in Minnesota, don’t forget to pick up a fishing license. Anyone age 16 or older needs to have a current Min-

nesota fishing license in order to hook that lunker.

To buy your license online, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/licenses/ online-sales, by phone at 1-888-6654236 (1-MN-LICENSE) or at approved vendors throughout the state. A list is available at www.dnr.state.mn.us/ licenses/agents.html.

There are a couple of free fishing weekends in Minnesota: May 8-9 – Take A Mom Fishing when Minnesota resident moms fish free. This is the same weekend as Mother’s Day this year; June 11-13 – Take A Kid Fishing, where residents 16 and older fish free with children younger than 16.

Visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/ fishing/ for more information about Minnesota regulations for fishing.

NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK may 22-28

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s the summer approaches, Minnesotans are getting ready to pull out their boats and take to the water. National Safe Boating Week, May 22-28, seeks to remind people about the importance of being safe while on the water.

Be sure to know your boat’s capacity.

If you have too much on your boat, the boat may become unstable and capsize.

Check the weather, including the water temperature.

Know the latest marine weather forecast prior to going out, and keep a regular check for changing conditions.

Wear a life jacket.

No matter what activity you have planned, always remember to wear a life jacket every time you are on the water. Accidents on the water can happen much too fast to reach and put on a stowed life jacket. Make sure your life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard approved, appropriate for your water activity and fits properly.

Dress properly.

Always dress for the weather, wearing layers if cooler weather, and bring an extra set of clothes in case you get wet.

Always follow navigation rules.

Know the “Rules of the Road” such as operator’s responsibility, maintaining a proper lookout, safe speed, crossing, meeting head-on and overtaking situations.

Don’t drink while you boat.

Where the primary cause was known, alcohol was listed as the leading factor in 15 percent of deaths.

Keep in touch.

Communication devices can be the most important piece of emergency equipment on board a vessel, especially in case of emergency.

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HEAD guidedOUTSIDE walking tours

W

ith the nice weather finally upon us, many people are looking to spend more time outside. Exercise is important for mental health, as well as a person’s well-being. It also helps reduce obesity.

Several years ago, Horizon Public Health received a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield and developed Active Living Douglas County. The grant was for five years, and during that time, maps were created with walking routes around the county. Alexandria maps were first created, then maps for Brandon, Evansville, Osakis and Garfield were added.

A coalition of partners were formed in each community and those are the people who helped develop the maps. On each of the maps, there are key points to look for. Some are historical and because the maps were developed several years ago, some of the points, such as local businesses, may no longer exist. However, the routes are still functional.

A total of 20 maps were developed and are available on the Horizon Public Health website, horizonpublichealth.org/services/healthylifestyles/ship/.

Maps can also be found at many different area businesses, including Horizon Public Health, Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Jake’s Bikes, Echo Press and many others throughout Douglas County.

MAP DETAILS For the city of Alexandria, there are a total of five maps – ranging from 1.78 miles to 3.3 miles – with each one focusing on a different area of town.

The map for the Silk Stocking District (1.78 miles), for example, highlights six historic homes, such as the Vernacular Victorian, one-and-a-half story house at 521 Seventh Ave. W. It was built by Lorenzo and Sarah Sims back in 1876. Mr. Sims started the first drug store in Alexandria, the map notes, and Sarah Sims was the sister of William Hicks, property owner in Alexandria. Later, George and Mary Robards, co-owner of Cowing-Robards Hardware, owned the house.

The map labeled Douglas County Historical Society (3.3 miles) includes, of course, the Douglas County Historical Society, as well as Noonan Park and the former Soo Line railroad.

On each of the maps for each of the five cities, not only are the key points marked, but there is a brief description included.

12 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

BIG OLE webcam

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ocals and visitors alike can stop by Big Ole and take a selfie using the Big Ole webcam that is found on the ALP Utilities website – www.alputilities. com/big-ole-webcam/.

It’s a fun way to get a group shot with the 28-foot fiberglass statue located in Big Ole Central Park. Once you open the website on your cell phone, just take a screenshot to capture you, your group and the famous Viking statue.

You must use Firefox, Safari or Edge browsers.

Chrome currently does not work with the ALP camera, which is mounted on the pole in front of Big Ole.

Come Worship With Us! LAKES LAKES AREA AREA CHURCHES CHURCHES WELCOME WELCOME YOU YOU

Alexandria Alexandria Alexandria Covenant Alexandria Covenant 4005 Dakota St., 320-763-5659

4005 Dakota St., 320-763-5659 alexandriacovenant.org alexandriacovenant.org Pastor: John LeVahn, Sr. Pastor Pastor: John LeVahn, Traditional: 8 am Sr. Pastor Traditional: 8 am Contemporary: 9:30 and 11:00 am Contemporary: 9:30 and 11:00 am

Alexandria United Methodist Alexandria United Methodist 2210 Sixth Ave. E, www.alexumc.org 2210 Sixth Ave. E, www.alexumc.org Pastor: Gary Taylor Pastor: Gary Taylor Sunday Worship: 9 am Sunday&Worship: 9 am10 am Coffee Fellowship: Coffee & Fellowship: 10 am

Berea Lutheran Brethren Berea Lutheran Brethren 1605 6th Ave E., 320-762-1092

1605 6th Ave E., 320-762-1092 www.welcometoberea.org www.welcometoberea.org Pastor: Steve Walswick Pastor: Steve Walswick Sunday Worship: 10:30 am (Memorial Day - Labor Day) Sunday Worship: 10:30 am (Memorial Day - Labor Day) with coffee hour to follow with coffee hour to Holy Communion:follow 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month Holy Communion: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month

Emmanuel Episcopal Emmanuel 12th Ave. E & LakeEpiscopal St., 320-763-3201

12th Ave. E & Lake St., 320-763-3201 www.alexmnepiscopal.org www.alexmnepiscopal.org episcopal@centurylink.net episcopal@centurylink.net Pastor: Rev. Tom Sinning Pastor: Rev. Tom Sinning Sunday Worship: 10:30 am Sunday Worship: 10:30 am

First Congregational United First Congregational United Church of Christ Church of Christ 221 Seventh Avenue W., 320-763-3341

221 Seventh Avenue W., 320-763-3341 www.firstcongregationaluccalex.com www.firstcongregationaluccalex.com office@firstcongregationaluccalex.com office@firstcongregationaluccalex.com youtube@firstcongregationaluccalexandriamn youtube@firstcongregationaluccalexandriamn Pastor: Rev. Dr. Jill Sanders Pastor: Rev. Dr. Jill 10 Sanders Sunday Worship: am Sunday Worship: 10 am of the month Communion: 2nd Sunday Communion: Sunday of the KXRA radio broadcast2nd 1st Sunday of the monthmonth watch each weekday

KXRA radio broadcast 1st Sunday of the month watch each weekday morning 9am Cable 181 morning 9am Cable 181

First Lutheran (ELCA) First Lutheran (ELCA) 1655 18th Ave. E • 320-762-2196

1655 18th Ave. E • 320-762-2196 www.firstlutheranalexandria.com www.firstlutheranalexandria.com Greg Billberg, Kari van Wakeren & Ben Jacobson Pastors: Greg Billberg, Kariam van Wakeren & Ben Jacobson Pastors:Worship: Sunday 8:30 Sunday Worship: 8:30 am You can tune to 1490 AM / 100.3 FM at 10:00 am to listen Yourebroadcast can tune toof1490 AM /worship 100.3 FMservice. at 10:00 am to listen to our 8:30 to rebroadcast of our 8:30 worship service.

Good Shepherd Lutheran (LCMS) Good Lutheran (LCMS) 2702 Hwy.Shepherd 29 N, 320-762-5152 2702 Hwy. 29 N, 320-762-5152 www.goodshepherd-LCMS.org www.goodshepherd-LCMS.org Pastor: Tim Schiller Pastor: Tim Schiller9 am Sunday Worship: Sunday Worship: am& 2nd Sundays Holy Communion:91st Holy Communion: 1st & 2nd Sundays

Lake Community Lake Community 490 Voyager Dr., 320-762-5424

490 Voyager Dr., 320-762-5424 www.lakecommunity.org www.lakecommunity.org Pastor: Jon Ewton Pastor: Jon Ewton 9 am & 10:30 am Sunday Worship: Sunday Worship: 9 am & 10:30foramboth services Children’s Ministry: Available Children’s (birth - 5th Ministry: grade) Available for both services (birth - 5th grade) Living Word Lutheran (LCMC) Living Word Lutheran (LCMC) 1722 16th Ave. E., 320-762-1997 1722 16th Ave. E., 320-762-1997 www.livingwordalexmn.org www.livingwordalexmn.org Pastor: Nate Hanson Pastor: Nate Hanson Sunday Worship: 9 am Sunday Worship: 9 am

New Testament New Testament 2505 Hwy 29 North, 320-762-2444

St. Paul’s Lutheran (WELS) St.Victoria Paul’s 718 Dr., Lutheran 320-762-1644 (WELS)

718 Victoria 320-762-1644 Pastor: MikeDr., Neumann Pastor: Mike Neumann Sunday Worship: 9 am; Bible Class: 10:30 am Sunday Worship: am;Sunday Bible Class: Communion: 1st &93rd of the10:30 montham Communion: 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month

Other Other Areas Areas St. John’s St.Park John’s 101 St.. Garfield, 320-834-2248

101 ParkJeffery St.. Garfield, Pastor: Ross 320-834-2248 Pastor: Jeffery Ross9 am with coffee and fellowship Sunday Worship: Sunday Worship: 9 am with coffee and fellowship to follow to follow Sunday School & Bible Study: 10:15 am Sunday School2nd & Bible Study: 10:15 Communion: & 4th Sunday of the am month Communion: 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month

THESE TIMES APPLY MAY 1ST - 30TH THESE TIMES APPLY MAY 1ST - 30TH WWW.CATHOLICCHURCHES-BMUP.ORG WWW.CATHOLICCHURCHES-BMUP.ORG

Sacred Heart Catholic, Urbank Sacred Heart Sunday Mass: 8:30 amCatholic, Urbank Sunday Mass: 8:30 am

Seven Dolors Catholic, Millerville Seven Mass: Dolors Catholic, Millerville Saturday 7:30 pm

2505www.ntcalexandria.org Hwy 29 North, 320-762-2444 add add www.ntcalexandria.org Pastors: Peter Reishus & Mike Loween Pastors: Peter Reishus Mike Sunday Worship: 9:30&am & 11Loween am Sunday Worship: 9:30 am & 11 am

St. Ann’s Catholic, Brandon St. Ann’s Sunday Mass:Catholic 10:30 am , Brandon

St. Mary’s Catholic St.Irving Mary’s 420 Street,Catholic 320-763-5781

St. Williams, Parkers Prairie St. Williams , Parkers Saturday Mass: 4:00 pm Prairie

420 Irving Street, 320-763-5781 www.stmaryalexandria.org www.stmaryalexandria.org Father Steven M. Binsfeld Father Steven M. Binsfeld Saturday Mass: 5 pm SaturdayMass: Mass:8 am 5 pm& 10 am Sunday Sunday Mass: & 10church am for times Weekday Mass:8 am Contact Weekday Mass: Contact church for times Sacrament of Penance: 4 pm Saturday Sacrament of Penance: 4 pm Saturday

Saturday Mass: 7:30 pm

Sunday Mass: 10:30 am

Saturday Mass: 4:00 pm

PAID ADVERTISMENT PAID ADVERTISMENT

May/June 2021 • Vacationer 13

MEMORIAL day

O

n Memorial Day, the day for honoring the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. Military, the Alexandria area honors the fallen with parades and programs.

Alexandria’s Memorial Day parade begins at 10 a.m. and participants in the parade will march down Broadway ending at Kinkead Cemetery for a Memorial Day service, which is set to begin at 11 a.m.

Visit the Echo Press newspaper website closer to the event for the latest information at www.echopress.com.

OLE OPPEfest

M

emorial Day weekend is also the official beginning of summer, and Alexandria’s kickoff event is Ole Oppe Fest, featuring live music, food, activities, wing competition, beer garden and more.

Ole Oppe Fest will be celebrated Friday-Saturday, May 28-30 on the shores of Lake Agnes, just north of downtown at Big Ole Park.

Dubbed Ole Oppe Fest (oppe means “up” in Norwegian), this event celebrated Big Ole’s new paint job and reinforced body.

Celebration events that have been held in conjunction with the Big Ole celebration include car shows, axe throwing, a vendor fair, live music, wing competition and beer garden.

Be sure to visit the Ole Oppe Fest Facebook page at alexjaycees.com/what-we-do/ ole-oppe-fest for the most recent information on its schedule.

14 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

Check out alexjaycees.com/what-we-do/oleoppe-fest closer to the event for a complete list of all events.

Rain or shine, the celebration will be held on Second Avenue. Make sure not to miss it!

ALEXANDRIAgolfing AREA

F

or winter weary Minnesotans, spring offers freedom from the confines of their homes and one of the first places they head to is the golf courses.

The Alexandria area certainly doesn’t lack for green fairways, with more than 15 courses available for those hungry for the challenge.

Minnesota consistently ranks at or near the top in golfer participation. In fact, in 2005, it has the highest number of golfers per capita of any state in the U.S., according to the National Golf Foundation.

Many think Minnesota’s golf season is short, but most years there are six full months of golf opportunities on courses that are lush and full.

Whether a beginner at the game or a scratch golfer, the Alexandria area holds the perfect course for you. From small, 9-hole courses to 27-hole masterpieces, this area’s courses are beautifully designed and well kept; perfect for a long afternoon of outdoor entertainment with friends.

GOLF ECONOMICS The sport of golf’s economic output (direct, indirect and induced) contributed $2.4 billion to the economy. The Land of 10,000 Lakes has 508 golf courses and employs more than 34,000 people.

PLAYER OF THE YEAR Alexandria native and golf pro Tom Lehman is the only golfer to win Player of the Year honors on the PGA Tour, Champions tour and Web.com tour.

GOOD HOSTS Minnesota is the only state to have hosted all USGA national championships, the Walker Cup, Curtis Cup and the men’s and women’s state team championships as well as the Ryder Cup in 2016. It hosted the PGA Championships in 1932, 1954, 1959, 2002, 2008 and 2009.

Minnesota will host the PGA Tour’s 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities, July 22-25.

t Service!

Low Prices! Huge Selection! Grea L

Alex’s Largest Selection of Cold Domestic, Import & Craft Beers, Plus Wine, Liquor & Much More!

Co Rd 42NE

Your One - Stop Beer, Wine & Liquor Shop!

29 McDonald’s

CASH WISE LIQUOR

Chamber Of Commerce

29

3rd Ave E 29

View our ads online at www.cashwiseliquor.com HOURS: Monday-Saturday 8am-10pm Sunday 11am-6pm 801 North Nokomis St. NE, Alexandria • 320-762-2524

7044_021618

May/June 2021 • Vacationer 15

GOLF COURSES

Your Guide to Area

Discover the Difference - Est. 1915 2300 N Nokomis NE, Alexandria, MN 56308 Pro Shop - 320.763.3605 Clubhouse - 320.763.3604

Call for Tee Times or Book Online 320-886-1400 www.hardwoodhillsgolf.com 5 miles west of Alexandria on Hwy 27 to CR 27, follow signs

16 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE 2100 Arrowwood LaneinNW • Alexandria Celebrating the 100th Resorters 2021 | Open to the Public 320-762-TEES (8337) Follow uswww.arrowwoodresort.com on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

SEASONAL OR WEEKLY PUNCH CARDS

• Scenic • Jr. & Sr. Rates • Challenging • Cart Rental Available • Par 35 • Driving Range • Food & Beverages Available

GOLF COURSES

Your Guide to Area

For more information & pricing visit www.lakemiltonagolfclub.com or like us on Facebook Facebook.com/lakemiltonagolf

Call Ahead for Tee Times 320-852-7078 3868 County Road 5 NE, Alexandria MN 56308 Located 9 miles North of Alexandria on Hwy 29.

Left on County Rd 5 – ¼ mile.

18 HOLE GOLF COURSE – PAR 72

• Pro-Shop with Rentals • GPS, Bluetooth access speakers, live • Driving Range & Practice HDTV, music streaming and sports ticker • PGA Member on Staff on all carts • Open to the Public • ATM and WIFI Available • Full Menu & Bar • Mon, Wed, Sat & Sun After 3 pm Specials

218-685-4271 www.tipsinahgolf.com 15185 Golf Course Road Elbow Lake, MN 56531

West from Alexandria 25 miles on I-94 to Evansville - Elbow Lake Exit 82, West 6 miles on Hwy 79, then North 1 mile on Golf Course (Co. 24) Rd.

18 HOLES OVERLOOKING POMME DE TERRE LAKE

• Lush, Open Fairways • Group Rates Available

• Challenging Greens • Relaxed & Friendly Atmosphere

Weekday Rates: 18 holes with cart $32 (Not Available on Holidays or Thursdays)

May/June 2021 • Vacationer 17

ALEXANDRIA area events calendar

MAY

1 - 4:30-6:30 p.m. Theatre L’Homme Dieu Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby Party, Carlos Creek Winery (320) 846-3150 1 - 9 a.m. Viking Seafaring Vessel Display, Runestone Museum 1 - 7:30 p.m. On Golden Pond, Andria Theatre 2 - 2 p.m. On Golden Pond, Andria Theatre 6 - 6:30 p.m. History At Home: Gar Wood, alexandria. ce.eleyo.com 7 - 7-9 p.m. Songs of the 60s, Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center 13 - 6:30 p.m. History At Home: Phil Noonan, alexandria. ce.eleyo.com 14 - 7 p.m. “The Nick Files: Spoiler Alert” and “My Favorite Husband: Dinner for Twelve,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre 15 - 6 p.m. Alexandria Fire Bull-A-Rama, Runestone Community Center 20 - 6:30 p.m. History At Home: A Biography of a One Room Schoolhouse, alexandria.ce.eleyo.com 20-22 - 6:30 p.m. “Gruesome Playground Injuries,” Fire Pit Productions, lakesareatheatre.com/firepit 23 - Immortal Words, Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra and Chorale 26 - 11 a.m. Alexandria Technical & Community College Foundation – Scramble for Scholarships Golf Tournament (320) 762-4435 27 - 7 p.m. Schjei Country Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 28-30 - Ole Oppe Fest, downtown Alexandria, alexjaycees.com

18 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

30 - Awake the Grapes 10K/5K/0K Run, Carlos Creek Winery 31 - Blue Star Museum Program begins (Current service members and up to five family members receive free museum admission until Sept. 6)

JUNE

3 - 7 p.m. Livewire Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 7 - 10 a.m. Duffers Delight Golf Tournament, Alexandria Golf Club 10 - 7 p.m. Nathan’s Old-Time Band, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 11 - 7 p.m. “Sherlock Holmes:The Yellow Face,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre 11-13 - History Live, tentative, Runestone Museum 16 - 11:30 a.m. Habitat Hardhat Luncheon, Knute Nelson Memorial Park 16 - 4:30 p.m. Happy Hour, Knute Nelson Memorial Park 16-19 - 7 p.m. Grease, Andria Theatre 17 - 7 p.m. Honky Tonk Stardust Cowboys Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 18-20 - Art DeTour, multiple artists and locations, http://alexart.org 18-20 - Runestone Days, Kensington 23-26 - 7 p.m. Grease, Andria Theatre 24 - 7 p.m. Country Roads Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 24-26 - 6:30 p.m. “Art,” Fire Pit Productions, lakesareatheatre.com/firepit 27 - Vikingland Band Festival, Alexandria, tentative, marching.com/events/vbf TBD - Music in the Gardens, legacyofthelakes.org

JULY

1 - 7 p.m. Blue English Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 3-4 - 7 p.m. Special July 4 Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 4 - Evansville Red White & Boom Days, EvansvilleCommunity Club Facebook page 4 - StarStorm, Arrowwood 8 - 7 p.m. Bob & The BeachCombers Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 9 - 7 p.m. “Ray and Iver,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre 9-10 - Legacy of the Lakes Museum Classic Boat Show, legacyofthelakes.org

SUPPORT THESE LOCAL MERCHANTS

Shop Alexandria Creative Touch 516 Broadway, Alex 320-762- 8786 111 6th Avenue West, Downtown Alexandria 320-762-0309 • 800-58-5336

DOWNTOWN ALEXANDRIA • LITTLE FALLS

320.763.5157 • M-F 9-7; SAT. 9-5:30; SUN. 12-4

Women & Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Accessories and Household Decoratives

A natural path to better health.

1 Hour Massages for $50 1804 S. Broadway • Alexandria, MN • 320.763.0313 activecarealexandria.com

Let Kyle Serve You!

418 N. Broadway, Alexandria • 320.762.1538 Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10-5

Studio 7

Velkommen!

Featuring Imports from all Scandinavian Countries 604 Broadway, Alexandria • 320.763.6363

Custom Framing

522 Broadway

Alexandria, MN 56308

320-763-6179

artgattery522@hotmail.com

www.scandinaviangifts.com

Showcase your local business!

Contact The Echo Press to Reserve Your Space for 2021

320-763-3133 May/June 2021 • Vacationer 19

VIKING SPEEDWAY racing

T

he 56th racing season at the Viking Speedway gets underway on May 8, and racers and fans will continue to see action this summer on the 1/2-mile track.

The speedway has been home to stock car racing at its finest, featuring WISSOTA sanctioned classes – Modifieds, Super Stocks, Midwest Modifieds and Street Stocks – since 1953.

Racing is normally held every Saturday night from the beginning of May through Labor Day, along with a few other specials throughout the summer.

Highlighting the racing season will be the Hall of Fame night on August 1 as well as the Jerry Kluver Memorial Super Stock Special on August 8.

The Viking Speedway is located at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Alexandria, approximately 3/4 mile west of State Highway 29 on County Road 82.

Pit gates open at 3 p.m. and the grandstand opens at 5 p.m. Racing action gets under way at 6:30 p.m. Pit game admission is $30, and $10 for children 10 and younger. Those children younger than 18 must have a parent complete and sign a waiver before being admitted.

Grandstand admission for regular race events is $13 for senior and college students, $15 for adults, with free admission for children 17 and younger. Admission prices in both the grandstand and the pits may vary for special events.

VIKING SPEEDWAY SCHEDULE

MAY 8: 56th Viking Speedway season opener 15: Regular racing plus Late Models 22: Super Stock Special, All classes 29-30: Memorial Day doubleheader JUNE 5: Demolition derby 12: Midwest Modified Special 19: First Responder Night, regular racing 26: NAPA Night – Mid-season championship JULY 3: Late Model Special 10: Advantage RV Modified Tour, no Street Stocks 17: NO RACING 24: Regular racing

31: Hall of Fame Night, Vintage Cars

AUGUST 6: NTPA Truck and Tractor Pull, no racing 14: Regular racing 20: Demolition Derby, no racing 28: Season championship night plus Late Models SEPTEMBER 4: Labor Day doubleheader, 7th Annual Fallen Lineman 5: Labor Day doubleheader, rain date for Fallen Lineman night.

Check out the Viking Speedway website for the most up-to-date schedule at www.vikingspeedway. net.

Gift Department

• Unique Gifts for All Occasions, Baby to Bridal Showers • Children Toys • Clothing • Jewelry • Home Accents • Seasonal Items

WE’RE YOUR HOMETOWN PHARMACY Supplying all of your prescription & home medical needs

Alexandria | Parkers Prairie | Elbow Lake | Glenwood www.trummdrug.com 20 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

SIFT THROUGH ANTIQUES discover unexpeceted treasure

L

ines of businesses situated along Broadway Street in the heart of Alexandria encourage visitors to stroll through their doors and explore what they have to offer. After securing a parking spot, shoppers are sure to stay warm and cozy while bouncing in and out of different stores.

In addition to the heated spaces to wander around in, another highlight of the bustling downtown area is the antique stores.

Categorizing a store as “antique” will immediately draw the attention of some and repel the interest of others.

However, there may be something waiting around the corner or on a shelf for just about anyone.

Antique stores contain more than rotary phones, model cars and worn

furniture. Although, if that’s what the buyer is seeking, he or she will surely come across those items, too.

These shops also hold unique clothes, suitcases, home decor and so much more.

Sure, any of those would be plainly sorted at a department store, but they would most likely be double the price.

Finding a good deal just increases the benefit of shopping secondhand.

Thrifting is a different kind of adventure because things can be rediscovered and reused for a second life they never would’ve had if the original owner had thrown them away.

Whether you’ve never stepped foot in an antique store or thrifting is your middle name, it’s worth a shot to go antiquing on Broadway.

Commercial Residential Streets & Roads

New Construction Resurfacing Driveways

Parking Lots Sports Courts Agriculture

Alexandria’s

AMAZING

Liquidation Center!

Paving Contractors Asphalt Paving Contractors

40,000 sq. ft. of Great Deals!

6464 Cty Rd 87 SW, Alexandria, MN 56308 (320)-335-2908 office • (320)-304-9054 www.fergusonasphaltpaving.com • email: paving.ferguson@gmail.com

• insurance losses • factory direct merchandise • salesman samples • truck upsets & container damage • unclaimed freight • furniture closeouts • complete mattress center • clothing, groceries, hardware & so much more!

FERGUSON BROTHERS

EXCAVATING INC

Since 1979

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SITEWORK & UTILITIES DIRECTIONAL BORING & DRILLING • ROAD BUILDING • ROCK (ALL SIZES) • BASEMENTS • FOOTINGS • FROST DIGGING • SCRAPER WORK • LANDSCAPING • BUILDING DEMOLITION • SEWER HOOK-UPS

• RIP RAP SHORELINES • WATER LINES • DRAIN TILE SYSTEMS • CLASS 5 GRAVEL • DRAINAGE CORRECTIONS • FILL MATERIAL • GRADING • SCREENED BLACK DIRT • CONCRETE & BLACKTOP • CUSTOM GRAVEL & ROCK CRUSHING DISPOSAL • ASPHALT • DIRECTIONAL BORING • COMMERCIAL UTILITIES • DEMOLITION CONTRACTOR

320-762-0622 • Tim Cell: 320-808-0581 • 2050 Co. Rd. 82 NW, Alexandria

Everyday savings of

30-70% off

regular retail merchandise!

There’s always a good deal at Ron’s!

Hwy 28 East, Alexandria • 320-763-5555 • www.ronswarehouse.com

fergusonbrothers@gmail.com • www.fergusonbrothersexcavating.com

May/June 2021 • Vacationer 21

MOUNTAIN BIKE trails at Brophy

A

rea bikers have even more options with the addition of mountain biking trails at Lake Brophy County Park, with the Runestone Off Road Cyclists Club playing an integral role by helping secure federal matching grants.

The results are a wonder to behold.

“We’re really happy with the way they turned out,” biker and club member Jeff Brand said.

“It’s difficult. It’s unique.”

It also prompted a veteran mountain biker to call the trails “amazing.”

Brand explained that most trails in Minnesota are cross-country oriented, weaving through wooded areas. These, Brand said, feature “rocks, rollers and burns … and a fair amount of elevation in a relatively short space.”

Todd Emmons, another dedicated bicyclist, has spent a lot of time on the mountain bike trails at Lake Brophy County Park, and has been quite impressed.

The trails are on a rolling hills setting, and have jumps and banked corners.

“You can actually get parallel to the ground on some of them,” he said, while bikers can soar several feet into the air on the jumps. The biking term “mandatory air” most definitely applies.

DRAWING CARD Another Douglas County Park, Kensington Rune Stone Park, has fairly-new dedicated mountain bike trails that include a 3.5-mile loop and several shorter ones. When you add those to others, including ones being built in Glenwood, the area will be able to claim 35-40 miles of trails, Brand said.

The Cuyuna Lakes Mountain Bike Trails in Ironton are often mentioned as a big regional draw for bikers, and trails in Duluth and the Twin Cities also bring bikers from outside the area. The Brophy trails could fit the same bill, with Brand calling this a tremendous opportunity to bring bikers from all over into the Douglas County area.

Emmons agreed.

“We’re going to draw some of those people here,” he said.

LAKE BROPHY COUNTY PARK A nice park overlooking Lake Brophy and North Union Lake. The park has a fully accessible playground, a fire pit, dock, overlook benches, primitive trails for hiking & mountain biking, public beach and direct access to the Central Lakes Trail. In the winter, enjoy a groomed sledding hill, fat tire biking and cross country ski trails.

AWAKE THE GRAPES foot races

J

oin runners of all skills as they gather at Carlos Creek Winery for the 10th annual Awake the Grapes 5K and 10K races on Sunday, May 30.

Even if you’re not a runner, you can still show support by entering the Awake the Hops run for those 21 and older. With your donation, you’ll receive an Awake the Hops T-shirt and drink ticket.

At 9 a.m. the 10K race begins with runners heading out through the winery property and vineyards, then on to County Road 34, along the east side of Lake Ida, east on County Road 61 to County Road 34 and back to the winery.

22 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

The 5K race begins at 9:15 a.m. Runners will race around the Carlos Creek Winery property and through the onsite vineyards.

Each runner will receive an Awake the Grapes long-sleeved T-shirt. Register online at raceroster. com/events/2021/44595/awake-thegrapes Carlos Creek Winery is located at 6693 County Road 34 NW in Alexandria.

To contact the winery, call (320) 846-5443.

Taste of the Lakes Area

FOOD & HOSPITALITY • Farm Fresh Menu • Home Inspired Items • Rustic Décor • One of Alexandria’s Newest Restaurants

OPEN DAILY Serving lunch & dinner • PRIME RIB (served nightly) • BURGERS • STEAKS • SEAFOOD • PASTAS • ICE CREAM DRINKS • FULL BAR

Voted #1 Steakhouse in the Lakes Area!

Viking Plaza Mall • Alexandria • 320-762-2697

DAILY HAPPY HOUR 3-6 PM & 9-11PM LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK BREAKFAST SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

Check out our FB page for daily specials!

Mon.-Sat. open at 11am. Sun. open @3pm

Alexandria, MN Call 320-763-9983 www.willytsalex.com

4960 Co. Rd. 42 NE, Alexandria 1 Block North of the Carlos / L’ Homme Dieu bridge

320-846-1051 www.interlacheninn.com

Since 1925, Alexandria’s Recommended Family Dining

BREAKFAST SERVED ALL DAY

Daily Specials MONDAY- 4 TO 8 - $2.00 Burger A.y.c.e- fantail shrimp, $12.95 night - Garlic shrimp, $12.95 - 8 oz.

TUESDAY- 5 TO 8 - $7.99 A.Y.C.E. Cod filet, $11.95 - BBQ ribs, Taco buffet $12.95 - Hamburger steak, WEDNESDAY- ALL DAY - Wraps $12.95 (Add mushrooms and Wednesday onions) - 2- Walleye filet, THURSDAY- 11 TO 2 - Cook’s $16.95; ALL entree’s include: choice, HOMEMADE Dinner Choice of potato, Soup, Salad THURSDAY- 5 TO 8 - Wings, bar, and Homemade desserts choice of appetizer, Pitcher of SATURDAY - Cook’s Choice, beer or pop, $14.99 2:00 BARGO and meat raffle FRIDAY NIGHT- Salad bar- $9.95; (seasonal- October thru May) A.y.c.e- fish fillets, $11.95; SUNDAY - Cook’s Choice EVERY OTHER SUNDAY, COUNTRY MUSIC 2:00 TO 6:00 TUESDAY THRU FRIDAY, HAPPY HOUR, 2/4/1’S, 4:00 TO 6:00 Watch Facebook and Web page for other specials and events.

Everyone welcome!

We look forward to seeing & meeting everyone!

51 Main St West Union, MN 56389 | (320) 352-0123

VISIT US AT TRAVELERSINNCAFE.COM

Full Menu from Omlettes & Pancakes, to Walleye & Prime Rib  Known for Great Breakfasts: Egg Dishes, Omelettes, Pancakes, Waffles, Biscuits & Gravy  Breakfast Specials Mon - Sat. ‘til 10am  Homemade Soups & Daily Specials  Deli Sandwiches  Area’s Best Salad Bar  Caramel Rolls, Homemade Pies 

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

511 Broadway - Historic Downtown - 320-763-4000

LEGACY OF THE LAKES museum

M

uch of Minnesota’s history is inspired by the many beautiful lakes throughout our state, and the Legacy of the Lakes Museum and Gardens is dedicated to bringing that history to the public.

Opening May 21, the museum features handcrafted wooden boats, grand hotels and fishing clubs, bringing to life traditions that reach back nearly a century and a half.

These diverse exhibits, as well as the Gardens, are all part of the Legacy of the Lakes Museum, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of antique and classic watercraft, resort memorabilia and sporting equipment used on the Minnesota lakes.

Originally known as the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum, the name was changed to Legacy of the Lakes in 2016 to better communicate and reflect its mission of celebrating shared memories and experiences of Minnesota lake life, preserving it for future generations.

In 2018, the BoatHouse, an indoor event center, was added and is available for rent for weddings, corporate events and

family gatherings as well as a place for the museum to host educational programs and includes an indoor event hall, bathrooms and bridal suite/greenroom.

Several Zoom classes are scheduled at the museum for 2021 including Local Legends: Gar Wood on May 6.; Exploring History: VIking Navigation on June 10; and Secrets of the Past: Rum Running on July 29. All classes are from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

The museum is located in downtown Alexandria at 205 Third Avenue West, near the Alexandria Fire Department. The museum office is open Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cost of admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors 65 and older, $5 for military and veterans and students ages 5-17 and $25 for families (parent and children 17 years of age and younger.) Children 5 and younger are free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Contact the museum at (320) 759-1114 or through its website www.legacyofthelakes.org for more information.

MUSEUM EXHIBITS

GRAND HOTELS AND RESORTS Each June they would arrive via the Great Northern and Minneapolis, St. Paul and Sault Ste. Marie Railroads, bringing trunks filled with silks and linens, formal dinner wear and European hats.

See how these affluent early visitors summered in grandeur.

WOODEN BOATS Since the Museum’s inception, wooden boats have held center stage. Few museums offer as wide a range of rare boats including Chris-Craft, Gar Wood, Century and Hackercraft, as well as the ultimate collection of made-in-Minnesota craft.

SHAPES OF THE FUTURE Fiberglass revolutionized the boating industry— making boats more affordable while enabling radical new designs. See some of the coolest in our “Fiberglassics” exhibit today.

GO FISH! See how fishing technology has evolved since our area first became famous for great fishing in the late 1800s. Check out some amazing catches and learn about the legendary guides that made them possible.

THE MINNESOURI CLUB In 1890, 20 men from Missouri and 15 from Minneapolis formed a club overlooking the waters of Lake Miltona. Experience life on the lake back in the day with our re-creation of a Minnesouri Club front porch.

MADE IN MINNESOTA! Minnesota’s been home to skilled watercraft builders since Native Americans first fashioned birch bark canoes hundreds of years ago. The museum boasts the most complete collection of Minnesota-made boats from Larson to our own Alexandria Boat Works.

24 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

Our family welcomes yours!

Hwy 29 N • Alexandria• 320-762-1324

r e m o t Cus ! s e t i r o Fav LASAGNA

Enjoy Angelina’s Outdoor Patio an d Rooftop Seating

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RUNESTONE museum

T

he Runestone Museum has been inspiring curiosity about local history and heritage for more than 50 years.

The world famous and controversial Kensington Rune Stone was the Runestone Museum’s only artifact when it opened its doors in 1958. Since then, the museum has expanded to include exhibits celebrating native Minnesotans, emigrants and immigrants, Minnesota wildlife and events that shaped the area.

Fort Alexandria, commissioned in 1862, has been recreated with rescued historical structures, such as a nearly exact replica of the stockade built in 1862, an 1889 church, a log cabin built in the late 1860s and an 1885 schoolhouse. The fort is located in the outdoor portion of the campus that is open April-October. Housing rare and exciting artifacts like a Middle Ages Nordic fire steel and a 1920s jingle dress, the Runestone Museum is sure to impress whether you’re interested in history, heritage or the natural sciences.

Both the museum and gift shop are now open with limited capacity.

Face mask use and additional safety procedures are in place.

Currently, the museum is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information call (320) 763-3160, or visit the museum’s website at www.runestonemuseum.org for the most up-to-date admission prices and hours. Check out the museum’s Facebook page at Runestone Museum Foundation.

KENSINGTON RUNESTONE It’s a controversy more than 100 years in the making: Did an immigrant Swedish farmer find a buried rock in 1898 that contained an ancient runic message carved

by Viking explorers 100 years before Columbus landed in America? Or is the whole thing a hoax, perpetrated by the farmer or some other prankster?

A large replica of the Kensington Runestone is located at a small, wayside rest. Visitors can read the inscription and take a photo by the replica. The replica is located in a small park at the east end of Sixth Avenue in Alexandria.

Explore the controversy for yourself at the Runestone Museum, located at 206 Broadway in Alexandria.

RUNESTONE MUSEUM After you take your picture with Big Ole, cross the street for a visit to the Runestone Museum. There you will learn about Big Ole, Vikings and Nordic explorers, and test your skill at matching animal prints in the wildlife exhibit.

Along with the Runestone, the museum holds exhibits on Native Americans, early immigrant history, the history of Alexandria, a memorial/gun exhibit, a Minnesota wildlife exhibit, and a handson children’s area.

BIGole

P

erhaps one of the most eye-catching landmarks in Alexandria is Big Ole – a 28-foot tall Viking statue that stands at the north end of Broadway.

Born in 1965, the Viking has become a much-beloved resident in the lakes area.

The idea for the statue began in January of 1964 when North Star World’s Fair Corporation in Osseo began working on an addition to the Minnesota display for the New York World’s Fair. The display was to feature the historical Kensington Runestone in an animated scene titled “Minnesota, Birthplace of America.” The new item to coincide with this display was the 28-foot, four-ton Viking statue.

26 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

Big Ole was created by fiberglass sculptor Gordon Schumaker of Minneapolis in April of 1965 and was transported to New York just in time for the World’s Fair. When the fair ended, Big Ole was moved to Alexandria, where he stands today.

Originally placed at the north end of Broadway Street in front of the Runestone Museum, Big Ole was moved from the intersection of 3rd and Broadway to a new location one-half block north in 1980 to make way for a new stoplight. He was moved once more in 2002 to his current location at the head of the Central Lakes Trail on the south shore of Lake Agnes.

Throughout the years, Big Ole’s had several repairs made and new coats of paint applied. His beard has changed from gray to yellow to brown.

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May/June 2021 • Vacationer 27

LAKE CARLOS state park

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uilt by receding glaciers, Lake Carlos State Park offers a myriad of natural wonders, including a clear and deep lake just perfect for swimming, fishing and boating. Among its 1,231 acres, nearly one-third of Minnesota’s 80 mammals and more than 150 species of birds find a home either seasonally or all year long. It’s the perfect place to view loons, grebes, ducks and heron, making this a bird watcher’s paradise! You may even catch a glimpse of the beaver and deer that make their homes within the park.

The park also features a year-round naturalist that leads several programs throughout the year.

Winter or summer, Lake Carlos State Park is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, skiing and interpretive programs are just waiting for you.

Paddleboat, canoes, and kayaks are available to rent during the regular season office hours May - October. In the winter, snowshoes are available for rent at the park office. A thermal flip-over style portable fish house is available to rent on Lake Carlos only. Contact the park office for current rates and availability.

The park entrance, 2601 County Road 38 Northeast in Carlos, is located 10 miles north of Alexandria on State Highway 29, then two miles west on Highway 38. The best time to contact the park is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily at (320) 852-7200.

You can also email the park at lakecarlos.statepark@state.mn.us You can discover much more about Lake Carlos State Park by visiting www.dnr.state.mn.us/ state_parks/lake_carlos/

‘I CAN!’ PROGRAMS RETURNING IN 2021

Minnesota State Parks and Trails “I Can!” programs are returning for the 2021 season and are designed for those with no experience. The “I Can!” program is made possible by funds from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment.

Each program will include hands-on instruction from experienced and friendly crew members. Gear is provided and one-day vehicle permits ($7 value) are included with all I Can! programs where a permit is required.

I CAN CAMP! These one- or two-night overnight programs are your chance to introduce your kids to the fun of camping – no experience necessary. Cost for two adults and three small children (max 5 people per tent) is $60 for one night and $85 for two-night programs. Advance registration is required.

I CAN PADDLE! Your kids will discover the kind of amazing views only seen from the water during one of these programs designed especially for first-time paddlers. All equipment is provided.

I CAN MOUNTAIN BIKE! Remember your kids’ joy and triumph when they first learned to bike? Take that joy off-road with this exhilarating program. Cost is $30 for adults and $15 for youth ages 10-18. Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

I CAN FISH! Share the fun of casting into the water and the excitement when there’s a tug on the line. This program is all about the anticipation and thrill of your kids learning to catch fish. Cost is $7 for adults and children younger than 12 are free with a registered adult. Fishing licenses are not required for this program.

ARCHERY IN THE PARKS! Be your own action heroes and go beyond video games! This program lets you share the exact moment when your child first aims for a goal and hits it. This program is free, but a vehicle permit is required ($7/ day or $35/year) Email ican.dnr@state.mn.us (link sends email) to be notified when more information becomes available.

Be sure to visit the Lake Carlos State Park website at www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/lake_carlos/ or its Facebook page for the most recent information on its schedule.

VISITOR INFORMATION Weather permitting, water The beach sanitation building will be turned on to the and the beach and Lakeview sanitation buildings in the Lower picnic shelters will all remain Campground on Friday, May 7 closed until further notice. and Friday, May 14 for the Upper The Ranger Station service Campground. window is open depending on RV dump and fill station is staff availability. Permits and scheduled to open Friday, May 7. firewood may be purchased The Upper and Lower daily between 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Call Campgrounds, Lakeview Group (320) 852-7200 to talk with staff, Camp, Pioneer Group Camp and or email lakecarlos.statepark@ the Equestrian Campgrounds state.mn.us. are all open for the season.

Contact the park office to Reservations are recommended. enquire about rentals.

All four camper cabins (Eagle, All trails are open to hiking, Loon, Raccoon, Frog) are open but some areas will be muddy daily. or wet.

28 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

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May/June 2021 • Vacationer 29

AREAparks

CITY PARKS

Most cities in the area maintain city parks, many of which offer playground equipment and picnic areas.

Oak Knoll Park is on the northeast side of Alexandria near McKay Ave. Take Hwy. 29 North, turn right on McKay Ave. and left on Oak Knoll Dr.

Alexandria City Park is at the north end of Alexandria, one block west of County Rd. 42. It offers a playground, picnic area, tennis courts, swimming beach, bathhouse and fishing pier.

Osagi Park is on Lake St. in Osakis. It features picnic tables and shelter, restrooms, playground and lakeshore (no swimming area).

Big Ole Central Park is on the north end of Broadway in Alexandria, next to Lake Agnes.

It features a gazebo, kiosk shelter, bike repair station and serves as a trail head for the Central Lakes Trail.

Bluebird Park is on Agnes Blvd. near Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria.

Pooch Playland is a dog park with a fenced-in area located at the south end of Victor St. in Alexandria.

Runestone Park is about one mile east of Broadway in Alexandria on Sixth Ave. E. Skylark Park is north of Kinkead Cemetery on Amanda Lane in Alexandria.

Carter Park is on Benjamin Drive off of Co. Rd. 22 in Alexandria.

Summer Meadows Park is on the north side of Alexandria near Scenic Heights Road and Summer Lane.

Dean Melton Fillmore Park is at Fillmore St. and 15th Ave. West in Alexandria. It features a picnic shelter, ball fields, skate park and playground.

Veterans Memorial Park is at 802 Broadway in Alexandria.

Fred Foslien Park is in Victoria Heights, two blocks south of Co. Rd. 27 off Knut Street in Alexandria.

Geneva Crest Park is on the west side of Lake Geneva in Alexandria. Take Co. Rd. 82 E., turn north on Birch Ave., go 3/4 mile, go east on Basswood two blocks and north on Geneva Dr. Goose Park is three blocks west of Broadway on Fifth Ave. W. in Alexandria.

Lake Agnes Park is on the south shore of Lake Agnes along County Rd. 37 in Alexandria.

Lake Connie Park is on Seventh Ave. E. between Roosevelt and Spruce streets in Alexandria.

Lakeview Park is near County Rd. 82 East and Birch Ave. in Alexandria. Take Co. Rd. 82 E. to Birch Ave., turn west on Runestone Place and west on Lake Park Ave. Legion Park is at Broadway and Eighth Ave. W. in Alexandria.

Manor Hills Park is in Alexandria. Take Hwy. 29 N. to Manor Dr. and go two blocks to the right on Springdale.

Martin’s Hope Park is on Second Ave. across the street from Big Ole Central Park.

Noonan Park is at Nokomis St. and 10th Ave. in Alexandria.

30 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

Woodland Park is on the north side of Alexandria on Woodland Dr., just north of Hwy. 29.

COUNTY PARKS

Chippewa Park is three miles north of Brandon on Co. Rd. 108. It features picnic tables, shelters, charcoal grills, restrooms, showers, drinking water, a swimming beach (no lifeguard), playground, horseshoe pit and camping sites.

Curt Felt Memorial Park is north of Alexandria off Co. Rd. 42. It has a volleyball court, playground, a picnic shelter, restrooms, horseshoe courts and a softball field.

Lake Brophy Park, located on the north side of Lake Brophy, is the newest addition to the county’s park system. Take Co. Rd. 82 west of Alexandria to the Brophy Landing road. The park was built with a Legacy Grant from the State of Minnesota in 2018. Reach walking trails from a small parking lot located on the north end of the park off Centennial Drive. It also offers a public swimming beach, a mountain bike course, fishing pier and children’s playground.

Lake Brophy Wayside Park is west of Alexandria at the intersection of Co. Rds. 82 and 8. It has picnic tables, charcoal grills, restroom, drinking water, playground and views of Lake Brophy.

Kensington Rune Stone Park is 15 miles west of Alexandria on State Hwy. 27. It’s where the famed Kensington Runestone was found. A new visitor center was constructed in 2017 which offers modern restrooms, an interpretive room, a gathering space and drinking water. The park also includes picnic tables, shelters, charcoal grills, electricity, a heated building with kitchen facilities, softball field, horseshoe pit, volleyball court, playground, hiking, mountain bike trails, cross country ski trails and historic displays.

Spruce Hill Park is near Miltona. From Alexandria, take Hwy. 29 to Co. Rd. 5 and go east five miles. It has picnic tables, shelters, charcoal grills, electricity, restrooms, drinking water, softball field, and interpretive, hiking and cross country ski trails.

STATE PARKS

Lake Carlos State Park is near Carlos. Take State Hwy. 29 north from Alexandria, turn west on Co. Rd. 38, turn left into park. Permit is required; purchase at park office ($7/day, $35/year). The park features trails for hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, as well as picnic tables, shelters, a swimming beach, play area, campsites, camper cabins, group camp, group center, restrooms, showers, boat landing, amphitheater, visitor/interpretive center, naturalist programs, geocaching and an equestrian area. Rentals are available for canoes, paddle boats, kayaks, snowshoes and fish houses, and checkouts are available for fishing and birding kits and GPS units.

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CENTRAL LAKES trail

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he Central Lakes Trail is a paved biking and walking trail that spans Douglas County from Osakis through Evansville and on to Fergus Falls in Otter Tail County.

The 55-mile-long trail, located on the old Burlington Northern rail line grade, connects the cities of Osakis, Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville and Melby in Douglas County.

Great for walking, running, bicycling, in-line skating, roller skiing, wheelchairs and more. The trail is open to non-motorized visitors, with the exception of snowmobiles in the winter.

The trail head and parking area in Alexandria are located at the north end of Broadway in Big Ole Central Park. Other trail heads are

PUBLIC beaches

LIFEGUARD-STAFFED LAKE L’HOMME DIEU BEACH Alexandria. Take Highway 29 north of Alexandria to the beach.

CHIPPEWA COUNTY PARK BEACH Brandon. Between lakes Little Chippewa and Devil’s off County Road 108

LAKE LATOKA BEACH Alexandria. Take County Road 82 west from Alexandria, turn south on County Road 90, then west on Latoka Beach Road.

LAKE CARLOS STATE PARK Carlos. Located about seven miles north of Alexandria off State Highway 29 and County Road 38.

LAKE OSAKIS BEACH Osakis. Located on East Lake Street.

NON-LIFEGUARD-STAFFED CITY PARK BEACH Alexandria. Lake Henry in the Alexandria City Park, one block west of County Road 42 (North Nokomis).

ROTARY BEACH Alexandria. Located off County Road 42 between lakes L’Homme Dieu and Carlos.

32 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

BROPHY PARK Take Co. Rd. 82 west of Alexandria to the Brophy Landing road (county road 114), go north about a ¼ mile — beach and park entrance are on your right.

available in the cities of Osakis, Garfield, Brandon and Evansville. These trail heads include a parking area, portable restrooms and a trailside shelter. A bike shelter is also available along the trail about one and one-half miles east of Nelson.

The trail travels through or near woodlands, grasslands, lakes, wetlands and farm country. Those traveling along the trail may see a variety of wildflowers, wildlife and many different trees and plants.

The Central Lakes Trail also connects to the Lake Wobegon trail, which runs from Osakis through Sauk Centre to St. Joseph. Together, they make the longest paved bike trail in the state. The Central Lakes Trail (www.centrallakestrail.com) is used as a snowmobile trail in the winter.

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ALEXANDRIA area lakes

AARON Size: 614 acres Depth: 16 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Features: Shallow with sandy beaches Public access: South end off Lakes Rd.

CHRISTINA Size: 3,978 acres Depth: 14 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Features: Large, shallow Public access: Southwest end off Co. Rd. 82

AGNES Size: 137 acres Depth: 31 feet Game fish: Pan fish, northern, bass, some walleye Features: Fishing pier in City Park Public access: City-owned access on southwest end off Agnes Blvd.

COWDRY Size: 242 acres Depth: 52 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Small, clear Public access: Northeast corner off Co. Rd. 82 and E. Lake Cowdry Rd.

ANDREW Size: 918 acres Depth: 83 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Sandy beaches, spring-fed, popular recreational lake Public access: Southeast side off Co. Rd. 28 BLACKWELL Size: 307 acres Depth: 42 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, northern, walleye Public access: East side off Country Ln. BROPHY Size: 293 acres Depth: 44 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Island, sandy beaches Public access: Northwest shore off Co. Rd. 82 and Brophy Park Rd. BURGEN Size: 174 acres Depth: 43 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, some bass and walleye Features: Small, steeply sloped shoreline Public access: North end off Co. Rd. 23 CARLOS Size: 2,598 acres Depth: 163 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Access to chain of lakes, clear, deep Public accesses: North shore in state park off Co. Rd. 38; northeast shore near state park; west shore off Co. Rd. 11; east shore off Co Rd. 42 and E. Lake Carlos Dr. CHIPPEWA Size: 1,175 acres Depth: 95 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Deep, headwaters of Chippewa River Public access: Northeast corner off Co. Rd. 12

34 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

GRANTS Size: 177 acres Depth: 60 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass Public access: Northwest corner off Co. Rd. 94 HENRY Size: 152 acres Depth: 32 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, some bass Features: Next to City Park Public access: Accessible by water from Lake Agnes

CROOKED Size: 281 acres Depth: 35 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Quiet Public access: North end off Co. Rd. 27

IDA Size: 4,427 acres Depth: 106 feet Game fish: Walleye, bass, northern, pan fish Features: Large, clear; sandy beaches Public accesses: North side off Co. Rd. 34 and Big Horn Bay Rd.; east side off Co. Rd. 34 and Pilgrim Point Rd.; southeast side off Co. Rd. 34 and Sunset Strip

DARLING Size: 1,050 acres Depth: 62 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Features: Water access to chain of lakes Public access: Access by water from Lake Carlos

INDIAN Size: 76 acres Depth: 38 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, walleye Public access: North side off Co. Rd. 6 and Indian Lake Rd.

DEVILS Size: 234 acres Depth: 35 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Spring-fed, sandy beaches, connects to county park Public access: North side off Co. Rd. 7 and Devil’s Lake Rd.

IRENE Size: 639 acres Depth: 44 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Public access: Northwest side off Hwy. 29 and Irene Rd.; southeast side off Co. Rd. 64

FREEBORN Size: 248 acres Depth: 18 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, bullhead, walleye Public access: Northwest side off Co. Rd. 96 GENEVA Size: 640 acres Depth: 63 feet Game fish: Largemouth bass, northern, pan fish, walleye Features: Pier on north end, access to chain of lakes Public access: Northwest side off Hwy. 29 and Southeast side off Co. Rd. 82 GILBERT Size: 202 acres Depth: 17 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, northern, walleye Features: Quiet Public access: North end off Co. Rd. 7 and Moe Hall Rd.

LATOKA Size: 753 acres Depth: 108 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Clear, deep, good water quality, public swimming beach Public accesses: North side off Co. Rd. 82, West side of South Basin off Hwy. 27 and Vonderheid Dr. L’HOMME DIEU Size: 1,801 acres Depth: 85 feet Game fish: Walleye, largemouth bass, northern, pan fish Features: Access to chain of lakes, public swimming beach Public accesses: Northwest side off Co. Rd. 42; northeast side off Co. Rd. 120 LITTLE CHIPPEWA Size: 269 acres Depth: 24 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, walleye, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Shallow, sandy, connects to county park Public access: South shore off Co. Rd. 108

May/June 2021 • Vacationer 35

ALEXANDRIA area lakes LOBSTER Size: 1,329 acres Depth: 65 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, walleye, bass, muskellunge Features: Many bays and points, island Public access: West end off Co. Rd. 27 LONG Size: 218 acres Depth: 18 feet Public access: East end off Long Lake Rd. LOUISE Size: 214 acres Depth: 33 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, northern, walleye Public access: West side off Co. Rd. 22 MAPLE Size: 831 acres Depth: 78 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Mostly shallow, spring-fed, excellent water quality Public access: North end off Co. Rd. 4; east side off Co. Rd. 87 MARY Size: 2,450 acres Depth: 40 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Large, gradual slopes, popular recreational lake Public access: Northwest corner off Hwy. 27; southwest corner off Co. Rd. 4 MILL Size: 450 acres Depth: 40 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Spring-fed, deep, clear Public access: Southeast corner off Hwy. 27 MILTONA Size: 5,724 acres Depth: 105 feet Game fish: Walleye, bass, northern, pan fish, muskellunge Features: Largest lake in county; deep, clear; sandy beaches Public accesses: North shore off Co. Rd. 14 and Sandy Beach Dr.; northeast side off Hwy. 29 and North Lake Miltona Dr.; west side off Spring Lake Rd. MINA Size: 411 acres Depth: 123 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, bullhead, muskellunge, walleye Public access: North point off Co. Rd. 8

36 May/June 2021 • Vacationer

MOON Size: 144 acres Depth: 38 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, walleye, bullhead, perch Public access: North side off Co. Rd. 82 MOSES Size: 824 acres Depth: 32 feet Game fish: Walleye, largemouth bass, pan fish, northern Features: Clear, sandy Public access: West side off Co. Rd. 16

OSAKIS Size: 6,389 acres Depth: 86 feet Game fish: Walleye, northern, pan fish, bass Features: Large lake with many bars and fishing structures Public access: South end in Osakis; west side off Co. Rd. 10; north end off Co. Rd. 10 (other access in Todd County) OSCAR Size: 1,119 acres Depth: 25 feet Game fish: Walleye, pan fish, northern, muskellunge Features: Island Public access: North side off State Hwy. 27 POCKET Size: 263 acres Depth: 40 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, largemouth bass, bullhead, walleye Public access: South side off Hwy. 114 and Pocket Lake Rd. RACHEL Size: 442 acres Depth: 65 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Public access: East shore off Co. Rd. 93 RED ROCK Size: 903 acres Depth: 22 feet Game fish: Northern, walleye, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Shallow Public access: East side off Shorewood Dr. ROUND Size: 81 acres Depth: 30 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, bullhead Features: Quiet Public access: South end off Co. Rd. 27

SMITH Size: 666 acres Depth: 30 feet Game fish: Northern, walleye, pan fish, largemouth bass Features: Spring-fed, quiet Public access: Northeast corner off Hwy. 27 and Smith Lake Rd.

STOWE Size: 389 acres Depth: 14 feet Game fish: Northern, bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, walleye Public access: West end off Co. Rd. 82 and Stowe Lake Rd. TURTLE Size: 218 acres Depth: 21 feet Game fish: Northern, pan fish, largemouth bass, bullhead, walleye Public access: Southwest corner off Co. Rd. 88 UNION Size: 107 acres Depth: 45 feet Game fish: Northern, largemouth bass, pan fish, bullhead, walleye Public access: SE side off Co. Rd. 23 VERMONT Size: 338 acres Depth: 59 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, northern, walleye Public access: Southeast side off Hwy. 29 and E. Lake Vermont Rd. VICTORIA Size: 417 acres Depth: 60 feet Game fish: Northern, walleye, largemouth bass, pan fish Features: Long, narrow lake with access to Lake Geneva Public access: South end off Hazel Hill Rd. WHISKEY Size: 160 acres Depth: 46 feet Game fish: Bullhead, pan fish, largemouth bass, northern, walleye Public access: North shore off Co. Rd. 58 WINONA Size: 213 acres Depth: 9 feet Game fish: Bullhead, perch, crappie Public access: City-owned, carry-in access on northwest end

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406 FLORENCE AVENUE • LOWRY, MN May/June 2021 • Vacationer 37

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The Holiday Inn in Alexandria is a full service hotel with a casual resort like atmosphere. This comfortable setting makes us an ideal destination for relaxing getaways, business travel, or your next company meeting.

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May/June 2021 • Vacationer 39

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