Vacationer Aug/Sept 2021

b er 2 m e t p e S / t s u Aug

021

Taste of

OSAKIS

Mountain bike at

BROPHY

Big Ole and the RUNESTONE Your

Free guide to the Alexandria Lakes Area

Alexandria

Garfield

2 Great Locations for Bait and Tackle

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2 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

It’s better here.

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That's why Alomere Health brings world-class care right to your community.

We’re one of the topperforming rural healthcare organizations in the nation.

We have the technology, facilities, and expertise you thought were only in the cities. And our award-winning providers are compassionate, down-to-earth people who are also your neighbors.

With Alomere, you get the highest level of care—right in your neck of the woods.

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Alomere Health • Alexandria Clinic • Osakis Clinic • Lakes E.N.T. • Heartland Orthopedic Specialists

August/September 2021 • Vacationer 3

VACATIONER magazine

Y

ou’ve noticed it – the shadows lengthening and the days growing shorter. The days are still steamy, but there’s that little bit of coolness to the evenings. There’s a little nostalgia as cooler air brings back childhood memories – the excitement of returning to school tinged with a little sadness at the end of summer fun. Summer is coming to an end, and with that end comes the final Vacationer issue for the summer.

But the change in seasons doesn’t bring an end to the fun here in the lakes area. Still ahead of us is fair time – 4-H exhibits, carnival rides and cotton candy – an event that has always, to me, been the kickoff to autumn.

There’s loads of fun at the annual Carlos Creek Winery Grape Stomp and Taste of Osakis. You can even enjoy craft beer and food at Copper Trail Creek’s Oletoberfest or specialty beer during 22 Northmen’s Oktoberfest.

Lori Mork If you enjoy music, you’ll find it everywhere in EDITOR the lakes area: at the fair, Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn and the Legacy of the Lakes Music in the Gardens.

The museums are open in the Alexandria area, giving you an opportunity to learn about the history of boats and the times of our lakes area, or explore the famous Runestone and visit Big Ole, the 28-foot Viking statue that is an icon of our beautiful city.

The 100th Resorters Golf Tournament will be in action at the Alexandria Golf Club August 1-7 with many of the top golfers from Minnesota and beyond during this celebration of 100 years. You may even catch a glimpse of Alexandria’s own Tom Lehman, who became the first American professional to lift the Claret Jug at Royal Lytham and St Annes in 1996 with a performance that saw him set a new 54-hole Open record.

Autumn. I love when fall brings crisp leaves that crunch under my shoes as I walk along the trail at a state park or listen to the sound of geese as they gather for their southbound journey.

So browse through our final summer Vacationer and see what’s waiting for you. It’s a great time to be here and you won’t be disappointed that you’ve decided to spend these days with us.

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

Inside this issue

August/September 2021

Theatre L’Homme Dieu page 6

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Fire Pit Productions...............................................................................5 Lakes Area Theatre............................................................................... 7 Music in the Gardens...........................................................................8 Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn...............................................8 Churches.....................................................................................................9 Ongoing events...................................................................................... 11 Shop downtown.................................................................................... 15 Taste of the Lakes Area.................................................................... 21 Calendar of events...............................................................................22

Douglas County Fair page 10

ACTIVITIES

Copper Trail Oletoberfest................................................................. 13 Carlos Creek Winery Grape Stomp............................................. 12 22 Northmen Oktoberfest................................................................ 12 Taste of Osakis...................................................................................... 14 Area golf/Mountain bike the trails at Brophy Park............. 16 Douglas County community festivals.........................................17 Area golf courses.................................................................................. 18 Glacial Ridge Trail/Ring of Fire bull riding............................. 20 Rail Trail 100/Viking Speedway................................................... 24

Runestone Museum page 30

LAKES, PARKS, MUSEUMS

4 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

Legacy of the Lakes Museum....................................................... 26 Lake Carlos State Park..................................................................... 28 Douglas County Historical Society............................................. 28 Big Ole....................................................................................................... 30 Central Lake Trail/Public beaches............................................. 32 Area parks............................................................................................... 34 Area lakes................................................................................................ 36

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.

Fire Pit Productions is located at 4133 Iowa Street in Alexandria. For more information, visit lakesareatheatre.com/firepit, To reserve seating, email lakesareatheatre@gmail.com.

UPCOMING PRODUCTIONS DEATHTRAP, August 20, 21, 26, 27, 28; 7 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 brilliant terrorist, the head of a group responsible for a bomb attack, plays a game of cat-and-mouse with a reporter.

NEW HOME! Lakes Area Radio Theatre and Fire Pit Productions have a new home.

The two entertainment companies are now housed at 4133 Iowa Street, part of the Indigo Plaza building next to Apol’s Harley Davidson, which is located behind the Target building.

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August/September 2021 • Vacationer 5

THEATRE l’homme dieu

T

heatre L’Homme Dieu (TLHD) is back in action again, bringing musicals, comedies and dramas as well as a curated concert series to the Alexandria Lakes Area. TLHD partners with national and regional theaters to present five productions throughout the summer.

TLHD’s August production will be Glensheen, running August 25-September 4. The blockbuster dark musical of the Glensheen murder mystery centers around a kind heiress who is found dead in her bed, while her night nurse is also found dead on the stairs.

Written by Jeffrey Hatcher and composer Chan Poling, Glensheen is based on the true-life story of heiress Elizabeth Congdon who was found dead in her bedroom at the

Alexandria’s

Glensheen manor on June 25, 1977.

Her night nurse, Velma Pietila is found beaten to death with a candlestick outside of Congdon’s room.

The husband of one of Congdon’s adopted daughters was arrested for the murder and sent to prison, becoming the most talked about murder in Minnesota’s history.

The musical explores human behavior, and remarks on law enforcement and the justice system, while remaining sympathetic to the two murder victims.

To make reservations, buy tickets or for more information, call (320) 846-3150 or purchase tickets online at www.tlhd.org.

The theater is located at 1875 County Road 120 NE in Alexandria.

To find the theater from I-94, take the Alexandria exit for Hwy 29, then

AMAZING

go north to County Road 42. Go left, continue four miles to County Road 120 and turn right. The theater is

0.1 miles on the left. The box office opens one hour before show time.

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6 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

LAKES AREA theatre

O

pening in October 2010, Lakes Area Theatre has entertained audiences, both live and on the radio, for more than five years, 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.

Performed live every second Friday of the month at 7 p.m., 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.

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.

Lakes Area Theatre is located at 4133 Iowa Street in Alexandria.

WHERE YOU CAN LISTEN

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.

KWQQ 1610am – Farmington, Iowa, Thursday, 4:30 p.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 p.m.

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

KMHL 1400 AM – Marshall, Saturday, 11:05 a.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.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

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

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Alexandria | Parkers Prairie | Elbow Lake | Glenwood www.trummdrug.com August/September 2021 • Vacationer 7

MUSIC in the gardens

E

njoy outdoor music surrounded by beautiful landscaping, water features and flowers during Music in the Legacy Gardens at the Legacy of the Lakes Museum this summer.

Open daily and free to the public, the Legacy Gardens are situated on the shores of Lake Winona and include a large paved patio and marquee tent. You can stroll along the pathways to view the wide variety of ornamental grasses, shrubs and trees, along with lush gardens of flowers. There are quiet alcoves along the way that offer a place to relax.

On select Fridays throughout the summer, the Legacy Gardens hosts musical entertainment on the Pohlig Family Stage.

Mick Sterling and the Stud Brothers will play on August 6. They have been one of the most popular R&B attractions in the Twin Cities music scene for more than a decade. In “A Billy Joel State of Mind,” the group features hits such as Piano Man, Uptown Girl, New York State of Mind and Big Shot.

Joyann Parker will be on stage August 13. Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Parker is a rising star on the local music scene. She’s best known for her signature tribute to Patsy Cline.

There are two types of seating for the concerts: Gar Wood seating, which is in the front section with chairs provided with the cost $20 and $10 for museum

members. The Grassland seating is $10 a ticket or $5 for members with concert goers bringing their own chair or blanket. Children 12 and younger free.

CONCERTS on the courthouse

B

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.

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 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.

August 5: 70s Magic Sunshine Band, ‘70s rock August 12: 57 Chevy Reunion Band, oldies August 19: Cimarron, country/rock August 26: Red Letter Band, Christian Rock, ‘50s/’60s September 2: Robby Vee

8 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

The Legacy Gardens are located at 205 3rd Avenue West in Alexandria.

lawn

Come Worship With Us! LAKES AREA CHURCHES WELCOME YOU

Alexandria Alexandria Covenant

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

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

Berea Lutheran Brethren

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

Emmanuel Episcopal

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

First Congregational United Church of Christ

221 Seventh Avenue W., 320-763-3341 www.firstcongregationaluccalex.com office@firstcongregationaluccalex.com youtube@firstcongregationaluccalexandriamn Pastor: Rev. Dr. Jill Sanders Sunday Worship: 10 am Communion: 2nd Sunday of the month

First Lutheran (ELCA)

1655 18th Ave. E., Alexandria 320-762-2196 www.firstlutheranalexandria.com Pastors: Greg Billberg & Kari Van Wakeren Worship Services: Sunday 8:30 am in-person or LIVE on Facebook 10:30 am Legacy of the Lakes Museum Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day

10 am on KXRA Radio or on Public Access Channel 181 daily at 10:45 am

Good Shepherd Lutheran (LCMS) 2702 Hwy. 29 N, 320-762-5152 www.goodshepherd-LCMS.org Pastor: Tim Schiller Sunday Worship: 9 am Holy Communion: 1st & 2nd Sundays

Lake Community

490 Voyager Dr., 320-762-5424 www.lakecommunity.org Pastor: Jon Ewton Sunday Worship: 9 am & 10:30 am Children’s Ministry: Available for both services (birth - 5th grade)

Living Word Lutheran (LCMC) 1722 16th Ave. E., 320-762-1997 www.livingwordalexmn.org Pastor: Nate Hanson Sunday Worship: 9 am

New Testament

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

St. Mary’s Catholic

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

St. Paul’s Lutheran (WELS)

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

Other Areas

THESE TIMES APPLY JUNE 1 - AUGUST 31 WWW.CATHOLICCHURCHES-BMUP.ORG

Sacred Heart Catholic, Urbank Saturday Mass: 7:30 pm

Seven Dolors Catholic, Millerville

Sunday Mass: 10:30 am

St. Ann’s Catholic, Brandon

Saturday Mass: 4:00 pm

St. Williams, Parkers Prairie Sunday Mass: 8:30 am

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

PAID ADVERTISMENT

August/September 2021 • Vacationer 9

DOUGLAS COUNTY fair

S

ummer may be winding down in the Alexandria lakes area, but not the fun as one of the most memorable events of the summer, the Douglas County Fair, gets set to open August 17.

This year’s fair will be making a break from the past as it will run from Tuesday to Saturday, allowing for a full four days of fun.

Family friendly, the fair is filled with familiar attractions, entertainment, competitions, rides and, of course, food, and is truly the place to celebrate the kid in everyone.

The fair will offer entertainment on the main stage, as well as various other entertainment venues on the fairgrounds.

The Alomere Health Main Stage entertainment this year will include The Johnny Holm Band, the Fabulous Armadillos, Red Letter Band, IV Play Band and America’s Got Talent finalist Jason Pritchett, as well as much, much more.

You can check out the Kathryn LeBrasseur Heritage Square ethnic food information, antique tractor display as well as senior arts and crafts.

Check out Calorie Lane and all the vendors, along with the beer gardens when you need a relaxing break.

Don’t miss outdoor education with the Lake Carlos State Park staff, the lawn mower demo derby, the Douglas County’s Got Talent contest and the demolition derby for fun and excitement along with the the Sheriff’s K-9 demonstration.

There’s fun all day for the kids of all ages with a kid’s bike giveaway, children’s barnyard, arts and crafts, carnival games, turtle racing and the kids’ pedal tractor pull.

Gates open at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, August 17. All in all, it’s a great fourand-a-half days of fun at the Douglas County Fair. Get all the details at dcmnfair.com.

CHECK OUT THE FAIR COMPETITIONS!

C

ompetitions and contests will be plentiful during this year’s Douglas County Fair, so be sure to take them in!

Girls between the ages of 5 and 9 are eligible for the Douglas County Princess Pageant, which will take place on will take place on Wednesday, August 18 at 4 p.m.

Saturday, August 21 will be highlighted by Douglas County’s Got

Talent State Fair Contest at 5:30 p.m.

There will also be contests for pie baking, scarecrow making, yeast bread baking, floral arranging, quilt blocks, barn quilts, table decorating, gift basket creating and so much more.

For more information on all the events held at the Douglas County Fair, visit www.dcmnfair.com.

GATE ADMISSION Daily: Adults $7 Children (0-10) FREE Season Pass: $30 Golden Ticket: $50. Includes season pass and season premium parking.

PARKING Automobiles and Trucks - FREE* *Parking is free in the Integrity Title west parking lot. Premium (paid) parking spots are available on the east side of the fairgrounds.

All prices include sales tax ACCESSIBILITY The following are available for fairgoers: Wheelchairs are available in the fair office. Free handicapped parking is available just inside the east gate. Shuttles from the Integrity Title west parking lot leave every 15 minutes during regular fair hours. Courtesy shuttles from the other lots are available by asking at the gate.

10 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

ONGOING events

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

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

Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com RED WILLOW ARTS COALITION SUMMER CONCERT SERIES Thursdays, May 27-Sept. 2, 7 p.m.

Douglas County Courthouse lawn, Alexandria www.redwillowartscoalition.org FIRST FRIDAY CONCERTS First Friday of each month March-Dec., 7 to 9 p.m.

Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com GO-KART RACING Every other Friday, May 14-Sept. 3, 7 p.m.

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

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

Viking Speedway, Alexandria (320) 491-9249, vikingspeedway.myracepass.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 OPEN MIC NIGHTS Third Thursday of each month, 7 to 9 p.m.

March-December Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.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

Kelly Kraemer

Broker/Owner

Chris Johnson

Broker/Owner

cell 320.760.6752 email kraemson25@gmail.com

cell 320.219.1147 email kraemson@gmail.com

realty

Glenwood Lakes Area

115 South Franklin Street Glenwood, MN 56334 320-634-3333

new winery now open!

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Located between Alexandria & Glenwood on Hwy 29 • 320-762-8880 August/September 2021 • Vacationer 11

grape stomp

CARLOS CREEK WINERY

I

t’s fun. It’s messy. It’s a stompin’ good time.

Whether you’re a stomper or just cheering the teams on, there’s a weekend of fun waiting for you at Carlos Creek Winery in Alexandria when its annual Grape Stomp and Fall Festival gets going.

Held September 17-19, the festival attracts more than 15,000 visitors from all over the country during the three-day celebration.

And it’s not just the stomp you can enjoy. The festivities include wine tasting, 12 live bands on four stages and more than 150 food, juried artists and marketplace vendors and a man cave featuring 22 Northmen Brewing Co. beer.

The highlight of the event is the grape stomp, when more than 300 teams will stomp out 10,000 pounds of grapes. In addition, youth ages 10-16 can join in on the Kids Foot Stomp on Sunday.

The festival is handicap accessible, and is held rain or shine.

Carlos Creek Winery is located at 6693 County Road 34 NW in Alexandria.

For more information about the event, including how to participate in the grape stomping fun, visit the Grape Stomping and Fall Festival website at www.ccwgrapestomp.com.

oktoberfest

22 NORTHMEN BREWING

W

ith the return of fall to west-central Minnesota comes the third Oktoberfest celebration at 22 Northmen Brewing Company, a unique brewery built around Viking explorer folklore.

Held October 23 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Oktoberfest is fashioned after the German celebration, but with its own Nordic twists. This Oktoberfest celebration will include a stein holdng competition, food trucks, games and much more. The event will feature 22 Northmen’s Oktoberfest beer.

Alexandria’s Viking explorer folklore gave birth to the name of the brewery and influences the decor of the building, which includes a beer hall designed after a traditional Norwegian longhouse and a main level with a Viking ship-inspired beer bar, as well as a double-decker fireplace.

The beers featured at 22 Northmen are a classic, historic style from the lands that Vikings explored.

12 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

22 Northmen Brewery is located at 6693 County Road 34 NW in Alexandria, on the grounds of Carlos Creek Winery.

For more information about the event, visit www.22northmen.com.

oletoberfest

COPPER TRAIL BREWING

T

hrow on your lederhosen and head for Copper Trail Brewing for the fifth Oletoberfest on September 10-12.

Oletoberfest will include live music, beer, food and some surprises still to be announced.

The annual Oletoberfest will be held at Copper Trail Brewing, one

block from the Central Lakes Trail and Big Ole Park at 205 Broadway Street. You can find more information on Copper Trail’s Facebook and Instagram pages @coppertrailbrewing.com.

This local brewery features freshbrewed craft beers, as well as pizza and snack options.

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August/September 2021 • Vacationer 13

TASTE OF OSAKIS celebration

M

aking its way back to the streets of Osakis will be the second Taste of Osakis celebration Friday-Saturday, September 10-11, filling a void left after the Osakis Festival and Moonshine Madness were canceled.

The event, which debuted last September, will include food, live music, craft vendors and is expanding to two days of fun and activities.

Three bands will be on tap to entertain visitors Friday night: Girls Night Out – A Tribute to Superstar Women of Country; Junkyard Caddy and national hit band Confederate Railroad.

Saturday will have a full slate of events including chainsaw carving and auction, car show, music and the Gould Brothers Shooting Exhibition.

The main event will be the return of bull riding to the Osakis with its clowns and professional riders, and the added bonus of Mutton Bustin’ to make this a fun event for all ages.

For more information, visit the Osakis Chamber of Commerce and Taste of Osakis Facebook pages for updates and more details as they become available.

BULL RIDING IS BACK IN OSAKIS Taste of Osakis will feature professional bull riders once again as the ever-popular bull riding event returns to the Osakis area.

The Osakis Chamber of Commerce has also added Mutton Bustin’ for this year’s event Clowns and professional riders will entertain crowds during this familyfriendly event during the Taste of Osakis celebration.

TICKETS: Children 5 and under free with no ticket needed; Kids ages 6-12 are $15; Adults are $20.

Gates open at 1 p.m. Action begins at 2 p.m.

Tickets are limited as seating is limited.

14 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

SUPPORT THESE LOCAL MERCHANTS

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

Velkommen!

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

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

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320-763-6179

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A natural path to better health.

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

Showcase your local business!

Contact The Echo Press to Reserve Your Space for 2021

320-763-3133 August/September 2021 • Vacationer 15

ALEXANDRIA AREA golfing

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or winter weary Minnesotans, warm weather offers freedom from the confines of their homes and one of the first places they head to are 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. Beginning in 2019, it will host the PGA Tour’s 3M Open.

MOUNTAIN BIKE trails at Brophy

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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.

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.

16 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

DOUGLAS COUNTY community festivals

I

f you’re looking for some small town fun, AREA FESTIVALS August 6-8: Parkers Prairie check out the festiFall Festival vals in the Douglas August 6-8: Forada Days County area this sumAugust 7-8: Brandon mer. There’s Brandon

Summerfest Summerfest, as well as August 13-14: Garfield Days celebrations in Forada, Garfield and Parkers Prairie.

These little communities do things up right, from parades featuring clowns and dignitaries, water fights, baseball and softball tournaments, street dances, craft sales, garage sales and kids’ games.

And if you’re hungry, there’s nowhere better to find that perfect something to satisfy you. You can feast on barbecues, pork chops, brats, pancakes and every kind of food on a stick, in a basket or on a plate, ready and waiting for you.

To keep up with all the festivities, check out the Echo Press newspaper’s website at www.echopress.com for up-to-date information on the celebrations in your favorite town.

t Service!

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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

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August/September 2021 • Vacationer 17

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

18 August/September 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)

August/September 2021 • Vacationer 19

GLACIAL RIDGEbyway TRAIL travel a scenic

A

220-mile route through lakes, woods and farmlands, the Glacial Ridge Trail is officially designated a Minnesota State Scenic Byway and is a great getaway for those looking for a relaxing drive.

This byway consists of several loops in the countryside between Willmar and Glenwood, with extensions to Alexandria and Sauk Centre for a total of 245 miles and allows you to create your own adventure.

Travelers can select their own points of interest along the drive through rolling terrain filled with lakes, woods, prairie and farmland – scenes that change with the seasons.

Highlighted by three state parks – Sibley, Monson and Glacial Lakes – the byway has plenty of great stopping spots good for hiking, bird watching and fishing.

The area was formed by massive glaciers as they covered the land then melted, leaving behind many unique ridges and hills.

When the United States expanded westward in the 1850s, settlers moved into the area and have left their mark through their rich cultural history.

To find out more about the scenic byway, visit www. glacialridgebyway.com.

RING OF FIRE bull ride

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his ain’t their first rodeo. Some of the best bull riders in the upper Midwest will be deep in the action during the Ring of Fire Bull Ride event in Parkers Prairie. A major fundraiser for the Parkers Prairie Fire Department, the Ring of Fire Bull Ride first kicked off in 2017 to the great delight of riders and spectators, becoming a major event for the community.

This year’s event will be Friday, August 6 with gates opening at 5 p.m. and bull riding beginning at 7 p.m.

And if you like good live music, especially country and classic rock, a free concert by The Mud Dogs will follow the action.

The Parkers Prairie Fire Department contracted with Triple B Rodeo Company and Mirror W Productions to create this event, which has been a major draw for the town and the surrounding areas.

With $7,500 in prize money, the field of riders will include some of the most accomplished riders in the upper Midwest as well as local amateurs, all trying to keep

20 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

their seat on a twisting, bucking bull for 8 seconds.

Along with the bull ride and concert, there will be food and drink vendors during this family-friendly event.

With just 1,200 general admission tickets available and none sold at the door, tickets can be purchased at Dick’s Standard/Gappa Oil, Sammy’s One Stop and Quick’s NAPA in Parkers Prairie. Only guests with a valid ticket will be allowed entry into the bull riding area. Children 5 years of age and younger or retired Parkers Prairie Fire Department members do not need a ticket.

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

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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

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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 

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511 Broadway - Historic Downtown - 320-763-4000

ALEXANDRIA area events calendar

AUGUST

1-7 - 100th annual Resorters Golf Tournament 4-7 - 7 p.m. Aladdin JR, Andria Theatre 5 - 7 p.m. 70s Magic Sunshine Band Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition. org 5 - 6:30 p.m. History At Home: Theresa Hicks, alexandria. ce.eleyo.com 6 - 5 p.m. Ring of Fire Bull Ride, Parkers Prairie 6 - 6:30 p.m. Mick Sterling and the Stud Brothers “A Billy Joel State of Mind,” Legacy of the Lakes Museum & Gardens 6-7 - NTPA Truck and Tractor Pull, Viking Speedway, Alexandria, vikingspeedway.myracepass.com 6-8 - Fall Festival, Parkers Prairie 6-8 - Forada Days 7 - Rail Trails 100, Central Lakes and Lake Wobegon Trails, www. centrallakestrail.com/rail-trail-100 7-8 - Brandon Summerfest 9 - 7 p.m. Rachel Barduson:“How Our Lakes Were Named,” Legacy of the Lakes Museum 11 - 5-7 p.m. Annual Steak Fry, Runestone Museum, runestonemuseum.org 12 - 7 p.m. 57 Chevy Reunion Band Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition. org 13 - 6:30 p.m. Joyann Parker Concert, Legacy of the Lakes Museum and Gardens

13 - 7 p.m. “A Night of Short Stories,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre 13-14 - Garfield Days 17-21 - Douglas County Fair, Alexandria 19 - 6 p.m. Theater L’Homme Dieu Summer Soirée, Alexandria 19 - 6:30 p.m. A Woman’s Place: Women on the Frontier, alexandria.ce.eleyo.com 19 - 7 p.m. Cimarron Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 20-21 - 6:30 p.m. “DeathTrap,” Fire Pit Productions, lakesareatheatre. com/firepit 26 - 6:30 p.m. History At Home: Female Racers, alexandria. ce.eleyo.com

22 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

26 - 7 p.m. Red Letter Band Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 26-28 - 6:30 p.m. “DeathTrap,” Fire Pit Productions, lakesareatheatre. com/firepit 28 - 9 a.m. Walk to End Alzheimer’s, YMCA TBD - Forada Days

SEPTEMBER

2 - 7 p.m. Robby Vee Concert, Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria, redwillowartscoalition.org 10 - 7 p.m. “The Great Gildersleeve” and “Life of Riley,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre 10-11 - Taste of Osakis, downtown Osakis 17-19 - Grape Stomp, Carlos Creek Winery 18 - Museum Day (Free museum admission through Smithsonian Magazine website) 23-25 - 6:30 p.m. “The Christians,” Fire Pit Productions, lakesareatheatre. com/firepit 25 - Matt Kjelland Memorial Run/Walk, Alexandria City Park TBD - Central Lakes Concert Association, centrallakesconcerts.com

OCTOBER

8 - 7 p.m. “Sully’s” and “Ozzie and Harriet,” Lakes Area Radio Theatre 21-23 - 6:30 p.m. “Cat’s Paw,” Fire Pit Productions, lakesareatheatre.com/ firepit 23 - Oktoberfest, Carlos Creek Winery 31 - 3-5 p.m. Fall Fest in the Fort, tentative, Runestone Museum, Alexandria 31 - Trick or Treat, downtown Alexandria TBD - Central Lakes Concert Association, centrallakesconcerts.com

NOVEMBER

4-6 - Alexandria Area Holiday Arts & Crafters Tour, facebook.com/crafterstour 26 - Christmas in the Fort, Alexandria TBD - Central Lakes Concert Association, centrallakesconcerts.com

DECEMBER

3 - 6 p.m. Osakis Light Parade 7 - Annual Donation Day at the Museum (Free admission with two personal care items for Outreach Food Shelf Holiday Train) 17 - 9 a.m. Annual Christmas Bake Sale, Runestone Museum

HAND-CRAFTED

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August/September 2021 • Vacationer 23

RAIL TRAILS 100 bike tour

Y

ou love to bike? Then challenge yourself with the Rail Trails 100 Bike Tour August 7 on the Central Lakes and Lake Wobegon Trails.

Offering some of the best trail riding in the state, the two trails will be featured during the one-day riding event that begins in Fergus Falls and ends in St. Joseph. You’ll traverse the Central Lakes Trail that includes beautiful glacial lakes, then pass through the green fields and dairy farms of the Lake Wobegon Trail, stopping to rest in the communities along the way.

The Rail Trails 100 Bike Tour is co-sponsored by Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota.

For more information, visit www.centrallakestrail.com/rail-trail-100/

VIKING SPEEDWAY racing

T

he racing season at the Viking Speedway got underway on May 8 this year, and racers and fans both will be able to enjoy the 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.

24 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

VIKING SPEEDWAY SCHEDULE

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.

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.

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. It includes an

indoor event hall, bathrooms and bridal suite/ greenroom.

Several events are planned for the summer, including the Legacy of the Lakes Museum Classic Boat Show July 9-10 and at 7 p.m. August 9, historian Rachel Barudson will present “How Our Lakes were Named..” Visit the museum’s website for more information on these events.

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.

Museum hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday.

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.

26 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

www.willytsalex.com | 320-763-9983 |

NEW DAILY HAPPY HOUR 3-6 PM & 9-11PM SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

CHECK OUR WEB SITE OR CALL FOR HOURS DUE TO COVID

In the heart of the beautiful Alexandria lakes area • Farm Fresh Menu • Home Inspired Items • Rustic Décor • Casual Comfortable Atmosphere

320.763.6577 Hwy 29 S and I-94 Alexandria

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.

• 148 guest rooms with new 40” flat screen TVs, fridge & microwave • Huge recreation area with large indoor • Fitness center pool, wading pool, whirlpool & sauna • Restaurant connected to Hotel

August/September 2021 • Vacationer 27

LAKE CARLOS state park

B

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.

Paddleboats, 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.state-

park@state.mn.us You can discover much more about Lake Carlos State Park by visiting www.dnr.state.mn.us/ state_parks/lake_carlos/

“Knute Nelson House” became the headquarters of the Douglas County Historical Society.

The Historical Society is unable to give tours until further notice, but will take research requests via email at historic@dchsmn.org or phone at 320-762-0382. If you would like to do

research in-person, please call or email ahead to arrange an appointment.

Immediate needs may be emailed to brittany. johnson@dchsmn.org. For more information, call (320) 762-0382 or visit www.dchsmn.org.

HISTORICAL society

I

nterested in local history? Visit the Douglas County Historical Society and take a guided tour of the famous Knute Nelson house, home of one of Alexandria’s most famous residents. Nelson, who served the people of Minnesota in public office for more than 50 years, was elected to the Minnesota Legislature and served two terms in the U.S. Congress before becoming the state’s first foreign-born governor.

He then served in the U.S. Senate for 28 years.

Nelson claimed a homestead in Alexandria in 1871 and built a small house on the property in 1874. As his political career progressed, he made additions to the house, adding a formal living room and large bedroom in 1900 and a dining room and kitchen on the main floor and four more bedrooms on the second story in 1915.

Nelson died in 1923. His will stated that following the death of his daughter, Ida, the house was to be given to the Norwegian Lutheran Church as a “home for the aged.” It served in that capacity for 38 years.

In 1978, the house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On October 1, 1987, the

28 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

Our family welcomes yours!

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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.

30 August/September 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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406 FLORENCE AVENUE • LOWRY, MN August/September 2021 • Vacationer 31

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

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

LAKE OSAKIS BEACH Osakis. Located on East Lake Street.

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 Coun-

ty Road 42 between lakes L’Homme Dieu and Carlos.

CHIPPEWA COUNTY PARK BEACH Brandon. Between lakes Little Chippewa and Devil’s off County Road 108 LAKE CARLOS STATE PARK Carlos. Located about seven miles north of Alexandria off State Highway 29 and County Road 38.

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.

32 August/September 2021 • Vacationer

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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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.

34 August/September 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.

August/September 2021 • Vacationer 35

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

36 August/September 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

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530 County Road 22 NW Alexandria, MN 56308 facebook.com/Fired-Up-Bar-Grill-103138918405510 August/September 2021 • Vacationer 37

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

38 August/September 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

August/September 2021 • Vacationer 39

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