Vacationer July/August 2020

2 July/August

Concerts on the

COURTHOUSE LAWN Your

0 20

Guided WALKING Tours

Free guide to the Alexandria Lakes Area

2 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

Get back to wellness.

Seeing your doctor you know, and who knows you, on a regular basis is the best way to keep you and your whole family healthy during these stressful times.

If you’ve been putting off your yearly physical or Well Child visits, now is a great time to get reconnected.

When you return, you are going to notice some new changes: Video Visits Now you can have a face-toface visit with your provider from the convenience of your own home. Many clinic visits can be held using telecommunications technology. Ask your doctor if Video Visits are right for your needs.

Make an Appointment For the foreseeable future, all of our clinics will require a scheduled appointment. We are not accepting walk-ins.

100% Masking One of the best ways to keep our patients and team safe is for everyone to wear a mask at all our clinic locations.

Please bring and wear your mask for any in-person visit. If you do not have a mask, we will be happy to provide you with a mask for your visit.

Don’t put your health on pause any longer. Ongoing preventative care and healthy habits are critical for total wellness. We miss you and we look forward to seeing you soon.

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

Here for Life

July/August 2020 • Vacationer 3

VACATIONER magazine

A

s we continue social distancing and safe practices, Minnesotans show their resilience and care for others while finding activities to entertain themselves and yet keep others safe.

With that said, just a note to remind you that the events in this Vacationer magazine reflect our best knowledge at the time of writing.

Please make sure to check for any changes by visiting each event’s website or the Echo Press website at www.echopress.com for the most current information.

So many of our traditional events have been cancelled, but with the advent of summer and the warming temperatures, there’s plenty to do in the Alexandria lakes area. Everywhere you look, you’ll find something exciting at your fingertips, whether it be running, biking, golfing or hiking.

Lori Mork Head out to one of our many golf courses, and EDITOR of course, who can forget our multitude of lakes?

Cool, clear water. Perfect for boating, skiing, sailing, fishing, pontooning and swimming.

Racing is expected to return to the 1/2-mile oval at the Viking Speedway where you can find plenty of excitement. Also, make sure to head out on the 4th of July to see the wonderful fireworks at Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center’s Star Storm 2020.

The 99th Resorters Golf Tournament will be in action at the Alexandria Golf Club August 2-8 with many of the top golfers from Minnesota and beyond.

What could be more perfect in the summer than enjoying our many parks as well as the Central Lakes Trail, with all the beauty of nature at your disposal. There are even new maps to be used for self-guided walking tours throughout Douglas County.

Many of our favorite arts and entertainment venues are beginning to heat up, so make to to check out the websites of your favorites for updates. The Red Willow Arts Coalition has begun its Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn and Firepit Productions will be hosting outdoor theater events.

Enjoy the outdoors and the breathtaking scenery that can only be found in the Alexandria lakes area. We’re glad you’re here!

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

4 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

July/August 2020

Inside this issue

Resorters Golf Tournament page 6

ACTIVITIES

Guided walking tours...........................................................................8 Star Storm 2020......................................................................................9 Viking Speedway................................................................................... 11 Garden Center bowling..................................................................... 12 Cinema 9 movie theater.................................................................... 12 Tours and tastings............................................................................... 14 16 things to do in the Alexandria area....................................... 19

Boat parade/Legacy of the Lakes Museum page 18

LAKES, PARKS, MUSEUMS

Runestone Museum/Big Ole.......................................................... 16 Public beaches...................................................................................... 19 Douglas County Historical Society............................................. 20 Lake Carlos State Park......................................................................22 Central Lakes Trail.............................................................................. 24 Area golf courses................................................................................. 25 Parks.......................................................................................................... 30 Lakes.......................................................................................................... 32

Fire Pit Productions page 36

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Area events calendar.......................................................................... 10 Ongoing events..................................................................................... 13 Shop downtown.....................................................................................17 Churches................................................................................................... 21 Osakis events........................................................................................ 23 Taste of the Lakes Area................................................................... 28 Concerts on the courthouse lawn.............................................. 38

July/August 2020 • Vacationer 5

RESORTERS golf tournament

I

n the tradition it has followed for 98 years, the 99th Resorters Golf Tournament will provide some of the most exciting and memorable golf action available as the tournament runs from August 2-8.

But more than that, it is a family affair, providing traditions that connect the past to the present, bringing new generations of families to the lakes area.

Many of the best golfers in the state will be competing in the week-long event, filling the competition with beautiful drives, errant shots and game-winning putts on a course filled with history and signature holes.

The tournament will include not only some very serious competition but some fun as well with the Longest Drive Contest on Monday, August 3 at 6 p.m.

after regular play has concluded, and the Putting Contest on Wednesday, August 5 at 6 p.m.

Many high profile athletes have competed in this tourney, most notably professional golfer and Alexandria graduate Tom Lehman, who won the Resorters title in 1980. The Alexandria Golf Club is where the PGA Tour professional and USA Ryder Cup captain learned the game of golf.

New to the tournament last year was the Men’s Grand Master Flight for those 75 years of age or older. The field included the first eight players to enter.

Qualifying play for the Men’s Regular/Championship flights will begin on Sunday, August 2, with match play beginning Tuesday, August 4.

For more information, visit www.alexandriagolfclub.com.

To keep up to date with the latest information on the Resorters Golf Tournament, changes to the schedule or restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, visit the Alexandria Golf Club at www.alexandriagolfclub.com.

6 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

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July/August 2020 • Vacationer 7

HEAD guidedOUTSIDE walking tours

W

By Celeste Edenloff

ith the nice weather finally upon us and some COVID-19 restrictions still in place, many people have been spending more time outside.

Crystal Hoepner with Horizon Public Health said exercise during this time is so important for mental health, along with a person’s well-being and to help reduce obesity.

“A silver lining for COVID-19 is people have slowed down, spent more time with their families and gotten outside,” said Hoepner.

Several years ago, public health received a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield and developed Active Living Douglas County. The grant was for five years, said Hoepner. 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.

“We wanted to increase opportunities for people to be active in their own communities,” said Hoepner. “We tried to focus on routes that would be good for people to use on their lunch breaks and with their families.”

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

8 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

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.

Hoepner said although the BCBS grant is completed, public health is still actively working on opportunities for people to be active, but that it is now done through the Statewide Health Improvement Program through the Minnesota Department of Health.

SHIP is a statewide effort that not only focuses on increasing physical activity, but it also focuses on improving nutrition and reducing the number of people who use, or are exposed to, tobacco.

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.

For example, one of the maps in Evansville highlights the Mound Grove Cemetery Memorial Park, which according to the map info, in 1963 Mr. Thompson submitted a park proposal to add water lines and to purchase the land around the cemetery. By May 31, 1965, the new park was dedicated and in the fall of 1971, a mausoleum was added to the facility.

Combining walking with learning bits of local history is a great idea, said Hoepner. And with COVID-19, it gives families a chance to get out, get some exercise and learn together.

STAR STORMon 2020 fireworks the lake

T

he annual Fourth of July fireworks celebration – Star Storm – at Arrowwood Resort in Alexandria will take place this year, but there are some major changes.

Weather permitting, the fireworks show will take place on Saturday, July 4, starting around 10 p.m.

However, due to COVID-19 and social distancing requirements, there will be no shuttle service to the resort and no outside guests will be allowed on the Arrowwood property, according to Shari Prause, director of sales and marketing at Arrowwood.

She said that only resort guests will be allowed on the property.

However, parking will be available in the stables parking lot for people to stay in their vehicle to watch the show.

People can still watch by boat, she noted in the press release.

Star Storm this year will be aired live on the Arrowwood Resort Facebook page for people to watch from the comfort of their own home. And just like in the past, Star Storm will continue to have music, which will be broadcast on KIKV-FM 100.7.

Reservations can be made at Arrowwood’s Deck Bar, but there will be limited seating. Prause said there will be a $20 per hour charge per table, with that cover charge being donated to Helping Hands of Alexandria.

Prause said there are numerous sponsors for this year’s Star Storm 2020 and that it wouldn’t be possible without them.

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July/August 2020 • Vacationer 9

ALEXANDRIA area events calendar

JULY

Wednesday, July 1 6:30 p.m. Blond & The Bohunk, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria Thursday, July 2 The Reminders, Theatre L’Homme Dieu 7 p.m. WoodPicks, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria Friday, July 3 The Reminders, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Evansville Red White and Boom Days Saturday, July 4 7 p.m. Special Patriotic Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria Starstorm Fireworks Show, Arrowwood Resort Evansville Red White and Boom Days Wednesday, July 8 6:30 p.m. Cline Connection, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria Thursday, July 9 7 p.m. Big Fat Groove Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria Friday, July 10 6-9 p.m. Music in the Gardens: Mick Sterling, Legacy of the Lakes Museum Saturday, July 11 1 p.m. Legacy of the Lakes Boat Parade, Arrowwood Resort on Lake Darling Wednesday, July 15 6:30 p.m. Doo-Wop Divas, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria Farewell Angelina, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Thursday, July 16 7 p.m. WhiteSidewalls Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria Friday, July 17 50th Miltona Tornado Days Art of the Lakes Studio Tour, Evansville Art Center and other locations Saturday, July 18 50th Miltona Tornado Days Art of the Lakes Studio Tour, Evansville Art Center and other locations Sunday, July 19 50th Miltona Tornado Days Art of the Lakes Studio Tour, Evansville Art Center and other locations Tuesday, July 21 Ruthless, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Wednesday, July 22 6:30 p.m. Kori Williams & Friends concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria Ruthless, Theatre L’Homme Dieu

10 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

Thursday, July 23 7 p.m. Shalo Lee Band Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria Ruthless, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Friday, July 24 Ruthless, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Saturday, July 25 Ruthless, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Rose City Threshing & Heritage Festival, Miltona 7 p.m. “Born to Run,” Music of Bruce Springsteen by Mick Sterling, Central Square, 105 2nd Ave. NE, Glenwood Sunday, July 26 Rose City Threshing & Heritage Festival, Miltona Tuesday, July 28 The Good Humor Men, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Wednesday, July 29 6:30 p.m. Tuesday Night Club concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria The Good Humor Men, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Summer Fest, Brandon Thursday, July 30 7 p.m. Front Fenders Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria The Good Humor Men, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Summer Fest, Brandon Friday, July 31 6-9 p.m. Music in the Gardens, Legacy of the Lakes Museum The Good Humor Men, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Summer Fest, Brandon

AUGUST

Saturday, Aug. 1 The Good Humor Men, Theatre L’Homme Dieu Summer Fest, Brandon Sunday, Aug. 2 Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria Summer Fest, Brandon Monday, Aug. 3 Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria Tuesday, Aug. 4 Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria Wednesday, Aug. 5 Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria 5-7 p.m. Annual Steak Fry Fundraiser, Fort Alexandria 6:30 p.m. Jewett Benson & Peggy Wiese, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria Thursday, Aug. 6 7 p.m. Crows Feet Band, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria Friday, Aug. 7 Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria 7:30 p.m. “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu

Saturday, Aug. 8 Resorters Golf Tournament, Alexandria 7:30 p.m. “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Sunday, Aug. 9 “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Monday, Aug. 10 “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Tuesday, Aug. 11 “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Wednesday, Aug. 12 6:30 p.m. Cassie Wiesner & Kevin Klimek concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Thursday, Aug. 13 7 p.m. Honky Tonk Cowboys Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Friday, Aug. 14 6-9 p.m. Music in the Gardens, Legacy of the Lakes Museum 7:30 p.m. “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Saturday, Aug. 15 “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Sunday, Aug. 16 “Glensheen,” Theatre L’Homme Dieu Wednesday, Aug. 19 6:30 p.m. Paradocx concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria Thursday, Aug. 20 6-10 p.m. Theatre L’Homme Dieu Summer Soiree 7 p.m. Salty Dogs Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria Friday, Aug. 21 7:30 p.m. “BFF,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area Theatre Saturday, Aug. 22 7:30 p.m. “BFF,” Fire Pit Productions, Lakes Area Theatre Wednesday, Aug. 26 6:30 p.m. Dale Martell concert, Knute Nelson Healing Garden, 420 12th Ave. E., Alexandria Thursday, Aug. 27 7 p.m. Doc’s Dixieland Concert, Douglas County Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

Please make sure to check for any changes by visiting each event’s website or the Echo Press website at www.echopress.com for the most current information.

VIKING speedway

I

f all goes well, the Viking Speedway racers and fans could be looking at the 55th season opener on July 11 that would include all classes of racing on the 1/2-mile track.

The speedway has been home to stock car racing at its finest, featuring five classes of racing – Late Models, 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 the Viking Fall Classic in October and a few other specials throughout the summer.

Highlighting the racing season will be the Hall of Fame night on August 4. There will also be the fourth annual Fallen Lineman Memorial Modified Special on August 10.

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 4 p.m. and the grandstand opens at 5 p.m. Racing action gets under way at 6:45 p.m.

For more information and the lastest schedule, visit the website www.vikingspeedway.net.

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July/August 2020 • Vacationer 11

GARDEN CENTER bowling

B

owling is back at the Garden Center Lanes! Now open, you can take advantage of 34 lanes for bowling at one of the premier bowling centers in the Upper Midwest.

Operating with modified hours, capacity limitations and cleaning protocols in place, you can also check out the full service pro shop, a large arcade and a snack bar with made-to-order pizzas.

Garden Center Lanes is located at 115 30th Ave. E. in Alexandria, next to the Hampton Inn and across the street from Cinema 9 movie theater.

Garden Center Lanes is open Monday-Wednesday from 3-11 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. To make reservations, call (320) 763-6565.

Be sure to visit the Garden Center Lanes website at www.gardencenterlanes.com or visit its Facebook page for the most up to date information on its schedule.

CINEMA 9 theater movie

O

n Friday, July 10, Midway Cinema 9 will re-open to the public, bringing the latest movie releases to its nine digital screens.

Cinema 9, a part of CEC Theatres, is taking the health and safety of its customers and employees very seriously, and will be implementing several measures to make your visit as enjoyable as it is safe. Those measures include

socially distanced seating, hand sanitizer stations located throughout the theaters, disinfectant wipes available upon request, health screening for employees, limited number of people inside the theater, plexiglass partitions at concession stands and the box office, as well as reminders about social distancing.

Along with its digital screens, Cinema 9 has 3D movie options, and all nine screens feature DTS Digital and Dolby Digital EX Stereo Sound.

The theater is located at 2910 South Broadway Street in Alexandria. For more information, contact them at (320) 763-3669 or visit www.midwaycinema9.com.

Be sure to visit the Midway Cinema 9 website at www.midwaycinema9.com or visit its Facebook page for the most up to date information on its schedule.

12 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

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

Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com

RED WILLOW ARTS COALITION SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Thursdays, June 25-Aug. 27, 7 p.m.

Douglas County Courthouse lawn, Alexandria www.redwillowartscoalition.org

OPEN MIC NIGHTS

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

March-December Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com

FIRST FRIDAY CONCERTS 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

WISSOTA CAR RACING

Saturdays, May-Labor Day, 6:30 p.m.

Additional specials on other dates.

Viking Speedway, Alexandria (320) 762-1559, www.vikingspeedway.net

GOKART RACING

Fridays, May-Aug., 7 p.m.

Additional specials on other dates.

Douglas County Fairgrounds, Alexandria (320) 491-9249, www.runestonegokart.com

ALEXANDRIA FARMERS MARKET Saturdays, May 9-Oct. 31, 9 a.m. to noon.

Thursdays, June 25-Oct. 29, 3 to 6 p.m.

Tuesdays, June 30-Oct. 27, 9 a.m. to noon.

Big Ole Central Park, Alexandria

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DOWNTOWN & PLAZA LIQUOR Downtown by Big Ole & next to Viking Plaza, Alexandria

HOLMES CITY FARMERS MARKET AND COMMUNITY BREAKFAST Saturdays, May 16-Oct. 17, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Breakfast through 10:30 a.m.

Trinity Lutheran Church parking lot, Holmes City

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

Be sure to visit each event’s website or Facebook page for the most recent information on its schedule.

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July/August 2020 • Vacationer 13

TOURS & TASTINGS at local venues

I

t might be surprising to know, but the Alexandria Lakes Area is filled with amazing wineries, breweries and a unique distillery, all open and ready for tastings and tours.

Even with the COVID restrictions in place, all of these venues are working to ensure your safety. Make sure to check the websites and/or Facebook pages for each company for the most up-to-date information on hours and services.

COPPER TRAIL BREWING CO. Copper Trail Brewing is the fifth brewery to be established in Alexandria’s history with the last closing its doors 70 years ago. Here you will find small-batch craft beers brewed on site.

The taproom is an industrial style craftsman area with a relaxing atmosphere just 20 feet from where the brewery system is located. It includes seating at the bar, BORD tables or custom made tables.

The brewery is located at 205 Broadway St. in downtown Alexandria, one block from the Central Lakes Trail and Big Ole Park.

Current hours for the taproom are are Monday-Thursday from 3-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday from noon-11 p.m. and Sunday from noon-8 p.m.

Copper Trail Brewing Co. has made several changes to comply with the social distancing guidelines.

You can check these out on its Facebook page or its website at www.coppertrailbrewing.com. You can also call (320) 219-6688.

14 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

CARLOS CREEK WINERY Carlos Creek Winery is one of the largest and oldest wineries in Minnesota, dedicated to crafting award-winning wines, including their famous Hot Dish Red, Wobegon White and You Betcha Blush.

Located in the heart of the beautiful Alexandria lake country, Carlos Creek Winery is Minnesota’s first federally designated viticultural area.

Tours and tastings are available at the winery, which hosts live music year round. The winery is also a premier wedding venue and has an on-site pizza kitchen.

Current hours for the winery are noon- 7 p.m. on Sunday-Thursday and noon-9 p.m. on Friday-Saturday.

For the most current social distancing guidelines, visit www.carloscreekwinery.com or the winery’s Facebook page. You can also call (320) 846-5443 for more information.

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

PANTHER DISTILLERY

22 NORTHMEN BREWING COMPANY

Alexandria’s Viking explorer folklore gave birth to the name of the brewery and influences the decor of Panther Distillery is the first craft distillery in Minnesota and has been the building, which includes a beer hall designed after a traditional Norhandcrafting whiskey, bourbon, wegian longhouse and a main level rum and spirits since 2011 using with a Viking ship-inspired beer bar, local sources and distilling in small as well as a double-decker fireplace. batches.

The brewery, located on the Many of Panther Distillery’s grounds of Carlos Creek Winery, products have earned high honors, including the silver medal in the Den- focuses on craft lagers, ales and origver International Spirits Competition inal blends that embrace the Viking spirit of adventure. in 2015 for its Spiked Apple Spirits The Valkyrie serves hand crafted, and silver in 2017 in the Heartland Spirits Competition for its Minnesota wood-fired pizza and the grounds feature an outdoor patio.

14.

Current hours for the brewery are Tours and tastings have begun noon- 7 p.m. on Sunday-Thursday again and the distillery is open and noon-9 p.m. on Friday-Saturday.

Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

For the most current social and Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. distancing guidelines, visit For more information, visit www. pantherdistillery.com or its Facebook www.22northmen.com or the brewery’s Facebook page. You can page. You can also call (320) also call (320) 846-5443 for more 760-5002 (gift shop/tours) or (320) information.

305-1185 (main office).

22 Northmen is located at 6693 Panther Distillery is located at 300 County Road 34 NW in Alexandria.

East Pike Street, Osakis.

BURR VINEYARDS Burr Vineyards is open on Fridays Burr Vineyards is a small, from 4-8 p.m. for pizza night with boutique, family winery located wine by the bottle, glass or flight. near Brandon that specializes in It is open from 1-6 p.m. on Saturhand-crafted wines derived from the cold-hardy grapes grown adjacent to days with wine by the glass, bottle or flight, with the option of a cheese the winery. board appetizer.

The vineyard overlooks Burr Lake For more information, visit www. and boasts an outdoor brick oven. burrvineyards.com or the Facebook They serve pizzas and fresh bread page. You can also call (651) 726to complement wine tastings. There 4397. is also an indoor tasting/event room with a walk-out deck.

Burr Vineyards is located at 10522 County RD 58 NW, Brandon.

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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.

Due to COVID-19, all museum programming and events will be suspended until further notice and they have temporarily closed their doors to visitors.

For more information call (320) 763-

3160, or visit the museum’s website at www.runestonemuseum.org. 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.

Summer hours (April 1-October 31) are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum is closed on April 21 and September 2.

Admission to the museum, located at 206 Broadway, is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors ages 62 and older and $5 for students (youth and college). A family admission is $20.

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 hands-on 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.

16 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

Be sure to visit the Runestone Museum website at www.runestonemuseum.org or visit its Facebook page for the most recent information on its schedule.

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.

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

“Come in for our prices, Come back for our quality.”

High quality name brand items at thrift store prices clothing, purses ,shoes, jewelry, household, misc. items, furniture and so much more.

Mon- Fri 9 AM - 5 PM • Sat 9 AM - 2 PM

Klothes Kloset Thrift Store 660 Northside Dr. NE, Alexandria • 320-763-9888 Owned & operated by Runestone Area Education District (NON-PROFIT)

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

LARGE SELECTION OF MINNESOTA TEES & SWEATSHIRTS • FUN APPAREL • JEWELRY • GIFTS & CARDS

6th & Broadway • Alexandria 320.846.1100 • facebook.com/shopMagpie

Let Kyle Serve You!

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

Interior Design, Gifts and Décor all under one roof

• ANTIQUES • COLLECTIBLES DIV • REPURPOSED TREASURES DENA • FURNITURE • DÉCOR OPEN 320.759.2300

N MAVE CA

YEAR ROUND

619 Broadway St, Alexandria Mon. - Sat. 10-5 www.pastandpresenthomegallery.com Sun. 12-4

The

Blue Rooster

Shoppe

1001 Hwy 29 N. - Alexandria, MN Hours: Thurs. - Sat. 10 am - 5 pm 320.219.7069 Sue: 952-484-5701 Bill: 612-298-9444 www.blueroostershoppe.com

Vintage ❦ Repurposed Furniture ❦ Home Décor ❦ Gifts

Where you will find your one of a kind item

Velkommen!

609 Broadway, Alexandria 320-763-8300 • www.ravnikandco.com

Yesterdays Antique Store

Two levels of furniture, pottery, jewelry, glassware, primitives and unique home décor.

517 Broadway, Alexandria, MN 56308

(320) 762-8990

M-F 9-6 *Sat 9-5:30 * Sun 12-4

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

www.scandinaviangifts.com

What: When: Where: Why: Who:

Your Business!

Call 320-763-3133 to reserve advertising space.

July/August 2020 • Vacationer 17

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.

Although not open yet, 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.

The museum is located in downtown Alexandria at 205 Third Avenue West, near the Alexandria Fire Department. The museum is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday from 12-4 p.m. Contact the museum at (320) 759-1114 or through its website www.legacyofthelakes. org.

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.

The Legacy of the Lakes Museum is located at 205 3rd Ave. W. in Alexandria. For more information, call (320) 759-1114.

Be sure to visit the Legacy of the Lakes Museum website at www.legacyofthelakes.org or its Facebook page for the most recent information on its schedule.

OUR EXHIBITS WILL KNOCK REASONS YOU OUT TO VISIT? OF YOUR ABOUT HAMMOCK 10,000

18 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

BOAT PARADE REPLACES BOAT SHOW Legacy of the Lakes will not hold its annual classic boat show this summer. Instead, it will host a boat parade on July 11. Boats will leave from Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center at 1 p.m. and will travel around Lakes Darling, Carlos and LeHomme Dieu, with the parade lasting approximately two hours. All boat types are welcome and there is no participation fee.

MUSEUM EXHIBITS GRAND HOTELS AND RESORTS Each June visitors would arrive, bringing trunks filled with silks and linens, formal dinner wear and European hats. See how these affluent early visitors summered in grandeur.

WOODEN BOATS 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 the “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.

Commercial Residential Streets & Roads

New Construction Resurfacing Driveways

Parking Lots Sports Courts Agriculture

Paving Contractors Asphalt Paving Contractors 205 3rd Ave W Alexandria, MN 205 3rd Ave W www.legacyofthelakes.org Alexandria, MN

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

PUBLIC beaches

LIFEGUARD-STAFFED 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.

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.

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.

16 THINGS TO DO IN THE ALEXANDRIA LAKES AREA 1. Bike the Central Lakes Trail.

7. Go horseback riding.

2. Take a walking tour of historic downtown Alexandria.

8. Explore the trails at Lake Carlos State Park.

3. Have your picture taken with Big Ole.

9. Feed the ducks at Noonan Park.

4. Fish off the pier at Alexandria City Park.

5. Take a hike up Inspiration Peak to enjoy the view.

6. Build a sand castle at the lake.

10. Rent a kayak and try a new sport.

11. Visit the Lady of the Hills near Millerville.

12. Take a scenic drive around Lake Osakis.

13. Go for a swim at Chippewa County Park.

14. Play a round of golf.

15. Paddle a canoe along the shoreline of an unpopulated lake.

16. Go hiking at Spruce Hill County Park.

It’s 5:00 Somewhere!

Why not meet your friends at BRANDON LIQUOR Happy Hour Monday-Saturday 3-6 pm • Friday & Saturday 9-11pm Large pizza and a pitcher of beer $13.00 every Tuesday Fireball Friday $2.50 a shot, all day Daily Meat Raffle every Saturday at 6:30

320.834.4547

Drink Specials!

DAILY HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10 am-1 am ~ Friends always welcomed July/August 2020 • Vacationer 19

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

The Douglas County Historical Society is located at 1219 Nokomis St. in Alexandria. Office hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., guided house tours are Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, call (320) 762-0382, email historic@dchsmn.org or visit www.dchsmn.org.

The Douglas County Historical Society will be restarting office operations, but will remain closed to the public at this time. They are happy to take research requests via email at historic@dchsmn.org. Be sure to visit the Douglas County Historical Society website at www.dchsmn.org or its Facebook page for the most recent information on its schedule.

20 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

THE DOUGLAS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY was organized in 1976 to discover, preserve and disseminate the history of the county and its people.

RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC include a research library with church, school, cemetery and family history files, and microfilm of census records and area newspapers dating back to 1875.

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INCLUDE slide shows of each town in the county, oral history, interviews, a photo collection, materials for identification of significant buildings and sites in Douglas County, a vintage clothing and uniform collection, and county history books.

Come Worship With Us!

LAKES AREA CHURCHES WELCOME YOU Alexandria

First Lutheran (ELCA)

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

1655 18th Ave. E • 320-762-2196 • www.firstlutheranalexandria.com Pastors: Greg Billberg, Kari van Wakeren & Ben Jacobson Saturday Worship: 5 pm - Sanctuary Sunday Worship: 8:30 am - Sanctuary 10:00 am - Legacy of the Lakes Museum 10:30 am - Lake Carlos State Park You can tune to 1490 AM / 100.3 FM at 10:00 am to listen to rebroadcast of our 8:30 worship service.

Alexandria United Methodist

Good Shepherd Lutheran (LCMS)

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

2702 Hwy. 29 N, 320-762-5152 www.goodshepherdalex.com Pastor: Tim Schiller Sunday Worship: 9 am Holy Communion: 1st & 2nd Sundays

Berea Lutheran Brethren

Lake Community

Alexandria Covenant

1405 6th Ave E., 320-762-1092 www.welcometoberea.org Pastor: Steve Walswick Sunday Worship: 9:30 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: Tom Sinning, Priest 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 KXRA radio broadcast 1st Sunday of the month watch each weekday morning 9am Cable 181

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 Praise Band Worship: 2nd Sunday of the month Communion: 1st & 3rd Sundays of the month Vacation Bible School: Check website for dates Bible Studies: Check website

New Testament

2505 Hwy 29 North, 320-762-2444 Pastors: Peter Reishus & Mike Loween Sunday Worship: 9:30 am-10:15 am Worship & Teaching: 10:30 am-11:30 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

Word Alone Fellowship

Church Svc Temporarily on WAF website (A Traditional Christian Worship) 1906 6th Ave. East • www.wordalonefellowship.org Alexandria, MN Pastors: Steve Walswick & Ralph Erickson Sunday Worship:9:00am Sunday Adult Bible Study: 10:30am (Dodie Sorbel) Communion: First and third Sunday

Other Areas St. John’s

101 Park St.. Garfield, 320-834-2248 Pastor: Jeffery Ross Sunday Worship: 9 am with coffee and fellowship to follow Sunday School & Bible Study: 10:15 am Communion: 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month THESE TIMES APPLY JUNE 1 TO AUG. 31 WWW.CATHOLICCHURCHES-BMUP.ORG

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

Seven Dolors Catholic, Millerville

Sunday Worship: 10:30 am

St. Ann’s Catholic, Brandon

Saturday Worship: 4 pm

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

PAID ADVERTISMENT

July/August 2020 • Vacationer 21

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,

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.

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 flipover 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/

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Whether you’re spending the night at the park or just a few hours, here’s what you need to know: Plan ahead Make reservations and buy your permits in advance. This helps protect you, other visitors and staff by minimizing person-to-person contact. If you buy a vehicle permit online, record your confirmation number and place it on your car’s dashboard.

Be prepared. Bring your own water, soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, towels and toilet paper.

Follow the rules. Follow federal, state and MDH/DNR guidelines.

Observe cleaning protocols, follow directional signage and practice social distancing--even outdoors.

Camping and other services Upper and Lower Campgrounds both now open.

All four camper cabins (Eagle, Loon, Raccoon, Frog) now open.

The Equestrian Campground is now open.

Lakeview Group Camp is closed until further notice.

Pioneer Group Camp will open July 1.

Hidden Lake Group Center is closed until further notice.

Bathrooms/showers/vault toilets Sanitation buildings in the Upper and Lower Campgrounds are now open.

They will be cleaned in the mornings, with additional afternoon cleaning of high touch areas. Campers with RVs are requested to use their own units as much as possible to minimize the number of people using park sanitation buildings.

Vault toilets are available in the Equestrian Campground and the Pioneer and Lakeview Group Camps.

The beach sanitation building is closed under further notice.

Water Water spigots will be available throughout the Upper and Lower Campgrounds June 1. RVs are not allowed to attach to these spigots to fill their water tanks - use the RV dump station to fill water tanks.

Water in the Equestrian Campground is on for day use riders needing to water their horses.

There is no water available in the Pioneer or Lakeview Group Camp areas or at the beach sanitation building.

Buildings The Ranger Station inside is closed (service window open), the beach and Lakeview picnic shelters are closed until further notice.

Park staff is available to answer questions by calling 320-852-7200 or email lakecarlos.statepark@state. mn.us.

The Interpretive Center is closed until further notice and programs are canceled.

Other services At the park, permits may be purchased via self-registration.

Campers can proceed directly to their campsite if park office is closed and security staff will check them in. When Service window is open, please stop at office and check in.

Buy firewood locally following DNR guidelines.

The RV dump and fill station is now open.

The swimming beach is closed until further notice.

There will be no canoe/kayak/ paddleboat rentals until further notice.

BURGERS FRIES SHRIMP SHAKES MALTS SUNDAES Convenient Walk-up Window, Inside Seating or Take-Out!

22 West Nokomis, Osakis

320-859-2217

JACOBS

LEFSE BAKERI & GIFTS

Fresh Hand Rolled Lefse

320-859-3382

where the FUN begins!

Events JUNE

www.gotlefse.com 221Central Ave, Osakis Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm

Lions’ Walleye Fishing Tournament 220 Central Ave. Osakis, MN 56308 320-859-5454

home decor, clothing, florals

s i k a s O

Hours: Tues.-8:30am-2pm Wed.- 10am-7pm Thurs. & Fri.- 10am-5pm Sat.- 10am-4pm Sun.- Closed

JULY

4th of July Fireworks Osakis City-Wide Garage Sales AUGUST

Osakis Silverstreak Golf Classic Outdoor Movie Nights

SEPTEMBER

Sportsmen’s Club Corn Feed Moonshine Madness OCTOBER

Community Halloween Party NOVEMBER

Holiday Bazaar Community Thanksgiving Dinner December

Osakis Chamber Shop Local Santa Day

59 W. Main Street Osakis

July/August 2020 • Vacationer 23

CENTRAL LAKES trail

T

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 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.

SHARE THE TRAIL BE COURTEOUS All trail users should be respectful of each other, regardless of mode of travel, speed or skill level.

PASS ON THE LEFT Just like a roadway, always pass trail users on the left side and only when it is safe and clear to do so.

RIGHT OF WAY Know the specific rules of your trail, which may be local, county, regional or state controlled. In general, cyclists should yield to all other users.

USE CAUTION AT CROSSINGS There are many types of trail crossings in Minnesota, and they can be very dangerous when not paying full attention. Watch for signage and yield to cross traffic. If there are multiple lanes or blind spots, use extra caution.

SIGNAL WHEN PASSING Bells are great to use when farther back, especially when followed by a greeting, “Good morning, I’ll be passing on your left side” as you approach. Yelling “On yer left” while passing at full speed is neither courteous nor safe.

24 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

BE PREDICTABLE Trails can be great for training, but trails are for everyone. Never sacrifice your own or someone else’s safety for convenience. On busy weekends and evenings, fast training may be best left to the road.

Signal your intentions and be sensitive to others.

USE LIGHTS AT NIGHT Some trails may be closed after dark. If open, a white headlight is required along with a rear red reflector. Red taillights are strongly recommended. Dark trails can require brighter lights to see hazards.

DO NOT BLOCK THE TRAIL Group rides are fun, but don’t take up more than your half of the trail. This often means riding single file on the trails.

CLEAN UP LITTER Don’t leave trash on the trail and pick up items (especially glass or other potentially hazardous debris) to make the trail a better place for everyone.

From HaveFunBiking.com

GOLF COURSES

Your Guide to Area

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Joel Goldstrand Design www.genevagolfclub.com Pro Shop 320-762-7089 Geneva Grill 320-762-7092

Located 3 miles N on Hwy 29 to Co Rd 73, then 1 mile E and then S on Liberty Rd

27 Hole Championship Golf Course Great Stay & Play Packages with On Site Lodging Looking to Plan a Golf Trip to Arizona?

Visit thompsongolfgroup.com to Learn about our Other Properties

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

SEASONAL OR WEEKLY PUNCH CARDS

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

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 July/August 2020 • Vacationer 25

Your Guide to Area

GOLF

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

18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE “HomeArrowwood of the Resorters” the Public 2100 Lane| Open NW •toAlexandria

320-762-TEES For more information, visit us online at www.alexandriagolfclub.com or check out(8337) www.arrowwoodresort.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlexandriaGolfClub/ or Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandriagolfclub/

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

Beautiful, well-maintained public golf course!

Family friendly—Fun for all skill levels Driving range—Putting green— Club and cart rentals—Food and beer THURSDAYS, kids 16 and under golf FREE with paid adult From I-94, exit 90 at Brandon, five miles N on Co Rd 16 NW

Call for tee times 320-834-4028 www.pineridgegolfcourse.net 26 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

• Challenging Greens • Relaxed & Friendly Atmosphere

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

2100 Arrowwood Lane NW • Alexandria

320-762-TEES (8337) www.arrowwoodresort.com

COURSES “A challenging beauty amid hills, trees and ponds!”

Please call ahead for a tee time 320-859-2140 www.osakiscountryclub.com

1 PRICE FOR 9 HOLES ALL THE TIME 2 golfers with cart $40 • 1 golfer with cart $20 (Not valid for league play)

Seasonal memberships available Club, Cart & Golf Rentals Lounge: Beer & Set-ups, Sandwiches & Pizza

1 block North of Intersection Hwys. 127 & 27 E., Osakis

320-762-TEES (8337) www.arrowwoodresort.com

2100 Arrowwood Lane NW • Alexandria

• Pro-Shop • Driving Range • Snack Bar • Rentals • Open to the Public

Arrowwood is2100 proudArrowwood to announce Minnesota Golf at its finest! This newly Lane NW • Alexandria renovated golf course was designed with wetland preservation in mind 320-762-TEES (8337) and focuses onwww.arrowwoodresort.com scenic lake views and unique challenges. Experience the natural and undisturbed beauty of Alexandria’s most scenic golf course.

THE NEW 2020

IS HERE!

HIGH PERFORMANCE LITHIUM NOW AVAILABLE! COME VISIT OUR SHOWROOM!

Over 35 Years Golf Car Experience.

HOME OF

SALES & SERVICE 320-762-1114 Toll Free 1-877-743-6322 AlexGolfCars.com 605 Hawthorne St, Alexandria Mon-Fri 8am - 5pm • Sat 9am-Noon

July/August 2020 • Vacationer 27

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!

LIVE MUSIC Thurs. 6-9pm Fri. 7-10pm KARAOKE & D.J. Sat. 9-1pm

HAPPY HOUR Mon. - Sat. 3 - 6pm

Check out our FB page for daily specials!

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

4960 Co. Rd. 42 NE, Alexandria 1 Block North of the Carlos / L’ Homme Dieu bridge Alexandria, MN Call 320-763-9983

voted

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115 30th Ave E, Alexandria, MN

320-763-6565 1-800-657-3294

best restaurant 3 years in a row!

FULL MENU FROM A VARIETY OF Appetizers to Salads, Sandwiches, Prime Rib and Steaks

Viking Plaza Mall • Alexandria • 320-762-2697

Full Menu!

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Food Served Until 11 pm Full Service Bar

Fast Track Lunch Special Including Soup & Salad Bar Mon-Fri 11am-1:30pm 320-759-0885 | 4409 Hwy 29 S | Alexandria

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28 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

• Over 29 varieties of tap beer • Nightly food and drink specials

320-834-2532 or 218-267-2726

Mon.-Thur. 11:30am-1am • Fri.-Sun. 11am-1am

Taste of the Lakes Area

FOOD & HOSPITALITY Since 1925, Alexandria’s Recommended Family Dining

BREAKFAST SERVED ALL DAY

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 

Wine \ Craft Beer \ Full Menu Hand-Crafted Cocktails / Live Music

115 6th Ave E Alexandria

320.759.2277

Renovated Old Burlington Train Depot overlooking Lake Agnes.

• Large Menu •Salad Bar • Pizza - The Best in the Area •Dine In or On the Deck • Full Lounge, TV’s, Pool Tables & Games •Large Groups Welcome • Full Catering Available • Breakfast available Fri. & Sat. 8 - 10:30am See you at the Depot! depotalex.com

· Handcrafted cocktails · Unique dishes and flavors served every day · Live entertainment

East Coast Casual Meets Midwest Comfort

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

511 Broadway - Historic Downtown - 320-763-4000

Appetizers & Soups • Sandwiches & Wraps Pasta • Salads • Burgers • Poultry Fresh Fish & Seafood • Steaks & Ribs

Weekly Specialties!

Tuesday: BUILD YOUR OWN BURGER BAR 5-9 pm Friday: Pasta & Stir-fry Buffet 5-9 pm

Create your own dish & see it sautéed on the spot!

Sunday: Famous Brunch 8 am - 1:30 pm

LAKE LE HOMME DIEU 2800 N NOKOMIS NE, ALEXANDRIA, MN 56308 OPEN DAILY AT 11AM | 320.219.7755

Breakfast & lunch favorites including carved beef & glazed ham, omelette station, fresh rolls, fruit and biscuits & gravy!

320-762-1124 • www.arrowwoodresort.com 2100 Arrowwood Lane NE, Alexandria

July/August 2020 • Vacationer 29

AREAparks

CITY PARKS

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.

Big Ole Central Park is on the north end of Broadway in Alexandria, next to Lake Agnes. It features a gazebo and kiosk shelter and serves as a trail head for the Central Lakes Trail.

Dean Melton Fillmore Park is at Fillmore Street and 15th Ave. W in Alexandria.

Fred Foslien Park is in Victoria Heights, two blocks south of County Rd. 82 off Knut Street in Alexandria.

Geneva Crest Park is on the west side of Lake Geneva in Alexandria (take County Rd. 82 East, turn north on Birch Avenue, 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 Avenue West 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 Avenue.

East between Roosevelt and Spruce streets in Alexandria.

Lakeview Park is near County Rd. 82 East and Birch Avenue in Alexandria (take County Rd. 82 East to Birch Avenue , turn west on Runestone Place and west on Lake Park Avenue).

Legion Park is at Broadway and Eighth Avenue West in Alexandria.

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

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

Noonan Park is at Nokomis Street and 10th Avenue in Alexandria.

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

30 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

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

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

Runestone Park is about one mile east of Broadway in Alexandria on Sixth Avenue East.

COUNTY PARKS

Chippewa Park is three miles north of Brandon on County 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 County Rd. 42. It has a volleyball court, playground, a picnic shelter, restrooms, horseshoe courts and a softball field.

Lake Brophy Park is located on the north side of Lake Brophy. Take County Road 82 west of Alexandria to the Brophy Landing road. The park includes a parking area, portable restroom, dock and fire ring, as well as natural surface trails for walking, biking, and running and has access to the Central Lakes Trail. It also has has a playground with slides, swings, ninja course, obstacles, puzzles, educational games and is the largest playground system within a 60-mile radius. There’s a swimming beach and bathhouse and mountain bike trails.

Lake Brophy Wayside Park is west of Alexandria at the intersection of County 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. There’s a visitor’s center, picnic tables, shelters, charcoal grills, electricity, restrooms, drinking water, heated building with kitchen facilities, softball field, horseshoe pit, volleyball court, playground, hiking and cross country ski trails and historic displays.

Spruce Hill Park is near Miltona (from Alexandria, take Hwy. 29 to County 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 PARK

Lake Carlos State Park is near Carlos. Take State Hwy. 29 north from Alexandria, turn west on County Rd. 38, turn left into park. Permit is required; purchase at park office ($7/day, $35/ year). The park features hiking, snowshoe, cross-country ski and snowmobile trails, picnic tables, shelters, swimming beach, canoe/paddleboat rentals, play area, camp sites, camper cabins, group camp, restrooms, showers, boat landing, amphitheater, visitor/interpretive center, naturalist programs, geocaching, equestrian area and fishouse rental.

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Happy Hour Daily • Burgers and sandwiches Best in town!

Best insoups town!

• Pasta• Homemade 3-6 • Green olive burgers • Bloody Mary Best in town!

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• Green olive burgers • Bloody Mary • Louisiana style ribs • Ice cream drinks • Green olive burgers •cream Bloody Mary • Louisiana style ribs • Ice drinks •Mon.-Sat. Louisiana style ribs •• Ice cream • Greenopen olive • Bloody Mary at burgers 11am.

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

• Sun. open at 3pm • Louisiana style ribs • Ice cream drinks

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July/August 2020 • Vacationer 31

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

32 July/August 2020 • 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

July/August 2020 • Vacationer 33

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

34 July/August 2020 • 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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July/August 2020 • Vacationer 35

FIRE PIT productions

W

ith a little bit of ingenuity and a lot of hard work, Fire Pit Productions is back on stage!

By turning its indoor productions into outdoor performances and building an outdoor stage, Fire Pit Productions has created outdoor seating that will follow all the social distancing guidelines and bring local theater back for summer 2020.

Theater director Quincy Roers discussed his plans and the guidelines with state legislators, and, following their direction, has set up an area for outdoor seating that includes 8-foot squares that will accommodate two people per square. Spectators must bring their own blankets or lawn chairs.

Along with the outdoor seating, Roers and his team have also created a drive-in movie theater style space for cars to park, staggering the parking to allow everyone to be

able to see the stage. People will be able to tune their radios to the show and listen while watching the live production.

To minimize contact, Fire Pit Productions will not be charging admission to the shows. There will be buckets for free will offerings near the entrances. There is also a cleaning and disinfecting protocol for the inside restrooms and there are no concessions. You are allowed to bring your own.

Begun in 2018 by Quincy Roers, Fire Pit Productions normally uses the stage at the Lakes Area Theatre for small production plays to provide the community with edgy thought-provoking stage plays. The performances are locally cast.

On the schedule is The Boy, inspired by the true story of a 1960s well-intentioned doctor who convinces the parents of a male infant to raise their son as a girl after a

36 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

Friday-Saturday, July 10-11, 7 p.m.

Sunday, July 12, 2 p.m. terrible accident, and the repercussions that follow. It will be performed Friday-Saturday, July 10-11 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, July 12 at 2 p.m.

Written by Anna Ziegler, The Boy explores the confusion of sexual identity and finding love.

For more information, visit lakesareatheatre.com/firepit, call 320815-7664 or email lakesareatheatre@ gmail.com.

Be sure to visit the Fire Pit Productions website at lakesareatheatre. com/firepit or visit its Facebook page for the most recent information on its schedule.

www.willytsalex.com LIVE MUSIC THURSDAY & FRIDAY | DJ SATURDAY NIGHTS

NEW DAILY HAPPY HOUR 3-6 PM & 9-11PM BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK

In the heart of the beautiful Alexandria lakes area...

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

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

CONCERTS on the courthouse

lawn

lition has TENTATIVE approval for a shortened season.

July 2: WoodPicks - Bluegrass July 4: Special Patriotic Concert July 9: Big Fat Groove - 60s/70s/R&B July 16: WhiteSidewalls - 50s/60s July 23: Shalo Lee Band - Country

July 30: Front Fenders - 50s/60s Aug 6: Crows Feet Band - 60s/70s Aug 13: Honky Tonk Cowboys Country Aug 20: Salty Dogs - Variety Aug 27: Doc’s Dixieland - Dixieland/ Gospel

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).

After being delayed for six weeks because of the pandemic, the first concert was slated for June 25.

The RWAC asks those who are not feeling well to stay home, and those who attend to wear face masks and follow social distancing, including performers. Red Willow staff will make sure that guidelines are being followed. There will be four self-serve popcorn areas with closed boxes and water stations to avoid lines, as well as two portable toilets that will be sanitized weekly.

A change in parking will allow more concert-goers to listen from their vehicles.

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.

As of June, the Red Willow Arts Coa-

38 July/August 2020 • Vacationer

Be sure to visit the Red Willow Arts Coalition website at www.redwillowartscoalition.org or visit its Facebook page for the most recent information on its schedule.

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

SPECIALTY PIZZAS GARLIC TOAST T • Sandwiches WINGS & SALADS Enjoy Angelina’s • Baskets

Outdoor Patio and Rooftop Seating

• Burgers • Pasta

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AT 11 A.M. LUNCH & NIGHTLY SPECIALS

MONDAY - FRIDAY 3-66 PM FRIDAY - SATURDAY 9-11 PM ALL DAY SUNDAYS

• • • • • •

Pull Tabs Pool Table Dart Boards Game Room 6 Big Screen TV’s Peanuts & Popcorn

Open Daily

1 2 DRINKS for

ERY V I L E D IN LE! B A C AILAB AV SUMMER MADE EASY AT

Bakery Cheeses Dairy Deli ouse Elden’s Smokeh Floral Frozen Food Health & Beauty Meat anic Natural and Org Olive Bar Produce Seafood

6 AM-10 PM • 7 DAYS A WEEK! 320-763-3446 • www.ELDENS.com | Corner of 3rd & Nokomis, Alexandria Only store in town that is LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED.