Litchfield Discover - 2022

Advertiser Meeker County

LITCHFIELD

Independent Review

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Local Matters. Your Town. Your News.

2022 - 2023 202

DISCOVER Litchfield

Litchfield, the county seat of Meeker County, is a medium size community of almost 7000 residents located at the intersections of highway 12 and 22 in central Minnesota that has much to offer people who work, live, or visit this city. Litchfield has many small, medium, and large businesses, manufacturing, and industries that offer a wide variety of employment to many of its residents in and around this community.

Litchfield also has many options for motels, Bed and Breakfast accommodations, and VRBO opportunities with great dining and shopping.

Our city has a wonderful school system, both public and parochial, along with their public education have an excellent community education program that provides recreation, art, theatre, music, and education possibilities for young and old.

Meeker Memorial Hospital and the two medical clinics nearby provide wonderful health care whether you are young or old. Our state-of-the art critical access hospital offers a full medical menu for inpatient and outpatient care. We have a large nursing home campus that is available to all levels of care for the elderly, disabled, and surgical recovering citizens in our area. We also boast many other health related businesses.

Recreation provides a wide variety of sporting opportunities and relaxation activities you may desire.

We have an abundance of lakes in our area along with our own Lake Ripley which is an esthetic attraction for our community. The city has many groomed parks with family shelters, tennis courts, softball fields, a huge children’s playground, splash park, and two beautiful campgrounds on or near our Lake Ripley that individuals and families can use for pleasure. Litchfield has a beautiful 18-hole golf course with an adjoining clubhouse/supper club for dining both casual and formal.

While spending time in our city, visit our historic buildings downtown, our historic Opera House, and the Grand Army of the Republic building. We love our Central Park, Memorial Park, and Anderson Gardens

by Lake Ripley. Come see our Lake Ripley Cemetery with a Civil War Monument and 50 American flags adorning the entrance to this beautiful sanctuary. We have many churches of various dominations if you are looking for a church to worship and attend.

The residents and business people of Litchfield are welcoming and living or working in this community offers many opportunities for the best quality of life. When you visit our community, we hope you enjoy your time and someday consider leasing, building, or owning a business. Another option would be to rent, build, or buy a home and become a part of us.

As Mayor of Litchfield, Litchfield is our home, and for those who live and work here, thanks for making this community a wonderful place on earth.

Keith Johnson Mayor, City of Litchfield, MN

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local decision making

lasting partnerships

legendary service

301 Ramsey Avenue North | Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3255 | centerbankmn.com 2022 | independentreview.net

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LITCHFIELD

Signs at the three main highway entrances to Litchfield welcome visitors to the enjoy the city on Lake Ripley.

HISTORY

Litchfield grows from railroad connection

HEALTH 6

ATTRACTIONS

Attractions Parks Recreation Festivals

Litchfield’s Historic Homes

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FOOD

Cooking up something special

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GOVERNMENT

Government y of Litchfield City Meeker County State and Federal Leaders Public Health Services Public Transit Airport

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Health Health and Wellness Providers

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LEISURE Leisure Athletic Organizations Clubs and Oragnizations

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LIVING Living g Senior Organizations Support Services Post Office Education Library City Map Worship

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MARKETPLACE Business Directory Celebrating 100 years of dairy success

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2022 Litchfield Discover Guide General Manager: Brent Schacherer Photography: Litchfield Independent Review / Photography: Cover Design: Nicole Bullock \ Editorial Design: Nicole Bullock \ Advertising: Kevin True Special thanks to the city of Litchfield, Litchfield Chamber of Commerce, Meeker County and Litchfield Public Schools for their support. Every effort has been made to provide an accurate directory, but if errors have been occurred, please let us know about them.

Published by the Litchfield Independent Review, 217 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield, MN 55355.

Copyright 2022 MediaNews Group. To submit additional information, call 320-693-3266 or send an email to news@independentreview.net.

Cover photo by: Brent Schacherer Fireworks light the sky over Lake Ripley during Litchfield’s 2022 Watercade celebration.

WELCOME

DISCOVER LITCHFIELD W

elcome to Discover Litchfield, a special annual publication of the Litchfield Independent Review.

Discover Litchfield 2022-2023 of fers a directory of information and resources for use by Litchfield area residents and businesses, as well as visitors to our city.

Discover Litchfield is a compilation of important information — intended as a single source for lists of services, names, telephone numbers and email addresses. Keep it handy; use it often.

And please support the businesses whose advertisements you find inside this guide. Without their support, Discover

Litchfield would not be possible. We appreciate them for supporting us, as well as for making Litchfield the wonderful community that it is.

Our apologies for any omissions or for changes that occur after publication. Please notify us of information that needs to be updated so we can ensure accuracy of future editions of the guide.

If you would like additional copies of this publication, call the Independent Review office at 320-693-3266, or email news@independentreview.net.

Railroad altered Litchfield’s trajectory as a city

BY JULIANA THILL

L

itchfield has seen its share of changes during the past 150 years, from its founding fathers staking claims along new railroad tracks to a flourishing city that is home to more than 6,000 residents and prospering businesses.

The city, which early on was named Ripley and later was known as Ness, was eventually surveyed, platted and recorded as Litchfield in July 1869.

The city’s name and prosperity is tied in part to one monumental event that was influenced by three brothers from England.

These men – Electus Darwin Litchfield, Egbert E. Litchfield and Edwin Clark Litchfield – helped finance the construction of the railroad across Minnesota, through Meeker County and, of course, the town that now bears their name, Litchfield.

This new form of transportation changed the dynamics of Meeker County, which was still in its infancy at the time.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

A photo from the archives of the Meeker County Historical Society reveals Litchfield’s main street circa 1930, including the grandiose Lenhardt Hotel pictured on the corner at left.

ESTABLISHING MEEKER COUNTY T h e s e v e n t h Te r r i t o r i a l Legislature of Minnesota ordered the organization of Meeker County on Feb. 23, 1856. In March 1856, John Huy and Thomas Skinner had Forest City surveyed and platted.

The area, while inhabited by the Dakota, was still new to white settlers, and it would be two more years before Minnesota would even become a state.

The county was named in honor of Judge Bradley Meeker of St. Anthony, who was one of the first associate justices of the Territory of Minnesota. He served on the Minnesota Territorial Supreme Court, was a charter member of the Minnesota Historical Society, and was one of the first members of the board of regents of the University of Minnesota.

Gov. Willis Gorman appointed Huy, Skinner, D.M. Hanson and Dr. Frederick Ripley as commissioners of Meeker County to complete

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ARCHIVE PHOTO

Litchfield Central Park circa 1874. its organization, with Forest City named as the county seat.

The first county commissioner meeting was set for May 5, 1856, at Skinner’s home in Forest City.

However, Ripley died before the first meeting. He froze to death in a blizzard in March 1856 near a lake that now bears his name on the south end of Litchfield, Lake Ripley.

For 13 years, Forest City was one of several thriving villages in Meeker County.

It was an exciting time in the county, as pioneers embraced the area as home, established businesses and made plans for their new homeland.

From 1856 to 1869, the trading centers of the county in order of importance were Forest City, Kingston, Greenleaf, Manannah, a n d Collinwo o d . T h ey we re home to flour and feed mills that

not only served local settlers but a considerable area outside the county, as well, according to “Condensed History Meeker County, “ by Frank B. Lamson.

RIPLEY, NESS, THEN LITCHFIELD Meanwhile, south of Forest City, a group of men — Ole Halverson Ness , Henr y Halverson , Ole Halverson Thoen, Amos Nelson Fosen, Nels Hanson, and Colberg and Gunder Olson — settled in Ripley Township in 1856.

Two or three years later, the township’s name was changed from Ripley to Ness, in honor of Ole H. Ness.

Ness Township was beginning to prosper, with John Blackwell teaching the first school in 1858.

Also that year, the first religious service was held at the Ole H.

PHOTO BY LYNN DIETZ

One of the first drive-in customers teller Marleen Bolman had at the New Northwestern National Bank was Dr. Harold Wilmot, who wheeled up in his 1925 vintage Model T Ford coupe. The photo ran in the Nov. 28, 1968 edition of the Litchfield Independent Review.Throwback photo: Litchfield Independent Review Nov. 28, 1968 edition Ness home by the Rev. William Frederickson , and Heindrick Halverson built the first house, a log cabin.

In 1861, the first school district was organized, and a school house was built. In addition, Ness Church was organized. By 1862, construction of the first school house began in the summer on the farm of Ole H. Ness. However, it was not completed until after the U.S.-Dakota Conflict ended. The small town of Ness was growing.

SUMMER OF ‘69 By the late 1860s, the St. Paul and Pacific Railway (Great Northern) established its right-ofway through Minnesota, including Meeker Count y. The railway decided to lay tracks south of Forest City and through the town of Ness.

A railroad station was erected and named in honor Electus, Egber t and Edwin Litchfield.

T h e y w e r e c o n t r a c to r s a n d heavy stockholders in the railway company at the time. The three men helped finance the construction of the railroad through Minnesota, with Electus Darwin being the main contributor.

G eorge B . Waller was the owner of what became the original townsite. He deeded a one-half interest of the selected tract to the railway company and joined the company in platting the portion as the first unit of the county’s present city.

The plat was filed July 16, 1869, establishing the town of Litchfield.

The coming of the railroad brought new opportunities for some and changed the course of history for many.

Thus, the paramount issue on the Nov. 2 election ballot in 1869 was which city should be the county seat. Forest City had served the role for 13 years. Yet, now people were debating whether to keep it in Forest City, or change the county seat to Litchfield or Darwin.

The three cities competed for the right, and left the decision to the voters. The total vote of the county was about 900, and Litchfield won by a majority of about 80 votes.

The change of Meeker’s county seat from Forest City to Litchfield caused a rapid influx of residents and businesses to Litchfield. Many Forest City residents put their businesses and homes on skids and had horses haul them to Litchfield.

Among the enterprising businesses that contributed to the early growth and development of the village during 1869, included

a general merchandise store, hardware store, photo studio, livery, hotel, railway land office, physician, law yers, flour mill, newspaper, and the U. S. Post Office.

L i tc h f i e l d w a s e ve n t u a ll y incorporated in 1872, and through the years, the population has grown from 353 residents in 1870 to more than 6,500 in 2010, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Litchfield has changed a great deal from its early years. Yet, a common thread that was woven in the fabric of this city remains today — a strong sense of community.

The residents, businesses and government are appreciative of their past, are committed to the present day, and — like the city’s founding fathers — are looking ahead and making plans for the future.

Sources: “Meeker Count y Memories,” Independent Review May 1976 Sources: “Meeker County Memories,” Independent Review May 1976

FILE PHOTO

Interested in the American Civil War? Visit the Meeker County Museum at the Grand Army of the Republic Hall in Litchfield. In this photo, members of Litchfield’s Frank Daggett Post and Drum Corps stood at attention in front of the G.A.R. Hall on Memorial Day, May 31, 1886, one year after it was built.

GAR Hall from 1886

• Public Bus Transportation • Volunteer Driver Programs

DASSEL HISTORY CENTER AND ERGOT MUSEUM on the National Register of Historic Places

Ergot: from Blight to Blessing Seed Corn: from Maize to Amazing Magnus Johnson: from Swedish Immigrant Farmer to US Senator Plus Changing History and Art Exhibits and Programming

Call us today for all your transportation needs!

Litchfield Office (320) 693-7794 Safe ~ Reliable ~ Cost Effective

Connecting Communities Together Serving Kandiyohi, Renville & Meeker Counties

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901 First St. N., Dassel, MN 55325

320.275.3077 dahs@dassel.com www.dasselhistorycenter.org 2022 | independentreview.net

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ADVERTISERS

Litchfield High School marching band drumline members perform in a parade during summer of 2021. The Marching Dragons have built a tradition as one of the finest high school marching bands in Minnesota.

AEM Mechanical Services

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MediaCom

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Amaze’n Farmyard

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Meeker Co Council on Aging

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Anderson Insurance

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Meeker Co Council on Aging

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Center Bank

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Meeker Co. EDA

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Central Community Transit

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Meeker Cooperative Light & Power

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City of Litchfield

Midwest Garden Co.

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Darwin Liquor

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Muddy Cow

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Darwin Monument

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Napa Auto Parts

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Dassel Area Historic

Natural Food Co-op

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Davis Motors

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Nelsan Horton Post 1 - Am. Legion

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Dooleys Petro Litch

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Peter’s Ribs & Catering

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Farm Bureau Kevin Christoffers

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Peters Signs

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Farm Rite Equipment

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Primary Eye Care

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Felling Trailers

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Quality Autowerx Inc.

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Finken Water

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Remax/Litchfield Office

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First Lutheran Church

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Rise & Roam

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Home State Bank

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Safe Basements

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Immanuel Lutheran Church

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Schlauderaff Implement

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Litchfield Chamber

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SJP Designs

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Litchfield Community Education

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Stockmen’s Greenhouse & Garden Center

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Litchfield Eagles Club

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SureStay Plus by BW (old americInn)

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Litchfield License

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Towmaster

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Litchfield Visitors

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Zion Lutheran Church

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Litchfield/Dassel Dental

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Inset — The splash pad at Memorial Park provides hours of summer fun to visitors of all ages.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FUN ABOUND Parks and other activity areas offer adventure close to home

I

n Litchfield, residents and visitors don’t have to look far to find an opportunity for fun. The city has 20 parks as well as facilities such as an archery range, basketball and tennis courts, hockey rinks and a golf course. And amenities are being added all the time, like pickleball courts added to South Park in 2020, and plans for new playground equipment at the same park in the future.

Memorial Park and Lake Ripley in Litchfield are the site of many events during Watercade, the city’s summer celebration, including a fishing contest, beach party, sand-castle building contest, a 4-mile run around the lake and a fireworks display.

The south shore of Lake Ripley is also the site of a popular RV campground, which lures both residents and non-residents to enjoy life on the lake.

Did you know?

Litchfield has 20 parks of all different shapes and sizes, as well as facilities such as an archery range, basketball, pickleball and tennis courts, hockey rinks and a golf course.

ATTRACTIONS

Above — A large canopy that provides a shaded view of the nearby splash pad and Lake Ripley is the newest amenity at Memorial Park. Added in late summer of 2021, the canopy was built through cooperation between the city and Litchfield Rotary Club.

Through a partnership between the City of Litchfield and the Litchfield Rotary Club, Lake Ripley obtained a city-owned splash pad on the shores of Lake Ripley, which opened July 2018. The concrete pad, open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the summer through the fall, features tropical-themed jets that spray water. The Rotary Club, in cooperation with the city, added a shade canopy near the splash pad and community built playground during the summer of 2021.

Litchfield is also home to many historic houses that reflect various architectural styles.

ATTRACTIONS

PARKS Anderson Gardens

Avenue between Ninth and 11th streets, with Jewett Creek along the east edge. In the winter there is a small hill for sledding.

North of Memorial Park on Lake Ripley, just off Highway 22 Anderson Gardens is a mini-arboretum park located on the northeastern corner of Lake Ripley with a picturesque gazebo.

Optimist Baseball Park East 10th Street At the east end of 10th Street, this ballpark has a full-sized baseball field with seating and two smaller fields.

Archery Range and Pie Shape/ Dog Park Across Lake Ripley Drive from Memorial Park Litchfield’s Archery Range and Pie Shape/Dog Park located across from Memorial Park on Lake Ripley — has eight acres for dogs to run free as well as picnic tables and garbage cans. Next to the dog park is an archery range, which features targets at 10-yard intervals up to 80 yards.

Becker Park One block south of East St. Paul Street, between Gilman and Chandler Avenues Located on South Chandler Avenue, Becker Park is an open-play area with a swing set and a small hill perfect for sliding and sledding in the winter.

Central Park Off Sibley Avenue, between Third and Fourth streets The heart of Litchfield, Central Park and its bandshell are home to activities throughout the year, including outdoor music, a farmers market and community meals.

It is in downtown Litchfield along Sibley Avenue.

Pleasant View Park

The fishing pier at Greenleaf Lake State Recreation Area was moved in recent years to improve fishing and accessibility.

Prairie Park along Lake Ripley, this park is ideal for a day on the lake or packing a picnic: Jaycees Park has a picnic shelter, playground equipment, dock, boat launch and ice fishing access.

Lake Ripley Campground Off Lake Ripley Drive between Lake Ripley and East Lake Ripley The municipal trailer campground has 32 sites, 12 with sewer, water and electric, 20 with water and electric, as well as permanent restrooms and showers. All sites are available on a first-come, firstserved basis.

Legion Memorial Park Near 551-593 Lake Ripley Drive Built in 1994 this park is dedicated in memory of all veterans of all wars.

Crescent Park

Lion’s Park

Off North Crescent Lane, near Litchfield Sports Complex This playground is located in the Crescent Lane development and has a swing set and playground equipment.

Disc Golf

Off West Pleasure Drive west of Highway 22 Located on the north shore of Lake Ripley, Lions Park has a playground, fishing docks, walking/bike path and large picnic shelter that may be reserved through Litchfield Community Education.

The disc golf course at Litchfield High School has eight holes.

Litchfield Sports Complex

Jaycee’s Park Between Memorial Park and Lake Ripley Campground on Lake Ripley Situated between Memorial Park and the Lake Ripley Campground

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Off Willmar Avenue, near West 5th Street Off Willmar Avenue in the northwest section of the city, Pleasant View has playground equipment and play area.

Between the armory and the high school on Gilman Avenue Located near Litchfield High School on Gilman Avenue, the Litchfield Sports Complex features a variety of athletic facilities, including four

softball fields, four tennis courts, a horseshoe court, two outdoor hockey rinks, basketball court, soccer area, skateboard park, two Little League fields and Optimist Park – home of the Litchfield Blues amateur baseball team. The complex is also home to Litchfield Public Schools’ athletic facilities.

Between East Butler Street and East Quail Drive, northwest of the cemetery Along Butler Street, Prairie Park is a 40-acre nature park, featuring 2.5 miles of walking and crosscountry skiing trails, playground equipment and a picnic shelter provided by the Rotary Club.

Memorial Park

South Park

East edge of Lake Ripley, just off South Sibley Avenue The location for many Litchfield Watercade activities, Memorial Park lies along the east edge of Lake Ripley. A community-built playground and a splash pad are popular attractions at this park, which also includes 175 feet of beach, swimming docks, lake overlook, bike/walking path, an Army tank and field cross memorial, sand volleyball court, lake access, large picnic area and restrooms.

West Ripley Street and South Swift Avenue This square-block park on the 300 block of Miller Avenue S. is home to two tennis courts and a volleyball court. Pickleball courts were added in late summer of 2020, and new playground equipment has been proposed for construction in summer of 2021.

Ness Park On North Miller Avenue between Sixth and Seventh streets A large park located off North Miller Avenue between Sixth and Seventh streets, Ness Park has a swing set, picnic tables and volleyball court.

North Casey Park Near Shell and Davis Motors off North Sibley Avenue This park is an open play area with a swing set located on N. Miller

South Street Playground

North Davis and East South Street South Street Playground is an open lot at the corner of North Davis and East South Street with playground equipment.

Sunrise Terrace Park Off East Second Street, near North Gorman Avenue The park, located along Sunrise Drive in eastern Litchfield, has updated playground equipment and a small, man-made sliding hill.

Thompson Park South Chandler between East Ripley and East St. Paul streets

ATTRACTIONS An open play area and swing set mark Thompson Park, located on South Chandler between East Ripley and East St. Paul streets.

Meeker County Parks

Clear Lake Park Off Clear Lake, south of Watkins on County Road 2 Located three miles south of Watkins on County Road 2, the 34.4acre park includes a picnic area and shelter, boat landing and a short hiking trail.

Darwin-Dassel Park Between Darwin and Dassel on Highway 12 Meeker county’s largest park features 160 acres of activities.

There are 6.5 miles of hiking, crosscountry skiing and horseback riding trails. Shelters and picnic tables are on the lookout hill – a popular sliding hill in the winter.

The park extends south of U.S. Highway 12 with additional trails and picnic area.

Block parties during the summer at various city parks have brought Litchfield residents together for fun and food, in addition to building community spirit.

Anderson Gardens in bloom and its gazebo offer a peaceful retreat.

Greenleaf Lake State Recreation Area 17980 640th Ave., Litchfield This new, 365-acre recreation area has water access to two lakes, a fishing pier, trails for hiking and cross-country skiing and special season archery hunting. Visitors can see portions of Greenleaf and Sioux lakes, along with several wetlands. For more information call 320-796-2161 or visit www. mndnr.gov/greenleaf.

Finnish Memorial Park Just west of Kingston on Highway 27 Ideal for canoeing down the North Fork Crow River, Finnish Memorial Park sits just west of Kingston on County Road 27. The 17-acre park has a canoe landing, tennis court, shelter and playground equipment.

Koronis Regional Park 14076 Bluefield Road, Paynesville On the southwest shore of Lake Koronis, this 62-acre park, which is jointly owned by Meeker and Stearns counties, offers overnight camping with electricity and water hookup, bathrooms and showers.

It also has a swimming beach, playground equipment, boat landing, lookout tower, picnic shelters

Litchfield Fire Department mascot Sparky waves to visitors at a Prairie Park block party. with kitchen facilities and several recreational facilities. A walking/ biking trail encircles the lake. To make shelter or camping reservations, call 320- 276-8843.

Lake Manuella Park 21239 County Highway 9, Darwin Known for its swimming beach, the park has picnic facilities, bathrooms and a changing house.

It is located on County Highway 9, five miles south of U.S. Highway 12

A mix of rain and sun allowed a rainbow to form over Optimist Park.

court and ice skating rink in the winter.

Spring Lake Park 72599 240th St., Dassel Situated between Spring Lake and Long Lake one mile north of Dassel, the 13-acre park offers fishing opportunities with a boat landing and fishing dock, as well as picnic shelters, playground equipment and a popular Little League field. A new trail connects the park to Dassel.

Thompson Park Shaw Memorial Park 31577 County Highway 1, Litchfield Located in Forest Cit y along Crow River, the 10-acre park has picnic shelters, playground equipment, a softball field, basketball

13099 525th Ave., Cosmos Located on 525th Avenue one mile west of Cosmos, 22-acre Thompson Park has picnic shelters, playground equipment, ball field, volleyball court and fishing dock.

West Ripley Park 25288 County Highway 1, Litchfield Located just south of Litchfield on County Highway 1, West Ripley Park has a boat landing, fishing pier, playground equipment, sand volleyball court, bike path and large picnic shelter. The 5.6-acre park lies is located on the western shore of Lake Ripley.

Woodland Park 27299 Minnesota Highway 15, Dassel Woodland Park boasts a total of 80 acres for hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and bird watching. It is located between Kingston and Dassel on Minnesota Highway 22.

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RECREATION Grand Army of the Republic Hall & Meeker County Museum 304 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield Built in 1885, the Litchfield Grand Army of the Republic Hall is one of very few left in the nation and is the only authentic one remaining in Minnesota. Designed by one of the members to look like a military fort, the G.A.R. Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The brick is local from the Henry Ames brick yard which was just north of Litchfield. The G.A.R. Hall was almost immediately given to the city of Litchfield with the understanding that it would be kept in its original condition. This hall also served as the first public library in Meeker County and was one of the main gathering places for community events.

Civil War roundtables, featuring speakers who have expertise in war history, have been a regular feature, though these events were cancelled throughout much of 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Meeker County Historical Museum is attached to the rear of the GAR Hall. Several photos and information about Civil War veterans can be found here.

This historical attraction is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and from noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $3. For additional information, call 320-693-8911.

Players of various ages participate in a pond hockey game on the outdoor rink east of Litchfield Civic Arena.

The Litchfield Blues amateur baseball team plays a full schedule of games throughout the summer at Optimist Park. Optimist Park will be one of three sites for the 2023 Minnesota Baseball Association State Tournament.

Litchfield Golf Club Litchfield Civic Arena 900 N. Gilman Ave., Litchfield The Litchfield Civic Arena hosts Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato boys and girls hockey games and also offers open skating every Sunday throughout the winter from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for $3. The arena also features skate sharpening, community room rental, meeting rooms, table and chair rental and dry floor activities — business expos, auctions, banquets, family reunions, physical-education and dance classes — through March until the end of September. For more info, call 320-693-2679.

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405 W. Pleasure Drive, Litchfield The Litchfield Golf Course is located on the beautiful shores of Lake Ripley. With four sets of tee boxes, ranging from 6,400 yards to 5,000 yards, Litchfield Golf Club has 18 uniquely challenging holes. The Par 70, Championship layout will be sure to give the most accomplished golfers a true test of golf, yet allow for the novice to enjoy their round and have fun. For more info, call 320-693-6059.

Litchfield Bowling Center 1227 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield The Litchfield Bowling Center offers numerous leagues for all

ages and open bowling on Friday from 4 p.m. to close, Saturday from 1 p.m. to close and Sunday from 1-5:30 p.m. Lanes at the bowling center are available to rent for events. The kitchen offers a variety of food, including fresh-made pizza, chicken dinners, appetizers and nachos, and a full bar is also available. For more information, call 320-693-9077.

Meeker County Off-Highway Vehicle Park South of Darwin, north of Hutchinson, at 18738 County Road 9 Meeker County’s only OHV Park opened to the public in 2015

and welcomes OHV riders of all ages. The 40 -acre Meeker County OHV Park features fives miles of ATV trails, six miles of off-highway motorcycle trails, a picnic shelter and a youth ATV training area. The park is open seven days a week from dusk ‘til dawn, depending on weather conditions. For information about the condition of the park, visit www.mndr.gov and click “Current Conditions.” Driving from Darwin the park can be found by going west on U.S. Highway 12, turning south on to Co. Rd. 9 and continuing for approximately six miles; the entrance is on the east side of the road. For more information, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/ ohv/trail or call Alvin Bertram at 320-587-9505.

Darwin Rod and Gun Club 27902 668th Avenue, Darwin The Darwin Rod and Gun Club is a sportsmen’s club that offers yearround range shooting to members (membership is $20) and trap shooting on Wednesdays between late May and August. The club’s clubhouse — complete with full commercial kitchen and beer on tap — is also available for rental for weddings, birthday parties or other events. For more information, call Ken Porth at 320-693-8722.

FESTIVALS Manannah Daze

time. Contact Grove City Windmill Days Committee at 320 857-2322.

To be announced The small village of Manannah kicks off their annual summer celebration with a variety of activities, including volleyball and horseshoe tournaments, tractor pulls and a street dance. The parade Saturday is followed by a pageant, where Manannah men dress in drag to compete for the title of Miss Manannah.

Forest City Thresher Days Aug. 20-21 Thresher Days include displays of antique tractors and other farm equipment, along with threshing and corn shredding demonstrations. A tractor parade also is a favorite annual event.

Litchfield Parade of Bands June 13 Established in 2019 by the Litchfield Visitors Bureau, the Parade of Bands brings high school marching bands from around the state to Litchfield for a competitive band festival. Cancelled due to COVID-19 in 2020, the event returned in 2021, and the 2022 event is shaping up to be bigger and better than ever, with bands from Fergus Falls, Foley, Kerkhoven-MurdockSunburg, Lake City, Maple Grove, Milaca, Montevideo, Owatonna, Sartell and St. Peter scheduled to compete, along with Litchfield’s Marching Dragons.

Eden Valley’s Valley Daze June 23-26 Valley Daze 2022 will celebrate the community’s “Past, Present & Future” with a full lineup of events, entertainment, and food on tap including a mix of traditional favorites along with some new additions.

Litchfield Watercade July 7-10 Litchfield hosts a weekend of fun, food and festivities. Activities planned each year include a fireworks display, golf tournament, Grand Day parade, Art in the Park, medallion hunt, 4-mile run, fishing contest, kiddie parade and a Little Crow water ski show. Watercade’s finale is the annual queen coronation and includes the crowning of the new Miss Litchfield and princesses.

Cosmos Space Festival July 14-17 The annual get-together features a variety of activities, from an

Forest City Stockade Rendezvous The beach at Lake Ripley is a popular destination for swimmers and sun bathers during the summer. And during Watercade in early July, the beach provides the building material for a popular sand sculpture contest.

Aug. 20-21 Step back in time for the annual Rendezvous. The Forest City Stockade, a replica of a fort built

by Forest City residents during the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, is home to a variety of old fashioned activities, demonstrations and food. No date had been established for the 2021 Rendezvous at press time.

Check www.forestcitystockade. org for the most current information.

Dassel Red Rooster Days The tractor parade during the Forest City Threshers days in August draws many participants and spectators.

Getting up close to the animals in the show barns at the Meeker County Fair is an attraction for fair visitors.

antique tractor pull to disc golf tournament, along with a softball tournament, meals in the park, a Space Festival parade, fireworks, pancake breakfast, pork chop dinner, church in the park, music entertainment and more.

and beverage/food stands located in McCarthy Park. Some events begin on Friday evening with other events run throughout Saturday.

Meeker County Fair Aug. 3-7 It’s the annual “Fairest Days of Summer” for Meeker County residents. It features traditional county fair activities, such as exhibits and the showing of livestock, carnival rides, live music and demolition derbies.

Darwin Twine Ball Celebration Second Saturday of August It’s one of Minnesota’s unique landmarks — Darwin’s big ball of twine. Dubbed the World’s Largest Twine Ball Collected by One Person, the spherical collection is celebrated with a parade, minirod races, craft fair and pork chop dinner.

Grove City Windmill Days Watkins’ Kraut ‘N’ Wurst Day First Saturday in August The highlight of summer in Watkins is the Kraut N’ Wurst Days, which features a parade, Little Miss Watkins Pageant, Cow Drop Raffle, an evening street dance

Grove City celebrates summer with a tractor pull, mud volleyball, horseshoe, trap shooting and softball tournaments, a kiddie parade, talent show and parade.

No date had been established for the 2022 celebration at press

Sept. 2-5 Labor Day weekend is time to celebrate, with an ambassadors coronation, parade, Minnesota’s Largest Chicken Barbecue, and other activities.

Forest City Pioneer Christmas Dec. 3 The Forest City Stockade switches gears after its Summer Rendezvous to a winter holiday theme during its annual Pioneer Christmas.

Activities include horse-drawn sleigh rides, a visit with Santa, Christmas caroling and old-fashioned ornaments.

Wintercade Second Saturday in February The fun of this festival revolves around an ice fishing contest on Lake Ripley. More than a thousand people fill the ice and drop a line in hopes of landing a big fish and big prizes in this tournament, which the Litchfield VFW post uses as a fundraiser to benefit kids and veterans programs in the Litchfield area.

2022 | independentreview.net

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ATTRACTIONS

HOMES TO HISTORY Take a walking or driving tour to see homes in Litchfield that have historic or architectural significance

W

alk down a Litchf ield s treet an d you’re likely to find countless monuments to the city’s early history.

From the Grand Army of the Republic Hall, to buildings in the city’s historic downtown, to the Litchfield Opera House, public buildings and areas tell of the city’s history. But some of the most interesting buildings — and stories they carry — are private homes.

Following is a list featuring some of the town’s historic homes. Most are located along four avenues: Armstrong, Holcombe, Marshall and Sibley. The first section includes homes on the city’s north side, and the second section highlights the south side.

Litchfield was founded in 1869.

It was established as the county seat of Meeker County due to the railroad built by E. Darwin Litchfield and his brothers in the 1860s. Prior to that time, Forest City, a town about five miles north, had been designated the county seat, but citizens decided a city next to the railroad would be more convenient and have a better economic base. Most of the homes on this tour are from the 1869-1920 Victorian Era. This was a time of great change and growth out here on the Northern Plains.

NORTH SIDE 518 Armstrong Ave. N. This home was built in the late 1800s by Erhardt Lenhardt. This family built the Litchfield Brewery and owned Lenhardt Hotel and many of the first lots surveyed in Litchfield after the town was laid out.

406 Armstrong Ave. N.

518 Armstrong Ave. N.

320 Armstrong Ave. N.

413 Armstrong Ave. N.

405 Armstrong Ave. N.

326 Armstrong Ave. N.

506 Armstrong Ave. N.

405 Armstrong Ave. N.

A two-story house with a large porch, this home was built in 1908.

It is an excellent example of Victorian architecture featuring a dignified home with a wrap-around veranda porch, artistic windows and a large, quiet yard.

Completed in 1904, local folks call this home “the Red Castle.” Peter E. Hanson, the original owner, had the home built while he served in the Minnesota Senate from 18951898 and as secretary of state from 1901-1907. It is interesting that the state Capitol in St. Paul was being built at the same time as this home. The original tile roof of this home (some of which you can see on the turret) was the same color and design as the tile used on the roof of the Capitol building. The house has five fireplaces, a grand stairway, an oak dining room, and cherry woodwork throughout. The outside walls are quadruple-brick for insulation. It was the original owner of this home, Mr. Hanson,

who built the home we just saw next door for his daughter, Nellie.

413 Armstrong Ave. N. This large red brick house was built

by Peter Hanson as a wedding gift to his daughter, Nellie, when she married Mr. March in 1905. It has a ballroom on the third floor and the light oak woodwork throughout remains in impeccable condition.

There is a servants’ staircase, a fireplace in the master bedroom and a large beautiful dining room with 10-foot ceilings.

406 Armstrong Ave. N. This home was built about 1888 and is where John T. Mullen, a wellknown Litchfield merchant, lived.

326 Armstrong Ave. N. Built about 1910, the architecture of this home is untouched since construction.

320 Armstrong Ave. N. This home was constructed between 1910-1915. Its turret is an example of the Victorian Era. The home was once owned by Fred Richter, a former Litchfield mayor.

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ATTRACTIONS

HOMES continued from 15

307 Holcombe Ave. N. Built about 1895 by a prominent banker named O.H. Campbell, this house was once known as the “Raven’s Nest.” From 1920 to the late 1940s, it was used as a nuns’ conservatory, and some residents still remember taking piano lessons there. It remains unchanged and a stark example of the fortress style of Victorian homes of the 1890s. It is built of yellow brick produced in Litchfield during that time.

503 Holcombe Ave. N. A distinctly Victorian home, originally the Morrison House, this home is an excellent example of a style referred to as the “Painted Lady,” or Queen Anne.

421 Marshall Ave. N. Built about 1915, this modest house has strong connections to a remarkable person and the origins

307 Holcombe Ave. N.

421 Marshall Ave. N. tions to Litchfield, including a term as mayor.

of a locally significant industry.

Creamery operator Alfred Anderson used the basement to begin his business, Anderson Chemical. The firm produced a bacterial flavor enhancer to the dairy industry, and eventually moved into cleaning and sanitizing products. The Anderson Chemical Company grew into a major corporation with a national market and business in international locations. Alfred Anderson himself has an intriguing Swedish immigrant story and made important civic contribu-

425 Marshall Ave. N. This house is a rare example of the Art Moderne style in Litchfield.

Art Moderne and other related modernistic styles, such as Art Deco, were commonly used for public and commercial buildings between 1920 and 1940. Art Moderne emerged as the most prevalent form in the 1930s. Never a commonly used residential style, scattered examples can be found

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throughout the country. Constructed after 1941, this house is a particularly late example of the style.

611 Marshall Ave. N. Mary Jo Smith has turned this early 1920s Tudor-style home into a beautiful bed and breakfast called The Marshall Estate. It features four bedrooms, hardwood floors, built-in china cabinets with leaded/beveled glass, a charming fireplace, and indoor and outdoor porches.

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ATTRACTIONS 705 Miller Ave. N. The house is one of the few houses in Litchfield that displays the character-defining features of the Italianate style. The Italianate style was a popular domestic style in the United States from about 1840 to 1885, and it was particularly common in the towns of the Midwest experiencing large growth during this period.

The house was also the home of Ole Ness, an early pioneer and a founding father of Litchfield.

SOUTH SIDE 215 Sibley Ave. S. “Guide to the Architecture of Minnesota” (1977) describes this home as an “Eastlake style frame clapboard house with extensive turned work on the Queen Anne porch.” It was built in 1890 by Mr. McClure, a Litchfield banker.

It remains close to its original condition with the original oil cloth wallpaper still on the dining room walls and tin ceilings in the kitchen and bath.

court on the south side of the home and a three-stall carriage house on the north. The third floor was a ballroom with dance parties still being held there in the 1930s and ’40s.

724 Sibley Ave. S.

705 Miller Ave. N.

215 Sibley Ave. S.

700 Sibley Ave. S.

310 Sibley Ave. S.

This lovely home was built in the late 1920s and is a perfect example of what is known as Craftsman Architecture.

We have several homes in our town of this style from the early 1920s era.

This lovely Victorian home was built in 1899. This house cost $2,000 to build. There have been few changes to the original floor plan. In the dining room of this home is one of the most beautiful fireplaces. It is artistic from floor to ceiling with several different types of woodwork combined with copper inlay for a spectacular mantle. The house has five original ornate windows, and a maplewood mosaic on the entryway floor.

304 Sibley Ave. S. This two-story red brick office building was once a lovely home built in the late 1880s. It was the home of Erhardt Lenhardt, a wellknown, successful brewer who operated a brewery on the north shore of our Lake Ripley. Not to be outdone, his brother founded St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Litchfield.

MIDWEST GARDEN COMPANY

316 Sibley Ave. S. Built by B.P. Nelson in 1903 as a family residence, the residence had a tennis

The Rosemary Home. This was the home of Dorothea Kopplin and her family. Mrs. Kopplin lived from 1898-1970. She was a mother, teacher, homemaker and author.

She was Minnesota Mother of the Year in 1949. In accordance with her will, her home became a home for nursing students, nurses and business women. This was done in memory of her daughter who died of leukemia at age 6. Her daughter’s bedroom is a small room at the front of the second floor and is still furnished as it was when the child lived there. Mrs. Kopplin’s daughter’s name was, of course, Rosemary. Mrs. Kopplin wrote “Something to Live By” in 1945 with all royalties being donated

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HOMES continued from 17

to the Minnesota Federation of Women’s Clubs for nursing scholarships. The home was built in the late 1890s and has a permanent caretaker living on the grounds.

805 Sibley Ave. S.

326 Donnelly Ave. S.

403 Armstrong Ave. S.

This lovely home was built in 1906.

The garage replaces what was once a livery barn which had room for two horses and one carriage.

Sweetman who had an oil business.

The property includes a windmill, which was used to pump water into a storage tank in the attic and provided running water to the house. The interesting garage behind this house was built in 1940 to replace the large, old barn which had to be torn down. This property once extended back five blocks to Swift Avenue. The house retains its distinctive Victorian appearance.

Emma Chandler Wagner, and their only daughter, Harriet. Following the deaths of her parents, Harriet lived in the house for part of each year, spending the rest of her time traveling abroad. The house remains close to its original state. Some of the changes are the addition of a fireplace in the front parlor, partial enclosing of the front porch, and an upstairs enclosed back porch. The interior has been restored to much of its Victorian glory.

910 Sibley Ave. S.

403 Armstrong Ave. S.

This Victorian home was built in the late 1800s, and was the first house in Litchfield to have running water. It was built by Mr.

Built in 1889 by C.W. Wagner, then owner of the Litchfield newspaper and the man for whom Wagner Elementary School is named, his wife

This large English Tudor style home was built in 1910 and was once the home of Dr. Karl Danielson.

Dr. Danielson is remembered for swimming in Lake Ripley nearly every day of his life, even in winter.

He lived to be 90 years old.

806 Sibley Ave. S.

326 Donnelly Ave. S. This house has been the home of two famous Meeker County residents. It was built in 1893 and

stood on the corners of Swift and Ripley avenues. Many years later it was moved here to Donnelly Avenue. One well-known resident was Gale Sondergaard.

Sondergaard was an Academy Award winning actress and starred in many movies including: “Maid of Salem,” “The Letter,” “The Cat and The Canary,” “Anna and The King of Siam,” and “Anthony Adverse,” for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1936. She also starred on Broadway. She lived in this home with her family during early childhood.

Later, this was the home of Bernie Bierman, famous football coach of the University of Minnesota Gophers. He played football for the Litchfield High School team and went on to play left end for Minnesota.

He coached at Tulane University and in 1932 took his team to the Rose Bowl. He returned to Minnesota to coach the Gophers and brought on what was to be known as the “Golden Era” of Minnesota football. This home is an example of the Victorian design.

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Inset — At the Litchfield Farmers Market, residents can purchase fresh strawberries, baked goods and an assortment of other items.

COOKING UP SOMETHING SPECIAL From restaurants to special events to nutritional meals for the homebound, Litchfield offers a diverse option of menus

L

itchfield has a variety of local cuisine, everything from Chinese and Mexican to classic American comfort food with a couple of new eateries opening in the past year. Area residents also enjoy eating at special events in Central Park throughout the summer months, whether it is brat feeds, pancake breakfasts or ice cream socials.

Downtown features Parkview Grille, which boasts a bar, breakfast, soups and salad and paninis, sandwiches and burgers, as well as special dinner fare. New to downtown in 2021 was Sweet Escape, an ice cream and treats shop. Owners of the Sweet Escape shop in Annandale opened a second shop in downtown Litchfield, in the former Tavern on Main location.

Sweet Escape features ice cream, chocolate, special gifts, and bath and body items.

The Muddy Cow combines a sports bar and family environment, with a wide and sometimes eclectic variety of burgers, ribs and salads. Meanwhile, Herradura and Sonora’s both offer family dining with a Mexican flare.

Another new restaurant in 2021 was Shady’s No. 7 at the Litchfield Golf Course. Shady’s No. 7 is the seventh bar and

FOOD

Above — A new commercial kitchen at Zion Lutheran, which opened in n August of 2021, serves as a preparation site for the LSS Meals program. am.

restaurant of partners who own establishments throughout the region.

While not a restaurant, another new food option began operation last year at Zion Lutheran Church. Parishioners and other donors financed construction of a new kitchen at the church. Along with serving church needs, the kitchen became home to a food preparation site for Lutheran Social Service’s senior nutrition program, LSS Meals. The meals are designed by a licensed, registered dietician to provide nutritious meals for older adults and are available through community dining sites and home-delivered options. LSS Meals serves 163 communities in 39 Minnesota counties.

And then, of course, there are the food-related events. A Litchfield favorite, Pie In The Park, features many types of delicious homemade pies — and all proceeds go toward supporting local nonprofit organizations. Another popular attraction is the ice cream social during the Watercade festival.

Farmers markets are also popular from May through October. Litchfield has an outdoor farmers market featuring local produce and baked goods that operates on the north side of Central Park, along West Fourth Street.

And don’t forget about the Meeker County Fair at the fairgrounds on North Armstrong Avenue in Litchfield in early August. There are all sorts of treats, such as cotton candy, and deep-fried foods to enjoy, along with beer at the fair’s beer garden.

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GOVERNMENT

Above — City Administrator David Cziok talks with a visitor to an open house at which he and City Council members reviewed the city’s Capital Improvement plan.

Inset — City Council members John Carlson, Darlene Kotelnicki (sitting) and Betty Allen talk about the Capital Improvement plan in the City Council chambers at City Hall.

A FULL-SERVICE COMMUNITY Litchfield has state-of-the-art facilities to serve residents

L

itchfield serves as the hub for Meeker County government. Home to both the Meeker County Courthouse and Law Enforcement Center, Litchfield is the place to go for many licensing and motor vehicle needs, building permits and birth, death and marriage certificates.

Litchfield’s approximately 6,700 residents can bring city-related questions to City Hall at 126 N. Marshall Ave. City government includes elected positions for mayor and city council, which are responsible for adopting and enforcing ordinances, establishing public and administrative policies, appointing staff positions, boards and commissions.

The city provides numerous services to residents, such as

Litchfield’s downtown is considered historic and was added to the National Register of Historical Places in 1996.

providing a secure, clean water supply. The city has invested in state-of-the-art facilities, including a fire and rescue station, upgraded electric generation plant and upgraded sewage treatment plant.

Litchfield’s historic downtown was designated as a Commercial Historic District by the National Park Service and placed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1996.

The district encompasses 48 properties, including 36 “contributing” buildings. The Historic Preservation Commission assists in overseeing development within the district to ensure exterior construction meets historical guidelines.

GOVERNMENT

CITY OF

LITCHFIELD CITY HALL

LITCHFIELD

126 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield, Minnesota 55355 www.co.meeker.mn.us

320-693-5200

LITCHFIELD CITY COUNCIL The city of Litchfield is governed by six council members and a mayor. City Administrator David Cziok oversees the administrative staff that is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the city The mayor and city council members serve four-year terms. Staggered elections take place every two years.

KEITH JOHNSON

RON DINGMANN

ERIC MATHWIG

DARLENE KOTELNICKI

BETTY ALLEN

JOHN CARLSON

SARA MILLER

Mayor Term ends Dec. 31, 2022

At-large Term ends Dec. 31, 2024

Ward 1 Term ends Dec. 31, 2022

Ward 2 Term ends Dec. 31, 2024

Ward 3 Term ends Dec. 31, 2024

Ward 4 Term ends Dec. 31, 2024

Ward 5 Term ends Dec. 31, 2022

UTILITIES

FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS

Police and fire emergency Police (non-emergency) Crime TIPS line: Fire (non-emergency) Library Litchfield Chamber of Commerce

911 320-693-5425 320-693-5430 320-693-3111 320-693-2483 320-693-8184

ELECTRICITY City of Litchfield 320-693-7201 Report an outage after hours 866-639-6108

Energy Star rebates www.saveenergyinlitchfield.com

MEETINGS Litchfield City Council and other municipal commissions meet in Council Chambers at City Hall, 126 N. Marshall Ave. City Council positions are elected, while membership in other city commissions and boards is appointed by the City Council. Each commission or board also includes representation by at least one Council member.

For information, call 320-693-7201.

lic unless it is in a closed session. Meetings are televised Mondays at 7 p.m., Thursdays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. on Cable Channels 8 or 13.

LITCHFIELD PLANNING COMMISSION 5:30 p.m. first Tuesday of month

AIRPORT COMMISSION 6:30 p.m. first Tuesday of each quarter

HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION

LITCHFIELD CITY COUNCIL

6:30 p.m. fourth Tuesday of month

5:30 p.m. first and third Mondays of month Council meetings are open to the pub-

LIBRARY BOARD 5:30 p.m. last Tuesday of each quarter

Meeker Cooperative Light & Power 320-693-3231

NATURAL GAS CenterPoint Energy 800-245-2377 Report a leak 800-296-9815

WATER AND SEWER City of Litchfield 320-693-7201

TELEPHONE, CABLE, INTERNET Nuvera

Mediacom 800-332-0245

CenturyLink 800-244-1111

BEFORE YOU DIG Gopher State One Call 800-252-1166 www.gopherstateonecall.org

WASTE DISPOSAL Waste Management-Twin Cities West Provides residential garbage pickup in Litchfield. Garbage is collected once a week. Recyclables are collected every other week, and Waste Management uses a single-sort recycling container. All recyclable items — paper, plastic and aluminum — can be mixed in the container. Payment drop box for garbage bills is at 5 E. Second St. For more information, call 800450-9378. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The mailing address is 490 Industrial Blvd., Winsted, MN 55395.

320-593-2323 or 844-354-4111

West Central Sanitation Vibrant Broadband 320-693-3231 www.meeker.coop or vibrantbroadband.com

The Willmar-based business provides commercial garbage and recyclable pick-up in Litchfield and the surrounding area. For information, call 800-246-7630.

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23

GOVERNMENT

MEEKER COUNTY

MEEKER COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER

320-693-5200

325N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield, Minnesota 55355 www.co.meeker.mn.us

MEEKER COUNTY BOARD Meeker County Board consists of f ive commission ers , ea ch representing a district within the county. Elections for these seats occur every two years in November. The Meeker County administrator is responsible for day-to-day operations of the county. The County Board meets at 8:30 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at the Meeker County Courthouse, 325 N. Sibley Ave. For information, call 320-693-5200.

BETH OBERG

JULIE BREDESON

DANNY SCHIEFELBEIN

STEVE SCHMITT

PAUL M. JOHNSON

1st District Term ends Dec. 31, 2022

2nd District Term ends Dec. 31, 2024

3rd District Term ends Dec. 31, 2024

5th District Term ends Dec. 31, 2022

4th District Term ends Dec. 31, 2024

OTHER ELECTED COUNTY OFFICIALS

BRANDI SCHIEFELBEIN

BRIAN CRUZ

Term ends Dec. 31, 2022

Term ends Dec. 31, 2022

COURTHOUSE OFFICES Administrator

Elections

320-693-5200

320-693-5212

Auditor

Planning and Zoning

320-693-5212

320-693-5290

Attorney

Probation

320-693-5220

320-693-5260

Assessor

Recorder

320-693-5205

320-693-5440

Detention Center

Treasurer (property tax payments)

320-693-5415

320-693-5345

STATE AND FEDERAL OFFICIALS The city of Litchfield and Litchfield Township are within Minnesota Senate District 18 and House District 18A. Sen. Scott Newman (District 18), 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Capitol Building, Room 301, St. Paul, MN 55155-1606; phone: 651296-4131; email: sen.scott.newman@senate.mn.

Rep. Dean Urdahl (District 18A), 571 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155; phone: 651-296-4344 or toll-free 800-920-5861; email: rep.dean.urdahl@house.mn.

Meeker County is part of the 7th Congressional District, which is served

by U.S. Rep. Michelle Fischbach (District 7), 1237 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515; phone: 202-225-2165; Regional office: 221 1st St. S., Willmar, MN 56201; phone: 320-403-6100.

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GOVERNMENT PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES Information and assistance regarding the list of programs below can be obtained by calling Meeker County Public Health at 320-6935370. Public Health is located at Family Services Building, 114 North Holcombe Ave., Suite 250, Litchfield.

Adult/Disabled/Senior Health Adult Health nurses assist individuals over 65 to live safely and independently within the community. Adult Health works with other departments and providers to help meet goal of independence, safety and overall well-being.

Assessments completed for waiver programs to help individuals pay for services so they can continue to live independently in their community.

breastfeeding can get help from an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant.

Family Planning Family Planning Services are for anyone who wishes to plan, postpone or prevent pregnancy. Services include counseling, referral to resources, physical exam, provision of contraceptive methods, testing and treatment for curative sexually transmitted diseases. Eligibility for services is income based.

Family Home Visiting A nurse will visit to help support the family by providing information on topics such as growth and development , discipline, nutrition, safety and community resources.

Maternal Child Health Pregnancy Testing Meeker County Public Health offers free pregnancy testing services on a walk-in basis during office hours, Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Breastfeeding/Lactation Consultation

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Visits from a nurse to help a mom reach her goal of having a healthy pregnancy, a safe delivery and a happy baby.

Follow Along Program A free program to determine if a baby or child is playing, talking, growing, moving and acting like other children the same age.

Project Harmony This program serves pregnant women and women parenting a child under 8 years of age who have been struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Using a case management model, women and their families are assisted to find a path of recovery to be able to live a life free of chemicals to become self-sufficient and to reach their highest potential.

Lead Program Meeker County Public Health collaborates with Minnesota Department of Health for follow-up of elevated blood lead levels in children. Families receive information about sources of lead, assessment of homes to find lead source problems and education on how to remove lead sources

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It’s easy to Volunteer Contact us at 1-800-669-6714!

Thorough Vision & Eye Health Exams

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primaryeyecare2020.com Like us on

RSVP at 306 N. Ramsey

Litchfield, MN 55355

KNOW HOW CARS • TRUCKS • TRACTORS STORE HOURS MON - FRI: 7:30 am – 7:00 pm SAT: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm SUN: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

320-693-3216 • 900 E Hwy 12 • Litchfield Next to the Muddy Cow

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430 2nd Street / P.O. Box 128 Dassel, MN 55325 (320) 275-2954 • (800) 585-9244 www.dasseldental.com

2022 | independentreview.net

27

GOVERNMENT TRANSPORTATION CENTRAL COMMUNITY TRANSIT Central Community Transit offers affordable transportation to the citizens of Meeker County.

The bus transports people of all ages and abilities — from young children going to preschool, to senior citizens going to doctor and hair appointments.

A U.S. Highway 12 route carries passengers between Litchfield and Willmar. Riders can purchase oneway or round-trip tickets or a bus pass. Buses are handicap acces-

sible and equipped with a wheelchair lift. They are air-conditioned and have seat belts for passengers.

The bus will pick up riders up to 15 minutes before the pick-up time and up to 15 minutes after the designated pick-up time.

The bus is available from 6:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays; 6:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Saturdays; and from 8 a.m. to noon Sundays.

To make an appointment for a ride call 320-693-7794 or 800513-7433.

Meeker County Family Services Building, located at 114 N. Holcombe Ave., is home to many Meeker County agencies, including Public Health.

PUBLIC HEALTH continued from 26

Radon Meeker County Public Health offers information on radon testing, along with radon test kits for a small fee. Access radon information online at www.radon.com or www.radon.org.

Water Quality Meeker County Public Health offers water test kits and instructions for well water testing. Free well water tests are available to pregnant women and families with children one year of age or younger.

Contact Public Health at 320-6935370 for more information.

Vaccinations/Immunizations Immunizations/vaccinations for individuals that need to start or complete their vaccine schedule to provide protection against diseases. Contact Public Health at 320-693-5370 with any questions.

Who is eligible for immunizations?

Infants, children and students if they have no insurance or their health insurance does not cover the vaccine

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Infants, children and students under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by parent or guardian or have proper written consent.

Post-secondary and adults if they have no insurance or their health insurance does not cover the vaccine

No appointment needed Shots are provided at a reduced fee and no one is turned away due to inability to pay.

WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Supplemental nutrition program to provide families with nutrition education and food vouchers. Eligible individuals include pregnant, postpartum or breast feeding moms, and children from newborns to age 5. Call 320693-5370 to apply. Office hours are 8 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays of the first and third week of the month.

Central Community Transit, created through a merger of Meeker Transit and Kandiyohi and Renville county public transit systems, provides bus rides for people of all ages and abilities.

AIRPORT Open to the public, the Litchfield Municipal Airport is located 2 miles south of Litchfield on Minnesota Highway 22.

The runway is 4,002 feet long and 100 feet wide asphalt construction. The elevation of the airport is 1,140 feet.

Fuel is available 24 hours a day by self service.

A courtesy car is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Airport lounge has internet access, food vending and bathroom facilities.

Call 320-693-6832 for more information.

Litchfield Area Rural Partners in Prevention Group focuses on preventing alcohol use among youth through community partnerships. The group meets the third Tuesday monthly from noon until 1:15 pm.

Visitors watch a plane arrive at Litchfield Airport for the annual Lions Club Fly-in Breakfast.

We are the

PEOPLE YOU CAN TALK TO!

Stephanie. Brian. Michelle.

1435 E Hwy 12, Litchfield 320-593-2001 www.hsbofmn.com Willmar

Cosmos

Hutchinson

2022 | independentreview.net

29

HEALTH

Above — Meeker Memorial Hospital in Litchfield is a critical access ess facility offering emergency, inpatient and outpatient services.

Inset — Dr. Tim Peterson receives the COVID-19 vaccine at Meeker Memorial Hospital. The hospital and its clincis, as well as Meeker County Public Health, played a crucial role in vaccinating the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MAKING HEALTH A COMMUNITY PRIORITY Wellness a goal throughout community, residents

L

itchfield offers many initiatives focusing on healthy living, including the annual One Vegetable, One Community campaign that seeks to improve overall community health by healthier eating. The initiative, sponsored by Meeker County Public Health, features a new vegetable each year — which previous years have included tomatoes, squash and kale — as part of its healthy-eating promotional campaign. Each spring, commu-

nity members can pick up free plants and attend events with local master gardeners, dietitians and other wellness experts throughout the year.

Litchfield has been ranked in recent years as one of the 10 best places to retire in Minnesota by SmartAsset, due in part to its strong health-care, especially to older adults. The SmartAsset survey found the city’s senior-based health care services and recreation and the total seniors in the population to be a strong indicator of good retirement living.

The community is served by a hospital and clinics, as well as a number of chiropractic, dental, eye care, hearing care and mental health care providers.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS HOSPITAL Meeker Memorial Hospital 612 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-4500 Website: www.meekermemorial.org

MEDICAL CLINICS Meeker Memorial Hospitals & Clinics East Clinic 611 South Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-3233

West Clinic 520 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-3233

Meeker Memorial Clinic 740 Parker Ave., Dassel 320-275-4330 Website: www.meekermemorial.org/ meeker-clinics/

ADULT DAY SERVICES Ecumen of Litchfield 200 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield

320-693-2430 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield.org

ASSISTED LIVING/SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Ecumen of Litchfield 200 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield.org

Bethany Assisted Living 203 N. Armstrong Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430

HEALTH Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield.org

Website: pattenchiropracticcenter.com

320-593-2020 www.fischerlaser.com

DENTISTS

Litchfield Eye Center

Bethany Memory Care 203 N. Armstrong Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield. org

Meeker Manor Long Term Care / Rehabilitation 600 S. Davis Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2472 Website: https://monarchmn.com/ meeker-manor-rehabilitation-center

CHIROPRACTIC CLINICS

Litchfield Dental 329 U.S. Highway 12 E. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8939 Website: https://www.litchfielddentalmn.com/

Litchfield Family Dental 715 N. Sibley Ave. No. 101, Litchfield 320-693-2228 Website: litchfieldfamilydental. com

Kinsella Chiropractic Clinic Lorenz Richard G. DDS

Ecumen of Litchfield Home Care

135 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-593-3100 Website: www.litchfieldeyecenter. com

Primary Eye Care 520 E. Highway 12, Suite 106 320-693-9333 Website: primaryeyecare2020. com

Divine Home Care

126 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-3655 Website: www.litchfieldchiropracticcenter.com

623 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-8131 Website: www.sibleydentalmn. com

201 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2580 Website: www.divinehomecare.com

Fischer Laser Eye Center

114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7221 Website: www.woodlandcenters. com

517 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-593-0333 www.hutchhearing.com

Sibley Dental Suite

517 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield

Woodland Centers

Litchfield Hearing Aid Center

Litchfield Chiropractic Center

1455 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-693-3612

236 N. Sibley Ave. Litchfield 320-693-7708

HEARING CARE

329 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-693-8939

EYE CARE

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES Litchfield Family & Psychological Services

407 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-593-4494 Website: kinsellachiropractic.com

Patten Chiropractic Center

218 N. Holmcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7367 Website: EcumenHomeCare.org

PHARMACIES Family Fare Pharmacy

HOME CARE AND HOSPICE

951 E. Frontage Rd., Litchfield 320-693-3261 Website: www.econofoods.com/ departments/pharmacy

Walmart Pharmacy Ecumen of Litchfield Hospice

2301 E. Frontage Rd., Litchfield 320-693-2004 www.walmart.com

218 N. Holmcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7367 Website: EcumenHospice.org

Anderson Insurance Agency

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www.stockmensgreenhouse.com 60973 US Hwy 12

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Open Mid-April through Mid-October

Auto • Home • Health • Life • Business

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A resource to Connect,Support& Promote aStrong BusinessEnvironment

Need an additional copy of the 2020

Litchfield Visitors Guide?

SureStay G.A.R. Hall: Meeker Co. Museum Casey’s I Casey’s II Family Fare Foods Litchfield Chamber of Commerce Litchfield Public Library Speedway and the Independent Review office

217 Nor North rth Sibleyy Avenue Ave enue Lit Litchfield, chfield MN M 55355

phone: (320) 693-3266

219 N Sibley Avenue | Litchfield, MN 55355 320.693.8184 | litch.com | 2022 | independentreview.net

31

LEISURE

Above — Brady McGraw sits among the hundreds of others working their lines in pursuit of a prize winning fish during the Wintercade ice fishing contest Saturday on Lake Ripley.

Inset — Anglers line the dock on the west side of Lake Ripley.

ALL ABOARD Recreational opportunities on land and lake

L

itchfield — the city “On Lake Ripley” as the water tower proclaims — lures residents and visitors to area lakes for fishing, swimming and boating.

Whether it’s paddleboarding or simply soaking up the sun, the beach is just one of several places

available to residents to enjoy recreation activities. Newest to Lake Ripley is the addition of a splash pad for summer fun, open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during summer until fall.

In addition to active recreational opportunities, Litchfield has a bustling library, a revamped opera house that hosts plays and live music events, and the only authentic Grand Army of the Republic Hall still standing in Minnesota. The G.A.R. Hall, built in 1885, is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and has been preserved as near as possible to its original condition and now houses the Meeker County Historical Society.

Residents can also take part in numerous organizations, including many civic groups, lake associations and athletic organizations.

Bottom — Anglers stand at attention and cover their hearts during the singing of the National Anthem before the start of the Wintercade ice fishing contest in February on Lake Ripley.

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LEISURE ATHLETIC ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 104 Baseball 222 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-9074 www.litchfieldblues.com

Darwin Drifters Snowmobile Club Katie Riehle 320-224-1720 katieriehle@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/darwindrifters

Litchfield Baseball Association Inc. 320-593-8654 www.litchfieldblues.com

Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato Youth Hockey Association www.ldchockey.org

Manannah Sno-Blazers Snowmobile Club Donald Kelm Jr. 920-248-8342 Email: kelm2003us@yahoo.com

Minnesota Gopher State Horseshoe Pitchers Association, Litchfield www.minnesotahorseshoes.com VFW Post 2818 Baseball 915 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-593-9064 www.litchfieldblues.com

The Litchfield Sports Complex, located between the Armory and the high school on Gilman Avenue, features a variety of athletic facilities to play softball, tennis, hockey, basketball, soccer or throw a few horseshoes.

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS American Legion

www.mastermason.com/goldenfleece89

222 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-9074

Boy Scouts

GFWC Women’s Study Club of Litchfield

www.trailblazer.nsbsa.org

www.gfwcofmn.org

Eastern Star

Greater Litchfield Opera House Association Inc.

18 E. Third St., Litchfield 320-693-8213

N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield 320-535-0829 Email: litchopera@yahoo.com Website: www.litchfieldoperahouse. com

Eagles Club 3424 389 S. County Highway 34, Litchfield 320-693-9008 www.facebook.com/eagles3424

Friends of the Litchfield Public Library 216 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7201

Veteran Allen Knutson talks to kindergartners in Kris Haugo’s class at Lake Ripley Elementary School

Girl Scouts www.girlscoutslp.org

Golden Fleece No. 89 Masonic Lodge 18 E. Third St., Litchfield

Kiwanis 420 N. Gorman Ave., Litchfield Facebook: Kiwanis Club of Litchfield

Organizations to 34 2022 | independentreview.net

33

LEISURE

ORGANIZATIONS continued from 33

Knights of Columbus PJ Casey Council 2029 Website: www.thechurchofstphilip. org/kc

Litchfield Lions Club 426 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-8735

Litchfield Public School Foundation P.O. Box 71, Litchfield www.litchfieldschoolfoundation.org

Litchfield Watercade Board Litchfield Area Community Foundation P.O. Box 123, Litchfield

PO Box 217, Litchfield watercadewebsite@hotmail.com www.watercade.com

Litchfield Area Mentorship Program

Litchfield Women’s CommUnity Club

1000 S. Sibley Ave., P.O. Box 82, Litchfield 320-699-1616 www.lampkinship.org

Teresa Hankins 320-593-8284

Litchfield Community Theatre

Teri Buschette 320-593-2982

American Legion Post 104 Adjutant Marland Meyer recites the Pledge of Allegiance with a classroom at Lake Ripley Elementary School. Meyer and other veterans delivered 40 flags to the school on Veterans Day, visiting 26 classrooms to meet students and post the new flags.

Meeker County Dairy Association

Meeker County Fair Board

33266 700th Ave., Kimball 320-398-6091 Website: www.meekercountyada. yolasite.com

P.O. Box 214, Litchfield meekerfairinfo@gmail.com www.meekerfair.com

320-693-2354 www.litchfieldcommunitytheatre.org

Litchfield Christian Women’s Club Barb Werner 320-693-2504

Meeker County Chapter of MN Citizens Concerned for Life

60079 230th St., Litchfield

Peanut Butter and Milk Festival Meeker County 4-H

YOUR FAMILY DEALERSHIP SINCE 1995

Ness Church Preservation Foundation

Meeker County Fairgrounds, 1230 N. Armstrong Ave., Litchfield Cassidy Martin, Extension educator, 4-H Youth Development ctmartin@umn.edu 320-693-5275

P.O. Box 277, Litchfield 320-693-8184

Relay for Life of Meeker County American Cancer Society www.relayforlife.org

Rotary Club Meeker County Historical Society Sales • Service • Parts • Body Shop

LITCHFIELD: 320-693- 3224 OR 877-693- 3224 WE ARE OPEN: Monday - Thursday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm | Fri. 8:00 am - 5:30 pm | Sat. 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

davismotorsgm.com

G.A.R. Hall 308 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield 320-693-8911 mchsgar@hutchtel.net www.garminnesota.org

P.O. Box 341, Litchfield www.litchfieldrotary.com

VFW Post 2818 915 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-593-9064

Meeker County Master Gardeners 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-5275

Meeker Council on Aging Chore Corps • Information and Referral Advocacy for Seniors 306 N. Ramsey Ave. - Litchfield, MN 55355 320.693.0194

Volunteer

RSVP Lead With Experience Ecumen RSVP 306 N. Ramsey Ave. - Litchfield, MN 55355 • 320-693-0194

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LOUNGE HOURS: Wednesday - Saturday Open @ 11:00 a.m.

Find us on Facebook for updated lounge hours facebook.com/post104

Inset — Litchfield High School marching band drum major Elijah Schacherer salutes at the start of the band’s annual indoor concert.

LIVING

Above — Litchfield Community Theatre presents a musical every summer, with the troupe performing “The Sound of Music” in 2021.

QUALITY OF LIFE A focus on lifelong learning

L

itchfield offers many educational opportunities that promote lifelong learning. In fact, part of Litchfield School Board’s motto is “to promote a passion for lifelong learning in an open and safe environment.”

Litchfield School District, along with School of St. Philip, Early Childhood Family Education and Litchfield Community Education and Recreation, provide students of all ages with a strong academic environment and a variety of opportunities for growth.

The Litchfield community shows strong support for school programs and events, such as band and choir concerts, local and musicals and athletic events. A source of local pride plays an eld High School marching band, which performs is the Litchfi L a sneak peek of its summer show each spring and an indoor concert each November, during which it reviews its summer concer marching season successes and plays a program of themed marchi music, such as 2021’s “One-Hit Wonders” concert.

Litchfield also has strong support systems for senior Litch citizens and community members, including senior dining citizen services and other support groups. serv

Bottom — Litchfield High School FCCLA members Shelby Dengerud an Ellie Brown work together on a tie blanket as part of a volunteer project.

LIVING SENIOR CITIZENS Throughout this guide there are many programs and activities open to all area residents, including senior citizens. This list, however, is a reminder of some specific programs senior citizens may need or use.

Emmaus Place Senior Community 200 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.EcumenOfLitchfield.org

Gloria Dei Senior Community AARP 1-800-OUR-AARP (667-2277) Website: www.aarp.org

ACC Midwest Transportation — service in Midwestern Minnesota 409 California St. N.W., Hutchinson 320-455-9200 Website: www.accmidwest.com

Ecumen of Litchfield 200-218 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.EcumenOfLitchfield. org

218 N. Holcome Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.EcumenOfLitchfield.org

Central Community Transit 812 East Ripley, Litchfield 320-693-7794 Website: http://www.cctbus.org/

Lincoln Apartments for seniors 122 W. Fourth St., Litchfield 320-693-2104

Lutheran Social Services MidMinnesota

Meets 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Mondays Zion Lutheran Church 504 N. Gilman Ave., Litchfield Contact: Deb D 320-894-5599

Litchfield Area Rural Partners in Prevention 114 N. Holcome Ave., Suite 250, Litchfield 320-693-5380

Lutheran Social Services 930 Capwood Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2677

Senior LinkAge Line 1-800-333-2433

Care Cab

Meeker County Council on Aging

2600 7th St., St. Cloud, 56303 320-253-7729 Website: www.caretransportation. com

218 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2718

Social Security Administration

Senior Dining

SUPPORT SERVICES AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)

11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday Litchfield Civic Arena, 900 N. Gilman Ave., Litchfield 320-693-6318 Website: www.lssmn.org

1-800-772-1213

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE LITCHFIELD POST OFFICE The Litchfield Post Office is at 35 E. Second St. The window is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Residents can access their

postal boxes from 5:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 5:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays.

The post office also offers passport services; call to make an appointment. The phone number is 320-693-6252.

ARC Arlene Groskreutz 320-693-6967

Meeker County Community Homes

Gamblers Anonymous

504 S. Marshall Ave., Litchfield 320-693-8836

Meets 7 p.m. Sundays Meeker Memorial Hospital 612 Sibley Ave., Litchfield

Meeker County Public Health

Minnesota WorkForce Center — Litchfield

114 N. Holcombe Ave., Suite 250, Litchfield 320-693-5370

114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-593-1056

Narcotics Anonymous Meets at 7:30 Wednesdays at First Lutheran Church, Litchfield; Meets 7:30 p.m. Fridays at Litchfield Christian Church, Litchfield; Meets 7 p.m. Sundays at First Presbyterian Church, Litchfield

Meeker County Social Services 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Suite 180, Litchfield 320-693-5300

Meeker County Emergency Food Shelf 118 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7661

United Community Action Partnership

New Beginnings

120 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7911

114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2461

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Litchfield Post Offie is located at 35 E. Second St.

LIVING EDUCATION SCHOOL OF ST. PHILIP School of St. Philip, a parochial school for students in preschool through fifth-grade, serves the Litchfield area. St. Philip’s School emphasizes a strong academic curriculum in a faith-filled environment and is open to families from all faith traditions.

Principal Percy Lingen can be contacted by phone at 320-6936283 or email at plingen@schoolofstphilip.org.

For more information visit www. schoolofstphilip.org.

LITCHFIELD ISD 465 Litchfield residents are served

by Independent School District 465. Litchfield School District is comprised of three schools and a community education program that includes early childhood programs.

Litchfield also offers an alternative learning program for students who struggle in the typical

DARRIN ANDERSON Chair danderson@isd465.org 320-221-3479

high school environment.

The district serves about 1,680 students at Lake Ripley Elementary (grades K-4), Litchfield Middle School (grades 5-8), and Litchfield High School (grades 9-12).

After serving as interim superintendent as well as principal for Litchfield Middle School, Beckie Simenson was named permanent superintendent halfway through the 2017-18 school year.

For more information, visit www.litchfield.k12.mn.us.

DISTRICT OFFICE 307 E. Sixth St., Litchfield 320-693-2444 Superintendent Beckie Simenson bsimenson@isd465.org

LITCHFIELD SCHOOL BOARD Litchfield School District is governed by a six-member board.

Three board members are elected to four-year terms every two years during the November general elec-

tion. The board meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month in room 200 of Wagner Education Building, 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield.

SCHOOLS Principal Jason Michels 901 N. Gilman Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2424

26 West 3rd St. 320-693-0633

Special Education Coordinator

Early Childhood Family Education 307 East 6th Street, Litchfield 320-693-2354

COMMUNITY EDUCATION Litchfield Community Education and Recreation Director Rebecca Pratt 307 E. Sixth St., Litchfield 320-693-2354

jpennertz@isd465.org

mprovencher@isd465.org

gregjudy50@gmail.com

JASON MICHELS Litchfield High School Principal jmichels@isd465.org 320-693-2424 ext. 4316

Dragons Kids Club 320-699-0041

GREG MATHEWS Clerk

BECKIE SIMENSON Superintendent 320-693-2444 ext. 8109 bsimenson@isd465.org

Jesse Johnson 320-693-2444, ext. 8105

Litchfield Alternative Learning Program

MARCIA PROVENCHER Treasurer 320-693-3949

Adult Basic Education Instructor Jen Carl 320-535-0395

Business Manager

Litchfield High School

JULIE PENNERTZ Vice Chair 320-693-3437

FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS

Jean Wirz 320-693-2441, ext. 3229

Technology Director Jennifer Ridgeway 320-693-2441, ext. 3164 Mike Randleman Litchfield Independent Review Sports Editor Office Phone: 320-593-4807 Fax: 320-693-9177 Twitter: @LitchSports

ALEX CARLSON Director acarlson@isd465.org

MICHELLE FALLING Director mfalling@isd.org

320-693-8642

CHELSEA BROWN Litchfield MiddleSchool Principal 320-693-2441 cbrown@Isd465.org

JUSTIN BROWN

Activities Director / Assistant Principal 320-693-2424 ext. 4115 jbrown@Isd465.org

CHRIS OLSON Ripley Elementary Principal 320-693-2436 ext. 1309 colson@Isd465.org 2022 | independentreview.net

37

LIVING

The Litchfield Public Library hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

LIBRARY Litchfield Public Library 216 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2483 www.litchfield.lib.mn.us Litchfield Public Library is home to approximately 45,000 books, 1,200 audios and 2,300 videos, plus 30 magazine and 7 newspaper subscriptions. Eleven staff members serve more than 5,600 registered borrowers. In an average year, library users checked out almost 52,000 items, not including downloadable e-books or audios.

Litchfield Library is a member of Pioneerland Library System. It is one of the largest of the 32 libraries in the regional library system. Any borrower can order books and other items from any library in the system and even from libraries throughout the state. Deliveries of requested

FILE PHOTO

Some book collections have been moved to new locations at the Litchfield Library.Litchfield library materials arrive three times per week. The library catalog is available at iii.pioneerland.lib.mn.us.

Pioneerland offers downloadable e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines for loan through its Overdrive service at pioneerland.lib.overdrive.

Peter’s Ribs & Catering

com and through the Libby and Overdrive apps. The library has a collection of almost 10,000 e-books, over 2,000 downloadable audiobooks, and over 1,200 e-magazine issues available to Pioneerland cardholders, with new books added all the time. The

library system also offers Brainfuse, an online homework help service for all ages, free to everyone with a Pioneerland library card.

The Litchfield Library offers access to public desktop computers as well as a computer-based microfilm reader to use with historical newspaper microfilm. The library has wi-fi available 24/7 that’s accessible from inside and outside the building, a copier/printer, a wireless printer, and a scanner available for public use. Mobile hotspots are available to check out, providing a source of free wi-fi at home. The library has a large public meeting room and two study rooms.

A summer reading program for children and teens and a winter reading program for adults are offered every year. The library offers a variety of other programs for all ages; check the library’s website for current information.

SCHLAUDERAFF IMPLEMENT CO. 60240 W. U.S. Hwy. 12 • Litchfield, MN 55355

Also Home of

Peter’s Signs

Full Service Catering • Banquet & Meeting Facility Take Out & Delivery • Off Site Liquor Available 61620 Hwy 12 West, Litchfield, MN

320-693-6425 38

independentreview.net | 2022

www.schlauderaffimplement.com

Phone: 320-693-7277 • White Planters • Parker equiPment • neW holland • Westfield augers • hardi sPrayers • sioux grain Bins • kuhn knight equiPment • krause equiPment

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Welcome!

EVERYONE IS

STORE HOURS: MON-FRI, 9AM-7PM SAT, 9AM-3PM

(320) 693 693-7539 7539 230 Sibley Ave. N Litchfield, MN 55355

MEMBER OWNED, COMMUNITY SUPPORTED. • Fresh Organic Produce • Fresh Spices, Teas and Bulk Items • Grassfed Meats and Pasture Raised Eggs • Grab and Go Deli Items • Allergen Food Friendly • Supplements, Herbal Remedies • Medicinal Monday EVERY Monday 10% off!

• Membership Benefits include: 5% off everytime you shop Member Only Specials monthly • Community Classes Monthly

Enjoy a comfortable stay at SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Litchfield.

Conveniently located off Highway 12.

WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS WHEN SHOPPING FOR YOUR MEMORIAL. QUALITY MEMORIALS. COMPETITIVE PRICES. YOUR SATISFACTION IS GUARANTEED.

Toll Free Reservations (800) 780-7234 www.bestwestern.com 1525 E Highway 12 Litchfield, Minnesota 55355 Direct: (320) 693-1600

WIRELESS INTERNET CONNECTION HEATED INDOOR POOL ▪ COZY BEDS SAFE DEPOSIT BOX ▪ HOMESTYLE BREAKFAST

320-693-5902 www.darwinmonument.com

Sara Jo Pollock Interior Designer

SERVICE 320-593-1630 | SALES 320-593-1629 qualityautowerx@hutchtel.net

Residential & Commercial Design Full Time Designer since 2006 Tile & Custom Tile Designs Flooring: Carpet, Wood, Tile, Vinyl Hunter Douglas Window Coverings Art & Accessories Design Consultations $45/hour

[P] 320.593.3031 [E] sarajo.pollock@gmail.com 823 N. Sibley Ave.• Litchfield, MN 55355 2022 | independentreview.net

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Zion Lutheran Church 504 N Gilman Ave., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3207 • www.ZionLitchfield.org

Sunday Worship Services: 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Streamed on Facebook, YouTube and Website

Faith Formation: Sunday 9:40 a.m.

Summer Sunday Service: 8:30 a.m.

Kids of the Kingdom Faith Based Preschool and Child Care 320-693-7806

A congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America God’s Work, Our hands ALL are loved, ALL are equipped, ALL are sent

Worship Services Sunday Services 8:30 and 10:00 am Wednesday 7:00 pm Summer Sunday Service 8:30 and 10:00 am See our website Firstlitchfield.org for updates on times or changes to the normal schedule

703 S. Sibley Avenue, Litchfield, MN 55355 320.693.2487

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WORSHIP DIRECTORY

BUSINESS DIRECTORY AGRICULTURAL SERVICE & SUPPLIES

BANKING/FINANCIAL

Schlauderaff Implement Co.

301 N Ramsey Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3255 centernationalbank.com

60240 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320- 693-7277 schlauderaffimplement.com

AUTOMOTIVE SALES, PARTS & SERVICE Alec Steiner

Owner NAPA Central MN 909 E Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355

Davis Motors

1005 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 877-693-3224 davismotorsgm.com

Felling Trailers

225 N Gorman Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 800-245-2809 felling.com 320-693-3216

Parts City Auto Parts 725 E Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7299 partscityauto.com

Quality Autowerx Sales and Service Inc. 809 E St Paul St Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-1630

Towmaster

61381 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-4595 towmaster.com

s to re f ro nt s . c row ri ve r m e dia . co m

Litchfield Eagles #3424 389 CSAH 34 S Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-9008

Center Bank

Muddy Cow

915 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-373-5505 muddycowbar.com

Home State Bank 1435 US-12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-2001 hsbofmn.com

Peter’s Ribs & Catering 61620 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-6425

CHURCHES/WORSHIP First Evangelical Lutheran Church 703 S Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2487 firstlitchfield.org

Rise & Roam

715 N Sibley Ave Suite 201 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-7473 riseandroamplay.com

EDUCATION

Immanuel Lutheran Church 175 W 11th St Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-6155

Litchfield Community Education & Recreation

504 Gilman Ave N Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3207

Office Located in the Wagner Building 307 E 6th St Suite 110 320-693-2354 320-593-6528 FAX litchfieldcommunityed.com

DINING/ENTERTAINMENT

FUEL/ PROPANE

A maze’n Farmyard

Dooley’s Litchfield Oil & Propane

American Legion Nelsan Hortan Post 104

GOVERNMENT & CIVIC GROUPS

222 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-9074 facebook.com/post104

City of Litchfield

Zion Lutheran Church

57645 Hwy 55 Eden Valley, MN 320-453-6901 amazenfarmyard.com

61448 US-12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2411

Dassel Area Historical Society 901 1st St N Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-3077 dasselhistorycenter.org

126 Marshall Ave N Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7201 ci.litchfield.mn.us

& Ergot Museum

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MARKETPLACE Litchfield Chamber of Commerce 219 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8184 litch.com

Litchfield Licensing 702 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-5932 litchfieldlicensing.com

Litchfield Visitors Bureau 219 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8184

Meeker County Administrator Office 325 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5200 co.meeker.mn.us

Meeker County EDA 325 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5272 meekercodevcorp.com

HOME & GARDEN Midwest Garden Co 21392 CSAH 18b Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-9514 midwestgardenco.com

Stockmen’s Greenhouse & Garden Center 60973 US-12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7787 stockmensgreehouse.com 1150 MN-7 E Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-7673

HOME SERVICES AEM Mechanical

1115 Hwy 7 W Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-0991 aemhutch.com

Finken Water

HEALTH, MEDICAL, DENTAL

107 E Depot St Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-1507 finken.com

Litchfield Dental

SafeBasements

329 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8939 litchflelddentalmn.com

Litchfield Family Dental 715 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2228 litchfieldfamilydental.com

Meeker County Council on Aging 306 N Ramsey Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-0194

Primary Eye Care

520 US-12 Unit 106 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-9333 primaryeyecare2020.com

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60335 US-12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-8729 safebasements.com

INSURANCE Anderson Insurance Agency 409 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2834

Center Insurance

301 N Ramsey Ave, Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3255 centernationalbank.com

Farm Bureau- Kevin Christoffers 112 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0601 kevinchristoffers.com

Insurance Solutions

304 N Marshall Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0591 insurancesolutionslitchfield.com

LODGING Americinn SureStay Plus 1525 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-1600

PRINTING SERVICES Litchfield Independent Review 214 Sibley Ave N Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3266 independentreview.net

LITCHFIELD

Independent Review

Peter’s Signs

61620 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-221-1940

REAL ESTATE RE/MAX Today’s Properties 309 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8007 MaxTodaysProperties.com

RETAIL STORES Darwin Liquor

130 E Hwy 12 Darwin, MN 55324 320-693-3224

Natural Food Co-Op 230 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7539 naturalfood-coop.com

SJP Designs

823 N Sibley Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-3031

100-PLUS YEARS OF DAIRY DEVELOPMENT First District Association has been a Litchfield business community mainstay When it comes to Litchfield businesses, there aren’t many that can compare to the impact of First District Association.

The dairy processing plant just south of the railroad tracks on Sibley Avenue South is among the largest campuses in town, having completed a massive expansion in 2021 that will allow it to handle up to 7 million pounds of milk per day.

And the cooperative is big in terms of longevity, as well, marking its 100th anniversary in September 2021. Hundreds of employees, dairy farmer members, business partners and community members gathered for First District A ssociation’s centennial celebration, and, well, marveled at the transformation of the facility that has grown by leaps and bounds during the past several decades to become a factor on the national and international stage.

“This is a very special moment,” Chief Executive Officer and President Bob Huffman said during a brief program, held in the shadow of FDA’s Plant 1. “We truly are

Tanks that are part of First District Association’s expansion towered over the dairy cooperative’s centennial celebration.

looking forward to make sure the 200-year anniversary is even larger and more special. And we’ll do everything in our power to make sure we continue to follow what our previous (leadership) has helped build here.”

First District Association was founded in 1920 when 11 creameries came together to improve efficiencies and profits for dairy farmers. The move, which came following federal cooperative legislation, was led by John Brandt, a Litchfield area dairy farmer himself, who sought ways to have creameries work together to improve the quality of dairy products like butter.

Thus Minnesota Cooperative Creamer y A ssociation — the forerunner of Land O’Lakes — was born, with Meeker County’s

band of creameries being the “First District” of the association.

The first buttermilk drying plant was constructed in 1926, with another coming online in 1942.

These were the earliest stages of a timeline of progress at the Litchfield facility, with the most recent being a three-phase expansion project that brought the processing capacity from 5.5 million pounds of milk to 7.5 million pounds per day. Included in that massive expansion were addition of an eight-bay milk receiving area, expansion of the lactose plant a construction of a new cheese plant.

State Rep. Dean Urdahl, read a proclamation from the House of Representatives recognizing First District Association’s “values of integrity, people, excellence

and responsibility to both the environment and consumers” and back to its earliest years in 1984 “First District has endured and adapted to over 100 years of changes to the dairy industry.”

Looking to the future would not be possible, though, without recognizing the foundation laid by those in the past, said Josh Barka, a rural Litchfield dairy farmer and chairman of the FDA board of directors.

“You know, it’s kind of fun to imagine what 10 0 years ago would have been like, and we owe a lot to that group of farmers with the courage and the vision and the leadership to move things forward,” Barka, said. “Just like them, it is up to us to plan and determine our future of where we want to be.”

MARKETPLACE Walmart Supercenter 2301 East Frontage Road Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-1022 walmart.com

TRANSPORTATION Central Community Transit 812 E Ripley St Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7794 800-513-7433 cctbus.org

SPECIALTY SERVICES

UTILITIES

Darwin Monument

Mediacom

Farm-Rite Equipment, Inc

Meeker Cooperative Light & Power

116 E Hwy 12 Darwin, MN 55324 320-693-5902 darwinmonument.com

Dassel 888-679-4857 Long Prairie 866-514-0982 Willmar 877-484-3211 St. Cloud 844-262-2281 farmriteequip.com

317 E Hwy 7 Hutchinson, MN 55350 844-XTREAM3 mediacomcable.com 1725 Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3231 meeker.coop

2022 | independentreview.net

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Kevin Christoffers 408 W Highway 12, Atwater, MN 320.974.8838 kevinchristoffers.com/

Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company,* Western Agricultural Insurance Company,* Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company*/West Des Moines, IA. *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services. PR-SM-A (10-21)

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Meeker Cooperative • 1725 US HWY 12, STE 100 • Litchfield

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866-609-6180 xtream.com

317 Hwy 7 E, Hutchinson

*Internet Offer: The advertised monthly price of $19.99 applies to Internet 100 and is for the promotional period stated. Thereafter the monthly price increases to the standard rate then in effect (currently, $29.99). Advertised price does not include standard installation fee ($109.99, more if special work needed); a one-time $10 activation fee; or other one-time fees that may apply because of options you select nor does it include the following recurring monthly charges: (i) modem fee, currently $13.00; (ii) taxes and other amounts required by law to be collected or paid; or (iii) fees for optional services or equipment you may want. All these monthly charges may increase from time to time.

After the first year, if our standard rate for your service increases or we institute a new fee for service subscribers generally, we can pass that increase or new fee along to you. ±Autopay & Paperless Billing Discount Offer: Enrollment automatic payments and paperless billing is required. Your monthly service charge will be $10 more without enrollment. If at any time you cancel autopayment, the discount will be removed. †Internet Service Usage Allowances & Speeds: Internet service levels are subject to the following monthly total bandwidth usage allowances: Internet 100: 200 GB; 1 GIG Internet: 6,000 GB. Excess usage will be billed at $10 for every increment of up to 50 additional gigabytes used. For example, if usage exceeded the allowance by 51 gigabytes, the additional charge would be $20. Usage allowances and excess usage charges are subject to change at any time. See https://mediacomcable.com/ usageallowance for more information about usage allowances. Download and upload speeds may vary, see https://mediacomcable.com/openinternet for information on factors that could cause speeds to vary. ^ 99.99% Network Reliability: 2021 Mediacom Executive Summary Reliability Report. Offer Availability: Offer may change or be terminated any time without notice. Offer may not be available in all areas, cannot be combined with any other offer, is not transferable and is void where prohibited. Available only to prospective residential customers who have not received any Mediacom service within prior 90 days and meet applicable credit and other requirements. Customer must agree to all applicable subscriber terms and policies. See https://mediacomcable.com/legal/ for details. Other terms and conditions may apply. CA consumers: visit https://mediacomcable.com/legal/ccpa-privacy-notice/ to read our Privacy Notice for California Consumers.

LITCHFIELD

Community Education & Recreation (320) 693-2354 • ( 320 ) 593-6528 FAX Office Located in the Wagner Building 307 E 6th Street Suite 110

District 465 Litchfield Community Education and Recreation offers opportunities for all age groups....from early childhood to senior citizens. Registrations for classes and activities are taken first come-first served with some classes having limited enrollment

litchcommed@isd465.org www.litchfieldcommunityed.com

Youth Activities

Adult Activities

s

Enrichment and recreational activitie offered year-round Trips Special Events

nt ment AA variety of recreational and enrich people that er oth et me to people that ortu s. Opp vitie acti ity to meet otherhob tunnity Oppor ies. activit by! new a n lear or ts res share your inte ts or learn a new hobby!

share your interes

Club dsire Kiitf onSp agon Olympics re Drag Specndial Dr care Dragon Spitfi cs pi Wee Dragon Kids Club-preschool wrap arou

ial Ol th developmental ecuth wiym andSpyo

gramadults for re Pro ing Childca Agemm ool ra Pr Schog Days & Summer scho Non ilitolies ool,ab After-sch re & ca Befoysi dis l ph !

FUN the of Come and be a part

Adult Basic Education English as a Second Language High School Equivalency Program • Life Skills • Citizenship ess • Driver's License • Work Readin • Keyboarding Skills • Basic Computer Classes

and

with Programming for adults and youth ties bili disa l sica phy developmental and

tre Litchfield Community Thea tion

Annual summer musical produc Holiday Showcase in December duction held Community Youth Theatre pro in the spring t the year Special performances throughou and ge sta on ties Unlimited opportuni behind the scenes

Aquatics

Red Cross Swim Lessons Open Swim Private Swim Lessons

Early Childhood Programs Early Childhood Screening School Readiness Preschool ECFE Birth-5 Census

Getting Together: Sharing, Growing, Learning.

Litchfield Public Schools Early Childhood Program

Awarded a 4 Star Rating from the MN Dept. of Ed. For the Parent Aware Program Early Childhood Family Education School Readiness Early Childhood Special Education Early Childhood Screening Kindergarten Round-Up • Kindergarten Readiness

Litchfield Public Schools Early Childhood Programs for children birth to pre-kindergarten Early Childhood Family Education - ECFE (Sept. - July) Early Childhood Special Education - ECSE (Sept. - May) School Readiness (Sept. - May) • Litchfield Preschool Early Childhood Screening (Offered throughout the year) Kindergarten Round-Up (April) • Kindergarten Readiness (August) Parents: Register your child(ren) on the school census upon birth and/or moving into the Litchfield School District and you will automatically be included in early childhood mailings, scheduled for Early Childhood Screening and Kindergarten Round-up when the child is age appropriate. To register on the school district census call Community Education at 320-693-2354.

ECFE classes are offered throughout the school year and you can register through Litchfield Community Education.

Special events are planned such as Come and Play Dates, Holiday Happenings and many others. You can find information on classes and special events in the Community Education program guides that are published and distributed in early August, December, and mid-May. These program guides are available on the website www.litchfieldcommunityed.com Call or email LPS Early Childhood Program atRebecca litchcommed@isd465.org or call 320-693-2354 Call or email Early Childhood Programs Coordinator, Warpula at 320-693-2354, rwarpula@isd465.org for questions or or concerns concerns about about early early education education opportunities opportunities for for your your child! child! for further further information, information, questions

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