Litchfield Community Guide

FREE

Litchfield COMMUNITY GUIDE

2014

Published by the Litchfield Independent Review

A resource for Litchfield & the surrounding area Arts N Business N Entertainment N Faith N Government N Health N History N Recreation N Schools N Services

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Welcome to Litchfield Litchfield is a community located in central Minnesota that has much to offer people who visit or live in this city. Litchfield has many small, medium, and large businesses and industries that offer a wide variety of employment to many of its residents.

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

Litchfield is a community that you can receive the best of health care from young to old.

Our new state-of-the-art Meeker Memorial Hospital offers a full medical menu for inpatient and outpatient care along with two medicinal clinics. Our city has a large nursing home campus that is available to all levels of care for the elderly citizens in our area.

Recreation is a plus in our community, providing a wide variety of sporting opportunities and relaxation activities you may desire. We have an abundance of lakes in our area along with Lake Ripley which is an esthetic attraction for our community. The city has many well groomed parks with shelters that individuals and families can use for any occasion.

Litchfield has an 18-hole golf course with an adjoining clubhouse for dining both casual and formal.

When you spend time in our city, you will notice the historic buildings downtown, our beautiful Central Park, Memorial Park and Anderson Gardens by Lake Ripley, and many beautiful homes, businesses, and churches.

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

As the Mayor of Litchfield, welcome to our community and for those who live here, thanks for making this community a great place to call home.

Keith Johnson Mayor, City of Litchfield

The Central Park bandstand was rebuilt to its historical grandeur in 2002. Just an example of how Litchfield attempts to honor its past as it looks to the future.

79195

“Large Enough To Serve You...

Small Enough To Know You.�

1

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

About this guide The Litchfield Independent Review presents the 2014 Litchfield Community Guide. Our community has much to offer, and this guide will familiarize you with some of the many amenities. This publication was produced by the Independent Review newspaper staff. If is meant as a source of reference for new residents and visitors, as well as for people who have lived in the area for years.

On the cover The Community Guide cover features the Memorial Park playground.

NNN

FREE

eld E LitchfiIT Y GUID COMMUN

A resource for Arts N Business

N

Entertainment

N

Published by

Litchfield &

Faith N Governm

the Litchfield

2014

Independent

Review

g area the surroundin Schools

ent N Health

N

History N Recreatio

nN

N

Below: The Litchfield High School marching band performs S iits 2013 show, “Scheherazade� ffor the community, and a 13-year-old participates in an archery contest during the Wintercade ice fishing contest.

Services

CONTENTS Arts & Entertainment Litchfield Community Theatre Local business climate Litchfield Farmers Market

The Litchfield Independent Review, established in 1876, is the oldest, continuously operating business in Litchfield. The Independent Review, which has won numerous state and national newspaper awards, is published every Thursday. The office is at 217 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield. For more information, call 320-693-3266, go online to www. independentreview.net, or send an email to Editor Andrew Broman at broman@independentreview.net.

LITCHFIELD

Independent Review www.independentreview.net

36 38

Community Basic services available City & county overview

6 4

Education Alternative Learning Program Early Childhood Family Education High School, Middle School Lake Ripley Elementary School Litchfield Community Education School of St. Philip Wagner Elementary School

20 22 18 21 22 21 20

Faith Places to worship

28

Festivals & Events Area celebrations Litchfield Watercade

58 56

Government Litchfield City Council Litchfield School Board Meeker County Board State and federal lawmakers

55 54 54 54

Health Care Meeker Memorial Hospital

About the newspaper

60

Business

32

History Downtown Historic District G.A.R. Hall Historic homes

40 42 46

Learning Resources Litchfield Public Library

26

Parks & Recreation City and bike trail map City and county parks Memorial Park playground

16 13 8

Sports Litchfield Blues Litchfield Golf Club

50 52

2

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Directory of advertisers We thank these businesses for supporting the 14th edition of the Litchfield Community Guide!

AGRICULTURAL SERVICE & SUPPLIES Carlson Meat Processing ........................ 20 First District Association......................... 55 Litchfield Country Store .......................... 53 Meeker County American Dairy Association ............... 50 Schlauderaff Implement Co. ................... 44 ANIMAL HEALTH Haugo Veterinary Clinic .......................... 44 Human Society of Kandiyohi & Meeker Counties ............................ 37 Watkins Kimball Veterinary Clinics ......... 53 AUTOMOTIVE SALES, PARTS & SERVICE 3G’s The Outlet ...................................... 44 Al’s Auto Repair & Accessories ............... 51 Davis Motors ......................................... 15 Doug’s Auto Repair/ Decker Auto Sales.............................. 37 Gary’s Towing & Tire .............................. 20 Holt Motors ........................................... 27 Litchfield Mobile Electronics Center........ 57 Mutt & Jeff’s Auto Repair....................... 49 Northland Body & Paint ......................... 58 Parts City Auto Parts.............................. 49 R&R Auto Metal Salvage ....................... 25 Towmaster Trailer Parts Store ................. 41 BANKING/FINANCIAL/INSURANCE Anderson Insurance ............................... 53 Center National Bank ............................... 3 Christianson & Associates ...................... 27 Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing................. 41 Farm Bureau Financial Services ................ 5 Farmers Insurance .................................. 10 Home State Bank ....................................11 Insurance Solutions of Litchfield ............. 45 Lehr Agency ........................................... 43 Menken Real Estate & Insurance ............ 50 State Farm – Jason Tibbits ...................*BC CHURCHES Cornerstone ........................................... 35 First Evangelical Lutheran Church........... 33 Immanuel Lutheran Church .................... 33 St. Philip Church .................................... 33

Key: *IFC = Inside Front Cover *IBC = Inside Back Cover *BC = Back Cover Trinity Episcopal Church ......................... 33 Zion Lutheran Church............................. 33 COMMUNITY EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Grove Creek Raceway ............................ 34 Litchfield Watercade .............................. 29 DINING & BANQUET Heroes at the VFW ................................. 36 Jimmy’s Pizza ......................................... 43 Litchfield American Legion ..................... 24 Peter’s on Lake Ripley ............................ 34 Subway .................................................. 60 EDUCATION Litchfield Community Education ............. 19 Litchfield Early Childhood Programs ....... 19 Litchfield School District ........................... 7 St. Philip School ..................................... 33 GOVERNMENT & CIVIC GROUPS City of Litchfield .................................. *IFC Litchfield Area Rural Partners in Prevention........................ 30 Litchfield Chamber of Commerce.............. 7 Meeker Council on Aging ....................... 52 Meeker County Development Corp. ........ 57 Meeker County EDA ............................... 57 Meeker County Transfer Station ............. 41 Meeker County Republican Party ........... 36 Meeker Public Transit ............................. 25 Sheriff Jeff Norlin ................................... 49 HEALTH, MEDICAL, PERSONAL CARE ACMC .................................................... 15 Ecumen of Litchfield............................... 35 Family Eye Center/ Fischer Laser Eye Center .................... 39 Haugo & Solbrack, DDS ......................... 25 Litchfield Eye Center .............................. 22

Meeker Memorial Hospital .................. *IBC Patten Chriopractic Center ..................... 57 Snap Fitness .......................................... 43 The Medicine Shoppe............................. 49 HOME, COMMERCIAL & GARDEN Litchfield Building Center ....................... 19 Litchfield Flooring .................................. 35 Richards’ Seamless Gutter Inc. ............... 49 Sam Hendrickson Plumbing & Heating ........................... 59 Stockmen’s Greenhouse & Landscaping ................................... 23 Tom’s Carpet Kingdon ............................ 49 Turck’s Trees .......................................... 29 Valley View Electric Inc. ......................... 53 LODGING AmericInn .............................................. 45 The Marshall Estate ............................... 53 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Darwin Monument ................................. 25 Evenson Potrait Design .......................... 57 Northstar Surveying ............................... 55 Peter’s Signs .......................................... 44 REAL ESTATE Edina Realty........................................... 58 Premier Real Estate Services................... 53 RE/MAX Today’s Properties ................... 59 RETAIL STORES Emmaus Gift Shop ................................. 44 Litchfield Liquor ..................................... 52 Mary’s Jewelry ....................................... 55 Mid Minnesota Music............................. 57 Natural Food Co-op ............................... 24 Partners Hardware Hank ........................ 22 Very Vintage .......................................... 21 Walmart ................................................ 51 TELECOMMUNICATIONS, NEWS, PRINTERS NU-Telecom ........................................... 23 Mediacom.............................................. 24

3

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

HAVE YOU BEEN WONDERING ABOUT MORTGAGE LOANS? Refinancing? Buying?

Building? Ask us!

Let your local mortgage experts work for you!

Call Deanna, Loree or Bill today at 693-3255.

301 Ramsey Avenue North | Litchfield, MN 55355 Phone: 320-693-3255 | Fax: 320-693-7429 | Toll Free: 800-893-3255

WWW.CNBMN.COM

4

COMMUNITY

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

City of Litchfield Litchfield High School footLitchfield is convenientball team. He later was ly located 65 miles west of head coach of the Minthe Minneapolis/St. Paul Population: 6,671 (2012 estimate Census Bureau) nesota Gophers football metropolitan area. Main County: Meeker team from 1932-1941 and highways, rail service, a City Hall: 126 N. Marshall Ave. Call 320-693-7201 1945 -1950, winning five municipal airport, mediCity Administrator: Dave Cziok national championships cal facilities, swimming Website: www.ci.litchfield.mn.us during his tenure. The late and fishing at Lake Ripley, Dr. William Nolen was a beautiful parks, a strong business community, as well as excellent schools are surgeon in Litchfield and a nationally known author.

The late Gale Sondergaard won an Academy Award some of the community’s greatest attributes.

The city, which is the county seat of Meeker County, for best supporting actress for her 1936 film debut in is home to Lake Ripley Cemetery on Minnesota High- “Anthony Adverse.” John Carlson Jr., a LHS graduway 22 South, several athletic fields near Litchfield ate, started his professional football career with the High School, a golf course, and an indoor hockey rink Seattle Seahawks in 2008 and joined the Minnesota Vikings prior to the start of the 2012 season. at the Civic Arena.

The city has its own police department, as well as a volunteer fire department and rescue squad. Other History After the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad was concity facilities include a municipal liquor store, municipal power plant, water department and wastewater structed through Litchfield, the county seat was moved from Forest City to Litchfield in 1869. The town treatment facility. was named after brothers E. Darwin Litchfield, Egbert E. Litchfield and Edwin C. Litchfield, who helped Well-known residents Litchfield is home to several well-known people. finance the construction of the railroad through MinThe late Bernie Bierman was captain of the 1911 nesota. The city was incorporated in 1872.

Litchfield

Meeker County the Meeker County DevelMeeker County is home opment Corp., a Univerto rolling farmland, dozens sity of Minnesota Extenof swimming and fishing Population: 23,061 (2012 estimate U.S. Census sion Service office, Public lakes, many historica l Bureau) Health, Soil and Water sites, small town festivals, County seat: Litchfield Conservation District, and a popular county fair, and Communities: Acton, Cedar Mills, Collinwood, Veterans Services. some of the state’s largCosmos, Danielson, Darwin, Dassel, Eden Valley, est dairy and poultry opEllsworth, Forest City, Forest Prairie, Greenleaf, History erations. Main highways, Grove City, Harvey, Kingston, Litchfield, Manannah, Swede Grove, Union Grove and The Seventh Territorail service, remodeled Watkins. rial Legislature of Minnemedical facilities, thrivLand area: 610 square miles sota ordered the creation ing businesses, as well as Courthouse: 325 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield. of Meeker County on Feb. excellent schools in four Call 320-693-5200 23, 1856. The county was school districts are some County Administrator: Paul Virnig named in honor of Terof the county’s strong atWebsite: www.co.meeker.mn.us ritorial Judge Bradley B. tributes.

Meeker. Forest City was Government offices are housed in the courthouse, 325 N. Sibley Ave.; the the first county seat. However, after the St. Paul and Meeker County Family Service Center, 114 N. Hol- Pacific Railroad was constructed through Litchfield, combe Ave.; Law Enforcement Center and Detention county residents voted in 1862 to change the county Center, 326 N. Ramsey Ave.; and the County Highway seat to Litchfield.

The U.S.-Dakota War began in 1862. The Acton and Minnesota Department of Transportation FacilMassacre on Aug. 17, 1862, led to the Battle of Acton, ity, 422 S. Johnson Drive.

The county has several committees, including the followed by the Manannah Massacre on Aug. 26, Planning and Zoning Commission, and Housing and 1862, and an attack Sept. 4, 1862, on the Forest City Redevelopment Authority. Also in Meeker County is Stockade, where many pioneers took shelter.

Meeker County

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Securities & services offered through EquiTrust Marketing Services, LLC+, 5400 University Ave., West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877/860-2904, Member SIPC. Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company+*, Western Agricultural Insurance Company+*, Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company+*/West Des Moines, IA. +Affiliates *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services © 2011 FBL Financial Group, Inc. M060-ML-1 (1-11)

5

6

COMMUNITY

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Basic city services Information about who to call, where to go for Litchfield services Electricity, gas, water, sewer

Compost site

Litchfield Public Utilities provides light and power to the city of Litchfield. New customers should contact the Utilities business office to find out the requirements of establishing a new account. A deposit is required of new residents. Budget payment plans and automatic payment plans are available. A payment drop box is outside of City Hall, 126 N. Marshall Ave. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Utilities office also handles water and sewer billing for the city. Telephone number is 693-7201.

Meeker Cooperative Light & Power also provides light and power to areas in the outskirts of the city. For information, call its Litchfield office at 693-3231.

While residents can choose from different providers, CenterPoint Energy is the main supplier of natural gas to the area. CenterPoint Energy’s telephone number is 800-245-2377.

The city compost site is at 23968 615th Ave., just past Lake Ripley campground on the left. The site is open seasonally from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays (closing earlier in late fall). The site is open until the first plowable snowfall and reopens April 1. The site is closed Sundays, holidays and during the winter, except for a few weeks in January to allow for people to drop off their Christmas trees. Items that can be dropped off include leaves, grass clippings, brush, tree branches, small amounts of dirt with no sod, or other natural vegetation.

Wood chips and compost dirt are free for people to pick up. For more information, call 693-7201.

Public transportation

Three companies provide telephone, cable TV and Internet services in Litchfield: NU-Telecom, Mediacom and CenturyLink. Residents can apply for NU-Telecom services by stopping by the office, 421 County State Aid Highway 34 S. in Litchfield or calling 593-2323 or 800-303-7039. Mediacom’s customer service telephone number is 800-332-0245. CenturyLink ’s customer service telephone number is 800-244-1111.

The area code for Litchfield and Meeker County is 320.

The purpose of Meeker Public Transit is to offer 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. Riders can purchase a one-way ticket, round-trip ticket or a bus pass. Buses are handicap accessible and equipped with a wheelchair lift. They are air-conditioned and have seat belts for passengers. The bus is available from 6:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, and from 7:45 a.m. to noon on Sundays for church attendees only. Riders must contact Meeker Public Transit by 5 p.m. Friday to reserve weekend rides. To make an appointment for a ride call 693-7794 or 800-513-7433.

Law enforcement

Garbage & recycling pickup

The Litchfield Police and Meeker County Sheriff’s departments are located at 326 Ramsey Ave. N. The Litchfield Police Department is headed by Police Chief Patrick Fank. The non-emergency telephone number for the Police Department is 320-693-5425. The Crime Tip Line for the Police Department is 320-693-5430.

The Meeker County Sheriff’s Office is headed by Sheriff Jeff Norlin. The non-emergency telephone number for the Sheriff’s Office is 693-5400. The Confidential Crime Tip Line is 320-693-5411.

The emergency number for Police and Sheriff is 911.

Waste Management-Twin Cities West provides residential garbage pick-up 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 can be mixed in the container. Payment drop box for garbage bills is at 5 E. Second St. For more information, call 800-450-9378. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The mailing address is 490 Industrial Blvd., Winsted, MN 55395.

West Central Sanitation of Willmar, Minn., provides commercial garbage and recyclable pickup in Litchfield and the surrounding area. For information, call 800-246-7630.

Telephone, cable, Internet

COMMUNITY

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

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 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday. Residents can access their postal boxes from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. The post office also offers passport services; call to make an appointment. The phone number is 693-6252.

7

Litchfield Public Schools

Local newspaper and radio station The Litchfield Independent Review is published every T hu rsday. It has won numerous state and national awards. To subscribe to the newspaper or to advertise in it, call 693-3266, visit its website at www.independentreview.net, stop at the office at 217 N. Sibley Ave., or send an email to editor@ independentreview.net.

The local radio station, KLFD-AM 1410, offers local news, as well as state and national headlines. The office is at 234 N. Sibley Ave. For information, call 693-3281 or go online to www.klfd1410.com.

SHOP LOCAL!

Litchfield High School 901 N. Gilman, Litchfield • 320-693-2424

Litchfield Middle School 340 E. 10th St., Litchfield • 320-693-2441

Wagner Elementary School 307 E. 6th St., Litchfield • 320-693-2824

s are here - Our familie od is here - Our liveliho re ur money he o d n e p s t’s e -L

Shop Here and genera $6.2 Millio te n/yr to our loc

Lake Ripley Elementary School 100 W. Pleasure Dr., Litchfield • 320-693-2436

al econom y

BUILDING A STRONG COMMUNITY OF BUSINESSES, NEW AND ESTABLISHED

Alternative Learning Program 26 3rd St. W., Litchfield • 320-693-0633

Helping Students Build a Future Through Education District Office, 114 N. Holcombe, Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2444 • www.litchfield.k12.mn.us

94384

We support our Chamber Members and all local commerce.

8 PARKS & RECREATION

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Community unites to build playground ‘It’s a great feeling of accomplishment’

L

itchfield’s new playground at Memorial Park along the east shore of Lake Ripley began as an idea promoted by a small group of parents.

Litchfield resident Luke Stordahl and his family helped kick off the playground campaign during the summer of 2012, and they quickly found many supporters.

Standing on top of old Rain or shine, volunteers worked 14-hour days to build a playground playground equipment that in five days at Memorial Park. Above, a tarp covers a section of he described as inadequate, playground under construction as it drizzles at the site in early May. Stordahl predicted in September 2012 that a new playground would be built at Memorial Park by May 2013.

A new playground was needed, Stordahl said, because equipment at the park was in bad shape and ill-suited for toddlers to experience without parents having to monitor their every step.

Nearly 400 people signed a petition asking Litchfield City Council to approve a new playground and contribute funds for its construction. Stordahl and another Litchfield resident, Justin Wendroth, made multiple trips to City Council meetings, urging cooperation from city officials. Ultimately, councilors agreed to donate $80,000, while Stordahl and other Men, women and children (under adult organizers raised more than $100,000. supervision) operated drills, saws and

By May, the playground’s construction was other equipment to build Litchfield’s new underway. This was no ordinary playground but playground, which was erected with plastic one that organizers described as “community composite lumber. built.” A New York firm hired to oversee the construction, Leathers and Associates, worked playground over a five-day period. alongside dozens of volunteers to construct the John Carlson was one of hundreds of volunteers

PARKS & RECREATION

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Dozens of children and their parents were eager to check out the new playground at Memorial Park in Litchfield during the grand opening May 5. to participate in the build. Carlson kept working on the playground, taking measurements for the playground’s “castle,” until the last possible moment when he had to come down from a ladder to celebrate the playground’s grand opening on May 5.

At the grand opening, Carlson joined a crowd of dozens of children and their parents to officially mark the playground’s completion. They counted down “three, two, one...,” and Carlson beamed as kids ran past him to be among the first to get their hands and feet on the new equipment.

As if entering Chuck E. Cheese’s for the first time, kids dashed in all directions, some to an area designated for toddlers and others to the section for older children. They sprinted up stairs and climbed across a suspension bridge to explore the castle before coming down via twisty slide or rope net.

“As they went running by,” Carlson said, “I was near crying. It was awesome.”

Carlson and many other volunteers worked from 7 a.m. until after nightfall — stopping only for meals and bathroom breaks — for five straight days. He and others took time off work to spend

Continued on 10

With a goal of finishing construction in five days, volunteers had to work into the night to ensure the playground’s timely completion.

9

10

PARKS & RECREATION

Some Key Questions to Ask Yourself • If something happened to me, would my family have the same quality of life financially?

• Home is where the heart is. Am I confident in my current homeowners coverage?

• Do I have sufficient auto coverage in the event of a catastrophic accident?

• Am I absolutely positive I am getting the best value for my insurance dollars?

• Have I called Dave at Farmer’s Insurance for a free quote? h lp ng pro w a ma rs mos o L fi l residents and surrounding communities. for sp al z s rv rom yo r lo al, L fi l ag n ,

CALL DAVE SURLA

520 E HWY. 12 Suite 104 • LitchfieLd

320-693-3112

www.farmersagent.com/dosgood arm rs ns@ av s rla. om

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE as long as 14 hours each day at the site. Wearing a fluorescent yellow jacket, Carlson was one of several team leaders in charge of coordinating a fleet of rank-and-file volunteers, who signed up to take either a morning or afternoon shift.

Organizers, who kept track of volunteers by requiring them to register at the site’s entrance, estimated more than 800 people participated in the build. At the registration table, volunteers were classified as either unskilled or skilled, based on whether they felt comfortable operating a table saw.

Skilled and unskilled alike worked alongside each other, sometimes under tarps shielding them from rain.

Carlson’s wife, Erica, visited Josh at the site one night because she hadn’t seen much of him at home. “I was a little surprised when I found out he was going to be out here from seven to nine every day,” said Erica, who brought along their three boys, ages 10, 8 and 6.

Behind the front lines Many volunteers shared a common bond in expecting their children or grandchildren to visit the playground. During the build, organizers offered daycare at Cornerstone Church in Litchfield to give at-home parents an opportunity to participate.

Having a daycare option was important for Kiza Olson, who has four children. “I’d feel horrible coming out here if I didn’t sign up” to volunteer, she said after finishing a morning shift.

Daycare also helped Luke Stordahl’s wife, Colleen Stordahl, who carried her infant son Rowan in a Moby Wrap during the playground’s May 5 grand opening. She spent five days photographing volunteers, uploading dozens of shots to the playground’s Facebook page, which amassed more than 450 “likes” by the build’s end.

“I thought that pictures were as much a part of the community building as everything else,” Colleen Stordahl said. “People were doing a great thing, and I wanted them to get recognized for it.”

While many volunteers worked with a drill or saw in hand, many others operated behind the front lines, ensuring everybody stayed fed and hydrated. Some spent hardly any time at the site, but baked cookies or made snacks at home and dropped them off. Numerous businesses donated

Continued on 12

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

11

12

PARKS & RECREATION

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Playground inspires new restrooms With a new playground at Memorial Park, members of the American Legion decided the site also needed new restrooms. American Legion Post 104 agreed to donate $35,000 toward the construction of new restrooms, which come complete with showers and diaper changing tables. The restrooms, located near Lake Ripley beach, had been under consideration since the 1990s, according to John McCann, commander of American Legion Post 104.

He said the playground’s construction reignited those discussions, prompting Legion members to donate money for new restrooms.

meals and beverages, including a constant supply of coffee as temperatures remained below 60 degrees, sometimes reaching below 40 degrees.

While the build felt chaotic at moments and involved a few glitches, such as miscalculated measurements or drilling holes in the wrong spots, volunteers said the operation went smoothly overall.

‘A great humanitarian effort’ At the playground’s grand opening, Litchfield Mayor Keith Johnson described the build as a “great humanitarian effort.”

“As mayor of this city, I just want to say this was a great humanitarian effort,” Johnson said.

“I could almost cry thinking about what this was like.”

Playground organizers, in their deliberations with City Council, repeatedly insisted on hiring Leathers and Associates for the project, stating the firm possessed a unique ability to involve community volunteers, a key to the project’s success. Using volunteers also helped to significantly reduce the project’s labor costs, Luke Stordahl noted.

“It’s a special experience. That’s what everyone says. It’s a community building thing,” Stordahl told City Council.

During the playground’s construction, volunteers cited this sense of community when describing the building experience.

Luke Stordahl and his wife, Colleen, were among the first Litchfield parents to advocate for building a new playground at Memorial Park. They envisioned building a playground with areas accessible for children of all ages, including toddlers. Above, the family sits on a set of stairs at the playground. Their four children are, from left, Corrigan, Rowan (on Colleen’s lap), Juniper and Bryar.

Carlson said he went into the project with an “open mind,” not knowing how a crew of volunteers, many with only minimal carpentry skills, would manage. But after three days on site, he said, he was a believer in the process.

“The unskilled (volunteers) are getting here and they’re learning the tools, and, if they don’t know, we’ll teach them,” said Carlson, who worked as a professional, full-time carpenter until 2008. “It’s a great feeling of accomplishment.”

PARKS & RECREATION 13

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE The following is a list of area parks:

Litchfield city parks

Litchfield parks Anderson Gardens (A) — Anderson Gardens is a mini-arboretum park located on the northeastern corner of Lake Ripley with a picturesque gazebo.

Becker Park (B) — Located on South Chandler Avenue, Becker Park is an open play area with a swing set and a small, winter sliding hill.

Central Park (C) — The heart of Litchfield, Central Park and its bandshell are home to activities throughout the year, including outdoor music, Easter egg hunt, a farmers market and community meals. It is in downtown Litchfield along Sibley Avenue.

Crescent Park (D) — This playground is located in the Crescent Lane development and has a swing set and playground equipment.

Dog Park and Archery Range (E) — The park is across from Memorial Park on Lake Ripley. It 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.

Jaycees Park (F) — Situated between Memorial Park and the Lake Ripley Campground along Lake Ripley, the park has a picnic shelter, playground equipment, dock, boat launch and ice fishing access.

Lake Ripley Campground (G) — The municipal trailer campground has 33 sites, all with sewer and water, as well as permanent restrooms and showers. All sites are available on a first-come, firstserved basis.

Lions Park (H) — 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.

Litchf ield Sports Complex (I) — 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 area is also home to Litchfield Public Schools athletic facilities.

Memorial Park (J) — The location for many Litchfield Watercade activities, Memorial Park lies along the east edge of Lake Ripley. A new playground and restrooms were constructed at the park in 2013. The park has 175 feet of beach, swimming docks, lake overlook, bike/walking path, an Army tank and field cross memorial, sand volleyball court, lake access and a large picnic area.

North Casey Park (K) — This

park is an open play area with a swingset located on North Miller Avenue between Ninth and 11th streets, with Jewett Creek along the east edge. There is a small, winter sliding hill.

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

Pleasant View Park (M) — Off Willmar Avenue in the northwest section of the city, Pleasant View has playground equipment and play area.

Prairie Park (N) — Along Butler Street, Prairie Park is a 40-acre nature park, featuring 2.5 miles of walking and cross country skiing trails, playground equipment and a picnic shelter provided by the Rotary Club.

Continued on 14

14

PARKS & RECREATION

South Park (O) — This square block park on the 300 block of Miller Avenue South is home to two tennis courts, play equipment and a volleyball court.

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

Sunrise Terrace Park (Q) — The park, located along Sunrise Drive in eastern Litchfield, has updated playground equipment and a small man-made sliding hill.

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

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Meeker County parks

Meeker County parks Clear Lake Park — Three miles south of Watkins on County Road 2, the park includes a picnic area and shelter, boat landing and a short hiking trail. The park is 34.4 acres.

Darwin-Dassel Park — With 160 acres, the county’s largest park has 6.5 miles of hiking, cross country 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.

Finnish Memorial Park — Ideal for canoeing down the North Fork Crow River, Finnish Memorial Park is 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 — On the southwest shore of Lake Koronis, this 62-acre park 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 with kitchen facilities and several recreational facilities. A walking/biking trail is currently being constructed to encircle the

lake. To make shelter or camping reservations, call 320-276-8843.

Lake Manuella Park — Known for its swimming beach, the park has picnic facilities, bathrooms and a changing house. It is located on CSAH 9 five miles south of U.S. Highway 12.

Shaw Memorial Park — Located in Forest City, along Crow River, the 10-acre park has picnic shelters, playground equipment, a softball field, basketball court and ice skating rink in the winter.

Spring Lake Park — 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 — Located on 525th Avenue, one mile west of Cosmos, Thompson Park has picnic shelters, playground equipment, ball field, volleyball court and fishing dock. It is 22 acres.

West Ripley Park — Located just south of Litchfield on CSAH 1, the park has a boat landing, fishing pier, playground equipment, sand volleyball court, bike path and large picnic shelter. It contains 5.6 acres on the western shore of Lake Ripley.

Woodland Park — Woodland Park has 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.

15

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

YOUR HOMETOWN DEALERSHIP

Oil Change Special

All Day - Every Day 99*

$19

No Coupon Necessary Tax & Disposal Included Includes up to 5 quarts of oil & filter *Excludes diesels.

Extra charges for Synthetic Oil.

YOUR FAMILY DEALER SINCE 1995

Ph. 320-693-322 Toll Free: 877-693-3224 • Fax: 320-693-3012 www.davismotorsgm.com

Scan this barcode with your Smartphone to view our inventory directly on your device.

ACMC-Litchfield East and West provide comprehensive medical care for you and your family The heart of ACMC is providing compassionate, quality care for our patients.

With same day appointments available everyday, we’ll be here when you need us.

No photo available

Pamela Brett, D.O.

Family Medicine/Bariatrics/ Weight Control

Dexter Casta, M.D. Internal Medicine Coming summer 2014

Patricia Freund, M.D. Family Medicine

Janell Haiwick, M.D. Family Medicine

Debra Peterson, M.D. Timothy Peterson, M.D. Family Medicine

General Surgery

Emily Belanus, P.A.-C

Bridey Boese, R.N., C.N.P.

David Ross, M.D. Family Medicine

To schedule an appointment: (320) 693-3233 Scott Schultz, M.D. Obstetrics/Gynecology

Richard Searl, M.D. Family Medicine

Anita Strei, M.D. Family Medicine

Physician Assistant

Nurse Practitioner

ACMC-Litchfield East 611 South Sibley Ave. | Litchfield, MN 55355 Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

(320) 693-3233 | www.acmc.com |

Jane Schmidt, R.N., C.F.N.P.

Nurse Practitioner

ACMC-Litchfield West 520 South Sibley Ave. | Litchfield, MN 55355 Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Saturday: 8:00 a.m. – 12 noon

16

PARKS & RECREATION

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

PARKS & RECREATION 17

18

EDUCATION

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

An emphasis on education Litchfield schools provide strong academics, opportunities

Litchfield High School

Litchfield Middle School

901 N. Gilman Ave. • 320-693-2424 www.litchfield.k12.mn.us

340 E. 10th St. • 320-693-2441 www.litchfield.k12.mn.us

Principal: Jason Michels Enrollment: 561 (grades nine through 12) Average class size: 26 students Curriculum: Agribusiness, art, business, English, family and consumer science, industrial technology, math, music, physical education/ health, science, social studies, Spanish and German world languages.

LHS offers “concurrent” classes, college-level courses that offer credits for both high school and college.

LHS currently offers 40 credits available in human biology, living biology, psychology, sociology, precalculus, calculus, algebra, college writing, university literature, plan science and human geography. Other courses also can help prepare students for future occupations are articulation or vocational classes, which include the school-to-work program, art, business, FACS, industrial technology and house construction.

Extracurricular activities: Varsity athletic sports, music, drama, First Robotics, YES! Team, Student Council, National Honor Society, knowledge bowl, speech, language clubs, FCCLA, FFA, art club, cheerleading, danceline, We Act, Vision magazine, newspaper, and yearbook.

Principal: Patrick Devine Enrollment: 370 (grades six through eight) Average class size: 26 students Curriculum: Structured in a “pod” format, same sections of students take their core classes — English, mathematics, science and social studies — from the same four core teachers for that grade level. Students also take classes in reading, computer use, art, industrial technology, family and consumer science, physical education and health. Electives include band, choir, agriculture and introductory languages.

Extracurricular activities: Athletics for seventh- and eighth-graders, instrumental and vocal music, speech, FFA, FCCLA, student council and yearbook staff.

Philosophy: The middle school promotes teaming concepts, such as an advisory program, exploratory days, team planning and interdisciplinary lessons.

LMS uses differentiated instruction in the classroom, in which teachers use a variety of instruction and assessment methods to better fit the needs of students.

The school also fosters a safe school climate so that all students can reach their full potential.

Continued on 20

Litchfield School District 465 District office is in the Meeker County Family Service Center, 114 Holcombe Ave. N. • 320-639-2444 Superintendent: Dan Frazier • Business Manager: Becky Boll

19

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

LITCHFIELD

Community Education & Recreation (320) 693-2354 • (320) 593-6528 FAX Office located in the Meeker County Family Services Center 114 North Holcombe Ave, 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

www.litchfieldcommunityed.com

Youth Activities

s Enrichment and recreational activitie nd -rou year offered Trips Special Events

Adult Activities

ent A variety of recreational and enrichm s. activitie that share Opportunity to meet other people by! hob new a n your interests or lear

Dragon Kids Club

School Age Childcare Program Grades K-5 After-school & Non school Days & Summer Come and be a part of the FUN!

ABE

English as a Second Language High School Equivalency Program • Life Skills • Citizenship ss • Driver's License • Work Readine ls Skil • Keyboarding • Basic Computer Classes

Aquatics

Red Cross Swim Lessons Open Swim Aqua Aerobics

-

Adults with Disabilities Special Olympics

with Programming for adults and youth ies bilit disa l sica phy and tal developmen

ECFE

re

Litchfield Community Theat

Annual summer musical production Holiday Showcase in December tion held Community Youth Theatre produc ng in the spri the year Special performances throughout and e stag on Unlimited opportunities behind the scenes

Screening School Readiness Preschool Parent Education Birth-5 Census

Lifelong Learning ~ Citizen Involvement

Litchfield Early Childhood Programs

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. - May) Early Childhood Special Education - ECSE (Sept. - May) School Readiness (Sept. - May) • Hand-in-Hand Preschool Early Childhood Screening (Offered throughout the year) Kindergarten Round-Up (March) • Kindergarten Readiness (July & August) Parents: Register your child(ren) upon birth and/or moving into the Litchfield School District on the school census 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 the Early Childhood Center at 320-593-0072.

ECFE classes are offered two times a year and you can register through Litchfield Community Education.

Many special events are also planned for your participation such as Run and Romps, 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 also available on the school website www.litchfield.k12.mn.us Call Early Childhood Programs Coordinator, Wendy Walz,at 320-593-0072 for further information, questions or concerns about early education opportunities for your child!

20

EDUCATION

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Litchfield Alternative Learning Program

Wagner Elementary School

26 W. Third St. • 320-693-0633 www.litchfield.k12.mn.us

307 E. Sixth St. • 320-693-2824 www.litchfield.k12.mn.us

Coordinator: Tim Mackey Enrollment: 16 students Curriculum: English, social studies, mathematics, science and physical education/ health. Students have the opportunity to take electives or participate in the independent study program. Students work toward credit recovery and earning a Litchfield High School diploma.

Students also participate in community service projects such as Second Harvest, The Salvation Army and Adopt-a-Highway. The school operates under Litchfield High School.

Mission: Established in 1996, the program serves students struggling in the typical high school environment by creating an environment that will help students reach their fullest academic and social potential, thereby enabling them to get their diploma and become productive members of society.

Carlson Meat Processing

Gary's Towing & Tire 24 Hours ~ 7 Days A Week Lube/Oil Changes • Brakes • Vehicle Unlocks • Tires 201 Miller Ave. N., Litchfield Days, 320-693-2672; Cell, 320-699-0258

Since 1913

Celebrating 100 Years!

Continuing a tradition of processing and selling locally grown, quality meats, including beef, buffalo and pork.

71790

•

Principal: Gregg Zender Enrollment: 229 (grades four and five) Average class size: 23 students Curriculum: Classes expand on basic skills taught in earlier grades and branch off into more diverse subjects in science and social studies.

Students also take art, music, physical education and computer classes.

Services: Special education, Title I programs for struggling students.

Academic activities: Students at Wagner also have opportunities to participate in activities outside the classroom, such as Dragon Lunch Bunch, D.A.R.E., Math Masters and Continental Math League.

Grove City 320-857-2261 • www.carlsonmeats.com

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

EDUCATION

21

School of St. Philip

Lake Ripley Elementary School

225 E. Third St. • 320-693-6283 www.thechurchofstphilip.org/school

100 W. Pleasure Drive • 320-693-2436 www.litchfield.k12.mn.us

Principal: Diana McCarney Enrollment: 61 (kindergarten through fifth grade) Class size: Ranges from 10 to 15 students Curriculum: St. Philip’s emphasizes a strong academic curriculum in a faith-filled environment.

In addition to core academic areas, such as math, reading, science and social studies, students take music, physical education, religion and computer classes year around. St. Philip’s also offers the Rosetta Stone Spanish curriculum and Lego Education Engineering for all students.

The school has had all-day, every-day kindergarten for 13 years.

Faith-based education: Open to families from all faith traditions, it is a fully accredited Catholic school affiliated with St. Philip’s parish in Litchfield. School life revolves around following the way of Jesus and carrying the values learned into the larger community.

There are many opportunities for prayer and liturgy, including attending Mass every Friday.

Community service opportunities are integral to student development. The size of the school allows for a close-knit community of students, staff and parents where children are nurtured and safe.

Tuition: $2,200 with a $250 grant for members of the St. Philip parish and the Catholic parishes of the Area Faith Community.

Principal: Gregg Zender Enrollment: 505 (kindergarten through third grade) Average class size: 21 students Curriculum: Classes focus on teaching children basic skills and foundations for learning.

Emphasis is placed on building students’ abilities in reading, math and writing, as well as developing their speaking and comprehension skills. Other classes include art, music and physical education.

Lake Ripley Elementary has all-day, every-day kindergarten.

Services: Early Childhood Education, special education, preschool, and Title I for struggling students.

Continued on 22

Open Wednesday - Saturday 9:00ish - 5:00 pm Monday & Tuesday-by chance

Very Vintage Antiques • Ladies Apparel • Gifts

Experience a Unique & Eclectic Blend of Old & New! Contact info: susanjohnson@shopveryvintage.com Like us on • 320-593-0888 109 Sibley Avenue North, Litchfield, Minnesota 55355

22

EDUCATION

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Litchfield Community Education

Early Childhood Family Education

114 N. Holcombe Ave., Suite 110 • 320-693-2354 www.litchfieldcommunityed.com

114 N. Holcombe Ave., Suite 110 • 320-693-0072 www.litchfieldcommunityed.com

Litchfield Community Education and Recreation offers a wide array of classes and enrichment activities for all members of the community.

Programs offered include youth trips and enrichment classes such as guitar lessons, drama classes and firearms safety classes, as well as sports programs including archery, ballet, Tae Kwon Do and much more.

Adult enrichment classes include CPR and first aid certification, and driver safety courses, as well as recreational classes such as fitness bootcamp, Zumba and yoga. Community Education also offers free Adult Basic Education (ABE/GED) including citizenship, English as a second language, work readiness and other classes.

The Dragon Kids Club is in its second year and offers child care for students in grades K-5. The program offers a variety of enrichment programs and recreational choices, including gym time, outdoor play and field trips on non-school days.

Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) in Litchfield employs four licensed/certified teachers and three support staff members who offer programs for families with children from birth to pre-kindergarten. Programs provide a rich variety of learning experiences to promote the growth and development of young children, as well as offer time for parents to develop relationships, gain support and learn new parenting skills.

For more information about the Early Childhood programs, contact Early Childhood Programs Coordinator Wendy Walz at 320-5930072, ext. 8114 or email wendy_walz@litchfield. k12.mn.us.

Head Start and Early Head Start are also housed in the Meeker County Family Service Center, along with the Litchfield Early Learning Program, a combination School Readiness and Head Start program for children ages 3-4 years old.

Ph. 320/693-6865

Partners Hardware Hank Dr. Katie Tancabel Dr. Terrence Tancabel

135 Sibley Ave N.

(320) 593-3100 litchfieldeyecenter.com

242 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield

*Your Hank's Paint Headquarters* Jim & Cindy Theis

39335.LCG-07

Your Local Eye Doctors From One Generation To The Next

23

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Stockmen’ s Greenhouse & Landscaping 60973 W. U.S. Hwy. 12 Litchfield, MN 55355

(320) 693-7787 www.stockmensgreenhouse.com

Your year around source for all your lawn and garden needs.

• Shade Trees • Shrubs • Evergreens • Fruit Trees

• Perennials • Bedding Plants • Christmas Trees • Growing Supplies

• Garden Ware • Roses • Mulch • Fertilizer • Landscape Design & Installation

24

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

NELSAN-HORTON POST 104

Natural Food Co-op

Litchfield American Legion Downtown Litchfield • 320-693-9074

• Daily Happy Hour • Nightly Specials • Breakfast Buffet 1st Sunday of every month • 8am-1pm

92585

LOUNGE HOURS: Monday - Tuesday • Open @ 3:00 p.m.

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

Sunday • Open @ Noon www.litchfieldamericanlegionpost104.com

T O C N TRARED N UI CO EQ R

• Download speeds up to 105 Mbps • Nearly instantaneous downloads • A must for multiple users and devices devic

• Up to 6,000 hours of FREE On Demand • Over 100 HD channels on your HDTV • All your favorite channels, rain or shine

• Unlimited calling in the US and Canada • Reliable backup to your mobile phone • Keep your existing phone number

Mediacom office: 902 Hwy 15 South • Hutchinson

25

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

See Us For All Your Building Needs!

For information, call

320-693-7794 or 800-513-7433

92529

Meeker Public Transit "This Bus Is For Everyone"

New Homes • Additions • Ag/Pole Buildings Commercial Decks • Kitchen & Bath Remodels Custom Closets • Computer Aided Drafting Paint Matching • Roofing Free Estimates • Free Delivery

Monday-Friday, 6:15 am-6 pm Saturday, 8 am-1 pm (Jan-Mar/Oct-Dec)

An affordable transportation service for all Meeker residents

James D. Haugo, DDS Michael A. Solbrack, DDS 715 Sibley Ave. N. Litchfield 320-693-2228

65179

124 East Commercial, Litchfield www.litchfieldbuildingcenter.com

92635

320-693-3616

Monuments • Top P ic s Paid fo Salvag V hicl s & All Typ s of B ass, Aluminum, Copp , Stainl ss.

• Free roll-off S vic Availabl .

• S lling Us d Auto Pa ts, Ti s, Batt i s.

• 80’ T uck Scal .

61418 US Hwy 12, Litchfield, MN

320-693-0055 888-767-7911 Hours: M-F 8am-5pm; Sat 8am-Noon

www.rrautosalvage.com

Fountains

Rocks

320-693-5902 East Hwy 12, Darwin, MN darwinmonument.com

26

LEARNING RESOURCES

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

The Litchfield Public Library, at 216 N. Marshall Ave., is one block off Sibley Avenue North. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For information, call the library at 320-693-2483 or go online to litchlibrary.blogspot.com.

Something for everyone Litchfield Public Library services have expanded to include e-magazines from ‘Zinio’ available through the online library catalog

T

he Litchfield Public Library is a busy hub of the community. Located at 216 North Marshall Avenue, the library has been a Litchfield institution since 1875.

Litchfield Library is home to 44,000 books, 1,200 audios and 2,300 videos. Nine staff members serve more than 9,700 registered borrowers. In 2012, library users checked out over 84,000 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 31 libraries in the regional library system. Any borrower can order and check out books and other items from any other library in the system and even from libraries throughout the state.

Deliveries of requested materials arrive three times per week.

Pioneerland offers e-books and downloadable audiobooks for loan through its Overdrive service at pioneerland.lib.overdrive.com. The library has a collection of over 2,100 downloadable books

available to Pioneerland cardholders, with new titles added all the time. E-magazines are a new offering, available from Zinio through the library catalog, iii.pioneerland.lib.mn.us.

The library offers 17 public computers and three catalog computers, Wi-Fi internet access, a copier/ printer, a scanner, a computer-based microfilm reader and local newspaper microfilm, a Nintendo Wii, a large public meeting room and two study rooms.

The library holds regularly-scheduled programs for people of all ages. In 2012, more than 4,700 people attended programs at the library.

Children’s librarian Jan Pease leads a story time for toddlers on Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m., a bedtime story time on Thursdays at 7 p.m., and a preschool storyhour on Fridays at 10 a.m. New this year is a Saturday storyhour, held at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month.

The Meeker County Extension Service leads a free 4-H at the Library program after school on the second Tuesday of the month for grades K-5.

Five book clubs meet monthly at the library.

Beginners’ book club for ages 6 to 8 meets at 3 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Get Caught Reading Book Club for ages 9 to 12 meets on the third Thursday of the month at 3 p.m. Teen book

LEARNING RESOURCES 27

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE club, for grades 6-12, meets at 3 p.m. on the third Monday of the month. Adult book club meets at noon on the second Tuesday of the month. Mystery book club for adults meets on the third Wednesday evening of the month at 7 p.m.

Rounding out the regularly-scheduled activities are two special interest groups. Knitting club meets from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of the month. Gaming night, open to ages 10 and up, meets every Monday evening from 6 to 8 p.m., typically meeting for role-playing games.

A used book sale benefitting the Friends of the Litchfield Public Library is held on the third Saturday of every month, except in July when it is held on Saturday during Watercade. The Friends group is always seeking new members; interested people can talk to Beth Cronk, head librarian, for more information.

Information about the library and links to its catalog, Facebook page, Twitter account, and online resources can be found on the website, litchlibrary.blogspot.com.

Proud members of the Litchfield Chamber of Commerce

Now, exclusively @ Holt Motors...

LIFETIME

POWERTRAIN

WARRANTY THERE IS NO COST TO YOU! HOW DOES IT WORK? One More Reason To Buy From Holt Motors.

• No Deductible • 100% Parts & Labor • Lasts as long as you own your vehicle...

Ask your Yes, FOR LIFE! Deale

r if they o a free Life ffer time Warranty.

Clockwise from left: Mark Nicholson — CPA; Partner Kathy Koepp — EA, ABA; Manager Lindsay Kranz— Senior Tax Accountant Teresa Carlson — Manager

194 S Litchfield Ave Litchfield MN 55355 320-693-7918 christiansoncpa.com

Search Our Inventory For A Large Selection of New & Used Vehicles www.holtmotors.com Commercial Trucks & Trailers • Grain - Side Dump - Belly Dump • • Jet - SiDUMP’R - RWAY - Dakota •

Body Shop Quick Lane Service • Free Service Loaners

YOUR FULL SERVICE DEALER NO COST Car Wash with each Oil Change.

NO COST 99 Point Inspection with each Oil Change.

Tuesdays: Veterans receive 10% off all parts & services (excludes tires) Wednesdays: Senior Citizens receive 10% off all parts & services (excludes tires) Thursdays: Students & Faculty receive 10% off all parts & services (excludes tires)

Knowledge. Experience. Vision.

(320) 286-2176 • Hwy 12, Cokato

94208

CAR & TRUCK SALES

1-800-622-5429

28

FAITH

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Finding a place to worship People of faith can find denominational and non-denominational places of worship in Litchfield and the surrounding area A/G-LIGHTHOUSE

28164 Hwy. 22 N., Litchfield Pastor Chris Castilleja 320-593-2202

ALL SAINTS LUTHERAN 118 First St. N., Darwin Pastor Joe Midthun 320-693-5778

APOSTOLIC LUTHERAN Kingston Pastor Orval Wirkkala 320-398-2130

BECKVILLE LUTHERAN 20521 600th Ave., Litchfield Pastor Maggie Cumings 320-693-2519

BELIEVER’S FELLOWSHIP MENNONITE CHURCH 34419 520th Ave., Grove City Pastor Melvin Beiler 320-857-2800

CATHOLIC CHURCH OF OUR LADY

57382 CSAH 3, Manannah Monsignor Francis J. Garvey 320-693-8900

CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST. GERTRUDE

31608 650th Ave., Forest City Father Joseph Steinbeisser Father Brian Mandel, Associate Pastor 320-693-7801

CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST. JOHN

106 Fourth St. N., Darwin Father Joseph Steinbeisser Father Brian Mandel, Associate Pastor 320-693-6878

Trinity Episcopal Church, founded in 1871, is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is on the corner of North Sibley Avenue and East Fourth Street in Litchfield.

CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST. PHILIP

821 Fifth St. E., Litchfield Father Joseph Steinbeisser Father Brian Mandel, Associate Pastor 320-693-3313

CHRISTIAN CHURCH (Non-denominational) 312 Marshall Ave. N., Litchfield Pastor Mike Zylstra 320-593-3635

CHURCH OF GOD OF ABRAHAMIC FAITH 501 Ramsey Ave. S., Litchfield Pastor Dale Swartz 320-693-6391

CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 770 School Road, Hutchinson 320-587-5665

CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE

422 Ramsey Ave. N., Litchfield Pastor Jason Young Worship Pastor Rebecca Young Hispanic Pastor Alex Martinez 320-693-8108

CORNERSTONE CHURCH 205 CSAH 34, Litchfield Pastors Paul Jorgenson and Jeff Garland 320-593-7971

CORNERSTONE CHURCH Kingston Community Center 30840 722nd Ave., Kingston

EVANGELICAL COVENANT

301 Lake St., Dassel Pastor Keith Carlson 320-275-3315

FIRST BAPTIST

Grove City Pastor Peter Lee 320-857-2495

FIRST LUTHERAN

703 Sibley Ave. S., Litchfield Senior Paster Paul Lutter 320-693-2487

FAITH

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

54986 145th St., Cosmos Pastor Maggie Cumings 320-877-7663

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN

225 Holcombe Ave. N., Litchfield Pastor Gordon Pennertz 320-693-3548

GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN

221 Atlantic Ave. E., Dassel Pastors Steven Olson 320-275-3852

HARVEST COMMUNITY (Evangelical Free Church) 303 S. Gorman Ave., Suite 400, Litchfield Pastor Mike Sechler 320-221-1817

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN

175 11th St. W., Litchfield 320-693-6155

KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES U.S. Highway 12 W., Litchfield 320-693-2998

LAKE UNION EVANGELICAL COVENANT

74246 CSAH 19, South Haven Pastor Eric Marx 320-398-2992

OSTMARK LUTHERAN

(ELCA) 32721 680th Ave., Watkins Pastor Joe E. Midthun 320-693-8450

PEACE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 309 Church St. N., Eden Valley Pastor Jeanne Bringgold-Pro 320-693-3848

ST. PAUL’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN

227 Ramsey Ave. S., Litchfield Pastors Paul Lindhorst and Tim Redfield 320-593-6324

ST. PETER’S EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN

Trees For All Seasons!

20314 CSAH 9, Darwin Pastor Tim Redfield 320-275-2965

ST. MATTHEW’S UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 31415 CSAH 2, Forest City Pastor Jeanne Bringgold-Pro 320-693-3848

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST

313 Miller Ave. N., Litchfield Pastor Devin Locati 320-693-6910

www.turckstrees.com

Steve & Joan Turck • 67304 MN Hwy. 24, Litchfield • 320-693-3944

Spring Balled & Burlapped Shade and Evergreen Trees

Colorful Fall Shade Trees in the Field

Container Grown, Balled and Burlapped or Spaded Trees Summer Evergreens in the Field

Winter Evergreens in the Field of Snow

94360

FIRST EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN

29

Your Complete Christmas Stop with GREAT SERVICE!

STANDING WORD CHRISTIAN CENTER

Pastor Roosevelt C. Williams 320-693-1414

TRINITY EPISCOPAL

CutYour Own or PrecutTrees

3 E. Fourth St., Litchfield 320-693-6035

Balsam, Canaan & Fraser Fir, Colorado Blue Spruce, Scotch & White Pine

TRINITY LUTHERAN

Opening Friday afterThanksgiving • Visit our Live Reindeer!

54384 U.S. Highway 12, Grove City Pastor Jean Ohman 320-857-2001

UNITED METHODIST 1000 Sibley Ave. S., Litchfield Pastor Bill Kerr 320-693-3409

VICTORY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP 206 Second St. S., Grove City Pastor Danny Puckett 320-857-2680

ZION LUTHERAN

504 Gilman Ave. N., Litchfield Pastor Christian Muellerleile 320-693-3207

July 10-13, 2014

30

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Funded by: MN Dept. of Human Services - Alcohol and Drug Abuse Divi Source 2013 PCN survey (N=641 7th-12th grade LitchďŹ eld Students)

ision

31

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

parents should communicate with their children about the importance of not using alcohol LitchďŹ eld Area Rural Partners In Prevention

30

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

31

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

parents should communicate with their children about the importance of not using alcohol Funded by: MN Dept. of Human Services - Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division Source 2013 PCN survey (N=641 7th-12th grade Litchfield Students)

Litchfield Area Rural Partners In Prevention

32

HEALTH CARE

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

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

Committed to quality care Meeker Memorial Hospital embraces its motto, ‘Care as it should be’

M

eeker Memorial Hospital is a critical access facility offering emergency, inpatient, out-patient and senior behavioral health services. In a recent survey focusing on quality of care, 77 percent of patients gave MMH the highest, or near highest, rating — placing the hospital first in the region.

Minnesota HealthScores compared more than 100 hospitals according to their performances on four measures of patient satisfaction: rating the providers, nurse-patient communication, doctorpatient communication and receiving help when wanted.

According to the survey, 77 percent of respondents gave MMH a 9 or 10 on a 0-to-10 scale, placing the hospital six percentage points above the state average for patient rating. The results reflect an emphasis on patient experience, according to MMH Chief Executive Officer Kyle Rasmussen.

MMH also recently received a Women’s Choice Award for offering high quality patient care in obstetrics. The hospital was named one of the 2013 Best Hospitals for Patient Experience in Obstetrics

by WomenCertified, an organization that awards businesses based on female consumer experience.

The hospital completed a $26.5 million

Meeker Memorial Hospital 612 S. Sibley Ave. • 320-693-3242 www.meekermemorial.org M e eker M emor ial Hospital (MMH) is a 35bed, county-owned hospital. It is accountable to the Meeker County Board of Commissioners. MMH is governed by an eight-member Hospital Board that includes two county commissioners, the chief of the medical staff and five community representatives from its service area. Kyle Rasmussen is the chief executive officer.

expansion project in 2009 and several remodeling projects since to update the facility. Not only did MMH update and expand its facility, it also expanded the number of specialized services offered. The expansion of the hospital campus added several bonuses such as new an in-house MRI, a third surgical suite, a cafe, a new gift shop, a new chapel and conference center.

The inpatient services include new private patient rooms and OB suites. These new private

Continued on 34

33

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Trinity Episcopal Church (on the north side of Central Park)

3 4th St. E., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-6035

Rev. Joseph Steinbeisser Parish office: (320) 693-3313 306 Holcombe Ave. N., Litchfield FAX: 1-888-404-1952 Website: www.thechurchofstphilip.org E-mail: stphilip@hutchtel.net Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 am-4 pm Saturday evenings – 5:30 p.m.

Sunday mornings – 7:45 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Misa en Español – 12:00 p.m.

Holy Days – Variable Weekdays – Variable Weekly Bulletin Available Online

First Evangelical Lutheran Church “A Place To Come Home To”

Zion Lutheran Church

92582

46996

Sunday Eucharist at 10:30 a.m. (coffee hour follows) Bible Study - Wednesdays at 11 a.m.

Hospitality and Free Lunch every month on the last Friday, 11 am-1 pm

821 E. 5th St., Litchfield

504 Gilman Ave. N., Litchfield ~ Ph. 320/693-3207 Fax: 320/693-3208 ~ E-mail: zion@zionchurch.net www.zionchurch.net A congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Pastors: Rev. Troy Pflibsen & Rev. Christian Muellerleile Director of Faith Formation: Minister Mindy Czycalla Youth Director: Breanne Royer Visitation Pastor: Rev. J. David Nelson

Senior Pastor Paul Lutter Interim Associate Pastor Bruce Falksen 703 Sibley Avenue South Litchfield, MN 55355-3341 (320) 693-2487

Worship Times: Sunday: 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship

Summer Worship: Wednesday: 6:30 p.m. Worship Sunday - 9:00 a.m. Worship

Kids of the Kingdom Day Care Center Georgia Borchardt, Director Ph.320/693-7806

Worship Services Sun.- 8:30 a.m. Classic Sun.- 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Wed.- 6:30 p.m. Evening Worship

Education Hour: (For All Ages!) 9:45 a.m.

Choirs For All Ages

Sharing and Growing in God’s Love Like us on Facebook, Zion Lutheran Church ELCA

34 HEALTH CARE

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Continued from 32 rooms allow staff members to provide patients with more individualized and personalized care. The emergency, radiology, and surgery departments are now located in the same vicinity, making it easier for staff members to care for patients and respond to emergencies with greater ease and expedience. In 2012, tele-health services were added in the emergency department giving area residents 24-hour access to metro area stroke care experts. In the past year, the hospital also began offering baseline concussion tests to anyone in the community free of charge.

MMH’s partnership with Suburban Radiological Consultants has allowed the hospital to offer a wider variety of specialized, convenient, on-site diagnostic imaging services giving access to diagnostic specialists and the convenience of on-site procedures. MMH’s specialty clinics offer specialized services including cancer care, overnight evaluations in the new sleep suites and wound, ostomy & continence nursing services offering specialized treatments for wound healing. Specialty clinic physicians and providers specialize in allergy, colonoscopy/endoscopy, counseling, nuclear medicine, stress testing, OB/GYN, oncology, orthopedics, ophthalmology, pathology, podiatry and urology. The specialty clinics provide access to surgery and procedures so area residents do not have to travel far to get specialized care.

At MMH, patients have the opportunity to actively follow their health. Direct access diagnostic lab testing gives patients the

freedom to screen their own health at their own convenience. Meeker Memorial Hospital also places great emphasis on the wellness of their employees, volunteers, and the community.

MMH offers regular community programming and classes, supporting healthier communities to emphasize exercise and healthy living practices. Those interested can register for these classes online on the MMH website.

Meeker Memorial Clinic in Dassel is another example of MMH’s commitment to enhancing patient care. The clinic is open five days a week and offers various services, which include X-rays, an on-site lab, and the ability to perform minor procedures. The clinic also offers physical therapy services all day on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Award Winning BBQ Ribs For Times and Schedule Check Out www.grovecreek.com or Call 320-857-2152

NO SPEED LIMIT!!

Championship Drag Racing

Lunch M-F, Evenings 5-9 Catering Available

320-693-6425 405 Pleasure Dr. W., Litchfield • www.petersribs.com

9265

6 Miles West of Litchfield on Hwy 12

35

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Anderson Insurancece Agency Anderson Insuranc

• Contemporary Worship • Children’s Church (11:00) • Spanish Service (11:00) • Nursery

409 E. Hwy 12, Litchfield • 320-693-2834

• Small Groups • Wednesday Night Programs • Youth Programs • Men’s Small Group • Women’s Ministry

Products

Services

•Ceramic Tile •Carpet •Vinyl •Laminate •Hardwood •Cork •Luxury Vinyl Tile •Floor Cleaner •Schluter Products

205 CSAH 34 • Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-7971 www.cornerstonechurchmn.org

•Installation •Estimates •Design & Layout of Floors

25 W. 2nd St. - Litchfield 320-593-1648 Monday - Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon

w ww.litchfieldflooring.com

Senior Housing

Independent Living & Housing with Services • Gloria Dei • Emmaus Place • Bethany Assisted Living • Memory Care

Care Center

Long Term Care & Rehabilitation Services • Emmanuel

Transportation

• Meeker Public Transit • Meeker Council on Aging Volunteer Drivers

Community Services

• Adult Day Services • Care Coordination • Home Care • Hospice Care • Foot Care Clinics • Lifeline® • Meals on Wheels • RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) • Support Groups

Our Mission: We create home for older adults, wherever they choose to live.

Fore more information: Call 320-693-2472 _________________________________ Visit our website: www.ecumenoflitchfield.org

92578

Sunday Services 8:00, 9:30, 11:00

92668

For All Your Insurance Needs

Auto • Home • Health • Life • Business

36 BUSINESS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Diverse economy beneficial

T

here is every reason to believe that Litchfield will continue to be a vibrant economic center in the 21st century.

Unlike many rural towns, Litchfield enjoys a diverse economy. Businesses here specialize in many fields, ranging from food manufactures to financial services.

Litchfield also benefits from proximity to the metro area and features great recreation options, health care facilities, first-rate education systems and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Add to the mix the solid work ethic of the local people, and you have a perfect setting for businesses to succeed.

Local business expertise is abundant in Litchfield and includes:  Home-town service and high-tech products;  Financial advice and resources augmented with local market intelligence;  Modern crop and animal production in both small and large scale operations;  Advanced practices in energy, manufacturing and chemical applications;  Capable and reputable healthcare and wellness practitioners.

U.S. Highway 12 not only provides transportation for locally made products — it connects a commercial district that extends from Walmart on the east end of town to Stockmen’s Greenhouse & Landscaping on the west. In the historic downtown district, shoppers can browse through antique shops, restaurants, a locally-owned hardware store, and unique gift items and jewelry designed by local artists.

The economic contribution of local businesses

Litchfield’s downtown provides many shopping and dining options.

Business group contacts Litchfield Chamber of Commerce  219 N. Sibley Ave. • 320-693-8184 • email: Dee@ Litch.com • www.litch.com • Executive Director Dee Schutte Meeker County Economic Development Authority and Meeker County Development Corp.  325 N. Sibley Ave. • 320-693-5272 • www. meekercodevcorp.com • Executive Director Suzanne Hedtke

is matched by a value of community service and generosity. Local schools, civic organizations and community events and celebrations rely on the financial donations made by businesses. Local businesses also demonstrate their commitment to the community through volunteerism. You will find local business owners, executives and their employees personally involved in many nonprofit and community boards and projects.

Fine dining with a Sports Bar Attitude!

REPUBLICAN PARTY MEEKER COUNTY

www.vfwpost2818.com

320-593-9064 • E. Hwy. 12, Litchfield Mon.-Sat. 11:00am-1:00am Sun. 10:00am-9:00pm

Daily Food & Drink Specials • Full Soup & Salad Bar Prepared and paid for by Meeker County Republicans P.O. Box 198, Litchfield, MN 55355

79080

For more information, go to www.gop.com

Like us on Facebook Heroes at the VFW Post 2818

Brunch Buffet every Sunday 10am-1pm

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

37

e t e l p m e o v C i t o m o A ut rv ice Se The crew at Doug’s Auto Repair/Decker Auto Sales can take care of ALL your auto servicing!

Doug's Auto Repair/Decker Auto Sales

526 N. Ramsey Avenue., Litchfield • (320). 693-8821

71684

~ Bearings ~ Oil Changes ~ Tune-Ups ~ Air Conditioning ~ And More!

38 BUSINESS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Farmers Market launches promotional campaign F or anyone interested in buying local, the Litchfield Farmers Market is the place to be.

The market kicks off As a way to promote in May and continues the Litchfield Farmers through October, with Market, vendors vendors setting up their gave their customers tables and tents every notepads featuring Thursday at Central the market’s logo and Park. space to list groceries.

In June 2013, a group of vendors formed a task force to study ways to improve the market’s popularity and create better access to healthy foods. The task force, using a $4,500 grant from the Statewide Health Improvement Program, or SHIP, launched a promotional campaign to spread the word about the benefits of buying fresh, locallygrown foods.

The task force bought new signage, notepads and businesses cards, in addition to utilizing traditional forms of print and radio advertising. The group even created a Facebook page to reach out to customers via social media.

The market also featured different themes, such as a “Harvest Madness” Thursday in October.

At the event, customers could enter drawings for prizes, including a basket of locally-grown produce and a gift certificate to the Natural Food Co-op in downtown Litchfield.

One of the task force’s goals is to entice more people to come to the market in the afternoon, from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., and vendors say their promotional efforts are paying off. “I’ve been seeing a lot of new faces. I’m really excited. I think it can only go up from here,” said one vendor, Chloe O’Gara.

Pam Bagley, Meeker County’s SHIP coordinator, said she expects the farmers market to continue to grow in popularity. “There really is a demand from people to eat more local, more healthy foods,” Bagley said.

Sue Lee is one of several vendors that sells produce at the Litchfield Farmers Market.

Vendor Tim Desens holds a cucumber shaped as the letter “J” during one of the markets in August.

Desens sells several types of veggies at the market, though this particular cucumber was not for sale.

BUSINESS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

39

Kids gather at Ashlyn Cox’s table at the Litchfield Farmers Market during a Thursday afternoon in August 2013.

Cox shows them one of several finger puppets available for sale. Cox and her mother, Dana, sell mainly alpaca products, including socks and mittens.

For The Best In Sight... ...Trust The Experts!

Dr. Fischer is a Corneal Fellowship trained Ophthalmologist with 15 years and 50,000 surgeries worth of expertise in:

Mike Nagel O.D.

• Refractive Cataract and Lasik • Corneal Transplant • Glaucoma Surgery

• • • •

Our team of highly trained and experienced medical staff provide the latest technology, quality care and dedication to our patients.

Jeffrey L. Fischer, M.D.

The team of doctors at Family Eye Center are your regional eye care specialists and provide services for the entire family.

www.FischerLaser.com

WILLMAR 235-2020

Comprehensive Eye Examinations Pediatric Eye Care Contact Lens Examinations Area’s Largest Eyewear Selection

F A M I LY E Y E

Jennifer Fairbanks, O.D.

C E N T E R

FISCHER LASER EYE CENTER , LLC

320-593-2020 Call our office to schedule an appointment.

LITCHFIELD 593-2020

NEW LONDON 354-2020

OLIVIA 523-2020

PAYNESVILLE 243-2020

40

HISTORY

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Preserving Litchfield’s historic district W alk the sidewalks of Litchfield’s downtown and the city’s history looms large. Many of the historic buildings that frame the city’s main street were built as early as the 1800s.

More than 100 years later, the city’s downtown was designated a Historic Commercial District by the National Park Service and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. In 2011, Litchfield

Litchfield’s Commercial Historic District The Litchfield Commercial Historic District, as defined by the National Register of Historic Places, encompasses most of the central business district.

The district has 48 properties, including 36 “contributing” buildings.

Most of the buildings in the district are twostory, brick commercial buildings constructed between 1882 and 1940. At least 15 were built of cream-colored brick manufactured in Litchfield. About 24 of the 46 buildings were built before 1900. About 14 of the buildings were built between 1900 and 1930. Four were built between 1930 and 1945, and four are post-World War II construction. The latter four are noncontributing because they postdate the period of significance.

was designated as a Preserve America Community.

“The district is significant as a uniform collection of late 19th and 20th century commercial buildings...,” according to the National Register of Historic Places.

“The buildings are strongly associated with Litchfield’s historic role as an agricultural trade center on the St. Paul and Pacific (later known as the Great Northern) railroad line.”

41

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

CDS Breaks Ground on New Office Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing, PLLP is excited to break ground on a new office building on Sibley Avenue N. in Litchfield. The Certified Public Accounting firm was founded in 1985 by Richard Conway, Roger Deuth and Milan Schmiesing, each sharing a common goal of helping their clients reach their maximum potential. The firm has grown based on the highest standards and ethics of the accounting profession. Today, CDS remains committed to these same principles.

Paul Harvego CPA, Partner

Jim Rudnick CPA, Partner

Tentative Completion Date:

December 2013

Dave Corneil CPA, Partner

820 Sibley Ave N., Litchfield Phone: (320) 693-7975 Toll-free: (888) 388-1040 Litchfield | Willmar | Benson Morris | St. Cloud www.cdscpa.com

Tax Planning & Preparation | Accounting | Auditing | Payroll | Business Consulting

Recycling & HHW Options

Keep Meeker County Beautiful

Meeker County Transfer Station 635655 293rd St., Litchfield 320-693-2576 HOURS: Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm Saturday, 8am-12noon • Recyclables (no charge) • Electronics & Appliances (fees apply) • Tires and Garbage (fees apply) • Demolition Landfill adjacent

Oil Drop Station Cenex Parking Lot, Litchfield • This location is available 24/7/365 • Dispose of your waste oil/anti-freeze at no charge • Small fee for disposal of used oil filters Dassel & Collinwood Townships • Recyclables drop site behind Schmidty’s on Hwy. 12 Kingston Township • Recyclables drop site on Co. Rd. 27 by highway shed

Meeker residents may bring household hazardous waste to the Kandiyohi County Collection Center at no cost. Contact them at 320-231-3587

City residents, contact your city offices to inquire about recycling opportunities.

Questions? Contact the Meeker County Solid Waste Office at 320-693-5200 or go to www.co.meeker.mn.us & click on “Solid Waste”

42 HISTORY

Members of the Frank Daggett Post and Drum Corps stand at attention in front of the G.A.R. Hall on Memorial Day, May 31, 1886, one year after it was built.

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

The Grand Army of the Republic Hall has been preserved as nearly as possible to its original condition. The Meeker County Historical Society is housed in the back.

G.A.R. Hall honors history Litchfield’s Grand Army of the Republic Hall is the only one in Minnesota

T

he Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) Hall, 308 Marshall Ave. N., is one of Litchfield’s most well-known historical and visitor sites.

The Grand Army of the Republic was organized in 1866 in Illinois. Membership was limited to Union veterans of the Civil War, and its purpose was to maintain fellowship for the veterans, honor the dead and help orphans, widows and handicapped veterans of the war. Its motto was “Fraternity, Loyalty, and Charity.”

By the 1880s, there were more than 400,000 members, and the Litchfield post had more than 300 members. It was eventually disbanded in 1949, but the Ladies of the G.A.R. still meet today.

The Litchfield post was named after Frank Daggett, a local newspaper publisher who was actively associated with abolitionist John Brown. He commanded two African-American heavy artillery regiments and was active in establishing the G.A.R. in Minnesota. Daggett also was one of the first grand

commanders of the Minnesota G.A.R. He died in 1876 when he was 39.

Post 35 is the only authentic G.A.R. Hall remaining in Minnesota. It was designed by a post member to look like a military fort. It was built in 1885 for about $5,000. The building is on the National Register of Historical Places and has been preserved as nearly as possible to its original condition. It was deeded to the city of Litchfield on the condition that it be kept as a memorial to Civil War veterans and be open to the public.

The Meeker County Historical Society museum is housed in a two-story addition at the back of the G.A.R. Hall, built in 1960. The museum includes artifacts from pioneer days. Historical reference books and archives for the Litchfield Independent Review are stored there.

Museum hours are noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. For more information, call 320-693-8911.

43

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Get started now with

$0 ENROLLMENT - or - SWITCH from your current club & SAVE!

GET 1 MONTH FREE PROOF OF CURRENT CLUB MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED. NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS. HURRY, VALID FOR FIRST 50 NEW MEMBERS.

320-593-0809 637 E. Hwy. 12, Ste. #2, Litchfield Open: Sun.-Thurs. 11am -10pm; Fri. & Sat. 11am - 11pm (we close 1 hour earlier each day during Fall & Winter)

Menu Items Include: Pizzas, Calzones, Pastas, Appetizers, Salads, Desserts & More!

Dine In, Delivery, Take Out CALL NOW

94239

320-593-1429 27 East Depot St, Hwy 12 Litchfield, MN 55355

litchfield@snapfitness.com www.snapfitness.com/litchfield

44

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Truck Lettering • Signage of all Types • Screen Printing • Team Apparel & Uniforms • Embroidery • Sandblasting

THE OUTLET

Where Saving Money Is Important 24132 S. MN Hwy. 22, Litchfield MN

809 East Highway 12, Litchfield Jeff Woods Steve Fenton

320-693-2796

320-693-3024

peterssigns.com agraphix@hutchtel.net

3gsoutlet.com

Haugo Veterinary Clinic

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

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

• J & m grain Carts • lorenz equiPment • Brillion equiPment • h & s equiPment

• rem grain VaCs • gsi dryers • harVesteC Corn heads • rite Way equiPment

1101 Sibley Ave. S. Litchfield 71941

.

Scandinavian Specialties Bridal Registry Glassware Books For All Ages Ethnic Foods Unique Custom Jewelry Cards & Napkins Ceramic Kitchenware Linens & Household Decorative Items Religious Gifts

320-693-6961

Lehr Agency, Inc. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3271

45

65169

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

46

HISTORY

518 Armstrong Ave. N.

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

413 Armstrong Ave. N.

307 Holcombe Ave. N.

Litchfield’s historic homes Take a walking or driving tour to see the many historic homes in Litchfield that reflect various architectural styles

W

alk down a Litchfield street and you’re likely to find countless monuments to the city’s early history.

Following is a list featuring some of the town’s most impressive historic homes. Most of the homes 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. The homes we will see on this tour are from the 1869-1920 Victorian Era. This was a time of great change and growth on the Northern Plains.

North Side 518 Armstrong Ave. N. This home was built in the late 1800s by August 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.

506 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.

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.

405 Armstrong Ave. N. 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.

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.

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 many people in Litchfield remember taking

HISTORY

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

421 Marshall Ave. N.

705 Miller Ave. N.

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 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 for 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 contributions to Litchfield, including a term as mayor.

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 be-

tween 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 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 beauti ful bed and break fast 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.

705 N. Miller Ave. 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.

47

215 Sibley Ave. S.

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.

700 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.

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 a well-known, successful brewer who operated a large brewery on the north shore of our Lake Ripley. Not to be outdone, his brother founded St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Litchfield.

310 Sibley Ave. S. 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 a beautiful fireplace. It is artistic from floor to ceiling with several different types of woodwork South Side combined with copper inlay for 215 Sibley Ave. S. a spectacular mantle. The house “Guide to the Architecture of has five original ornate windows, Minnesota” (1977) describes this and a maplewood mosaic on the home as an “Eastlake style frame entryway floor. clapboard house with extensive turned work on the Queen Anne Continued on 48

48

HISTORY

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

316 Sibley Ave. S. Currently Johnson-Hagglund Funeral Home, this home was built

by B.P. Nelson in 1903 as a family residence. There was a tennis 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 1940s.

and their daughter, Harriet. Fol-

724 Sibley Ave. S. 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 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.

porch, and an upstairs enclosed

805 Sibley Ave. S. 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. 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.

910 Sibley Ave. S. This Victorian home was built

lowing 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 back porch. The interior has been restored to much of its Victorian glory.

326 Donnelly Ave. S. This house has been the home 326 Donnelly Ave. S.

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

403 Armstrong Ave. S.

of Salem,” “The Letter,” “The Cat and The Canary,” “Anna and

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

403 Armstrong Ave. S. This house was built in 1889 by C.W. Wagner, then owner of the Litchfield newspaper and the man for whom Wagner Elementary School is named. He lived here with his wife, Emma Chandler Wagner,

The King of Siam,” and “Anthony Adverse,” for which she won the Academy Award for Best Sup porting 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.

49

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Welcome to Meeker County!

WINDOW TREATMENTS CARPETING & AREA RUGS LAMINATE FLOORING CERAMIC TILE HARDWOOD FLOORS VINYL FLOORING

Proud to be serving Litchfield and the surrounding communities

TOM’S CARPET KINGDOM 94363

Eden Valley, MN — (320) 453-3673 Open Monday-Thursday — 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Friday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Protect Your Investment!

• Rain Gutters - Our Specialty!

• Year-Round Mobile Fabrication • Residential 5 Inch Gutter • Commercial 6 Inch Gutter • Many Colors • Gutter Guards / Leafproof® • Serving So. Minnesota Since 1976 Call For A FREE Estimate

320-593-1565

866-834-6400

Litchfield

Toll Free

Jeff Norlin Meeker County Sheriff 71814

From the Headlights to the Tailpipe,

No Job is TOO LARGE . . . or too small!

Exhaust, Radiator Repair, Auto Electrical Repair, Brakes, Tune-ups, Major Engine Repairs Fred LaLonde

Mutt & Jeff’s Auto Repair 311 S. Chandler Ave., Litchfield • 320-693-2867 71792

725 East Highway 12, Litchfield • 320-693-7299

• Full Line of Interstate Batteries • Dupont Paint Automotive, Fleet & Industrial • Turn Drums and Rotors • Grind Fylwheels • Make Hydraulic Hoses • Make & Repair A/C Hoses • Air Hose Repair • American Welding Tank Exchange

693-9314

www.medicineshoppe.com

329 E Hwy 12 • Litchfield

94235

1-800 0-524-7285 92528

PROFESSIONAL PARTS PEOPLE

Fast Service & Free Delivery Free Health Care Screenings Generic Drug Savings Low Competitive Prices

50 SPORTS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Mixing fun with competition

L

itchfield has an amateur baseball team, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, horseshoes and an ice arena.

Litchfield Blues The Litchfield Blues provide the community with top-caliber amateur baseball every spring and summer. The Blues qualified for the Class C state tournament from 1998 through 2002.

The Blues play their home games at Optimist Park, which is one block east of the Litchfield Civic Arena on the northern edge of town. The ballpark has a grandstand and concession stand, with a restroom

Continued on 52

Dairy farm families have a long-term commitment to the care of the environment and our communities. We live on or near the land that we farm and understand the importance of protecting natural resources. Caring for the land, air and water is a responsibility dairy farmers share with the local community.

The average Dairy Cow is a Superstar!

She’ll produce 6.3 gallons of milk each day and more than 2,300 gallons each year!

About 65,000 family-owned dairy farms provide wholesome milk, cheese, yogurt and other dairy products to consumers in the US. and abroad.

Litchfield’s numerous tennis courts are put to use during the annual Watercade celebration in July.

REMEMBER

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

SPORTS

51

The Litchfield Blues play 15 to 20 amateur baseball games from late April through early August at Optimist Park.

2301 E. Frontage Rd., Litchfield

320-693-1022

Full line of auto repair ••All accessories needed to trick your ride••

•Also available at great rates: oReflex Bedliners oGard-It Bedliners oRock Guard (trucks, trailers) oTruxedo and Access tonneau covers

Al's Auto Repair & Accessories 35 3rd St. W., Litchfield — 593•0303

92561

Proud to be part of the Litchfield community since 2007

See Us For Complete Auto Care

52

SPORTS

facility on the site. The schedule begins in mid-April and concludes with league and region playoffs in August. Most games are played Wednesday evenings and Sunday afternoons. For a complete schedule of games go to www.litchfieldblues. com.

Litchfield Golf Club The Litchfield Golf Club is a cityowned 18-hole public championship course on West Pleasure Drive, along the northern edge of Lake Ripley.

The course plays just over 6,300 yards from the blue tees and 6,000 yards from the white tees. The course is host to several tournaments during the season. The women’s invitational is usually in early July, while the men’s invitational is in late July. Throughout the golf season, there is couples golf each Friday evening, with a different format each week.

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE The golf club has a fully stocked pro shop. After the round, Peter’s on Lake Ripley is open six days a week and has a full-service bar and restaurant. For more information about the golf club, call 320-693-6059 or go to www.litchfieldgolfclub.com.

Other recreational opportunities Litchfield has several recreational venues. The city offers four softball fields, a horseshoe pit, two paddle tennis courts, 14 public tennis courts and an indoor ice arena for hockey and ice skating. For bowlers, the Litchfield Bowling Center is on Minnesota Highway 22.

Litchfield Golf Club is the site of several events from April through October, including the men’s and women’s invitationals in July.

Meeker Council on Aging •Volunteer Drivers •Chore Corps •Information and Referral •Advocacy for Seniors

NLOECATW ION

218 North Holcombe Ave. - Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2718

Small Town Friendly Services

320-693-8563 627 N. Sibley Ave, Litchfield, MN Regular Store Hours: Monday - Sunday 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Lead With Experience

Volunteer Ecumen RSVP

218 North Holcombe Ave. - Litchfield, MN 55355 1-800-669-6714

79048

Monthly Specials • Quantity Discounts Requests for NEW Products Welcome!

RSVP

53

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE A great place for:

and Bed & Breakfast

Tim Cook

320-493-9349

A Beautiful Early 1920’s Tudor Style Home

www.premierhomesearch.com

134 Sibley Ave. N. Specializing in Commercial Real Estate: Sales, Leasing and Management

611 North Marshall Avenue, Litchfield, MN 320-593-8170 • www.themarshallestate.com Mary Jo Smith, Proprietress

581 Linden Ave. E Kimball, MN 55353 Ph.: 320-398-3600 Fax: 320-398-3601

We take pride in offering Excellent Customer Service and High QualityVeterinary Care 24 hours a day!

14755 County Road 9 Eden Valley, MN 55329 valleyview@meltel.net

OFFICE: 320.453.3109 CELL: 320.980.3278 FAX: 320.453.3110

Complete Line of: • • • • • • • • • •

Custom Feeds Mineral Mixes Commodities Pet Food Horse Feed Wild Bird Feed & Supplies Milking Supplies Gates & Fencing Supplies General Farm Equipment Work Clothing

Home of Fieldgate Dairy Products: • • • • • •

30+ Varieties of Fieldgate Cheese Fieldgate Butter Fieldgate Pizza Fresh Cheese Curds Gift Boxes 20+ Varieties of Specialty Cheese

92538

FAF Ag Services 25 W. Depot Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7223

71710

415 School Ave. S Watkins, MN 55389 Ph.: 320-764-7400 Fax: 320-764-7401

Featuring hardwood floors, beautiful rugs, built-in china cabinets with leaded/beveled glass, charming fireplace, curved window with seating, indoor & outdoor porches, gardens, and carriage house

92577

“A Grand Setting For Your Unique Gathering”

• Holidays/Family Events • Showers, Weddings & Honeymooners • Groom’s Dinners & Gift Opening • Red Hat Society Groups • Murder Mystery Dinners • Or come for an overnight/ weekend retreat at the 4 bedroom Bed & Breakfast

54

PUBLIC OFFICIALS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Litchfield Public School Board The Litchfield School District is governed by a sixmember board. Three board members are elected to four-year terms every two years during the November general election. The board meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month in room 200

Dan Dollerschell

Stacey Helstrom

Dave Huhner

Meeker County Board Meeker County’s governing body consists of five commissioners, each 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.

at the Meeker County Family Service Center, 114 N. Holcombe Ave. The district’s central office is in the Family Service Center. The telephone number is 320-693-2444, and the website is www.litchfield.k12.mn.us.

Donna McGraw

Marcia Provencher

Marlin Schutte

State and federal representatives The city of Litchfield and Litchfield Township are within Minnesota Senate District 18 and House District 18A. State Sen. Scott Newman, R-Hutchinson, and state Rep. Dean Urdahl, R-Acton Township, serve the area.

Meeker County is part of the 7th Congressional District, which is served by U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson, D-Detroit Lakes.

State Sen. Scott Newman (R) District 18 State Capitol: 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Capitol Building, Room 301, St. Paul, MN 55155-1606 Phone: 651-296-4131 E-mail: sen.scott.newman@senate.mn Elected: 2010, re-elected in 2012.

Beth Oberg 1st District Litchfield

Dale Fenrich 2nd District Litchfield

Bryan Larson 3rd District Grove City

State Rep. Dean Urdahl (R) District 18A State Capitol: 571 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155 Phone: 651-296-4344 or 800-920-5861 E-mail: rep.dean.urdahl@house.mn Elected: 2002, re-elected in 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2012.

U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson (D)

Mike Housman 4th District Dassel

Mike Huberty 5th District Eden Valley

U.S. Capitol: 2211 Rayburn HOB, Washington, DC 20515 Phone: 202-225-2165 Website: collinpeterson.house.gov Elected: 1990-present; served in Minnesota Senate 1977-1986.

PUBLIC OFFICIALS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

55

Litchfield City Council The city of Litchfield is governed by six council members and a mayor. The city administrator is responsible for day-to-day operations of the city. The mayor and council members serve four-year terms. Staggered

elections take place every two years in November. Litchfield City Council meets at 5:30 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month at City Hall, 126 N. Marshall Ave. For information, call 320-693-7201.

Keith Johnson Mayor

Michael Boyle Ward 1

Connie Lies Ward 2

593-8678

227 N. Sibley, Litchfield Jewelry & Watch Repair Diamond Jewelry Bulova & Seiko Clocks Sterling by Elle & Hot Diamonds Citizen Watches Peggy Karr Glass Visa • Discover • Master Card

Doug Huhn P.L.S. ns_doug@qwestoffice.net

1-888-699-3710 320-693-3710 310 Depot St. E. Litchfield •Land Surveying •Topography Surveys •Subdivision Design

Dwight Lorensen Ward 3

Gary Walz Ward 5

Vern Loch Jr. Ward 4

SHOP Litchfield downtown

Ron Dingmann At-large

FIRST DISTRICT ASSOCIATION 101 South Swift, Litchfield • 320-693-3236

First District Association is proud to be an employer to area residents and a manufacturer of dairy products from Minnesota dairy farms.

56

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Litchfield dives into Watercade The weekend immediately following the Fourth of July is Litchfield’s biggest celebration each year.

That’s when the entire city dives into 4-year-olds Elise Carlson, left, Watercade, a and Morgan Johnson hold hands weekend of fun, food and during the annual Watercade kiddie parade. festivities.

Litchfield will celebrate its 58th annual Watercade on July 10-13, 2014.

As the name implies, Watercade celebrates Litchfield’s location in west central Minnesota’s lakes region, most notably Lake Ripley, which is on the city’s south end, and is the site for several Watercade events. 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 princess. The 2013-14 Miss Litchfield, Kristen Klaben, will serve until the 2014 coronation.

The Little Crow Ski Team performance draws many people to Lake Ripley during Watercade.

Watercade Princess Natasha Gomez, left, Princess Kate Carlson, center, and Queen Kristen Klaben were crowned in July 2013 and will serve as ambassadors of Litchfield, appearing in parades and other regional events through mid-July 2014.

57

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

LITCHFIELD Since 1997

Mobile Electronics Center Inc.

More than Car Stereo!

• Remote Starts • Alarm Systems • Car Audio/Video • iPhone/iPod/MP3 Integration • Cruise Control

” ractic for the “Chirop Entire Family

• Backup Cameras & Beepers • Mobileye Systems • Bluetooth Handsfree Cellular • Navigation • Home & Commercial Audio/Video • Satellite Radio

Sticks, Strings & Musical Things!

Dr. Mike Patten & Dr. Chris Patten OFFICE HOURS M/T/Th - 8:15 am - 5:30 pm • Wed - 8 am - 12 pm Fri - 8:15 am - 5 pm • Sat - 9 - 11 am

www.pattenchiropracticcenter.com

714 North Sibley (Hwys 12 & 22); Litchfield, MN 320-693-5885 www.mobileelectronics.com

320-693-3612

1455 Hwy 12 E. Litchfield

Find us on

Meeker County

The Perfect Setting Retaining 5 Expanding 5 Attracting businesses to Meeker County

2 & 3-bedroom rental town homes Cosmos 5 Dassel 5 Eden Valley Grove City 5 Litchfield 5 Watkins

71716

Guitars, Amplifiers & Sound Equipment, Band Accessories, Tuners, PA Rental & More!

Meeker County Development Corporation Meeker County Economic Development Authority 325 N Sibley Ave ~ Litchfield MN 55355 320•693•5272 or 888•346•5272 www.meekercodevcorp.com

58

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Celebrating hometown pride Festive events take place all year in towns across Meeker County Memorial Day: May 26

Cosmos Space Festival: July 18-20

Veterans organizations plan stirring tributes each Memorial Day in Litchfield a nd nei g hb or i n g tow n s. Litchfield’s events star t with a short, respectful parade through Litchfield, then move to Lake Ripley Cemetery for a memorial service.

T he 4 5t h a n nu a l Space Festival is expected to be an out-of-thisworld event, including the crowning of Little Miss Universe and Man in the Moon, fireworks, parade and a cow pie bingo.

Manannah Daze: June 6 The small village of Manannah puts kicks off summer celebration season 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.

Eden Valley’s Valley Daze: June 19-22 Eden Valley celebrates every June with a parade, carnival, live music, food stands, a tug-a-war tournament and an annual youth fishing contest.

Bonnie Barton 320-420-1338

The Edge You Need...The Service You Deserve

bonniebarton@edinarealty.com

Kim Dolan 320-221-0848

kimdolan@edinarealty.com

125 Sibley Ave. S., Suite 4 • Litchfield www.edinarealty.com

Meeker County Fair: July 31-Aug. 3 It’s the 14 2nd annual “Fairest Days of Su mmer” for county residents the first weekend in August. It features traditional county fair activities, such as exhibits and the showing of livestock, carnival rides, live music and demolition derbies.

Watkins’ Kraut and Wurst Days: Aug. 1-2 Area residents celebrate their German heritage at Watkins’ celebration, which includes a parade, cow drop raffle and, of course, a feast of sauerkraut and bratwurst.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

59

Antique Car Run: Aug. 9 The New London to New Brighton Antique Car Run with vehicles from 1908 and earlier covers 120 miles, including traveling through the heart of Meeker County, making stops in Grove City, Litchfield and Kingston.

Darwin Twine Ball Celebration: Aug. 9 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, mini-rod races, craft fair and pork chop dinner.

Grove City AugustFest: Aug. 14-17 Grove City is planning to celebrate summer with the a tractor pull, mud volleyball, horseshoe, trap shooting and softball tournaments, a kiddie parade, talent show and parade.

Forest City Stockade Rendezvous: Aug. 16-17 Step back in time for the 30th 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.

Some of the reconstructed period buildings include a newspaper office, church, woodwright shop, gun shop, pottery and candlemaking shop, land office, and a school.

Forest City Thresher Days: Aug. 16-17 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.

Dassel Red Rooster Days: Aug. 29-Sept. 1 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. 6 The Forest City Stockade changes a bit from 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 ornament making.

There’s also plenty of food and other activities going on, as well as the opportunity to visit various buildings on site, such as the woodwright shop, blacksmith building and general store.

Today's Properties

320-275-1246

29901 725th Avenue • Dassel, MN 55325 samhendrickson.com • shendrickson@embarqmail.com • Fax: 320-275-1247

www.maxtodaysproperties.com 92545

• Furance, Water Softener, and Water • Don’t forget to call us to have your Heater change outs available furnace, or heat pump serviced.

• Residential, commercial, or • We can service all your plumbing remodeling, or new construction & heating needs, big or small • Geothermal Systems available.

FREE on-site evaluation of project available.

Just call to set up an appointment.

309 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield 320-693-8007 Each office is independently owned & operated

60

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

Local arts community thrives Litchfield supports the performing arts, from community theater to local school bands, choirs

T

hrough the years, Litchfield has established a tradition of theater arts in the community.

The people who have a passion for live theater have been the driving force behind the scenes of the wonderful productions performed on the Litchfield stage. It was the late Bernie Aaker, along with Charlie Blesener, the Litchfield Community Education director in 1977, who had the idea to form a community theater in Litchfield. The partnership between Litchfield Community Education and Litchfield Community Theatre has since thrived.

As a result, Litchfield has one of the longest consecutive runs of community theater productions in the state of Minnesota, according to Al Anderson, who has directed and acted in many LCT shows. “For a community this size, it’s spectacular.”

Litchfield Community Theatre will present its 38th consecutive production in summer 2014.

Another growing force is Litchfield Community Youth Theatre, which encourages young, budding actors to learn more about and build an appreciation for theater. Children performed “Honk! Jr.” in spring 2013.

The renovated Litchfield Opera House is also a growing attraction, and members of the Greater Litchfield Opera House Association Inc. have been working since 2008 to restore the building to

SUBWAY in Cenex • 320-693-9328 1027 East Frontage Road, Litchfield

SUBWAY in Walmart • 320-693-2585 71732

2301 E. Hwy 12, Litchfield

Litchfield Community Theatre performed “Shrek The Musical” in July 2013. Pictured are Jim Vrchota as Donkey and Steve Schweim as Shrek. its original grandeur, adding curved staircases reminiscent of the original entrance and 32 new state lights. The opera house now frequently stages shows, such as open mic nights, old-time radio shows and community plays.

Other arts and entertainment events in Litchfield include:  The annual Holiday Showcase the first weekend of December, featuring the musical talents of local residents.  A fall musical put on by Litchfield High School’s drama department, which performed “High School Musical” in 2013.  Litchfield High School choir and band concerts throughout the year. The school’s choirs and bands have received numerous state and national awards.

92568

2014 LITCHFIELD COMMUNITY GUIDE

2014 2014LITCHFIELD LITCHFIELDCOMMUNITY COMMUNITYGUIDE GUIDE

Call me today.

Jason Tibbits, Agent 105 N. Sibley Ave., LitchďŹ eld 320-693-3404 www.jasontibbits.com

1306933

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL