Vacationer

A Top 20 Rural Hospital in the nation.

The National Rural Health Association has named Alomere Health as one of the Top 20 Rural & Community Hospitals in the nation.

Alomere Health is the first Minnesota hospital to ever garner this honor in the Top 20 Rural and Community Hospital category! Previously, Alomere Health has been named a Top 100 hospital four of the past six years.

Top performing hospitals are recognized as excelling in:

• Managing risk

• Achieving higher quality

• Securing better outcomes

• Increasing patient satisfaction

• Operating at a lower cost than their peers.

Top health systems like Alomere Health serve as a benchmark for other rural facilities as they strive to achieve similar results.

Knowing you have a top-rated health system in your community is just another reason why it’s better here

Health

better here.

LAKES, PARKS AND MUSEUMS

HOLIDAY Happenings

Be sure to save the date for the day after Thanksgiving events, including Christmas in the Fort and the Holiday Light Parade, as well as the Parade of Trees and new this year, Garden of Lights.

Christmas in the Fort, an annual tradition, will kick off the holiday season. It will take place Friday, Nov. 29, beginning at 3 p.m. Activities include special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot apple cider, holiday music and more. The event will end with the flipping of a switch to light up downtown Alexandria.

“Lights on Broadway,” the holiday light parade will take place Friday, Nov. 29 at 5:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to enter and there is no entry fee. Parade staging will take place at the Douglas County Fairgrounds from 4 to 5:15 p.m. There will be $200 in prizes given out for the most Christmas Spirit, Brightest Lights and Most Creative.

Register by emailing your name to the Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce at info@alexandriamn.org. For questions, call 320-763-3161.

The Parade of Trees will take place Nov. 29 from 3 to 6 p.m. Trees will be located at the Legacy of the Lakes Museum, which is next door to the Runestone Museum.

The Garden of Lights walking light

tour, brought to you by the Friends of Christmas, is a walk-through festive light display in the Legacy of the Lakes Gardens. It will run the length of the holiday season, opening on Nov. 29 and going through Dec. 29. It will be open Thursdays through Saturdays from 5 to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 5 to 7 p.m. Use the east side Legacy Garden entrance to access the light display.

he World Famous and controversial Kensington Rune Stone was the Runestone Museum’s only artifact when it opened its doors in 1958. Since then, the museum has grown to include additional artifacts found in Minnesota that relate to Middle-Age Nordic explorers and including the Big Ole Statue.

OUTDOORactivities

Along with winter comes a whole new season of outdoor fun. The Alexandria lakes area offers a variety of fun outdoor activities for people of all ages. Here are just some of the outdoor activities you can enjoy in Douglas County this winter:

ICE SKATING

Noonan Park in Alexandria is the site of the city’s outdoor public skating rink. The rink is regularly maintained, has a warming house and is lit for night skating. The park is generally open for skating around December 20, or whenever there is 8 inches of ice. Hours for the rink and warming house are Monday through Friday, 3 to 9:30 p.m. and weekends and vacation days, 1 to 9:30 p.m. The rink is closed daily from 5 to 6 p.m. There is no charge to skate. Located on the east side of Alexandria off of Nokomis Street and between Ninth and 10th Avenues.

In addition, there will be an outdoor skating area at Big Ole Park, which officials hope to have open late November or early December. There will just be open skating, with no hockey/broomball or other play allowed. There will not be a warming house, but the restrooms next to Big Ole will remain open from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. There will be benches, and the area will be lit up until about 9:30 p.m., which coincides with regular park hours.

Indoor skating is offered at the Runestone Community Center in Alexandria. Children age 6 and younger can skate free. Season passes are also available. For more information call 320763-4466. Located at 1002 Third Avenue West in Alexandria.

Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center has skating on Lake Darling, in front of the townhomes.

DOWNHILL SKIING, TUBING, SNOWBOARDING, SNOWSHOEING

Andes Tower Hills, located about 15 miles west of Alexandria, has 15 downhill ski runs ranging from beginner to expert, as well as facilities for tubing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski and snowboard lessons, a racing program, an after-school ski program, lodging, equipment rentals and a pro shop are also available. The chalet features a large-screen TV, a gas fireplace, and the Whispering Pines Grill, which serves burgers, chili, soups and gourmet pizza.

There are 15 downhill runs for skiers at Andes: four easy hills that include the Bunny Hill, five intermediate and five difficult runs, as well as one expert run. Cross-country skiing has 800 acres of scenic trails packed and groomed on a regular basis. Lighted trails and a 2.3K snowshoe only trail are also available. Tubing is available and is recommended for those 4 years of age or older and 42 inches tall.

For more information, call (320) 9652455 or visit the Andes website at www. andestowerhills.com.

Take State Highway 27 west of Alexandria about nine miles, turn right onto County Road 7 and go about two miles, turn left on County Road 107 and go about two miles to the entrance.

SNOWMOBILING

There are 368 miles of snowmobile trails in Douglas County, which connect many of the communities in the area and connect to trails in surrounding counties as well.

For more information about area snowmobile trails, visit www. douglasareatrails.com.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Local cross-country ski trails are located as follows:

Lake Carlos State Park* has six miles of groomed trails and a warming house. It is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. A ski trail pass is required, and can be purchased at the park or online. Take State Highway 29 north of Alexandria 10 miles, turn left onto County Road 38 and go two miles to the park entrance.

Kensington Rune Stone Park* near Kensington has 10.5 miles of groomed and slotted trails and a warming house. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., seven days a week. Take State Highway 27 west of Alexandria about 13 miles, turn

left onto County Road 103 and go about one mile to the park entrance.

Spruce Hill Park* near Miltona has four miles of groomed and slotted trails. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Take State Highway 29 north of Alexandria about nine miles, turn right onto County Road 5, travel about 5 miles east on County Road 5 and turn left on County Road 105, then go about one-half mile to the park entrance.

Andes Tower Hills, about 15 miles west of Alexandria, has about nine miles (15K) of trails, some of which are lit at night. Call (320) 965-2455 or visit the Andes Tower Hills website at www. andestowerhills.com for more information. Take State Highway 27 west of Alexandria about nine miles, turn right onto County Road 7 and go about two miles, turn left on County Road 107 and go about two miles to the entrance.

Arrowwood Resort near Alexandria has several miles of privately groomed cross-country ski and snowshoeing trails. Call (320) 762-1124 for information. Take County Road 82 west of Alexandria, turn right at County Road 22 (at stoplight), go about two miles and turn right onto County Road 104.

Lake Brophy County Park at 1900 Brophy Park Road NW in Alexandria has groomed cross-country ski trails. Go west of Alexandria on County Highway 82 approximately three-and-a-half miles to the park entrance.

*State cross-country ski permits are required for anyone age 16 and older who uses any public ski trail, including those at Lake Carlos State Park, Kensington Runestone Park and Spruce Hill Park. Permits are $10 per day. Season passes are $25; a three-year pass is $70.

Ski passes are valid for use in all Minnesota county and state parks and can be purchased by self-registration at

ICE fishing

With about 300 lakes in the Douglas County area, fishing is quite a popular activity. And not just in the summertime. Winter has many anglers finding themselves out on the ice, whether in a portable fish house, a premium ice house complete with stove, refrigerator and bunks for sleeping or just simply in the elements sitting on a five-gallon bucket.

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ice fishing has increasingly become a popular sport but there are inherent dangers with changing ice conditions and propane heater carbon monoxide concerns, to name a couple.

If you have never ice fished before, it might be a good idea to talk to experts at a local bait shop, chat with a friend who knows a thing or two about the sport or check out the DNR’s website, dnr.state.mn.us/gofishing/learn-icefish.html.

One of the most important things to remember about ice fishing is to make sure the ice is safe. The ice needs to be at least 4 inches thick to safely be on it and ice fish. In order to drive on the ice with a small car or pickup truck, the ice should be 8-12 inches and between 12-15 inches for a medium-sized pickup truck.

Other tips provided by the DNR include the following: Use the DNR’s LakeFinder, which has information on not only lakes in the Alexandria area, but more than 4,000 other lakes in Minnesota.

Dress in layers if you’re planning on fishing in the elements and not in a fish house. Be sure to have a couple layers of clothing, maybe some snow pants or bibs, insulated socks and boots, hat, gloves and warm coat.

Rent before you buy. There are places where anglers can rent an ice fishing house to try it out first instead of making such a large investment.

Know what the ice fishing requirements are. There are several ways to access them, including mobile apps, online or download a copy from the DNR website.

Early and late in the day – think sunrise and sunset – are great times to ice fish as the fish are often on the move. Early and late season can also be productive as oxygen levels are highest and fish adjust to changing seasons.

Ice fishing doesn’t require a large initial investment – unless you go ahead and decide to buy a fish house right away. For the most part, all you need is a short rod designed for ice fishing, lures, bait and a hand auger, which are fairly affordable.

If you decide that ice fishing is your sport, then you might want to make some bigger purchases, such as a power auger, sonar unit and of course, a premium ice house.

For more information on ice fishing, check the DNR’s website.

BLIZZARD hockey

If you have a hankerin’ for hockey, then the NA3HL Alexandria Blizzard action is for you! Competing in the West Division along with the Granite City Lumberjacks, Mason City Toros, Minnesota Loons, Willmar WarHawks and New Ulm Steel, the Blizzard offers USA Hockey-sanctioned Tier III Junior hockey entertainment throughout the winter.

The North American 3 Hockey League (3HL) is one of six leagues serving as some of the top training grounds in the country available to student-athletes, providing them with more opportunities to advance to college and pro hockey.

Players are able to compete in front of the entire junior,

college and professional scouting community as they fine-tune their skills.

Highly competitive, 3HL hockey, and the Alexandria Blizzard in particular, provides exceptional hockey entertainment for spectators beginning in September and continuing through March.

The Blizzard play their home games at the Runestone Community Center, located at the Douglas County Fairgrounds at 802 Third Ave. West, Alexandria, just off County Road 82.

Tickets available online at alexandriablizzard.com/tickets. For more information, call 320-460-2127.

Outdoor activities ontinued from page 5

state parks, at the Minnesota License Bureau at the Douglas County Services Center, at any business that sells hunting and fishing licenses, by phone at 888-665-4236 or at the Minnesota DNR online license website at www.wildlifelicense. com.

*Note: State park visitors also must have a vehicle permit.

SLEDDING & TOBOGGANING Kensington Runestone Park near Kensington has a toboggan hill and warming house. The park is open every day from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Take Highway 27 west of

Alexandria about 13 miles, turn left onto County Road 103 and go about one mile to the entrance.

Arrowwood Resort and Conference Center’s Snow Center has a sledding hill for all ages. Small children must be accompanied by an adult and all must sign in at the Snow Center, which opens daily at 9 a.m.

Lake Brophy County Park at 1900 Brophy Park Road NW in Alexandria has a groomed sledding hill. Go west of Alexandria on County Highway 82 approximately three-and-ahalf miles to the park entrance.

Association DOUGLAS COUNTY TRAILS

Minnesota has more than 22,000 miles of snowmobile trails that crisscross its forests, prairie, hills and lakes.

These trails, which are often maintained through a partnership between local clubs, trail users and the state, make Minnesota a popular snowmobiling destination.

Here in Douglas County, it’s just as wonderful for snowmobilers. There is breathtaking scenery – from open flatlands to heavily wooded, hilly terrain – on 368 miles of Douglas Area Trails Association (DATA) snowmobile trails. These trails wind throughout the county, connecting every community in the area and providing connections to trails in surrounding counties as well.

The DATA trails also include part of the Central Lakes Trail, the abandoned Burlington-Northern railway that has been transformed into a paved fourseason recreational trail. The 55-mile Central Lakes Trail connects the communities of Evansville, Brandon, Garfield, Alexandria, Nelson and Osakis.

The Central Lakes Trail also connects to the Lake Wobegon Trail, which extends from Osakis to St. Joseph near St. Cloud. Together, the two trail

systems are about 120 miles long and extend from Fergus Falls to St. Joseph.

DATA is a non-profit corporation sponsored by Douglas County to build and maintain recreational trails. Trails are groomed twice per week when needed.

Years ago, there were few places in Douglas County to snowmobile safely. Lakes and ditches were about the only option available until DATA was formed in 1974.

The association built the first trail that year (15 miles) with help from private landowners, business people and residents, and by 1975, it had a total of 80 miles. The system grew by leaps and bounds, expanding to 270 miles by 1978.

The organization was started by a small group of snowmobile enthusiasts who wanted to promote safe snowmobiling in Douglas County.

More than 500 landowners have given permission for trails to cross their property. Without their cooperation, there wouldn’t be a trail system.

For more information, visit the DATA website at www.douglasareatrails.com.

TURKEY 5K FOReveryone

Cold weather doesn’t stop runners at the Alexandria Area YMCA. The weather outside might be frightful, but you can still head out for an invigorating run on Thursday, Nov. 28.

The Alexandria Area YMCA will hold its annual Turkey Day 5K at 8 a.m. which begins and ends at the Alexandria Area YMCA.

A perfect event for the whole family, strollers are allowed

and children are welcome to ride their bikes in this 5K. It’s a great way to start a new tradition!

Awards will be given to the top three males, top three females and top three youth (15 and younger).

For more information, visit alexandriaymca.com/turkeyday-5k or call the YMCA at 320-834-9622.

DOUGLAS COUNTYLibrary

As temperatures start to cool down, why not spend time indoors at the Douglas County Library. The library, located in downtown Alexandria, is a part of the Viking Library System, which is a federated regional public library system serving six west central Minnesota counties, including Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens and Traverse.

The library offers more than 100,000 items as well as many other services, including newspapers, audio books, DVDs, downloadable e-books, periodicals, book/CD sets, compact discs, large print materials, paperbacks and book club kits

It also offers several different rooms, including a computer lab, two quiet rooms, a small conference room with

Smart Board,a large meeting room with Smart Board, a medium meeting room and a study room.

Several services are also available for a minimal fee, including self-serve photocopies, computer lab photocopies, fax services, meeting and conference rooms rentals and proctoring.

Association CENTRAL LAKES CONCERT

The Central Lakes Concert Association was formed in 1983 with the goal of offering an expanded program of quality concerts, affordable to the general public. The annual membership allows members to attend all concerts in Alexandria, as well as concerts presented by the Sauk Centre, Ortonville/ Milbank, Brainerd, Fergus Falls and Wadena concert associations.

All but one performance takes place at the Performing Arts Center at the Alexandria Area High School, 4300 Pioneer Rd., Alexandria.

For more information on the Central Lakes Concert Association, call Randy Morken, president, at 320-491-6308 or visit www.concertassociation.

net. All shows are at 7:30 p.m. CONCERT SELECTIONS FOR THE 2024-2025 SEASON

All shows are at 7:30 p.m. for the following performances:

Sing Us A Song…You’re the Piano Man: The timeless hits of Billy Joel with Jim Witter – Thursday, Sept. 26

Alliance Brass: Celebrating stage and screen – Saturday, Oct. 5

Gilles Vonsattel: Virtuoso pianist, Beethoven focused – Tuesday, Nov. 19 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church

Boyd Meets Girl: Wonderful blend of virtuosity, mixed repertoire and relaxed rapport – Thursday, Feb. 20

Sail On: Beach Boys tribute –Thursday, April 10

Street Corner Symphony: Hip and fun male a cappella quintet –Sunday, May 4

Events can be found the library’s website at douglascountylibrary.org. For more information about the library in general, visit the website or call 320-7623014.

ALEXANDRIAArt guild

The Alexandria Art Guild is a non-profit organized in support of the visual arts in the Alexandria community. Artists and art lovers meet monthly on the third Wednesday of each month. The annual Art deTour held mid-June invites the public to visit the artists in their

studios and shop a wide array of original art. For information and to see member artists visit www.alexart.org or email alexartguild@gmail.com.

TheatreANDRIA

Andria Theatre is the premier live theater and performing arts center in Alexandria. It is home to the Alexandria Area Arts Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Its mission is to build community by igniting interest and participation in and through the performing arts. This mission is accomplished by providing community-based theater and education-oriented programming that exceeds expectations, led by a staff of seasoned

professionals and governed by the board of directors.

Andria Theatre presents five live entertainment main-stage productions each season. Shows are a mix of family entertainment and those geared toward adults. The Student Theatre Project classes in the summer and fall also capstone in productions starring the students.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES 2024-2025

The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy – Oct. 3-5 and Oct. 10-12 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 6 and 13 at 2 p.m.

On the Verge – Nov. 8 at noon and 7 p.m. and Nov. 9 at 7 p.m.

Exit Laughing – Nov. 21-23 at 11 a.m.

Anastasia: The New Musical – Dec. 5-7 and

Dec. 12-14 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 8 and 15 at 2 p.m.

Calendar Girls – Feb. 6-8 and Feb. 13-15 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 9 and 16 at 2 p.m.

A Few Good Men – March 13-15 and March 20-22 at 7 p.m. and March 16 and 23 at 2 p.m.

Don’t Answer That – March 27-29 at 11 a.m.

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change –April 24-26 and May 1-3 at 7 p.m. and April 27 and May 4 at 2 p.m

13 Jr. – June 18-20 and June 25-27 at 7 p.m. and June 21 and 28 at 2 p.m.

Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Kids – July 16 and 17 at 7 p.m., July 18 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. and July 19 at noon and 2 p.m.

Disney’s Moana Jr. – July 30 - Aug. 1 and Aug. 6-8 at 7 p.m. and Aug. 2 and 9 at 2 p.m.

Steinbring Motorcoach

CENTRAL LAKES SYMPHONY

Art Center EVANSVILLE Orchestra

A community organization based in Alexandria and dedicated to enriching the lives of audience members through its beautiful orchestra music, the Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra is an organization more than 50 members strong. The orchestra, led by Alexandria Area High School Director of Orchestras Brad Lambrecht, gives musicians a venue to participate in serious music with a symphony orchestra and helps to give back to the community through donations and student scholarships. For more information or to find the most up-todate concert schedule, visit www.centrallakessymphony.org.

The CLSO mailing address is 1210 Broadway Street, Suite 240, PMB 105, Alexandria, MN 56308.

Here’s a look at the 2023-24 concert schedule:

2024 Central Lakes Symphony Gala - Music of 1970s cinema - Sun-

day, Oct. 13 at 4 p.m. at Bold North Cellars

Beauty of the Orchestra - Sunday, Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. at the Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center

Orchestra Adventures for all ages - Sunday, Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. at the Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center

Power of the Orchestra

- Saturday, April 5 at 7 p.m. at the Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center

Inspiration of the Orchestra - Saturday, May 17 at 7 p.m. at the Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center

Chamber ConcertSunday, June 15 at 2 p.m. at Mount Carmel

Tickets can be purchased online, at the door the day of the concert or at Cherry Street Books, 503 Broadway Street in Alexandria.

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN

Take a trip back through history when you visit downtown Alexandria. The town and merchants who populate the downtown stores take pride in Alexandria’s legacy and are dedicated to making your visit memorable. Formed in 1967, the Alexandria Downtown Merchants Association (ADMA) strives to strengthen the attractiveness of downtown for Alexandria shoppers, residents, visitors

The Evansville Art Center is owned and operated by the Evansville Arts Coalition, a group of volunteers who enjoy the arts and appreciate how art enhances the quality of life in rural Minnesota. The purpose is to plan and coordinate art events and activities that entertain, stimulate and engage people. For information, call 218-948-2787 or visit www. evansvilleartcenter.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS: Oct. 3: Photo Club, 7-8:30 p.m.

Oct. 5: Kaleidoscope Quartet, 7-9 p.m.

Oct. 17: Laurel and HardyTheir Lives and Careers, 7-9 p.m.

Nov. 1: Orlo and Neal, 7-9 p.m.

Nov. 7: Photo Club, 7-8:30 p.m.

Nov. 28: Open Mic, 7-9 p.m.

Dec. 5: Photo Club Christmas Potluck, 6-7:30 p.m.

Dec. 6: Vicki WorthingtonGospel and Carol Sing-along, 9-10 p.m.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Historical Society

Interested in local history? Visit the Douglas County Historical Society and take a guided tour of the famous Knute Nelson house, home of one of Alexandria’s most famous residents. Nelson, who served the people of Minnesota in public office for more than 50 years, was elected to the Minnesota Legislature, and served two terms in the U.S. Congress before becoming the state’s first foreignborn governor. He then served in the U.S. Senate for 28 years.

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

Alexandria

and business owners alike, while being recognized as a destination and a source of true value in the community.

From Third to Eighth Avenue, downtown Alexandria brims with history reaching back to the 1800s and is home to popular shopping destinations such as antiques, unique boutiques, gift shops, eateries, museums and theater.

ADMA is the largest retail organization in Alexandria.

Its focus is to leverage the individual resources of small businesses to promote downtown Alexandria with a unified intensity.

The group organizes projects and events that take place downtown, as well as paying special attention to the beauty and aesthetic appeal of the downtown area.

ADMA also purchases the flower baskets that hang downtown in the summer.

second story in 1915.

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

In 1978, the house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On Oct. 1, 1987, the “Knute Nelson House” became the headquarters of the Douglas County Historical Society.

The Douglas County Historical Society is located at 1219 Nokomis St. in Alexandria. Office hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., guided house tours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 320762-0382 or visit www.dchsmn.org.

Here’s a peek at some of the happenings that are planned in Historic Downtown Alexandria in the coming months:

Christmas in the Fort: Nov. 29

Small Business Saturday: Nov. 30

*Events are subject to change (Check downtownalexandria. com for updates.)

Lakes Area Churches Welcome You!

Alexandria Covenant Church

4005 Dakota St, Alexandria 320-763-5659 | alexandriacovenant.org

Pastor Trinity Opp, Senior Pastor Worship Services Sundays 8am Traditional; 9:30am & 11am Contemporary

Alexandria United Methodist

2210 Sixth Ave. E., Alexandria 320-763-4624 | www.alexumc.org

Pastor Amy VanValkenburg 320-309-5574 I pastor@alexumc.org

Worship Sundays 9am

Bethesda Lutheran Church(ELCA)

1204 N. Nokomis N.E., Alexandria 320-763-5164 | bethesdaalexandria.org

Pastor Jerry Lanes

Worship Services Saturdays 5pm, Sundays 9:30am

Calvary Lutheran Church

605 Douglas Street, Alexandria 320-763-5178 | www.calvaryalex.org

Pastors Hans Dahl & Angie Larson

Worship Services Sundays 8:30 am Traditional; 10:30 am Modern www.calvaryatthelake.com

Watch on Youtube

KXRA Radio Sundays 9:30am

Public Access TV Channel 181 Sundays 9:30am

Church for the Harvest 1425 41st Ave. W., Alexandria 320-759-1400 | HarvestAlexandria.com

Pastor Mike Bartolomeo

Worship Service Sundays 10am

Church of St. Mary

420 Irving Street, Alexandria 320-763-5781 | stmaryalexandria.org stmary@stmaryalexandria.org

Pastor Father Matthew Kuhn

Weekend Masses Saturday 5pm, Sunday 8am & 10am

Daily Masses Monday & Thursday 5:30pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 8:30am

Emmanuel Episcopal

602 12th Ave. E. & Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-3201 | alexmnepiscopal.org emmanuelepiscopalmn@gmail.com

Reverend Tom Sinning

Worship Service Sundays 10:30am, Sunday School 9:30 - 10:20 am

First UnitedCongregational Church of Christ

221 7th Ave. W., Alexandria 320-763-3341

firstcongregationaluccalex.com

Reverend Dr. Jill Sanders

Worship Service Sunday 10am

Communion Second Sunday of month

Sunday Worship radio rebroadcast KXRA First Sunday of month 11am

First Lutheran Church (ELCA)

1655 18th Ave. E. & S McKay, Alexandria 320-762-2196

www.firstlutheranalexandria.com

Pastors PJ Malin, Megan Preston, Judy Holmen

Worship Services Sundays 8:30am & 10am

Wednesday 6:30pm September - April

Check Youtube & Facebook for live worship

KXRA Radio Sundays 10am

Public Access TV Channel 181 daily at 10:45am

Good Shepherd Lutheran

2702 Hwy 29 N, Alexandria

320-762-5152 | goodshepherdalex.com

Pastor Jon Jahnke

Worship Service Sunday 9am

Sept-May Bible Study & Sunday School 10:15am

“Caring Believers Sharing Joy”

Lake Community Church

490 Voyager Dr., Alexandria

320-762-5424 | lakecommunity.org

Pastor Dan Johnson Worship Services Sundays 10:30am

New Life Christian Church

1910 Co. Rd. 82 S.E., Alexandria 320-763-7051 | www.your-newlife.com

Pastor Head Pastor John Taplin, Associate Pastors Billy Wallace, Blake Saathoff, Sam McKay

Worship Services Sundays 9am & 10:30am

Vacation Bible School June 25-29 6-8:30pm

New Testament Church

2505 Hwy. 29 N, Alexandria 320-762-2444 | ntcalexandria.org

Pastors Peter Reishus & Mike Loween Worship Service Sundays 10am

Osakis Lutheran Church

310 First Ave. E., Osakis 320-859-2350 | osakislutheranelca.com

Pastor Minister George Heideman Worship Service Sundays 10am

Shalom Lutheran Church

681 Voyager Dr., Alexandria 320-762-8641 | shalomlutheran.org

Pastor David Fleener

Worship Service Sundays 9:30am,

Spirit Life

912 State Hwy. 29 N., Alexandria 320-219-6005 | spirit-life.org

Pastors Jeff & Natasha Ferguson Worship Services Sundays 10am

Zion Lutheran Church

300 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-4842 | zionalex.org

Pastor Matt Lorenz

Worship Times 8am & 10:30am

Holy Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month 8am

2nd & 4th Sunday of the month 10/10:30 am

Bible Study & Sunday School 9:20 am (not during summer months)

CALENDAR of Events

OCTOBER

1 - 7:30-8:30 a.m. Chamber 101, Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

1 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

2 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

2 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

3 - Noon-1 p.m. AAYP Monthly Luncheon, Broadway Ballroom

3 - 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

3 - 6-9 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewery

3 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

3 - 7-9 p.m. Addams Family, Andria Theatre

4 - 7:30-8:30 a.m. Wake Up Alexandria! Runestone Electric Association

4 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

4 - 4-8 p.m. Pizza Night, Burr Vineyards

4 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

4 - 7-9 p.m. Addams Family, Andria Theatre

5 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

5 - 10-11 a.m. Saturday Story Hour, Cherry Street Books

5 - 7-9 p.m. Addams Family, Andria Theatre

5 - 8-11 p.m. Karaoke Night, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

6 - 2-4 p.m. Addams Family, Andria Theatre

6 - 3-5 p.m. Live Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

8 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

8 - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. United Way Chili Cook-Off, Broadway Ballroom

9 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

9 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

10 - 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

10 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

10 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

10 - 7-9 p.m. Addams Family, Andria Theatre

11 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

11 - 4-8 p.m. Pizza Night, Burr Vineyards

11 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

11 - 7-9 p.m. Jam Band Session, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

11 - 7-9 p.m. Addams Family, Andria Theatre

12 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

12 - 10-11 a.m. Saturday Story Hour, Cherry Street Books

12 - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Fall Sensory Fun Camp, ArtisTree Cafe

12 - 7-9 p.m. Addams Family, Andria Theatre

13 - 2-4 p.m. Addams Family, Andria Theatre

13 - 3-5 p.m. Live Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

14 - 7-8:30 p.m. Books and Birch Book Club, Ollie Birch Boutique + Lounge

15 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

15 - 3-4 p.m. Alzheimer’s Support Group, ArtisTree Cafe

16 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

16 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

17 - 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

17 - 5-7 p.m. AAYP Evening Connect Group, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

17 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

17 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

18 - 7:30-8:30 a.m. Wake Up Alexandria! MidMinnesota EMS Education

18 - 4-8 p.m. Pizza Night, Burr Vineyards

18 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

19 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

19 - 10-11 a.m. Saturday Story Hour, Cherry Street Books

19 - 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Oktoberfest, 22 Northmen Brewery

19 - 7-10 p.m. Country Music Spectacular, Alexandria Area High School Performing Arts Center

20 - 3-5 p.m. Live Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

22 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

23 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

23 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

24 - 7-8 a.m. AAYP Morning Connect Group, Common Ground Coffee House

24 - 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

24 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

24 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

25 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

25 - 4-8 p.m. Pizza Night, Burr Vineyards

25 - 6-8 Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

25 - 7-11:30 p.m. Gaither Vocal Band Moments to Remember Tour, Lake Geneva Christian Center

26 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

26 - 10-11 a.m. Saturday Story Hour, Cherry Street Books

26 - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Fall Sensory Fun Camp, ArtisTree Cafe

27 - 3-5 p.m. Live Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

29 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

30 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

30 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

31 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

31 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

NOVEMBER

1 - 7:30-8:30 a.m. Wake Up Alexandria! Windmill Ponds

1 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

1 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

2 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

2 - 8-11 p.m. Karaoke Night, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

3 - 3-5 p.m. Live Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

6 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

7 - Noon-1 p.m. AAYP Monthly Luncheon, Broadway Ballroom

7 - 6-9 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

7 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

8 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

8 - Noon-2 p.m. On the Verge, Andria Theatre

8 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

8 - 7-9 p.m. Jam Band Session, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

8 - 7-9 p.m. On the Verge, Andria Theatre

9 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

9 - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Fall Sensory Fun Camp, ArtisTree Cafe

9 - 7-9 p.m. On the Verge, Andria Theatre

10 - 3-5 p.m. Live Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

11 - 7-8:30 p.m. Books and Birch Book Club, Ollie Birch Boutique + Lounge

13 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

13 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

14 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

14 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

15 - 7:30-8:30 a.m. Wake Up Alexandria! at Bursch Travel

15 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

15 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

16 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park

17 - 3-5 p.m. Live Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

19 - 3-4 p.m. Alzheimer’s Support Group, Alzheimer’s Support Group

20 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

20 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

21 - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Exit Laughing, Andria Theatre

21 - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Don’t Answer That! Andria Theatre

21 - 5-7 p.m. AAYP Evening Connect Group, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

21 - 6-9 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

21 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

22 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

22 - 11 a.m.-noon. Exit Laughing, Andria Theatre

22 - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Don’t Answer That! Andria Theatre

22 - 5:30 p.m. Lights on Broadway, Downtown Alexandria

22 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

23 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market,

Big Ole park

23 - 11 a.m.-noon. Exit Laughing, Andria Theatre.

23 - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Don’t Answer That! Andria Theatre

24 - 3-5 p.m. Life Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

27 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

28 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

28 - 6-9 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

29 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

30 - 9 a.m.-noon. Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole Park.

DECEMBER

1 - 3-5 p.m. Live Music, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

4 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

4 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

5 - Noon-1 p.m. AAYP Monthly Luncheon, Broadway Ballroom

5 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

5 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

5 - 7-9 p.m. Anastasia: The Musical, Andria Theatre

6 - 7:30-8:30 a.m. Wake Up Alexandria! Swanston Equipment

6 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

6 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

6 - 7-9 p.m. Anastasia: The Musical, Andria Theatre

7 - 7-9 p.m. Anastasia: The Musical, Andria Theatre

7 - 8-11 p.m. Karaoke Night, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

8 - 2-4 p.m. Anastasia: The Musical, Andria Theatre

9 - 17-8:30 p.m. Books and Birch Book Club, Ollie Birch Boutique + Lounge

11 - 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime, Douglas County Library

11 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

12 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

12 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

12 - 7-9 p.m. Anastasia: The Musical, Andria Theatre

13 - 10:30-11 a.m. Baby/Toddler Storytime, Douglas County Library

13 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

13 - 7-9 p.m. Jam Band Session, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

13 - 7-9 p.m. Anastasia: The Musical, Andria Theatre

14 - 7-9 p.m. Anastasia: The Musical, Andria Theatre

15 - 7-9 p.m. Anastasia: The Musical, Andria Theatre

17 - 3-4 p.m. Alzheimer’s Support Group, ArtisTree Cafe

18 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

19 - 5-7 p.m. AAYP Evening Connect Group, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

19 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

19 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

20 - 7:30-8:30 a.m. Wake Up Alexandria! at Love in the Name of Christ

20 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

25 - 3:30-5:30 p.m. Community Chess, Alexandria Area High School commons area

26 - 7-8 a.m. AAYP Morning Connect Group, Common Ground Coffee House

26 - 6-8 p.m. Smart Alex Trivia, Copper Trail Brewing Co.

26 - 6-9 p.m. Crochet and Knit Night, ArtisTree Cafe

27 - 6-8 p.m. Karaoke and Koffee, ArtisTree Cafe

BIG OLE & BIG OLE

Perhaps one of the most eye-catching landmarks in Alexandria is Big Ole – a 28-foot tall Viking statue that stands at the north end of Broadway, along Second Avenue. Born in 1965, the Viking has become a much-beloved resident in the lakes area.

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

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

Originally placed at the north end of Broadway Street in front of the Runestone Museum, Big Ole was moved from the

Webcam

intersection of 3rd and Broadway to a new location one-half block north in 1980 to make way for a new stoplight. He was moved once more in 2002 to his current location at the head of the Central Lakes Trail on the south shore of Lake Agnes.

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

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

It’s a fun way to get a group shot with the 28-foot fiberglass statue located in Big Ole Central Park. Once you open the website on your cell phone, just take a screenshot to capture you, your group and the famous Viking statue. You must use Firefox, Safari or Edge browsers. Chrome currently does not work with the ALP camera, which is mounted on the pole in front of Big Ole.

ONGOINGEvents

BLIZZARD HOCKEY: September-March

Runestone Community Center, Alexandria www.alexandriablizzard.co

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS:

Photography Workshops: First Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com

OPEN MIC NIGHTS: Third Thursday of each month, 7 to 9 p.m. March-December Evansville Arts Center www.evansvilleartcenter.com

LIVE MUSIC:

Year round: Fridays & Saturdays 6-9 p.m. in the brewery Saturday 2-5 p.m. in the winery

Memorial Day-Labor Day: Sundays, 1-4 p.m. in the winery Carlos Creek Winery, Alexandria (320) 846-5443, www.carloscreekwinery. com

ALEXANDRIA FARMERS MARKET:

Saturdays, starting May 13, 9 a.m. to noon Thursdays, starting June 22, 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesdays, starting June 27, 9 a.m. to noon Last market day will be Tuesday, Oct. 31. Big Ole Central Park, Alexandria

HOLMES CITY FARMERS MARKET AND COMMUNITY BREAKFAST WITH LIVE MUSIC AND KIDS CORNER

Saturdays, starting May 20, through Oct. 7, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Breakfast through 10:30 a.m.

Trinity Lutheran Church parking lot, Holmes City

VINTAGE CAR CLUB OF ALEXANDRIA Annual Show & Shine and Crafters Event, 10-2 p.m. Sunday, June 25.

Club meets on the third Thursday of each month, 7 p.m. at Shalom Lutheran Church in Alex.

FaceBook/Vintagecarclubofalex

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

VIKINGLAND CORVETTE CLUB’S SUNDAY CRUISE AND DINNER:

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

All classic and muscle cars included on first Sunday of each month

Alexandria Clinic parking lot www.vikinglandcorvetteclub.com

Another popular activity for spring and summer is bicycling, and area bikers have plenty of options when it comes to trails, as Douglas County hosts a variety of them.

MOUNTAIN BIKE Trails

One highlight is Lake Brophy County Park, which features eight bike trails of varying skill levels, from easy to difficult. Located to the north of the Central Lakes Trail, the bike trails wind through all areas of the park and offer some of the best views in the county.

Another good spot is Kensington Rune Stone Park, which is located in Solem Township. The park features nearly eight miles of multiuse trail to ride, run and hike on. The trails weave through the oak, maple and aspen forest mixing in lakes and small prairie meadows.

CENTRAL LAKESTrail

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

The 55-mile-long trail, located on the old Burlington Northern rail line grade, connects the cities of Osakis, Nelson, Alexandria, Garfield, Brandon, Evansville and Melby in Douglas County. The trail then moves on through Ashby in Grant County and into Otter Tail County where it passes through Dalton before ending in Fergus Falls.

The trailhead and parking area in Alexandria is at the north end of Broadway in Big Ole Central Park.

Other trailheads are available in Osakis, Garfield, Brandon and Evansville.

These trail heads include parking areas, portable restrooms and trailside shelters. A bike shelter is also available along the trail about 1.5 miles east of Nelson.

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

LAKE BROPHY County Park

This park has it all – huge playground, great beach, fishing pier, a place to launch your kayak or canoe, picnic spots, mountain biking, walking and hiking trails with the best view of Alexandria and surrounding areas. The top of the hills are 140 feet above Lake Brophy. In the winter, there is ice skating and sledding. It’s a great place to take your family, friends or to just go on a nature walk by yourself.

GrapeStompFestival

September 13-15

September13-15

Oktoberfest

October 19

October19

Fall Getaway Weekend

FallGetawayWeekend

November 8-10

November8-10

Minnesota Made Winter Market

MinnesotaMade WinterMarket

November 30

November30

VETERANSMemorial park

Built to serve as a public place for celebration or a quiet place for private reflection and healing, the Veterans Memorial Park honors veterans of all branches of the United States Armed Forces.

Located on the corner of Eighth Avenue and Broadway Street, Veterans Memorial Park is a beautiful landmark and a source of contemplation and inspiration for all visitors.

This park is the dream child of a group of veterans and has been built through the donations from individuals and organizations and grants.

The focal point of the memorial is a life-size granite replica of the Liberty Bell standing in the middle of a 60-foot-wide pentagon star representing the five main branches of the Department of Defense. The bell and base are about 9 feet tall, about 6-1/2 feet in diameter and weigh about 40,000 pounds.

Nine flagpoles display the flags of the United States of America, POW-MIA, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine and the Minnesota flag.

GLACIAL RIDGE Trail

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

Standing in the park are stone memorials containing the names of veterans, past and present, dating back to the Declaration of Independence. To date, more than 7,000 names have been compiled, with nearly 3,000 still living in the county.

DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS

Granite tablets honoring all donors who contributed over $200.

A single granite tablet honoring veterans of Alexandria Industries.

Engravings in granite on the base of the Liberty Bell list “freedom, honor, justice, liberty and peace.”

The motto, “Let No Veteran Be Forgotten,” is affixed to the Veterans Wall of Honor.

Special bronze plaques honor John Wedum, Terence Kjos, veterans of Douglas Machine, and combat veterans.

A granite tablet honors Special Combatants, acknowledging names of local veterans exposed to extraordinary hardships while defending the country.

Granite benches recognizing individual

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

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

Highlighted by three state parks –Sibley, Monson and Glacial Lakes – the

veterans – Dorothy Lee, Joe Koopman, Leander Hens, Louis Grosenick, Virgil Batesole, Warren Gust and sons of Gust.

A Veterans Wall of Honor includes seven 24-inch bronze service insignias: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, National Guard and Merchant Marine.

byway has plenty of great stopping spots good for hiking, bird watching and fishing.

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

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

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

RUNESTONEMuseum

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

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

Fort Alexandria, commissioned in 1862, has been recreated with rescued historical structures, such as a nearly exact replica of the stockade built in 1862, an 1889 church,

a log cabin built in the late 1860s and an 1885 schoolhouse. The fort is located in the outdoor portion of the campus that is open April-October. Housing rare and exciting artifacts like a Middle Ages Nordic fire steel and a 1920s jingle dress, the Runestone Museum is sure to impress whether you’re interested in history, heritage or the natural sciences. For more information, call 320-763-3160, or visit the museum’s website at www. runestonemuseum.org for the most up-todate admission prices and hours. Check out the museum’s Facebook page at Runestone Museum Foundation.

NIGHTLY SPECIALS

MONDAY:

$2 Burgers

TUESDAY:

5:00pm

$2.00 - Hard or Soft Shell Tacos

$3.50 - All Domestic Beer All Day

WEDNESDAY:

$25.00 - 6 domestic beers and 1 topping pizza

$7.00 - 1/4 light or dark

$9.00 - 1/2 dark or mix, $1 extra all light

THURSDAY:

$9.00 - Beef or Chicken Philly Sandwich

$10.00 - All You Can Eat Wings

FRIDAY:

$9.50 - Fish Special

SATURDAY:

$23.95 - Prime Rib Special with Salad and Baked Potato

SUNDAY:

$15.95 - All You Can Eat Jumbo Shrimp All Day

*Beverage purchase required, add $1 for to-go orders excluding all you can eat*

LAKES

AARON

Size: 610 acres Depth: 16 feet

Features: Shallow with sandy beaches.

Public access: South end off Lakes Road.

AGNES

Size: 137 acres Depth: 31 feet

Features: Fishing pier in City Park.

Public access: City-owned access on southwest end off Agnes Boulevard; fishing pier on north end in Alexandria City Park.

Named for early settler Will Kinkead’s girlfriend who lived out east.

ANDREW

Size: 922 acres Depth: 83 feet

Features: Sandy beaches, spring-fed, popular recreational lake.

Public access: Southeast side off County Road 28 and Lake Andrew Road.

Named for first physician in Alexandria.

BLACKWELL

Size: 307 acres Depth: 42 feet

Public access: East side off Country Lane.

Named for an early settler of Holmes City.

BROPHY

Size: 296 acres Depth: 44 feet

Features: Island, sandy beaches.

Public access: Northwest shore off County Road 82 and Brophy Lane.

Named for the Brophy family, early residents.

BURGEN

Size: 174 acres Depth: 43 feet

Features: Small, steeply sloped shoreline.

Public access: North end off County Road 23.

Named for William Burgen, who lived on the southwest shore in 1869.

CARLOS

Size: 2,605 acres Depth: 163 feet

Features: Access to chain of lakes, clear, deep.

Public accesses: North shore in state park off County Road 38; northeast shore near state park off County Road 38; west shore off County Road 11; east shore off Prairie Road and East Lake Carlos Drive. Reports vary, but one story is that lakes L’Homme Dieu and Carlos were named by an early settler in honor of two friends at West Point Academy.

CHIPPEWA

Size: 1,185 acres Depth: 95 feet

Features: Deep, headwaters of Chippewa River.

Public access: Northeast corner off County Road 12.

Named for Native Americans.

CHRISTINA

Size: 3,971 acres Depth: 14 feet

Features: Large, shallow.

Public access: Southwest end off County Road 82.

Named for the Queen of Sweden.

COWDRY

Size: 242 acres Depth: 52 feet

Features: Small, clear.

Public access: Northeast corner off County Road 82 and East Lake Cowdry Road.

Named for Samuel Cowdry, an early settler.

CROOKED

Size: 281 acres Depth: 35 feet

Features: Quiet.

Public access: North end off County Road 27.

Named for its contour.

DARLING

Size: 1,050 acres Depth: 62 feet

Features: Water access to chain of lakes.

Public access: Access by water from Lake Carlos.

Named for Andrew Darling who settled in the area in 1860.

DEVILS

Size: 233 acres Depth: 35 feet

Features: Spring-fed, sandy beaches, connects to county park.

Public access: Chippewa Park; North side off County Road 7 and Devil’s Lake Road.

FREEBORN

Size: 247 acres Depth: 18 feet

Public access: Northwest side off County Road 96.

GENEVA

Size: 639 acres Depth: 63 feet

Features: Fishing pier on north end, access to chain of lakes.

Public access: Northwest side off Highway 29; southeast side off County Road 82 and E. Lake Geneva Road. Called Rowley on early maps; renamed by Walter Scott Shotwell after the resort town of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.

AREA LAKE

Although the size, depth and location of this mythical lake are unknown, anglers continue to report it as the home of the large fish they catch.

GILBERT

Size: 201 acres Depth: 17 feet

Features: Quiet.

Public access: North end off County Road 7 and Moe Hall Road.

Named for an early settler.

GRANTS

Size: 176 acres Depth: 60 feet

Public access: West side off Country Lane.

HENRY

Size: 152 acres Depth: 32 feet

Features: Next to City Park.

Public access: Alexandria City Park; accessible by water from Lake Agnes. Named for the son of Charles Cook, an early settler.

IDA

Size: 4,431 acres Depth: 106 feet

Features: Large, clear; sandy beaches.

Public accesses: North side off County Road 34 and Big Horn Bay Road; east side off County Road 34 and Sugar Sand Lane; southeast side off County Road 34 and Sunset Strip.

Named by Myron Colony, one of the lake’s first colonists, in honor of a girlfriend out east.

INDIAN

Size: 98 acres Depth: 38 feet

Public access: North side off County Road 6 and Indian Lake Road.

IRENE

Size: 639 acres Depth: 44 feet

Public access: Northwest side off Highway 29 and Irene Road; southeast side off County Road 64.

First known as Reservation Lake, renamed for Irene Roadruck, daughter of an early settler.

JENNIE

Size: 300 acres Depth: 6 feet

Public access: South end of County Road 56.

LATOKA

Size: 766 acres Depth: 108 feet

Features: Clear, deep, good water quality, public swimming beach.

Public accesses: North side off County Road 82 and Latoka Beach Road; west side of South Basin off Highway 27 and Vonderheid Drive.

Named for Native Americans.

L’HOMME DIEU

Size: 1,801 acres Depth: 85 feet

Features: Access to chain of lakes, public swimming beach.

Public accesses: Northwest side off County Road 42; northeast side off County Road 120.

Reports vary, but one story is that lakes

L’Homme Dieu and Carlos were named by an early settler in honor of two friends who attended West Point.

LITTLE CHIPPEWA

Size: 269 acres Depth: 24 feet

Features: Shallow, sandy, connects to county park.

Public access: South shore off County Road 108.

Named for Native Americans.

LOBSTER

Size: 1,334 acres Depth: 65 feet

Features: Many bays and points, island. Public access: West end off County Road 27.

Named for its shape, which resembles a lobster. It is believed this lake was first called Kinkead, but later changed.

LONG

Size: 201 acres Depth: 18 feet

Public access: East end off County Road 55.

Named for its contour.

LOUISE

Size: 214 acres Depth: 33 feet

Public access: West side off County Road 22 and West Lake Louise Drive.

Named for a child of Charles Cook, an early settler.

MAPLE

Size: 830 acres Depth: 78 feet

Features: Mostly shallow, spring-fed, excellent water quality.

Public access: North end off County Road 4 and Maple Springs Drive; east side off County Road 87 and Sunset Access Road.

Named for the many maple trees that surrounded the lake.

MARY

Size: 2,450 acres Depth: 40 feet

Features: Large, gradual slopes, popular recreational lake.

Public access: Northwest corner off Highway 27; southwest corner off County Road 4 and Little Mary Circle.

Named for Mary Kinkead, a sister to some of Alexandria’s original settlers.

CHEF -DRIVEN DY NA MIC MENU IN AP OLISHED YET CA SU AL SETTING SEE AL LO UR MENU S!

OUTDOOR BAR FI RE PL AC E FIRE PITS HE AT ED PORCH

110 30TH AV ENUE WES T, ALEXANDRIA

NEXT TO VI KING PLA ZA MA LL

ST EAK S SEAF OOD SALADS GL UTEN-FREE OP TIONS

Continued from page 16

MILL

Size: 451 acres Depth: 40 feet

Features: Spring-fed, deep, clear.

Public access: Southeast corner off Highway 27.

Called Cornelia on early maps; unknown how it was renamed.

MILTONA

Size: 5,724 acres Depth: 105 feet

Features: Largest lake in county; deep, clear; sandy beaches.

Public accesses: North shore off County Road 14 and Sandy Beach Drive; northeast side off Highway 29 and North Lake Miltona Drive; west side off Spring Lake Road.

Named for Florence Miltona Roadruck, who homesteaded in Leaf Valley with her husband.

MINA

Size: 411 acres Depth: 123 feet

Public access: North side off County Road 8.

Named by Fredric Von Baumback, a Prussian officer, a major in the Civil War and secretary of state, for his mother.

MOON

Size: 139 acres Depth: 38 feet

Public access: North side off County Road 82.

MOSES

Size: 824 acres Depth: 32 feet

Features: Clear, sandy.

Public access: West side off County Road 16.

Named for religious prophet, or possibly for a prominent Alexandria family.

OSAKIS

Size: 6,389 acres Depth: 73 feet

Features: Large lake with many bars and fishing structures (Most of the lake is in Todd County).

Public access: South end in Osakis; west side off County Road 10; north-east side off 210th Street (Todd County).

Name likely derived from Ojibwe Indian name for the lake, “Oh-za-kees,” which means “place of the Sauk” and refers to Sauk Indians who roamed the area.

OSCAR

Size: 1,231 acres Depth: 25 feet

Features: Island.

Public access: North side off State Highway 27.

Named for the King of Sweden.

POCKET

Size: 263 acres Depth: 40 feet

Public access: South side off Highway 114 and Pocket Lake Road.

Named for its contour.

RACHEL

Size: 448 acres Depth: 65 feet

Public access: East shore off County Road 93 and East Rachel Road.

Named for the daughter of an early Holmes City settler.

RED ROCK

Size: 902 acres Depth: 22 feet

Features: Shallow.

Public access: East side off County Road 1 and Shorewood Dr.

RENO

Size: 3,808 acres Depth: 23 feet

Features: Large, shallow, sandy (Most of the lake is in Pope County).

Public access: Northeast end off Highway 29: Southeast side off County Road 15 and Sugar Sand Road (Pope County).

ROUND

Size: 81 acres Depth: 30 feet

Features: Quiet.

Public access: South end off County Road 27.

Named for its contour.

SMITH

Size: 666 acres Depth: 30 feet

Features: Spring-fed, quiet.

Public access: Northeast corner off County Road 82 and Smith Lake Road. Named for a family that homesteaded near the lake.

STOWE

Size: 376 acres Depth: 14 feet

Public access: West end off County Road 82 and Stowe Lake Road.

TURTLE

Size: 218 acres Depth: 21 feet

Public access: Southwest corner off County Road 88.

UNION

Size: 107 acres Depth: 45 feet

Public access: SE side off County Road 23 and County Road 86.

VERMONT

Size: 337 acres Depth: 59 feet

Public access: Southeast side off Highway 29 and Vermont Access Road.

VICTORIA

Size: 416 acres Depth: 60 feet

Features: Long, narrow lake with access to Lake Geneva.

Public access: South end off Hazel Hill Road.

Called Scocka on early maps; renamed by Walter Shotwell in honor of the English queen. His father, Daniel, homesteaded between lakes Victoria and Geneva in 1859.

WHISKEY

Size: 159 acres Depth: 46 feet

Public access: North side off County Road 58.

WINONA

Size: 213 acres Depth: 9 feet

Public access: Carry-in access on the north side of the south end off Melvina Lane.

Probably named by Mary Kinkead, sister of Alexander and William, the first settlers in Alexandria. The first child born in Fort Alexandria was also named Winona.

CITY PARKS

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

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

Big Ole Central Park is on the north end of Broadway in Alexandria, next to Lake Agnes. It features year-round restrooms, fishing pier, gazebo, kiosk shelter, bike repair station and serves as a trail head for the Central Lakes Trail.

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

Carter Park, on Benjamin Drive off of Co. Rd. 22 in Alexandria, has a playground..

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

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

Geneva Crest Park is on the west side of Lake Geneva in Alexandria. Take Co. Rd. 82 E., turn north on Birch Ave., go 3/4 mile, go east on Basswood two blocks and north on Geneva Dr. It has a playground, small ballfield and sand volleyball court.

Goose Park is three blocks west of Broadway on Fifth Ave. W. in Alexandria, next to Knute Nelson Memorial Field ballpark.

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

Lake Burgen Park, on Rosewood and Snowbird lanes on the west side of Lake Burgen, has a playground.

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

Lakeview Park is near County Rd. 82 East and Birch Ave. in Alexandria. Take Co. Rd. 82 E. to Birch Ave., turn west on Runestone Place and west on Lake Park Ave. It has a playground and picnic shelter.

Manor Hills Park is in Alexandria. Take Hwy. 29 N. to Manor Dr. and go two blocks to the right on Springdale. It has a playground and small ballfield.

Martin’s Hope Park, on Second Ave. across the street from Big Ole Central Park in Alexandria, has a picnic gazebo.

Noonan Park is at Nokomis St. and 10th Ave. in Alexandria. It has restrooms, picnic shelters, walking paths, playground and winter ice skating.

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

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

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

Runestone Park is about one mile east of Broadway in Alexandria on Sixth Ave. E.

Skylark Park, north of Kinkead Cemetery on Amanda Lane in Alexandria, has a playground.

Summer Meadows Park, on the north side of Alexandria near Scenic Heights Road and Summer Lane, has a playground.

Veterans Memorial Park is at 802 Broadway in Alexandria. It includes a replica of the Liberty Bell and granite monoliths with the names of more than 7,000 veterans, as well as restrooms and a picnic area. It also includes the Matt Kjelland Memorial basketball court.

Woodland Park, on the north side of Alexandria on Woodland Dr., just north of Hwy. 29, has a playground.