Impact 2020 by Echo Press

2020

IMPACT STRONGER Community

TOGETHER Education

Healthcare

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stronger together

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Welcome to

IMPACT

2020

iving in the Alexandria area the past 23 years and working at the newspaper for 16 of those years, I have had the opportunity to do my fair share of stories about people in this community who really encompass the words “stronger together.” I have seen the people of Douglas County come together numerous times, whether it’s because someone is suffering from cancer and needs help paying medical bills or maybe someone was in a tragic accident, can’t work and needs help getting on their feet again. I’ve written stories about the community coming together to support nonprofit businesses, whether by baking cookies and selling lemonade or maybe participating in a 5K. The people in this community always seem to come together to do their part to make our little part of the world and the people in it stronger.

Over the past 10 months, the words “stronger together” have taken on even more meaning. Starting back in February, there was the devastating fire that nearly knocked out an entire block of downtown Alexandria. There were dozens of firefighters from numerous departments working together. There were business owners donating food and beverages at the fire scene. There were community people offering shelter and clothing. It was a tragic time, yet so many people worked tirelessly together – they were stronger together in that fight. And then in March and continuing today is the coronavirus pandemic. So many people have been impacted. There has been so much loss for businesses and nonprofits. There are so many unknowns for our school districts.

Celeste Edenloff, Impact Editor

But throughout all of these bleak times, there is a light that continues to shine – the people in this community who are working together for the greater good, working together to come out on the other side of everything stronger. They are working together to be stronger together. And that is what this Impact publication is all about.

Contents HEALTHCARE Ann Stehn...................................................................................................................................6 Angie Reinke............................................................................................................................8 Dr. Bruce Evink.....................................................................................................................10 Dr. Deb Dittberner.............................................................................................................14 Michelle Larson..................................................................................................................22

STRONGER

EDUCATION Troy Sladek............................................................................................................................26 Trent Hintermeister..........................................................................................................30 COMMUNITY Robyn Snyder.......................................................................................................................34 Nattiel Dammer/Kelsi Timm.....................................................................................38 Masks are a community effort.................................................................................41 TOURISM Lynn Jenc.................................................................................................................................42

TOGETHER

FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY/RETAIL Kent Kopp...............................................................................................................................46 Dave Gibbons/Adam Graf..........................................................................................48 Patty Dusing..........................................................................................................................52 EMERGENCY SERVICES Jeff Karrow..............................................................................................................................56 Julie Anderson.................................................................................................................... 60

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IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 5

HEALTHCARE

ANN STEHN

ADMINISTRATOR, HORIZON PUBLIC HEALTH

With COVID-19 present in our community, how are our local healthcare agencies working together to keep our community safe?

There is a great deal of partnership happening at the community level, particularly within healthcare. Frequent communication, consultation, planning and addressing issues as they arise is a priority. Each entity has their roles in the process and many of them are interconnected. We rely on each other for expertise and assistance. We have each other’s cell phone numbers and we reach out to each other for help, to plan or to work toward a solution to a problem. Hospitals, clinics and long-term care providers have made major changes in their procedures to provide additional protection for patients, residents and staff. We are also keenly aware that we are dealing with a virus and no amount of planning or precautions can guarantee that we won’t have impacts on our community or loved ones. This is an example of truly being stronger together

as an entire community. Our healthcare partners need the support of the community to be successful.

What are the benefits of Horizon Public Health working together with the Minnesota Department of Health and the World Health Organization in educating the public about COVID-19?

Horizon Public Health is your local health department. We work closely with the Minnesota Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control. This gives us access to specialists, technical assistance, research and information that we don’t have the capacity for locally. We rely on our state and federal partners for guidance and information; in return we are able to work closely with our communities and have that local connection. When someone calls us for a consult or information, they can benefit from all of the research and guidance provided by MDH and the CDC and be talking to someone who lives and works in your community.

Stehn continued on Page 13 Ann Stehn, Horizon Public Health administrator, has a background in nursing and public administration. Stehn began at Horizon Public Health in January 2020, bringing more than 20 years of public health leadership with her to the position. She was excited to move to the Alexandria lakes area with her husband for this new opportunity, and her two adult daughters enjoy visiting the area with their husbands. She has been impressed with the strong collaboration and community spirit she has felt since her arrival. PAGE 6 | IMPACT 2020

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HEALTHCARE

“STRONGER TOGETHER”

is definition of Galeon community

ngie Reinke is the administrator of Galeon, a continuing care campus consisting of the skilled nursing home, assisted living, independent living and wellness center. She has worked at Galeon for more than 11 years. She started out at the campus social worker and now, after going back to school to receive her nursing home administrator license, she has been the administrator for nearly four years. Reinke said that “stronger together” is an absolute definition of Galeon, its staff and its residents. “Our small campus has allowed family-like relationships between our staff, residents and families,” she said. “When there are changes with residents or families, we hurt right along with them.” She said a large amount of the staff at Galeon work in all the different buildings on campus so they form multiple

AT THE END OF THE DAY, I THINK THE GRATITUDE ALL OF US FEEL FROM OUR RESIDENTS MAKES THIS JOB SO SATISFYING TO ALL WHO WORK AT GALEON. ANGIE REINKE Administrator, Galeon

PAGE 8 | IMPACT 2020

relationships with the people who live within Galeon. “So often I will see staff go and visit to say hello to a resident who has needed to be transitioned to another part of the campus, to make sure everything is going OK for them,” said Reinke. “Hugs, tears and laughter have made all of us stronger together here at Galeon.” Reinke said her staff is very dedicated to wearing their personal protection

equipment and do everything they can to keep residents and each other safe and healthy during the pandemic. The coronavirus pandemic has made an impact not only on the staff and residents at Galeon, she said, but it has also made an impact on the dedicated family members and friends who like to visit the facility. “Our routines changed and normal, everyday life changed, but family and

resident interaction is what changed the most,” she said. “If you asked any of our staff, they would say that has been the hardest thing for everyone to cope with. We miss seeing the interaction between families and residents.” The staff have attempted to keep Galeon residents as busy as they can, while remembering to adhere to the social distancing guidelines. They have had sing-a-longs and other events,

such as bowling, family parades, bingo, racing remote control cars and more. And the staff created a timeline for residents to look at and then add their own events from their life. The Osakis community has been a huge support to Galeon, said Reinke, with all the prayers, donations, support, gifts to residents and staff, meals for staff and more. “We have received notes, calls and comments on Facebook that we share with staff so they know how appreciated they are,” she said. TOP-NOTCH CARE Galeon always looks for ways to give back to its community by offering donations to different local charities, student fundraisers and other various events, said Reinke. “We are growing a strong partnership with the Osakis School by trying to work with more student groups,” she said. “We have had pen

pal programs, started a certified nursing assistant program for high school students and have had school leadership groups come and work with the residents and on various projects around the facility.” Reinke said she wishes all surrounding communities could see what a hidden gem Galeon is. She said it has a continuing care campus that has the best staff and residents and that it provides top-notch care not only with skill but with true care and compassion. “Our staff knows our residents and seek to make their life here as much as we can like a home. We take the time to listen and interact,” she said. “We know the importance of hard work, but also know that we need to have compassion and fun. At the end of the day, I think the gratitude all of us feel from our residents makes this job so satisfying to all who work at Galeon.”

OUR STAFF KNOWS OUR RESIDENTS AND SEEKS TO MAKE THEIR LIFE HERE AS MUCH AS WE CAN LIKE A HOME ANGIE REINKE Administrator, Galeon

IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 9

HEALTHCARE

DR. BRUCE EVINK FAMILY MEDICINE PHYSICIAN, SANFORD HEALTH BROADWAY CLINIC

Being a part of the Sanford team of clinics, what does that mean for your patients? What are the benefits to being part of a bigger medical community?

Being part of Sanford Health allows us to leverage resources, research, staff and technology while maintaining our hometown feel and provide the best care right here in Alexandria. We have a great group of providers, nurses and other employees who have been here for years and deliver individualized, compassionate care to their families, friends and neighbors. The most important resource we receive from Sanford Health is the outstanding individuals who are leading the way for health care in our region. Especially during this unprecedented time, we have two nationally-recognized experts who are guiding decisions and providing direction so that we can

continue to care for all of our patients in the most effective manner possible. In the Alexandria area, we can draw on the experiences and knowledge of the full Sanford family – from family medicine, cancer and senior care, to research, global clinics and affordable insurance. This helps us provide the most evidence-based, cutting-edge care in the best way possible for our local patients. From a very practical aspect, being a part of this larger organization gives us access to multiple experts and specialists to consult with as well.

How does Sanford Broadway Clinic encourage its employees to get involved within the community?

Sanford employees have always been very involved in making Alexandria a better place to live and work. Our “Blue Crew” employee volunteers participate

Dr. Bruce Evink is a family medicine physician at Sanford Health Broadway Clinic in Alexandria and has been for 16 years. He also serves as department chair and medical director of Sanford Health Broadway Clinic, is a member of the physician executive council, physician leadership council, credentialing committee and on the Alomere health peer review committee. He is also medical director for two area skilled nursing facilities. Evink provides comprehensive care from pediatric care to adult medicine and nursing home care, having done obstetrics in the past. He has a special interest in sports-related injuries and overall wellness and disease prevention. Evink was a physical therapist at the Mayo Clinic for seven years before going back to medical school. After his medical residency, he chose to return to west-central Minnesota and live in what he calls “the ideal community” of Alexandria. Evink said at Sanford Broadway Clinic, the staff is stronger together than they are alone. “Our Sanford staff functions as a team, with every individual needed to accomplish our goal of providing exceptional health care – even in the face of tremendous challenges that COVID-19 brings,” he said. “We each play an integral role in ensuring that our patients are cared for and are kept safe. In addition to being a team, we are truly a family. It energizes me to see the passion of our entire organization putting our collective goals above our own to provide care for our community.” PAGE 10 | IMPACT 2020

in a large variety of community projects such as having a dedicated team for Relay for Life, building homes for Habitat for Humanity, hosting blood drives, participating in Chamber events, and providing resources at health fairs and events such as the local STEAM expo. Sanford and our employees are strong supporters of United Way. As a community partner, Sanford is a major sponsor of the Andria Theatre, sponsors of youth basketball teams and has been very involved in creating the mountain bike trails at Lake Brophy County Park. Even more importantly, Sanford encourages and takes great pride in the personal, one-on-one interactions our employees have with individuals in our community, providing information and offering guidance to help all of us become well and stay healthy. Many have taken leadership roles in our schools, churches, civic groups and other community organizations, lending their knowledge and expertise. These actions demonstrate the integrity of our team and our commitment to our community.

Q A

How does Sanford encourage team-building within its own office?

Our informal “family” gatherings are probably the most important aspect of team building at Sanford. With the pandemic, we’ve had to be more creative with our celebrations to

ensure social distancing and other safety guidelines. Having fun together regularly builds our team every day. Recently, we had a “You make us POP with appreciation” event where we gave out kettle corn to all the employees. In July, our leaders held an employee appreciation picnic – they were even in charge of grilling hot dogs and serving the team. We plan to do a similar event for Thanksgiving. We’re called to serve our team. We regularly focus on our values and mission to collectively advance our goals together. One way we do this throughout our region is by encouraging employees to nominate their peers for one of our monthly HERO awards. These awards are given to individual employees or teams who strongly demonstrate Sanford’s values. We have a similar nomination process for our annual employee of the year awards. Showing appreciation for all we do individually and together helps make us a strong team.

With COVID-19 present in our community, how are our health care agencies working together to keep our community safe?

As a community partner, Sanford focuses on the health and welfare of everyone in the communities we serve. Communication

Evink continued on Page 12 Sanford Health Broadway Clinic has a dedicated team for Relay for Life each year.

IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 11

Evink from Page 11 is the key to local health care agencies working together during this unique and unprecedented time. We have been able to share some of our processes and best practices with public health and other local health care organizations. We have ongoing discussions with health care leaders in our community so we can determine the best way to use all our resources and manage the pandemic in the best way possible while continuing to meet the other challenges in public health that are always present. We also join efforts with our school system and civic leaders to reduce the risk of COVID-19 and keep our community safe.

What are some challenges within the healthcare industry and how does Sanford Broadway Clinic, as a whole, work together to solve some of the issues?

The challenges the COVID-19 pandemic poses are not unique to Sanford in Alexandria. Across the nation, health care workers and their leaders have found ways to ensure we have the proper amount and appropriate personal protective equipment, keep up on the latest testing resources and ensure patients, visitors and employees are protected. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve also established new visitor, face mask and social distancing rules to ensure that both COVID-19 positive patients and those coming to seek care for other reasons are safe and comfortable.

Sanford Health Broadway Clinic and Alomere Health collaborated on a drive-through coronavirus testing structure located outside of the hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emergency room.

PAGE 12 | IMPACT 2020

During the coronavirus pandemic, when clinics were shut down, health professionals offered their services via video telehealth. Personally, one of the toughest challenges is enforcing visitor limitations for family members. It is crucial to do so, but it is emotionally hard on our providers and staff, too. Right now, one of the biggest challenges we have is encouraging patients to come in for their regular appointments, immunizations and preventative care. Some patients are still hesitant to

come in even when there is an urgent need. Unfortunately, we see patients who have more serious issues because they have delayed getting care. I am completely confident in the safe environments at our hospitals and clinics. During this pandemic, staying healthy is more important than ever.

Stehn from Page 6

Q A

How can the community work together to battle COVID-19?

The key preventative public health messages related to COVID-19 are to stay home when you are sick, wear a mask, distance from those outside your household and wash your hands frequently. We also strongly encourage people to get tested if they have been exposed to someone positive for COVID-19, if they have symptoms or if they have been recommended to by a healthcare provider or public health. Following the isolation and quarantine guidance can be challenging, but it is a key measure to prevent the further spread of the virus. Make good choices about how much exposure you allow yourself in social situations, particularly in indoor environments. Our actions can have a ripple effect. When you throw a rock in a lake there are multiple ripples that develop. The same is true for our social connections. Lastly, we need to care for one another and show people kindness. We don’t know what struggles someone might be dealing with. Connect with your loved ones and share acts of kindness to one another. Our mental well-being is just as important as our physical health.

What healthcare-related challenges does Horizon Public Health face and how do its employees work together to combat those challenges?

Horizon staff work on many health challenges, but we also compile a community health assessment and work in partnership with our community to identify priorities for action. Our two current priorities are adverse childhood experiences and substance use and abuse. Public Health can’t tackle these problems on our own, but with many community partners committed to working together we can have a significant impact. These priorities were chosen before we were in the midst of a pandemic, but they continue to feel relevant with increased concerns about mental well-being, financial stress, increased substance use and domestic violence. Public Health also has a number of programs and services for pregnant women and young families, health education, environmental health, disease prevention and control, community-based services and case management and Hospice of Douglas County. We have nurses, sanitarians, dieticians, social workers, home health aides and other support personnel all working together to make it all happen.

Q A

Why is it important for a community to have a public health entity; what are the benefits?

Right now the public is focused (and so are we) on COVID-19, but there are many other things that Public Health is involved in that benefit everyone in the community. Safe food, drinking water, clean air, vaccines, improved safety in homes, cars and workplaces have all been accomplished

or improved through a Public Health approach. COVID-19 has made us more aware that there will continue to be serious threats to our health. While there has been so much progress, the reality is that there is still much we don’t know and work to be done. Public Health will continue to work to decrease disease and protect and improve the health of our environment. Good health is important to everyone.

What does being “stronger together” mean to Horizon Public Health and its role in the community?

A key word in Horizon Public Health’s mission statement is partnership. Public Health is something that can’t be accomplished by a governmental agency working in isolation. Everyone has a role in creating a community that supports health and well-being. Individuals, families, businesses, non-profits, other governmental entities, schools, healthcare providers and faith communities are just some of the examples of organizations that all play a role in protecting the health of a community, promoting healthy choices and lifestyles and assuring a healthy environment and opportunities. The pandemic we are experiencing is a great example of the importance of a community being stronger together. Horizon works to bring people together to identify and make a plan that works for the community to address health risks and problems.

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HEALTHCARE

DR. DEB DITTBERNER CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER, ALOMERE HEATH

Being a part of the Alomere Health systems with all of its offerings, what does that mean for your patients? What are the benefits to being part of a larger conglomerate of providers?

Alomere Health is a local county health system that is growing but committed to quality, accessibility and our communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well-being. As we grow and add physicians and providers, it means our family, friends and neighbors can stay closer to home for their care. Our smaller size allows us to be nimble in the rapidly changing field of medicine and healthcare.

With COVID-19 present in our community, how are our healthcare agencies working together to keep our community safe?

Communication and collaboration through virtual meetings. We work sideby-side with Horizon Public

Health, the Alexandria School District, ATCC, our regional city and county leaders, emergency preparedness leaders and business leaders. We have regular meetings where connections and relationships are made. These connections allow for quick phone conversations to exchange ideas, information and assistance between meetings.

What are some challenges within the healthcare industry and how does Alomere Health, as a whole, work together to solve some of the issues?

Many areas of healthcare frequently are challenged with shortages of professionals in all areas. We have worked closely with our community to create and support programs through the high school and ATCC to promote programs and internships in those healthcare specialities. Examples include nursing, pre-medicine, surgical technicians, respiratory therapy to name a few.

Dr. Deb Dittberner, is a family physician at Alomere Health. Although she is an East St. Paul native, she has been practicing medicine in the Alexandria lakes area since 1995. She did her undergraduate work at Gustavus Adolphus College, medical school and family residency at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and her MBA through the University of Texas. Since 2014, she has been the chief medical officer for Alomere Health and prior to that was the medical director and quality improvement director at the Alexandria Clinic. She is an active leader in the Minnesota Hospital Association, the American Hospital Association, the Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians and the Central Minnesota Health Network. She is passionate about population health and spends a majority of her time trying to stay on top of the rapidly changing healthcare environment. As CMO for Alomere, she has taken on community partnerships to achieve goals and resiliency within both the healthcare community and the entire Alexandria lakes area community. PAGE 14 | IMPACT 2020

Since 1880, the Alexandria School District has created and sustained a highly regarded school system within a thriving community. Our students excel in academics and extracurricular activities, we have highly qualified teachers and staﬀ who have a deep passion for what they do, and our community has a heart for our youth. How does Alomere Health encourage team-building within its group of employees?

Teamwork brings safety and quality to the delivery of healthcare. At Alomere Health we live and learn by the values of the nationally recognized program in healthcare safety called TeamSTEPPS (Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety). In my first months as CMO, I became a Master Trainer of TeamSTEPPS, along with two teammates. Over the next six months we proceeded to train each and every employee at Alomere in TeamSTEPPS. All new employees go through TeamSTEPPS orientation. Each department routinely trains in the four key components – Leading Teams, Situation Monitoring, Mutual Support and Communication. Everyone works on a team at Alomere, and teams interact and must have common language and tools. Tools and terms like “huddle,” “debrief,” “hand-off,” “mutual support,” “situation monitoring,” and “checkback” are used routinely at Alomere Health. TeamSTEPPS has improved the care of our family, friends and neighbors and will always be a cornerstone of our safety measures.

How does Alomere Health encourage its employees to get involved within the community? Alomere Health promotes community involvement to support all aspects of the communities we serve. If you go to just about any nonprofit, community improvement group, church council or economic development board, you will most likely find an Alomere Health employee. Here is a small list of the organizations Alomere Health is involved with: Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, Sertoma, Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission, Rotary, Kiwanis, United Way, Habitat for Humanity, DECA, Central Lakes Symphony, Andria Theatre, Lake Brophy County Park and almost every youth sport imaginable. The physicians, nurses and providers I work most closely with have been active in healthcare education as volunteers at the high school and ATCC.

When you think of the words, “Stronger together,” what does that mean to Alomere Health and its role in the healthcare industry?

At Alomere, our mission is “to strengthen and nurture the health and well-being of family, friends,

Dittberner continued on Page 18

Our school district has something for everyone, and that’s the reason We are the A Team. The A-Team represents our exceptional school community that is focused on the following areas: · Excellence in Academics – an innovative, challenging curriculum, that can’t be matched. · Excellence in Activities – numerous opportunities to participate in arts, activities and athletics – we have something for everyone. · Excellence in Attention – a personalized, individual-focused experience. A place where every student is known. · Excellence in Access – exclusive opportunities to learn side-by-side with community business leaders and mentors who are dedicated to partnering with students and who bring realworld experiences into the classroom. From our personalized learning initiative and award-winning fine arts and athletics programs to our focus on individualized pathways for college and career readiness, you will see why Alexandria Public Schools is truly a destination district. Learn more about our schools by visiting www.alexschools.org or calling 320-762-2141. Proudly serving the communities of Alexandria, Carlos, Forada, Garfield, Miltona, Nelson, and

surrounding area townships. IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 15

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PAGE 16 | IMPACT 2020

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Dittberner from Page 15 neighbors and communities through every season of life.” In my role as chief medical officer, the only way to achieve this is with teamwork. Teamwork within our own system, teamwork between other health systems, and teamwork within our community. A successful example would be the Opioid Use and Abuse Reduction Community Task Force. We led a team of community forces to achieve a 60% community reduction in opioid prescribing, a successful Suboxone treatment referral system to prescribing physicians and a deep dive into the curbing social influences that lead to chemical dependencies. Our community work group met monthly to start and still meets quarterly. Members were from all over the community – social services, police and sheriff departments, chemical dependency counselors, education (K-12 school system and college), faith organizations, public health, hospice and other health professionals including dentists and pharmacists. The deep relationships formed will be there for future work on other community challenges. I have now been the CMO since September 2014. I love my job, but know that I can only be successful because of healthy communication and relationships with my Alomere colleagues, outside colleagues and local community leaders. The number of emails, texts and phone calls I make in a day to complete my work reflects those growing and trusted relationships. I know when we lock arms and work together our mission is made possible.

AT ALOMERE, OUR MISSION IS TO ‘STRENGTHEN AND NURTURE THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF FAMILY, FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS AND COMMUNITIES THROUGH EVERY SEASON OF LIFE.’ DEB DITTBERNER Chief Medical Officer, Alomere Health

Motorcycle riders from the Lakes Area chapter of the Harley Owners Group (HOG) drive through the Alomere Health parking lot to honor healthcare workers. PAGE 18 | IMPACT 2020

BUSINESS

The Alexandria and Douglas County area is home to more than 20 employers with 100 or more employees, creating a diversified employer base for the region. Many of the area businesses and companies were started right here. This area is home to many diverse industries including manufacturing, healthcare, service, tourism and retail.

Here are the Top 10 largest employers: Alomere Health – 950 Douglas Machine – 700 Alexandria Public Schools – 606 Knute Nelson – 493 Alexandria Industries – 446

3M – 400 Douglas County – 324 Central Specialties – 300 Arrowwood Resort – 285 Brenton Engineering – 280 Source: Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission www.GreeleyPlumbing.com

Entrepreneurial Opportunities Business Startup Site Selection Financial Assistance & Incentives Area Demographics Workforce Development & Technical Training licia marie photography

320.763.4545 | aaedc@alexmn.org LivingAlexArea.org

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PAGE 20 | IMPACT 2020

Say hello to our growing team. Dr. Skyler Dahlseng Hospitalist

Dr. Emma Erickson Family Medicine

Dr. Allison Juba Family Medicine

Dr. Trista Osantoski Internal Medicine

Did you know? We’ve added six new providers this year to meet the growing needs of our community. If you don’t already have a primary care provider, there has never been a better time to find one. Our providers are committed to getting to know your full-health story, listening to your concerns, and walking with you and your family for years to come. You can read each of their biographies on our website, AlomereHealth.com. Click the “Alexandria Clinic” link at the top right, and then “Find a Provider” on the bottom right navigation. Join us in welcoming our growing family—to serve your family better.

Alomere Health Dr. Amanda Wilson OB/GYN

Alexandria Clinic Osakis Clinic Lakes E.N.T.

Leann Zimny, PA-C Obstetrics

Heartland Orthopedic Specialists

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IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 21

HEALTHCARE

MICHELLE LARSON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, EDGEWOOD VISTA

How has the global pandemic impacted Edgewood, its staff and its residents?

We have had many restrictions, including restricting visitors and restricting the tenants to leave the building, except for medical reasons. For a while, tenants did not have meals in the dining room and did not have group activities. All of the tenants and staff have had to make sacrifices to keep everyone safe. This has truly been a team effort by all of our staff and residents, which has made our community closer, as we rely on each other more.

How has your staff worked together to ensure that residents are safe and taken care of?

The staff have had to be very careful when at work, and in their social lives. Edgewood has policies regarding travel and airplanes per Minnesota Department of Health requirements. Staff are monitored for any change in symptoms each time they work, and have regularly participated in both blood (antibody) test-

ing and PCR testing per MDH requirements. Our staff has gone above and beyond to keep our Edgewood family safe during this pandemic.

Due to COVID-19 and the “lockdown” if you will, with no outside visitors, what fun things have the residents gotten to take part in to keep their spirits up?

Our Life Enrichment department, along with all other departments, have worked very diligently to have some fun things going on. All meals were delivered to apartments, and snacks and happy hour drinks or other beverages were delivered to apartments during the day. A snack cart brings ice cream and other snacks to each apartment after supper. Hallway bingo was played, along with other games, readings, and devotionals brought to the tenant’s apartment. The leadership team came up with some fun holiday activities – on Flag Day, members of the leadership team, along with “Uncle Sam,” handed out bomb pops and flags to each tenant and then marched in the hall to “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”

Michellle Larson is the executive director at Edgewood, a home-like assisted living and memory care facility, in Alexandria. She’s been in that role since the end of September. PAGE 22 | IMPACT 2020

During the coronavirus pandemic, visits at senior care facilities all around the county changed. Visits had to be socially distanced or conversations and music were conducted through window visits. Some tenants loved it so much, they danced in the halls with us. We had clowns go door to door to deliver snacks. The leadership team decorated a three-wheeled bike with balloons and streamers, filled the back with ice cream bars, played circus music and brought ice cream doorto-door like a real neighborhood ice cream truck. National Assisted Living Week was filled with fun snacks, hallway games and dress up days for tenants and staff. National Trail Mix Day had staff dress up like cowboys and tenants were able to create their own trail mix for a snack. We were also able to offer Skype or Zoom calls with families and window visits as well. The pandemic has brought all of us closer and allowed us to learn more about our residents than we ever have before. It is very rewarding to sit and visit with them and learn about their past, families and more.It brightens our day and theirs just to be able to spend time with them.

What can the community do or what has the community done to support Edgewood, its staff and the residents, during the pandemic?

All of the time, but especially through the pandemic, it has been so important that Edgewood follows MDH recommendations for all of our restrictions, testing, symptom monitoring, etc. We understand that some of these restrictions have been difficult for our tenants and family members. We want everyone in the community to know that all of the restrictions we have done, come right from the MDH. We ask that all other healthcare organizations would follow these requirements as well, so that it is fair to all tenants and family members in the community. The community has really been supportive during this time, especially our Edgewood residents and their families. Caring Hands reached out to us and supplied our staff with treats and painted a picture for our tenants. It is these gestures that have helped us all cope and get through these trying times together.

Meet me at the Lake. TM

What are ways Edgewood interacts within the community? GOLF CLUB

Larson continued on Page 24 IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 23

Larson from Page 23

Edgewood Alexandria is one of the main sponsors of the Alzheimer’s walk. We work together with the Alzheimer’s Association to bring Alzheimer’s education to the community, provide support groups and have staff members that are part of the walk committee. Edgewood is a Chamber member, and participates in Chamber activities, such as sponsoring a hole at the Chamber golf tournament and attending the morning Chamber events.

Has Edgewood formed partnerships with businesses, organiza-

tions or individuals within the Alexandria community?

Edgewood has really worked closely with all other healthcare facilities in our area. We really have stuck together through this whole pandemic, offering advice for each other as needed. Alexandria is really a great community to be a part of. Edgewood is really a strong group of residents, families and staff. We are very honored to care for the best people on Earth. It is rewarding to work with them each and every day.

Before mask mandates and full visitor restrictions, residents in senior care facilities could interact with family through window visits.

Healthcare workers at senior care facilities have to check their temperature on a regular basis, along with answering questions regarding health and travel due to COVID-19.

INCOME The median household income level for Douglas County continues to grow at a rapid pace. While the gap is lessening each year behind the State of MN ($65,699), the median household income for Douglas County at $58,667 has surpassed the US ($57,652).

Median household income

Median household income (City of Alexandria) – $46,009 Average household income (Douglas County) – $76,619 Source: Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission PAGE 24 | IMPACT 2020

MUST-SEE Must see sights in the Alexandria area according to Explore Alexandria, Minnesota:

controversial rock is on display at the Lakes L’Homme Dieu, Geneva, Victoria, Kensington Runestone Museum. Cowdry, Jessie, North Union, Taylor, Stony Big Ole: At 28 feet tall, this fiberglass statue and Brophy. stands guard over downtown Alexandria.

Chain of lakes:

Historic downtown:

Central Lakes Trail: Built on an old rail line, the trail spans 55 miles from Fergus Falls to The downtown Alexandria area is teeming Osakis. with lush history and some of the best locally owned shops and restaurants around.

Kensington Runestone:

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EDUCATION

TROY SLADEK PRINCIPAL, ST. MARY’S SCHOOL

When the pandemic hit this past spring, how did staff, administration and parents step up to the plate to ensure students still received a good education?

I am very proud of my staff in how quickly they were able to provide a distance learning experience with very little time to prepare. After only one day of brainstorming, researching and planning, we started our distance learning program and continued until the end of May. The top priority I challenged my staff with was to provide opportunities for “live” learning experiences that would continue to make students feel connected, accountable, build relationships and provide social opportunities for students to interact with their classmates. I did not want our distance learning program to only consist of packets of worksheets and emailed lessons. Each week we listened and

learned from our parent and student feedback, and our program continued to evolve and improve. Teachers and support staff were providing live daily lessons and, if needed, live one-on-one tutoring for those students who needed extra support. We could not have had the success of our distance learning program without the help of the parents. They provided valuable feedback to staff, helped students access virtual lessons and meetings, and set schedules, routines, and expectations that promoted the continuation of learning while at home.

Because of the pandemic, one of your biggest fundraisers of the year had to be modified and held virtually. How was that received by the community and how were they able to still show their support?

The parent committee in charge of planning our

Troy Sladek has been the principal at St. Mary’s School since 2004. A graduate of St. John’s University and St. Mary’s University, he has lived in Alexandria since 1994. He previously worked in the Alexandria School District as an elementary teacher in Miltona and the Dean of Students at Jefferson High School. Thinking about the words, “Stronger Together,” Sladek said when students know their parents and teachers are in collaboration, they understand that school is important. “In order to achieve academic excellence and make the most out of an elementary educational experience, the students, parents and teachers must work together and support one another during the year,” he said. “This mindset has a positive effect on student attitude, effort, behavior and achievement.” He added that a positive experience in elementary school sets the stage for continued success in creating life-long learners. “The students, parents and teachers of St. Mary’s School are stronger together because of a shared accountability in making the most out of each school year and making our school a special place,” he said. PAGE 26 | IMPACT 2020

event, “The Gathering,” did an amazing job making the adjustments to switch from an in-person event to a weeklong virtual event. Their creative ideas provided viewers the opportunities to see student talents, participate in staff trivia and view student projects. Since everything was done online, we had increased participation from family, friends, alumni and supporters from all over the country. The event ended with an hour-long Facebook Live event that highlighted auction and grand prize drawing winners. Our entire community rallied to support our event and despite all the challenges, it raised a record setting amount of money for our school!

Were any new partnerships formed as a result the global pandemic? How have they made an impact on the school?

Over the summer I formed a Reopening Task Force and I was able to secure three local medical professionals from Alomere and Sanford to serve on my team. Their expertise and experience with COVID-19 and COVID-related protocols have been a huge asset to our entire school community. They provided training for

Students throughout the area learn from home through distance-learning models. staff, advised on a safe school set-up and helped advise on quarantine, isolation and learning model decisions. Their partnership has given my entire staff the confidence that we can safely teach students while IN school and if we follow the protocols in place, we can do it without being fearful.

In your time at St. Mary’s, how have you seen students working together to complete a certain project or task?

I have the amazing privilege of being able to see the students in all grades throughout the day, week and year working together to create

projects that support their learning. One of the examples that comes to mind that really exemplifies “Stronger Together” is the production of our 5th and 6th grade Student Theatre Project done in collaboration with the Andria Theatre. Every student in grades 5 and

Sladek continued on Page 28

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Sladek from Page 27 6 play an integral part in the production. The amount of practice, preparation and sacrifice that is required to put on a production is very demanding and intense. The students support one another through this process and as a result, new friendships are formed, there is an appreciation for each others’ gifts, and they get to celebrate by seeing their hard work come to completion with a standing ovation. It is an amazing learning experience that could not happen without the entire group working together. The educational and life lessons learned during this experience are countless.

How does your staff work together to promote the school and all its offerings?

My staff promotes the school by living as true disciples of Christ. Their actions in and out of the classroom proclaim that all life is sacred, and the dignity of the human person is the foundation of the moral vision for our society. They not only serve students on a daily basis, they also work together to provide food, money, support or any other type of assistance for those in need in our community and abroad. Their commitment to educating the whole child within a nurturing Catholic Christian environment is noticed by our school family and this serves as the best promotion

of our school.

How do you see the school growing stronger together in the next 10 years?

Growing up and even to this day, my dad has always spoken and modeled that regardless of the situation, there is always an opportunity and positive that can come from adversity. What I have learned from him over the years is the same optimistic

mindset I shared with the staff at St. Mary’s School during the time of the stay-at-home order and over this past summer when planning our reopening of school. During these difficult times, our entire school community has gone through so much. The staff at St. Mary’s has proven they are up to any challenge and are more than capable of making the very best out of any adversity. Our school families have experienced this first-hand and have shared it with many in our community

as well. Our enrollment is up considerably from last year and we look to continue growing stronger in the years to come. During these difficult times we have proven that St. Mary’s School is a special place and we look forward to sharing it with many more families in the future.

POPULATION

The population of Douglas County continues to grow at a rapid pace and is projected to continue growing into the future. Most significantly, the Douglas County area is projected to maintain and grow its “under 45” age group, who are in their prime working years. The presence of a wide variety of stable and growing employers, along with the lakes, natural environment and excellent education opportunities continue to draw and retain residents of all ages.

Population in Douglas County by age Birth to 19: 8,895 20-44: 10,486 45-64: 9,932 PAGE 28 | IMPACT 2020

65+: 8,651 Douglas County population: 37,964

EDUCATION

Douglas County is home to three public school districts and a number of private education options, serving close to 5,000 students. Each school provides a strong education framework for students as well as providing additional courses and learning possibilities.

Graduation rates: Alexandria – 88% Brandon-Evansville – 90% Osakis – 98%

Douglas County is home to Alexandria Technical and Community College, which is ranked in the Top 10 best community college in the nation, and No. 1 in all Minnesota State institutions for the best graduation rate. The college’s connections to business and industry ensures currency and trade standards in its technical degrees, delivering a highly skilled workforce. ATCC is a member of the Minnesota State system and is currently serving nearly 4,000 students. The ATCC’s Foundation awards more than $386,000 in student support and scholarships each year. Job placement rate for graduates is about 98%, reflecting both the college’s rigorous curriculum and its reputation as an educational leader.

Source: Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission

IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 29

EDUCATION

TEAM FIRST

leads the way in the Brandon-Evansville School District

rent Hintermeister wears several different hats within the Brandon-Evansville School District. He is currently in his fifth year as the Dean of Students and his first year as the activities director.

He has also been the head boys basketball coach for four years and the assistant baseball coach for five years. Hintermeister grew up in Brandon and graduated in 2009 before going off to St. Cloud Technical and Community College where he played on a men’s basketball team. He first graduated with a sales and management degree and then went on to get his bachelor’s degree in special education (academic behavior strategist) and then went on to Minnesota State UniversityMoorhead where he received his masters in K-12 administration. And

OUR STAFF’S CAMERADERIE AND CARE FOR STUDENTS SHOWS IN THE WAY OUR KIDS ACT AND TREAT ONE ANOTHER. TRENT HINTERMEISTER Activities Director, Dean of Students Brandon-Evansville Schools

PAGE 30 | IMPACT 2020

most recently, he earned his principal’s license and will hopefully finish up his other administrative licenses in the near future. Prior to working in the BrandonEvansville School District, Hintermeister worked at Melrose Area Schools for two years. He lives near Brandon with his wife, Lindsay, and will be welcoming his first child due in January. MAKING CONNECTIONS In the B-E School District, there are just shy of 500 students. Hintermeister loves being able to walk down the

hallways and know each student’s’ name. “Having a connection with students is so much easier and can become more personal in smaller districts like ours,” he said. “I think student success goes up when they know you know their name, their interests, where they come from and that the teachers they see every day truly care about them.” Hintermeister said in today’s world, mental health is so important and what could be better as a kid than knowing where you’re going every day that someone is going to know who you are

and do whatever needs to be done to make sure you succeed? TEAM-FIRST ATMOSPHERE Communication can cure many potential problems, according to Hintermeister, who said for better or worse, he enjoys conversation. “I enjoy talking with people and hearing what they need, want, or feel would help our school,” he said. “In all of my roles, it starts with listening and communicating a lot. The more people feel heard, the more they will trust what I do in my day-to-day duties. I feel I get

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his mentee, but to anyone in the district who might need help with something. Each and every day, Hintermeister said there are challenges that no one can predict. He said some events that will happen will make people love what they do, while others will make them feel inadequate. “What’s important is being able and willing to pick someone up when they feel inadequate or like they want to give up,” he said. “That is what makes a team strong and stick together.” WORKING TOGETHER Hintermeister said the B-E superintendent, Don Peschel, deserves a lot of credit. He said Peschel is a great communicator and a very hard worker. He put a lot of time into making sure the community had their say in

Hintermeister continued on Page 33

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Hintermeister from Page 31 what B-E members thought would be best for the district, he said. “Our school board really wanted to come back in full force (during the pandemic) and the community supported that,” said Hintermeister. “Peschel, as well as our new high school principal, Brian Novak, worked with myself and other members in the B-E district to make sure our school was clean, safe and ready for students when school started.” As this year goes on, Hintermeister said there will be many challenges, but he also noted that he wouldn’t want to be working with any other group than the one he gets to work with every day in the B-E School District. He said when he combines the words “Stronger” and “Together” it makes him think of the B-E staff. “Everyday I wake up I am excited to go to work. Our staff is a very tight-knit group of people. We genuinely care about each other and always do what we need to do in order for the students to be the top priority,” he said. “Our staff’s cameraderie and care for students shows in the way our kids act and treat one another. Our kids work together and treat one another with respect. I truly believe what makes B-E so special is how much the teachers care about one another and the students we get to be with everyday.”

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COMMUNITY

IT STRUCK ME THAT THIS WAS SOMETHING WE COULD DO. NOT SELL SIGNS, BUT DONATE THEM TO BUSINESSES, REGARDLESS IF THEY WERE OUR CLIENTS OR NOT. ROBYN SNYDER Owner, Winning Edge Graphics

ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

Winning Edge is a team of dedicated friends working together

obyn Snyder, owner of Winning Edge Graphics, grew up near Barrett. After graduating from Concordia, she lived in several different places. However, when life gave her an opportunity to settle anywhere, she chose Alexandria and has never regretted it. As the owner of Winning Edge since 1997, she bought out her partner to become soul owner. During the last eight years, she has shifted the focus from being just a sign and graphics supplier to a full service visual branding company. She said that American author Napoleon Hill stated it best when he said, “It is literally true that you can succeed best and quickest by helping others succeed.” She said that is what she and her employees strive to do at Winning Edge. “Our goal as a business is to become friends with our clients and help them to succeed,” said Snyder. “Working together, being stronger together.” At Winning Edge, work days begin with a morning huddle. Snyder said they begin with sharing an attitude of gratitude. “Four days a week our team of eight share something we are thankful for, with one day

PAGE 34 | IMPACT 2020

specifically thanking a fellow teammate,” she said. “Midweek is ‘One Word Wednesday.’ For the past two years we have used the ‘One Word That Will Change Your Life’ program from author Jon Gordon.” She said they pick one word that they want to focus on for the year and together on Wednesdays, they each share the power of that word and the impact it is making in their lives – both personally and professionally. During the morning huddles, they also go over the various deadline jobs, assistance needed on projects and more. They end their meetings with a rotating leader sharing a motivational quote and then they all cheer out the business tagline – “We are here to help our clients Stand Out! Get Noticed! Be Remembered! So let’s WOW!” “Since we started doing this routine, we have all noticed how much stronger we are together as a team,” said Snyder. “We are no longer

just fellow employees but a team of dedicated friends working together.” Snyder said that as a small business owner, it is important to her to be active in the community that supports her business. And, she tries hard to lead by example for her team. Winning Edge helps sponsor various events and works with nonprofits offering discounted or donated pricing. As a team, her staff attends events such as the United Way Chili Cook-Off and the Echo Press Bowling to Strike Out Illiteracy tournament. Additionally, each Christmas they ring the Salvation Army Bells and then in the morning huddle, share what that experience was like. Last year, one of her team members shared a story that brought everyone to tears. She shared how a woman who resembled her grandma, even wearing the same scarf design her grandma had worn, entered the store both days she was ringing the bell. “She knew it was a grandma sending her a message that she was proud of her for doing this and something she wouldn’t have done if we, as a team, hadn’t done it

together,” said Snyder. “That’s what makes us stronger together.” This past spring, when COVID-19 hit and restaurants were forced to close their doors, Snyder said her heart broke for those businesses. She was surfing Facebook when she saw an ad from a national company selling signs regarding curbside pick-up availability. “It struck me that this was something we could do. Not sell signs, but donate them to businesses, regardless if they were our clients or not,” she said. “That evening at 10:15 p.m. I posted (on Facebook) we would do exactly that. We offered free signs and banners to any restaurant in a 30-mile or so radius of Alexandria. Within a few days, our team worked with over 40 restaurants to supply them with just the right signs or banners for their location. But, I truly believe we got in return much more than we gave.” Snyder said each morning, her team would share stories of the appreciation and love they received. She said that single post of offering

Snyder continued on Page 36

Throughout the pandemic, Inspirational messages could be found on signs at businesses or even on doors of residents.

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IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 35

Snyder from Page 35 signs was shared 315 times and it received more than 29,000 views. “We were giving, but we received so much more in return. That is the power of being stronger together,” she said. Currently, Snyder serves on the board of directors for the Douglas County Car Care Program. She said it is an amazing organization that involves people donating cars, volunteers

working to fix them, a team of people who teach recipients how to budget, get insurance and take care of simple maintenance tasks of owning a car so that they can get to work and take care of their family needs. “Talk about an organization that is stronger together,” she said. “It’s definitely a team effort.” She is also the current president of

the Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors. As she chose her theme for the year, she had no idea just how much everyone would need to hear her theme – “Be positive, do positive” – throughout all of 2020. “If we do nothing else but encourage each other to smile, even when we don’t really feel like it, we can be stronger, more positive, together,” she said. “Even masked up, a genuine smile can make it to your eyes!” As a community, Snyder said there are so many little things that can be done to promote being stronger together, including the following: ·Know the facts before you cast judgement. ·Be respectful of others and our community on social media. ·Hold the door open for someone. ·Pick up that piece of trash instead of walking by it. ·Return your shopping cart. ·Let someone into your lane. ·Spend your money in your hometown whenever possible. ·Be proud of your town and only speak good things about it.

IF WE DO NOTHING ELSE BUT ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER TO SMILE, EVEN WHEN WE DON’T REALLY FEEL LIKE IT, WE CAN BE STRONGER, MORE POSITIVE, TOGETHER. ROBYN SNYDER Owner, Winning Edge Graphics

·Share your positive attitude EVERYWHERE you go. She shared one last quote that comes from Mother Teresa – “None of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things, with great love, and together we can do something wonderful.”

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WORKFORCE

The Alexandria area workforce is made up of approximately 21,600 individuals who live throughout Douglas County and the surrounding region. Local employers draw approximately 18,744 workers from throughout the region to the area. These individuals not only work in the Alexandria area, but they often shop and receive services here as well. The impact of these regional customers on the local shopping market has allowed for the Alexandria area to sustain businesses that would not normally be able to survive in a community of its size. Douglas County is a net importer of labor, meaning it brings in more people than it sends out.

Douglas County residents make up 66.5% of the workforce

The average commute time for workers in Douglas County is 18 minutes, which is lower than the Minnesota average of 24 minutes.

Source: Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission

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COMMUNITY

POWER IN NUMBERS

Helping Hands fills urgent needs in community

elping Hands of Alexandria was started by two Alexandria women who felt they were called to help the community during the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Back in March, Nattiel Dammer, manager of the local Aldi grocery store, received a call from an employee stating something was happening in the store and people were coming through with multiple carts and whipping out shelves, buying in bulk. The next morning when she got to the store, the sight was something to behold. “Seeing the store our staff valued so much be so empty and out of our control was devastating,” said Dammer. “I still did not know what was going on. The chaos continued when we opened on Friday, and by the time I got home

WHEN I THINK OF THE PHRASE, ‘STRONGER TOGETHER,’ I THINK OF THE POWER IN NUMBERS AND THE STRENGTH IN COMMUNITY. KELSI TIMM Founder, Helping Hands of Alexandria

PAGE 38 | IMPACT 2020

that night, I did not want to talk to anyone. Something was different and I did not understand it. I felt extremely depressed and helpless at what was happening.” She said this was the start of the coronavirus pandemic in the Alexandria lakes area. Kelsi Timm was supposed to go on a trip up north for a creative girls’ weekend but the trip was postponed due to COVID-19. The Friday she was supposed to go, she read an article about a couple that started a Facebook group to help people who needed to stay inside due to health concerns or

fear due to COVID-19. She loved the idea but didn’t give it much thought. The next morning, while out and about she kept daydreaming and the concept of that group kept coming back in her mind over and over again. “I prayed and asked if God wanted me to start a group for Alexandria, and I immediately heard, ‘Helping Hands,’ ” said Timm, who added that she reached out to women in her Bible study group and asked if they wanted to help. A couple of people in the group said yes. After an hour, she felt peace and a sense of urgency to form a group on Facebook.

“Nattiel jumped right in from day one and has been with every step of the way,” said Timm. “I guess God had a different creative plan for me that weekend.” Dammer said Timm reached out to her and told her about being led to start the Facebook group. She said Timm proposed they help people who needed to get groceries but could not leave their houses. “I needed something to give me hope and pull me out of how I was feeling. I told her I was in,” said Dammer, who added that the next day, she made the very first post on the group’s

new Facebook page, Helping Hands of Alexandria. The post was a picture of a woman who received German jaffa cakes by a volunteer. The cakes were a request because the woman and her husband, who had passed away, used to eat them when he was alive. “The post blew up and within 24 hours we had over 800 followers,” said Dammer. “We began hand printing cards and handing them out to nursing homes and out in public to people, offering our help and asking them to call us if we could help them as we all began this pandemic together.” The group now boasts more than 5,300 members. STRENGTH IN COMMUNITY Both women feel a strong and deep sense of gratefulness toward all the community members who have stepped up to the plate to help in their effort. They never expected to have more than 5,000 followers backing the organization they created. “When I think of the phrase, ‘Stronger together’ I think of the power in numbers and the strength in community,” said Timm. “We are created to be in a community with one another. When people work toward the same goal and

vision, change and results are bound to happen.” Dammer said that when a need arises, within minutes they see people from the community stepping in to be there to help someone in need. She has developed personal relationships with people she’s never met as they tell her their stories over the internet. There are times, she said, that the same people in need one day are the ones volunteering the next day to pay it forward. “Without the thousands of people serving, financially donating, etc., we would never be able to provide the amount of blessings we do,” said Dammer. “I have a sign I had made for my front porch that reads, ‘As the world came together, the people stayed apart.’ I like to believe that, together, we are Alexandria strong.” COMMUNITY OF HOPE SHARERS Timm and Dammer are both thankful for all the community support during what they said has been a crazy year. Dammer said the reason Helping Hands has become so successful and such a joy to the community is because positivity and goodness are ultimately

Hands continued on Page 40

Hands from Page 39 what people are seeking right now and from the time the pandemic began. With all the negativity, she believes people appreciate being able to scroll through social media and see the positive and inspiring posts on the Helping Hands page. “Our souls need to be fed with goodness and that is what this community has helped us provide through Helping Hands,” she said. Timm said she thanks the community for rallying around Helping Hands’ mission and for truly being the “hands and feet of Jesus in this season.” She said what started out as bringing a solution to a problem turned into a community of hope sharers. “This group has been so life-giving. It has proven there are still so many kind and generous people in this community. As we pour out, God has been faithful to replenish the supply – volunteers, financial donations and/or donated items,” she said. “Alexandria is truly a one-of-a-kind community. I’m so thankful that I get to call Alexandria home.” The Helping Hands group helped coordinate drive-by birthdays, like the one for Woody Schwarze, who was sad that the coronavirus pandemic ruined his plans to go out to eat for his birthday.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS Since day one, Timm said she has been praying about what has been on God’s heart for the group and how long he wants it to keep running. She never imagined the group would still be thriving this long. “When I finish praying about it, his peace washes over me, so I know that he has more to do with this group,” she said. “Until I hear him tell me to stop, we will continue doing what we are doing. I am a dreamer by nature, so a pipe dream would be to see different chapters around the state and even further down the road, chapters across the USA doing what we are doing here in Alexandria.” Dammer feels the same way and said that they are following the lead of the Holy Spirit in regard to what the future holds for Helping Hands. She said they have had many meetings and conversations with people in the community who have helped provide guidance and prayer. “We do not have a definite answer at this time, but do have plans to continue serving and ministering to our community,” said Dammer.

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PAGE 40 | IMPACT 2020

MASKS ARE A COMMUNITY EFFORT Many people were involved in making masks for the whole community after a mask mandate was put in place by the governor to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The Helping Hands of Alexandria group first started the effort earlier in the year with many people throughout the community helping to make masks. From youth to senior citizens, hundreds of community members dug in and began sewing masks. Eventually, a new group took over the effort, Alexandria MN Community Face Mask Project. Between the two groups, thousands of masks were distributed throughout the community. The Alexandria MN Community Face Mask Project is still up and running, but are now making masks on an as-needed basis. Both groups can be found on Facebook.

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TOURISM

LYNN JENC

PRESIDENT-ELECT, ALEXANDRIA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Have you witnessed any businesses or seen any examples of businesses working together in the Alexandria lakes area to help promote it as a great place to not only visit, but to also work, live and prosper?

supplies so businesses could reopen, and sharing of information and resources so everyone was compliant. It has been a stressful time, but it is much more manageable when everyone works together.

One of the reasons the Alexandria area has thrived is because our business community understands the importance of working together. There tends to be more of a spirit of collaboration than there is of competition, and that is so important. However, it is often during challenging times that these collaborations become more visible. For example, when the fire destroyed some of our downtown businesses, other businesses were donating items for the displaced residents, food and water for the workers, and even rent-free retail space for the dislocated businesses. Many other examples have been evident with COVID-19 – the city and businesses working together with their neighbors to allow for outdoor seating options for restaurants, sharing of PPE

Alexandria is not only trying to recover from a fire but also the pandemic. How would you describe the mood of the Chamber members as they work through these trying times?

No question, we have all been tested, professionally and personally, during these trying times yet I see our community continue to support each other and trudge forward. So many adjectives come to mind when I think about our community over the last year – resilient, hopeful, supportive, caring, strong and grit.

During this global pandemic, how does the Chamber staff ensure those wanting to visit the lakes area that it is now safe to do so?

Lynn Jenc is the Community Education director for Alexandria Public Schools. She is also the president-elect for the Alexandria Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. She actually started her Chamber involvement at the Sauk Centre Chamber of Commerce while in high school and absolutely loved it. She continued her involvement in various Chambers throughout college and her career paths afterward. Her work in Community Education began in the Willmar School District and then later, she also worked in the Albany School District. She has served on the board of directors and was a past president for the Minnesota Community Education Association and National Network for Community Education. And throughout the years she has been or is currently involved in Business and Professional Women, Lakes Area Business and Professional Women, Lion’s Club, Jaycees and church and has various other volunteer and community opportunities. PAGE 42 | IMPACT 2020

The chamber team – Tara Bitzan, Lauren Johnson, Jess Ptacek and Katie DeGier – continue to support and encourage individuals to visit and potentially to relocate to Alexandria. Via website, phone, email or face to face communication, their encouraging words and suggestions of lodging, things to do or calendar of events offer comfort. COVID or not, we are a vibrant community filled with positivity and multiple hallmarks of pride.

Q A

What are the board’s strategies for increasing Chamber membership?

In a time when many chambers are struggling to maintain membership, we are pleased to continue to grow. We know and recognize this has been a financial struggle for many of our business, which in essence, impacts our entire community. The board and chamber team are continually asking members and non-members what support they need. Continually listening, learning, offering resources and assistance when and where needed.

Q A

How is the membership today compared to the last five years?

Chamber membership has been steadily growing over the past five years. We

Jenc continued on Page 44

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Jenc from Page 43 are currently at about 610 members, which is high when compared to other communities our size throughout the state. Again, that equates to the strong understanding our community has on the importance of collaborations.

What impact has the coronavirus had on the Chamber and how has the board and its members worked through it?

The greatest impact to the Chamber is the impact to our

members. The Chamber’s job is to support its members and help them be successful. When COVID-19 hit, we shifted our services to fit the needs of our members. They needed PPE supplies, we made PPE supplies available to them. They needed information on protocols, financial assistance, executive orders, etc., we provided them with accurate, up-to-date information. The Chamber phone never stopped ringing during the shut down, and our team continued doing what they always do – work tirelessly to connect members

with the answers and resources they needed.

When you think of the words, “Stronger Together,” how does it relate to you in your role on the Chamber board and personally as a community member?

Stronger Together! Personally and professionally, we cannot exist alone. When a business thrives or closes, it affects everyone in our community. We rely on each other.

As an employee of Alexandria Public Schools, “Stronger Together” is a true reality. We know a thriving community equals an extraordinary school district. I am continually amazed at the tremendous support system in our community. Our school district cannot exist in isolation. We rely on our partnerships, volunteers and financial support. Whether it’s in the high school through our academy model or volunteers through our lunch buddy program, we are an extraordinary school district by working together.

WE KNOW A THRIVING COMMUNITY EQUALS AN EXTRAORDINARY SCHOOL DISTRICT. LYNN JENC President-Elect, Alexadria Area Chamber of Commerce

PAGE 44 | IMPACT 2020

PARKS & RECREATION

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Douglas County boasts: more than 350 lakes, 110 miles of trails and more than 20 local parks, including the following county parks: Kensington Runestone Park (380 acres) Spruce Hill Park (87 acres) Lake Brophy Wayside (7.3 acres) Chippewa Park (34 acres) Curtis A.Felt Park (6 acres)

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FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY/RETAIL

KENT KOPP OWNER, PIKE & PINT GRILL

When COVID-19 happened (and is continuing to make an impact), you were at the forefront of bringing restaurants in this area together on a united front. Why?

When Covid showed up on the horizon, we hosted many of our area restaurant owners and managers in a Q&A session with local public health officials. The goal was to share knowledge and game plan how to safely serve our guests as a group. Through that process many of us have kept in touch to share ideas and even help each other out during these trying times. Strong friendships have grown and many of us now work to not only grow our own restaurant concepts, but also to strengthen the local restaurant industry so that more and more people come to visit our area. We all want a bigger piece of the pie, but we understand that we all can pitch in to make the pie bigger too!

What spurred that process was talking to my public health representative (Doug Breitkreutz) and it sounded like he was having multiple conversations a day with restaurant people. I offered to host a meeting so he could get us all the info at once. As we all asked different questions, we realized that we were all receiving more information than we would in a one-on-one setting. From there, an email chain emerged and we all shared info on lots of topics.

When a crisis like this happens, why is it important to stand together instead of going at it individually? What kind of impact does it make?

It is natural to focus on your own problems and solutions in a time like this. However, by banding together and sharing knowledge, we create a united front. In this situation, we quickly got a lot of “buy in” from area restaurants that we all

Kent Kopp and his wife, Rita, own and operate Pike and Pint Grill in Alexandria. The restaurant opened about five-and-a-half years ago. Kopp has 40 years experience in the restaurant business. When he was 12, he began working at his parents’ small town restaurant in Harris, Minnesota. His experience in the industry spans a myriad of small, independent restaurants as well as larger chain operators. “I think this experience has benefited me greatly with a well-rounded knowledge of the business,” said Kopp. PAGE 46 | IMPACT 2020

needed to be very focused on keeping our guests and employees safe and protecting our reputation as a group in this community. We felt it would have been detrimental to have 30 different restaurants taking 30 different approaches to public safety. It could be confusing to our guests and could hurt all restaurants in the area. So, I would say our collective efforts have had a huge impact. There are so many shining examples in this town of people working together for the greater good. Helping Hands of Alexandria is a group I admire as they have been such a positive message for all of us. I could list 30 more examples of other groups or efforts and that is what makes this community so amazing.

What was the financial impact to the restaurant industry and can it or how will it make a comeback?

When we were all take-out only, it was brutal financially. Some restaurants closed completely through the shutdown and did not open until the dining rooms became 50% capacity. We lost Doolittles, which was a favorite stop for many area residents. Fortunately, the federal PPP loans helped most of us stay afloat during that time. This summer, many of us have been able to add on to our patio seating which has helped us achieve similar sales as last year. However, some restaurants did not have that option. So some are doing ok, and some are really suffering. The recent Douglas County Cares

Act grants will help many of us gain some security as we enter fall and winter. There is genuine concern that with patio weather soon to be gone, it will be much harder to do enough business to stay financially stable. The Cares Act grants will help many of us survive those coming months. I think in this area, we will see a really nice comeback once the virus

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What can the community do to support area restaurants?

Kopp continued on Page 50

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FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY/RETAIL

ADAM GRAF/ DAVE GIBBONS OWNERS, COPPER TRAIL BREWING COMPANY

What does it mean to be a part of the Alexandria lakes area community?

It truly is an extended family. Being a part of the area is extremely gratifying when seeing the work we do affect so many people. Little things we do make a big impact. It’s fun going out when you can run into a half a dozen people you know. Alexandria is close knit and has that small town comfort.

It’s been a tough year for the food, entertainment and establishment industry due to COVID-19. How can the community show their support; what can they do? How can the community rally around these businesses?

Choosing to shop and support local businesses would be the best way, but also spreading the word about your favorite places to go. When someone comes to visit from out of town, they know they can have many excellent choices in entertainment even with times being different than what we are all used to. Being respectful of businesses and their policies is another great way to show support – this wasn’t their choice, so being compassionate and understanding to that goes a long way to not only the businesses, but also their staff.

What impact did COVID-19 have on your industry and both of you professionally and personally? How do you rise above and come out stronger on the other end?

Dave Gibbons and Adam Graf opened Copper Trail Brewing Company in December 2016. It is Alexandria’s first brewery in more than 70 years. The 2005 Alexandria graduates work well together because of their unique and different backgrounds – Graf is a problem solver and the creative one and Gibbons has a business sense and a background in construction. The one commonality is they both have a love of beer. PAGE 48 | IMPACT 2020

It was an exciting thought to be coming into our first summer downtown, and once this hit it definitely scaled back that excitement. There was a huge level of stress added on to daily operations, as we had to shift our business model almost overnight to one that is highly dependent on offsale. Seeing the community support throughout the shutdowns was a great thing to boost morale, but overall it was a huge strain physically and mentally with the unknowns of what the future would hold.

During the pandemic, Copper Trail stepped up to the plate to help make sanitizer. Why was it important for your business to become involved?

We have tried to help our community wherever possible since the start, and this was just another example of that. It seemed like the right thing to do. The timing was also right for us, as we had open tanks available to be utilized, and Ida Graves was a huge driver of the project.

Let’s talk about collaboration. Copper Trail partners with other area businesses, such as food trucks, bakers, chefs, musicians, etc. Why is it important to work with other businesses in the area and collaborate together?

Because we are all stronger together! Collaborating is the best way of supporting each other, and you get a bigger synergy when doing so. It also allows everyone involved to provide more diverse options than any of us could do on our own. We can’t do everything, but everyone can do something.

Do you incorporate team building into your business? If so, what does it do for your employees and what does it do for your business in general?

Yes. At least once a month we all get together off hours. Most of the time there’s some business we talk about, but in general there is a lot of socializing, sharing stories and en-

Copper Trail continued on Page 50

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Copper Trail from Page 49 joying each other’s company. Afterhour get-togethers are much more relaxed than official business meetings, which makes for a fun family-like culture when it comes back to the normal grind of everyday activities.

When you think of the words “Stronger Together,” how does that apply to Copper Trail Brewing Company? And what does it mean to you both individually?

When everyone has the same goal in mind, it makes everything easier. For us, we try to be very com-

munity driven. For the community, they have been amazing in supporting us in return. This of course makes everyone stronger. On the personal side, it’s the same mentality – people supporting people whenever possible. Copper Trail is a direct reflection of both of our values. We would like to extend a thank you on behalf of every industry and business struggling right now to the people that continue to support in any way possible. Small things might not seem important, but every little bit makes a huge impact. Enjoy the Journey, regardless of which path you are on.

Continue to dine in if you feel safe doing so. Continue to order take-out from your favorite restaurants. The community has been incredible the past six months, so they are already doing their part. As a group, we hope this support can continue through the winter months. Lastly, please be patient and kind regarding the restrictions that we are under. We don’t make the rules, we follow them. We are trying to keep everyone safe. We know it is frustrating for many people and that there is a general weariness of people sick and tired of 2020. We understand that. However, as restaurant operators we will continue to do everything we can to keep our facilities safe for everyone.

For your restaurant, how do you promote community involvement with your employees? Do you feel it is important to have community involvement?

When I speak at the local high school and tech college about marketing, community involvement

is a key topic. We do a lot of fun projects and fundraisers with different community entities. With my employees I just let them know why it is important and how it not only benefits Pike and Pint (and our employees) in the long run, but also makes our community a better place to live and prosper. I think it is awesome that on any given night I know a vast majority of our guests personally and we do mutual welfare checks on each other during times like this. It is a very unique community in that fashion and I absolutely love it.

Do you incorporate team building into business? If so, why? What does it do for your employees?

For us, teamwork is not a buzzword, but an expectation. We are constantly talking about it. We get buy-in from our staff as they understand that working together, we can do so much more than focusing on just our own wants and needs.

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REAL ESTATE

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IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 51

FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY/RETAIL

PATTY DUSING BOARD MEMBER, DOWNTOWN MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION

It has not been a great year for downtown businesses – first a fire, then the coronavirus pandemic. How has the Downtowners group helped businesses stay connected or united?

eral membership meetings and board meetings needed to go on, businesses needed to figure out how to survive while executive orders were for everyone to stay home. The challenges were immense and unprecedented.

Tragedies and hardships tend to bring people together. In difficult times it is even more important that leadership find ways to build momentum and turn the focus toward supporting and uplifting each other and overcoming the difficulties at hand. For the Downtown Merchants Association, that meant digging deep and shifting the way things had always been done to finding what would work in what is possibly the most uncertain times downtown has ever had to face. The board of directors is a tight-knit group and staying connected and in close communication was critical. New strategies needed to be developed, and navigating through the storms required thinking outside the box. Monthly gen-

What does community support mean to the downtown businesses, especially this year? How important is it?

It’s critical to the survival of downtown Alexandria. Without local support, it simply would not be possible for most businesses to continue. We saw the community really come forward in support of downtown in unprecedented ways as well. The community knew our downtown was/is in troubled times, and came out to offer assistance, asking; “What can we do to help?”

What is being done to rebuild the downtown area after the devastating fire?

Patty Dusing serves on the board of directors for the Downtown Merchants Association. She has also owned a business downtown, Trend and Couture and Deja Bleu, a boutique and coffee shop in downtown Alexandria, since 2016. She works at Sanford Clinic as a senior clinical informatics analyst and is a member of the Sanford Alexandria Leadership Team. She has worked at the clinic since 2002, first as a LPN and for the past nine years as an analyst. Over the course of the past four years, she has served on numerous committees for the Downtown Merchants Association and is currently serving with the Marketing and Events committees. She writes a column for the Echo Press and for other publications on behalf of the Downtown Merchants Association. PAGE 52 | IMPACT 2020

I think right now, the focus is to hold steady. There are still uncharted waters ahead of us and the long nights of winter. We look to the future with anticipation and hopes of coming back stronger than ever, but we’re not there yet.

Q A

What can the community do to show their support for the downtown area?

We often are asked, “How are things going?” And admittedly, many people, when things are going well, don’t always really think about how things are going for the downtown area. Until, it is threatened. People don’t want to see our downtown dwindle down as it has in so many other communities. I think just being mindful and watching and participating in the many events and activities that take place can make all the difference.

What kind of financial impact has there been to the businesses since the fire and now COVID-19?

It really did start with the fire at the end of February. Downtown was like a ghost town with many wonderful stores and restaurants decimated and others experiencing smoke damage that closed many doors for days and weeks. Things were just starting to get back to somewhat of a new normal, and COVID-19 hit, along with executive orders to close stores, salons and restaurants. It was quite a blow, and still some businesses are struggling to

hold on. Most reports are that with the orders still in place, business is still down a considerable amount. The winter months have always been challenging, and due to the slower summer, there is great cause for concern for many businesses.

What other challenges do the businesses face and how do they work together to combat those issues?

One of the biggest challenges is competing with online shopping. Coronavirus and the stay-at-home orders, along with the ongoing executive orders limiting patrons in establishments presents huge challenges. Downtown Merchants Association’s greatest challenge is to put everyones’ minds together to come up with ideas, events, etc.

Dusing continued on Page 54

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Dusing from Page 53 that can help draw shoppers and consumers to the downtown businesses. Committee members meet regularly adhering to executive orders – masks, social distancing, even using Zoom to meet – to brainstorm ideas and plan events and activities.

Q A

How have the downtown businesses grown together in the past year?

The challenges are such that no one could survive them “going it alone.” Competitiveness has to take a back seat to surviving through the challenges that small businesses are facing. This brings a cameraderie and strength that is required to have any hope for getting through. Seeing the despair in the eyes of those who lost businesses in the fire motivates others to lend a helping hand and to drive even harder to keep what is so dear to them, alive and thriving.

What makes the downtown Alexandria area so great? What does it have to offer and why should people spend time there?

I think the biggest thing downtown Alexandria has to offer is that the business owners do what they do because they love it. That brings with it an energy and an emotion that you certainly can’t get online or in the big box stores. It’s the smiles, the connections, the joy that comes from people sharing what they are passionate about, and seeing the smile it brings to the people who come in and experience a piece of that same feeling.

PAGE 54 | IMPACT 2020

BUSINESS

Top industries and employment: Education and health – 4,725 Trade, transportation and utilities – 4,087 Manufacturing – 3,577 Hospitality – 2,068 Professional services – 897

Construction – 865 Financial services – 748 Public administration – 679 Information – 213 Natural resources – 98

Source: Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission

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EMERGENCY SERVICES

JEFF KARROW ALEXANDRIA FIRE CHIEF

Using five words or less, describe the Alexandria Fire Department.

Professional. Dedicated. Role Models. Fully involved.

Q ant?

How often do firefighters train and why is it import-

The Alexandria Fire Department firefighters train every single Monday night from about 6 to 9 p.m. They start to filter in around 4:30 p.m., will shoot the breeze for a bit and then we “break bread” and eat around 5:30 p.m. At 6 p.m. the bell rings and any housekeeping items are discussed and details about the training for the evening are provided. We are required by NFPA, ISO and EMR to hit certain hours and topics. We also have fun nights because laughter is good. One of our favorites was at Casey’s Amuse-

ment Park. The firefighters got to race around the go-kart track with an added little competition. You would not think these firefighters are competitive, but when there is a hunk of plastic in the form of a trophy that says Go-Kart Champion on it, some may get a little competitive. It’s a hoot. Some even wear special “outfits” or “costumes,” which is a great stress reliever and brings lots of laughter, which is good.

What impact did the downtown fire have on your department? How did your crew grow and learn from that experience?

I would venture to guess that most cities that have a flourishing downtown have a fire department that preplans for a downtown fire, hoping to never have to use it. I would say that yearly our fire department for as long as I can remember has done some type of downtown preplanning and training

Jeff Karrow, Alexandria Fire Chief, heads up a department of 31 volunteer firefighters. The department covers 135 square miles and responds to more than 200 calls per year. Karrow took the oath to become a firefighter in July 1993. Since that time, he has held various positions. After former Alexandria Fire Marshal Dennis Stark retired, Karrow, who was elected fire chief in 2009, was hired in the fall of 2015 as the first full-time career fire chief for the Alexandria Fire Department. PAGE 56 | IMPACT 2020

– building construction, alleys, access, utilities, water supply, etc. You can never plan for the exact event, but you can think about what an action plan would be. The downtown fire had many layers to it – working with really good community partners, rescues, suppression, water supply, rehab, logistics, investigations, Red Cross, Emergency Management, Messaging and Public Information, traffic control, staging, politics and more. Typically, we use an Incident Command System and we fill those roles and tasks internally. On this call, many roles needed to be filled. We have trained with our community partners and we implemented what is called a Unified Command System that includes a fire command, law command, EMS command and Emergency Management command. As far as growth and impact go, we used the Unified Command at an actual incident versus at just a tabletop discussion and so there were a little bit of lessons learned – truck placement, water supply and accountability (there were about 90 firefighters on scene), to name a few. We felt really good about our response and what we were able to accomplish and stop the fire where we did. There were many Plan A, Plan B and input from other county fire departments to achieve this.

How does mutual aid work for fire departments within Douglas County and surrounding counties?

Dispatchers will page a fire department to an incident. The responding fire chief or officer, depending on the type and size of the call, may request dispatchers to page one or more other departments for additional services, such as manpower, water supply, aerial ladder truck, etc. Homeowners

cannot request it; the request must come from a chief or officer. Mutual aid allows the best customer service from the fire departments and also a safe scene for the firefighters.

Karrow continued on Page 58

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Karrow from Page 57

Q A

Why are mutual aid agreements so important?

Mutual aid agreements are important because it allows the use of many resources in the county to assist. There are approximately 237 volunteer firefighters throughout the county. The fire departments do not charge each other for services. The Douglas County fire departments have a standardized fee schedule, which would be used for FEMA declared disasters. The Douglas County Fire Chiefs Association meets quarterly and each department provides a list of equipment, personnel and contact information to all the area fire departments.

What does the support of the community mean to the fire department? How can communities support fire departments?

This is something I have preached about for years. The communities of Douglas County and the City of Alexandria are so good to their fire-

fighters, law enforcement, EMS and first responders. I dare say that sometimes, it feels like we are on an island when we hear of other counties and their agencies that are bickering. We really are blessed, all of us. This community is unbelievable when it comes to rallying around the Alexandria Fire Department, county fire departments, law enforcement and EMS. And even the businesses that are affected and community members who are affected by tragedies support us. Almost all firefighters will tell you that they are just doing their job, that they took an oath and they don’t need any special accolades. They are also not doing it for the money. Most will tell you it is being part of something bigger than themselves is why they do it. Currently, there is a community group – C3: Community Caring for Caregivers – that is working with a gamut of fire, law, EMS, health service providers and more to provide resources, mental health support, speakers and more.

Lastly, when you think of the words, “Stronger Together,” and you think back to the downtown fire, what comes to mind?

I was thinking about this the other day and the first thing that comes to mind is how this team – the Alexandria Fire Department – comes together on scenes and excels as a group, especially at the larger incidents or the more stressful ones, like the downtown fire. These firefighters are such an amazing and talented group of individuals who come together as a team. I’m just thankful to be along for the ride! There is such an incredible bond or kinship among these firefighters. They have an unwritten trust in each other when they take the oath that is only strengthened through training and calls. It also seems that every generation of firefighters has that “one big call” and it in a way defines that group. Some examples are the downtown Alexandria, SunOpta, Northern Waste, Blakes by the Lakes, the Magellan tanks, Hakes Variety. You could ask the retirees and they most likely will echo these thoughts. To date, there have been 519 men and women since 1883 who have taken the oath to serve this community. In a way, 519 individuals were handpicked/chosen/called upon to serve this community – to be stronger together.

PAGE 58 | IMPACT 2020

THIS COMMUNITY IS UNBELIEVABLE WHEN IT COMES TO RALLYING AROUND THE ALEXANDRIA FIRE DEPARTMENT, COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENTS, LAW ENFORCEMENT AND EMS. JEFF KARROW Alexandria Fire Chief

IMPACT 2020 | PAGE 59

EMERGENCY SERVICES

JULIE ANDERSON DIRECTOR, DOUGLAS COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT/ PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

What do you do as the emergency management director and PIO?

As emergency management director, I, along with Deputy Director Mark McCabe, work with cities, townships, churches, schools, nonprofits, private businesses and county agencies and officials to prepare for, respond to and recover from all major events that could negatively impact our county. This primarily includes severe weather and incidents that would require evacuation or shelter in place. We maintain the county Emergency Operations Plan, FEMA-required Hazard Mitigation Plan and Continuity of Operations Plan and we host various training and exercises so our Douglas County community stakeholders are better prepared. I also make it a priority to connect with a wide variety of people in Douglas County to help them understand the importance of being prepared at home, at work and at school.

The red “I’m Prepared” bag we hand out at events across the county have been a big hit. Residents use it for their emergency supply kit. I hope to have more to offer at events in the future. As public information officer, my job is to assist the county with messaging for all its departments, as well as the county board. I write articles for our website, post on social media, send news releases and photos to local media, answer phone calls from reporters and would organize a news conference if needed.

What are the benefits of having a public information officer within a community? How can the PIO help the community stay informed?

In non-emergency times, a public information officer can generate positive stories about the many services the county provides. During a crisis,

Julie Anderson is the Douglas County Emergency Management director and the public information officer. She was hired part-time in October 2017 and then became full-time in January 2019. She is a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a degree in broadcast journalism. Her first job was at KCMT-TV in Alexandria as a news producer and weekend reporter. For the next 20-plus years, she was a journalist in Duluth, Green Bay and the Twin Cities metro area where she worked for WCCO, KSTP and Fox9. In 2011, she changed career paths and became a public information officer for the Minnesota Department of Public Safety where she worked with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. “Eventually, I earned my state emergency management certificate and was fortunate enough to be hired for a newly created position at Douglas County that combined both skill sets,” said Anderson. PAGE 60 | IMPACT 2020

I work side-by-side with the incident commander and can quickly compose life safety updates to keep the public informed. I can share that directly through CodeRED and other sources, but equally important, I can share that information with the media. I know our residents and visitors are safer because of our teamwork. Following a crisis, I would work with county board members and community leaders to keep members of the public informed on how the clean up process works, where to go for various kinds of assistance and how to volunteer to help neighbors and others in need.

With COVID-19 present in our community, what is your role as the director of emergency management in helping to keep our community safety?

Public Health is the lead agency during a pandemic. My job as emergency manager is to support them. Douglas County is one of five counties that make up Horizon Public Health. Together, one of the first things we did in Douglas County was establish communication. We created a weekly conference call with healthcare, schools, law enforcement, long term care facilities, city leaders, and other stakeholders so we could work together to navigate the challenges this virus presents. When time is of the essence, sharing ideas and resources helps us all solve problems more quickly and that keeps our community safer. We also created a separate virtual meeting where public information officers/commu-

nications directors could, on a local level, speak with one voice to provide information that would allow our community members to make the best choices to protect themselves and others. As emergency manager, I also activated the county Emergency Operations Center (EOC). A procedure done in conjunction with County Board Chair Keith

Englund. The EOC provided logistics services. That means getting stuff from here to there. For example, when the State Emergency Operations Center sent supplies like sanitizer, paper masks, face shields and other personal protective equipment, we distributed it across the county to help keep people safe.

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Anderson from Page 61

You became an integral part of mask distribution for our community. Why was that important to you, both personally and professionally?

The amazing work done by the men and women who created cloth masks here in Douglas County at the start of the pandemic impressed me immensely. Helping Hands of Alexandria stitched together a tapestry of dedication we should all be proud of. It was my privilege to assist in this effort. I know people face adversity stronger together and when they have a tool to fight, it makes them even more powerful. Masks are a tool to conquer COVID-19, but in the beginning they were hard to come by. Helping Hands organizers managed to get impossible-to-find elastic and convince people to dig in their attics and closets for fabric, bring it to Calvary Lutheran Church and then cut and sew thousands of masks. I wanted to take some of the burden off the volunteers, so I offered to help distribute completed masks. I also knew the more masks the better, so in our Emergency Operations Center we sewed as many masks as we could. Douglas County employees also helped by sewing in the evenings and on weekends. Distributing the masks fit perfectly with our logistics mission. The masks went to schools, churches, long-term care facilities, hospitals and other places. We played a small part in a big effort which continues through the Alexandria MN Community Face Mask Project. Masks, and supplies for those willing to sew, are available at the First Congregational Church.

What challenges do you face when it comes to your job as director of emergency management and who helps you work through those challenges?

The biggest challenge of emergency management is the unknown. Will we be able to react quickly and effectively when that bad day happens? We have solid plans, and we practice, but will it be enough? I believe the answer is yes. It will be enough because, long before I got here, talented and dedicated men and women decided to serve in Douglas County. This includes law enforcement, ambulance personnel, and our 911 dispatchers, who perform extremely difficult work calmly and under pressure. It includes public works who plow snow in the middle

of the night, put up barricades and clear storm debris. It includes county employees who would fill positions in the Emergency Operations Center. It also includes all the men and women who volunteer as firefighters and first responders. They wake in the middle of the night to answer your call for help. And I can’t say enough about the residents who volunteer for or work at the incredible nonprofits in Douglas County.

During a frightening incident like a tornado or active shooter, our residents and visitors are empowered when they know how to react, when they know there’s a safe place to go during a storm, when they know we’ll make phone calls and send texts with information, when they know that if a dangerous person is in our vicinity, we will work with our amazing first responders and law enforcement to guide them to safety.

When a crisis first unfolds, our adrenaline spurs us to action. What is difficult is when we must endure hardship over a long period of time. I commend everyone who has worked so creatively and continuously during our current crisis which is COVID-19 – school leaders, township, city and county leaders, business owners, healthcare and long-term care workers – the list could go on and on. We got stronger together. Now we must stay stronger together.

We are also stronger together when we work, plan and train together. Since I joined the county, we have already experienced an evacuation from a senior facility, a train derailment, a search for suspects on the loose, a downtown fire, winter storms and summer tornado warnings and a pandemic. I know we are stronger together because I’ve seen it with my own eyes. My hope moving forward is to see how far we can take our preparedness in Douglas County.

We are always stronger together when we have the right information to make the right decision at the right time. That is why public information and emergency management go so well together.

For example, I would like us to practice taking shelter in the basement or safe rooms during a Sunday worship service, or practice with seniors to evacuate a community center. I’m available, so let’s do it.

WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER WHEN WE HAVE THE RIGHT INFORMATION TO MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION AT THE RIGHT TIME. JULIE ANDERSON Director, Douglas County Emergency Management/ Public Information Officer

PAGE 62 | IMPACT 2020

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