Vacationer - Spring 2023

SPRING 2023

VACATIONER

Your free guide to the Alexandria Lakes Area

FUN IN THE LAKES AREA

GUIDED WALKING TOURS

GOLF COURSES IN THE AREA

ARTS IN THE LAKES AREA

and much more!

A Top 20Rural Hospitalinthenation.

TheNationalRuralHealth Associationhasnamed AlomereHealthasoneofthe Top20Rural&Community Hospitalsinthenation.

AlomereHealthisthefirst Minnesotahospital to ever garnerthishonorinthe Top 20Ruraland Community Hospitalcategory!Previously, AlomereHealthhasbeen nameda Top100hospital fourofthepastsix years.

Topperforminghospitalsare recognizedas excellingin:

•Managingrisk

• Achievinghigherquality

•Securingbetteroutcomes

• Increasingpatientsatisfaction •Operating at alower cost thantheirpeers.

Tophealth systemslike AlomereHealthserveasa benchmark forotherrural facilitiesasthey strive to achieve similar results.

Knowing youhave a top-rated health systemin your communityisjustanother reasonwhy it’s betterhere.

CENTRAL LAKES CONCERT

Association

CENTRAL LAKES SYMPHONYOrchestra

A community organization based in Alexandria and dedicated to enriching the lives of audience members through its beautiful orchestra music, the Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra is an organization more than 50 members strong from the communities of Alexandria, Brandon, Carlos, Fergus Falls, Garfield, Glenwood, Miltona, Nelson, Osakis, Villard and Vining.

The orchestra, led by Alexandria Area High School Director of Orchestras Brad Lambrecht, gives musicians a venue to participate in serious music with a symphony orchestra and helps to give back to the community through donations and student scholarships. Rehearsals are held in the Alexandria Area High

School Orchestra Room on Tuesday evenings. Membership is open to musicians age 16 and older.

For more information or to find the most up-to-date concert schedule, visit www.centrallakessymphony.org. The CLSO mailing address is 1210 Broadway St., Suite 240, PMB 105, Alexandria, MN 56308.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9

May 20, 2023

7-9 p.m.

Chamber Concert

June 24, 2023

7-9 p.m.

The CLSO Chorale is directed by Nicole Lambrecht and welcomes all voices.

You can register through Alexandria Community Education.

ALEXANDRIA AREA Art Guild

The Alexandria Art Guild is a nonprofit organized in support of the visual arts in the Alexandria community. Artists and art lovers meet monthly on the third Wednesday of each month. The annual Art deTour held mid-June invites the public to visit the artists in their studios and shop a wide array of original art. For information and to see member artists visit www.alexart.org or email alexartguild@gmail.com.

Art deTour

Art deTour is a multi-location weekend art tour with two or more artists at each location. Along with their art for sale, many artists will be demonstrating their craft. There is no charge to attend the tour.

The 2023 Art deTour will be held Thursday-Saturday, June 15-17. For more information on specific

locations and times, visit alexart.org closer to the event.

Other events

Saturday Art Market will take place every Saturday beginning May 22nd and running through September 2nd from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Big Ole Central Park. There will be art, music, kid activities, theater, food and more.

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

All concerts take place at the Performing Arts Center at the Alexandria Area High School, 4300 Pioneer Rd.,

ANDRIATheatre

Andria Theatre is the premier live theater and performing arts center in Alexandria. It is home to the Alexandria Area Arts Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Its mission is to build community by igniting interest and participation in and through the performing arts. This mission is accomplished by providing community-based theater and education-oriented programming that exceeds expectations, led by a staff of seasoned professionals and governed by the board of directors.

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

It also hosts Art in the Park, which is held every year at Alexandria City Park.

Alexandria. Concerts will run September 2023 through May 2024.

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

Art in the Park is scheduled for Saturday, July 29, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday, July 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This event features food, music, fine arts and more.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

Disney Newsies Jr. — June 21-24 and June 28-July 1, with all shows at 7 p.m. Annie Kids — July 19-21, with all shows at 7 p.m.

Disney’s Beauty and The Beast Jr. — Aug. 2-5 and Aug. 9-12 with all shows at 7 p.m. Art in the Park performances for all shows will be July 29.

FIRE PIT Productions

Fire Pit Production was started in 2018 by Quincy Roers. Excited by the idea to push local theater to new levels, Roers proposed using the stage at Lakes Area Theatre for small production plays. The idea was supported by local actors interested in providing the community with edgy, thought-

provoking stage plays. For more information, visit lakesareatheatre.com/firepit or email lakesareatheatre@gmail.com.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

Six Years Old, June 9-17 at 7 p.m. The Christians, July 14-22 at 7 p.m.

MEMORIAL Day

On Memorial Day, the day for honoring the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. Military, the Alexandria area honors the fallen with parades and programs.

Alexandria’s Memorial Day parade begins at 10 a.m. at the Big Ole statue, and participants in the parade will march down Broadway ending at the Veterans Memorial Park for a Memorial Day service, which is set to begin at 11 a.m.

Visit the Echo Press website closer to the event for the latest information at www. echopress.com.

EVANSVILLE Art Center

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

CALENDARof Events

MAY

12 — 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Asian-themed Luncheon with Jana

Tonsfeldt, Farwell Creamery

(Tickets through Community Education of Alexandria)

13 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria

Farmers Market opens, Big Ole

13 — 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Asian-themed Luncheon with Jana

Tonsfeldt, Farwell Creamery

(Tickets through Community Education of Alexandria).

13 — 12-4 p.m. The Closet Market, Fundraiser for The Car Care Program, Bold North Cellars, Alexandria

20 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City

Farmers Market opens, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

20 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria

Farmers Market, Big Ole

20 — 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Alexandria

Psychic and Wellness Fair, Holiday Inn, Alexandria

20 — 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Freedom First

Riders 2023 Bike Show, Runestone Community Center

20 — 7 p.m. Central Lakes

Symphony Orchestra:

“Beethoven Symphony No. 9,”

Alexandria Area High School

Performing Arts Center

20 — 2 p.m. Artist Reception for Jana

Tonsfeldt, The Schoolhouse Gallery, Farwell

20 — 3 p.m. Music with Ron Bjurlin & Anne O’Flynn on guitar and accordion, Farwell

21 — 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Freedom First

Riders 2023 Bike Show, Runestone Community Center

25 — 7 p.m. Nathan’s Old-Time Band, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

27 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes

City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

27 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria

Farmers Market, Big Ole

27 — 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Live Music with ParaDocx at the Alexandria

Saturday Art Market, Big Ole

27 — 11 a.m. Free Kids Art Workshop

— Zentangle, with Jana

Tonsfeldt, Farwell

27 — 7 p.m. The Good Company Band, Farwell

28 — 8 a.m. Awake the Grapes

Vineyard Run, Carlos Creek Winery

JUNE

1 — 7 p.m. Blue English, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

2 — 7-9 p.m. First Friday Concert with Tuesday Nightclub, Evansville Art Center

3 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

3 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole

3 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with Mikko Cowdery and Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

3 — 5 p.m. Artist Reception for Kathy Grundei’s show “Express with Collage,” Schoolhouse Gallery, Farwell

8 — 7 p.m. Livewire, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

9 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: Six Years Old, Lakes Area Theatre

10 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

10 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole

10 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with Marcus Decker, Youth Activities, and Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

10 — 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Alexandria Area

Brush & Palette Club Art Crawl, Farwell

10 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: Six Years Old, Lakes Area Theatre

11 — 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Alexandria Area

Brush & Palette Club Art Crawl, Farwell

12-20 — Minnesota Trap Shooting Championship, Alexandria Shooting Park

15-18 — Kensington Rune Stone Days, Kensington

15 — 10 a.m. Free Kids Art Class with Steve Larson and Gloria Pfeifer, Farwell

15 — 10:30-11:15 a.m. Old MacDonald

Had a Banjo with folk musician Paul Imholte, Douglas County Library

15 — 4-8 p.m. Art DeTour Studio Tour, Alexandria area

15 — 7 p.m. DiamondBack, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

15 — 7 p.m.

Fire Pit Productions: Six Years Old, Lakes Area Theatre

15 — 7-9 p.m. Open Mic Night, Evansville Art Center

16 — 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Art DeTour Studio Tour, Alexandria area

16 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: Six Years Old, Lakes Area Theatre

16 — 7:30 p.m. Women On The Moon Concert, Theatre

L’Homme Dieu

17 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

17 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole

17 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with Peggy Weise and Jewett Benson, Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

17 — 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Art DeTour Studio Tour, Alexandria area

17 — Noon-4 p.m. 3rd Annual Minnesota Craft Lager Fest, 22 Northmen Brewing Company

17 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: Six Years Old, Lakes Area Theatre

21 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre Project: Disney Newsies Jr, Andria Theatre

22 — 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Area

Farmers Market begins its Thursday Market, Big Ole

22 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre Project: Disney Newsies Jr, Andria Theatre

22 — 7 p.m. Country Roads: John Denver Tribute, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

23 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre

Project: Disney Newsies Jr, Andria Theatre

24 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

24 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Farmers Market, Big Ole

24 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with Donnie Brang and Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

24 — 3:30-5 p.m. Music From the ‘70s with Tom Mohr, Corner Garage, Farwell

24 — Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra Chamber Concert, Discovery Middle School, Alexandria

24 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre

Project: Disney Newsies Jr, Andria Theatre

25 — 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Vintage Car Club’s Annual Car Show

& Crafter Event, Douglas County Fairgrounds, Gate for Show Cars Opens at 8 a.m.

25 — 1:30 p.m. 39th Annual Vikingland Band Festival Parade Marching Championship, Downtown Alexandria

27 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Area Farmers Market begins its Tuesday Markets, Big Ole

28 — 7 p.m. Church Basement

Ladies in Plowin’ Through, Theatre L’Homme Dieu

28 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre

Project: Disney Newsies Jr, Andria Theatre

29 — 10 a.m.-noon. Kids Fun with Photos, with Joyce Wagenius, for ages 10-15, The Creamery, Farwell

29 — 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Area Farmers Market, Big Ole

29 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre

Project: Disney Newsies Jr, Andria Theatre

29 — 7 p.m. 57 Chevy, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

29 — 7 p.m. Church Basement

Ladies in Plowin’ Through, Theatre L’Homme Dieu

30 — Red White & Boom Days, Evansville

30 — 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Minnesota

Made Summer Market, Bold North Cellars, Alexandria

30 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre

Project: Disney Newsies Jr, Andria Theatre

30 — 7 p.m. Church Basement

Ladies in Plowin’ Through, Theatre L’Homme Dieu

JULY

1 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

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

1 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with Kevin Klimek and the Sideliners, Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

1 — Red White & Boom Days, Evansville

1 — Noon. Evansville Photo Club Display, Corner Garage, Farwell

1 — 7 p.m. Church Basement Ladies in Plowin’ Through, Theatre L’Homme Dieu

1 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre Project: Disney Newsies Jr, Andria Theatre

2 — Red White & Boom Days, Evansville

4 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Area Farmers Market, Big Ole

4 — 7 p.m. Special Patriotic Music, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

5 — 7 p.m. Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience Concert, Theatre L’Homme Dieu

6 — 7 p.m. Bob & The Beachcombers, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

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

7 — 7 p.m. Ray & Iver Radio Show, Lakes Area Theatre

7 — 7-9 p.m. First Friday Concert with the Salty Dogs, Evansville Art Center

7 — 7:30 p.m. Remembering

Bobby Vee Concert, Theatre

L’Homme Dieu

8 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City

Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

8 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria

Farmers Market, Big Ole

8 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with Ethan Kraft and Friends, Youth Activities, and Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

8 — 3-5 p.m. Music with Leon & Sparky at the Annual Farwell Celebration, Corner Garage, Farwell

8 — Legacy of the Lakes Diamond Classic Boat Show, Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center, Lake Darling

8 — 7:30 p.m. Remembering

Bobby Vee Concert, Theatre

L’Homme Dieu

11 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Area

Farmers Market, Big Ole

11 — 7 p.m. “Dancing Lessons,”

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

12 — 7 p.m. “Dancing Lessons,”

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

13 — 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Area

Farmers Market, Big Ole

13 — 7 p.m. “Dancing Lessons,”

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

13 — 7 p.m. Alabama Tribute, Concert on the Courthouse

Lawn, Alexandria

14 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: The Christians, Lakes Area

Theatre

14 — 7 p.m. “Dancing Lessons,”

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

15 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes

City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

15 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria

Farmers Market, Big Ole

15 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with Greg Lehrke and Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

15 — Tornado Days Festival, Miltona

15 — 6 p.m. Artist Reception for Donna Gylson and Mary Paulsen shows, Schoolhouse Gallery, Farwell

15 — 7 p.m. “Dancing Lessons,”

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

15 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: The Christians, Lakes Area Theatre

16 — 7 p.m. “Dancing Lessons,”

Theatre L’Homme Dieu

18 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Area

Farmers Market, Big Ole

18 - 5 p.m. Summer Sounds by Brophy featuring The Fabulous Armadillos

18 — 7 p.m. Love Letters, Theatre

L’Homme Dieu

19 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre

Project: Annie Kids, Andria Theatre

19 — 7 p.m. Love Letters, Theatre

L’Homme Dieu

20 — 10 a.m.-noon, Free Kids’ Art Class with Steve Larson and Gloria Pfeifer, Corner Garage, Farwell

20 — 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Area Farmers Market, Big Ole

20 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre

Project: Annie Kids, Andria Theatre

20 — 7 p.m. Rockin Hollywoods, Concert on the Courthouse

Lawn, Alexandria

20 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: The Christians, Lakes Area Theatre

20 — 7 p.m. Love Letters, Theatre

L’Homme Dieu

20 — 7-9 p.m. Open Mic Night, Evansville Art Center

21 — 7 p.m. Love Letters, Theatre

L’Homme Dieu

21 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: The Christians, Lakes Area Theatre

21 — 7 p.m. Student Theatre Project: Annie Kids, Andria Theatre

22 — 8 a.m. Alexandria Triathlon, Lake Brophy County Park

22 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

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

22 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with Kori Williams and Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

22 — 7 p.m. Fire Pit Productions: The Christians, Lakes Area Theatre

25 — 9 a.m.-noon, Alexandria Area Farmers Market, Big Ole

25 - 5 p.m. Summer Sounds by Brophy featuring Slamabama

27 — 3-6 p.m. Alexandria Area Farmers Market, Big Ole

27 — 7 p.m. Billy D & Crystals, Concert on the Courthouse Lawn, Alexandria

28 — 5:30-8:30 p.m. Live Music with Bruce Archer, 22 Northmen Brewing Company

29 — 8:30-11:30 a.m. Holmes City Farmers Market, Live Music and Kids Corner, and Breakfast until 10:30 a.m., Trinity parking lot, Holmes City

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

29 — 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Live Music with LiveWire and Saturday Art Market, Big Ole, Alexandria

29 — 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Art in the Park, City Park, Alexandria

29 — 7-8:30 p.m. Tom Mohr (On God, Soul, Love and Leadership — Music, Poetry, Reflections) the Church, Farwell

30 — 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Art in the Park, City Park, Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA AREAGolfing

For winter weary Minnesotans, spring offers freedom from the confines of their homes, and one of the first places they head to is the golf courses.

The Alexandria area certainly doesn’t lack for green fairways, with more than 15 courses available for those hungry for the challenge.

Many think Minnesota’s golf season is short, but most years there are six full months of golf opportunities on courses that are lush and full.

Whether a beginner at the game or a scratch golfer, the Alexandria area holds the perfect course for you. From small, 9-hole courses to 27-hole masterpieces, this area’s courses are beautifully designed and well kept; perfect for a long afternoon of outdoor entertainment with friends.

RED WILLOWArts Coalition

The Red Willow Arts Coalition was formed in 2009 to promote the arts and provide entertainment events for the lakes area. The coalition offers “Concerts on the Courthouse Lawn” every Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Douglas County Courthouse, 305 Eighth Ave. W., Alexandria throughout the summer. The coalition is strictly made up of volunteers, and business sponsorships and free-will donations cover the performers’

fees, making all concerts free to the public. Visit www.redwillowartscoalition.org for more information.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

May 25 — Nathan’s Old-Time Band

June 1 — Blue English — Classic rock

June 8 — Livewire — Americana

June 15 — Diamondback — Country

June 22 — Country Roads — John Denver

June 29 — 57 Chevy — ‘50s

LAKES AREA Theatre

Lakes Area Theatre performs its shows before a live audience on the second Friday of every month at 7 p.m. They also record the stories, edit them and then play them on a network of radio stations and on the Lakes Area Theatre website.

The theater is located at their new location, 4133 Iowa St. in Alexandria.

You can find the most up-to-date information on performances by visiting the Lakes Area Theatre’s website at www.lakesareatheatre.com or by calling 320- 815-7664.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

Ray & Iver Radio Show, July 7 at 7 p.m.

July 4 — Special Patriotic Concert

July 6 — Bob & the Beachcombers — ‘60s

July 13 — Alabama Tribute — Country

July 20 — Rockin’ Hollywoods — Country

July 27 — Billy D. & the Crystals — ‘50s-’60s

Aug. 3 — Stone Road — Country

Aug. 10 — ‘70s Magic Sunshine

Aug. 17 — Cimarron — Variety

Aug. 24 — Salty Dogs — Variety

AWAKE THE GRAPES

Join runners of all skills as they gather at Carlos Creek Winery for the 12th annual Awake the Grapes 5K and 10K races on Sunday, May 28.

At 9 a.m. the 10K race begins with runners heading out through the winery property and vineyards, then on to County Road 34, along the east side of Lake Ida, east on County Road 61 to County Road 34 and back to the winery.

The 5K race begins at 9:15 a.m. Runners will race around

the Carlos Creek Winery property and through the onsite vineyards.

Each pre-registered runner will receive an Awake the Grapes T-shirt. Register online at raceroster.com/ events/2023/71196/awakethe-grapes.

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

To contact the winery, call 320-846-5443.

THEATRE

L ’Homme Dieu

For more than 50 years, Theatre L’Homme Dieu has contributed to the vibrancy and allure of the lakes area by presenting exceptional and entertaining theater. The 2022 season offers a variety of performances — there’s something for everyone! For information, call 320-846-3150 or visit www.tlhd.org. The theater is located at 1875 County Rd. 120 NE, Alexandria.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

Plowin’ Thru — June 27-July 1

Dancing Lessons — July 11-15

Love Letters — July 18-21

It’s one of Minnesota’s favorite pastimes – fishing – and at this time of year, enthusiasts are gearing up for the opening of fishing season on Saturday, May 13.

If you’re going to fish in Minnesota, don’t forget to pick up a fishing license. Anyone age 16 or older needs to have a current Minnesota fishing license in order to hook that lunker.

To buy your license online, visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/ licenses/online-sales.html, by phone at 1-888-665-4236 (1-MN-LICENSE) or at approved vendors throughout the state. A list is available at www.dnr. state.mn.us/licenses/agents. html.

SUMMER SOUNDS

There are a couple of free fishing weekends in Minnesota:

May 13-14 — Take A Mom Fishing, when Minnesota resident moms fish free.

June 9-11 — Take A Kid Fishing, where residents 16 and older fish free with children younger than 16. Visit www.dnr.state.mn.us/ fishing/ for more information about Minnesota regulations for fishing.

Fishing Opener by Brophy

With the nice weather finally upon us, many people are looking to spend more time outside. Exercise is important for mental health, as well as a person’s wellbeing. It also helps reduce obesity.

Several years ago, Horizon Public Health received a grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield and developed Active Living Douglas County. The grant was for five years, and during that time, maps were created with walking routes around the county. Alexandria maps were first created, then maps for Brandon, Evansville, Osakis and Garfield were added.

A coalition of partners were formed in each community, and those are the people who helped develop the maps. On each of the maps, there are key points to look for. Some are historical and because the maps were

developed several years ago, some of the points, such as local businesses, may no longer exist. However, the routes are still functional.

A total of 20 maps were developed for Douglas County and are available on the Horizon Public Health website, horizonpublichealth.org/ services/healthy-lifestyles/ship/.

For the city of Alexandria, there are a total of five maps –ranging from 1.78 miles to 3.3 miles – with each one focusing on a different area of town.

The map labeled Kinkead (2.02 miles), for example, highlights Big Ole, The Depot, Kinkead Cemetery, Hicks History and the Batesole House. Hicks refers to William Hicks, who bought the site of the city and drew up the plans for streets and avenues. His family donated the land for the courthouse, a school and three early churches. The Batesole House is the location of the Hicks’ first home.

Summer Sounds by Brophy is a new concert series put on by the Alexandria Rotary Club and sponsored by several local businesses.

The purpose of the concert series, according to the event’s website, is to bring the community together while raising money for local park projects throughout Douglas County. The concerts are free and for all ages. There will be food trucks on site. Coolers are not allowed, but attendees can grab a drink from the Brophy Pub and help support the fundraising efforts.

A shuttle will run every 10 minutes from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. from the Douglas

County Fairgrounds to the Visitor Center at Brophy Park. Parking at Brophy Park is extremely limited. Concertgoers should enter the north entrance off County Road 114.

All concerts start at 5 p.m.

Here is the schedule:

Tuesday, July 18 – The Fabulous Armadillos presented by Alomere Health

Tuesday, July 25 – Slamabama presented by Knute Nelson

Tuesday, Aug. 1 – Xpedition presented by Bell Bank

For more information, visit the Summer Sounds by Brophy website at summersoundsbybrophy.com.

LEGACY OF THE LAKESMuseum

Much of Minnesota’s history is inspired by the many beautiful lakes throughout our state, and the Legacy of the Lakes Museum and Gardens is dedicated to bringing that history to the public.

Opening May 20, the museum features handcrafted wooden boats, grand hotels and fishing clubs, bringing to life traditions that reach back nearly a century and a half.

These diverse exhibits, as well as the Gardens, are all part of the Legacy of the Lakes Museum, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation of antique and classic watercraft, resort memorabilia and sporting equipment used on the Minnesota lakes.

Originally known as the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum, the name was changed to Legacy of the Lakes in 2016 to better

communicate and reflect its mission of celebrating shared memories and experiences of Minnesota lake life, preserving it for future generations.

In 2018, the BoatHouse, an indoor event center, was added and is available for rent for weddings, corporate events and family gatherings as well as a place for the museum to host educational programs and includes an indoor event hall, bathrooms and bridal suite/greenroom.

The museum is located in downtown Alexandria at 205 Third Ave. W., near the Alexandria Fire Department. The museum office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Contact the museum at 320759-1114 or through its website www.legacyofthelakes.org for more

information.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Yoga in the Gardens – May 17 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m., June 14 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. and July 5 from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m.

Opening day – May 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tai Chi in the Gardens – May 30 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Family Day – June 4 from noon to 4 p.m.

Watercolor in the Gardens – June 7 from 11 a.m. to noon

Music in the Gardens – June 16 from 6 to 9 p.m. and July 7 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Recycled Boat Building – June 20 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

VIKING SPEEDWAYRacing NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK May 20-26

The 58th racing season at the Viking Speedway gets underway on May 13, and racers and fans will continue to see action this summer on the 1/2-mile track.

The speedway has been home to stock car racing at its finest, featuring WISSOTA sanctioned classes –Modifieds, Super Stocks, Midwest Modifieds and Street Stocks – since 1953. Racing is normally held every Saturday night from the beginning of May through Labor Day, along with a few other specials throughout the summer.

The Viking Speedway is located at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Alexandria, approximately 3/4 mile west of State Highway 29 on County Road 82.

Pit gates open at 4 p.m. and the grandstand opens at 5 p.m. Racing action gets underway at

6:30 p.m. Pit gate admission is $30, and $10 for children 10 and younger. Those children younger than 15 must have a parent complete and sign a waiver before being admitted.

Grandstand admission for regular race events is $12 for senior and college students, $15 for adults, with free admission for children 17 and younger. Admission prices in both the grandstand and the pits may vary for special events.

For more information and the latest schedule, visit the website vikingspeedwaymn.com/.

As the summer approaches, Minnesotans are getting ready to pull out their boats and take to the water. National Safe Boating Week, May 20-26, seeks to remind people about the importance of being safe while on the water.

Wear a life jacket. No matter what activity you have planned, always remember to wear a life jacket every time you are on the water. Accidents on the water can happen much too fast to reach and put on a stowed life jacket. Make sure your life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard approved, appropriate for your water activity and fits properly.

Always follow navigation rules. Know the “rules of the road,” such as operator’s responsibility, maintaining a proper lookout, safe speed, crossing, meeting head-on and overtaking situations.

Don’t drink while you boat. A BUI (boating under the influence) is involved in one-third of all recreational boating fatalities.

Keep in touch. Be sure to have at least two communication devices

that work when wet, such as satellite phones, emergency position indicating radio beacons, VHF radios and personal locator beacons. Cell phones are not reliable in an emergency situation.

Take a boating safety course. Learn valuable tips that can help save your life in unexpected situations by taking a National Association of Boating Law Administrators approved boating safety course. Many courses are online, and will save you money on your boat insurance.

Always file a float plan. File a float plan with someone you trust that includes details about the trip, boat, persons, towing or trailer vehicle, communication equipment and emergency contacts. Find out more at www.floatplancentral.org.

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

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

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

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

KENSINGTON Runestone

It’s a controversy more than 100 years in the making: Did an immigrant Swedish farmer find a buried rock in 1898 that contained an ancient runic message carved by Viking explorers 100 years before Columbus landed in America? Or is the whole thing a hoax, perpetrated by the farmer or some other prankster?

The Kensington Runestone is housed inside the Runestone Museum, but a very large replica of it is located at a small, wayside rest at the east end of Sixth Avenue in Alexandria. Visitors can read the inscription and take a photo with the replica.

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

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

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

BIG OLE AND BIG OLE Webcam RUNESTONEMuseum

It’s a fun way to get a group shot with the 28-foot fiberglass statue located in Big Ole Central Park. Once you open the website on your cell phone, just take a screenshot to capture you, your group and the famous Viking statue.

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

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

Fort Alexandria, commissioned in 1862, has been recreated with rescued

historical structures, such as a nearly exact replica of the stockade built in 1862, an 1889 church, a log cabin built in the late 1860s and an 1885 schoolhouse. The fort is located in the outdoor portion of the campus that is open April-October.

Housing rare and exciting artifacts like a Middle Ages Nordic fire steel and a 1920s jingle dress, the Runestone Museum is sure to impress whether

SummerSPRING INTO

Memorial Day weekend is also the official beginning of summer, and there are tentative plans for the Alexandria Jaycees to present Spring into Summer, a three-day event featuring live music, a vendor/craft show, a car show and other activities.

Spring into Summer will be celebrated Saturday and Sunday, May 27-28, just north of downtown at Big Ole Park.

Check out www.facebook.com/alexandria. mn.jaycees closer to the event for a complete list of all events.

you’re interested in history, heritage or the natural sciences.

For more information, call 320-7633160, or visit the museum’s website at www.runestonemuseum.org for the most up-to-date admission prices and hours. Check out the museum’s Facebook page at Runestone Museum Foundation.

LAKE CARLOSState Park

Built by receding glaciers, Lake Carlos State Park offers a myriad of natural wonders, including a clear and deep lake just perfect for swimming, fishing and boating. Among its 1,231 acres, nearly one-third of Minnesota’s 80 mammals and more than 150 species of birds find a home either seasonally or all year long. It’s the perfect place to view loons, grebes, ducks and heron, making this a birdwatcher’s paradise. You may even catch a glimpse of the beaver and deer that make their homes within the park.

The park also features a year-round naturalist that leads several programs throughout the year.

Winter or summer, Lake Carlos State Park is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, skiing and interpretive programs are just waiting for you.

Paddle boats, canoes and kayaks are available to rent during the regular season. In the winter, snowshoes are available for rent at the park office. A thermal flip-over style portable fish house is available to rent on Lake Carlos only. Contact the park office for current rates and availability.

The park entrance, 2601 County Rd. 38 NE in Carlos, is located 10 miles north of Alexandria on State Highway 29, then two miles west on Highway 38. The best time to contact the park is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at 320-852-7200.

You can also email the park at lakecarlos.statepark@state. mn.us

You can discover much more about Lake Carlos State Park by visiting www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/lake_carlos/.

SERVE IT UP:Pickleball

Pickleball is an exciting game for players of all ages and abilities. It is often referred to as “the fastest-growing sport that no one knows about.” It’s a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis and it can be played with two, three or four players. In the fall of 2020, new pickleball courts were constructed at Alexandria City Park, 118 City Park Rd., and now offer players eight courts to play on.

SIFT THROUGH ANTIQUES: unexpected treasure Discover

Lines of businesses situated along Broadway Street in the heart of Alexandria encourage visitors to stroll through their doors and explore what they have to offer.

In addition to the heated spaces to wander around in, another highlight of the bustling downtown area is the antique stores.

Categorizing a store as “antique” will immediately draw the attention of some and repel the interest of others. However, there may be something waiting around the corner or on a shelf for just about anyone.

Antique stores contain more than rotary phones, model cars and worn furniture. Although, if that’s what the buyer is seeking, he or she will surely come across those items, too.

These shops also hold unique clothes, suitcases, home decor and so much more.

Sure, any of those would be plainly sorted

VIKINGLAND BAND Festival

Always the last Sunday in June, the Vikingland Band Festival is a highlight of the summer parade marching season. Founded in 1985, the event has drawn nearly 100 different bands from at least seven different states, three Canadian provinces and Norway.

The 39th annual Vikingland Band Festival Parade Marching Championship for 2023 will take place on Sunday, June 25, starting at 1:30 p.m. For more information, visit marching.com/events/vbf/.

at a department store, but they would most likely be double the price. Finding a good deal just increases the benefit of shopping secondhand.

Thrifting is a different kind of adventure because things can be rediscovered and reused for a second life they never would’ve had if the original owner had thrown them away.

Whether you’ve never stepped foot in an antique store or thrifting is your middle name, it’s worth a shot to go antiquing on Broadway.

COME WORSHIP WITH US

Lakes Area Churches Welcome You

BETHESDA LUTHERAN CHURCH (ELCA)

1204 N. Nokomis N.E., Alexandria 320-763-5164

bethesdaalexandria.org

Pastor Jerry Lanes

Worship Services Saturdays 5pm, Sundays 9:30am

CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH

605 Douglas Street, Alexandria 320-763-5178

www.calvaryalex.org

Pastors Hans Dahl & Angie Larson

Worship Services Sundays 8:30am Traditional; 10:30am Modern (Memorial Day - Labor Day outdoors at Luther Crest Bible Camp)

www.calvaryatthelake.com

Watch on demand on Facebook Live and Youtube

KXRA Radio Sundays 9:30am

Public Access TV Channel 181

Sundays 9:30am

CHURCH FOR THE HARVEST

1425 41st Ave. W., Alexandria 320-759-1400

HarvestAlexandria.com

Pastor Mike Bartolomeo

Worship Service Sundays 10am

CHURCH IN THE PINES

3992 Hwy 27 W., Alexandria 320-760-6190

www.thechurchinthepines.org

Pastors Jay Jenson, Jeremy

Lanctot, Eric Schmidt, Neil Thielke, Austin Arias

Worship Service Sundays 8am, 9:30am, 11:30am

Youth Service Wednesdays 6pm

CHURCH OF ST. MARY

420 Irving Street, Alexandria 320-763-5781

stmary@stmaryalexandria.org

www.stmaryalexandria.org

Pastor Father Matthew Kuhn

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

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

EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL

602 12th Ave. E. & Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-3201

alexmnepiscopal.org

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

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

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

firstcongregationaluccalex.com

Reverend Dr. Jill Sanders

Worship Service Sunday 10am Service on Youtube First Congregational UCC Alexandria, MN

Sunday Worship Radio

Rebroadcast KXRA First Sunday of the month 11am Communion second Sunday of the month

GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN

2702 Hwy. 29 N., Alexandria 320-762-5152

goodshepherdalex.com

Pastor Jon Jahnke

Worship Service Sunday 9am

Bible Study & Sunday School 10:15am

“Caring Believers Sharing Joy”

FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH (ELCA)

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

www.firstlutheranalexandria.com

Pastors PJ Mahlin, Judy Holmen

Worship Services Sundays

8:30am & 10am

Outdoor Worship Memorial DayLabor Day

Sundays 10am

Wednesday 6:30pm

September - May

Check Youtube & Facebook for live worship

KXRA Radio Sundays 10am

Public Access TV Channel 181 daily at 10:45am

LAKE COMMUNITY CHURCH

490 Voyager Dr., Alexandria 320-762-5424 lakecommunity.org

Pastor Jon Ewton

Worship Services Sundays

9am & 10:30am

Kids Ministry Sundays 10:30am

MOUNT CARMEL MINISTRIES

800 Mount Carmel Dr. N.E., Alexandria 320-846-2744

mountcarmelministries.com

Worship Services Memorial Day through Labor Day, Sundays 9am & 10:30am

NEW LIFE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

1910 Co. Rd. 82 S.E., Alexandria 320-763-7051

www.your-newlife.com

Pastor John Taplin

Worship Services Sundays

9am & 10:30am

Vacation Bible School

June 25-29 6-8:30pm

Youth Programming KidZone/ Sunday School 10:30am

NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH

2505 Hwy. 29 N., Alexandria 320-762-2444

ntcalexandria.org

Pastors Peter Reishus & Mike Loween

Worship Service Sundays 10am

SHALOM LUTHERAN CHURCH

681 Voyager Drive, Alexandria 320-762-8641

shalomlutheran.org

Pastor David Fleener

Worship Services Sunday 9:30am

SPIRIT LIFE

912 State Hwy. 29 N., Alexandria 320-219-6005

spirit-life.org

Pastors Jeff & Natasha Ferguson

Worship Services Sundays 10am

WORD ALONE FELLOWSHIP

(A traditional Christian worship) 1906 6th Ave. E., Alexandria Wordalonefellowship.org

Pastors Steve Walswich & Ralph Erickson

Worship Services Sundays 9am Church Service on WAF website Communion on 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month

Adult Bible Study Tuesdays 5pm

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH

300 Lake St., Alexandria 320-763-4842

zionalex.org

Pastors Paul Dare, Matt Lorenz, and Don Wilke

Worship Times 8am & 10:30am (8am & 10am Memorial DayLabor Day)

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

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

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

LAKES

AARON

Size: 610 acres Depth: 16 feet

Features: Shallow with sandy beaches.

Public access: South end off Lakes Road.

AGNES

Size: 137 acres Depth: 31 feet

Features: Fishing pier in City Park.

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

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

ANDREW

Size: 922 acres Depth: 83 feet

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

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

Named for first physician in Alexandria.

BLACKWELL

Size: 307 acres Depth: 42 feet

Public access: East side off Country Lane

Named for an early settler of Holmes City.

BROPHY

Size: 296 acres Depth: 44 feet

Features: Island, sandy beaches.

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

Named for the Brophy family, early residents.

BURGEN

Size: 174 acres Depth: 43 feet

Features: Small, steeply sloped shoreline.

Public access: North end off County Road 23.

Named for William Burgen, who lived on

AREA LAKE

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

the southwest shore in 1869.

CARLOS

Size: 2,605 acres Depth: 163 feet

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

Public accesses: North shore in state park off County Road 38; northeast shore near state park off County Road 38; west shore off County Road 11; east shore off Prairie Road and East Lake Carlos Drive.

Reports vary, but one story is that lakes

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

CHIPPEWA

Size: 1,185 acres Depth: 95 feet

Features: Deep, headwaters of Chippewa River.

Public access: Northeast corner off County Road 12.

Named for Native Americans.

Continued on page 18

excellent water quality.

CHRISTINA

Size: 3,971 acres Depth: 14 feet

Features: Large, shallow.

Public access: Southwest end off County Road 82.

Named for the Queen of Sweden.

COWDRY

Size: 242 acres Depth: 52 feet

Features: Small, clear.

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

Named for Samuel Cowdry, an early settler.

CROOKED

Size: 281 acres Depth: 35 feet

Features: Quiet.

Public access: North end off County Road 27.

Named for its contour.

DARLING

Size: 1,050 acres Depth: 62 feet

Features: Water access to chain of lakes.

Public access: Access by water from Lake Carlos.

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

DEVILS

Size: 233 acres Depth: 35 feet

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

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

FREEBORN

Size: 247 acres Depth: 18 feet

Public access: Northwest side off County Road 96.

GENEVA

Size: 639 acres Depth: 63 feet

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

Public access: Northwest side off Highway 29; southeast side off County Road 82 anvva Road.

Called Rowley on early maps; renamed by Walter Scott Shotwell after the resort town of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.

GILBERT

Size: 201 acres Depth: 17 feet

Features: Quiet.

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

Named for an early settler.

GRANTS

Size: 176 acres Depth: 60 feet

Public access: West side off Country Lane.

HENRY

Size: 152 acres Depth: 32 feet

Features: Next to City Park.

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

IDA

Size: 4,431 acres Depth: 106 feet

Features: Large, clear; sandy beaches.

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

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

INDIAN

Size: 98 acres Depth: 38 feet

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

IRENE

Size: 639 acres Depth: 44 feet

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

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

JENNIE

Size: 300 acres Depth: 6 feet

Public access: South end of County Road 56.

LATOKA

Size: 766 acres Depth: 108 feet

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

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

Named for Native Americans.

L’HOMME DIEU

Size: 1,801 acres Depth: 85 feet

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

Public accesses: Northwest side off County Road 42; northeast side off County Road 120. Reports vary, but one story is that lakes

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

LITTLE CHIPPEWA

Size: 269 acres Depth: 24 feet

Features: Shallow, sandy, connects to county park.

Public access: South shore off County Road 108.

Named for Native Americans.

LOBSTER

Size: 1,334 acres Depth: 65 feet

Features: Many bays and points, island.

Public access: West end off County Road 27.

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

LONG

Size: 201 acres Depth: 18 feet

Public access: East end off County Road 55.

Named for its contour.

LOUISE

Size: 214 acres Depth: 33 feet

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

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

MAPLE

Size: 830 acres Depth: 78 feet

Features: Mostly shallow, spring-fed,

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

Named for the many maple trees that surrounded the lake.

MARY

Size: 2,450 acres Depth: 40 feet

Features: Large, gradual slopes, popular recreational lake.

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

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

MILL

Size: 451 acres Depth: 40 feet

Features: Spring-fed, deep, clear.

Public access: Southeast corner off Highway 27.

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

MILTONA

Size: 5,724 acres Depth: 105 feet

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

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

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

MINA

Size: 411 acres Depth:123 feet

Public access: North side off County Road 8.

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

MOON

Size: 139 acres Depth: 38 feet

Public access: North side off County Road 82.

Continued from page 18

MOSES

Size: 824 acres Depth: 32 feet

Features: Clear, sandy.

Public access: West side off County Road 16. Named for religious prophet, or possibly for a prominent Alexandria family.

OSAKIS

Size: 6,389 acres Depth: 73 feet

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

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

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

OSCAR

Size: 1,231 acres Depth: 25 feet

Features: Island.

Public access: North side off State Highway 27.

Named for the King of Sweden.

POCKET

Size: 263 acres Depth: 40 feet

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

Named for its contour.

RACHEL

Size: 448 acres Depth: 65 feet

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

Named for the daughter of an early Holmes City settler.

RED ROCK

Size: 902 acres Depth: 22 feet

Features: Shallow.

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

RENO

Size: 3,808 acres Depth: 23 feet

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

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

ROUND

Size: 81 acres Depth: 30 feet

Features: Quiet.

Public access: South end off County Road 27.

Named for its contour.

SMITH

Size: 666 acres Depth: 30 feet

Features: Spring-fed, quiet.

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

Named for a family that homesteaded near the lake.

STOWE

Size: 376 acres Depth: 14 feet

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

TURTLE

Size: 218 acres Depth: 21 feet

Public access: Southwest corner off County Road 88.

UNION

Size: 107 acres Depth: 45 feet

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

VERMONT

Size: 337 acres Depth: 59 feet

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

VICTORIA

Size: 416 acres Depth: 60 feet

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

Public access: South end off Hazel Hill Road.

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

WHISKEY

Size: 159 acres Depth: 46 feet

Public access: North side off County Road 58.

WINONA

Size: 213 acres Depth: 9 feet

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

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

BEACHES

City Park Beach – Alexandria

Lake Henry in Alexandria City Park, one block west of County Road 42. Chippewa County Park Beach –Brandon

Between lakes Little Chippewa and Devil’s off County Road 108.

Lake Brophy County Park – Alexandria

Take County Road 82 west of Alexandria to the Brophy Landing road.

Lake Carlos State Park – Carlos

Lake Carlos, seven miles north of Alexandria off State Highway 29 and County Road 38.

Lake Latoka Beach – Alexandria.

Take County Road 82 west from Alexandria, turn south on County Road 90, then west onto Latoka Beach Road.

Lake L’Homme Dieu Beach –Alexandria.

Take State Highway 29 north of Alexandria

to the beach.

Lake Osakis Beach – Osakis

Located on East Lake Street in Osakis. Rotary Beach – Alexandria

Between lakes L’Homme Dieu and Carlos off County Road 42.

CITY PARKS

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

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

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

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

Carter Park, on Benjamin Drive off of County Road 22 in Alexandria, has a playground..

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

Fred Foslien Park, in Victoria Heights, two blocks south of County Road 27 off Knut Street in Alexandria, has a playground. Geneva Crest Park is on the west side of Lake Geneva in Alexandria. Take County Road 82 East, turn north on Birch Avenue, go 3/4 mile, go east on Basswood two blocks and north on Geneva Dr. It has a playground, small ballfield and sand volleyball court.

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

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

Lake Burgen Park, on Rosewood and Snowbird lanes on the west side of Lake

Burgen, has a playground.

Lake Connie Park is on Seventh Avenue East between Roosevelt and Spruce streets in Alexandria.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer Meadows Park, on the north side of Alexandria near Scenic Heights Road and Summer Lane, has a playground. Veterans Memorial Park is at 802 Broadway in Alexandria. It includes a replica of the Liberty Bell and granite monoliths with the names of more than 7,000 veterans, as well as restrooms and a picnic area. It also includes the Matt Kjelland Memorial basketball court.

Woodland Park, on the north side of Alexandria on Woodland Drive, just north of Highway 29, has a playground.

CENTRAL LAKESTrail

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

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

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

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

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

MOUNTAIN BIKE

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

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

views in the county.

LAKE BROPHY County Park Trails

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

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