Litchfield Lifestyle Guide by Big Fish Works

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2015 lifestyle guide

LITCHFIELD

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

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2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

LITCHFIELD

Litchfield resident Lesha Johanneck took this photo of beachgoers at Lake Ripley during last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Watercade, an annual celebration featuring several days of activities, including a fireworks display, parade and coronation of Litchfield royalty.

ATTRACTIONS

Parks Recreation Festivals Historic Homes

HEALTH 9 10 11 12

FOOD

Food

GOVERNMENT

City Council Meetings Public Utilities Library Ordinances Meeker County Board Other Elected Officials State and Federal Leaders Courthouse U.S. Postal Service Transportation Conservation District Agriculture Economic Development Public Health Family Services Licenses

15 19 19 19 20 20 22 22 22 23 23 23 23 24 24 24 24 24

Health & Wellness

LEISURE Athletic Organizations Clubs & Organizations Lake Associations

Louie Opatz

Editorial Design: Rachel Larivee, Nicole Bullock Chief Digital Officer: Pino Shah Advertising: Kevin True, Robyn Richardson, Haley Jacobsen

31 31 34

LIVING Education Senior Citizens Support Services

38 39 40

MARKETPLACE Local Media Municipal Liquor Store Storefront (Business) Directory

46 46 49

PETS Humane Society

2015 Lifestyle Guide Publisher: Brent Schacherer Photography: Litchfield Independent Review Editorial Content: Andrew Broman, Jenny Berg,

Special thanks to the City of Litchfield, Litchfield Chamber of Commerce, Meeker County and Litchfield School District for their contributions. Also thank you to Lesha Johnanneck for permission to reprint her Lake Ripley sunset photograph. Every effort has been made to provide an accurate directory, but if errors have occurred please let us know about them. Published by Crow River Press, 170 Shady Ridge Rd., Hutchinson, MN 55350. Copyright 2015. Printed in the U.S.A. For additional information or to submit corrections, call 320593-4802 or send an email to editor@independentreview.net.

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elcome to the 2015 Litchfield Lifest yle Guide. This redesigned publication offers a directory of information and resources used by Litchfield area businesses and residents, especially those who are new to this area. The information contained in this guide is also available and regularly updated year-round on the new bigfishlifestyle app. The Lifest yle Guide is a compilation of impor tant information — a single source for lists of services, names, telephone numbers and email addresses. Keep it handy;

use it often. Our apologies in advance for omissions or for changes that occur after publication. Please notify us of information that needs to be updated so it can be kept current throughout the year. If you would like additional copies of this publication, call our Circulation Department at 320-693-3266. Send information for the Lifestyle Guide to Andrew Broman at editor@independentreview.net.

SMALL-TOWN FLAVOR L

itchfield residents have a genuine appreciation for what it means to be a community. The city offers the best in small-town flavor and values, yet Litchfield is only about one hour’s drive from larger regional centers, including St. Cloud and the Twin Cities. Main highways, a municipal airport, a hospital and clinics, camping at Lake Ripley, beautiful parks, a strong business community, as well as excellent schools are some of Litchfield’s greatest attributes. Incorporated in 1872, the city grew with the railroad. After the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad was constructed through Litchfield, the county seat was moved from Forest City to Litchfield in 1869. The town was named after brothers E. Darwin Litchfield, Egbert

‘ boast someLitchfield and Meeker County also E. Litchfield and Edwin healthiest citi of the state’s hap pie st and zens, accord Lifestyle Fo ing to the nat release d Co cus unt y Health ionally C. Litchfield, who helped Young pepper Rankings. plants await owners at a kick-off eve nt for the One ’ Vegetab One Commun VIBRANT CO ity program finance the construction MMUNITY oncommunity’s many initiativ,esone of thele, focusing health and wel Wellness a pri lnes s. mary commu of the railroad through nity theme L Minnesota. Advertisers Today, Litchfield is Harmony Cen ter For Hea ring home to several athletic 28 LitchĆeld Eye Center 28 LitchĆeld Fam ily Dental fields near Litchfield 28 The Medici ne Shoppe 28 AfĆliated Me dical Center High S cho ol, a golf 29 Ecumen 29 Meeker Co. course and an indoor Public Health 32 Patten Chirop ractic 52 Snap Fitness hockey rink at the 60 Meeker Me morial Hospita l 63 Civic Arena. Litchfield has its own police department, as well as a volunteer fire department and rescue squad. Other city facilities include a municipal liquor store, municipal power plant, water department and wastewater treatment facility. The Cit y of

itch field offe rs many initi ativ es focu including the sing on heal annual One thy livin g, that seeks to Vegetable, One Commun improve over ity campaig all commun The initiative, n ity health by spon healthier eatin a new vegetable sored by Meeker Cou g. nty Public Hea each year — lth, features which have and kale — as part of its included toma heal toes, peppers thy-eating prom spring, com munity mem otional cam bers can pick paig events with n. Each up free plan local master ts, and then gardeners, experts thro attend dieticians and ughout the other wellness year. The City of LitchĆeld and state’s happ Meeker Cou iest and heal nty also boas thiest t some of the released Cou nty Health Rank citizens, according to the nationally list in 2010 ings. Since the , Meeker Cou inception of nty has cons the rankings ranked in the istently top third of Minnesota’s counties. Cou healthiest nty residents LATEST also report happy and healthy, with feeling Meeker Cou CONTENT ranked nint nty being h out of Min neso ta’s 87 counties in ranked the “quality of life” cate The commun gory. ity is served clini cs, as by a hospital well as a num and ber of chir dental, eye opra ctic, care, hearing care and men care provider tal health s.

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WELCOME

Color guard member Addie Lokken holds a samurai sword during Litchfield High School marching band’s Pie in the Park performance on Sibley Avenue.

HEALTH

MAYOR’S COLUMN

A GREAT PLACE TO ENJOY LIFE L

et me give you a brief idea of why our town is an amazing place to work, play and enjoy life. We have a new critical care, 35-bed hospital attached to our old hospital with in- and out-patient services and a full-time surgeon, along with helicopter and ambulance services. There are two medical clinics, three dentist clinics, three chiropractic clinics and three pharmacies. We have a first-class elder facility in Ecumen with residential facilities for the elderly and hospice and nursing homes. Litchfield has many businesses — small, medium and large — offering an abundance of employment possibilities and retail opportunities. Our town has the second largest cheese producer in the United States in First District Association, a receiver of 500 million

gallons of milk a day pulling from 47 counties in Minnesota and Wisconsin. First District produces cheese products and cheese byproducts for companies all over the world. Our education system in our community consists of a Catholic elementar y school, two public elementary schools, a middle and high school along with an extensive Community Education program. The schools have new state-of-the-art security protection program and a total personal computer offering for all students grades K-12. The recreation of ferings in Litchfield include 14 new and resur faced tennis cour ts with two new, outdoor regulation-size basketball courts. We have a children’s playground, built in 2012 built by

residents’ skilled and volunteer labor, that won WCCO-TV playground of the year award. We have a beautiful 18hole golf course along with beautifully maintained parks, baseball and softball fields. We also have a hockey arena, and two fitness establishments. The center piece of our community is our 500-acre Lake Ripley with fishing, boating, camping, swimming and family gathering shelters. A four-mile asphalt road around the lake is ideal for walking, running, and biking. Litchfield has a historic downtown with t wo antique stores, four restaurants, and many specialty stores, a weekly newspaper and an AM radio station. The city of Litchfield has great infrastructure offerings along with city services at reasonable rates, in addition

MAYOR KEITH JOHNSON to low property taxes for home and business owners. As mayor and a 50-year resident that believes in Litchfield, I ask you to come visit, work, play, or just live here the rest of your life. Welcome! — Mayor Keith Johnson

WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT LIVING IN LITCHFIELD? “As a new member of the community, my extended family is what brought me to Litchfield. And family — not just my own — is what I love most about Litchfield. The community’s deep roots and history encourage me to value what is important.”

“What I like best about living in Litchfield is the small-town feel I get on a daily basis along with the random acts of kindness I have witnessed and have been apart of in the community over the years. I simply feel at home in Litchfield.”

MICHELE SEIFFERT Elementary Music Teacher, Litchfield School District

WAYNE LOPEZ 32-year resident of Litchfield

“My husband and I purchased our farm 26 years ago, in the community we found wonderful schools, great medical care and lots of recreational activities. Twenty-six years later the kids got great educations here, the medical care is even better and the community is a great place to live!”

“I really like living in Litchfield because of the people in the community. In my 10-plus years here, I’ve developed some of my closest relationships with people from Litchfield.” SCOTT MARQUARDT Co-owner of BlueStem Wealth Partners

JUDY BARKA Meeker Memorial Hospital Foundation

“I believe what sets apart Litchfield from other towns and cities is the fact that it has a strong community identity and somewhat of a ‘smalltown feel’ even though we have approximately 7,000 people in our city.” JASON MICHELS Principal, Litchfield High School

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

“The people. They know how to do a job right. We’ve never had a problem finding great employees. They are honest. In 25 years of doing jobs on a handshake, I have been sorry just once.” FRED RAU Owner of Stockmen’s Greenhouse and Landscaping

2010

VETERANS

2012

2013

658 2009 - 2013 = 60

6,726

6,671

6,688

-.6% increase from April 1, 2010 to July 1, 2013

= 600

5 years and under 18 years and under

24.9%

Between 19 and 64 years

49.7%

65 years and older

18.4%

POPULATION BREAKDOWN WHITE

91.3%

HISPANIC OR LATINO

7.2%

TWO OR MORE RACES

.8%

BLACK OR AFRICAN AMERICAN AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE

.1%

ASIAN

.5%

.1%

4.5% Foreign born Between 2009 and 2013 EDUCATION

87.1% High School Graduate or higher, 25+ 2009 - 2013

WORK TRAVEL TIME Mean travel time to work

workers age 16+

19.3 min

2009 - 2013

HOUSING

2,930 Housing units, 2010 = 400

70.6%

Homeownership rate, 2009 - 2013

88.3% Living in same house 1 year or more $129,300 Median value of ownership occupied homes, 2009 - 2013 2.35 Persons per household $49,422 Median household income

19.1% Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree or higher, 25+ 2009 - 2013

Source: http://quickfacts.census.gov/

LIFESTYLE SNAPSHOT

POPULATION

ATTRACTIONS

OPTIONS FOR FUN Adventures and getaways close to home

Lifestyle Focus

Dozens of children and their parents were eager to check out the new playground at Memorial Park in Litchfield during the grand opening in May 2013. The park is one of 18 in Litchfield.

n Litchfield, residents and visitors don’t have to look far to find an opportunity for fun. The city has 18 parks of all different shapes and sizes, as well as facilities such as an archery range, basketball and tennis courts, hockey rinks and a golf course. The playground at Memorial Park along the east shore of Lake Ripley was revamped in 2013 when a small group of community members joined together to raise funds for — and build with their own hands — a new playground. Memorial Park and Lake Ripley are also the site of many events during Watercade, the city’s summer celebration, including a fishing contest, LATEST beach party, sand-castle building contest, a CONTENT 4-mile run around the lake and a fireworks display. The south shore of Lake Ripley is also the site to a popular RV campground, which lures both residents and non-residents to its site to enjoy life on the lake. Litchfield is also home to many historic houses that reflect various architectural styles.

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ATTRACTIONS PARKS LITCHFIELD PARKS Anderson Gardens North of Memorial Park on Lake Ripley, just off Highway 22 Anderson Gardens is a miniarboretum park located on the northeastern corner of Lake Ripley with a picturesque gazebo. Becker Park One block south of East Paul Street, between Gilman and Chandler Located on South Chandler Avenue, Becker Park is an open play area with a swing set and a small hill perfect for sliding and sledding in the winter. Central Park Off Sibley Avenue between 3rd Street and 4th Street The heart of Litchfield, Central Park and its bandshell are home to activities throughout the year, including outdoor music, Easter egg hunt, a farmers market and community meals. It is in downtown Litchfield along Sibley Avenue.

In addition to an indoor hockey rink, Litchfield Civic Arena has two outdoor skating rinks available. Both rinks — one to the east of the Civic Arena and one to the south — can be used for hockey or recreational skating for free as weather permits. launch and ice fishing access.

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

Lake Ripley Campground Off Lake Ripley Drive between Lake Ripley and East Lake Ripley The municipal trailer campground has 33 sites, all with sewer and water, as well as permanent restrooms and showers. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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

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

Jaycees Park Between Memorial Park and Lake Ripley Campground on Lake Ripley Situated between Memorial Park and the Lake Ripley Campground along Lake Ripley, this park is ideal for a day on the lake or packing a picnic: Jaycees Park has a picnic shelter, playground equipment, dock, boat

Litchfield Sports Complex Between the Armory and the high school on Gilman Avenue Located near Litchfield High School on Gilman Avenue, the Litchfield Sports Complex features a variety of athletic facilities, including four softball fields, four tennis courts, a horseshoe court, two outdoor hockey rinks, basketball court,

soccer area, skateboard park, two Little League fields and Optimist Park, home of the Litchfield Blues amateur baseball team. The area is also home to Litchfield Public Schools’ athletic facilities.

This park is an open play area with a swingset located on North Miller Avenue between NInth and 11th streets, with Jewett Creek along the east edge. In the winter, there is a small hill for sledding.

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

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

Ness Park On North Miller Avenue between 6th Street and 7th Street A large park located off North Miller Avenue between Sixth and Seventh streets, Ness Park has a swing set, picnic tables and volleyball court. North Casey Park Near Shell and Davis Motors off North Sibley Avenue

Prairie Park Between East Butler Street and East Quail Drive, northwest of the cemetery Along Butler Street, Prairie Park is a 40-acre nature park, featuring 2.5 miles of walking and cross-country skiing trails, playground equipment and a picnic shelter provided by the Rotary Club. South Park West Ripley Street and South Swift Avenue This square block park on the 300 block of Miller Avenue South is home to two tennis courts, play equipment and a volleyball court. 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

ATTRACTIONS ball field, volleyball court and fishing dock. West Ripley Park 25288 County Highway 1, Litchfield Located just south of Litchfield on County Highway 1, West Ripley Park has a boat landing, fishing pier, playground equipment, sand volleyball court, bike path and large picnic shelter. The park comprises 5.6 acres on the western shore of Lake Ripley.

Litchfield Golf Club co-manager Matt Thomas teaches young golfers the basics of putting during a youth golf session. South Street Playground North Davis and East South Street South Street Playground is an open lot at the corner of North Davis and East South Street with playground equipment. Sunrise Terrace Park Off East 2nd Street, near North Gorman Avenue The park, located along Sunrise Drive in eastern Litchfield, has updated playground equipment and a small man-made sliding hill. Thompson Park South Chandler between East Ripley Street and East St. Paul Street An open play area and swingset mark Thompson Park, located on South Chandler between East Ripley and East St. Paul streets. MEEKER COUNTY PARKS Clear Lake Park Off Clear Lake, south of Watkins on County Road 2 Located three miles south of Watkins on County Road 2, the 34.4-acre park includes a picnic area and shelter, boat landing and a short hiking trail. Darwin-Dassel Park Between Darwin & Dassel on U.S. Highway 12 Comprising 160 acres, the county’s largest park has 6.5 miles of hiking, cross country skiing and horseback riding trails. Shelters and picnic tables are on

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

the lookout hill, a popular sliding hill in the winter. The park extends south of U.S. Highway 12 with additional trails and picnic area. Greenleaf Lake State Recreation Area 17980 640th Ave., Litchfield This new recreation area has 385 acres with water access to two lakes, a fishing pier, trails for hiking and cross-country skiing and special season archery hunting. Visitors can see portions of Greenleaf and Sioux lakes, along with several wetlands. For more information, call 320-7962161 or visit www.mndnr.gov/ greenleaf. Finnish Memorial Park Just west of Kingston on Highway 27 Ideal for canoeing down the North Fork Crow River, Finnish Memorial Park sits just west of Kingston on County Road 27. The 17-acre park has a canoe landing, tennis court, shelter and playground equipment. Koronis Regional Park 14076 Bluefield Road, Paynesville On the southwest shore of Lake Koronis, this 62-acre park, which is jointly owned by Meeker and Stearns counties, offers overnight camping with electricity and water hookup, bathrooms and showers. It also has a swimming beach, playground equipment, boat landing, lookout tower, picnic

shelters with kitchen facilities and several recreational facilities. A walking/biking trail encircles the lake. To make shelter or camping reservations, call 320- 276-8843. Lake Manuella Park 21239 County Highway 9, Darwin Known for its swimming beach, the park has picnic facilities, bathrooms and a changing house. It is located on County Highway 9, five miles south of U.S. Highway 12. Shaw Memorial Park 31577 County Highway 1, Litchfield Located in Forest City along Crow River, the 10-acre park has picnic shelters, playground equipment, a softball field, basketball court and ice skating rink in the winter. Spring Lake Park 72599 240th St., Dassel Situated between Spring Lake and Long Lake one mile north of Dassel, the 13-acre park offers fishing opportunities with a boat landing and fishing dock, as well as picnic shelters, playground equipment and a popular Little League field. A new trail connects the park to Dassel. Thompson Park 13099 525th Ave., Cosmos Located on 525th Avenue one mile west of Cosmos, 22acre Thompson Park has picnic shelters, playground equipment,

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

RECREATION Litchfield Civic Arena 900 North Gilman Ave., Litchfield The Litchfield Civic Arena hosts Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato boys and girls hockey games and also offers open skating every Sunday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for three dollars. The arena also features skate sharpening, community room rental, meeting rooms, table and chair rental and dry floor activities — business expos, auctions, banquets, family reunions, phy-ed and dance classes — between March and the end of September. For more info, call 320-693-2679. Litchfield Golf Club 405 West Pleasure Dr., Litchfield The Litchfield Golf Course is located on the beautiful shores of Lake Ripley. With four sets of tee boxes ranging from 6,400 yards to 5,000 yards, Litchfield Golf Club has 18 uniquely challenging holes. The Par 70, Championship layout will be sure to give the most accomplished golfers a true test of golf, yet allow for the novice to enjoy their round and have fun. For more info, call 320-693-6059. Litchfield Bowling Center 1227 South Sibley Ave., Litchfield The Litchfield Bowling Center offers numerous leagues for all

ATTRACTIONS ages and open bowling on Friday from 5:30 p.m. to close, Saturday from 1 p.m. to close and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Lanes at the bowling center are available for rent events and a “pizza and pop party” package is also available. The kitchen offers a variety of food, including fresh-made pizza, chicken dinners, appetizers and nachos, and a full bar is also available. For more information, call 320-693-9077. Darwin Rod and Gun Club 27902 668th Ave., Darwin The Darwin Rod and Gun Club is a sportsmen’s club that offers year-round range shooting to members (membership is $20) and trap shooting on Wednesdays between late May and August. The club’s clubhouse — complete with full commercial kitchen and beer on tap — is also available for rental for weddings, birthday parties or other events. For more information, call Ken Porth at 320-693-8722.

FESTIVALS Manannah Daze June 6, 2015 The small village of Manannah kicks off summer celebration season with a variety of activities, including volleyball and horseshoe tournaments, tractor pulls and a street dance. The parade Saturday is followed by a pageant, where Manannah men dress in drag to compete for the title of “Miss” Manannah. Eden Valley’s Valley Daze June 18-21, 2015 Eden Valley celebrates every June with a parade, carnival, live music, food stands, a tug-a-war tournament and an annual youth fishing contest. Litchfield Watercade July 9-12, 2015 The weekend immediately following the Fourth of July is Litchfield’s biggest celebration each year. That’s when the entire city dives into Watercade, a weekend of fun, food and

Kids had no problems keeping cool during last year’s water ball competition at the Litchfield Fire and Rescue Hall. festivities. Activities planned each year include a fireworks display, golf tournament, Grand Day parade, Art in the Park, medallion hunt, 4-mile run, fishing contest, kiddie parade and a Little Crow water ski show. Watercade’s finale is the annual queen coronation and includes the crowning of the new Miss Litchfield and princesses. Cosmos Space Festival July 17-19, 2015 The annual Space Festival is expected to be an out-ofthis-world event, including the crowning of Little Miss Universe and Man in the Moon, fireworks, parade and a cow pie bingo. Meeker County Fair July 30-Aug. 2, 2015 It’s the annual “Fairest Days of Summer” for county residents the first weekend in August. It features traditional county fair activities, such as exhibits and the showing of livestock, carnival rides, live music and demolition derbies. Watkins’ Kraut and Wurst Day July 31-Aug. 1, 2015 Area residents celebrate their German heritage in Watkins’ celebration, which includes a

parade, cow drop raffle and, of course, a feast of sauerkraut and bratwurst. Antique Car Run Aug. 8, 2015 The New London to New Brighton Antique Car Run with vehicles from 1908 and earlier covers 120 miles, including traveling through the heart of Meeker County, making stops in Grove City, Litchfield and Kingston. Darwin Twine Ball Celebration Aug. 8, 2015 It’s one of Minnesota’s unique landmarks — Darwin’s big ball of twine. Dubbed the World’s Largest Twine Ball Collected by One Person, the spherical collection is celebrated with parade, mini-rod races, craft fair and pork chop dinner. Grove City AugustFest Aug. 13-16, 2015 Grove City is planning to celebrate summer with the a tractor pull, mud volleyball, horseshoe, trap shooting and softball tournaments, a kiddie parade, talent show and parade. Forest City Stockade Rendezvous Aug. 15-16, 2015

Step back in time for the annual Rendezvous. The Forest City Stockade, a replica of a fort built by Forest City residents during the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, is home to a variety of old fashioned activities, demonstrations and food. Forest City Thresher Days Aug. 15-16, 2015 Thresher Days include displays of antique tractors and other farm equipment, along with threshing and corn shredding demonstrations. A tractor parade also is a favorite annual event. Dassel Red Rooster Days Sept. 4-7, 2015 Labor Day weekend is time to celebrate, with an ambassadors coronation, parade, Minnesota’s Largest Chicken Barbecue, and other activities. Forest City Pioneer Christmas Dec. 5, 2015 The Forest City Stockade changes a bit from its summer Rendezvous to a winter holiday theme during its annual Pioneer Christmas. Activities include horse-drawn sleigh rides, a visit with Santa, Christmas caroling and old-fashioned ornaments.

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

ATTRACTIONS

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

406 Armstrong Ave. N.

326 Armstrong Ave. N.

alk down a Litchfield street and you’re likely to find countless monuments to the city’s early history. Following is a list featuring some of the town’s most impressive historic homes. Most of the homes are located along four avenues: Armstrong, Holcombe, Marshall and Sibley. The first sec tion includes homes on the cit y ’s north side, and the second section highlights the south side. Litchfield was founded in 1869. It was established as the county seat of Meeker County due to the railroad built by E. Darwin Litchfield and his brothers in the 1860s. Prior to that time, Forest City, a town about five miles north, had been designated the county seat, but citizens decided a city next to the railroad would be more convenient and have a better economic base. The homes we will see on this tour are from the 18691920 Victorian Era. This was a time of great change and growth out here on the Northern Plains. NORTH SIDE 518 Armstrong Ave. N. This home was built in the late 1800s by August Lenhardt. This family built the Litchfield Brewery and owned Lenhardt Hotel and many of the first lots surveyed in Litchfield after the town was laid out. 506 Armstrong Ave. N. A two-story house with a large porch, this home was built in 1908. It is an excellent example of Victorian architecture featuring a dignified home with a wrap-around veranda porch, artistic windows and a large, quiet yard.

320 Armstrong Ave. N.

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

413 Armstrong Ave. N. This large red brick house was built by Peter Hanson as a wedding gift to his daughter, Nellie, when

she married Mr. March in 1905. It has a ballroom on the third floor and the light oak woodwork throughout remains in impeccable condition. There is a servants’ staircase, a fireplace in the master bedroom and a large beautiful dining room with 10-foot ceilings. 405 Armstrong Ave. N. Completed in 1904, local folks call this home “the Red Castle.” Peter E. Hanson, the original owner, had the home built while he served in the Minnesota Senate from 1895-1898 and as secretary of state from 1901-1907. It is interesting that the state Capitol in St. Paul was being built at the same time as this home. The original tile roof of this home (some of which you can see on the turret) was the same color and design as the tile used on the roof of the Capitol building. The house has five fireplaces, a grand stairway, an oak dining room, and cherry woodwork throughout. The outside walls are quadruple-brick for insulation. It was the original owner of this home, Mr. Hanson, who built the home we just saw next door for his daughter, Nellie. 406 Armstrong Ave. N. This home was built about 1888 and is where John T. Mullen, a wellknown Litchfield merchant, lived. 326 Armstrong Ave. N. B uilt a b o u t 1910 , t h e architec ture of this home is untouched since construction. 320 Armstrong Ave. N. This home was constructed between 1910-1915. Its turret is an example of the Victorian Era. The home was once owned by Fred Richter, a former Litchfield mayor. 307 Holcombe Ave. N. Built about 1895 by a prominent

ATTRACTIONS banker named O.H. Campbell, this house was once known as the “Raven’s Nest.” From 1920 to the late 1940s, it was used as a nuns’ conservatory, and many people in Litchfield remember taking piano lessons there. It remains unchanged and a stark example of the fortress style of Victorian homes of the 1890s. It is built of yellow brick produced in Litchfield during that time. 503 Holcombe Ave. N. A distinctly Victorian home, originally the Morrison House, this home is an excellent example of a style referred to as the “Painted Lady,” or Queen Anne.

518 Armstrong Ave. N.

413 Armstrong Ave. N.

421 Marshall Ave. N. Built about 1915, this modest house has strong connections to a remarkable person and the origins of a locally significant industr y. Creamer y operator Alfred Anderson used the basement to begin his business, Anderson Chemical. The firm p ro d u ce d a ba c te rial f lavo r enhancer to the dairy industry, and eventually moved into cleaning and sanitizing produc ts. The Anderson Chemical Company grew into a major corporation with a national market and business in international locations. Alfred Anderson himself has an intriguing Swedish immigrant story and made important civic contributions to Litchfield, including a term as mayor. 425 Marshall Ave. N. This house is a rare example of the Art Moderne style in Litchfield. Art Moderne and other related modernistic styles, such as Art Deco, were commonly used for public and commercial buildings between 1920 and 1940. Art Moderne emerged as the most prevalent form in the 1930s. Never a commonly used residential style, scattered examples can be found throughout the country. Constructed after 1941, this house is a particularly late example of the style.

405 Armstrong Ave. N.

611 Marshall Ave. N. Mary Jo Smith has turned this early 1920s Tudor-style home

into a beautiful bed and breakfast called The Marshall Estate. It features four bedrooms, hardwood floors, built-in china cabinets with leaded/beveled glass, a charming fireplace, and indoor and outdoor porches. 705 N. Miller Ave. The house is one of the few houses in Litchfield that displays the character-defining features of the Italianate style. The Italianate style was a popular domestic style in the United States from about 1840 to 1885, and it was particularly common in the towns of the Midwest experiencing large growth during this period. The house was also the home of Ole Ness, an early pioneer and a founding father of Litchfield. SOUTH SIDE 215 Sibley Ave. S. “Guide to the Architecture of Minnesota” (1977) describes this home as an “Eastlake style frame clapboard house with extensive turned work on the Queen Anne porch.” It was built in 1890 by Mr. McClure, a Litchfield banker. It remains close to its original condition with the original oil cloth wallpaper still on the dining room walls and tin ceilings in the kitchen and bath. 700 Sibley Ave. S. This lovely home was built in the late 1920s and is a perfect example of what is known as Craftsman Architecture. We have several homes in our town of this style from the early 1920s era. 304 Sibley Ave. S. This two-story red brick office building was once a lovely home built in the late 1880s. It was the home of a well-known, successful brewer who operated a large brewery on the north shore of our Lake Ripley. Not to be outdone, his brother founded St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Litchfield. 310 Sibley Ave. S. This lovely Victorian home was built in 1899. This house cost $2,000 to build. There have been few changes to the original floor plan. In the dining room of this 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

ATTRACTIONS

215 Sibley Ave. S.

403 Armstrong Ave. S. home is one of the most beautiful fireplaces. It is artistic from floor to ceiling with several different types of woodwork combined with copper inlay for a spectacular mantle. The house has five original ornate windows, and a maplewood mosaic on the entryway floor.

326 Donnelly Ave. S.

307 Holcombe Ave. N.

421 Marshall Ave. N.

705 Miller Ave. N.

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

316 Sibley Ave. S. Currently Johnson-Hagglund Funeral Home, this home was built by B.P. Nelson in 1903 as a family residence. There was a tennis court on the south side of the home and a three-stall carriage house on the north. The third floor was a ballroom with dance parties still being held there in the 1930s and ’40s. 724 Sibley Ave. S. The Rosemary Home. This was the home of Dorothea Kopplin and her family. Mrs. Kopplin lived from 1898-1970. She was a mother, teacher, homemaker and author. She was Minnesota Mother of the Year in 1949. In accordance with her will, her home became a home for nursing students, nurses and business women. This was done in memory of her daughter who died of leukemia at age 6. Her daughter’s bedroom is a small room at the front of the second floor and is still furnished as it was when the child lived there. Mrs. Kopplin’s daughter’s name was, of course, Rosemary. Mrs. Kopplin wrote “Something to Live By” in 1945 with all royalties being donated to the Minnesota Federation of Women’s Clubs for nursing scholarships. The home

was built in the late 1890s and has a permanent caretaker living on the grounds. 805 Sibley Ave. S. This large English Tudor style home was built in 1910 and was once the home of Dr. Karl Danielson. Dr. Danielson is remembered for swimming in Lake Ripley nearly every day of his life, even in winter. He lived to be 90 years old. 806 Sibley Ave. S. This lovely home was built in 1906. The garage replaces what was once a livery barn which had room for two horses and one carriage. 910 Sibley Ave. S. This Victorian home was built in the late 1800s, and was the first house in Litchfield to have running water. It was built by Mr. Sweetman who had an oil business. The property includes a windmill, which was used to pump water into a storage tank in the attic and provided running water to the house. The interesting garage behind this house was built in 1940 to replace the large, old barn which had to be torn down. This property once extended back five blocks to Swift Avenue. The house retains its distinctive Victorian appearance. 403 Armstrong Ave. S. Built in 1889 by C.W. Wagner, th en ow n e r of th e Litchf ield newspaper and the man for whom Wagner Elementar y School is named, his wife Emma Chandler Wagner, and their only daughter,

Harriet. Following the deaths of her parents, Harriet lived in the house for part of each year, spending the rest of her time traveling abroad. The house remains close to its original state. Some of the changes are the addition of a fireplace in the front parlor, partial enclosing of the front porch, and an upstairs enclosed back porch. The interior has been restored to much of its Victorian glory. 326 Donnelly Ave. S. This house has been the home of two famous Meeker County residents. It was built in 1893 and stood on the corners of Swift and Ripley avenues. Many years later it was moved here to Donnelly Avenue. One well-known resident was Gale Sondergaard. Sondergaard was an Academy Award winning actress and starred in many movies including: “Maid of Salem,” “The Letter,” “The Cat and The Canary,” “Anna and The King of Siam,” and “Anthony Adverse,” for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1936. She also starred on Broadway. She lived in this home with her family during early childhood. Later, this was the home of Bernie Bierman, famous football coach of the University of Minnesota Gophers. He played football for the Litchfield High School team and went on to play left end for Minnesota. He coached at Tulane University and in 1932 took his team to the Rose Bowl. He returned to Minnesota to coach the Gophers and brought on what was to be known as the “Golden Era” of Minnesota football. This home is an example of the Victorian design.

FOOD

GOOD EATS Something for every taste bud

itchfield has a variety of local cuisine, everything from Chinese and Mexican to classical American comfort food. Area residents enjoy eating at special events at Central Park throughout the summer months, whether brat feeds, pancake breakfasts or ice cream socials. A Litchfield favorite, Pie In The Park, features many types of delicious homemade pies — and all proceeds go toward supporting local nonprofit organizations. Savor a slice while watching local music groups perform at the Central Park bandshell. Farmer markets are also popular from May through October. Litchfield has two markets featuring local produce and baked goods. One market operates at Central Park and another one sets up at the VFW Post 2818 on East U.S. Highway 12, near LATEST Economart. CONTENT And don’t forget about the Meeker County Fair held at the fairgrounds on North Armstrong Avenue in Litchfield in early August. There are all sorts of treats, such as cotton candy, and deep-fried foods to enjoy, along with beer at the fair’s beer garden.

Lifestyle Focus Patty Vossen plops a dollop of ice cream onto the plate of Nathan Vanderbill during the city’s annual Pie in the Park event at Central Park last year. The event raised money for Lithfield High School’s marching band program.

Advertisers Cricket Meadow Tea

Jimmy’s Pizza

A Blue Moose Grill & Pub

American Legion Post #104

Peter’s On Lake Ripley

Subway

Wahoo’s Bar & Grill

FOOD

Drum Majors Jordan Carew, left, and Oliver Leafblad lead the Marching Dragons down Sibley Avenue last summer for Pie in the Park, which raised money for the band program.

CRICKET

Check out our Retail:

MEADOW

Tea, Coffee, Mugs, Teapots, T-Shirts, Sweatshirts

TEA | COFFEE | FOOD

Mon. – Fri. 7:00 am to 4 pm Sat. 8:00 am to 3 pm

TEA CAFÉ

320-593-0809

Homemade Soups Salads & Sandwiches

Open: Sun.-Thurs. 11am -10pm; Fri. & Sat. 11am - 11pm

Signature Homemade Sunny Harvest Bread

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

Homemade Scones & Bakery Goods

Dine In, Delivery, Take Out

30+ Flavors Tea

OPEN

637 E. Hwy. 12, Ste. #2, Litchﬁeld (we close 1 hour earlier each day during Fall & Winter)

113 N. Sibley Ave. Litchﬁeld, MN 55355

Organic Herbal Teas

320-593-0456

Coffee from Minnesota Coffee Roasting Co.

www.cricketmeadowtea.com Free wi-ﬁ available

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

FOOD

320-693-9161 Downtown Darwin

Family Friendly Come for the great food and hang out for the company!

Daily Specials

Award Winning BBQ Ribs

Lunch M-F, Evenings 5-9 Catering Available 6-year-old Emma Salo of Richmond, Minn., chomps on her first cob of corn of the season at Eden Valley’s Valley Daze. The county’s many festivals feature a variety of food choices each year.

“Small Town, Big Fun!”

(320) 373-5083 324 1st Street Darwin, MN

• Daily Specials • LIVE MUSIC! • Sundays - All Day Happy Hour • BEST PRETZEL BURGERS IN MINNESOTA • Meat Raffles Every Sunday at 4 PM Check out our daily specials:

www.facebook.com/wahoosmn

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

NELSAN-HORTON POST 104

Litchfield American Legion Downtown Litchfield • 320-693-9074

• Daily Happy Hour • Nightly Specials • Breakfast Buffet 1st Sunday of every month • 8am-1pm LOUNGE HOURS: Monday - Tuesday • Open @ 3:00 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday Open @ 11:00 a.m. Sunday • Open @ Noon www.litchfieldamericanlegionpost104.com 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

GOVERNMENT

A FULL-SERVICE COMMUNITY State-of-the-art facilities to serve residents

itchfield serves as the hub for Meeker County Government. Home to both the Courthouse and Law Enforcement Center, Litchfield is the place to go for many licensing and motor vehicle needs, building permits and birth, death and marriage certificates. Litchfield’s more than 6,500 residents can bring city-related questions to City Hall at 126 N. Marshall Ave. City government is comprised of a mayor and city council, which are responsible for adopting and enforcing ordinances, establishing public and administrative policies, appointing staff positions, boards and commissions. The city provides numerous services to residents, such as providing a secure, clean water supply. The city has invested in state-of-the-art facilities, including a newly-constructed fire and rescue station and upgraded sewage treatment plant. Litchfield’s historic downtown was designated as a Commercial Historic District by the National Park Service and placed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1996. The district encompasses 48 properties, including 36 “contributing” buildings. The Historic Preservation Commission LATEST assists in overseeing development within the CONTENT district to ensure exterior construction meets historical guidelines. Litchfield is also home to a National Guard unit, the 849th Mobility Augmentation Company. The unit returned to Litchfield last year after spending a year deployed in Afghanistan carrying out Operation Enduring Freedom.

Lifestyle Focus Cody Lemke of Litchfield holds an American flag as part of the flag line at Litchfield Civic Arena created to welcome home members of Litchfield’s National Guard unit last year. The unit was deployed to Afghanistan for one year.

Advertisers City of Litchfield

Litchfield Chamber of Commerce 21 Meeker County Administrator Office

Meeker County Economic Development Authority

Meeker County Sheriff

Meeker Cooperative Light & Power Assn.

Meeker County Council on Aging 41

CITY OF

LITCHFIELD

LITCHFIELD CITY HALL 126 N. Marshall Ave. Litchfield, MN 55355

320-693-7201 www.ci.litchfield.mn.us

320-693-7201

CITY COUNCIL

MEETINGS

The city of Litchfield is governed by six council members and a mayor. City Administrator Dave Cziok is responsible for day-to-day operations of the city. The mayor and council members serve four-year terms. Staggered elections take place every two years in November.

City of Litchfield meetings are held in City Council Chambers at City Hall, 126 N. Marshall Ave. For information, call 320-693-7201. FIRST AND THIRD MONDAYS

Litchfield City Council 5:30 p.m.

Council meetings are open to the public unless it is in a rare closed session. Meetings are televised Mondays at 7 p.m., Thursdays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. on Cable Channels 8 or 13.

KEITH JOHNSON Mayor

RON DINGMANN At-large

Term ends Dec. 31, 2018

Term ends Dec. 31, 2016

FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH QUARTER

Airport Commission 6:30 p.m.

FOURTH MONDAY

Heritage Preservation Commission 6:30 p.m.

LAST TUESDAY OF EACH QUARTER

Library Board 5:30 p.m.

PUBLIC UTILITIES

MICHAEL BOYLE Ward 1

CONNIE LIES Ward 2

Term ends Dec. 31, 2018

Term ends Dec. 31, 2016

ELECTRICITY City of Litchfield 320-693-7201 Report an outage after hours 866639-6108 Energy Star rebates www.saveenergyinlitchfield.com Meeker Cooperative Light & Power 320-693-3231

DWIGHT LORENSEN Ward 3

VERN LOCH JR. Ward 4

TODD KUECHLE Ward 5

Term ends Dec. 31, 2018

Term ends Dec. 31, 2016

Term ends Dec. 31, 2018

FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS Police and fire emergency Police (non-emergency) Crime TIPS line Fire (non-emergency) Library Chamber of Commerce

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

NATURAL GAS CenterPoint Energy 800-245-2377 Report a leak 800-296-9815 WATER AND SEWER City of Litchfield 320-693-7201 TELEPHONE, CABLE, INTERNET NU-Telecom 593-2323 or 800-303-7039 Mediacom 800-332-0245

BEFORE YOU DIG Gopher State One Call 800-252-1166 www.gopherstateonecall.org WASTE DISPOSAL Waste Management-Twin Cities West provides residential garbage pick-up in Litchfield. Garbage is collected once a week. Recyclables are collected every other week, and Waste Management uses a singlesort recycling container. All recyclable items can be mixed in the container. Payment drop box for garbage bills is at 5 E. Second St. For more information, call 800-450-9378. Business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The mailing address is 490 Industrial Blvd., Winsted, MN 55395. West Central Sanitation of Willmar provides commercial garbage and recyclable pick-up in Litchfield and the surrounding area. For information, call 800246-7630.

CenturyLink 800-244-1111

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

GOVERNMENT LIBRARY Litchfield Public Library 216 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2483 www.litchlibrary.blogspot.com Litchfield Public Library is home to 44,000 books, 1,200 audios and 2,300 videos. Nine staff members serve more than 9,700 registered borrowers. In 2012, library users checked out over 84,000 items, not including downloadable e-books or audios. Litchfield Library is a member of Pioneerland Library System. It is one of the largest of the 31 libraries in the regional library system. Any borrower can order and check out books and other items from any other library in the system and even from libraries throughout the state. Deliveries of requested materials arrive three times per week. Pioneerland offers e-books and downloadable audiobooks for loan through its Overdrive service at pioneerland.lib.overdrive. com. The library has a collection of over 2,100 downloadable

The Litchfield Public Library hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. books available to Pioneerland cardholders, with new titles added all the time. E-magazines are a new offering, available from Zinio through the library catalog, iii. pioneerland.lib.mn.us. The library offers 17 public computers and three catalog computers, Wi-Fi internet access, a copier/printer, a scanner, a computer-based microfilm reader and local newspaper microfilm,

a Nintendo Wii, a large public meeting room, and two study rooms.

ORDINANCES Detailed information about City of Litchfield ordinances is available by visiting the city’s website at www.ci.litchfield.mn.us. Some common issues affecting residents

are addressed in this list. Direct any questions about ordinances or permits to City Hall at 320-6937201. GENERAL RESIDENTIAL SETBACKS All residential structures and accessory structures, which include sheds, outbuildings, play structures and gazebos, are subject to specific setbacks from a lot line

Using fluorescent bulbs in your home just makes good sense. They save you money by using less electricity & are helpful to the environment. However, because they contain mercury, it is ILLEGAL to dispose of them in the garbage. Fluorescent bulbs are not accepted at the Meeker County Transfer Station. However, here are your safe, local disposal options for them: • Litchfield Public Utilities: Any size FREE to Litchfield Public Utility customers only. Call 693-7201 and ask for George Baldwin to make arrangements. • Meeker Co-op Light & Power: Compact fluorescents FREE anytime for Meeker Co-Op L&P members only. Annual collection in August for businesses, industries, or residential members only. Call 693–3231 with questions. • Kandiyohi County HHW Facility: .50/ea. any shape or size from any individual or business. 1400 SW 22nd Street, Willmar, 320-231-3587. • Menards & Home Depot Stores: FREE compact fluorescents only, no long tubes, u-shaped, or circular. Bring to customer service desk. Meeker County Solid Waste Officer, Paul Virnig, 320-693-5200

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

GOVERNMENT based on the zoning district. All structure setbacks are taken from the property line. The setback from a front, rear or side yard may vary based on the zoning district. To find out what a property is zoned for and what the required setbacks are, call City Hall. BUILDING PERMITS Building permits are required for many types of projects. A permit application is available on the city’s website under the Code Enforcement department page. City Hall staff can assist and complete permits for small utility sheds, fences, reroofing, siding, central air/ furnace installation or replacement and other such maintenance permits. LAWN MAINTENANCE All grounds in a residential zoning district not covered by a building, patio or driveway must be covered in grass or ornamental landscaping including rock material. Ground cover may grow to a height of 6 inches. Once growth exceeds 6

inches, city code requires cutting. Should you identify a property in which grass is over 6 inches in height, contact the city’s code enforcement officer at 320-6937201, ext. 1012. SNOW REMOVAL There are no hourly restrictions on the operation of snow removal equipment. Property owners are required to keep all snow and ice on their property. City code prohibits placing snow or ice in any right-of-way, roadway, street, sidewalk, walkway, bike or trail way, easement, park or other public property. The city of Litchfield is responsible for the removal of snow and/or ice from sidewalks or trails abutting some streets, but the majority of owners or occupants of one- or two-family dwellings that are abutting a sidewalk or trail are responsible for removing the snow and ice. This removal must be accomplished within the first 24 hours after the cessation of the precipitation.

YARD WASTE All yard waste must be disposed of within one week unless it is being composted in an approved composting area/container. Yard waste is solid waste generated from landscaping and lawn care activities, such as mowing, trimming, gardening or raking. Yard waste materials consist of grass clippings, twigs, tree and brush clippings, straw, pine needles, tree branches, soft vegetative garden waste and leaves. City residents may take yard waste to the city’s compost site on 615th Avenue. Hours of operation during the spring, summer and fall are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on Sundays and holidays. The site closes Dec. 1. Acceptable materials include leaves, grass clippings, brush, trees, dirt (small amounts only, must be clean with no sod). HOUSEHOLD GARBAGE Waste Management, a commercial hauler, provides garbage pick-up services for

Litchfield residents. Garbage must be stored in durable containers with with close-fitting, fly-tight covers. Garbage cannot be stored on public or private property for more than 2 weeks without written approval from the city of Litchfield. Waste that is suitable and sorted for recycling may be stored for up to 30 days, so long as recyclables are stored in an appropriate manner. PARKING AT RESIDENCES No more than four vehicles per dwelling unit may be parked or stored anywhere outside on residential property, except otherwise permitted or required by the city because of nonresidential characteristics of the property. The maximum number does not include vehicles of occasional guests who do not reside at the property. It is illegal to keep any vehicle not in operating condition or partly dismantled, except if that vehicle is enclosed in a building and/or kept from view and does not foster complaints from neighbors.

SHOP LOCAL! s are here - Our familie od is here - Our liveliho money here r u o d n e p s s - Let’

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

We support our Chamber Members and all local commerce.

BUILDING A STRONG COMMUNITY OF BUSINESSES, NEW AND ESTABLISHED 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

GOVERNMENT

MEEKER COUNTY 320-693-5200

MEEKER COUNTY COURTHOUSE 325 Sibley Ave. N. Litchfield, MN 55355

320-693-5200 www.co.meeker.mn.us

MEEKER COUNTY BOARD Meeker County’s governing body consists of five commissioners, each representing a district within the county. Elections for these seats occur every two years in November. County Administrator Paul Virnig is responsible for day-to-day operations of the county. The County Board meets at 8:30 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at the Meeker County Courthouse, 325 N. Sibley Ave. For information, call 320-693-5200.

Meeker County Courthouse is home to several county offices and site of Meeker County Board meetings.

STATE AND FEDERAL LEADERS The city of Litchfield and Litchfield Township are within Minnesota Senate District 18 and House District 18A. Sen. Scott Newman (District 18), 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Capitol Building, Room 301, St. Paul, MN 551551606; phone: 651-296-4131; email: sen.scott.newman@senate. mn Rep. Dean Urdahl (District 18A), 571 State Office Building, 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King

Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155; phone: 651-296-4344 or toll-free 800-920-5861; email: rep.dean. urdahl@house.mn Meeker County is part of the 7th Congressional District, which is served by U.S. Rep. Collin Peterson (District 7), 2211 Rayburn HOB, Washington, DC 20515; phone: 202-225-2165; Regional office: 324 3rd Street, SW, Suite 4, Willmar, MN 56201; phone: 320-235-1061

BETH OBERG 1st District Litchfield

DALE FENRICH 2nd District Litchfield

Term ends Dec. 31, 2018

Term ends Dec. 31, 2016

BRYAN LARSON 3rd District Cosmos

MIKE HOUSMAN 4th District Dassel

MIKE HUBERTY 5th District Eden Valley

Term ends Dec. 31, 2016

Term ends Dec. 31, 2018

OTHER ELECTED OFFICIALS

SCOTT NEWMAN

DEAN URDAHL

COLLIN PETERSON

FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS

U of M Extension Services Food Shelf Sheriff’s Office Victim Services Public Health Social Services Meeker Memorial Hospital Poison Help Hotline

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

320-693-5275 320-693-7661 320-693-5400 320-693-5220 320-693-5370 320-693-5300 320-693-3242 800-222-1222

BRIAN CRUZE Sheriff

BRANDI SCHIEFELBEIN County Attorney

Term ends Dec. 31, 2018

GOVERNMENT COURTHOUSE OFFICES Administrator 320-693-5200 Auditor 320-693-5212 Attorney 320-693-5220 Assessor 320-693-5205 Detention Center 320-693-5415 Elections 320-693-5212 Planning and Zoning 320-693-5290 Probation 320-693-5260 Recorder 320-693-5440 Treasurer (property tax payments) 320-693-5345

U.S. POSTAL SERVICE Litchfield Post Office The Litchfield office is at 35 E. Second St. The window is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 to

10:30 a.m. Saturday. Residents can access their postal boxes from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. The post office also offers passport services; call to make an appointment. The phone number is 320-693-6252.

TRANSPORTATION Meeker County Transit The purpose of Meeker Public Transit is to offer affordable transportation to the citizens of Meeker County. The bus transports people of all ages and abilities — from young children going to preschool, to senior citizens going to doctor and hair appointments. A U.S. Highway 12 route from Litchfield to Willmar operates in partnership with Kandiyohi Area Transit. Riders can purchase a one-way ticket, round-trip ticket or a bus pass. Buses are handicap accessible and equipped with a wheelchair lift. They are airconditioned and have seat belts for passengers. The bus is available from 6:45 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, and from 7:45 a.m. to noon on Sundays for church attendees only. Riders must contact Meeker Public Transit by 5 p.m. Friday to reserve weekend rides. To make an appointment for a ride call 6937794 or 800-513-7433.

ROADS AND BRIDGES Meeker County Highway Department and MN Department of Transportation Facility 320-693-5360

CONSERVATION DISTRICT M e eker S oil an d Water Conser vation District assists land owners in dealing with a w id e ra n ge of co n s e r vatio n protec tion, flood prevention measures, farm forestry, wildlife improvement, recreation and rural area development within the 17 townships of Meeker County. It was organized in 1949 and additional townships were added in 1951 and 1953 and all cities were added in July of 1972. Five supervisors represent different parts of the district, and these elected officials set overall

policy and long-term objectives for their district and work with the district staff to ensure that policies and plans are implemented. Super visors meet the first Monday of each month at 9:00 a.m. in the USDA Service Center at 916 East Saint Paul St. in Litchfield. Contact the office at 320-6937287. DISTRICT 1 Thomas Burr Paynesville DISTRICT 2 Robert Schiefelbein Kimball DISTRICT 3 Douglas Carlson Dassel DISTRICT 4 Fred Behnke Grove City DISTRICT 5 Dan Barka Litchfield

SERVING OUR MEMBERS

AND COMMUNITY SINCE 1935.

Welcome to Meeker County! Proud to be serving Litchﬁeld and the surrounding communities

Brian Cruze Meeker County Sheriff www.co.meeker.mn.us Dispatch Number: 693-5400

1725 US Highway 12 E, Suite 100 Litchﬁeld, MN

320-693-3231 • www.meeker.coop 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

GOVERNMENT AGRICULTURE U of M Extension Farm Information Line 1-800-854-1678 Meeker County Extension educator 320-693-5275 Meeker County 4-H coordinator 320-693-5275 Meeker County USDA Farm Services Agency 320-693-2854

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Meeker County Economic Development Authority 320-693-5272 meekercodevcorp.com Litchfield Area Chamber of Commerce 320-693-8184 litch.com

PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES Information and assistance regarding the list of programs below can be obtained by calling Meeker County Public Health at 320-693-5370. Public Health is located at Family Services Building, 114 North Holcombe Ave., Suite 250, Litchfield. Adult Health Adult Health nurses assist individuals over 65 to live safely and independently within the community. Adult Health works with other departments and providers to help meet goal of independence, safety and overall well-being. Assessments completed for waiver programs to help individuals pay for services so they can continue to live independently in their community. Breastfeeding/Lactation Consultation Any mom encountering problems at any time while she is

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

breastfeeding can get help from an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Family Planning Family Planning Services are for anyone who wishes to plan, postpone or prevent pregnancy. S er vices include counseling , referral to resources, physical exam, provision of contraceptive methods, testing and treatment for curative sexually transmitted diseases. Eligibility for services is income based. Pregnancy Testing Meeker County Public Health offers free pregnancy testing services on a walk-in basis during office hours, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Child and Teen Checkups Child and Teen Checkups is the name for Minnesota’s Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment Program. The program assists children and teens from newborn through the age 20 who are enrolled in Medical Assistance or Minnesota Care. Family Home Visiting A nurse will visit to help support the family by providing information on topics such as growth and development, discipline, nutrition, safety and community resources. Maternal Child Health Visits from a nurse to help a mom reach her goal of having a healthy pregnancy, a safe delivery and a happy baby. Follow Along Program A free program to determine if a baby or child is playing, talking, growing, moving and acting like other children the same age. Project Harmony This program serves pregnant women and women parenting a child under 8 years of age who have been struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Using a case management model, women and their families are assisted to find a path of recovery to be able to live a life free of chemicals to become

self-sufficient and to reach their highest potential. Lead Program Meeker County Public Health collaborates with Minnesota Department of Health for followup of elevated blood lead levels in children. Families receive information about sources of lead, assessment of homes to find lead source problems and education on how to remove lead sources. Radon Meeker County Public Health of fers information on radon testing, along with radon test kits for a small fee. Access ra don information online at www.radon.com or www. radon.org.

For more information, contact Wendy Foley at (320) 693-5370, wendy.foley@co.meeker.mn.us. Information onlin e at w w w. larppmn.com.

FAMILY SERVICES CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY New Beginnings at Litchfield 320-693-2461 EMERGENCY SERVICES Meeker County Emergency Food Shelf 320-693-7661 Emergency Financial Assistance 320-693-5300 FOOD SAFETY U of M Extension AnswerLine 800-854-1678

Water Quality Meeker Count y Public Health offers water test kits and instructions for well water testing. Free well water tes t s are available to pregnant women and families with children one year of age or younger. Contact Public Health at 320693-5370 for more information.

JOBS AND TRAINING SERVICES Litchfield Workforce Center 320-593-1056

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

Food assistance 320-693-5300

WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Supplemental nutrition program to provide families with nutrition education and food vouchers. Eligible individuals include pregnant, postpartum or breast feeding moms, and children from newborns to age 5. Call 320-6935370 to apply. Litchfield Area Rural Partners in Prevention Group focuses on preventing alcohol use among youth through community partnerships. The group meets the third Tuesday monthly from noon until 1:15 pm.

SOCIAL SERVICES Child care assistance 320-693-5300 Child support 320-693-5334

Medical assistance 320-693-5370 VETERANS Veterans services 320-693-5445

LICENSES Direct questions about driver’s licenses and fish and game licenses to the Treasurer’s Office, located at the Meeker County Courthouse, 325 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield. Driver’s licenses 320-693-5345 Motor vehicle registration 320-693-5346 Fish and game licenses 320-693-5345

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HEALTH

‘

The City of Litchfield and Meeker County also boast some of the state’s happiest and healthiest citizens, according to the nationally released County Health Rankings.

’

VIBRANT COMMUNITY

Lifestyle Focus Young pepper plants await owners at a kick-off event for the One Vegetable, One Community program, one of the community’s many initiatives focusing on health and wellness.

Wellness a primary community theme

itchfield offers many initiatives focusing on healthy living, including the annual One Vegetable, One Community campaign that seeks to improve overall community health by healthier eating. The initiative, sponsored by Meeker County Public Health, features a new vegetable each year — which have included tomatoes, peppers and kale — as part of its healthy-eating promotional campaign. Each spring, community members can pick up free plants, and then attend events with local master gardeners, dieticians and other wellness experts throughout the year. The City of Litchfield and Meeker County also boast some of the state’s happiest and healthiest citizens, according to the nationally released County Health Rankings. Since the inception of the rankings list in 2010, Meeker County has consistently ranked in the top third of Minnesota’s healthiest LATEST counties. County residents also report feeling CONTENT happy and healthy, with Meeker County being ranked ninth out of Minnesota’s 87 ranked counties in the “quality of life” category. The community is served by a hospital and clinics, as well as a number of chiropractic, dental, eye care, hearing care and mental health care providers.

Advertisers Harmony Center For Hearing

Litchfield Eye Center

Litchfield Family Dental

The Medicine Shoppe

Affiliated Medical Center

Ecumen

Meeker Co. Public Health

Patten Chiropractic

Snap Fitness

Meeker Memorial Hospital

HEALTH HEALTH AND WELLNESS HOSPITALS Meeker Memorial Hospital 612 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-3242 Website: www.meekermemorial.org MEDICAL CLINICS Affiliated Community Medical Centers 520 S. Sibley Ave., or 611 South Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-3233 Website: www.acmc.com Meeker Memorial Clinic 940 Parker Ave., Dassel 320-275-4330 Website: http://www. meekermemorial.org/meeker-clinicin-dassel ADULT DAY SERVICES Ecumen of Litchfield 200 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield. com ASSISTED LIVING/SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Ecumen of Litchfield 600 S. Davis Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield. org Bethany Assisted Living 203 N. Armstrong Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield. com Emmanuel Home 600 S. Davis Ave., Litchfield 320-693-6228 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield. com CHIROPRACTIC CLINICS Kinsella Chiropractic Clinic 407 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-593-4494 Website: www.kinsellachiropractic. com

Meeker Memorial Hospital in Litchfield is a critical access facility offering emergency, inpatient and outpatient services. The 35-bed, county-owned hospital offers sophisticated diagnostic, surgical, rehabilitation, behavioral health and specialty services. Litchfield Chiropractic Center 126 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-3655 Patten Chiropractic Center 1455 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-693-3612 Website: www. pattenchiropracticcenter.com DENTISTS Haugo & Solbrack Dental Office 715 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2228 Website: www.litchfieldfamilydental. com Lorenz Richard G. DDS 329 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-693-8939 Sibley Dental Suite 623 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-8131

EYE CARE Family Eye Center 517 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-593-2020 Litchfield Eye Center 135 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-593-3100 Website: www.litchfieldeyecenter. com Primary Eye Care 520 E. Highway 12 320-693-9333 Website: www.primaryeyecare2020. com HEARING CARE Connect Hearing 338 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-593-0885 Website: www.connecthearing.com

Harmony Center For Hearing 32 E. Second St., Litchfield 320-693-4210 Litchfield Hearing Aid Center 517 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-593-0333 Website: www.litchfieldhearing.com HOME CARE/HOSPICE Divine Home Care â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Litchfield office 201 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2580 Website: www.divinehomecare.com Ecumen of Litchfield 600 S. Davis Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7367 Website: http://ecumenoflitchfield. org/home-care

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

HEALTH MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES Crow River Family Services 621 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-593-0526 Website: www. crowriverfamilyservices.com

Your Local Eye Doctors From One Generation To The Next Dr. Katie Tancabel Dr. Terrence Tancabel

135 Sibley Ave N.

(320) 593-3100 litchﬁeldeyecenter.com

Litchfield Family & Psychological Services 326 N. Sibley Ave. Litchfield 320-693-7708 Woodland Centers 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7221 Website: www.woodlandcenters. com

PHARMACIES Econofoods Quality Care Pharmacy 951 E. Frontage Rd., Litchfield 320-693-3261 Website: www.econofoods.com/ departments/pharmacy The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy 329 E. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-693-9314 Website: www.medicineshoppe.com Walmart Pharmacy 2301 E. Frontage Rd., Litchfield 320-693-1022

Runners take from the starting line on North Gilman Avenue for the annual Bunny 5K last spring.

ARE YOU TIRED OF ONLY HEARING PART OF THE CONVERSATION? Harmony Center For Hearing is looking for 20 individuals to experience the newest in hearing aid technology !

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

693-9314

1-800-524-7285 www.medicineshoppe.com 329 E Hwy 12 • Litchfield

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

At Harmony Center for Hearing, we understand it is difficult when you do not hear all of what is being said. It can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. We don’t want anyone missing out on conversations with their families. Call today to schedule your free hearing evaluation! Hearing evaluations done Wednesday thru Friday. Office hours are Monday from 1:00 pm - 5 pm and Tuesday thru Friday from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

HARMONY CENTER FOR HEARING 320-693-4210

32 East 2nd Street Litchfield, MN 55355 (across from the Post Office)

We Have You Covered! For over 30 years, Ecumen of Litchﬁeld has been the #1 provider of quality senior housing and healthcare services in Meeker County!

Emmanuel Care Center • Medicare-certified skilled nursing, short stay rehabilitation Ecumen of Litchﬁeld Home Care & Hospice • Medicare-certified skilled care or home maker services in your home Gloria Dei • Affordable and HUD apartments for those age 62+ Emmaus Place • Gracious senior living apartments with services as needed Bethany Assisted Living and Memory Care • Private apartments with 24-hour licensed staff BreakAway • Adult day program Monday through Friday

Call us for information or to tour any of our Litchﬁeld locations!

Ecumen of Litchfield North Housing Campus Home care & Hospice 200 North Holcombe Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 Ecumen of Litchfield South Care Center Rehabilitation Center 600 S. Davis Ave Litchfield, MN 55355

www.ecumen.org

320-693-2472

A C M C - L I T C H F I E L D E A S T A N D W E S T:

One clinic, two convenient locations providing comprehensive medical care for you and your family.

The heart of ACMC is providing compassionate, quality care for our patients.

Pamela Brett, D.O.

Dexter Casta, M.D.

Patricia Freund, M.D.

Janell Haiwick, M.D.

Amy Miller, Psy.D., L.P.

Family Medicine/Bariatrics/ Weight Control

Internal Medicine

Family Medicine

Psychology

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

Cheryl Huls, R.N., C.N.P.

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

Nurse Practitioner

Family Nurse Practitioner

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

General Surgery

David Ross, M.D. Family Medicine

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

Scott Schultz, M.D.

Richard Searl, M.D.

Anita Strei, M.D.

Emily Belanus, P.A.-C

Obstetrics & Gynecology

Family Medicine

Physician Assistant

ACMC-Litchfield East 611 South Sibley Ave. | Litchfield, MN 55355 ACMC-Litchfield West 520 South Sibley Ave. | Litchfield, MN 55355

www.acmc.com

(320) 693-3233 |

Services provided at ACMC-Litchfield: • Anticoagulation Clinic • Audiology • Bariatrics/ Weight Control

• Cardiology • Dermatology • Diabetes Education • Dietician

• Lab/X-ray • Family Medicine • Internal Medicine • Obstetrics/ Gynecology

• Occupational Medicine • Otolaryngology (ENT) Medicine • Podiatry

• Psychology • Sleep Medicine • Surgery - General • Urology

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

LEISURE ALL ABOARD Rec opportunities on land and lake

itchfield — the city “On Lake Ripley” as the town’s water tower proclaims — lures residents and visitors to area lakes for fishing, swimming and boating. A new activity taking place on the lake in recent years is paddleboarding, where residents can enjoy a relaxing float across the lake or get in a good core-strengthening workout. In addition to active recreational opportunities, Litchfield has a bustling library, a revamped opera house that hosts plays and open mic nights, and the only authentic Grand Army of the Republic Hall still standing in Minnesota. LATEST CONTENT The G.A.R. Hall, built in 1885, is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and has been preserved as nearly as possible to its original condition and now houses the Meeker County Historical Society. Residents can also take part in numerous organizations, including many civic groups, lake associations and athletic organizations.

Lifestyle Focus Antonia Muellerleile, 4, paddleboards on Lake Ripley last summer, demonstrating that people of all ages can do the popular sport.

Advertisers KLFD 1410 AM Radio

Litchfield Watercade

The Marshall Estate

LEISURE ATHLETIC ORGANIZATIONS American Legion Post 104 Baseball 222 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-9074 Darwin Drifters snowmobile club Amy Pollock 320-593-6517 Email: tpollock@hutchtel.net Litchfield Baseball Association, Inc. 426 Brown Ave., Litchfield 320-593-8654 Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato Youth Hockey Association Website: www.ldchockey.org Manannah Sno-Blazers snowmobile club Donald Kelm Jr. 920-248-8342 Email: kelm2003us@yahoo.com Meeker Trails Association Trail Administrator Jean Belinsky 320-693-7044 Email: meeksnowtrails@xtratyme. com Minnesota Gopher State Horseshoe Pitchers Association, Litchfield Website: www. minnesotahorseshoes.com VFW Post 2818 Baseball 915 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-593-9064

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

Community members drop lines into Lake Ripley from a dock. Members of Lake Ripley Improvement Association volunteer to tend to the lake. Friends of the Litchfield Public Library 216 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield 320-693-7201 Girl Scouts Website: www.gslakesandpines.org Golden Fleece No. 89 Masonic Lodge 18 E. Third St., Litchfield 320-980-8373 GFWC Women’s Study Club of Litchfield Website: www.gfwcofmn.org

Litchfield Area Community Foundation P.O. Box 123, Litchfield Litchfield Area Mentorship Program P.O. Box 82, Litchfield 320-699-1616 Website: www.lampkinship.org Litchfield Community Theatre Website: www. litchfieldcommunitytheatre.org Litchfield Christian Women’s Club Barb Werner 320-693-2504

Boy Scouts Website: www.trailblazer.nsbsa.org

Greater Litchfield Opera House Association Inc. 320-434-0334 Email: litchopera@yahoo.com Website: www.litchfieldoperahouse. com

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

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

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

Eagles Club 3424 389 S. County Highway 34, Litchfield 320-693-9008

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

Litchfield Watercade Board Website: www.watercade.com

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

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

Litchfield Women’s CommUnity Club Merna Pease 320-693-6169 Meeker County Chapter of MN Citizens Concerned for Life Teri Buschette 320-593-2982 Meeker County Dairy Association 33266 700th Ave., Kimball 320-398-6091 Website: www.meekercountyada. yolasite.com Meeker County Fair Board 320-593-1174 Email: meekerfairinfo@gmail.com Meeker County 4-H 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-5275 Meeker County Historical Society/G.A.R. Hall 308 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield 320-693-8911

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

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

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

LEISURE Nelson Family Farm • Litchfield, MN 26th Annual

Six Fun Weekends + MEA Sept 27-Oct 26 Weekends and MEA

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

Lake Francis Area Recreation and Conservation Club Website: www.lakefrancisarcc.com/ lfarcc

Ness Church Preservation Foundation 60079 230th St., Litchfield

Lake Jennie Improvement Corp. Website: www.lakejennie.com

Sat.: 11:01am-5:01pm; Sun.: 12:01-5:01pm; MEA: 11:01am-5:01pm

Admission: $8.00 per person; 2 & under, Free

www.nelsonfarm.com 320 • 693 • 7750

Corn Maze by Flashlight Fri. & Sat., October 18 - 19 & October 25 - 26 7-9:00pm • $7.00 admission (not included in daytime gate admission)

Peanut Butter and Milk Festival P.O. Box 277, Litchfield 320-693-8184

Bring your ﬂashlight! Wagon Rides-Bonﬁre-Corn Maze-Marshmallows

Relay for Life of Meeker County/ American Cancer Society Website: www.relayforlife.org Rotary Club P.O. Box 341, Litchfield VFW Post 2818 915 E. U.S. Highway 12, Litchfield 320-593-9064

LAKE ASSOCIATIONS Belle Lake Association Facebook: Belle Lake Association Collinwood Community Lake Association Website: www.collinwoodlake.com

July 9-12, 2015

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

Crow River Organization of Water Website: http://crowriver.org Facebook: Crow River Lakes and Streams

Koronis Lake Association Website: http:// koronislakeassociation.org Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association Website: https://sites.google.com/ site/lmbiaorg Facebook: Lake Minnie Belle Improvement Association Lake Ripley Improvement Association Facebook: Lake Ripley Improvement Association Lake Stella Homeowner’s Association Website: www.lakestella.com Facebook: Lake Stella Association Lake Washington Improvement Association Website: www.lakewashingtonassn. com Facebook: Lake Washington Improvement Association

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

LIVING

LIVING LEAD PAGE

‘

Litchfield School District... provides students of all ages with a strong academic environment and a variety of opportunities for growth.

’

QUALITY OF LIFE A focus on lifelong learning

itchfield offers many educational opportunities that promote life-long learning. In fact, part of Litchfield School Board’s motto is “to promote a passion for life-long learning in an open and safe environment.” Litchfield School District, along with School of St. Philip, Early Childhood Family Education and Litchfield Community Education and Recreation, provides students of all ages with a strong academic environment and a variety of opportunities for growth. The Litchfield community shows strong support for school programs and events, such as band and choir concerts, local plays and musicals and athletic LATEST events. A source of local pride is the Litchfield CONTENT High School marching band, which performs a sneak peek of its summer show each spring and a Pie in the Park event every June in Litchfield Central Park. Litchfield also has strong support systems for senior citizens and community members, including senior dining services and other support groups.

Lifestyle Focus Litchfield High School students lead Lake Ripley Elementary students to school on one of Litchfield’s six “walking school bus” routes, which students organize each year on National Walk to School Day.

Advertisers Litchfield Community Education & Recreation

Trinity Episcopal Church

Zion Lutheran Church

Immanuel Lutheran Church

Cornerstone Church

First Lutheran Church

Litchfield Public Schools

Meeker Public Transit

Litchfield Early Childhood Programs 41

Litchﬁeld Early Childhood Programs

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

Litchfield Public Schools’ Early Childhood Programs for children birth to pre-kindergarten Early Childhood Family Education - ECFE (Sept. - May) Early Childhood Special Education - ECSE (Sept. - May) School Readiness (Sept. - May) • Hand-in-Hand Preschool Early Childhood Screening (Offered throughout the year) Kindergarten Round-Up (March) • Kindergarten Readiness (July & August) Parents: Register your child(ren) upon birth and/or moving into the Litchfield School District on the school census and you will automatically be included in early childhood mailings, scheduled for Early Childhood Screening and Kindergarten Round-up when the child is age appropriate. To register on the school district census call the Early Childhood Center at 320-593-0072. ECFE classes are offered two times a year and you can register through Litchfield Community Education. Many special events are also planned for your participation such as Run and Romps, Holiday Happenings and many others. You can find information on classes and special events in the Community Education program guides that are published and distributed in early August, December, and mid-May. These program guides are also available on the school website www.litchfield.k12.mn.us Call or email Early Childhood Programs Coordinator, Wendy Walz at 320-593-0072, wwalz@isd465.org, for further information, questions or concerns about early education opportunities for your child!

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

LIVING EDUCATION

Zion Lutheran Church

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

Worship Services Sunday: 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.

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

Choirs For All Ages

Kids of the Kingdom Day Care Center Georgia Borchardt, Director Ph.320/693-7806 Sharing and Growing in God’s Love Like us on Facebook, Zion Lutheran Church ELCA

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

LITCHFIELD ISD 465 Litchfield residents are served by Independent School District 465. Litchfield School District is comprised of four schools and a community education program that includes early childhood programs. Litchfield also offers an alternative learning program for students who struggle in the typical high school environment. The district serves about 1,680 students at Lake Ripley Elementary (grades K-3), Wagner Elementary (grades 4-5), Litchfield Middle School (grades 6-8), and Litchfield High School (grades 9-12). At the beginning of the 20142015 school year, Litchfield implemented a one-to-one technology initiative aimed at bringing classrooms into the 21st century. The initiative included purchasing two classroom sets of iPad Minis to share among the six kindergarten classrooms. Firstthrough 12th-grade students each received their own device: students in grades 1-3 get an iPad Mini, students in grades 4-5 get an iPad Air, and students in grades 6-12 get a 13-inch MacBook Air to use throughout the school year. Litchfield is also served by School of St. Philip, a parochial school for students in preschool through fifth-grade. St. Philip’s School emphasizes a strong academic curriculum in a faithfilled environment and is open to families from all faith traditions. For more information, visit www.litchfield.k12.mn.us or www. thechurchofstphilip.org/school. DISTRICT OFFICE 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Suite 100, Litchfield 320-693-2444 Superintendent Dan Frazier dfrazier@isd465. org

LITCHFIELD SCHOOL BOARD Litchfield School District is governed by a six-member board. Three board members are elected to four-year terms every two years during the November general election. The board meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month in room 200 of Meeker County Family Service Center, 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield. SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS Stacey Helstrom Chair sdhelstrom@ gmail.com 320-221-2207

David Huhner Vice Chair dhuhner@ isd465.org 320-593-7635

Marcia Provencher Clerk mprovencher@ isd465.org 320-693-3949

Marlin Schutte Treasurer mschutte@ isd465.org 320-593-1541

Darrin Anderson danderson@ isd465.org 320-593-1828

Greg Mathews 320-693-8642

LIVING SCHOOLS Lake Ripley Elementary School Principal Gregg Zender 100 W. Pleasure Drive, Litchfield 320-693-2436 Wagner Elementary Principal Gregg Zender 307 E. Sixth St., Litchfield 320-693-2824 Litchfield Middle School Principal Beckie Simenson 340 E. 10th St., Litchfield 320-693-2441 Litchfield High School Principal Jason Michels 901 N. Gilman Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2424 Litchfield Alternative Learning Program Coordinator Tim Mackey 340 E. 10th St., Litchfield 320-693-2424, ext. 4367

Early Childhood Family Education Coordinator Wendy Walz 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Suite 110, Litchfield 320-693-0072

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

Special Education Coordinator Jean Wirz 320-693-2441, ext. 3229 Technology Director Jennifer Ridgeway 320-693-2424, ext. 3164

Ecumen RSVP 218 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-0194 Email: donnawhitcomb@ecumen.org Website: www.mnseniorcorps.org

COMMUNITY EDUCATION PAROCHIAL SCHOOL Litchfield Community Education and Recreation Director Rebecca Warpula 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Suite 110, Litchfield 320-693-2354 FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS Adult Basic Education 320-693-2354 Athletic Director Mike Sundin 320-693-2424, ext. 4313 Business Manager Becky Boll 320-693-2444, ext. 8105

School of St. Philip 225 E. Third St., Litchfield 320-693-6283

Emmaus Place senior apartments 200 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield. org

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

Gloria Dei Manor senior apartments 218 N. Holcome Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2430 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield.org Kandiyohi Area Transit —service between Willmar and Litchfield 1320 22nd St. S.W., Box 186, Willmar 320-214-7433 or 888-750-7433 Website: www.katbus.org

AARP 1-800-OUR-AARP (667-2277) Website: www.aarp.org

Dragons Kids Club 320-693-2354

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

Sunday Services 8:00, 9:30, 11:00 Interim Senior Pastor: Bob Iverson 703 Sibley Avenue South Litchfield, MN 55355-3341 (320) 693-2487 Worship Times: Sunday: 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship Summer Worship: Wednesday: 6:30 p.m. Worship Sunday: 9:00 a.m. Worship

• Contemporary Worship • Children’s Programs • Spanish Service (11:00) • Nursery • Small Groups

• Wednesday Night Programs • Youth Programs • Men’s Ministry • Women’s Ministry

205 CSAH 34 • Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-7971 www.cornerstonechurchmn.org 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

LIVING

Members of the Crow River Cutters donate 25 turkeys to Meeker County Social Services just in time for Thanksgiving in 2014. Lincoln Apartments for Seniors 122 W. Fourth St., Litchfield 320-693-2104 Lutheran Social Services MidMinnesota Senior Dining 11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday Litchfield Civic Arena, 900 N. Gilman Ave., Litchfield 320-693-6318 Website: www.lssmn.org Meeker County Council on Aging 218 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2718 Meeker Public Transit 812 E. Ripley St., Litchfield 320-693-7794 or 800-513-7433 Website: www.ecumenoflitchfield. org Senior LinkAge Line 1-800-333-2433 Schumacher Transportation — service in Meeker and McLeod counties 5208 Mayview Road, Minnetonka 888-473-3126 Website: www. schumachertransportation.com Social Security Administration 1-800-772-1213

340 E. 1Oth St., Litchfield • 320-693-2424

SUPPORT SERVICES AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meets 7:30 p.m. Thursdays Zion Lutheran Church 504 N. Gilman Ave., Litchfield ARC Arlene Groskreutz 320-6936967 Gamblers Anonymous Meets 7:30 p.m. Sundays Meeker Memorial Hospital 612 Sibley Ave., Litchfield Minnesota WorkForce Center — Litchfield 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Litchfield 320-593-1056 Narcotics Anonymous Meets at 7:30 Wednesdays at First Lutheran Church, Litchfield; Meets 7:30 p.m. Fridays at Litchfield Christian Church, Litchfield; Meets 7 p.m. Sundays at First Presbyterian Church, Litchfield Heartland Community Action Agency 120 N. Sibley Ave., Litchfield 320-693-8811 Litchfield Area Rural Partners in Prevention 114 N. Holcome Ave., Suite 250, Litchfield 320-693-5380

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

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

Lutheran Social Services 930 Capwood Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2677 Meeker County Community Homes 640 E. Fourth St., Litchfield 320-593-1512

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

Meeker County Public Health 114 N. Holcombe Ave., Suite 250, Litchfield 320-693-5370

New Beginnings at Waverly 114 N. Holcome Ave., Litchfield 320-693-2461

Meeker Public Transit For information, call

320-693-7794 or 800-513-7433

“This Bus Is For Everyone” Monday-Friday, 6:15 am-6 pm Saturday, 8 am-1 pm (Jan-Mar/Oct-Dec)

812 East Ripley Street Litchfield, MN

LITCHFIELD

Community Education & Recreation (320) 693-2354 • (320) 593-6528 FAX Ofﬁce located in the Meeker County Family Services Center 114 North Holcombe Ave, Suite 110

www.litchfieldcommunityed.com

Youth Activities

s Enrichment and recreational activitie und offered year-ro Trips Special Events

Dragon Kids Club

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

ABE

English as a Second Language High School Equivalency Program • Life Skills • Citizenship ess • Driver's License • Work Readin ls Skil g • Keyboardin • Basic Computer Classes

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

Adult Activities

ichment A variety of recreational and enr er people that oth et activities. Opportunity to me new hobby! share your interests or learn a

Adults with Disabilities Special Olympics

with Programming for adults and youth ties bili developmental and physical disa

tre Litchﬁeld Community Thea tion

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

Aquatics

Red Cross Swim Lessons Open Swim Aqua Aerobics

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

Lifelong Learning ~ Citizen Involvement 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

LITCHFIELD 260th St.

CITY OF

Cottonwood Ave. Terrace View Dr.

Maplewood Ave.

Ripley St.

Sunrise Dr.

Capwood Ave.

Davis Ave.

Gilman Ave.

G C L

620th Ave.

Estates Ave.

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

St. Paul St.

Weisel St.

Ripley St.

3rd St. 4th St.

Willmar Ave. Lori

Swift Ave.

Fuller Ave.

270th St.

Donnelly Ave.

Miller Ave. Darwin St.

Austin Ave.

Ramsey Ave. Evergreen Park Blvd.

Pleasant

1st St.

2nd St.

Swift Ave.

Dep ot St .

Ramsey Ave.

Park Villa

3rd St.

4th St.

5th St.

6th St. 12

7th St.

8th St.

9th St.

10th St.

Armstrong Ave.

Miller Ave.

South St.

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Ln. scent e r C . S

N. Crescent Ln.

Verndale

Gorman Ave. Morningside Ave. Hubbard Ave. Hubbard Ave. BrownAve.

Precision Ave.

Piefer Dr.

Ames Ave.

Austin Ave. Donnelly Ave. Yale Ave.

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250th St.

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Litchfield Municipal Airport

Polydome Dr.

Aspen Dr.

Litchfield Ave.

Marshall Ave.

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W. Pleasure Dr.

Ave.

Litchfield Golf Club

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S. S

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Pacific St.

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Sibley Ave.

Ave.

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Holcombe Ave.

Lockerbie St.

St. Paul St.

Armstrong Ave.

East Lake Ripley

Chandler Ave.

245th St.

E. Butler St.

Gilman Ave.

Ripley Cemetrery

Hubbard Ave.

E. Quail Dr.

Geinitz Ave.

240th St.

Prairie Park

Gorman Ave.

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

MARKETPLACE

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Lifestyle Focus First District Association employees fill barrels with cheese at the cooperative’s plant in Litchfield. First District recently expanded its operation and is one of the nation’s largest cheese producers.

DIVERSE ECONOMY Abound with employment, shopping

nlike many rural towns, Litchfield enjoys a diverse economy. Businesses here specialize in many fields, ranging from food manufactures to financial services Litchfield also benefits from proximity to the metro area and features great recreation options, health care facilities, first-rate education systems and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Add to the mix the solid work ethic of the local people, and you have a perfect setting for businesses to succeed. As a regional corridor, U.S. Highway 12 not only provides transportation for locally made products — it connects a commercial district that extends from Walmart on the east end of town to Stockmen’s Greenhouse & Landscaping on the west. In the historic downtown district, shoppers can browse through antique shops, restaurants and unique gift items and jewelry designed by local artists. LATEST Litchfield is more than just a place to earn a CONTENT good living or shop. The economic contribution of local businesses is matched by their generosity, as many events and celebrations rely on financial donations from local businesses. In Litchfield, business owners and employees alike participate in civic organizations and volunteer programs to show their civic pride and dedication to making Litchfield a strong, vibrant community today and in the future.

Center National Bank 3 Marketplace 25 Motorbuys 25 BFL App 35 Nu-Telecom 37 Home State Bank 45 Emmaus Place Gift Shop 46 Turck’s Trees 46 Farm Bureau - Kevin Christoffers 48 4-Bid.com 52 Stockmen’s Greenhouse and Garden Center 52 Al’s Auto Repair and Accessories 53 Darwin Monument 53 Premier Real Estate 53 Runnings of Litchfield 53 Insurance Solutions 54 Mid Minnesota Music 54 Parts City Auto Parts 54 Benusa Appliance 55 NAPA Auto Parts 55 Litchfield Country Store & FAF AG Services 56 Gary’s Tire Shop 56 Menken Real Estate & Insurance 56 Natural Food Co-Op 56 Doug’s Auto Repair 57 Mary’s Jewelry 57 Schlauderaff Implement Co. 57 Walmart Supercenter 57 Conway, Deuth, and Schmiesing 58 Davis Motors 58 Farmers Insurance - Dave Surla 59 Northstar Surveying 59 Towmaster 59 Very Vintage 59 D&F Electric 60 First District Association 60 Litchfield Municipal Liquor Store 60 Mutt & Jeff’s Auto Repair 60 Tom’s Carpet Kingdom 60 Valley View Electric 60 Anderson Insurance Agency 61 Litchfield Flooring 61 Litchfield Oil & Propane 61 Northland Body and Paint 61 Ramsey Printing 61 RE/Max 61 Rick Plumbing & Heating 61 Sam Hendrickson Plumbing & Heating 61 Jason Tibbits Agency – State Farm 64

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

MARKETPLACE

Baskets of Hope

ack Clutch comeb for L/D-C girls

Lobbying the Legislature

Dragons defeat a year Cougars again after section win

Local executives l as head to St. Pau session begins

LOCAL MEDIA

ry Wagner Elementa to students give d children in nee

w e i v e R t n e d n e Indep ices plunge LITCHFIELD

SINCE 1876

s gas pr Drivers rejoice a

5 JANUARY 15, 201

cks a month that ‘It’s about 200 bu

I’m saving,’ local

commuter says

prices. g costs of gas umers are savin for gas when it Nationally, cons happier paying ared from what $1 per gallon gallon — comp s more than less than $2 per BY JENNY BERG year. s, when price dentreview.net to get gas last year t depen two spen ter@in last they mers repor to the more week, custo from about $3 to At the pumps last happy as s have fluctuated County were as than five year $4. filling a in Meeker It has been more could than given they were pric es ref lect area residents they could be that The lowe r gas since Litchfield per which have temperatures s with gas chea in oil prices, their tanks in tank enup ease their redecr in up fill degrees Fahr percent red arou nd 0 more than 50 n. hove ped gallo a drop $50 $2 than below and has com e — ths and tumbled heit. mon elson cent Mick 2009 But that day r Don lowe ent first time since reveling in the Grove City resid week a barrel for the last customers are truck pick-up way d filled up his on Jan. 5. prices. p off U.S. High A A A, incr ease of shoc ked how at the Cenex Co-o Acco rdin g to “The y’re kind tal ed States — field. n in the Unit dow n,” said Crys Bak- 12 in Litch cost me 100 bucks to fill ay productio fast it’s gone uction from the associate at Holid “It used to going to including prod and — “I’m Bengtson, a sales ta had said. just Dako he “I h up,” Litchfield. region in Nort weak this thing Stationstore in up her ken nd because of that she filled decli ning dema Gas to A2 ® Asia are a lady shocked s in Europe and car for $30.” have economie it for the downward slide d customer s cred Beng tson note much getting are and sant been more plea

Oh Boy!

t of 2015 eker County’s firs21 inches long at Baby Elijah is Me was 12 ounces, and BY JENNY BERG dentreview.net reporter@indepen

birth. parents decided Now that the new are their child, they on a name for ces of an infirst baby of 2015 learning the nuan busy Meeker County’s 30. Dec. ation. due date of fant’s communic pee to , had an expected has later he when born one week “He only cries Instead, he was ,” Fuentes he’s really good 6. . ’t or eat, but at 7:19 p.m. Jan. calm demeanor week still wasn tes said of Elijah’s But that extra e Fuen and hani he Step that for parents Swanson joked e at learnenough time little practice Swanson to agre still needed a Fuentes and Nick h crying. their child. reason for Elija on a name for name ing the we just can’t a — n pick to reaso a “There’s “Well, I wanted , but I was preg nant it out,” he said. manwhen I found out said figure is the general ,” Fuentes, 21, Swanson, 30, he was really picky were looking at s, an egg prowe at Forsman Farm s at a of Swanson. “So, we still ager and to. Fuentes work born was ducer in Coka going him when he Cokato and is in e hom e.” ing er and couldn’t decid time nurs ed it took a long to become a teach Swanson agre or to scho ol ren. wasn’t too old child that e with nam a work to find Fuentes did son said he and S b t just right f

Scandinavian Specialties Bridal Registry Glassware Books For All Ages Ethnic Foods Unique Custom Jewelry Cards & Napkins Ceramic Kitchenware Linens & Household Decorative Items Religious Gifts Corinthian Wind Chimes Proceeds benefit Ecumen facilities. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4p.m.; Sat., 9 am-12 pm

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

STAFF PHOTO BY

JENNY BERG

Cenex -up truck at the me fills up his pick of Grove City . “It used to cost get by 12 in Litchfield Don Mickelson . “I’m going to on U.S. Highway said last week Co-op station thing up,” he this fill to s 100 buck y.” toda that of with half

Litchfield Independent Review Published every Thursday and available online at www. independentreview.net. To subscribe to the newspaper or to advertise in it, call 320-693-3266, stop at the office at 217 N. Sibley Ave., or send an email to news@ independentreview.net. KLFD-AM 1410 The local radio station, KLFD-AM 1410, offers local news, as well as state and national headlines. The office is at 234 N. Sibley Ave. For information, call 320-693-3281 or go online to www.klfd1410.com.

MUNICIPAL LIQUOR STORE The city of Litchfield built a new, 7,000-square-foot liquor store at 627 N. Sibley Ave., and opened it in January 2013. Nearly twice the size of the old store, the $1.25 million building features a great selection of alcoholic beverages, including many types of craft beer. Some profits from city’s liquor store fund are used to operate the city’s Civic Arena. Store hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Downtown Litchfield features many unique small businesses.

MARKETPLACE

Litchfield’s downtown provides many shopping and dining options, including antique and gift shop, cafes, tea, coffee and candy shops, and much more.

For the best birthday ever, just add water! The AmericInn® Birthday Splash Bash! A pool, a party room, and lots of friends. It’s the perfect combination for a great party. Bring your own decorations and food or we can help arrange everything you need. Book your party at Americlnn. Packages start at just $80 for 2 hours.* • Up to 4 hours use of indoor pool • Use of party room • Up to 20 guests • We clean up (no confetti please) Open to the public: Monday - Thursday 7AM - 10PM Sunday Noon - 8PM Welcome to the end of the daySM

1525 E. Hwy 12, Litchﬁeld, MN 55355 320.693.1600 800.634.3444

AmericInn.com

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

All the insurance you need from one agent. I take simple seriously. Contact me today. Kevin Christoffers 112 N Sibley Ave LitchďŹ eld, MN 55355 320-593-0601

Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company,* Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company,* Western Agricultural Insurance Company*/West Des Moines, IA. *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services M123C-ML-1 (1-15)

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

STOREFRONT (BUSINESS) DIRECTORY AGRICULTURAL SERVICE & SUPPLIES First District Association 101 South Swift Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3236 www.firstdistrict.com

Litchfield Country Store & FAF AG Services

311 South Chandler Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2867

NAPA Auto Parts

909 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3216 www.napaonline.com/mn/litchfield

Runnings of Litchfield

Northland Body and Paint

Schlauderaff Implement Co. 60240 U.S. Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320- 693-7277 www.schlauderaffimplement.com

ANIMAL HEALTH Haugo Veterinary Clinic

101 North Miller Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-0298

Parts City Auto Parts 725 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7299 www.partscityauto.com

Towmaster

61381 U.S. Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-4595 www.towmaster.com

1101 South Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-6961 www.haugoveterinaryclinic.com

BANKING/FINANCIAL

AUTOMOTIVE SALES, PARTS & SERVICE

301 North Ramsey Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3255 www.centernationalbank.com

4-Bid.com

809 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-0600 www.4-bid.com

Davis Motors

1005 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3224 www.davismotorsgm.com

Doug’s Auto Repair

526 North Ramsey Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8821

GARY’S TIRE SHOP

Mutt & Jeff’s Auto Repair

25 West Depot Street Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7223 www.litchfieldcountrystore.com 975 East Frontage Road Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0009 www.runnings.com

DINING/ENTERTAINMENT

Gary’s Tire Shop

201 North Miller Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2672

Center National Bank

Conway, Deuth, and Schmiesing 820 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7975 www.cdscpa.com

CHURCHES Cornerstone Church

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

A Blue Moose Grill & Pub 311 North 1st Street Darwin, MN 55324 320-693-9161

Cricket Meadow Tea

113 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0456 www.cricketmeadowtea.com

KLFD 1410 AM Radio 234 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3281 www.klfd1410.com

Litchfield Watercade Litchfield, MN 55355 www.watercade.com

Nelson Farm

23618 CSAH 1 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7750 www.nelsonfarm.com

Peter’s On Lake Ripley 405 West Pleasure Drive Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-6425 www.petersribs.com

Subway

1027 East Frontage Road Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2585 www.subway.com

The American Legion Post #104

222 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-9074 www.litchfieldamericanlegionpost104.com

Wahoo’s Bar & Grill

324 North 1st Street Darwin, MN 55324 320-373-5083 www.facebook.com/wahoosmn

205 CSAH 34 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-7971 www.cornerstonechurchmn.org 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

MARKETPLACE EDUCATION

Meeker Public Transit

The Medicine Shoppe

114 North Holcombe Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2354 www.litchfield.k12.mn.us

HEALTH, MEDICAL, PERSONAL CARE

HOME & GARDEN

Litchfield Early Childhood Programs

Affiliated Medical Center

D&F Electric

Litchfield 465 Public Schools

Ecumen

Rick Plumbing & Heating

Harmony Center For Hearing

Litchfield Flooring

Litchfield Community Education & Recreation

114 North Holcombe Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0072 www.litchfield.k12.mn.us

114 North Holcombe Avenue, Suite 100 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2444 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org/housing-services

812 East Ripley Street Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7794

611 South Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3233 www.acmc.com

600 South Davis Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2472 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org

GOVERNMENT & CIVIC GROUPS

32 East 2nd Street Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-4210

City of Litchfield

Litchfield Eye Center

126 North Marshall Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7201 www.ci.litchfield.mn.us

Litchfield Chamber of Commerce 219 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8184 www.litch.com

Litchfield Area Rural Partners in Prevention (LARPP)

114 North Holcombe Avenue, Suite 250 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5380 www.larppmn.com

Meeker County Administrator Office 325 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5200 www.co.meeker.mn.us

Meeker County Economic Development Authority 325 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5272 www.meekercodevcorp.com

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

135 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-3100 www.litchfieldeyecenter.com

Litchfield Family Dental

715 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2228 www.litchfieldfamilydental.com

Meeker Memorial Hospital 612 South Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3242 www.meekermemorial.org

Patten Chiropractic

1455 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3612 www.pattenchiropracticcenter.com

Snap Fitness

27 East Depot Street Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-1429 litchfield@snapfitness.com

329 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-9314 www.medicineshoppe.com

62785 230th Street Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-6019 www.dandfelectric.com 22 East 3rd Street Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3611 www.lennox.com

25 West 2nd Street Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-1648 www.litchfieldflooring.com

Litchfield Oil & Propane 61448 U.S. Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2411 www.dooleypetro.com

Sam Hendrickson Plumbing & Heating 71068 U.S. Highway 12 Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-1246 www.hendricksonplumbingheating.com

Tom’s Carpet Kingdom

390 State Street North Eden Valley, MN 55329 320-453-3673 www.tomscarpetkingdom.com

Turck’s Trees

67034 MN Highway 24 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3944 www.turckstrees.com

MARKETPLACE Valley View Electric

14755 County Road 9 Eden Valley, MN 55379 320-980-3278 www.valleyviewelectricmn.com

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

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

Farmers Insurance- Dave Surla 520 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3112 www.farmers.com

Insurance Solutions

304 North Marshall Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0591 www.insurancesolutionslitchfield.com

Jason Tibbits Agency – State Farm® 105 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3404 www.jtibbits.com

LODGING Americinn

1525 U.S. Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-1600 www.americinn.com

The Marshall Estate

611 North Marshall Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-8170 www.themarshallestate.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Darwin Monument

960 North 1st Street Darwin, MN 55324 320-693-5902 www.darwinmonument.com

Northstar Surveying 310 East Depot Street Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3710

REAL ESTATE Menken Real Estate & Insurance 503 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-3324 www.menkenrealestate.com

Premier Real Estate

214 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-493-9349 www.premierhomesearch.com

RE/Max

309 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320- 593-4152 www.remax.com

RETAIL STORES Benusa Appliance

1325 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-2871 www.benusaappliances.com

Mid Minnesota Music

714 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5885 www.mobileelectronicscenter.com

Litchfield Municipal Liquor Store 627 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8563 www.litchfieldliquorsmn.com

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

Very Vintage

109 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0888 Like us on Facebook

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

UTILITIES Meeker Cooperative Light & Power Assn. 1725 East Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3231 www.meeker.coop

Emmaus Place Gift Shop 200 North Holcombe Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2430

Mary’s Jewelry

227 North Sibley Avenue Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-8678 www.jewelconnect.com

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

” ractic for the “Chirop Entire Family

BUY – SELL TRADE 320-693-0600

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

www.pattenchiropracticcenter.com

809 E. Hwy. 12 Litchﬁeld, MN 55355

320-693-3612

1455 Hwy 12 E. Litchﬁeld

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

(320) 693-7787 www.stockmensgreenhouse.com

Your year around source for all your lawn and garden needs. • Shade Trees • Shrubs • Evergreens • Fruit Trees

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

• Perennials • Bedding Plants • Christmas Trees • Growing Supplies • Landscape Design & Installation

• Garden Ware • Roses • Mulch • Fertilizer

MARKETPLACE

Customers at Litchfield Liquor consider their options at the store’s beer cooler. Litchfield Liquor has a wide selection of craft beers, wine and hard liquors.

WE SELL QUALITY BRANDS Sporting Goods • Pet & Animal • Tools Lawn & Garden • Hardware • Auto Power Equipment • Electrical & More

Your Home, Farm & Outdoor Store! STORE HOURS: Mon-Fri 8:00-9:00 Sat 8:00-6:00 Sun 10:00-5:00

975 East Frontage Road Litchﬁeld, MN 320-593-0009 www.runnings.com

Monuments

Fountains

Rocks

320-693-5902 East Hwy 12, Darwin, MN darwinmonument.com 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

LITCHFIELD Since 1997

• Full Line of Interstate Batteries • Axalta Paint Automotive, Fleet & Industrial

Mobile Electronics Center Inc.

More than Car Stereo!

• Remote Starts • Alarm Systems • Car Audio/Video • iPhone/iPod/MP3 Integration • Cruise Control • Backup Cameras & Beepers • Mobileye Systems • Bluetooth Handsfree Cellular • Navigation • Home & Commercial Audio/Video • Satellite Radio

• Turn Drums and Rotors

Sticks, Strings & Musical Things!

• Grind Flywheels • Make Hydraulic Hoses • Make & Repair A/C Hoses • Air Hose Repair • American Welding Tank Exchange

Guitars, Amplifiers & Sound Equipment, Band Accessories, Tuners, PA Rental & More! 714 North Sibley (Hwys 12 & 22); Litchfield, MN 320-693-5885 www.mobileelectronics.com

Find us on

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

MARKETPLACE

We are your locally owned, Auto, Ag, Heavy Duty, Paint, Hydraulics, Tools and Equipment, and accessories resource!

Litchﬁeld - 320.693.3216 www.NAPACentralMN.com “With 15 Convenient Locations, We Supply Parts, and we do it WELL!”

Meeker County is known for its dedicated workforce, including this group of workers shown at Felling Trailers in Litchfield.

See why

BENUSA

Does it Better • Factory Authorized Technicians • Professional Delivery & Installation • Interest FREE Financing

BEST SELECTION FOR HOME APPLIANCES NOW OFFERING

1325 E US Hwy 55, Litchﬁeld

320-593-2871 www.BenusaAppliances.com

AREA’S LARGEST SLEEP GALLERY 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

OUR

FRIENDLY KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF WILL

Gary's Tiree Shop

HELP YOU WITH HEALTH

QUESTIONS

AND CONCERNS.

Herbal Supplements Vitamins Health & Beauty Aids Teas Natural Supplements

Store hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-5:30pm Sat, 9am-3pm

201 Miller Ave. N., Litchﬁeld 320-693-2672

Aroma Therapy Products Fresh Spices Bulk Snacks Gluten Free Department

230 Sibley Ave. N., Litchﬁeld 320-693-7539

Everyone Welcome

Serving You Into A Healthy Future!

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

Home of Fieldgate Dairy Products: • 30+ Varieties of Fieldgate Cheese • Fieldgate Butter • Fieldgate Pizza • Fresh Cheese Curds • Gift Boxes • 20+ Varieties of Specialty Cheese

FAF Ag Services 92538

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

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

593-8678

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

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

www.schlauderaffimplement.com

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

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

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

The crew at Doug’s Auto Repair/Decker Auto Sales can take care of ALL your auto servicing!

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

Doug’s Auto Repair/Decker Auto Sales 526 N. Ramsey Avenue., Litchfield • (320) 693-8821 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

Ph. 320-693-322 Toll Free: 877-693-3224 Fax: 320-693-3012

YOUR FAMILY DEALER SINCE 1995

www.davismotorsgm.com

Stock Photo

OVER 300 NEW & PRE-OWNED VEHICLES AVAILABLE! Oil Change Special All Day - Every Day 99*

$19

No Coupon Necessary Tax & Disposal Included Includes up to 5 quarts of oil & filter *Excludes diesels. Extra charges for Synthetic Oil.

Stock Photo

YOUR HOMETOWN FULL SERVICE DEALER! SALES, SERVICE AND COLLISION CENTER 58

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

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

1-888-699-3710 320-693-3710 310 Depot St. E. Litchﬁeld

•Land Surveying •Topography Surveys •Subdivision Design

Some Key Questions to Ask Yourself • If something happened to me, would my family have the same quality of life ﬁnancially? • Home is where the heart is. Am I conﬁdent in my current homeowners coverage?

Like us on

• Do I have sufﬁcient auto coverage in the event of a catastrophic accident? • Am I absolutely positive I am getting the best value for my insurance dollars? • Have I called Dave at Farmer’s Insurance for a free quote? h lp ng pro w a ma rs mos o L fi l residents and surrounding communities. for sp al z s rv rom yo r lo al, L fi l ag n ,

CALL DAVE SURLA

Truck Equipment And Trailer Parts For Many Brands • HITCHES • PARKING JACKS • BEARINGS • LED LIGHTS • CHAINS

• BRAKES • SAFETY EQUIPMENT • TRUCK EQUIPMENT • PLOW PARTS

520 E HWY. 12 Suite 104 • LitchfieLd

320-693-3112

www.farmersagent.com/dosgood arm rs ns@ av s rla. om 2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

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

OFFICE: 320.453.3109 CELL: 320.980.3278 FAX: 320.453.3110

320-693-8563

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

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

TOM’S CARPET KINGDOM Eden Valley, MN — (320) 453-3673 Open Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Get started now with FIRST DISTRICT ASSOCIATION 101 South Swift, Litchfield • 320-693-3236

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

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

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

CALL NOW

320-593-1429 62785 230th St. Litchﬁeld, MN 55355

litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com | 2015

27 East Depot St, Hwy 12 Litchﬁeld, MN 55355

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

S e r v i ce s

•Installation •Estimates •Design & Layout of Floors

www.maxtodaysproperties.com

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

www.litchfieldflooring.com

92578

Products

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

Rick

• Plumbing • Heating • Air Conditioning

All Your Plumbing, Heating, & Air Conditioning needs since 1955 by licensed plumbing professionals.

320-693-3611 22 East Third Street, Litchﬁeld • rickph@qwestoffice.net License #003513PM

320-693-2411 888-693-2411

Anderson Insurance Agency

ears 75 Y O ve r F r i e n d l y of vice ! Ser

Comin’ Thru For You

• Gasoline • Diesel Fuels • Lube Oils • Propane

Performance you can depend on 61448 Hwy. 12 • Litchfield

SEE US FOR ALL YOUR CREATIVE NEEDS: • Logo Designs • Newsletters • Brochures • Business Forms • Business Cards • Wedding Invitations & accessories See our website for thousands of promotional items to put your logo on!

www.dooleypetro.com

For All Your Insurance Needs Auto • Home • Health • Life • Business 409 E. Hwy 12, Litchfield • 320-693-2834

826 N. Sibley Ave. Litchfield, MN 55355 320.693.7995 www.rpdmn.com

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com

PETS LIFE ON FOUR LEGS Dogs and other critters welcomed in Litchfield

hether living in town or in the country, pets offer people a best friend, exercise partner and cuddle buddy. Litchfield is home to many paths for people and their four-legged companions to walk on, as well as many lakes to take a dip in. All cats and dogs must be licensed in the City of LATEST Litchfield. Licenses are $5 for the life of the pet, and are CONTENT available at Litchfield City Hall, 126 N. Marshall Ave., Litchfield. Call 320-693-7201 for more information. In the case of a lost pet, owners should notify Litchfield Police Department at 320-693-5425 to report the missing animal. If an animal is found by the police department, it will be held for five to seven days before being transported to the Humane Society of Kandiyohi and Meeker Counties.

Haugo Veterinary Clinic 1101 Sibley Ave. S. Litchfield

320-693-6961

Lifestyle Focus Litchfield resident Sam Schroeder runs the first 4 Miles Four Paws run in 2014 with her dog, Maddy. Also pictured is Justine Hawes of Litchfield.

HUMANE SOCIETY The Humane Society of Kandiyohi and Meeker Counties provides a safe haven for lost and abandoned animals until they can be placed in permanent homes. The organization also promotes responsible care and training for pets through education and public awareness. In the fall of 2014, the Humane Society hosted the â&#x20AC;&#x153;4 Miles Four Pawsâ&#x20AC;? race around Lake Ripley in Litchfield as a way to raise money for the organization, which takes in more than 1,500 animals each year. To volunteer or donate, call Hawk Creek Animal Shelter at 320-235-7612. The shelter, at 250 28th St. S.W., Willmar, is open from noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Enjoy a New Standard for Health Care –

Meeker Memorial Hospital

CARE DELIVERED BY PEOPLE TREATING YOU LIKE FAMILY. In-house MRI and Digital Mamography

WE USE A TEAM APPROACH TO PROVIDE YOU… CARE AS IT SHOULD BE. • 24/7 Emergency Department NEW: Telestroke: Acute Stroke Management Program • Surgery/Endoscopy: General and Visiting Specialists • Laboratory/Direct Access Lab Tests • Radiology/Diagnostic Imaging in-house. MRI/Consulting Radiologic Subspecialists • Private Inpatient Rooms: OB Suites/Medical Surgical/Critical Care • Rehabilitation Services: Speech, Occupational, Physical Therapy in one location. Cardiac Rehabilitation - Phase II & III

CENTER FOR SENIOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH Regional Inpatient Services. Call (320) 693-4535 for patient admission inquiries 24/7. MEEKER MEMORIAL HOSPITAL REHABILITATION AND SPECIALTY CLINICS BRING YOU THE REGIONS FINEST SPECIALISTS. CALL (320) 693-4590

612 South Sibley Avenue • Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3242 www.meekermemorial.org Like us on

2015 | litchfield.bigfishlifestyle.com