2023 Otter Tail Lakes Country Magazine

#FindYourInnerOtter

2023

LAKES COUNTRY

MAGAZINE

PLAY• STAY• DINE

LIVE • WORK• GROW

800-423-4571 | OtterTailLakesCountry.com |

Otter with an Appetite

Battle Lake

10

18

Vergas

LAKES COUNTRY

MAGAZINE

Perham

Pelican Rapids

100

92

84

Letter from the Editor

My late husband Jimmy loved to drive. Something we did not share

a love for. He was a truck driver by trade and spent the last decade

of his life driving for the local bakery. When he wasn’t working, he was

driving his beloved Jeep or his Harley. He always said that he loved

the relaxing open road and how he felt close to nature, and it gave

him time to think. I have done a lot of driving this last year and a half

which means I have had a lot of time to think. Life being as short as it is. Is this where

I really want to be?

As I was driving home from a meeting this fall the sun had started to dip behind

the tree line bringing all the rich reds, oranges, burgundy, and gold leaves to life.

I started to think to myself how breathtaking it was. I pulled to the side of the road

rolled down the windows down and watched the sunset! How fortunate that the

landscape around me wasn’t cluttered with tall buildings, honking horns and sirens

but most of all I wasn’t stuck in traffic! I am proud to say that I live in rural Minnesota.

Where the tall buildings are only in larger cities, honking is from the Trumpeter Swans

flying overhead and traffic jams are waiting for families of ducks and geese to cross

the road. We often talk about living rural. There is a stigma that goes with that word;

nothing to do here. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. There is always something

to do in Otter Tail County every month of the year not just during the summer. We are

the Land of 1,048 lakes. There are community festivals, ice fishing, pond hockey, ice

skating, sledding, ice races, snowshoeing, polar plunge, hiking, and hunting and that

is just in the winter months. So next time you get behind the wheel, ask yourself, “is

this really where you want to be?” I know for myself the answer is not only yes, but

I can confidently say, there is no other place I would want to live and work!

Marie Noplos

Marketing & Membership Director

Otter Tail Lakes Country Association

Cover photo by Marie Noplos

Outdoorsy Otter

Parkers Prairie

Ottertail

83 80 72

Eclectic Otter

Dent

Otter About Town

25 28 30

Lodging Members

YOU OTTER

STAY HERE!

34

Your inner otter is out there...

You hear it calling, you feel it drawing you toward fun and

adventure and unforgettable experiences. A longing to get

back to your true nature. The simple awesome things. Playing in the lake,

the smell of pine needles, the crackle of a fire, the tug on a line, making

the most of every moment with those you love or love to be around.

Want to learn more? Take the quiz at FindYourInnerOtter.com

THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITIES AND MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTORS!

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kvidt Creative: A husband and

wife creative team, Jenna and

Micah Kvidt are filmmakers and

photographers who travel in

search of outdoor and urban

adventures around the world.

MAGAZINE TEAM

Editor in Chief...........................................Marie Noplos

Copy Editors.................................... Estefany Martinez

..........................................................Mary Roggenkamp

Copywriters................................................ Heather Rule

....................................................................Missy Hermes

Ad Designer.............................Anastasia Komestakes

Magazine Designer..............................Heriot Creative

Easy-Going Otter

Fergus Falls

38

Otter Tail Lakes Country Association is a regional non-profit, member driven marketing and economic

development organization. Our diverse membership is comprised of businesses, organizations, and

communities. We work hard to promote Otter Tail County not only as a great place to vacation, but

also a great place to plant your roots, start your career and raise a family.

44

New York Mills

Henning

Active Otter

66 62 59

4

YOU OTTER

LIVE HERE!

Making Moves for Otter Tail County Newcomers

by Sarah Schake

Stop and think. Do you love where you live? Would

you live somewhere else if you had the choice?

Research shows that many people choose to live in an

area for the same reason they go on vacation to the area –

a simpler pace, outdoor recreation opportunities, and

a child-friendly atmosphere. Additionally, more affordable

housing and quality education opportunities rank

among the highest reasons that people move to an area.

For several years, Otter Tail Lakes Country has done a

phenomenal job putting our area ‘on the map’. When

people are looking for a place to relocate, especially

within their prime working years, we make sure Otter

Tail County is the first option they think of. However, we

recognize that if there isn’t housing, child care, highspeed

internet, parks, and trails available to newcomers,

they may never get here to live their best life. So, we’re

working really hard to get that necessary infrastructure

– housing, child care, broadband, parks, and trails –

in place. In the last 3 years, our partners in Otter Tail

County have:

• Built more than 1,300 new homes

• Increased available child care by 4%

• Built out 300 miles of broadband fiber

• Paved over 30 miles of multi-use recreational trails

• And there’s more to come!

Progress is promising, but we know there’s more work

to do. We’re rolling up our sleeves to make sure people

interested in moving to Otter Tail Lakes Country can

do it now. You could say we’re making moves to help

newcomers make a move!

REASONS TO LIVE & WORK IN OTTER TAIL LAKES COUNTRY

NOW

HIRING!

Friendly small town living

Excellent local schools

Child-friendly atmosphere

High-quality job openings

State-of-the-art healthcare

Lower cost of housing

Lakes, woods, parks and trails

Art and cultural opportunities

Learn why residents

from different walks of

life choose to live, work

and play in Otter Tail

Lakes Country.

Sean & Kate.............................................26-27

Thomas & Anna.......................................60-61

Latham.....................................................70-71

Zach & Estefany......................................90-91

Photos: Kvidt Creative, provided

5

Lake

Sallie

Lake Detroit

Sallie Lake

Detroit Detroit

LakeLakes

Detroit

Lakes

Lake

Melissa

Lake

Melissa

5

Frazee

Frazee

108

Rothsay Rothsay

3

108

210

94

Lake

Oscar

Otter Tail

River

Pelican

River

210

94

Lake

Oscar

Pelican

River

Pelican

Rapids

Pelican

River

59

5

Dayton

Hollow

Reservoir

Otter Orwell Tail

River Reservoir

Orwell

Reservoir

Dunvilla Dunvilla

Prairie

Lake

Pelican

Rapids

Pelican

River

Erhard

59

Long

Lake

Dayton

Hollow

Reservoir

Pelican

Lake

Prairie

Lake

Erhard

Long

Lake

Red River

Elizabeth Elizabeth Lake

Fergus

Falls

Pelican

River

2

Fergus

Falls

Pelican

Lake

Pelican

River

Lizzie

Lake

210

Swan

Lake

North

Lida

Lake

3

Lizzie

Lake

Red River

Lake

Swan

Lake

Fish

Lake

4

North

Lida

Lake

59

Maplewood Maplewood

State ParkState Park 41

4

Fish

Lake

4

Loon

Lake

Big McDonald Big McDonald

Lake Lake

Dent

East SilentEast Silent

108 108

Lake

4

Lake

West Lost

Lake

17

West Lost

Lake

17

Vergas Vergas

35

Loon

Lake

Star

Lake

East Lost

Lake

Stalker

Lake

41

Lake

Five

Pickerel

Lake

35

Otter Tail

River

Star

Lake

East Deer Lost

Lake

Stalker

Lake

228

Dead

Lake

Pickerel

Lake

Lake

Five 3

Otter Tail

River

Deer

Lake

North Turtle North Turtle

Lake Lake

Underwood Underwood

South Turtle South Turtle

210

Lake Lake

Battle

Lake

1

59

9

35

35

4

78

Rice

Lake

228

Dead

Lake

Marion Marion

Lake Lake

78

Richville Richville

14

Long

Lake

108

Otter Ottertail Tail Ottertail

Lake

Leaf

Lake

Lake

Blanche

Glendalough Glendalough

State ParkState Park

West Battle West Battle

Lake Lake

Clitherall Clitherall

Vining

Battle

Lake

78

Rice

Lake Otter Tail

River

10

Clitherall

Lake

Otter Tail

River

Perham Perham

Dent

Long

Lake

Otter Tail

Lake

7

10

2

Lake

Blanche

Clitherall

Lake

Mud

Lake

Mud

Lake

Little Pine

Lake

78

14

Rush

Lake

Mud

Lake

Little Pine

Lake

Mud

Lake

Big Pine

Lake

Vining

Big Pine

Lake

Rush

Lake

1

Le

La

5

Ten Mile

Lake

Dalton

82

Ten Mile

Lake

Dalton

82

4

Eagle

Lake

Spitzer

Lake

Eagle

Lake

Inspiration Inspiration Peak Peak

Wayside Wayside

Spitzer State ParkState Park

Lake

8

Urbank Urbank

59

59

94

Ashby 94

Ashby

6

1

2

4

6

8

10

11

12 14

16

18

20 22

24

SCAN CODE

TO VIEW

MAPS ONLINE

N

N

71

71

OTTER TAIL AREA TRAILS

Maplewood Se

Have you Found Your Inner Otter yet? If so, maybe you

identify with the Active Otter, and love to hit the trails

the more intense the better. Or maybe you are an Outdoorsy

Otter and enjoy birding or nature hikes. Maybe you are more

of an Easy Going Overall Otter Trail and Map prefer a meandering horseback

Devils Lake

ride through the park? No matter what type of Otter you are,

Lake

Lake

35

Little

10

Lizzie

Crystal

41

McDonald

Lake

26

Paul

34 28 30

35

we hope you enjoy these trails here in beautiful Otter Tail

Lake

41

59

West

Lake Lida

McDonald Big

Lake McDonald

35

County, MN. Don't know your Otter type? That's Lake okay, visit

Pelican

108

35

Rapids

41

108

us on our website to find out today! East

West Silent Lake

Dent

108 Silent OtterTailLakesCountry.com/My-Inner-Otter-Quiz

South Arm

59

Lida Lake

Perham

78

Legend Trail Details More to Explore

Trail Head

Visit these other Otter Tail

Parking, trail information,

Pelican Rapids Segment

7 miles

County locations and

benches, and other amenities

amenities.

Maplewood

Benches

Park

Maplewood Segment

Phelps Mill

3.8 miles

New York New York

Mills Mills

1

For more information and

to report trail issues,

please scan the QR code.

Challenging Terrain

Silent Lake Segment

8.1 miles

# County Road

McDonald Lake Segment

The Central Lakes Trail is built on 5.8 an miles

# US Highway

Perham Segment

# MN Highway

6.2 miles

abandoned Burlington Northern Railroad

Highway Crossing

Perham and McDonald Lake Segments

follow County Highways 34 and 35.

corridor and runs 55-miles # Mile Marker from Osakis to

Fergus Falls, MN.

Echo Bay Park

Fort Juelson

10

Bluffton 10 Bluffton

2

HEART

The Heart of the Lakes Trail is a 32-mile long,

multi-use recreational trail connecting the

communities of Perham and Pelican

OF

Rapids

TH

HEART OF THE

LAKES TRAIL via Maplewood State Park.

08

af

ke

52

52

Deer

Creek

106

Deer

Creek

106

29

29

6

Wadena Wadena

71

71

3

4

The North Country National Scenic Trail

features a 10-mile segment through Fergus

Falls. Offering scenic family-friendly hiking

opportunities through prairies, woodlands,

and neighborhoods.

Take a drive on the Otter Trail Scenic Byway,

a 150-mile loop through beautiful Otter Tail

County, MN.

Henning Henning

210

210

5

Fergus Falls anchors the 200-mile Pine to

Prairie International Birding Trail, Minnesota's

first birding trail. This trail features 45 sites

throughout Minnesota for viewing and

photographing birds.

29

29

PARK TRAILS

6

Black's Grove Park near Wadena features a log picnic

shelter, primitive restrooms, hiking, cross country skiing,

horse trails and mountain biking.

7

Glendalough State Park features 9-miles of hiking trails,

2-miles of mountain biking trails, and a paved bike trail during

the summer. In the winter, spend the day snowshoeing or the

8-miles of groomed cross country skiing trails.

235

235

Lake

Adley

Parkers

Prairie

Lake

Adley

Parkers

Prairie

Lake

Mary

Lake

Mary

8

Inspiration Peak State Park has a quarter-mile winding hike

to the summit- which can be quite the workout. The view from

the top is particularly impressive in the fall, but this wayside

rest area offers a captivating view at any time of the year.

9

Maplewood State Park has 25 miles of hiking and 20 miles

of horse trails during the summer. During the winter, enjoy

5 miles of both- groomed and ungroomed back-country

cross-country skiing, 21 miles of groomed snowmobile trails,

and 1/2 mile of groomed snowshoeing trails.

7

FISHING & HUNTING RESOURCES

CHill Guide Service –

Cody Hill

Pelican Rapids

218-443-3813 • CHillGuideService.com

Cody specializes in fully furnished multi

species guided fishing trips in the Otter

Tail County area where he has almost 30

years’ experience fishing. He offers yearround

trips and accommodates for anglers

regardless of the anglers physical

and fishing abilities making memories

that will last a lifetime.

Lock Jaw Guide Service –

Randin Olson

Richville

218-640-0158 • LockJawFishing.com

Randin specializes in helping anglers

catch muskies in Otter Tail Lakes Country.

He also is an expert when it comes

to walleye and bass fishing in the area.

If you want to catch BIG toothy fish,

Randin is your guide.

Otter Tail County Fishing –

Erik Osberg

Wadena

218-639-3130

OtterTailCountyFishing.com

If you want to fish in the evenings or

on weekends, give Otter Tail County

Fishing a call. Erik does a lot of trolling

for walleyes, and he can even take you

fishing for crappies, bluegills, bass, or

muskie. Give him a call!

Sporting Journal Radio –

Bret Amundson

Milan

701-306-5298 • BretAmundson.com

Hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation

are covered in this one-hour show that airs

weekly on radio stations across the upper

Midwest. You can also watch the show on

Facebook, YouTube, Rumble and more.

Weekly guests include guides, experts,

biologists, celebrities and more. Learn

more about finding your Inner Otter on

Sporting Journal Radio!

Ben’s Bait

21600 MN Hwy 78

Battle Lake

218-864-5596 • BensBaitShop.net

Ben’s Bait proudly carries a large

selection that can meet any fishing need.

When it comes to fishing, they’ve been

pointing people in the right direction

since 1970. Stop by today and find out

why they say “Our baits try harder.”

Fleet Farm – Fergus Falls

2002 W Lincoln Ave

Fergus Falls

218-736-0171

Retailer with a range of merchandise,

including hunting, fishing gear,

housewares & automotive parts.

Gene’s Sport Shop

105 E Main St, Perham

218-346-3355 • GenesSportShop.com

We carry a large selection of fishing

and hunting gear, apparel, guns, bows,

clothing and bait, plus seasonal gear

and accessories. Our pro staff is available

with helpful advice to make your next

adventure a good one.

Lakeland General Store

22438 Old 59 Rd

Pelican Rapids

218-863-5703

LakelandGeneralStore.com

Known for our friendly atmosphere and

superior customer service, Lakeland True

Value-General Store is happy to continue

serving the lakes area for over 40 years.

Prairie Archery

1025 S Otter Ave

Parkers Prairie

(218) 338-6030 • PrairieArchery.com

Serving Central MN for 30 plus years.

Full-service Pro Shop – our stock is ever

growing with bows arrows, sights and

more. Certified archery bow technician

– we work on all makes and models of

compound bows and crossbows. Indoor

archery range with four shooting lanes up

to 20 yards.

8

We’re your one-stop shop! Here’s what you’ll find:

• Family Apparel & Footwear

• Lawn & Garden/Seasonal

• Automotive & Fuel Center

• Housewares

• Snacks & Candy

• Pet & Wild Bird

• Hardware

• Farm

• Sporting Goods

$

10 OFF

an in-store purchase

of $ 50 or more

Valid January 1 - March 31, 2023

Limit 1 offer per customer, per visit. No photocopies or

facsimiles will be accepted. Coupon must be presented at the

time of purchase and must be surrendered upon redemption.

Total purchase must reach $ 50 or more before state and

local taxes. No adjustments to prior purchases. Returns will

be credited as purchase price less the discount, and discount

will be forfeited. Cannot be used in conjunction with Buy Get

offer, or other coupons. Not redeemable on fuel, lottery tickets,

tobacco, alcohol, gift cards, tickets, permits, registrations,

licenses, warranties, Carhartt ® , Treager ® , YETI ® , Echo, Ariens,

Under Amour or Weber ® items. Other exclusions may apply.

See store for details.

$

10 OFF


of $ 50 or more

Valid April 1 - June 30, 2023













$

10 OFF


of $ 50 or more

Valid July 1 - September 30, 2023













$

10 OFF


of $ 50 or more

Valid October 1 - December 31, 2023













4107

4108

4109

4110

Visit us at 2002 W. Lincoln Ave., Fergus Falls, MN

23PARR8_275X10_875OT_Otter Tail Lakes Guide Ad.indd 1

10/25/22 1:48 PM

OTTER WITH

AN APPETITE

Let's get something to eat!

Otters with Appetites hunger for the finer things in life. They love to

eat, drink and be merry, so they value great food, great drink, and

great friends. Their creed is that you’ve got to eat to live, so why not live

to eat? The kitchen is the most important room in the house, and life is

always best lived alongside great meals. These otters also have a list of great

restaurants they want to try. They love to go out, and enjoy trying new

dishes and different types of cuisine.

Thirsts for: craft brews

Craves: comfort food

Rests at: restaurants with patios

Idea of fun: live music

#FindYourInnerOtter

See the DINE listings below for

activities and businesses nicely suited

to your Otter with an Appetite.

Photo by Kvidt Creative

OTTERLY AWESOME PLACES TO DINE

1910 Sip House

41714 Foursquare Rd, Battle Lake

303-506-0027 • 1910SipHouse.com

A place for adults to come and relax while

enjoying our small batch craft cider. Whether

you want to grab a book, gather around with a

few friends, the choice is yours!

ABC Brewing Co

114 Memory Ln, Battle Lake

218-864-2739

ABCBrewing.net

Our award winning craft beer is brewed on

site, inspired by community stories, and is just

good Minnesota beer. Enjoy a pint with our

wood-fired pizza. Cheers!

Beach Bums Bar & Eatery

35776 County Hwy 72

Battle Lake

218-495-2995

BeachBumsOttertail.com

Where Aloha meets Minnesota Nice! Coastal

food and drinks as well as hometown favorites.

Betty's Pantry

102 Main St

Ottertail

218-367-3088

BettysPantry.com

Come in for our daily specials and stay for the

dessert - bring the whole family!

Bev’s City Bakery

1045 W Lincoln Ave., Fergus Falls

218-531-1195 • Facebook

Award winning bakery specializing in made

from scratch donuts, caramel rolls, cakes,

cupcakes & more.

Big John's Pelican Pizza

41 N Broadway, Pelican Rapids

218-863-8888 • BigJohnsPelicanPizza.net

"PIZZA - FAMILY - FUN" Come on in,

take it to go, or we'll deliver up to 10 miles

from Pelican Rapids.

Big Pine Lodge & Restaurant

43606 Mosquito Heights Rd, Perham

218-346-3480 • BPLPizza.com

Family seasonal campground with

Pizzeria & Pub. Located on Big Pine Lake.

Online ordering now available.

Billy's Corner Bar & Grill

158 E Main St, Vergas

218-342-2400 • Facebook

Stop by and see us for great food, cold drinks,

fun times, and lots of memories to be made

for residents and tourists alike.

Blackboard

29961 415th St, Vergas,

218-758-2619 • BlackboardMN.com

Creative food and tasty cocktails.

Cornfield Café

22438 Old 59 Rd

Pelican Rapids

218-863-5777 • CornfieldCafe.com

Located in the Lakeland General Store

building. Homecooked meals. Breakfast,

lunch and dinner.

Disgruntled Brewing

35 2nd St NE, Perham

218-346-4677 • DisgruntledBeer.com

Craft brewery nestled on the outskirts of

Perham. Enjoy live music on the patio!

10

FOOD & DRINK

Farmer's Daughter

Rustic Bakery

102 E Centennial 84 Dr

New York Mills

218-385-3035

Facebook

Serving up fresh breakfast, lunch, fried

chicken, Caribou Coffee, ice cream,

smoothies, donuts, muffins & treats!

Fresh & Fancy @ Mama Sheenas

2609 Cenex Dr, Fergus Falls

218-998-7889 • MamaSheenas.com

Offering fresh and fancy meals, cooking

classes and catering.

Gateway Pub

516 Douglas Ave, Henning

218-583-2157 • GatewayPub.net

A local favorite located in Henning, MN.

Specializing in pizza, burgers, and wraps.

Hillbillies Depot Restaurant & Bar

521 Fergus Ave, Erhard

218-842-5185 • Facebook

Themed days of the week, specials, and your

favorite bar foods!

Lakes Country on Main

112 Main St E, Battle Lake

218-282-1680 • Facebook

Your local energy dealer serving up healthy

meal replacements!

Larry's Foods

102 Gilbertson St, Battle Lake

218-864-5663 • Facebook

Offering curbside pickup 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Monday – Friday. Delivery service available

Monday, Wednesday & Thursday within city

limits of Battle Lake, Clitherall and Underwood.

Lida Farms

44593 275th Ave, Pelican Rapids

218-342-2619 • LidaFarm.com

Certified Organic Vegetable Farm in Otter Tail

County, serving Detroit Lakes, Fergus Falls,

Pelican Rapids, Perham, and a bunch of people

who live next to lakes and in-between.

Mabel Murphy's

3401 Hwy 210 W

Fergus Falls

218-521-7180

MabelMurphysMN.com

Casual fine dining & Irish Pub. Enjoy the

finest old-world style restaurant.

Nest

902 Market Dr

Perham

218-346-4400

NestOfPerham.com

Your hometown coffee shop, kitchen store

and more! We believe in continuous improvement

for ourselves, our customers, and our

community!

Northern Aire Lanes

1419 College Way, Fergus Falls

218-736-3333 • NALanes.com

Try our delicious pizza, burgers, and old-fashioned

malts! Bowling fun for the whole family!

Otter Coffee & Ice Cream


218-342-4702 • OtterCoffeeVergas.com

Stumbeano's Fresh ground coffee, Bakery

items, Fall's Baking Co., "Fresh Bread Fridays",

Bagels, muffins, scones, latte's, mocha's, 16

flavors ice cream, wine, and local gifts!

Ottertail Bakery

221 Hwy 78, Ottertail

978-217-5026 • OttertailBakery.com

The Best Buns in Town, baking up fresh

breads, buns, rolls, donuts, cookies and more.

Service Food

321 W Lincoln Ave, Fergus Falls

218-998-9000 • ServiceFood.com

From our fresh Meat and Produce departments

to our Deli and Bakery, you’ll find

everything you need to serve your family

and friends.

Shoreline Restaurant Bar & Bowl

505 N Lake Ave, Battle Lake

218-864-5265 • ShorelineBattleLake.com

A family restaurant, bar & bowling center situated

in the heart of lakes. They boast about

their million-dollar view of West Battle Lake.

Silvermoon Lounge

& Steakhouse

31117 W Main St

Perham

218-346-3800

Facebook

Proud to be serving the Perham area for over

20 years. Specializing in home cooked meals,

chicken, BBQ ribs and of course, steak!

Spanky's Stone Hearth

34785 County Hwy 4

Frazee

218-334-3555

SpankysStoneHearth.com

Great service. Diverse menu cater to all guests.

Signature cocktails and world class wine list.

Taqueria Escobar


218-863-8220

218-367-2525 • TaqueriaEscobar.com

Serving up delicious authentic Mexican cuisine

in the heart of downtown Pelican Rapids.

The Muddy Moose


218-863-6607 • Facebook

Serving up homemade goodies, sandwiches,

and coffees.

The Otter

Hwy 78, Ottertail

218-367-2525

OtterSupperClub.com

Since 1967, the area destination for great

food, refreshing drinks and fun memories.

The Rusty Nail

123 Lake Ave S

Battle Lake

218-864-2600

RustyNailBL.com

Known for their great burgers and beer menu

located in the heart of downtown Battle Lake.

The Shack BBQ Eats & Cool Treats

314 Hwy 78, Ottertail

218-367-3287 • Facebook

All meats smoked in house. Family packs

available perfect for gatherings!

The Viking Café


218-736-6660

Landmark diner serving American comfort

food like breakfast, burgers and pies.

The Williams Company

101 Main St, Ottertail

218-367-3340 • TheWilliamsCompanyStore.com

Located in historic downtown Ottertail.

Offering unique gift selections, espresso

drinks, smoothies, ice cream & deli food.

Thousand Lakes Brewing Co

110 W Lake St, Parkers Prairie

320-460-7744 • ThousandLakesBrewing.com

A family-owned brewery. Committed to creating

outstanding beers from traditional lagers

to IPAs to experimental beers.

Uncle Eddie's Ice Cream Parlor


218-531-1592 • Facebook

Locally family owned ice cream parlor in

downtown Fergus Falls. Featuring 40 different

flavors of ice cream!

Willy T's Tavern & Grill

300 Thumper Lodge Rd

Ottertail

218-367-6508

ThumperPond.com

Homemade roasted, hand-carved meats

for sandwiches, burgers, pizzas with homemade

sauces.

Ye Olde Schoolhouse

24028 Emery Dr, Erhard

218-739-6511 • Facebook

Good olde fashioned burgers, baskets

and more!

11

1 2

Pomme de Terre Pottery

Otter Tail County Historical

Society & Museum

17

Detroit Lakes Detroit Lakes

34

34

Phelps Mill Festival

Rose Gallery

16

15

Pelican Pelican

Rapids Rapids

Rothsay Rothsay

Erhard

Lake

Oscar

210

94

Lake

Oscar

Prairie

Lake

16

2 3 4 5 6

2107

8

Fergus Fergus

Falls Falls

Prairie

Lake

Pelican

Lake 59

Erhard

Long

Lake

94 Elizabeth Elizabeth

Dayton

Hollow

Reservoir

Pelican

Lake

Long

Lake

Lizzie

Lake

Dayton

HollowSwan

Reservoir Lake

Lizzie

Lake

North

Lida

Lake

Fish

Lake

59

North

Lida

Lake

Vergas Vergas

228 228

15

Loon

Lake

108 108

Marion 10 10

Star Star Marion

Lake Lake Lake 78Lake

78

14 13

Maplewood Maplewood

Rush Rush

State Park State Dead Park Dead

Lake New Lake York New York

Lake Lake Richville Richville

Mills Mills

Underwood Underwood

Ten Mile

Lake

Big McDonald Big McDonald

Lake Lake

East Silent

Lake

Pickerel

Lake

Lake

Five

Battle

Lake

Long

Lake

Ottertail Ottertail

Otter Tail

Lake

West Lost West Phelps Lost Phelps

Lake Lake

18 17 Mill Park Mill Park

108

Fish

Lake Lake

Lake East Lost East Lost Blanche Blanche

Lake Lake

Glendalough Glendalough 12

State Park State Park

Swan

Lake

Ten Mile

Lake

Loon

Lake

East Silent

Lake

Stalker

Lake

Pickerel

Lake

Lake

Five

Battle

Lake

Perham Perham

Dent Dent

Stalker

Lake

1

Dalton Dalton

9

78

Long

Lake

Otter Tail

Lake

West Battle West Battle

Lake

Clitherall

Lake

Eagle

Lake

Big Pine

Lake

Middle

Leaf Lake

Deer

108 Creek

Lake

Clitherall Clitherall 11

Henning Henning

29

10 Vining Vining

Clitherall

Lake

Deer

Creek

78

Inspiration Inspiration Peak Peak

Eagle

Parkers Parkers

Wayside Lake State Wayside Park State Park

Prairie Prairie

Spitzer

Lake

Spitzer

Lake

Big Pine

Lake

Middle

Leaf Lake

N

Lake

Adley

Lake

Adley

Bl

29

29

Forest Edge Gallery

A PUBLICATION OF

OTTER TAIL LAKES COUNTRY

ASSOCIATION

520 Fir Avenue West, Fergus Falls, MN 56537

marie@ottertailcountry.com

Ashby

Ashby

Map not intended Map not for intended navigational for navigational purposes. purposes.

Photos: Provided

14 13 12

New York Mills

Regional Cultural Center

Finn Creek Open Air Museum

Henning Landmark Center

3 4 5

Kaddatz Galleries

Springboard for the Arts

A Center For The Arts

ART & CULTURE TRAIL

6

71

Bluffton

29

Wadena

210

Lake

Mary

71

1 Pomme de Terre Pottery

32586 Island Rd, Battle Lake

218-589-7507

PommedeTerrePottery.com

10

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

Otter Tail County

Historical Society & Museum


218-736-6038 • OTCHS.org

Kaddatz Galleries


218-998-4405 • KaddatzGalleries.org

Springboard for the Arts


218-998-4037

SpringboardForTheArts.org

A Center for the Arts


218-736-5453 • FergusArts.org

Otter Cove Children’s Museum


218-998-KIDS (5437) • OtterCoveFF.org

Creation Shop

119 N Mill St, Fergus Falls

218-731-1900 • CreationShopMN.com

Fergus Falls Public Library

205 E Hampden Ave, Fergus Falls

218-739-9387 • FFPublicLibrary.org

Art of the Lakes

108 Lake Ave S, Battle Lake

218-864-8606 • ArtOfTheLakes.org

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

Vining History

& Community Center

211 Souel Ave, Vining

218-282-0406

Open Fri 1-4pm May-Sept

Nyberg Sculpture Park

Located at Big Foot Gas & Grocery

6001 E Front St, Vining

NybergSculptures.com



218-548-5760 • HenningLandmark.org

Finn Creek Open Air Museum

55442 340th St, New York Mills

218-385-2233 • FinnCreek.org

August 19 & 20, 2023

New York Mills Regional

Cultural Center

24 Main Ave S, New York Mills

218-385-3339 • Kulcher.org

Forest Edge Gallery

46461 295th Ave, Vergas

218-342-2681

ForestEdgeArtGallery.com

Rose Gallery

Pelican Rapids

218-290-4599 • MarcellaRose.com


29035 County Hwy 45, Underwood

218-821-7824 • PhelpsMillFestival.com

July 8-9, 2023


Creation Shop


Anthony Gilbert Gaffer Photography

7

8

11 10 9

Nyberg Sculpture Park

Vining History

& Community Center

Art of the Lakes

Back on the course

7 weeks after surgery.

MISSY

Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at:

Formerly Tri-County Health Care

AsteraHealth.org

14

AREA BUSINESSES

now

hiring!

APPLY HERE

Live and work right in the heart of lake country.

Northern Contours is hiring in our Fergus Falls

manufacturing facilities.

• Paid vacation and holidays

• Immediate 401(k) match

• Health, dental and vision insurance

• Short and long term disability

• Full training + opportunities for advancement

RESIDENTIAL

STANDBY GENERATOR

GOWEST SOLAR

WIND-SOLAR

HYBRID PROJECT

HYDROPONIC

GROSHED

COMMUNITY SOLAR

OFF-PEAK

WATER HEATING

DISTRIBUTION GRID

IMPROVEMENT PLAN

POWERING

OUR

FUTURE

LAKE

REGION

ELECTRIC

COOPERATIVE

WWW.LREC.COOP | (800) 552-7658 | CONNECT WITH US

15

AREA BUSINESSES

Put the ‘Care’ in your Career.

NOW OFFERING

ONSITE

CHILDCARE

Make a Life-Changing Career Choice.

Make it PioneerCare.

Good hearted, socially committed people have always led PioneerCare’s history. People

making life better for others. Since 1928, each mission-driven person at Pioneer has

changed the world one person at a time, one day at a time. We seek mission-driven

individuals who wish to make such a difference, right here in Otter Tail Lakes Country.

Beyond that fulfillment, you get competitive pay and generous benefits.

Plus, PioneerCare supports your career growth with generous scholarships and

student loan repayment assistance. Learn more details and apply online.

PIONEERcare

218.998.1500 | www.pioneercare.org An equal opportunity provider and employer

16

AREA BUSINESSES

MAHNOMEN

BAGLEY

Enjoy the games, exciting promotions, delicious food,

live music in the Mustang Lounge and amazing concerts!

Plan your getaway now at StarCasino.com or call 800.453.STAR(7827)

Proudly owned and successfully operated by the White Earth Nation.

© 2023 White Earth Reservation. Play It Smart: Call 800-333-HOPE for problem gambling assistance.

LIFE IS BETTER

AT THE LAKE

(So are the mortgage experts)

FIRST NATIONAL BANK

We’ll Get you on the Lake!

You can count on our local

team of lake property experts

for the quick answers and

knowledge you deserve!

Get

Preapproved

Today

Before you invest in your dream retreat, sit back, relax - and let

our team help you get more lake for your loan.

CALL US TODAY AT

866-531-5253

OR EMAIL US

mortgage@fnbenning.com

17

BATTLE

LAKE

Heart of Lakes Country

Battle Lake is located at the junction of Highway 210 and Highway 78 in

beautiful Otter Tail County and just 20 miles north of Interstate 94.

Throughout the year, along with the opportunity to visit our many restaurants

and businesses, you’ll find art and craft festivals and events, an annual City

celebration, turtle races, a farmers’ market, an ice fishing derby, the gathering

of Pilots at the airport and so much more. Glendalough Bike Trail connects

the City of Battle Lake to Glendalough State Park, providing a beautiful 12-

mile loop through the community and the Park. Battle Lake has something

to offer every age in every season.

Battle Lake has been recognized as a bronze level Bicycle Friendly

Community as awarded by the League of American Bicyclists. This

designation recognizes the work the community has done to provide a

great bicycling experience. Battle Lake was recently named “West Central

Minnesota’s Best Hometown” by one of the local radio stations conducting

the contest, edging out 15 other communities in the area. In the midst of the

community, you’ll find an award-winning PreK through 12th-grade school

providing an outstanding education for students in the area. Battle Lake is

not only a great place to visit but an even better place to call home.

2023 EVENTS

Feb. 18 Battle Lake Area Sporting Club

Fishing Derby

June Art of the Lake Summer

Solstice Celebration -

The Longest Day of Art

July 8 & 9 Phelps Mill Festival

July 14 - 16 Art of the Lakes Studio Tour

July 21 - 23 Wenonga Days

Aug. 12 Art and Craft Affair

Sept. 2 Battle Lake Gathering

of the Planes

June - Aug. Turtle Races (Thurs @ 11am)

June - Aug. Farmers Market (Sat. 9-12pm)

Thu Summer Art of the Lake Prairie Lakes

Plein Air Artist Competition

Sept. 30 542 Education Foundation’s

Tastes, Toasts and Traditions

Fundraiser


Visit our website for event details

and to learn more

MINNESOTA

108 East Main Street

Battle Lake, MN 56515

Connect with us!

ci.Battle-Lake.mn.us

218-864-0424

18

Bundle Up for Winter Fun!

By Missy Hermes, Photos by Erik Osberg

Ice fishing lovers will find that this community is surrounded

by unlimited choices for drilling a hole and

dropping a line. Each February, the Battle Lake Area

Sporting Club holds their annual Fishing Derby on West

Battle Lake. Local businesses sponsor prizes for largest

fish in five categories: walleye, northern, crappie, sunny

and bass. Portables and fish houses are allowed during

the event. Tickets cost just $10 and registration takes place

at the public access. This year the event takes place on

February 18, 2023.

The organization also sponsors an ice fishing fun day

for kids in March with lots of fun and prizes. Organizers

have fishing rods for children and food available that day.

The event is a great way to introduce youth to the sport of

ice fishing.

Glendalough State Park offers ice fishing opportunities

and much more. The park has 8 miles of groomed trails

for cross country skiers. Scenic Prairie Hill Trail offers

slopes for sledding, and snowshoe lovers can go anywhere

in the park except the groomed trails. Snowshoe rental

costs just $6 per day.

Warm up afterwards in Glendalough Lodge, constructed

as a hunting retreat back in 1905. The lodge is available

for day-rental all year round. Want to combine winter

recreation with camping? Camper cabins and yurts are

available winter weekends between November 1 and

March 31. Facilities can be reserved by calling the park

at 218-261-6900.

Is it possible to bring the snow inside for family fun?

Absolutely! Art of the Lakes Gallery in Battle Lake offers

winter art classes with local artist Kristi Kuder. Kids ages

8 and up and adults can learn the technique of snow dyeing,

creating wearable art mandala scarves and bandanas.

Inside or out, Battle Lake has options for making the most

of winter in Lakes Country.

19

BATTLE LAKE BUSINESSES

The more you know

about west central

Minnesota, the more

reasons you’ll have to

live here.

Consider your move at

livewideopen.com.

A West Central Initiative Program

Come, relax & enjoy

our small batch

of craft cider.

41714 Foursquare Road

(303) 506-0027

1910siphouse.com

Kitchen Hours:

6:30 A.M. - 9 P.M. Sunday - Thursday

6:30 A.M. - 10 P.M. Friday & Saturday

Bar and bowling open late

505 N. Lake Ave.

Battle Lake, MN

(218)-864-5265

20

Galloping Goose Rentals in Battle Lake

By Missy Hermes

The name Galloping Goose originated with a local train

that ran through Otter Tail County until the 1960s.

The rail service had a legendary reputation for delivering

mail and transporting people.

Today Galloping Goose Rentals is a popular Battle Lake

business that also puts people in motion on just about

everything except a train. The company that started in 2015

rents small motor boats, kayaks, paddle boards, hydrobikes,

pedal boats and canoes. They conveniently offer delivery

and pick-up service and rental fees include life vests, oars,

anchors and helmets.

Galloping Goose is strategically located in Glendalough

State Park near the public access for Annie Battle Lake. This

year the company is operating out of a temporary building

there and in the city of Battle Lake. Options for pedaling

machines include: 3-wheel fun bikes, tandem and recumbent

bikes, electric assist bikes and 3- or 6-passenger surreys.

The Galloping Goose staff are friendly and knowledgeable.

Folks trying out equipment can get basic guidance on

operating a kayak or paddle board. And should your

adventure get temporarily derailed, a mechanic can help

get you back out on the trail or lake.

New to the flock of options are Goose Express pedal pub

tours, a collaboration with ABC Brewing, a popular craft

brewery. The one and 2-hour tours for groups of 8 or more

people make “flights” in and around Battle Lake. According

to co-owner Kurt Maethner, guests can, “bring the tasty

ABC pizza and growlers of their superb ABC beer on the

pedal pub runs.”

Galloping Goose Rentals is open 7 days a week Memorial

Day through Labor Day, and weekends before Memorial

Day and after Labor Day. Reservations can be made online

at GallopingGooseRentals.net so, as their website says,

“Gather your flock and fly!”

800-423-4571 | OtterTailLakesCountry.com

21


24 TAP BEERS • UPSCALE BAR MENU

FAMILIES WELCOME • OUTDOOR PATIO

LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEKEND • PULLTABS

OPEN EVERYDAY!

123 LAKE AVENUE S, BATTLE LAKE, MN • 218-864-2600

BIG FISH

KAY AKS

AEST.2020

S

22

N

D

Kayaks

W

A

Paddle Boards

Towable’s

T

E

NORTHWEST MINNESOTA’S

PREMIER WATERSPORTS

SALES & RENTALS

Have Fun in Lakes Country!

Inflatables

Life Jackets

Maui Mats

Ice Cream • Shaved Ice

1919 Root Beer Floats

27896 MN-78 Battle Lake

218-862-7900

bigfishkayaks.com

R

S

O

P

T

R

Quality Forest Products

Drafting & Design Services

Millwork - Windows & Doors

Hardware - Electrical - Plumbing

Tools - Benjamin Moore Paints

& Cabot Stain

205 Lake Ave S - Battle Lake, MN 56515

P: 218.864.5983 - F: 218.864.0112

www.evertslumber.com

Professional Real Estate Services

in Battle Lake, Minnesota since 1982

218-864-5203

www.paulsonlandco.com

“Under all is the land”

Independently owned and operated

Hatchery Row: Expanding Housing and Retail in Battle Lake

By Missy Hermes

ity and business leaders in Battle Lake have broken

C ground on an exciting project that will transform a

city block, expanding the housing and retail scene. It will

also open up remote work options for people seeking to

live in rural Minnesota.

The development is named Hatchery Row after the

Battle Lake business that held this location for decades.

The project designed by GoodNeighbors Property, in

cooperation with the City of Battle Lake and their

progressive Economic Development Authority, will

encompass three levels of residential and business

opportunities. The mixed use development also plans

for underground parking.

Livability is a hot topic today and the apartment dwellers

at Hatchery Row will have virtually every type of retail

or service they need within a 2-block radius. This

property is planning for 15-20 apartments all within

walking distance of the post office, bakeries, pharmacy,

restaurants, bars, hardware store, florist, and grocery store.

Civic and cultural centers are close by as well. The Lakes

Area Community Center has plans to relocate from a

former church into the Hatchery Row building. Churches,

schools, the Royal Auditorium, a museum, live music,

and Art of the Lakes Gallery also make up parts of the

Hatchery Row neighborhood.

The Hatchery Row location has proximity to cycling

trails and Glendalough State Park. Right out their doors,

apartment dwellers can stroll down to the shores of

beautiful West Battle Lake. In the summer months, a

local farmers market is within walking distance as well.

Residents will have the beauty of green space without

the hassle of shoveling snow or mowing grass.

As Hatchery Row takes shape, viewers can watch it unfold

online via the C.I. Construction webcam. All eyes are on

Battle Lake as they embark upon this visionary project.


23


115 S Lake Ave

Battle Lake, MN 56515

Independent Insurance Agency

“We Work For You, Just Ask Us”

218-862-4444

firstlakesagency.com

STORE HOURS

Mon. thru Sat. 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sunday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

102 Gilbertson St West

(218) 864-5663

BIG DAY LOVE. LAKESIDE WEDDINGS.

BIG DAY LOVE. LAKESIDE WEDDINGS.

Bike & Watercraft Rentals

Explore, Recreate & Enjoy the Outdoors

Bikes • Specialty Bikes • E-Bikes • Paddle Boards

Kayaks • Canoes • Row Boats • Motor boats

Souvenirs • Galloping Goose Gear

Ice Cream & Snacks!

TWO LOCATIONS

Glendalough State Park “The Goose Nest”

Uptown Battle Lake, MN

218-731-7181 or 218-282-1063

Make reservations at GallopingGooseRentals.net

Private 4-Acre Resort • Hosts 140 Guests

Renovated Barn With A/C

Rent The Entire Island For Your Big Day!

BATTLE LAKE, MN

218-864-8096

hideawayatxanadu.com

24

ECLECTIC

OTTER

Let’s explore our creative side...

Nobody will ever accuse an Eclectic Otter of being predictable.

On any day you might find them anywhere on or off the beaten path,

inhabiting diverse places such as art galleries, community theaters, cultural

centers, museums, flea markets, music venues, country markets, shooting

centers, casinos, gift shops, or book stores. There’s no telling where the

Eclectic Otter will pop up, given all the entertainment, shopping, and

dining options in Otter Tail Lakes Country.

Thirsts for: community events

Craves: live theater

Rests at: community parks

Idea of fun: art classes

#FindYourInnerOtter

See the PLAY listings below for

activities and businesses nicely

suited to your Eclectic Otter.

Photo provided

OTTERLY AWESOME PLACES TO PLAY

A Center for the Arts


218-736-5453 • FergusArts.com

To connect artists, patrons, and community

by providing the best possible

arts experiences that inspire creativity,

curiosity, imagination, and learning.

Art of the Lakes


218-864-8606 • ArtOfTheLakes.org

Goose Gang

342 3rd Ave SE

Perham

218-346-4400 • FindYourGoose.com

Three levels of fun for the kid in all of

us. Out classic toys, games, and puzzles

make the perfect gifts.



218-548-5760 • HenningLandmark.org

New York Mills

Regional Cultural Center

4 Main Ave S, New York Mills

218-385-3339 • Kulcher.org


29035 Co Hwy 45

Underwood

218-826-6159

PhelpsMillFestival.com

A premier festival in Otter Tail County -

always the 2nd full weekend in July with

fine arts & crafts, food & entertainment.

Located at the beautiful Phelps Mill Park.


205 E Hampden Ave, Fergus Falls

218-739-9387 • FFPublicLibrary.org

Pomme De Terre Pottery

32586 Island Rd, Battle Lake

218-589-7507

PommeDeTerrePottery.com

Vergas Community Club

PO Box 264, Vergas

CityOfVergas.com/

Vergas-Community-club

The Vergas Community Club is a partnership

between business and citizens

dedicated to create the best community

to visit, work and do business.

If you own or manage a business or organization in Otter Tail County and would like to be published in this magazine,

please contact Marie Noplos with the Otter Tail Lakes Country Association. marie@ottertailcountry.com, 218-770-8208

25

26

Meet the

LOCALS

Sean Scott & Kate Scherfenberg

Kate Scherfenberg’s roots to Otter Tail County go back

to when her father grew up in Fergus Falls, and her

parents bought a cabin in the area in semi-retirement.

Eventually, Scherfenberg and her husband, Sean Scott,

moved to rural Battle Lake in 2005.

Scott is originally from Dayton, Ohio, while Kate grew

up in St. Paul. They met in Portland, Oregon before

relocating to Nebraska for school. Looking for their next

place to call home, they visited Scherfenberg’s parents.

The house next door on Long Lake was for sale, and the

couple thought it would be a great place to raise their two

sons. They’d lived in bigger cities in the past, so moving

rurally was a bit of a change.“So I think in some ways, we

were looking for something that was conducive to daily

life, quality of life, raising a family, being near family,”

Scott said.

They also loved the beauty and scenery of the region.

They’ve lived in Otter Tail County for more than 15 years,

and Scott said he still finds himself “enamored with the

roll of the hills and the sloughs,” the glacial marines and

how the flatlands of the Red River Valley led up to it.

“What I’ve found is I’ve kind of fallen in love with this

dynamic little region of the world and learning its

geology,” Scott said, whose first degree was in geology.

They’re the owners of Pomme de Terre Pottery,

located in a year-round studio on their home

property. Scott works full time in the studio, while

Scherfenberg works there in summers when she has

more time. She’s a language teacher (specializing in

Chinese) at Battle Lake Public Schools.

Every piece of pottery is unique, touched with Scott’s

and Scherfenberg’s styles and techniques.

“But I think what connects our work is that it’s really

influenced by the flora and fauna that we’re surrounded

by in Otter Tail County,” Scott said. “Meaning the

plants, the animals, a sense of place. I think we both

really draw on the nature that surrounds us as a source

of influence and inspiration in our work.”

The couple would love to see more visitors stop by

their pottery studio at 32586 Island Road, Battle Lake.

They want to be on people’s radar as an interesting

place, Scott said.

“I think we’re bringing a very unique perspective to

our pottery in that we’ve lived all over the United

States, and Kate’s even lived in Taiwan and China

for a while,” Scott said. “She brings kind of a worldly

perspective to her work.”

For more information: PommeDeTerrePottery.com

By Heather Rule

Photos: provided


27

DENT

The Place to Be

If you’re looking for variety in your lakes-country vacation, Dent is the

place to be. With picturesque views of rolling farm fields, colorful maple

wood forests and (of course) outstanding waterfronts, there is something for

everyone near Dent.

Located on Highway 108 in the true heart of lakes country, visitors will

be hard-pressed to find another small community offering such a fantastic

variety of family-owned eateries, shopping and resorts. Each season provides

an opportunity for family fun including: a Mexican fiesta in January, 5K road

race and celebration in August at Dent Daze, and in December, a holiday

celebration with treats, sleigh rides, and a visit from Santa.

Stop in – you’re sure to find something to love!

Aug. 19

Sept. 9

Nov. 25

Dec. 9

Jan. 24

2024

2023 EVENTS

Dent Corn Daze

Testicle Festival

Christmas Market

Santa Day

Mexican Fiesta


For event details

and to learn more

PO Box 161

Dent, MN 56528

Connect with us!

facebook

@dentcommunityclub

28

Bringing People Together

By Missy Hermes

Although the school bell no longer rings in this

familiar brick building, the laughter and voices

of children and adults still do. The former Dent elementary

school now serves as a community hub, a fabulous reuse

of a cherished local landmark.

With the motto of “Bringing People Together,” residents

have rallied to create a recreational resource center.

The Dent Community Club serves a wide area.

Although membership in the club had dwindled for

a time, the committee has grown from just 5-7 folks to

over 20 today.

And they are busy planning. As a non-profit organization

providing, “opportunities to promote, develop and

maintain social, educational and recreational activities,”

the Dent Community Club keeps health and wellness

goals in mind.

The City of Dent maintains an exercise and weight room

open to the public. The school gymnasium is used by

people looking for a game of basketball, pickleball, and

walkers. A local Quilts of Valor chapter meets here along

with other community groups like the American Legion.

The space also serves as a space for celebrations like family

reunions, graduation parties, or large family gatherings.

Encouraging opportunities to connect, volunteer and

businesswoman Tammy Monson says, “We’re adding

more activities.” In 2023 Monson is looking forward to

a Halloween activity joining the Christmas Market that

hosts over 30 vendors and artists, Santa Day, the Fiesta

Dinner and Dent Corn Daze.

The big summer gathering has been rejuvenated by the

expanding participation in the Dent Community Club.

Their signature summer festival has been renamed Dent

Corn Daze and will feature a corn feed, corn hole tournament

and car show on Saturday, August 19, 2023. The kid

favorite Bubble Race will make a return along with food

trucks. To cap off the celebration, the band Tripwire will

take stage on Saturday night at the Dougout Bar & Grill.

True to the goal of “bring people together,” organizers

are planning their first ever all-School Reunion. Former

students, teachers and staff will gather to share history,

memories and take a huge group photo. Once again, the

Dent’s school will help gather the community.

29

OTTER

ABOUT TOWN

Let’s hit the town!

One element that is constant in the life of an Otter About Town,

is other party animals! They just love to socialize and have a good

time. They have many friends and acquaintances, and if none of their

friends are close, they’ll just make some new ones! Otters About

Town like to talk but they like to listen too. It’s people and activities

that make their world go ‘round, and no matter what the season,

you’ll find them in good spirits.

Thirsts for: fashion

Craves: a good deal

Rests at: downtown shops

Idea of fun: shopping locally

#FindYourInnerOtter



suited to your Otter About Town.

Photo provided


Brown Eyed Susan’s

10 S Broadway, Pelican Rapids

218-863-5200

BrownEyedSusansFloral.com

Dot & Minnie’s

148 1st Ave S, Perham

218-346-4180 • DotandMinnies.com

Jaeger Furniture

1924 MN 210, Fergus Falls

218-739-4675 • JaegerFurniture.com

Level III

159 1st Ave S, Perham

218-346-4181 • LeveliiiBoutique.com

Mark’s Fleet Supply True Value

945 Market St, Perham

218-346-6275

TrueValue.com/MarksFleetSupply

Mark’s Home & More

300 Jake St, Perham

218-346-6673 • TrueValue.com

Natalie’s Serendipity


218-342-2700 • NataliesSerendipityLLC.com

Neverwinter Clothing Co. + Gifts


218-864-2601

NeverWinterClothingCo.com

Pelican Drug Health Mart


218-863-1441 • PelicanDrugRX.com

Petals From The Heart

121 S Broadway, Pelican Rapids

218-863-5700

PetalsFromTheHeartFlorist.com

SoapWerks Naturals

216 W Lincoln Ave

Fergus Falls

425-244-1446

SoapWerksNaturals.com

Artisan Goods Handcrafted in Minnesota

and beyond. Shop from 40 local makers

and local small businesses right inside

our store.

The Market

120 S Union Ave, Fergus Falls

218-998-3663 • MarketFergusFalls.com

Wild Goose Gifts

935 Jenny Ave SW, Perham

218-346-4400 • FindYourGoose.com

Wild Goose is the lake country’s favorite

spot for a skillfully curated selection of

gifts, jewelry, home, cabin essentials, and

outdoor items. Shopping for yourself or

a loved-one has never been easier!



30

AREA BUSINESSES

Providing windows and doors with features homeowners want

and the reliability and service builders depend on.

800.739.9899

1020 International Dr.

Fergus Falls, MN 56537

Builders Know the Difference.

www.VectorWindows.com

WE ARE

Let your community bank

welcome you to the lakes area!

8 & 12 HOUR FULL TIME POSITIONS

MANY MANUFACTURING ROLES AVAILABLE

FULL TIME BENEFITS

PAID TIME OFF

401K WITH COMPANY MATCH

FREE SNACKS!

GROW WITH US - WE PROMOTE FROM WITHIN!

ucbankmn.com

Member FDIC

www.shearers.com/careers

31

AREA BUSINESSES

Now hiring: RNs, CNAs and LPNs

Apply at lrhc.org/careers

great place to

live and play

great place to work and grow

Put your talents to work in a respectful

and supportive environment that values you

and your skills, offers you an outstanding team

to work with, and puts caring and

compassion first.

32

AREA BUSINESSES

LIVE YOUR best life IN

OTTER TAIL COUNTY

Move to Otter Tail County and buy or build a

home with support through The Big Build.

Build a new home and get

up to $15,000 of future

property taxes refunded.

Buy a home and get up to

$10,000 of Down Payment

Assistance.

Additional incentives to buy

or build a home are offered

by communities within

Otter Tail County.

THE BIG BUILD

OTTER TAIL COUNTY

bigbuildotc.com

COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT

AGENCY

2023 SUMMER OUTDOOR CONCERTS AT THE KIRKBRIDE

6PM • KIRKBRIDE PARK • FERGUS FALLS

GARTH

live

Season Subscription

VIP $130

Adults $80 / Youth $45

Tribute to

CROSBY STILLS NASH & YOUNG

Saturday, July 8

Tribute to

ABBA

Sunday, July 16

Tribute to

GARTH BROOKS

Sunday, July 23

Individual Tickets

Adults $20

Youth $10 (ages 6-18)

Tribute to

QUEEN

Sunday, August 20

SATISFACTION

Tribute to

THE ROLLING STONES

Sunday, August 27

TICKETS

fergusarts.org

218-736-5453

124 W Lincoln Ave

Fergus Falls MN 56537

AC4TA activities are made possible

by the voters of Minnesota through

grants from the Lake Region Arts

Council, thanks to a legislative

appropriation from the Arts and

Cultural Heritage fund

Bring Your Own Chair! Food & Beverage Trucks onsite or pack your own!

33

OTTER TAIL LAKES COUNTRY LODGING

Peaceful Nights. Fun Filled Days.

RELAX WITH US

23 Standard Rooms

5 Suites,

1 Deluxe Suite

1 Premiere 2 Room Suite

Located in the heart of the Pelican, Lizzie, and Lida lakes area, the Lakes Inn at Dunvilla welcomes

guests with casual, modern style rooms and suites. Each room is equipped with wood headboards,

warm neutral colors and light wood furnishings, providing a comfortable and relaxing feel for our

guests. Pet-friendly rooms are available for an additional fee.

Wedding and large group packages are also available.

Contact us today!

48153 Highway 59 • Pelican Rapids, MN 56572

218.863.8000

www.lakesinndunvilla.com

Unwind in the Sandbar Lounge,

or cozy up by the fireplace with

your favorite wine, beer and

pizza.

AMENITIES

& SERVICES

• Free Wi-Fi Access

• Complimentary Hot Breakfast

• Exercise Facilities

• Indoor Saltwater Pool

• Whirlpool Spa

• Lounge

• Lobby Fireplace

• Meeting / Party Room

A Place to Just Be. Welcome Home.

Tammy Kinsella

Graphic Design & Marketing, LLC

10x24 Foot Decks on 7 Lakeside Cabins

A lifetime of lake fun & fishing memories await you.

Lakeside Swingset/Slide

Guest Lounge

PLUS these updates & improvements!

Central air conditioning in cabin 8

Staining of all lake side cabins & buildings

Expanded/Remodeled Game Room

38274 County Highway 44 • Richville, MN 56576

info@sunsbay.com • 218-758-2080

sunsbay.com

34

LODGING DIRECTORY

Abbywood Resort

Dead Lake

38034 County Hwy 35, Dent

218-758-2598 • 701-293-5718

AbbywoodResort.com

AmericInn by Wyndham

– Fergus Falls

526 Western Ave

Fergus Falls

218-739-3900 • WyndhamHotels.com

Work out in our fitness center or swim in

our heated indoor pool, kiddie pool or

hot tub. Fuel up with a homestyle

breakfast served every morning. From

free Wi-Fi to comfortable beds, our nonsmoking

guest rooms have everything

you need for a sensible stay while earning

Wyndham Rewards. All accommodations

feature a flat-screen HDTV, mini-refrigerator,

microwave, and coffee maker.

Barky’s Resort

Otter Tail Lake

28484 County Hwy 145

Battle Lake

218-495-3444 • BarkysResort.com

Located on Otter Tail Lake Barky’s Resort

has sandy beaches, clear water, and

newly updated cabins. Open year round

they offer pontoon, jet ski and fishing

boat rentals to guests and to the public.

Enjoy a fun filled family vacation or

relaxing fishing trip.

Barrett Lake Resort

Barrett Lake

427 County Rd 2

Barrett

320-528-2598 • 888-227-8059

BarrettLakeResort.com

340’ of sandy shore, the perfect vacation,

whether it be fishing, a family retreat or

to simply relax. All cabins and campsites

open May - September.

Battle Lake Inn

Battle Lake

102 Glenhaven Dr, Battle Lake

218-862-2500 • BattleLakeInn.com

Located in the heart of Battle Lake’s

hospitality zone on the bike trail just

blocks away from beaches, shops and

pubs. Rooms have microwaves, fridges,

and guest laundry available. RV Park

has a RV Lodge with bathroom and

shower, large gathering area, and a fish

cleaning facility!

Big McDonald Resort

Big McDonald Lake

34654 McDonald Ln, Dent

218-758-2369 • BigMcDonaldResort.com

Big McDonald Lake boasts water clarity

of up to 25 feet, among the cleanest in

the state. Our eight cabins are located on

level grounds within 40 feet of the water

and offer excellent views. From fishing,

boating, swimming or just relaxing we

provide a quiet, friendly atmosphere

so you can enjoy all the resort, lake and

county have to offer.

Bladow Beach Resort

& Campground

Rush Lake

36052 Rush Lake Loop, Ottertail

218-770-5994 • BladowBeachResort.com

Whether you’re looking for great fishing,

a sandy swimming beach, or relaxing

clean cabin for your vacation we have

got it! Fishermen have the best walleye,

crappie, and sunfish opportunities right

here. Family fun abounds on the resort

with water sports, pontoons and boating,

kayaks, paddle board, paddleboats

and yard games including volleyball and

a play yard.

Bonnie Beach Resort

Clitherall Lake

20341 Bonnie Beach Rd, Battle Lake

218-864-5534 • BonnieBeachResort.com

Chalet on The Way

Clitherall Lake

40034 Old Town Way, Clitherall

612-408-7854 • AirBnB or VRBO

8 Beds, 8 Baths, located on Clitherall Lake

with a swim beach and dock. 8 acres of

woods to explore, fun for the whole

family, great for retreats!

Country Inn & Suites

by Radisson

925 Western Ave

Fergus Falls

218-531-9992

CountryInns.com/Fergus-Falls-MN

96 guest rooms and suites, free highspeed

internet access, fitness center,

Minnesota shaped pool, whirlpool,

parking with electric hook-up. Guest

rooms offer a coffee maker, microwave,

refrigerator, hair dryer, iron/ironing

board, and 42” flat panel TV.

Cozy Cove Resort

Marion Lake

38811 Cozy Cove Rd, Dent

218-758-2431 • 800-964-6216

CozyCoveMN.com

East Silent Lake Resort

East Silent Lake

30424 410th St

Dent

800-242-6904

218-758-2716 • EastSilentResort.com

Family resort on sparkling lake!

Comfortable cabins, luxury lake homes,

guest rooms & suites. Children’s activities,

social events, event and meeting

spaces, level beach, water toys, fishing...

and much more.

LODGING AMENITIES

Guest

Cabins

Hotel

Rooms

RV

Camping

Tent

Camping

Pool

Handicapped

Accessible

Pet

Friendly

Boat

Rental

Beach Bait Firewood

Open

Winter

35


A Friendly Rural Setting In The

Heart of Lake Country

41701 295th Street

Battle Lake, MN

thehomesteadatottertail@gmail.com

Ph 507–461–1479 • homesteadottertail.com

• 13 Cabins

• Public Boat & Jet Ski Rentals

• Deluxe Fishing Boats

• Spring & Fall Fishing Packages

Directly across from

Otter Tail Lake Balmoral Golf Course

Located in the heart of Otter

Tail County on beautiful Rush

Lake. If you’re looking for great

fishing, a sandy swimming beach,

or a relaxing, clean cabin for your

vacation, this is the place to be!

36052 Rush Lake Loop

Ottertail, MN 56571

info@bladowbeachresort.com

218-346-6007

36

For reservations, call:

218.864.5860

bladowbeachresort.com

F A I R H I L L S

LODGING DIRECTORY

Fair Hills Resort

Pelican Lake

R E S O R T

24270 County Hwy 20

Detroit Lakes

800-323-2849

FairHillsResort.com

Everything you remember. Come and

be a kid again, enjoy a family vacation

with an easy round of golf or a day at

the beach and let the kids be kids.

Daily supervised activities, housekeeping

included, and all-inclusive meal

plans available.

Holly’s Resort

Otter Tail Lake

36294 Augustana Dr

Battle Lake

800-237-5331

HollysResort.com

Located on beautiful Otter Tail Lake,

we are close to golf, shopping, and

restaurants. Offering poolside villas,

lakeside cottages, pontoon/boat

rentals, pool, sandy swimming beach

and much more.

Northern Lights

Resort

Dead Lake

35387 Northern Lights Trail

Richville

218-758-2343

NorthernLightsResort.com

A fantastic family fishing resort in northern

Minnesota with scenic lakeside cabins and

campsites, swimming, boating and fun for

the entire family! Pets allowed. Seasonal

campsites available. Spring/Fall specials.

Open year-round.

Five Lakes Resort

Lake Five

34677 Camp Cherith Rd

Frazee

800-323-2849

FiveLakesResort.com

Residing on a private lake in northern

Minnesota are 10 beautiful cabins for

rent. Hiking trails, electric motors and

campfires at night make this the ultimate

getaway.

Four Seasons Resort

Rush Lake


218-367-2792 • 888-263-4210

FishRushLake.com

Mom and Pop family fun resort. Park-like

grounds, beach, game room. Spacious

cottages fully furnished, microwave, A/C,

appliances, BBQs, fire rings, lakeside

deck/patio. Spring/Fall specials.

YOU OTTER

STAY HERE!

Homestead at Ottertail

RV Park & Resort

41701 295th St

Battle Lake

507-461-1479

HomesteadOttertail.com

Come and enjoy the excellent fishing,

recreation, and rural setting all at one

location. With 140 RV sites to be built in

three phases over the next five years on

70 acres of rolling hills and mature oak

trees you’ll have plenty of room to hike

the nature trails at The Homestead.

Lakes Inn at Dunvilla

Pelican River

8153 US-59

Pelican Rapids

218-863-8000

LakesInnDunvilla.com

Experience a luxurious getaway when you

stay at Lakes Inn at Dunvilla, a boutique

hotel located in the heart of scenic

Minnesota Lakes Country. The state-ofthe-art

country inn offers 23 standard

rooms, 5 standard suites, 1 deluxe suite,

and 1 premiere 2 room suite.

Loon Lake Resort

Loon Lake

32053 Loon Dr, Vergas

218-342-2509 • LoonLakeResortMN.com

Otter Tail Beach Resort

Otter Tail Lake

28255 N Midway Park Dr, Battle Lake

218-864-5860 • 800-451-0710

OtterTailBeachResort.com

Pelican Motel

Near Lida Lakes


218-863-7829

PelicanRapidsMotelMN.com

Pelican Motel is a safe, clean, and

updated motel for travelers, family

gatherings and any other occasion.

Come and experience our hospitality

and enjoy your time at the Lakes.

Shady Grove Resort

Rush Lake


218-346-6040

ShadyGroveResort.com

Family vacation on beautiful Rush Lake.

Cabins, condos, and RV sites. Boat and

pontoon rentals. Lodge and ice cream

shoppe. Fall and Spring discounts.

Heated outdoor swimming pool.

LODGING AMENITIES

Guest

Cabins

Hotel

Rooms

RV

Camping

Tent

Camping

Pool

Handicapped

Accessible

Pet

Friendly

Boat

Rental

Beach Bait Firewood

Open

Winter

37

EASY GOING

OTTER

Let’s just kick back and relax...

Easy-Going Otters are laid back, like to slow down the pace, and enjoy

all the quiet moments that life offers. They believe it’s always better

to kick back and go with the flow. No need to rise too early because after

all, it’s vacation time, and relaxing is what vacation is all about. They might

read that book they brought with them, or… take a nap in the hammock.

As an Easy-Going Otter they’re in their happy place and there’s nothing

that really has to be done.

Thirsts for: sunny days

Craves: watermelon

Rests: sandy beaches

Idea of fun: lake day

#FindYourInnerOtter



suited to your Easy-Going Otter.



I-94 emr Speedway

2001 W Fir Ave,

Fergus Falls

218-998-2191

I94Speedways.com

Live action dirt racing every Friday

night! Fun for the whole family!

Neverbetter Market and Wellness


Facebook

Otter Berry Farm

38132 470th Ave, New York Mills

218-346-5034 • OtterBerryFarm.com


105 W Lincoln Ave

Fergus Falls

218-998-5437 • OtterCoveFF.org

A vibrant educational and cultural

institution offering learning experiences

through physical play, artistic exploration

and imagination.

Perham Area

CommunityCenter

(PACC)

620 3rd Ave SE, Perham

218-346-7222

PerhamAreaCommunityCenter.net

Recently and beautifully renovated community

center brings Perham an amazing

facility full of tons of amenities for all ages.

Shooting Star Casino,

Hotel and Event Center

777 Casino Rd, Mahnomen

1-800-453-7827 • StarCasino.com

The Hideaway at

Xanadu Island

35484 235th S

Battle Lake

218-864-8096 • HideawayatXanadu.com

All-inclusive approach. Motorboats,

paddleboats, and canoes are available

anytime for fishing or cruising. No rental

fees. Perfect place to have your wedding!

The Barn at Dunvilla

48203 US-59, Pelican Rapids

218-849-7802 • TheBarnatDunvilla.com

Trowbridge Creek Zoo

50622 County Hwy 17, Vergas

218-731-8711 • Facebook

A family run zoo in Otter Tail County.

Camel rides, farmers market, petting

zoo, new mining adventure and special

events throughout the year!

Vining

Watermelon Day

Vining

August 19, 2023

ViningWatermelonDay.com

The biggest small-town celebration in

Otter Tail County! Free parking,

entertainment, & watermelon!



38

LODGING DIRECTORY

YOU OTTER

STAY HERE!

South Turtle Lake Resort

Turtle Lake

33531 Resort Trail, Underwood

218-826-6913

SouthTurtleLakeResort.com

Sunset Bay Resort

Dead Lake

38274 County Hwy 44

Richville

218-758-2080 • 800-SUNSBAY

SunsBay.com

9 lakeside cabins adjacent to our 550 feet

of soft sugar sand beach. Our “House On

The Hill,” a 2 level home ideal for large

families and groups of up to 16! We have

also added our “Cozy Cabin” a 1 BR/1BA

park model type unit. Both are loaded with

amenities! Finally, we have expanded our

campground offerings by adding 2 more

sites with 50 amp electric and full hookups.

Swan Lake Resort & Campground

Swan Lake

17463 County Rd 29, Fergus Falls

218-736-4626 • SwanLake.Camp

Soak up the sun on the sandy beach,

hike the trails, take the pontoon out for a

cruise, play some ping pong, crack a cold

one around the fire, get messy at the art

& crafts table, and catch some fish.

Ten Mile Lake Resort

Ten Mile Lake

12303 County Hwy 35

Dalton

218-589-8845

TenMileLakeResort.com

Ten Mile is a family fishing resort with

12 cabins, a steakhouse and seasonal

camping. We have a beautiful beach, boat

rentals, fish cleaning house, game room

and a playground.

Thumper Pond

Resort

Otter Tail Lake


Ottertail

877-294-7981 • 218-367-2000

ThumperPond.com

Carved out of 90,000 red pines,

Thumper Pond features an all-suite hotel,

18-hole golf course including Foot Golf

and Fling Golf, Willy T’s Tavern & Grill,

conference and reception rooms, and

an indoor waterpark.

Vacationland Resort

Otter Tail Lake

38555 Wagon Trail Loop

Battle Lake

800-495-5826

VacationlandResort.net

A perfect Minnesota family and fishing

resort. Located on Otter Tail Lake, we

are a full-service resort with pontoon,

boat and jet ski rentals, dock side gas,

bait, tackle, guide service, RV camping,

icehouse rentals and a lodge. New

cabins. Open year round.

Whispering Waters Resort

East Lost Lake

27921 340th Ave, Underwood

763-732-9833 • 800-554-9947

OtterTailLakesCountry.com/Listing/135/

Whispering-Waters-Resort

Whistle Stop

Bed & Breakfast

107 E Nowell St

New York Mills

218-385-2223

WhistleStopBedandBreakfast.com

Our private train cars were built at the

turn of the century and their historic

past services include dining and railroad

executive cars. Whether you’re planning

a business trip, a honeymoon, a slumber

party, observing an anniversary, or just

an “escape” from the ordinary, the

Whistle Stop is at your service.

Woodlawn Resort

Lake Blanche

40080 Blanche Creek

Battle Lake

218-864-5389

800-823-5389

WoodlawnResort.com

Convenient lakeside cottages, excellent

fishing, tranquil 13-acre woodland setting,

varied water and land activities Sunfish

and Laser sailboats, hydro bikes, canoes,

kayaks, paddleboat. Swimming beach,

tennis court, volleyball, resort wide Wi-Fi.

DON’T KNOW

YOUR OTTER TYPE?

SCAN TO TAKE

THE QUIZ!

LODGING AMENITIES

Guest

Cabins

Hotel

Rooms

RV

Camping

Tent

Camping

Pool

Handicapped

Accessible

Pet

Friendly

Boat

Rental

Beach Bait Firewood

Open

Winter

39


POOLSIDE VILLAS

PONTOON - BOATS - PADDLE BOARDS

LAKE FRONT COTTAGES

INFO@HOLLYSRESORT.COM

800.237.5331

WWW.HOLLYSRESORT.COM

40


Stay and Play in Fergus Falls

VisitFergusFalls.com

Beautiful Otter Tail Lake

A perfect Minnesota family and fishing

resort, we invite you to come and

enjoy our friendly resort. Dockside gas,

pontoons, jet ski and boat rentals!

(800) 495-5826 | vacationlandresort.net

Newly Renovated Rooms

A tradition in Pelican Rapids since 1958

Whether you are fishing, hunting or have family

visiting the area you can always stay with us!

We are pet friendly.

PelicanRapidsMotelMN.com

900 N Broadway

Pelican Rapids, MN 56572

218-863-STAY (7829)

Newly Updated Cabins • Open Year

Round • Pontoon, jet ski & fishing boat

rentals to guests and to the public.

28484 Co. Hwy 145 | Battle Lake, MN 56515 BARKYSRESORT.COM

218-405-0136

41


Level Sandy Beach & Swimming Area • Great Game Fishing • Cabins

Seasonal Campsites • RV Camping • Bait & Tackle • General Store

Game Room • Playground & Sand Volleyball Court • Pontoon & Kayak Rental

427 Co. Rd. 2, Barrett, MN

320-528-2598

BarrettLakeResort.com

34654 Big McDonald Lane

Dent, MN 56538

218-758-2369

We invite you to vacation with us

on beautiful Big McDonald Lake. Our resort is the

only one on this quiet 1,000 acre spring-fed lake

located in Otter Tail County, known as “Lakes

Country” for its 1,048 enchanted lakes nestled

amidst rolling hills and expansive hardwood forests.

Open Year Round

10 Lakeside Cabins

8 Campsites • 11 Seasonal

RV Spots • Sandy Swimming

Beach • Pontoon, Boat

& Motor Rentals

northernlightsresort.com • 218-758-2343 • info@northernlightsresort.com

35387 Northern Lights Trail

Richville, MN 56576

13 Rooms + 9 Seasonal RV Park Spots

Double Queen, Queen w/Sleeper

Sofa & Triple Queen Suite Available

Designated Pet Friendly Rooms Available

Contactless Check-in & Check-out

RV Lodge w/Fish Cleaning Facility

Available for All Guests

battlelakeinn.com | stay@battlelakeinn.com

Book

online!

42

43

FERGUS

FALLS

2023 EVENTS

Welcome to Fergus Falls

Our founding fathers built this town with the Otter Tail River central

to our existence. The falls provided power, industry, and a means

to thrive. They still do. The Otter Tail River meanders gently through

downtown and is a beautiful backdrop for the nearby shops, restaurants,

and breweries.

Whatever your reason for visiting, we invite you to relax, unwind, and enjoy.

Fergus Falls has many outdoor recreation assets and a strong affinity for

arts and history. Located in Central Minnesota, Fergus Falls is beautiful

and vibrant. Special events throughout the year celebrate our heritage, the

outdoors, and the arts. Residents and employers select Fergus Falls for its

excellent education, healthcare, infrastructure, and sense of community.

The people are our best asset -we know neighbors, welcome visitors, and

work together to make Fergus Falls our home. We are glad you are here.

Feb. 11 Battle of the Businesses Bowling

Feb. 11 James Sewell Ballet

Feb. 25 Simon & Simon, Concert

March 11 Head Games, Concert

March 18 Pavlo, Concert

April 15 Daydream Believer, Concert

April 28 Fergus Falls Civic Orchestra

June 3 Lake Region Run

June 9-10 Summerfest

June Children’s Theatre Production

July 8 Déjà vu, Concert

July 16 ABBA Fab, Concert

July 23 Garth Live, Concert

July 28 Pebble Lake Youth Triathlon

Aug. 5-13 Woodie Camp

Aug. 6 Classic Car Show

Aug. 15-31 Monarch Butterfly Tagging

Aug. 20 The Crown Jewels, Concert

Aug. 26 Duck Banding

Aug.27 Satisfaction, Concert

Sept. 12-16 Speedway Motors

WISSOTA 100

Sept. 23 National Public Lands Day

Sept. 30 Otter Cove Children’s

Museum Color Romp

Oct. 21 State Hospital & Poor Farm

Cemetery Tours

Oct. 28 Haunted Museum

Nov. 5 Roll On, Concert

Dec. 2 Over the River Holiday Festival

Dec. 10 Shawn Johnson, Concert

Photo: Rolando Felizola, provided

112 W Washington Avenue


Connect with us!


and to learn more

VisitFergusFalls.com

218-446-0002

44

Year of the Entrepreneur

By NeTia Bauman

Fergus Falls continues to foster a strong entrepreneurial

ecosystem, so much so, that we’d like to deem 2022 as

the Year of the Entrepreneur! With over 10 new small

business start-ups, 4 expansions, and a few business

transitions that retained business and workforce, Fergus

Falls is setting foundational roots in entrepreneurship.

From art institutions like Stained, a glass art studio that

specializes in creating unique glass art to hospitality

businesses such as Gunpowder, a new Whiskey, Wine &

Beer hub and retailers like The Dragonfly Children’s

Boutique, a children’s clothing and toy store, Fergus Falls

is diversifying its business composition. With new

businesses like Bev’s City Bakery, Revive Athletics, and

Lash Lounge Co., our local entrepreneurs are reimagining

what hospitality and service can become in Fergus Falls.

In addition to several new businesses, we’re experiencing

significant growth through existing business expansions,

as well. TC Chocolate, an award-winning, bean-to-bar

chocolate manufacturer expanded its operations from

3,000 square feet to 7,000 square feet which will pave the

way for new wholesale markets and product lines while

long-time caterer Cooking with Mama Sheena expanded to

include drive-thru and dine-in restaurant services. Many

other manufacturers and businesses are poised for

expansion in the coming months, too!

We’re also pleased to welcome Norway in the USA to

Fergus Falls. This wholesaler relocated to the community

and provides high quality Norwegian products ranging

from apparel and flatware to woolens and porcelain!

The unique thing about our entrepreneurs is that they

come from all over; some were raised in Fergus Falls,

others have come from elsewhere in Minnesota while

some have relocated from several states away. The common

denominator is that each and every one chose Fergus Falls

to operate their business.

To continue cultivating a culture of collaboration,

Greater Fergus Falls (GFF) opened The Foundry, a

hybrid coworking and entrepreneurial center that

doubles as a pop-up retail rental and startup accelerator.

Located in downtown Fergus Falls, The Foundry

provides full-service coworking space that goes beyond

the needs of shared space. Through partnership and

sponsorships, GFF offers free high-speed internet, free

printing, scanning and copying services, free coffee, as

well as a breadth of entrepreneurial coaching, training,

and professional development opportunities.

By offering 24/7 access and a variety of membership

packages, The Foundry can meet the needs of start-ups,

early-stage entrepreneurs, and all types of unconventional

workers including seasonal visitors throughout Otter Tail

County, with affordable and inclusive price points, benefits,

and amenities. Meet us at The Foundry, where innovation

and creativity are the engines of economic growth!

Learn more at GreaterFergusFalls.com/TheFoundry.

45

FERGUS FALLS BUSINESSES

GREATERFERGUSFALLS.COM/THEFOUNDRY

101 W. LINCOLN AVE | FERGUS FALLS, MN

@GREATERFFMN

COWORKING SPACE

STARTUP ACCELERATOR

BUSINESS COACHING

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

MEETING SPACE

EDUCATION & TRAINING

POP-UP RETAIL SPACE

VARIOUS MEMBERSHIP RATES

FREE WI-FI

FREE PRINTING

FREE COFFEE

24/7 ACCESS

LOCKER RENTAL

MAILBOX SERVICE

46

Fergus Falls

Lodging Properties

Name/Website Address Local Phone

800# Central

Reservations

Number of Rooms

Free Continental Breakfast

Free Full Hot Breakfast

Indoor Pool

Whirlpool

Kiddie Pool

Exercise Equipment

Restaurant On Site

Handicapped Accessible

Pets Allowed

AmericInn by Wyndham 526 Western Ave 218-739-3900 800-634-3444 60 • • • • • • • •

AmericInnFergusFalls.com

Comfort Inn 425 Western Ave 218-736-5787 800-424-6423 45 • • • • • • •

ChoiceHotels.com

Country Inn & Suites 925 Western Ave 218-531-9992 800-333-3333 96 • • • • • •

RadissonHotelsAmericas.com/CountryInn

Jewel Motel 1602 Pebble Lake Rd 218-739-5430 14 •

Rodeway Inn 610 Western Ave 218-739-3311 53 •

ChoiceHotels.com

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rom “ma and pa” motels to favorite hotel brands,

F it gets down to comfort and great service – and they

all deliver. The hotel grid above details the properties and

their amenities.

And with 1,048 lakes in Otter Tail County, resorts are popular

too. The Otter Tail Lakes Country Association website at

OtterTailLakesCountry.com lets you search resort properties

based on many amenities.

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47


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48

New Parks in Town

By Heather Rule, Photos by Jesse Thorstad and Eric Strand

Whether you’re young, or young at heart, the new

parks in Fergus Falls prove fun for all!

Spies Riverfront Park and Market Pavilion

Spies Riverfront Park and the Market Pavilion in downtown

Fergus Falls are surrounded by the beautiful setting of the

Otter Tail River. The park draws people downtown and

provides quality of life improvements to the community,

according to Fergus Falls city administrator Andrew Bremseth.

“We often comment that when you’re standing there looking

at the river, you don’t even know you’re in Fergus Falls,”

Bremseth said. “You could be in Colorado or Portland or

wherever because it’s such a beautiful setting.”

The park, located at 117 S. Union Ave. along the Otter Tail

River, opened in June 2022. It’s named after Gary and

Sharon Spies, a local couple who own Service Food Market

and have “been good partners to the community and to the

city,” Bremseth said.

The park has a walking/cycling path and offers an overlook

of the riverfront and benches along the promenade.

The Market Pavilion has drop-down garage doors on the

north side, along with overhead heaters, for usage in cooler

weather. People can rent out the space through the city’s

parks and recreation department.

This space is also the new home for the Fergus Falls Farmers

Market held twice-weekly in the summer. The number of

vendors, crowds and product sales have all increased since

the market moved to this new location.

Dr. Allen Magnuson Park

In the past, it was known as NP Park. By fall 2022,

the park was rejuvenated by the Noon Kiwanis Club

and renamed Dr. Allen Magnuson Park in honor of

the late Dr. Allen Magnuson, a pediatrician at Lake

Region Healthcare.

Accessible and inclusive playground equipment was a

focus of the project, with swings, slides and climbing

equipment all children could use, regardless of age or

ability level. There’s a hands-on communication board

for children who are non-verbal and a touch-button

water sprayer for warm-weather days.

“It’s eye-catching,” Bremseth said. “And a lot of things to

do, and much nicer and advanced than any other park

that we have in the community.”

Before the new equipment was added, the city built up

the park that often flooded after a solid rain shower.

After a hydrology study, the playground’s land was built

level with the surrounding streets so water will not pool

in that area, according to Bremseth.

There’s also accessible crosswalks across South Cascade

Street (the park is located at 520 S. Cascade St.) to the

Fergus Falls Public Library. Visitors of the park often

head to the library as well. It’s been a great addition to

the city parks systems, Bremseth said.

“It’s been a good synergy,” Bremseth said. “It’s provided

a lot of synergy for both the library and the park.”


49


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50

A Bird Watch

By Heather Rule, Photos by Marie Noplos

For visitors wanting a bird’s eye view of birds in the

Fergus Falls area, there are a few options.

Fergus Falls Rookery

The Fergus Falls rookery is located at Grotto Lake in

Adams Park, with the island in the middle of the lake

being the heart of the rookery and expanding to the

shoreline near the island. The biggest surprise is that this

rookery is located right in a city park, not the wilderness,

said Molly Stoddard, educator at Prairie Wetlands Learning

Center. “You usually have to work pretty hard to get to the

rookery of herons or egrets,” Stoddard said. “But in this

case, you can drive right up to it.”

Double-crested cormorants nest in the trees, island and

near shore. Black-crowned night herons, egrets and

common grackles also nest in the evergreen trees near

shore. A total of four species of colonial nesting birds are

in this park. People can see the birds and hear them

communicate with each other. Mallards, wood ducks

and ring-billed gulls can often be found on the water.

Prairie Wetlands Learning Center

The Prairie Wetlands Learning Center offers 330 acres of

land, including 3.5 miles of hiking trails, to bird watch. The

site has 28 wetlands and a lake, providing an opportunity to

see wetland and prairie birds.

One prairie-specific bird is the bobolink, “a fun bird to hear”

and watch, Stoddard said. “They sound like R2D2,” she added.

The wetlands are managed for nesting waterfowl, including

a variety of ducks, geese and trumpeter swans. Also look for

yellow headed blackbirds and red wings. Winter birding is a

bit quieter, but birds are still around. The common red poll,

smaller birds that come from the north, and horned larks are

at the wetlands.

Spring and summer are the best times to spy some birds at

the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center.

Pine to Prairie International Birding Trail

The Prairie Wetlands, and Fergus Falls, are part of the Pine

to Prairie International Birding Trail. It’s located throughout

northwest Minnesota and goes into Manitoba, spanning

more than 200 miles with 51 sites to stop and view more than

275 total species of birds. Most of these sites are on public

land or private reserves that are open to the public. Look for

the birding trail logo signs.

Fergus Falls is one of the southern-most stops along this trail.

It goes north following Hwy. 59 to Thief River Falls, and then

Hwy. 32 toward Roseau.

The Riverview Waterfowl Sanctuary located in Fergus

Falls is a site on the trail, too. Birders can look for trumpeter

swans, Canada geese, mallards, wood ducks and ring-necked

ducks at this site.

“There’s great birding here,” Stoddard said. “It’s a wonderful

part of the state to bird.”


51


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52

Veterans Walk of Flags

By Heather Rule

For 20 years, the nonprofit organization Fergus Falls

Veterans Walk of Flags has displayed American flags

throughout town on special days a few times a year. Each flag

represents a veteran of the military, living or deceased, with

an honorable discharge. The group has 1,922 total flags.

The flags are displayed in 10 areas of Fergus Falls:

Veterans Park, Dr. Allen Magnuson Park, the Otter Tail

County Courthouse, Junius Avenue, Union Avenue, Wright

Park, Neese Park, City Hall Park, Friberg/Summit Avenue, and

the Minnesota Veterans Home. The flags go up on Loyalty

Day on May 1, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day,

POW/MIA Day, and Veterans Day.

The Veterans Walk of Flags started in Fergus Falls in 2002

with 426 flags by the end of that year. Perrie Sheldon, the

group’s co-founder, got the idea after a visit to Iowa seeing a

town’s Avenue of Flags. In Fergus Falls, the flags were sold for

$75 each to honor veterans and first displayed at Veterans

Memorial Park near downtown. With more and more flags, the

group uses four trailers to move them to the various locations.

The flags are displayed at 7:30 a.m. and taken down at 4:30

p.m. that same day. Each flag goes up on a pole designated

for a specific veteran. The flags are numbered, so people

know where to find them. Each flagpole includes a brass

name plate listing the veteran’s name, branch of service and

rank. All flag locations also have placards with a list of flags

and the veterans they represent so visitors can match the

flags with the appropriate veteran.

“We encourage people to go out, take pictures, walk

around,” said Tony Rendz, an Air Force veteran who’s on

the board of directors for the Veterans Walk of Flags.

“We get so much ranting and raving about how good it

all looks.”

Flags are flown in decent weather. The threat of rain or

snow risks damage to the flags, so the group doesn’t put

them up in precipitation, according to Rendz.

All of the work is done by volunteers, and the group is

always in search of more people in the community (you

don’t have to be a veteran or military member) who want

to help put the flags up and take them down.

For more information, visit the Fergus Falls Veterans

Walk of Flags page on Facebook.


53


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54

Otter Trail Scenic Byway and Talking Trail

By Heather Rule, Photos by Kvidt Creative

The Otter Trail Scenic Byway is a 150-mile loop, with

Fergus Falls a stop along the way. The scenic byway

allows communities and regions of Minnesota to highlight

their natural environment, plus recreational, historical, cultural,

and archeological assets, according to Nick Leonard, a

board member of the Otter Tail Lakes Country Association.

“We’re pretty unique in that we have an over 150-mile loop,”

Leonard said. “It really covers some pretty remarkable

agricultural areas, lakes and prairies.”

There are 23 locations that stand out in these areas. At each

spot, there’s an informational panel so visitors can learn

more about that specific location and about the Otter Tail

County region. Information might include details about

agriculture in the area or the importance of the railroad

within the history and development of Otter Tail County.

The byway is diverse with everything from lots of wildlife

to old mills. Most of the Otter Trail Scenic Byway is a

driving route along existing streets and highways.

“There’s a wide variety of byway,” Leonard said. “The

content is very diverse on those panels.”

written by the Otter Tail County Historical Society that tie

in with that particular location. The stories cover topics like

the history of Glendalough State Park and the Fergus Falls

cyclone. The stories are historical and factual, but they’re

also entertaining to listen to, Leonard said. The Talking

Trail is a chance for people to learn about the history of

Fergus Falls and the region as a whole.

“What’s cool about that is you can be driving and basically

listening to stories about a wide variety of topics that were

crafted by the local historical society,” Leonard said.

Some areas of the byway are unique based on the time

of year. A popular time to travel the byway is autumn,

“just given our remarkable fall colors” on the trees,

Leonard said. Some segments of the trail coincide with

popular snowmobile trails, so people might travel along

the byway and not even know it.

The scenic byway and the Talking Trail are good ways

for visitors and residents to see the region, according to

Leonard. Visitors will often drive a portion of the scenic

byway, stopping for lunch, gas or shopping along the way

in some of the communities in Otter Tail County.

The Talking Trail is also part of each byway stop. Each

panel has an 800-number and a QR code to access the

Talking Trail. With that access, visitors can listen to stories

“I think what people like about it is, it is a recreational

opportunity for people to be able to see parts of our county,”

Leonard said.


55


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56

Pamper Yourself with a Massage or Tattoo

By Heather Rule

Whether you’re itching for some new ink, or some

rest and relaxation, make sure to find time to

pamper yourself.

Maintain with a massage

If you’re looking to treat yourself to some rest and relaxation

on vacation, look no further than a full body massage. It’s

a chance for the entire body to relax. A massage can also

help those staying active on their vacation with a lot of

walking or hiking.

“It’s never a bad idea to be able to splurge when you’re on

vacation,” said Janna Rarick, owner of Revitalize Massage

and Healing in Fergus Falls.

Finding a purpose, community with tattoos

Getting a tattoo is another way of self-care, whether a

resident of Otter Tail County or on vacation. Some people

want a specific image for the tattoo, while others might

come into a tattoo parlor for a consultation, especially for

more extensive pieces like a sleeve.

Getting a tattoo can be a huge confidence builder, said

Sam Norman, owner and technician at The Bee Hive

Tattoo Parlor in Fergus Falls. Sometimes people will come

into the shop a bit shy and nervous; maybe they haven’t

felt like they fit into certain groups in the past, such as

athletics in high school, Norman said. But then they’ll

come back for a six-session tattoo.

One of the most common reasons folks might seek a

massage is to relieve pain, especially back pain or pain in

between shoulders. A lot of driving, such as on vacation,

or even sitting at a desk all day at work can create some of

those issues between the shoulders and neck, according

to Rarick. A massage can help decrease the stress level in

the body.

Rarick also encourages massages for maintenance. Those

who get massaged once a month, for example, tend to notice

how much better they feel. While many people might view

massages as a special, one-time thing to treat themselves,

Rarick said you should pamper yourself and take care of

your body on a regular basis.“You get to relax and sleep on

the table,” Rarick said. “You wake up feeling fantastic.”

“We’ve seen it a lot where they come in way more

confident, just how they carry themselves and maybe feel

like they’re part of a large group, the tattoo community,”

Norman said.

Those getting tattoos often strike up conversations with

others getting their tattoos at the same time. Being in the

shop for the same reason – getting a tattoo – gives them

something in common to talk about. A lot of friendships

are made in the tattoo chairs, Norman said.

Though it might be harder to get a walk-in tattoo done for

someone on vacation, it’s possible. Some clients also have

standing appointments throughout the summer if they’re

seasonal residents, Norman said.


57

YOUR SUCCESS STORY STARTS HERE.

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How about canoeing or boating at the lake. Visiting relatives.

Hitting the links. Hiking or biking an autumn trail. Exercising at a

fitness center. Ice fishing. Shopping. Visiting a craft brewery.

Going for a run. Snowmobiling. Or fishing at sunset on a beautiful

lake. For an Active Otter, sitting still is simply not an option, especially

with the many things there are to do in the Otter Tail Lakes area.

Thirsts for: a day on the greens

Craves: blue skies

Rests at: cabin with rentals

Idea of fun: anything paddling

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Pebble Lake Golf Course

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59

60

Meet the

LOCALS

Thomas Bales & Anna Josephs

Thomas Bales and Anna Josephs were in the market

for some land to build a tiny house. During their

search, they realized campgrounds were a way to fulfill

their need. They ended up buying the Swan Lake Resort

& Campground in the Fergus Falls area and moved there

in May 2021.

“Little did we know that we were going to be buying a

fully functional, demanding business,” Thomas said.

“It’s forced us to put down roots and get in touch with

local folks that are making things happen and that are

supplying us and that are keeping the lights on for us.”

Thomas’ roots go back to Monticello, Minn., where he

grew up before attending the University of Minnesota

and living in Minneapolis, while Anna was born in

upstate New York and has also lived in Chicago. Her

grandparents are originally from the Kensington area

in Minnesota. Anna never thought she’d end up in

Minnesota, but she and Thomas met through work and

the opportunity arose to move to an area only about 40

minutes away from her grandparents’ farm. It just felt

right, Anna said.

It was the campground that really brought them to Otter

Tail County.“Fergus Falls wasn’t necessarily the magnet

but has now become home,” Thomas said.

Thomas and Anna live in the primary residence yearround

on the property. The resort have five two-bedroom

cabins along with camping sites for RVs and tents for

various lodging options. They’re open for business

seasonally from May 1 to Oct. 1.

The resort has about 700 feet of lakeshore on Swan Lake

for visitors to fish off docks, launch boats and enjoy the

sandy beach. They added weekly volleyball games,

nature walks, arts and crafts, and fitness activities for

kids. They also bought “every yard game imaginable”

from a volleyball net to ping pong and foosball, according

to Thomas.

“We’re trying to promote active movement,” Anna said.

Since they arrived, they are also more involved in the

community than they thought they would be. Anna

hadn’t been to Fergus Falls previously, and she

was surprised to see how much it’s growing and the

excitement of those in the community.

“It just feels like it’s growing, and it’s exciting and they’re

on point with the trends that are happening, which is

really refreshing to see for a small town,” Anna said.

They described the resort like a three-dimensional, 18-

acre canvas. A lot of painting already exists, but there

are a lot more details to be added.

“It’s really special to us to be able to provide that lakeside

experience to so many folks throughout the summer and

just see them,” Anna said.

For more information: SwanLake.Camp

By Heather Rule

Photos: provided


61

HENNING

2023 EVENTS

Gateway to the Lakes

Henning offers a wide variety of activities for the entire family.

Visit our community’s Veteran’s Memorial Park, Landmark

Cultural Center or participate in our many events throughout the year.

Some of the highlights include a demolition derby, airport fly-in,

haunted house, polar fest, fishing derby, and turkey barbecue. No

matter what the season, we’re sure you’ll have a good time and want

to return again and again.

The community has the advantages of small town, rural life with

the benefits of beautiful scenery, complete services, excellent retail

stores, great schools and churches and wonderful neighbors!

Feb, 28 Wet Felting Workshop,

Mary Jo Wentz, 10-2pm

March 11 Watercolor Batik Painting

Workshop, Ruth Hanson,10-3pm

April 15 & 22 2-day Linocut Printmaking

Workshop, Mike Weatherly, 1-4pm

April 28 & 29 2-day Relief Wood Face Carving

Workshop, Clayton Johnson,10-3pm

June 17 Henning Citywide Garage Sale

July 6 Historic Henning Walking Tour

July 7-9 Henning Festival- Parade,

Coronation, Demo, Car Show

July 9 Henning Car Show

July 15 Henning Fly-In/Drive-In

Pancake Breakfast, 7am-Noon

Aug. 12 White Sidewalls, music at

Fairgrounds (by Leo)

Aug. 18 Crazy Day/Turkey BBQ

Aug. 19 Acrylic Painting Workshop,

Starry Night/Sunflower,

Patricia Wahl, 10-Noon

Aug. 25 Corn & Brat Feed, 5-7pm

Sept. 12, 14 5-day Pottery Workshop,

19, 21, 26 Mimi Seykora, 1-4pm, Station

Sept. 28-30 Blacksmithing & Textile,

Free Demonstrations

Oct. 7 Pie & Pumpkin Oktoberfest, 11-1pm

Nov. 18 Wreathmaking Workshop, 11-1pm

Dec. 2 Santa Day, Parade, Tree Lighting

Date TBD Landmark presents

Teddy Roosevelt at Trinity, 1898

(125 Yr. Anniversary)


612 Front Street, PO Box 55

Henning, MN 56551

Connect with us!


and to learn more

CityofHenning.com

218-583-2402

62

Historic Preservation With a Haunted Twist

By Missy Hermes

Acommunity in Otter Tail Lakes County is

building on the past to create a bright future

with some fright thrown in for fun. Historic structures

in Henning have taken on new roles in a community

hoping to highlight all they have to offer. As Dan

Broten, Director of Henning Landmark Center says,

“Henning continues to celebrate our past and preserve

our historic roots.”

The Henning Landmark Center itself is a great

example of modern creativity rooted in the past.

The brick building, listed on the National Register of

Historic Places in 2021, is currently used as a Center for

Arts and history center. It hosts public & private gatherings,

workshops, exhibits and programs. An overnight

retreat center on the 2nd floor has 5 bedrooms, for

up to 10 guests.

Originally built in 1914, the Landmark Center was a

doctor’s residence and medical clinic until 1990. It was

renovated and opened as a non-profit in 2009.

The Trinity Center joins the Landmark Center on the

National Register. Here’s another example of the Henning

community’s visionary restoration and reuse of historic

structures. Built in 1898, it served as both a Lutheran and a

Catholic church until acquired by the non-profit organization

Save The Trinity in 2015.

Volunteers recognized the building’s history and potential–

architecturally elegant exterior combined with classic

simplicity inside. They completed restoration of the bell

tower and iconic twin steeples in time to celebrate 125th

Anniversary in 2023.

The Henning City Hall earns kudos for creative (and

creepy!) reuse. Here is a project that proudly hosts ghosts.

Built in 1914, the building has served as a community

theater, observation deck for WWII plane spotters and

municipal liquor store. In recent years though, Mike Helle

and his Boo Crew have created a signature community

event - a Haunted House that attracted 1,500 people in

2022. Historic preservation with a little fright thrown in.

63

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Protect your loved ones by including information

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animals, and emergency contacts.

IF YOU EVER CALL 9-1-1

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REGISTER TODAY!

ottertailcountymn.us/smart911

Emergency Mangement

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64

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set.

set.

Donuts • • Pastries • • Breads • • Pies Pies • • Muffins • • Candy

Gifts • T-Shirts • Hats • Soap • Candles

Gifts • T-Shirts • Hats • Soap • Candles

NEW YORk

MILLS

2023 EVENTS

A Small Town With Great Expectations

Located on the Continental Divide along US Highway 10 in Northeastern

Otter Tail County, New York Mills is a vibrant community located steps

away from excellent outdoor activities. A great place to visit or live, the town

boasts six parks, a public library, swimming pool, city ballroom, art center

and a tremendous school system.

With unique events like the Great American Think-Off, Lund Mania, Fish

House Festival, Puppet Pageant, Christmas Tree Festival and the world’s

largest Ronald McDonald Motorcycle benefit, the New York Mills community

provides and supports a variety of cultural and artistic experiences.

Employment opportunities abound at Brunswick, the town’s largest employer.

The innovative manufacturer is responsible for building Lund and Crestliner

Boats, a common sight on lakes throughout Minnesota and beyond.

April 1

April 8

June 9

June 10

June 10

July 7

July 7-8

Aug. 18

Aug. 18-19

Oct. 27

Nov. 24

Nov. 24

to Dec. 2

Dec. 2

Dec. 21

Lions Auction

Easter Egg Hunt

NYM Walking Tour

Ronald McDonald Ride

Great American Think-Off

Lund Mania

Fishing Tournament

Summer Celebration and

Fish House Festival

(Parade, Street Dance,

3 on 3 Tournament, etc.)

Corn Feed / Puppet Pageant

Finn Creek Summer Festival

Halloween Parties

Christmas Kick-Off

24th Annual Christmas

Tree Festival

Community Christmas Party

Longest Night Music Festival

66


New Yo k

Mills

PO Box 176

New York Mills, MN 56567

Connect with us!


and to learn more

ExploreNewYorkMills.com

218-385-2213

Great American Think Off

By Missy Hermes, Photos by John Borge

ponder this - a town with a vibrant arts and cultural community

coming together annually to host an event that

attracts philosophers and their fans for three decades. 2023

marks the 30th anniversary of The Great American Think-

Off, a vision set out by the original director of the New York

Mills Regional Cultural Center.

Current executive director, Betsy Roder, calls The Great

American Think-Off, “a community collaboration” drawing

visitors from all 50 states and several international countries

to Otter Tail County. The popularity is hard to pinpoint. But

attend just once she says, and “Then you know.”

A new debate question is announced each year on January

1st, giving folks four months to write their essay response.

The Think-Off Committee of 8-10 people comes up with

the debate question and then reviews the many hundreds

of essays they typically receive. By May the four finalists

are announced with the debate taking place the second

Saturday in June.

In 2023, competitors will debate, “Which is more important

to protect: the environment or the economy?”

Moderator Jennifer Nelson, a former Think-Off winner

herself, set the tone for the event which is now held in the

spacious New York Mills school auditorium. “Our hope

is that you’ll see that we can disagree without being

disagreeable.”

In addition to the debate, a variety of additional activities

take place over the course of the weekend. Accessible activities

like the historical walking tour of New York Mills and a

reception featuring 10-20 artists at the Regional Cultural

Center compliment the cultural atmosphere.

Betsy Roder gives credit for the long-running event to the

community of New York Mills and the corps of volunteers

that cover every aspect of the competition, from time keepers

to ballot counters, technology experts to the Cub Scouts

who collect the ballot each year after the final speaker.

In 2022, four philosophers debated the question,

“Which should be more important: personal choice

or social responsibility?”

The long-running philosophy event has a bright future.

“Everyone steps up,” Roder says with enthusiasm, “I can’t

say enough about New York Mills as a community.”

67

NEW YORK MILLS BUSINESSES

otterberryfarm.com

4th generation family farm in the heart of lakes country

Strawberries (Mid Jun.–1 st part of Jul.)

Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch (Sept.–Oct.)

BerryLine 218-346-5034 (24hr)

centennial-realty.com

Bonnie Dykhoff, Broker 218-298-2869

Stephanie Hoyhtya, Agent 701-318-1724

Jerni Holweg, Agent 218-640-5529

94 Miller Street, New York Mills 56567 | 218-385-3562 | office@centennial-realty.com

Mills Liquors

Great Selection of Off Sale Liquor

Bar serves Adult Beverages, Pizza & Snacks

Wine Rewards Club

Pool Table

Digital Jukebox

Pull Tabs

26 Centennial 84 Dr. W • New York Mills

218-385-2004

CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY

to stop aquatic hitchhikers

Aquatic Invasive Species THREATEN our natural resources.

PROTECT our waters for future generations.

REMOVE the drain plug for travel,

DISPOSE of unwanted bait in the trash.

ottertailcountymn.us/department/aquatic-invasive-species

68

Lund Boats 75th Anniversary - A History of Epic Fishability

By Missy Hermes

The largest employer in New York Mills is celebrating

a major anniversary in a big way. Lund Boats 75th

anniversary is so big that one year can’t contain it. The

commemoration started in August of 2022 and continues

through this year. The Lund Mania fishing tournament

planned at Ottertail Lake in July has extended registration

this year to allow for 75 teams.

Lund kicked off their anniversary festivities recognizing

employees with an appreciation event. One lucky

employee won a WC-16 with a 20ELHPT tiller and

trailer at the employee boat giveaway. In addition,

New York Mills has a community celebration planned

for July 7, 2023.

A man with pioneer family roots in New York Mills

pioneered the way aluminum boats are built. Howard

Lund was a third generation resident of Otter Tail

County who opened up his New York Mills metalwork

shop in a location beloved by duck hunters and fishing

enthusiasts like himself. Searching for the perfect boat for

his favorite recreation, Lund developed a boat to meet his

own specifications. That first Lund duck boat built in 1958

was just the beginning.

Lund points with pride to a company culture that, “is a

result of the dedication to quality and innovation that

was established at the company’s inception.”

With the original “guide-tested” fishing boats and canoes

Lund set an industry standard. As Al Lindner, Lund Pro

Staff states, “There were so many technological breakthroughs

that Lund was involved in designing – making

boats bigger, better, stronger.” That history of innovation

was recognized in 2020 when Lund Boats was inducted

into the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame.

Throughout the next 8 months, Lund will celebrate their

history and 75 years of success with flashback content on

social media. Updates will appear on the Our Heritage

page on LundBoats.com. Look for them at major boat

shows and throughout the Midwest and beyond, because,

“no matter the body of water you are on, you are sure to see

Lund boats from across the decade.”


69

70

Meet the

LOCALS

Latham Hetland

Latham Hetland grew up in New York Mills, but

it was a college assignment at Minnesota State

University Moorhead that brought him back to

the area.

Though Hetland was happy in Moorhead, he came

back to New York Mills for a weekend and happened to

be working on an assignment for a business communication

class. He needed to write a resume and cover

letter for a job that he was potentially interested in.

He chose a job opening listed in the newspaper for a

position at the local bank.

Satisfied with the resume he wrote, Hetland decided to

submit it to the Farmers & Merchants State Bank. He

ended up getting the job and moved back to New York

Mills, where he finished his college degree online.

“I didn’t really know anything about (banking), and

then I just sort of fell into it, I guess,” Hetland said.

In addition to his full-time work as a loan officer at the

bank, Hetland is the president of the New York Mills

Civic & Commerce, New York Mills city council member,

the chair of the New York Mills Regional Cultural

Center, past president and Lions member, and owner

of the DJ company Twilight Jams Entertainment.

While it was mainly the job at the bank that brought

Hetland back to New York Mills, he’s found a lot of

friends and family have also moved back to the area for

various reasons. It’s nice to have that network of family

and friends all together in the area where they grew up,

Hetland said.

What does he love about the area so much? It’s the

people and the sentiment that everybody cares about

each other and wants to see others succeed. “People

are really invested in what you’re doing,” Hetland said.

“That’s super important to me.”

Hetland enjoys seeing the effect he can have on people

in the community by helping make decisions that benefit

residents’ lives. A lot of the things he’s involved in are

focused on growing the community and making the

area sustainable.

In his spare time outside of work and involvement,

Hetland loves golfing, taking part in various community

events and spending time on the lakes.

“Any weekend of the year, there’s something to be doing,”

Hetland said. “Any week of the year, there’s something

to be doing in our area. If you’re bored, you’re doing

something very wrong.”

By Heather Rule

Photos: provided


71

OTTERTAIL

2023 EVENTS

It’s Just the Beginning!

small city of around 600, Ottertail offers shopping opportunities,

A healthcare, Chamber of Commerce, Thumper Pond Resort and

Golf Course, as well as friendly and affordable small town and country

living in beautiful lakes country. The community features five lakes

including Otter Tail Lake, the largest and most popular lake in Otter Tail

County. You can ask any one of our residents, year-round or seasonal…

here, it’s the people…the friendly faces…the feeling of community that

beckons and keeps visitors returning year after year. Those who live

here wouldn’t live anywhere else. It’s the community pride that shows

on these faces.

Plenty of work goes into making sure that everyone enjoys their stay,

from Otter Fest to Otter Dazzle…there’s always something to do.

April 8

June 13

June 27

July 11

July 15

July 23-28

July 25

Aug. 8

Aug. 11

Aug. 12

Aug.22

Sept.7-9

Dec. 2

Ottertail Chamber

Easter Egg Hunt

Music in the Park

Music in the Park

Music in the Park

Ottertail Chamber

Annual Auction

Bike MS: Ride Across Minnesota

(Not confirmed)

Music in the Park

Music in the Park

Ottertail Rod & Gun

Demo Derby

Ottertail Chamber Otter Fest

Music in the Park

Polka Daze

Ottertail Chamber Otter Dazzle



and to learn more

PO Box 245

Ottertail, MN 56571

Connect with us!

VisitOttertail.com

218-367-2250

72

Foodies Flocking to Ottertail City

By Missy Hermes

Spending the weekend in Otter Tail Lakes Country but

don’t want to cook while you’re here? The options in

Ottertail City are endless.

Otter Supper Club is a great first stop. Walleye or t-bone

dinner specials make a great choice. Not ready for a full meal?

Try the prime rib laker lahvosh, handmade mozzarella sticks

or the Sota Bowl served on a bed of rice with your choice of

protein, veggies and topped with wasabi aioli. While you’re

there, stock up on beverages for the fridge or cooler. Craft

beers, wine, soft drinks and mixers of all kinds fill the well

stocked. Their retail section has fun barware.

Up early and can’t decide between a full breakfast or a gourmet

coffee run? No need to choose when Ottertail City offers both

options. The Williams Company Store has a variety of teas,

chai, lattes and smoothies. In addition to all-day breakfast

choices like overnight oatmeal and yogurt parfaits, foodies

will want to try a hangover burrito, french toast wrap or the

glazed donut sandwich with egg, sausage and gouda.

Across the street is Betty’s Pantry. For 25 years, this restaurant

has been serving up specialties like breakfast poutine, veggie

benedict and the Minnesota omelet served with wild rice, the

state grain. Why not try pie for breakfast? Betty’s Pantry serves

it up homemade.

For lunch ideas The Shack asks, “Who doesn’t like BBQ and

Ice Cream, right?” Their smoked meat selection includes:

ribs, brisket, pulled chicken, spicy sausage and wings and

a meat tray comes in 3 different sizes to feed a couple or a

crowd. Their ice cream comes in the classic Minnesota

flavor Salted Nut Roll and unique tastes like pina colada

and chocolate banana ripple. Get your treat in their bubble

waffle cone, a crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside

favorite. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

After a day on the lake or a round of golf, Willy T’s at

Thumper Pond has beer on tap including locally brewed

choices. They serve craft cocktails and seasonal favorites

include Pond Hockey Peanut Butter Cup and Pear Elderflower

Collins. Start off your meal with an order of walleye egg rolls

filled with wild rice, dried cranberries and cabbage.

Other options: The Woodshed serves appetizers, classic

sandwiches and burgers as well as weekend specials like

chicken oscar and prime rib. Ottertail Bakery has all your

homemade pastries, breads, rolls, donuts, and cookies to go.

73

OTTERTAIL BUSINESSES

NOW OPEN!

January thru March

Thursday thru Sunday • 9am to 5pm

Dine In, Call Ahead or Pickup

218-367-3340

Breakfast, lunch or supper (Online Menu)

Handcrafted Drinks & Wi-Fi

Enjoy our amazing selection of espresso

drinks, teas, smoothies, & More!

Just off HWY 78 on Hwy 108

Downtown Ottertail, MN

thewilliamscompanystore.com

A Premier TREE SERVICE Company

Carr’s Tree Service serves customers

across Greater Minnesota with ISA

Certified Arborists based out of the

Ottertail, Alexandria, Rochester,

Mankato, St. Cloud, and Anoka areas.

307 State HWY 78 N

Ottertail, MN 56571

carrstreeservice.com

Toll Free 1-888-470-3355 Local 218-367-3355

74

Game On in Ottertail City

By Missy Hermes

Ottertail City sits at the heart of Minnesota’s Lakes

Country. This town surrounded by water recreation

opportunities has expanded the options for dry land

activity too. An expansion project in the Ottertail City

Park is capitalizing on a trend sweeping the nation and

Lakes Country.

The popularity of pickleball has exploded and Ottertail

City has joined other pickleball-friendly communities in

the area. With the help of many local volunteers and civic

groups donating time and money, Ottertail City has added

two pickleball courts and players are eagerly giving them

a workout.

Mayor Ron Grobeck is rightfully proud of the way citizens

came together to make this worthwhile project happen. He

also acknowledges the skill and quality of the workmanship

exclaiming, “As you can see the pickle ball courts are very

first class!” These new pickleball courts are located in Ottertail

City Park, a recreational focal point for this community.

The green space hosts a variety of community

events and concerts in the park. It has a large shady

shelter with electricity, outdoor grills and enough

picnic tables to seat 100 people. Public restroom

facilities include hot and cold water.

In addition, the city recently finished pouring the

cement floor for a 1/2 court basketball court in the

City Park. This new space will allow pickleball fans and

basketball enthusiasts to play their sports at the same

time. Spectators will find plenty of park benches added

as memorials to people or groups, a fantastic way to

honor area residents.

These newest amenities join the other facilities available

to the public in Ottertail City Park. Colorful playground

equipment completes the multigenerational feel - there is

something for every family member here. And with coffee

shops and restaurants within a short walk of this

recreational hub, it is game on in Ottertail City.


75

Golf. Gather. Get Away.

Thumper Pond is a new kind of Golf Resort,

one that everyone can enjoy, even if you

don’t play golf. The resort is located in the

heart of Central Minnesota lakes country

and nestled among 250 acres of pine forest.

Our guests enjoy a championship 18-hole

golf course – which features traditional, a

new 12,000 square-foot indoor waterpark,

meeting and event spaces of all sizes, and

our on-site restaurant, Willy T’s Tavern &

Grille. With 77 spacious suites, our resort

has ample room for your family reunion,

golf outing, wedding, or meeting. Nearby

Otter Tail Lake offers swimming, boating,

fishing, and more. The premiere vacation

destination in Otter Tail lakes country,

Thumper Pond provides fun for the

whole family.

300 Thumper Lodge Road

Ottertail, Minnesota 56571

218-367-2000

1-877-294-7981

thumperpond.com

ThumperPond

@thumperpond

A Destination for All Seasons

By Missy Hermes

Start planning for all that Ottertail City has to offer. The

city along Otter Tail County’s signature lake experienced

record attendance in 2022 and organizers are planning for an

even bigger and better New Year.

The fun starts in spring with an Easter Egg Hunt extravaganza

complete with not one but two Easter bunnies. Families

searched for over 6,000 eggs and more than 100 special prizes.

The summer Music in the Park continues to grow, averaging

over 200 people for each concert and over 600 for the Elvis

Presley event. Bands also included “The Castaways,” and

newcomers the “Red Letter Band.” A Demolition Derby

sponsored by the Ottertail Rod and Gun Club had over 55

entries with record crowds and perfect weather.

Otterfest experienced one of its best attendance years. Over 50

entries participated in the car show and hundreds of people

lined up for the traditional Otterfest Parade. The Ottertail

Lions Club service club served more than 600 people at their

annual Pancake Feed.

That’s not the only event sponsored by the Lions Club either.

“Polka Daze” in September hosted over 600 people for three

days of music, dancing.

Their famous “Trunk or Treats” event on Halloween involves

upwards of 125 pumpkins to decorate as well as special cookie

decorating kits given to kids. The ten best decorated trunks

receive prizes of $50.00 gift cards.

“Otterdazzle will not disappoint this year,” exclaims Mayor

Ron Grobeck. All-day activities include vendors, crafts, the

new “turkey bowl” and of course Santa Clause. “We will do

our traditional tree lighting event at the City Park followed

by a chili feed,” Grobeck adds. Afterward the spectacular

fireworks lights up the winter sky.

The mayor is visibly proud of his community, “Ottertail City

is growing…our wonderful events make Ottertail City a true

destination all year long!”

“We’re looking forward to 2023,” Grobeck said.


77

OTTERTAIL BUSINESSES

We help plan, supply and deliver dreams!

Stop in to see our newly

expanded showroom!

Be inspired with our Idea House

Gallery! See the latest in building

and remodeling products from major

manufacturers. Shop our large

selection of grills and accessories,

hardware and tools, paints and stains,

and so much more!

QUALITY BUILDING SUPPLIES • WINDOWS & DOORS • DRAFTING & DESIGN

FLOORING & TILE • CABINETRY • COUNTERTOPS • DECKS & RAILING

ROOFING • SIDING • AND SO MUCH MORE!

208 West Main, Ottertail

(218) 367-2265

www.hilltoplbr.com

ALL MEATS SMOKED IN-HOUSE

Brisket • Ribs • Pulled Pork

Pulled Chicken • Chicken Wings

We Maximize Outdoor Living

Family Packs and/or packaged

meats by-the-pound, great for families, family

gatherings, hunting & fishing groups.

Summer Hours

Thursday–Sunday

11:00am–9:00pm

Fall/Winter/Spring Hours

Thursday–Sunday

11:00am–7:00pm

See our menus on Facebook & Google

314 MN Hwy 78 N, Ottertail | 218-367-3287

78

OtterSupperClub.com

RESTAURANT LODGE LIQUOR STORE

• Open 7 days a week

for lunch & dinner

• Great food specials

throughout the week

• Take-out Chicken, Pizza

& more available

• Full service patio

during summer

• On & Off-site catering

• Go to our website for

Bookings & Winter

Lodging Specials

• Comfortable rooms

• Large Selection and

Best Prices in the

Area for all of your

Beer, Wine & Liquor

Needs!

Don’t forget about our annual

PARKING LOT PARTY with national

headlining bands!

OTTERPLP.COM

THE OTTER SUPPER CLUB

306 N HIGHWAY 78, OTTERTAIL, MN

218-367-2525

PARKERS

PRAIRIE

2023 EVENTS

Gateway to Otter Tail County

Parkers Prairie is located about 20 miles north of I-94 at the Alexandria

exit in West Central Minnesota. Parkers Prairie was founded as early

as 1868 with a General Store on the shores of Lake Adley and the town was

incorporated in 1903.

We are a friendly community where neighbors say “Hi!” to one another

while strolling down tree-lined streets on a summer evening or attending

the Fall Festival in City Park. The Aquatic Center located in the heart

of town offers fun for all ages. It features a new drop down slide, diving

board, climbing wall, tot slide, basketball hoop and other great play

features. Lake Adley Park provides a public access boat ramp for summer

fishing and is a popular ice fishing spot.

Feb. 11

Feb.

April 15

April 23

April.

May 29

June 5

July

Aug. 4-6

Aug. 4

Aug. 6

Aug.

Sept 22-23

Sept 24

Oct 31

Nov -

Dec 2

Sportsmen’s Banquet

Lion’s Snowmobile Run

Lion’s Smelt Fry

Ambulance Bingo

Lion’s 4-Wheeler/ATV/UTV Ride

Legion Pancake Breakfast

Legion Memorial Day Program

Pool opens for the season

Lion’s Lent in July

Fall Festival

Firemen’s Relief

Ring of Fire Bull Ride

Scouts Pancake Breakfast 7-11am

Classic Car Show

Fall Festival parade at noon

Panther Booster’s

Golf Tournament

Oktoberfest

at Thousand Lakes Brewing Co.

Community Block Party

at Immanuel Lutheran

Panther Booster’s Trunk or Treat

Ambulance Holiday Bingo

Pride of the Lion’s

Prairie Christmas



and to learn more

PO Box 70

Parkers Prairie, MN 56361

Connect with us!

ParkersPrairie.net

218-338-4115

80

Parkers Prairie Fall Festival Fabulous at Fifty

By Missy Hermes, Photos by The Parkers Prairie Independent

How much fun can a community pack into one

summer weekend? The people of Parkers Prairie

are attempting to find out with a Fall Festival worthy of a

golden anniversary.

Beth Wussow with the City of Parkers Prairie exclaims,

“This festival just keeps getting bigger each year!”

Celebrating 50 years of festival fun in 2023, this threeday

event truly has something for everyone.

Festival goers will kick off the first weekend in August in

a big way. On Friday, the Parkers Prairie Fire Department

Relief Association brings in the Ring of Fire Bull Ride. This

event by Triple B Rodeo sells out quickly so get tickets early!

Do you like your weekend loud? Parkers Prairie has a variety

of activities that ramp up the volume. Cheer on drivers at the

tractor pull and the burnout contest. A brilliant fireworks

show lights up the sky on Saturday and a huge parade on

Sunday will keep the excitement going.

Or do you prefer milder, not wilder? Bring the kids to

the petting zoo and try the children’s games. Applaud the

Miss Parkers Prairie pageant contestants, visit the vendors

and craft show, listen to local musicians and take in the

Rip-n-Roar Car Show.

People with a competitive side can participate in BINGO,

bean bag and volleyball tournaments, and search for the

famous fall festival medallions. Or maybe leave dry land

for a dip in the community pool.

Of course all of these activities work up an appetite and

the Parkers Prairie Fall Festival has planned plenty of tasty

choices for hungry visitors. The annual Boy Scouts Pancake

Breakfast on Sunday and variety of food trucks will keep

everyone satisfied.

Participants ready to wind down can attend the community

worship service or sit in the peaceful park overlooking

sparkling Lake Adley and reflect on next year’s fall festival.

81

PARKERS PRAIRIE BUSINESSES

Are

YOU

Ready?

PREPARE NOW

KNOW YOUR AREA’S RISK.

Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes occur

throughout spring, summer, and early fall –

and at any hour.

PAY ATTENTION to weather reports and

warnings. Be ready to change plans if

necessary, to be near shelter.

IDENTIFY nearby, sturdy buildings close to

where you live, work, study, and play.

SIGN UP for Otter Tail County’s alert &

warning system on the county website.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

218-998-8067

SERVING CENTRAL MN FOR 31+ YEARS

Retail & Wholesale

Petroleum Products

Propane Delivery Service

LP Cylinder Fills

Convenience Store & Deli

Picaddily Circus

Pizza & Subs

Tire & Auto

Service Center

Towing Service

NEW Soft-touch Car Wash!

FULL SERVICE PRO SHOP

our stock is ever growing with bows

arrows, sights and more...

CERTIFIED TECHNICIAN

we work on all makes and models

of compound bows and crossbows

INDOOR ARCHERY RANGE

four shooting lanes up to 20 yards

Amanda Armstrong

REALTOR®

(O) 218-998-4663

(M) 218-205-5542

amanda.armstrong@remax.net

Visit my website!

amanda.dreamsforsale.com

D

82

211 S. Otter Avenue

Parkers Prairie

gappaoil.com

218-338-6030

1025 S. Otter Avenue

Parkers Prairie, MN 56361

PRAIRIEARCHERY.COM

218-338-4391•866-939-4392

MN License #40064497

205 E Lincoln Ave, Suite C


OUTDOORSY

OTTER

Let's go play outside!

Outdoorsy Otters would like nothing more than to pack the day with

some outdoor activities. They are always the first ones on the lake

in the morning. Outdoorsy Otters live for the lakes, woods, and fields, and

they feel very much at home interacting with all of the scaly, furry, and

feathery critters that live there. It’s breathing fresh air, feeling the sun on

their faces, and getting away from the crowds that invigorates the

Outdoorsy variety of the Otter family.

Thirsts for: anything nature provides

Craves: food cooked over open fire

Rests: under the stars

Idea of fun: catching fish

#FindYourInnerOtter



suited to your Outdoorsy Otter.



American Heroes Outdoors

PO Box 375, Fargo, ND

701-866-1567

AmericanHeroesOutdoors.com

Big Fish Kayaks & Watersports

27896 Hwy 78, Battle Lake

218-862-7900 • BigFishKayaks.com

Brunswick – Lund Boats

318 W Gilman St

New York Mills

218-385-2235

LundBoats.com

Brunswick is defining, creating, and innovating

the future of recreational boating.

With advanced design, technology and

innovation, we will redefine recreational

boating and advance our leadership

position in the marine industry.

Frontier Marine

& Powersports

1120 Frontier Dr, Fergus Falls

218-998-4386

FrontierPowerSports.com

Glendalough

State Park

25287 Whitetail Ln, Battle Lake

218-864-0110

DNR.State.MN.US/State_Parks

Maplewood

State Park

39721 Park Entrance Rd,

Pelican Rapids

218-863-8383

DNR.State.MN.US/State_Parks

Natures Garden World

1335 Hwy 201 E, Fergus Falls

218-739-9641

NaturesGardenWorld.com

Ray’s Sport & Marine

941 Market St

Perham, MN 56573

218-346-3333

RaysMarinePerham.com

Your one stop shop for all your Marine

and ATV needs. Family-owned business

offering products to make your

outdoor activities more enjoyable.

They carry a large inventory of Lund

Boats as well as Bennington (not available

at all locations) and Misty Harbor

Pontoons.

If you own or manage an outdoor recreation business or organization in Otter Tail County and would like to be published in this magazine,


83

PELICAN

RAPIDS

All Roads Lead to Pelican Rapids

Located in western Otter Tail County, home to over a thousand lakes,

the lake is never far away when you’re in Pelican Rapids. Whether you

want to swim, fish, boat or simply relax on the shore, the lakes are a way

of life here. With friendly people and unique shops, even rainy days hold

the promise of a good time! The community of Pelican Rapids boasts

enormous natural beauty in its sweeping fields, rolling hills, and plentiful

pristine lakes. Yet its most enduring beauty is intangible and can be

found in the innovative spirit of its citizens as they improve their lives

and invigorate the local economy.

The “world’s largest pelican” is the most photographed object in Pelican

Rapids and continues to draw attention at the base of the Mill Pond Dam

along the Pelican River in downtown Pelican Rapids.

2023 EVENTS

March 25 Pelican Rapids Showcase

April 29 Hello Spring Vendor Show

June -Oct. Fridays Farmers Market

June -Aug. Thursdays Minnow Races

June 24 Friendship Festival

July 6 Chamber Golf Scramble

July 7-8 Pelican Fest

July 8 Cars in the Park

July 22 Art in the Park

Aug. 5 Rotary Fly-In Drive-In

Oct 13-14 Oktoberfest

Nov. 23 Old Fashioned Christmas/

Horse Parade

Photos: Kate Woolever Martinez, provided

315 North Broadway


Connect with us!


and to learn more

PelicanRapidsChamber.com

218-863-6571

84

Heart of the Lakes Trail

By Missy Hermes, Photos by Jan Lasar, Minnesota Trails Magazine

The sight of a giant teenage ox resting in the shade

of an inviting wayside rest might have surprised

travelers driving along Highway 34 in Otter Tail Country.

Zik the Ox, retracing the path of Minnesota’s historic

oxcart trails from Winnipeg to Saint Paul, had discovered

what other walkers, hikers and bikers have found- a

convenient stop along the new Heart of the Lakes Trail.

The gorgeous trail now connects Pelican Rapids and

Perham. The Pelican Rapids trail segment starts on State

Highway 59 south of the city and heads towards County

Highway 3. County Highway 3 will take trail enthusiasts

into Maplewood State Park, one of the two state parks

within Otter Tail County.

Native prairie landscaping borders the 10 foot wide path

that winds gently around lakes and through rolling

farmland. The 32-mile long trail has scenery stunning

in every season, a recreational gem. Only non-motorized

Minnesota Trails Magazine is a quarterly publication that

covers hiking, biking, skiing and paddling in Minnesota.

Find out more at MnTrails.com.

recreation options, including skateboards, can go

on the trails.

Following the trail west on a blustery, snowy day in

November, I could imagine cross country skiers taking

the Heart of the Lakes Trail through the heart of wetlands

and farm lands. The scenery includes remnants of the past

with picturesque one-room schoolhouses, silos, and barns.

This section of the trail follows along the Otter Trail

Scenic Byway and the graceful spire of Central Lutheran

Church marks the location of a byway site to stop and visit.

Trailheads with picnic tables, parking spots, bike racks,

area maps, garbage bins and benches are just a few of the

amenities found along the trail. Folks can park a vehicle at

the well-lit wayside rests and then set off cycling or on foot.

This splendid new trail connects us to the past, to the beauty

of Otter Tail Lakes Country and the rich recreational

opportunities close at hand.

85

PELICAN RAPIDS BUSINESSES

Your One Stop Shop in the Lakes Area

Home, garden, tools, paint, docks & boat lifts, rentals, hardware, grills, small engine repair, electrical,

plumbing, sporting goods, keys, bait & tackle, chainsaws, decor, gifts, groceries, gas, & more!

22438 OLD 59 ROAD PELICAN RAPIDS

lakelandgeneralstore.com | 218-863-5703

Minnesota Lake Country’s

14-Hole Executive Golf Course

Choose from 5, 9, 10, 14 or 18-hole round

options to match your time, budget or skill.

Driving Range | Practice Green | Party & Meeting Facilities

Club & Cart Rental | Beer, Pop and Pizza | Pro Shop | Cabins

218-863-1531

www.lidagreensgolf.biz

4 Miles east of Pelican Rapids on Hwy 108 – Book Tee Time Reservations by phone or on our Website

PELICAN Liquors

120 N BROADWAY

PELICAN RAPIDS, MN 56572

Great Variety of Wine,

Liquors, and Craft Beers!

(218) 863-6670

f

Your Hidden Shopping Destination

Full Service Flower &

Gift Shop

•

Two level showroom

petalsfromtheheartflorist.com

121 S. Broadway

Pelican Rapids

(218) 863-5700

FUN”

• FAMILY • “PIZZA

DINE IN • CARRY OUT

TAKE N BAKE • DELIVERY

41 North Broadway


BIGJOHNSPELICANPIZZA.NET

218 - 863 - 8888

86

Pelican Rapids Opens Up a World of Flavor

By Missy Hermes

You don’t have to travel the world, or even the state

to experience the flavors of the world. You can

enjoy diverse cuisine in the Heart of Lakes Country.

European and African markets. Maggi Arome, Somali

chai, and specialty spices bring back the flavors of East

and Central Africa.

Larry’s Super Market

This Pelican Rapids staple has served customers and

tourists for decades. As the desire for a ethnic cuisines

has grown, Larry’s has catered to the changing tastes

with specialty coffees, frozen treats, baking ingredients

and other international products.

Mariposa Market

Mariposa means butterfly in Spanish and this independent

market specializes in foods and flavors from Central

America, Mexico, Salvador, and Guatemala. Look for

specialty dairy products and an array of fresh produce.

Hard-to-find ingredients, condiments and spices line the

colorful and well-stocked shelves. Kids will have fun picking

out and trying the vast variety of candies and snacks. A go

to location for beverages or popular mixers like Topo Chico.

Halal Food Market

Shoppers will find ingredients and brands often seen in

Sone’s Cajun Asian Food

Cajun and Asian cuisine? Yes, and it works. Recent menu

offerings included mango over coconut sticky rice, egg

and Kimchi fried rice, and loaded pulled pork french

fries. Looking for pho? Sone’s has it.

Taqueria Escobar

Tex-Mex food is a specialty at this family-owned

restaurant. With indoor and outdoor patio dining,

and curbside to go you can linger with a cold beverage

or take off in a hurry to the lakes.

Taqueria Chavez

Traditional favorites like Menudo, Pozole, and

frijoles charros appear on the menu at this family

cafe where the early bird gets the specialty of the day.

Fan favorite Crunchy Barbacoa tacos with a side of

consomme will surely have you running back for a

taste of Mexico.


87

H E W E D D I N G

T

O U ' V E A L W A Y S

Y

PELICAN RAPIDS BUSINESSES

A unique shopping experience!

Downtown Pelican Rapids | 218-863-5200

Preferred Partners Perham

MNLakePartners.com

After all, we love this place too! If you’re looking

for a home here, we’re the ones to see!

Give us a call or stop in at one of our 2 locations:

Perham and Pelican Rapids!

(218) 863-8723

26 North Broadway | P.O. Box 623 | Pelican Rapids

21 N Broadway • Pelican Rapids

218-234-9093

Kayak Rentals on the

Pelican River and delivery

to area lakes. New for

2023, ebikes on the

Heart of the Lakes Trail.

W A N T E D .

88

OLD HWY 59 • DUNVILLA, MN

Lakeland TrueValue Building

22438

Friendly Lakeland

Old 59

hometown TrueValue

Road, Dunvilla,

cafe Building

MN

located in

Soup 22438 the Lakeland • Old Lunch 59 TrueValue • Road, Evening Dunvilla, Specials Building MN

Call For Carry-Out

Soup • Lunch • Evening Specials

218-863-5777

Call For Carry-Out

218-863-5777

Breakfast • Burgers • Sandwiches

Homemade Soups and Desserts

Open Year Round, Dine-In & Carry-Out

See website for lunch & dinner specials!

www.cornfieldcafe.com

218-863-5777

Lakeland TrueValue Building

22438 Old 59 Road, Dunvilla, MN

Soup • Lunch • Evening Specials

Call For Carry-Out

218-863-5777

thebarnatdunvilla.com

218-849-7802

Caring for you & about you

Gifts•Cards

Women’s Fashions

Jewelry•UPS Drop Off

Photo Kiosk Machines

Regular Hours

Mon–Fri 8:00 am–5:30 pm

Sat 9:00 am–1:00pm Closed Sunday

Saturday Summer Hours

9:00 am–3:00 pm

Memorial Day–Labor Day

11 N. Broadway, Pelican Rapids

Refill line: 218-863-1919

218-863-1441

pelicandrugrx.com

Pick Pelican Rapids for Fall Color Adventures

By Missy Hermes, Photos by Kvidt Creative

Lakes Country in autumn is a breathtaking sight

and the Pelican Rapids area has the beauty of fall in

abundance. Driving along the Otter Trail Scenic Byway is

the easiest way to enjoy the fall foliage but only the first of

many autumn options.

Veterans Memorial Picnic Shelter and hike up to

the stunning overlook of Maple-Leaf Hills and South

Lida Lake. Along the trails you might see some of the

150 species of birds and 50 mammal species living here

year round.

Start your leaf tour in Pelican Rapids. Then head east 7

miles towards Maplewood State Park. Leaf peeping begins

in late August and the season can span 6 or more weeks

depending on the weather. Visitors will find a cross section of

activities for maximizing enjoyment of the brilliant colors.

Leaf Days hosted by the Friends of Maplewood State Park

is an annual event that draws in leaf lookers with hikes,

hands on fun for families, and guest speakers. Food can be

purchased from the Friends snack bar with proceeds supporting

interpretive projects such as the park’s Sugar Shack.

Leaf Days normally takes place the last week in September.

One of the newest trails at Maplewood is Hallaway

Hill. Find the trailhead across from the Josh Hanson

Horseback riding in Maplewood State Park gives equine

owners 20 miles of trails with horse shelters available.

The horse camp allows for 200. Riders 16 years and older

can get a horse pass at the park office.

Tent camping in group and individual sites at Maplewood

will put you in close to the color. Camper cabins, including

one that is wheelchair accessible, are available and can

be reserved online.

Fall fishing means no mosquitoes and the crystal

clear blue lakes reflect back the golds, reds and

yellows of the surrounding foliage. Rent a boat, kayak

or canoe at the park or bring your own. Maplewood

State Park has opportunities for fly fishing, too.


89

90

Conoce A Los

Locales

Zach Hoffman & Estefany Martinez

Zach Hoffman es originario de Fargo, mientras que su prometida,

Estefany Martínez es estadounidense de primera

generación, nació en Fergus Falls y creció en Pelican Rapids

antes de mudarse a Fargo por unos años cuando ella cumplió

18. La pareja se mudó recientemente a Pelican Rapids.

Si bien Pelican Rapids fue el hogar de Martínez, Hoffman se

enamoró de la ciudad cuando la visitaron para las reuniones

familiares de Martínez. Hoffman quería experimentar una

vida de pueblo pequeño (familiar) a diario. Después de su

compromiso, la pareja también se dio cuenta de que no

querían formar una familia en Fargo.

“Queremos que nuestros hijos se críen en un pueblo pequeño”,

dijo Martínez. “Específicamente Pelican debido a la diversidad.

Y siendo una pareja interracial, queríamos asegurarnos de

que si algún día tuvieramos hijos, nuestros hijos se sentirian

seguros y aceptados en una comunidad.

“¿Y qué mejor comunidad que la de Pelican Rapids?”

Martínez era técnica de uñas en Fargo, pero ahora trabaja

como asistente de marketing para Otter Tail Lakes Country

Association. Hoffman trabaja para BTD Manufacturing en

Detroit Lakes. Compraron una casa en Pelican Rapids en

octubre de 2022, ahorraron para cuando se mudaran a la

ciudad pudieran comprarla y su plan consistio en quedarse

con los padres de Martínez.

Ahora que tienen una casa propia, Hoffman y Martinez han

notado el gran potencial de crecimiento en Pelican Rapids.

Los ha llevado a tratar de involucrarse más en la comunidad,

desde asistir a reuniones en el ayuntamiento

hasta unirse a comités o dar su opinión para ayudar a

desarrollar la ciudad. Ha hablado con la asamblea de la

ciudad sobre cómo lograr que la comunidad mexicana se

involucre más o tratar de encontrar algunos eventos aptos

para hispanos.

Hoffman ama el paisaje de la zona. En Pelican Rapids

y el condado de Otter Tail, pueden conducir y en cinco

minutos “ver vistas impresionantes” que no tienen en

ningún otro lugar, dijo Martínez. Tener un patio trasero

lleno de bosques en lugar de grandes edificios con gente

dia y noche sin Descanso alguno de una ciudad es una de

las cosas favoritas de Hoffman. Disfrutan pasar tiempo

juntos en Maplewood State Park.

Como pareja, han emprendido aventuras gastronómicas

en el condado de Otter Tail, encontrando nuevos lugares

para comer en varias pequeñas empresas y pueblos de la

zona, “porque queremos degustar todos los platillos y

observar todo y conocer más de las comunidades vecinas”.

dijo Martínez.

“Es increíble vivir en un pueblo pequeño”, dijo Martínez.

“Ha sido una ola de recuerdos buenos y familiars es casi

como un sueño volver y ser aceptado de nuevo. “Solo

expande tu mente, recibe con los brazos abiertos y abre

tu corazon”. Estamos muy emocionados de comenzar

nuestra vida aquí.

By Heather Rule

Photos: provided

SCAN TO READ

ENGLISH VERSION


91

PERHAM

2023 EVENTS

Come Live Your Vacation

Located in East Otter Tail County, the Perham area provides almost

immediate access to an abundance of recreational opportunities

including 1,048 lakes and over 140 miles of snowmobile trails. Perham

offers many of the attractions of big-city life while providing the hometown

feel of a smaller community. It is easy to live your vacation with swimming,

boating, fishing, and community events and activities year-round.

Perham is also known for the International Turtle Races, which take place

every Wednesday throughout the summer. There is an active downtown,

with many shops, restaurants, and attractions for people of all ages.

Come Live Your Vacation in Perham!

Feb. 12-13 SnoCross Races

at Pioneer Grounds

March 12 Lakes Area Home & Cabin Show

March 19 Horticultural Day

April 23 The Gathering Sporting

Collectible Show

June-Aug. International Turtle Races (Wed)

June 13-18 Mn State Holstein Show

June 15-19 Perham Turtle Fest

June 25 MN Gabe Day

July 4 Fireworks at Krueger Field

July 8 Relay For Life of

East Otter Tail County

July 21-24 East Otter Tail County Fair

Aug. 5-6 Perham Crazy Days

TBD EOT Breakfast on the Farm

Aug. 13-14 Perham Pioneer Days

Aug. 19-21 Black Powder Rendezvous

Sept. 1 to Otter Berry Farm Corn Maze

Oct. 31 & Farm Fun

TBD Lakes Area Home Tour

Sept. 2-4 Labor Day Sidewalk Sales

Oct. 7-8 Oktoberfest

Nov. 1 Perham Holiday Dollars on Sale

Nov. 5 Annual Christmas Plus Bazaar

Nov. 25 Thanksgiving Gobble Wobble 5K

Nov. 26 Holiday Parade of Lights



Perham, MN 56573

Connect with us!


and to learn more

Perham.com

218-346-7710

92

The Holidays Sparkle at Pioneer Park

By Missy Hermes

Perham has put on an event sure to become a holiday

tradition. Lights in the Pines creates a winter wonderland

in a city park bordered with majestic evergreens.

Those pine trees recall the earliest days of Perham history

when logging camps dotted the landscape. Pioneer Park

celebrates that heritage with original log cabins and other

historic buildings.

in the different buildings, creating a magical Walk

through Christmas Lights Display with two archways.

The signature shine comes courtesy of Mike and Tammy

Schmidt who annually created a light show at their home.

Now with room to grow in Pioneer Park, they use upwards

of 20,000 lights synchronized and computerized into a

90-minute show with a holiday playlist.

During Lights in the Pines, the cabins twinkle with

holiday lights, outdoor campfires, happy faces and “a

whole lot of Christmas Spirit!” The bright lights flicker

on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving and continue

through December.

The Scouts of Troop 321 who created the event are,

coincidentally, part of the Northern Lights Council.

Barb Felt chairs the event. While searching for a project

to raise money to attend a Scouts national jamboree, she

and her son discovered a similar holiday light show.

Once they had the spark of an idea, the town lit up with

enthusiasm. Volunteers and businesses sponsor displays

Folks who need an accessible experience simply bring

their handicap parking permit. They can hear the music

on their car sound system thanks to a local radio station.

For just $5 per person, the event also provides hot

drinks and snacks - all donated by civic groups and

local businesses. Photo opportunities with Santa and

hayrides with the Grinch add to the fun.

Felt admits that the Scouts have put a lot of time into

the project. Thanks to the people in Perham, they took

a chance to try something new and make this a

bright success.

93

PERHAM BUSINESSES

It’s your time to relax

We are committed to meet your health care

needs when you are away from your provider.

Perham Health is here with three convenient locations

in the heart of lakes country. Keep relaxing knowing

we can partner with your home provider to meet your

health and wellness needs.

Perham Clinic | 218-347-1200

Nelson Therapy Center | 218-347-1590

New York Mills Clinic | 218-385-1800

Ottertail Clinic | 218-367-6111

1000 Coney Street West, Perham, MN 56573 | 218-347-4500 | perhamhealth.org

Dock boat parking, online ordering, large

outside seating overlooking Big Pine Lake

43606 Mosquito Heights Rd

Perham, MN 56573

Contact us: 218-346-3480 @Big Pine Lodge bplpizza.com

94

A New Home for Perham Center for the Arts

By Missy Hermes

When the Bishop of St. Cloud said the final Mass

at “St. Stan’s,” residents worried what would

become of the beautiful brick and bronze-steepled

building. Pioneers tracing their heritage back to Poland

had sacrificed to construct this beautiful place of worship.

Fortunately this historic center of faith has now emerged

as the Perham Center for the Arts. With gorgeous stained

glass windows and other architectural elements, the church

which once hosted choirs on Sundays now hosts concerts,

Taekwondo and Just for Kix dance classes.

With its ornate patina-enhanced belfry rising high above a

residential neighborhood, the center is encircled by tall pine

trees. The lush manicured lawn is the perfect setting for the

annual outdoor summer concert series. Folks have plenty of

room to spread out blankets or set up lawn chairs.

Inside, the Center for the Arts hosts a variety of creative

endeavors. Book signings by local authors, art classes and

dramatic performances are just some of the events taking

place. Executive Director Michelle Kunza envisions so

much more, including weddings and parties, now that a

capital campaign has wrapped up.

She has family connections to the church and is thrilled

that the building can now reach its potential. Community

organizers raised close to $1 million to make the building

accessible with an elevator, accessible bathrooms and

reconfigured stairs.

Philanthropic business leaders, “saw the history and beauty

behind it.” They had faith that area residents would

recognize the importance of preserving the church while

also giving the arts community a showcase. In 2013, the

Perham Center for the Arts received non-profit status

under the supervision of co-founder Fran Johnson.

Local fundraising efforts headed up by Dennis Happel and

others helped secure a resurrection of sorts for the circa 1922

church. The vibrant Perham cultural community now has

a permanent home.


95

PERHAM BUSINESSES

mntrunorth.com

200 W MAIN ST, PERHAM, MN 56573

Your retail and rental

headquarters in the

Otter Tail Lakes area for

water and winter sports!

218-346-5253

info@mntrunorth.com

A true women’s clothing boutique -

where you don’t have to look like your

mother or dress like your daughter.

We offer you a personal choice!

dotandminnies.com 148 1 st Ave S Perham, MN 56573 | (218) 346-4180

Small Town is Alive

Visit us for all your home goods needs

· Grocery

· Health & Beauty

· Housewares

· Appliances

· Furniture

· Pet Supplies

· Clothing

· Footwear

· Office Supplies

· Craft Supplies

· Toys & Games

· Greeting Cards

· Lawn & Garden

· Outdoor Living

· Sporting Goods

· Grilling

· Seasonal

· and much more

300 Jake Street

Perham, MN

218 - 346 - 6673

Monday-Friday 8am - 7pm

Saturday 8am - 6pm

Sunday 9am - 5pm

96

The PACC is Back!

Perham Area Community Center Expansion Complete

By Missy Hermes

From the minute you open the door to the Perham

Area Community Center everything is fresh and

bright, upgraded or expanded. Even that front door,

and all the doors, in the expanded recreation and fitness

center are brand new.

On the PACC’s main level, fitness fans will find brand new

weights and weight machines. The field house, home to

the youth Lakes Basketball program, sports new coats of

paint and flooring. A new HVAC system addresses air

quality concerns.

Members drove much of the exciting PACC expansion

project. According to Nick Murdock, Economic Development

Director for Perham, a survey went out asking for guidance

on membership priorities. PACC staff and the board of

directors then accessed funding sources to make it happen.

The services and programs they offer have expanded along

with the building. For seniors, that means taking fitness

classes in a gym now accessible via elevator. The center is

enrolled with Silver Sneakers, Silver and Fit and the Renew

Active Medicare fitness programs.

In the expanded upstairs area, walkers will find a 3-lane

track as well as a bank of new treadmills. Convenient

cubbies for storing personal items, ellipticals, climbers and

stationary bikes offer a variety of fitness options. Bathrooms

are now available in three different areas of the PACC.

One of the features sure to be a family favorite is the new

Adventure Land. This climbing, sliding, multi-level indoor

play area has a drop-off option for parents as well as an

observation room. Need an easy idea for a kid’s birthday

party? PACC collaboration with the local Pizza Ranch

will provide fun, food and a private room for partygoers.

The updates in the pool area are especially striking. The

old ceiling is gone, opening up the space. The pool which

hosts lap swim, swim lessons and water fitness classes also

includes a swervy, curvy water slide and a rock walk climbing

wall. A new therapy pool heated to 93 has opened too.

Longtime staples of the PACC like the roller skating area

have updated furniture. “We are ready to welcome back

longtime members and new ones,” says Courtney Skarie,

the Aquatics Director.


97

PERHAM BUSINESSES

Your authorized dealer er for: Bennington Pontoons, Lund Boats,

Viaggio by Misty Harbor, Mercury Outboards, Yamaha Outboards,

Honda and Yamaha ATV & UTV.

(218) 346-3333 • (888) 983-BOAT • RaysMarinePerham.com

A boutique for all ages, Level III

has an industrial feel with trendy,

wearable women’s clothing and

some great accessories.

leveliiiboutique.com

159 1 st Avenue S | Perham, MN 56573

(218) 346-4181

One block off Highway 10

Easy Off-Easy On with

Plenty of Trailer Parking

913 Market St., Perham

(218) 346-2150

Preferred Partners Perham

MNLakePartners.com

After all, we love this place too! If you’re looking

for a home here, we’re the ones to see!

Give us a call or stop in at one of our 2 locations:

Perham and Pelican Rapids!

(218) 346-7672

245 West Main Street | P.O. Box 286 | Perham

Visit us for all your home improvement projects

· Lawn & Garden

· Outdoor Living

· Grilling

· Outdoor Power

· Sporting Goods

· Live Bait

· Pet Supplies

· Animal Health

· Farm Supplies

· Paint Supplies

· Builders Materials

· Hardware

· Automotive

· Electrical

· Plumbing

· Hand & Power Tools

· Rental Equipment

· Propane Fills

· Clothing

· Footwear

· Housewares

· Small Appliances

· and much more

Over 12 years of

Customer Service

945 Market Street

Perham, MN

218-346-6275

Monday-Friday 8am - 7pm Saturday 8am - 6pm Sunday 9am - 4pm

www.truevalue.com/marksfleetsupply www.marksfleetsupply.com

98

PERHAM BUSINESSES

99

VERGAS

Visit as a Stranger, Leave as a Friend

The community of Vergas takes great pride in its town, making sure that

when you visit you feel like a friend. Just take a stroll down Main Street

and you’ll be greeted with a friendly hello and “How may I help you?

Whether you are looking for lodging, fishing, shopping, dining or just

playing, Vergas is the right place for you. Vergas is best known for its statue

of the “World’s Largest Loon.” The big loon sits on the bank overlooking

beautiful Long Lake.

Just like the seasons are ever changing, there is always something new and fun

happening in the town of Vergas. Enjoy annual events like the Vergas Maple

Syrup Fest, Hairyman Festival and annual Vergas Looney Daze Celebration.

2023 EVENTS

April 1 Maple Syrup Festival

May Seltzer Stroll

June 10 Downtown Art Camp

Aug. 11-13 Looney Days

Sept. 30 Hairy Man Festival

Oct. 21 Wine Walk

Oct. 28-30 Pumpkins on Main

Nov. 18 Tour of Homes /

Festival of Trees

Nov 25 Small Town Christmas


111 Main Street

Vergas, MN 56587

Connect with us!


and to learn more

CityofVergas.com

218-342-2091

100

Ditterich’s Mercantile

By Missy Hermes

Step into Ditterich’s Mercantile in Vergas and return

to a time when the general store was the heart of a

community. A steady flow of customers pop in through the

doors as families pick up groceries for supper, bikers stop in

for a snack and curious visitors driving through the area at

peak leaf peeper season find a unique variety of cold drinks.

Duwayne Ditterich greets everyone coming into this

brand new store, an idea built from a gentleman’s agreement

and a handshake into a thriving superette. What’s

a superette? It’s not a convenience store with gas pumps

and not a supermarket, but it has everything.

The store carries fresh produce, dairy, frozen foods, pet

and paper products, plus locally grown or produced

items like honey, syrup, beef jerky, snacks, and nuts. The

Mercantile has fresh cotton candy on the weekends as

well as a variety of flavored gourmet popcorn. My own

bag of “mercantile mix” barely made it home!

Ditterich proudly points out unique items throughout

the store, evidence he supports local farmers or entrepreneurs

like himself. The family farm started out raising

cattle, supplying beef to area restaurants. Today, buyers

can find Ditterich products at the Mercantile meat counter

- ground beef, ribs, steaks are brought in on Fridays

ready for weekend cookouts.

When the city’s only grocery store closed, developers

saw an opportunity. They constructed a new multi-use

building on a prime half city block. Businesses opened at

the street level.

A fitness center and pastry shop now operate on one

side of the building. In addition, mother-daughter team

JoAnne Knutilla and Kari Heisler have opened A Step

Up Thrift Boutique. The store has, “a boutique style with

thrift store prices,” selling clothing and accessories for

women, children and men.

101

VERGAS BUSINESSES

spanky’s

stone hearth

est. 1946

The lakes area dining destinaton

WELCOMES YOU!

Municipal Liquor Store

Open Mon-Thurs 9-9, Fri-Sat 9-10, Sun 11-5

Main Street - 218-302-1516

218.334.3555

34785 County hwy 4

vergas, Minnesota

spankysstonehearth.com

Vergas Event Center

Weddings - Graduations

Meetings - Parties

Call 218-302-5996 for information.

The Long Lake Trail, Beach, Park & Picnic Area

Pickle Ball Courts

Veterans Memorial Park

Home of the World’s Largest Loon

Walking & Biking Trails

www.cityofvergas.com

Gifts, Home Decor, Clothing

& More

102

“The Vergas Community

Club is a partnership

between business and

citizens dedicated

to create the best

community to visit, work

and do business.”

Something For Everyone

In Every Price Range

124 East Main Street | Vergas, MN 56587

218-342-2700


218-342-4702

ottercoffeevergas.com

Everything You Need to Grow Your Family

By Missy Hermes, Photo by Kvidt Creative

Families feeling the pull of all that rural, small town

Minnesota has to offer should know that Vergas is

ready to provide all the amenities. With two new housing

developments and three lakes within the city limits, owning

a lakeview lot is within the reach of home buyers.

Already in place and ready with city sewer and water, the

Long Lake development has seven lots with frontage as

well as three back lots available. Looking out over Long

Lake, these upscale homes have access to a recreational

beauty spot cherished by the Vergas community.

Newer to the neighborhood, Lawrence Lake Acres is

the latest development in Vergas. With 28 lots, ranging

from 1 to 5 acres, homeowners have a variety of options

including lake lots, wooded lots and open terrain lots.

Buyers with a vision will be able to create their perfect

dream home.

The Vergas city council has approved the development

and builders can proceed. With a hardware store and

lumberyard in Vergas, building supplies and remodeling

project needs are close at hand. Have no fear DIYers!

Long Lake City Beach and Wayside Rest comprises a public

park where the World’s Largest Loon has a commanding

view of it all. Picnickers, fishing and boating enthusiasts

and trail walkers will all find a place here. A farmer’s

market meets there in the warmer months. Families in this

community attend classes in the Frazee School District and

employment opportunities abound in this region.

Josh Hanson is a business owner in Vergas who saw

the potential in the Lawrence Lake site, recognizing

a need for single family housing as well as rental

opportunities. Hanson believes, “this will be the

biggest residential development in the history of

Vergas. We are excited to see the community thrive

and grow.”


103

AREA BUSINESSES

Working, playing, growing in

OTTER TAIL COUNTY

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Memorial Day - Labor Day weekend

Sam

Docker

Zeena

Open 10:00am–6:00pm

Closing at 7:00 PM

(Spring & Fall hours may vary)

218-731-8711

50622 COUNTY HIGHWAY 17 • VERGAS, MINNESOTA

Internet speeds for anything! Up to 1 Gig, * plus

Managed WiFi, means a better experience online,

at home and at your business.

Call or click to

order or upgrade!

888.99.ARVIG | arvig.com

*Based on Arvig service area; some restrictions apply. ©Arvig 2022

Daren J. Berube, Senior Lender

(218) 342-2481

NMLS# 802894

www.vergasstatebank.com

We are that small town

Community Bank

that the big banks claim to be.

darenb@vergasstatebank.com

104

There’s a New Game in Town

By Missy Hermes

Minnesotans’ love of town ball is legendary and

Vergas has a team with a long history in the

community. The legendary Vergas-Frazee Loons team

belongs to the Minnesota Baseball Association, drawing

in baseball talent from around Lakes Country. They

debuted new headgear in 2021 and the entire baseball

complex in Vergas has a new look too.

The entrance to the Vergas Baseball Complex now

highlights the men and women who have served this

country. A new Veterans Memorial has accessible and

veterans-only parking. Benches sponsored by local civic

groups, residents and township governments allow for

quiet reflection on the valued men and women.

Driving past the Veterans Memorial, baseball fans

of the Highway 10 League Loons will find plenty of

parking and bleacher seating for spectators. The

scenic field is surrounded on several sides by trees.

In addition to the baseball diamond, there’s a practice

field for younger teams to utilize. It’s the training

ground for future Loons! In 2008, Twins baseball

great Tony Oliva coached a batting session on this

very field.

With concessions sold on site and Skal restaurant

across the street, thirsty players and spectators are

within walking distance of a cold drink.

The monument acknowledges and pays tribute to local

residents who sacrificed and served in the military.

Flags from the different branches of service gently fly in

formation around the American stars and stripes. This

is a community project that was built with contributions

from civic groups as well as local governments.

Lately, town ball in Vergas has taken on a new meaning.

Right there by the baseball field, four bright blue and

green pickleball courts now make up part of the sports

complex. The new ballgame is attracting the growing

numbers of pickleball players. Vergas is the place to

“Play Ball!”


105

Timeless Traditions at

Contact us to learn more about

ownership opportunities!

Nick Leonard, Owner/Agent

(800) 242-6904

Nick@EastSilentResort.com

eastsilentresort.com

A Lake Home

Shouldn’t Own You

Affordable, Maintenance-Free Lake Home Ownership at East Silent Lake Resort

Do you like the idea of owning a lake

home, but don’t want the burden and

cost of repairs and upkeep? Do you

love the services and amenities of a resort, but

want to leave a legacy for your family, or an

asset that you can sell? You’re not alone. A new

breed of vacation home ownership is becoming

increasingly popular with busy families looking

to maximize their vacation time.

Embracing a new way to own property, Timeless

Traditions at East Silent Lake Resort is now

offering vacation home ownership with all the

advantages of a family resort setting. Located

within one of Minnesota’s most historic resorts,

we are offering a new lodging option while

preserving the resort experiences, recreational

opportunities, services, and amenities that East

Silent Lake Resort has to offer.

Images shown are current photographs of East Silent Lake Resort. These photos do not

depict the actual vacation homes being offered. Resort amenities shown are subject to change.

2023 Otter Tail Lakes Country Magazine

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