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Articles by Shannon Terry
Adapt or Die: College sports must undergo massive restructuring to fix current issues
Organizations that cling to legacy models – even successful ones – eventually fail. For years, we made it a Blockbuster night. Now we Netflix and chill. Kodak sold millions of rolls of film every year. Then digital cameras rendered film obsolete. The same is true in nature. Species that adapt survive. Those that don’t go extinct. Businesses are the same. So is college sports. “Adapt or die” isn’t just a slogan for a frame on your desk. It’s a mandate.
Otter Tail County appraiser commended for compassionate care during crisis Original
OTTER TAIL COUNTY — Todd Finkelson, an appraiser with the Otter Tail County Assessor's Office, stopped at a rural property for a routine visit. During a conversation with the property owner, the individual made alarming statements about self-harm with a firearm. Finkelson stayed calm and talked with the person, offering support and understanding. He then told the owner he was calling for help and contacted law enforcement. His actions de-escalated what could have been a tragic situation.
Be ready for Severe Weather Awareness Week
Are you prepared for severe weather? Severe Weather Awareness Week, observed from April 7 to 11, is an annual event sponsored by Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management in collaboration with the National Weather Service and local emergency management programs. This week serves as a reminder to everyone about seasonal weather threats and how to stay safe. Understanding the dangers of severe weather and how to respond can save lives.
Sullivan swears in
Sean Sullivan has joined the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners. Auditor-Treasurer Wayne Stein presided over the swearing-in ceremony for Sullivan on Jan. 7. kAm$F==:G2? H2D 6=64E65 :? }@G6>36C E@ C6AC6D6?E s:DEC:4E d[ 7:==:?8 E96 D62E AC6G:@FD=J 96=5 3J C6E:C:?8 r@>>:DD:@?6C {66 #@8?6DD]k^Am kAm$F==:G2? 3C:?8D 2 H62=E9 @7 6IA6C:6?46 E@ 9:D ?6H C@=6] q@C? 2?5 C2:D65 :? |@@C9625[ 96 >@G65 E@ u6C8FD u2==D[ 9:D H:76 z2J=2’D 9@>6E@H?[ :? a__h] p 8C25F2E6 @7 E96 }2G2= }F4=62C !@H6C $49@@=[ $F==:G2?
Suspected hazardous medical waste deemed non-hazardous and suitable for disposal
A semi-load of municipal solid waste delivered to the Dakota Landfill in Gwinner, North Dakota, was flagged in a routine waste screening process for suspected hazardous medical waste. The waste load came from the Otter Tail County Solid Waste Transfer Station located at 275 Airport Road in Fergus Falls. The load was returned to the Transfer Station for further review. kAmkDA2?m~?
Making moves: Senior housing project in full swing in Dalton
After much collaboration and planning, the North Fields of Dalton senior housing project is becoming a reality. The project is located on the north end of Dalton, just west of County Highway 35 on Court Street. kAm%96 @77:4:2= 8C@F?53C62<:?8 H2D 96=5 3J E96 ~EE6C %2:= r@F?EJ w@FD:?8 2?5 #656G6=@A>6?E pFE9@C:EJ Ww#pX @? uC:52J[ yF=J ae[ 2?5 4@?DECF4E:@? :D F?56CH2J] %96 AC@;64E H:== 3C:?8 S`]e >:==:@? @7 9@FD:?8 :?G6DE>6?E :?E@ s2=E@?]k^Am kAm~?46 4@>A=6E65 :?
Historic mural paintings unveiled at OTC Government Services Center
After a quarter-century in storage, a collection of mural paintings was unveiled at the Land and Resource Management department in the Government Services Center in Fergus Falls. Believed to be the work of artists enrolled in the Depression-era Works Progress Administration Federal Art Project, these murals offer a glimpse into the county's past. The murals once decorated the first-floor offices of the Otter Tail County Courthouse. kAm“(96? x 7:CDE 2AA=:65 E@ H@C< :? E96 {2?5 2?5 #6D@FC46 @77:46 :?
The Essential Role of a Statewide Open Education Resource (OER) Repository
568 In the pursuit of educational excellence, our nation is at a pivotal moment. While educators remain committed to providing every student opportunities to succeed amid competing priorities, resource restraints, and diverse perspectives, one state’s legislature is making significant strides by enhancing the availability and integration of OER that meets high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) criteria across classrooms in Texas.
Rogness plans to retire as OTC commissioner
Lee Rogness, a dedicated county commissioner since 2009, has announced that he will not seek reelection in 2024 to the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners. First elected in 2008, Rogness has successfully balanced his public service with managing a family farm equipment business. He attributes his ability to serve to the unwavering support of his wife, Lavonne, their three daughters, and their families.
Chauncey Martin Building Open to the Public in Pelican Rapids
The Chauncey Martin multipurpose building is now officially open to the public, marking a significant milestone in community collaboration. This project results from a successful partnership between the City of Pelican Rapids, Pelican Rapids School District, Otter Tail County and several other organizations. A public ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on April 25 with many in attendance, including local first graders. Martin was a teacher, principal and superintendent of Pelican Rapids schools.
What are Space Ground Systems?
3-2-1 Liftoff! We are all familiar with rockets launching commercial, civil, and military satellites into space and placing them into orbit but, how does this occur and what happens after the much-awaited spacecraft separation? Nearly all missions, whether commercial, military or scientific, use space ground systems for both launch and on-orbit operations. Space ground systems are the workhorse for all satellites and manned spacecraft missions.
Understanding Lease Extensions - Landlord & Tenant - Leases - UK
A high percentage of homeowners own a leasehold property. It is therefore important to understand what a lease extension entails. Extending your lease can seem like a daunting process due to the complexities involved. However, as your lease term decreases, the value of your property in turn decreases, making lease extensions essential if you wish to maintain or enhance the value of your property.
OTC Recognized: Awarded for Supporting Guard and Reserve Members
Otter Tail County's commitment to supporting Guard and Reserve members has been recognized by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) with the prestigious Patriot Award. This accolade, presented at the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners’ meeting earlier this month, highlights county leadership’s dedication to fostering a supportive work environment for military personnel.
Otter Tail County introduces new child care web app
Families with young children seeking child care in Otter Tail County can use the new Child Care Locator (CCL) web app. The Geographic Information Systems and Human Services departments of Otter Tail County released the web app to help families find information about child care providers in their area. Families can use the interactive CCL web app to view a map of family child care providers and search for providers within a distance from home or work.
What I Want My Kids to Know About Life
Earlier this year, I started thinking about a graduation gift for my two oldest children, Jack and Elly. Jack is moving on to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and Elly will be attending graduate school at the University of Memphis. I wanted to gift them something they could hold on to for a long time, and I also hoped for one last opportunity to be heard. Lord knows, there’s no greater challenge than parenting children through early adulthood.
Continued innovation: Otter Tail County Highway Department earns second innovation award
The Otter Tail County highway maintenance crew had a problem: When installing chip-seal markers — the little yellow markers that show the center line until the road is striped — county workers spent time getting on and off the tailgate of the truck, walking down the road, and bending over to place each marker.
Phelps Mill Festival set for July 10-11
Come join the fun at the 37th annual Phelps Mill Festival. The Phelps Mill Festival is held annually on the second full weekend of July. This year’s festival will be July 10-11. The festival provides two full days of art, food entertainment and kids’ activities, plus craft wine and beer tasting. If you haven’t visited the festival in the past or it’s been a while, this is the year to make your way to the Phelps Mill County Park just north of Underwood.
Otter Tail Lakes Country Association recognized by governor’s office
The Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition since 1948, designed to improve Minnesota’s economy through the promotion of the state’s recreational opportunities, especially fishing. After applying and being selected to host the event in 2019, Otter Tail County successfully held the event May 15. After the many challenges presented by the global pandemic, Gov. Tim Walz recognized their efforts with two awards.
Septic replacement loan available for Otter Tail County owners
Otter Tail County (OTC) is continually looking for ways in which to enhance resources and enrich the lives of those who live and visit here. OTC Land and Resources works hard to protect the natural resources in the county. One way to protect waterways is to replace noncompliant subsurface sewage treatment systems that pollute groundwater. OTC is a rural county and property owners with private sewer systems face financial challenges.
Fuel Your Entrepreneurial Spirit With These 4 Tips
An entrepreneurial spirit is a self-motivated attitude and mentality that drives a person to fulfill their potential and purpose. This invisible force creates leaders who are action-oriented, productive, decisive, inspirational, innovative, and self-sacrificing. When someone has one, their words, thoughts, actions, and behaviors reflect in leadership qualities they demonstrate.
OTC property valuation, sales data upgraded to new web application
Otter Tail County continues to innovate services with a new website application for property valuation and sales. The public can find how property is valued, and realtors, abstractors, attorneys, and surveyors will appreciate the regular real-time updates to the information. Property value and sales information is now updated by the assessor’s office staff and directly uploaded to the CAMA website on a much more regular basis for the public to view online.
OTC Public Works Director West retires
Richard West, Otter Tail County’s long serving county engineer, will retire from Otter Tail County. West, a graduate of North Dakota State University with a B.S. degree in civil engineering, began his career with Otter Tail County 30 years ago as the county engineer. Tasked early in his career to plan and carry out highway projects he dedicated his career to planning, sustaining, and improving the infrastructure in Otter Tail County.
OTC Commissioners recognize Wiebe family during Foster Care Month
Family is a primary source of love, identity, self-esteem and support, and is seen as the foundation for communities. On April 27, Otter Tail County Commissioners passed a proclamation recognizing May as Foster Care Month. This year special recognition was given to an Ottertail family. Del and Manila Wiebe are one of the licensed foster families who have opened their hearts by welcoming 153 foster children into their home over the last 59 years.
Prompt testing for COVID-19 aids in antibody treatment
Cases are on the rise again in Otter Tail County. The age of those testing positive for COVID-19 is getting younger. In the first week of January, the average age of episode in Otter Tail County was 46 years old. On April 10, the average age was 36 years of age. Individuals experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 are encouraged to get tested. “We continue to see a concerning increase in cases and community spread of COVID-19.
Otter Tail County partners use CARES funds for digital services
With a bigger appreciation for WiFi and internet service after 2020, Otter Tail County and Otter Tail County communities, The Blandin Foundation, local telecommunications companies, and Viking Library System partnered to provide free public WiFi and smart rooms. These community partners utilized CARES Act and Blandin Broadband Community funds to invest in projects with the goal of increasing equitable access to digital services.
OTC supports hardest-hit businesses, nonprofits
Otter Tail County businesses and nonprofits hit hard by winter pandemic-related closures were provided $1.15 million in relief grants by the county. The state-funded grant program was administered through the county’s Community Development Agency and provided grants from $1,250 to $15,000 to 129 local businesses and nonprofits impacted by an executive order that reduced capacity and decreased revenue by at least 20%.
Otter Tail County offering COVID-19 vaccine clinics
Otter Tail County Public Health is offering COVID-19 vaccine appointments and is following state guidance in prioritizing vaccine appointments for people most at risk of getting COVID-19, or those who could develop severe illness if infected. This includes older Minnesotans, those with underlying health conditions, and those in essential jobs.
OTC Public Health gives COVID-19 vaccine update
As of March 25, public health has administered at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine to 2,394 people, with 1,663 completing the vaccine series. Those receiving vaccines at public health clinics to this point have been part of the Phase 1a priority group, and Phase 1b essential workers with a focus on food processing employees.
Phelps Mill Festival July 10-11, artist applications due April 15
Phelps Mill Festival is coming this year to Otter Tail County and is accepting artist applications until April 15. The organization encourages high-quality artists and crafters to apply for the event which draws up to 20,000 people each year. All artists are hand-picked to ensure quality and originality. Kids’ activities all day, both days. And for the whole family, find a place in the shade at the main stage and enjoy entertainment perfect for all ages.
After COVID rise, OTC Public Health asks for community’s help
Otter Tail County Public Health is reaching out to residents and visitors throughout the county’s communities for their help. Public health is seeing a rise in COVID-19 cases in west-central Minnesota, and that includes Otter Tail County, beginning over the past several weeks. The community spread of the virus is beginning to increase and public health wants to draw awareness to this early so they can work with the community to stop the virus in its tracks.
OTC Solid Waste requests input on master plan
The public is invited to attend a virtual public meeting to discuss the Otter Tail County Solid Waste Master Plan. The county, with input from county residents and stakeholders, is working to develop a solid waste master plan. The public is also invited to visit the project’s virtual engagement page to explore project details, complete the community survey and share thoughts about solid waste services.
OTC Public Health gives COVID-19 vaccine update
Otter Tail County Public Health provided an update for COVID-19 vaccine distribution recently. Public health clinics Public health sponsored vaccine clinics this week were scheduled for administering second doses of COVID-19 vaccine to those who received their first doses of vaccine at previous public health clinics. Future public health clinics will focus on vaccinating those identified as essential workers.
Let’s try this again: OTC to Host 2021 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener
When anglers across Minnesota drop their lines on Saturday, May 15, Otter Tail County is committed to hosting the 2021 Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener in a reimagined way from the previous 70-plus years. By design, the event will be safely shaped to proceed within the guidelines of the Stay Safe MN initiative during the global pandemic. “Over the past year Minnesotans have found new and creative ways to come together – and I expect this year’s fishing opener will be no different,” said Gov.
OTC vaccine clinics to finish doses for health care personnel
We have lifted the paywall on this story. To support essential reporting, please consider becoming a subscriber. Otter Tail County Public Health sponsored vaccine clinics this week to administer doses to remaining health care personnel identified by MDH, and second doses to those in Phase 1a who received their first doses of COVID-19 vaccine at public health clinics.
Public health COVID-19 vaccine distribution update
We have lifted the paywall on this story. To support essential reporting, please consider becoming a subscriber. Otter Tail County Public Health sponsored vaccine clinics the week of Feb. 1, are scheduled to administer a very small number of doses to remaining health care personnel, and second doses to those in Phase 1a who received their first doses of COVID-19 vaccine at public health clinics four weeks ago.
Protected together: OTC Public Health COVID-19 vaccine distribution
Otter Tail County Public Health sponsored vaccine clinics the week of Jan. 25, were scheduled to continue to complete vaccination of priority 1a groups including health care personnel, assisted living and congregate care staff and residents. School and/or child care staff were invited directly if vaccine was identified as available. COVID-19 vaccine clinics for eligible populations continue to be done by invitation only.
OTC Public Health updates on COVID-19 vaccine distribution
Otter Tail County Public Health sponsored vaccine clinics the week of Jan. 25, are scheduled to continue to complete vaccination of priority 1a groups including healthcare personnel, assisted living and congregate care staff and residents. School and/or child care staff will be invited directly if vaccine is identified as available. COVID-19 vaccine clinics for eligible populations continues to be done by invitation only.
OTC puts together COVID vaccine pilot program
Minnesota is piloting 1 of 9 community COVID-19 vaccine programs, partnering with Otter Tail County Public Health and school districts, in Fergus Falls. These pilot sites will initially serve adults 65 years of age or older and prekindergarten through grade 12 educators, school staff, and child care workers. While the pilot sites work to vaccinate this expanded group, public health will continue to hold clinics for health care workers and long-term care residents and staff in Phase 1a.
Otter Tail County provides COVID-19 vaccine distribution update
While Minnesota is beginning to serve those age 65 and older, educators and child care workers, health care workers and long-term care residents and staff in Phase 1a remain a priority. Otter Tail County Public Health continues to have limited access to vaccine and are continuing to offer vaccine to those in Phase 1a this week.
Septic system grants, loans benefit OTC property owners, environment
Otter Tail County has received grants to provide homeowners with financial assistance to replace noncompliant septic systems. Financial assistance is in the form of grants and/or a zero-interest loan. Applications will be accepted from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 and the grant is first come first serve. If a resident has a noncompliant septic system they are encouraged to apply. Otter Tail County is blessed with water, with over 1,000 lakes and groundwater.
Grant funding available for OTC organizations
Otter Tail County received $1.15 million from the recent State of Minnesota economic relief package to provide support in the form of grant funding to small businesses and nonprofit organizations most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and related executive orders. The 2021 Otter Tail County COVID-19 Relief Program will open for applications beginning Jan. 8, and until 10 a.m. on Jan. 25, or until available funds are obligated.
OTC invests $7.2 million of CARES funding
Otter Tail County continues to support individuals, businesses and organizations as they weather the COVID-19 pandemic. The Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners agreed to invest the majority of the $7.2 million in CARES Act funding in the county’s Navigating the Road Ahead program. The Otter Tail County Community Development Agency (CDA) awarded $2.74 million to 200 small businesses and 40 nonprofit organizations through two rounds of the CARES Relief and Recovery Grant Program.
Otter Tail County looking for community input on Phelps Mill County Park
Have a question? Please give us a call at 218-736-7511
COVID-19 Vaccinations Begin in Otter Tail County
COVID-19 vaccine is coming to Otter Tail County. The first doses of COVID-19 vaccination have been sent to states, with Minnesota receiving their first allocation of vaccine just this week. Over the coming weeks, Otter Tail County is expected to receive both the Pfizer vaccine and, upon emergency use authorization approval, the Moderna vaccine. Local Health Care Partners and Otter Tail County Public Health will carry out distribution plans that have been months in the making.
Devoted officials: OTC Commissioners Huebsch, Lindquist retire
Otter Tail County Commissioners Doug Huebsch and John Lindquist were honored at the final board meeting of 2020. Both commissioners retired after having served on the board for 12 years. The newly elected commissioners will be sworn in Jan. 5, 2021. A virtual celebration was held Dec. 15 to say farewell to the retiring commissioners. Employees thanked the commissioners for their public service and wished them well. “Your advocacy for youth is commendable,” said probation director, Michael Schommer.
Otter Tail County recognizes 6 months of Smart911
The end of December will mark six months since Otter Tail County began offering its Smart911 emergency alerts and enhanced 911 services system to area residents and visitors. The system allows residents and travelers to receive localized weather and other emergency alerts and provides an opportunity to create a secured safety profile – including household, medical, vehicle, pet and emergency contact information – which can be shared with emergency responders when 911 is called for assistance.
Together we can slow the spread of COVID-19
With COVID-19 rapidly spreading in area communities, Otter Tail County Public Health would like to remind you that they are here for you and together we can get through the pandemic. One way to continue to do your part is to stay informed as to what actions you need to take if you were in close contact with someone with COVID-19 or are awaiting test results. Please follow these public health guidelines. An isolation and quarantine calculator can be found at ottertailcountymn.us/covid19-calculator/.
Proper battery disposal critical to prevent fire, safety risks
Proper battery disposal is critical as the amount of battery powered devices continues to increase, specifically lithium batteries. Lithium batteries are the leading cause of fires at waste and recycling facilities and it is important that Otter Tail County residents dispose of batteries properly to prevent fires and to protect infrastructure and staff. Battery disposal can be confusing as different types of batteries need to be handled differently.
Combined effort: Community organizations unite to support businesses during COVID-19 pandemic
Many small businesses and nonprofits in Otter Tail County have been directly and adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Early this spring, as businesses began to develop their preparedness plans, it became apparent that personal protective equipment (PPE) was in short supply or required large quantities to place an order. Marie Noplos, the marketing and membership director for Otter Tail Lakes Country Association (OTLCA), saw the disruption this caused for area businesses and organizations.
OTC long-range strategic plan public hearing Nov. 23
The Otter Tail County Long-Range Strategic Plan (LRSP) defines a 20-year vision for the county by establishing a long-term plan for managing growth and development decisions. The effort was initiated from the county board’s desire to understand “what do we want our communities to look like in 20 years,” and “what do we want to promote, encourage, and enhance?” The LRSP was developed to explore answers to these questions and is the result of the 24-month planning process.
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