Trouble in the Middle East is mounting again, and with it, thoughts quickly turn to the economic ripple effects locally.
Gas prices won't drop soon--maybe never.
Will this have a drastic impact on our economy? Of course, the answer is yes.
But on the travel-tourism-hospitality front, Minnesota has weathered past fuel crises quite well. Reason: Even during the toughest times, people will continue to vacation. They'll find recreation closer to home, and that's what we're banking on here in the East Otter Tail Lake Country.
There have been bright spots this summer, as far as the tourism sector. We noted with interest in the recent Otter Tail Country Tourism Association's newsletter that organizers and anglers have been raving about their experience in Ottertail city at the June Professional Walleye Trail and Lund Pro-Am tourney.
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"The community spoiled us and our anglers, to our surprise the crowds were unbelievable. I think we counted about 2,000 for day three," wrote the tourney coordinator. "Thanks again, Ottertail, we hope to make another visit to your area in the future."
Tourney director Jim Kalkofen commented that "we were all impressed about discovering another gem in the middle of the Walleye World." This was the first time the Ottertail area hosted the tourney, so the success really was a remarkable debut.
"One of the (anglers) said 'we're making plans to come back. The resort where we're staying is the cleanest ever. The people are great...The walleye tour looks forward to returning...We intend to include Otter Tail Lake on our list of favorites."
Now....if we could only get some rain and revive our East Otter Tail farm economy....before its too late.
