New hop scotch patterns installed in Ottertail

By Chad Koenen

Publisher

The Ottertail city staff are putting a new twist on the old saying, “just a hop, skip and a jump away.” Staff members recently installed several hopscotch patterns by the community center and city hall as a way to bring some extra fun to the community this summer. They are also planning to install some hop scotch patterns along the bike path as well. 

The concept came after Ottertail clerk/treasurer Elaine Hanson’s sister sent her a picture of a hopscotch pattern a while back and the staff members thought it would be a good idea for the bustling summer community. They found a hopscotch pattern online, and kind of hopped along from there.

Deputy clerk Amanda Thorson said the first hopscotch path was installed just the other week and several other ones are being planned along the bike path and other city property in town.

“It makes for a destination on the bike path, so if you are with the kids you can say there is hopscotch by the next bench,” said Thorson. 

The goal is to not only provide another option of exercising, but to have another fun activity that youth and adults can participate in during the summer months. So far the extra effort of city staff has been appreciated by the community. 

“We hope it goes over well, we have received good reviews on our Facebook page and people are excited about it,” said Thorson.