Pre-registration underway for March 23 event

By Tucker Henderson

Reporter

In a world that’s constantly occupied with thoughts of public health and obsessed with the prevention of the spread of illness, the New York Mills Public Library is hosting a presentation on public health in Otter Tail County throughout the years to share medical history. 

Missy Hermes, Education Coordinator for the Otter Tail County Historical Society, will be returning to present on the long and storied history of public health in the county. She will be focusing on the experiences in the past and how they relate to the present, especially in contrast with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hermes will look back through the years at disease, vaccinations, epidemics and other such issues in our local public health history. How much do you know about the Spanish Flu Epidemic of 1918? How about the treatment of tuberculosis in the early 1900s in Otter Tail County?

Hermes has presented a number of times at the library and the school on a multitude of topics over the years. She is a popular speaker for local library events and something interesting can be learned by any and all that attend.

“Missy Hermes has done several presentations for us and they are always very informative,” said Julie Adams, Library Director. “She does a great job at finding interesting stories with an Otter Tail County, or even local, connection. History-related programs are very popular at our library, so we try to get Missy here as often as we can.”

The event is open to the public, but organizers are asking those that plan to attend to preregister if possible by calling (218) 385-2436. 

Preregistration is not required, but will help provide individuals a seat as the space can fill up fast. The event is free and open to all and will take place on Thursday, March 23 at 6:30 p.m. in the library.