Author Cathy Wurzer

Project Details by Fiscal Year
2015 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,340
Fund Source
Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund
Recipient Type
Libraries
Status
Completed
Start Date
April 2015
End Date
April 2015
Activity Type
Education/Outreach/Engagement
Counties Affected
Brown
Brown
Project Overview
Cathy Wurzer, anchor of “Morning Edition” on Minnesota Public Radio and co-host of “Almanac” on Twin Cities Public Television, shared a 45-minute multimedia presentation based on her public television documentary and companion book “Tales of the Road: Highway 61.” Wurzer discussed the history and stories about the places along Highway 61, the 440-mile road that runs from the Canadian border at Pigeon Falls south to LaCrescent near the Iowa border. She also previewed the follow-up documentary that will revisit Highway 61. After the formal presentation, there was a Q&A session followed by a book and DVD signing session. Roberts’ visit was part of Minnesota Proud, a New Ulm Area Community Education/New Ulm Public Library cooperative effort that brought talented Minnesota artists and authors to the local community. Other presenters were photographer Doug Ohman and author Mike Roberts.
Project Details
90
Legal Citation / Subdivision
Laws of Minnesota for 2013 Chapter 137, Article 4, Section 2, Subdivision 4
2015 Fiscal Year Funding Amount
$1,340
Other Funds Leveraged
$230
Proposed Measurable Outcome(s)

Written surveys were distributed to all attendees at the program. It was expected that a majority of
respondents would:
• learn something about the history of Highway 61.
• gain a greater appreciation for Minnesota’s cultural richness.
• indicate they would share a positive review of the program with others.

Measurable Outcome(s)

The vast majority of respondents responded positively to the presentation, indicating they learned something about the history of Highway 61, gained a greater appreciation
for Minnesota’s cultural richness, and intended to share a positive review of the program with others.

Anecdotal responses included, “Most definitely (makes) me want to do a road trip.” “A delightful person –
had us all.” and “Very enthusiastic speaker! Enjoyed it very much. Thanks for all your research on finding
places and people!”

This librarian observed audience members fully engaged in the program. There was much humor in the presentation, and audience members were laughing throughout. A lengthy line formed after the program to
meet Cathy Wurzer, and she greeted every person. This event was a fantastic conclusion to an incredibly successful Minnesota Proud Series, and several audience members encouraged us to revive the series next year.

Source of Additional Funds

New Ulm Library, o New Ulm Community Education – program development, publicity
o Local businesses and media outlets – publicity

Project Manager
First Name
Dayle
Last Name
Zelenka
Organization Name
Traverse des Sioux Library Cooperative
Street Address
1400 Madison Avenue, Suite 622
City
Mankato
State
MN
Zip Code
56002-5488
Phone
507-625-6169
Email
dzelen@tds.lib.mn.us
Administered By
Administered by
Location

1500 Highway 36 West
Roseville, MN 55113-4266

Phone
651-582-8200