Small Town Effort

STAYING ALIVE, IT'S HIS GOAL. Al Minugh is making an effort to keep the small town of Dodson alive.

He is the only business left in the tiny town, yet at 93 years of age, he works with the hope of the town staying alive. That's a hefty load for a man that utilizes a wheelchair, cane, and scooter to get around. Yet, that is his goal. As a veteran and Native American with a strong love for his town, that's what keeps him going, and striving. With failing health, taking that on is quite a load.

Al is the owner of the "Al's Town and Country". Having just lost his wife, Molly, on August 6th in 2021, this small frame steam horse hasn't lost his spunk. His daughter, Dawn (Kaasa), and family are now assisting him temporarily. They have worked to bring the passer-by traffic on US Hwy 2 there in Dodson, to the doors of the little market store.

It was just this past year that Al tested his strength, when he was heading home and got stuck in the snow. He crawled home and in the process froze his hands, losing several fingers and damaging the other. This is the drive and strength he draws from to keep on ticking...and ticking...and working.

With the help of Dawn and her family, they are coming into the modern age with new advertising. A new sign in gold and green (Dodson School Colors), is erected; a wind flag sign is flapping in the ever-prevalent wind, and a "WELCOME" sign with the daily specials.

Al stated, "I am just turning 93 in October, and I want to keep this town alive. I'm doing my best, but I need help...". So, as you head west to destinations in the west, stop by and visit. If Al's tan car is there, the owner and man-in-charge is there. Al is the fourth owner of the business...well, sort of. It was originally operated by Virginia Solberg and Connie Wilkes. Al celebrated his 70th birthday there as a guest, and has owned it twice.

The coffee is on, stop and shop, and give Al a warm "hello".