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Crime Report 071808

In the local Crime Report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Wednesday July 16th (2:48 PM) a theft of timber was reported from Damond Lake Road in rural Bovey. The case is under investigation.
(5 PM) A resident on Chase Lake Road in rural Deer River reported that $3200 was illegally charged to a credit card. There is a suspect.
(9:45 PM) A camper on highway 38 in rural Grand Rapids reported the theft of 10 gallons of gas, 3 batteries and 3 electrical pigtails, together valued at $320. The case is under investigation.

In the local Crime Report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
On Wednesday July 16th (8:43 AM) a deliveryman was bitten by a dog on Fern Street in Grand Rapids. The deliveryman required medical treatment for his injuries. Law Enforcement was unable to question the dog’s owner until the dog was restrained. The case is under investigation.
On Thursday July 17th (9:10 PM) a traffic stop on Prairie Lake Drive in Grand Rapids resulted in a vehicle being impounded. A drug sniffing dog located a small amount of marijuana and some drug paraphernalia in the vehicle.
(2:15 PM) Upon returning from vacation a resident on 4th Street NE in Grand Rapids reported the theft of a $70 bicycle from their yard. The resident was unable to pinpoint the exact date & time of the theft.


Crime Report 071608

In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
At approximately 7 PM on Monday July 14th a suspect fleeing from the detox center resulted in a patrol car and foot chase that caused one officer to suffer minor injuries. A patrol car was damaged by the officer due to an encounter with a drainage ditch. The suspect was apprehended and returned to detox. An adult male was arrested for obstructing legal process for allegedly attempting to assist the fleeing suspect. The police officer was transported to Grand Itasca by Meds 1. He was treated for minor injuries and released.
A business on 4th Street NW in Grand Rapids reported a theft occurred over the weekend. $250 was taken from a cash register. Entry may have been gained by an unlocked door. The case is under investigation.
On Tuesday July 15th (12:53 AM) a resident on Trout Lake Road in Bovey reported they had lost a $4000 insurance check at a Pokegama Avenue South retail business.

In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Tuesday July 14th (7:49 AM) a resident of Diane Lane in rural Grand Rapids reported someone had been stealing electricity from their service. There is a suspect; however a dollar amount for the stolen services was unavailable.
(071508 11:13AM) Domestic argument Sunny Beach Road rural Grand Rapids.
(071508 3:49 PM) A loud noise complaint was received from Coral Road in rural Ball Club; quieted down by law enforcement.
(071508 4:26 PM) A personal injury accident was reported from Felix Road in rural Warba. A passenger of one vehicle involved was transported to Grand Itasca with minor injuries. The Warba Fire Department assisted at the scene.
(071508 11:30PM) A mailbox on Stark Road was knocked down. A damage estimate was unavailable.

Crime Report 071408

In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department
On Saturday July 12th a report of a drunk driver was received; the vehicle was located and stopped on Ridgewood Road in Grand Rapids. The driver was arrested for 4th degree DWI and the vehicle was towed.
A traffic stop on River Road resulted in an arrest for 3rd degree DWI.
A traffic stop on the Golf Course Road resulted in an arrest for 4th degree DWI.
A resident on 2nd Avenue SE in Grand Rapids reported their vehicle had been stolen; it was later located in a parking lot off 9th Street SE and returned.
On Sunday July 13th a loud party complaint was received from 4th Street SE; the party quieted down at the request of law enforcement.
A “damage to property” complaint was received from Hale Lake Pointe Road. A vehicle was keyed.
A traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in an arrest for 4th degree DWI; the vehicle was impounded.

In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Friday July 11th prescription medication was stolen from a mailbox on the Scenic Highway in rural Bovey. The complaint didn’t indicate how many oxycontin were taken or its value.
A resident on the Crystal Springs Loop in rural Grand Rapids reported $80 in damages to a water toy. The case is under investigation.
A $65 bicycle was reported stolen from a residence on Shady lane in rural Grand Rapids. No suspects at this time.
On Saturday July 12th the manager of a tavern on Dove Lane in rural Grand Rapids reported a bar disturbance. Law Enforcement quieted the situation.
Three minor consume citations were written on Highway 169 South.
A one vehicle accident occurred on CR 39 in rural Ball Club. The 25 year old driver was transported to Grand Itasca with minor injuries and later cited for misdemeanor DWI.
A clinic on Artic Road in Ball Club was vandalized. The exterior walls had graffiti paintings made on them.
A farm on Blackberry Acres Road in rural Grand Rapids reported $140 worth of chicken had been killed by two dogs. The dogs were caught and placed in impound; the owners are unknown at this time.
On Sunday July 13th a second degree assault occurred on Shadywood Road in rural Grand Rapids. One adult male was arrested.

Crime Report 071108

In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office
On Thursday July 10th at 9:03 AM the Itasca County Sheriffs office received a barking dog complaint from Highway 169 east in rural Grand Rapids. The dog was quieted down.
A residential burglary was reported from Freestone Road in rural Grand Rapids at 5:43 PM, taken was several skill saws; no value for the missing items reported.
A resident on CR 39 in rural Deer River reported their property had been damaged. Law Enforcement determined the damage was a result of a domestic argument. An adult male was arrested for damage to property and possession of a controlled substance.

Northland Foundation Awards 071008

The Northland Foundation has awarded 51 grants totaling $317,133 between April and June 2008. Area grants awarded include $2500 for the Aitkin County Citizens Committee on Aging, $21,000 for Aitkin Community Education, $850 to the Calumet Public Library, $479 to the Hill City Kids Plus program and $20,000 to Grand Rapids Area Kootasca Community Action.

Crime Report 071008

In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Tuesday July 8th a boater on CR 51 in Bovey reported the theft of a 5 gallon gas tank from their boat. The missing tank and gas were valued at $75.
On Wednesday July 9th another boater on CR 51 in Bovey reported 2 stolen boat gas tanks. These missing items were valued at $125.
A resident on Horseshoe Lake Road in Bigfork reported the theft of $300 from their home. The theft occurred during a graduation party. The case is under investigation.
A resident on Wabana Road in rural Grand Rapids reported the boat sold to them, a 14 foot Crestliner, wasn’t owned by the person selling the boat.

In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
On Tuesday July 8th (1106 AM) a resident on 4th Street NW in Grand Rapids reported the theft of 5 fishing rods and reels, a tackle box and tools, valued together at $800.
On Wednesday July 9th (2:32 AM) a report of a drunk driver was received from Pokegama Avenue South. The driver was arrested for 4th degree DWI and their vehicle impounded.
(070908 - 5:25 PM) A request for more police patrols was requested for 7th Avenue SE after a suspicious person was sighted near a city owned log home.
(070908 - 1102 PM) Domestic argument at 3rd Avenue NW.*
(071008 - 3:05 AM) Domestic argument Wabana Road.*
(070908 – 1:21 PM) Disorderly Conduct at 3rd Avenue NE*
(070908 – 10:48 PM) Disorderly Conduct at 6th Street SE*
(071008 – 00:41 AM) Disorderly Conduct at 1st Avenue SW*

* Don’t know if an arrest was made

Minnesota Power Upgrade Update 071009

The environmental upgrade at Minnesota Power’s Clay Boswell Energy Center unit #3 in Cohasset is about half-way through. The project to reduce mercury and nitrous oxide emissions broke ground last year and up to 400 workers, mostly from the Northland, have put in 365,000 injury free hours. Minnesota Power expects to be finished with the project, in the fall of 2009.

Bladin Grants

The Blandin Foundation Board of Trustees has approved $1,437,000 in grants, including new funding for a network of resources to support emerging and established bio-based businesses in rural Minnesota, with special emphasis on northern Minnesota.

“Bio-based industry will have a profound impact on the global economy in coming decades in areas such as nanotechnology, health care, energy and many other applications,” said Wade Fauth, grants director for the Blandin Foundation.  “Rural Minnesota is the steward of a vast storehouse of biological resources, as well as knowledge, that can help drive product and enterprise creation.
                                                                                       
            “The BioBusiness Alliance of Minnesota is the ‘go-to’ organization for facilitating the state’s efforts to capitalize on ‘bio-business’ opportunities.  This $250,000 grant (over three years) will enable the Alliance to commit more resources to rural Minnesota, particularly northern Minnesota, connecting companies and innovators to a statewide network.”

            The Blandin Foundation’s mission continues to be to strengthen rural Minnesota communities, especially the Grand Rapids area.  Grants, as well as the Foundation’s community leadership and public policy programs, are focused on six priority areas of critical impact for rural Minnesota:

Develop diverse leaders and equip them with knowledge, skills and resources for collective action.
Be a voice for rural Minnesota and increase the capacity of rural residents to be their own voice.
Pursue increased educational attainment for disadvantaged populations.
Support community and regional economic initiatives that capitalize on diverse assets.
Strive for fairness and opportunity in our local giving area through social justice and philanthropy.
Strengthen inter-cultural competencies.

Man Held After Utility Worker Threatened 062008
A rural Virginia man was arrested Monday for allegedly making terroristic threats, according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Department. The 51-year-old man allegedly confronted a Lake Country Power employee who went to his residence for official business. The employee said the man was holding a shotgun and demanded that he leave the property. The employee left and called 911. The man also confronted authorities with a shotgun, but was arrested without incident. No one was injured in either incident.

2008 Reassessment Scheduled 061908
Get ready for a knock on the door this summer if you live or work in the cities of Grand Rapids and Taconite or the organized Townships of Grand Rapids, Wabana, Greenway, Balsam, Bigfork, Trout Lake, Arbo, Lawrence, Marcell and Stokes and the Unorganized Township 58-26. The County Assessor’s Office will be reassessing the value of approximately 6,500 taxable properties in those cities and townships between June and October. According to County Assessor Thomas Gilmore the Assessor’s Office is required by State law to perform reassessments once every five years. Assessors will be driving county vehicles and wearing identification. Property owners can call the Assessor’s Office at 327-2861 to verify identification if necessary.  For more information about the 2008 reassessment of property or other functions of the Assessor’s Office, please call Thomas Gilmore at 218-327-2861.

COPSHOP Report 061608
In the local crime report form the Grand Rapids Police Department:
There were 21 traffic stops for speeding at various locations in Grand Rapids over the weekend. All were detected with radar units in squad cars while on patrol and all were cited for excessive speed.
On Friday June 13th an adult male was arrested on Donovan Drive in Grand Rapids for making terroristic threats.
On Saturday June 14th an individual was cited for driving around a barricade on 1st Avenue NW in Grand Rapids. He managed to get his pick-up stuck in the mud, got a ride and was cited later when law enforcement located the vehicle operator at work.
Also on Saturday a vehicle operator was cited for exhibition driving, open container and arrested for an outstanding warrant after he drove over the curb while entering a parking lot on Highway 169 East in Grand Rapids.
A power pole and tree were reported on fire on 3rd Street NW in Grand Rapids on Saturday June 14th. The fire was extinguished without injuries.
On Saturday June 14th a beer party on Highway 2 west in Grand Rapids resulted in a citation for a disorderly house and 13 minor consume citations being issued.
A retail merchant on Highway 169 south reported a shoplifting incident on Saturday June 14th. Two adult females were detained by store security personnel, however only one was charged with theft of $106 in merchandise.
A 5th degree assault occurred at the Showboat landing in Grand Rapids on Saturday June 14th. One adult male was arrested.
Two amorous adults in a pickup truck on 5th Avenue NE resulted in an indecent exposure citation being issued on Saturday June 14th.
On Sunday June 15th a fight on 7th Street SE in Grand Rapids resulted in two adult males being arrested for 5th degree assault.


In the local Crime Report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Thursday June 12th a resident on Midway Lane in rural Grand Rapids reported a case of internet fraud. The complainant had purchased as embroidery machine over the internet for $3000. The item was never delivered.
On Friday June 13th a cabin on CR 329 in rural Bovey was burglarized. Three guns of unreported value were stolen. There is a suspect.
A forced entry burglary of a garage on Gradel Road in rural Northhome occurred on Friday June 13th. Stolen were 4 ATV’s, 2 marine batteries and assorted fishing equipment, resulting in a loss of almost $10,000.
On Friday June 13th a resident on CR 453 in rural Bovey reported the theft from their checking account of $530 to an overseas location.
A loud noise complaint on Friday June13th from a campground near Marcell resulted in an arrest for a probation violation and two minor consume citations.
On Saturday June 14th a camper at a campground on Deer Lake in rural Deer River was injured when a tree fell on the RV he was inside. The 51 year old Mora resident was airlifted to St Mary’s in Duluth. His condition is unknown at this time.
A Hibbing resident was injured on Saturday June 14th on East Scooter Lake Drive in rural Bovey. The 23 year old male jumped off a dock and injured his neck. He was transported to Hibbing Medical Center and later airlifted to St Mary’s in Duluth.

COPSHOP Report 051208
In the local crime report:
On Friday May 9th a resident on Highway 2 in Swan River reported someone stole 8 solar lights and a deer rack from the property. The items are valued together at $200.
An underage patron at a club on Crystal Springs Road in rural Grand Rapids attempted to use a fake ID card. There is a suspect.
An adult male was arrested on Canal Street in Grand Rapids for a probation violation after law enforcement responded to a report of a fight.
On Saturday May 10th a cabin resident on Foxtail Lane in rural Deer River reported someone had stolen their construction tools. A dollar amount for the missing items and inventory was not available.
A wallet was reported missing from a purse at a club on Crystal Springs Road in rural Grand Rapids. The wallet contained $100 in cash.
The old Community Center on CR 146 in rural Deer River had a window broken by several juvenile suspects. A dollar value on the damage was not reported.
A counterfeit $20 bill was found at a retail business on Pokegama Avenue South. The bill was destroyed. Management is reviewing security tape.
A garage on CR A in rural Grand Rapids was burglarized. Taken were 2 fishing rods valued at $200.
On Sunday May 11th a golf course on Otis Lane in rural Cohasset was vandalized. Fairways 2 & 11 and tee-box #7 were damaged by a vehicle driving on them. A dollar amount for the damage was not immediately available, however there is a suspect.
A vehicle was reported stolen from a club on Crystal Springs Road in rural Grand Rapids. Taken was a tan 2001 Ford Explorer license plate XAC-171.
An employee of a retail store on Highway 169 south reported a missing purse. The purse contained $40 in cash and a cell-phone.

Local Weather Statistics for April 2008

The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand Rapids has released weather statistics for April 2008.

The average high for the month was 50.3 degrees and the average low was 27.9 with an overall average temperature of 39.1 degrees.

The warmest April on record was in 1987 with an average temperature of 49.5 degrees.

The coldest was in 1920 with an average temperature of 29.4 degrees.

We received 32.7 inches of rain / snow last month breaking the old record of 29.5 in 1961. The snowfall on April 6th of 14.5 inches was the most ever recorded in April.


Second Harvest North Central Food Bank
Second Harvest North Central Food Bank was overwhelmed last month by a $50,000 donation from a local resident who wishes to remain anonymous.  The grant was received through the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation.  The donor has challenged Second Harvest and the food bank’s supporters to raise an additional $50,000.  These funds will be dedicated to Second Harvest’s Endowment Fund and Operating Reserves.  The challenge grant campaign is titled “Grow the Harvest 2008.”  Letters were mailed out to major Second Harvest supporters last week, asking for help to meet this goal.  “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity that we must try to take full advantage of,” Estee says.  “Donations received in March and April also qualify for the Alan Shawn Feinstein Challenge so it is important to get the word out that donations now mean even more than ever.”  Support for the challenge grant will be sought from individuals, organizations, and foundations.  The deadline for the campaign is later this year.

For more information on Second Harvest North Central Food Bank contact Sue Estee, Executive Director, at 218-326-4420 or  www.secondharvestncfb.com.

COPSHOP Report 041808
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
There were 12 traffic stops for speeding in the Grand Rapids area on Thursday. One of those resulted in additional 3 citations, no proof of insurance, expired license tabs and an expired driver’s license.
Early Friday Morning an apartment resident on 11th Avenue NE in Grand Rapids reported some males entered the apartment and rummaged thru the refrigerator. The suspects fled when the apartment dweller confronted them and were later located at a hotel on Pokegama Avenue East. The males explained that they had entered the wrong apartment.

In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriff Office:
On Thursday April 17th a forced entry burglary was reported from 1st Avenue in Warba. Someone stole a jar of change and 6 gallons of gas. There was no value reported for the missing items.
An iPhone valued at $500 was reported stolen from a school on 2nd Street in Nashwauk.
A resident on Olafson Street in rural Northhome reported 6 traps and a pair of rubber boots stolen from their vehicle. The value for the missing items was approximately $250.
A case of internet fraud was reported from Northwood Road in rural Nashwauk. The victim said they were told they had won a lottery in Florida. They had to cash a check and send the money back in order receive their prize. Law Enforcement contacted a call back number and was brushed off. Law Enforcement then contacted the Florida Lottery Commission. The case is under investigation.

Oberstar Announces HUD Grant 041808
Ten communities in Northeast Minnesota will receive more than $4.5 million to build strong neighborhoods and communities. On Thursday Congressman Jim Oberstar announced funding that will be awarded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Small Cities Development Program to cities in Northeast Minnesota. The grants are awarded annually to communities that do not receive Community Development Block Grants from HUD, which is designed to provide grants to urban areas. Effie will receive over $445,000 from the grant.
Other northland communities receiving grants include the cities of Blackduck, Cambridge, International Falls, Henriette, Two Harbors and Pine River; and the counties of Carlton, Crow Wing and Lake.

Minnesota Steel Groundbreaking 041708
Minnesota Steel had hoped to hold a groundbreaking ceremony on April 24th but that has been postponed. Essar Global is still working on the debt financing package for the $1.6 billion dollar plant, planned for Nashwauk. They had hoped it would be done in the first quarter, however now it's looking closer to May or June. They plan on doing the groundbreaking after the financial close.

COPSHOP Report 041708
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday April 16th;
A resident on Harriet Street in Marble reported a theft. A juvenile suspect stole an un-reported amount of cash.
An automobile dealer in Calumet filed a “damage to property” complaint. Someone broke a window on a vehicle with a BB gun causing $200 in damages.
A resident on Diane Lane in rural Grand Rapids reported ATV’s on the roadway. The suspects were gone on arrival of Law Enforcement.

Greenway Levy Update
Residents of Independent School District 316 are asked to head to the polls May 20th to decide on a “Revoke and Replace” levy. 

According to Greenway Superintendent Rochelle Van Den Hoeval, the school board and superintendent have researched other cost saving plans, including keeping just two school buildings open. 

There are state regulations that dictate how much green space, playground room, outdoor space and classroom size.  The next step would be to contact an architectural study and building plan done.  This would cost the district upwards of thirty-thousand dollars.  The district can’t spend the money without cutting thirty-thousand dollars elsewhere, while in Statuary Operating Debt.

The district will be out of S.O.D. after July 1st and will then be able to make these decisions. 

COPSHOP Report 041508
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
There were 34 traffic stops for speeding in the Grand Rapids area over the weekend. Six of those stopped also received a citation for not using a seat belt.
On Friday April 11th the Grand rapids police department broke up an underage beer party on 11th Avenue NE and issued several minor consume citations.
On Saturday April 12th an attempted burglary was reported from a convenience store on River Road in Grand Rapids. Tracks in the snow led officers to a broken window; however it appeared entry was not gained to the facility and nothing appeared taken.
On Monday April 14th a non-forced entry burglary was reported from a business on 3rd Avenue NW in Grand Rapids. Stolen was a small safe containing checks but no cash. The case is under investigation.

In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Monday April 14th a $200 security camera at a school in Cohasset was damaged. The case is under investigation.
An apartment on Davis Road in rural Grand Rapids was damaged by flooding after an ex-renter left a water faucet running. There is a suspect.
A storage shed was broken into on Herd Street in Taconite; stolen was scrap metal and copper pipe. A value for the missing items was not reported.

Chisholm Teen Investigated for Murder 041108
Police in Mosinee Wisconsin are investigating a report that a 17-year-old Chisholm boy killed a man with a baseball bat in 2004 and buried the body in a residential yard in Mosinee.  Chisholm Police Chief Scott Erickson said the investigation is in the hands of Mosinee police after his department provided them information. Erickson said the boy was questioned by Chisholm police, but wouldn’t disclose what the teenager said. Police indicated that a boy had gone to the Chisholm Police Department and told them he killed a man with a baseball bat when he was visiting his older sister and brother-in-law in Mosinee in 2004. The case is under investigation.

Fire in Virginia Arson 041108
On Thursday a Virginia woman was charged with starting a fire that caused more than $300,000 in damages on April 4th to a Virginia business.  Charged with two felony counts is 21 year old Tiffany Jenner. One count is for arson and one for negligent fires. She is in custody in Becker County, Minn., on charges of failing to carry proof of auto insurance and failing to register a motor vehicle.  According to the criminal complaint, Jenner was questioned Monday after authorities received a call from a tipster who stated that Jenner had said that “she had set cardboard on fire in one of the garbage containers and that it got out of control.”

COPSHOP Report 041108
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department on Thursday April 10th:
There were eleven traffic stops for excessive speed in Grand Rapids on Thursday. One driver failed to stop for the officer, even after he used his lights and siren. He had to block the vehicle with the squad car. The 62 year old driver didn’t know she was supposed to stop. The incident is under review.
A traffic stop on 4th Street SE resulted in a vehicle being towed and the driver cited for driving after revocation and no insurance.

From the Itasca County Sheriffs office on Thursday April 10th:
Two adult males were arrested on South Bowstring Road in rural Inger for assaulting another adult male.

COPSHOP Report 040408
A suspected arsonist is in the Itasca County Jail awaiting formal charges for starting two trailer homes in Ball Club on fire.
Beebau is awaiting formal charges from the Itasca County Attorneys office.

In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department on Thursday April 3rd:
A four wheeler riding on the roadway resulted in a traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South. The driver was arrested for an outstanding warrant and cited for no proof of insurance and operating an ATV on a city street.
A resident on Frasier Drive in Grand Rapids reported that someone had placed a severed deer head in their mailbox. The case is under investigation.

From the Itasca County Sheriffs Office on Thursday April 3rd:
A residence on Arlich Road in Goodland was burglarized. Stolen was a safe containing an undetermined amount of cash.

April 4, 2008
COPSHOP Report 040308
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office on Wednesday April 2nd:
A trespassing complaint was received from Silverwood Avenue in Marble. There is a suspect.
A resident on Lynn Road in rural Grand Rapids called in a littering complaint. There is a suspect.

From the Grand Rapids Police Department on Wednesday April 2nd:
An unlocked apartment on 7th Street SE was burglarized. Stolen was a DVD player, a knife and a candle. Other items may be missing, the occupant is still checking. A dollar value was not reported for the missing items.

Stolen Property Recovered 040108
On Friday March 29th the Grand Rapids Police Department and Itasca County Sheriff’s Office recovered over $12,000 of stolen property. Itasca County Sheriff Pat Medure stated that the stolen property came from five different burglaries reported over the last three months.  The burglaries were at Mt. Itasca Ski Lodge, Montavon Motor’s, Lake States Tree Service, and Northland Tae Kwon Do and from a private storage unit. The Sheriff said the 23 year old suspect from Grand Rapids has been cooperating with law enforcement. The investigation is on-going and criminal charges have not been filed at this time.

Hillman Probation Violation 040108
A convicted sex offender made an appearance in Itasca County District Court on Monday. Itasca County Attorney John Muhar reported that 33 year old John Hillman of Nevis Minnesota was in court for a probation violation stemming from convictions for 1st and 2nd degree Criminal Sexual Conduct. Hillman allegedly had contact with one of the victims of those crimes, in violation of the conditions of his probation. Hillman is being held in the Itasca County Jail until his next court appearance, April 14th.

COPSHOP Report 032808
In the local crime report on Thursday March 27th:
From the Grand Rapids Police Department:
A traffic stop on 8th Avenue NE resulted in a citation for possession of a small amount of marijuana in a motor vehicle.
Two suspicious men going thru garbage was reported from 10th Avenue NE in Grand Rapids.
A school on 1sy Avenue NW reported property damage. Someone had broken a window and door to gain access to the building. Nothing appeared missing and a damage estimate was not available.

From the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
A resident of Gary Street in Calumet reported that parts were missing from their PC when it was returned from the computer repairman. The parts are valued at $1100 and there is a suspect.
An adult male was taken into custody on Highway 2 West in Deer River for 1st Degree DWI.
A resident on Prairie Lake Trail in rural Grand Rapids reported a burglary. Someone had broken into their garage and house taking over $40,000 in custom motorcycle parts and electronics.

Cohasset Man Charged with Possession of Meth 032808
Itasca County Attorney John Muhar reports that 37 year old Alvin Hines of Cohasset has been charged in Itasca County District Court on two counts of 1st degree controlled substance possession. The charges stem from allegations that Hines purchased 4 ounces of methamphetamine in the Twin Cities area and transported them back to our area with the intent to sell it. Hines first court appearance is scheduled for April 7th.

COPSHOP Report 032408

In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department
On Friday march 21st:
A traffic stop on 4th Street NW in Grand Rapids resulted in a citation for Driving after Revocation.
On Saturday March 22nd:
A minor accident in a parking lot of a family restaurant on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in two individuals being cited for fighting.
A traffic stop on 7th Street SE resulted in a citation for driving after revocation.
On Sunday March 23rd:
A 5th degree assault occurred at a retail store on Pokegama Avenue South.
A resident on 9th Avenue NW called in a complaint of a loud party. The revelers quieted down after the police arrived.
From the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Thursday March 20th:
A bar on 5th Avenue in Calumet reported an attempted burglary. There was no damage estimate available.
A trespassing complaint was called in from CR 51 in rural Bovey. The trespassers were cutting across the property to go fishing.
Several real estate signs were stolen from Sunny Beach road in rural Grand Rapids. No dollar value was reported.
A resident on Diane Lane in rural Grand Rapids called in a trespassing complaint.
On Friday March 21st
A business on Commercial Drive in rural Cohasset was burglarized. A dollar value for damages was not reported.
Another business on Commercial Drive in rural Cohasset was burglarized. The forced entry burglary caused $300 in damages.
Two cabin burglaries were reported from Highway 65 north of Nashwauk. Nothing appeared missing from either burglary.
Nine minor consume citations were issued at a party on Columbus Avenue in rural Cohasset.
On Saturday March 22nd:
Three chain saws were stolen from a storage unit on Commercial Drive in rural Cohasset. A dollar value was not reported for the missing chain saws.
A report of a car in the ditch off Trout Lake Drive in rural Bovey resulted in an arrest for 2nd degree DWI and driving after cancellation.
A complaint of a four-wheeler trespassing was reported from Hummingbird Lane in rural Grand Rapids.

Mailboxes Damaged
The Itasca County Sheriffs Office wants to remind everyone that thirty mailboxes on Mishawaka Road, Horseshoe Lake Road and the Airport Road were damaged by vandals over the weekend of March 7th, 8th and 9th.  Sheriff Pat Medure says there is still a reward available for information on those responsible.
If you have any information, you are asked to contact the Itasca County Sheriff’s Office at 326-3477 or 1-800-458-8732. 

Accident near Ely 032408
A two vehicle accident on Highway 1 near Ely claimed the life of 20 year old Nathaniel Stetter of Holmen Wisconsin. Stetter’s vehicle was eastbound on Highway 1 when it crossed the center-line and struck a vehicle driven by 74 year old William Tyrgg of Ely. The Minnesota State Patrol indicates that the accident occurred at approximately 10 Am on Friday March 21st. Tyrgg was transported to St Mary’s in Duluth with non-life threatening injuries.

Two Family Members Die Of Flu Like Illness
The Minnesota Department of Health is investigating the deaths of two men from the same Itasca County family. Deputy State Epidemiologist Dr. Richard Danila (dah-NILL'-ah) says the two died from an influenza-like illness but more tests need to be done. He says the two men - between the ages of 40 and 70 - may have also had a secondary bacterial infection such as pneumonia.
According to their obituaries, Dan Adams Senior and Dan Adams Junior died in the Bigfork Valley Hospital. Danila says while flu-related deaths are not uncommon, two deaths from the same family is unusual. Influenza symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches. The state epidemiologist recommends a flu vaccination to protect yourself.

March 21, 2008

 Sammy’s Burns in Hibbing 031208
A Thursday afternoon fire severely damaged the Hibbing home of Sammy’s Pizza. Pat Klobuchar, a battalion chief for the Hibbing Fire Department, said his crews were called to Howard St. at 3:28 PM. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and no one was seriously injured. Klobuchar said he didn’t have a dollar estimate available for the damage, but said the fire was serious.

March 21, 2008

Minnesota Connections Academy
In our area there are public schools, private schools, home schools, parochial schools and now a virtual school, the Minnesota Connections Academy. There will be a free informational session on Tuesday April 1st from 6:30 to 8:30 PM at the Sawmill Inn. During the session families will learn about the full time, tuition free program for students from K-12. For more information you can call 1-800-382-6010 or visit on-line at connectionsacademy.com.

COPSHOP Report 031408
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department on Thursday March 13th:
There were 7 speeding citations issued at various locations around Grand Rapids on Thursday.
An illegal parking complaint on 2nd Avenue SE resulted in a citation for Driving after revocation, no proof of insurance and expired license tabs.
A “damage to property” complaint was received from the bus barn on highway 2 west. A juvenile damaged a seatback with a pencil.

From the Itasca County Sheriff’s Office:
(1026 AM) A $700 laptop was stolen from a community school on Bridge Street in Warba. There are no suspects at this time.
(3:37 PM) a non-forced entry burglary was reported from East Bass Lake Road in rural Grand Rapids. Stolen were 2 jars of change worth approximately $200 and 50 DVD’s. No suspect at this time.

Adding an E to the Three Rs
A plan to get Minnesota kids in shape goes before a legislative committee today. It would put phy-ed classes in all schools. House sponsor John Ward says the growing numbers of overweight and obese kids have become a major health, education and economic issue.

"The bill is an attempt to have our students become more physically active. We believe that an active child also is a healthy child; also, learns better. So, this is an attempt to address childhood obesity. Is it going to be a cure-all? Absolutely not. We’re looking to teach some life-song skills "
Ward says the measure would also reduce health care costs. It would establish statewide standards for health and physical education and make phy-ed a graduation requirement. He notes there’s some opposition from those against “government mandates,” but points out there are already lots of state education mandates designed to help kids learn, and unhealthy kids have trouble “hitting the books.”

Second Annual Citizens Academy 031308
The Grand Rapids Police Department is holding its second annual Citizens Academy. The program is designed to give citizens knowledge of how the public safety department operates; its policies, procedures, programs and challenges. The program will run for eight weeks, meeting on Tuesday nights. Some topics to be covered include a ride-along with GRPD officers, criminal investigations and DWI procedures. Members of the community are encouraged to attend and for more information contact the Grand Rapids Police Department at 326-3464.

COPSHOP Report 031308
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office for Wednesday March 12th:
A report of credit card fraud was received from North Shoal Lake Road in Rural Grand Rapids. Someone had charged $2000 to a credit card without authorization.
A case if identity theft was reported from CR 162 in rural Deer River. A resident received a bill from an internet telephone service for $186, without signing up for the service.
A “damage to property” complaint was received from a residence on Chase Lake Road in rural Deer River. A 14 year old juvenile female trashed the home during a domestic argument.


Veterans Cemetery at Jay Cooke State Park 031108
Governor Tim Pawlenty has announced plans for a Duluth-area veteran’s cemetery to be located at Jay Cooke State Park. In November, Pawlenty said he would find a new state cemetery in the Duluth area, which would be the second state-operated cemetery. The federal government would pay for the design and construction of the site, while the state would need to buy the land and pay for operations. Pawlenty said he would request $325,000 per year for cemetery upkeep. Minnesota's other Veteran’s Cemetery is located at Fort Snelling.

Rajala Reappointed to Forest Resources Council 031108
Governor Tim Pawlenty announced the appointment or reappointment of eight Minnesotans as members of the Minnesota Forest Resources Council. Among those is John Rajala of Deer River, the vice president of Rajala Lumber Company. Rajala is reappointed as the representative of secondary wood manufacturers. The Minnesota Forest Resources Council develops recommendations to the Governor and to federal, state, county and local governments with respect to forest resource policies and practices that result in the sustainable management, use, and protection of the state’s forest resources.


Local Weather Statistics for February 2008
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand Rapids has released weather statistics for February 2008.

The average high for the month was 22.2 degrees and the average low was -3.6 with an overall average temperature of 9.3 degrees.

The warmest February on record was in 1998 with an average temperature of 30 degrees.

The coldest was in 1936 with an average temperature of -8.0 degrees.

We received 5.6 inches of snow last month.


COPSHOP Report 031008

In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:

On Friday March 7th:
(6:15 PM) A family restaurant on Pokegama Avenue south requested an unruly customer be removed from the premises. The customer was charged with 5th Degree assault, obstructing the legal process and probation violation.

On Saturday March 8th:
(7:35 PM) A storage shed for a government office on Pokegama Avenue South was broken into. Nothing appeared missing and the dollar value for the damage was not reported.

On Sunday March 9th:
(5:32 pm) The Grand Rapids Fire Department and officers from the Grand Rapids Police Department responded to a complaint of a gas leak on 6th Avenue NE. The leaking valve was repaired.
(9:55 pm) A traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in citations for driving after revocation and no proof of insurance being issued.

From the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:

On Saturday March 8th:
(01:11 AM) An 18 year old was cited for obstructing the legal process, probation violation and under age drinking on Crystal Springs Road in rural Grand Rapids.
(1:46 PM) An adult male was arrested from Bridge Street in Warba for violating an order for protection.
(10:34 PM) A new scam is circulating thru the county. A resident on 14th Street NW in rural Grand Rapids reported that they had received a phone call stating they had received a federal grant but they needed a bank account to deposit the money into. The victim gave the scammers a saving account number, fortunately it was already empty.
(11:18 PM) An innkeeper on Highway 2 in Deer River reported some unruly guests. Sheriffs Deputies arrested an adult male and an adult female for obstruction of legal process and probation violation.

On Sunday March 9th:
(3:53 PM) South Shoal Lake Road – domestic argument.
(11:26 AM) A loud noise complaint was received from Maryann Drive in LaPrairie. Someone had been revving their engine.


Solberg 022808
No one wants to raise taxes. That’s Representative Loren Solberg’s take on the gas tax increase included in the transportation bill
Representative Solberg asks “what is the cost of another bridge collapse?”
He said this bill will take steps to avoid another tragedy and help the states economy:
Representative Loren Solberg chairs the House Ways and Means Committee.

COPSHOP Report 022808
In the local crime report for Wednesday February 27th
From the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
At 2:58 PM a resident on Highway 2 in Deer River reported they had received a threatening phone call. The male caller knew the home and work addresses of the intended victim.
At 6:43 PM a one vehicle rollover on Highway 6 in Cohasset resulted in a juvenile female being transported to Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital. Her condition is not known at this time.
At 5:50 PM an Itasca County Sheriffs Deputy discovered an injured eagle on Highway 46 in Deer River. It appears the eagle had been struck by a passing vehicle and suffered a broken wing. Two DNR Conservation Officer’s assisted with the recovery of the injured raptor, unfortunately the eagle died as a result of the injuries received.
At 2:18 PM a vehicle theft occurred from 2nd Avenue SE in Grand Rapids. The stolen 1995 Chevy Blazer was stopped in Aitkin County and the juvenile male transported to the Itasca County Jail where he is awaiting charges.

From the Grand Rapids Police Department:
(Unknown time) two juvenile female shoplifters were apprehended at a SE Grand Rapids retail business. The suspects had stolen over $80 worth of merchandise that couldn’t be restocked.
At 11:22 AM the Grand Rapids Fire Department responded to a natural gas leak at a business on Pokegama Avenue North. No injuries were reported and the gas leak was repaired.

Greenway School Forest

The forest products industry is helping Deer River, Grand Rapids and now Greenway school students appreciate the type of opportunities that are available.  Kathy Lynn has our story.
 
FEAP- or the Forest Education Awareness Project is helping teachers educate students about the multi-use of the forest and good stewardship.  The school has designated Longyear Park, the school yard and a trail along the lake as a designated Forest.  Its use won’t change.  But, Vandyke Elementary school principal Jo Landwer said this is a great opportunity for students. (Act Landwer)

The city of Coleraine passed a resolution allowing the forest designation last week.

Millis 022608
Grand Rapids will soon be highly visible on the web due to an action taken by the Grand Rapids City Council at last nights council meeting.
During the Grand Rapids Police Department’s annual report to the council the city’s animal control facility was highlighted
The council approved a purchase for the Grand Rapids police department.
The issue of off-sale liquor licenses was brought up
Mayor Millis says there will be a new Library Director
In other action the council approved expenditures for a study to renovate city hall and held a required meeting on Storm Water Pollution Prevention.


COPSHOP Report 022608
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
There were 52 traffic citations issued in Grand Rapids for speed between Friday and Monday. All were detected by radar units.
On Friday February 22nd on 10th Street and Pokegama Avenue South a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle as they crossed the street. The pedestrian received only minor injuries. The vehicle driver claimed their window was covered with frost.
A cell phone was reported stolen from a business on the River Road in Grand Rapids. No dollar value was reported for the missing phone.
A report of vandalism was received on Friday February 22nd from a business on Pokegama Avenue South. Three vehicles were sprayed with silly string. A damage estimate was not available.
A resident on 6th Avenue SW reported someone called them with the news that they had won $450,000 but had to send $875 to receive the money. It is a scam.
On Sunday February 24th a resident on River Road in Grand Rapids reported their garage had been broken into, nothing was reported missing and a damage estimate was not available.
On Monday February 25th a vehicle parked at a shopping center on Pokegama Avenue South had $140 stolen from it. Law Enforcement is reviewing parking lot surveillance video.

In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
A burglary on Crooked Point Lane in rural Bovey was reported on Friday February 22nd. Stolen were two dirt bikes valued together at $6000. There are no suspects at this time.
An adult male was arrested on Saturday February 23rd from Itasca Street in Grand Rapids for possession of a controlled substance. Approximately 6 grams of methamphetamine were seized.
On Sunday February 24th: a convenience store on Pokegama Lake in rural Grand Rapids reported a gas drive off of $48. There is no suspect.
A resident on Highway 65 north of Nashwauk reported two carburetors and a silver shift knob valued at $600 were stolen from their garage.
An adult female was arrested for forced entry burglary and assault on Agate Road in Ball Club.
On Monday February 25th a commercial vehicle went thru the ice into 16 feet of water on Sand Lake in rural Max.
Itasca County’s central impound lot on LaPrairie Avenue had an unreported amount of copper wire stolen from it. The suspects cut a hole in the fence.


Stone on Transportation Bill 022708

Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce transportation committee has been working on the transportation bill for six or seven years. Chamber President Bud Stone says that now with funding in place our roads and bridges can get much needed maintenance and repairs, however there is an even bigger benefit in the bill
He said that state money will be available to match federal funds
Chamber President Bud Stone said this could also help complete the cross-range expressway.
The new law should take effect October 1st of this year.

02-22 Hill City Preview Story

The School Board of Independent School District 2 in Hill City will meet Monday evening at 7pm in the Hill City School community Room. Kathy Lynn has our story.

According to Hill City Superintendent Scott Vedbratten, there are just two items of new business for the board to consider.

The board will also hear reports from technology, student council, negociations, maintenance and community educations.

The school board meeting is scheduled for Monday February 25th at 7pm in the Hill city School Community Room. The public is invited.

Anzelc 022208

The 2008 Minnesota Legislature has passed the $6.6 billion omnibus transportation bill on to Governor Pawlenty; however the Governor has indicated he would veto any bill that includes a tax increase. The omnibus transportation bill has provisions for a gas tax and metro area sales tax increase. Representative Tom Anzelc thinks there are enough votes to override a veto.

However Representative Anzelc cautions that overriding a Governors veto is a major undertaking and not easily accomplished.

With DNR officials contemplating a change in the Canisteo flood water mitigation project Representative Tom Anzelc says he is very concerned.

He said that his legislation to appropriate $3.5 million passed out of committee to be included in the Bonding Bill and the omission of the word siphon should give the DNR more flexibility in mitigation this problem.

The Minnesota Steel Project and the KEETAC renovation begin the rebirth of the Western Mesabi Range. Representative Tom Anzelc:

He said the $350 million renovation at KEETAC and Essar Global's Minnesota Steel project are moving closer to reality.

02-22-08 JOINT POWERS COURT SYSTEM

At 11:00 this morning, The Leech Lake Band Of Ojibwe and 9th judicial district court will signing an agreement to work together.

Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Russell Anderson, Associate Supreme Court Justice Lorie Gildea(Gil-DEA), 9th District Judicial Court Judges and the judges of the Leech Lake Tribal Court are all expected to be at this morning's ceremony. Diane Gross, 9th judicial district court administrator said the ceremony will be unique.

All other actions will be held on the 3rd floor of the Itasca County Courthouse. A reception will be held in the county board room following the ceremony.

Oberstar on Mn Trans Bill 021408

Congressman Jim Oberstar says the transportation plan unveiled by Minnesota legislators on Tuesday is one of the best he has ever seen.

Oberstar calls the legislation unveiled by state lawmakers a "bold initiative" and that the Minnesota state transportation bill will stimulate the economy and is a good investment for taxpayers.

Saxhaug 021408

Minnesota Senator Tom Saxhaug says the Dedicated Funding Bill for Transportation and the Arts is well under way.

Senator Saxhaug thinks the Senate will be working hard the first few weeks of this session.

No tax increases was a major theme of Governor Pawlenty's State of the State speech, Senator Saxhaug agrees.

The potential flood from the Canisteo Mine Pit and infrastructure for the Minnesota Steel Project continue to be major issues this session.

COPSHOP Report 021108

In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:

On Friday February 8th a complaint of a loud party was received from 7th Street SE. The partiers turned down the music at the policed request.

An Innkeeper on Pokegama Avenue South reported someone had thrown a rock thru a window. The case is under investigation.

On Saturday February 9th a traffic stop for excessive speed resulted in a citation being issued for careless driving and possession of marijuana in a motor vehicle. The driver also failed a field sobriety test however passed the breathalyzer when it was administered.

There were 13 traffic stops for excessive speed at various locations within Grand Rapids over the weekend.

One adult was arrested for 3rd Degree DWI on Highway 2 west in Cohasset.

From the Itasca County Sheriff's Office:

On Saturday February 9th an accident occurred on the Highway 169 causeway over Pokegama Lake. Five cars and a charter bus were involved however only minor injuries were reported. It appears the blowing snow caused whiteout conditions contributing to the accident.

On Sunday February 10th a loud noise complaint was received from Diane Lane in rural Grand Rapids. Someone was revving their engine at 1:40 in the morning.

A $1900 computer was taken from a residence on Grouse Creek Road in rural Deer River. There is a suspect.

A garbage can valued at $50 was stolen from a residence on Natures Trail Lane in Squaw Lake.

Millis on City Council 021208

At last nights Grand Rapids City Council meeting the council voted to purchase a new road grader, hire a new police officer and allowed a change to the new Wal-Mart store:

Grand Rapids Mayor Jim Millis said the council entered into a contract that could save the city $30,000 a year:

In other action the Council appointed David Protelsch (pro-telsch like Welch) as the fire department's HAZ-MAT officer and conducted two public hearings.

Animal Control Facility 011208

The Grand Rapids Animal Control Facility's budget for last year fell short by almost $35,000. To help offset the cost of the new facility the city of Grand Rapids has a new license fee.

Mayor Millis anticipates broader enforcement actions with the warmer weather of spring and summer.

New Police Officer 021208

Grand Rapids has a new police officer, Kevin Ott of Deer River.

The city also appointed David Protelsch as the Grand Rapids Fire Department's HAZ-MAT officer.

Cohasset Hypothermia Victim

A twenty four year old Cohasset man died as a result of falling into the Mississippi River Sunday morning. Itasca County Sheriff Pat Medure identified the victim as Jay Gemmill. The Sheriff's department received a 911 call at 2:19pm Sunday afternoon of a man laying on the edge of the ice long the Mississippi River in Cohasset. An autopsy showed the victim died from hypothermia due to exposure. Sheriff Medure stated it appears the victim was walking along the edge of the Mississippi River, broke through on the ice and fell into the water. He was able to pull himself up on to the ice where he died. The Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Cohasset Fire Dept and Med's One Ambulance Service.

Teacher of the Year Nomination

Krystin Martin of Our Redeemer Little Lambs Pre-school in Grand Rapids has been nominated as one of 115 for the 2008 Minnesota Teacher of the Year award. Education Minnesota, the 70,000 member statewide educators union, organizes the Teacher of the Year program. The program is in its 44th year and this year's winner will be announced on May 4th.

Jenny Guyer Fishing Tournament 013108

Saturday is the 5th Annual Jenny Guyer Fishing Tournament. Tom Sutherland said Jenny was very involved in the community and this will be a great way to give something back to our community:

Registration begins at 11 AM at the Colerain Fire Department on the shores of Trout Lake. Fishing starts at noon, a raffle will be held at 4 PM. For more information contact Jennifer Daigle at (218) 290-5300 or Mindy Thompson at (218) 256-1654.

Minnesota Forest Legacy Partnership 013108

The single largest forest conservation easement in a decade is being celebrated this weekend with a dinner, pancake breakfast and snowmobile ride. The Koochiching-Washington Forest Legacy of 80 square miles was assembled by the Minnesota Forest Legacy Partnership, the Forest Capital Partners (the land owners) and the Itasca County Snowmobile Alliance to conserve and preserve state forestland, ecosystems and public recreational opportunities.

The celebration starts on Friday February 1st with a dinner and program at Rutgers Sugar Lake Lodge and continues on Saturday with a pancake breakfast at the Swampsiders Snowmobile Club in Bigfork. The ride begins at 10 AM. For reservations for the dinner and program contact Rutgers at (218) 327-8738. For information on the breakfast and ride contact the Swampsiders Snowmobile Club at 218 245-1725.

Adams 012908

The sale of four lots on the north side of the Golf Course is moving forward. Mayor Pro-Tem Dale Adams:

The Grand Rapids city council is also looking to convert some of the golf course property into a recreational park for city residents' enjoyment.

The Superintendent of grounds at the Pokegama Golf Course has resigned.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dale Adams stated that this is a great opportunity to streamline costs for the city.

Big Read

At Monday's City Council meeting and work-session Grand Rapids Mayor pro-tem Dale Adams proclaimed February as Big Read Mystery Month in support of the National Endowment for the Arts Big Read program to promote literacy.

The kick-off event will be a mystery dinner theater performance of The Maltese Crow presented by the Grand Rapids Players on February 1st at the Lakes Inn.

ICC Foundation 013008

The Itasca Community College Foundation has partnered with the Reif Center to present a fundraiser to benefit both the ICC Foundation and the Reif Centers Endowment Fund.

Mary Ritchie from the ICC Foundation says the main purpose of the endowment is to fund student scholarships. Tickets are available at the Reif box office, Reeds Drugs and on-line at HYPERLINK "http://www.reifcenter.org" www.reifcenter.org.

COPSHOP Report 012808

In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:

If you were stopped for speeding this weekend, you weren't alone. Twenty-four citations were issued at various locations around the city for excessive speed.

A minor injury accident occurred on 3rd Avenue NE in Grand Rapids on Friday.

Two suspicious persons were reported over the weekend. One from a business on Pokegama Avenue North on Friday; the other from Canal Street on Saturday. Both were gone upon arrival of law enforcement.

A traffic stop for speeding resulted in an arrest for 3rd Degree DWI and driving after cancellation. The arrest occurred Saturday on the River Road in Grand Rapids.

From the Itasca County's Sheriffs Office:

A cabin on North Heart Lake Road in Goodland was burglarized on Saturday. A door and window were damaged in the burglary; however nothing appeared to be missing.

A report of vandalism was received on Saturday from CR 560. A door to a restroom at the Ski Trail was broken. A damage estimate was un-available.

A chimney fire was reported from a residence on Natures Trail Road in Squaw Lake. A damage estimate was not available.

A residence on CR 117 in Cohasset received minor damage when a chimney fore entered the attic. The Deer River Fire Department assisted.

January 28, 2008

Meetings the Week of January 28th

The Grand Rapids City Council will have a work session and city council meeting on Monday January 28th. The work-session starts at 3:30 PM in Conference Room 2A. Items on their agenda includes a meet with State Senator Tom Saxhaug and discussions on the 2008 Election procedures, the Golf Course land sale, the Golf Course Superintendent position and the city video promotion. The regular city council meeting will begin at 5 PM in the council chambers. Items on their agenda include a proclamation on the Big Read, a department head report from the Fire Department and accepting the Golf Course's Grounds Superintendent's resignation.

The Itasca County Board of Commissioners will meet with representatives from Minnesota Steel / Essar Global on Thursday January 31st at 9 AM in the West Venue of the County Boardroom.

Independent School District 318 will hold a special school board meeting and public hearing on Monday January 28th at 7 PM in the administration services board room. The public hearing will allow input on the possible closure of Eagleview Elementary School in Squaw Lake.

Radio Tower Update 012308

In July the County will have a state of the art communication system thanks to the Radio Communication Project spearheaded by the Itasca County Sheriff's Office. Sheriff Pat Medure says the 9.4 Million Dollar Project will consist of eleven new towers and put public safety and other government agencies on one system.

The new system will also enable non-government agencies such as snowmobile trail groomers to share the frequencies.

01-23-08 Bridagier General Eveleth

An Eveleth native has achieved the rank of brigadier general in the Air Force Reserve. Kathy Lynn has details.

President Bush approved the promotion of Colonel M. Bratinich. Bratinich is one of 12 Air Force colonels selected for promoition. Bratnich commands the 419th Fighter Wing, based at Hill Air Force Base in Utah. He is married to Bobbi Olson, also of Eveleth. They have three daughters.

01-23-08 School Board Awards

Ben Hawkins, financial Director of independent school district 318, accepted an award Tuesday evening from the Minnesota Department of Education. Fewer than 10 percent of school districts in the state are recognized each year for their timely reporting and compliance with the states regulations. District 318 school Superintendent Joe Silko.

The award was presented to Hawkins and his staff. Ben Hawkins accepted the award during Tuesday's school board meeting.

School board chair Paul Meyer was also recognized for competing 100 hours of Minnesota School Board meetings and conferences.

01-22-08 Excelsior Energy

The cities of Coleraine, Bovey and Taconite will all benefit if the Environmental Impact Statement for Excelsior Energy is approved. Excelsior Energy has agreed to undertake a water quality improvement program in connection with its Mesaba Energy Gasification power generation project. All water used in the plant would be recycled. Excelsior Energy will also make improvements costing nearly five hundred thousand dollars to the combined wastewater treatment plants in the three range cities.

0`1-22-08 SO/PD

From the Itasca County Sheriff's OfficeŠŠ..

A window was reported broken on a vehicle Friday morning. No value on the window replacement.

A shoplifter was reported Friday at a business on highway 169 east.

A gas drive off was called in Friday from County Road 63 Friday. The vehicle driver pumped two kinds of gas, but only paid for one pump. The driver was located.

A $200 mailbox and post was reported hit by a vehicle Saturday afternoon on Juneau Road in rural Bigfork.

A cabin on West Deer Lake Road in Deer River was reported broken into Sunday afternoon. Some one made off with a tv and built in DVD player. It's valued at $100.

From the Grand Rapids Police DepartmentŠŠŠ.

Between Friday and Monday, 30 drivers were ticketed by the Grand Rapids police department for speeding.

A vehicle stolen from a Coleraine resident was located near the Fairgrounds Saturday. The driver is expected to be charged with minor consumption of alcohol and driving without a license.

A gas theft was reported Monday at a business on highway 2 west. The vehicle was located.

Two kids were accused of theft Monday at a business on 9th avenue northeast. The change machine at the laundromat was open.

Some one tried to cash a travelers check for $50.00 at a local business. The customer said he obtained 3 $500.00 travelers check for free.

A grounp of friends left a restaurant on highway 169 south without paying. One suspect was located and said they weren't happy with the meal.

Solberg 012208

1. Job Growth and personal income are two important factors contributing to Minnesota's declining economy. Representative Loren Solberg:

"The Range has an opportunity to be a bright spot in a dismal state."

This year's Legislative session will focus on the biennium budget.

2. The 2008 Minnesota Legislative Session is focused on the biennial budget and bonding. According to Governor Pawlenty funding for education will be limited, however Representative Loren Solberg says:

"There's been a huge shift in property tax and that's not the fair way to fund education."

Representative Solberg says the state needs to do the right thing to fund education.

3. Rising water in the Canisteo Mine Pit will flood Bovey unless something is done. Representative Loren Solberg says the problem has to be solved:

"We need to prevent a tragedy, not respond to a tragedy after it happens."

According to Representative Solberg, the Iron Range legislative delegation will make the Canisteo Mine Water Mitigation Project a top priority.

4. Funding for the infrastructure for the Minnesota Steel project has been a major concern for all parties. Governor Pawlenty recommended $30 million however Representative Loren Solberg says:

"Š But in effect, only 6.2 from the state bonding."

The Minnesota Steel project could create 700 new jobs on the range.

01-21-08 Itasca County board

How do visitors find interesting events and places in Northern Itasca County? The Itasca County board of commissioners will discuss spending up to $25,000 to construct an Edge of the Wilderness Discovery Center on the north side of Marcell, Minnesota on Tuesday afternoon during their regularly scheduled board meeting. Other items on the agenda include:Itasca county sheriff Pat Medure will present his "Lifesaving Awards",

Consider authorizing a contract with Solid Waste Management & Recycling for an additional five (5) year term.

Continue a public hearing regarding zoning ordinance revisions.

The board meets at 3pm Tuesday in the board room of the Itasca county courthouse.

01-18-08 School Board

Independent School District 318 must immediately cut costs and with that, programs. The school board will meet Tuesday evening to consider cuts in teachers, programs and other operational expenses during their regularly scheduled school board meeting.

Other items on the agenda include:

An update on construction within the district

An update on community education, Early childhood and extended year programming

Consider accepting retirement letters from 4 teachers.

The board will meet on Tuesday this week because Martin Luther King Junior Day is observed on Monday.

Temperatures are going to be dangerous this weekend. Kathy Lynn has more

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety offers some tips to keep you and your family safe. One suggestion is to keep a winter survival kit in your car. The kit should include a blanket, a coffee can (which can be used to melt snow to drink), a red bandana or cloth, a few snacks, a flashlight, jumper cables and a cell phone. If you become stranded, stay with your car. The department also recommends you combine your errands to make as few trips as possible. Leave young children at home with a sitter while you run your errands to decrease their chances of frostbite.

Temperatures and wind chills are going to be dangerously low this weekend.

COPSHOP Report 011408

In the local crime report:

From the Itasca County Sheriff's Office, a portable fish house was reported stolen from Little Splithand Lake in rural Grand Rapids on Friday January 11th. The fish house, ice chisel and lures were valued at $200.

There were eight speeding citations issued by the Grand Rapids Police Department over the weekend.

Contract 011408

The teachers of Education Minnesota's Local 1314 have voted to approve their contract with ISD 318. The school board will meet in special session today at 5:15 to accept the approved contract. The school district could loose $100,000 in state funding if the contract isn't accepted.

The Deer River School Board approved their contract at last Monday's meeting

Snowmobile Accident on Pokegama Lake 011308

A snowmobile accident on Pokegama Lake injured a 37 year old woman on Friday. The Coon Rapids woman was driving her sled on the Driftskippers Trail Friday afternoon when she rolled her machine. Melissa Medina was transported to Grand Itasca by Meds One with a broken collarbone.