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Snow Snow Everywhere, Not! 011912
Today is Thursday January 19th, it is northern Minnesota and
there are communities begging for snow. Yet to the northwest in
Washington & Alaska they have too much! The Grand Rapids Snow Folk
Festival and Ely's Winter Festival are suffering for the lack of that
frozen form of water. Not to mention the impact on snowmobile
enthusiasts. For the record the organizers in Ely are asking us to
bring clean snow in coolers, bags, boxes or by the pickup truck and
dump it near the wooden forms in Whiteside Park. If you would rather
not drive that far, drop it off at the central school or children's
discovery museum. By the way, although no two snowflakes are exactly
alike at the molecular level, the environmental factors involved in the
creation of a snowflake makes it improbable that anyone will see two
identical ones.
Crime Report 011812
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Friday January 13th two students at the Grand Rapids High School were
suspended for usage of synthetic marijuana on school grounds.
- On
Saturday January 14th two parents of the visiting basketball team were
reported for harassing game officials. The suspects were gone upon
arrival of law enforcement.
- Also on
Saturday a resident on 20th Street SE was cited for making harassing
phone calls. The suspect contacted dispatch about the status of a court
order, was told it was a Saturday and it wouldn't be worked on over the
weekend. The suspect called an hour later and received the same
response. The third time they called they were told the same thing and
cautioned against calling 911 again on the same subject. They did and
were cited.
- On
Sunday January 15th an intoxicated male was reported stumbling thru the
area around the Central Square Mall. It was reported the suspect was
urinating in the parking lot. Law enforcement located the suspect near
his residence and warned him to get home and stay there.
- On
Tuesday January 17th a shoplifter was apprehended at a retail merchant
on Pokegama Avenue South. The suspect had approximately $50 in
merchandise hidden on their person and about $200 in their shopping
cart. The suspect also had three failure to appears on their record.
The suspect was arrested and taken to the ICJ.
- A
resident on 4th Street NW called 911 to report some of her medication
missing and she suspected it were the people in her apartment. When law
enforcement arrived it was noted she was alone, despite her assurances
otherwise. She also indicated she thought George Clooney, the movie
star, had taken some of her missing medication. The suspect also
indicated she had been drinking beer all day, had consumed several of
the sleep aids that day and had been seeing things. She was taken to
the ER at Grand Itasca for evaluation. By the way, George Clooney is in
Italy this week.
Lottery News 011712
The cost of a Powerball ticket is now two dollars and Debbie
Hoffman with the Minnesota State Lottery says Powerball jackpots now
start at 40-million instead of the previous 20-million:
Hoffman says the pool of numbers that the Powerball number is drawn
from has also decreased from 39 to 35:
Minnesota is one of 44 states offering Powerball and the next drawing
is Wednesday night. Someone bought a $2.61 million winning Hot Lotto
ticket here in Grand Rapids according to the Minnesota State Lottery.
The ticket holder has a year to claim the prize, 60 days to choose
either the 25-year annuity option of more than $104,000 per year before
taxes, or the cash option of more than $1.3 million after taxes
Crime Report 011312
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday January 9th a motorist driving on 4th Street NW reported there
was a tree on the road. When Law Enforcement responded they were unable
to locate the tree.
- Also on
Monday a property owner reported the renters at his Mishawaka Road
house had destroyed the motor to the jacuzzi, taken the refrigerator,
washer, dryer and damaged the garage. There wasn't an estimate on the
damages and missing items.
- A
resident on 3rd Avenue SW reported on Tuesday there home had been
burglarized. Missing were several prescription medications.
- Also on
Tuesday a mother and son argument on Highway 169 South resulted in an
arrest for disorderly conduct, possession of a small amount of
marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. The mother was upset
with the son so she reported him to law enforcement.
- On
Wednesday January 11th motorists in the one hundred block of 2nd Street
NE reported a drunk adult male swearing and shaking his fist at them as
he stumbled along. He was observed entering the Blandin Foundation as a
passing GRPD squad was flagged down. Law enforcement located the
individual, who was still visibly agitated, and arrested him for
disorderly conduct.
- Also on
Wednesday a semi tractor and log carrier damaged property at CR 63
& US Highway 2 West when he forgot to lower his boom before
attempting to drive thru the intersection. A damage estimate wasn't
available.
- On
Thursday January 12th a student at the Grand Rapids High School posted
a picture of himself standing in the stairway of the school holding a
beer can on a social networking website. The GRPD liaison officer was
notified via his cell phone, located the individual and questioned him.
The student explained the beer can was empty and that he had found it
on top of a vending machine at the school. The liaison officer
administered a breathalyser to the student and acquired a point zero
zero zero reading. The school administration will be consequencing the
student.
Capitol of the State of Hockey 011112
Grand Rapids has made it to the 20th round of voting in the
annual Capital of the State of Hockey contest. To vote go online to http://wild.nhl.com/. Voting runs thru
this week. The current title holder is White Bear Lake and the 2012
winner will be announced on April 7th during a Minnesota Wild Game.
Crime Report 010912
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Saturday January 7th an officer on patrol noticed a suspicious vehicle
on River Road. It was pulled off on the shoulder and what appeared to
be an adult male was getting sick outside of it. When the officer
questioned the driver he indicated he was the designated driver and had
pulled over so his friend could get sick outside of the vehicle. The
driver was not intoxicated and the officer complimented him on being
responsible.
- A
resident on Itasca Street reported the theft of some cell phones on
Thursday. The stolen phones were not in service but were kept by the
victim because they had photographs on them. There are two suspects.
- On
Sunday January 8th a suspect was arrested for 2nd degree DWI – Gross
Misdemeanor on 4th Street NE. The officers noticed an adult female
walking in front of a pickup truck with it's four way flashers in
operation. When law enforcement arrived the female entered the pickup
truck. When the officers approached the vehicle she exited and
approached one of the officers. The other officer questioned the driver
and detected the odor of alcohol on his breath. The driver was arrested
for DWI and charged with 2nd degree DWI GM due to it being his third
DWI in ten years. His vehicle was forfeited.
- On
Sunday officers from the Grand Rapids Police Department assisted the
Itasca County Sheriffs Office with an accident on the Airport Road.
They responded to a residence near the accident site. The driver was
present, bleeding profusely, swearing and gesturing with his middle
finger at the officers. He indicated he hadn't been driving however the
reporting party indicated they had video surveillance of the accident
and the driver walking to their house. The suspect was arrested for 2nd
degree DWI test refusal.
Crime Report 010612
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Tuesday January 3rd a motor vehicle / pedestrian accident occurred on
3rd Street NE. A resident reported she heard a loud thump outside and
observed that her vehicle had been struck by a pickup truck that was
backing towards a person laying on the ground. She helped the victim
out of the way as the unoccupied pickup rolled backwards over the curb,
around a grassy area and ultimately into a tree. The victim laying on
the ground was identified as the operator of the pickup truck. He
stated his windshield was foggy and as he was wiping it clear he heard
his truck hit something. He exited the truck, slipped and fell. He
evidently neglected to take his vehicle out of gear. The victim was
transported to GICH with minor injuries.
- An
employee at a retail grocer on Pokegama Avenue South reported a drunk
driver on Tuesday. The suspect vehicle was idling outside the store
front when law enforcement arrived. The officer observed the vehicle
operator park the car and as she exited the vehicle the officer
observed her stumble. He questioned her and observed her eyes were very
watery and he smelled an alcoholic odor on her breath. He asked her if
she had been drinking, she indicated she hadn't. He then asked her to
perform a series of field sobriety tests which she attempted but
stopped and said she was going to fail them all because she had been
drinking vodka all day long. The officer administered a breathalyzer
test, her reading was zero point two four seven, over three times the
legal limit to drive. She was arrested for 3rd degree DWI gross
misdemeanor.
- On
Thursday January 5th a witness reported the back window of an SUV
parked on Pokegama Avenue North and 5th Avenue NW exploded outward as
she walked by. Law enforcement responded and determined the window had
been broken outward as if from inside. The cause is unknown at this
time and there was no damage estimate available
Voyageurs Trail Condition Report 010512
On Wednesday, January 5, the Purple Trail from International
Falls to Kettle Falls and the Yellow Trail from Ash River to Kettle
Falls opened due to improved ice and snow conditions. Hazardous
pressure ridges remain along the Green Trail on Kabetogama Lake. Staff
have re-routed the trail in some spots to provide a safer passage
through the pressure ridges. Due to frequent and extreme changes to the
pressure ridges, snowmobilers should use extreme caution and only cross
the pressure ridges at designated crossings along the staked
route. Slow travel speeds are highly recommended.
Snowmobile land portages have rough riding conditions due to minimal
snow cover. Park staff continue to find insufficient ice along the
Green Trail from Ash River to Crane Lake, requiring this section of the
Trail to remain closed. Please follow the snowmobile speed limit of 45
mph on frozen lake surfaces and 25 mph on all overland portages.
Speed limit signs are posted at trailheads and overland portages.
Regular weekly winter trail conditions reports are available on our
website at www.nps.gov/voya.
Snowmobile Trails
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) – Open & Staked
Rainy Lake/Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River (Green Trail) –
Open & Staked
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) – Not Open
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) – Not Open
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) – Open & Staked
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) – Not Open
Rainy Lake Ice Road – Open to Black Bay Ski Trail
Ski Trails
Echo Bay Ski Trail – Open with minimal snow cover
Black Bay Ski Trail– Not Open
Tilson Connector Trail– Not Open
KabAsh Trail– Open with minimal snow cover
Snowshoe Trails
Blind Ash Bay Trail – Open with minimal snow cover
Sullivan Bay Trail – Open and tracked
Oberholtzer Trail – Open with minimal snow cover
Crime Report 010312
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday December 29th a property owner visited their rental property
on Mishawaka Road and reported some items stolen. Missing were a $2000
lawn tractor, a washer & dryer, a wood stove and a kitchen stove.
Under investigation.
- On
Sunday January 1st an innkeeper on Pokegama Avenue South reported an
unruly customer. Law enforcement responded and asked the guest to
return to their room and refrain from using the pool area after it was
closed. The guest complied initially, then returned to the pool area
while law enforcement was on scene. The guest was cited for disorderly
conduct.
- On
Monday January 2nd a traffic accident occurred at the intersection of
4th Street NW and 4th Avenue NW. A vehicle driven by a 57 year Grand
Rapids resident left the roadway and struck a light pole causing the
vehicle to flip over and skid on it's roof. The two occupants were
transported to Grand Itasca by Meds 1 EMS with minor injuries. Alcohol
was not involved.
Crime Report 122911
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Wednesday December 28th a resident on Horseshoe Lake Road reported some
loose cows. They were gone on arrival of law enforcement.
- Also on
Wednesday a helpful citizen reported two suspicious persons entering a
retail outlet on Pokegama Avenue South. The reporting party thought
they were the suspects wanted by the Grand Rapids Police Department in
regards to an incident that occurred at a south side bar / restaurant
on December 13th. Law enforcement responded and identified the
individuals. They were not the individuals sought and the Grand Rapids
Police Department is still seeking information on the two suspects.
- On
Thursday December 29th a resident on Canal Street called in a loud
noise complaint. Evidently a neighbor was riding their snowmobile
around the apartment complex very late at night. Law enforcement
responded and instructed the suspect to not ride so late at night.
- Also on
Thursday a traffic stop on River Road resulted in citations for driving
after revocation. The vehicle operator indicated she didn't know her
license was revoked however she had recently been cited for not having
proof of insurance. The officer cited her for no proof of insurance
again.
Cold Weather Septic System Problems 122911
With little or no snow cover, Jack Frost may be nipping at your
septic system. Dan Olson of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency says
it may be a not-so-happy new year for some households if we don’t get
snow cover before temperatures really start to drop as the snow cover
helps insulate septic systems to keep them from freezing. Fortunately,
temperatures across the state have remained relatively mild so far this
season, but that could change any time. The University of Minnesota
On-site Sewage Treatment Program provides tips on how to prevent septic
system freeze-ups and how to deal with them when they occur:
- Place
eight to twelve inches of straw, leaves, hay or other loose material
over the pipes, septic tank and drain field. If the system is
frozen, don’t add cover now; it will delay thawing in the spring.
- Use
water ― the warmer the better ― if you’re worried your septic system is
starting to freeze. Spread out your laundry so you run one
warm/hot load a day. Use the dishwasher and take hot baths.
However, DO NOT leave water running all the time, as this will overload
the system.
- Going
away for an extended period? Have someone use warm water in your
home regularly or have your septic tank pumped out before you leave.
- Repair
any leaky plumbing fixtures or appliances.
- Keep
all vehicle, animal and people traffic off the system. This is a
good rule to follow all year long, as compacted snow and soils cause
frost to go down deeper and faster. Protect especially the area
between the house and the septic tank.
If your
septic system freezes, call a septic system professional. The
M-P-C-A website includes a search tool for finding certified
professionals in your area.
For additional information about cold-weather septic system care, visit
the University of Minnesota on-site sewage treatment program website.
Crime Report 122711
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday December 22nd a resident on 8th Avenue NE reported a cell
phone had been stolen. The suspects panicked when apprehension was
imminent and tossed the SIM card in a nearby toilet. They wanted to
destroy the evidence that they had been using the phone to surf for
pornography. Juveniles were involved.
- Thursday
had more cattle wandering around on Isleview Road. The owners were
cited for not controlling their livestock.
- On
Saturday December 24th a resident on Golf Course Road near 22nd Avenue
SW reported a cow walking down the middle of the road. Law enforcement
was unable to locate the jaywalking bovine.
- Patrons
at a south-side bar & restaurant were reported fighting outside in
the parking lot on Saturday December 24th; no injuries or arrests were
reported.
- A
resident on 17th Avenue NW reported the theft of a pair of $200 UGG
boots. There is a suspect.
- A
resident on Timberline Drive in SW Grand Rapids reported a bull in
their back yard. Law enforcement was dispatched, reported the longhorn
had left the scene and that there was no bull located.
Crime Report 122111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday December 16th an employee a local wire transfer service notified
law enforcement of a probable scam. A customer was told they were to be
a secret shopper. They had received a money order for three thousand
three hundred dollars, was told to cash it, keep a portion, purchase an
electronic item and return the rest of the money. They did and are out
the cash; the money order was fake.
- On
Sunday December 18th a traffic stop on 5th Street NW resulted in an
arrest for 2nd degree test refusal, driving after cancellation –
inimical to public safety and open container.
- Also on
Sunday those pesky bovines were out wandering around on Golf Course
Road. They had returned to their pasture by the time Law Enforcement
arrived.
- On
Monday December 19th an individual was apprehended in the woods near
8th Street SE for fleeing a police officer. A unit on patrol identified
the driver of a vehicle as having an outstanding warrant and attempted
to stop the vehicle. They pulled into a parking lot and the driver
jumped out. A foot pursuit ensued and the suspect was ultimately
caught. The pursuing officer was injured when he slipped on ice and
fell.
- Also on
Monday a minor traffic accident in a parking lot resulted in multiple
citations. An officer observed the fender-bender and stopped the
suspect as he attempted to leave the scene. The officer noticed the
smell of alcohol on the suspect; his blood alcohol level was point zero
one six, below the limit for an adult. Unfortunately the suspect was
only 20 years old. He was cited for underage consume, open bottle and
driving after revocation.
- Wandering
livestock were reported from CR 76 on Monday. Responding officers were
unable to locate them. Somebody should invest in a new fence.
Local Weather Statistics for November 2011
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for November 2011.
The average high for the month was 40.1 degrees and the average low was
22.5 with an overall average temperature of 31.3 degrees. The warmest
temperature in November was 54 degrees on the 4th, 5th & 12th. The
coldest temperature was 5 degrees on the 20th. The record high for
November was 71 degrees on November 8th, 1999; the record low was -25
degrees on November 28th in 1940.
The warmest November on record was in 2001 with an average temperature
of 39 degrees. The coldest was in 1959 with an average temperature of
17.9 degrees.
We received 6 inches of precipitation last month (0.8 rain and 5.2
snow).
We are 0.2 degrees below the 30 year daily average temperature and 1.29
inches below the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru
November.
Final SEIS ESSAR 121311
A Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement has been
prepared for modifications to Essar Steel Minnesota’s taconite mine and
processing plant project according to the DNR. The Final SEIS is
available for public review, with comments accepted until 4:30 PM on
December 27th. The project would increase the production of taconite
pellets from 3.8 million metric tons per year to 6.5 million metric
tons per year.
Public review copies of the Final SEIS are available at:
DNR Northeast Regional Office Library, Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids Area Library
Hibbing Public Library
Keewatin Public Library
The documents are also online at: www.dnr.state.mn.us/input/environmentalreview/essar/index.html.
Email comments can be sent to: environmentalrev.dnr@state.mn.us.
Emailed comments should include “Essar SEIS” in the subject line and
provide a name and mailing address so that future notices and documents
can be provided.
Crime Report 121511
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday December 12th a domestic argument on 13th Street NW resulted in
an arrest for 5th degree assault. A husband and wife were arguing when
the husband pushed the wife hard enough for her to fall down. He was
arrested.
- Also on
Monday a theft occurred at a business on 8th Street SE. When video
surveillance footage was reviewed the suspect was observed removing his
coat, taking the victims coat and putting it on, then putting his own
coat on over the stolen coat. A dollar value for the stolen coat was
not reported.
- A
traffic stop on Isleview Road resulted in an arrest for 3rd degree DWI,
Driving after being revoked and 5th degree controlled substance
possession. The officer conducting the traffic stop had to jump into
the moving vehicle to stop it after the suspect proved to be so
intoxicated she couldn't operate the break pedal.
- On
Tuesday December 13th a resident of an apartment complex on Highway 169
east reported the theft of his computer and game console. The suspect
had allegedly been assisting the victim with moving out of the
building. Under investigation.
- An
adult female on probation was assisted to detox on Wednesday December
14th. A call of a drunk female walking sent law enforcement searching
for the suspect. She was located on 6th Street & 3rd Avenue NE
lying in the intersection. Her blood alcohol level was .224, nearly
three times the legal limit to drive.
- A
resident of 7th Street SE reported some of her pain medication was
missing. She stated she last saw them when her grand-daughter was
changing a medication patch a few days earlier. When the grand-daughter
was questioned she indicated that her Grandmother wasn't home when she
arrived at the apartment; however there was someone else in the
apartment. She indicated she didn't see the mystery person but knew
there was one. The case is still being investigated.
Crime Report 121211
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday December 9th a resident at an apartment complex on River Road
reported the theft of a backpack containing two pair of long underwear
and about 200 prescription pain pills.
- Also on
Friday a portable music device valued at $200 was stolen from a pocket
of a jacket in an unlocked locker at an area gym.
- On
Saturday December 10th the GRPD was called upon to assist the Minnesota
State Patrol with a fleeing vehicle. The state patrol had attempted to
pull a suspected drunk driver over; they fled and was stopped near
Mornes & Davis Roads. The suspects were arrested for fleeing a
peace officer and DWI.
- A
suspicious person was reported from a business on 4th Street NW on
Saturday. When an employee opened for the morning she noticed a male
standing outside the window. He inquired about security camera's and
whether the employee was alone in the store. The employee managed to
evade answering the questions and the suspect left. The incident is
under investigation.
- A
vehicle that didn't dim it's headlights led officers to an arrest on
Saturday on 4th Street NW. When the vehicle was pulled over and the
driver identified it was determined the suspect was driving after
cancellation inimical to public safety. The vehicle was towed.
- Two
suspects were arrested at a hotel on Pokegama Avenue South on Sunday
December 11th for disorderly conduct. Law enforcement had been called
to the hotel about a loud argument taking place in the lobby area.
Neither suspect quieted down when directed to do so by law enforcement.
Both were arrested.
- Also on
Sunday a drunk driver was arrested for 3rd degree DWI from 17th Street
SW. The breathalyzer reading was zero point one four two; almost twice
the legal limit.
- A
couple of cows were reported out strolling along CR76 on Sunday. The
suspect bovines were corralled by their owners; however it appeared
they took another walk early this morning.
Identity Sought
URGENT 121611
The Grand Rapids Police Department is seeking the public's
assistance in identifying and locating two potential witnesses to a
crime that occurred on December 13th, 2011. Just before noon on
December 13th, the Grand Rapids Fraternal Order of Eagles reported a
theft of a large sum of money. The two unidentified individuals
may have been present at the time of the incident and may have
information critical to solving this case.
Anyone with information as to the identity of these individuals is
asked to contact the Grand Rapids Police Department at
218-326-3464. (Photos below)

Cohasset Fire 120811
The Cohasset Fire Department was called to a residence on 3rd
Street NW in Cohasset early Wednesday morning. When firefighters
arrived the side porch was completely engulfed in flames. After the
fire was suppressed firemen entered the residence to search for
possible victims. Two deceased adults, identified as 56 year old Linda
and 49 year old Harold Lumley were located; the cause of their deaths
is under investigation by the Itasca County Sheriffs Office. The cause
of the fire is under investigation by the State Fire Marshals Office
and the Itasca County Fire Investigation Team. The Cohasset Fire
Department was assisted at the scene by the Grand Rapids Fire
Department, the Itasca County Sheriffs Office and Meds 1 Emergency
Medical Services.
Crime Report 120811
In the local crime report from the Grand
Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday December 5ht a student at the GR High School reported the theft
of a portable MP3 device from his locked locker. A dollar value was not
available.
- Also on
Monday a vehicle parked on River Road was vandalized. Someone broke out
the back window causing approximately $500 in damages.
- On
Monday December 5th there was a report from Golf Course Road of cows on
the loose. When law enforcement investigated they could not locate the
loose bovines.
- An
Innkeeper on Highway 2 East reported on Tuesday December 6th a guest
was avoiding paying their bill. When asked to make payments he stated
he didn't have any money to pay his $1700 bill. Law enforcement is
attempting to locate the suspect.
- Also on
Tuesday a resident from River Road called to notify law enforcement
their keys were missing. He stated he may have left them at the post
office. He also indicated the TV remote was missing; which was
eventually located in the kitchen.
- On
Wednesday December 7th a resident from Old Golf Course Road reported
the theft from his vehicle of a 12 gauge left eject shotgun, a pair of
binoculars, a GPS unit and a thirty ought six rifle. Under
investigation.
- A purse
was stolen from an unlocked vehicle while parked at a dentist office on
Highway 169 East. The Grand Rapids Police Department recommends that
you always lock your vehicle and put those packages in the trunk out of
sight.
Crime Report 120511
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday December 2nd there were reports of vandalism from the Itasca
County Fairgrounds area. Several houses and buildings were
paint-balled. No damage estimate was available.
- Also on
Friday A resident on Davis Road reported the theft of a pickup truck
tool-box and gas tank unit valued at $200 and a set of tires and rims.
Replacement value of the tires were not provided.
- A
patron of a convenience store on 4th Avenue NE on Friday reported his
prescription painkillers had been stolen from the female restroom. He
had used the female side because the male restroom was occupied. He
stated he was having an argument on his phone and left the pills
behind; there were 30 to 40 pills left in the bottle.
- An
adult female walked away from detox on Friday December 2nd. When she
was located she was placed in the rear of a squad car and told she
would be returned to detox. She became very agitated and began banging
her head against the windows; she was arrested for disorderly conduct.
- On
Saturday December 3rd a one vehicle accident occurred in the
round-about on 7th Avenue SE. The vehicle slid on the slippery road
surface into a light pole and sheared it off. There were no
injuries and a damage estimate was not available.
- A
vehicle operator was stopped on Pokegama Avenue South on Saturday for
illegal use of red / blue lights. There was a flashing light on the
dashboard of the vehicle which is restricted to use by law enforcement.
- An
officer on patrol on Sunday December 4th happened upon a suspicious
vehicle parked at the end of Canal Street. The juvenile occupants
stated they were “just talking”; they were asked to move along; they
did.
Crime Report 120111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday November 28th a local retail merchant reported a series of
thefts had occurred where the suspects removed stickers from sale
merchandise and placed it on non-sale items. The same group of suspects
were videoed shoplifting items. Law enforcement is reviewing the
surveillance video and continuing their investigation.
- On
Tuesday night November 29th an officer on patrol happened upon a
suspicious vehicle parked at the park on 4th Street SE. The officer
observed the vehicle was occupied by an adult female sitting in the
back seat. When the officer approached the vehicle an adult male was
observed laying in the back seat. The occupants stated they were only
talking. They were informed the park closes at 10 PM and asked to move
along, which they did.
- On
Wednesday November 30th a report of a drunk driver on 9th Street SE was
received. Officers located the suspect and pulled them over in a
parking lot on Pokegama Avenue South. The driver was arrested and
charged with 4th degree DWI with a blood alcohol level of zero point
one seven one. More than double the legal limit. The vehicle was towed.
Crime Report 112811
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Tuesday November 22nd an employee loading DVD'S into a rental box was
robbed of a bag containing over a hundred movies and games valued at
$10 each. While the employee was loading the machine the suspect
snatched the bag and departed in a vehicle. When law enforcement
arrived the victim explained what happened and stated there was a
female in the convenience store that had arrived in the same vehicle as
the suspect. Officers watched the female walk to a fast food restaurant
and meet up with the suspect. Both were detained, both were determined
to be on probation, both were determined to have been drinking. The
suspect was arrested for 3rd degree DWI & felony theft. The female
accomplice was arrested for probation violation. She eventually led law
enforcement to the missing DVD'S.
- On
Wednesday November 23rd a business on 4th Street NW was damaged by
someone putting super glue in the door locks. Under investigation.
- An
adult male was arrested for disorderly conduct on Thursday November
24th. The suspect had been kicking and damaging the door of a service
club on 2nd Street NW. He had been evicted from the club for breaking a
beer bottle after being refused service due to intoxication.
- A
motorist was cited for careless driving on Friday November 25th after
the vehicle she was driving slid down the embankment behind two
Innkeepers on Pokegama Avenue South. The vehicle damaged the retaining
wall and rolled over however the driver was not injured.
- On
Saturday November 26th a Grinch stole the red kettle at an area
retailer on 29th Street SE. It was estimated the kettle contained
between three and five hundred dollars. The kettle was valued at over
$135.
Turkey Day News 112311
Thanksgiving Day is a harvest festival celebrated primarily in
the United States and Canada. Traditionally, it has been a time to give
thanks for a bountiful harvest. While it may have been religious in
origin, Thanksgiving is now primarily identified as a secular holiday.
It is sometimes casually referred to as Turkey Day. In the United
States, it falls on the fourth Thursday of November.
The precise historical origin of the holiday is disputed. Although
Americans commonly believe that the first Thanksgiving happened in 1621
at Plymouth, Massachusetts, there is strong evidence for earlier
celebrations in Canada (1578) and by Spanish explorers in Florida
(1565). Thanksgiving in the United States was observed on various dates
throughout history. By the mid 20th century, the final Thursday in
November had become the customary day of Thanksgiving in most U.S.
states. It was not until December 26, 1941, however, that President
Franklin D. Roosevelt, after pushing two years earlier to move the date
earlier to give the country an economic boost, signed a bill into law
with Congress, making Thanksgiving a national holiday and settling it
to the fourth (but not final) Thursday in November.
MPCA Enforcement Actions 112211
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency completed 43 enforcement
cases in the third quarter of 2011, with penalties totaling nearly
690-thousand dollars. All third quarter cases occurred at
facilities in 26 counties throughout Minnesota. Three local enforcement
actions were
$10,000 – Magnetation for water-quality violations. Itasca County was
fined $2,310 for storm-water violations at the Bovey Turnback project
and Hammerlund Construction was fined $1,540 for storm-water violations
also at the Bovey Turnback Project. A complete list of all enforcement
actions can be found on the M-P-C-A’s website at
www.pca.state.mn.us.Soudan Underground State Park
Crime Report 112111
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
- On
Thursday November 17th a bomb threat was discovered written on a wall
in a bathroom of the Greenway High School. Staff & students were
evacuated and a search conducted. A bomb was not found. The incident is
under investigation.
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday November 17th a motorist was observed exhibition driving in
the parking lot at the Grand Rapids High School. It was estimated the
vehicle was traveling in excess of fifty miles per hour in circles then
pulling the emergency brake so as to continue in circles. Surveillance
video is being reviewed to identify the driver.
- On
Friday November 18th an officer on patrol chanced upon a vehicle in the
ditch at the corner of Golf Course Road and Horseshoe Lake Road. The
vehicle evidently slid off the road due to the snowy surface. No one
was injured and passers by assisted in pushing the vehicle out of the
ditch.
- On
Saturday November 19th an officer on patrol observed a motorist he knew
to have a suspended drivers license operating a vehicle on 10th Street
SE. The driver was cited for driving after suspension. The vehicle was
parked pending removal by a licensed driver.
- On
Sunday November 20th an officer at the intersection of Pokegama Avenue
South and 4thStreet SE noticed a vehicle owned by a suspended driver
being operated. When the vehicle was stopped it was the owner and he
was still suspended and received a citation for driving while suspended.
- Early
this morning Monday November 21st a resident on 9th Street NW reported
a prowler in her back yard with a flashlight. She yelled at the
prowler, the prowler yelled back at her and ran off into the woods. Law
enforcement arrived, searched the area, located tracks in the snow and
determined them to be deer tracks.
Runner-up 111611
This morning the Soudan Underground Mine State Park will receive
a check for fifty thousand dollars from Coca-Cola for taking runner-up
in the “America is Your Park” contest. The contest ran from June 29th
thru September 6th by inviting Americans to vote online for their
favorite city, state or national park. During the presentation ceremony
Senator Tom Bakk, Courtland Nelson director of the DNR Parks and Trails
Division and Jim Essig manager of the Soudan Underground Mine State
Park will meet with officials from Coca-cola to receive the check which
can be used to restore, rebuild or enhance places for people of all
ages to be active outdoors.
Crime Report 111411
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday November 19th a one vehicle roll-over accident occurred on CR
63 just east of the bridge, There were no injuries. Evidently the
vehicle slid on the slippery road surface.
- A
slippery road surface on Thursday may have contributed to the mailbox
damage from 5th Street NW. A patrol officer noticed the mailbox had
been knocked down and placed in the driveway, presumably by the suspect.
- On
Friday November 11th an employee at an assisted living facility on
Pokegama Avenue South reported thirty-two prescription pain killers had
been stolen from her unlocked vehicle while parked at work.
- Residents
of the Pokegama Square Apartments discovered several acts of vandalism
on Saturday November 12th. Someone had egged several vehicles in the
parking lot.
- On
Sunday November 13th three vehicles on 10th Avenue NW were the
recipients of unwanted eggs. No dollar value on the damage.
- Also on
Sunday eight more vehicles were reported as egged from 8th Street NE.
Many of the vehicle owners declined making a formal report as the
damage was not significant.
- Someone
vandalized a soap dispenser on Sunday at a business on River Road
causing $50 in damage.
Fraudulent Footwear Fiasco 111111
Three officers with the Grand Rapids Police Department were
disciplined for their role in submitting false receipts for footwear
they never purchased. On September 16th complaints were filed against
Officers Matt Gookins, Michelle Norris and Gary O'Brien and an
investigation ensued. Sometime earlier this week the investigation was
completed and according to documents obtained thru the Data Practices
Act all three officers submitted a receipt from a local merchant for
the purchase of boots which according to the union contract were a
reimbursable item. Neither of the three actually purchased the
boots associated with the receipts and all three officers were
suspended without pay or benefits. Two received a twenty-eight day
suspension while the third a fourteen day.
Fire Departments Busy 111111
The Coleraine, Grand Rapids, Cohasset and Nashwauk fire
departments were called out on Thursday afternoon to combat a blaze in
Bovey. Eleven residents of the four-apartment complex on 2nd Avenue
were displaced however there were no injuries. The American Red Cross
are assisting those eleven as well as the four family members displaced
from a residential fire on Crooked Lake Road. The Bovey Fire Department
was occupied with the Crooked Lake response when the 2nd Avenue call
came in.
Manhunt Over 111111
According to the Itasca County Sheriffs Office Shad O'Neil of
rural Nashwauk was arrested on Thursday November 10th. The incident
began on Tuesday November 8th when law enforcement executed a search
warrant at the O'Neil residence north of Nashwauk. Suspected narcotics
and loaded hand guns were seized; however O'Neil was not at his
residence. He was spotted around 8:45 AM on CR 539. When officers
attempted to stop his vehicle, O'Neil swerved into the path of the
oncoming squad cars forcing one of them into a ditch. He fled and a
short time later he abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot into woods.
He was apprehended about five hours later and booked into the Itasca
County Jail for first degree assault of a police officer, fleeing in a
motor vehicle and fleeing on foot. Charges are pending on the results
from the November 8th search warrant.
Crime Report 111011
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- A
female suspect was arrested at a retail merchant on 1st Avenue NW on
Monday November 7th. She had allegedly stole a necklace valued at $40.
When law enforcement arrived they questioned the suspect and was given
a false name. The suspect was placed inside the squad car pending
determination of her real identity. The suspects sister advised law
enforcement of the suspects real name, during which the suspect
conducted herself in a disorderly and unladylike manner. The suspect
was arrested for shoplifting, disorderly conduct and giving a false
name to a peace officer.
- Also on
Monday another shoplifter was reported from a retail merchant on 21st
Street SE. The suspect was removing sale price tags from sale
merchandise and placing them on higher priced items. She also
reportedly took several items without paying for them.
- On
Wednesday November 9th a resident of Pokegama Avenue North reported
their vehicle stolen. The victim stated she had observed the vehicle
drive by twice. UI.
- Also on
Wednesday a traffic stop on 4th Avenue NE resulted in an arrest for 2nd
degree DWI, felony probation violation. The vehicle was towed and
forfeited.
- A
suspicious vehicle was reported from 33rd Street SE. When law
enforcement approached the two parked vehicles he noticed the two
occupants getting dressed. The officer recommended they find a better
place to rendezvous, perhaps a motel.
Deer River Election Summary 110911
Voters in the Deer River School District answered with a
resounding “NO” to the question should ISD 317 increase it's general
education revenue by $400 per pupil? The proposed referendum would have
increased property taxes $84 per $100,000 of assessed value. With 100%
of the precincts reporting the total vote count was 389 – yes, 781 –
no; almost 66% against the increase.
Accident at Fireweed Road 110711
According to authorities a multi vehicle accident occurred
Friday afternoon on Highway 169 and Fireweed Road, about ten miles
north of Virginia. Fortunately there were no fatalities and only minor
injuries. A 1999 Dodge Durango, driven by 30 year old Dale Urban of
Virginia crossed the center line and struck head-on a 2003 Lexus,
driven by 44 year old David McCormick of Minneapolis; which in turn
struck a 2007 GMC Envoy, driven by 76 year old David Makyen of
Virginia, and 1993 Toyota Corolla, driven by 42 year old Karla Summers
of Eveleth. The Envoy and Corolla went into a ditch and the
Corolla rolled. Alcohol was not a factor in this accident.
Crime Report 110711
In the weekend crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday November 3rd a resident on Golf Course road reported her purse
had been stolen with 90 pills of her prescription pain medication.
- Also on
Thursday on Pokegama Avenue South passers by reported what they thought
to be a victim of a bicycle / auto accident. It was not; an intoxicated
adult male fell over while riding hie bike.
- On
Friday November 4th a vehicle operator was arrested in the parking lot
of a NW 5th Street convenience store for 3rd degree DWI, gross
misdemeanor.
- Also on
Friday a grass fire on 2nd Avenue SE was reportedly set by three
juveniles seen fleeing the area. The incident is under investigation.
- A
retail merchant on 29th Street SE reported two shoplifters opening
product packaging, removing the product and then departing without
paying. Store employees reported the suspects had over $1300 in stolen
property on them when they were arrested for felony theft.
- On
Saturday November 5th a resident of 7th Street NE reported her vehicle
had been vandalized. Someone had painted a derogatory term meaning she
was sexually promiscuous on the hood and a vulgar term for a female
canine on the door. There was no damage estimate reported because the
paint washed off easily.
- On
Sunday November 6th a resident of an assisted living facility in SW
Grand Rapids reported some money missing. He was taken the hospital
with over $1200 in cash on his person, when he checked out of the
hospital he had the money; however when he arrived back at the assisted
living facility, via their shuttle bus four one hundred dollar bills
was missing from his baggage. The incident is under investigation.
Gerald St John 110411
The Itasca County Attorney's office is reporting that 28 year
old Gerald St John has been found guilty by an Itasca County jury of
felony second degree burglary. St John allegedly stole $3,700 worth of
property from the residence of his former foster parents during an
incident in rural Deer River on November 16th last year. The court has
ordered St John to be held in the Itasca County Jail pending a
sentencing hearing set for 9:30 AM December 19th.
Crime Report 110111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday October 31st a motorist was stopped on 7th Avenue SE for
multiple traffic violations. The driver failed a field sobriety test
and his blood alcohol concentration was point two three three; almost
three times the legal limit. He was charged with 3rd degree DWI and his
vehicle placed in impound.
- A
report of flying fruit vandalism was received from 3rd Avenue NW on
Monday. Three juveniles were reportedly throwing apples at passing
vehicles. The suspects were gone upon arrival of law enforcement.
- The
concern for someone's welfare prompted a visit from law enforcement to
a residence on 2nd Avenue SE on Monday. The suspect had been smoking an
illegal substance known as spice. The suspect was recently released
from the ICJ for the same charges and was also awaiting the outcome of
a commitment process. He was taken to detox.
- Late
Monday evening A Grand Rapids Police Officer discovered a suspicious
person, inside City Hall, on the steps to the basement, sleeping. The
officer questioned the suspect, who stated he was homeless and needed a
place to sleep. He was told to move along
Crime Report 103111
In the weekend crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday October 28th a resident on 11th Avenue NW reported the theft of
his outboard motor from his boat parked outside his garage. The 18 HP
is valued at $450.
- A
traffic stop on Highway 2 West for speeding on Friday resulted in a
citation for 2nd degree DWI and possession of a handgun without a
permit.
- On
Saturday October 29th a traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South for
improper lane use resulted in an arrest for 4th degree DWI.
- Also on
Saturday an unresponsive female was reported from a sports bar on 5th
Street NW. She was transported to the ER at GIHC with a blood alcohol
level of point three six one; four and a half times the legal limit to
drive. A short time later ER staff reported she had walked away; she
was found on Golf Course Road by law enforcement and returned to the ER.
- While
at the ER completing paperwork for the first unresponsive female
another arrived at the ER from a bar on 10th street SW. Her friends had
found her passed out in a bathroom. They suspected she had been drugged
however test results have not been completed and law enforcement is
continuing their investigation.
- On
Sunday October 30th a traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in
a vehicle being towed to impound and the driver being arrested for 4th
degree DWI.
- Speeding
was also the reason for the traffic stop on 4th street NE on Sunday
that resulted in that vehicle being towed to impound and driver
arrested for 4th degree DWI.
DEED Commissioner Joins Blandin Broadband
Board 103111
Mark Phillips, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of
Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has accepted an invitation
to join the Blandin Foundation Broadband Strategy Board. The 17-member
Blandin Foundation Broadband Strategy Board, originally convened by the
Foundation in 2003, serves as a forum for public- and private-sector
perspectives on the sustainable development of high-speed Internet
(broadband) in Minnesota's rural communities. The board also advises
the Foundation on its statewide broadband initiative. Dr. Kathy Annette
CEO of the Blandin Foundation said they are delighted that Commissioner
Phillips has agreed to share his talents, expertise and perspectives
with the strategy board." Blandin Foundation launched its
broadband initiative in 2003. Minnesota is committed to making the
necessary investment to become a world leader in the universal
deployment and use of ultra-high-speed next generation broadband." For
more information visit the Blandin Foundation’s Broadband initiative
website at www.broadband.blandinfoundation.org.
Crime Report 102711
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday October 24th a resident of 2nd Avenue NE reported the theft of
some items from her vehicle. Miscellaneous items totaling over $1000
were taken and located some time later outside a vacant room at an
Innkeeper on Highway 169 East.
- A
suspicious person was reported on Isleview Road with a rifle in the
back of a pick-up truck on Monday October 24th. He was reportedly
contacted by the owner of some loose cattle to locate and dispatch
them. He was advised that there is no rifle hunting within the city
limits.
- Another
suspicious person was reported on Monday, this time from the trailer
court on 13th Avenue NE and this time with a sword. Law Enforcement was
unable to locate the suspect.
- There
were several reports of suspicious activity around 13th Street SW on
Monday. Several victims claimed there was a peeping tom in the area.
One reportedly told a victim, while she emptied her trash to be
careful. No peeper was located.
- A
resident of 13th Avenue SW was cautioned about making frivolous 911
calls. He agreed to stop.
- On
Wednesday October 26th a business on Golf Course Road reported
someone's pontoon trailer had been stolen earlier this month. The owner
had brought it in to be serviced. Value is about $1000.
- Also on
Wednesday a motorist reported spotting human bones in the round-about
on Golf Course Road near the hospital. Law Enforcement arrived and
searched the area and located several pieces of wood that resembled
human bones but no skeletal remains were found.
Crime Report 102411
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday October 20th a resident on 4th Street NE expressed her
disappointment that she had been scammed. She had faxed her drivers
license, utilities and bank information to a location in South Africa
to win millions of dollars. She was assisted by her bank and law
enforcement in securing her accounts.
- Also on
Thursday four juvenile males were reported running around Pokegama
Avenue North with hand guns. They were toys however realistic looking.
They admitted it was a dumb thing to do.
- On
Friday October 21st two steers decided to take a walk along Horseshoe
Lake Road. Perhaps they were simply out enjoying the new walking path?
- The
Grand Rapids Minnesota PD was advised of an incident of vandalism on
Saturday October 22nd. Someone had thrown a brick through a business's
glass door. Upon hearing the street address the Grand Rapids Minnesota
PD suggested perhaps the reporting party should contact the Grand
Rapids Michigan PD.
- Also on
Saturday there was an incident in downtown Grand Rapids Minnesota where
reportedly three juvenile males had thrown Molotov cocktails (a bottle
filled with a flammable liquid) on the roadway. When law enforcement
arrived the suspects had departed leaving broken bottles on the road,
which the officer cleaned up.
- It is
the time of year when homeowners place pumpkins and Halloween
decorations in their yard to amuse and delight passers-by.
Unfortunately there are those that would rather smash pumpkins and
damage decorations. Two separate incidents in downtown GR were reported
on Sunday October 23rd. Total damage estimate is over $200.
- Law
enforcement was called to a care unit on 13th Street SE Sunday evening.
Two residents on opposite sides of the facility reported prowlers
looking in their windows. One described them as three angles, the other
as three men taking pictures. All were gone by the time law enforcement
arrived.
Incident on Arkola Road 102111
The St Louis County Sheriffs Office has identified the remains
found in a burning car, Wednesday morning in a ditch off Arkola
Road between Cotton and Hibbing. The deceased female is identified as
55 year old Donna Marie Smith of Cotton. The incident remains under
investigation.
Crime Report 102011
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday October 17th management at a retail outlet on Pokegama Avenue SE
reported surveillance video indicated one of the overnight cleaning
crew took a $225 cell phone from the customer service desk. It was
turned in by it's owner for repair. The suspect indicated he had took
it because his wife needed a cell phone.
- GRPD
Officers assisted the ICSO with a fleeing vehicle on Monday October
17th. The suspects were traveling in excess of 100 MPH when they
refused to stop. The GRPD officer indicated they were traveling over 70
when they entered Grand Rapids. The owner of the vehicle was arrested
for allowing the illegal operation of her car. The driver was taken
into custody by the ICSO.
- On
Tuesday October 18th a resident of an dormitory reported the theft of a
$400 laptop from his dorm room. There was a witness and there is a
suspect.
- Also on
Tuesday a patrol officer checking the Itasca County Fairgrounds located
a vehicle parked with two juveniles. They were advised to move along.
- Late
Tuesday evening a passerby noticed two individuals rolling on the
ground behind a pharmacy on Pokegama Avenue South. Law enforcement
arrived and did not witness any punches being exchanged; however they
were wrestling and intoxicated. They indicated they were walking home
and were advised to continue on their way, without any more grappling.
Incident on Arkola Road 102011
St Louis County officials have identified the remains found in a
burning car on Wednesday morning. The vehicle was found in a ditch on
Arkola Road between Cotton and Hibbing and was believed to be a dark
colored 2003 or 2004 Ford Focus. The identity of the deceased female is
being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Anyone with
information about the victim should contact the St Louis County's
Sheriffs Office at 218-727-8770. The incident is under investigation.
GRFD Training Burn 101911
Residents in Southeast Grand Rapids were treated to an example
of firefighting techniques last night. Members of the Grand Rapids Fire
Department conducted a “training burn” on Airport Road between 21st
& 29th Streets Southeast. The facility had been scheduled to be
demolished and in fact had some structural damage when the fire
department decided to use it for training. 1st Assistant Fire Chief AJ
Morse said a training burn is a much better and safer way to learn when
the conditions and environment are known.
Crime Report 101711
- In the
weekend crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday October 14th a dormitory resident at Itasca Community College
reported someone had vandalized his vehicle by pouring cooking oil on
it. There wasn't a damage estimate reported.
- On
Saturday October 15th a family restaurant on Pokegama Avenue South
reported some property damage. The broken window occurred while the two
adult males were fighting and one was pushed thru the window. One
suspect was cited for criminal damage to property.
- Also on
Saturday an adult male was arrested on Pokegama Avenue South for 4th
degree DWI and another was arrested on Highway 2 West for 3rd degree
DWI gross misdemeanor., driving after revocation and no proof of
insurance.
- On
Sunday October 16th an individual driving in the wrong lane on Pokegama
Avenue South was stopped and given a field sobriety test, he failed. He
was also driving after suspension. The arrest was for 4th degree DWI.
- Also on
Sunday a driver on CR 76 was arrested for 3rd degree DWI, his PBT was
zero point two one four 2 ½ times the legal limit.
- On
Sunday an officer on Pokegama Avenue South attempted to stop a vehicle
for speeding however it fled. The vehicle was stopped at a fast
food restaurant a few blocks south by the Minnesota State Patrol. A
second vehicle had accompanied the first and both were determined to be
stolen from North Star Ford in Duluth. The suspects were from Wisconsin
& Duluth and charges are pending.
Crime Report 101111
- In the
weekend crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday October 6th 3 juvenile males reportedly broke into the trail
head building on the Itasca County Fairgrounds. A fire extinguisher was
discharged, a set of keys stolen and the three were apprehended.
- A
traffic stop on Saturday October 8th for running a stop sign on 7th
Avenue SE resulted in two citations for possession of a small amount of
marijuana in a motor vehicle and possession of drug paraphernalia to
the two occupants. Neither of which admitted to ownership of the
contraband.
- Also on
Saturday, three females were reported asking for donations on the
corner of Pokegama Avenue North and 1st Street North. They were gone on
arrival of law enforcement.
- On
Sunday October 9th some cattle were taking a walk on Highway 2 East.
Evidently they were from the U of M research station on the ICC campus.
They were corralled and returned.
- A
resident on Pokegama Avenue South reported someone had taken $150 in
cash from the room they had been sharing for the night. That incident
is still under investigation.
- On
Monday October 10th a domestic argument on 8th Avenue NE resulted in
the male suspect being arrested for trespassing, he had been warned by
law enforcement earlier to leave and not return or he would be arrested
for trespassing; he did and was. The female suspect was determined to
be on probation and as part of her conditions she was to not consume
alcohol; she had and was arrested for probation violation.
Complaints Against 3 GRPD Officers 101111
According to Grand Rapids City Administrator Shawn Gillen
complaints have been filed against three GRPD officers. According to
the state statute regarding personnel data for public employees the
only information that can be released is that a complaint has been
filed against Officer Matt Gookins and an investigation is underway. A
complaint has been filed against Officer Gary O'Brien and that
investigation is complete but final disposition of discipline has not
occurred. A complaint has been filed against Officer Michelle Norris
and that investigation is complete but final disposition of discipline
has not occurred. Gillen said in a statement “If discipline is
determined to be necessary and occurs the status of the data regarding
one or more of the complaints may change. “
Local Weather Statistics for September 2011
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for September.
The average high for the month was 68.2 degrees and the average low was
42.4 with an overall average temperature of 55.3 degrees. The 87 degree
reading on September 9th was the months high temperature and the 26
degree reading on September 15th was the months low temperature. The
record high temperature is 99 degrees set in 1931 and the record low
temperature was 15 degrees in 1939 & 1942.
We received 0.89 inches of rain last month.
We are one degree below the 30 year daily average temperature and 0.27
inches above the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru
September.
Weekend Accidents 101011
On Friday morning at 7:25 a head on collision occurred on
Highway 37 and sent a Cloquet man to the hospital in critical
condition. According to the Minnesota State Patrol 22 year old Jerod
Thompson was eastbound on HWY 37, ½ mile east of CR 7, when his
vehicle crossed the center line and struck a vehicle driven by 59 year
old Kenneth Baasi of Zim. Thompson was transported to St Mary's in
Duluth and Baasi to the hospital in Hibbing.
A one vehicle roll-over accident took the life on a Cohasset man on
Saturday morning. According to the Minnesota State Patrol 37 year old
Jeremy Topper was traveling southbound on Highway 169 3 miles south of
Keewatin when his vehicle entered the ditch, cut back across both lanes
of traffic, entered the other ditch and rolled. Topper was not wearing
a seatbelt and ejected from the vehicle. The passenger, 34 year old
Jared Tenny of Grand Rapids, was wearing his seatbelt and remained in
the vehicle during the roll over. Tenny was transported to the hospital
in Hibbing with non-life threatening injuries.
Fatal Accident Near Calumet 100711
A two vehicle accident on US Hwy 169 in Calumet has resulted in
a death. According to the Minnesota State Patrol a vehicle driven by 55
year old Samuel Grossman of Cohasset was eastbound on the highway when
his 1996 GMC Sierra drifted over the center line and collided head-on
with a 2012 Freightliner Semi parked on the westbound shoulder. The
driver of the semi appeared uninjured. The Minnesota State Patrol was
assisted at the scene by the Itasca County Sheriffs Office.
Drowning on Lake Winnie 100411
On Saturday October 1st, shortly after 1 PM, the Itasca County
Sheriffs Office received notification of a possible drowning at Pigeon
River on Lake Winnibigoshish. A canoe with two adult males had capsized
about one hundred yards off shore. One occupant managed to swim to
shore while the other was unaccounted for. The Itasca County Sheriff's
Office, the Itasca County Search & Rescue team, Leech Lake and
Minnesota DNR Conservation Officers responded to assist in the search.
Shortly after 3 PM the body of 45 year old Todd Roy of Cass Lake was
recovered. The victim was transported to Grand Itasca Hospital and
Clinic and pronounced dead by the Coroner. It was indicated that
neither party had worn a personal flotation device.
Crime Report 100311
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday September 30th a resident on Pokegama Avenue East reported
someone had thrown two cement paving blocks through his vehicle's front
and rear window.
- On
Saturday October 1st a patrol officer checking the parking lot of an
innkeeper on Pokegama Avenue South stopped a vehicle for an object
hanging from their rear-view mirror, When he approached he smelled the
odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. He questioned the occupants
who denied having any. He had them exit the vehicle while a search was
conducted. Several baggies of what appeared to be pot and some drug
paraphernalia was found. All were cited for possession.
- A
resident of 6th Avenue SW reported that a $200 digital camera was
missing from their garage sale on Saturday October 1st.
- On
Sunday October 2nd an anonymous tipster informed law enforcement that
an individual was on the way to to burglarize a liquor store on Hwy 2
East. The suspect was located with a backpack containing burglary tools
on Canal Street and arrested.
- A
resident on River Road called to report an unknown female had attempted
to rob him. The suspect had asked for some help and was allowed into
the victim's home. She took a swing at him and he defended himself. She
ran off. A few minutes later she was apprehended and questioned. She
indicated she was on methamphetamine and didn't know what she was
doing. She also had an open arrest warrant and is currently residing in
the Itasca County Jail pending an investigation.
Serious Accident near Nashwauk 093011
A Cohasset resident was injured in a one vehicle rollover
accident just before 11 PM on Thursday September 29th. According to the
Minnesota State Patrol, 25 year old Adam Stangland was southbound on
Hwy 65, about seven miles north of Nashwauk, when his vehicle drifted
into the southbound ditch and rolled over. Stangland was ejected from
the vehicle and is listed in critical condition at St Mary's hospital
in Duluth.
Pagami Creek Update 093011
The winds should die down and crews can get back to work today
on the B-W-C-A forest fire in northeastern Minnesota. Thursday's gusty
winds kept firefighting to a minimum and cool wet weather kept the
flames from spreading.
The state and federal governments have lifted all campfire restrictions
in Superior National Forest, the B-W-C-A Wilderness and other areas of
northeastern Minnesota according to Sandy Skrien at Superior
National Forest headquarters in Duluth. Campfires in BWCA
Wilderness must be kept within the fire grate provided at each campsite.
But even though campfires are now again allowed, officials advise
people to have a bucket of water and a shovel handy, be aware of the
wind, keep the fire as small as possible and don't leave it unattended
-- and make absolutely sure the campfire is out before you go.
Crime Report 092911
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Tuesday September 27th a routine traffic stop for speeding resulted in
an arrest of an illegal immigrant. The suspect was arrested and placed
in the Itasca County Jail, pending retrieval from the US Border Patrol.
- A
resident on 2nd Avenue NW reported some property damage on Tuesday. A
male between 16 and 19 years old had cut a screen to gain entry to the
victims residence. The homeowner estimated repair costs to be $50.
- Two
separate incidents occurred on the Itasca Community College campus on
Wednesday September 28th. In the first a portable digital music player
valued at $120 and $4 in cash was stolen from a dorm room. The second
incident required the thief to unlock a locked vehicle in order to
steal a laptop computer valued at $200. Both incidents are under
investigation.
- A
non-forced entry burglary was reported on Wednesday from a residence on
5th Avenue NW. Stolen were power tools, boots, a cell phone, clothes,
DVD'S and CD's. There wasn't a dollar value reported for the missing
items.
- A three
vehicle accident on the grounds of the Grand Rapids High School snarled
traffic for a while due to an overturned car. Fortunately there were no
injuries reported.
Iron Range Maidens 092211
The Iron Range Maidens are Grand Rapids own roller derby team
and according to Sara Whalin' they donate a lot of their proceeds back
to the community. Saturday's home match, entitled Smack to School: The
Sandra Dee's vs the Rizzos will benefit Bridges: Kinship Mentoring and
the Itasca Area Cancer Crisis Fund. Peanut Slugger and Jam is one of
the Maidens that attempts to pass the other teams blockers to score
points. She said they have participated in many community activities,
from the Bisch Bash fundraiser to the Mila Adams spaghetti feed and
will continue to do so. The toll taken on participants is great,
several of their team-mates are on the disabled roster or have left the
team altogether due to injuries. To that end they are asking anyone
interested to look them up on Facebook at Iron Range Maidens or on
their website at www.grandrapidsrollerderby.com.
The Saturday match is at the Coleraine Hogins Berado arena, doors open
at 5 PM, fun starts at 6:30. Tickets in advance are $8 for adults, $4
for children over 5 and under 5 are free and are available at Reeds,
Clusiau's or from www.brownpapertickets.com.
Accident Near Tower 091911
A 40 year old motorcyclist from Embarrass is in fair condition
after striking a deer Saturday evening. According to the Minnesota
State patrol Julie Grambart was eastbound on Highway 1 about ten miles
west of Tower when the accident occurred. Grambart was transported by
ambulance to the Virginia Regional Medical Center and later to St
Mary's in Duluth with non-life threatening injuries. Alcohol was NOT a
factor in the accident.
Crime Report 091911
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday September 16th a resident on Willow Lane reported the theft of a
pair of pink UGG boots valued at $100. The victim also had a photo of
the boot wearing suspect.
- Also on
Friday staff at the GRHS football field complained of a suspicious male
smoking outside the gate. When asked by law enforcement to either
extinguish the cigaret or move along the suspect ignored the request.
When asked a second time the suspect got loud and belligerent and swore
at the officer. He stated he was a veteran and this was America so he
could smoke there if he wanted to. It was noted the smoking took place
on school property and was therefore NOT allowed. The suspect threw the
smoke on the ground at the officers feet and stormed off.
- On
Saturday September 17th an officer was completing paperwork on Canal
Street when an individual approached the squad and began cursing out
the officer. He was eventually arrested for disorderly conduct.
- Also on
Saturday an adult female was charged with obstructing the legal process
and providing alcohol to a minor. The obstruction occurred when she
pushed the officer writing a minor consume citation. The incident
occurred on Diane Lane.
- An
innkeeper on 17th Street SE reported they had smelled the odor of
marijuana coming from a room on Sunday September 18th. They asked the
guest if they could investigate and found two baggies and a pipe
containing what appeared to be marijuana. The innkeeper staff took the
items and a guest grabbed the baggies and ran off. Innkeeper staff
tackled the suspect and notified law enforcement. The guest was evicted
from their room and cited for possession of a small amount of marijuana.
Crime Report 091611
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- A
student at the Grand Rapids High School reported some items missing
from their locker on Wednesday September 14th. The missing items
include a backpack, MP3 player and textbooks, together valued between
$350 – 400.
- Also on
Wednesday a driver was cited for exhibition driving at the IRA Civic
Center. An officer was in the parking lot while the exhibition occurred.
- On
Thursday September 15th a resident on 23rd Avenue NE reported a pickup
truck pulled up to their mailbox and tossed a lit firecracker into it.
There was no mail in the mailbox at the time.
- Also on
Thursday a crew cleaning a residence in preparation for an estate sale
on Pokegama Avenue South found what appeared to be a live hand grenade.
Responding officers contacted the National Guard Armory here in Grand
Rapids who thought it may be an inert training device; however EOD at
the 184th Air Wing in Duluth were also notified.
- Officers
responded to a locked vehicle call on Willow Lane on Thursday. Upon
arrival they found the complainants 102 year old mother stuck in the
vehicle. She was unable to hear how to unlock the doors. The vehicle
owner wasn't charged the unlocking fee.
Methamphetamine Busts 091511
The Itasca County Sheriffs Office Deputies have made two
significant drug related arrests in the past week taking about an ounce
of methamphetamine out of circulation. According to Sheriff
Investigator Dean Scherf the first arrest occurred September 7th in the
Deer River area. A vehicle driven by 48 year old Donald Miller of
Onamia was stopped with over 13 grams of crystal methamphetamine.
Miller was charged with 2nd degree possession of a controlled
substance. The second arrest occurred in the west Cohasset area when a
vehicle driven by 48 year old Theresa Grbich of Deer River was stopped
and another 13 grams of methamphetamine were seized. Grbich was
also charged with 2nd degree possession of a controlled substance.
Scherf indicated that use of methamphetamine is on the rise in
the county and he encourages citizens to report suspicious activity to
local law enforcement.
Pagami Creek Wildfire Update 091511
The Pagami Creek Wildfire has become the largest in Northern Minnesota
in fifty years, it has spread to over one hundred thousand acres, a
tenth of the BWCA. Reporter Eli Bissonett says over 300 personnel
are fighting the blaze:
Captain Jon Andrews of the Minnesota National Guard's 34th Combat
Aviation Brigade says they are using Black hawk Helicopters to drop
water on the fire:
Smoke from the fire is causing trouble in Wisconsin. It appears to be
staying in the upper air levels and crossing Lake Superior. Cassie
McMahon with the MPCA:
The fire was started by lightning on August 18th and was relatively
small for many days. Jean Bergerson with the Minnesota Interagency Fire
Agency explains how it grew so fast:
The fire has forced closures of entry points into the BWCA and several
area roads. For more information you can call 218-365-3177 or go online
to www.inciweb.org/incident/2534.
Local Weather Statistics for August 2011
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for August.
The average high for the month was 79.4 degrees and the average low was
55.2 with an overall average temperature of 67.3 degrees. The 87 degree
reading on August 5th and the 46 degree readings on the 10th & 21st
were the highest and lowest for the month.
The warmest August on record was in 2003 with an average temperature of
71 degrees and the coldest was in 1977 with an average temperature of
58.9 degrees.
We received 5.55 inches of rain last month.
We are 1.1 degrees below the 30 year daily average temperature and 2.78
inches above the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru
August.
Ed Roundtable 091411
The Minnesota House Of Representatives DFL caucus is holding an
Education Budget Roundtable Discussion today at 3 PM in the District
318 Board Room. Area school administrators, school leaders and teachers
will be joined by Representative Mindy Greiling, the DFL lead on the
E-12 Education Finance Committee, District 3A Representative Tom Anzelc
and District 5B Representative Carly Melin. The discussion will focus
on the impact of the E-12 Education Budget and it's impact on students,
teachers ability to be effective in the classroom and the ramifications
on the district as a whole.
Saxhaug on Tourism Council 091211
Minnesota Senator Tom Saxhaug was named to the Explore Minnesota
Tourism Council recently. Tourism generates $11 billion a year for
Minnesota’s economy and as a member of the Tourism Council, Senator
Saxhaug will play a significant role in expanding Minnesota’s tourism
industry and creating jobs. Senator Saxhaug said he is looking forward
to serving on the Council. Our tourism industry is important, not only
to our area but all of Minnesota, supporting over 230,000 jobs. For
more information you can contact Senator Saxhaug’s office at (651)
296-4136 or email him at sen.tom.saxhaug@senate.mn.
Crime Report 091211
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday September 9th an employee at the new water treatment plant found
a portable radio belonging to Grand Rapids Public Works. It was
returned.
- On
Saturday September 10th a vigilant Grand Rapids Reserve Police Officer
spotted what appeared an intoxicated driver. When a regular officer
arrived and conducted sobriety tests the suspect was arrested for 4th
degree DWI and an open bottle.
- Two
males were cited for minor consume on Sunday September 11th near 2nd
Avenue SE. They ran into the wooded area behind the Itasca Resource
Center and eventually exited. Both had BAT readings of zero point one.
- Also on
Sunday an officer stopped and cited a suspect on 10th Avenue NE for
driving after suspension. The officer had spotted the suspect driving
at a nearby convenience store. When questioned the suspect stated
he was only attempting to get to Bovey to have a licensed driver take
him to a nearby county to appear in court for driving after suspension
Crime Report 090911
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Tuesday September 6th an officer spotted a suspicious person on 7th
Avenue NE and Ridgewood Road. The adult male was laying in the road and
according to the suspect he was waiting for a ride. He was instructed
to choose a different location the next time he waited for a bus.
- On
Wednesday September 7th a resident of Davis Road notified law
enforcement a derogatory word had been scratched into the paint of
their vehicle. She suspected her husbands hobby to be partly to blame.
- On
Thursday September 8th staff at a halfway house on Pokegama Avenue
South reported one of their residents was in possession of prescription
medication and was selling them to others. The drugs were confiscated
and the case turned over to the County Attorney's office for possible
charges.
Fire Victim Name Released 090911
The Itasca County Sheriffs Office has identified the victim of
Wednesday's fire on Crystal Springs Road. According to Investigator
Dean Scherf the Grand Rapids Fire Department found the bodies of 63
year old Timothy Hill and his small pet dog in the bedroom. Scherf
indicated that while the exact cause of the fire is still being
investigated it is believed there was an explosion in the interior of
the residence that started the fire. Smoke inhalation is believed to be
the cause of the deaths. Foul play is not suspected.
Fire and Death on Crystal Springs Road 090811
Late Wednesday morning, at approximately 11:30 AM, the Grand
Rapids Fire Department was called to a structure fire at a residence on
Crystal Springs Road. When firefighters arrived they found the front of
the home engulfed in heavy smoke and flames. Upon searching the
residence they located the body of an adult male in the bedroom;
evidently the lone occupant of the one story home. The State Fire
Marshal, the Itasca County Sheriffs Office and the Itasca County Fire
Investigation Team have been called in to assist with the
investigation. The cause of the fire has been listed as undetermined at
this time and the name of the deceased has not been released pending
notification of next of kin.
Education Tour 090711
The House DFL Caucus announced their E-12 Education Roundtable
Tour. Over the next two weeks, DFL education leaders will meet with
local teachers, administrators and school leaders at locations around
the state to discuss school funding and reforms, including how schools
are handling the impact of the increased funding shift. House Minority
Leader Paul Thissen:
He said in the next 2 weeks they will travel Minnesota to reach
out to local school districts to hear how they’re coping with the
increased school funding shift and engage them on improving our
schools. The tour will several stops in Greater Minnesota next week.
Crime Report 090611
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday September 2nd a resident on Crystal Lake Blvd reported some
missing solar lights. It appears his and neighbors lights were pulled
from the ground and tossed into Crystal Lake. Damage value at about
$120.
- On
Saturday September 3rd an officer on patrol spotted an adult female
walking home. Evidently she was too intoxicated to even walk home so
the officer gave her a lift.
- On
Saturday officers responded to a report of an adult male punching a
juvenile on Canal Street. Upon arrival officers were told by witnesses
the suspect threw a bicycle belonging to the juvenile to the ground and
punched him; which he denied. The witnesses supplied a cell phone video
of the incident; which is under investigation.
- On
Saturday officers accompanied Meds One EMS to an hotel on Pokegama
Avenue South for a report of an adult male in distress. The individual
had consumes too much alcohol and sat in the hot tub too long and was
unable to get out of the tub. He was also on probation.
- On
Sunday September 4th an officer on patrol on Pokegama Avenue South
noticed a vehicle with expired Minnesota plates on the front and
current Florida plates on the rear. The driver was informed the rear
plates were OK but to remove the front plates.
- On
Monday September 5th officers were called to a residence on Pokegama
Avenue South to dispatch what the resident thought was an injured deer
on their front lawn. The pile of branches were not dispatched.
- A
report of theft from a vehicle was received on Monday. The victim
stated $45 in cash was stolen from her vehicle while parked at a
friends house on 21st Street SW.
Crime Report 090211
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- A
resident on 1st Avenue NW reported an instance of credit card fraud on
Wednesday August 31st. About $500 was charged to the card at a Central
Square Mall merchant. Video surveillance recordings are being reviewed.
- On
Thursday September 1st a resident on 3rd Avenue NW reported some one
had damaged the paint on their parked vehicle. Damage estimate is
between one and two hundred dollars.
- On
Friday September 2nd passers-by on Pokegama Avenue South reported two
young females walking thru the parking lot of a closed fast food
restaurant wearing only towels. When law enforcement arrived and
confronted the bathing beauties they explained that it was a joke on
someone and they were wearing clothes under the towels. The vigilant
officer verified the claims and sent them on their way home.
Accident near Bemidji 090111
At 8:40 last night the Minnesota State Patrol received a report
of a wrong-way driver on US Trunk Highway 89, near Bemidji. As officers
were responding the suspect vehicle ran several other vehicles off the
road. The wrong-way driver was then reported as driving eastbound in
the westbound lane on US Highway 2. The wrong-way driver sideswiped a
vehicle driven by 40 year old Jeremy Raunch of Guthrie then collided
head-on with a vehicle driven by 27 year old Andrea Waagen of Ada.
Waagen's vehicle was sideswiped by a responding Beltrami County
Sheriffs Patrol car. Raunch appeared uninjured, a passenger in Waagen's
vehicle, 63 year old Delsie Konoske of Ada, received minor injuries.
Waagen was transported to a hospital in Fargo North Dakota with
critical injuries. The responding Sheriffs Deputy involved in the
multi-vehicle pile up was treated for minor injuries and released. The
name of the wrong-way driver has not been released at this time. The
Minnesota State Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Beltrami County
Sheriffs Office.
Arrowhead Arts Grants 083111
The Arrowhead Arts Council has announced the awarding of over
$43,000 in grants in support of area arts. The funding is made
available thru the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage fund and an
appropriation from the Minnesota State Legislature. Grants awarded in
our area include $3000 to the MacRostie Arts Center to produce it's
19th Annual Juried Exhibition. For more information about Arrowhead
Arts Grants call 800-569-8134 or visit their web page at www.ARACouncil.org.
Crime Report 083111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department on
Tuesday August 30th:
- An
employee at a fast food restaurant on Hwy 169 East reported the theft
of a portable MP3 player valued at $230 from their vehicle while in the
parking lot.
- A
traffic stop on the River Road resulted in two citations. One for
operating a motor vehicle without a drivers license; the other for
allowing an unlicensed driver to operate a motor vehicle.
- A
traffic stop on 7th Street NE for over the center line resulted in a
citation for possession of a small amount of marijuana in a motor
vehicle and an arrest for 4th degree DWI.
- There
were several speeding citations issued on Tuesday. Two on 4th Street
NE, one from the River Road and one from Pokegama Avenue South.
- A nurse
at Grand Itasca reported that an unruly patient had left without being
released. Law enforcement responded and the juvenile male ran from the
officer. The suspect was later apprehended in the woods and charged
with fleeing a peace officer.
Crime Report 083011
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday August 26th a domestic argument on 21st Street SE almost
resulted in an arrest for disorderly conduct. A male and female were
reported arguing in the street. When law enforcement arrived the
intoxicated female suspect attempted to lower her pants and urinate in
the street. She was stopped and taken home and put to bed by her
husband.
- On
Saturday August 27th an observant patrol officer spotted two males
hopping on an westbound train. They also spotted the officer, jumped
back off the moving train and fled from the officer. One suspect was
apprehended by the newspaper office the other by the nearby convenience
store. Both were charged with fleeing a peace officer on foot.
- Early
Sunday Morning, August 28th a second loud noise complaint was received
on the same Canal Street residence. The suspect taunted the responding
officer with “Go ahead and arrest me.” He was.
- On
Monday August 29th a business on Highway 2 West reported the theft of
an antique clock valued at over $300. The incident is under
investigation.
- A
search warrant was executed at a residence on River Road on Monday.
Confiscated were three marijuana plants, drug paraphernalia, and a
baggie of suspected marijuana.
GRFA 083011
According to Mark Dorholt they are a group of parents and
volunteers that have been working together for the last twenty years to
raise funds for the Grand Rapids Football Association:
He said the funds raised goes directly back into the football programs:
For more information on the Grand Rapids Football Association you can
ask any varsity football player or visit the concession stand during a
football game.
Accidents near Mt Iron and Cook 082911
The Minnesota State Patrol reported a two vehicle fatal accident
occurred on Saturday afternoon. A vehicle driven by 86 year old Donald
Shee of Downers Grove Illinois was southbound on Hwy 53 north of Cook
when his vehicle crossed over the northbound lane and onto the shoulder
striking a vehicle driven by 54 year old Joann Knutson of Cook who had
pulled onto the shoulder to avoid Shee's vehicle. The deceased was
identified as 81 year old Antoinette Lincoln of Romeoville Illinois, a
passenger in Shee's vehicle. Knutson is listed in critical condition in
St Mary's in Duluth.
A second fatal accident occurred just after noon on Sunday
August 28th. A minivan driven by 48 year old Lisa Ketola of New
Brighton was northbound on CR 109 crossing Hwy 169 and was struck by a
westbound SUV driven by 50 year old Cynthia Nygaard of Chisholm.
The deceased, who's name is being withheld pending notification of
relatives, was a seventy seven year old female passenger in the
minivan. The 16 and 50 year old passengers and driver of the minivan
received minor injuries. The nine, ten and twelve year old passengers
and the driver of the SUV received minor injuries. All victims were
transported to the Virginia Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Crime Report 082611
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday August 22nd an eight foot ladder valued at $350 was stolen from
a work truck parked in a southeast innkeeper's parking lot. Recorded
video surveillance is being reviewed.
- On
Tuesday August 23rd an officer on patrol on Pokegama Avenue North
witnessed three vehicles racing off from a traffic light. He turned
around and eventually pulled two suspects over and cited them for
exhibition driving. While writing the citation the third suspect
vehicle raced by. He was stopped and cited for speeding.
- On
Wednesday August 24th a father and son were conducting themselves in a
disorderly manner by yelling and swearing at employees of a retail
merchant on 29th Street SE. Law enforcement arrived and located the
suspects. They were upset over their inoperative vehicle and were
awaiting a tow. Law enforcement suggested the individuals wait by their
vehicle or be cited for disorderly conduct.
- On
Thursday August 25th a resident on 6th Avenue NW reported a tool box
valued at over $300 was stolen from a pickup truck.
Crime Report 082211
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department for
Thursday August 18th:
- A
resident on the River Road reported the theft of a one hundred dollar
bill from a locked safe on the premises. Further investigation revealed
the key was “hidden” in a desk drawer.
- Law
enforcement received a report of a drunk adult male sitting on an ATV
at the Itasca County Fairgrounds. It appears he was attempting to sleep
it off; however he was on probation from Wisconsin and his BAT was zero
point one eight five.
- Three
Juvenile males were arrested for fleeing a peace officer. A patrol
officer spotted the three stumbling down the middle of the road. He
pulled alongside and asked them to step over to the sidewalk so he
could get out of traffic. They did and as he was exiting his vehicle
the suspects fled. The officer caught up to them in knee deep
water among the cattails of McKinney Lake.
- There
was a report of three females indecently exposing themselves on
Pokegama Avenue South in front of a family restaurant. Law enforcement
responded, questioned the suspects, who denied the flashing and advised
then to move along.
Accident Near Sugar Hills Road 082211
Friday night August 19th a traffic accident on Highway 169 South
at Sugar Lake Road snarled traffic for motorists; fortunately there
were no serious injuries. According to the Minnesota State Patrol a 17
year old male from Warba was attempting to make a u-turn when his
minivan was struck by 59 year old Virginia Lindenfelser's 2004 Ford.
Lindenfelser and her passenger, 82 year old Cecilia Scherer of Sleepy
Eye received non-life threatening injuries. The Juvenile male was not
injured.
Crime Report 081811
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Tuesday August 16th a patron attempted to use a stolen gift card at a
retail business on Golf Course Road. The clerk knew the owner of the
card and questioned the use by the patron; the clerk reported the
information to law enforcement and it was determined the card was
stolen from a home in Pengilly along with a credit card. $1100 was
fraudulently charged to that card. The case is under investigation.
- Also on
Tuesday a suspicious person was reported laying in the front yard of a
residence on Pokegama Avenue South. When law enforcement arrived and
questioned the individual his replies were unintelligible. He offered
identification that proved to be forgeries. Law enforcement contacted
the Border Patrol that requested the suspect be placed under a hold. He
was subsequently jailed. His PBT was .285.
- On
Wednesday August 17th a merchant at a business on 3rd Avenue NW
reported his 9mm 16 shot Ruger Semi Auto pistol was missing. It had
been left under the front seat of his vehicle and he had no idea when
it went missing.
Central School
Great Space Giveaway 081711
The City of
Grand Rapids, the Central School Commission and the Grand Rapids
Economic Development Authority are sponsoring the Central School Great
Space Giveaway to assist with the opening of one new business or one
expanding business within Central School. It is hoped this campaign
will attract multiple new retail businesses or non-profit organizations
to the Downtown Business Area. (According to Grand Rapids City
Administrator Shawn Gillen the contest is intended to showcase the
broad variety of business opportunities in the downtown area and to
fill available retail space in the Central School with businesses that
complement the existing mix as well as show potential to stand out.)
The Grand Prize is worth up to twenty four thousand dollars and
includes a variety of advertising packages, marketing and consulting
services as well as free rent for the first twelve months of a thirty
six month lease agreement. A two page business concept which includes
an executive summary in 100 words or less needs to be delivered to the
Grand Rapids City Hall by 4:30 PM on Thursday September 15th. For more
information call city hall at 326-7600 and ask for the Central School
Great Space Giveaway.
Fatal Accident Near Blackberry 081611
On Monday August 15th at 5:10 PM a three vehicle accident
occurred on Highway 2 in Blackberry. According to the Minnesota State
Patrol a vehicle driven by 68 year old Carmen Jenson of Blue Earth was
traveling eastbound, crossed the center-line into the westbound lane
and struck the vehicle driven by 72 year old Ralph Vonasek of Bemidji
head-on. Vonasek was towing an RV trailer which overturned onto the
eastbound lane of Highway 2. A third vehicle driven by 61 year old
Michael Kenjalo of Goodland collided with the overturned RV trailer.
Jenson was pronounced deceased; Kenjalo was transported to St Mary's in
Duluth where he is listed in critical condition and Vonasek was
transported to Grand Itasca Hospital and Clinic with minor injuries.
Crime Report 081611
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Saturday August 13th a motorist was stopped for driving at night
without headlights. It was determined the driver was on an
instructional permit, she was cited. The passenger stated he had given
her permission to drive the vehicle and since it was outside the
allowed time for driving with that permit he was cited for allowing an
unlicensed driver to operate a motor vehicle.
- On
Sunday August 14th a traffic stop om Pokegama Avenue South resulted in
a citation for driving after revocation and minor consume since the BAT
reading was zero point zero two five.
- On
Monday August 15th a seven year old boy was abandoned at the Blandin
Beach, due to a mix-up. Chaperones with a Hibbing mental health program
got confused over which van the child was in when they left and each
thought he was in the others van. The child was taken to the Grand
Rapids Police Department dispatch office and treated to pop and chips
while one of the vans returned to retrieve the missing child.
- Early
Tuesday August 16th a passing motorist observed three patrons of a bar
/ restaurant relieving themselves on the sidewalk facing into traffic.
The witness contacted law enforcement, unfortunately the suspects were
gone on arrival of the squad. When you've got to go.......
Deer River Reforestation 081511
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources plants trees
on state lands to reforest harvested areas, provide wildlife habitat,
protect watershed values, and maintain the quality of state forests.
Professional foresters determine the tree species appropriate for the
site. Private contractors hired by the DNR do the actual
planting. Herbicides are being applied to approximately 44 acres
of state land in the Deer River area to control vegetation and help
establish new forests. Herbicide applications will begin approximately
today and end on approximately September 15th. All sites treated with
herbicides will be signed so that the public will know when they are on
a treated site. In the last 10 years, the DNR has planted or seeded
close to 90,000 acres, an area nearly twice the size of Lake
Winnibigoshish. This year, local DNR foresters have worked with
contract helicopters to seed more than 455 acres and planted over 180
acres in the Deer River Area during May. Nearly 140,000 trees,
predominantly red pines but also paper birch, white spruce, and jack
pine, have been hand planted on sites prepared during the past year. In
addition, the Deer River area will be doing 88 acres of mechanical site
preparation.
Health Insurance Exchange Grant 081511
The $4.2 million federal grant that Minnesota will receive will
be used to begin developing health insurance exchanges. State Lawmakers
call it a positive step toward providing affordable health care to
small businesses and working Minnesotans. State Representative Erin
Murphy:
Included as part of the Affordable Care law, insurance exchanges will
provide a competitive health insurance market for small businesses and
consumers to purchase affordable health care.
There is bipartisan support for the implementation of insurance
exchanges, including support from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce,
the Minnesota Business Partnership, and various health care
stakeholders.
Fatal Motorcycle Accident Near Buhl 081511
On Friday August 12th an accident occurred between a 1999 Chevy
sedan and a 2005 motorcycle on Highway 169 just outside of Buhl.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol the sedan driven by 22 year old
Jason Sulzbach of Buhl was attempting to cross Highway 169 at Morse
Road when he noticed the approaching motorcycle and stopped in the
roadway. The driver of the motorcycle, 40 year old Eric Oklobzija of
Virginia, laid the bike down and struck the side of the sedan.
Oklobzija was transported to the Mesabi Medical Center where he was
pronounced deceased. Sulzbach and his passenger, 28 year old Keith
Archambeau of Mt Iron, had no apparent injuries. The Minnesota
State Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Chisholm Police
Department and the St Louis County Sheriffs Office.
Crime Report 081211
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department. On Thursday August 11th:
- A
retail merchant on 29th Street SE reported two customers causing
problems in the store. When law enforcement arrived they were escorted
thru the check-out land and warned to not return or they could be
charged with trespassing.
- A
resident on 5th Street SE reported their neighbor was in the back yard
burning clothes. When law enforcement arrived they found the husband
had returned from work and extinguished the fire.
- On 4th
Street SW two bank customers got into a loud disagreement that
escalated into a shoving match. Law enforcement took one into custody
for disorderly conduct.
- An
officer conducting a traffic stop on Highway 169 South was almost
struck by a passing motorist. He used his flashlight to alert the
motorist and waved the suspect vehicle over. Then while questioning the
driver, she said her passenger had been yelling at her to move over.
The driver was cited.
Crime Report 081111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Monday August 8th a minor traffic violation on 4th Street NW resulted
in an arrest. An observant officer noticed a motorist make an improper
lane change and pulled the vehicle over. The driver failed a field
sobriety test and was arrested for 4th degree DWI.
- Also on
Monday a resident on the River Road reported a suspicious person on her
back deck. The suspect was looking at her patio window and appeared to
be using it as a mirror since he was smoothing his hair and placing his
hands behind his head. When law enforcement arrived they took the
suspect to an area hospital where he was diagnosed as being under the
influence of methamphetamine.
- A
visitor from Canada was stopped on Monday on 7th Avenue SE for
speeding. She was doing 53 in a 30 MPH zone. Upon questioning by law
enforcement it was determined she did not have her drivers license,
passport or insurance papers in her possession. She was cited for
speeding and warned about having proper identification while in the US.
- On
Tuesday August 9th there were two reports of vandalism, the first from
the Blandin Beach and the second from 4th Street SW and 14th Avenue.
Both appear to be related.
- Also on
Tuesday an employee in a business office on 1st Avenue NW reported the
theft of a tablet computer valued at $500 from her office. She
indicated only employees had access to the office and the incident is
under investigation.
- A
business on 4th Street NW reported the theft of a $25 cloth covered
windmill from their yard display. There is a suspect.
Crime Report 081011
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriff's
Office:
- On
Friday August 5th a motorist was cited for 4th degree DWI on County
Road 10 near Warba.
- On
Saturday August 6th a traffic stop on Main Street in Deer River
resulted in an arrest for driving after cancellation, inimical to
public safety.
- A
report of a drunk driver was received on Sunday August 7th from CR 10
in Bovey. The suspected drunk was not located by law enforcement.
- On
Monday August 8th a driver on HWY 169 in Taconite was cited for
inattentive driving, they were texting.
- On
Tuesday August 9th a resident of 2nd Street NW in Cohasset reported
the theft of some prescription medications.
Scientific and Aquatic Management Areas Proposed 080511
The Minnesota DNR is seeking comments on proposals to establish
several scientific and natural areas (SNAs) and aquatic management
areas (AMAs) in Itasca County.
SNAs are a state land unit, like a state park or wildlife management
area. AMAs are a state land unit similar to wildlife management areas.
Probably the best known example of a SNA in Itasca County is the Lost
40 SNA. Additional information on scientific and natural areas may be
found at www.mndnr.gov/snas.
The DNR has an opportunity to establish these areas through the
generous donation of the landowner. The areas proposed are:
Big Too Much Lake SNA & AMA
Little Too Much Lake SNA
Potato Lake SNA
Eagle Lake AMA
Horseshoe Lake AMA
The DNR is seeking comments from the public on the establishment of
these areas as SNAs or AMAs. Comments about the proposed SNAs may be
sent to Steve Wilson via email at steve.wilson@state.mn.us.
Comments on the AMAs may be sent to Chris Kavanaugh via email at chris.kavanaugh@state.mn.us.
The deadline for submitting comments is Aug. 28th.
MNDOT Training Exercise 080511
Motorists traveling on or near the I-535/Highway 53 Blatnik
Bridge may see a large-scale training exercise taking place on the
bridge between 9 AM and 3 PM, Monday, Aug. 8th. The exercise will
simulate an emergency rescue operation in which a bridge inspector has
been thrown from a “snooper” basket and is hanging from a safety
harness. The basket will be suspended approximately 30 feet below the
bridge and 70 feet above ground level. Snooper vehicles are large
trucks equipped with maneuverable, crane-like arms and a large metal
basket that can accommodate two to three bridge inspectors. This
training exercise coincides with a MNDOT maintenance project on the
bridge. The southbound and northbound right lanes will be closed. Work
zones are clearly marked and MNDOT asks that motorists drive the posted
speed and with caution. Safety as an integral part of MNDOT’s
day-to-day work. For real-time traveler information anywhere in
Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org/ or dial 511.
Arson Fire Arrest and Charging 080511
On Wednesday August 3rd investigators from the Grand Rapids
Police Department and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension
arrested 66 year old Robert Shepard in connection with an arson fire at
the United Methodist Church. On Thursday August 4th Shepard was charged
in Itasca County District Court with one count of first degree arson.
Bail was set at $100,000 without conditions or $50,000 under the
conditions he keep court appearances, stay in contact with his
attorney, be law abiding, have no contact with the pastor and is
restrained from being within a half mile of the church. Shepard is
currently in the Itasca County Jail and his next court appearance is
Monday August 8th at 10 AM.
Local Weather Statistics for July 2011
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for July 2011.
The average high for the month was 83.1 degrees and the average low was
59.4 with an overall average temperature of 71.3 degrees. The 95
degrees on July 18th was the months highest, the 47 degree temperature
on the 13th was the low and the 93 degree reading on the 20th set a new
record high for that day. Way back in 1936 there were ten consecutive
days, the 7th thru the 17th with temperatures over 97 degrees and three
days; the 11th, 12th & 13th, of 104 degrees.
The warmest July on record was in 2006 with an average temperature of
73.3 degrees.
The coldest was in 1992 with an average temperature of 60.8 degrees.
We received 3.2 inches of snow last month.
We are 1.4 degrees below the 30 year daily average temperature and 0.63
inches above the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru
July.
Crime Report 080111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
An act of vandalism was reported on Friday July 29th from the Grand
Rapids Sports Complex. Someone had broke four faucets in a bathroom
causing $400 in damages.
Also on Friday a traffic stop on 21st Street SW for not wearing a
seatbelt resulted in citations for DAR, possession of drug
paraphernalia and possession of a 5th degrree controlled substance.
A traffic stop on 7th Avenue SE resulted in a citation for possession
of a small amount of marijuana in a motor vehicle. The suspect claimed
it was “spice” and thought it was still legal in Minnesota. It is not.
Officers responded to the Itascan Juvenile Center on Sunday July 31st
for a report of criminal damage to property in progress. Two juveniles
had climbed atop a cottage and were tearing the shingles off and
urinating on the roof. Both were charged.
Early this morning officers responded to the parking lot in front of a
SW furniture store for a report of theft from a motor vehicle. The
owner stated the window of her car was broken and one thousand dollars
was missing.
Cravaack Announces Mobile Offices 072911
Congressman Chip Cravaack has announced the locations of mobile
offices his staff will be conducting throughout the Eighth
Congressional District on Friday August 8th at the Hibbing City Hall
from 9 AM to 11 AM and the Buhl City Hall from noon to 2 PM.
Congressman Cravaack serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee as Vice Chair of the Aviation Subcommittee, the Homeland
Security Committee, and the Science, Space and Technology Committee.
The 8th Congressional District covers 18 counties in Northeast
Minnesota.
Drowning Jack The Horse Lake 072911
The Itasca County Sheriff’s Office received a call on Sunday
July 24th reporting that a hat had been found floating beside a
capsized canoe on Jack the Horse Lake. It appears that late
evening on Saturday June 23rd an adult male was observed leaving the
dock in the canoe and had not returned. The search continued until 8 PM
Wednesday July 27th when the body of 56 year old Mark Scott of
Burnsville was located. The Itasca County Sheriffs Office was assisted
by the Itasca County Search & Rescue Team, the Itasca County Dive
Team, the Minnesota DNR water & air units, the St Louis County
Search & Rescue K-9 Unit and the K-9 Emergency Response Team of
Wisconsin.
Lightning Strike and Fire 072711
Shortly after midnight this morning the Grand Rapids Fire
Department responded to a residence on Old Soldier's Lane that had been
struck by lightning. Upon arrival, fire crews encountered light smoke
coming from the utility area of the basement. Further investigation
revealed that lightning had struck the telephone line on the back side
of the house and exited through a cement block in the basement wall,
blowing pieces of cement and wall covering clear across the basement.
The electrical charge from the lightning strike was powerful enough to
blow the control knobs completely off the washing machine and warp its
lid; it also knocked a shelving unit off of the wall and burned a hole
through the side of the clothes dryer. The plastic vent hose attached
to the clothes dryer was completely burned off, which was determined to
be the source of the smoke in the basement. The two sleeping occupants
of the house were unaware that their house had been struck by lightning
until the smoke detectors in the basement began to sound. One of the
occupants is physically disabled, but both were able to exit the house
with the assistance of the Grand Rapids Police Department.
There were no injuries to the occupants or the responders, and damage
is estimated to be around ten thousand dollars.
Predatory Offender Community Meeting 072611
The Itasca County Sheriff’s Office and the Minnesota Department
of Corrections will be holding and informational community
meeting at the Marble City Hall on Monday August 1st at 6 pm
regarding the address change of level three predatory offender, Steven
Keske. The public is encouraged to attend this meeting to gain
more information about the community notification process as well as
the predatory offender.
Crime Report 072511
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday July 22nd a traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in
citations for minor consume, exhibition driving and no proof of
insurance.
- Also on
Friday a two vehicle accident occurred on Pokegama Avenue South at 6th
Street. A SUV pulled onto the highway in front of a southbound
motorcycle. The motorcyclist was thrown into the northbound lane of
traffic and taken to the emergency room at Grand Itasca. The SUV driver
was cited for failure to yield and the motorcyclist was cited for no
proof of insurance.
- On
Friday July 22nd a resident on 7th Avenue NW was cited for violating a
zoning ordinance. The structure had been without a roof for several
months.
- Late
Friday night a customer at a convenience store on Highway 169 East
reported they had found some property. Law enforcement took the
property and determined the owner of the prosthetic leg and returned it
to them.
- On
Saturday July 23rd a motorist on Golf Course Road reported they had
caused some property damage due to their left rear wheel coming off the
vehicle and hitting the fence. Those involved exchanged insurance
information and no injuries were reported.
- A boat
owner reported on Sunday July 24th the theft of a gas can and six
gallons of gas valued together at $90 from their boat parked on 7th
Avenue NE.
GRPUC Votes to Reduce Electric Rates 072511
The Grand Rapids Public Utilities Commission met on July 13th
and research prepared by management indicated the anticipated need for
electric revenue was reduced by 4.2 percent. Because of that
revenue need reduction, electric rates will be reduced between 3 and
9.8% depending on customer classification. The commission voted
unanimously to make the rate decrease effective August 1 for
electricity used in July.
Last month the GRPUC authorized staff to evaluate current electric
rates based on a recently negotiated wholesale electric service
agreement, yielding a savings of about $175,000 annually; changes in
department staffing will yield $175,000 in wage and benefit cost
reductions; the remaining revenue savings of about $300,000 will come
from a reduction in the electric rate stabilization fund.
Drowning Jack The Horse Lake 072511
The Itasca County Sheriff’s Office received a call on Sunday
July 24th reporting that a hat had been found floating beside a
capsized canoe on Jack the Horse Lake. It appears that late
evening on Saturday June 23rd an adult male was observed leaving the
dock in the canoe and had not returned. The search continued until dark
on July 24th. The male party has been identified as a 56 year old from
the Metro Area. His name is being held pending notification of family
members.
Crime Report 072111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Tuesday July 19th a resident on 16th Avenue NW reported some children
playing with fire. When officers responded they advised them of the
hazards and released them to their parent.
- Also on
Tuesday a traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in a citation
for possession of a small amount of marijuana in a motor vehicle and
possession of drug paraphernalia.
- On
Wednesday July 20th a motorist was arrested on 4th Street NW for 3rd
degree DWI and their vehicle towed to impound.
- Also on
Wednesday an innkeeper on Pokegama Avenue South reported a guest passed
out in their room and the room damaged. Damage is estimated at $2000.
Law enforcement responded and had the individual transported to Grand
Itasca. He was subsequently arrested and charged with criminal damage
to property.
- A
report of fireworks was received from the parking lot of a retail
merchant on 29th Street SE. Officers located and stopped a suspicious
vehicle cruising thru the area. They found several juveniles with spent
bottle rockets in their vehicle as well as a baggie of a green leafy
substance, suspected of being marijuana. The juveniles were released to
their parents.
- Two
juvenile females were cited for shoplifting at a retail merchant on
Pokegama Avenue SW and released to their mother.
Blandin Foundation Names New CEO 072111
Trustees of the Blandin Foundation have selected a recognized
local, regional and national leader with deep roots here in Northern
Minnesota as it's new President and CEO. Dr Kathleen Annette emerged
from a six month search conducted by trustees with assistance from
KeyStone Search. Dr Annette has extensive knowledge of and a long time
working relationship with the Blandin Foundation having served as a
board member from 1991 – 2003 and has chaired and participated in the
Blandin Foundation American Indian Advisory Committee since 2004. Dr
Annette grew up on the Red Lake Indian Reservation and will begin at
the Foundation in September. Current President and CEO Jim Hoolihan
returns to the private sector in October.
Crime Report 071911
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday July 15th a resident of Horseshoe Lake Road reported someone on
their deck attempting to enter their home. The suspect was gone upon
arrival of law enforcement.
- On
Saturday July 16th a North Dakota resident was arrested on HWY 169
South for 3rd degree DWI.
- On
Sunday July 17th a motorist on CR 63 was arrested for 4th degree DWI.
- Also on
Sunday a prowler was reported from 3rd Avenue NW. It appeared the
suspect was attempting to climb up a balcony to gain access to a party
taking place upstairs. Law enforcement was unable to locate the
individual.
- On
Monday July 18th a vigilant officer noticed several individuals
swimming at the Blandin Beach after hours. While instructing them to
leave he detected alcohol on an 18 year old female's breath and cited
her for underage consume.
In the local Crime Report from the Itasca
County Sheriffs Office:
- On
Friday July 15th a resident of CR 51 in Bovey reported a forced entry
burglary. An inventory of stolen items was not provided.
- On
Saturday July 16th a resident of Columbia Street in Cohasset reported a
forced entry burglary. A list of missing items was not reported.
- On
Sunday July 17th a traffic stop on US Hwy 169 South resulted in an
arrest for 4th degree DWI. The vehicle was towed into impound.
- On
Monday July 18th a resident of CR 594 in rural Bovey reported the theft
of some prescription medication. An inventory of the stolen
medications was not provided.
Strong Court Appearance 070811
The Itasca County Attorney's Office is prosecuting a case
against Donovan Strong in St Louis County District Court due to a
conflict of interest in the St Louis County Attorney's Office. Strong,
of Virginia, has been charged with 1st degree attempted criminal sexual
conduct, 2nd degree criminal sexual conduct and solicitation of a child
to engage in sexual conduct. The charges against Strong stem from
allegations that he sexually assaulted a 12 year old female during an
incident at Lake Vermillion on July 2nd. Strong made his first court
appearance on Thursday July 7th and bail was set at $30,000. His next
court appearance is secheduled for July 20th at 9:30 AM.
Local Weather Statistics for June 2011
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for June 2011.
- The
average high for the month was 72.3 degrees and the average low was
50.5 with an overall average temperature of 61.4 degrees.
- The
warmest June on record was in 1995 with an average temperature of 68.6
degrees. The coldest in 1958 & 1969 with an average temperature of
54.9 degrees.
- The 89
degree reading on June 6th was the months high and the 41 degree
temperature on the 11th was the months low. The months record high was
100 degrees on June 26th in 1922 and the record low was 24 in 1928.
- We
received 6.41 inches of rain last month.
- We are
1.9 degrees below the 30 year daily average temperature and 1.94 inches
above the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru June
BOLO Gregory L. Smith 070811
The Minnesota Department of Corrections has issued an arrest
warrant for a level 3 predatory offender, Gregory Lewis Smith. On April
18th Smith was released from a Minnesota Corrections Facility on
Intensive Supervised Release for First-Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
against a 15-year old female. He has two previous sexual assault
convictions in Illinois, as well as a history of burglary and assault.
Smith has been considered a fugitive since July 5th when he cut off his
GPS bracelet and absconded. He was last seen at the Hennepin County
Government Center in downtown Minneapolis. Smith is a 59 year old
African American male, 5’10” tall, 199 pounds, and is bald with a
gray/white mustache and goatee. He sometimes wears reading glasses.
Citizens should not attempt to confront Smith. Anyone with information
on his whereabouts is asked to call 911 or the DOC 24-hour tip-line at
651-603-0026.
BLANDIN FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANTS 070811
Trustees of the Blandin Foundation issued $5.33 million in
grants at its June board meeting.
Area communities will be strengthened through several grants focused on
early childhood support and education, most notably the Invest Early™
initiative. A grant of $100,000 to ServeMinnesota in support of youth
literacy in the Itasca area also was approved by trustees.
Other area grants include:
$3.99 million dollars over two years to the Itasca Area Schools
Collaborative for Invest Early™ support
$120,000 to the Itasca Area YMCA for operating support.
$155,000 for the Itasca Water Legacy to strengthen local water research
capabilities.
Information on Blandin Foundation grant-making, leadership development
programs and public policy initiatives are at www..blandinfoundation.org.
Crime Report 070711
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
- On
Wednesday July 6th a motorist was cited for inattentive driving on HWY
169 in Colerain.
- Also on
Wednesday two juveniles were cited for underage consume at a beer party
in Marble.
- A
prowler was reported on Wednesday from South Avenue in Marble. Law
enforcement was unable to locate the suspect.
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Wednesday July 6th a resident on 9th Street NW complained about
excessive smoke from a neighbor's campfire. It was burning green logs.
- A
prowler was reported early Thursday morning in the 11th Avenue NE area.
Law enforcement was unable to locate a suspect.
Crime Report 070111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Thursday June 30th an intoxicated female was arrested for disorderly
conduct after she was caught on the squad car's video system urinating
in the corner of the parking lot behind Kmart. The suspect had no pants
on at the time of the arrest and had a blood alcohol level of point two
six seven. There was also an open container in her vehicle. She
couldn't wait to go.
- On
Friday July 1st a vigilant officer spotted a suspicious vehicle parked
near the snowmobile trail on CR 61. As he approached the car he noticed
it rocking and found a nude male romantically involved with a nude
female. He directed them to cloth themselves and produce ID. The male
was identified as being on probation with a condition of release to not
consume alcohol. He tested at point two six one and was arrested. Maybe
they should have found a motel room?
Crime Report 070611
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Friday July 1st a wallet with $500 in cash and assorted credit cards
was reported missing. The owner had used it a retail merchant on
Pokegama Avenue South and could not find it at her next shopping stop.
- On
Saturday July 2nd a shoplifter was cited after stealing a $10 shirt
from a retail merchant located on Pokegama Avenue South.
- A
vehicle operator on Westwood Road was arrested for 4th Degree DWI on
Saturday July 2nd.
- On
Monday July 4th a traffic stop resulted in an arrest for driving after
revocation on 7th Avenue South. They were also charged with no proof of
insurance.
- Also on
Monday the strong storm that blew through the area resulted in a downed
power pole on 4th Street NW near a used auto dealer. There were no
injuries reported however the GRFD was called in to clean up oil
leaking from a transformer.
- A
traffic stop on Monday July 4th on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in an
arrest for driving after cancellation inimical to public safety and 5th
degree controlled substance possession.
- On
Monday July 4th a juvenile driver fell asleep at the wheel on 3rd
Avenue NW, drove across someone's yard and struck a fence. When he
awoke he panicked and left the scene. A witness notified law
enforcement and the driver was located and cited for hit and run.
- On
Tuesday July 5th a driver on Harris Town Road was arrested for 3rd
degree DWI.
Fisherman Charged 063011
The Itasca County Attorney's Office is reporting that the person
of interest, 29 year old Leonard Fisherman Jr. of Deer River made his
first appearance in District Court on Wednesday. Fisherman has been
charged with one count of failure to register as a predatory offender,
one count of failure to appear in court and three counts of 1st degree
criminal sexual conduct. These charges stem from allegations that
Fisherman absconded from supervision by removing an electronic home
monitoring device, failed to appear in court and forcibly raped a
juvenile female at knife-point. At this court appearance he was
remanded to jail and ordered to have no contact with the victim. His
next court appearance is set for July 5th at 9:30 AM.
Leech Lake 21st Annual Fishing Derby
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is inviting everyone 16 and
younger to participate in the 21st Annual Kids’ Fishing Derby on July
16th at the Leech Lake Dam and Recreation Area. The event is free and
will be held below the Leech Lake Dam. Registration and activities
begin at 11 AM, the fishing derby runs from noon to 1 PM. Participants
are registered in three age groups, five and under, six to11, and 12 to
16. Hot dogs and pop will be served. For more information, please
contact the park office at (218) 654-3145.
Fourth Celebration 070111
July 4th is Monday making this a long weekend. Officer Brian
Mattson with the Grand Rapids Police Department has this bit of advice:
Since the days of Governor Ventura fireworks have been legal for
private use; however there are some restrictions:
He recommends that if you are using fireworks at home:
The Grand Rapids Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration takes place
Monday at 10 PM off the northeast end of Drumbeater Island and the best
location to observe is from the golf course:
Another location to observe is from the lake itself and congestion is
very likely so the Itasca County Sheriffs Office recommends to use
caution and to not drink alcohol while boating.
Walleye Classic 063011
The Chamber Catch, Record and Release Walleye Tournament took
place on June 18th. According to Bud Stone President of the Grand
Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce:
He said ninety-nine fish were recorded with a combined weight of five
hundred twenty eight point five nine pounds:
Stone said all the fish were returned to the lake immediately after
they were measured and photographed and none of them died:
For more information on the tournament you can visit the Chamber Catch,
Record and Release Tournament Website at: www.grandrapidschamberwalleyeclassic.com.
Heavy
Rains Brought Road Closure 062811
Heavy rainfall has caused some travel difficulties our area.
National
Weather Service Meteorologist Alex Lamers says four to five and a half
inches fell yesterday morning:
MNDOT closed Highway 65 from Nashwauk to Togo due to flooding. They
recommend using Highways 73 or 38 as alternate routes. Highway 65 will
be reopened after the water recedes and MNDOT has assessed and repaired
damage caused by the flooding.
Highway 65 Closed 062711
MNDOT has closed Highway 65 between Nashwauk and Togo due
to flooding. Motorists are encouraged to use Highways 73 or 38 as
alternate routes. Local traffic may enter the closed area to access
their properties, but are advised not to drive through the flood waters
covering Highway 65. Highway 65 will be reopened when the water recedes
and MNDOT repairs any damage to the roadway. Please check 511mn.org or
dial 511 for updated information.
Mistaken Identity 062311
The owner of the Risky Business bar in Gilbert was formally
charged Tuesday with burning down his own building. Building owner
James Millis lived in the apartment above the bar and was arrested
early Saturday after Gilbert police and officials with the State Fire
Marshal’s Office investigated the scene. We should note at this time
that former Grand Rapids Mayor Jim Millis is not the suspect in this
investigation. Thirty-eight year old Millis was charged in St. Louis
County District Court in Virginia with two felony counts of
first-degree arson. He remained in the St. Louis County jail pending
$100,000 bail. His next court appearance has been set for July 6th.
Crime Report 062011
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Friday June 17th a stereo and speakers valued at $300 were stolen
from a vehicle parked on the Itasca Community College Campus. Video
surveillance tapes are available.
Also on Friday a vehicle operator was arrested for 4th degree DWI, no
proof of insurance and leaving the scene of an accident. The driver
crashed into a light pole and tree on the Central School grounds. A
damage estimate was not available.
On Saturday June 18th two reports of attempted fraud were received. The
first on Isleview Road and the second on Pokegama Avenue North. In both
instances the intended victim was told they had won a new car and to
retrieve it they had to send money to an address in Jamaica.
A driver was arrested on Highway 2 West on Saturday for 4th degree DWI,
giving a false name to a police officer, driving after revocation and
no proof of insurance.
Sunday Fathers Day brought a report of the theft of some checks from a
residence on 3rd Avenue NE> The checks were cashed locally and the
incident is under investigation.
Also on Sunday two gas cans were reported stolen from a boat &
trailer parked at an Innkeeper on Highway 169 East. A dollar value
amount for the missing items were not reported.
06-16-11
Cohasset Addition
The Cohasset City council will hold an emergency city council
meeting friday at 2pm at the Cohasset City Hall. There is just
one item on the agenda- the city's account with the woodland
Bank. The public is welcome to attend.
Again, the meeting is Friday at 2pm at the Cohasset City Hall.
06-16-11
Judy Garland Fest
The 36th annual Judy Garland Festival kicks off this evening
home in Grand Rapids. Last year, the festival was held in the
Twin Cities. There are two events tonight. At 5pm, fans of
Judy Garland are invited to a Get Acquainted Reception at 5p at the
Judy Garland home on Highway 169. The cost is $15.00. At 7
tonight, the Grand Rapids Players present “Meet Me In St. Louis” at the
Reif Center. Tickets are $15.00. Other events include a
book signing by Andy Williams Friday from 12:30 to 1:30pm at the Judy
Garland home. Collector Mike Siewert returns with his collection
of 15 gowns worn by Judy Garland in the movies. Genealogists will
enjoy Michelle Russell’s “Adventures from Tennessee to Oz”. a
multimedia presentation with music and photos uncovering route Judy
Garland’s family took from the pioneer days in Tennessee. A Gala
dinner will be held at Wendigo Lodge Friday night featuring Andy
Williams. Williams will screen his favorite video clips
from performing with Judy Garland. Tickets are $30.00.
06-16-11 Fire
Crews
Fire danger is low in Minnesota, so the Minnesota Incident
Command Center is sending fire crews where they are needed most.
Jean Goad, DNR Public Affairs Officer.
(Act)
Minnesota also has individual fire fighters with engines and aircraft
fighting fires in Colorado, New Mexico, Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, North
Carolina, Florida and Texas. Crews are expected to serve up to
two weeks.
Crime Report 061311
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Friday June 10th a retail merchant on Pokegama Avenue South reported
they had detained a shoplifter for stealing $46 in merchandise.
On Saturday June 11th emergency room staff reported to the GRPD they
were treating a victim of a gunshot wound. Upon investigation law
enforcement found the victim had accidentally shot himself in the leg
just below the buttocks. The incident took place on Pincherry Road in
Cohasset.
On Sunday June 12th a driver on 4th Street NW was cited for inattentive
driving; he reported he was checking his email while driving.
GR High Student Wins Art Competition 052611
Congressman Chip Cravaack has announced that Sarah Rajala, a
junior at Grand Rapids High School, is the winner of the 2011
Congressional Art Competition for Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional
District. Her work, “Boundaries Broken,” will be displayed in
Washington, DC, during the next year. Congressman Cravaack said the
quality of the art work presented for judging in this year’s
competition was truly impressive. Sarah's winning entry is a great
representation of the artistic talent in Minnesota’s Eighth District.
Receiving Second Place recognition was Rachael Schulte, also a junior
attending Grand Rapids High School. Schulte’s work, “Self
Portrait,” will be displayed in the Congressman’s District Office in
North Branch. The 8th Congressional District covers 18 counties in
Northeast Minnesota.
Memorial Day Services 052611
Memorial Day services will be observed on Monday May 30th.
Decoration of graves with flags will take place on Friday May 27th at
the Itasca Calvary Cemetery, the Harris Township Cemetery, the Wildwood
Cemetery and the Bass Brook Cemetery.
Memorial Day Services
- Trout
Lake Swedish Cemetery 08:30 AM
- Trout
Lake
09:00 AM
- Old
Soldiers Lane
09:00 AM
- Blackberry
09:30 AM
- Wildwood
Cemetery 09:30 AM
- Ball
Bluff
10:15 AM
- Harris
Township Cemetery 10:30 AM
- Sago
10:45 AM
- Robert
Horn Bridge
10:45 AM
- Wawina
11:15 AM
- Itasca
Calvary Cemetery 11:15 AM
- Courthouse
Veteran's Memorial 11:45 AM
- Warba
12:00 PM
- Legion
Beach 12:15 PM
- Manor
House 12:15 PM
- Evergreen
Terrace Care Center 01:15 PM
- Grand
Village Nursing Home 01:45 PM
Anyone
may help with decorating graves. For more information contact the
Itasca County Veterans Service Office at 327-2858. Warba area services
are being conducted by American Legion Post Two
School Bus Accident 052511
An equipment malfunction caused a school bus to lose control and
run off the road earlier this morning. According to the Minnesota State
Patrol 58 year old Norrine Kosobucki of Birchdale was eastbound on
Highway 11 when both left rear wheels came off a school bus from
Independent School District 390, Lake of the Woods. The tires struck a
nearby pickup truck, causing it to run off the road. In addition to the
driver there were thirteen students and one parent on the bus, none of
which were injured. The driver of the pickup, 52 year old James
Clementson, was not injured either. The State Patrol was assisted at
the scene by the Lake of the Woods Sheriffs Office.
Dayton on Vetoes 052511
Yesterday, Governor Mark Dayton vetoed the nine budget bills
passed by the Republican legislature in the closing days of session. He
said that in the spirit of compromise he cut his proposal in half:
He returned the bills along with veto messages outlining areas of
concern.
Governor Dayton released his budget proposal on February 15,
2011. Since that time, he has twice revised his budget in search
of compromise.
Alleged Amber Alert 052311
On Saturday May 21st the Grand Rapids Police Department
responded to a reported child abduction on 20th Street NW. The report
indicated a juvenile male had been abducted at gun-point and forced
into a vehicle. An Amber Alert was immediately issued while officers
investigated the incident. An off duty Sheriffs Deputy notified
investigating officers that he had observed a male matching the victims
description near where the incident occurred. GRPD Officers responded
to the area, located the subject who fled into the woods. A short time
later the subject was apprehended and was identified as the alleged
abducted juvenile male. Officers took him and the reporting party into
custody and are being held pending formal charges.
Fire Injures Woman 052311
At 5 PM Friday May 20th the Grand Rapids Fire Department
responded to an alarm at an apartment complex located on 7th Street
NW. Upon arrival, fire department personnel discovered light smoke
coming from a third floor apartment and a 55-year old unresponsive
female suffering from life-threatening burns to her face and head area.
The woman had apparently been smoking while using an oxygen supplying
medical breathing device. The fire was out on arrival. Firefighters
ventilated all three floors of the complex however evacuations were not
needed. Meds-1 Emergency Medical Service transported the victim to
Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital; where she was airlifted to a Duluth
hospital. Her condition at this time is not known.
Dayton Compromise 051911
Yesterday Governor Dayton spoke to Minnesota’s budget and the
importance of compromise:
"I made an offer on Monday to meet them halfway. That's the essence of
compromise. That's the essence of a divided government that we have
through the will of the people of Minnesota. But they also gave us a
shared responsibility to govern this state and lead this state. Sharing
means you don't get it all your way. It means that you compromise and
find middle ground. I offered to meet them at middle ground and I'm
standing at middle ground waiting for them to understand that part of
the leadership is to work collaboratively with others who have been
dually elected to share that responsibility." - Governor Dayton
"And that's the contrast between what I'm doing, which is to protect as
much as possible those essential services and not raise property taxes
- as their bill would do by over half a billion dollars according
to the Department of Revenue. So they're raising taxes on everybody and
I'm raising taxes on just the wealthiest 2% of Minnesotans." - Governor
Dayton responding to a question on the affects Republican budget cuts
would have on average Minnesotans.
Cravaack Mobile Offices 051911
Congressman Chip Cravaack announced locations of mobile offices
his staff will be conducting throughout the Eighth Congressional
District on Friday, June 3rd. He said these mobile offices will provide
residents throughout the Eighth District an opportunity to meet with
members of his staff and discuss matters that are important to them.
Members of the Cravaack’s staff will be available at the following
locations:
Deer River City Hall
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
208 2nd Street SE
Deer River, MN
Grand Rapids Public Library
12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
140 Northeast 2nd Street
Grand Rapids, MN
Nashwauk City Hall
2:45 PM to 4:30 PM
301 Central Ave.
Nashwauk, MN
Congressman Cravaack serves on the Transportation and
Infrastructure Committee – where he is Vice Chair of the Aviation
Subcommittee – the Homeland Security Committee, and the Science, Space
and Technology Committee. The 8th Congressional District covers 18
counties in Northeast Minnesota.
Accident on Hwy 38 051811
A seventy five year old Deer River resident is in serious
condition after an accident on Highway 38 near the intersection with CR
19. According to the Minnesota State Patrol Gladys Brown was northbound
on 38 when her vehicle crossed into the southbound lane entered a ditch
and struck a tree. Brown was transported to Grand Itasca with non life
threatening injuries. The State Patrol was assisted at the scene by the
Itasca County Sheriffs Office and Meds 1 Emergency Medical Services.
Dayton Budget Compromise 051711
Yesterday Governor Mark Dayton presented Speaker of the
Minnesota House Representative Kurt Zellers and Majority Leader Senator
Amy Koch a letter asking them to meet him halfway on a budget
compromise:
"My compromise represents a balanced approach to a balanced budget.
One-half of the remaining $3.6 billion deficit would be eliminated by
spending cuts and one-half by tax revenue increases. This is the
reasonable, responsible middle ground."
Governor Dayton said compromise requires all of us to agree to items
that we don't agree with. It is the essence of compromise; the only way
to reconcile our different positions on the state's budget for the next
biennium.
Dead in Warba Fire 051611
On Friday May 13th the Itasca County Sheriff's Office was called
to a residence near Warba for a report of a structure fire. Two
deceased victims were found in the building after the fire was
extinguished. They have been identified as 81 year old James and 76
year old Joyce Carlile. The Sheriff's Office was assisted at the scene
by the Warba & Goodland Fire Departments, Meds 1 Emergency Medical
Services, the State Patrol and the State Fire Marshal. Visitation is
scheduled for Tuesday May 17th from 5 – 7 PM and a memorial service on
Wednesday at 3 PM in the Warba Presbyterian Church.
From The Wilderness Book Signing 051211
There will be a book signing on Saturday May 14th at the Village
Bookstore in the Central Square Mall. Author JR Thompson gives us a
synopsis of the story:
He said the story started out as a bedtime story for his
grand-children. He contacted the Minnesota DNR for research and was
pointed to an area naturalist:
The signing takes place Saturday from noon to two PM, however Thompson
said he will stay around if someone wants to discuss the book.
Fatal Accident Near Hill City 050911
A sixty six year old Grand Rapids man died as a result of an
accident on Highway 169 in Hill City on Sunday morning. According to
the Minnesota State Patrol John Hohlen was northbound when his vehicle
crossed over into the southbound lane and struck head on a vehicle
driven by 58 year old Daniel Mattfield, also of Grand Rapids. Mattfield
and his wife, 46 year old Janine, were airlifted to Duluth, Daniel was
listed in critical condition. Hohlen was transported to Grand Itasca
where he died as a result of his injuries. Alcohol was detected in
Hohlen's system.
Indecent Exposure Incident 050611
On Thursday the Grand Rapids Police Department responded to an
indecent exposure report from 20th Street SE. A male in his mid
thirties with brown balding hair and a goatee driving a light green SUV
exposed himself to a female elementary student awaiting the school bus.
The male reportedly made lewd gestures and comments during the
incident. The Grand Rapids Police Department is investigating this
incident and is asking that if anyone has information to please contact
the GRPD at 326-3464. They also encourage parents and caregivers to
take this opportunity to educate our children on safety procedures and
remind them to not speak to strangers or approach unfamiliar vehicles.
Local Weather Statistics for April 2011
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for April 2011.
The average high for the month was 51.5 degrees and the average low was
30.1 with an overall average temperature of 40.8 degrees. The 72 degree
reading on the 12th was the months high and the 21 degree reading on
the 19th was the low.
The warmest April on record was in 1987 with an average temperature of
49.5 degrees, the coldest in 1920 with an average temperature of 29.4
degrees.
We received 3.18 inches of rain & 8.3 inches of snow last month.
Director of DNR Northwest Regional
Headquarters Named 050511
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has named
Lori Dowling as director of its regional headquarters in Bemidji, which
serves 23 counties in northwestern Minnesota.
Dowling brings a strong leadership and political background to the DNR,
with experience in forestry, waters and economic development. Born and
raised on a small beef and crop farm in Goodland, she grew up with
family traditions in hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation and logging.
Dowling said she has a lifelong passion for Minnesota's natural
resources and youth.
She will focus on community outreach and work with local units of
government, tribes and cooperators in promoting a unified DNR effort to
enhance the economic, recreational and conservation uses of Minnesota's
natural resources. Dowling begins her new job Friday.
Early Morning Accident Near Ely 050511
A one vehicle rollover accident early this morning sent one to
the Ely hospital, then to St Mary's in Duluth via airlift. According to
the Minnesota State Patrol 48 year old Bruce Olson was south-bound on
Hwy 1 when his mini-van left the roadway and rolled. Olson's injuries
were listed as non-life-threatening. The State Patrol was assisted at
the scene by the St Louis County Sheriffs Office.
Resolving The Minnesota Budget 050511
Yesterday Governor Mark Dayton discussed the remaining 19 days
of the legislative session and the work that still has yet to be
completed, specifically resolving Minnesota’s budget:
“I'm only going to negotiate with the legislative leaders when they
finally pass an honest, balanced budget and send it to me - and they
have a budget and I have a budget. It seems to me that’s an eminently
reasonable position and one that any reasonable person would say is a
prerequisite for negotiating. And I'm still waiting.” – Governor Dayton
Governor Dayton said he has consistently indicated the completed
conference reports provide the basis to begin negotiations because they
provide a single budget from the legislature that he can negotiate with.
National
Astronomy Day 050411
In conjunction with National Astronomy Day the Paulucci Space
Theater
in Hibbing will be open to the public on Saturday May 7th from 4
– 10
PM with a free sky show at 7 PM. Weather permitting there will be
telescopes set up outside to view the sun, planets and stars. Local
amateur astronomers will be available to answer questions and lead
discussions. For more information call Dale at 245-1763.
Skip Drake Retires 042911
The Minnesota Historical Society has announced that Robert
“Skip” Drake will retire at the end of April after 33 years in its
historic sites program. Drake joined the Society in 1978 as the first
site manager of the Forest History Center, overseeing the construction
of the 1900-era logging camp. According to Drake the Minnesota
Historical Society is the premier state historical organization in the
nation. A native of Minnesota, Drake holds a masters degree in
history from Bemidji State University and said that of all the
treasures the Society holds, it’s the people who work there and
the service they provide to the citizens of the state of Minnesota
that are truly its greatest gifts. Drake will continue to live and be
active in the Grand Rapids area.
Tornado Assistance 042911
This weeks tornadoes across the Southeastern part of our country
has generated the need for assistance, from blood to monetary
donations. If you wish to donate or assist in any way the best spot to
start is on the Red Cross' web-site at www.redcross.org or you can contact
them locally at their Duluth office 218-722-0071.
Crime Report 042811
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Friday April 22nd an individual that shouldn't have been driving was
given a lift home from a convenience store on CR 63. His license had
been canceled by the state. An employee at a retail grocery on 4th
Street NW notified law enforcement the individual was leaving the
parking lot, the responding officer attempted to stop the vehicle. The
driver appeared to be unaware of the squad car with lights and siren
activated that was following him. The driver eventually pulled over in
the c-store for gas and when confronted by the officer admitted he
shouldn't be driving.
- On
Wednesday April 27th an employee at a retail outlet on Pokegama Avenue
SW was terminated for fraud. The employee had been purchasing items
with a state issued EBT then returning them for cash.
- On
Wednesday April 27th a careless driver was cited on the River Road. He
admitted he had been attempting to remove the snow buildup on his rear
window.
- A
pickup truck driver was also cited for careless driving on Wednesday.
An officer observed the vehicle while making a turn onto Highway 169
East screech it's tires.
MNDOT ENDING DATES FOR SPRING LOAD RESTRICTIONS 042811
The Minnesota Department of Transportation has identified ending
dates for spring load restrictions in all six of the Minnesota’s frost
zones in Southeast Minnesota and the Metro Area May 2nd; Southern
Minnesota May 9th; the Central zone May 11th and the North and North
Central zone May 13th. Road restriction maps indicating the locations
of weight restricted routes and state highways open to maximum 10-ton
axle weights are listed at www.dot.state.mn.us/materials.
The ending dates for spring restrictions are based on how weather
affects roadway strength. These dates are established by monitoring
roadways as weather conditions change. All changes are made with a
minimal three-day notice. For more information on spring load
restrictions, visit www.mrr.dot.state.mn.us
or call 1-800-723-6543.
Wildfire Destroys Barn 042611
A grass fire east of Grand Rapids led to the destruction of a
barn and shed on the evening of April 21st even in the cool and damp
conditions that existed that evening. The landowner had burned about 1
and a half acres of grass near a barn and shed in an effort to keep the
structures safe. Unfortunately the fire got out of control and started
the barn on fire. Fire Departments from Bovey, Colerain and Grand
Rapids and the Minnesota DNR responded to control the blaze; however
the barn was totally destroyed. According to Ron Stoffle, DNR Wildfire
Suppression Specialist, grasses dry out very quickly in the spring.
Burning restrictions went into effect on April 15th in our area and
will go into effect in St Louis, Koochiching, Lake, Cook & Lake of
the Woods counties on May 2nd.
Zims Lane 042211
The legal wrangling over Zims Lane has reached another milestone
early this morning. Judge Lois Lang issued a court order regarding
litigation concerning the 7 tenths of a mile portion of Zims Lane. As a
refresher on the issue, a property owner requested the county vacate
the portion that passes thru his property. Consuming many hours of
debate and resources of the County Board the issue ended before Judge
Lang in a lawsuit. The order states the County Board did not act in
contempt when they attempted to vacate Zims Lane but the order
continues by firmly requiring that the road shall remain open for
public use until a determination is made on the width and location of
Zims Lane and a determination as to it's status as a user road.
Crime Report 041111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday April 8th a motorist was arrested on 9th Avenue SE for 4th
degree DWI.
- Also on
Friday a vigilant officer noticed a fire at a residence on 8th Avenue
NW. It appears the fire started in a cigarette disposal can and spread
to the deck and siding of the unoccupied house. GRPD broke a window on
a door to gain access to insure the building was vacant and rescued a
family pet. There were no injuries reported.
- A
customer at an accessory shop in the Central Square Mall was cited for
shoplifting on Friday. She took a pair of earrings valued at $6.50.
- On
Saturday April 9th a beer party on 8th Avenue NE was raided. Numerous
underage individuals were cited for minor consume.
- On
Sunday April 10th vehicle parked on 2nd Avenue NW had $30 in cash
stolen from it.
- Also on
Sunday a vehicle parked at a retail grocer on Pokegama Avenue South had
a $175 mp3 device stolen from it.
- Also on
Sunday an apartment resident on 4th Street NE reported they had found 3
computers and 2 printers outside their patio door. Apparently they had
been dropped off for the next door neighbor.
- On
Sunday during the power outage more than a dozen motorists were warned
for not stopping for a semaphore. The Grand Rapids Police Department is
advising motorists that an inoperative traffic light should be treated
like a stop sign.
WEB MNDOT Heroes 041111
On Friday, Governor Mark Dayton spoke at the Heroes of Mn/DOT
event in the Capitol and honored Mn/DOT employees who have gone above
and beyond the call of duty in their work:
"I want to thank and honor especially the honorees who are receiving
these meritorious awards - and you are true heroes. Michael Struck
exemplified the heroism, the dedication to duty, to acting
courageously, to protect the lives, save the lives of fellow
Minnesotans. "
He was joined by Transportation Commissioner Tom Sorel:
"Today is our inaugural heroes of Mn/Dot program and we're recognizing
employees who have acted courageously or provided meritorious service
in response to dangerous or extraordinary circumstances."
MNDOT worker Michael Struck was swept into the Minnesota River on March
22nd while clearing debris. His backhoe was apparently pulled into
flood waters.
WEB GRPUC Outage 041111 B
Portions of Grand Rapids experienced a power outage on Sunday.
According to Dan Chase with Grand Rapids Public Utilities there was an
equipment problem. He said they had power was restored at approximately
2:30 PM. The Grand Rapids Public Utilities apologizes for the
inconvenience this outage caused.
Local Weather Statistics for March 2011
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for March 2011.
The average high for the month was 37 degrees and the average low was
13.8 with an overall average temperature of 25.4 degrees. The highest
temperature reading this March was 54 degrees on the 17th, the lowest
was 1.6 degrees below zero on the 2nd.
The warmest March on record was in 2010 with an average temperature of
37.6 degrees. The coldest was in 1923 with an average temperature of
14.1 degrees.
We received 1.2 inches of snow and 0.45 inches or rain last month.
Total snowfall for this winter as of the end of March was 68.9 inches.
We are 3.1 degrees below the 30 year daily average temperature and 0.99
inches below the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru
March.
WEB Dayton on MNDOT Projects 040711
On Wednesday Governor Mark Dayton joined Commissioner Tom Sorel
today in kicking off the 2011 road construction season in
Minnesota. This year, Mn/DOT will be investing nearly $900
million in over 250 infrastructure projects across the state,
supporting thousands of jobs and making the improvements necessary to
keep our transportation systems safe and efficient.
"The expansion of these number of projects that we can commit to over
the next decade are going to be crucial to our continued social and
economic vitality." - Governor Dayton
"About 25,000 jobs will be supported by these projects around the
state, both directly in the construction industry — those are private
sector jobs I'll point out again, a public investment that creates jobs
in the private sector — as well as those people employed going in their
communities and purchasing goods and services at the local stores." -
Governor Dayton
"I'm committed to looking for ways, along with the Commissioner
and legislators, in the years ahead that we can increase the funds
available for these kind of urgently needed projects." - Governor Dayton
"In the end we're really trying to respond to the quality of life
that our citizens expect from us in transportation." - Commissioner Tom
Sorel
Medicaid Cuts 040711
Republicans push major cuts to elderly and the disabled in the
middle of the night
Early Thursday morning, the Minnesota House passed a
proposal bill that makes significant cuts to services for the disabled
and elderly while eliminating thousands of private sector jobs in
hospitals and clinics.
The House GOP proposal would repeal early Medicaid enrollment
which Governor Dayton signed via an executive order in January. The
result of this repeal would cost Minnesota hospitals and health care
providers billions of dollars resulting in the elimination of an
estimated 20,000 private sector jobs. In addition, over 105,000
Minnesotans would be added to the rolls of the uninsured. The repeal
would revert Minnesota to the severely underfunded triaged General
Assistance Medical Care program. The bill also rolls back cost saving,
bipartisan reforms passed in 2008.
The proposal also includes severe cuts to services for the elderly and
disabled. $46 million is cut from nursing homes and elderly services.
$228 million is cut from programs that allow the disabled to live
independently in their homes.
Despite making cuts with serious pain for elderly and the disabled, the
bill is not built in a fiscally honest manner. Almost $1 billion of the
“savings” in the bill are unverified by non-partisan fiscal analysis.
In particular, $300 million in savings are booked from an unlikely
gamble that a Global Medicaid waiver would be granted by the federal
government.
WEB Douglas Johnson Fund Raided 040611
The Minnesota House of Representatives passed a bill cutting the
state’s jobs and economic development budget using a variety of
spending reductions and one-time fund transfers. Representative Carly
Melin of Hibbing says it is unfair to target 3% of the states
population to solve the budget deficit. Representative Tom Anzelc
joined the Iron Range delegation in aggressively opposing the
legislation that would steal $60 million from the Douglas J. Johnson
Economic Protection Trust Fund. The jobs and economic development
committee was given a target of cutting 58% from the 2010-11 budget.
Representative Carolyn McElfatrick broke ranks with the GOP and opposed
the bill. McElfatrick said that the fund was set up as an economic
development tool and that's how it should remain. The Republican
majority passed the bill on a vote of 70 to 60. The bill now will be
sent to a conference committee with the Minnesota Senate.
Crime Report 040711
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Tuesday April 5th a business on Pokegama Avenue South reported a boat
had been damaged by paint-balls causing $2000 in damage to the engine
and $200 damage to the upholstery.
- Also on
Tuesday a vehicle parked at a church on Pokegama Avenue South had the
right rear tire slashed. The damage amount was not reported.
- On
Wednesday April 6th a business on Highway 2 West reported the theft of
all the cash in their register had been stolen. It appears entry was
gained thru a back door.
- A
vehicle on 7th Avenue NE was stopped for speeding, 49 in a 30 MPH zone
and cited for no proof of insurance.
Crime Report 040411
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday April 1st two burglaries were reported from 1st Avenue NW. Two
businesses were entered thru an unlocked door. Missing is some cash,
credit card receipts and checks.
- A
bicycle was reported stolen from Itasca Street on Saturday April 2nd.
The missing bike is valued at $100.
- Also on
Saturday a JVC stereo was reported stolen from a vehicle parked on 7th
Avenue SE.
- On
Sunday April 3rd a window in a vehicle on Clover Lane was reported
broken and a wallet with $20 in it stolen. Damage is estimated at $200.
- Also on
Sunday $500 in damages was reported from a playground on 1st Avenue NW.
Someone broke into the playground and destroyed a piece of equipment.
Health Ranking 033011
The Minnesota Department of Health has released rankings of the
healthiest counties in the state. Unfortunately Itasca County ranks
54th out of 85. The teen birth rate, sexually transmitted disease rate,
fatal automobile accident rate, adult smoking rates and adult
obesity are all factors considered in the Health Outcome Rankings
Project. The statistics are accumulated thru various sources and
compiled by the the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation in collaboration
with the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. More
information can be found on-line at www.countyhealthrankings.org/.
Dayton 032311
On Tuesday Governor Mark Dayton signed House File 141/Senate
File 121 into law which increases the penalties for people who injure
or kill police or other public safety dogs.
"To pass this legislation and say an assault on Major is an assault on
the integrity of our society and on the respect for law and order and
is a serious offense. It's something that's overdue and I'm sorry if it
took this tragedy to bring that to recognition."
He also urged the legislature to join him in supporting aggressive
campaign finance reform by passing HF1099/SF631.
"So there is this whole 13-month period of time when policy makers,
legislators and members of the executive branch, myself included, are
making decisions and the public doesn't know where the political
contributions have been coming from."
Governor Dayton contends that citizens have a right to know where that
money has come from.
Crime Report 032111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday March 17th a 41 year old male was cited for disorderly conduct
on 10th Street NE. He had been following a 17 year old female around
the block in his vehicle while she was walking her dog. He called out
to her to jog or run so he could see her breasts bouncing. When cited
law enforcement noticed he had his 9 year old child in the vehicle with
him.
- On
Friday March 18th a citation for underage consume was issued at the
Holiday Station on 4th Street NE.
- A
traffic stop on Friday March 18th resulted in an arrest for speeding,
5th degree possession & sale of drugs, 2nd degree DWI, drug
possession and felony probation violation. His vehicle was towed.
- A theft
from a girls locker room was reported from 8th Street NE. Stolen was a
swimsuit valued at $70 and a pair of tennis shoes valued at $65.
- On
Saturday March 19th a vehicle on 4th Street NE was stopped; the
operator was cited for texting while driving.
- Also on
Saturday two thefts were reported from the YMCA. Missing are a $200
IPOD and $500 IPHONE from two different unlocked lockers.
- An
individual was arrested for 4th degree DWI at the Walmart parking lot.
The vehicle had been involved in a hit-and-run at the Timberlake Lodge
earlier.
- On
Sunday March 20th an individual was cited on Isleview Road for
speeding. He had been caught on radar doing 60 but the violation was
reduced to 50 in a 30.
- Also on
Sunday a traffic stop for speeding resulted in a citation for open
bottle and an arrest for 4th degree DWI.
Cook Elementary School Lock Down 032211
The St Louis County Sheriffs Office was called to the Cook
School Monday afternoon in response to a school lock-down. Two twenty
two caliber rounds were discovered in a students jacket. An
investigation determined the student had wore the jacket while hunting
with his father and there was no ill intent; however a search of
lockers and backpacks continued. The school was released after the
search was completed.
Burning Restrictions 032111
Burning restrictions are in effect in our area. Permits are
available from your area fire marshal. Fires may burn at 6 PM and must
be out by 8AM daily. Permits will be issued for piled debris and
running grass fires one acre or smaller. Campfires do not require a
permit but must be in a fire ring, attended and no larger than 3 foot
by 3 foot. For more information contact your area forestry office.
Crime Report 032111
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Thursday March 17th a 41 year old male was cited for disorderly conduct
on 10th Street NE. He had been following a 17 year old female around
the block in his vehicle while she was walking her dog. He called out
to her to jog or run so he could see her breasts bouncing. When cited
law enforcement noticed he had his 9 year old child in the vehicle with
him.
- On
Friday March 18th a citation for underage consume was issued at the
Holiday Station on 4th Street NE.
- A
traffic stop on Friday March 18th resulted in an arrest for speeding,
5th degree possession & sale of drugs, 2nd degree DWI, drug
possession and felony probation violation. His vehicle was towed.
- A theft
from a girls locker room was reported from 8th Street NE. Stolen was a
swimsuit valued at $70 and a pair of tennis shoes valued at $65.
- On
Saturday March 19th a vehicle on 4th Street NE was stopped; the
operator was cited for texting while driving.
- Also on
Saturday two thefts were reported from the YMCA. Missing are a $200
IPOD and $500 IPHONE from two different unlocked lockers.
- An
individual was arrested for 4th degree DWI at the Walmart parking lot.
The vehicle had been involved in a hit-and-run at the Timberlake Lodge
earlier.
- On
Sunday March 20th an individual was cited on Isleview Road for
speeding. He had been caught on radar doing 60 but the violation was
reduced to 50 in a 30.
- Also on
Sunday a traffic stop for speeding resulted in a citation for open
bottle and an arrest for 4th degree DWI.
Crews Extinguish Underground Mineshaft Fire
032111
Specialists in fighting underground fires were called to the
Soudan Underground Mine State Park last week. Flames broke out in a
deep mine shaft Thursday night. There are no injuries and everyone has
been cleared from the area. The flames are far below ground near where
tours are given during the summer:
Cynthia Sage with the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center spokesman says
the fire was greatly subdued Sunday, but not completely out. Workers
entered the mine Sunday, restored electricity and determined there was
likely no water damage to the $100 million University of Minnesota
research lab in the mine. The fire's cause is unknown at this time.
Franken Wants to Curb Speculators 031811
A move to corral speculators trading in oil contracts and
driving up the price of gas at the pump picked up steam today as
thirteen US Senators joined together to press regulators for immediate
action and tougher regulation because new data shows oil trades by
speculators have jumped 35 percent since the latest round of civil
unrest began in late January in North Africa and then the Middle
East. During that same period, US gas prices have soared by
almost 40 percent. The senators joined Senator Al Franken in an effort
to rein in the speculators who are contributing to inflated oil
prices. The lawmakers sent a letter to Gary Gensler, chairman of
the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, asking him to use a new law
that gives tools to limit excessive speculation in so-called futures
markets. Franken said he is urging regulators to exercise
the authority they were given by the Wall Street Reform Act to clamp
down on the damage oil speculators are causing and help stem the rise
in prices at the pump.
Burning Restrictions 032111
Burning restrictions are in effect in our area. Permits are
available from your area fire marshal. Fires may burn at 6 PM and must
be out by 8AM daily. Permits will be issued for piled debris and
running grass fires one acre or smaller. Campfires do not require a
permit but must be in a fire ring, attended and no larger than 3 foot
by 3 foot. For more information contact your area forestry office.
Web Dayton Invasive Species 031711
Governor Mark Dayton and the Department of Natural Resources
have revealed initiatives to prevent the spread of invasive species in
Minnesota’s lakes and waterways. DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr:
“These are plants and animals that could drastically change the ecology
of our lakes and rivers, greatly threaten some of our infrastructure
such as locks and dams, and compose real problems for lake-shore owners
with docks with just the change of the whole ecosystem, change of the
fish structure of lakes."
He said the Governor is very supportive the effort to get ahead of the
problem and begin working on control measures. Governor Dayton
said an ounce of prevention is worth an unlimited number of tons of
cure:
"I believe it's something that deserves and should have broad
bipartisan support. This is not a DFL problem, a Republican problem an
Independent problem - this is a Minnesota problem. It's a crisis
prevention strategy which is imperative."
He said we have a responsibility to ourselves, and to our fellow
citizens, and to our tourism industry - which is so vitally important
to the economy of Minnesota - and to our children and grandchildren.
Crime Report 030711
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- A fifth
degree assault occurred on Friday March 4th in a retail merchant
located on 29th Street SE.
- Also on
Friday a wallet containing $150 in cash, id cards and bank cards was
stolen from an unlocked locker at the YMCA.
- On
Saturday March 5th a traffic stop on 29th Street SE resulted in a
citation for doing 52 in a 30 MPH Zone. There was also an open
container in the vehicle.
- A
traffic stop on Saturday on 7th Avenue SE resulted in citations for
possession of a small amount of marijuana, possession of drug
paraphernalia and driving after revocation.
- On
Saturday March 5th a patron at the Sawmill Inn reported the theft of a
swimsuit, prescription medications, ID Cards, bank cards and a check
book.
- Also on
Saturday a traffic stop for doing 45 in a thirty MPH Zone on 4th Street
NE resulted in a citation for speeding, possession of a small amount of
marijuana in a motor vehicle and possession of drug paraphernalia.
- The
manager of Tidy Laundry on Pokegama Avenue South reported seven
individuals in his facility after hours. The doors lock automatically
at 10:30 PM and these young men were in the laundry drinking and
smoking. All seven were cited for trespassing.
- Nurses
at Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital contacted law enforcement about a
belligerent drunk adult male in the emergency room. The individual had
fallen at a neighborhood bar and wanted to leave the ER for a smoke.
Staff would not allow him to leave so he threw a punch at a nurse.
After law enforcement arrived the individual continued to be disorderly
and was arrested for disorderly conduct.
Crime Report 030311
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- Investigators
at the Grand Rapids Police Department received a call from an
individual in California requesting information on $3000 he sent to an
individual in the Grand Rapids area. Upon contact the investigator
learned the suspect here in Grand Rapids had forwarded the money to an
individual in Kenya. The case remains under investigation.
- On
Tuesday March 1st two individuals were cited on Pokegama Avenue South
for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia in a motor vehicle.
- Early
Wednesday morning, March 2nd managers at the Midway Bowling Alley
reported a couple of individuals were drinking alcohol behind the
building. Law enforcement located the minors and cited them for
underage consumption of alcohol.
- On
Wednesday March 2nd a traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in
an arrest for 4th degree DWI. The driver's breathalyzer result was
point one one six, twice the legal limit.
- A
student reported the theft of some property on Wednesday March 2nd
while parked at the Robert J Elkington Middle School. The vehicle was
unlocked, missing is a laptop computer valued around $3000 and video
game equipment worth about $1000.
- A
patron at L&M reported her wallet went missing on Wednesday March
2nd. She left it at the cash register and when she returned it was
gone. The wallet contained about $600 in cash, identification &
banking cards.
- On
Wednesday March 2nd a traffic stop on NE 4th Street resulted in a
citation for speeding, they were doing 40 in a 30 MPH zone.
- On
Wednesday March 2nd a traffic stop on the Airport Road resulted in a
citation for speeding, they were doing 44 in a 30 MPH zone.
- On
Wednesday March 2nd a traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South resulted in
a citation for speeding, they were doing 55 in a 40 MPH zone.
REPORT ON ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW AND PERMITTING 030211
The Minnesota Office of the Legislative Auditor released its
evaluation report of state environmental review and permitting
procedures. Senator Bill Ingebrigtsen, Chairman of the Senate
Environment and Natural Resources Committee, said the report on
Minnesota’s current environmental review and permitting procedures
reinforced what was known for quite some time that our bureaucracy is
costing businesses too much time and too much money. He said that
finding illustrates a failure of government to serve the people and
businesses of our state in a timely, effective manner. Last week the
legislature passed with broad, bi-partisan support a bill that
addresses many of the concerns brought forward in this report.
Ingebrigtsen said they look forward to working with the legislative
auditor to continually improve the permitting reform process as we seek
to move at the speed of commerce and put Minnesota back to work. The
Senate passed a similar version of the bill, both of which go to
conference committee before going to the Governor's desk for signing.
Local Weather Statistics for February 2011
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for February.
The average high for the month was 25.7 degrees and the average low was
1.5 with an overall average temperature of 13.6 degrees.
The warmest February on record was in 1998 with an average temperature
of 30 degrees. The February 16th reading of 59 degrees was a new record
high, the old record was 51 in 1981.
The coldest February was in 1936 with an average temperature of -8
degrees.
We received 3.8 inches of snow last month. Total winter snowfall so far
this season is 67.7 inches.
We are 3.1 degrees below the 30 year daily average temperature and 0.12
inches below the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru
February.
Possible Contract Settlement 030311
According to KAWE Lakeland News the nineteen month long
stalemate between ISD 318 and Education Minnesota Local 1314 could be
ending. News Director Dennis Weimann reports that a tentative agreement
has been reached.
Details of the contract have not been released to allow union members
time to familiarize themselves with the terms
District 318's school board meets Monday March 7th at 7 PM for their
regular board meeting. There isn't an agenda item concerning the
tentative agreement at this time. Audio courtesy Lakeland Public
Television News.
Grand Rapids Fires 022111
On Monday February 7th, the Grand Rapids Fire Department
responded to a kitchen fire at Mad Dog’s Pizza. The Mad Dog’s fire
caused significant damage to the commercial cooking area, creating a
temporary suspension in business operations. Workers were heating
cooking oil as part of their deep frying process when the fire erupted.
Shortly after 5:00 pm on Sunday February 20th the Grand Rapids Fire
Department was dispatched to a fire at the Hong Kong Garden Restaurant,
located at 1300 E. US Hwy 169. Upon arrival, fire crews were met
with heavy smoke coming from inside the building, and fire showing from
a vent near the roof area. Immediate evacuation of the approximately 20
guests who were staying at the adjoining Lakes Inn Hotel took place;
they were able to return to the building within the hour. Firefighters
were able to extinguish the blaze soon after arrival, and crews
remained on-scene for nearly two hours. As in the Mad Dog's Pizza
incident, this fire started as workers were heating cooking oil. Fire
and water damage was limited to the Hong Kong Garden Restaurant portion
of the building, while the adjoining Lakes Inn Hotel and the Island Bar
sustained minor smoke damage. Damage estimates could exceed $75,000.00.
There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians in either fire, and
the fire department was assisted by the Itasca County Sheriffs Office,
Meds-1 Ambulance, and the Grand Rapids Police Department.
26th Annual Jacobson Snowmobile Classic 021811
The 26th annual Jacobson Snowmobile Classic is Saturday February
19th. The event starts off with a pancake breakfast at the Jacobson
Community Church from 8 – 11 AM. Registration starts at noon and runs
up to the start of the ride. You can register at the Jacobson
Recreation Area at the junction of Highway's 200 & 65. The ride
begins at noon and runs to the Red Eye Saloon in Swan River. Trophies
will be awarded at 5 PM, raffle drawings take place at 8PM The grand
prize is a 1973 Arctic Cat Panther 340 & trailer plus six other
prizes. There will be 20 trophies awarded in categories from most
original to best in show. The Classic is renown for the innovated,
creative and just plain weird “shells” entrants build around their
classic snowmobiles. In previous years there has been a
semi-functioning helicopter, the Star Trek Enterprise, a stagecoach, a
dragster and an outhouse making the trip from Jacobson to Swan River.
This years parade will certainly entertain.
Medical Assistance Expansion 021811
Governor Mark Dayton announced that Minnesota has received
federal approval from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
to expand its Medical Assistance program. Starting March 1st more low
income Minnesotans will be eligible for Medicaid benefits, which will
result in better care for more people and at less cost to the state.
Additionally this will save or create 20,000 jobs in our state’s health
care related industries. Governor Dayton said he thanks Kathleen
Sebelius Secretary of the US Department of Health and Human Services
for expediting this approval. Because of her, 95,000 Minnesotans will
receive better health care at less cost to our state. Under the
expansion, approximately 83,000 people who are currently enrolled in
two state-funded programs – General Assistance Medical Care (GAMC) and
MinnesotaCare – will receive MA, which provides more comprehensive
benefits and has lower co-pays. An additional 12,000 people who are
uninsured are expected to enroll. All are adults without children who
have incomes at or below 75 percent of the poverty level, about $677 a
month or $8,124 a year for one person.
Dayton First Bill 021811
Yesterday Governor Mark Dayton signed into law Senate File 139,
a bill related to online notification of EPA certified lead abatement
licensed contractors. Under current law, a building inspector must
prove that a contractor received their EPA certificate in lead
specialization by confirming their certification online. The EPA rule,
known as the Renovate, Repair or Paint rule states that any contractor
working on a house built before 1978 must be lead certified. Under
SF139, contractors have until August 1st to post their name on the
verified list, viewable on the Department of Labor and Industry’s
website. SF 139 had bi-partisan sponsors, and passed both the House and
Senate unanimously. This is Governor Dayton’s first bill signed
into law.
POPULATION CONTINUES DECLINE 021811
Minnesota’s moose population in northeastern Minnesota continues
to decline, according to results of an aerial survey released by the
Minnesota DNR. Dr. Mark Lenarz, DNR forest wildlife group leader said
“These indices along with results from research using radio-collared
moose all indicate that the population has been declining in recent
years,” Moose numbers are estimated using an aerial survey. Based on
that survey, wildlife researchers estimate that there were 4,900 moose
in northeastern Minnesota. Last year’s estimate was 5,500. A study of
radio-collared moose in northeastern Minnesota between 2002 and 2008
determined that non-hunting mortality was substantially higher than in
moose populations outside of Minnesota. The causes of moose mortality
are not well understood. Of 150 adult moose radio-collared since 2002
in Minnesota, 114 have subsequently died, most from unknown causes
thought to be diseases or parasites. Ten moose died as a result of
highway vehicle accidents. Two were killed by trains. Nine deaths were
clearly the result of wolf predation. A copy of the aerial survey
report is available online at www.mndnr.gov/moose.
March AARP Driver Safety Classes
There will be an 8 hour AARP beginner classes for drivers over
55 to update their driving knowledge and receive a 10% discount on
their auto insurance. The class will be at the District 318 Admin
Building on Wednesday and Thursday March 2nd & 3rd from 5 to 9 PM;
to register call Renee at 327-5730.
There will be a 4 hour AARP refresher classes for drivers over 55 to
update their driving knowledge and receive a 10% discount on their auto
insurance. The class will be at the Cohasset Community Center on
Thursday March 3rd from 1 to 5 PM; to register call David at 328-6225
ext 26.
There will be a 4 hour AARP refresher classes for drivers over 55 to
update their driving knowledge and receive a 10% discount on their auto
insurance. The class will be at the District 318 Admin Building on
Thursday March 10th from 5 to 9 PM; to register call Renee at
326-5730.
There will be a 4 hour AARP refresher classes for drivers over 55 to
update their driving knowledge and receive a 10% discount on their auto
insurance. The class will be at Clusiaus on Thursday March 17th from 5
to 9 PM; to register call Shannon at 326-9421.
MPCA
Violations 020811
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency completed 47 enforcement
cases in the fourth quarter of 2010, with penalties totaling more than
355-thousand dollars. These cases occurred at facilities in 34
counties throughout Minnesota. For all of 2010, the M-P-C-A
completed
203 enforcement cases totaling just over 2-point-7-million dollars in
penalties.
Two enforcement actions in our area include fines of $8,355 to Cirrus
Design in Duluth for hazardous waste violations and $1,687 to
Valley
Forest Wood Products in Marcell for air quality violations. A complete
list of all enforcement actions can be found on the M-P-C-A website at www.pca.state.mn.us.
Governor Dayton Appoints Kevin Lindsey as Commissioner of Human Rights
Governor selects attorney to lead State’s efforts to make ‘Minnesota
discrimination- free’
Governor Mark Dayton today announced Kevin Lindsey, a
civil litigation attorney in the Office of the Ramsey County Attorney,
as his Commissioner of Human Rights. Mr. Lindsey brings over
fifteen years experience resolving complex legal and public policy
questions to the Dayton Administration. His deep familiarity and
passion for issues concerning human services, housing, employment and
civil litigation in both the private and public sector make him ideally
suited for the position.
The Minnesota Department of Human Rights’ mission is “to make Minnesota
discrimination-free.” It serves as a neutral state agency
dedicated to investigating charges of illegal discrimination and
ensuring that businesses seeking state contracts comply with equal
opportunity requirements. The Department strives to eliminate
discrimination by educating Minnesotans about their rights and
responsibilities under the state Human Rights Act.
“Kevin is a respected lawyer and advocate with deep experience in
the community working on issues of fairness in the workplace and in the
community,” said Governor Dayton. “He will be a strong,
professional voice in the Dayton Administration.”
"I look forward to working with Governor Dayton in the Department of
Human Rights and will strive to make its mission of making Minnesota
discrimination-free a reality," said Lindsey. "I am humbled and honored
to have been selected by the Governor for this position and I'm excited
about the opportunity to serve."
Kevin Lindsey received his JD and BA from the University of Iowa, where
as a law student he served as Editor-in-Chief of the Iowa Law Review.
He worked for the firm of Oppenheimer Wolff & Donnelly where he
practiced civil litigation, primarily representing clients in
employment, product liability, contract and health law. He also
brings private sector experience as Chief Operating Officer and General
Counsel of Axis, Inc., where he was responsible for managing human
resources operations, ensuring legal and administrative compliance, and
risk management. Prior to joining Ramsey County Mr. Lindsey
worked for the firm of Halleland, Lewis, Nilan & Johnson in the
employment and health law groups.
Dayton Names Spencer Cronk as
Commissioner of the Department of Administration
Dayton appoints government redesign
expert to head agency
St. Paul—Today Governor Mark Dayton announced the
appointment of Spencer Cronk as Commissioner of the Department of
Administration. Mr. Cronk comes to his position with significant
experience in government redesign and organizational development. He
previously served as Executive Director of Organizational Development
and Senior Advisor for the Department of Small Business Services for
the City of New York. In the Bloomberg Administration, Mr. Cronk
worked to streamline and reorganize city services and built a track
record around performance improvement, data-driven decision-making and
finding efficiencies in large organizations. Among his
accomplishments include the design and implementation of a
comprehensive performance management system, and the development of a
program for integrating new employees, which was used citywide as a
best practice template for the City of New York’s 300,000 employees.
The Minnesota Department of Administration provides a broad range of
business management, administrative and professional services and a
variety of resources to state and local government agencies and to the
public. In addition to assisting government agencies with strategic
planning and organization, the Department of Administration manages
over 800 leases and preserves state assets by managing risk.
“Spencer is a talented leader who has demonstrated his ability to get
results in large, complex public sector organizations,” said Governor
Dayton. “He brings great energy and experience to my
administration. I welcome him as key player in our
administration’s efforts to make state government work better for
people.”
“I am excited to join the Dayton Administration and work with the
Governor to develop more efficient processes that deliver better
results for Minnesotans,” said Cronk. “Now more than ever Government
needs to learn how to do more with less, and I’m committed to enhancing
inter-agency cooperation and eliminating unnecessary redundancies in
order to create a leaner, more cost-effective Government that delivers
high-quality, professional services to citizens.”
Prior to working in the Bloomberg Administration in New York City,
Cronk worked in Oakland, California for the National Community
Development Institute, where he helped provide capacity-building
support for non-profit organizations, including strategic planning,
human capital development and fiscal sustainability. He is a
graduate of Harvard University’s Senior Executives in State and Local
Government Program and was a Public Affairs Fellow with the Coro New
York Leadership Center. Mr. Cronk grew up in Minnesota and received his
Bachelor of Science with honors from the University of
Wisconsin-Madison.
Methamphetamine Charges 011411
The Itasca County Attorney's office is reporting that 25 year
old Daniel Erickson of rural Grand Rapids appeared in district court on
Thursday. He has been charged with a felony Controlled Substance crime,
manufacturing methamphetamine. The charges stem from evidence seized
during the execution of a search warrant at Erickson's residence on
Wednesday January 12th. The court set bail at $100,00 without
conditions or $50,000 providing he not leave the state, keep his court
appearances, be law abiding, not use alcohol or drugs and submit to
random testing. Erickson is currently in the Itasca County Jail; his
next court appearance has been set for Tuesday January 18th at 9:30 AM.
Methamphetamine Lab in Harris Township 011311
On Wednesday January 12th officers from the 1000 Lakes Drug Task
Force, consisting of officers from the Grand Rapids Police Department
and the Itasca County Sheriff's Office, executed a search warrant at a
residence in Harris Township. Officers found an operational
Methamphetamine lab at the residence. A 25-year-old male occupant of
the home was taken into custody and transported to the Itasca County
Jail, pending criminal charges for the manufacturing and
possession of Methamphetamine. The arrest was the result of a month
long drug investigation. The Grand Rapids Police Department and the
Itasca County Sheriff's Office urge citizens to report suspicious
activities in their neighborhoods and advise that Methamphetamine
production in rural areas is expected to increase in the future.
Level 3 Sex Offender 013111
The Grand Rapids Police Department will hold a community meeting
on Wednesday February 2nd at 6 PM in the Davies Theater on the Itasca
Community Collage campus to provide information on a level 3 sex
offender moving in to the area. Thirty Year Old Logan Mattson has been
convicted of two separate counts of 2nd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
with females under fifteen years old and one count of 1st degree
burglary, two counts of 2nd degree burglary and a felon in possession
of a firearm. Mattson intends to move into the Grand Rapids area under
a homeless living status and will be driving a gold 1994 Honda Accord.
For more information contact the Grand Rapids Police Department at
326-3464.
Arctic Cat Recall 012011
Snowmobile enthusiasts who own 2010 model Arctic Cats should be
pulling — not driving — those sleds to their local dealers for a free
repair. About 16,500 Arctic Cat snowmobiles have been recalled under a
voluntary recall announced Tuesday by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission and Arctic Cat. John Tranby, Arctic Cat marketing Manager
said they recommend stop using it and get it to the dealer before you
ride it. The recall was initiated after discovering that the front
lower suspension arm can crack while in use, which could cause the
rider to lose control, posing a risk of severe injury or death. The
recall involves all 2010 Arctic Cat Z1, TZ1, F, Bearcat, M and CF model
snowmobiles, including all variations and features on the listed
models. The model name is indicated on the side of vehicle, in the
registration materials and owner’s manual. Tranby said no injuries or
deaths have been reported. Consumers are advised to contact their local
Arctic Cat snowmobile dealer to receive a free repair. All registered
owners have been directly notified about the recall through the mail.
For further information contact Arctic Cat at 800-279-6851 between 8 AM
and 5 PM Monday through Friday or visit the website at www.artic-cat.com
DNR Seeks Comment on Hunting Rules 010611
The Minnesota DNR is accepting comments on proposed changes and
additions to various hunting-related rules. Additional
information is available online at:
www.mndnr.gov/input/rules/wildliferules.
The DNR will accept written comments through 4:30 PM February 28th.
Comments may be submitted to Jason Abraham by e-mail at Jason.Abraham@dnr.state.mn.us.
Voyageurs National Park Trail Conditions 010611
The entire 50 mile length of the Green Trail from Rainy Lake,
through the Kabetogama Lake and Ash River communities and on to Crane
Lake is now open and staked in Voyageurs National Park.
Snowmobiling conditions are smooth on lake surfaces and overland
portages have adequate snow for traveling, but conditions are
occasionally rough. Also, with the recent heavy snowfall, pockets
of slush are present and travelers are urged to use caution. Thin
ice conditions are preventing opening of additional trails and travel
is not recommended in areas outside of the Green Trail. Staff
want to remind users that the snowmobile speed limit within the park is
45 mph on frozen lake surfaces and 25 mph on all overland
portages. Speed limit signs are posted at trailheads and overland
portages. Regular weekly winter trail conditions reports are
available on our website at www.nps.gov/voya.
Unresponsive Female 010511
At 8 AM on Monday January 3rd Itasca County Sheriff's Deputies,
responding to a 911 call, found 68 year old Rachael Rupert lying
unresponsive outside a home in Marble. The victim was transported to
the Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital and was pronounced deceased. It
appears that the victim’s death was a direct result of the harsh
elements. The Itasca County Sheriffs Office was assisted at the
scene by the Nashwauk Ambulance and the Marble Fire Department.
Tax Deadline Extension 010511
Taxpayers will have until Monday, April 18th this year to file
their 2010 tax returns because of Emancipation Day, a holiday
observed in the District of Columbia, falling on Friday April 15th. By
law, District of Columbia holidays impact tax deadlines in the same way
that federal holidays do; therefore, all taxpayers will have three
extra days to file this year. For most taxpayers, the 2011 tax
filing season starts on schedule however the IRS urges taxpayers to use
e-file instead of paper tax forms to minimize confusion over recent tax
law changes and thereby ensure accurate tax returns. This is the first
filing season that tax packages will not be mailed to individuals or
businesses. Taxpayers can still get any forms and instructions they
need online at www.irs.gov or they
can visit local libraries and post offices.
Recycle Old Christmas Lights 123010
The Recycling Association of Minnesota is encouraging people to
not throw away your old Christmas lights after the holidays. For more
information go to www.recycleminnesota.com.
Locally you can drop off those lights at the Itasca County Courthouse
or the Itasca County Transfer Station located on County Road 62.
Inauguration Coverage 123110
On Monday January 3rd we will be carrying the inauguration of
Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton live from the Landmark Center in
downtown St Paul, beginning at noon with the swearing in of
Constitutional officers. Governor Dayton's remarks will follow the
ceremony. Stay tuned right here on 1320 KOZY for all your inauguration
coverage.
Keetac Final EIS 123110
The Minnesota DNR announced that the final Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS) on the proposed U.S. Steel Keetac Mine Expansion
Project is adequate, signaling that the company may be issued state
permits if it can meet permit requirement. The U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers, which acted as a co-lead agency with the DNR for purposes of
EIS development, will issue a separate and independent decision on the
final EIS. The decision comes at the end of a review process that began
in the spring of 2008. A determination that the final EIS is adequate
means that the document describes potentially significant issues,
provides responses to public comments, and was prepared in compliance
with applicable rules. The proposed project is estimated to begin in
2012 or 2013.
DON’T PUT SNOW ON PUBLIC ROADWAYS 123110
With the recent heavy snow falls throughout our area, citizens
& businesses are again reminded that it is a criminal misdemeanor
to deposit or plow snow on to any public highway or street. Minnesota
State Statute 160.2715 and local ordinances, prohibit the plowing,
blowing, shoveling or otherwise placing of snow onto public roadways.
Violations can carry fines up to $1,000 and/or jail terms of up to 90
days.
Voyageurs National Park Trail Conditions 122910
Ice conditions have not changed in the Voyageurs National Park
due to mild temperatures in the region. Early season lake ice and
snow conditions have made it possible to open and stake the Green Trail
from Rainy Lake to Kabetogama Lake and on to the Ash River
community. Lake surface ice safety checks in Voyageurs National
Park are ongoing and an update on snowmobile travel status will be
reported early next week. Please remember that the snowmobile speed
limit within Voyageurs National Park is 45 mph on frozen lake surfaces
and 25 mph on all overland portages. Speed limit signs are posted
at trail-heads and overland portages. Regular weekly winter trail
conditions reports are available on our website at www.nps.gov/voya.
Crime Report 122910
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Tuesday December 28th a shoplifter was detained at a retail merchant on
Pokegama Avenue South for stealing less than $60 worth of merchandise.
- Also on
Tuesday December 28th a hockey player was injured during a match at the
IRA Civic Center. He received a cut on the wrist from an ice-skate and
was transported by Meds-1 to Grand Itasca.
- On
Tuesday December 28th a coat valued at $400 was reported missing during
a swim match at the Robert J. Elkington Middle School.
- A
resident of 5th Avenue NE reported loud music. When law enforcement
arrived the suspect said they were adjusting their stereo and
reduced the volume.
- On
Wednesday December 29th a traffic stop on 6th St SE, for running a red
light, resulted in an arrest for 2nd degree DWI.
Chicago Auditions 122710
The Grand Rapids Players are hosting auditions for their spring
musical Chicago on Monday January 3rd and Tuesday January 4th.
Auditions will be held at the Reif Center from 7 PM to 8:30 PM or by
special appointment. All characters in the performance are
adults. Many, but not all, cast members sing and
dance. For more information, email dmarty@reifcenter.org
Crime Report 122710
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Thursday December 23rd a minor consume citation was issued on the 800
block of 2nd Avenue NW.
- A
business on 21st Street SW reported a theft on Thursday December 23rd.
The items stolen were not identified in the theft report.
- On
Friday December 24th a resident on the 1000 block of Pokegama Avenue
South reported some items stolen from their garage. A dollar value for
the missing items was not reported.
- An act
of vandalism was reported from the 500 block of 5th Avenue NE on Friday
December 24th. A damage estimate was not available.
Crime Report 121710
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Tuesday December 14th a report of harassing phone calls was received
from the 5000 block of River Road.
- On
Wednesday December 15th someone reported vandalized property in the
1400 block of Soldiers Lane; clean up costs were not reported.
- Also on
Wednesday a second degree assault was reported from Canal Street.
Voyageurs Ice Conditions 121710
Voyageurs National Park staff has begun checking lake ice
conditions throughout the park. Aerial monitoring has shown ice
covering all lake surfaces though much of the ice on the east end of
Rainy Lake and Namakan Lake has only recently formed. Extremely
dangerous conditions continue to exist in these areas due to the
layering of ice, slush and water. Dangerous thin ice exists in
many locations. If cold temperatures continue, park staff hopes
to have the Green Trail between Rainy Lake and the Ash River community
staked and open for use by Christmas. Weekly reports will begin on
Thursday, December 23, 2010 with additional updates provided as trail
conditions improve.
Medure Receives Presidents Award 121510
Itasca County Sheriff Pat Medure was presented with the 2010
Minnesota Sheriffs’ Presidential Award on December 7th. MSA
President and Anoka County Sheriff Bruce Andersohn said Sheriff Medure
exemplifies the core values of the Minnesota Sheriffs’ Association and
has given unselfishly of himself and his time for the Sheriffs of the
State of Minnesota. He has worked tirelessly to promote the public’s
safety by serving as chair of the 911 Communication Committee, Boat and
Water, Snowmobile and ATV Committee; Committee member of the Statewide
Radio Board; and past board member and past President of the MN
Sheriffs’ Association. Medure’s loyalty, dedication, and commitment to
this association, his fellow Sheriffs and the Citizens of Minnesota are
deserving of the highest praise and recognition.” Sheriff Medure is the
first Sheriff in the MSA history to receive this award twice having
received the award in 2000.
BWCA PERMIT LOTTERY 121310
The lottery for Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)
permits opened December 1, 2010 and will continue through January 15,
2011. Applicants must set up an account on www.recreation.gov to enter
the lottery. It is a quick and easy process. Application
results can be viewed online between January 16 and January 20. Faxed
or mailed applications, and payments made by check and money order ARE
NO LONGER ACCEPTED. Only successful applicants will be charged a
non-refundable $12.00 reservation fee and applicable overnight user
fees. Beginning January 20, 2011, first-come first-served wilderness
permit reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov. Please visit
their website for additional information.
Hoolihan to Leave Blandin Foundation 120910
Blandin Foundation President and CEO Jim Hoolihan will be
returning to the private sector by the end of 2011. He shared his
plans with the Foundation’s board of trustees at their December 6th
meeting. Hoolihan started with the Blandin Foundation as a trustee
in 1992 and later as board chair, he became president and CEO in
2004. He is a native of Grand Rapids, a family business
owner and a three-term mayor of Grand Rapids from 1990 to 1995.
He serves in a variety of philanthropy leadership roles, including as
board member of the statewide Ready 4 K organization. Hoolihan
plans to return to his family’s multi-generational businesses. Marian
Barcus, Blandin Foundation board chair, said they are pleased Hoolihan
will be with the Foundation through 2011. It is a credit to his
leadership that the Foundation has broadened its impact even in a
difficult economy and is very stable. An executive search process has
been initiated by the Blandin Foundation Board of Trustees.
Pokegama Avenue Reconstruction 120810
On Monday December 13th the city of Grand Rapids will hold an
informational meeting on the reconstruction of Pokegama Avenue South.
The project will replace utility infrastructure, improve pedestrian
accessibility, upgrade street lighting, close two intersection accesses
and widen the road. The project should begin in 2010 and is scheduled
to finish in 2013. Traffic between 1st Street South and 10th Street
South will be disrupted as well as businesses in the construction zone.
The informal open house will run from 1 to 3:30 PM on Monday December
13th in the Grand Rapids City Council Chambers at city hall.
Crime Report 120710
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Friday December 3rd two separate 5th degree assaults occurred. One on
NE 8th Avenue and the other on Old Golf Course Road. No information on
charges at this time.
- Also on
Friday an incident of vandalism occurred on 7th Street SE. A damage
estimate was not available.
- On
Saturday December 4th an individual was cited for 4th Degree driving
while intoxicated on US Highway 2 West.
- Also on
Saturday a gas theft was reported from a convenience store on 4th
Street NW. The suspect’s credit card wasn’t read correctly and they
returned to make payment.
Holiday Lights 120110
The 2nd Annual Holiday Lights Festival will be taking place on
the Central School Grounds in downtown Grand Rapids from December 22nd
through the 31st. You can showcase your holiday spirit by designing and
creating your own unique holiday light display. The Grand Rapids
Recreation Department will provide the electricity and location for a
minimal donation of $10.00. The recreation staff asks you not to use
plastic or blow up type decorations and to not use stakes to hold the
display in place, they recommend sandbags. There will be a children’s
party on the 22nd with visits from several characters and children will
be given a free book they can take home. For more information you can
call the Grand Rapids Recreation Department at 326-2500 and ask for
Michele.
Horseshoe Lake Road Fire 111510
At 11 PM Friday November 12th the Grand Rapids Fire Department
responded to a structure fire on Horseshoe Lake Road. Firefighters
found an attached garage fully involved in fire and heavy smoke, with
fire quickly spreading to the roof area of the house. An occupant of
the attached home awoke to heavy smoke conditions and was able to call
9-1-1 as he exited the house. Firefighters from Grand Rapids and
Cohasset were on-scene for about 3 hours battling the blaze. There were
no injuries to firefighters or to the occupant of the house. A wood
stove located in the garage area is considered to be the cause of the
fire. There was extensive fire damage to the garage; and smoke, heat
and water damage to the attached house. Fire Chief Steve Flaherty said
"Once again, we are extremely fortunate that we did not experience a
fatality in this incident. Although the home did have a working smoke
detector, there was only one in the house and it was not properly
located to provide the occupants with early detection in this incident.
Properly located and working smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors are
the key to early detection and give occupants the ability to escape a
dangerous situation.”
Accident on Highway 6 111510
A twenty year old Marcell man was injured Saturday afternoon
when his vehicle was involved in an accident on Highway 6 about eleven
miles north of Remer. According to the Minnesota State Patrol Joseph
Scheff was traveling northbound on Highway 6, crossed over into the
southbound lane, went off the road on the west side and struck a tree.
Scheff was transported to St Mary’s in Duluth with non-life threatening
injuries. There was no alcohol detected in the drivers system. The
Minnesota State Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Itasca County
Sheriffs Office and the Minnesota DNR Enforcement Division.
ONWOAH 111210
The annual One Night Without A Home campout is Friday November
19th. Becky Boelter is with Kootasca Crisis Housing said the event is
to raise awareness of the plight of the homeless in our community.
Susan Jordahl – Bubacz is executive director of the Bovey – Colerain
Youth Center. She said there are some community leaders that will
participate. There is a lot of down time, no cell phones, TV or
computers to entertain. That shifts everyone into conversation mode to
talk about homelessness. Jordahl – Bubacz said it breaks boundaries
between the generations, the families and the youth participating in
the campout. She said there are families, adults and students in our
community living in vehicles that get up every morning and go to school
or work. The campout takes place in the K-Mart parking lot.
Participants will set up their shelters between 3 and 5 PM, before dark
and depart the next morning. For more information contact Boelter at
327-8653 or Jordahl – Bubacz at 259-4455.
Minnesota Deer Hunters Association
Not only is deer hunting a long standing
tradition in Minnesota but it is also a huge boost to our economy. Mark
Johnson, executive director of the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association
said deer hunting contributes almost seven hundred fifty thousand
dollars annually to the states economy. He said based on five
year old figures there are over fourteen thousand jobs in the state
because of hunting and the new figures are due out this year. The five
year old figures estimate each hunter spends, on average about eight
hundred dollars a year on hunting; however new estimates push that
figure up to between one thousand and fifteen hundred dollars. He said
to think of what that means to our community in terms of jobs, from the
venison processor to the clerk selling a hunting license.
As deer hunters sit in their stand waiting for the
perfect shot they often see other wildlife. Johnson said they
frequently get asked “What about the cougars in Minnesota?” He said the
short answer is that there aren’t enough cougars in the state to harm
the deer herd; however if hunters sight one that have a place to report
them. The Minnesota Deer Hunters Associations web site at
www.mndeerhunters.com and they have received a few sightings that may
be verified as cougars. He said trail cams have captured images of
several animals that may be bobcats or lynx. He said trail cam
resolution has improved greatly in recent years. He said for more
information you can contact the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association at
800-450-deer or 3337 or locally at 327-1103.
Crime Report 110110
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Saturday October 30th a minor traffic accident was reported on Pokegama
Avenue South near 13th Street. Both vehicles were in the right turn
lane when driver of the second vehicle’s foot slipped off the clutch
and rear-ended the first vehicle. The only injury reported was a bloody
nose. The driver of the second vehicle was cited for no drivers’
license and no proof of insurance.
- Also on
Saturday a resident on 10th Avenue NW reported some property damage.
Someone had entered his home, broke several mirrors and a grandfather’s
clock and scribbled on the wall. The incident is under investigation.
- On
Sunday October 31st a resident on 2nd Avenue SE reported several
windows had been broken recently. Some appeared to have been broken by
a BB gun, while others appear to have been punched. No dollar value on
the damage was reported
Veterans Day 111110
Veterans Day is the annual holiday honoring
military veterans. It is also celebrated as Armistice Day or
Remembrance Day in other parts of the world, the anniversary of the
signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. President Woodrow
Wilson first proclaimed an Armistice Day for November 11, 1919. In
proclaiming the holiday, he said
"To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with
lots of pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service
and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from
which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given
America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of
the nations.”
On June 1, 1954 Congress replaced "Armistice" with Veterans, and
November 11th has been known as Veterans Day since.
Traditionally the US flag is displayed on Veterans
Day at full staff and proudly. It has also become a tradition to
display the POW / MIA flag in honor of those vererans who are missing
in action or a prisioner of war.
There will be a Veterans Day program in front of the
Itasca County Courthouse at 11AM. In addition there are programs at the
Greenway High School at 9:30 AM; Evergreen Terrace at 10 AM; Grand
Village at 10:30 AM; the Manor House at 11:30 AM; the Warba Charter
School at 1 PM; and the RJE Middle School at 2 PM.
Several businesses around the area are honoring
Veterans with free or reduced meals and the Reif Center has a special
treat for the entire community with the Mushroom Picker, a tribute to a
World War II hero. There are also businesses, government offices,
banks and schools closed in honor of todays holiday. The KOZY / KMFY
staff wish to offer our thanks for all Veterans for the freedoms we all
enjoy.
Zims Land 110910
The Itasca County Board’s recent vacation of Zims Lane has
landed them in court or at least three of the five commissioners.
Specifically those that voted in favor of the resolution to vacate the
portion of Zims Lane that crosses one property owner’s parcel.
According to court documents Commissioners McLynn, Burthwick and
Mandich have been ordered to appear before Judge Lois Lang on December
20th for a hearing on contempt of court charges and the order also
halts the vacation process prohibiting any obstruction to Zims Lane.
County Attorney News 110310
In news from the Itasca County Attorneys office thirty nine year
old Gretchen Watne of Grand Rapids made a court appearance in district
court on the charge of Criminal Vehicular Homicide stemming from a
motor vehicle accident that took place on August 22nd. The court has
reviewed mental health evaluations conducted by court order and found
defendant Watne competent to stand trial; however examiners also found
her mentally ill and did not know right from wrong at the time of the
accident. The court dismissed the charge based on the likelihood of a
conviction would not be possible.
Thirty seven year old Katrina Thoreson of Bovey appeared in district
court on Monday in regard to a count of first degree aggravated robbery
in connection with a robbery that took place at Ron’s Corner Market in
Marble on September 18th. Thoreson pled not-guilty and waived her right
ot an omnibus hearing. Her next scheduled court appearance is set for
November 23rd.
Northland Foundation Receives $50,000
From the Walmart Foundation 110810
The Northland Foundation received a $50,000 contribution to help
provide KIDS PLUS programs in northeastern Minnesota. The grant
was given to the nonprofit organization through the Walmart
Foundation’s Minnesota State Giving Program and will help the Northland
Foundation develop young leaders serve their communities. Lynn Haglin,
vice president and KIDS PLUS director for the Northland Foundation said
“The Walmart Foundation’s generous support for young people in
northeastern Minnesota is a gift not only to the youth themselves but
to our communities.” The Northland Foundation plans to use the donation
to help provide for its KIDS PLUS Youth Leadership and Youth in
Philanthropy programs in Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching,
Lake, and St. Louis counties in Minnesota.
Election 110310
- The
election results are in; however they are not official until canvassed
by the appropriate authorities.
- In the
8th US Congressional District race:
- Chip
Cravaack 130586
- James
Oberstar 125966
- In the
District 3 Minnesota Senate race:
- Tom
Saxhaug 16311
- Dan
McGuire 11611
- In the
Minnesota House District 3A race:
- Tom
Anzelc 8783
- Marv
Ott 6128
- In the
Minnesota House District 3B race:
- Carolyn
McElfatrick 6799
- Loren
Solberg 6270
- In the
District 4 Minnesota Senate race:
- John
Carlson 18783
- Mary
Olson 15569
- In the
Minnesota House District 4A race:
- John
Persell 7642
- Richard
Lehmann 6709
- In the
Itasca County Sheriff race:
- Vic
Williams 11512
- Dean
Scherff 7658
- In the
Itasca County Auditor Treasurer race:
- Jeff
Walker 11965
- Doug
Carpenter 5886
- In the
Itasca County District 1 Commissioner Race:
- Davin
Tinquist 2510
- Lori
Dowling 1433
- In the
Itasca County District 3 Commissioner Races:
- Leo
Trunt 2112
- Karen
Burthwick 1166
- In the
Itasca County District 5 Commissioner Races:
- Mark
Mandich 2003
- Roger
Weber 1633
- In the
Grand Rapids Mayoral race:
- Dale
Adams 2597
- Robert
Ward 995
- Travis
Wiebrand 213
In other
elections; in Cohasset Greg Hagy defeated Steve Brown for Mayor and Tim
Carlson and Terry Bartz won their bid for seats on the city council.
The Bigfork’s Mayoral race was won by Roger Logdahl over Wm Bradley
Frisinger. In Colerain’s Mayoral race Michael Antonovich won
re-election over challenger Holly Guyer while Peggy Smith and Lee
Mattfield were elected to city council. In Keewatin’s mayoral race
William King defeated Tom Sampson and in Nashwauk’s mayoral race Bill
Hendricks was re-elected over Brian Gangl. The Greenway school board
will look a little different with Robert Schwartz, Bill Hoeft and
Natalie Winckler winning the three open seats. In the Deer River school
board (ISD 317) race Barb Gunderson, Ryan Fox and Leland Pederson will
fills those three seats. The Nashwauk / Keewatin school board winners
are Jeff Sundquist, Barb Kalmi and Lisa Peratalo. The results in the
governor and lieutenant governor race are close enough for a mandatory
recount with Mark Dayton leading Tom Emmer by less that half a point.
For more information on these and other races you can go to the
Secretary of States website at www.sos.state.mn.us.
Fatal Accident on Pokegama Avenue 102710
On Tuesday October 26th, at approximately 10:30 AM, officers
from the Grand Rapids Police Department responded to Pokegama Ave South
for a motor vehicle / pedestrian accident. A northbound tractor
trailer had struck a pedestrian, 56 year old Allan Yatchoske of Big
Lake, attempting to cross the highway near the intersection of Pokegama
Avenue South and 6th Street Southeast. The victim was pronounced dead
at the scene and was transported to Grand Itasca Hospital. The driver
of the tractor trailer was identified as 29 year old Ryan Runia of
Ghent; he was not injured in the accident. The Grand Rapids Police
Department was assisted by the Minnesota State Patrol and the Itasca
County Sheriff’s Department.
EDA Grant for IEIP 092410
Gary Locke, the US Secretary of Commerce, announced yesterday
that the Itasca Economic Development Corporation has received a one
point seven five million dollar grant from the US Economic Development
Agency to be used to redevelop the old Ainsworth property into the
Itasca Eco Industrial Park. The Eco-Park Project will convert the
property into an integrated, multi-tenant park specializing in biofuel
production and renewable energy component manufacturing. US Senator Amy
Klobuchar said the project will help businesses in Itasca County that
are innovating and investing in the future of Minnesota and the nation.
According to Senator Al Franken the funding will not only promote clean
alternative energy but will create 175 jobs and spur economic
development in our area. Congressman James Oberstar said the EDA grant
will be a great return on taxpayer’s investment. Jeff Broking,
president of the IEDC said the communities of Itasca County are focused
and optimistic in their drive to encourage new economic development in
northeast Minnesota. Work at the Itasca Eco-Industrial Park is
scheduled to begin immediately, with an official groundbreaking
ceremony planned for early October.
Northland Domestic Abuse Prevention Program
Receives Federal Funding 092410
A Minnesota program designed to prevent domestic violence has
been awarded a federal grant totaling $350,000. Today, Senators
Amy Klobuchar and Al Franken and Congressman James Oberstar announced
that the U.S. Department of Justice will continue funding the Safe
Haven Supervised Exchange and Visitation Center in Grand Rapids. Child
and adult victims of domestic violence are at risk during court ordered
visitation during and after divorce proceedings. The Safe Visitation
Program is designed to give families a safe, supervised location to
carry out such visits. Senator Klobuchar said programs like these
protect women and help survivors of sexual and domestic abuse by
providing victims and their families critical support services. Senator
Franken said this funding will help ensure that families in the
Northland continue to have a safe and supervised place to meet.
Congressman Oberstar said this program offers families a place to
reconnect with each other in a safe environment and gives them a chance
to heal, grow stronger and move on with their lives.
Crime Report 092010
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday September 17th an account holder at an area bank notified law
enforcement that over eight thousand dollars was withdrawn from her
account without her consent. The signature on the withdrawal slips were
not those of the account holder. The case is under investigation.
- Late
Friday night an intoxicated adult male was asked to leave a SW Grand
Rapids Innkeeper property. He was escorted to an adjoining property
where later he caused problems there and was taken to a local all night
restaurant to await retrieval by his mother.
- Early
Saturday morning, September 18th a beer party was busted on 1st Avenue
NW. Several minor consume citations were issued. There was reportedly a
beer pong table set up in the basement and the odor of marijuana
emanating from the back bedrooms.
- On
Saturday September 18th a GRPD squad car received minor damage on
Highway 2 West when it struck a coyote. No word on the animal’s
condition.
- A
residence in SE Grand Rapids was being watched by the owner’s daughter
when it was burglarized. Two rifles were stolen. The suspect was later
discovered in the bath tub and the missing firearms were recovered. The
suspect was arrested on an outstanding warrant.
- A
suspicious vehicle was reported at a park on 6th Avenue NW. A young
couple on their way home from a date had stopped to say goodnight. They
were informed of the city ordinance closing parks at ten PM and asked
to move along.
- Early
Sunday morning September 19th two separate adult males were arrested
for 4th degree DWI; both were on 4th Street NW. The first suspect had
been observed weaving across traffic lanes; he then pulled off the
highway, stopped and exited the vehicle then urinated on a back tire.
In the second incident the suspect was also weaving and was observed to
toss a bag of garbage from the vehicle. Both vehicles were towed into
impound.
Grand Rapids Roller Derby Girls 091710
The Iron Range Maidens are a Female Roller derby team based here
in Grand Rapids. They held an informational meeting on Tuesday to
determine if there was enough interest in making a team. Lita Floored
is team captain:
She said there were an additional twenty or so interested that phoned
because they couldn’t attend the meeting. Floored says there is a
difference between the ‘70’s style roller derby and todays:
Sista Sledge, the team’s treasurer, said there is a world wide concept
that women need to be a size 2 so they can fit into society, that isn’t
true:
Floored said they need sponsors, practice space, a coach, referees and
they could still use more skaters. For more information you can visit
their website at www.grrollerderby.weebly.com.
Wendigo Pines ALC Fire 091510
For the 2nd time in three days, the GRFD was called to a fully-
involved structure fire; this time at the Wendigo Pines Assisted Living
Center, located on the Wendigo Park Road. When fire crews arrived at
approximately 8:00 pm, there were flames already showing through the
roof of a 1-story double wide that was occupied by 4 assisted living
residents and 1 nursing assistant. All occupants were safely removed by
the nursing assistant just prior to the fire department's arrival.
The Grand Rapids Fire Department was again assisted by the Cohasset
Fire Department, and just like the previous structure fire which
happened on Sunday morning, fire crews were already at the fire station
at the time of the alarm but were still challenged in bringing the
fast-moving fire under control. Everyone on-scene worked
extremely hard to extinguish this fire, and much of the roof and
ceiling area had to be removed to put the fire completely out. Fire
crews remained on the scene for approximately 3 1/2 hours, and there
were no injuries reported.
The fire is believed to have been started intentionally by one of the
residents living in the home, and the Itasca County Sheriff's Office
and the State Fire Marshal's Office have been notified. The fire loss
is estimated to be $150,000.00.
The Grand Rapids Fire Department has responded to 8 emergencies within
the last 3-day period.
57th North Star Expo Returns to Grand Rapids
The Center of Minnesota’s timber industry will be in Grand
Rapids next week, with the state’s biggest logging equipment
show. The 57th Annual North Star Expo opens Friday September 17th
at the Itasca County Fairgrounds in Grand Rapids. Admission to
the two-day event is free (there is a parking charge), and features
more than 100 exhibitors, including more than $15 million in the latest
logging, trucking, and sawmill equipment and technology.
Loggers, vendors and timber company representatives from Minnesota and
around the Upper Midwest will attend, making this the place to learn
the latest in the state’s paper and wood products industry.
“We’re thrilled to be back in Grand Rapids,” said Wayne Brandt,
executive vice-president of the Minnesota Timber Producers Association,
organizers of the Expo. “Our industry in this area is steeped in
tradition. With all of the loggers located in Grand Rapids and
Itasca County, it’s an ideal spot to hold our event.”
This year’s Expo will not only include equipment displays from the
world’s top manufacturers, but also contests that allow participants to
show off their skills and knowledge of the logging business, including
the Loader and Master Loader Contests. Other competitions include
Biggest Cookie, and “Guess the Weight.” And for the kids, there’s
a coloring contest and a kids’ mini-loader contest, too.
The Minnesota Timber Producers Association is the state’s largest trade
organization for loggers, truckers and sawmills. The North Star
Expo runs from 8AM to 5pm on Friday, and from 8AM until 2pm on Saturday.
Fire 14th Avenue SW 091310
The Grand Rapids Fire Department responded to a structure fire
on Sunday morning at 2:30 AM. The fire was reported by a neighbor who
noticed flames coming through the roof of a house on the 400 block of
14th Avenue SW. The fire caused an estimated $180,000.00 in damage to
the house and its contents, and it is currently under investigation.
The owner was not home at the time of the fire, and there were no
injuries to firefighters. The Cohasset and Coleraine Fire Departments
assisted in the firefighting efforts and the GR Police Department,
Itasca County Sheriff's Office and Meds-1 were on-scene to assist.
Crime Report 091310
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Friday September 10th a vehicle leaking gas was reported in the parking
lot at a retail merchant on 29th Street SE. The Grand Rapids Fire
Department responded and slowed the leak and cleaned up the spill.
- Also on
Friday an adult female received minor injuries when she rammed her
vehicle into a tree on 3rd Avenue NW (Highway 38). Witnesses stated
they observed the suspects vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed
and passing in a no-passing zone before the accident. The suspect
stated to officers on the scene she was distraught over breaking up
with her boyfriend. She was transported to Grand Itasca and transferred
to a Duluth Hospital for psychiatric evaluation.
- On
Saturday September 11th a motorist was arrested and his vehicle
impounded on Pokegama Avenue South for 4th degree DWI.
- On
Sunday September 12th stolen property was recovered at an assisted
living facility in southwest Grand Rapids. Recovered were several
handbags stolen the previous evening. An adult female was arrested for
theft, possession of stolen property, terroristic threats and
disorderly conduct. The incident is still under investigation.
Crime Report 091010
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Tuesday September 7th a report of vandalism was received from
Pokegama Avenue North. Someone noticed a window broken on the north
side of a house and people were crawling thru to gain access. The
incident is under investigation.
On Wednesday September 8th a minor two vehicle accident occurred on 7th
Avenue NW. One motorist was cited for failure to yield.
On Thursday September 9th a resident on Soldiers Lane in Northeast
Grand Rapids reported his trailer had been burglarized. He stated the
place had been trashed. The incident remains under investigation.
ISD 318 American Indian Services
Receives Language Revitalization Grant
090210
Independent School District 318’s American Indian Services was
one of two Minnesota school district-based programs to receive a Dakota
and Ojibwe Language Revitalization grant from the Minnesota Indian
Affairs Council this summer. With the $24,000 it was awarded, the
district will launch the Ishkodeke (“making a fire”) Language Project.
Teacher Patty Erven will create a curriculum for beginning and advanced
high school Ojibwe language classes, as well as establish language
activities for parents of American Indian students. In the new classes
students will use interactive voice recognition software that features
native speakers. Ojibwe / Anishinaabe literature will also be a major
part of their curriculum. Parents who attend American Indian Services’
Family Nights can participate in special Language Tables where they can
learn and utilize Ojibwemowin, the Ojibwe language. According to
Curriculum Director Rochelle Van Den Heuvel, the district is anxious to
participate in such a revitalization of the Ojibwe language.
Crime Report 090110
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Monday August 30th a vehicle was reported stolen from Highway 38 in
Grand Rapids. The vehicle and a juvenile male suspect were located at a
retail grocer on 5th Street. The suspect fled the scene on foot but was
apprehended at 5th Avenue & 6th Street NW and transported to the
Itasca Juvenile Center.
- Also on
Monday two suspicious individuals were spotted in a parking lot off CR
61. The adults were caught in a very intimate moment and they were
asked to move to a less public location, such as a motel room.
- On
Tuesday August 31st an adult male was arrested in the parking lot of a
restaurant on 4th Street NW for 3rd degree DWI.
- Also on
Tuesday an adult female was arrested for 3rd degree DWI on 8th Avenue
NE. Deputy Chief Scherff, in his unmarked patrol car using lights and
sirens, attempted to stop the suspect however she wouldn’t pull over.
Concerned that she was approaching Highway 2 during rush hour he was
about to pull in front of her vehicle when a marked squad car pulled in
back of the suspect. When she stopped and exited her vehicle to be
administered a sobriety test she almost fell into passing traffic. She
was taken to detox and her vehicle towed into impound.
Greenway Food prices 082510
The cost of a school lunch is going up at the Greenway
Schools. Superintendent Mark Adams asked the school board to
increase the price of school lunches ten cents across the board.
Adams said the food service staff has been working on giving students
healthy choices. The cost for an elementary lunch will be
$1.80. Secondary School lunches will cost $2.05.
Greenway Retirees 082510
The Greenway school board is looking for a way to bring back
retired teachers back into the classroom. Teacher Nancy
Hanson was set to return to the classroom this fall. Hanson
retired about two months ago and decided she still wanted to
teach. The Greenway school board talked with Education Minnesota,
the teachers’ union, about the opportunity. Local 13-30 worked
with both sides signed a working agreement. Education
Minnesota’s regional office demanded Hanson be treated as a new
teacher, with all the benefits she is entitled to. Last night,
the Greenway board voted to rescind Hanson’s teaching agreement.
Board vice chair Gary Gustafson said it’s about the legal fees and
grievances filed against the district. Superintendent Adams and
Rae Villebrun, Van Dyke Elementary School Principal, will decide who
will teach Hanson’s class in two weeks.
Cohasset Animals 082510
Last night, the city of Cohasset renewed its contract with the
city of Grand Rapids for animal control. The city will pay about
the same for the services. But, it’s not just dogs and
cats. City workers had to corral a chicken recently that
showed up in the city hall parking lot. Since the city had no
place to keep the animal, it was housed in a Cohasset resident’s
chicken coop. Another stray hen found in Grand Rapids was also
brought to the Cohasset coop, for temporary storage.
Residents have 10 days to claim their birds.
Rainwater 082510
The city of Cohasset pays the city of Grand Rapids for
wastewater treatment services. Last night, the Cohasset city
council made some changes to its wastewater ordinance.
Special Projects coordinator Rick Horton brought the changes to the
council. One of the additions was a law making it illegal to
clean water into the sewer system. The city spends thousand of
dollars each year paying to have rain water cleaned. Sump pumps,
floor drains, roof drains and gutters should be emptied into the yard.
The city now has the authority to make home visits to enforce that law.
ESSAR Tour 081610
A tour of the Essar Steel Minnesota site took place recently
with about 20 local leaders and engineers. The leaders said that the
public has been antsy to hear news about the progress. The site looked
remarkably different than it did two years ago at the groundbreaking.
Essar Steel Minnesota is the $1.6 billion dollar mining through
steelmaking plant. There have been delays because of financing, but
things are moving along now. Crews are busy clearing the land for the
taconite facility first. Blasting takes place about three times a week.
About 1.8 million cubic yards of earthwork has been done. More mining
activity will ramp up in the spring, but they have been able to start.
Foundations are expected to be poured later this month. About 9 miles
of railroad have been laid already. There are three more to go. The
track will link up the different areas and will help Essar move
equipment to the plant site. The dewatering of an old mine pit is also
in the works, because Essar plans on mining there as well.
Crime Report 081610
In the crime report from the Grand Rapids
Police Department:
- On
Friday August 13th a resident on 5th Street SE reported a theft from
their vehicle while it was parked in their garage. Total loss: one
dollar and change.
- On
Friday August 13th a vehicle parked on 2nd Avenue SE had some items
stolen from it. Missing items include an MP3 player and charger, a
bottle of cologne valued at $20 and $15 in cash.
- A
shoplifter was cited for theft on Friday August 13th at a retail
merchant on 29th Street SE. The suspect attempted to steal
approximately $83 worth of wedding invitations.
- Later
Friday evening August 13th an officer on patrol spotted two suspicious
vehicles parked at the Veterans Park in north east Grand Rapids.
According to the married female occupant she was interested in dating
the single male occupant.
- A
juvenile female driver was cited on Friday August 13th at the Sports
Complex for possession of a small amount of marijuana and drug
paraphernalia in a motor vehicle.
- Early
Saturday morning August 14th an abandoned wife contacted law
enforcement seeking help in locating her husband. They had stopped at a
convenience store on Highway 169 East to use the restroom, while
en-route to a casino. When she finished she discovered her husband had
left without her. She was concerned because her husband had difficulty
seeing and may not have noticed she was missing. Law enforcement
contacted the State Police to issue an alert; however when the officer
returned a short time later the husband had returned.
- A
peeping tom was reported on Saturday August 14th from 18th Avenue NW.
The suspect was gone on arrival of the police officers.
- On
Saturday August 14th a concerned mother called to report someone at a
youth entertainment facility on Pokegama Avenue North had given her
juvenile son alcohol. The Grand Rapids Police are investigating.
- On
Sunday August 15th a dumpster was reported on fire behind a fast food
establishment on 5th Street NE. Grand Rapids Fire Department responded
and extinguished the dumpster fire.
Local Real Estate 081310
The housing market in Grand Rapids and surrounding areas is
showing signs of improvement. The last two years haven’t been
kind to the real estate market. Charlotte McDermott, of Coldwell
Banker, said right now there are 981 residential properties for sale in
the Grand Rapids area, residential waterfront and town homes.
That compares to 273 residences that were sold between January and
August of this year. A new report shows foreclosures last month
were 24 percent below July of last year.
Greenway Retirees 081310
One retiring teacher in the Greenway School district is ready to
come back, at least part time. It may not be possible.
Nancy Hanson retired just a few months ago, but was re-hired in July as
a part-time title teacher. Education Minnesota, Local 1330,
asked Superintendent Mark Adams to work out a contract her and other
retired teachers who may still want to teach. The Greenway school
board heard from its teachers union Thursday that a separate contract
with Hanson may trigger litigation. Superintendent Mark Adams.
The board voted to revisit the issue during its next meeting, after
getting some more information from the teachers’ union.
Wednesday Incident 080510
In the wake of Wednesday morning’s “abduction that wasn’t
incident” Grand Rapids Police Chief Jim Denny says if it is suspicious,
report it.
He said the incident on Wednesday was a result of a frustrated child.
As the child was attempting to leave the football camp counselors
located and retrieved the lad and placed him in their SUV to return him
to his parents.
The two children observing this reported the incident to their parents
which resulted in the report to the Grand Rapids Police Department.
Chief Denny said this was a great outcome.
Crime Report 080510
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department for Wednesday August 5th:
- A
motorist parked in the driveway of the Veterans Memorial Park was cited
for possession of a small amount of marijuana and drug paraphernalia in
a motor vehicle.
- An
individual reported the theft of a set of golf clubs, a golf bag,
assorted golf balls and other golfing equipment. The theft occurred
from in front of the Pokegama Golf and Park Clubhouse. A dollar value
for the missing golfing equipment was not reported.
Crime Report 080410
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office
for Tuesday August 3rd:
- Two
adult males were arrested on CR 9 in rural Deer River for probation
violations.
- A
report of credit card fraud was received from Elizabeth Avenue in
LaPrairie. There were two transactions totaling thirty six dollars made
on an internet phone service.
- The
Itasca County Sheriffs office and the Grand Rapids Fire Department
responded to Shadywood Road in rural Grand Rapids for a report of a
tractor on fire.
- A 21
year old male from Minneapolis was injured in an accident on a forest
road in rural Deer River. Romel Garcia was riding his dirt bike,
rounded a corner and collided head on with a pickup truck driven by 31
year old Shaun Junglen of Breezy Point. Junglen was cited for driving
after revocation. Garcia was transported to the Deer River Hospital and
later airlifted to Duluth.
- An
order for protection was violated on CR 128, there is a suspect and the
case is under investigation.
In the local crime report from the Grand
Rapids Police Department on Wednesday August 4th:
- Shortly
after Midnight officers responded to an intrusion alarm from a business
on River Road. Upon arrival officers found a broken window and beer
cans lying in the parking lot. Officers were able to identify and
locate a suspect at a residence in Grand Rapids. The suspect was
charged with third degree burglary; is being held in the Itasca County
Jail and their name is being withheld pending formal charges.
Deer River Bonds 080210
Local school districts are doing what they can to offset “flat”
state funding and rising costs. The Deer River School board
Monday night voted to sell $1.4 million worth of General Obligation aid
Anticipation Certificates. Last week, the Greenway board voted to
sell $2.24 million in certificates. Deer River Superintendent
Matt Gross told board members and the audience that although the
legislature this short term borrowing will help the district meet its
financial needs. The borrowing will cover any cash flow
issues. The bonds were sold Monday by Ehlers and
Associates. The school received an interest rate of 0.67%.
Deer River School Board 080210
Deer River students will find some changes in the student
handbook this fall.
The district expects to be wireless by January 1st. Because of
this sometimes daily leap in technology, the board approved some new
language in the student and teacher handbooks for the fall. 6th,
7th and 8th graders will not be allowed to have cell phones in the
building again this year, but 9th through 12th graders can.
Teachers may also create class Facebook pages. Superintendent
Matt Gross said it’s where the kids are. The school board heard the
first reading on the student and teacher handbooks for the upcoming
school year Monday night. The policies won’t be in place until
the 2nd reading, scheduled for September 7th.
Crime Report 072710
In the local crime report for Monday July
26th from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- A
business on 4th Street NW reported the theft of an H&K P2000
handgun. The case is under investigation.
- A
resident on 8th Street NE reported the theft of two items from his
vehicle, a DeWalt Power Drill and a Pioneer CD player. A value on the
missing items was not reported.
- A
motorist on 10th Avenue NE was stopped for improper license plate tabs.
The tabs on the vehicle being driven were supposed to be on another
vehicle of the same make and model. The motorist was cited and warned
to get the tabs on the correct vehicle.
Cohasset Finances 072810
The City of Cohasset may be without long-term general obligation
bonds by next June.
In 2003, the city’s debt was over seven million dollars. Today,
the city owes just under two and a half million dollars. The city
council Tuesday night voted to pay off the 2003 general obligation
water and sewer advance refunding bond of about one million
dollars. The only bond remaining is a general revenue bond- which
the city may decide to pay off in June of 2011. The next Cohasset
City Council meeting is August 24th.
07-27-10
ISD 318 Para Contract
Independent School district 318 has a tentative contract
agreement with its para-professionals union. Superintendent Joe
Silko said the district actually has tentative contract agreements with
two of its unions, the para-professionals and the bus drivers
unions. The terms of the para contract contain no increases for
09-10, no increase for 2010-2011, a cash payment and some benefit
language. The district has no talks scheduled with its teachers
union. Silko said the district is open to discussions.
Accident Near Deer River 072210
The Minnesota State Patrol has reported a two vehicle accident
occurred Wednesday afternoon on Highway 46 about 6 miles north of Deer
River. A 2007 Dodge Caliber was traveling southbound on 46 when it
crossed the centerline and collided with a 2003 Kenworth semi. The 44
year old driver of the Dodge was pronounced dead at the scene. The
names of those involved have not been released at this time. The State
patrol was assisted at the scene by the Deer River Police Department
and the Itasca County Sheriffs Office.
Crime Report 072210
In the local crime report for Monday July 19th from the Grand
Rapids Police Department:
- Fourth
Street Northeast was the scene for several traffic stops for speeding.
Five individuals were cited for speeds ranging from fifty in a thirty
to 39 in a thirty.
- A
vehicle being operated on 7th Avenue SE was stopped for speeding. The
driver was cited for doing 39 in a 30.
- A
vehicle traveling north on Pokegama Avenue South was stopped for doing
84 in a 40 zone but only cited for 64 in a 30
In the local
crime report for Wednesday July 21st from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- An
officer stopped an individual on Highway 169 South for speeding;
seventy seven in a fifty five zone. He was cited for sixty-four in a
fifty-five.
- An
individual was cited for doing forty in a thirty on Pokegama Avenue
South.
- Another
speeder was cited, this time on Golf Course Road for doing forty in a
thirty.
- An
individual running late for work on Isleview Road was stopped and cited
for doing sixty in a thirty.
- A two
vehicle accident occurred on 12th Avenue NW when a semi attempting to
make a wide turn clipped the vehicle in the right turn lane. The semi
driver was cited for an inoperative turn signal. There were no injuries
reported.
In the local
crime report for Thursday July 22nd from the Itasca County Sheriffs
Office:
- A
report was received from Silverwood Avenue in Marble of two individuals
teasing a dog. When Deputies arrived a foot chase ensued, one suspect
was subdued with a TASER and charged with fleeing a peace officer,
obstruction of justice and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Burglary Suspects Charged 071410
Criminal charges were filed in Itasca County District court on
Monday July 12th in regard to a series of business burglaries that
occurred in Blackberry, Colerain, LaPrairie and rural Grand Rapids on
July 9th. According to County Attorney Jack Muhar 19 year old Donald
Noland of Grand Rapids, 21 year old Andrew Behl and 19 year old Laron
Brown both of Deer River were all charged with several counts of First,
Second and Third Degree burglary and one count of attempted Third
Degree burglary. All three suspects were on probation for previous
felony offenses and the court ordered all held without bail pending
their next court appearance, scheduled for July 19th at 10 AM.
Greenway Activities Director 071410
The Greenway School Board voted to hire Anne Champlin as the new
assistant principal at Conner Jasper Middle school and the district’s
new Activities Director. Champlin spend the last 6 years teaching
social studies at Greenway High School. Prior to that, she taught
in the Twin Cities area.
Deer River School Bus 071410
Some new rules will go into effect in the fall when Deer River
elementary school children return to school. If your children are
in pre-school or kindergarten, expect to meet them in your driveway
each day after school. Amy Galatz, Principal at King Elementary
School, told board members children will not be left at a house when no
one is visible. The policy was in place but never implemented
until this year. Each child will also have only 1 drop-off
site. In other action, the board heard a report on the reading
recovery program, approved the 2010-2011 activities handbook, heard a
report from the Out-Of-School summer program and approved a number of
new hires. The next board meeting is august 2nd.
Lunch Price Increase for District 318 Students 07-14-10
Students and teachers in Independent School District 318 will be
paying more for their school meals in the fall. The school board
voted to raise the cost of breakfast and lunch by 20 cents. Polly
Podpeskar, Director of Food and Nutrition for District 318, told board
members her department considers a lot of things before recommending a
price increase. Podpeskar told the board that the 20 cent
increase will still leave her department with an $8364 deficit this
year. The food service budget would have had a $32,628 deficit
with a 10 cent increase.
The board awarded Sandstrom’s the milk bid and Pan ‘O Gold the bread
bid. Bids are good for three years.
Superior Publishing Corp 071210
The control of six regional publications has largely reverted to
lenders according to documents filed this week by their parent company.
American Consolidated Media is now 90 percent owned by lenders, while
Australia-based Southern Cross Media Group retains a 10 percent stake.
Although SCMG retains 10 percent ownership, the equity is non-voting,
giving lenders full control of operations.
Regionally, the affected publications include those grouped under the
Superior Publishing Corp. banner -- the Mesabi Daily News in Virginia,
Hibbing Daily Tribune, Grand Rapids Herald Review, Chisholm Tribune
Press, Walker Pilot-Independent and the Manney’s Shopper; as well as
six others in Wisconsin.
The decision follows ACM’s breach of covenants on its $133.7 million
loan obligations. ACM is working with its lenders to restructure.
The Western Itasca Review is currently undergoing a change in
ownership; however The Scenic Range News Forum in Bovey is still under
the local ownership of Lee Johnson, publisher.
Crime Report 071210
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- An
adult female on River Road was warned about her disorderly conduct on
Friday. An officer was questioning a roommate when the adult female
became upset and began yelling obscenities at the officer. She quieted
down when warned.
- An
adult male was arrested for 2nd degree domestic assault on Friday July
9th from SE 5th Street. He had reportedly held a knife to the throat of
his girlfriend and thrown a glass of water at her.
- An
observant officer spotted an adult male driving a vehicle that was
known to have had his driver’s license revoked. The suspect was located
at home and cited.
Local Weather Statistics for June 2010
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for June 2010.
The average high for the month was 72.6 degrees and the average low was
51.5 with an overall average temperature of 62.1 degrees.
The warmest June on record was in 1995 with an average temperature of
68.6 degrees.
The coldest was in 1958 & 1969 with an average temperature of 54.9
degrees.
We received 5.23 inches of rain last month.
Accident Near Bowstring 070810
The Minnesota State Patrol has reported a fatal automobile
accident occurred on Highway 6 near Bowstring. According to the report
a Pickup truck was traveling southbound crossed the northbound lane
onto the shoulder and grass, overcorrected and skidded across both
lanes of traffic and rolled onto it’s roof in the west ditch. The
accident victim’s name has not been released at this time. The
Minnesota State Patrol was assisted at the scene by the Itasca County
Sheriff Office and Conservation Officers from the Minnesota DNR.
Crime Report 070810
- In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Wednesday July 7th a motorist ran a red light at 21st street on
Pokegama Avenue South and collided with another vehicle. No injuries
were reported.
- An
automobile accident on Pokegama Avenue North by the railroad crossing
resulted in a citation for driving after suspension. The suspended
driver attempted to cover up the fact he was driving by having his
female passenger claim she was driving. No injuries were reported.
- A
report of counterfeit one hundred dollar bills was received from a bank
on 29th Street South. The bill appeared to be similar to ones being
passed in the Duluth area. A “washed out” five dollar bill. Many area
merchants are refusing to accept hundreds due to this. If you have a
bill you suspect that may be counterfeit, contact your local law
enforcement agency.
Accident Near Bemidji 070710
A 29 year old Grand Rapids man was charged on Tuesday in Hubbard
County District Court in connection with Saturday’s one-car rollover
accident that killed a Floodwood woman. According to Hubbard County
Sheriff Frank Homer Jesse Dahl was charged with two counts of criminal
vehicular homicide, second degree driving while intoxicated and driving
after his license was revoked. Twenty eight year old Brooke Rosemore
was found in the vehicle, she had died from injuries suffered in the
crash and Dahl was located at a nearby residence with minor injuries.
Sheriff Homer said authorities believe Dahl was driving however the
investigation is continuing. The accident occurred on Hubbard CR 3 in
Lake Hattie Township near Bemidji.
ISD 318 School Lunches 062310
Some school districts take money that could be spent on teachers
and supplement their school lunch program to keep prices down. In
School District 318, Director of Food and Nutrition, Polly Podpeskar
said it’s a balancing act, keeping prices low, but offering healthy
nutritious choices. School lunches in Independent School District
318 will be going up twenty cents per meal next fall. Podpeskar
said she’s also pleased that the milk vendor for the next three years
will be Sandstroms, a local supplier.
Greenway Athletic Director 062310
We are all doing more with less these days and school districts
are no exception. The Greenway school board Monday night (June
21st) eliminated the half-time athletic director’s position.
Instead, the board agreed to hire an assistant principal for the Conner
Jasper middle School who will also serve as the district’s athletic
director. Superintendent Mark Adams told the board he will
probably come to them with dramatic reductions in the fall and now is
the time for restructuring. The district will save about
fifty-thousand dollars next year. Adams told the board there may
be a person in place for this position in a few days.
Cohasset’s Financial Health 062310
The city of Cohasset is financially sound. The Cohasset
City Council heard a report from its auditor on June 22nd. The
audit report from Eide Bailey found that the city’s assets increased
five percent between January of 2008 and January of 2009. The
city’s liabilities increased just over three percent and the city’s
long-term debt is well below the benchmark. Brian Stavenger from
Eide Baily told the council he’s give them a B plus. He said they
have made a lot of changes in the three years Eide bailey has been
serving as Cohasset’s auditor. Residents can see the audit
on-line at Cohasset-mn.com.
Loucks Sentenced 062110
On Friday 55 year old Patrick Loucks of Bovey pled guilty to
felony of possession of a dangerous weapon in a courthouse complex. He
also had been charged with first-, second- and fifth-degree assault and
obstructing legal process, but a Cass County judge dismissed those
charges on the grounds that there was insufficient evidence that he
committed those crimes. The court ordered Loucks to serve 95 days in
jail and be placed on probation for five years. He was also fined $135,
ordered to submit a DNA sample and undergo a psychological evaluation
and any treatment recommended.
Four Adult Males Arrested For Assault 0615110
According to Grand Rapids Police Chief Jim Denny an adult male
was assaulted on Saturday June 12th. He said that at about 3:30 PM an
adult male reported the assault to the Grand Rapids Police Department
and officers responded to the 400 block of 1st Avenue Southwest; where
the victim told officers that he had been beaten with a baseball bat by
four adult males. Officers learned that the suspects fled the scene in
a white Kia and located the vehicle and the suspects on Pokegama Avenue
South in Grand Rapids. The four men involved in the assault were
arrested and transported to the Itasca County Jail. The assault did not
appear to be random as the suspects were known by the victim. The four
suspects are 21 year old Vantavain Duckworth of Minneapolis, 24 year
old James Martin Jr. of Brooklyn Park, 32 year old Danny Braylock-James
of Brooklyn Center and 43 year old James Martin Jr. of Brooklyn Park.
Deer River Warriors Send Off 061510
There will be a send-off for the Deer River Warrior Baseball
team today at 6 PM at the Deer River High School commons area. The DR
Warriors have made their way into the state championship tournament.
There will be hot dogs, brats and beverages and plenty of autograph
opportunities as you meet the players. Everyone is invited to stop at
the Deer River Cenex station to sign a good luck card to be presented
to the team. The Deer River Warriors begin their class A state
tournament play on Thursday at 10 AM. All games will be carried on our
sister station 96.9 KMFY.
GRCC Preview 061410
The Grand Rapids City Council meets in regular session on Monday
June 14th beginning at 4 PM with a work-session. On that agenda is an
update on Mt Itasca, a discussion on a debt service survey and a
discussion on Public Facility Lease Revenue Bonds. The regular council
meeting begins at 5 PM with the swearing in of a new police officer.
Other items on that agenda include a council hearing regarding a liquor
licensee’s lapse in liability insurance and two public hearings on
vacating some city property. The complete agenda can be found on the
city web-site at www.grandrapids.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx.
Cemetery Vandals Arrested 061110
A teenager’s attempt to claim a reward for information on the
recent vandalism to about 100 gravestones at the North Hibbing Cemetery
backfired when she and two others were arrested for the crime. Felony
charges of damaging property and trespassing in a cemetery after hours
are pending against the three juveniles.
According to Hibbing Police Sergeant Jeff Ronchetti charges will
probably be filed early next week. Police arrested the girl, 13, and
one of the boys, 17, on Wednesday evening; the second boy, also 17, was
arrested Thursday afternoon.
Earlier in the week Ronchetti said police didn’t have much evidence to
follow. But that changed when the girl came in with information; she
was trying to implicate other people and it turned around on her,
Ronchetti said.
MNFDA Conference 061110
The Minnesota State Fire Department Association annual
conference is being held here in Grand Rapids. Fire Chief Steve
Flaherty said they expect between 350 to 370 attendees, many of whom
will bring guests or entire families. Flaherty said the location of the
conference is selected by the membership during the annual event and
Grand Rapids ran unopposed, mainly because of the great support our
community offers to the attendees. He said that in addition to
training, the purpose of the conference, there are some fun events
scheduled, golf, a community party at the Eagles and a parade on
Saturday, starting at 3 PM. Flaherty said the parade originates at the
Robert J. Elkington Middle School and proceeds west on 5th Street, in
front of the Fire Hall, to 2nd Avenue NW.
The personnel of the Grand Rapids Fire Department have volunteered to
assist the conference during vacation time to help insure things go
smoothly. Fire Chief Flaherty said Grand Rapids will probably be the
safest city in the state this weekend, fire-wise.
ESSAR Blasting 061010
Essar Steel Minnesota is cautioning people to stay off its
property near Nashwauk for their safety as contractors beginning
blasting rock at the site, starting next week, for building
foundations. Blasting is expected to continue for about three months
Reif Dance Spring Performance 061010
The Reif Dance Program’s Spring Performance is this weekend. It
has dancers aged from 3 to 19 years old. Ballet Director Daniel Blake
said his biggest challenge wasn’t from the dancers; it was his wife’s
due date. Blake said because it was so close to the show dates, he had
the program choreographed early. One of the senior dancers is half of
the current Dancing With Our Stars champion team, Marjorie Shrimpton.
She said she has been dancing since kindergarten and has bonded with
the other dancers, they are like family. Lindsey Feyder has been
dancing for fourteen years. Annika Vandeneinde said she has only danced
at the Reif and this is her fourteenth year also. One of the senior
dancers, despite ankle problems, continues to perform. Raeanne Menniger
missed out on the lead in the Holiday Nutcracker program because of
some injuries. Raena Haatvedt said she feels very prepared for this
show.
Performances are Friday & Saturday at 7 PM; Sunday at 2 PM. Tickets
$12 for adults, $11 for seniors and $8 for students. They are available
at the Reif Center box office, Reeds Drugs and on-line at www.reifcenter.org. For more
information call the Reif at 327-5780.
Saxhaug Honored For Affordable Housing 061010
The Minnesota Manufactured Housing Association, (MMHA), recently
announced Senator Tom Saxhaug as one of the 2010 recipients of its
"Friends of Affordable Housing Award," in recognition for his service
and common sense approach at the State Capitol to promoting safe and
affordable housing for Minnesota families. He, along with Senator Dan
Skogen of Hewitt and Representative Mark Murdock of Ottertail will be
recognized at an event on June 16th. For more information, contact
Senator Saxhaug's State Capitol office at 651-296-4136.
Magnetation Update 060910
With a long-term contract to provide quality hematite to a
steelmaker — and a new separator to produce it — Magnetation Inc. is
planning to build a second Iron Range plant. The Nashwauk-based company
is raising $70 million to build and begin operating the plant southeast
of Taconite. The plant will produce 650,000 metric tons a year and
employ about 50. Magnetation recovers magnetic hematite from tailings
basins, stockpiles or virgin iron formations, concentrating it to a
marketable level. The company began making commercial shipments last
year from its first plant, the Mesabi Chief Plant 1 near Keewatin. That
plant, which supplies Mesabi Nugget’s iron nugget plant in Hoyt Lakes,
is currently producing hematite at a rate of 160,000 metric tons a year
according to Magnetation CEO Larry Lehtinen.
Update 060910
In today’s economic environment some of the best news a
community can receive relates to jobs. At Tuesday’s Regional Rail
Authority meeting Mike Metso, program coordinator for the Essar Steel
Minnesota project, said they are hiring. He said there is an ad in the
Duluth News Tribune seeking staff to assist in the construction of the
plant. Metso also briefed the Rail Authority on other employment
figures; approximately one hundred fifty full and part time
construction workers are currently employed working on the project.
Dowling 060910
Boundary Waters Blues Festival
The Boundary Waters Blues Festival has outgrown the area they
use in Ely and organizers are moving the event. Itasca County Board
Chair Commissioner Lori Dowling said Ely’s loss is our gain. The Blues
Festival is being held at the Itasca County Fairgrounds from July 29th
thru August 2nd. Event coordinators indicated they are excited about
all the enthusiastic support they have received. They estimate around
two thousand people will participate in the event. Dowling said
this is the first time the county has considered the fairgrounds as an
economic resource, but won’t be the last.
Zims Lane
A very confusing issue that won’t go away has turned up on the
Itasca County Boards table again; according to Commissioner Lori
Dowling a lot of debate has taken place on the issue of ownership of
the small lane in Wabana Township, Zims Lane. One individual wants the
county to vacate the portion of Zims Lane that crosses his property.
Dowling said Commissioner McLynn has expressed her belief that the lane
is not a county road however there are state statutes governing the
creation of public roads which may apply in this instance.
Commissioner Dowling indicated that sometime this summer a vote will
take place on the “vacation” of Zims Lane, which may be followed by a
lawsuit regardless of the direction of the vote.
Jay Gould Mercury Testing
How much mercury is in our local waterways? The city of
Cohasset is hoping to find out. Jay Gould Lakes haven’t been
tested for mercury levels. With the city of Cohasset considering
expanding its city sewer system, the city received approval to seek a
grant to cut in half the cost of mercury testing. The results of
the test may make more money available for the city’s project.
The vote was four to one- councilor Tim Carlson voted no. The
motion passed.
Jackie Bischoff Fundraiser 06-08-10
Friends and family of a Cohasset teacher will hold a fundraiser
for her July 3rd in Cohasset. Jackie Bischoff teaches
kindergarten at Cohasset Elementary School. She has been
diagnosed with cancer. Her friends and family will hold a
fundraiser for her July 3rd at Portage Park in Cohasset. Brenda
Perrault is Jackie’s neighbor and asked the city council to donate the
use of Portage Park in Cohasset for the day for the fundraiser.
There will be pony rides, a mini-softball tournament, turtle races,
karaoke, dodgeball, food vendors and a silent auction. Admission
is free. Donations will benefit Jackie’s medical bills.
Take A Kid Fishing 060810
The Minnesota DNR has a way to celebrate the end of the school
year with a potential angler-to-be by fishing for free with a child 15
or younger June 11-13 during the Take-A-Kid Fishing weekend. According
to Mike Kurre, mentoring program coordinator for the DNR, Minnesotans
16 or older that take a child 15 or younger fishing that weekend won’t
need a license to do so. He said getting started is easy. You don’t
need a boat, and the availability of loaner equipment in some areas
means you won’t even need a pole or tackle. Start by visiting www.mndnr.gov/takeakidfishing
to learn more.
Good Sports Activity Camp 060710
The Grand Rapids Park and Recreation Department is offering a
new program for Children ages 3 and 4 called Good Sports Activity Camp.
The program is designed to teach children the importance of teamwork
and play through fun activities. Kids will participate in simple
games that can be played in the backyard, beach, and on sports
fields. Session 1 will be held June 14, 15, 16 and 17 at 5:00 PM.
Each day will feature a different theme. Meet at Memorial
Park across the street from the IRA Civic Center. Rain days will
be moved inside the arena. Participants are requested to bring a
water bottle and snack and must pre-register at the IRA Civic
Center. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 am to 5:30
PM; telephone number is 326-2500.
Traffic Stop Pot Bust 060710
Officers from the Grand Rapids Police Department stopped a
vehicle on County Road 10 on May 26th. While investigating the stop,
officers determined that the driver of the vehicle may be in possession
of a controlled substance. A drug canine was summoned to the
scene. A pound of marijuana was found in the vehicle and an adult male
was been charged with felony possession. According to Police Chief Jim
Denny the Grand Rapids Police Department has seized 23 pounds of
marijuana in the past six months.
Accident Near Tower Update 060410
Here is a follow up to our story about the motorcyclist injured
last Saturday on Highway 169 near Tower. According to the criminal
complaint filed Wednesday in State District Court in Virginia 40 year
old Michael Holman of Hibbing may have been under the influence of
methadone when his vehicle crossed the center line and struck and
critically injured 57 year old Lonnie Scipioni. Court records indicate
Holman has been charged with four felonies; three for criminal
vehicular operation resulting in great bodily harm and one for
possession of methadone. Holman is being held in the St Louis County
jail on $20,000 bail. Scipioni was listed in serious condition on
Thursday with multiple broken bones, a crushed pelvis, internal
injuries, a traumatic brain injury and he lost his right leg.
Grand Rapids High School Graduation
060210
Grand Rapids High School Seniors have started the process of
taking control of their lives. According to Principle Jim Smokrovich
graduation is all about them, students will announce the names of
graduating seniors and members of the District 318 School Board will
hand out the diplomas. The Grand Rapids High School Graduation Ceremony
starts at 7 PM on Friday June 4th at the IRA Civic Center on Highway
38. Smokrovich said there should be plenty of room and tickets are not
required. He said for the most part the graduates have some great plans
and he hopes they follow thru on them. The Graduation Ceremony is
Friday June 4th, starting at 7 PM in the IRA Civic Center.
06-02-10
GNK
It’s all for the kids. Parents, principals and coaches of
students in Greenway, Nashwauk and Keewatin met Tuesday night in
Marble. If the Greenway and Nashwauk/Keewatin school districts
can combine a few sports and save a few dollars, high school principal
Jeff Britton has an idea where some the money could be spent-
computers, textbooks, teachers and technology. The activities
committee for the two districts met Tuesday night to discuss a number
of issues, including football, track, fast pitch softball and
hockey. Parents and school board members for both districts
shared their thoughts on what programs they think should be combined-
or left alone. Superintendent Mark Adams told committee members
that it’s all about giving the kids a quality education.
Accident Near Tower 060110
A fifty seven year old Hibbing man was critically injured
Saturday on Highway 169 seven miles south of Tower. Lonnie Scipioni was
driving his 2010 Harley Davidson motorcycle west on Hwy 169 at Flaim
Road when a vehicle driven by forty year old Michael Holman, also of
Hibbing, crossed the center line and struck Scipioni. According to the
Minnesota State Patrol Scipioni was not wearing a helmet at the time of
the accident. He was airlifted to St Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth
with critical injuries.
WEB GLBTA Picnic 060110
The GLBTA Alliance is an alliance of Gay, Lesbian, bi-sexual,
trans-gendered and straight allies according to the group’s president
Andy Mundt. He said it is important for straight allies to stand up
against discrimination and inequality in our community. In 1920
Congress passed the 19th Amendment guaranting women the right to vote;
the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibited discrimination in public
facilities, in government, and in employment. He said many consider the
GLBTA the civil rights movement of today. To help our community become
better acquainted with the Alliance the 11th Annual Aliance picnic will
be held on Thursday June 3rd at the Veterans Memorial Park from noon to
3PM. The picnic is open to the entire community; there will be
hamburgers and hot dogs provided. He said to come out and meet your
friends and neighbors and support the Alliance. For more information
you can email the Alliance at info@itascaalliance.org.
Memorial Day Services 052710
Monday is Memorial Day; a day dedicated to honor, respect and
thank the soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who fought for our
freedoms and rights and paid the ultimate sacrifice while doing their
duty. Memorial services will be conducted throughout our area. On
Friday decorations will be placed on graves at area Cemeteries; the
Harris, Wildwood and Bass Brook Cemeteries and the Itasca Calvary
Cemetery will have flags and holders placed at 4 PM. There will be a
Memorial Day Service at Lakeview Cemetery on Monday at 10 AM, sponsored
by the Hurlbut – Zeimer American Legion Post 476. There will be
services conducted on Monday around the Grand Rapids area starting at 9
AM at the Old Soldiers Lane Cemetery; followed with a service at 9:30
at the Wildwood Cemetery, the Harris Cemetery at 10:30, there will be a
wreath committal at the Robert Horn Bridge at 10:45. an address at the
Itasca Calvary Cemetery at 11:15, a wreath laying at the Courthouse at
11:45. There will also be Memorial Day Services at the Manor House at
12:15 PM, the Evergreen Terrace Care Center at 1:15 PM and the Itasca
Nursing Home at 1:45 PM. The Warba American Legion Post 432 will
conduct services on Memorial Day starting at 8:30 AM in the Swedish
Cemetery at Trout Lake, then on to the Trout Lake Cemetery at 9 AM,
Blackberry at 9:30, Ball Bluff at 10:15, Sago at 10:45, Wawina at
11:15, Warba at noon, and Legion Beach at 12:15 PM. Any one wishing to
volunteer or seeking additional information is encouraged to contact
the Itasca County Veterans Service Office at 327-2858.
318 realignment 052510
Too many kids. It’s a problem many school districts wish
they had. At district 318, the over-flow of kindergartners last
year was followed up with a second year of more than expected
kindergarteners. The school board discussed the possibility of
realignment.
The school board of Independent School district 318 met last
night. On the agenda was adding a kindergarten teacher to make it
eleven sections next year, instead of ten. But where that section
would go and who would teach it is the problem. Superintendent
Joe Silko told board members, parents and teachers there’s no easy
answer.
After his presentation, he suggested to board members and the public
that he might request an additional kindergarten and 1st grade teacher
for the fall and consider reducing a 3rd and 4th grade class to make
room. That might mean twenty-seven students in third and
forth grade at Southwest will have a different school to attend next
year.
Greenway/Nash-Kee Workshop 052510
The only school building in school districts 316 and 319 that is
being fully used is Van Dyke Elementary school, which is bursting at
the seems. The question is what to do about it. The school
boards of Independent School District 319 and 316 met in a workshop
Monday night at the Marble School. Tom Watson of the Watson
Consulting Group talked to both boards about long-term planning.
He told the boards their districts won’t survive long without
referendums. Fred Tanner, chair of the Greenway school board said
some choices have to be made soon. Dave Holmbeck, Director on the
Nashwauk/Keewatin School board, said it is easy for the two communities
to poke fun at each other’s situation. Board members listened to
Watson present possible shared and consolidation models. The
board will look at actual costs and building use tables when they meet
again next month.
Cohasset Legislative News 052510
The city of Cohasset
received half of what it asked for this legislative session.
State Representative Loren Solberg and Senator tom Saxhaug outlined the
session for the city Tuesday night. The city was able to make a
shift with its TIF funds through legislative action. Another
Solberg/Saxhaug bill that would have conveyed Tioga (ty-O-ga) beach to
Cohasset was lumped with the fish and game bill, which was
vetoed. A third bill was considered to give power companies the
right to deduct the cost of pollution control equipment. That
bill didn’t get far. Another Saxhaug/Solberg bill, for taconite
Tax Relief will give Cohasset another $200,000 for the Beier Road
project.
Mayor Pro Tem
Nyle LaGrange told the board they are just waiting for Burlington
Northern to set a schedule.

051810 Governors Fishing Opener in Grand
Rapids
Explore Minnesota Tourism announced that the 63rd Minnesota
Governor’s Fishing Opener has been awarded to the Grand Rapids area.
The annual event, which promotes fishing and tourism in Minnesota, will
be held May 13-14, 2011. Next year’s Fishing Opener will be based
at Rutgers’s Sugar Lake Lodge, with fishing on Pokegama and other area
lakes.
Governor Tim Pawlenty said “The Grand Rapids area is a great
destination to host the Opener.” Grand Rapids last hosted
the Governor’s Fishing Opener in 1999.
The 2011 Governor’s Fishing Opener will be hosted locally by Visit
Grand Rapids, the City of Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Area
Chamber of Commerce, along with many sponsors and local
volunteers. Shannon Benolken, director of Itasca County Habitat
for Humanity, and Gary McInerney, Grand Rapids city council member and
real estate agent, will lead a team of volunteers to plan the event.
051810 Fire Tenth Street Southeast
The Grand Rapids Fire Department responded to a fire at 520 NE
Tenth Avenue Monday evening. Fire Chief Steve Flaherty said when crews
arrived they found a garage fully engulfed in flames; however fire
crews were able to get the fire under control quickly. Flaherty said
there was some minor damage to the associated house and cause is still
under investigation.
Election Information 051810
The filing period for county and state offices opened today and
closes on Tuesday June 1st at 5 PM. County Commissioners in Districts
1, 3 & 5; the County’s Attorney, Auditor, Recorder and Sheriff
Positions will all be up for re-election. To date only Itasca County
Sheriff Pat Medure has announced he will not seek re-election. All
Minnesota State Representatives and Senators are up for re-election
this year. Governor Tim Pawlenty has announced his plans to not seek
re-election.
051310 Greenway Wrap-up
What is the future of the Marble school? The Greenway
school board met Wednesday afternoon in a special session to discuss a
number of issues, including the Marble school building. The board
was asked to consider an overhaul of the Marble building. The
building has no sprinkler system, asbestos tiles, a noisy inefficient
45year old boiler system and poor indoor air quality. Marble is
used for Early Childhood Education, Invest Early, Head Start, and Early
Childhood Special Education. About 155 children spend their
schools days in the building. The board voted to table the issue
for a second strait meeting.
Also during the meeting, the board decided not to offer retirement
incentives for teachers, discussed the need to close one building in
the district, voted to post for a three-quarter time activities
director and approved the construction of a handicapped accessibility
ramp and seating space.
05.12.10
Cohasset City Council
Tuesday night, the Cohasset city council set June 6,7 and 8th as
Cohasset Clean Up Days.
Over these three days, Cohasset residents can bring junk that clutters
their yard, garage, and basements to city hall and the city will
dispose of it. The city has seen an increase in the use of this
service. Residents will be asked for ID before they are
allowed to add to the pile. That’s June 6,7 and 8th in
Cohasset. In other business, the city hired three part-time
employees for the park department and two employees in the public works
department for the summer.
Canisteo Update 051310
The residents of Bovey may be able to sleep a little easier and
have drier basements soon. The Minnesota DNR may start draining water
from Canisteo this year. DNR Commissioner Mark Holsten indicated in a
letter to the Western Mesabi Mine Planning Board that he intends to
start acquiring easements and begin engineering design work for the
Prairie River option. Holsten was granted the authority by the bonding
law that provided three point one million dollars for the Canisteo
Project. Holsten stated the board’s preferred Holman – Trout
option is not ready to proceed due to budget and time issues.
Construction on the interceptor trench to provide immediate wet
basement relief for Bovey residents continues.
05-03-10
Negotiations
Independent School District 318 Superintendent Joe Silko
announced Monday night during the school board meeting that the
district has a tentative agreement with one of its unions. The
district has come to a tentative agreement with the Principals union,
according to Superintendent Silko. Before the contract is
finalized, it must be voted on and approved by union membership and
approved by the school board. The board held a negotiation
session Monday April 26th with members of the teacher’s bargaining
unit, Education Minnesota Local 1314. No agreement was reached.
05-03-10 School Board Business
School District 318 will hold its Academic Excellence Awards on
Wednesday May 12th. Superintendent Silko invited the public to
watch the students take home some awards.
The presentation is at 7pm Wednesday May 12th at the Reif Center.
SHIP Grant 042910
For some kids, the only balanced meal they eat is at
school. But how balanced is that meal? The statewide health
improvement program, known as SHIP, was awarded a forty-seven million
dollar grant to help Minnesotan live longer by reducing the burden of
chronic disease. As part of that grant, a nutritionist has been
working with a nutrition committee at the Greenway schools to offer
healthy food and healthy choices.
The committee also recommended healthy breakfast choices, eliminating
food as a reward, and using only low fat milk. The SHIP funds
will also be used to allow for purchasing more fresh healthy foods for
this school year.
Cohasset Hook and Ladder BBQ 042810
The Cohasset Hook and Ladder will hold a community barbeque on
May 7th at the Cohasset City Hall. Ham sandwiches will be served
on 6 inch hoggie buns for $6.00. There will be beans, chips,
sourkraut, pop and coffee. The barbeque will begin at 5pm.
Three hundred pounds of fresh ham will be served. Residents are
also invited to tour the fire hall during the open house.
Helicopter Makes Emergency Landing 042410
On Saturday morning a Bell 47 light helicopter under contract to
the Minnesota DNR experienced a mechanical failure and made a forced
landing in a remote area of northern Minnesota. The accident occurred
between 7 and 7:30 about 35 miles north of Two Harbors. The pilot
was the only person on board and reported no apparent injuries.
Emergency Medical personnel from Two Harbors and the Lake County
Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Squad responded to the accident. The
accident has been reported to the FAA for further investigation and
reporting. The helicopter was owned and operated by Scott’s Helicopters
based in Le Sueur.
Dry Conditions Continue 042610
The Minnesota Department Natural Resources’ State Climatology
Office is now classifying north-central Minnesota counties as
“abnormally dry” and northeastern counties “in moderate drought.” The
problem began last year with precipitation shortfalls during the
growing season, then continued with below normal snowfall this winter.
Precipitation totals from mid-March through mid-April are near or below
all-time record lows; less than one-half inch of precipitation has
fallen over most of northern Minnesota since the snow melted. The
National Weather Service is predicting this trend will continue through
spring and possibly into July, causing drought conditions to intensify.
These abnormal conditions affect fire behavior. As the forest fuels
continue to lose their moisture, fires can become bigger and burn
hotter, making them more difficult to extinguish. A number of fires
this past week grew to 50-100 acres before firefighters could stop
them. Once fires are contained, it is taking days to extinguish all the
burning material because even the large dead and down material, which
is normally still moist from winter snows, are burning. A recent fire
near Hoyt Lakes burned with flame lengths estimated at 300 feet. This
same fire produced spot fires one-half to one mile away. No rain is
forecast for northern Minnesota for the next seven days. Until then
grass, brush and trees will continue to dry out and the very high to
extreme fire danger will continue. The Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) increased restrictions on open burning because of the
hazardous fire conditions. The restrictions affect all burning,
including campfires, fireworks, outdoor welding, and prescribed
burning. The 37 counties included are: Aitkin, Anoka, Becker, Beltrami,
Benton, Carlton, Cass, Chisago, Clearwater, Cook, Crow Wing, Douglas,
Grant, Hubbard, Isanti, Itasca, Kanabec, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake,
Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter
Tail, Pennington, Pine, Polk (that portion east of County Highway 6 and
south of State Highway 92), Pope, Roseau, Sherburne, Stearns, Stevens,
St Louis, Todd, and Wadena. Burning permits are not being issued, with
very limited exceptions, and only by state and federal forestry
offices. Under the new restrictions, fireworks are not allowed outside
municipalities and devices with open flame, such as welders and
acetylene torches, are prohibited in forest and grass areas, except
under special permit. Campfires are still allowed, however, the burning
period has been restricted to 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. The fire must be in a
fire receptacle designed for such use and associated with a residence,
resort, or developed public and private campgrounds. In all situations,
there must be an adequate source of water immediately available for
extinguishing the campfire.
The DNR is no longer allowing prescribed burning and running fires
until conditions improve, except in areas outside the aforementioned
counties where the DNR regional director may authorize prescribed
burning as necessary. Restrictions will remain in place until
sufficient precipitation is received to moderate fire danger. If normal
precipitation is not received in the near future, additional
restrictions may be imposed.
Saxhaug 042210
The Enhanced Driver’s License bill, authored by Senator Tom
Saxhaug, has passed the Senate. The EDL would, on a voluntary basis,
allow for a micro-chip to be included on a regular driver’s license to
enable easier border crossings by land or water. Senator Saxhaug said
it is important to Minnesota commerce.
He pointed out that Manitoba and Ontario already have them and they
proved very successful between Washing and British Columbia during the
recent Olympics. There is less than a month left in this
legislative session and over seven hundred million dollars in budget
deficit. Senator Tom Saxhaug said the remaining deficit will have to be
balanced with cuts to either Health and Human Services or K – 12
Education or some combination of both.
Severe Weather Awareness Week Thursday
This week is Severe Weather Awareness Week. There are daily
topics set up by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Division of
Homeland Security and Emergency Management. There will be two simulated
statewide tornado drills today; the first at 1:45 PM the second
optional one is at 6:55 PM. For more information you can visit the
Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Severe Weather Awareness
web-site at www.severeweather.state.mn.us.
AARP Driver Safety Class 042210
There will be an AARP Initial Defensive Driving class for
drivers over 55 to update their driving knowledge and receive a 10%
discount on their auto insurance. Class is limited to 30 students.
Pre-registration is required. Bring your driver’s license to class.
8-hour class for new students at the District 318 Admin Building
Tuesday April 27th and Wednesday April 28th from 5 – 9 PM both days
Cost is $12 for AARP members, bring card to class; $14 for non members
To Register call Renee@ 327-5730
Chisholm High Speed Chase 042110
Two Chisholm men, aged 20 & 25, were arrested early Tuesday
morning after a high speed chase. According to the St Louis County
Sheriffs Department, an officer attempted to make a traffic stop at
about 2:40 Am; however the vehicle refused to stop. A twenty-five mile
chase followed reaching speeds of about one hundred miles per hour. The
vehicle was disabled with road spikes. There were no injuries; however
the 25 year old driver was airlifted to Duluth after allegedly
ingesting a large quantity of narcotics.
Astronomy Day 041910
The Range Astronomy Club will be hosting some activities on
National Astronomy Day, Saturday April 24th. The Paulucci Space Theater
in Hibbing has been reserved from 5 to 11 PM for telescope viewing of
the sun, stars and planets. For a full schedule of events you can visit
the website at www.rangeastronomyclub.heliohost.org or you can call
Dave at 218-245-1763.
Tower Man Injured
An 18 year old man from Tower was critically injured in a one
vehicle roll-over accident in Polk County Monday evening. The 1999
Grand Am, driven by Gabrielle Benjamin was eastbound on Highway 28,
left the roadway, entered a ditch and rolled. The passenger, Gewaden
Dunkly, was ejected pinned under the vehicle. Benjamin was treated and
released at the Glenwood hospital; Dunkly remains a patient at a St
Cloud hospital.
Race To The Top 042010
Is the state of Minnesota going to make a second bid for “Race
To the Top” federal education funds? According to Independent
School District 318 School Superintendent Joe Silko, even if Minnesota
applies for and wins federal funds, most dollars will stay in the metro
area. Superintendent Silko told board members that Education
Minnesota, the legislature and the Governor all have different opinions
about what needs to be done before the state can reapply.
Silko said the Governor wants more accountability for teachers,
Education Minnesota wants lower class size and the legislature wants to
funds to be driven by need. However the grant is designed, Silko
said the one thing that is true is that federal funds will be the only
chance to additional education funding the state will receive.
Solberg 041510
Enhanced Drivers License
An enhanced driver’s license would enable Minnesota residents to cross
into Canada by land or water without needing a passport. Representative
Loren Solberg said it is a voluntary program where a micro-chip would
be placed in the license with no more information than is required for
a passport or regular driver’s license. Information such as proof of
citizenship and that you do not have a felony conviction. Solberg said
it is cheaper than a passport and more convenient for sportsmen and
truckers making frequent trips across the border. He pointed out there
are several states and Canadian provinces that currently have the EDL.
Property Tax Refund Anniversary
April 14th was a birthday party of sorts for the state's Property Tax
Refund Program, now 35-years old. Representative Loren Solberg said
only about half of those eligible file for a property tax refund and it
is especially important for seniors on fixed incomes, who've seen their
home values and property taxes increase dramatically over the decades.
Campus Life Youth for Christ Comedy
Café 041510
A no cost fundraiser is exactly what you would expect for the
Comedy Café, sponsored by Campus Life Youth for Christ. Patty
Holycross is a coordinator for the event. She said the event is free,
they are only asking for donations. It starts out as a Dessert Social
then comedian Bob Stromberg, a founding member of Triple Espresso out
of the Cities will entertain. Carol-Lee Geisler is the Administrative
Assistant for the Youth For Christ program. She said they need to
provide a head count to the Timberlake so they would like reservations
made by Monday April 19th at noon. She said you can call 326-9709 or
326-3258 to leave a message. Geisler said the Youth For Christ program
is international. This is an important year for the Itasca County
program, their fortieth. Geisler said her husband started the Campus
Life program in 1971 and has been mentoring teens ever since. The
Comedy Café fundraiser Thursday April 22nd at the Timberlake
Lodge; reservations are needed by noon on Monday April 19th.
GRHS Grease 041510
Just about everyone knows the story of Grease. Teen age students
finding summer love and returning to High School and discovering they
have very different lifestyles. Tickets are five dollars for students,
seven for adults and available at the door. Shows are at 7:30 PM
Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Reif Center.
County Board Meeting 041410
The setting of the regular agenda at Tuesday’s Itasca County
Board meeting proved to be a difficult task. Commissioner Catherine
McLynn moved to approve the agenda without Exhibit G, a request for
board action (RBA) from the Agriculture Association requesting a loan
of one hundred fifty thousand dollars for improvements to lighting at
the Itasca County fairgrounds. Board chair District One Commissioner
Lori Dowling called for the vote which failed 2 to 3. Commissioner Mark
Mandich moved the agenda with item “G” included; which passed.
With the agenda finally approved the board moved on to recognition of
county employees, Exhibit B. There was a legislative conference call
scheduled for 3:15 PM, Exhibit C; however it was five minutes away so
Board Chair Dowling suggested an item be moved up in the agenda. The
board agreed and Sheriff Medure presented a resolution supporting
National Telecommunicators Week. Exhibits C and D, a conference call
and housing report from the Range Readiness Initiative were completed.
More problems arose with the next item on the agenda, a closed session,
Exhibit F. Board Chair Dowling suggested Exhibit “G” be moved before
the closed session in deference to spectators in the audience.
Commissioner McLynn objected to the move and Dowling referred to County
Administrator Lois Kottke, who serves as board parliamentarian for a
ruling. She indicated that there is precedence in the action, both in
the current board meeting and in previous ones. The Board Chair moved
Exhibit G ahead of Exhibit F. County Auditor Jeff Walker, who was
listed as a presenter, and Fair Board Chair Ron Oleheiser were asked to
step forward to present the RBA. Commissioner McLynn again objected, to
which Dowling indicated McLynn was out or order. The presentation was
heard by the board and after input from Mike Haig of the County
Attorney’s Office Commissioner McLynn moved to refer the RBA to the
next Transportation Land Management (TLM) meeting where there could be
more discussion. The board agreed to refer the topic to the next TLM
meeting.
Saxhaug 041410
“Hurry up and wait” is a term that symbolizes what the Minnesota
Legislature is experiencing. Senator Tom Saxhaug said that they are
waiting for the federal government for funding that would help balance
the remaining seven hundred million dollar budget deficit facing the
state. That funding may provide about four hundred million dollars
which would go toward the Health and Human Services budget; hopefully
reducing the severity of the remaining cuts. Senator Saxhaug indicated
the legislature may recess while waiting for the federal funding and
that once the funding became available the remainder of the session
could go very quickly.
A bill that could be on the Senate Floor for a vote soon is the
enhanced driver’s license, authored by Senator Tom Saxhaug. A voluntary
micro-chip would go in a license enabling easier crossings into Canada.
He said the chip would ask for no more information than a passport or
our current driver’s license requires. Saxhaug said other states and
Canadian provinces use them successfully.
Get Fit Itasca 041410
Active Living and Healthy Eating. That’s the two pronged
approach Get Fit Itasca is using to fight obesity in Itasca
County. Betsy Johnson, with Get Fit, gave the Cohasset City
Council an update on funding for trails in the county. Johnson
said one of the goals is to connect trails in Grand Rapids with trails
in its “sister cities” of Cohasset and Coleraine, creating more active
transportation routes. Johnson said we are a car-driven
society and creating more trails will go a long way to helping fight
obesity. Currently, Cohasset maintains the Tioga Trail.
There are also state trails at the Forest History Center. Get Fit
is also working with the Itasca Economic Development Corporation to
encourage a trail through the former Ainsworth property.
Local Weather Statistics for March 2010
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for March 2010.
The average high for the month was 49.6 degrees and the average low was
25.6 with an overall average temperature of 37.6 degrees.
March of 2010 was the warmest March recorded in Grand Rapids; the next
warmest was in 2000 with an average daily temperature of 35 degrees.
The 61 degree reading on March 14th set a new record high temperature
for that day.
The coldest March was in 1923 with an average temperature of 14.1
degrees.
We received 0.78 inches of rain last month; compared to the record 4.25
inches of March 2009.
We are 5.2 degrees above the 30 year daily average temperature and 0.77
inches below the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru
March.
City Council/Zabinski 041310
The area around the current site of the Saint Josephs Church,
just west of the end of 21st St SW, will eventually be known as the St
Josephs Addition. At Monday’s Grand Rapids City Council meeting the
first step was accomplished. Mayor Pro-tem Ed Zabinski said the area
will be developed to allow for new and existing roads to be improved.
Forest Hills Avenue and Timber Line Avenue would connect to 21st Street
SE; which would also eventually connect to Horseshoe Lake Drive to the
west.
Lot one, block one of the Jones addition in Grand Rapids is located
along Second Avenue SE between 15th and 17th Streets; behind the auto
sales lots. Mayor Pro-tem Ed Zabinski said the city had been loaned the
use of this tax-forfeited parcel from the state to locate the south
side fire-hall; however that wasn’t economically feasible at this time
so the city wants to buy the property and resell it to a developer to
get it back on the tax rolls. He pointed out that this is only the
start of a multi-step process.
An action taken at Monday’s Grand Rapids City Council meeting moved the
location of precincts one and five polling places. Mayor pro-tem Ed
Zabinski said precinct one has moved across the street from the airport
terminal to the United Methodist Church and Precinct five has moved
from the former township hall to the IRA Civic Center. He said the
primary election is scheduled for August 10th.
The Grand Rapids City Council held two public hearings Monday evening.
One was on a proposed ordinance prohibiting the feeding white-tailed
deer within the city limits. Mayor pro-tem Ed Zabinski said the council
was listening to the public and some residents spoke out in favor of a
ban; however there was no council action taken on the ordinance. The
second public hearing was on revising the blight ordinance. Zabinski
said the current process could take years to resolve an issue. The
revised ordinance will streamline the process considerably; however the
decision won’t be made until the next city council meeting on April
26th.
Fire Restrictions Heightened 041210
Due to an increased concern about wildfires across the state,
the Minnesota DNR tightened restrictions on campfires in 37 Minnesota
counties early this morning. Counties around our area include Aitkin,
Beltrami, Carlton, Cass, Clearwater, Cook, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Itasca,
Koochiching, Lake, Lake of the Woods and St. Louis. Jean Bergerson is
with the Inter-agency Fire Center said campfires will not be allowed at
non-designated campsites and other remote locations. This will impact
shore lunches, dispersed campsites, day hikes, and backpacking trips.
Campfires are still permitted in designated fire receptacles at
residences, dwellings, campgrounds, and resorts if they are no larger
than 3 feet in diameter and 3 feet in height. In addition, fireworks
will be prohibited outside municipalities due to the volatile nature of
these explosives. Bergerson said these areas are often very close to
sources of ignition and usually very difficult to get to. These
restrictions will remain in place until sufficient precipitation is
received to moderate the fire danger. If normal precipitation is not
received in the near future, additional restrictions may be imposed. A
complete list of counties affected can be found on the DNR web-sire at www.dnr.state.mn.us.
Saxhaug 040810
The Minnesota Legislature has reduced the states budget deficit
by three hundred thirteen million dollars. Senator Tom Saxhaug said the
remainder of this year’s session has to deal with the remaining seven
hundred million dollar shortfall. He said the state is expecting about
four hundred million from the federal government for health care which
will leave about three hundred million dollars; most of which will be
from cuts. Saxhaug said there is a bill working its way thru the
Minnesota Legislature may ease border crossings by water and land. It
is an enhanced driver’s license with a micro-chip embedded in it. The
EDL is voluntary program which should cost about fifteen dollars extra.
Saxhaug pointed out that both Washington and British Columbia, Canada
have them which made travel back and forth during the Olympics very
smooth. He said this would be a great option for sportsmen traveling
between the US and Canada without the expense of a passport.
Severe Weather Awareness Week 040810
The week of April 19th thru the 23rd is Severe Weather Awareness
Week in Minnesota. While our area usually does not get tornados we do
experience other types of severe weather. There are daily topics set up
by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland
Security and Emergency Management. On Monday April 19th thunderstorms,
hail, lightning and straight line winds will be the focus. Tuesday’s
topic of awareness is Severe Weather Warnings. On Wednesday Floods and
Flash Floods will be the topic. On Thursday there will be two statewide
tornado drills; the first drill will take place at 1:45 PM with an
optional second one occurring at 6:55 PM. Listeners are reminded the
warning sirens are designed to notify people outside, not in homes.
Friday’s topic will be heat, something we haven’t experienced a lot of
up here in the northland; however we still need to be aware of its
effect on humans, pets and livestock. KOZY news will offer a
daily reminder of and safety tips for each day’s severe weather topic.
For more information you can visit the Minnesota Department of Public
Safety’s Severe Weather Awareness web-site at www.severeweather.state.mn.us.
Updated Stabbing at Seven Cities Short
040710
More information has been released in Friday’s stabbing incident
at Seven Cities. Tobias Lanum and Andrew Dowling, both 18 year old
Grand Rapids residents, have been charged with first and second degree
aiding and abetting attempted murder and first and second degree aiding
and abetting assault. According to the criminal complaint Lanum stabbed
18 year old John Bennett of Bovey eight times. Bennett was treated at
Grand Itasca and released on Sunday. According to the criminal
complaint Bennett told investigators he went to Seven Cities with Lanum
and Dowling thinking he had been invited to a party. According to the
criminal complaint Dowling thought Lanum had “snitched” on him
regarding a fight the previous week and intended to kill Bennett and
burn the body. Investigators say Lanum sent a third party a text
message indicating he would also kill Dowling if Dowling became
suspicious. At hearings on Monday the court set bail for Lanum at
$250,000 without conditions or $100,000 with conditions and set bail at
$100,000 for Dowling with conditions or $50,000 with conditions. The
conditions include maintaining contact with their lawyers, no contact
with the victim, not leaving the state without court permission and no
drug or alcohol use. The next hearing for both defendants has been set
for May 10th.
School Enrichment 040710
The Minnesota Academic Excellence funds are gone. But,
Independent School district 318 has committed to continue to invest in
academic extra-curricular activities. The district continues to
offer ten enrichment opportunities for students from elementary through
senior high including an art club, math masters, economics competition
and junior naturalist. Many of the leaders of these
activities are volunteers. Robert J Elkington Middle School
Assistant Principal Dan Adams told the school board Tuesday night that
the programs are mostly run by volunteers. Currently, all these
programs run on a budget of about thirteen thousand dollars. New
programs may be accepted if there is student interest and a qualified
volunteer to take on the project.
Updated Stabbing at Seven Cities Short
040610
A second Grand Rapids man is in custody in connection with the
stabbing incident that occurred Friday night at Seven Cities. Sheriff
Medure indicated 19 year old Andrew Dowling was arrested late Monday
afternoon for Aiding and Abetting Attempted Murder in the First &
Second Degrees and Aiding and Abetting Assault in the First &
Second Degrees. The victim, Jon Bennett, was released from the Grand
Itasca Clinic and Hospital on Sunday. Dowling is currently being held
in the Itasca County Jail pending formal charges by the County
Attorney’s office. The first suspect in connection with the stabbing,
Tobias Lanum, turned himself in to the Sheriff Office on Saturday
morning. He was charged in District Court on Tuesday with Aiding and
Abetting Attempted Murder in the First and Second degrees and Aiding
and Abetting Assault in the First and Second degrees.
Missing Girl 040510
Early Monday afternoon the Itasca County Sheriff’s Office
received a 911 call reporting a missing four year old girl. Itasca
County Sheriff Pat Medure identified the young girl as Lydia
Johannsen. The Sheriff stated Lydia was playing in the yard south
of Calumet on CR 12 when she walked away. The parents called 911
after they were unable to locate her. The Sheriff said she was located
about three quarters of a mile south from her home by a passerby. The
alert citizen notified searchers about a young girl standing near the
tree line on CR 12. She was missing for a little over two hours before
being located.
Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness
04-02-10
There is a service offered here in Itasca County called the
Itasca Crisis Nursery that is available free of charge. Becky Boelter
with Crisis Nursery said they have been operating for ten years. They
are having an open house on Thursday April 29th from 5 – 7 PM at the
Itasca Resource Center. Everyone is welcome. She said the crisis
nursery is a child abuse prevention and family support program that
works with families to defuse a potentially abusive situation by
placing children, temporarily, in a safe licensed child care facility.
There are no income guidelines and their 24 hour hotline number is
327-8652. April is also Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness month,
symbolized by the blue ribbons worn by co-workers and displayed at area
businesses. Starting Monday April 5th there will also be blue pinwheels
on the lawn of the Central School serving as a reminder that there are
children living in abusive situations. For more information on Child
Abuse Awareness Month you can contact Boelter at 327-8653 or visit the
national Child Welfare Information website at www.childwelfare.gov.
Solberg 04-01-10
The Capitol Investment, Jobs or Bonding Bill was passed and
signed into law very early in this year’s legislative session.
According to Representative Loren Solberg the idea was to get jobs
created during this construction season. In that bonding bill were two
projects for our area, the ATV trail from Aitkin to Grand Rapids and
about nine hundred thousand dollars for railroad crossing safety
improvements. He said there are also some “paint ready” projects in the
Minnesota State Colleges and University system and a few new
construction projects.
The Jobs Two Bill has also been passed by the Legislature;
Representative Loren Solberg said he was part of that task force to
create a bill dealing with Angel Credit and the Historical Building
Credit. He said there is also about a million dollars in the Grand
Rapids and Aitkin area for jobs creation. Solberg said they have worked
closely with communities to prioritize projects.
At the opening of this legislative session the state’s budget faced
over one billion dollars in deficit. Representative Loren Solberg said
they have reduced that amount by about a third or three hundred
thirteen million dollars. The Governor had recommended cutting Local
Government Aid by two hundred fifty million dollars; however the
legislature insisted on only one hundred five million in cuts for LGA.
Solberg said even with those cuts there is a long way to go to balance
the budget.
03-31-10 Bullying
Is your kid a bully? Parents hope not, but how do they
know?
Last night, Conner Jasper Middle School principal Jake Nelson told the
school board that his school staff are out in the hallways between
classes watching for altercations and bullies. Superintendent
Mark Adams asked for the public’s help in identifying kids targeted by
bullies. Adams said both Greenway and the Nashwauk/Keewatin
school districts are exploring training on bullying for teachers, bus
drivers, even cafeteria staff. If you know of a child who is a
victim of a bully, report it to the school. Principal
Nelson told board members that he can’t stop it unless he’s made aware.
03-31-10 Titans
On a 4-2 vote Wednesday night, the Greenway school board voted
to allow the co-op and collaborative Greenway and Nashwauk/Keewatin
sports teams to become Titans.
The Nashwauk/Keewatin school board voted Monday night during its school
board meeting to allow students participating in shared sports to use
the name Titans when referring to the team. The new colors will
be blue and green.
Wednesday night, the Greenway school board followed suit. Twelve
hundred and fifty students chose the name Titans for their
teams.
Tara DeGuisseppi made a motion to rename all shared sports (coop and
collaborative) Titans pending financial discussion of a shared 65/35
cost. That motion passed on a 4-2 vote.
03-31-10 Van Dyke Food Drive
Students in Van Dyke Elementary School were challenged to raise
seven hundred pounds of food during the March food drive. They
exceeded their goal. Classes competed against each other to
bring in food and money for the food shelf. If students made
their goal, they would get to duct tape principal Rae (Ray) Villebrun
to the wall. And, the class that brought in the most food/money
would get to throw pies at her. Students exceeded their goal by
raising 5243 pounds of food. Mrs. Paula Troubbley’s third graders
brought in 1530 pounds of food to win. The second place was Mr.
Dzelski ’s 3rd grade class with 5211 pounds.
3-29-10 Greenway-Nashwauk Keewatin
Collaboration
Students in the Greenway and Nashwauk/Keewatin school districts
can expect more rigorous course offerings in the
fall. The school board of Greenway and Nashwauk/Keewatin met in a
workshop last night to talk about how to expand academic opportunities
for kids. Superintendent Mark Adams said the boards are exploring
some “hybrid” models. Models may include sharing staff, using
ITV, bussing students from one district to the other or some
combination of all these. Adams said now that the districts have
balanced budgets, the boards can see a light at the end of the
tunnel. Greenway Board Chair Fred Tanner said the workshop
accomplished a lot and he’s excited to offer more programming for
kids. The Greenway school board will meet in regular session
Wednesday at 6pm in the High School Media room.
03-18-10
Pokegama Dam
Work began this week on the Pokegama Dam on Highway 2
West.
Jeff Kleinert, the Pokegama Dam Tender, said a construction crew is
making the dam safer for both employees and the public. The
upgrade consists of changing from 6 wooden log gates to 14 steel gates
to control water flow on the Mississippi. He said this will make
it easier to adjust flow and safer for personnel who do the work.
During the year-long process, the dam will be closed to pedestrian
traffic. But, according to Kleinert, when it does reopen, the
pedestrian path will be separated from the dam workings and it’ll be
safer from both foot traffic and employees.
03-09-10 ISD 318 Workshop
Organizers of a future charter school visited with board
directors of Independent School District 318 Monday evening.
Vicki Nelson, an education consultant and a member of the planning
board for Harmony School, had two questions for the board to
consider. One, would the district consider selling the charter
school the former Riverview School. And, Two, would the district
consider being the “authorizer” for the school. No decision was
made and the charter school organizers will formally ask the board to
consider both requests next week during the regular school board
meeting.
03-04-10
Ogles Items For Our Troops
Ogle’s Marketplace Foods and the VFW Post 1720 have teamed up to
give residents the opportunity to give our troops a touch of
home. A table is laid out at Ogles with examples of items people
in the military have requested. The list includes foot powder,
Q-Tips, granola bars and crossword puzzles. Shoppers can purchase
any of these items at Ogles and drop them in the shopping cart neat the
exit. Manager Kurt Ogle said the store will see to it that your
items reach our troops.
Items include:
Foot Powder Granola
Bars Pop Tarts
Q-Tips
Beef Jerky Canned
Fruits Oatmeal
Candies
Gum Powdered
Drinks Creamers
Cereal
Cross Word Puzzles Book
Pens Individual
Shampoos
Canned Meats Ravioli
Tootsie Rolls
Condiments
Playing Cards Batteries
Catsup
Deodorant
Crayons Books
Stationary
College in the Schools 3-2-10
How do you keep kids from leaving high school to take college
courses? You offer them college level courses and no
tuition. For the students enrolled in the District 318 College in
the Schools program, you offer classes that earn free college
credits. This school year, district students will earn 990 free
college credits. Based on three hundred dollars a credit, local
families saved almost three hundred thousand dollars ($300,000) in
college tuition.
College in the School is college level coursework. Students earn
both high school and college credit. When students stay in high
school, the funding stays with them.
Elementary Exercise 3-2-10
How often do elementary students need physical exercise?
Teachers and parents talked to school board members Monday night during
the District 318 school board meeting about possible changes to the
elementary school day. About 40 teachers and parents attended the
open forum prior to the board meeting. A few people spoke about a
proposal made to teachers to cut back phy ed in the elementary
schools. Doctor Scott McBride told the board that studies have
shown “little people” need exercise on a daily basis.
Superintendent Joe Silko told the audience that’s just one
proposal. He thanked the teachers for their dedication to their
students and at the same time told the audience that schools can’t keep
doing “business as usual.” Parents and the state want students to
graduate with reading, written language and math skills.
Cohasset Fire Report 02-23-10
If you live in Cohasset, make sure your house numbers are
visible. Cohasset Fire Chief Davin Tinquist presented his yearly
report to the city council last night. One of the items on the
chief’s list was that it is now mandatory for residents to have their
house numbers clearly displayed.
The department responded to 209 calls last year, down slightly from
2008. Tinquist reported no calls from pipeline workers and a drop
in calls from Minnesota Power. Tinquist congratulated Minnesota
Power on it safety concern during construction.
The city council also adopted an ethics policy, approved submission of
a grant request to Senator Al Franken for money for the Beier road
crossing and cancelled the March 9th council meeting for lack of a
quorum.
District 318 Teachers Contracts 02-16-10
Over fifty teachers and parents attended the school board
meeting of Independent School District 318 Tuesday night. The
district and its teachers union have not settled on a new
contract. During the half hour open forum prior to the board
meeting, a number of teachers talked to the board about their
value.
Whether it’s teaching more students at a time or buying pencils and
hand sanitizer, teachers are doing more with less. Board member
Tom Peltier told those present that he didn’t disagree. Dave
Calligury, negotiator for the teacher’s union, said the teachers are
asking for a 1½ percent increase during each year of the
two-year contract. Calligury said its time to get the focus back on to
the students where it belongs.
Board member Paul Meyer, who is on the negotiating committee for the
district, said the offer by the board was a cash offer. The offer
is at $125 cash payment in the first year and 0.5% in the second year
OR a $500 cash payment for each year.
The district was penalized twenty-five dollars per pupil for missing
the state-imposed January 15th deadline for a settlement.
Tennis Courts in Cohasset
02-10-10
Tuesday night, the Cohasset City Council was asked to consider
building public tennis courts. The city had public courts, but
they weren’t maintained and became unusable. Forty-eight students
ranging in age from 9 to 14 signed a petition asking the council to
consider putting courts back in Cohasset. Tuesday, First
Lady Michelle Obama teamed up with athletes, farmers, doctors, the food
industry and media to take on the childhood obesity "epidemic" when she
launched the "Let's Move" campaign. Nearly one in five US kids aged six
to 19 are obese, which in technical terms mean they have a body mass
index -- calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by their
height squared in meters -- greater than 30.
Cohasset City Council 02-10-10
The Cohasset City Council approved safety awards last
night.
The city of Cohasset has gone two years without a “lost time”
injury. That includes the officer personnel, city works and fire
department. The city has an incentive program and rewards the
staff for being safe on the job.
Greg Tuttle, city safety officer, asked council to approve cash or
clothing awards Tuesday night. The AWAIR program encourages
avoidance, elimination and/or minimization of hazardous
activities. According to Councilor Tim Carlson, the Cohasset Fire
Department has gone for seven years without a lost time
injury.
Crime Report 020810
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
- On
Friday February 5th the biology lab at Itasca Community College was
burglarized. Taken were two balance scales and a hotplate; combined
value of the stolen items is over $800.
- Also on
Friday a resident on Isleview Road reported the theft of a car dolly.
The dolly had been advertised as for sale on-line and the owner had
been in communication with an individual from Marshal Minnesota about
selling the item. When the resident returned home he discovered the
item missing. There is a suspect.
Fatal Snowmobile Accident 020110
A Lakeville man died as a result of a snowmobile accident on
January 31st at approximately 12 PM. Itasca County Sheriff Pat Medure
identified the victim as sixty one year old John Burns. The accident
occurred on a snowmobile trail off Highway 46 about four and a half
miles east of the highway near the north end of the City of Squaw Lake.
The victim was heading north on the trial when the snowmobile he was
driving left the trail and hit a tree. The victim died at the
scene. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by the Squaw Lake
Fire Department, Squaw Lake First Responders and the Deer River
Ambulance Service.
Crime Report 020110
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
- On
Friday January 29th a report of a disturbance at a retail merchant on
29th Street SE resulted in an arrest for disorderly conduct. Two
individuals were being detained for shoplifting when they became
combative with store security personnel. The second individual was
cited for theft.
- On
Sunday January 31st a forced entry burglary was reported from 3rd
Avenue SW. Taken from the residence was one thousand dollars in cash,
an undetermined amount of change and prescription medication. The case
is under investigation.
- Also on
Sunday an unlocked vehicle parked in the Central Square Mall parking
lot had $40 worth of merchandise stolen from it.
- Parishioners
at a church on Pokegama Avenue North reported someone had vandalized
the facility sometime overnight Saturday January 30th. Two fire
extinguishers were discharged, a hole punched in the wall, sacramental
wine stolen, the heat was turned up to ninety and something was placed
in a fish-tank which killed the fish.
Blandin Foundation Awards Grants 01-28-10
Blandin Foundation trustees approved over four million dollars
in grants during their December meeting. Among the 40 grants awarded
was operating support for the Bovey Coleraine Youth Center, which
provides area high school students a safe, supportive environment
during after-school and overnight hours, and includes work space, adult
mentors and food. The grant of $170,000 over two years also will help
the center to serve as a meeting space for youth-focused groups such as
the award-winning Greenway Key Club. A grant of one hundred ten
thousand dollars over two years to the Northeast Entrepreneur Fund Inc.
will provide business planning training and access to financing for
unemployed and underemployed men and women in Itasca County. The Itasca
Economic Development Corporation will also will receive a grant of
$225,000 to promote economic development in the Itasca County area.
Itasca Community College will receive $350,000 for financial aid
assistance for Itasca County high school graduates. Additional details
on other area grants can be found at the Foundation’s web site, www.blandinfoundation.org.
Greenway Race To the Top 01-27-10
A new federal grant program called Race To The Top may offer
significant dollars to two local school districts. The Race to
the Top fund is a national competition among states for $4.35 billion
under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) to
improve education quality and results statewide. Minnesota is one
of the state’s applying for this grant. For the Greenway and
Nashwauk-Keewatin School Districts, this may be the only money the
district gets in the next few years. These funds will
support states making dramatic progress on the four
reform goals of ARRA funds. These funds will be made the spring
2010.
Softball Coach 01-27-10
For the first time in about 22 years, the Greenway Softball team
will have a new coach.
The school board on Wednesday night approved Kyle Erickson as the new
coach. Ann Will started the program in 1986 and has been the only
coach the program has had. Activities director Tim Geyer thanked
Will for her dedication to the program. Kyle Erickson will take over
the team in the spring.
Cohasset City Council 01-26-10
Enbridge Energy is asking snowmobilers to stay away from their
project sites.
Many things can be hidden under just a few inches of snow.
Enbridge Energy pipeline routes may look like clear sailing for
snowmobilers, but the company is warning riders that the sites may
contain hazards. The company sent a letter to the city of
Cohasset asking that the city warn its riders. In other action
Tuesday during Cohasset’s twelve minute City Council Meeting, the
council lifted the sign moratorium and approved claims.
School board Meets
The school board Independent School District 318 won a number of
awards this week.
The board attended the Minnesota School board Association conference
this week and took home three awards. Board member Tom Peltier
was awarded the MSBA Presidents Award. The board as a whole won
the District Award of Distinction. Mary Ann Olson was named to
the All-State School Board. Only 7 individuals received that
award.
Also during Monday’s board meting, the board approved a resolution
directing staff to make recommendations for reductions in programs and
positions. The board also accepted the Pay Equity Implementation
Report. The report shows how well districts do paying their male
and female employees equally.
Crime Report 011910
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Friday January 15th an adult female was arrested on 5th Street NE
for obstructing the legal process. An officer on patrol identified the
driver of a vehicle as having a suspended license. The officer pulled
the vehicle over and explained he would have to have the vehicle towed
to impound and needed her car keys. The driver refused and attempted to
depart the scene; a scuffle ensued and she was arrested for obstruction.
Also on Friday January 15th a complaint was received from 4th Street NE
of someone in a monkey suit performing lewd acts on the street. When
law enforcement arrived the sobriety of the individual in the monkey
suit was tested; he was cited for minor consumption.
On Sunday January 17th a vehicle on Pokegama Avenue South had a $200
GPS unit, a $100 portable DVD player and a $100 game console stolen
from it.
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Friday January 15th a resident on Wabana Road in rural Grand Rapids
reported a friend had found some explosive type devices in a mine pit.
The concerned citizen turned over to law enforcement a blasting cap, a
tear gas grenade and a 90 millimeter tank shell.
On Saturday January 16th a report of a snowmobile thru the ice on
Pokegama Lake was received shortly after 9 AM. Emergency responders
found a snowmobile helmet floating in the open water and began
searching for the operator. The Cohasset Fire Department Ice Angle was
dispatched to help with the search. The snowmobile owner was located at
home. He reported that his son had used the sled the night before but
had returned unharmed. The son admitted he did not report the incident;
thereby resulting in the search for a missing snowmobile rider.
Northland Foundation Awards 011810
The Northland Foundation awarded 35 grants totaling over two
hundred thousand dollars to nonprofit programs and projects in
northeastern Minnesota during the 4th quarter of 2009. Among the
Foundation’s longstanding priorities is supporting the region’s
children and youth. That focus area is reflected in the following
awards in our area:
$5,750 to Minnesota Diversified Industries
$5,000 to Kinship of Aitkin County
$1,500 to Aitkin County Triad
$985 to ISD #319 Nashwauk / Keewatin Community Education
$650 to Grand Rapids High School - ISD #318
VOYAGEURS ICE AND TRAIL CONDITIONS 011510
The staff at Voyageurs National Park has an updated trail
conditions report. An additional inch of new snowfall has enhanced
already good travel conditions; all snowmobile trails within the park,
including the Chain of Lakes Trail, are now open for use. All
overland portages, with the exception of the Kettle Falls Portage, have
been groomed with the use of a small grooming device pulled behind a
snowmobile. As a result, travel over portage trails within the
park is vastly improved and will be maintained until ice conditions
allow for the use of the full-size groomer. Tenacious thin ice
conditions near the Rainy Lake Visitor Center prevent the establishment
of the Rainy Lake Ice Road. Please remember that the snowmobile
speed limit within Voyageurs National Park is 45 mph on frozen lake
surfaces and 25 mph on all overland portages. Speed limit signs are
posted at trailheads and overland portages. Weekly winter trail
conditions reports are available on our website at www.nps.gov/voya.
Friend of the Chamber 01-19-10
Mike Iaizzo, owner of Itasca Broadcasting, received the “Friend
of the Chamber” award Saturday night during the Grand Rapids Area
Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner. Each year the chamber
chooses a business leader who shows above average support for the
Chamber. Bud Stone, Chamber President, “Mike has not only been a
Chamber member for several years, he’s also served on many of the
Chamber committees and has always promoted the Chamber and the Grand
Rapids area to members and visitors alike.”
Itasca Broadcasting does business as KOZY/KMFY Radio.
01-16-10
318 Teacher Negotiations
Independent School District 318 did not reach an agreement with
its teachers by Friday night’s state-imposed deadline.
Superintendent Joe Silko said teachers will continue working under the
terms of last year’s contract.
The district was penalized $104,000, or $25.00 per pupil-unit for
missing the state’s deadline. The head of the Education Minnesota
union expected half of Minnesota’s teachers to accept a salary freeze
in one or both years of the new two year contracts. About 35
districts in the state were expected to miss the deadline. 309 of
the state’s 344 districts were expected to finalize contracts with
their teachers.
Pincherry Road Cohasset 01-12-10
Residents who use County Road 88 (known as Pincherry Road) in
Cohasset will have to use an alternate route starting Monday.
Enbridge Energy will be conducting routine maintenance on a portion of
the pipeline under County Road 88 in Cohasset starting Monday (January
18th). County road 88 will be closed to traffic until about
February 10th. Local residents will be detoured to Columbus
Avenue.
Cohasset City Council 01-12-10
The Cohasset City council met in regular session Tuesday
night.
Councilors began the first meeting of the year by appointing Nyle
LaGrange as Mayor Pro-Tem, John Licke as the city’s civil and personnel
attorney and John Dimich as the city’s criminal attorney.
Northland Securities was designated the city’s financial consultant and
SEH Engineering was chosen as the city’s Engineer.
Counselors approved a resolution authorizing the city to accept Tioga
Beach. Itasca county has already agreed to the move.
Minnesota Lawmakers must approve the change in ownership because of the
large number of feet of shoreland. Hardy expects the exchange to
be completed by May.
Snyder Pleads Guilty 010810
A former investigator with the
Itasca County Sheriff's Office has pleaded guilty to six counts of
sexual misconduct with a minor.
Greg Snyder pleaded guilty Thursday to criminal sexual conduct in the
first degree with penetration or contact with a victim under 13.
Snyder also pleaded guilty to criminal sexual conduct in the second and
third degrees.
Snyder was with the Itasca County Sheriff's Department for twenty
years. The former investigator was taken into custody and ordered to
undergo a sex offender evaluation.
Snyder will be sentenced on March 9th.
VOYAGEURS ICE AND TRAIL CONDITIONS 010710
Park staff at Voyageurs National Park has provided an updated
trail report. They indicate that travel is very good on all of the
major snowmobile trails in the park. The Purple Trail from the
Rainy Lake Visitor Center to Kettle Falls on Rainy Lake is now open and
staked as a result of improved ice conditions. In addition, efforts to
open the Chain of Lakes Trail will soon begin, but is expected to be a
slow process due to the clearing of downed trees and low hanging
branches resulting from the heavy holiday snowfall. A vehicle that
broke through thin ice near Springer’s Point on Rainy Lake last week
remains partially submerged and is marked. Park staff continues to
evaluate ice thickness. Winter trail conditions reports are available
on Voyageurs website at www.nps.gov/voya.
Greenway School Board 010610
The Greenway school board elected Fred Tanner as chair for a
second year in a row during Monday's reorganizational
meeting. The vice chair will be Gary Gustason. Trina
Cogswell was elected to the postition of clerk and the treasurer will
be Bob Schwartz. School Superintendent Mark Adams said "We have
our officers in place now and we can begin the transition from the
2009-2010 school year." Board members also chose their committees
assignments for the upcoming year.
01-06-10
Itasca County Board
The Itasca County Board of Commissioners is under new
leadership. Tuesday afternoon, on a unanimous vote, commissioners
voted Lori Dowling as their new chair. Rusty Eichorn was voted
the vice chair.
Board members then filled various committee assignments.
The next scheduled meeting of the board is Tuesday Janaury 12th at 3pm
in the county boardroom.
Federal Grants Aid Northeast Minnesota
Poverty Programs 010610
Two federal agencies are awarding over $2.2 million in federal
grants to combat poverty and homelessness in Minnesota, Congressman
James Oberstar recently announced. The funding will support
programs which supplement food, shelter, rent, mortgage and utility
assistance for low-income people. The Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) is awarding $1.8 million to programs in Northeast
Minnesota. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will
make almost $450,000 in grants to programs in Northeast Minnesota.
Congressman Oberstar said “This is
the worst economic downturn in decades; we have to make sure that
resources are available to help people in tough times. For many
families, the loss of a job is a disaster; they need help to keep going
until they can find new employment, programs like these can help bridge
that gap until their circumstances improve.”
Kootasca Community Alliance / Itasca Transitional Housing was awarded
over $32,000 in grants from HUD and Itasca County received a grant of
over $37,000 from FEMA.
School Busses
Parents. When you send your children to the bus in these
frigid temperatures, make sure the bus arrives. Superintendent
Joe Silko told the board that Monday morning the district had problem
with five of the school route busses. Some of the busses sent to
replace those busses had trouble, too. Silko said the severe
temperatures and the bio-diesel the district has to use in the busses
cause problems. Silko asked that parents make sure their children
have hats, boots, mittens, scarves and appropriate outerwear for the
temperatures. If at all possible, Silko said, try to watch the
children go from one secure warm area to another.
First Fire Call 010410
Even twenty five degree below zero temperatures didn’t stop the
Grand Rapids Fire Department early Sunday morning when Fire Crews
responded to the first structure fire of the year. A sleeping occupant
noticed his feet were getting hot and awoke to discover his electric
blanket had malfunctioned and caught fire. Fire Chief Steve Flaherty
indicated a pet died as a result of the fire. The fire department was
assisted by the Grand Rapids Police Department and the Itasca County
Sheriffs Office. Crews were on the scene for about two and a half
hours.
VOYAGEURS NATIONAL PARK
UPDATED WINTER ICE AND TRAIL CONDITIONS REPORT
010410
Voyageurs National Park has this updated trail report. The Green
Trail, the Yellow Trail and the Blue Trail are now open and
staked. Areas of thin ice and a major pressure ridge on Rainy
Lake are hampering efforts to open the Purple Trail. A vehicle broke
through the ice in this area and became partially submerged. Travel is
strongly discouraged anywhere in the park where “Thin Ice” signs are
present. With the recent heavy snowfall, pockets of slush have
developed on portions of the Green Trail. Otherwise, snowmobiling
conditions are good on lake surfaces and overland portages have plenty
of snow for traveling but conditions are occasionally rough.
Voyageurs Trail Conditions Report 123109
Early season lake ice and snow conditions have been favorable
making it possible to open and stake the entire Green Trail from Rainy
Lake to Ash River and on to the Crane Lake community. The Yellow
Trail from the Ash River community to Kettle Falls is now open and
staked. With the recent heavy snowfall, pockets of frozen slush
have developed on portions of the Green Trail. Otherwise,
snowmobiling conditions are good on lake surfaces and overland portages
have plenty of snow for traveling but conditions are occasionally
rough.
The snowmobile speed limit within Voyageurs National Park is 45 mph on
frozen lake surfaces and 25 mph on all overland portages. Speed limit
signs are posted at trailheads and overland portages. Regular
weekly winter trail conditions reports will be available on the Park
Sevice website at www.nps.gov/voya.
Snowmobile Trails
International Falls to Kettle Falls (Purple Trail) – Not Open
Black Bay to Kabetogama Lake to Ash River – Open & Staked
Ash River to Crane Lake (Green Trail) – Open & Staked
Chain of Lakes (Dashed Black Trail) – Not Open
Ash River to Kettle Falls (Yellow Trail) – Open & Staked
East Namakan Lake to Sand Point Lake (Blue Trail) – Not Open
Rainy Lake Ice Road – CLOSED
Ski Trails
Echo Bay Ski Trail – Open& Packed
Black Bay Ski Trail – Open, Packed & Tracked
Tilson Connector Trail – Open, Packed & Tracked
KabAsh Trail – Open
Snowshoe Trails
Blind Ash Bay Trail – Open
Sullivan Bay Trail – Open
Oberholtzer Trail – Open
Grand Rapids Awarded DEED Grant 123109
Grand Rapids has received a grant to help clean up a
contaminated site and create some local jobs. Grand Rapids was one of
14 recipients awarded money from the Minnesota Department of Employment
and Economic Development. DEED grants money twice a year under its
Contamination Cleanup Grant Program to help clean polluted sites across
the state. Over one point six million dollars was awarded in the most
recent installment of the grants. The Grand Rapids Economic Development
Authority was awarded over forty-eight thousand dollars to investigate
the former Ainsworth OSB site for contaminated materials. The site is
being redeveloped into the Itasca Eco-industrial Park and this work is
expected to create about seventy jobs.
Mesaba Energy Project Update 123109
There has been another positive step for the proposed Mesaba
Energy project. An administrative law judge is recommending the project
move forward. In a brief filed on Monday, he said that the
Environmental Impact Statement is adequate, and permits should be
issued. Excelsior Energy wants to build the $2 billion dollar plant
near Taconite. The judge also reviewed that site, and agreed it would
be a good fit. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission will have a
final say on several issues, including the site and permits later this
spring. Excelsior still needs a customer for the proposed power plant.
Defensive Driving Classes 122909
There will be two defensive driving classes held in our area the
first week of January. AARP certified instructors will be offering the
four hour refresher classes for all drivers over 55 years old who would
like to update their driving knowledge and receive a 10% discount
on their auto insurance premium for the next three years. This class
will review your current knowledge and inform you on the new
traffic laws and crash reporting procedures. The first class
will be held at Cohasset Recreation Center on Thursday Jan 7th from 1 –
5 PM; to register call 328-6225 ext.26. The second class is
Saturday morning January 9th from 9 AM to 1 PM at the Grand Rapids
School District office building To register call Renee at
327-5730. There is also an initial eight hour defensive driving class
scheduled for January 12th and 13th from 5 PM to 9 PM each night at
District 318’s Administration Building. There is a cost of $12 for AAPR
members and $14 for non-members. To register for the initial class
contact Renee at 327-5730.
District 318 Meets
Independent School District 318 approved a levy increase of
eleven percent Monday night. The board approved an eleven percent
increase in the district’s local levy. Business Manager Ben
Hawkins said that’s just a portion of the district’s funding. The
district budget is around $45,000,000. Local money and fees
account for just 13 percent of the budget. The district did see
an increase in taconite tax money. That money is based on a
three-year average, according to Hawkins. That money will drop
during the next two years as plants have reduced production or shut
down. The local levy was approved $7,255,873.41.
Greenway Levy Approved 121609
Residents of the Greenway school district won’t see much of a
change on their school tax bill next year.
Mark Chase, the school’s business manager, presented the board with the
Truth in Taxation figures on Wednesday night. The levy will go up
less than $9500.
Some changes were significant. One of the district’s levies did
fall off, leaving the district with $275,000 less to work with.
The district also lost $236,000 in health and safety dollars.
Last fall, the board approved OPEB bonding, which allowed the district
to bond for $838,000 for retiree health care. Overall, the
district’s levy for 2011, payable in 2010 will be $1,714,275.
Cohasset City Budget
The city of Cohasset approved the city’s levy for 2010 on
December 8th.
The payable in 2010 levy was approved at $1,926,654. Mayor Ron
Hardy said that’s about fifty-six thousand dollars less than this
year.
The city also approved the 2010 budget.
In other action, the council held three public hearings. The
council made changes to the zoning ordinance regarding seasonal and
temporary property, home address, and signage. Every house in
Cohasset must now display the house numbers on the home. Fire
Chief Davin Tinquist said visible house numbers could save precious
seconds in an emergency.
Independent School District 318 Honors
The board of Independent School District 318 will receive a
prestigious honor in January.
The school board will be awarded the Minnesota School Board
Association’s District Award of Distinction. The award recognizes
milestones in training in education issues and productive
governance. Specifically, a majority of the board members must
have at least 100 hours of training. Board member Tom Peltier
will also be recognized for achieving 300 hours of attendance at
MSBA and National School Board Assocation-sponsored meetings and
activities. The award will be presented during the MSBA’s
Leadership Conference Recognition Luncheon on January 14th in
Minneapolis.
Kain Sentenced 120809
The former co-owner of Little Bear Lodges was sentenced to five
years of supervised probation and ordered to pay restitution for
stealing money from the company’s 401(k) plan between July and October
2007. Fifty-two year old Donald Kain pled guilty last month in Itasca
County District Court to felony theft. According to the criminal
complaint, Kain withheld $6,563.68 in employee elective 401(k)
contributions but failed to forward the money to the plan’s custodian.
Little Bear Lodges ceased operations in October 2007. Itasca County
Attorney Jack Muhar said that Kain was ordered to pay full restitution
of $6,304.48 and a fine of $1,080. The defendant also was ordered to
write a letter of apology to the victims.
Counterfeit Travelers Checks 120809
The Hibbing Police Department is asking people to be on the
lookout for counterfeit travelers checks. Over the weekend, two $500
Visa Travelers Checks were used at Hibbing businesses. The first three
sets of numbers on both checks were the same: 155 2366 987. Police are
asking anyone receiving a check with those numbers to confiscate the
check and take notice of the person with the check and, if possible,
the type, color and license-plate number of his or her vehicle. People
are cautioned not to confront the person trying to use the check, but
to call 911. Anyone with information is asked to call the Hibbing
Police Department at (218) 263-3601, St. Louis County Midway dispatch
at (218) 749-6010 or the toll-free tip line at (800) 847-8763.
Crime Report 120209
A Grand Rapids Police Officer suffered a heart attack after a 25
mile high speed chase and foot race with a suspect. On Friday
November 27th one adult male was arrested after high speed chase at
speeds over one hundred miles per hour. The vehicle was stopped and the
suspect fled on foot. Twenty year old Adam Bjelland was captured
and charged with 2nd degree DWI, fleeing a police officer, reckless
driving, felony parole violation and 4th degree assault. After the
arrest Grand Rapids Police Sergeant Bill Block suffered a heart attack.
Sgt Block was transported to Grand Itasca and then airlifted to Abbot
Northwestern in Minneapolis where he underwent emergency surgery.
According to Police Chief Leigh Serfling Sgt Block has been released
from the hospital and is doing well. The case is currently under review
for formal charges by the Itasca County Attorneys Office.
Blandin Foundation 120209
Seventy-six percent of the Blandin Foundation’s grants have been
in the Grand Rapids and Itasca County area over the past six years,
exceeding the Foundation’s commitment of a 55% average.
In accordance with Charles K. Blandin’s will, every three years the
Ramsey County District Court reviews the accounts of the trust created
upon his death that funds the Blandin Foundation.
The Charles K. Blandin Foundation reported to the Court that the Trust
had provided $56.8 million in funds for the Foundation over the
reporting period.
The Trust and Foundation will continue to discuss with the Court ways
to ensure stable grant-making in the Grand Rapids area in times of
exceptionally bad or good economic conditions.
Charity Rivalry Exhibition Boys Basket Ball
Game 113009
The Grand Rapids and Greenway Boys Basketball teams will host a
friendly rivalry tonight (December 2nd) for a good cause.
A benefit basketball exhibition game will be held tonight at 7:30 at
the Grand Rapids High School Auditorium for the survivors of a car
accident that claimed the life of Emmy Foss and injured Haley Salo and
Paige Anderson.
The exhibition basket-ball game will start at 7:30 PM Wednesday
December 2nd in the Grand Rapids High School gymnasium:
The suggested donation is $5 for adults and $3 for students. All
proceeds will help support Salo and Anderson.
Learning Academy
Students in District 316 will now be able to sign up for the
Learning Academy.
The Greenway school district is signing kids up for the Learning
Academy. It’s an after school and summer program designed to give
students the assets, strengths and protective factors to stay in school
and be successful.
Students in kindergarten through 8th grade are targeted. Costs to
the district for the program will come from the District 318 Area
Learning Center. Brochures for the program will go out to parents
during conferences.
The district 316 school board received an update on the program during
the November 17th school board meeting.
Curling Open House
The Itasca Curling Club is hosting the three free curling
clinics. On the next three Mondays, November 30, December 7th and
December 14th at 6:30pm, you can try curling and learn the rules of the
game. The clinics are free.
Great American Smokeout 111809
If you are a smoker Thursday November 19th is your chance to
join many across the nation in the annual Great American Smokeout.
Colleen Swanson, marketing director at Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital
said smoking is the number one preventable cause of death in the
country and if you are a non-smoker; challenge a smoking friend to
quit. All Minnesotans have access to quit smoking resources from
QUITPLAN Minnesota. For more information you can call them at
888-354-PLAN (7526) or go on-line to www.quitplan.com.
AARP Drivers Classes 111809
Automobile drivers fifty-five and over have an opportunity to
reduce the cost of their auto insurance and refresh their driving
knowledge by attending three refresher classes sponsored by AARP. The
classes are designed to review your current traffic knowledge, update
you on accident reporting procedures and inform you on new traffic laws
in effect as of July of this year. The first class date is Tuesday
December 1st from 5 to 9 PM at the school district administration
office; contact Renee at 327-5730 to register. Two refresher classes
will be held in Cohasset; the first on Thursday December 3rd and the
second on Thursday December 17th from five to nine PM. To register for
the Cohasset classes call 328-6225, extension #26. There is also a
first time eight hour “First Time Class” on Tuesday and Wednesday
December 8th & 9th from 5 to 9 PM at the District 318 admin
building; contact Renee at 327-5730 to register.
Crime Report 111809
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Tuesday November 17th a business on Otis Lane in rural Grand Rapids
reported the theft of a 32 inch LCD television from a guest room. Entry
was gained when the suspect threw a rock through a patio door,
shattering it. The suspect also tore the cable box off the wall to
remove the television. Total damages and replacement value for the
missing TV is about one thousand dollars.
District 318 Meets 11-17-09
Enrollment in Independent School District 318 has stabilized
over the past five years.
457 ISD 318 students are attending other districts while 452 students
from other districts are attending 318. The school board on Monday
night heard an update on open enrollment figures from Lyn Rajala,
Student Information and Services Coordinator.
Most of them are attending neighboring districts, including Greenway,
Deer River, Blackduck or Hill City. Board Chair Paul Meyer said
some of those numbers probably won’t be changed. Meyer said many
of these students live on the district’s border and it’s easier for
them to attend a school closer to their home.
Crime Report 111609
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Friday November 13th seven students at the Grand Rapids High School
were suspended for disorder conduct and vandalism. The students had
arranged for over one hundred pumpkins to be placed on the road leading
to the High School and several were smashed on the roadway. There was
also graffiti painted on several windows of the school with derogatory
remarks about the freshmen, sophomore and junior classes. Upon
investigation the students involved, all seniors, admitted to the acts
and were subsequently suspended.
Also on Friday a concerned parent of a 15 year old female notified law
enforcement that her daughter had been receiving text messages and
voice mails from an adult male. The suspect was found to be on
probation and prohibited from having contact with females under the age
of 16. The information has been forwarded to his probation officer for
possible charges.
On Saturday November 14th a retail merchant on Pokegama Avenue South
reported finding a bag of marijuana in the facility. Law enforcement
retrieved the contraband and destroyed it.
Also on Saturday a traffic stop for weaving across the center line and
failure to signal a turn resulted in an adult male being arrested for
4th degree DWI and the vehicle being towed.
On Sunday November 15th a traffic stop for failure to wear a seatbelt
resulted in a citation for no seatbelt and driving after revocation.
The vehicle operator was also warned about a cracked windshield.
YMCA Fall Auction 111309
Every year the Itasca County YMCA raises funds to off-set the
cost associated with participating in activities. Flash back to
the sixties and seventies with “Getcha Groove On”, this year’s fall
auction. Funds raised goes to scholarships to allow area seniors,
children and families to participate in a multitude of
activities: There are hundreds of items ranging from five dollars
up, something for everyone. The live auction starts at 7 PM and they
have many great donated items. The annual YMCA fall auction
fundraiser is Thursday November 19th; tickets are $15; social hour
starts at 5:30; the silent auction begins at 6:30 and the live auction
at 7 PM. For more information or to purchase tickets contact the YMCA
at 327-1161.
Attempted Burglery 111309
A 37 year old Cottage Grove man was found guilty Thursday of
attempted burglary of the Cenex Convenience Store in Deer River.
Lyle Robert Carpenter and two others visited the store on September 2nd
of 2007. Carpenter entered the store’s office where he tried to
open the store safe, according to the official report. The case
was prosecuted by Todd Webb, Chief Assistant Itasca County Attorney and
investigated by the Deer River Police Department and Itasca County
Sheriff’s department. Carpenter’s sentencing will scheduled for
January 4th at 2pm.
11-11-09 Cohasset Deferred
Tuesday night, the Cohasset city council agreed to pay 7.8% of
the cost of the new Grand Rapids Wastewater Treatment Plant. That
was the amount agreed to at the start of the project. The plant
will serve UPM, Grand Rapids, Cohasset, LaPrairie and Itasca Community
College. The federal government’s Interior Department sent the
project one million dollars. Other grants are still being
received. City Administrator Susan Harper said a number of grants
have come through. The city’s portion is expected to be between
$140,000 and $200,000. The council also certified deferred
special assessments and activated the 1995 deferred assessments.
A moratorium was put on the city’s sign ordinance until a new policy is
in place.
11-10-09
Fatal Accident
A twenty seven year old man from Anoka died as a result of a
single motor vehicle accident on Itasca County Rd 348, approximately
twenty miles north of Bovey the night of November 8th. Itasca
County Sheriff Pat Medure identified the victim as Jon Michael Blaskey.
The Sheriff said Blaskey was a passenger in a vehicle driven by Michael
Patrick Skubitz, age: 28 from Oak Grove, MN. The S-10 pickup was
heading west on County Rd 348 when it left the roadway and hit a
tree. Blaskey was dead at the scene. Skubitz was
transported to Bigfork Valley Medical Center in Bigfork and later
transferred to St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth. The accident
was reported to the Sheriff’s Office as 9:58pm. The Sheriff’s
Office was assisted at the scene by the Bigfork Fire Department,
Bigfork Ambulance Service and the Minnesota State Patrol.
11-09-09
Ainsworth Plant Sold
The Itasca Economic Development Corporation has finalized plans
purchase the former Ainsworth OSB Manufacturing site in Grand Rapids.
Diane Weber, interim director of IEDC, said in a press conference today
that IEDC will reposition the site as a multi-tenant eco-industrial
park. The facility will cluster businesses in a way that will
reduce operating costs and maximize competitive advantages.
The Itasca Eco Industrial Park will feature four hundred thousand
square feet of manufacturing and distribution space on over two hundred
thirty acres. The former Ainsworth OSB plant was idled by its parent
company in 2006.
Weber said they project two hundred direct jobs as a result of the new
Itasca Eco Industrial Park and expects work to start as early as next
summer.
110509 Itasca H1N1
There have been no confirmed cases of H1N1 in our area.
Colleen Swanson, Director of Marketing at Grand Itasca Clinic and
Hospital said the hospital is treating each case of flu as if it were
the H1N1, but there have been no confirmed cases.
The yearly influenza virus has hit schools and small businesses hard
this year. Swanson’s advice; if you think you have the flu, stay
home. The state-wide Flu Hotline is available at 1-(866)
259-4655. Nurses and medical staff can help you diagnose your
disease, and offer tips to keep you comfortable.
110509 Woodland Food Drive
The Woodland Bank is asking for donations of non-perishable food
items as it kicks off its 2nd annual Food Drive. Mary Ann Perra
of the Woodland Bank said some of the families most in need this year
are families who’ve never used the food bank before. All food and
money collected by the bank will stay in the area it’s collected.
Last year, the bank collected over 1000 pounds of food and over $2400
in cash. Food banks are able to purchase food at deeply
discounted prices. So your cash donations go much further than
you think. Requested items include:
cereal, soups, peanut butter, jelly, tuna, box dinners, canned fruit
and vegetables and juices. The food drive runs through December
31st.
The Woodland Banks in Remer, Longvillle, Cohasset, Hill City, Jenkins
and Deer River.
National Gaming Day at the Library
The Grand Rapids Area library will be participating in a
National event this weekend. Library Director Marcia Anderson said the
library will take part in national Gaming Day on Saturday November 7th
from 12:30 to 2 PM. She said there will be board games, video games and
even a Wii for participants to use.
Anderson said if you are not into hunting or crafts this is an
opportunity to get out and do something. For more information you can
call the library at 326-7460 or go on-line to www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us.
One Night With Out A Home
On Saturday November 14th many area residents will spend the
night without a warm bed or home, some willingly, some not. Beck
Boelter with Kootasca Crisis Housing said National Hunger and Homeless
Awareness Week, which always precedes Thanksgiving week, raises
awareness to the plight of the less fortunate in our society, many of
whom do not know where their next meal may be coming from. She said
Itasca County holds a sleep-out event in recognition of and to raise
funds for those in need in our county. The One Night With Out a Home
event will be held in the K-Mart parking lot along Pokegama Avenue
South. Boelter said they will set up shelters between four and five PM
and there will be a soup line, an awareness walk and a contest for the
best home-made shelter. Susan Jordahl-Bubacz, executive director of the
Bovey-Colerain Youth Center said the kids participating are very fired
up to take part, until the next morning when they wake up to freezing
temps, if they even slept at all. She said the dialogue that takes
place brings a new realization of the homeless population and dispels
the stereotype that the homeless are there because of lack of ambition
or misuse of drugs or alcohol. This year there is a standing challenge
that for $300 you can “buy” someone into spending the night without a
home. Bovey Colerain Youth Center kids have challenged new Greenway
High School Principle Mr. Campbell to spend the night in a box.
Jordahl-Bubacz said that for $200 those challenged can buy their way
back out of the box. Donations of blankets, warm clothing and personal
hygiene items will be accepted. To challenge someone into a box
or for more information you can contact either Becky Boelter at
327-8653 or Susan Jordahl-Bubacz at 259-4455. The annual One Night With
Out A Home is Saturday November 14th in the K-Mart parking lot along
Pokegama Avenue South.
Election Results 110409
There were three questions on the Nashwauk / Keewatin school
district ballot, question one passed, questions two and three failed.
Results are not official until votes are canvassed, scheduled for
Thursday at 6 PM during a special Nashwauk / Keewatin school board
meeting.
The Mayor, city clerk, city treasurer and council member candidates ran
un-opposed and the sole question on the ballot, concerning establishing
a gas utility for Taconite passed 86 – 22.
In the Marble election, Mayor David Lotti was uncontested; Daidre
(day-dre) Breen and Margaret Kavanagh took the four year council seats;
Al Guddeck (goo-dick) was elected to the two year council seat and
Patti Rychart won the city treasurer seat.
11-03-09
Cohasset Bridge
The city of Cohasset was just one of the communities receiving
money from the Iron Range Resources handed out the Commercial Community
Redevelopment grants on Friday. Cohasset received $50,000 to
demolish the old County 8 bridge. Cohasset city administrator
Susan Harper said the city will partner with Itasca County (who will
also contribute $50,000) to remove the bridge.
The bridge in downtown Cohasset has been unsafe for many years.
11-04
Nashwauk/Keewatin Referendum
Voters in School district 319 voted to increase the level of
funding for their school district Tuesday. The first question on
the ballot was whether or not residents would increase funding for
students by $700 per pupil. That ballot question passed on a 881
to 616 vote.
Residents voted down the other two questions, asking voters to approve
an additional $400 or $200 per pupil. The results are not
official until the canvassing board sees the results. That’s
expected Thursday evening during a special school board meeting.
11-2-09
Little Bear Lodges
Fifty-two year old Donald Michael Kain pleaded guilty on November 2 to
one count of felony theft in connection with his alleged theft of
monies from the Little Bear Lodges Inc Company 401K Plan. The
agreement calls for Kain to be sentenced under a stay of adjudication
and be placed on five years supervised probation. He will serve
30 days in the Itasca County Jail, pay full restitution in the amount
of $6,304.48, pay a fine of $1,080, provide a DNA sample and abide by
other terms of supervised release. Kain will appear in court on
December 7th, 2009 for sentencing.
Crime Report 110209
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Friday October 30th an adult male was arrested on 4th Street NE for
5th degree assault.
Also on Friday two juvenile males were apprehended for vandalism. They
had defecated in a pick-up truck bed owned by another juvenile. The
parents of the two suspects asked law enforcement to prosecute their
children and insisted they pay for having the truck cleaned.
On Saturday October 31st an off-duty police officer noticed loud noises
coming from a motorcycle and pick-up truck on his street. The truck
drove circles in a nearby yard, damaging the grass and revved its
engine repeatedly while attempting to jump-start the motorcycle. The
off-duty officer identified himself and asked them to stop. The
motorcyclist fled the scene; however the pick-up driver identified the
fleeing suspect. He was eventually cited for fleeing a peace officer
and the motorcycle was impounded. The pick-up driver was also cited for
DWI.
Also on Saturday an employee of a retail merchant on 13th Street SE
reported her purse had been stolen sometime the previous evening.
Missing is the purse valued at $200, a $200 cell-phone, $30 in makeup
and two billfolds and cash valued at $100.
Late Saturday night a resident of Ridgewood Road reported a pick-up
truck had pulled up to a neighbor’s house then two juvenile males
jumped out and stole several pumpkins. Law enforcement was unable to
locate the suspect vehicle.
Early Sunday morning, November 1st a motorist driving without
headlights prompted a traffic stop on Pokegama Avenue South which
resulted in the vehicle being impounded and an adult male arrested for
4th degree DWI.
Greenway School board 103009
The school board of Independent School District 316 met in
regular session Wednesday October 28th.
With more children walking or biking to school, the Van Dyke Elementary
School’s “Safe Routes To School” program is a success. Blue
Cross/Blue Shield awarded the school the “Do Active Community Award.”
in the school category. Superintendent Mark Adams said it’s about
working with the whole child. Activities, including walking,
should be a part of each student’s day.
The board agreed that handicapped seating was needed at the Dixon Barle
Football field, but couldn’t accept a bid of almost $30,000 to do
it. On a 4 to 2 vote, the board voted down the bid. The
board asked Grounds Supervisor Jim Smith to find more quotes for the
project. Superintendent Mark Adams said this project has been on
the list of the last six superintendents. HE would like to see it
done.
The board approved a band and choir trip to Florida. Each student
raised almost $1000 towards the trip. They will travel by bus and
leave March 26th and return on April 1st.
The High School will hold a Veteran’s Day program at the High School
auditorium. All veterans are invited to attend. It’ll begin
at 9:30am on November 11th and last about half an hour.
Phone Line Cut 102909
The Aitkin County Sheriff Office wants to advise area residents
that a fiber-optic telephone ling has been cut between Hill City and
Aitkin. There is no 911 service available at this time thru land line
phones. Cellular service will continue to work. Residents without
cellular service can contact the Aitkin City hall at 218-679-2301 for
emergency’s and have their information relayed to the county sheriffs
office.
Emmy Foss Benefit 102909
A benefit dinner for the family of Emmy Foss will be held
on November 14th from 3 - 7 pm at the Eagles in Grand Rapids. Emmy
was killed in a bus/car accident in Coleraine on October 9th. The
spaghetti feed fundraiser will help her family with expenses incurred
due to the accident. Tickets are $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for kids 5 and
under. There will also be a bake sale, raffle, and memorial car magnets
will be for sale.
Infante Convicted 102909
A 58 year old Isle man was found guilty of second degree assault
by an Itasca County jury on Friday October 23rd. According to the
County Attorney’s office Daniel Infante was charged with second degree
assault, based on allegations that he assaulted his wife with a firearm
during incidents that occurred in May of this year near Bigfork. The
incident was investigated by the Itasca County Sheriffs Office and the
Bigfork Police Department. Prosecuting Attorney Todd Webb thanked the
jury for holding Infante responsible for the terrible trauma inflicted
on his wife. County Attorney Jack Muhar said “This case sends a message
to the community that domestic violence will not be tolerated by the
criminal justice system in Itasca County.” Infante’s sentencing hearing
is scheduled for December 7th.
Cohasset Halloween Part 2
The city of Cohasset will host their Halloween Party this
Saturday afternoon. Up to 600 children and their parents visited
the Cohasset Halloween Party last year. More people are expected
this year. Cohasset Mayor Ron Hardy had only one request, that
the families come early so they can participate in the games. The
Party starts at 3pm and runs through 6pm at the Cohasset City Hall this
Saturday.
Cohasset Fire Chief
The Cohasset Industrial Park has a new tenant. Mike and
Tammy Warren, doing business as M & R Chips, purchased the property
on Lot 1 block 4 of the Cohasset Industrial Park. Councilor Nyle
LaGRange said it’s a well-established company that shreds wood. A
letter to the council from the company stated a building would be
erected within the year. Also during the council meeting Tuesday,
Cohasset Fire chief Davin Tinquist was reappointed to the
position. Chief Tinquist thanked the board for their trust.
The board also congratulated First Assistant Fire Chief Pat Smith on
winning the Central Business Unit Fleet Mechanic of the year by his
employer, Pepsi. Smith also services the Cohasset fire
Fleet.
Viking Wrestlers
The Cohasset City Council donated $1000 to the Itasca Community
College Wrestling Program Tuesday night. Wrestlers will assist
the city’s recreation coordinator Dave O’Fallon with this Saturday’s
Halloween Party. But, they do a lot more. Cohasset Mayor
Ron Hardy said the wrestlers are available for anything the city
needs. Anytime.
Cohasset City Administrator Susan Harper added that the team also
mentors the elementary wrestling program at Cohasset Elementary
School. New Wrestling Head Coach Tim Setala requested the
donation from the city to help off-set travel, uniform and entry fee
costs. The city approved the request.
McLynn 102809
The Itasca County Board met in regular session Tuesday
afternoon. The first item covered on the agenda was a proclamation
designating October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. District Two
Commissioner Catherine McLynn said the presentation was very moving.
The motion passed with unanimous support from the board. Another item
on yesterday’s agenda concerned an environmental assessment worksheet
for a project to construct a substation and 115 kV transmission line to
serve the increased demand for electricity around Pokegama Lake.
Concern had been voiced by Board members over the increased workload to
the Environmental Services department of the county. Board members
discussed an option that would have the Minnesota Public Utilities
Commission perform the EAW; however with a three – two vote the county
accepted the task. The Board hopes to keep the cost to Great River
Energy and Lake Country Power to a minimum, thereby keeping the cost to
consumers down. The dates and venue for the hearings will be announced
as the EAW process moves forward. County Auditor Jeff Walker presented
some facts about the apportionment of funds received from the sale of
tax-forfeited land for the ESSAR Steel Minnesota project. McLynn
pointed out that most of the funds went to the Greenway area since that
was where the tax-forfeited land came from. She indicated that there
has been some concern over the abandonment of stockpiles on some of the
land being sold to ESSAR. McLynn said the county retains mineral rights
and they are not giving the low grade ore stockpiles away. There will
be a public hearing on November 24th on the stockpile issue. The next
scheduled meeting of the Itasca County Board is November 10th at 3 PM
in the county board room.
Adams 102709
At Monday’s Grand Rapids City Council meeting several items were
approved on the consent agenda, notably authorization for the Pokegama
Golf Course Board to solicit a Request for Purchase for a
concessionaire at the Pokegama Golf and Park Place. Mayor Dale Adams
said the idea is to get a business in that will insure the operation
does well for both the city and themselves. In other action:
The Grand Rapids City Council approved a new Airport Joint Powers
Agreement
Held a public hearing to receive input on the rezoning of property on
Golf Course Road. Adams said there has been a recent study that
indicated the need for about 350 new housing units in the city. The
parcel was rezoned from hospital to residential multi-family, R3.
Approved two contracts; one with Short Elliot Hendrickson Engineering
and another with Toutges-Redpath for financial services.
Approved the hiring of Barbara Gunderson for the vacant Police
Dispatcher Position.
Hired Charlie Bruemmer as a mechanic in the Public Works department.
Crime Report 102609
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Friday October 23rd a Canadian guest at a hotel on Pokegama Avenue
South reported someone had stolen several items from his room. Missing
was a hundred dollars cash, credit cards, identification papers and a
passport.
A report of an assault was received from a hotel on 17th Street South
on Saturday October 24th. Two intoxicated individuals escalated their
verbal argument into a physical confrontation. Neither was charged
based on conflicting statements from those involved and from
intoxicated witnesses.
Several residents on 10th Avenue NW awoke Sunday morning October 25th
to discover vandals had been out playing mailbox baseball late Saturday
night. A damage estimate was not available.
Also on Sunday a resident on 14th Street NW reported someone had broken
the rear window of their parked car. Law enforcement did not locate the
object used to vandalize the window and a dollar amount for the
replacement of the window wasn’t reported.
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Friday October 23rd one ton of pine boughs, valued at $300, were
reported stolen from a business on CR 134 in Talmoon.
Early Saturday morning a tavern disturbance was reported from State
Highway 1 on Togo. The bar fight was done and the business closed
before law enforcement arrived.
Also on Saturday an outboard motor valued at $100 was stolen from a
garage on the Scenic Highway in rural Bovey. No suspects at this time.
A report of an ATV on the roadway was received from Highway 38 north of
Grand Rapids resulted in a citation being issued on Saturday October
24th.
On Sunday October 25th a report of a lost hunter was received from
Forestry Road in rural Squaw Lake. The hunter, from the Twin Cities
area, walked out of the woods before the Search and Rescue team had to
be called out.
Crime Report 102009
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Monday October 19th an adult male shoplifter was detained at a
retail merchant on Pokegama Avenue South. The individual purchased a
bag of water softener salt then proceeded out thru the security system.
An alarm sounded and he was found to have a $40 belt in his pocket. Law
enforcement questioned him and he stated he had been looking at the
belts earlier and forgot he had placed a belt in his pocket. The
individual was escorted back to the belts where he purchased one. No
restitution was required and charges were not filed.
Early Tuesday morning, October 20th, an area half-way house reported a
drunk adult male was disrupting the facility. Law enforcement arrived
and took the suspect to detox.
CO Apparent Cause Of Couple's Death
Autopsy results are pending but it looks like a couple from
Hutchinson died from carbon monoxide poisoning over the weekend.
Authorities say there didn't appear to be a carbon monoxide detector in
the couple's Longville lake cabin. Grand Rapids Fire Chief Steve
Flaherty said it is state law that all residences, multi-family and
single family homes have a carbon monoxide detector.
Killed were fifty-eight-year old Lee Schwartze and his 55-year-old wife
Nancy. Their son Michael is listed in critical condition at a Twin
Cities hospital. Authorities think a gas heater and poor ventilation
are to blame.
Special Education 10-20-09
The number of students in special education is growing. In
Independent School District 318, the numbers continue to increase, even
though the enrollment is declining
We’re also may be getting better at identifying students who need extra
attention, according to Superintendent Joe Silko. The
Superintendent gave the board an update on the special education
department last night. He told the board it’s a significant
portion of the district’s population. One of the special needs
areas growing nationwide is autism. In 1993, the district served
1 autistic child. Today, that number is 32. Silko also said
the district is getting better at identifying children at risk.
Influenza-like illnesses 10-20-09
District 318, like many other districts, is being hit by an
influenza like illness.
The Grand Rapids High School sent out an Instant Alert to parents
Monday night letting them know of an increase in absenteeism because of
influenza like- symptoms. The Alert also reminded parents to take
precautions and keep their children home if they have a fever of at
least 100 and or a cough or sore throat. High school principal
Jim Smokrevich asked parents to keep to keep their children home for 24
hours after the fever has passed.
Every building in the district, except Bigfork, is reporting at least a
five percent rate of absenteeism. That prompted the district to
make a report to the state.
For more information, the district’s web site offers a checklist for
parents. Visit the distrrict’s web site at www.isd318.org for more
information.
Adoption Award 101609
A Mora couple who has adopted 13 children will receive the
Angels in Adoption award this weekend from Congressman Jim Oberstar.
Dean and Theresa Julkowski and their children are among dozens of
families in 44 states who are being recognized by the Congressional
Coalition on Adoption for the extraordinary effort they have made on
behalf of children in need of homes.
Oberstar will present the Julkowski family with the Angels in Adoption
Award on October 17th at 4:00 PM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Mora.
Oberstar serves as the co-chair of the Congressional Coalition on
Adoption that organizes the annual Angels in Adoption Award. This
coalition is a nonpartisan alliance of more than 210 members of
Congress dedicated to improving adoption policies and services. The
coalition focuses public attention on the advantages of adoption for
all concerned, including children, biological parents and adoptive
parents. “The work of this caucus isn’t about politics; it’s
about families,” said Oberstar, “It is literally a labor of love.”
10-15-09
GABA Masquerade Ball
Get out your masks and costumes. Yes, Halloween is
coming. But, even before that, the Greenway Area Business
Association, or GABA, will host “Nightmare in Bovey- a Masquerade
Ball.” Pat Kane, Chair of the fundraising arm of GABA described
the evening said the ball will feature a DJ, Texas Hold-en tournament
and even pictures for the couples. The event is for adults over
21 year old. Alcohol will be available. A $300 prize will
be awarded for best costume. Other prizes will be awarded for
other categories. Lots of door prizes will be given away as
well. Tickets are $25.00 per person. They are available at
White Ivy Design in Coleraine, Globe Drug in Grand Rapids or Lefty’s
Tent and Party Rental.
Mercury Warning
It's 3 a.m. Your two-year-old is crying. Her forehead is
hot and you fear she's running a fever. You rush to get a
thermometer. You grab one, but in your haste, you drop it.
It breaks, and mercury beads shoot across the bathroom floor. Now
you've not only got a sick kid, but a potentially health-threatening
mercury spill to deal with, too.
"Lately we've been advising more people on how to clean up spilled
mercury from broken fever thermometers, probably because they're using
them more with the advent of cold and flu season," said Lisa Yantachka,
an emergency responder with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
(MPCA). "But running the risk of compounding your problems by
having a mercury thermometer in the house at all just doesn't make
sense."
While the vapor given off from spilled mercury is a neurotoxin that can
be health threatening if it is inhaled at a high enough concentration
or over a long period, mercury spills in the home almost always can be
cleaned up so that they do not pose a danger. However, cleaning
up a spill properly will take time and considerable care. And
cleanup can be expensive; if the mercury is spilled on a carpet, the
contaminated portion will have to be cut out and discarded. If it
is spilled on a mattress or upholstered chair, the mattress or chair
will have to be thrown away. Larger spills or widespread
contamination may even require the services of an environmental
contractor.
"Digital thermometers are now the standard in the health care
industry," Yantachka said. "They are as accurate as mercury
thermometers, but unlike mercury thermometers, they can't create a
health and environmental hazard."
Yantachka urges people to replace all the mercury thermometers in their
homes - fever and cooking - with digital thermometers and to take their
mercury thermometers to their local household hazardous waste facility
for proper disposal. Contact information for Minnesota's county
household hazardous waste facilities may be found at www.pca.state.mn.us/waste/hhw/hhw-localprograms.html
or by calling the MPCA at 651-296-6300 or 1-800-657-3864.
If you break a mercury fever thermometer, you can probably clean up the
spilled mercury, but you'll need to exercise considerable care,
Yantachka said. Immediately after the spill:
Isolate the spill and ventilate the area. Keep all people and
pets away from the spill area. Open windows and exterior
doors. Close all doors between the room where the spill occurred
and the rest of the house. Close all cold air returns so that
mercury vapor is not carried throughout the house. Turn down
heaters and turn up window air conditioners. Turn off central air
conditioning. Turn off fans unless they vent to the
outdoors. Use fans to blow mercury-contaminated air outside.
If mercury
has touched your skin shoes, or clothing, stay still and have someone
bring you a plastic trash bag and wet paper towels. Wipe off any
visible beads of mercury with the wet paper towels and put them in the
trash bag. Check your shirt pockets for mercury. Remove
contaminated shoes and clothing and place them in the trash bag.
Seal the bag and put it in the trash. Shower well.
If you feel you've inhaled a lot of mercury vapor, call the Poison
Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
Decide whether you can clean up the spill yourself, which you may be
able to do if the spill involved a single fever thermometer on a hard,
smooth surface. Call the Minnesota Duty Officer at 1-800-422-0798
to report the spill, any time, day or night. The Duty Officer
will put you in touch with an MPCA emergency responder who will advise
you on cleaning up the spill.
Local Weather Statistics for September 2009
The USDA Forest Service, North Central Research Station in Grand
Rapids has released weather statistics for September 2009.
The average high for the month was 68.3 degrees and the average low was
45.9 with an overall average temperature of 57.1 degrees.
The warmest September on record was in 2004 with an average temperature
of 61.4 degrees.
The coldest was in 1918 with an average temperature of 45.6 degrees.
We received 4.16 inches of rain last month.
We are 0.9 degrees below the 30 year daily average temperature and 1.93
inches below the 30 year average rainfall for the period January thru
September.
Legistar Rollout 101409
The age of paper council meetings in Grand Rapids is coming to
an end. Tuesday afternoon the council received instruction in the use
of Legistar software at the council work-session. Each seat in the
council chambers has a computer work-station with an LCD monitor, mouse
and keyboard connected to the city’s network enabling users to access
the council agenda and attachments.
Cohasset City Council 101409
The Cohasset Conversation- an Open Forum with City councilors”
went well Tuesday night. Cohasset residents took advantage of the
open forum with councilors Tuesday night. A number of residents
talked informally about topics including the status of Beier Road to
deferred taxes. Cohasset Mayor Ron Hardy said the council will
offer this opportunity again.
During the formal council meeting, the council proclaimed October as
Domestic Violence Awareness Month, approved an application to the state
for Electric door openers and agreed to purchase a strip of land made
available by the realignment of County Road 63.
Cohasset Turkey Bingo 101409
You’re invited to play Turkey Bingo! The Cohasset Hook and
Ladder will hold their annual “Turkey Bingo” fundraiser this
Thursday. Cohasset Mayor Ron Hardy reminded area residents to get
there early. In past years, the event has been standing room
only. That’s this Thursday at 7pm in the Cohasset City Hall.
Local Active Duty Death in Afghanistan
101309
The cost of the global war on terrorism has hit home. Marine
Staff Sergeant Aaron Taylor was killed in the Helmand Province of
Afghanistan on Friday. The 27 year old was a 2000 graduate of Greenway
High School where he participated in drama, the pep, jazz and concert
bands and he was also the manager of the hockey team. According to his
father, Clifford Taylor of Two Harbors, Staff Sgt. Taylor was killed by
an improvised explosive device while on foot patrol.
Crime Report 101309
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Friday October 9th a traffic stop on 5th Street NW resulted in a
citation for open bottle and possession of a small amount of marijuana
in a motor vehicle.
On Saturday October 10th a store manager on Pokegama Avenue South
reported two individuals had been shoplifting merchandise from his
store. When law enforcement arrived the manager indicated the suspects
were next door getting a haircut. Officers confronted the suspects and
recovered over $250 in stolen items. The female suspect was apprehended
and taken to Northland Recovery for an unrelated incident. Both were
cited for theft.
Also on Saturday a patron of a restaurant on 17th Street SE reported
her purse had been stolen. Video surveillance indicated the suspects
had paid their bar bill with a credit card, which had been used at a
local hotel. The suspects had used a credit card from the stolen purse
to purchase gas at a local convenience store. Both were cited with
theft and credit card fraud.
On Monday October 12th an apartment manager on River Road reported an
adult male was exposing himself in front of his girlfriend’s window.
Law enforcement was asked to serve the suspect a no trespass order.
Also on Monday a juvenile male was cited for disorderly conduct at the
Grand Rapids High School. He had stolen a box cutter type knife from
one classroom and was using it to disrupt another class. He was
released to his mother; however he was later transported to the Itaskin
Juvenile Center for continued disorderly conduct at home.
Deer River School Board 101309
The School Board of Independent School District 317, Deer River,
met in regular session on Monday. Superintendent Matt Grose said a
contingent of teachers and staff will be attending a meeting with the
Minnesota Business Partnership where King Elementary will receive its
Minnesota Futures Award. He said they received an update from Julie
Kennedy of Short Elliot Hendrickson Engineering on the running track.
Grose said they heard a report from the activities director Brent
Schimek about a grant from the Minnesota High School League to off-set
the cost of school activities. Grose said he also reported to the board
about his trip to Washington DC lobbying about the federal impact on
school districts such as Deer River.
Library 101309
The Grand Rapids Area library has some special events lined up
for this month. Library Director Marcia Anderson said they have Gregg
Breining as a guest speaker on Thursday October 15th at 7 PM. She said
his book is about Ice Fishing all around the world with spectacular
photographs illustrating the book and is one of the finalists for a
Minnesota book award. In conjunction with the book they have other fish
related stuff such as Wally the walleye and a Minnesota DNR fish
display. They also have a collection of old rods and reels in that
display. The Friends of the Library has been a long standing supporter,
since 1980. Bonnie Gelle, director of the Friends of the Library said
the used bookstore started in 1980 and continues even today. In 2000
the new library had a room designed just for them. Gelle said the
Library foundation sponsors a huge book sale once a year to help
support the Grand Rapids Area Library. Anderson said the library has
events for teens this month such as a scavenger hunt and a drawing to
win a tackle box of goodies. She said kids have not been left out of
the fun activities; they have a fish craft event on October 28th. To
find out more about the Grand Rapids Area Library you can visit their
web-site at www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us
or call them at 326-7640.
Fatal Accident in Coleraine 101209
A young woman died Friday as a result of a car / bus accident on
Highway 169 in Colerain. The three occupants were airlifted to Duluth
hospitals where 18 year old Emerald Foss of Bovey passed away at
approximately 6 PM. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the
car crossed the highway on Curley Avenue in front of the bus and was
hit broadside. Lieutenant Paul Blaha of the Minnesota State Patrol said
they are reconstructing the accident; however the reconstruction may
take a while to complete.
The driver of the vehicle, 18 year old Haley Salo of Grand Rapids and
another passenger, 16 year old Paige Anderson of Bovey, were admitted
to Duluth hospitals with critical injuries; however Salo’s status was
upgraded to stable as of late last night.
The school bus was carrying 23 members of the Ely High School football
team and three coaches. Three team members reported receiving some
bruising and Jay Poshak of Ely, the twenty-eight year old bus driver,
received minor injuries.
Emerald Foss graduated from the Greenway High School earlier this year.
Superintendent Mark Adams offered his condolences to the families and
indicated grief counselors are on-hand at Greenway schools. Foss’s
funeral will be held at 2 PM on Thursday at the Grand Rapids Alliance
Church.
10-08-09
Northland Grants
The Northland Foundation awarded 50 grants totaling $264,102.43
to non-profit programs and projects in northeastern Minnesota for the
third quarter of 2009. Programs in our area include:
$5000 to the Second Harvest North Central Food Bank
$5000 to the Bridges: Kinship Mentoring
$5353 to the Bovey/Cleraine KIDS PLUS
$292 to Hill City KIDS PLUS
$252 to Aitkin KIDS PLUS
10-08-09 CO
Detectors
All new construction in Minnesota must include a carbon monoxide
detector. Grand Rapids Fire and Prevention Safety Instructor John
Linder says all residences should have at least one detector in their
home. And, as heating season is here, Linder also recommends
homeowners have their furnace checked out by a professional.
10-08-09 Grand Rapids Fire
Department Open house
The Grand Rapids Fire Department will host an open house Sturday
October 10th at the Fire Hall. There willbe demonstrations from
the Jaws of Life, fire extinguishers and other fire equiptment.
Enjoy a hot dog, chips and beverage. Kids also get a ride inthe
firetruck. Sparky the fire dog will be there and the department
will showcase the new ladder truck. That's Saturday from 11am to
3pm at the Grand Rapids Fire Hall.
10-08-09 Local
Crime
According to the Itasca County sheriff's Office, a vehicle
parked on Highway 169 east was burglerized. A purse containing
cash, identification and prescription medicine was taken. An
adult male was arrested following a fight outside a bar on Highway 169
east Thursday morning. He's charged with assault and probation
violation.
10-08-09
National Do Not Call List
The Better business Bureau is warning consumers of a scam
involving a Do Not Call List for cell phones. The e-mail warns
that cell phone users must register their cell phones with their
company or they could be charged for telemarketing calls. The
B-B-B asks residents to ignore the warning. The scare is an urban
myth. There is no deadline to register your cell phone for the
National Do Not Call List.
10-08-09 Grand
Rapids City Council Meets
The Grand Rapids City Council meets in regular session Tuesday,
October 13th. Monday the 12th is Columbus Day. Items on the
agenda include accepting a grant from the Blandin Foundation for
$10,000 for Library programs, a department head report from the finance
department from Shirley Miller, and consider the proposed benefit
changes for city employees. The council meeting begins at 5pm in
council chambers.
Calumet Marble Joint Powers Agreement 100709
Two cities on the range have entered into a historic
joint-powers agreement. Last week the Calumet City council signed an
agreement that would merge their volunteer fire department with
Marble’s. Marble Mayor Dave Lotti said that on October 6th the City of
Marble by full city council approval entered into an agreement with
Calumet to join the two cities fire departments under a joint powers
agreement lasting two years. The agreement goes into effect on January
1st 2010. He said this historic agreement will help both fire
departments operate more efficiently and provide complete fire safety
and first responder service to the communities. Sound courtesy of
Cynthia Johnson of the Scenic Range News Forum.
Crime Report 100609
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police
Department:
On Tuesday October 6th a resident of 7th Street NW reported his pick-up
truck had been damaged by someone throwing a rock thru a side window. A
damage estimate was not reported.
Also on Tuesday October 6th a resident of Pokegama Avenue North
reported the theft of a portable music player, valued at $250 from
their garage. There is a juvenile suspect.
In the local crime report from the Itasca County Sheriffs Office:
On Tuesday October 6th a resident of Easy Street in rural Deer River
reported the theft of a rack of baby back ribs, a bag of scallops and
some fish fillets, valued together at $80.
Crime Report 100509
In the
local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
On Friday October 2nd a resident on 20th Street NW reported the theft
of two diamond rings from their home. Both are described as yellow gold
with diamond settings. The rings are valued at $3000.
Also on Friday a resident on 3rd Avenue NW reported tools were stolen
from his bicycle parked at his apartment. The incident is under
investigation.
A traffic stop on Golf Course Road on Friday resulted in a citation for
speeding and driving after suspension. The vehicle was released to a
licensed driver.
On Saturday October 3rd a resident on 7th Street SE reported the theft
of some prescription medication from their home. There are two suspects.
Early Sunday morning a resident of Donovan Drive reported the theft of
a 1995 Pontiac Bonneville they had recently purchased. The missing
vehicle was entered into the national database, value for the vehicle,
$400.
09-30-09
Trail Reconstruction
A portion of the North Country Trail will be reconstructed this
Saturday in Cohasset.
Matt Davis, region trail coordinator for Minnesota and North Dakota, is
looking for volunteers to help rebuild a trail this Saturday. A
group of 25 or more is needed clear brush, build crib walls and remove
fallen trees to make this trail usable. Lunch, safety glasses,
hard hats and tools will be provided. Bring your own work gloves
and rain gear. Meet at 9am to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Building on Highway 2. The cleanup will be held rain or shine.
Volunteers should RSVP by e-mail at davis@northcountrytrail.org
or call 701-388-1883.
318 Teachers Opportunity
Teachers
in Independent School district 318 have an opportunity to bring
something new to their classrooms this year. The district’s
endowment fund is a community-based effort to give supplemental funds
to teachers for projects out of the normal educational
experience. Len Rothlisberger, Chair of the endowment fund, gave
teachers notice that the deadline for grants is coming up September
30th. Projects funded last year include Kids Voting USA, Peer
Mediation, Family Reading Project, a Science Fair and transportation
for field trips. Last year’s projects totaled $14,500.
Local Crime Report
• On Friday September 25th a mint condition 16
gauge shotgun was stolen from a garage on 4th Avenue NW; a dollar value
for the missing firearm was not reported.
• Also on Friday a 38 caliber handgun was stolen from
a residence on 14th Avenue SW. There is a suspect.
• Two adults were arrested on Saturday September 26th
from 10th Avenue SW. They are accused of setting a motor-boat on fire.
According to a statement received from one of the suspects they were
attempting to seek revenge for a motor-vehicle accident that occurred
earlier in the week by setting an automobile on fire. After several
attempts they failed and accidentally ignited the boat. The suspects
were located after a search of the area by Itasca County Sheriffs
Deputies, Minnesota State Patrol Officers and Grand Rapids Police
Department Officers. The Grand Rapids Fire Department extinguished the
blaze and one suspect was treated and transported to Grand Itasca by
Meds One Emergency Services for burns.
• Another police call on Saturday involved an act of
vandalism at a church school on 2nd Avenue NW. Vandals emptied two fire
extinguishers and broke a coffee pot after kicking in the back door to
gain access.
• A resident of Donovan Drive reported a theft from
their vehicle on Saturday. A chain-saw was stolen from a vehicle parked
in their garage. No value on the missing item.
• Alcohol was a factor in the incidents occurring
Sunday Morning September 27th; Grand Rapids Police officers assisted
the Itasca County Sheriffs Office with a disorderly patron at a bar on
Highway 169 East in LaPrairie; the adult male was arrested and taken to
detox. Three minor consume citations were issued on Pokegama Avenue
South after an officer noticed a speeding vehicle and detected a strong
alcoholic odor coming from the front seat. At least the two 19 year old
males and juvenile female were wearing their seatbelts. Finally an
adult female was arrested on Pokegama Avenue South for 4th degree DWI.
The passengers were also over the limit so the vehicle was towed.
• A resident on 10th Avenue SE reported two male
suspects removed the tires from an abandoned pick-up truck parked on
the property next to his.
Sheriffs Office Removing Bouys
The Itasca County Sheriff’s Office will begin their annual
removal of navigational and obstacle buoys on all lakes and rivers
within the County on Monday, October 5, 2009.
Sportsmen that travel by boat to hunt and fish during the late fall
seasons are reminded to travel with caution this time of year,
especially during non-daylight hours. All sportsmen are urged to use
caution during their outdoor activities.
□ Dress according to your activity and the weather.
□ Always wear a life preserver when on the water.
□ Tell someone where you are going and when you will
return.
□ Bring a cell phone in the event of an emergency.
□ Never mix alcohol and firearms.
The Itasca County Sheriff's Office urges sportsmen to respect our
resources and have fun in the outdoors.
GR Fire Department Open House
The Grand Rapids Fire Department is hosting an open house on
Saturday October 10th from 11AM to 3PM at the Fire Hall on 5th Street
NE. This year they are having a little more hands on activities,
showing the public what equipment they have and what it does. There
will be a “Jaws of Life” Demo at 12:30pm and 2:30 pm. Home Depot will
be running a Kids Build Project (while supplies last). They are also
doing a Fire Extinguisher Demo. You can catch a ride in a Grand Rapids
Fire Truck. Come enjoy a hot dog, chips and a beverage you can meet
members of the Grand Rapids Fire Department and Ladies Auxiliary. The
center of the excitement is the new ladder truck Tower #119. Also this
year the open house will be visited be Sparky the Fire Safety Dog. For
more information you can contact John Linder Fire Prevention &
Education Officer at 326-7638.
Local Crime Report
In the local crime report from the Grand Rapids Police Department:
• On Wednesday September 23rd a pick-up truck
was stolen from a residence on Golf Course Road, there are two
suspects.
• Two adult females were cited for shoplifting on
Wednesday September 23rd at a retail merchant on 29th Street SE. One
was also cited for trespassing.
• On Wednesday September 23rd Grand Rapids Police
Officers assisted the Itasca County Sheriffs Office with a fight in the
parking lot at a bar on Highway 169 East. One adult male was arrested
at the scene. Another adult male was arrested a short time later at a
convenience store on Highway 2 West for 4th degree DWI and 3rd degree
test refusal. The suspect was also involved in the fight.
• On Thursday September 24th a worker of a
construction company noticed a suspicious person wandering thru company
property. A short time later a pick-up truck was noticed missing. The
truck had been stolen and was recovered later in the day totally
destroyed by fire.
• A silent entry alarm sounded at a fast food
restaurant on Pokegama Avenue South late Thursday night. When law
enforcement arrived they found the drive-up window had been smashed.
Officers secured the scene and waited for a manager to arrive to open
the building. While waiting they discovered a 19 year old male hiding
in the bushes beside the broken window. He was wearing an orange ski
mask and had blood on his hands, consistent with the blood on the
broken window. He was arrested and charged with attempted burglary. A
search of the premises determined nothing was missing and there no
accomplices inside.
Itasca County Recieves Federal Grant
The US Departmetn of Justice has awarded Itasca County a
$400,000 grant to combat domestic violence and sexual assaults. The
county will be partnering with two non-profit organizations, Advocates
for Family Peace and the Itasca Alliance Against Domestic asault, to
respond to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and
stalking. Congressman James Oberstar announced the grant on Monday. He
said "Community leaders, victims's advocates and law enforcement in
Itasca County are comming together to make a difference."
Cohasset City Council Review
The Cohasset city council agreed to more public input Tuesday
night. The council usually holds work sessions with the city
administrator one hour prior to each city council meeting. But, on
October 13th, the council will hold a public forum prior to the
official meeting. Cohasset Mayor Ron Hardysaid if a Cohasset residents
have a concern, an issue, a question… they’re invited to bring it up
with council members between 6 to 7pm on October 13th, just prior to
the meeting. Other business handled by the Cohasset city council on
September 22nd included amending the planning commission’s by-laws by
changing the quorum number from “4” to “50%”. Set a public hearing on
October 27th at 7:05pm to amend the Blight Ordinance by adding compost
and brush regulations. they agreed to purchase a small portion of land
from Itasca county at the intersection of Itasca County Road 62 and US
Highway 2 for $15,700.00. Cohasset City Administrator Susan Harper gave
the city council a calendar update. Cohasset’s Halloween Party will be
October 31st at city hall. The time is yet to be determined. The
Cohasset Public Utility Committee meeting has been changed from 7pm to
5pm on October 5th. The Vikings/Packers game that night may have made a
quorum questionable. On October 13th, the Cohasset Hook and Ladder will
hold their turkey bingo fundraiser. October 14th is Business
Appreciation Day in Cohasset. Cohasset businesses are encouraged to
visit city hall at 5:30pm and let the city know what it can do for
them. The Economic Development fund has set aside money for Cohasset
projects.
Itasca County Board Review
The Itasca County Board met Tuesday for a regular board meeting.
During the meeting County Attorney Jack Muhar asked the board to allow
the County Attorneys Victim Services Unit to apply for a grant. Board
Chair Commissioner Karen Burthwick said the grant will allow the Victim
Services Unit to provide support, assistance and referrals to crime
victims, their families and witnesses in criminal cases. In other
action the county board moved a request from Great River Energy for
construction of a substation and 115kV power transmission line in the
county to the Transportation, Land Management Committee meeting. They
also accepted a $40,000 gift from the Grand Rapids Area Cable
Commission of video equipment. The next scheduled board meeting will be
Tuesday October 13th at 3 PM in the Itasca County Board Room.
9-24-09 Nashwauk City Council Review
At the regular meeting of the Nashwauk City Council on September
22, the council formally recognized three citizens who have given of
their time and energy in a volunteer role: Betty Toronto, Robert Smith,
and Walter Stish. In a ceremony during the meeting, Mayor Bill
Hendricks expressed appreciation to the recipients for their tireless
devotion to the city's residents and community events. In addition, he
expressed the council's intent to make this recognition of the city's
volunteers an annual experience
9-24 09 Nashwauk City Clerk to Retire
Ed Bolf, Nashwauk City Clerk for the past 25 plus years, is
retiring. His last day will September 30. During his tenure as clerk,
Mr. Bolf witnessed and had a hand in several important residential and
commercial developments in Nashwauk, not the least of which is the
Essar Steel project. An open house celebrating Mr. Bolf's years of
service to the city will be held on September 30 at 1:30 at the
Memorial Hall in Nashwauk. The public is invited to attend.
9-24-09 Itasca County Board Review
The Itasca County Board met Tuesday for a regular board meeting. During
the meeting County Attorney Jack Muhar asked the board to allow the
County Attorneys Victim Services Unit to apply for a grant. Board Chair
Commissioner Karen Burthwick said the grant will allow the Victim
Services Unit to provide support, assistance and referrals to crime
victims, their families and witnesses in criminal cases. In other
action the county board moved a request from Great River Energy for
construction of a substation and 115kV power transmission line in the
county to the Transportation, Land Management Committee meeting. They
also accepted a $40,000 gift from the Grand Rapids Area Cable
Commission of video equipment. The next scheduled board meeting will be
Tuesday October 13th at 3 PM in the Itasca County Board Room.
9-24-09 Cohasset City Council Review
The Cohasset city council agreed to more public input Tuesday
night. The council usually holds work sessions with the city
administrator one hour prior to each city council meeting. But, on
October 13th, the council will hold a public forum prior to the
official meeting. Cohasset Mayor Ron Hardysaid if a Cohasset residents
have a concern, an issue, a question… they’re invited to bring it up
with council members between 6 to 7pm on October 13th, just prior to
the meeting. Other business handled by the Cohasset city council on
September 22nd included amending the planning commission’s by-laws by
changing the quorum number from “4” to “50%”. Set a public hearing on
October 27th at 7:05pm to amend the Blight Ordinance by adding compost
and brush regulations. they agreed to purchase a small portion of land
from Itasca county at the intersection of Itasca County Road 62 and US
Highway 2 for $15,700.00. Cohasset City Administrator Susan Harper gave
the city council a calendar update. Cohasset’s Halloween Party will be
October 31st at city hall. The time is yet to be determined. The
Cohasset Public Utility Committee meeting has been changed from 7pm to
5pm on October 5th. The Vikings/Packers game that night may have made a
quorum questionable. On October 13th, the Cohasset Hook and Ladder will
hold their turkey bingo fundraiser. October 14th is Business
Appreciation Day in Cohasset. Cohasset businesses are encouraged to
visit city hall at 5:30pm and let the city know what it can do for
them. The Economic Developmen