Grand Rapids News

Youth Classes - Itasca Area Community Educatio

2012-01-24T12:15:00.001-08:00

Itasca Area Community Education is offering these classes for youth and families in February and March. For more information and to register for these and other classes go to www.getlearning.org or call 218-327-5730.

Lego Robotics for Families, Wednesdays, Feb. 8th-29th, 6-7pm at RJE Middle School in Grand Rapids Join Coach Rick Beckrich and team up with your child to discover Lego Robotics together. This is a fast paced and fun introduction to both robotics and robotics teams. Build, program and deploy a Lego Mindstorms robot for different tasks. Coach Rick led the Lego team of Automation Nation to State competition this year and has lots of fun new things to teach. Fee: $30.00 per adult/child.

Jr. Naturalists at Southwest School, Thursdays, Feb 9th-March 15th, 3-4:30 pm at Southwest School Boost your knowledge about the environment and connect with nature! Fun, hands-on science and nature program for 3rd & 4th graders. Nancy MikeJohnson is back to teach this popular exciting class. Fee $40.00

Golf "FORE" Kids, Wednesdays, March 14th-April 11th (no class 4/4/12), 3:30-5:00pm at RJE Middle School Multi-Purpose Room Learn about golf before the season starts-everything from their grip, stance and swing fundamentals to the basics of long and short game. Pokegama Golf Course Staff will be instructing this class. For students 3rd-8th grade. Fee - $50.00

Basic Babysitting, Friday, March 23rd (no school that day), 9am-3pm, at RJE Middle School Room 208 Be the Best Babysitter on the Block! Master your babysitting skills-how to handle emergencies, entertaining children safely, basic child care and first aid and babysitting business practices. Fee-$20.00

Contact: Karen Walker, ISD 318 Adult and Youth Programs
218-327-5799 kwalker@isd318.org

SnowFolk Events

2012-01-14T18:52:00.001-08:00

Great Itasca SnowFolk Festival January Events:

These are FREE Children First! events for all ages.

More information on these events at www.getlearning.org - click on the SnowFolk logo.

SnowFolk Fun: Friday, Jan. 20, 2012 1pm-4:30pm

Watch a SnowFolk Movie, have a snack and build SnowFolks.

2 locations - Call to register

Coleraine Library 218-245-2315

Nashwauk Library 218-885-1280 ext.51178

Dashing Through the Snow: Friday, Jan. 20, 2012 1pm-3pm at Itasca County Family YMCA

Snow games, snacks and build SnowFolks

Snowshoe Shuffle: Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012 12pm-3pm at Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital

Snowshoe from Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital to Forest History Center and discover a Winter Camp deep in the forest. Build a snow fort, tend a campfire, have a snack and build SnowFolks.

Winter Frolic and SnowFolk Build: Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012 11am-2pm at Marcell Family Center

WONDERFUL WINTER FUN! Hayrides, Crafts, Games and Build SnowFolks

SnowFolk Munchkin Build & Bonfire Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012 1pm-4pm at Children's Discovery Museum

Crafts and fun with snacks and building of "Munchkin SnowFolks".

MIRC classes for Businesses

2012-01-09T13:15:00.001-08:00

MIRC classes for Businesses coming up in January and February.

Visit Grand Rapids and ISD 318 Community Education along with Minnesota Extension is offering free classes for business owners and staff. Discover how you can improve your business by improving your internet skills and tools for your business. Grand Rapids is part of the larger Minnesota Intelligent Rural Communities (MIRC) project. MIRC is a coalition of statewide partners. MIRC's focus is to bring the full promise of Internet to rural Minnesota communities, businesses and people. The project is funded through an American Recovery and Reinvestment Grant, which Blandin Foundation serves as project administrator.

The following classes are offered to Businesses in Itasca County in January and February. You can register online at www.getlearning.org or call 218-327-5730. Both classes will be held at ISD 318 Administration Building-Computer Lab-820 NW 1st Avenue, Grand Rapids, MN 55744. These classes are offered at no charge.

Websites Simple to Complex Jan. 18, 2012 9am-12pm
Don't be intimidated! Gain info on how to start a business website from this workshop! Discover the variety of great options for business owners to explore. Explore the FREE and EASY options and/or the customized options or the in-between options Learn tips related to working with web designers and programmers, understanding pricing, understanding costs. Explore websites created at all levels of complexity and determine your best options.

Intro to Selling Online Feb. 16, 2012 9am-12pm
From Craig's List to Shopping Carts:What are your major concerns about doing business online? Security?Shipping? Costs? This workshop covers these major concerns related to online transactions and more. Businesses are doing more and more transactions online to sell products directly as well as manage their bank accounts. You will explore the use of online tools like Paypal and online banking platforms to help make more informed decisions.

Community Education Youth classes in Itasca County

2012-01-09T13:12:00.001-08:00

Jan. 9, 2012
Community Education Classes coming up in January and Februrary for Youth of Itasca County. You can register and pay online at www.getlearning.org, by phone 218-327-5730, or mail, 820 NW 1stAvenue, Grand Rapids, MN 55744. Registration begins January 16, 2012.

Basic Babysitting Class # 318500 Friday, Jan. 20, 2012 (No School Day) 9 am-3 pm at RJE Middle School, Room 208, Grand Rapids, MN
Be the Best Babysitter on the Block!!! Master your babysitting skills-how to handle emergencies, entertaining children safely, basic child care, basic first aid and babysitting business practices. Bring a doll or stuffed animal to use during class. Pack a lunch for yourself too. For Students 4th-8th grades Class fee - $20.00

Jr. Naturalists Class #318509 Session 1 Thursdays, 2/9/12-3/15/12 3-4:30 pm at Southwest School, Grand Rapids, MN
Boost your knowledge on the environment and connect with nature! FUN, hands-on science and nature program for 3rd and 4th graders. Go outside to experience and explore nature in the "outdoor classrooms" of our school grounds and local community! Nancy Mike Johnson is back this year to teach this popular exciting class! Class Fee: $40.00

Lego Robotics for Families Class #318520 Wednesdays, 2/8/12-2/29/12 6pm-7pm at Grand Rapids RJE Middle School in the Media Center
Team up with you child and discover Lego Robotics together. A fast paced and fun introduction to both robotics and robotics teams. Build, program and deploy your Lego Mindstorms robot for different tasks. The class fee pays for 1 adult and 1 child per fee. Please register using the Adult's name but include the child's name and birthdate in the comments. For youth ages 3rd grade-8th grade. All equipment needed will be supplied for the class. Class fee: $30.00

Swimming Lessons at Connor Jasper Middle School pool, Bovey, MN Class #316000
Choose from 2 different sessions. Register online at www.getlearning.org or call 218-245-6232
Session 1 Mondays Jan 23-Feb. 27, 2012 (no class on Feb. 20th) 5-5:30 pm
Session 2 Mondays Jan 23-Feb. 27, 2012 (no class on Feb. 20th) 5:30-6 pm
Do you have a child that loves to swim? This class gets kids in the water while teaching them the basics of swimming and water safety. This class is for children ages 3 and up. A parent must be present the entire time of class. Bring own towel, swimsuit and fun noodle. Class fee: $40.00

Respectfully submitted,

Karen Walker
IASC Community Education
kwalker@isd318.org
218-327-5799

Great Itasca SnowFolk Festival

2012-01-05T16:50:00.000-08:00

Wanted: Snow! Snow and More Snow!

Grand Rapids – This is an all points bulletin for all area residents. Be on the lookout for snow!!! It is desperately needed by January 20th, when the three weeks of Great Itasca SnowFolk Festival begins. Members of Children First!, who planned this first annual SnowFolk event, decided to go on the offensive when the temperatures started dropping and the snow started falling and make the best of what "Old Man Winter" had in store. Unfortunately that unruly "Old Man of Winter" appears to have taken this season off and has so far spoiled the hopes of our area communities building 1000 SnowFolk during the various Children First! activities planned from January 20 – February 11th.

But wait a minute----someone has spotted snow on the move by truck. You see that Grand Rapids City truck? It has just loaded up with snow made at Mt. Itasca and it was delivered to Central School and Children's Discovery Museum for some early SnowFolk to be built. Hopefully these SnowFolk will do a snow dance and we'll have plenty of snow to build "The Challenge of 1000 SnowFolk in Itasca County". If everyone joins in and does a "SNOW DANCE" and chants "LET IT SNOW" we'll hopefully have enough snow for the Great Itasca SnowFolk Festival and all the other fun snow activities we love to do in our great Northland.

Children First! planning committee members comprised of IASC Community Education, Forest History Center, Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital, Itasca County Family YMCA, MacRostie Art Center, Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation, Grand Rapids Area, Coleraine and Nashwauk libraries, Children's Discovery Museum, Central School, Itasca Historical Society, Marcel Family Center, Itasca Orchestra and Strings, Step Ahead, Creativity Tank and Eagleview Community Center have planned fun activities for families and friends of all ages to embrace our winter and enjoy the snow. During these activities and throughout the county we are encouraging our communities to build SnowFolk. Take up the Challenge – Build 1000 SnowFolk in Itasca County during Great Itasca SnowFolk Festival!

Make sure you get out and build a SnowFolk, take a picture and post it on the Children First! Facebook page, www.facebook.comchildrenfirstitascacountyminnesota, and get your friends to "LIKE" it. You might get "bragging rights" to the most "liked" SnowFolk in Itasca County.

Check out all the fun activities Children First! has planned throughout Itasca County. Go to www.getlearning.org and click on Great Itasca SnowFolk Festival logo for a copy of the flyer or stop by the area libraries, Community Education offices, IRA Civic Center or YMCA to pick up a copy. Also become a fan of Children First! Facebook page and get updates of Children First! and Great Itasca SnowFolk Festival. www.facebook.comchildrenfirstitascacountyminnesota.

Regardless of snow, the scheduled events will go on as planned; however, snow would make them all a lot more fun. So when you wish upon that first star each night – make the wish be for Snow, Snow, and more Snow.

Grand Rapids Central Business District Association to Discuss New Downtown Revitalization Program

2011-12-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

The next meeting for the Central Business District Association will be:

Wednesday, December 14th,

8:00 am at the Central School - Ground Level.

On November 17th, Emily Northey was here and gave her presentation on the Minnesota Mainstreet Program.

In 1977, the National Trust of Historic Preservation launched the Main Street Program as a 3 year pilot aimed at preserving deteriorating downtown buildings in 3 midwestern communities. Today they use a Four Point Approach to Commercial District Revitalization: Design, Economic Restructuring, Promotion, Organization.

Designated Main Street Programs in Minnesota are in Brainerd, Fairbault, New Ulm, Red Wing and Wilmar.

Associate Member Programs are in Albert Lea, Amboy Community Club, Austin, Belle Plaine, Chisholm, Hastings, Lake City, Litchfield, Luverne EDA, Mankatao, Northfield, Osakis, Owatonna, Park Rapids, St. Cloud, Sauk Centre, Stillwater, Wabasha, Winona, Worthington.

Grand Rapids has many pieces of this program in place already. We have so many good things to offer already. Now we have to decide, "Is this the program that will take us the rest of the way to revitalize Downtown Grand Rapids?" We don't need to re-invent the wheel. They've already done that.

The program has been very successful in many cities already. There is a time commitment and monetary commitment to the program. Three years seems to be an average where cities can measure results but this can vary. There would also be an employee for the program who coordinate all the activities and responsibilities. Emily was this person for the Brainerd program.

For more information about the program, please go to www.mnpreservation.org/programs/main-street or Google Minnesota Mainstreet Program. There is a boatload of good information there.

Please attend the meeting. Everyone's opinion is important!

Thank you,

Jean Healy, Manager
Central Square Mall
201 NW 4th Street
Grand Rapids MN 55744
P:218-326-4765
F:218-999-5020

Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation receives grant for Riverfront Energy Center

2011-11-30T17:02:00.001-08:00

Jeff Larson from MN Energy (representing the Wisconsin Public Services Foundation) presented the first installment, $2000, of a pledged $6000 donation to the Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation for the educational portion of the Riverfront Energy Center. The presentation was made Thursday, December 1st in front of the library.

The River Front Energy Center, to be completed by December 11, will utilize hot waste water from the UPM Kymmene paper mill to provide heat for the Grand Rapids Area Library. The goal is a reduction of 70% in the use of the gas-fired boilers in the library.

The Grand Rapids Area Library Foundation is raising money for the educational components of the project, which will include interactive displays of on-going processes, a demonstration solar unit and a demonstration wind turbine. Fundraising events and activities will be taking place during the next several months, and donations will also be accepted at the Library.

The first phase of the educational project will be a dashboard showing real time building data with energy consumed from various sources, and the amount of energy saved. The dashboard will be accessible remotely via the internet, as well as from inside the building and the Library. (A demonstration of one version of an educational dashboard can be found at : http://franklin.qagdevelopment.com/ )

The Grand Rapids Public Utilities Commission has also pledged a contribution of $5000 for the educational project.

Construction of the Energy Center has been funded in part with grants from the Iron Ranges Resources and Rehabilitation Board and the Blandin Foundation

Children First! Events for November 2011 in Grand Rapids

2011-11-02T15:24:00.001-07:00

These FREE events are funded in part by Children First! and Blandin
Foundation. Come spend some time with us!

Zany Filmo Puppets - Tuesday Nov. 15th 3:30-4:45 pm at Grand Rapids
Area Library
Pinocchio=Puppets – Check out the book Pinocchio. Discover how to make
your own puppet with Creativity Tank artists. Create your own story
for your puppet. Free and open to all ages! Children 0-6 must be
accompanied by an adult. Registration required. Register online at
www.getlearning.org or call Library at 327-8823

Thanksgiving Dinner at the Ground Floor – Thursday, Thanksgiving Day,
Nov. 24th 6pm-Midnight
Don't spend the Holiday alone! Spend it at Ground Floor enjoying a
delicious Thanksgiving Dinner. Free dinner for area youth 13-college
age and their parents or grandparents.

Respectfully submitted,
Karen Walker
Children First! ISD 318 Coordinator
820 NW First Avenue
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-327-5799
kwalker@isd318.org
www.getlearning.org

Find us on Facebook
Itasca Area Community Education - Minnesota
http://www.facebook.com/itascaareacommunityeducationminnesota
Children First! Itasca County Minnesota
http://www.facebook.com/childrenfirstitascacountyminnesota

October 25th Food Day: Eat Real Workshop

2011-10-20T14:29:00.001-07:00

In honor of Food Day, Get Fit Itasca will be hosting a workshop entitled Food Day: Eat Real on October 25 from 6pm to 8pm at the Grand Rapids YMCA.

The evening includes:

· Knife skills instruction by Le Cordon Bleu Certified Chef, Meghan Bown

· Group Supper preparation

· Food for Health with U of MN Extension educator, Betsy Johnson

· Round table discussions: How to increase fruit & vegetables and still keep your costs down?

· Take-homes, including: tips for reducing salt, fat & sugar; recipes and menus

There is a $5.00 Registration fee

Pre Registration required at the Itasca County Family YMCA

400 River Road, Grand Rapids, MN 55744

Please refer questions to Meghan Bown,

Get Fit Itasca/SHIP Community Health Coordinator at 327-1161

Visit www.getfititasca.org to learn more about physical activity and healthy eating in Itasca County!

Central Businesses/MN Historical Society to Host Minnesota Main Street Program Presentation

2011-10-20T14:24:00.001-07:00

Emily Northey presents the Minnesota Main Street Program

Date: November 17, 2011

Time: 8 am - 10 am

Location: Grand Rapids Old Central School - Third Floor.

This location provides an excellent overview of the Downtown Grand Rapids area.

Central Businesses and the MN Historical Society would like to invite you to attend Emily Northey's presentation on the Minnesota Main Street Program. Minnesota Main Street, a program of the Preservation Alliance of MN, provides participating local Main Street organizations with the training, tools, information and netowrking they need to be successful in their downtown revitalization efforts.

Designated Main Street Programs in Minnesota are in Brainerd, Fairbault, New Ulm, Red Wing and Wilmar.

We would like to have as many CBDA members as possible plus Visit Grand Rapids, City of Grand Rapids, City of Grand Rapids Parks and Rec, Chamber of Commerce, Riverfront Task Force, Central School Task Force, EDA, Community Foundation, Grand Rapids Arts, Central School Commission. We are also extending an invitation to Senator Tom Saxhaug and Representative Carolyn McElfatrick.

This could be a very exciting program for us so please extend our invitation to any businesses or people you think would be interested in learning about the Minnesota Main Street Program! We welcome everyone and hope they will attend!

Sincerely,

Jean Healy, Manager
Central Square Mall
201 NW 4th Street
Grand Rapids MN 55744
P:218-326-4765
F:218-999-5020
csmall@paulbunyan.net

Dixon Lake Drowning Victim Identified

2011-10-11T09:18:00.001-07:00

Itasca County Chief Deputy Gregg Deutsch reports on Oct. 03, 2011, at approximately 3:44 pm the Itasca County Sheriffs' Office received a 911 call of a possible drowning on Dixon Lake in Itasca County. It was reported an adult male was observed floating in the water next to a dock.

Itasca County Sheriff Deputies, Minnesota Conservation Officers, and Leech Lake Conservation Officers responded to the scene. Itasca County Search and Rescue was called out and put on standby.

Upon arrival at Dixon Lake, an elderly adult male was found floating in the water next to his dock. The victim has been identified as David Jerome Ekberg, age 82.

Itasca County Coroner was notified and Blackduck Ambulance transported the victim to Grand Itasca Medical Center for an autopsy. Results are pending.

First Friday at Something Original

2011-10-04T10:58:00.001-07:00

Please join us...

What: It's FIRST FRIDAY, October 7

Where: something ORIGINAL

When: 4 - 8 pm

Who: we are proud to announce Itasca Orchestra members:

MAGGIE Anderson, OLIVIA Skaja, and SOLVEIG Viren, performing from

6:30 to 7:30 pm.

Visiting ARTISAN: Liz White {offering

special October pricing}

ENJOY complimentary mulled cider and delectibles

We look forward to seeing you!

Sheri & Stephanie

Victim Identified in Itasca County Fire

2011-09-09T05:59:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, September 7, at 11:32 A.M., the Grand Rapids Fire Department assisted by the Cohasset Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 33187 Crystal Springs Rd. Grand Rapids in Harris Township.

Upon arrival the Grand Rapids Fire Department began fighting the fire that was engulfing the Northwest side of the building. Upon entry into the building, Fire Fighters found the body of an adult male in a bedroom area of the residence.

The Itasca County Sheriff's Dept. was on scene at that time and initiated the investigation assisted by the Minnesota State Fire Marshal's Office.

The adult male victim was identified as Timothy Nelson Hill, 63 years old. A small dog was also found inside the residence deceased.

Investigator Dean Scherf of the Itasca County Sheriff's Dept. said the actual cause of the fire is still under investigation, but it is believed that there was an explosion of some type on the interior of the residence that started the fire. Scherf states that the cause of death was smoke inhalation. No foul play is suspected.

Children First! Events

2011-08-15T21:02:00.001-07:00

FREE Children First! events for August and September

August 9, 2011

We have lots of great Children First! events offered at no charge to finish up your summer and welcome in the new school year and Fall. All of the events are listed below and are also on our website www.getlearning.org under Children First! or find us on Facebook under Children First! Itasca County, Minnesota. Become our fan and you'll get updates on our events. Registration is required on some events because of limited availability and requested on other events. You can register online at www.getlearning.org or by calling the event sponsor, which is listed online or on our Facebook page.

Watch for the Community Education print catalog which will be in your mailboxes the week of August 22, 2011. Our Children First! events for Sept.-Jan will be listed in this catalog along with all our fun classes and events for our communities.

Saturday, August 20, 2011 FAMILY FUN DAY AT MACROSTIE ART CENTER 10am-3pm, Grand Rapids, MN
WATERCOLORS-Join MacRostie staff and artists in exploring Watercolor painting. You'll leave with lots of completed paintings and will discover the techniques of watercolor painting. Register for one of 4 free 1 hr. sessions from 10 am-3 pm. This event is hosted by MacRostie Art Center. Register online at www.getlearning.org or call MacRostie at 218-326-2697.

Wednesday, August 31, 2011, BACK TO SCHOOL BASH 5:30-7:00 pm at Longyear Park in Coleraine, MN
Celebrate back to school with Children First! and Terrence Smith, American Folk Dance Caller and Musician! Terrence performs an interactive show geared towards children ages Pre/K - Elementary and their families. Grab an ice cream cone, have your face painted and take a free book to bring home!! Hope to see you there! This is a Free Children First! Event and open to all families! This is event is hosted by ISD 318 Community Education, Step Ahead and ISD 316 Community Education. Registration requested at www.getlearning.org or 218-327-5730

Saturday, September 10, 2011 FAMILY ART WALK 12pm-3:30pm at Forest History Center in Grand Rapids, MN Create environmental art with materials and elements found while on a nature walk. Artist Marie Schrobilgen and MacRostie Art Center Staff will introduce the styles and processes used while creating art with nature. Participants are encouraged to bring a camera to record their finished artwork. The art walk site will be the Forest History Center Hiking Trails. This event is hosted by MacRostie Art Center and Forest History Center and is rescheduled from July 2011. Register online at www.getlearning.org or call 218-326-2697.
Remember these events are FREE and for all ages. All children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Please register all children and adults that are attending. Hope to see you at these events.
Respectfully submitted,
Karen Walker-Children First! Coordinator

Itasca County Sheriff Recovers Body of Drowning Victim

2011-07-28T18:43:00.000-07:00

On Sunday ~ July 24, 2011, at approximately 6:44 p.m., the Itasca County Sheriff's Office received a call reporting that a hat was floating beside a capsized canoe that was half full of water on Jack the Horse Lake. Itasca County Sheriff's Office personnel, Itasca County Search and Rescue and DNR Conservation Officers responded to the scene. The Bigfork Ambulance was placed on standby.

At the scene it was learned that on Saturday, July 23, 2011, just prior to dark, an adult male was observed leaving the dock in the canoe to go fishing and had not returned. The search continued until dark on July 24, 2011.

Itasca County Sheriff's Office personnel along with Itasca County Search and Rescue, Itasca County Sheriff's Dive Team and Minnesota DNR are continuing search efforts this morning, July 25, 2011.

UPDATED INFORMATION: On July 27, 2011, at 8:00 p.m., The Itasca County Sheriff's Search and Rescue Team, Recovered the body of Mark Daniel Scott, 56 of Burnsville, MN. Scott was not wearing a life jacket at the time of recovery.

Extensive search efforts were conducted by the Itasca County Sheriff's Office, Itasca County Sheriff's Search and Rescue Team, Itasca County Dive Team, Minnesota DNR, (water and air units), St. Louis County Search and Rescue K-9 Unit, and K-9 Emergency Response Team Inc. of Wisconsin.

Itasca County Sheriff's Office

440 1st Avenue NE
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Phone (218) 326-3477
Fax (218) 326-4663

Saxhaug's Update on Final Budget Agreement

2011-07-20T14:55:00.001-07:00

Government Shutdown Ended

The Government Shutdown ended Wednesday. Governor Dayton called a Special Session on Tuesday and signed the bills into law after a 12 hour session that went past 3a.m. Wednesday morning. There are still things to do to get our state back up and running but the stalemate between the Governor and Republican leadership has ended. I am not happy with the final solution but I recognized the need to get our state back to work.
The final agreement that closed the $1.4 billion gap shifted another $700 million, for a total of $2.1 billion, from our schools and sold $700 million in tobacco bonds. While there is additional revenue it will be years before we pay off that debt. We are using a proposal that Tim Pawlenty suggested when he was Governor that was a bad idea then and is still a bad idea today. This agreement does nothing to fix the problems we have in our state budget.
It is the responsibility of the Legislature to pass a total budget package that the Governor will agree to sign. The Governor said from the beginning that he would not agree to a cuts-only budget and wanted new revenue along with substantial cuts and reforms. The budget passed by the Republicans increased property taxes on all Minnesotans by $1 billion, cut 140,000 of our vulnerable citizens off of their health care, reduced special education by $56.5 million, made the biggest cuts to colleges and universities in our state's history. It hurt the shrinking middle class just to protect the 7,700 millionaires in the state from paying the same share of taxes you and I pay.
I thank the Governor for standing up to an additional $1.4 billion in cuts that were proposed by the Republican Legislature. The Governor already cut $2.2 billion in his budget and any further cuts would have decimated the education and health care systems that we pride ourselves on as Minnesotans.
We passed 12 bills in the special session ranging from K-12 Education to a Bonding bill which will fund projects to get people back to work. The final Environment and Natural Resources Budget Bill kept the forest industry competitive and I voted for it. It does use a substantial amount of one time funding which just creates the same problem for us in the next budget cycle. The Economic Development Bill is critical for promoting job growth and that was another bill that I voted for.
We are all in this together and I have always worked for a balanced approach to solving our continuing budget problems. We have to stop using shifts, gimmicks and borrowing to help us generate a more stable state economy. My hope is that in the next budget cycle we can have true tax reform like a lower sales tax rate that covers more goods and services and income tax reform that relies less on exemptions and deductions.
I am glad that a budget agreement was reached. But in the next biennium, we will once again be staring at the same problems. I would like to see the solutions, like the tax reform I mentioned above, before a catastrophe like the shutdown we just endured ever happens again.
Best Regards,
Tom

PUBLIC FORUM TO CREATE CITIZEN BUDGET SOLUTIONS - Grand Rapids July 19

2011-07-14T18:50:00.001-07:00

Forums planned for Grand Rapids, Rochester and Twin Cities July 19-21

Saint Paul, Minn. (July 13, 2011) –The Bush Foundation, in collaboration with InCommons, will host a series of three citizen

forums in Grand Rapids, the Twin Cities and Rochester, Minn. from Jul. 19 to Jul. 21. At the events, citizens will work in

small groups to identify potential budget solutions. Citizen-participants will be selected for the greatest possible diversity in

ideologies and perspectives from those who register online at www.InCommons.org/citizensolutions. Participation will be

limited to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to fully engage in the conversation.

Once the forums are complete, the Bush Foundation and InCommons will compile lessons from these forums to share with

Governor Dayton and legislators, and to inform future citizen engagement efforts.

"Unfiltered, nonpartisan citizens' voices need to be a part of whatever budget decisions Minnesota's leaders make in 2011

and in the years to come," noted C. Scott Cooper, Director of Communications and Engagement for the Bush Foundation.

"These forums are intended to give interested citizens from diverse ideologies and perspectives a neutral space and good

information so they can come together and reach consensus about our state's budget future."

WHO: Citizens of diverse backgrounds and perspectives

WHAT: Citizen Solutions forums to engage Minnesotans in offering real solutions to

the state's budget stalemates

WHEN: 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.

WHERE: Grand Rapids, July 19

Twin Cities, July 20

Rochester, July 21

NOTE:Dinner and childcare will be provided to selected participants at each Citizens Solutions venue

Hwy 65 closed from Nashwauk to Togo in Itasca County

2011-06-27T13:25:00.001-07:00

Hwy 65 closed from Nashwauk to Togo in Itasca County

DULUTH, Minn. — MnDOT has closed Highway 65 from Nashwauk to Togo due to flooding. Motorists are encouraged to use Highway 73 or Highway 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.

News from Minnesota's Nature

2011-06-23T08:10:00.001-07:00

Visit Grand Rapids June e-News News from Minnesota's Nature



What's in Your Nature? Love spending time outdoors in the summer? Want to learn more about what happens in Minnesota's nature? While vacationing in the Grand Rapids area, you can participate in a number of naturalist programs designed to entertain, educate, and inspire appreciation for Minnesota's environment. From wild edibles to phenology, the programs feature a broad range of topics that connect you with the natural environment around you. The Forest History Center offers a series of outdoor educational programs combined with a day pass to visit the interpretive museum and turn-of-the-century lumberjack camp with costumed interpreters. The Chippewa National Forest also offers a summer series of free naturalist programs. For dates and course information, visit the Grand Rapids calendar of events. New Eats Visitors have two more choices for eats during their Grand Rapids vacation. The Harbor Grand Restaurant & Sports Bar is now open on Pokegama Lake. They brought back some old favorites like the deep-fried cauliflower from the original Harbor, along with some new ideas like the monstrous 5-pound "Dirty McNasty" burger. Also new, is Daylight Donuts, in downtown Grand Rapids, serving the odd, but intriguing, combination of donuts and gourmet hot dogs. You'll find contacts for these businesses and our favorite restaurants on the Visit Grand Rapids website. Fishing Reports After the long Minnesota winter, the cool start to the summer isn't pleasing most Minnesotans; however, it has been good for the anglers. The cooler than normal weather has extended the usual good spring fishing on most area lakes. Anglers are reporting a good walleye bite and slightly delayed spawning of sought-after pan fish species. If you need help finding a guide, or just want an update on the current fishing conditions, be sure to check out our Grand Rapids fishing reports page. Good luck and great fishing. "Like Us" on Facebook We are having fun on our Facebook page and invite you to join us. Join the conversation, see visitors' photos, and laugh at the insider fun you can't get on our website when you "like" us on Facebook.

June 2011

Hot Deals

Fishing Report

Grand Rapids Golf Courses

Motorcycle Touring

Calendar Highlights

June Event Highlights

23-25

Blues Fest

Sam Miltich Trio

24-25

Be a Lumberjack

25-26

MN Mounted Shooters

Bird Song Identification

More June Events

July Event Highlights

Fireworks & Parades

8-10

Wild Rice Festival

Birding for Beginners

14-16

Showboat!

Riverfront Music Festival

29-31

Northstar Stampede

30-31

Car Show, Swap & Flea

More July Events

August Event Highlights

5-7

Tall Timber Days

5-7

White Oak Rendezvous

Fish-A-Rama

13-14

Threshing Show

19-21

Grand Slam Golf Tourny

More August Events

(View the Full Calendar of Events)

Request A Brochure
Contact Us

12th ANNUAL MARY SANDSTROM MEMORIAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT

2011-06-21T16:42:00.001-07:00

12th ANNUAL
MARY SANDSTROM MEMORIAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT

Join us to compete and play great tennis! Tennis matches will be at Eagle Ridge, Bovey, LaPrairie, Marble, Grand Rapids, Crystal Springs, Wendigo, and Grussendorf Parks. Everyone is guaranteed 2 matches. There will be a championship and consolation bracket. Great prizes, trophies, goody bags and lunch provided.
Wednesday, July 13 2011
Boys & Girls 8, 10 and 12 Singles
Thursday, July 14, 2011(Friday, if necessary)
Boys & Girls 14, 16 and 18 Singles, Doubles and Mixed

Entries must be called into Lew Smiley at 218-256-0400. All entries close at 4:00 pm on Sunday, July 10, 2011. All players must register and pay fees the morning of the tournament per the following schedule:
Registration is:
Wednesday, July 13 8:00-8:30 am at Eagle Ridge, Coleraine for 8, 10, 12 year olds & under.
Thursday, July 14 8:00-8:30 am at Eagle Ridge, Coleraine 14, 16 and 18 year olds for singles, doubles & mixed.
EVENTS to register for: Singles (Boys & Girls) 8 & under, 10 & under, 12 & under, 14 & under, 16 & under, 18 & under
Doubles 15 & under, 18 & under
Mixed Doubles 18 & under

Press Release June 21, 2011
From IASC Community Education
Karen Walker
Marketing Coordinator
IASC Community Education
kwalker@isd318.org
218-327-5799

What’s Happening at the Grand Rapids Area Library June 2011

2011-06-05T06:31:00.001-07:00

Check it out @ your Library™

Last minute tickets to area attractions.

We just received a few more tickets which must be used by June 13:

Judy Garland/Children's Museum

Minnesota Discovery Center

Great Lakes Aquarium

Historic Union Depot (Duluth)

Split rock Lighthouse

Lake County Historical Society (Two Harbors)

These passes have been funded with money from the sales tax which dedicated funding to preserve Minnesota's arts and cultural heritage.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday, June 7, 7 pm Watercolor magic

Duane Barnhart will present a program on watercolor painting on. Aspiring and experienced painters will gain insights about the art of watercolor painting as Barnhart, a freelance cartoonist and visual artist, demonstrates and describes watercolor techniques.

Tuesday, June 14, 7 pm Agates of Lake Superior

Bob and Dan Lynch have written and photographed five books including rock and mineral guides for Lake Superior, Arizona, Colorado, Michigan. They will share insights gained from their most recent project on Lake Superior Agates. Learn about geology, minerals and rock collecting!

Tuesday, June 14, 1:00-2:30 Teen Gamefest

Stop in to play tons of board games or Wii. Snacks!

Wednesday, June 15, 12:00-1:30 Germany Ascendant

Great Decisions Discussion – all welcome!
Germany has emerged from both the financial crisis and the eurozone crisis as the dominant economic and political power in Europe, in particular setting the tone for dealings with Russia, Eastern Europe and Iran. How important is it for U.S, interests to enhance relations with Germany, and how should the U.S. react when German and U.S. interests fail to align? http://www.fpa.org

Thursday, June 16^th, 1 pm Harp adventures with Christina Cotruvo

Learn about and play a harp while following the Harp Mouse on His Adventures

June 23 6:00 pm Family Movie Night Gnomeo and Juliet

Join us for another in our Family Movie Night series! This month we will present Gnomeo and Juliet on the big screen in the community room. Bring dinner or a snack and join us!

June 27 7:00 pm In Search of Great Places: Travels Along the Mississippi River

Dean Klinkenberg, author of Mississippi Valley Traveler guidebooks, leads a discussion about travel and finding a sense of place. Dean has traveled in more than 30 countries and learned that that he can satisfy his desire for local foods, culture, and people close to home right along the Mississippi River. Check his web site at: http://mississippivalleytraveler.com

June 28, Make your own Journal

Join artists from the Creativity Tank to make your own journal. Please pre-register by calling 326-7640

12:00-2:00 For Teens

2:30 – 5:00 for kids ages 6-11

June 30, 12:00 David Lien Four Years and Forty-Four Fourteeners

Local adventurer and mountaineer, David Lien, set and achieved a goal to climb forty four 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado's rugged Rocky Mountains during four years in the late 1990's. Four years and three days after climbing his first, Lien climbed his fifty-fourth on Mount Eolus. He has written about his adventures in a book entitled "Four Years and Forty-Four Fourteeners." Lien, originally from Grand Rapids, shares photos and stories from his wilderness adventures.

Summer Reading For Everyone!

Novel Destinations
Our adult summer reading program begins June 6 . Pick up a book bingo card and expand your reading horizons! Read something you would not otherwise read. If you are in a book group and would like a Library staff person to do a short talk on free downloadable ebooks and audiobooks available from the library, let us know!
You are Here
Our teen summer reading program also starts June 6. Read a book, complete a review and enter a drawing each week for fun prizes! Our 2nd Annual Teen Photo Contest begins this week also. Teens can submit photos until July 23rd. Stop at the reference desk for a submission form.
One World Many Stories
Kids (ages 0-14) can sign up for our summer reading program, pick up a reading log, and keep track of their reading. Bring back the completed log and get a free book to keep! Children under age 5 completing the summer reading program are eligible for Baby Steps Coupons.
This week we have a small craft project to pick up and take home to work on. Also be sure to pick up a list of all the fun programs scheduled for the summer.

Story times will continue all summer. Bring the little ones for a fun time.

Saturdays at 10:30 with teachers from ECFE

Mondays 10:30. Story Time with Darla

Summer Hours until Labor Day:

M-Thurs 9 am – 7 pm, Friday 9 am -5 pm, Sat. 10 am-2 pm

Find more upcoming events on our Event Calendar

A direct link to the Library's online event calendar is here. A link to just the events for children is available by clicking on the "kids" button on the Library's web site.

For more details on any of the programs, go to the Library's Web Site: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us You can also find a calendar on the left side of the page. Click on "Calendar" for a link to the complete list of events at the library.

TONIGHT is first friday!!

2011-06-03T11:23:00.001-07:00

Please join us and other downtown shops for our very first,

FIRST FRIDAY!

The following shops are open late TONIGHT

until 7:00 for your shopping enjoyment!!

something ORIGINAL, inc.
MacRostie Art Center
Frame Up
Lillian's
Checkered Past
Whispering Woods (NEW, located in the old central school)

something ORIGINAL is receiving fresh, new Artist Inventory daily, we hope you'll join us tonight for

chocolate & refreshments

Bienvenidos Teens and Adults to this Spanish-Speaking Class! - New from 318 Community Ed

2011-06-01T12:54:00.001-07:00

(Bienvenidos=welcome)
Gain Spanish Language Skills! Communicate with Spanish speakers in your community, at work or in your travels. Beginners-Explore the language and the culture and those with previous
Spanish instruction improve and enhance your speaking skills! We'll cover: vocabulary, reading
comprehension and grammar, pronunciation and the basic skills to allow you to communicate
when traveling to a Spanish-speaking country. Please bring a notebook, note cards and a folder.
Gracias!
Class # 318835
Tuesdays ~ 6/21/11 - 7/12/11
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Instructor: Rachel Pierce
Location: ISD 318 Administrative Services Building-Conference Rm 135
Fee: $60.00
Register online www.getlearning.org or with 318 Community Ed, 327-5730
Registration closes on June 16, 2011.

Tom Saxhaug: End of Session Recap

2011-05-27T09:25:00.001-07:00

End of Session Recap

The 2011 Legislative Session ended at midnight on Monday, May 23rd. On Tuesday, the Governor vetoed the 9 budget bills that were presented in the last week of session. There was no final budget agreement in the waning hours of the regular session. Consequently, we will need to have a special session to balance the State Budget or we will end up in a government shutdown. Governor Dayton moved from his original position of $3.35 billion in new revenue to a mix of $1.8 billion in new revenue and $1.8 billion in cuts. The $1.8 billion in new revenue will only be generated from the top 2% of income earners in the State.
The Republican controlled Legislature did not move from its original budget position, refusing to compromise in any way. Some of the effects of their budget and the reasons that Governor Dayton vetoed the bills include:

Increasing property taxes on homeowners, renters, and small businesses across the state by more than $1 billion over the next four years.
Taking health care away from 140,000 Minnesotans, cutting $250 million from programs serving the elderly and disabled, and slashing funding for Minnesota hospitals by over $900 million.
Cutting special education by $56.5 million.
Making the biggest cuts to colleges and universities in our state's history – 14% from MnSCU and 19% from the University of Minnesota.
Cutting funding to the DNR that will result in park closures during the summer, negatively affecting the tourism season that is one of the main economic drivers in our region.

Legislative Accomplishments

Even though the Legislature was unable to reach a compromise with the Governor on a balanced budget, there were important pieces of legislation that were passed in the 2011 session. Below are the highlights of work accomplished for the citizens of Senate District 3:

$100,000 grant from the Department of Agriculture to Lake of the Woods County. This is for a feasibility study, site identification and site preparation for a proposed biomass facility.
Final legislation for the Highway 332 turnback in Koochiching County. This will help with the county's transportation budget and economic development related to the Foreign Trade Zone near International Falls.
The Aquatic Invasive Species language was part of the final Environment and Natural Resources Policy bill. This will go a long ways towards stopping these non native species in their tracks, bringing this issue to the attention of the people of Minnesota, and getting tough on those who won't respect our natural resources.
Language in the Agriculture bill will allow for counties to make improvements to their fairgrounds. Aitkin County requested this legislation in order to exchange part of their county agriculture lands with an adjacent landowner.
The Tax Policy bill which passed the final day of session contained language relating to a Tax Increment Financing shift for the City of Cohasset. This will enable Cohasset to improve infrastructure related to economic development.

The Regular Session ended without a balanced budget and with fears of a government shutdown. We sincerely hope it won't come to that and an agreement can be reached in June.

MCN Legislative Session Wrap-Up and Basics of Non-profit Advocacy Workshop

2011-05-27T05:38:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday afternoon, June 8th, Jeannie Fox, MCN's deputy public policy director, will be giving us an update on the Minnesota Legislative session and a primer on Nonprofit Advocacy at the Grand Rapids Area Library.

Legislative Session Wrap-Up

Come meet with other nonprofit leaders in your area to discuss the results of the 2011 legislative session. Jeannie Fox, MCN's deputy public policy director, will report from her role of monitoring and advancing legislative issues related to the nonprofit sector and will give a review of the legislative process and what may remain to be done. We would also love to hear reports of your own organization's issue area if you have been tracking legislation.

Basics of Nonprofit Advocacy

The Session Wrap-Up component will be followed by a brief training on the Basics of Nonprofit Advocacy. Jeannie will answer such questions as:

• Is lobbying legal for nonprofits?

• What does the IRS care about when it comes to nonprofits and advocacy?

• Are there state regulations regarding nonprofits and advocacy?

Agenda:

12:00 – 12:30 Lunch and/or networking – bring a bag lunch if you care to. Coffee and cookies will be provided.

12:30 – 1:30 Session Wrap-Up

1:30 – 3:00 Basics of nonprofit advocacy - training and discussion

Details:

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Noon to 3 p.m.

Grand Rapids Public Library, 140 NE Second St., Grand Rapids

Everyone welcome - no charge – but please let us know you are planning on attending by emailing Mary Streufert at mstreufert@minnesotanonprofits.org or call 218-726-4887.

Saxhaug Capitol Update: Conference Committee Reports nearly completed

2011-05-17T07:57:00.001-07:00

Conference Committee Reports nearly completed

As we head into the final week of session, the Legislature is getting closer to presenting its budget to the Governor. The Senate and House have finalized the majority of their conference committees. Once those are completed and all the conference committee reports are passed on to the Governor, the Legislature will have its position for final negotiations. There is still an approximate three billion dollar difference between what the Legislature is proposing and the Governor's budget recommendations.
Northern Minnesota is going to be negatively affected by whatever budget solution is passed. The Sustainable Forest Incentive Act (SFIA), Local Government Aid (LGA), County Aid programs, Market Value Credit, Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) and the Environment and Natural Resources Budget are critical to maintaining our way of life, and the budget being adopted does serious damage to those programs. Below is a list of the major cuts that we stand to face:

The SFIA program is repealed in the Omnibus Tax Bill (House File 42) voiding all contracts currently in place.
PILT is cut 12% in the Omnibus Tax Bill (HF 42) resulting in property tax increases in counties that have public land.
LGA, County Aid and the Market Value Credits are reduced by almost $487 million in the Omnibus Tax Bill (HF 42) which will result in cuts to essential services like Police and Firefighters for rural communities across the State.
The cuts to the forestry budget in the Environment and Natural resources Budget Bill (HF 1010) will result in reductions of foresters working for the DNR and 250,000 fewer cords of wood being put up for sale – a 31% reduction to the 4th largest industry in the State.
The Parks and Trails budget in the Environment and Natural Resources Budget Bill (HF 1010) is cut by $7.3 million. This will result in DNR staff reductions, closing State Parks and have a negative effect on our tourism industry which creates $11 billion in revenue and almost $700 million in sales tax each year.

With seven days until adjournment of the Regular Session, I am still hopeful that a balanced approach can be reached and some of these cuts can be modified.

Final Issue:

A recap of the final budget solution and the 2011 Regular Legislative Session

Senator Saxhaug greeted the 6th grade students from McGregor Elementary during their visit to the State Capitol

Capitol Update from Tom Saxhaug

2011-05-02T13:01:00.001-07:00

Senate Tax Bill cuts Payment in Lieu of Taxes

As part of the Republican solution to the $5 billion deficit, HF 42 – the Omnibus Tax Bill, has a provision that cuts Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILT). The purpose of PILT is to pay counties for Natural Resource land that is not on the tax base to help them provide mandated services and programs. The concept has been around as far back as the 1940's and became law in the 1970's. PILT payments are made to counties to provide property tax relief to residents who are paying a disproportionate share of the tax burden due to the presence of tax exempt public lands. They also encourage retention of public land base and foster sustainable natural resource management for long term benefits for future generations.
Counties that have large amounts of public land rely on these payments to offset property taxes that aren't collected. That money is critical to local budgets and this proposal will require rural counties to make additional cuts or increase the local property taxes to backfill the lost revenue. The stability that PILT provides to counties with public land is crucial to the continued viability of local services, Minnesota's timber industry and recreation opportunities for everyone in the state.

Higher Education Budget cuts U of MN and MNSCU

The Republican controlled Senate passed a budget for higher education that cuts the University of Minnesota 19% and MNSCU 13%. This legislation cuts funding for the U of M by more than three times and the Minnesota's State Universities, Community Colleges and Technical Schools twice as much as the Governor's recommendations. The last time our state funded Higher Education at this level was 1998 and we now have 50,000 more students per year. These cuts mean a reduction of over $430,000 to Rainy River Community College and $890,000 to Itasca Community College (ICC).

Every dollar invested in the U of M by the state generates $13.20 in the statewide economy and more than $512.3 million in state and local tax revenue every year. The MnSCU system produces about 34,700 graduates, each year and also serves 157,000 students in non-credit courses. A recent issue of Washington Monthly ranked Minnesota as one of the top Community College States in the U.S. and ICC was ranked 5th overall. These cuts will have consequences beyond higher tuition and fees. We will likely see faculty and staff layoffs, enrollment caps, reductions in the size and scope of course offerings and fewer student services. If we are going to be serious about creating jobs and attracting new businesses, we need to offer highly trained and skilled workers. This proposal does nothing to help us work our way out of the Great Recession.

Senator Saxhaug had the opportunity to meet with Amy Hildebrandt, David Furuseth and the 4th and 5th grade students from Northome in the Governor's reception room as they toured the State Capitol

Next Issue:

The final stretch to the

Budget Solution

Forest History Center and ISD 318 Community Education Team Up to Offer Classes in May

2011-04-20T15:02:00.001-07:00

The Forest History Center and ISD 318 Community Education have teamed up to offer classes this May at the Forest History Center, Grand Rapids. We have FREE Children First! events and Wild Edibles for adults and their families. Please register online at www.getlearning.org or call 327-5730

FREE Children First! Event
Nature Night – Tuesday, May 10, 2011 6:30-8:00 pm at
Forest History Center. Choose between 2 sessions to register for and attend.
Session S1 Who Goes There? Tracks and Scats Class # 3181028 S1 Explore the mysterious world of animals that inhabit Minnesota Forest by learning about the clues they leave behind. Taught by FHC Naturalist-Paula Dibb
Session S2 Batty about Bats! Class #3181028 S2
Are you scared of bats? Discover more about these fascinating creatures and how they make life more comfortable for humans. Taught by FHC Naturalist Nick Wourms.
Please register online at www.getlearning.org or call 327-5730

Wild Edibles I: Early Spring Foraging Class #318621
May is one of the most exciting months to gather edible plants in the wild. Join Judy Sutherland and Bill Carpenter at the Forest History Center for a wild edible hunt. Learn what plants are edible, where to find them and what plants to avoid. Wear clothing appropriate for weather-you will be outside in the woods.
Judy Sutherland & Bill Carpenter
Date: Thursday, May 12, 2011
Time of Class: 6:00-8:00
Class Fee: $20.00
Location: Forest History Center
Please register online at www.getlearning.org or call 327-5730

Wild Edibles II: Preparing and Tasting Class #318622
Judy Sutherland and Bill Carpenter will teach you some secret recipes and techniques for making your wild edibles delicious and tasty. We will be cooking and tasting our Wild Edibles in this class. It is suggested that you have attended one of Judy and Bill's Wild Edibles classes before you take this class. You can also bring any of your recipes to share.
Instructors: Judy Sutherland & Bill Carpenter
Date: Thursday, May 19, 2011
Time of Class: 6:00-8:00
Class Fee: $20.00
Location: Forest History Center
Please register online at www.getlearning.org or call 327-5730

Press Release on Classes at Forest History Center – from
Karen Walker Community Education, kwalker@isd318.org , 327-5799 and
Ed Nelson, Forest History Center, ednelson@mnhs.org, 327-4482 ext. 3

Senator Saxhaug Appointed to IRRRB and LSOHC

2011-02-25T11:13:00.001-08:00

Senator Saxhaug Appointed to IRRRB and LSOHC

With the 2011 session picking up speed, Senator Tom Saxhaug has been appointed to the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board. The IRRRB is funded by a production tax on taconite the mining companies pay and is used to develop new jobs and businesses and to help pay for Iron Range infrastructure improvements. Saxhaug emphasizes that the agency is integral to economic development in Northern Minnesota and this will continue to allow him to work on projects that will bring jobs to the Iron Range. As Minnesota continues to emerge from the Great Recession and the mines in northern Minnesota are all back at full production, this appointment will be very important in making sure the taconite revenue is used to create economic activities that are crucial to the region.
As a key member of the Environment and Natural Resources Committee, Senator Saxhaug was also appointed to the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council. This Council is responsible for providing funding recommendations to the legislature for projects the Outdoor Heritage Fund focuses on that will preserve our natural resources. Saxhaug's appointment to this council will help ensure that northern Minnesota's forests will have a strong voice in the decisions to enhance the habitat of our region for generations to come.

Forests for the Future

One of the first recommendations made by the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council and passed by the Legislature was the Upper Mississippi Forest Project, an 187,277 acre conservation easement. This easement, finalized in 2010, is a combination of forestland and wetlands owned by UPM/Blandin. It will remain in private ownership for the purposes of property taxes and timber harvesting, can never be developed and will also be kept open to the public for outdoor recreational activities. The easement cost $44 million with $9.75 million coming from private donors and is one of the 10 largest conservation easements in the Nation. The Upper Mississippi Forest project will be one of the signature projects that the people of Minnesota wanted when they voted for the Dedicated Funding Amendment in 2008.
Senator Saxhaug had the pleasure of visiting with Veterans from Itasca County during their day on the hill at the State Capitol.
Pictured left to right are: Randy Carlson, Wayne Patras, Bob Fogle, Senator Tom Saxhaug, Dale Matteson, Dave Valtinson and Marv Ott.
Next edition: A look at the Governor's budget and a brief history of recent revenue increases in the state.

The Arrowhead Regional Arts Council is Seeking New Board Members

2011-02-24T13:37:00.001-08:00

The Arrowhead Regional Arts Council is currently accepting applications from individuals wishing to serve on its Board of Directors. There are currently openings for the following two Board positions: an At-Large representative and a Student Ad-Hoc representative.

ARAC offers grant support and technical assistance to individual artists and non-profit arts organizations who reside in the seven counties which make up the Arrowhead Region: Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake and St. Louis.

ARAC is looking for individuals with knowledge of various art forms and perspectives. Active artists working in all disciplines; artists from communities of color; arts supporters/collectors; or individuals with knowledge of the regional arts community and arts organizations are encouraged to apply.

    ARAC's Board meets the third Thursday of each month except August and December. Council members serve as panelists to award project based funding to regional non-profit arts organizations and artists. Board members also assess the art needs in the region and develop programs that stimulate the regional arts community. Council members serve as volunteers, but are paid a mileage reimbursement for attending meetings. A board term is three years and a Board member may serve two consecutive terms. Serving on the Board gives an individual the opportunity to learn about arts activities in the region; to increase their knowledge of grant writing and the review process; to network with other artists and arts professionals; and to have input into matters that affect arts funding in the region.

    ARAC is the primary funding source for artists and arts organizations in northeastern Minnesota, awarding over a half a million dollars in grant support last year. ARAC administers six grant programs for regional non-profit arts organizations and three grant programs for regional artists. ARAC also administers The Artist Fund, a Duluth based, regional non-profit which offers financial assistance to artists confronted with a career-threatening emergency and a medical reimbursement program.

    ARAC's programs are made possible through funding from the Minnesota State Legislature; the Arts and Cultural Heritage fund as appropriated by the State Legislature with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008; The McKnight Foundation; and the Artist Fund. ARAC presents the Arrowhead Arts Awards, which annually recognize an outstanding regional artist and arts advocate. The ARAC staff provides free grant writing workshops and technical assistance to regional artists and arts organizations and ARAC works in partnership with the Minnesota State Arts Board and the other eleven Regional Arts Councils to promote the arts throughout Minnesota.

    The deadline for submitting an application is Friday, February 25, 2011. The available At-Large term runs from May 1, 2011 to June 30, 2014. The Student Ad-Hoc position runs from May 1, 2011, to June 30, 2012. Interested individuals may contact the ARAC office at info@aracouncil.org; 218-722-0952 or 800-569-8134 for more information about Board responsibilities, the Council and its programs, and to receive an application form. A Board application form can be downloaded from the ARAC web site: www.aracouncil.org

City Holds Open House on MNDOT Highway Widening

2010-12-03T12:39:00.000-08:00

The City of Grand Rapids will hold an open house on the widening of Highway 169 south of the Mississippi River. Among the elements the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) is proposing is eliminating the traffic light at River Road and 169. They also propose closing the intersections and eliminating the existing unmarked crosswalks at SW 3rd Street and SE 3rd Street and second street.

People can learn more about the proposal and provide input at an open house on Monday December 23rd from 1 to 4 at the Grand Rapids City Hall, 420 North Pokegama, Grand Rapids Minnesota. The open house will be followed by a public hearing before the CIty Council at 6PM.

The complete meeting notice can be downloaded from http://forums.e-democracy.org/r/file/1596-2010-12-03T191427Z

Give Locally - Over $1.8M in Matching Funds Available on Give to the Max Day - November 16

2010-11-08T10:48:00.000-08:00

GiveMNians,

Give to the Max Day returns as a day to inspire unprecedented levels of charitable giving in the state of Minnesota! Our goal is to beat our own record and get 40,000 people to give to their favorite Minnesota charity on November 16. Hundreds of nonprofits will offer the opportunity to double your dollars throughout the 24 hours. Every donation you make gives your favorite organization the chance to win even more money. Click on the video for a special Give to the Max Day message.

Please mark your calendars for November 16 - donate to your favorite organizations who help contribute to the quality of life in our state. Whether you care about children, the arts, clean water or education - you can connect with a cause and an organization that needs your support. Then share your donations with your friends and family using the easy share links on GiveMN.

So click on GiveMN.org November 16^th and contribute all you can. Help us reach 40,000 donors strong. You have one day to be part of history. One incredible day to Give to the Max to make our state a better place.

Will you give?

Sincerely,

Dana Nelson
GiveMN.org

How to Give to the Max - Plan Your Giving!

Double Your Dollars
Look for the "2x" icon on select nonprofit pages. This icon means there is a dollar for dollar match available when you donate on that page. You can also search all the organizations offering matching grants using the green "2x Your Gift" button on the Give to the Max Day homepage.

Win a Golden Ticket
One donor will be randomly chosen every hour to have $1,000 added to their donation. This could be you! See the list of winners on the Give to the Max Day homepage.

Help Your Favorite Organization Win the Grand Prize
A $20,000 and $10,000 prize grant will be awarded to the top two nonprofits in the Twin Cities and the top two nonprofits in Greater Minnesota that attract the largest number of individual donors on Give to the Max Day.

Happy First Birthday GiveMN!

Last November, the virtual switch was flipped and GiveMN was created. Thanks to you - and 58,000 other generous people who have made donations on GiveMN - we have become one of the largest giving portals in the country. Minnesota has always been a leader in philanthropy and now we are leading the way in e-philanthropy! Click here to read our one-page Happy Birthday GiveMN Annual Report.

You can find local organizations to give to by clicking the GiveMN link on your local community internet site. You can find a link to your local community internet site at http://givemn.com/story/Community-Internet-Sites. You can donate to support the Northern Community Internet sites themselves.

Herald-Review - E-NEWS Briefs

2010-09-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

Commissioners probe Essar engineer regarding rumors

Bigfork Valley: Where skill meets compassion.
Need some fitness guidelines? Try our new interactive health maintenance tools.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Grand Rapids city tax rate down again; Council approves preliminary levy
For the second year in a row, the Grand Rapids city tax rate has fallen.

LaRoque to remain as hockey coach
At the Independent School District 318 school board meeting on Aug. 19, members of the community stepped forth to the podium to address the board about their displeasure with Bruce LaRoque as head hoc

HIBBING CHRYSLER CENTER
Expect The Best Prices & The Best Service Everyday!
See us for Chrysler, Dodge & Jeep and shop 24/7 for options, photo's & prices www.hibbingchrysler.us

Farewell Hwy. 169 detour
Commuters to and from the West Range won't be required to take a turn onto county roads much longer.

MSRA Fall Campout - a noted success
"It went fantastic!" said Northern Cruisers Car Club Vice-president Chuck Beck about the events of the weekend where Minnesota Street Rod Association (MSRA) members flooded into Grand Rapids

EXTRA CA$H Sell with the Classifieds
Place your ad online: Click on CLASSIFIEDS

Grand Rapids home seriously damaged by fire
A home on the 400 block of 14th Avenue Southwest in Grand Rapids was seriously damaged by fire Sunday morning

City of Cohasset making repairs to water tower
The City of Cohasset is performing routine maintenance of the main water tower over the next several weeks. Contractor Maguire Iron will be sandblasting the interior of the tower and repainting it wit

Arson suspected in assisted living facility fire
Arson is suspected as the cause of a Tuesday night fire which caused approximately $150,000 in damage at Wendigo Pines Assisted Living Center in Grand Rapids.

Elyza Lou Roybal
Elyza Lou Roybal, Federal Dam, was born and died Sept. 12, 2010, in Deer River.

Linda Louise Samuelson
Linda Louise Samuelson, age 63 of Grand Rapids, Minn., died Friday, Sept. 10, 2010 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, Minn.

James Raymond Locke
James Raymond Locke, 63, of Bovey, passed away Monday, Sept. 13, 2010.

Dale Allen Goetz
Chaplain (Cpt.) Dale Allen Goetz, 43, was called home to be with his Lord on Monday, Aug. 30, 2010 when he was killed in a roadside bomb blast in Afghanistan.

Ned Jerome Witte
Ned Jerome Witte, of Calumet, formerly of Princeton and Milaca, went to be with the Lord on Monday, Sept. 13, 2010 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Thunderhawks take Coon Rapids Kellar Classic
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk girls volleyball team staked claim to the Coon Rapids' Kellar Classic for the second consecutive season on Saturday afternoon.

Hawks slip past Grand Rapids
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk boys soccer team fell inches short of knocking off the defending Section 7A champions, the Hermantown Hawks, on Tuesday evening at the Noble Hall Field on Youth Soccer Nig

First loss for Greenway
The Greenway Raider volleyball team was hoping to avoid the letdown after coming off an exciting 3-2 victory over the Hibbing Bluejackets when they squared off with the Hermantown Hawks on Monday even

GRG tennis falls to Duluth East
The Grand Rapids-Greenway girls tennis team was hoping to turn the tide against the Duluth East Greyhounds on Monday afternoon at the Robert J. Elkington Middle School Tennis Courts.

Rapids trounces Greyhounds
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk football team posted its second consecutive shutout victory to start the 2010 season with a 40-0 victory over the Duluth East Greyhounds at Public Schools Stadium in Dulut

Despite turnovers, Warriors fall to Rangers
The Deer River Warrior football team traveled to a rainy and wet John Davies Athletic Complex in Crosby to square off with the Crosby-Ironton Rangers on Friday evening.

Vikings second in own tourney
Itasca Community College hosted eight teams and finished second among eight entries in their own volleyball tournament Saturday at home. The Vikings also remained perfect in conference play as they do

Vikings return home Saturday
The Itasca Community College football squad returns home this Saturday hosting Central Lakes at 1:30 p.m. at Noble Hall Field.

The Outdoorsman
A weekly feature of the Herald-Review

Eskomos hold off Thawks
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk girls soccer team suffered a heartbreaking defeat at the hands of the Esko Eskomos on Monday afternoon in Esko.

Current Conditions: Cloudy in Grand Rapids, MN (as of 12:15 PM 9/15/2010)

Current conditions (as of 12:15 PM)

Cloudy. 46°F (Feels like 46). Humidity: 87% Winds: 3 mph E.
All times shown are local to Grand Rapids, MN.
Detailed ten-day forecast Hourly weather forecast Weather maps Weather averages

Forecast for Wednesday, September 15, 2010 for Grand Rapids, MN

Today: Rain. Lo: 39°F. Hi: 53°F. Chance of precipitation: 60%
Tomorrow: Partly Cloudy. Lo: 46°F. Hi: 61°F. Chance of precipitation: 0%
Friday: Showers. Lo: 34°F. Hi: 55°F. Chance of precipitation: 40%
Saturday: Partly Cloudy. Lo: 35°F. Hi: 50°F. Chance of precipitation: 0%
Sunday: Mostly Cloudy. Lo: 43°F. Hi: 55°F. Chance of precipitation: 0%

More information at MSN Weather
(Data provided outside US and Canada by Foreca, Data provided for US and Canada by WDT)

Short term forecast (as of 11:13 AM 9/15/2010)

SHOWERS AND A FEW THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT AREAS FROM THE TWIN PORTS... WESTWARD TOWARDS FLOODWOOD... BALSAM... AND HACKENSACK THROUGH 1230 PM. EXPECT PERIODS OF HEAVY RAIN AND LIGHTNING STRIKES THROUGH THIS TIME PERIOD. THE RAIN WILL INCREASE IN COVERAGE BECOMING MORE WIDESPREAD THROUGH THE AFTERNOON HOURS TODAY.

(Data provided by the National Weather Service)

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Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Brings National Fundraising Expert to Grand Rapids

2010-06-03T05:51:00.000-07:00

Jean Block, nationally known nonprofit consultant will be right here in Northeastern Minnesota delivering a great workshop - Fast Fundraising Facts for Fame and Fortune. If you haven't already registered do so today. The price is right - $15 for members and $25 for nonmembers (thanks to support from the Blandin Foundation).

I can personally attest to Jean's lively delivery method and great ideas for fundraising that you can put into practice right away. You do not want to miss this opportunity. Register staff, volunteers and especially board members today!

    Event Details:
    Thursday, June 10
    9 a.m. to noon (Registration will open at 8:30 a.m.)
    TimberLake Lodge 144 SE 17th Street, Grand Rapids
    Fees: $15 for MCN members; $25 for nonmembers
    Register for this event at www.mncn.org/events.htm.
    Thanks to support from the Blandin Foundation, we are able to offer this workshop at reduced rates.

Come for the workshop and stay for the Nonprofit Networking session:
Immediately following this workshop participants and others are invited to the Nonprofit Networking session from noon to 1 p.m. with special guest Jean Block. Because this session is being held at the TimberLake Lodge facility rules do not allow you to bring your own lunch. Refreshments will be served at the workshop or you can purchase lunch from the TimberLake Lodge. Attendance at the workshop is not necessary to attend the networking session, however, it will enhance the experience. If you are planning on attending this networking session please let me know by emailing me at mary@mncn.org or call 218-726-4887.

I hope to see you there!

Mary

Mary Streufert
Northeast Regional Coordinator
Minnesota Council of Nonprofits
424 W. Superior St., Ste 500
Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: 218-726-4887
Fax: 218-529-2285
Email: mary (at) mncn.org
Web site: www.mncn.org

2009 Kid’s Fishing Day at Clubhouse Campground

2010-05-22T06:03:00.001-07:00

MARCELL, MN —The 21^st annual North Itasca Kid's Fishing Day will be held On Saturday, June 12^th at the Clubhouse Lake Campground on the Deer River District of the Chippewa National Forest. The campground is located approximately 5 miles east of Marcell. Follow county road 45 east from highway 38 and watch for directional signs.

Kids fishing Day is open to all kids between the ages of 4 to 14 years. This fun event provides an excellent opportunity for kids to get introduced to the sport of fishing and enjoy a day on the water. Beginning at 8:00 am, there will be a brief water safety session. Local fishing guides will be available to take the kids fishing on Clubhouse Lake. The kids will also have the choice to fish from the shore or the fishing pier. A free lunch will follow at noon. There also will be prize drawings, a casting contest and minnow races! Pre-register by writing or calling:

Jen Guith @ the Deer River Ranger District

1037 Division Street / P.O. Box 308

Deer River, MN 56636

246-2123

www.fs.fed.us/R9/forests/chippewa/

Help Set Grand Rapids Community Vision - May 25th

2010-05-17T08:06:00.001-07:00

Creating a vision for Grand Rapids in 20 years is the first step in
developing a new comprehensive plan for the community. The City of
Grand Rapids is holding a public meeting on Tuesday May 25th, 7:00 PM
at the Grand Rapids Middle School 1000 NE 8th Avenue, Grand Rapids.
The purpose of the meeting is to get input on people's vision for what
they want Grand Rapids to be like in 20 years.

The Comprehensive Plan is the official long-range policy document for
the City, guiding zoning and land use ordinances, investments in
public infrastructure, economic development programs, natural resource
use and protection, housing policy, and other issues. Grand Rapids'
existing Comprehensive Plan is eight years old. Many policies and
recommendations in the existing plan no longer reflect the current
needs, concerns, and issues of Grand Rapids residents and businesses.
The new Comprehensive Plan will reflect the vision of Grand Rapids
residents, businesses, and other stakeholders.

A Steering Committee made up of residents, government officials, and
business owners is setting the plan's priorities and policy
recommendations, which will be put before the Grand Rapids Planning
Commission and City Council for adoption when complete. The Committee
seeks your opinion on whether the 2003 plan still reflects community
goals, what forward-looking issues are most pressing, and whether the
Committee is on the right track in defining long range goals.

The planning process for the new Comprehensive Plan is just starting
and will take about a year to complete. The Steering Committee has
started to define the desired long-term vision for Grand Rapids and
compare it to the vision from the 2003 Plan. In order to set the new
long-term vision, the Steering Committee needs public comment to
identify the long-term issues, problems, and opportunities that
residents, businesses, and visitors believe are most important.

The Committee invites residents and other interested parties to shape
the City's desired future form and character. Based on the comments
and priorities expressed at this meeting, the Steering Committee will
create land use goals, policies, and a future land use map for Grand
Rapids.

At this public meeting the Committee will listen to residents'
perceptions of the Grand- Rapids-that-is and identify the issues to be
addressed for shaping the Grand-Rapidsto- be. Is this our only chance
for comment? Residents and interested parties will have additional
opportunities for public input over the next year, after additional
draft material has been developed.

For more information please contact: Rob Mattei, Grand Rapids
Community Development (218-326-7622) Brian Ross, CR Planning, Inc.
(612-588-4904).

Get Fit Itasca: Bike Month

2010-04-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

Get Fit Itasca invites you to dust off your bike, pump up your tires, and join us for a ride!

· May 10, 2010 -Ride with Our High School Stars; Leaving from the Itasca County Fairgrounds at 6:00 pm, members of the Grand Rapids High School Basketball team and other sports will lead a ride to Gunn Park. Refreshments will be served at the park before we ride back to the fairgrounds. All levels of bikers are encouraged to come meet our local youth stars and show your peddle power!

· May 14, 2010 –Ride your bike to the Community Fishing Opener BBQ; Bicycling is a great form of transportation! Are you planning on attending this community event? Come by bike (consider it, parking made easy), visit the Get Fit Itasca table, and receive a gift from us for your efforts. The event is located at Central School, 4:00 to 7:00pm.

· May 15, 2010 –YMCA Group Fitness Takes the Trail; Itasca County Family YMCA Group Fitness Instructors Lisa Hain and Heather Reitter will lead a fitness ride starting at the Itasca County Fair Grounds at 10:00 am. Everyone is invited to peddle their way to better health.

· May 17, 2010 –Take a ride with Itasca County Citizen of the Year, Gwenn Smith; Ride anything with wheels that you provide the power: bikes, trikes, Big Wheels, strollers, scooters, etc. This paved, closed course will be great for families of all ages. Starting from the Deer River High School at 5:30 pm. Water will be provided and fresh fruit and vegetables will be available after the ride.

· May 19, 2010 –Class entitled "Commuter Cycling: How and Why?" The Grand Rapids Public Library and Get Fit Itasca have joined to bring a few local commuters together to share their story. Why do they choose to commute this way? What are their challenges, advantages, and rewards? 6:00 to 7:00 pm at the Grand Rapids Public library. Come hear about their adventures and see if bicycle commuting might be for you!

· May 20, 2010 –Ride with the Mayor; Join Grand Rapids Mayor, Dale "Spud" Adams as he tours Grand Rapids. This ride will leave from the Itasca County Family YMCA at 6:00 pm. It will be about an hour ride that is appropriate for all levels of cyclists. Water, fresh fruit, and vegetables will be available after the ride in the Y lobby.

· May 21, 2010 –National Bike to Work Day; Leave your car in the garage and be your own gas. Get Fit Itasca encourages you to join the millions across the country that will be peddling themselves to work today. Let us know if you take the challenge we'll keep track and announce it at a later date.

· May 25, 2010 –Group ride with Matt Rezac; Grand Rapids community member, Matt will lead about a 2 hour ride showcasing some of his favorite routes leaving from the Itasca County Family YMCA at 6:00 pm. This ride is appropriate for all level of riders. Water, fresh fruit and vegetables will be served following the ride.

· May 26, 2010 –Wee Ride; From 6:00 pm to 7:30pm the Grand Rapids Public Utilities will block their large parking lot off to cars to give our children a smooth place to practice their peddle. Bring your bikes, trikes, Big Wheels, and scooters to ride the loop without fear of being hit by a car. Parking will be available in the smaller attached lot. Water, fresh fruits and veggies will be available for refueling.

All events are weather dependent, if questionable or for more information please contact Meghan Bown at 327-1161 ext. 240 or mbown@ymcaitasca.org . All events are posted under active living at www.getfititasca.org . Helmets are encouraged! We look forward to celebrating and improving our counties health one ride at a time. Please join us for one, two or all of the bike month events!

Some fun classes from Community Ed for Spring

2010-04-28T13:48:00.000-07:00

Garden Stepping Stones

Create your own personal stepping stones to add to your garden or walkway. You will learn to mix, use molds to shape your stone, add designs and mosaic embellishments and print in stone. Instructor provides information and resources to make more on your own. A fun and easy project for all ages. For Youth 7 and up, Teens, and Adults. Children ages 7-14 must be accompanied by an adult. Fee for 1 person $15 Fee for Children accompanied by an Adult $25.00 (Contact 327-5730 if this is the case)

Class # 318694

Tuesday ~ 5/4/10

4:00pm - 6:30pm

Instructor: Staci Taylor

Location: Grand Rapids RJE Middle School-Room 410 Art

Fee: $15.00

Salads and Dressings

Tired of the same old iceberg lettuce and Italian dressing? Salads aren't boring anymore as Chef Andy Faltynek of TimberLake Lodge demonstrates the secrets of making a great salad dressing and gives his w twist on salads. After demonstration class will be treated to a tasting.

Class # 318692

Tuesday ~ 5/11/10

6:30pm - 8:00pm

Instructor: Andy Faltynek

Location: TimberLake Lodge, Grand Rapids, MN

Fee: $20.00

Its All In How You Look At It!

Does the "same old way" keep repeating itself so you feel stuck and without options? Discover the power of choice in defining greater possibilities for yourself and supporting new attitudes and behaviors. Fresh perpectives will recharge your ability to take action and maintain a positive outlook

Class # BZ101

Thurday 5/1310

6:30pm - 8:00pm

Instructor: Bonnie Henriksen

Location: ISD 318 Administration Building – Conference Room 135

Fee: $25.00

Basic Babysitting

This basic babysitting class will focus on how to handle emergencies, entertaining children safely, basic child care skill, leadership basic first aid and babysitting business skills. Students will need to bring a lunch, and a doll or stuffed animal

Class # 318500 S2

Friday ~ 6/4/10

9:00am - 3:00pm

Instructor: Glenda Matteson

Location: Grand Rapids RJE Middle School-Rm 208

Fee: $20.00

Low Cost Vaccines for Adults

2010-04-02T08:51:00.001-07:00

Itasca County Public Health received a grant to provide vaccinations to adults who are uninsured or under-insured for immuizations. While the vaccine is free, a small administration fee is requested, $10/ vaccine. No one receiving a vaccine at this Public Health Clinic will be denied vaccination if they are unable to pay the administration fee. If you have any questions, call Public Health at 218-327-2941 or toll free at 1-800-422-0312.

Hearing on Grand Rapids Walk/Biking Path Monday February 22nd

2010-02-19T09:15:00.001-08:00

There will be a Public Hearing Monday February 22 at 6:00pm at the Grand Rapids City Hall!

10-0544 A public hearing on CP 2003-6, 3rd Avenue NE Rail Crossing Improvements/Closure

which includes CP 2004-2, TH 169 Multi-Use Trail, Phase 2.

This Multi-Use Trail will connect from the ending of the trail on the Airport Road, behind the Public Works Building, down the River Road and through Oakland Park to the foot bridge. It then continues back through Veterans Park, connects with the sidewalk and follows to the lights where users can cross the highway. It then follows down to the Sports Complex and connects with the Ridgewood Road Trail that was built last year. This trail section has the potential to connect the southeast and northeast quadrants of town!

We want to make sure the council knows:

· There currently is not a safe route that averts users from high traffic areas. Safety is key!

· That this an important piece in a full non-motorized transportation route. And, for some Non-motorized transportation is not recreation but their only means of transportation.

· Studies have shown that the construction of trails increases physical activity in area residents.

· Healthy, active communities attract new businesses and residents.

For more information:

Meghan Bown

Get Fit Itasca Community Health Coordinator

Minnesota State Health Improvement (SHIP) Coordinator, Itasca County

Itasca County YMCA

400 River Road

Grand Rapids, MN 55744

(218) 327-1161 ext. 240

2010 Great Decisions Discussion Groups Kick-off Tuesday, January 19, 2010

2010-01-08T12:52:00.001-08:00

The Kick-off meeting for the 2010 Great Decisions Discussion Groups is Tuesday, January 19, 2010 from 6-8 pm at the Blandin Foundation Auditorium.

Tom Hanson from the Minnesota International Center (MIC) will discuss the current and recent changes to President Obama's current foreign policy. President Barack Obama begins the second year of his Administration; please join us for an insightful presentation by former Career Foreign Service Officer Tom Hanson. In this annual "State of U.S. Foreign Policy" address, Mr. Hanson will explore and explain current foreign policy development, trends and challenges for the United States in the year ahead.

Tom will also discuss briefly the 8 topics that the Great Decisions Discussion Groups will be exploring this year. Great Decisions 2010 will be starting in January and the first discussion will be Global Financial Crisis on January 27, 2010 12-1:30 pm at the Grand Rapids Area Library.

A Great Decisions Discussion Group is composed of interested individuals who want an opportunity to learn and participate in the foreign policy decision-making process. Participants consider discussion groups a "safe" environment because they provide everyone with the opportunity to speak. Each participant's point of view carries equal weight and everyone is encouraged to share opinions and ideas. Consensus is not a goal. Discussion Group participants do not attempt to "convert" participants, because there is a mutual respect for each member's experiences, value systems and beliefs. The true focus of the Discussion Group is the critical examination of all issues and opinions, each recognized as equally valid. Any individual with an interest in expanding his/her knowledge of international relations as well as engaging in active discussion of crucial global issues is welcome to join. Great Decisions is used by a wide range of people, from high school students to retirees, and participation is not limited to those with an expert knowledge of foreign affairs. Great Decisions discussion groups are centered on the Great Decisions briefing book. This well researched annual publication provides eight timely global topics to be read by group participants. Participants should read the briefing book articles prior to group meetings, in order to guarantee that all discussion group members come together from the same point of reference, with the same facts and basic understanding of the issues to be discussed. Everyone is encouraged to share his or her thoughts and each participant's point of view carries equal weight.

The 8 topics will be discussed at Grand Rapids Area Library on Wednesdays, each month from 12-1:30 pm. This program is FREE and open to anyone that would like to participate. We only ask that you register for the series online at www.getlearning.org., this series is under Grand Rapids Adults, Area Adult Opportunities, Great Decisions 2010, or you can register through ISD 318 Community Education 327-5730.

The topics are as follows:

Global Financial Crisis – Jan. 27, 2010

Russia and its Neighbors – 2/17/2010

China Security Relations – 3/17/2010

Global Crime – 4/21/2010

Peace Building and Conflict Resolution – May 19, 2010

Special Envoys – June 16, 2010

Persian Gulf Now More than Ever – Oct. 20, 2010

Kenya and R2P Post-Election – Nov. 18, 2010

Thomas Hanson is a former career Foreign Service Officer. While with the U.S. Department of State his foreign postings included East Germany, France, Norway, the Soviet Union, Sweden, and Georgia. He also assisted in opening new embassies in Mongolia and Estonia.

Mr. Hanson has also worked on the Foreign Relations Committees of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Most recently, he was Director for NATO and European Affairs at the Atlantic Council of the United States in Washington, D.C. Currently he serves as Program Secretary of the St. Paul-Minneapolis Committee on Foreign Relations and as a lecturer/consultant for the Great Decisions program at the Minnesota International Center. He is also on the board of the Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights (U.S. Foundation) and Diplomat in Residence at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. He is an occasional foreign affairs commentator in local and regional media.

Mr. Hanson graduated from the University of Minnesota with a B.A. in International Relations. He holds graduate degrees from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University; the Geneva Institute of Advanced International Studies in Switzerland; and the National School of Administration (ENA) in Paris, France.

The Great Decisions Discussion Group is co-sponsored by Grand Rapids Area Library, ISD 318 Community Education, and Minnesota International Center and is funded in part by the Blandin Foundation.

Grand Rapids Area Library This Week- Book Sale

2009-12-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

Check it out @ your Library™

What's Happening at the Grand Rapids Area Library

December 9 2009

This week at the Library

Book Sale

This Week! "Clear the shelves" sale in the Friends of the Library Bookstore and the Community room! Everything will be pulled out and put on sale so we can move all donated books from the workroom and the bookstore.

Thursday December 10 9-6

Friday December 11 9-3

We need to clear out the books because the workroom, group study room and Teen Universe will be re-carpeted beginning December 21. We will not be accepting any donated books during December, so please wait until January to bring books in for the Friends of the Library bookstore!!

Teen Activities

Teen Book Discussion: Friday, December 11^th 3:30

The book is Crusader by Edward Bloor

Prizes! Stop in Teen Universe and answer the question of the month for a chance to win a prize!

More info and the complete schedule is on the Teen page at: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us/teens.htm

Kids' events:

Book Times on Mondays at 9:30 and 10:30 through December 14

Have a fun time with books, rhymes and songs, plus a snack and a craft.

Saturday, Story Times @ 10:30 am

December 12 and 19^th in December

Mom's Day out

An opportunity for Mom (or Dad) to go shopping, take a nap, or do something else fun: A Girl Scout troop is volunteering to provide supervision and activities for children age 3-10 on Saturday December 19^th from 10-2:00

Space is limited. Pre-registration required. Call the Children's Department at 327-8823 to register.

Library open limited hours in late December

Saturday the 19th is also the last day to stop and pick up reading/listening/viewing material until December 28. We will be open only for picking up reserved books and for limited computer use from 2pm -6 pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, December 21-23. We will be closed December 24 –December 27. We will open at 2 pm on Monday, December 28 and will resume a normal schedule after that. We will be closing at 5 pm on December 31, and remain closed until Monday morning January 4 at 9 am.

December 29^th Noon David Lien on Climbing Mt. Mckinley

Adventurer and Grand Rapids native, David Lien, will present a program at the Grand Rapids Library, Tuesday, December 29 at 12:00 noon. Lien will recount his experiences of climbing Mt. McKinley in Alaska, one of the "coldest mountains on Earth." He will share photos and hair-raising tales of the exhilarating climb up one of the most deadly mountains in North America. The program is open to the public free of charge.

Check out the Library's Blog at www.grandrapidsarealibrary.blogspot.com

For more details on any of the programs, go to the Library's Web Site: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us

News release: Blandin Foundation receives approval from Court following regular review

2009-12-02T07:57:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Blandin Foundation receives approval from Court following regular review

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. (Dec. 1, 2009)–Ramsey County District Court approved on Nov. 20, 2009, the petition of the Charles K. Blandin Residuary Trust for approval of its accounts and also reviewed the Blandin Foundation’s commitments to the Itasca County area for the years 2006-2008.

In accordance with Charles K. Blandin’s will, every three years Ramsey County District Court reviews the accounts of the trust created upon his death that funds the Blandin Foundation. Trust and Foundation leadership reported to the Court that the Trust had provided $56.8 million in funds for the Foundation over the reporting period.

The Blandin Foundation also reported to the Court that over the past six years 76% of the Foundation’s grant-making had been in the Grand Rapids and Itasca County area, exceeding the Foundation’s commitment of a 55% average. Over the next year, 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.

--END--

Blandin Foundation, Minnesota’s largest rural-based private foundation is located in Grand Rapids, Minn. Its mission is to strengthen rural Minnesota communities, especially the Grand Rapids area, through grants, leadership development programs and public policy initiatives. www.blandinfoundation.org.

For additional information, contact:

Allison Rajala Ahcan

Director of Communications, Blandin Foundation

arahcan@blandinfoundation.org, direct: 218-327-8717, cell: 218-259-2893

www.blandinfoundation.org

What’s Happening at the Grand Rapids Area Library - November 15 2009

2009-11-15T18:16:00.001-08:00

Check it out @ your Library™

What's Happening at the Grand Rapids Area Library

November 15 2009

Monday, November 16, 3:30. Kid's Art Workshop with the Creativity Tank
Create Paper Collage similar to Lois Ehlert's colorful books: This is another fun art workshop for kids in grades K-4. Pre-registration is required. Call 327-8823

Tuesday, November 17 3:30-4:30 Teen Book Talk

Fever, 1793, by Laurie Halse Anderson

Stop at the Reference Desk to pick up a copy of the book.

November 18^th 12:00 -1:30 pm The Arctic Opportunities, Governance and Environmental Impacts Great Decisions Discussion Series

Briefing books available at the Library to check out or read in the Library.

More background info on the Foreign Policy Association Website

November 19^th Tellabration 4^th Annual Celebration of Storytelling

Morning events for kids at the Library

10 am – Community room: Stories for Kids

10 am – Story Circle: Stories for Preschoolers

Evening at the Forest History Center

7 pm - Tall Tales, Folk Tales and Your Tales,

Storyteller Anne Dunn plus Story Swap for everyone!

Going Online Class Series

We are collaborating with Northern Community Internet to provide a series of workshops on using internet tools.

Continues Tuesdays at 5:30 through early December.

This Week: Creating and using an account on Myspace

Next Week: Creating and using a Twitter account

Register through Community Education at www.getlearning.org. You can register for one class or the remainder of the series. 327-5730

More Teen Activities

Prizes! Stop in Teen Universe and answer the question of the month for a chance to win a prize!

Tuesday, November 24, 4:00 -5:00 Teen Advisory Board Meeting.

More info and the complete schedule is on the Teen page at: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us/teens.htm

Kids' events:

Book Times on Mondays at 9:30 and 10:30

Have a fun time with books, rhymes and songs, plus a snack and a craft.

Saturday, Story Times @ 10:30 am

This week: Dad & Me storytime.

Special invitation to Dads, granddads, uncles, or best buddies

We will close at 5 pm on Wednesday, November 25 and be closed on Thursday, November 26 for Thanksgiving.

We will be open on Friday and Saturday November 27 and 28, and there will be a Family Story time on Saturday, November 28. Stop by and pick up some reading, listening or viewing material or just hang out and relax for awhile!

Check out the Library's Blog at www.grandrapidsarealibrary.blogspot.com

For more details on any of the programs, go to the Library's Web Site: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us

Marcia L. Anderson
Director
Grand Rapids Area Library
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-326-7640

www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us

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LOREN SOLBERG SEEKS INPUT OF LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS

2009-11-06T12:58:00.001-08:00

Small Business Caucus compiles online survey asking key questions on business challenges and opportunities

ST. PAUL, MN – A bipartisan coalition of state legislators has organized a new Small Business Caucus focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities facing small businesses in Minnesota. The new caucus is seeking the input and partnership of small business owners across the state to help make Minnesota a better, more competitive place to do business. As part of that effort, State Rep. Loren Solberg is asking for the input of local business owners in a new online small business survey.

"There is no one group of Minnesotans who understand our economy's current challenges more than small business. Any effort to restore Minnesota's struggling economy must address the unique challenges facing our small business community. "

The small business survey asks business owners a series of targeted questions that will help legislators better understand the challenges and opportunities facing small business in Minnesota today. The survey can be found on the Minnesota House of Representatives website at www.house.mn Rep. Solberg encourages all small business owners in District 3B to participate.

By listening directly to the concerns of small business owners, and weighing the input of economic experts, Rep. Solberg and the Small Business Caucus plan to pursue a pro-business agenda that will make small businesses more competitive, create jobs, and help speed Minnesota's economic recovery.

Survey input will be collected online until November 30, 2009. Rep. Solberg encourages constituents to contact him with any other questions.

-30-

State Rep. LOREN SOLBERG

NEWS RELEASE

Minnesota House of Representatives

Contact: Sandy Connolly

District 3B (651) 296-2365 (651) 297-8406

443 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155 sandy.connolly@house.mn

November 5, 2009

What’s Happening at the Grand Rapids Area Library

2009-11-02T15:49:00.001-08:00

What's Happening at the Grand Rapids Area Library

November 2 2009

November 3^rd 7 pm Let's Talk Turkey,

Steve Arbour and Dennis Brown will share cooking secrets about preparing turkey and trimmings. See how to cook turkey upside down and carve it with ease. Taste testing allowed!

November 7^th 12:30-2:00 pm Celebrate National Gaming Day (all ages)

Play a board game, a videogame or a Wii game. Bring your own game or use one of ours. Games for all ages!

November 10^th 7 pm Warrior Traditions: An Honor of Service,

Members of the Leech Lake Tribal Honor Guard will discuss their experiences as military vets and how Native American Traditions influence their respect for service. They will also share a bit about the Code Talkers of WWII.

Library Closed Wednesday November 11^th in honor of Veterans Day

November 18^th 12:00 -1:30 pm The Arctic Opportunities, Governance and Environmental Impacts Great Decisions Discussion Series

Briefing books available at the Library to check out or read in the Library.

More background info on the Foreign Policy Association Website

November 19^th Tellabration 4^th Annual Celebration of Storytelling

Morning events for kids at the Library

10 am – Community room: Stories for Kids

10 am – Story Circle: Stories for Preschoolers

Evening at the Forest History Center

7 pm - Tall Tales, Folk Tales and Your Tales, Storyteller Anne Dunn plus Story Swap for everyone!

Sign up for Computer Classes

We are collaborating with Northern Community Internet to provide a series of workshops on using internet tools.

Going Online Class Series

Continues Tuesdays at 5:30 through November and covers using online social networking tools such as Facebook, Myspace and Twitter, and doing online searching.

For Businesses:

Online Advertising: Options, cost and measuring your success when your market is local, not international Tuesday, November 10 7:30 am

Register through Community Education at www.getlearning.org. You can register for one class or the remainder of the series. 327-5730

Teen Activities

Prizes! Stop in Teen Universe and answer the question of the month for a chance to win a prize!

Tuesday, November 17 3:30-4:30 Teen Book Talk

Fever, 1793, by Laurie Halse Anderson

Stop at the Reference Desk to pick up a copy of the book.

Tuesday, November 24, 4:00 -5:00 Teen Advisory Board Meeting.

More info and the complete schedule is on the Teen page at: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us/teens.htm

Kids' events:

Book Times on Mondays at 9:30 and 10:30

(none on November 9)

Have a fun time with books, rhymes and songs, plus a snack and a craft.

Saturday, Story Times @ 10:30 am

Stop by every Saturday morning for a fun time for kids and families

Monday, November 16, 3:30. Kid's Art Workshop with the Creativity Tank Create Paper Collage similar to Lois Ehlert's books: .

This is another fun art workshop for kids in grades K-4. Pre-registration is required. Call 327-8823

November 19^th, 10 am Tellabration: Stories for Kids (see above)

New in the Book Store:

Stop in and check out the newly reorganized bookstore in the lobby of the Library. The bookstore is a project of the Friends of the Grand Rapids Area Library, and all proceeds go to support the Library's programs and collections. There are books for children and adults, as well as magazines, videos, a home school section, and occasional odd things!

Check out the Library's Blog at www.grandrapidsarealibrary.blogspot.com

For more details on any of the programs, go to the Library's Web Site: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us

Loren Solberg Capitol Update October, 2009

2009-10-20T11:59:00.001-07:00

Balanced Budget' Subcommittee Holds First Hearing

ST. PAUL – Rep. Loren Solberg was recently appointed to the budget subcommittee of Planning and Fiscal Policy by Speaker of the House Margaret Anderson Kelliher. The first meeting was held on October 19th, and it was a productive start to the important work ahead. The charge of this subcommittee is to build on the bipartisan recommendations of the Minnesota Leadership summit held in September. At the subcommittee hearing, members listened to testimony from economic experts and discussed how to address the historic budget challenges facing Minnesota in the upcoming biennium as well as the budget challenges of the future.

"We need to have an honest and open discussion with the public about the steep challenges we face with our state budget both now and into the future," said Solberg. "The state budget can only be addressed if we put all available options on the table and work with leaders across the political spectrum toward our shared goal of lasting economic prosperity. I'm glad to have the opportunity to work on this critically important issue for the future of our state."

In September, 12 former governors and legislative leaders participated in a first of its kind summit to explore our state budget challenges. The group issued recommendations for addressing the historic budget deficit Minnesota will face in the upcoming biennium, which could equal almost one-fifth of projected state spending. The recommendations from summit participants included: combining spending cuts with revenue increases to preserve state priorities; creating and maintaining an appropriate budget reserve; and strictly matching spending to revenue in each biennial budget, without the use of spending shifts or accounting gimmicks. Solberg said the former leaders made it clear our budget problems required immediate action to restore and sustain Minnesota's economic edge.

"The longer we wait to address our state budget concerns, the larger the problem becomes," said Solberg. "I'm hopeful this subcommittee can work together to form a proactive guide we can utilize next session so that we can begin positioning Minnesota for a stable budget and lasting economic recovery."

            Other members appointed to the subcommittee include:

Senate Majority Leader Sen. Larry Pogemiller, DFL – Minneapolis
Rep. Lyndon Carlson, DFL – Crystal, chair of the House Finance committee

·        Senate Minority Leader Sen. David Senjem, R-Rochester.

·        Senate President James Metzen, DFL-South St. Paul.

·        Sen. Don Betzold, DFL-Fridley, chair of the Senate's State Government Budget Division.

·        Sen. Dick Cohen, DFL-St. Paul, chair of the Senate Finance Committee.

·        House Minority Leader Kurt Zellers, R-Maple Grove.

·        Rep. Thomas Huntley, DFL-Duluth, chair of the House Health Care and Human Services Finance Division.

·        Rep. Ann Lenczewski, DFL-Bloomington, chair of the House Tax Committee.

State Rep. Loren Solberg
News Release
Minnesota House of Representatives                                           Contact: Sandy Connolly
District 3B (651) 296-2365                                                                       (651) 296-8877
349 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155                                            sandy.connolly@house.mn

This week at the Grand Rapids Area Library October 11

2009-10-12T09:21:00.001-07:00

Check it out @ your Library™

What's Happening at the Grand Rapids Area Library

October 11 2009

Sign up for Computer Classes

We are collaborating with Northern Community Internet to provide a series of workshops on using internet tools.

Going Online Series

Continues October 15 and covers using online tools such as calendars, document creation and photo sharing, social networking tools such as Facebook, Myspace and Twitter, and doing online searching.

Register by Wednesday morning, October 14. We need 2 more sign-ups to continue the series.

Register through Community Education at www.getlearning.org. You can register for one class or the entire series. 327-5730

Fishing Fun for all ages

Thursday, October 15 @ 7:00 p.m. - Ice Fishing... Through a generous grant from the Friends of the St. Paul Library, the Library will host 2009 Minnesota Book Award Finalist, Greg Breining discussing his book, A Hard Water World.
Other activities around this program include:

Making a fish craft in the Children's Library on Oct 28 at 3:30 - for school age children.

Guess the fish in a jar the whole month of October and win prizes.

Greet Wally the Walleye on loan from DNR Fisheries, and learn more about fish.

Scavenger Hunt in the library for teens the whole month of October - win prizes for completing the hunt and have your name entered in a drawing for tackle box.

Visit a display of lures, rods, reels and fishing paraphernalia on loan from Bob Halver.

Meet the Friends of the Library and join this important organization that supports the library! National Friends of the Library Membership Drive is Oct 18-24. The Grand Rapids Area Friends will be Fishing for New Friends during Oct. They will provide icy treats at the program and be around the library on Oct 15 to meet and greet interested new members.

Teen Activities

Friday, October 16 Twilight movie showing

Teen Read Week October 18-24 Read Beyond Reality

Prizes! Stop in Teen Universe and answer the question of the month for a chance to win a prize!

Friday, October 23 3:30-4:30 Teen Book Talk

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

Stop at the Reference Desk to pick up a copy of the book.

More info and the complete schedule is on the Teen page at: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us/teens.htm

Kids' events:

Book Times on Mondays at 9:30 and 10:30

Have a fun time with books, rhymes and songs, plus a snack and a craft.

Monday, October 19, 3:30. Kid's Art Workshop with the Creativity Tank 21, 3:30 Drawing in the style of Ed Emberly. Learn how to draw based on Ed Emberly's books. This is another fun art workshop for kids in grades K-4. Pre-registration is required. Call 327-8823

Thursday, October 22^nd Family Movie Night

Saturday, October 24 @ 10:30 am:
Dad and Me Story Time

Saturday, October 31 @ 10:30 am:
Family Story Time

Thursday, October 22nd at noon - African Adventures with Mary Shideler.

A repeat of Mary's popular September program about her travels in Africa.

Wednesday, October 21st 12:00 noon: Great Decisions Discussion Series with the topic Cuba We have copies of the briefing books for use in the Library and available for checkout.

More background info on the Foreign Policy Association Website

Food for Fines! All month long.

Up to $10.00 in recent fines will be waived with the donation of food items. Donations benefit 2^nd Harvest Food Shelf.

Check out the Library's Blog at www.grandrapidsarealibrary.blogspot.com

For more details on any of the programs, go to the Library's Web Site: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us

Marcia L. Anderson
Director
Grand Rapids Area Library
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
218-326-7640

www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us

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News from the Library - October events at the Library

2009-10-04T13:34:00.001-07:00

Check it out @ your Library™

What's Happening at the Grand Rapids Area Library

October 2009

NEW! Saturday Story Times for kids start this Saturday at 10:30!

Each Saturday morning we'll have a story time for kids. Kids of all ages are welcome!

October 3 and 10 10:30 am:

Preschool Story Time*
*Preschool story times focus on preschool skills, but all ages are welcome to attend

October 6^th7 pm Ghost Stories and Legends of Minnesota

Author Michael Norman talks about his book: The Nearly Departed: Minnesota Ghost Stories and Legends

Kids' events:

Book Times on Mondays at 9:30 and 10:30

Have a fun time with books, rhymes and songs, plus a snack and a craft.

Monday, October 19, 3:30. Kid's Art Workshop with the Creativity Tank 21, 3:30 Drawing in the style of Ed Emberly. Learn how to draw based on Ed Emberly's books. This is another fun art workshop for kids in grades K-4. Pre-registration is required. Call 327-8823

Saturday, October 24 @ 10:30 am:
Dad and Me Story Time

Saturday, October 31 @ 10:30 am:
Family Story Time

Fishing Fun for all ages

Making a fish craft in the Children's Library on Oct 28 at 3:30 - for school age children.

Guess the fish in a jar the whole month of October and win prizes.

Greet Wally the Walleye on loan from DNR Fisheries, and learn more about fish.

Scavenger Hunt in the library for teens the whole month of October - win prizes for completing the hunt and have your name entered in a drawing for tackle box.

Visit a display of lures, rods, reels and fishing paraphernalia on loan from Bob Halver.

Computer Classes

We are collaborating with Northern Community Internet to provide two series of workshops on using internet tools.

Going Online Series

Begins October 8 and covers, email, using online tools such as calendars, document creation and photo sharing, social networking tools such as Facebook, Myspace and Twitter, and doing online searching.

Using Online Tools to Build Your Business

Starts October 6th and is aimed at helping businesses learn about online tools that can be used for promoting a business.

Teen Activities

Teen Read Week October 18-24 Read Beyond Reality

Friday, October 16 Twilight movie showing

Prizes! Stop in Teen Universe and answer the question of the month for a chance to win a prize!

Friday, October 23 3:30-4:30 Teen Book Talk

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

Stop at the Reference Desk to pick up a copy of the book.

More info and the complete schedule is on the Teen page at: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us/teens.htm

Thursday, October 22nd at noon - African Adventures with Mary Shideler.

A repeat of Mary's popular September program about her travels in Africa.

Wednesday, October 21st 12:00 noon: Great Decisions Discussion Series with the topic Cuba We have copies of the briefing books for use in the Library and available for checkout.

More background info on the Foreign Policy Association Website

Food for Fines! All month long.

Up to $10.00 in recent fines will be waived with the donation of food items. Donations benefit 2^nd Harvest Food Shelf.

Check out the Library's Blog at www.grandrapidsarealibrary.blogspot.com

For more details on any of the programs, go to the Library's Web Site: www.grandrapids.lib.mn.us

Manor House Senior Expo 2009 - October 13th

2009-09-17T08:43:00.001-07:00
Senior Expo 2009
October 13th, 3:00 to 7:00
Hosted at Manor House
Reserve your table today!
Space is limited!
$60.00 for a 6ft
$100 for a 6ft table & 1/2 Seminar
$120 to give a Seminar
Seminar will be offered at 3:30, 4:00, 4:30. 5:30, 6:00 & 6:30
Media attention included. Register Today!
Call 326-3469

Manor House Crock Pot Cook Off Tuesday

2009-09-17T08:41:00.001-07:00
We will have up to 20 different crock pot recipes for you to try along with beverages and dessert. The public will vote on their favorite dish and prizes will be given out. Please join us at Manor House on Tuesday Sept.22, 2009 from 5:00 to 7:00 Cost is $5.00 per person. All proceeds wil go to the activity program.

If you would like to make you favorite recipe and enter it in the cook up please call 326-3469 ask for Lynn.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates 9/9/2009

2009-09-09T13:36:00.001-07:00

Introducing... the new principals of Greenway
Editors note: This is Part One of a two-part series

Hawks spoil home opener for Rapids
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk girls soccer team opened the home portion of the 2009 schedule against a veteran Hermantown Hawk squad on Tuesday evening at the Noble Hall Field.

Derek Rolle wins No. 6 at Mesaba
Derek Rolle continued his dominance at the Vern Fryklund Northwest Invitational Monday by winning his sixth championship since 2001.

Minnesota Crunch begin year two
The Minnesota Crunch Womens hockey team returns to the ice for the 2009 season on Friday, Saturday and Sunday when they play host to the Thunder Bay Queens at the IRA Civic Center in Grand Rapids.

GNK begins new era with win
It was a new beginning on Friday evening for both Greenway and Nashwauk-Keewatin as the two programs took the field for the first time as a combined program and faced the Braham Bombers in Braham.

Breeschoten storms WISSOTA Classic
Eric Breeschoten dominated the Late Model feature at the Tom Clusiau Grand Rapids Speedway Friday night. Other WISSOTA Classic feature winners included Dan Ebert in the Midwest Modifieds, Zach Wohlers in the Super Stocks, and Ryan Aho in the Modifieds.

Vikings win on the road, 24-14
Itasca had its offense come to life Saturday on the road as it exploded to a 24-0 lead and then put on cruise control as it won a community college football contest on the road over Minnesota West 24-14.

Thawk swimmers ready for season
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk swimming and diving team opened the 2009 season on Tuesday evening in International Falls and the Thunderhawks appear poised for a big season.

The Outdoorsman
Usually when organizations in our area take on the responsibility of hosting a special event it is done in a classy and professional manner. The AIM International Walleye Championship, held on Winnibigoshish was no exception. The sponsors, Lake Winnie Resort Association, Northern Star Cooperative Services, White Oak Casino and L & M Supply did a wonderful job to make sure the tournament came off without a hitch. If I missed a sponsor I am sorry because an event like this needs all the help it can get.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates 9/6/2009

2009-09-08T05:27:00.000-07:00

Ground broken for upgrades to Grand Rapids Wastewater Treatment Facility
Its one of the largest projects ever undertaken by the city of Grand Rapids.

Rotary Roses time
Not only does the month of September mark the beginning of school and the end of summer - its also Rotary Rose time.

Vandyke Elementary honored for health improvement effort
Many Greenway elementary students will be safely pedaling and walking their way back to school next week, thanks to a new policy at Vandyke Elementary School. Vandyke, in Coleraine, has recently been honored as one of five Minnesota communities or organizations with the first-ever do Active Community Award.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates 9/2/2009

2009-09-02T18:12:00.001-07:00
Warriors victorious in sweep over Cass Lake-Bena
The defending Section 7AA champion, Deer River Warriors, kicked off the 2009 volleyball season with a bang on Tuesday evening in Deer River.

Late goals lead Skippers past Rapids
It was a tale of two halves for the Grand Rapids Thunderhawk boys soccer team on Monday afternoon in the 2009 home opener at the Noble Hall Field in Grand Rapids.

Viking football falls to Ridgewater
Itasca Community College fell to a good Ridgewater team by a score of 17-6. ICC will look to even their record at 1-1 this Saturday as they travel to Minnesota West CC in Worthington for an 11 a.m. kickoff before making their home opener Sept. 12 against Rochester.

Greenway Nashwauk-Keewatin football preview
When word came out earlier this year that there may be a merger between the Greenway and Nashwauk-Keewatin high school football teams, people from both school districts didnt know what to think.

Grand Rapids-Greenway tennis cruises to four straight
The Grand Rapids-Greenway girls tennis team continued its strong start to the 2009 season with a convincing 7-0 victory over the Hermantown Hawks on Tuesday morning at the Robert J. Elkington Middle School Tennis Courts.

Hill City football preview
The Hill City Hornets will have a new look at the helm for the 2009 football season.

Deer River football preview
The 2008 Deer River Warriors were one win away from the Minnesota State Class AA football tournament.

Bigfork football preview
The 2008 season was a disappointing one for the Bigfork Huskies on the football field.

Grand Rapids football preview
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk football team is excited for the 2009 season which begins on Thursday evening in Grand Rapids.

Thunderhawk girls soccer hopes for strong 2009 season
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk girls soccer team opened the 2009 soccer season with a 5-0 victory over the Eveleth-Gilbert Golden Bears. The Thunderhawks hope more wins are to follow after struggling to a 3-13 record during the 2008 season.

Thunderhawk cross country team hits the trails on Thursday
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk boys and girls cross country teams are set to begin the 2009 season with high expectations.

Vikings fifth in tournament
Itasca opened their 2009 community college volleyball season going 2-2 good for a fifth place finish at the Fergus Falls tournament on Saturday.

Rapids takes down Cloquet
The Grand Rapids Thunderhawk girls volleyball team took to the road to start the 2009 season on Friday evening against the Cloquet Lumberjacks in Cloquet.

The Outdoorsman
Just the fact Sunday was a beautiful day for fishing would have been enough. It was a little chilly in the morning and prompted us to throw cold weather gear in the boat. It warmed up considerably with a slight breeze; it became a great day to fish. The International Walleye Championship will be held this week, Sept. 2, 3, 4. Pro walleye angles have been arriving over the past week to pre-fish Winnibigoshish. Our first experience with one of the pros was at the bait station. His boat covered with sponsor decals and around 20 rods and reels in his Suburban was our first clue.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates August 26, 2009

2009-08-26T20:21:00.001-07:00
Fair food is more fun
The Itasca County Fair offered a great variety of food and fun for everyone during its five day run.

County invokes Buy American Policy for railroad steel
Viewing anything other than an approval vote as disrespect to the very heart of the Iron Range, Itasca County Commissioners unanimously authorized a Buy American Policy for the steel to be used in the construction of the countys rail road.

City approves county control over airport
If they want to take this over, let them take it over.

Foster parenting offers both rewards and challenge
Of every 25 people who attend an initial meeting about becoming a foster parent, its lucky if four withstand the process.

Commissioner brings bleak news for state of agriculture industry in Minnesota
Minnesota Commissioner of Agriculture Gene Hugoson held a listening session in Grand Rapids Friday during the Itasca County Fair.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates August 23, 2009

2009-08-23T19:59:00.001-07:00

City and county look at revising the airport joint powers agreement
The Grand Rapids Airport, specifically, amending the airports joint powers agreement between the City of Grand Rapids and Itasca County, was the topic of a special meeting of the Itasca County Board Monday morning. In addition to the county commissioners (Commissioner Catherine McLynn was absent), the entire Grand Rapids city council, members of the Airport Commission and other city officials were present at the meeting.

Range hospital boards form collaborative will look for efficencies, enhancements
HIBBING The boards of directors of the Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital, Range Regional Health Services (RRHS) in Hibbing and Virginia Regional Medical Center (VRMC) have agreed to form a proactive partnership, officials announced Wednesday.

At the fair - tractor pulling
What would Kids Day at the fair be without the annual pedal tractor pull?

Meet the 2009 Outstanding Senior Volunteers of Itasca County
Gerald Stejskal, of Grand Rapids, and Helen Rudolph, of Bovey, have been named the 2009 Outstanding Senior Volunteers of Itasca County. Minnesota state Representative Loren Solberg and state Senator Tom Saxhaug made the announcement Friday afternoon at a celebration at the Itasca County Fair.

Educational Talent Search students travel to Washington, D.C.
Forty Educational Talent Search (ETS) students from Itasca Community College had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. this July. The purpose of the field trip was to visit colleges and cultural sites.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates August 21, 2009

2009-08-21T04:52:00.000-07:00

Cheese curds, corn dogs, fun slide, oh my!
Favorite fair foods and games have officially arrived under the pines at the Itasca County Fairgrounds for the start of the 117th fair. The midway, provided by Gopher State Expositions of St. Cloud, opened at noon today and offers specials through Sunday with Thursday Kids Day, Friday Family Day and Sunday Final Fling Day.

Senator touts renewable energy economy as boon for state
On what was one of the hottest days of the year, newly-seated U.S. Sen. Al Franken [D-Minn.] visited northern Minnesota last week and made a stop in Cohasset Friday afternoon to tour the Boswell Energy Centers Unit 3, which has been undergoing a massive retrofit to reduce emissions.

Looking for a new tenant, new use for an old mill
In todays economy, its a tough market for selling homes - much less an old lumber mill.

ISD 318 prepares for back-to-school
The Independent School District 318 School Board held its last meeting of the summer Monday, conducting some basic back-to-school business in preparation for the start of the 2009-2010 school year.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates August 20, 2009

2009-08-20T05:20:00.001-07:00
Wohlers claims victory at memorial event
By Julia Kaasa Zach Wohlers dominated the Super Stock feature at the Dave Wohlers memorial event at the Tom Clusiau Grand Rapids Speedway on Thursday night. Other feature winners included Skeeter Estey in the Midwest Modifieds, Tommy Waseleski in the Late Models, Jeff Broking in the Modifieds, and Kevin Perkovich in the Pure Stocks.

Carlisle and Rasmussen compete in 16-U National Softball
By Jason Groth Grand Rapids Herald-Review It was already an exciting summer for Grand Rapids softball players Bailey Rasmussen and Allison Carlisle. The duo added to that level of excitement with a trip to the 16-UA National Softball tournament in Kansas.

The Outdoorsman
It was December 1968, when the organizers of Woodstock really got rolling, for a three day music festival. For Rod and I, our plans were made sitting in his dads 14-foot boat. It was late May, 1969, and fishing on the rock pile on Bowstring was pretty good. Both of us were 21 years old and recent college graduates.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates August 16, 2009

2009-08-16T16:10:00.001-07:00

Bovey man sentenced for shaking baby
The man charged with shaking two-month-old Kane Zimmerman, of Hill City, in August 2007, and ultimately causing the baby boys death was sentenced Tuesday, Aug. 11 in Aitkin County.

Project dates for steel mill extended
An updated schedule for the Essar Steel Minnesota project shows several expected completion dates pushed further into the future.

County Board meets Aug. 1
Herald-Review Staff Report The Itasca County Board of Commissioners meeting for Tuesday, Aug. 11 was a brief one.

Cohasset council hears railroad crossing update
The goal is still to get road work started this fall for the new Beier Road railroad crossing.

Troop travels north to ensure Forget-Me-Not Ranch is not forgotten
A group of Girl Scouts from Chaska traveled north this weekend to help beautify and raise awareness about the Forget-Me-Not Ranch. The Nashwauk hobby farm is home to a horseback riding program for people with disabilities.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates 8/13/2009

2009-08-13T15:08:00.000-07:00
Council tables decision on urban chicken ordinance
The vote on whether or not to allow chickens in the Grand Rapids city limits will incubate for a few weeks and should hatch on Sept. 14.

Majority of area districts make AYP
Information released Monday by the Minnesota Department of Education reveals that most area school districts are making Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) on academic standards, with the exceptions of the Grand Rapids Area school district and Northern Lights Community School. Area schools that made AYP this year were the districts of Greenway, Hill City, Nashwauk-Keewatin, Deer River, and North Elementary School and King Elementary School.

Five sentenced for Lakes Inn armed robbery
Herald-Review staff report Three adults and two juveniles who were certified as adults were sentenced Monday in Itasca County District Court for the armed robbery of the Lakes Inn in LaPrairie on March 28.

Company awaiting remaining permits to construct pipeline
Loads of pipe has already arrived and hundreds of construction workers are expected to show up next - all in preparation for the construction of Enbridge Energys Alberta Clipper and Southern Lights pipeline projects.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates 8/12/2009

2009-08-12T14:08:00.000-07:00

Hart holds on for Modified victory at GR Speedway
GRAND RAPIDS - Jeff Hart managed to hold off Ryan Aho and claim the Modified win at the Tom Clusiau Grand Rapids Speedway Thursday night. Other feature winners included Jeff Tardy in the Super Stocks, Dan Ebert in the Midwest Modifieds, Bobby Carlson in the Late Models, and Kevin Perkovich in the Pure Stocks.

Three generations complete marathon
It was quite the accomplishment for the Jones family when three generations crossed the finish line at Duluths Grandmas Marathon.

Stemwedel named new head coach for girls soccer
There will be a new look to the 2009 Grand Rapids Thunderhawk girls soccer team when the season begins in mid-August.

The Outdoorsman
More and more artificial baits are packed in liquid to keep the bait fresh. Have you ever spilled a bottle of simulated live bait on the floor of your boat? Worse yet has the bottle of simulated bait been spilled in a friends boat?

Neustrom inducted into Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame
Editors Note: Local fishing guide Tom Neustrom reflects on being Inducted into the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in Hayward, Wis.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates August 9, 2009

2009-08-09T13:46:00.001-07:00

Walk to support the troops this Labor Day
It was during a recent family birthday party for their son when Gayle Randall first threw out the idea.

Fine-feathered friends will be subject of a public hearing
So which came first? Urban chickens or the Grand Rapids residents who want to house them?

Property taxes to change in Greenway School District
Taxpayers in the Greenway School District were able to learn more about how their property taxes may change over the next few years during a special community meeting about OPEB bonding held in the high school auditorium Thursday evening.

DEEDs summer road show makes stop in Grand Rapids
Local business and community leaders had the opportunity to hear from state officials about the recession and federal stimulus spending in the state Tuesday afternoon as the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) brought its summer road show to the campus of Itasca Community College.

Man enticing children
Its not time to panic, but Grand Rapids residents should be aware that since the beginning of June the Grand Rapids Police Department has received three reports of a middle-aged man attempting to entice children into his vehicle.

Herald-Review - Daily Updates 8/7/2009

2009-08-08T17:00:00.001-07:00

McBride, Nelson earns post-season awards for Itasca Community College
When starting a new softball team, teams look to build up the middle. The Itasca Community College Vikings did just that with starting pitcher Katie McBride and catcher Emma Nelson.

2009 Kids Fishing Derby
In its 19th year, the US Army Corps of Engineers kids fishing derby at Leech Lake Recreation Area drew one of its largest crowds yet.

Jason's view
The Minnesota Twins finally made a move and added veteran pitcher Carl Pavano to a struggling rotation. Pavano recorded a 9-8 record with an earned run average well over five.