Get Fit Itasca Action Alert! Parks & Trails Plan Update

Mark your calendars for this upcoming opportunity to share your
thoughts about the parks and trails in Grand Rapids. August 21 or
September 18 at 6:30 in the Grand Rapids City Hall Council Chambers.

For more information:

Meghan Bown, LSW
Community Health Coordinator
Get Fit Itasca & The Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP)
Itasca County Family YMCA
400 River Road
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
(218)327-1161x240


Or visit www.getfititasca.org

Itasca County Car Chase Ends in Arrest

On July 4th at approximately 5:35 P.M. an Itasca County Deputy 

was responding to domestic assault complaint. While responding 

the Deputy located the suspect in a vehicle and attempted to 

stop the vehicle. Upon doing so the vehicle fled from the 

Deputy in the Blackberry area. The Deputy called for assistance 

in the pursuit which was reaching speeds in excess of 100 Miles 

Per Hour. The pursuit went to the Warba area and then back to 

the Grand Rapids area.

During the pursuit the suspect attempted to ram two marked squad 

cars head on at speeds over 80 Miles Per Hour forcing the squad 

cars off of the road and into the ditch.

Once in the City of Grand Rapids a Grand Rapids Police Officer 

encountered the vehicle at an intersection in the City and fired 

shots at the fleeing vehicle.

The Pursuit was ended 10 miles South of Grand Rapids on Highway 

169 with the assistance of the Minnesota State Patrol.

The Driver of the fleeing vehicle, a Juvenile Male, was taken 

into custody and was the only occupant in the vehicle. The 

Juvenile is being held at the Itaskin Juvenile Center pending 

formal charges.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is investigating 

the Officer involved shooting and the Officer has been put on 

Administrative Leave.

One Grand Rapids Officer and one Itasca County Deputy received 

minor injuries in the apprehension on the suspect.

United Way Rallies Volunteers for National Day of Action June 21

United Way Rallies Volunteers for National Day of Action June 21

 

Each year, on June 21st, United Ways all over the world will participate in a nationwide day of service called Day of Action. This year, leading up to the longest day of the year, United Way of 1000 Lakes is partnering with the GRACE House of Itasca County to mobilize the community around the issues of homelessness and poverty by kicking off a community-wide Personal Care Drive that will wrap-up with hands-on volunteer projects at the homeless shelter on June 21st.

 

This day marks the longest day of the year with more daylight hours than any other and serves as an opportunity to make an impact on education, income and health, the core areas and building blocks for a good life that United Way is committed to improving.

 

“The Day of Action is a way for all sectors of our community to unite and work towards accomplishing the common vision of helping others. What you see today is a living testimony of our organization’s mission: to improve lives mobilizing the caring power of our communities,” said Kimberly Brink Smith, United Way executive director.

 

Anyone can participate in this national day of service – from championing a cause to lending a helping hand. Local churches, organizations, civic groups and businesses are encouraged to get involved: run a collection drive; grab your friends, family or co-workers and register a team; share on social media; and wear your LIVE UNITED shirt on June 21st.

 

Run a Collection Drive:

Coordinate a collection drive at your church, organization, civic group or business. Then drop off items at the GRACE House on the Day of Action (501 SW 1st Ave., Grand Rapids), where they will be sorted and packaged for area agencies, who will then distribute to those in need. Needed items including: toothbrushes; full-size hair care products (children and adult), toothpaste, and deodorant; razors; shaving cream; laundry detergent; first aid supplies; diapers and baby wipes; feminine hygiene products; paper products (toilet paper, paper towns, Kleenex); razors, shaving cream, and new wash cloths and hand and bath towels.

 

Volunteer on the Day of Action:

Take time out of your day and help your local homeless shelter with hands-on projects, including painting the building exterior and fence, landscaping, gardening, yard activities, window washing, and sorting/assembling personal care packages. There is no fee to participate and volunteers of any age and ability are eligible to participate. Each volunteer will receive a free t-shirt and lunch. Register for a full day (8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) or half day (8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) GRACE House is located at 501 SW 1st Ave. in Grand Rapids. Note: Tuesday, June 25th is reserved as an alternate Day of Action in case of rain.

 

Get the Word Out:

Promote the Day of Action in your community by posting flyers; wearing the Day of Action button; retweeting and sharing United Way’s posts/events with your friends, relatives and colleagues on Twitter and Facebook.

 

Wear your Shirt:

If you cannot volunteer on Day of Action, you can still show your support for United Way by wearing your LIVE UNITED shirt on June 21st. Shirts can be purchased for $10 (includes a $5 donation to United Way) at United Way or by calling 218-999-7570.

 

Nearly 50 volunteers have already signed up to participate, but organizers hopes to double their impact with 50 additional volunteers.  Leading the way are Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union, KOOTASCA, Minnesota Power, Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI) and Support Within Reach. Day of Action program will feature live music performed by iRauk.

 

Additional sponsors, partners and in-kind donors include: Arrow Embroidery and Screen Printing, Bloomer’s Garden Center and Landscaping; Expert Building Services; Rapids Rental & Supply, and Itasca County Habitat for Humanity.

 

Paint and coating products for the project is provided through a grant from the Valspar Foundation’s “Minnesota Beautiful” program. GRACE House is one of 16 community restoration and beautification projects located within the seven counties of northeastern Minnesota.

 

“We hope that volunteers walk away from a Day of Action with a better understanding of United Way’s role in the community,” said Laura Connelly, United Way Board President. “We also hope that they become inspired to continue enriching our community through volunteerism. One thing I know for sure is that great communities are only created when the people who live there are willing to give back.”

 

If you or your company is interest in volunteering, proving in-kind donations or sponsoring the Day of Action, contact Kimberly Brink Smith, at 218-999-7570 or kimbelry@unitedwayof1000lakes.org. For a complete list of activities and updates, connect on facebook at www.facebook.com/UnitedWayof1000Lakes.

 

Facts about homelessness:

 

• In January, the Amherst H. Wilder Foundation conducted a homelessness study that identified 86 homeless households living in Itasca County. These individuals do not have access to any shelter or prevention program and are living on the streets, in cars, abandoned buildings, or places not fit for human habitation.

 

• Homelessness in Itasca County has increased by 22 percent over the past three years.

 

• Lack of available and affordable housing is the no. 1 contributing factor to homelessness in Itasca County.

 

• Six out of 10 guests served by GRACE House are residents of Itasca County.

 

• KOOTASCA prevented homelessness for 221 households that were homeless, or in unstable or substandard housing.

 

• In 2012, Advocates for Family Peace provided emergency safe housing for 71 women, and 82 children.  Transitional housing was provided for 21 women, and 51 children escaping domestic abuse.

 

• Last year, GRACE House served 211 guests, of these 63 percent successfully secured stable housing by their 30 day stay.

 

• First Call 2-1-1 staff made 503 referrals to (homeless or imminently homeless households) KOOTASCA’s Crisis Housing Programs: Short-term Rental Assistance, or Transitional Housing.

 

• Last year, the Salvation Army provided housing support services for 42 homeless households, 32 families and 10 single individuals.

 

• AEOA provided independent living skills for 56 youth and homeless prevention services for 35 youth in 2012.

 

 

ABOUT UNITED WAY OF 1000 LAKES

Since 1963, United Way of 1000 Lakes has been advancing the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all, focusing on helping children to thrive, providing basic human needs, and promoting independence and community wellness. United Way recruits people and organizations that bring the passion, expertise, and resources needed to get things done. Everyone is invited to be part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. That’s what it means to Live United. United Way of 1000 Lakes is a locally based organization serving Itasca area communities.

 

United Way Day of Action: June 21st

United Way Day of Action: Friday, June 21st

 

The United Way is asking everyone, whether part of a business, an individual or civic group or non-profit, to take part in a Day of Action. Join thousands of people around the world for United Way Action Day and roll-up your sleeves to make a difference in our community. Individually, we can do many things. But together, we can do anything!

United Way Day of Action
June 21, 2013
GRACE House, Grand Rapids

 

United Way Day of Action provides an opportunity to be part of positive change in our community on June 21 and in the future. We encourage companies, co-workers, families, friends and neighbors to join us and unleash the POWER of WE!

 

Take time out of your day and help the fight against homelessness. Sign-up and join us for hands-on volunteer projects like painting, gardening, yard activities, general clean-up, as well as assembling personal care packages. Email kimberly@unitedwayof1000lakes.org or call United Way at 218-999-7570.

 

 

Stay Connected:

w. www.unitedwayof1000lakes.org

f. facebook.com/UnitedWayof1000Lakes

t. twitter.com/UWay1000Lakes

 

 

 

 

ATTN EDITOR: United Way Celebrates Successful Campaign and Other Milestones

 

 

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PHOTOS ATTACHED

 

Contact: 

Kimberly Brink Smith

218-999-7570 / Kimberly@unitedwayof1000lakes.org

 

 

United Way Celebrates Successful Campaign and Other Milestones

 

United Way 2012 campaign results were announced at a recent United Way Campaign Celebration at the Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids. The event kicked off United Way’s 50^th anniversary year and celebrated successes of the 2012 “The POWER of WE” campaign, which topped $303,175, surpassing the goal and increasing $17,175 over last year.

 

“We are humbled by and so very grateful for the incredible support of our donors,” said Kimberly Brink Smith, United Way Executive Director. “Because of their trust in United Way, more children are meeting key milestones in school, more families are achieving financial stability, more seniors are getting the support to remain independent, and more individuals are empowered to rebuild their lives.”

 

As part of the evening, the organization transitioned Board President from Guy Clairmont, President of Guy Clairmont Financial, to Laura Connelly, Director of Programming with Advocates for Family Peace. Madelen Schuemann, Minnesota Power retiree, was named Vice President and Guy Clairmont was named Treasurer. Others serving on the volunteer Board of Directors include: Wendy Uzelac, RE/MAX; Linnea Soular, Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital; Justin Fischer, Terex; Ryan Davis, Davis Chiropractic; Wade Fauth, Blandin Foundation; and Ann Saxhaug, Target Corporate retiree. Leaving the board after six years of service were Diane Weber, Blandin UPM retiree and Wade Fauth, Blandin Foundation.

 

“The vision I have for United Way is to enrich the life of everyone in our community,” said Laura Connelly, United Way’s Board President. “Whether you are on the giving end or the receiving end, we will work together to make sure everyone in our community can access the information, inspiration, and resources they need to live a full, prosperous life.”

The evening program featured music provided by the Itasca Youth Orchestra. This year’s keynote speaker was Grand Rapids Mayor Adams, who shared highlights from the past 50 years and United Way’s impact in the community. Adams also announced, “To date, the United Way Community Campaigns has raised $10 million over the past 50 years.”

 

Other program speakers included: past United Way Board President, Karen Karls followed by an Advocates for Family Peace participant, who shared her story and triumph over domestic abuse.

 

United Way recognized individuals who have been instrumental in improving the lives of people and advancing the common good in the community through volunteerism. This year presenting two recipients with Community Volunteer Awards for their dedication to helping youth and aging adults in the areas of education, income and health.

 

The first Community Volunteer Award was presented to ElderCircle volunteer, Lloyd Adams. Lloyd has been volunteering for more than 60 years and currently serves on the ElderCircle volunteer Board of Directors. An ElderCircle RSVP member for over six years, he has humbly provided more than 5,666 hours of community services through RSVP programs in Itasca County. Valerie Cromell, who nominated him said, “To us here at ElderCircle, Lloyd’s volunteer service is invaluable. The world is truly a better place because of our friend and volunteer. We are proud and privileged to nominate him.”

 

The second Community Volunteer Award was presented to Joe W. Rust, who is making a difference in the lives of youth in the area of Education through his work with the Itasca Youth for Christ. Joe has dedicated over 30 years of his life to volunteerism in our community is the Treasurer of Itasca Youth for Christ’s volunteer Board of Directors. In that role, he is helping to maintain the organization’s financials, as well as, supporting the organizations fund development efforts.

 

The evening concluded with an awards presentation to recognize outstanding efforts of individuals and businesses to improve their community through giving, advocating and volunteering. Campaign Highlights and Awards include:

 

• Madelen Schuemann, 2012 Campaign Chair, led a cabinet of 30 volunteers, which was supported by an additional 180 volunteer workforce campaign coordinators.
• Minnesota Power was presented the 2012 Pacesetter Award for setting the pace for the entire campaign and generating momentum.
• In all, 1,500 individuals and 200 businesses contributed to this year’s campaign.
• 87 people participated as Leadership Level Donors, pledging over $61,000. The gifts comprise 20% of the total campaign.
• Small business and corporate gifts make up one third of contributions received during the campaign.
• Corporate Giving Awards were presented to business that made significant community investments through the 2012 campaign. This year’s recipients in three categories are: Lake Country Power (bronze); Wal-Mart (bronze); Lakehead Construction (bronze); Liberty Mutual (silver); UPM Blandin (silver) and Blandin Foundation (gold).
• In the fall, DINING UNITED partners pledged a portion of their proceeds towards the 2012 campaign, raising $1,400. Partnering restaurants included: 17^th Street Grill, Applebee’s, Forest Lake, Pokegama Grill and Toivo’s Restaurant and Sports Grill.
• Each year, United Way relies on workforce campaigns to help achieve the annual goal, with more than 1,000 individuals pledging through the 2012 payroll deduction program.
• $6,000 was generated from six companies that ran successful workforce campaigns for the first time.

• Employee Giving Awards were presented to businesses that have conducted successful workforce campaigns. This year’s recipients in three categories are: Lake Country Power (bronze); Wal-Mart (bronze); Target (bronze); State of Minnesota (bronze); Itasca County (bronze); Essar Steel (bronze); American Bank (bronze); UPM Blandin; Blandin Foundation (silver); Essentia Health (silver); Grand Rapids State Bank (silver); ISD 318 (silver); ISD 318 Retirees (silver); UPS (silver); Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital (gold); and Itasca Area Schools Collaborative (gold).
• The LIVE UNITED award recognizes businesses that exemplify United Way’s spirit of Give, Advocate and Volunteer. This year’s award went to Minnesota Power, whose partnership with United Way spans more than 40 years. Minnesota Power employees and retirees pledged $45,736 to the 2012 campaign. Minnesota Power Foundation donated an additional $32,100, for a combined total of $77,836.

 

The annual event was sponsored by Minuteman Press. Additional support was provided by John Connelly Photography and Staging by Kathy. For more information about United Way of 1000 Lakes or its annual campaign efforts visit www.unitedwayof1000lakes.org or call 218-999-7570.

 

 

ABOUT UNITED WAY OF 1000 LAKES

Since 1963, United Way of 1000 Lakes has been advancing the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all, focusing on helping children to thrive, providing basic human needs, and promoting independence and community wellness. United Way recruits people and organizations that bring the passion, expertise, and resources needed to get things done. Everyone is invited to be part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. That’s what it means to Live United. United Way of 1000 Lakes is a locally based organization serving Itasca area communities.

 

#

 

EVENT CUTLINES:

 

Minnesota Power was awarded the 2012 Pacesetter and LIVE UNITED awards (Rhonda Munger, Minnesota Power (left); Kimberly Brink Smith, United Way Executive Director; and Paul Undeland, Minnesota Power.

 

United Way’s 2012 Board President, Guy Clairmont, Guy Clairmont Financial, announces newly elected 2013 Board President, Laura Connelly, Advocates for Family Peace.

 

Mayor Adams and United Way Executive Director at the 2012 United Way Campaign Celebration: Celebrating 50 Years of Generosity.

 

Mayor Adams presented the keynote address, which highlighted the community’s generosity of the past 50 years.

 

Kimberly Brink Smith United Way Executive Director at the 2012 United Way Campaign Celebration at the Timberlake Lodge Hotel.

 

 

 

Spring Community Education Classes for Youth in May and June

Mom & Me - Tea and Planting Party at Beier's Greenhouse

Celebrate Mother's Day with our Tea Party! Create a flower basket to give or bring home. Class fee includes refreshments, basket, selected flower plants and materials for one basket. Additional baskets may be created for $5 each. Add additional baskets to fee price when registering.   

Class #318532 Friday, 5/10 4-5pm  Fee - $7.00 per person

Archery for Beginners at the Forest History Center - Explore Archery and learn proper, safe shooting techniques with expert coaches.  Aim at a target.  Walk a trail. Shoot at 3-D style targets.  All equipment provided.  For Children 8 and older.  Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.    Class #318525

Saturday 5/18/13  Choose from 2 sessions

Session W/S1 12-2pm or Session W/S2 2-4pm  Fee: $15.00

Basic Babysitting - 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 and a lunch for you too.  Class #318500

Friday 5/31/13 9am-3pm at RJE Middle School   Fee:$20.00

Kids Garden Arts & Crafts at Beier's Greenhouse

Create art for your garden. Bring a rock from home or choose one of ours to paint.  Build a unique wind chime. This is a fun hands-on class for friends and families. Registration deadline is June 4thth.

Class #318530 Thursday, 6/6 4-5pm

Fee - $7.00 per child & includes all materials for class

For more information and to register, go to www.getlearning.org  or call 218-327-5730.  Registration is required for all these classes.

Community Education Summer Camps

Summer's Coming …. So are Community Ed Camps!

Beat Summer Boredom - Create, Explore, Discover, Make New Friendships and Have Fun!
Camp Discovery and Amazing Kids Camps are back again this summer.  We also have added 2 NEW camps – Spanish Camp-Mundo de Aventura and Fiber Arts Camp.  

Spanish Camp –"Mundo de Aventura"                                           

NEW Spanish Camp full of FUN ENGAGING activities. Immerse your child in Spanish with games, songs, crafts, storytelling, reading, writing and speaking Spanish at this camp. Discover Spanish language and culture with Senora Rachel Pierce, Bigfork Spanish Instructor, she will lead the students in Spanish at age appropriate levels.                                                                                                              Students will each receive a camp T-shirt and a daily Spanish snack.  
Choose from the following age level camps:                                                                      

Age 10-14 Class #318SPA Monday-Thursday 6/17-6/20/13 8:30am-12pm                              

Age 5-9 Class #318SPAN  Monday-Thursday 6/24/-6/27/13 8:30am-12pm                   

Location: RJE Middle School          Fee: $90 per week.  

Register for this camp by May 13th!   

Fiber Arts Camp at The Yarn Gallery, Grand Rapids                                                                                                               

Discover the Art of Fibers and learn Science (Chemistry, Biology and Physics), Math, Engineering and History too! Explore fibers and yarn, new techniques and create beautiful items each day.   Open for students in 4th grade-Adult    Choose from an entire 4 Day Camp or Single Day sessions.  All materials included for each class project.              

Offered 2 different weeks in June and July and include all single day session topics.                                

CAMP WEEK 1 Class #318528 Section S1–All 4 days Monday-Thursday 6/17-6/20/13 9am-12pm              

CAMP WEEK 2 Class #318528 Section S2–All 4 days Monday-Thursday 7/15-7/18/13 9am-12pm                                           Fee-$160 per week/4 day sessions or single day sessions—$45 per day-June 2nd and after

SPECIAL EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FEES! REGISTER BY June 1st!                                                                   Early Bird Fees are $125 per 4 day week camp or $35.00 per day session & expire after June 1st!                                                             Single Day Session topics:

Science of Wool—Mondays: Conduct experiments to discover how wool reacts and felts. Create your own felted piece.                                                                                                                                                                 Art of Spinning—Tuesdays: Build a drop spindle. Use it to spin fibers into yarn.                                                                       

Weaving and Braiding—Wednesdays: Discover number sequencing. Create fun patterns in various mediums using braiding and weaving techniques.                                                                                                                                                            

History of Sheep and Wool—Thursdays: All about sheep-shearing, caring for wool, and how to knit. Learn to knit. Create a unique knitted piece.                                                                               

Instructors:  Carissa Grosland—Licensed Teacher and Owner of The Yarn Gallery and Crystal Smith-ICC Engineering Instructor                                 

                                                          

Camp Discovery

4 weeks of camp. Each week a different theme – Blast From the Past: Bring the past to the present with a fun week of celebrating dance, music and culture; Proud Patriots: Discover what being an American citizen truly means; Transport to TV Land: Forget watching the TV, Live it! Each day will have a different TV Theme; Olympic Sports: An energy packed week full of fun sports and activities!                                                                             

MN licensed teachers will lead campers through four weeks of engaging activities. Snack provided. For students entering grades 1-8

June 17-July 18th Mondays- Thursdays, 12:30-4:30pm at RJE Middle School, Grand Rapids (No camp week of 4th of July)   Class # 318CAMP13
Fee: $100.00 for all 4 weeks

Amazing Kids Camp -A Summer Camp for Students with ASD and DCD                                         
This camp is for children with ASD or DCD that are looking for summer fun. Melissa King, Special Education teacher, will be providing a theme based program using evidence based practices and opportunities to learn, using activities that include art, cooking, games, structured teaching and will help to bridge the summer achievement gap for these students. PCA's are welcome for students with significant needs.         

Class # 318522  Tuesdays & Wednesdays 6/11/13 - 7/24/13  8:30am - 11:30am (No class July 2nd & 3rd)                                        Location: Grand Rapids RJE Middle School-Rm 525       Fee: $400.00                                                          

 

You can get more information and register online at www.getlearning.org    or call Community Education at 218-327-5730. Hope to see you at Camp this summer!