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Beltrami County - Arrest Following Pursuit, Suspicious Vehicle Complaint

March 17th, 2023

Ten Lake Township – Beltrami County, MN – Over the past week, Beltrami County Deputies have been conducting increased patrol efforts in the area of Ten Lake Township relating to a report of a suspicious vehicle in the area.

In the early morning hours of March 17th, 2023 a Beltrami County Deputy observed a car matching the description of the vehicle near the intersection of Jenkins Rd SE and Mission Rd SE. A traffic stop was attempted but the vehicle fled.

The suspect vehicle led deputies on a 12 mile pursuit, traveling township and county roads. Deputies were able to use stop sticks (tire deflation devices) on the suspect vehicle and successfully deflated three of the vehicle’s tires. The pursuit ended and the driver was taken into custody in the community of Pennington.

The driver, a 54 year old male, was taken into custody and transported to the Beltrami County Adult Correctional
Facility where he was booked into the facility for:
- Felony Fleeing a Peace Officer in a Motor Vehicle
- Gross Misdemeanor Driving After Cancellation Inimical to Public Safety
- Felony 1st Degree Driving While Impaired
-Sheriff Jason Riggs

Cass County Sheriff - Missing Juvenile Found Safe

Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that at 10:41 PM on Thursday, March 16th, 2023, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a request for assistance in locating a missing juvenile male in the Prescott Housing area, rural Cass Lake, MN.

Initial information was that a juvenile male, age 8, left a neighboring residence and did not arrive home. Throughout the evening, several resources and personnel were utilized in searching for the missing juvenile.

On Friday, March 17th, 2023, searching continued and the juvenile male was located safe at a residence in the area. Several Tribal, County, and State resources were utilized, including personnel going door to door, drone teams, ATVs, and snowmobiles. No other information is available for release at this time.

The Cass County Sheriff’s Office and Leech Lake Tribal Police Department thank the numerous agencies and individuals that participated in the search and its positive outcome.

Vehicle struck by a Burlington Northern train in Farden Township

March 14, 2023 Press Release from the Hubbard County Sheriff

On March 13th at 6:11pm the Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle that was struck by a Burlington Northern train on 323rd Av in Farden Township.

Deputies and medical personnel responded to the scene to find that 53-year old Robert Idovich Jr of rural Cass Lake was travelling north
on 323rd Av in a 1995 Chevrolet pickup. As Idovich approached the stop sign at the railroad tracks, he skidded past the stop sign and came to a stop on the tracks where the truck stalled. Idovich exited the truck just before an eastbound train collided with the truck.

The train consisted of 2-engines and 15- cars and contained 3-employees of Burlington Northern Railroad. There were no injuries sustained in the crash.

Idovich’s driving status was “Cancelled-Inimical to Public Safety” and he was placed under arrest by Deputies and transported to the Hubbard County Jail.

The crash is being investigated by the Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office.

Top Ranked AC/DC Tribute Band "Back in Black" is Wednesday Night Headliner at Lakes Jam in 2023

BRAINERD, MINNESOTA – AC/DC tribute band Back in Black has been announced as the headliner on Wednesday, June 21st for Lakes Jam this summer. Their performance will take place on the Bud Light Main Stage at 9pm, which is sponsored by Lakes Jam Partner Viking Coca Cola. Wednesday night passes are available now at LakesJam.com. 

Back in Black formed in late 2000 to recreate the excitement and high energy of an AC/DC live concert. In 2013, they were featured on AXS TV's "World's Greatest Tribute Bands" and has been named a Top 10 Best AC/DC tribute band of all time by ProTributeBands.com. Lead singer and co-founder Darren Caperna does an almost-pitch perfect rendition of Brian Johnson's unique sound.

They have toured major arenas and theaters across the country for hundreds of thousands of people and have headlined the world's largest Tribute Festival, Jack FM's Throwback, in Dallas, Texas for six years in a row. 

Rounding out the 2023 Lakes Jam rock lineup is Soul Asylum performing before rock headliner Skillet on Thursday, June 22, 2023. Country headliners include HARDY, whose performance is scheduled for Friday, June 23rd at 10pm, and Dustin Lynch on the Bud Light Main Stage Saturday, June 24th at 10pm.

Visit LakesJam.com for more up to date announcements on the hottest country and rock festival lineup of the summer. 

Lakes Jam is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this upcoming year with 4 stages and nearly 30 rock and country artists. Jammers will also have access to outdoor entertainment including watercross, drifting, lawn mower racing, poker tournaments, mud trucks and a bean bag tourney / costume contest. Campers can bring their ATVs, UTVs and golf carts with the required ATV pass for transportation around the 600-acre Brainerd International Raceway grounds.

Campground reservations are open and 1-day, 3-day and VIP passes are on sale and available at www.LakesJam.com.

Free Healthy Meals Available March 13

Free Healthy Meals Available at The Hope Center in Wadena on Monday March 13 from 2-3 PM. Meals provided by Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota thanks to a grant from Second Harvest Heartland and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Who is Eligible?

Anyone in Minnesota, 18 and older and in need of nutrition can receive bundles of ten meals at each pick-up event on a first come, first served basis. You can also pick up meals for others in your household.

The homestyle meals are produced at a local LSS Meals kitchen and individually portioned then sealed and given out in reusable bags.

Group Meets to Discuss Possibility of a Community Center

A group of approximately 25 people gathered at the Armory Arts Center to discuss the possibility of a Community/Wellness Center. The attendees broke up into groups and wrote down things they felt the community was doing well, things the community would like to see and 3rd things that are problems/barriers.

Several talked about forming a small group to visit with other community centers to understand the financial stability and identifying stakeholders in the community for funding support. Ideas thrown out included if individuals would be willing to set up endowments that could help with continue funding.

This is just the start of planning and more meetings will be scheduled said, facilitator Donna Anderson.

Bemidji Water Tower Riser Column Implosion

On February 28, the City of Bemidji water tower located on 1st Street E experienced damage to its center water riser column.  This damage was in the form of a column implosion and occurred during maintenance the utility department was performing on the water tower.

Sections of 1st Street E were cordoned off for about 2 hours while the City could confirm the structural integrity of the water tower was sound.  The water tower is structurally sound.  We do not anticipate any  major impacts to the city’s water service delivery system while we resolve this issue.

The water is safe for consumption and no impacts are expected.

If you have further questions, please call City Hall 218-759-3560 and we can direct the appropriate staff to answer your question.

Midwest Country Music Organization Award-Winning Artist Jake Nelson to Perform at Lakes Jam in 2023

BRAINERD, MINNESOTA – On-the-rise Minnesotan country singer/songwriter Jake Nelson has been added to the Lakes Jam lineup. He will perform on Friday, June 23rd from 4pm to 1am on the 2nd Stage. The 2nd Stage artists play in between the Bud Light Main Stage performances, so the music never ends! General admission and VIP passes are available now at LakesJam.com.

Jake Nelson's start in music began with influences from genres including country, rock, and R&B. These varieties of music have broadened his creative horizons as a writer and performer.

He won the Midwest Country Music Organization Award for Song of the Year and Music Video of the Year in 2018 for "You Are Not Alone."

Jake Nelson has shared national stages with bands including the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Rodney Atkins, Dylan Scott, Craig Morgan, and more.

Rounding out the 2023 Lakes Jam lineup, rock band Soul Asylum is performing before rock headliner Skillet on Thursday, June 22, 2023. Other country headliners include HARDY, whose performance is scheduled for Friday, June 23rd at 10pm, and Dustin Lynch on the Bud Light Main Stage Saturday, June 24th at 10pm.

Visit LakesJam.com for more up to date announcements on the hottest country and rock festival lineup of the summer. 

Lakes Jam is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this upcoming year with 4 stages and nearly 30 rock and country artists. Jammers will also have access to outdoor entertainment including watercross, drifting, lawn mower racing, poker tournaments, mud trucks and a bean bag tourney / costume contest. Campers can bring their ATVs, UTVs and golf carts with the required ATV pass for transportation around the 600-acre Brainerd International Raceway grounds.

Campground reservations are open and 1-day, 3-day and VIP passes are on sale and available at www.LakesJam.com.

Jammers get the chance to win passes, experiences, merch, and more by following Lakes Jam on social media or attending Pre-Jam parties! 

Snowmobile Theft and Recovery Following Fatal Crash

 Buzzle Township, Beltrami County - On February 19th, 2023 at approximately 11:30AM, the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a snowmobile crash at the Clearwater and Beltrami County Line on the Soo Line Trail, near the intersection of Clearline Rd NW and Soo Line Rd NW. 

A snowmobile had crashed with a tractor trailer resulting in serious injury to the female snowmobile operator.  Law Enforcement and Emergency Medical Service personnel conducted life saving measures on the female but was declared deceased.  The crash is being investigated by the Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office.

Several hours after the crash, family and friends of the victim returned to the area to recover several snowmobiles that had been left at the scene.  Unfortunately, one of the snowmobiles belonging to the family of the deceased was stolen. 

The stolen snowmobile was parked on the Beltrami County side of the county border and deputies immediately began searching for the stolen snowmobile.  Beltrami County Deputies followed tracks leading west from the scene and followed up on several leads that evening.

With assistance from the Clearwater County Sheriff’s Office, on February 20th a search warrant was executed at two rural addresses in Dudley Township near Leonard where snowmobile tracks matching the stolen snowmobile lead. 

The stolen snowmobile was located at one of the residences and charges are pending on a male and female for felony theft.  The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office took possession of the snowmobile and returned it to the owner.   

The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office extends our condolences to the victim’s family. 

Park Rapids Student Olivia Budzien Chosen for Statewide Honor Band

The Park Rapids Area Schools band program is excited to announce that Century School 7th grader Olivia Budzien has been selected by the
Minnesota Band Director's Association for membership in the 2023 Statewide 6th-8th grade honor band.

Olivia was selected from among some of the top flute players from across the state of Minnesota by completing a recorded audition last November.

The MBDA honor bands are one of the premier opportunities for highlighting musical talent among young instrumentalists across Minnesota, focusing their efforts on providing top-tier musical honor experiences for middle level musicians.

According to Century Middle School band director John Cook, "Olivia is an extremely gifted and hard working flute student. The audition that she completed was comprised of music written for high school level students, and she began preparing for this audition after she had been
playing flute for only 10 months.

She spent 4 1/2 months preparing for the audition, and as a 7th grader, she was up against some of the top 6th, 7th, and 8th grade flute players in the state.

One the one hand, she is a student who is very deserving of this accomplishment-on the other hand, this is an extraordinary achievement, and I couldn't be more proud of her!"

Olivia will participate in the MBDA Statewide Honor Band Festival in Fergus Falls on April 15th and 16th, with a public performance on the afternoon of April 16th.

Two Men Sentenced for Shipping Methamphetamine from Los Angeles to Greater Minnesota

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Two men have been sentenced to prison for trafficking methamphetamine that was shipped through mail from Los Angeles to Bemidji, Minnesota, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.

According to court documents, on July 20, 2021, Molandas Johnson, 26, brought five pounds of methamphetamine to a Post Office in Los Angeles and shipped it to an address in Bemidji, Minnesota. After federal agents from Minnesota observed Johnson ship the package, the agents obtained a search warrant to seize the packaged methamphetamine. Days later, U.S. Postal Investigators and other officers conducted a controlled delivery of the package in Bemidji, and observed co-conspirator Luis Francisco Hernandez, 24, picking up the package.

Johnson pleaded guilty on July 6, 2022, to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. He was sentenced on January 25, 2023, in U.S. District Court by Judge Nancy E. Brasel to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised released.

Hernandez also pleaded guilty on July 6, 2022, to distribution of controlled substances. He was sentenced on February 9, 2023, by Judge Nancy E. Brasel to nine years in prison, followed by four years of supervised release.

This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Bradley M. Endicott and Drew R. Winter prosecuted the case.

Broadband Line Extension Program Funds Available in Hubbard County

February 14, 2023 Press Release

Broadband Line Extension Program Funds Available

Funds are available for properties in Hubbard County that are unserved or underserved with wired broadband service. Individuals are encouraged to apply through the MN Department of Employment
and Economic Development for grants to offset the cost of extending service to their home or business location.

The State Legislature has allocated $15 million to this program and the maximum grant for a property is $25,000. The application window is currently open with the first grant awards announced in May 2023.
In the 2022 Legislative Session, the Office of Broadband Development (OBD) was directed to create a new program, the Broadband Line Extension Connection Program.

The purpose of the program is to award grants for the extension of existing broadband infrastructure to unserved locations. An unserved
location is a location that does not have a wired broadband service of at least 25Mbps download and 3Mbps upload.

The statute provides that each person should enter their own address where service is not available. The form also has a signature box for the person completing the form affirming the information provided.
Therefore, you should have each person in your area that is unserved enter their own address.

Broadband providers can then decide how to respond in the reverse auction to serve multiple addresses under this program or possibly submit a Border-to-Border Broadband grant application to build out the
area under a larger project.

Access the Broadband Line Extension Connection Program here.

https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/extension/

Cass County Sheriff - Snowmobile Crash Results in Injury

Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that on February 8th 2023 at 11:52 PM the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call of a snowmobile crash with injury on the Paul Bunyan Trail, Shingobee Township, rural Walker, MN.

Deputies and responders arrived in the area of the scene where the victim had been transported and learned that an adult male, age 51, of Chaska, MN, had been operating an Artic Cat XF1100 snowmobile when it had left the trail striking trees.

The victim was treated on scene and transported to a hospital in Fargo, ND, with serious injury. Assisting on scene were Hackensack Fire and Rescue, North Memorial Ambulance and Air Care.

Active Shooter Restrained by Employees at New York Mills Lund Plant

On 02/09/2023 at approximately 07:20 AM the Otter Tail Sheriff's Office responded to an active shooter at the Lund Boat Company in New York Mills, MN. Prior to Law Enforcement arriving, employees at the plant had restrained the suspect. Suspect is in custody.

No injuries at this time. More information to follow.

UPDATE: A 21 year old male is in custody after a shooting at the Lund's Boat Factory in the city of New York Mills shortly after 7 am on February 9, 2023. The lone suspect, a Lund employee, was in a verbal confrontation with another employee when he pulled a small caliber handgun and fired a round at the 31yr old male victim. The round did not strike the victim. The suspect chased the victim outside where the victim was able to get away.

Another round was possibly fired while outside. The suspect was not allowed back in the building due to an employee holding the door restricting access. Another Lund employee made contact with the suspect outside and the suspect fled, but was caught and subdued by employees prior to law enforcement arriving.

The suspect was taken into custody and was transported to the Otter Tail County Jail pending criminal charges. Had it not been for the quick actions of Lund staff members, the outcome may have been much worse.

2/10/23 Update: Arrested David Jeremiah Gadsden 21 Years old

Shed Fire Reported in Otter Tail County

On 02/07/23 at 0951 hours, the Otter Tail Co Sheriff's Office received a call from a Millerville Firefighter of a shed on fire at 15154 Co Hwy 57. Initial report was the structure was fully involved, with no one around.
 
At the same time the homeowner was calling 911 to report the fire also. The 16 x 30 shed, a small tractor, and all contents are a total loss.
 
The fire appears to have started near a wood stove in the shed. Vining, Millerville, and Parkers Prairie Fire Depts responded to the scene. Mn State Fire Marshal was also on scene and investigated the fire.
 
No injuries reported and an unknown dollar amount of loss at this time.

Pequot Lakes MN - Snowmobile Crash Results in Fatality

Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that on Tuesday February 7, 2023 at 9:38 AM, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a snowmobile crash with injury on the Maple Leaf Snowmobile Trail, along County Road 1, in Maple Township, rural Pequot Lakes MN.

Deputies and responders arrived on scene and learned that the victim, an adult male, age 54 of Eden Prairie, MN was operating a 2009 Ski Doo Snowmobile.

While attempting to navigate a driveway approach along the trail, the victim was thrown from the snowmobile and struck a power pole. Lifesaving efforts were performed on scene and the victim was pronounced deceased.

An autopsy is scheduled with the Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s Office and the crash remains under investigation. Assisting at the scene were the Lake Shore Police Department, Pequot Lakes Fire and Rescue, North Memorial Ambulance and Life Link.

Cass County MN - Snowmobile Crashes Investigated

February 4th 2023 – HOME BROOK TWP – SNOWMOBILE CRASH RESULTS IN SERIOUS INJURIES

Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that on Saturday, February 4th 2023 at 11:39 AM, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a snowmobile crash with injuries on the “Snoflea” Snowmobile Trail, in Home Brook Township, rural Nisswa MN. Deputies and First Responders arrived near the scene and utilized tracked rescue vehicles to access the area.

Deputies learned that an adult female, age 49 of Coon Rapids MN, was operating a 2020 Polaris Indy rental snowmobile with an juvenile male, age 15 of Coon Rapids MN, as rear passenger. The snowmobile left the trail on a curve and struck a tree causing the rider and passenger to be ejected from the machine.

The juvenile male was transported via helicopter to a St. Cloud MN hospital with serious injuries, the female was transported to a Brainerd MN hospital. Both were wearing helmets at the time of the crash. Assisting at the scene were Pillager Fire & Rescue, North Memorial Ambulance and AirCare.

February 4th 2023 – BYRON TWP – SNOWMOBILE CRASH REUSLTS IN FATALITY

UPDATED: February 6, 2023:

Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that the victim has been identified as Mark Plattner, age 65 of Staples MN.

Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that on Saturday, February 4th 2023 at 4:55 PM, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a snowmobile crash with serious injury on 72nd St SW in Byron Township, rural Staples MN.

Deputies and responders arrived on scene and found family and bystanders preforming CPR on an adult male victim. Medical aid was immediately continued by Deputies and EMS Personnel. The male was pronounced deceased on scene.

The investigation indicated that a family was returning to their residence from a snowmobile trip when the track on the victim’s snowmobile became dislodged from the 2007 Yamaha snowmobile, causing the machine to crash and eject the operator, a male age 65 of Staples MN. The operator was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. 

An autopsy is scheduled with the Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s Office and the incident remains under investigation. Assisting at the scene were Motley Fire & Rescue, Staples Ambulance and North Memorial Air Care.

Teddy Bear Toss February 10

Support Local Law Enforcement at the Teddy Bear Toss, February 10 at the Panthers vs Morris/Benson game 7 PM at Ted O Johnson Arena.

Bring a new stuffed animal to be donated to the Hubbard County Sheriff's Office and Park Rapids Police Department. The Teddy Bears will be used to help out in situations where a child is present.

There will be Teddy Bears at the door to purchase for $5 if you don't bring one to toss. All bears will be donated to the Hubbard County Sheriff's Office and park Rapids Police Department.

Walker, MN - "Lakes Area Heroes" Makes Donation


In picture, Vern and Barb Gevik from Lakes Area Heroes presented a check to Deputy Mark and Sue Diaz. From left to right: Vern Gevik, Sheriff Bryan Welk, Barb Gevik, Sue Diaz, Deputy Mark Diaz, and Chief Deputy Eric Alger.

Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk reports Deputy Mark Diaz and his wife, Sue Diaz, were recent recipients of a donation from the non-profit group “Lakes Area Heroes” of Nisswa MN. This donation will assist with the on-going medical expenses the family is experiencing. The Cass County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the group and its organizers for their support.

Lakes Area Heroes is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for the public awareness of our local heroes. Serving the Aitkin, Cass, Crow Wing and Morrison Counties, Lakes Area Heroes is a group that supports our local Law Enforcement, Fire, and EMS personnel and their families in times of need through fundraising and donation efforts. For more information on the group, please send an email to LakesAreaHeroes@gmail.com or call Isaiah at 218-333-4209.

MnDOT seeks feedback on new vision for Hwy 2 in Cass Lake

BEMIDJI, Minn. – In a partnership with the City of Cass Lake and the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, the Minnesota Department of Transportation is seeking feedback on three design options developed to form a new vision for Highway 2 in Cass Lake.

A steering committee made up of community leaders and local stakeholders has helped to define the community’s design priorities, and support the development of three design alternatives:

  • Two-lane highway with linear park area on each side
  • Two-lane highway with linear park area on the south side
  • Four-lane highway with pedestrian/bicycle bridge

“There’s no single solution that doesn’t also have its shortcomings,” said Jon Mason, planning director with MnDOT. “It’s important to hear from all of the highway’s users so we can find areas of compromise and develop a preferred alternative that has the support of both the community and MnDOT.”

“To help guide these planning efforts and make the highway safer for all users, we need to hear from everyone. Residents, business owners, commuters, bicyclists, and pedestrians,” said Mike Chosa, communications director with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. “Community input is a critical piece of this study.”

To learn more about the three alternatives and share your feedback, visit the website at https://talk.dot.state.mn.us/hwy-2-cass-lake-corridor-study. Along with learning the details, you can share your feedback on each option by taking a short survey or adding them directly to an interactive comments map. The period to receive comments and input will be open through Sunday, February 19.

Information from the study will be used by MnDOT, with the help of the steering committee and community leaders, to evaluate potential solutions and make recommendations on a future vision for the Highway 2 corridor in Cass Lake.

Questions or comments can be directed to Jon Mason, MnDOT planning director, at jon.mason@state.mn.us, 218-407-1917 or Mike Chosa, Leech Lake Band communications director, at mike.chosa@llojibwe.net, 218-513-9215, or visit https://talk.dot.state.mn.us/hwy-2-cass-lake-corridor-study.

Osage Sportsman's Club Offers Scholarship Opportunities

The Osage Sportsman's Club is proud to offer two scholarships to local, deserving high school seniors.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: April 21, 2023 The first scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior who chooses to pursue a career in a field of service.

This includes military, nursing, medical, fire, police, and EMT. A short essay will be required from the recipient letting us know who you are, what your hobbies are, and any distinguished awards you may have received.

Additionally, please outline what you hope to accomplish in the future. Please note: if the recipient of this scholarship is going into the military and cannot attend college in the fall due to boot camp or special training, the scholarship will be deferred by one calendar year to assist them.

The second scholarship is open to anyone and a short essay will be required in a similar manner to the first. These scholarships are only available to students who attend Park Rapids High School in Park Rapids, MN.

Applications are available at the counselor's office. Applicants may submit their applications to: 28662 County Highway 37 Ponsford, MN 56575

For any questions or concerns, please email scholarship@osagesportsmansclub.com.

Notice of Public Hearing

Monday, January 30 - 6:00 pm - permit for the Family Dollar/Dollar Tree.
Everyone is encouraged to attend.

CITY OF WALKER
COUNTY OF CASS
STATE OF MINNESOTA
 
 
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
 
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Walker Planning Commission will convene for their regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, January 30th, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. at Walker Fire Hall located at 701 Elm Avenue to conduct a public hearing:
 

  1. 6:00 P.M. A hearing for comments regarding a conditional use permit to construct a Family Dollar/Dollar Tree combination retail store on the west side of parcel 96-360-0110.

All interested persons are invited to attend these hearings and be heard or send written comments to Jennie Meyer at City Hall, PO Box 207, Walker, MN 56484, via email at jmeyer@ci.walker.mn.us, or direct phone inquiries to 218-547-5503.

Becker County Sheriff's Office Reports Fatal Train Accident

On January 23, 2023, at approximately 1:36 AM, the Becker County Sheriff's Office received a report of an eastbound BNSF train hitting a pedestrian west of the intersection of 230th Avenue between the cities of Audubon and Detroit Lakes.

Deputies and emergency personnel responded to the scene and located a deceased individual. At this time, no name is being released until positive identification is confirmed.

Essentia-St. Mary's EMS, the Detroit Lakes Fire Department, and the Ramsey County Medical Examiner's Office is assisting the Becker County Sheriff's Office.

Press release from Sheriff Todd Glander, 1/23/23

1/24/2023 UPDATE: The victim in this incident has been identified as Ryan Goroski, age 41, of Audubon, MN. The incident remains under investigation.

Volunteers are needed for a Hubbard in Prevention and Kinship event

Hubbard in Prevention Coalition and Kinship are partnering to offer 3 fun events ( February 23, 2023, March 17, 2023, and April 13, 2023) with food, intel (speaker) and games!
Open to students in grades 7 - 12.
 
All dates have the same time frame: 5:30pm (supper), 6:00pm (guest speaker) and 6:30pm (games)
 
This is an Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Free event.
 
Please click on the Sign-up Genius link https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409084FAEA62CA3FA7-youth if you are able to help set-up, play board games, and / or clean-up.
Questions? Call or text Angela Graham at 218-255-3692 or email me at angela.graham@commonspirit.org

Becker County Sheriff's Office Reports Snowmobile Accident

At 5:30pm on Sunday January 22nd, 2023, the Becker County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call of a single snowmobile crash near the intersection of County Highway 32 and South Cotton Lake Road in Erie Township.
 
The caller stated the driver of the snowmobile, Scott Darrel Fossum {34) from Fargo, North Dakota, was not wearing a helmet and was not breathing.
 
First responders were dispatched from the Becker County Sheriff's Office, Frazee Rescue and St. Mary's EMS ambulance service. Fossum was transported from the scene to St. Mary' s Hospital in Detroit Lakes.
 
Information at the scene indicates Fossum lost control of his snowmobile on South Cotton Lake Road rolling over into the ditch. Fossum was later pronounced dead at St. Mary's Hospital. This crash is still under investigation.

DNR Looking to fill 200 Paid Summer Internships

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is looking for passionate and dedicated students interested in learning more about natural resource careers through paid summer internships. DNR summer interns gain valuable training, build meaningful experience and share their knowledge and perspectives to help create a healthy, sustainable, and inclusive Minnesota.

The DNR has a wide variety of internship opportunities throughout the state, including in fisheries, forestry, park operations, watercraft inspections, communications and more. Interns work 20 to 40 hours per week and are paid $15 per hour. To be considered for an internship, applicants must be enrolled students fulfilling an academic requirement or receiving academic credit.

To apply for an internship position:

  • Go to the state of Minnesota careers website (mn.gov/careers).
  • Select “Search for jobs” from the toolbar.
  • Select “Search for jobs now” in the External Applicants box.
  • Select “View all jobs.”
  • Filter by “Natural Resources Dept” in the Agency category and “Student Worker and Internships” in the Job Family category.

Applicants will be accepted through Jan. 31. Positions will start in May and June.

The DNR is an equal opportunity and veteran-friendly employer. We celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion. To request an accommodation or alternative format of the applications, please contact us at: ADAdiversity.DNR@state.mn.us; 651-259-5016; or call using a preferred telecommunications relay provider.

LAKE SHORE, MN – Snowmobile Crash Results in Serious Injury

UPDATED 01-18-2023 – The victim has been identified Cody Margelofsky, age 26 of Mayville WI.

Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that on January 15TH 2023 at 1:50 PM, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a snowmobile crash in the area of Jacobs Road, rural Lake Shore MN. Deputies and responders arrived on scene and learned that a snowmobile operator, a male, age 26 of Mayville WI, was a participant in the Nisswa 100 Snowmobile Race Event, and had crashed on the race course.

Medical aid was immediately initiated by a number of agencies that were staging at the event. The patient was transported by helicopter to a Twin Cities area hospital with serious injury.

Assisting on scene were Lake Shore Police Department, Nisswa Fire and Rescue, Mission Fire, Crosby Ambulance Service and North Memorial Air Care. The incident remains under investigation.

Snowmobile through the Lake in Otter Tail Lake - Updated 1/9/23

On 01/07/2023 at 07:26pm, the Otter Tail County Sheriff's Office received a report of two snowmobiles and one ATV in the Water on the Northeast side of Otter Tail Lake in Otter Tail Township.

All parties, except one, were initially accounted for. One victim was rescued from the water and was transported by Perham Ambulance. The victim's condition is unknown at this time.

All individuals are accounted for at this time. The Sheriff's Office was assisted by the Minnesota State Patrol, Ottertail Fire and Rescue, the Perham Fire Department, and Perham EMS.

Update 1/8/23

64 Year old male from Ottertail, MN that was pulled from the water was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

 

 

Leech Lake - Vehicle Through Ice - No Injuries Reported

Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk reports that on Friday, January 6th 2023 at 10:11 AM, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a vehicle through the ice on Leech Lake near Horseshoe Bay Resort.

Deputies responded and learned that a 2007 Dodge Ram Pickup with snowplow was operating on a plowed roadway on the lake when a large crack formed, and the vehicle went through the ice.

The driver of the vehicle, a male, age 19 of Buffalo MN, was able to escape the vehicle without injury. Ice conditions in the area varied. The road was re-routed and anglers in the area were notified.

Sheriff Bryan Welk encourages you to follow these safety tips when travelling on the ice:

  • No ice should ever be considered safe.
  • Check existing ice conditions as you travel.
  • Check with local bait shops, resorts, gas stations, and/or other fisherman for conditions.
  • Consider other means of transportation besides a motor vehicle.  (ATV, snowmobile or foot travel are good choices)
  • Do not travel on the lake after dark.
  • Always notify someone of the area you are traveling in and your expected return time.
  • Carry a cell phone.
  • Be familiar with the lake - carry a map.
  • If you need emergency assistance, call 911.
  • Consider a GPS unit to help you on and off the lake.
  • Avoid the use of alcohol.
  • Pay attention to warning signs that are posted. Remember warning signs cannot be posted everywhere.
  • When available, access the lake through a resort or public access and travel only on plowed roads.

Sheriff Welk advises to use good common sense and check conditions when planning to travel on the ice to ensure a safe and successful adventure!

 

Fire Sprinkler Contains Fire at Fergus Falls Nursing Care Facility

Fergus Falls — The Fergus Falls Fire Department responded at 1:12 PM on Saturday December 10th for a fire at the Minnesota Veterans Home located at 1821 Park Street. A general fire alarm activation of a heat detector and water flow alarm was reported along with staff onsite calling 911 confirming there was a fire in the North East wing of the building.

Veterans Home staff quickly ensured accountability of the residents and moved those near the fire to an adjacent wing for protection. Upon Police and Fire Department arrival it was found that the fire was in a laundry room and had been contained by the fire sprinkler system.

Smoke, however, had filled the common area surrounding the room. Firefighters from the first arriving engine company ensured the fire was out, while additional arriving crews worked to ventilate smoke from the building, shut down the fire sprinkler system, and conduct air monitoring throughout the facility.

The area where the fire originated had minor fire damage and moderate water damage. Onsite staff began water clean up immediately.

The Fire Department was assisted on scene by the Fergus Falls Police Department, Ringdahl EMS, and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal's Office.

Due to a reported fire in a large care facility, the Elizabeth and Underwood Fire Departments were immediately requested through mutual aid. They were canceled prior to arriving on scene.

A damage estimate is not available at this time.
Upon completing an investigation with the Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office, the fire was determined to be unintentional with it originating in the ceiling ventilation fan within the laundry room.

The Fire Department was on scene for approximately 1 1/2 hours ventilating and investigators remained on scene for an additional 2 hours. The Department responded with 3 Engines, 1 Ladder Truck, 1 Rescue Truck, and 2 Command Staff.

No injuries were reported.

The Fire Department wants to acknowledge the commendable actions of the Veterans Home staff.

Bemidji Sheriff's Office Seeks Information

The Bemidji Sheriff's Office is seeking information on a hit and run accident involving a pedestrian in Bemidji on July 30, 2022. Suspect vehicle is a 2003 to 2007 red or maroon colored Saturn Ion.

If you have any information, please contact Detective Nick Whichello at 218-333-8312 or email him at NWhichello@ci.bemidji.mn.us.

De La Hunt Media in the News: We Double Flipped!

If you tuned into KQ 101.9 FM this morning, you're not imagining things! We've switched to a Classic Hits format. A few weeks ago, we changed KAKK to a Fox Sports affiliate. Here's more info, as written in Radio Insight:

"De La Hunt Media has performed a double flip at its stations in Walker MN.

Classic Hits 1570 KAKK/93.7 K229DJ Walker has flipped to Sports utilizing Fox Sports Radio. KAKK is running the national lineup around the clock as well as carrying Minnesota Wild hockey.

Concurrently, Soft AC “KQ 102” 101.9 KQKK Walker has picked up the Classic Hits mantle as it is now branding as “101.9 The Arrow” positioned as “Leech Lakes’ Classic Hits”.

What do you think of our new sound? Love it? Hate it? Think we need to play more Foghat? We'd love to hear your thoughts at butch@delahuntmedia.com

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