Why We Live Here
Borderland tells its own story
March 28, 2018
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Linda and Ward pose for a photo in front of their home, 917 Riverside Drive.
Moving home again BY WARD MERRILL
D
uring the summer of 2 0 01, my wi fe Linda and I began looking for property on Rainy Lake in preparation for ou r planned retirement from teaching jobs in Bemidji and Blackduck. I had hoped to someday move back to the Falls, the place where I was born in November 1948. My father Jim Merrill was attending Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter and my parents were living in veteran’s housing on the campus which offered scant comforts and amenities to say the least. It was also a period during which polio was prevalent and my mother Deloris decided it would be better to travel to the Falls that fall and stay with her parents Martin and Alice Molstre at 917 Riverside Drive to await the birth of their first child. An added bonus was that their home was only a half block from the new Falls Memorial Hospital on 2nd Street.
on Main A nd s o it Avenue was that i n Sout h my of fiF cia l place Falls until w of bi r th we moved to a new became Inhome at ternational 9909 Ninth Falls. S t r e et i n 917 R iverside b e 1954. came the Ninth first home S t r e e t for me. was one of Our famthose idei ly w o u l d a l 1 9 5 0 ’s spend the neighbornext fou r hoods. It and a ha l f had a coryears movner g ro ing becery store t ween G.I. w h e r e housing on you could t he Gu st apurchase vus campus candy for a n d s u m - A young Ward Merrill and his grandfather, Martin a p e n ny m e r s i n Molstre, take a photo on April 9, 1950 — Easter Sunday to a nickt h e F a l l s , — in the backyard of 917 Riverside Drive. el, bottled eit her on pop for Riverside Drive or my dad’s pleted a master’s degree at 10 cents and comic books parents’ farm at Roger’s the “U.” for a d i me. My brot her The year 1953 saw a move Reed Timothy and I had Corner (Jim and Edythe Merrill). From 1951-1953, back to the Falls and a job great friends that included vet’s housing on the U of M as school socia l worker Nancy, Susie and Terr y campus in St. Paul served and probation officer for Glowack, Chuckie Corrin, as home as my dad com- my dad. We rented a home Jimmy Scheela, Pat DeMar-
chi, and Butchie (Angelo) and Artie Gust. There was a crab apple tree to raid on the corner, forts in the backyard, outdoor games and the mill’s noon and 5 p.m. whistle to let you know when to come home. Starting Kindergarten in the A B School produced more friends and a great start to a lifetime of learning. As my father’s career progressed we moved again to St. Peter where he taught sociology and social work at Gu st av u s. We moved there during the 1956 -57 and 1958-59 school years coming back to the Falls in between. I remember being proud of being from International Falls back then and refusing to let my mom sew a St. Peter patch on my cub scout uniform — I’ve kept the Falls patch on all these years. I was devastated at the end of the 1958-59 school year to learn that we were not movi ng back to t he Home to 9 ®
C2 | March 28, 2018
Why We Live Here | International Falls, Minn.
Our stories
BY LAUREL BEAGER Editor
W
hy do we live here? M a ny of us probably asked ou rselves t hat qu e s t io n o n N ov. 10 when the city broke a record low temperature of -14 degrees. And then again, we probably ask ourselves that at least once a year during the
winter when temperatures dip, snow flies and days feel long and dark. It reminds us why we are called Icebox of the Nation. Despite that reputation, many people who live here choose to, and m a ny t h at don’t l ive here want to and are trying to figure out how. This special edition allows people who live here to tell the world why they
live here. There are a few common themes: Some of us grew up here and decided to stay; some of us moved here for a job, decided to stay and grow old; some left here and couldn’t wait to find a way to return, and some had fa mi ly here a nd joined them in retirement. The reasons for choosing to live here are as plentiful as walleye in Rainy Lake.
G ov. M a rk D ay t on said in his final State of the State speech earlier this month, “I believe that most of us are incredibly for tunate to live in Minnesota. Despite ou r cha l lenges, there is nowhere else that compares.” Now take that idea and go about five hours nor t h to Borderla nd, where we know what it means to live in God’s
country, because we really do. And yes, living in Borderland brings with it unique challenges, but challenges many of us are willing to endure just for the ability to live, work, and play here. Schools, taxes, and quality of life are among the reasons many people cite when moving to a community. Toward that end, we asked some
WHY WE LIVE HERE larger entities that play a role in why people live here to provide information about themselves. Thanks, Borderland, for reminding some of us of the joys of Borderland living, and a lso telling the rest of the world why we live here. We begin to tell the story by sharing why staff of The Journal and Big Fish Print Solutions live here.
Laurel Beager, editor
Karley Mastin, ad director
Rob Davenport, publisher
On a cold January, more years ago than I want to admit (OK, it was 32 this Janaury), I moved to the Icebox of the Nation and was the envy of every angler I knew. Still am. I have lived the dream: Cool dips in Rainy Lake on hot summer days, fish house dinners on the ice, and casts retrieved that revealed lunker bass, pike and even a few walleye. And that’s just the fishing part. Add in the ability to lose myself (literally and figuratively) in the north woods by walking a few minutes from my home, watching the stars from my deck uninterrupted by city lights, and waking to hear the Laurel yip of a coyote, or huff of a deer. Beager I figured I’d stay for two years, learn my trade, and take off for the bright lights of a big city to cover crime, government and other seemingly exciting things. But the environment and safety of this place, the warmth of friends and even strangers, and the smiles of people I’ve never met as they wish me a good morning are among the reasons I choose to stay.
As we are working on this March edition for The Journal it really has me thinking about all the reasons I choose to live in Borderland. When my husband said, “We are moving home,” I was so excited — and a little heartbroken — but mostly excited. But wait, what and where was home? Minnesota. OK. Farmi n g ton? No. I nter n at ion a l Falls. Where? Karley I remember thinking: where Mastin is International Falls even located? Canada? We were making our home in International Falls, a stones throw away from Canada and a town with a population of 6,000. My first visit here was far from exciting. I thought all there was, was a big lake. The jist is, this is home. We support each other, we are proud of our community, we are friends and we are family. That is why I would choose over and over again to live in Big Falls. I moved here because I had to, I stay because I want to.
The opportunity to become the publisher of a small-town newspaper is what originally brought the idea of living in International Falls to my family. I had been running the advertising department in a small city in Ohio where my wife and I had attended college. I was looking to advance my career and we were open to moving to a new area. Minnesota had always been high on our list of places we wanted to live. The focus on education and nature coupled with the climate, yes we prefer Rob the cold, made it a natural fit Davenport for us. Once we visited I-Falls, we knew this was the right town for us. We enjoy small town living and appreciate the strong entrepreneurial spirit that is so prevalent here. We could not imagine a better area for outdoor living with camping, hiking, biking, and fishing all competing for our free time.
Staff to 14 ®
International Falls, Minn. | Why We Live Here
March 28, 2018 | C3
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C4 | March 28, 2018
Why We Live Here | International Falls, Minn.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Joan and Rob Ecklund
The rest is history BY ROB ECKLUND MN House of Representatives
In 1976, I graduated from Falls High School and had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I was accepted and enrolled at Moorhead State University, but I was not sure that was what I wa nted to do. In the summer of 1976, all four of the military recruiting offices were in one building, somewhere in the vicinity of the current City Drug. I wandered in, and the on ly recr uiter avai lable at the time was the USMC staff person. We chatted for a while. A couple of weeks later, I was signed up and ready to go to boot camp. I was fortunate to serve for three years in which t here was never a ny armed conf licts. I was also able to be stationed in California, Okinawa, Korea, and North Carolina. When I graduated high school, I could not wait to get away, but after seeing some of the world, I was discharged from the Marines and cou ld not wait to get back home. Up on d i s c h a r g e , I came home to Borderland and found that the employment situation was not very good. I did several odd jobs throughout the next few months, and then decided that I needed to go to college. In the spring of 1980, I enrolled at RRCC for the fall quarter, (yes, they were still on the quarter system back then.) In June of 1980, I met the future Mrs. Ecklund, Joan Marie Marty from Littlefork. We had a bit of good conversation, and I asked her out. I kept calling her, but she always
Sons Jared, Nick and Cory had one excuse or another. The baler was broken, the mower needed a part, the tractor needed a hydraulic hose or something else always seemed to interfere. I had never dated a farm girl before and had no clue that this stuff really happened on a farm. We finally did go out and I learned a bit about farm life. Joan was attending Bemidji State University at the time, I transferred to BSU after the fall quarter. Our lives started to connect and the rest, as they say, is history. Joan and I were married on Sept. 8, 1984. At
the time she was teaching Headstart in Middle River, Minn., and I was a seasonal maintenance worker for Voyageurs National Park. When I was laid off for the season, I moved to Middle River. Then we moved back to International Falls for the summer season. We did this for two years. It wasn’t easy, but it did keep the material possessions down. Realizing that a family wasn’t going to be easy with the current situation, Joan started looking for a job in the Borderland area since it was the place that we both considered
home. She was fortunate enough to get an interview at St. Thomas School. We ju mp e d at t h e chance to move back home. Shortly after Joan started at St. Thomas, I was fortunate to get a job at Boise. Things were starting to fall into place for us. We started a family and raised three boys in Borderland. They are all adults now. Our oldest, Nick, lives in International Falls and considers it his home. Cory and Jared don’t live in the area, but they take every opportunity they get to come home and
enjoy all the things they did growing up. The influence of some of my great high school teachers was starting to have an influence on the way I looked at things. I became more active i n u nion busi ness at work, and I also became more politically active. I have always felt that giving back to community is something that we all should strive for. I am very fortunate that I am able to represent Borderland in the Minnesota House of Representatives, from Grand Portage to International Falls, trying to give back
and make a difference in the community that has been so good to my family and me. I do not think that it was ever my intention to not live in the Borderland area. We have a quality of life that, in my opinion, is second to none. Our lakes and forests provide us both income and enjoyment that is hard to beat. Our community is friendly and we have each other’s back when things get tough or challenging. I am proud to call Borderland home, and truly cannot see myself living anywhere else.
International Falls, Minn. | Why We Live Here
March 28, 2018 | C5
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Influences of sound and sustainable forest management BY NATHAN HEIBEL Koochiching County Land Commissioner
Sound and sustainable forest management influences all of Koochiching County’s residents, either ind i r e c t ly or directl y. T h e forest resources of the county are woNathan ven i nto Heibel the lives of most of us in a variety of different ways. You may directly work in some capacity in the forest products industry within Koochiching County; the mills, the logging and trucking operations, or those that oversee the management of the land. You very well could hike, snowmobile, hunt, or just overall
enjoy being out in the woods of Koochiching County. Indirectly, you may be a small business owner that benefits from any of these activities. The county’s land base is important to us all. In particular, the approximately 287,000 acres of land managed by the Koochiching County Land and Forestry Depar tment are aimed to benefit the tax-forfeited trust-that is the local taxing districts within the county. Su st a i n able for e st management activities on county lands directly benefit those of us who live here by providing a raw material to our local economy. Those markets in turn help to ensure a healthy managed forest resource on the landscape. This is an important symbiotic relationship. The county’s managed forestlands are
third party certified to ensure that future generations can enjoy all these same benefits well into the future. M a ny p e ople a re unaware that revenue generated from county managed lands is apportioned to the local taxing districts of the tax-forfeited trust. In the case of Koochiching County, that means the county, school districts, and cities. Over the last 10 years after covering direct expenses of the Ko o ch ich i n g C ou nt y Land and Forestry Department, the county’s revenue funds have received an average of $1.15 million annually, the school districts another combined $773,000 annually, and the cities another $42,000. This disbursement of funds helps offset property tax levy dollars and the products off the land
helps to sustain jobs in our local communities with an economic multiplier effect to our area. County managed parks and recreational areas are also maintained with this revenue. There are many other benefits created by the active management of cou nt y ad mi nistered
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lands. Healthy managed forests within the county enhance water quality and provide wildlife habitat. They also provide a full spectrum of recreational opportunities that we all enjoy and again provide an economic catalyst locally, whether it is related to timber or tourism. Man-
aging this renewable resource on a sustainable basis offers the residents of Koochiching County many benefits. County managed forestlands here in Koochiching County and across Minnesota are a success story that we can all share in and benefit from now and into the future.
C6 | March 28, 2018
Why We Live Here | International Falls, Minn.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Kallie Kantos shared this visual image of why she lives in International Falls.
Why do I live in International Falls? Small town, big city and back home again BY TRICIA HEIBEL
After fifth grade ended, my fami ly moved from I nter nationa l Falls to the Twin Cities. I became a student of Sout h S t . P au l Special School Dist rict No. 6, w h i c h was as Tricia w e i r d Heibel a n d fo r ei g n — a nd i niti a l ly unacceptable — to me as cha ngi ng mascots from a horse to a cow. I adapted to city life, and although I enjoyed my
trips up north to visit with family and spend time on the lake, I had no interest in returning to live here. None. Then in 2004, to the shock of myself, my family, and the utter confusion of my co-workers, I said good-bye to a morethan-7-year corporate job and loaded up my car in Newport Beach, Calif., only to unload it in International Falls, Minn. A fter 2 0 years in urban settings, and coming straight out of a mega-metropolis, I went through a little period of culture shock, however I surprised myself once again with a newfound appreciation and
understanding of small town life. My job ended up relocating me back to the Twin Cities, but I left feeling differently about International Falls. It wasn’t such a foreign concept anymore to live here, and after nearly 10 years away, I found myself wanting to return to the area. I got to a place in my life where I didn’t want all the commotion of city living anymore. I wanted to be able to enjoy the amenities at times, but I wanted to live in nature. I wanted peaceful, beautiful sunsets and not airplanes, skyscrapers and wires blo ck i n g t he v iew. I
wanted to be on Rainy Lake all summer and was willing to live up here in the winter to do it. I have a love and appreciation for this community and am happy to be living back up here. An avid promoter of this area, I was pleased to accept a position with the International Falls Area Chamber of Commerce five months after returning. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to utilize my skills and experiences to serve our business community and positively contribute to the economic growth of this wonderful corner of the world.
Family, nature and knowing your neighbors BY KALLIE KANTOS
Why do I live in International Falls? There are many reasons. First and foremost, my family. I was born and raised in International Falls. I have left multiple times to pursue my education, but I always find my way home. There is something about a small town that has always called
to me. Sure, when you live in a small town, such as International Falls, you may have to drive a minimum of two hours to go shopping for many things (if you want to leave town, instead of surfing the Internet) or to see a concert, but that just gives you a reason to go on a road trip. Secondly, nature, how many towns have a national park in their
backyard – we do. The scenery is amazing, a photographer’s dream. The number of recreational activities, year round, is a nature lover’s utopia. To sum it up — I love being close to my family, being in a small town setting, being able to walk down the street and people say hi to you by your name and being immersed in nature and all of its beauty.
Going home thanks to fate BY ROGER JACKSON
After graduation in 1970, I left the Falls to begin a career in the U.S. Navy. During my Navy career and in my civilian job after the Navy, I traveled the USA looking for a place that equaled the beauty and small town feeling of the Falls. It doesn’t have to be said that my search was unsuccessful. Deciding that enjoying the Falls area would be limited to
occasional visits, fate intervened a couple of years ago. One mor ni ng viewi ng T he Journal online, I hit “classmates. com” accidentally. My childhood sweetheart (Betty Olson) had a comment saying she remembered me. I hadn’t seen her for 45 years but contacted her. We picked back up from where we left off in 1970. It was soon obvious that we missed the Borderland area and decided to move back home in
December 2016. We’re now enjoying Borderland, volunteering, fishing and making new friends almost every day. The Falls has welcomed us back with open arms and we couldn’t be happier. I must add that we are planning to get married early this summer in the little Chapel in Ranier. It just happens that’s where we played as children. Who says you cannot go back home?
Breathtaking waters, woods and sunsets at home BY DONNA ANN MCCRACKEN-WALLING
Why we live here... Mystical waters where trees touch sky, as paint brushed evergreens encompass the landscape. Ancient lake crying out, reefs of refugee clouds low, boundary waters abundant white with snow. Stars in galaxy bend their ears as moon illuminates the dancing curtains sing melodies. Is it any wonder why we are here, a family gathered from across the sphere? A voyagers journey new paths explored, we leave our tracks in these northern woods. Eye candy each season of the year, from near and far we’ve gathered here. God’s country they say how can this be, sunrises crescendo look at me. Islands, rocks worn by storms, we traverse this preservation the battle torn. Yes my home this northern light, my passion breathes your every sight. Rainbow sunsets etched in memories, this is why our sweet home will forever be.
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International Falls, Minn. | Why We Live Here
March 28, 2018 | C7
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
Northern Lumber Established in 1939
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The lumber business is a great tradition. It has been a part of the county & country since our community was formed. We’re proud of our past and look to the future with enthusiasm & optimism. All of us at Northern Lumber are working hard to keep the area vigorous.
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C8 | March 28, 2018
Why We Live Here | International Falls, Minn.
Did ya know? A history of Koochiching County BY MIKE HANSON Former District 5 Commissioner
You may or may not know that Koochiching County is the second largest county in Minnesota. Here’s the test — is Kooch longer north to south than it is wide from east to west and what are the geographic dimensions in miles? In 18 49, the United States formed the Minnesota Territory and this new territory was comprised of nine counties of which Itasca County was one. Initially, the county extended from Lake Superior at the east to the headwaters of the Mississippi to the west and from the Rainy River at the north to near Mille Lacs Lake to the south. In succeeding years both before and after
Minnesota statehood in 1858 migration resulted in partitioning and the creation of numerous organized and unorganized counties throughout M i n n e s o t a . T h e shape and size of Itasca C ou nt y ex p e r ie nc e d modification from the territorial days through the early 1900s. European exploration in our area is dated to the 1680s when explorers followed the intercontinental waterways of the St. Lawrence, Great Lakes and the border region lakes and rivers seeking passage to the Northwest Territories. The abundance and wealth of the regions natural resources did not go unnoticed. By the early 1800s, so called flowage corridors between the regions remote interior and the Great Lakes functioned as a main fur trade route
and was used by the Hudson Bay Company and others. A lthough fur trade diminished by the late 1800s, exploration and frontier settlement cont i nu e d . A C a n a d i a n transcontinental rail line reached Kenora on the northerly side of the Lake of the Woods by the 1880s and led to steamboat activity across Lake of the Woods and up the Rainy River. During this era the nearest railhead to the south was at the community of Tower and a few years later the Minnesota and International Railroad connected International Falls to Duluth. An aggressive campaign by local citizens was successful in the partitioning of a northern part of Itasca County and the creation of Kooch. The year 1906
brought success and International Falls was named the county seat. Kooch is the second youngest in the state, and is over 3,100 square miles. Presently, more than three-quarters of the county is classified as forestland mostly under public ownership. It is estimated that over a million acres in the northern three-quarters of the county are influenced by Lake Agassiz peat soil ranging from 1.5 feet to 50 feet in depth. Many homesteaders attracted by disingenuous developers discovered soil characteristics unsuitable for agriculture and as a result a number of initial settlements failed and resettlement was required. Kooch measures 6 0 miles north to south and 62 miles east to west. Did ya know?
Why do I live here… is that a trick question?
ROB TROMPETER: PROUD BUSINESSMAN, FISHERMAN, AND BORDERLAND COMMUNITY MEMBER.
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CITY OF INTERNATIONAL FALLS BY BETTY BERGSTROM Deputy clerk, International Falls
Number of people employed — 55 full time, 24 paid on-call firefighters, 20 paid on-call EMTs. Number of volunteers: We have 14 different boards/commissions that members volunteer their time for. There are approximately 100 members. With that in mind, some of the members serve on more than one board. Hours open: City Hall is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Public works is open 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Fire/Rescue/EMS/ Police – is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
CITY OF RANIER BY SHERRIL GAUTREAUX Ranier city administrator
Location — city of Ranier When established — 1908 Why established — The Duluth, Virginia and Rainy Lake Rail Road, which had established a line from Virginia to Cook, changed its name in 1905 to the more ambitious Duluth, Rainy Lake and Winnipeg and pushed on to Rainy River. Apparently because the owners of this railroad could not come to terms with Backus, they decided to cross t h e R a i n y R ive r a t the nar row passage about three miles east of International Falls where the river first leaves Rainy Lake. The company developing the railroad bought the land on the United States side from homesteader John Holler, the first settler there, and had extended its tracks to the bank of the river by the end of 1907. There was already a small settlement near the bridge site but it was the arrival of the railroad which led to the development of the town of Ranier. The railroad surveyed the town site and gave the town its name, and the development of an in-
ternational rail crossing attracted more settlers. The first passenger train crossed the bridge into Fort Frances, Ontario on April 28, 1908. Meanwhile, the railroad built a depot, and soon there were homes, a few hotels, several saloons, the first church, and about 200 residents. In that same year, the town was incorporated. In 2010, areas outside of the Ranier plat were annexed to include French, Jameson and Brennan’s Additions a nd R iverside Pa rk. T he cu r rent population is approximately 600. Ranier is currently home to several businesses sup porting the hospitality and tourist industry and continues to draw on its natural waterfront beauty. The Ranier rail Port of Entry is currently the busiest rail port of entry in the United States. Number of people employed — 10 full and part time N u m b e r o f vo l unteers — Numerous volunteers help with projects in the city to i n cl u d e R a n i e r Re c Club projects. The Ranier Recreation Club supports the outdoor rink and other activities benefiting area youth.
International Falls, Minn. | Why We Live Here
March 28, 2018 | C9
History of the Ranier Muni BY SHERRIL GAUTREAUX Ranier city administrator
Following the end of Prohibition, the Minnesota Legislature passed laws allowing the establishment of Municipal Liquor Stores so that cities had
HOME continued from 1
Falls and spent much of the a fter noon cr ying in my bedroom. A new move took us to the Twin Cities and a brand new home in the fast-growing suburb of Cottage Grove. F rom 1 9 5 9 -1 9 7 1 w e w o u l d only visit the Falls during summer vacations and holidays. I always looked forward to returning for visits to my grandparent’s home on Riverside Drive or for su m mer weeks spent with my aunt and uncle (Pat and Reuben Christenson) on Rainy Lake. The home on Riverside wa s s old by my grandmother to Loren and Mavis Sartain in 1965. I remember telling “Gram” as we helped her pack for the move to M i n ne apoli s t h at , “someday I want to buy this house back.” Years passed; Linda and I met and became high school sweethearts
control of the sale of liquor. In 1944, the Village of Ranier launched its “muni” for offsale only in the cloakroom of the Ranier Community Building which was transformed to accommodate the dispensary. In 1947, the village pur-
at St. Paul Park High School. We married prior to my senior year at Gustavus. We moved to Blackduck in 1971 where I taught and was community education director until retirement in 2005. Linda worked for Bemidji Public Schools as a paraprofessional and we raised two sons Brian and Scott. We rea li zed a li fe long dream by building a log home on a lake and made frequent trips to the Falls to visit relatives, hu nt a nd f i sh. Almost every time we came to town, I would drive by the home at 917 Riverside Drive and tell my family, “someday I’d like to buy that house.” B y t he su m mer o f 2001, Linda and I were thinking of retirement a nd where we m i g ht want to live. Obviously it wa s I nt er n at ion a l Falls and Rainy Lake for me — Linda not quite so much. But, she had heard me talk of this since high school so it wasn’t a surprise. We
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chased two lots and moved into a building on the existing site of the Ranier Municipal Liquor Store for on and off sale. Verne Larson was the first manager. Also in 1947, a permanent water fund was established
talked to a realtor and began looking at property on the lake. Nothing fit our budget or was to our liking and we looked all summer. Every time we were in the Falls — we’d drive down Riverside Drive. For Sale sig ns were posted at 915 Riverside and at 923. On Sunday, Aug. 5, we were headed out of town and Linda said, “let’s just drive down Riverside Drive.” As we turned off 9th Avenue I noticed a third For Sale sign right in front of 917. “ My h e a r t w a s i n my throat as we drove by and confirmed t he For Sa le st at us.” (Quote f rom a hou se journal we kept from August 2001 to January 2006). Needless to say, we called the realtor, Ashley Miggins, stayed overnight, viewed the house on Monday and purchased it from Loren and Mavis Sartain who had purchased it from my grandmother in 1965.
from liquor store profits to begin saving for a village water system. In 1951, a new building was moved onto the site and exists today. The profits have been used to help fund the installation of the city water system,
A few weeks later, Loren and Mavis stopped at our log home near Bl ackduck a nd w it h tears in his eyes, Loren handed me the original blueprints for the home, signed by my grandfather, Martin O. Molstre in 1937. He was glad the home was going back to the family. Sadly Mavis passed away within a year and Loren passed away in 2004. At his funeral, one of his g ra ndchi ld ren talked about the home being a place of magic for them as children. Thinking back, that was an apt description of the many years my younger brother and I enjoyed being at grandma and g r a ndp a’s ; t he home had also been a place of magic for us. Linda and I have now lived in the home for 18 yea rs. We’ve enjoyed returning to the community that I always thought of as home. Our involvement with the International Falls Bass Tournament, Circles of
1909-2018
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“A Name You Can Trust”
283-8161
We’re proud of what the Corrin name has meant in Koochiching County for over 100 years. Because our roots go back to the very beginning of the area, we’ve grown up with the community. We’ve experienced the good years and bad, the booms and busts, and we’ve earned a reputation for craftsmanship and integrity that is our most precious possession.
other infrastructure needs and to supplement the general fund. The Ranier Municipal Liquor remains profitable and continues to serve its purpose as a community gathering place.
Suppor t, Backus a nd Zion Lutheran Church, has led to many friendships and community connections. Linda is a regular Backus volunteer and I continue to count my position as Backus director as the best job I’ve ever had. To return to my hometown and be honored to work w it h s o m a ny g r e at p e ople to help br i n g Backus and AB back to life is the privilege of a lifetime. The first day we actually took possession of t he home, we met Bob Frederickson who said as a kid he delivered the newspaper to my g r a nd f at her a nd purchased his first life insurance policy from h i m . A not her nei g hbor, Nell Anderson told of working in the welfare office with my dad. Bob and Marie Knudson were still living in their parents’ home at 913 Riverside and later Steve and Carolyn Eirlertson’s children Andy and Mary would wel-
come us with, “Hi Ward, hi Linda” when we came up the sidewalk. We felt welcome in the neighborhood and welcome in the Falls. I somet i me s t h i n k of t he tit le of T homas Wolfe’s novel, “You Can’t Go Home Again” when I ref lect on our move to the Falls. In a real sense, you cannot return to the memories and the time I’ve mentioned because changes do take place in what we remember as being so static and unchanging. I remember a trip our family took from St. Peter to California and back to the Falls in the summer of 1957. After three weeks scrunched b e t we en by d ad a nd Grandpa Molstre in the front seat of our 1956 Ford station wagon, I recall coming in to the Falls from the west at night. As I looked ahead in the night sky there was the red neon “INSULITE” sign glowing on the horizon and I knew I was home.
Hometown Hobby & Crafts HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED FROM A TO Z! Art Supplies • Beading Supplies & Baskets Cake, Candy & Cookies • DMC Floss • Engraving Floral, Fabric & Foam • Glue Guns • Home Decor Instruction & Pattern Books • Jute Cord • Knitting Supplies • Lace & Ribbon • Magic the Gathering Oodles of Models • Paints & Puzzles Quilting Supplies • Rockets • Special Orders Toys & Games • Unique Gifts • Velvet Posters Wedding • Xtra Service • Yarn, Yarn, Yarn • Zippers And much, much more!
We wish to thank the thousands of customers who have become our valued friends. We’re grateful for your trust and determined to continue to earn the faith you’ve shown through the years.
For all your Hobby & Craft needs in your hometown.
“We’ve Been Keeping Borderland Warm and Comfortable for Over 100 Years”
Downtown Int’l Falls
Hometown Hobby & Crafts Not your average craft store
BILLY CORRIN - OWNER
TEAM REED International Falls
"Service you deserve, people you trust!" We choose to live, work & play in Borderland because we truly believe this is the best place to be.
218.283.2211
Serving the International Falls Area for over 60 years. We are proud members of this community and thank you for your continued support.
Welcome Home! 500 Fourth Street International Falls, MN
218.283.8319
C10 | March 28, 2018
Why We Live Here | International Falls, Minn.
‘In the heart of the wilderness’ BY JOAN NELSON Big Falls city clerk
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
The Big Fork River in Big Falls.
218.283.8877 - International Falls Open Monday-Saturday 8-7 • Sunday 9-4
218.634.2088 - Baudette 218.463.0011 - Roseau
The city of Big Falls is situated in the center of Koochiching County, or as we like to say, “in the heart of the wilderness.” We are a small rural city committed to our s en se of c om mu n it y. Our residents and visitors enjoy the quaint, peaceful life that small town living provides – where neighbors actually know each other, and yes, we still have potlucks. We are known for our sp ec t acu l a r reg iona l campg round situated on the scenic rapids of the Big Fork River and the su rrounding wi lderness. This pristine natural setting offers ample opportunities for hunting, fishing, canoei ng, bi rdi ng, picki ng berries and just enjoying nature. We also have miles of forest trails for ATV enthusiasts and horseback riders. Since its incorporation in 1904, Big Falls has seen a multitude of changes to the businesses, industries and families that call it home. What has not changed, however, is the welcoming spirit and the feeling of being at home. Si mplicit y, nat u re, community…that is why we live here.
Open Monday-Saturday 8-6 • Sunday 9-4
• Sportsw r • Sw tsh rts • J s • T-Sh rts • Mocc s s
• Footw r • C d J ms • W ld R c • Out rw r & Mor ! LaRge giFT SeCTiOn!
You haven’t visited International Falls, unless you have been to Ronning’s!
ck o t S t s e g Lar
Stop into Ronning’s and check out our wide selection of your favorite brand name clothing, footwear and more! We are open 7 days a week
ian & d a n a C f o nirs! e v u o S . U.S
YEAR ROUND!
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Island View Realty is celebrating 50 years of success in Koochiching County. We are proud to be the Real Estate Company you’ve grown up with & cherish the countless relationships we have made. 435 3RD STREET | INTERNATIONAL FALLS, MN 56649 (218) 285-7060 | I s l a n d V i e w R e a l t y . c o m
We Live Here Because...
Pam Oveson Broker/Owner Mobile: 218-240-1103 “...I love the lake, the people, and small-town life.”
Kim Bolstad Realtor Mobile: 218-390-6637 “...this is a community of goodness and natural beauty.”
Jill Kiner Realtor Mobile: 218-240-9117 “...the rocks and lakes and trees have a magical spell on me. I can’t leave. But that’s good because I don’t want to.”
Chryssie Costley Realtor Mobile: 218-324-2645 “...Rainy Lake, camping, fishing, the amazing four seasons, great shopping, restaurants, Backus Community Arts Center. Int’l Falls is a strong community that cares & is an amazing place to raise a family! I will always call this home.”
Team Watson Realtors Mobile: 218-324-3375 “...for the four seasons and all of the activities that go with each!”
We Are Borderland.
International Falls | Littlefork | Big Falls Loman | Birchdale | Indus Ranier Rainy Lake Islands | Island View Ericsburg | Ray | Kabetogama Lake Kabetogama | Ash River | Ash Lake Orr & many other areas in Northern Minnesota.
International Falls, Minn. | Why We Live Here
March 28, 2018 | C11
CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS
The Packaging Corporation of America mill in International Falls.
More than a century of operating history BY LORI LYMAN PCA
T
he Internationa l Fa l l s faci lity is one of two white paper mills owned by Packaging Cor poration of America. The Minnesota mill is a world-class, integrated pulp and paper operation with more than 107 years of operating history. Over 475,000 tons of BOISE brand papers are sustainably produced each year on two paper m ach i ne s, i nclud i n g America’s Top Selling Brands office and recycled paper in the United States. Located in the International Falls mill is I1,
one of the world’s largest, fastest fine paper machines. It is almost as long as two football f ield s, a nd routi nely produces a sheet of uncoated copy paper over 995 miles long each day. Wit h 6 0 0 employees—many fourth gene r at ion — t he m i l l i s the largest employer in Koochichi ng Cou nty. But the mill’s impact extends far beyond its technical and familywage jobs; over 360 con- Located in the International Falls mill is I1, one of the world’s largest, fastest fine paper tract employees, many machines. of t hem log ger s, a r e directly associated with t he mi l l a nd severa l million dollars of goods, services, and property taxes contribute to the local economy each year.
WE THANK YOU for choosing us for over 30 years.
Carlson’s Auto Repair 300 8th Street International Falls, MN 56649
218.285.7711
Downtown • 326 3rd St. • 218-283-4358
C12 | March 28, 2018
Why We Live Here | International Falls, Minn.
Voyageurs National Park Location — Voyageurs National Park When established — 1975 Why established — Voyageurs National Park (VOYA) was au-
thorized by an Act of Cong ress on Jan. 8, 1971 “to preserve, for the inspiration and enjoyment of present and future generations, the outstanding
Since 1967 Rainy River Community College has served as the only local, secondary education opportunity in International Falls. We are proud to call Borderland our home and invite you to take a tour of our campus.
Earn the first two years of your four-year degree at RRCC!
Small Class Sizes = More Personal Attention
Low Cost High Value Education
Over $200,000 In Scholarships Awarded Each Year!
Fall 2018 Classes
rainyriver.edu | 218.285.7722 | 1501 Highway 71 International Falls, MN 56649 Rainy River Community College is a member of Minnesota State. We are an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and educator. All classes subject to change in the event of an emergency.
s c e n e r y, g e o l o g i c a l conditions and waterway system which constituted a part of the historic route of the Voya g eurs who contributed signifi-
cantly to the opening of the Northwestern United States.” Number of people employed — 40 permanent Number of volun-
teers — In 2017 there were 210 Volunteers Acres owned — 218,054 Hours open — Rainy Lake Visitor C e n t e r — w i n t e r,
10 a.m. — 4:30 p.m.; s u m m e r, 9 a . m . t o 5 p.m. Ash River and Kabetogama Lake Visitor Centers, late May through Se ptember, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Long standing
tradition
BY KEVIN GROVER Superintendent of Independent School District No. 361
International Falls School District has been the largest public education provider for the International Falls Area since the early 1900s. The district employs just over 200 employees throughout the year. This includes our full time employees along with part time staff. The district has gone from one room schools to mul-
tiple buildings housing various grades to the current status of two school buildings. Falls Elementary houses preschool through grade 5 and Falls High School houses grades 6 through 12, community education, and district offices. The district’s largest graduating class was in the mid 1970s with over 300 students receiving diplomas. The classes have gradually declined from that period to graduating just below 100 at
As the years go by one thing hasn’t changed - how much we sincerely appreciate you doing business with us.
Sun. 11am-6 pm
this time. Classes in the elementary currently vary in size from high 6 0s to low 8 0s which means the slow decline will continue in the near future. The district currently runs 13 bus routes in which the district operates. This practice has changed from years past in which numerous routes were provided by independent contractors. T he dist rict has a rich tradition of extracurricular activities. The district offers football, cross country, clay target league, volleyball, swimming, basketball, hockey, wrestling, track, baseball, golf and softball for sports. Other activities include cheerleading, figure skating, speech, robotics, music competition, honor society, student council, annual production and the list goes on. The district ow ns and mai ntai ns Bronco Arena, Sports stadium, Sheela Field, a swimming pool, and the softball field. Education in some ways has not changed in the 100-plus years of operation in International Falls in that our purpose is to educate every child that comes through our doors. With that said, we live in a world that is constantly changing. Classes that were a staple of every school 50 years ago may not be here today. The core classes remain our focus, but it is critical that students get exposed to many additional opportunities to broaden their horizons.
The district has expanded to offer all day – every day kindergarten along with meeting the need for preschool. The district has grown with society in regards to te ch nolog y. C omputers and interactive technology are in every classroom. Wireless networks exist throughout our buildings. Our current high school students are in a generation that has not known the world of technology to be anything but what it is today. What and how we teach is changing in some aspects, but the need to be able to read, write, and compute will always remain. T he high school has expanded to meet a demand for gaining college credit while attending high school. Many students graduate high school with credits earned from a post-secondary institution. T he I nt er n at ion a l Falls High School class ring holds the notoriety of being the longest running class ring tradition in the United States. The same class ring has been proudly worn by graduates of Falls High School since 1929. International Falls P ubl ic S cho ol s c on tinues to offer a world class education without the hustle and bustle of big city life. This community has supported the school system in so many ways and the pride of being a graduate of Falls High School and Bronco alumni is second to none. Go Broncos.
America Loves Boise Paper BOISE X-9® and ASPEN® papers, made at our PCA International Falls mill, are the #1 selling office paper and the #1 selling recycled paper in the United States!*
*Source: The NPD Group / U.S. Total Channel Tracking Service / Technology Paper / Jan 2012 – Jan 2016 *The NPD Group, Inc. / U.S. Total Channel Tracking Service, Technology Paper, Recycled Post Consumer-Content: 1-100% PCC, January 2014 – March 2017. Aspen, Paper with Purpose and X-9 are trademarks of Boise White Paper, L.L.C. or its affiliates. BOISE is a trademark of Boise Cascade Company or its affiliates. For more information on Boise Paper’s trademark use, go to: http://www.BoisePaper.com/TermsofUse/#Trademarks.
International Falls, Minn. | Why We Live Here
March 28, 2018 | C13
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
BECOMING INDUS SCHOOL BY LOIS LEWIS Indus School faculty
Indus School was one of several small schools which started up along the Rainy River west of International Falls early in the 20th century. The area became populated as people took homesteads and worked in farming and
logging. The families valued education for their children, so small schools grew up in many areas because there were few, if any roads, and children had to walk to school. T he f i rst framed Indus School was across from the Indus cemetery; but in 1913, a school for grades 1-10 was constructed along the Rainy
River a mile west of the “Indus curve.” Students who wanted to go on to high school had to go to one of the nearby towns. However, by 1932, Indus produced its first class of graduates. In 1915, County Superintendent of Schools Annie Shelland asked Arlie Sante to consolidate 10 small grade schools in the border area into Birchdale
Consolidated School District. Then, in 1979, all of the schools from Clementson to the Pelland Junction were consolidated into a new K-12 school situated 10 miles east of Birchdale along the Rainy River, where it is currently located. Around this time, Northome and Indus Schools combined into the South Koochiching/Rainy
River School District No. 363. Indus School has 40 employees on staff, and a few volunteers who help with reading, mailings, etc. The Indus campus and school forest encompass approximately 80 acres. The student school day is from 8:31 a.m. to 3:11 p.m. with afterschool activities going until 5 p.m.
Rainy River Community College Location — Rainy River Community College, 1501 Highway 71 When established — Rainy River Community College was founded in 1967 by a group of dedicated individuals who wanted post-secondary
education offered in International Falls at the heart of Minnesota’s north woods. Number of people employed — More than 40 full and part time Number of volunteers — More than 20
Acres owned — The Classes are scheduled Rainy River Commu- an affirmative action/ eight-acre campus has an throughout the day and nity College is a Member equal opportunity emeight building complex early evening. of Minnesota State and ployer and educator. connected with heated walkways enclosing a courtyard. Hours open — Front office hours MondayFriday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Are you or someone you know being abused? Call Cornerstone’s 24-hour helpline 952-884-0330 or MN Day One Crisis Line 1-866-223-1111
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PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Serving You Since 1995
Specializing in the sales and service of bicycles and hockey equipment. 345 3rd St. International Falls 218-283-6121
ServiceMaster of International Falls Owned and operated by the Coulombe Family. The leading In-home and Office heavy cleaning specialist. Delivering 39 years of heavy duty cleaning. Upholstery Carpet Hard-Surface Restrooms Tile & Grout Fire & Smoke Water Damage Walls & Ceilings Kitchens Windows And More..... 611 11th Street, International Falls, MN 56649. www.servicemasterclean.com
Call: 218-283-4775 • 218-283-2246 | Fax: 218-285-2246
C14 | March 28, 2018
Why We Live Here | International Falls, Minn.
Marketing the area BY MIKE WELLCOME Voyage Forward
Nature and the outdoors are in our culture. They are a part of our DNA. We are home to Voy a g e u r s N at io n a l Park, the only National Park in Minnesota. We enjoy getting away from the hustle and bustle. We know our neighbors.
We walk out our backdoors and have access to forests, lakes, rivers, streams, and a multitude of wildlife and activities. We live, work, and play in one of the most beautiful settings in the state. That’s why we live here. Over the past several months, the Koochiching Economic Develop-
ment Authority and Voyage Forward marketing partnership have been working diligently to create a single marketing message highlighting Koochiching County. We wanted to develop a unified brand and message which reflects the entire county. The text of the marketing piece is intentionally
universal so that all communities are relaying the same message. However, each community, agency or business can tailor it by incorporating their individual logo, image and website. We are pleased to annou nc e t he at t ache d marketing message is currently in use by the Rainy Lake Convention
and Visitors Bureau and is ready to use by the cities of International Falls, Ranier, Big Falls, and Littlefork. They are also available for download and distribution at http://voyageforward. org/voyage-forward- keda-marketing- partnership/. We encourage you to use the marketing piece
to assist us in telling our story. The single message provides a snapshot of our community and what we have to offer. The KEDA/Voyage Forward partnership can assist you in tailoring the piece to your specific needs. Contact Emily Severson at chamberadmin@intlfalls.org to assist you in this process.
STAFF continued from 2
Emily Gedde, staff writer I’ve done a lot of things I never thought I would. Moving back to International Falls as an adult would be at the top of that list. Growing up, the fall of 2 0 05 couldn’t come fast enough. I was off to college and out of this town. I was convi nced t here was nothing to do here and couldn’t wait to experience life outside of the Icebox of the Nation. OK, I didn’t venture far. Just 10 0 miles southish to Emily Gedde Bemidji. But still it wasn’t International Falls and that is what I wanted. As I began college, I made new friends, but our core group consisted of several people who were also from the Falls. Others made comments about how there were always so many of “us” and we loved it. We were close. We knew each others’ families. We were part of each other. Those friendships and frequent trips home to spend weekends with my family made me realize how
Whitney Jackson, staff writer
important this community really was to me. I feel safe here. I feel loved here. I wanted that for my children. When I was offered a job at The Jou r na l in 2 010, there was no hesitation in my acceptance. I was moving home. In the five years I was gone, I never stopped referring to International Falls as home and I intend to keep it that way. Here is where I insert a big shout out to my husband – who is not from here – for agreeing to move to Borderland and live 10 minutes away from his in-laws. He was one of those people in my college friends group always making comments how people from the Falls were everywhere. I guess now he’s one of those people. I am overjoyed to raise my two daughters in a community where they are already known by some of their teachers because those teachers taught me. I guess that could be a good or a bad thing depending on which teacher you ask. This community welcomes everyone – either new or returning – with open arms. That is why I live here.
I never expected I would one day call International Falls home – but here I am. As a child, growing up in Winnipeg, MB and later North Branch, Minn., visit i n g B or derl a nd mea nt spendi ng time at our cabin on Rainy Lake catching ‘beepers’ (keepWhitney ers), buying stuffed Jackson animals from Ronnings and indulging in a lot of Border Bar pizza.
The memories that I enjoyed most about the area as a youngster still hold true today, and are a part of the reason why my dad wanted to move our family back to the place he grew up in. As I continue to learn more about the people and the history of the area, I am thankful for a community that is continuously welcoming, generous, and devoted. Sure, the scenery in the summer on Rainy Lake is an incredible plus, but it’s the people that bring you in, invite you back, and make International Falls feel like home.
Colton Jeffries, sports writer
Colton Jeffries
When I graduated from Marshall University if you told me I would be living just a stone’s throw away from Canada in a few years, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. After living in West Virginia all my life and spending a year in Columbus, Ohio, I was looking for something to use my degree in. International Falls gave me an opportunity to use my skills as a journalist to tell the stories that need to be told. I couldn’t be more grateful to the Falls and look forward to serving the town more in the future.
International Falls Journal / Big Fish Print Solutions Located at 1602 Highway 71 for the past 20 years, The Journal and Big Fish Print Solutions (formerly, North Star Publishing) has been serving International Falls for more
than a century. We currently have 26 employees who work to publish a twice-weekly newspaper and provide commercial printing for clients throughout the country.
Our 32,000 square foot building, which had previously been a Pamida, has seen many changes over the past few years. Recent major investments in equipment have
allowed us to expand our printing services including all types of offset printing along with labels, envelopes, and booklets. In 2016, we purchased a commercial laminat-
ing machine and added waterproof printing to our product offerings. The Journal has expanded into digital marketing offering full-service digital agency products.
Your COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER Shopping Circulars & Coupons • Community Developments • Special Event Listings • Local Dinner Specials • Local News • Commmunity News • School Sports Coverage • School Lunch Menu • Local TV Guide • Outdoors
And much, much more!
www.ifallsjournal.com
218-285-7411 1602 Hwy. 71, Int’l Falls
International Falls, Minn. | Why We Live Here
March 28, 2018 | C15
Connecting Borderland to the rest of the world Falls airport continues its evolution
T
he completion o f t h e $ 10 . 5 mi l lion new terminal this October at the Falls International Airport marks a continued evolution of this important community and regional asset. From its humble beginnings as a grass strip in the early 1940’s, the airport began to take shape when the Einarson family took over operations in 1948. It was truly a family affair with parents Ellen and Thor and sons Francis and Jim as the fixed base operators. That started a series of improvements including adding a bituminous surface in 1952 and the first scheduled air service through Wisconsin Central a year later in 1953. The airport at the time was served by a small terminal at the time. In 1961, the city of International Falls and Ko o ch ich i n g C ou nt y signed a joint powers act as owners of the operation through the Falls Airport Commission. The National Weather Service moved its operations into the airport at this time. During this time as well, the Einarsons were a catalyst for a boom in local general aviation with Francis providing flight training — including amphibious — and Jim acting as the check airman. The airport was an active place serving as an air ambulance, search and rescue, Civil Air Patrol, scheduled air service, and hosting cold weather testing in the winter. Continual improvements to safety and navigation aids were an ongoing part of the operation. In 1978 the commission opened the first terminal and the main runway was extended to 6,500 feet and widened. The Falls airport is one of nine airports in the state with scheduled air service and only one of four that is an international airport with U.S. Customs and Border Protection service 24/7. The airport is also unique among airports in the state in that the commission contracts with the fixed base operator to run and maintain the airport, which reduces costs to the citizens. Einarson Brothers Flying Service serves as the operators with eight employees. The airport has g row n over time to its current 760 acres to support state-of-theart navigation aids and safety requirements. Plans for change continue on, as Phase II of the terminal expansion will create an international terminal with office space for the TSA or Transportation Security Administration, National Weather Service, a larger area for international f lights, and a conference room for the commission. Demolition of the existing terminal and the start of the new construction, depending on final state and federal
FILE PHOTOS
Then Lt. Governor Tina Smith smiles in October as she cuts the ribbon to the new Falls International Airport terminal surrounded by members of the local airport commission and other dignitaries.
With Phase I of the airport terminal project celebrated in October, officials are ramping up to start Phase II this spring.
funding will begin this spring. A reconstruction of the existing 7,400 feet of main runway is scheduled to be done in phases beginning in 2020. The economic impact of the Falls airport is significant, supporting tourism and local businesses as well as play-
ing host to 12 privately owned hangars. The Einarson family in its role as airport managers has long served as ambassadors to the area – hosting the likes of Charles Lindbergh, Air Force II — twice, and a long list of international dignitaries.
COME
FLY WITH US
Falls International Airport (INL) is your international gateway to destinations worldwide! Whether you’re traveling locally, nationally or internationally we provide a local commitment to world-class service.
WE OFFER MANY GREAT AMENITIES SUCH AS: • Daily Direct Flights to MSP • Free Parking • Taxi Service • FBO Services (Including Fuel) • Easy Baggage Claim m • Free Wi-Fi • Car Rental • Shorter Lines • Charters • U.S. Port of Entry • Einarson Flying Service, Inc.
NEW TERMINAL Falls International Airport (INL) is pleased to invite citizens and visitors to the new passenger terminal dedicated in October of 2017. The new terminal with its modern look has a larger secure area with bathrooms and vending machines for your travel convenience. The facility also has a new jet bridge w for passenger boarding to the SkyWest jets that serve the airport daily. We can’t wait to share the new terminal experience with you and hope you will choose to fly from the Falls International Airport soon. Follow our Facebook page for updates and photos. https://www.facebook.com/internationalfallsairport/
Bee Informed ifallsjournal.com
Reservations:
218-283-2002
218-283-4461
http://www.internationalfallsairport.com/ 3214 Second Ave. E | International Falls, MN 56649
The Falls airport is one of nine airports in the state with scheduled air service and only one of four that is an international airport.
C16 | March 28, 2018
Why We Live Here | International Falls, Minn.
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