Hubbard County Residents Guide 2024

-JulieUrke,

What’s inside

2024 GUIDE TO HUBBARD COUNTY

CONTACT US

ADMINISTRATION

Pete Mohs, Publisher pete.mohs@brainerddispatch.com

Karen Holtan, Operations Coordinator kholtan@parkrapidsenterprise.com

EDITORIAL STAFF

Shannon Geisen, Editor sgeisen@parkrapidsenterprise.com

Vance Carlson, Sports Editor vcarlson@parkrapidsenterprise.com

Lorie Skarpness, Reporter lskarpness@parkrapidsenterprise.com

Robin Fish Jr., Reporter rfish@parkrapidsenterprise.com

ADVERTISING

Todd Keute, Advertising Manager tkeute@parkrapidsenterprise.com

Kelly Hoeke, Advertising Sales Consultant khoeke@parkrapidsenterprise.com

Jayne Merila, Specialty Projects jmerila@parkrapidsenterprise.com

CIRCULATION

Kathy Dennis, Customer Care Associate kdennis@parkrapidsenterprise.com

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Chris Johnson

Our Residents Guide offers one convenient source for finding out about resources available in Hubbard County. The guide is updated annually to provide the most accurate information possible.

TO REACH US

If there is something missing that you would like to see included in next year’s guide, feel free to visit the Enterprise at 1011 First St. E., Suite 6, Park Rapids MN 56470, call 732-3364 or email sgeisen@ parkrapidsenterprise.com.

The staff thanks all the individuals and organizations who provided the information, as well as the advertisers who make it possible to publish it.

TO SUBSCRIBE

All print subscriptions include unlimited digital access to 20-plus newspapers, exclusive deals and events, news archives and e-papers. Call 218-732-3364.

OFFICE HOURS

The Park Rapids Enterprise front office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to noon Friday.

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ONE CA MPUS WITH WHAT YO UN EED,WHENYOU NEED IT

Independent Living at Park Villa Apartments

AssistedLivingatHeritage Manor

Memor yCareatthe Cottages

Shor t-Term Care at theTransitional Care Unit

Long-Term Care atHeritageLiving Center

LICENSES

Where to go for licenses and permits

DRIVER’S LICENSES

Standard or enhanced driver’s licenses may be obtained or renewed at the Hubbard County License Center, located at 301 Court Ave., Park Rapids. Call 218-7323426 for more information.

The Minnesota Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) License Center is located at 322 Main Ave. S. in Park Rapids. The center offers vehicle registration and renewals, disability plates, vehicle title transactions, DNR registrations and fish and game licensing.

The deadline to meet the federal compliant ID requirement has been extended to May 2025. At that time, you will need either a passport, passport card, Enhanced ID or a Real ID to board an airplane or enter a federal facility. A standard driver’s license will continue to be valid for driving privileges.

VOTER REGISTRATION

While Minnesota offers the ability to register on Election Day, as a voter you might save time and some stress if you are registered before you go to your polling place.

If you have moved since the last election, have not voted in a recent election or have changed your name, you may need to register. You can check your registration online at https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/ VoterStatus.aspx.

There are several ways to register in advance. You may register in person at the

Hubbard County Auditor’s Office, located at the Hubbard County Courthouse in Park Rapids.

You also may register online or download the application at https://www. sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/register-to-vote/register-on-paper. Completed forms may be dropped off at the Hubbard County Auditor’s Office or mailed to the Secretary of State, First National Bank Building, 332 Minnesota Street, Suite N201, Saint Paul, MN 55101.

To request that a registration form be sent to your address, call the Secretary of State’s office at 1-877-600-VOTE (8683). Complete and take the form to the county courthouse.

MARRIAGE LICENSES

The Hubbard County License Center, located at 301 Court Ave., Park Rapids, issues marriage licenses.

A marriage license must be completed and submitted online at https://moms. mn.gov/application. Applicants do not need to be Hubbard County residents.

Within 90 days, both parties need to be present to complete the application process at the license center. Both need to provide a picture ID and Social Security numbers.

The application fee is $115. The fee for parties who have completed at least 12 hours of premarital education is $40. Fee is payable to Hubbard County Treasurer and can be paid by cash, check or credit card.

The license is valid anywhere in Minne-

sota for a period of six months from the date of pick up.

Call 218-732-3426 for more information.

PASSPORTS

The U.S. Passport Acceptance Facility is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Hubbard County Government Center, 301 Court Ave., Park Rapids.

No appointment is necessary. Walk-ins are welcome all day. A typical application takes about 30 minutes to execute. For more information, call 218-732-3452.

DOG AND CAT LICENSES

For Park Rapids residents, city hall (212 2nd St. W.) is the place to go for dog, cat and other animal licenses.

For Nevis residents, the licenses for dogs and cats over 4 months of age and for keeping poultry are available at city hall (104 Main St. W.).

LIQUOR, TOBACCO LICENSES

Establishments outside the city limits apply for a liquor license from Hubbard County.

The annual fee for a tobacco license is $50. A copy of the application is on the Hubbard County website. Print and complete the form, then mail it and the fee to Hubbard County Treasurer, 301 Court Ave., Park Rapids, MN 56470.

Establishments within the city limits apply to the city where they are located.

Be sure to pull the proper permits

Before starting a residential or commercial construction or renovation project, be sure to check with your local government about what permits may be required. This may help you avoid costly penalties and the uncertain results of after-the-fact variance requests.

CITY OF PARK RAPIDS PERMITS

For properties within the city of Park Rapids, city hall (212 2nd St. W.) issues building permits, plumber and backhoe operator licenses, temporary and annual liquor licenses, ATV permits and gambling permits. Most are renewed annually, except gambling and temporary liquor licenses, which are issued on an as-needed basis. Gambling and liquor

licenses are sent to the state after city approval.

Park Rapids also assesses fees for water, sewer, airport and city equipment usage, planning and zoning fees, revolving loan fund fees, event fees for using public facilities, rental inspection fees and more.

Permits are also required for peddlers, solicitors and transient merchants, vendors at an organized event, extended garage sales, a commercial animal establishment, wreckers or junkyards, mechanical contractors, tree contractors, taxi cabs, pawnbrokers and keeping poultry. For a full list of permits and licenses, see Section 36 of the city code

at ci.park-rapids.mn.us.

CITY OF NEVIS PERMITS

Meanwhile, the city of Nevis issues planning and zoning permits for construction, conditional use, planned unit development, variances, minor subdivisions, boundary realignment, zoning amendments, demolition and excavation; and permits for water hydrant usage, fencing, signage and chickens in the city.

Nevis also offers rentals of its council chambers, the Muskie Park pavilion and its kitchen, and wooden picnic tables. For details, pricing and to apply for permits, visit the city administration office at 104 Main St. W.

LICENSES & PERMITS

County handles shoreland, septic and other ordinances

The Hubbard County Environmental Services Office (ESO) is located at the Hubbard County Government Center, 301 Court Ave.

Talk to staff about the shoreland management ordinance, land use permits, well testing, septic systems, off-premises advertising signs and E911 addressing.

Property subdivisions also must go through a zoning approval process.

Check with your local township for any permits, inspections or approvals if your property is located in the following townships that have zoning regulations: Akeley, Clay, Clover, Helga, Henrietta, Mantrap, Rockwood, Thorpe or Todd.

The ESO is also responsible for the county’s aquatic invasive species program and geographic information system services.

Permit application forms and regulations are available online at www. co.hubbard.mn.us or by calling the ESO at 218-732-3890.

SHORELAND MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE

The county shoreland management ordinance applies to land within 1000 feet of classified lakes and 500 feet of

MEDIA

NEWSPAPERS

Park Rapids Enterprise

Founded in 1882, the Park Rapids Enterprise is Hubbard County’s oldest continuous business venture. It was the first newspaper established north of the Northern Pacific Railroad in Minnesota.

The Park Rapids Enterprise is committed to providing the most complete local news coverage in the region. The Enterprise publishes Wednesday and Saturday each week with continuous online updates.

KCRB

KKWE

KNBJ 91.3 FM ................................ News

KBXE 90.5 FM

any river or stream.

Permits are required for all structures including, but not limited to homes, additions, garages, storage buildings, guest cabins, decks, platforms, etc. and for any modification, alteration or change to a structure that results in a change of use of the structure.

A shoreland alteration permit is required for rock riprap and most grading, excavating or filling projects in shoreland areas.

A current compliance inspection for septic treatment systems must be on file prior to issuance of any sewered structure land use permits or to apply for conditional use permits, variances or property subdivisions.

Short-term rentals (STR), commonly known as Vacation Rental By Owner (VRBOs), in Hubbard County have new regulations, as of 2022. The Hubbard County Board approved amendments to its shoreland management ordinance.

Among other things, the new rules require STRs to follow guest occupancy limits based on septic system capacity, parking restrictions and quiet hours.

STR owners will also need to apply for an annual license before May 1.

SEPTIC SYSTEM ORDINANCE

Hubbard County’s subsurface sewage treatment system (SSTS) ordinance requires septic permits for all new installations, alterations, extensions and certain repairs of existing septic systems.

A site evaluation and septic system design from a licensed septic system designer must be submitted for approval prior to the issuance of a septic permit.

The ordinance covers the design, location, installation, use and maintenance of SSTS.

Privies (outhouses) are allowed, provided they are maintained in a clean condition and do not constitute a public nuisance. Privies require a site evaluation design and a septic permit.

A septic permit is required for a privy (outhouse) as is a septic design from a licensed septic professional. Privies must meet setback requirements from lakes, rivers, streams, property lines, and applicable structures. A property owner must call the Environmental Services Department for an inspection of the privy once its construction is finished.

Serving the communities of Park Rapids, Nevis, Akeley, Menahga, Dorset, Lake George, Osage and the surrounding lakes area, the award-winning Enterprise is the most comprehensive news source in the area and the official newspaper of Hubbard County.

To subscribe, call the office at 218732-3364, email Kathy Dennis at kdennis@parkrapidsenterprise.com or stop in at the Bruhn Plaza office at 1011 First St. E., Suite 6, Park Rapids.

KKBJ 103.7 FM ......Adult Contemporary

KBUN 104.5 FM ............................. Sports

KBJI 106.3 FM Religious

KPRM 870 AM News/Talk

KLLZ

KPM 1300 AM Classic Country

KBUN 1450 AM Sports

KAKK 1570 AM .............................. Sports

720 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-5641 or www.smith.senate.gov

U.S. CONGRESS

425 Dirksen Senate Building, Washington, DC 20510, 202-224-3244 or www.klobuchar.senate.gov

STATE SENATORS

Dist. 2 Sen. Steve Green, (R) 95 University Ave. West, Minnesota Senate Bldg, Room 2319, St. Paul, MN 55155, 651-297-8063 or sen. steve.green@senate.mn.

5 Sen. Paul Utke (R), 95 University Ave. West, Minnesota Senate Bldg, Room 2403, St. Paul, MN 55155, 651-296-9651 or sen. paul.utke@senate.mn.

Congressional

7

1004 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515, 202-225-2165 or fischbach.house.gov

Congressional

8

461 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515, 202-225-6211 or stauber.house.gov

STATE REPRESENTATIVES

Bliss

311 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155, 651-296-5516, toll-free 877-838-5537 or rep.matt.bliss@house.mn

225 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155, 651-296-9918 or rep.krista.knudsen @house.mn.gov

U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D)

U.S. Sen. Tina Smith (D)

U.S. Rep. Michelle Fischbach

District

(R)

U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber

District

(R)

Dist.

Dist. 2B Rep. Matt

(R)

Dist. 5A Rep. Krista Knudsen (R)

“Because a beautiful lawn doesn’t happen by itself”

GOVERNMENT

HUBBARD COUNTY BOARD

Hubbard County is governed by the Hubbard County Board of Commissioners, elected by district.

The board meets twice a month, at 9 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays, in the boardroom on the third floor of the Hubbard County government Center, 301 Court Ave. in Park Rapids. A work session is held on the second Tuesday. The meetings are live streamed at https://hubbardcounty.civicweb.net/portal.

The county has a website at www.co.hubbard.mn.us that contains information on all departments, county ordinances, employment opportunities, lake maps, parcel maps and more.

All employees listed below may be reached by email. Email addresses are the first name, followed by a dot and the last name, then @co.hubard.mn.us. For example, jeff.cadwell@co.hubbard.mn.us.

District 1

David De La Hunt 218-616-4029

david.delahunt @co.hubbard.mn.us

District 3

Tom Krueger 218-616-4069 tom.krueger @co.hubbard.mn.us

District 2

Charlene Christenson 218-616-2181 char.christenson @co.hubbard.mn.us

District 4

Steve Keranen 218-616-1976 steven.keranen @co.hubbard.mn.us

District 5

Ted Van Kempen 218-616-4073

ted.vankempen @co.hubbard.mn.us

The numbers in black represent the Hubbard County Commissioner districts.

GOVERNMENT

Ag Inspector

Greg Hensel, 237-1456

Aquatic Invasive Species 732-3890

Attorney

Jonathan Frieden, 732-4133

Auditor-Treasurer

Kay Rave, 732-3196

County Administrator

Jeff Cadwell, 732-2336

Court Administrator

Carissa Scholz, 732-5286

Emergency Management

Nikolas Opsal, 732-2588 or 732-3331

Environmental Services/GIS

Eric Buitenwerf, 732-3890 Extension Service

Melissa Koebernick, 732-3391

Facilities Maintenance

Bobby Wilkins, 732-2520

Geographic Information Systems

Jack Bovee, 732-3890

Human Resources

Gina Teems, 732-2330

DEPARTMENT MANAGERS

Human Services

Brian Ophus, 732-1451

IT Director

Fred Stinar III, 732-2490

Judge of District Court

Robert Tiffany, 732-3140

Land Survey

Ryan Miller, 732-7016

License Center 732-3426

Medical Examiner

Dr. Kelly Kills, 651-266-1700

Natural Resources/ Parks and Recreation

Cory Kimball, 732-4270

Passport Services

Lauren Anderson, 732-3452

Probation Officer

Joe Peterson, 732-9343

Property Records

Marie Shepherd, 732-3452

Public Works/

Highway Department 732-3302

Sheriff

Cory Aukes, 732-3331

Solid Waste Administrator

Josh Holte, 732-9568

Veterans Services Officer

Jerrold Bjerke, 732-3561

Victim Service Coordinator

Jill Christenson, 732-4133

A guide to the county’s recycling, garbage programs

Hubbard County has two, well-staffed transfer stations with programs set up for residents to dispose of their construction and demolition materials, household hazardous waste (HHW), household yard waste, organics, mixed recyclables and both burnable/non-burnable household waste. Transfer station attendants are ready to answer any questions.

The south transfer station is located at 812 Henrietta Ave. S. in Park Rapids. Hours are 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Call 218-732-9568 with questions.

The north transfer station is located at 41304 U.S. Hwy. 71, Laporte. Hours are 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, Tues day, Friday and Saturday. Call 218-224-2100.

Both stations are closed on Sundays and hol idays.

Residents can drop off HHW at the north transfer station from April 15 to Sept. 15 and all year at the south station.

The south transfer station has desig nated reuse areas for HHW, household and construction materials, tires and plastic containers for residents to drop off and pick up. Crushed concrete is also available for purchase.

NEW REUSE CENTER

In 2024, the Hubbard County Solid Waste Department and Hubbard County Developmental Achievement Center partnered to reduce waste in the landfill.

In February, the county opened a reuse center at the south transfer station. Newly dubbed the Hubbard County Reuse Center, it’s located in the old transfer station building (Building D).

E-WASTE

Batteries and electronics MAY NOT be placed into the waste dumpsters. Station attendants can guide residents to the correct areas for proper disposal of batteries, fluorescent bulbs, phones, TVs, DVD/VCR devices, printers, all monitors, and other computer related items.

If rechargeable batteries are handled improperly and placed in your recycling or garbage, they can create fires.

The public is reminded that all batteries must be placed with HHW, located in Building B. Devices and toys containing batteries are also considered HHW. Batteries are not allowed in any recycled or waste dumpsters. Ask staff for assistance.

After checking in with a solid waste assistant, Hubbard County residents and businesses are welcome to drop off and pick up reuse materials. There are three main areas: outdoor and recreation, building and construction, and household and furnishings. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 8:30 am to2:30 pm. on Saturdays.

BRUSH AND YARD WASTE

After stopping at transfer stations for inspection, residents can drop off lawn clippings, leaves, tree needles, garden debris, plants, straw and hay at the designated composting area. Finished (mature) compost is available at the south transfer station. See attendants for details. Brush, stumps, branches, shrubs, trees, including cut holiday greens and trees, are accepted in the brush piles at both transfer stations.

All brush loads must be inspected by an attendant prior to disposal. Bags, pots, twine, wire, lights, decorations, and miscellaneous garbage must be removed before inspection and disposal.

Hubbard County residents may unload properly sorted recycling at any of the 13 county recycling drop-off points or bring it directly to the two transfer stations.

Single-sort mixed recycling items include cardboard, newspaper/magazines, junk mail, office paper, cans (aluminum, steel and tin), glass containers and only No. 1 or No. 2 plastic containers.

The transfer stations also have drop-off programs for antifreeze, used oil, oil filters, large appliances, fire extinguishers, propane cylinders, vehicle batteries and scrap metal, boat wrap and silage bags.

GOVERNMENT

ORGANICS

The south transfer station has an organics program where registered residents may drop off food scraps, food-soiled paper and compostable products. Register online at www. co.hubbard.mn.us/waste, by emailing solidwaste@co.hubbard. mn.us or calling 218-732-9568.

Registrants will receive an organics kit that includes bags for fruits, vegetables, peelings, grains, meat, dairy, plain paper towels, napkins, tissues, paper coffee filters, wooden treat sticks, tooth picks, chopsticks, tea bags, and BPI and Cedar Grove certified compostable products.

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Bemidji Veterans Home serves local vets

After decades of advocacy and dreams, the flags of the United States and its military branches were officially raised over the new Bemidji Veterans Home on Jan. 9, 2024.

“Today is an important day in the evolution of this home,” shared Kevin Gish, the home’s administrator. “I thought it important to have some of the veterans who have really advocated for this home to have the opportunity to raise the flags for the first time.”

Residents began moving into the $52-million facility in February.

A study was completed in 2013 that outlined the need for a veterans home in northwest Minnesota. It explained that more than 31,000 veterans call northern Minnesota home, with nearly 75% aged 55 and older.

Despite this, the nearest veterans homes are in Fergus Falls and Silver Bay, leaving significant areas underserved.

The home has 72 private beds, separated into four households named after nearby counties.

Each household has identical services, with a hub in the center for shared amenities like a theater and library.

Since the home is designed for veterans who require skilled nursing care, it also features a therapeutic gym, nursing stations and a spa.

The home will employ 168 people when it is fully staffed, with around 50 employed currently. These positions range from kitchen and custodial staff to nurses and administration.

Gish, who has been in charge of putting together staffing and preparing for residents, shared that his goal is to truly make the facility a home.

“That’s what we all signed up for here, to serve those who have served,” he said. “We want this to be their home, we want them to thrive.”

Gish has been working to make the facility “a home that doubles as a nursing home.” This means that, alongside providing high-quality nursing care, the building feels like somewhere residents can have a sense of community.

Veterans Services Office assists vets with earned benefits

The Hubbard County Veterans Services Office offers assistance and support to eligible veterans, their dependents and survivors in obtaining benefits through the state and federal departments of Veterans Affairs, and provides benefit counseling, claims service, and referrals for a variety of other programs.

Veterans Service Officers Jerrold Bjerke and Aaron Majors provide assistance on compensation and pension benefits, healthcare, education, insurance, home loan, military records and awards, and death benefits.

The office is located at 201 Fair Ave. in Park Rapids, and the phone number is 218-732-3561.

Veteran outreach in Laporte is held on the third Thursday of each month by appointment only.

U of M Extension delivers practical education

The Hubbard County University of Minnesota Extension (UMN) office provides educational programs on sustainable farming, water quality, nutrition and addresses horticulture questions.

They offer the youth of our community learning opportunities via 4-H clubs, special-interest groups, after-school programs, civic engagement, community service, camping and school enrichment.

4-H is an out-of-school, hands-on learning program for anyone in kindergarten through one year past high school. Become a 4-H member to open up a host of resources and opportunities such as showcase and judging experiences, scholarships, leadership trips and

more.

Learn more about 4-H at www.4-H. org, on Facebook at www.facebook. com/4-H or contact Mari Jo Lohmeier, Hubbard County 4-H program coordinator, at 732-3391 or mlohmeie@umn.edu.

Donna Anderson, SNAP-Ed Educator for UMN Extension, offers nutrition programming for men/fathers, Head Start CaP agencies and schools, to name a few. Contact her at 218-640-0285 or ande8387@umn.edu if you have questions, are an agency that is interested in discussing classes or other outreach; backpack programs, Farmers Market Power of Produce Club for youth and Power of Produce for seniors/elders, or

Go Wild signs in the community that shares information about wellness and health through art.

If information about agriculture, gardening and natural resources interests you, consider signing up for the Hubbard County UMN Extension Agriculture, Gardening and Natural Resources e-newsletter at z.umn.edu/HCExtensionNewsletter.

For more information, call Hubbard County UMN Extension Educator Tarah Young at 218-732-3391, tarahy@umn. edu or visit https://extension.umn.edu/ local/hubbard.

The office is located at 201 Fair Avenue, Park Rapids.

Hubbard County HRA offers workforce housing and other aid

The Hubbard County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) holds about $6 million worth in county assets.

HRA oversees Meadow View and Meadow’s Edge Apartments, The Regency and Cornerstone Apartments.

Cornerstone Apartments, situated next to Depot Park on 3rd Street, comprises two buildings. There’s a one-story building with five one-bedroom apartments and a two-story building with four two-bedroom apartments.

Regency Apartments, located at the corner of Gilbert Ave. and 5th St., is a 15-unit, three-story building with one-, twoand three-bedroom apartments.

Meadow View and Meadow’s Edge offer 56 units of affordable housing. They are located on Career Path.

The HRA receives $120,000 each year through a county tax levy.

The HRA is a municipal corporation created in 1995 by the Hubbard County Board under the authority granted by state law. The organization is governed by a five-member board of directors appointed by the county board.

HRA also provides an entry cost assistance loan program that provides up to $7,500 toward purchasing an existing single-family home or new construction in Hubbard County. Eligible households have an income at or below 80% of the statewide median.

To learn more about the activities of Hubbard County HRA, visit www.hubbardhra.org.

Hubbard County SWCD helps with water, soil issues

The Hubbard County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is a non-profit, local unit of COMMUNITY.

The SWCD is charged with protecting the district’s soil, water, forests, wildlife and recreational resources through education, technical advice, leadership and financial assistance to landowners and cooperating agencies to pursue sustainable management, wise use and conservation practices.

SWCD programs benefit the whole community by helping landowners to implement shoreline, forest and agricultural conservation practices that reduce or prevent erosion, sedimentation, siltation and ag-related pollution. These efforts preserve our natural resources, ensure continued soil productivity, control floods, preserve wildlife, protect the tax base and protect public lands and waters for the enjoyment of present and future generations.

SWCD projects address erosion control practices, lakeshore and riverbank stabilization practices, watershed protection projects, stormwater runoff practices, lake water quality and groundwater level monitoring, abandoned well sealing, tree sales, precipitation monitoring, private well nitrate testing, forest stewardship assistance, conservation easements and assistance to irrigators in water management. The SWCD also administers the Wetland Conservation Act for the county.

Hubbard County sits within three major watersheds. SWCD collaborates with local partners and neighboring counties in the Leech Lake River, Mississippi Headwaters and Crow Wing River One Watershed One Plans.

Contributed/Hubbard County SWCD

The Hubbard County SWCD was awarded a Minnesota DNR Conservation Legacy Partners Grant to help schools implement practices in their school forest that encourage more class participation and public engagement. So far, they installed a pollinator garden at the Nevis School Forest, with more than 2,300 plant plugs, and put in new trails.

SWCD also organizes environmental education programs for youth, such as the Envirothon and Freshwater Festival.

The SWCD board consists of five elected supervisors. They serve four-year terms.

“Small enough to know you, Large enough to

Call 732-0121 ext. 4, visit www.hubbardswcd.org or check out the Hubbard SWCD on Facebook or Instagram.

The office is located at 603 N. Central Ave., Park Rapids.

SWCD STAFF

District Supervisor

Crystal Mathisrud, crystal.hcswcd@gmail.com

Forest Resource Technician

Brandon Spain-Brist, 218-252-6963 or brandon.hcswcd@gmail.com

Water Quality Resource Technician

Jacob Shaughnessy, 218-252-5391 or jake.hcswcd@gmail.com

Community Conservationist

Claire Hansen, 218-252-6981 or claire.hcswcd@gmail.com

Administrative and Bookkeeping Assistant

Rachel Rudquist, rachel.hcswcd@gmail.com

SWCD DISTRICT SUPERVISORS

District 1 (Fern, Rockwood, Helga, Lake Hattie, Schoolcraft, Lake Alice, and Lake George townships): Don Rettinger 218-854-7306 or docare05@gmail.com

District 2 (Farden, Guthrie, Hart Lake, Hendrickson, Lakeport, and Steamboat townships): Marcel Noyes 218-407-73425 or MCnoyes2x@outlook.com

District 3 (Clover, Clay, Thorpe, Arago, Lake Emma, Mantrap, and Akeley townships): Heidi Anderson-Thomas 772-342-1662 or indigohus@outlook.com

District 4 (Todd, Straight River, Henrietta and Hubbard west from County 11): Don Sells 218- 732-5910 or niawa1980@icloud.com

District 5 (Nevis, White Oak, Crow Wing, Badoura, Henrietta and Hubbard east from County 11): Lynn Goodrich 218-652-3130 or tripplake1@mac.com

GOVERNMENT

A guide to township government

Questions about township government can usually be answered by town clerks.

Akeley Township ........................ Sebrina Hegg, 218-252-4611 hegg1@hotmail.com

Arago Township .................... Megan Auzenne, 404-725-2715 meganauzenne@gmail.com

Badoura Township Tim Scouton, 218-252-1583 badouraclerk@gmail.com

Clay Township Kristina Case, 218-732-8544 or 602-312-5120 clerkclaytownship@gmail.com

Clover Township Wayne Koop, 218-699-3931 or 218-616-2087 clovertownship@live.com

Crow Wing Lake Township .......... Brian Ford, 218-252-8323 cwltclerk@outlook.com

Farden Township Laurel Schummer, 218-368-5654 schumme@paulbunyan.net

Fern Township Kim Watkins, 218-209-6884 frnkenberries@hotmail.com

Guthrie Township Amanda Fallgren, 218-556-1790 guthriet@paulbunyan.net

Hart Lake Township ............. Charlotte Rauch, 218-224-3217 char@paulbunyan.net

Helga Township Aric Porter, 218-760-2052 clerk@helgatownship.com

Hendrickson Township Kim Tomlinson, 916-257-5916 hendricksontownshipclerk@gmail.com

Henrietta Township Ann Lempola, 218-699-3617 henriettatown@unitelc.com

Hubbard Township ....................Laura Kujawa, 218-732-8836 lkkujawa@hotmail.com

Lake Alice Township ................ Lois Holleman, 218-308-0093 clerklakealicetownship@gmail.com

Lake Emma Township ....................... Nan Iles, 218-732-0516 lakeemmatwp@outlook.com

Lake George Township Kaaren Mikus, 218-252-1048 or 218-699-3129 charvey@paulbunyan.net

Lake Hattie Township Christopher Parthun, 218-854-7272 lakehattietownship@gmail.com

Lakeport Township ................... Alex Hadrava, 218-224-2853 akhadrava@msn.com

Mantrap Township ..... Carice Golberg-Cummins, 218-255-4052 mantrapclerk@gmail.com

Nevis Township Pat Hrubes, 218-652-3546 nevistownship@outlook.com

Rockwood Township Jean Diffley, 218-751-5672 tjdiff@paulbunyan.net

Schoolcraft Township ............ Stephen Booth, 218-854-7262 or 218-556-3975 steevbooth@hotmail.com

Steamboat River Township ....... Tom Knight, 218-224-3195 pinhurst@paulbunyan.net

Straight River Township Amy Vigen, 218-252-1818 straightrivertownshipclerk@gmail.com

Thorpe Township Janet Dixon, 651-228-9432 clerk.thorpe@gmail.com

Todd Township Pat Cadreau, 218-255-0826 cadreaubob@unitelc.com

White Oak Township .............. Jeff Lindstrom, 218-652-3456 whiteoakclerk1@gmail.com

GOVERNMENT

Welcome to Park Rapids!

BY MAYOR RYAN LECKNER

Welcome to Park Rapids ‒ a city whose true heart is the heart of its people.

Our friendly community of 4,000-plus is nestled among the beautiful Fish Hook River and multiple area lakes. Park Rapids is renowned for its unique downtown area, which features center parking on Main Street surrounded by many quaint stores, trendy restaurants and the historic Park Theater. The downtown area provides a charming venue for community events, like 2nd Street Stage, which showcases music and talent all summer long.

From great schools to parks and playgrounds, from farmers’ markets to the arts, from health clinics to public safety, Park Rapids has you and your family covered. We are located 20 miles south of Itasca State Park, which highlights the headwaters of the Mississippi River.

Come ride and walk on our many miles of maintained bike and snowmobile trails. Celebrate the Fourth of July with our wonderful fireworks show and famous Professional Bull Riders bull ride. We enjoy four distinct seasons packed with events and activities that provide entertainment all year long.

Being born and raised here, I am proud to call Park Rapids home and warmly welcome you to visit our city and enjoy all that our family-friendly destination has to offer.

Hope to see you in Park Rapids soon!

Park Rapids City Council

The city of Park Rapids, population 4,145, is the county seat for Hubbard County.

Founded in 1880 by rugged pioneers, farmers and loggers, this city was named for its park-like groves and the rapids on the Fishhook River.

The area’s natural beauty – and source of the mighty Mississippi River –attracts residents and tourists alike. Services provided by the city include law enforcement, fire protection, stormwater, sewer and water utilities, maintenance of streets, parks, and the public library, which is a member of the Kitchigami Regional Library System.

The city has a zoning ordinance; building permits are required and are available at city hall.

For businesses wishing to expand or locate in the Park Rapids area, assistance is provided through the Heartland Lakes Development Commission. The city also operates a municipal airport and liquor store.

City hall is located at 212 2nd St. W. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 218-7323163. The city’s website is ci.park-rapids. mn.us.

The Park Rapids Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of the

month at 6 p.m. at city hall. Ryan Leckner is mayor, and council members are Liz Stone, Bob Wills, Tim Little and Joe Christensen.

Ryan Leckner mayor @ci.park-rapids.mn.us

Liz Stone liz.stone @ci.park-rapids.mn.us

Bob Wills bob.wills @ci.park-rapids.mn.us

Tim Little tim.little @ci.park-rapids.mn.us

Joe Christensen joe.christensen @ci.park-rapids.mn.us

GOVERNMENT

City Administrator

Angel Weasner

DEPARTMENT HEADS

218-237-2748

city.admin@ci.park-rapids.mn.us City Clerk ................................. Berit Score ................................... 218-732-3163 .............................. city.clerk@ci.park-rapids.mn.us

City Planner

Ben Oleson, AICP 320-759-1560 oleson@hometownplanning.com

Public Works ........................... Scott Burlingame ........................ 218-237-2713 ........................public.works@ci.park-rapids.mn.us

Police Chief

Jeff Appel 218-237-2711 jeff.appel@ci.park-rapids.mn.us

Liquor Store Manager ........... Scott Olson .................................. 218-237-2750 ...............................prspirits@ci.park-rapids.mn.us

11 officers serve with Park Rapids Police Dept.

Police Chief Jeff Appel has served the city of Park Rapids since Oct. 2016.

Appel is one of 11 sworn officers in the Park Rapids Police Department. Under his supervision are two patrol sergeants including a K-9 officer, seven patrol officers including a school resource officer and one full-time administrative assistant.

Prior to his appointment, Appel was a captain with the Savage Police Department with 17 years of law enforcement experience, seven of them in a supervisory role. He holds a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement.

“All staff with the Park Rapids Police Department are proud to serve the citizens of Park Rapids and those visiting our community,” Appel said. “Our goal is to serve each and every day by upholding the values in our mission statement: professionally providing excellent, community-oriented law enforcement services to the City of Park Rapids with the highest level of integrity while respecting the rights of all people in a courteous and dignified manner.”

The police department is located in the Public Safety Building at 1425 Fair Ave. and can be reached from 8 a.m. to 4:30

p.m. Monday through Friday at 237-2711. To file a report or make a complaint, call dispatch at 732-3331. If there is an emergency, dial 911.

Park Rapids Fire Dept. is ‘always prepared’

Joe Carlson has been fire chief with the Park Rapids Fire Department (PRFD) since February 2022. He is supported in his duties by first assistant chief Ben Cumber and second assistant chief Bob Meier.

According to Carlson, the fire department currently has a full roster of 26 paid-on-call firefighters, protecting the city of Park Rapids and 10 townships – a 323-square-mile area whose population of roughly 10,500 balloons to as high as 25,000 in the summer.

The PRFD has mutual aid agreements with the Bemidji, Carsonville, Detroit Lakes, Lake George, Menahga, Nevis and Wolf Lake fire departments. It responds to an average of 112 fire calls per year.

“We build a safer community through our commitment to protecting lives and property,” Carlson said of the department’s mission.

This year, the fire hall at 804 Park Ave. S. hosts an open house from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 15. The focus of the open house this year is fire

Enterprise file photo Park Rapids Fire Department apparatus are rolled out for public viewing during the department’s open house in June.

prevention for children. The department also provides on-site fire prevention education at the area schools,

reaching 925 children from daycare through grade 4 in 2023, an 18% increase over 2022.

Shannon Geisen/Enterprise

The Park Rapids Police Department is located in the city’s public safety building at 1425 Fair Ave.

Welcome to Nevis!

BY MAYOR JEANNE THOMPSON

Welcome to Nevis, home of the tiger muskie!

The swimming beach on beautiful Lake Belle Taine is popular all summer, along with biking on the beautiful Heartland Trail that goes right through downtown.

Stop at the new pollinator garden located near the visitor’s center, just off the trail.

Children will enjoy a visit to try out the new playground equipment at Muskie Park or Halverson Park just up the hill from the beach. In the fall, come back to check out the beautiful colors along Paul Bunyan Drive north of town.

In the winter, there are hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails to explore.

Whatever the season, Nevis offers something fun for everyone! Go to the Nevis city website for more information on things to do in the area.

The lakeside village of Nevis is located on the east end of Belle Taine.

It is the gateway to the Paul Bunyan State Forest and 90 lakes located within a 10-mile radius.

It’s known for its huge tiger muskie, located at Muskie Park.

A public beach and dock with handicapped access, along with a boat ramp, are located at the public access to Lake Belle Taine. Children will enjoy the playgrounds at Halvorson Park.

Nevis has a Civic and Commerce Association, Senior

Citizens Center, a number of churches and many year-around and seasonal businesses.

The Nevis City Council meets the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Nevis Administration Building.

Jeanne Thompson serves as mayor. Assistant mayor is Sue Gray. Other council members are Teresa Leshovsky, Blair Reuther and John Carrier.

The Nevis Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department and Public Works Department are located in the Nevis Fire Hall Building at 204 Main Street East.

Deputy Oswald handles local law enforcement

Hubbard County sheriff’s deputy Josh Oswald provides police services to the city of Nevis.

Oswald has worked for the Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office for 13 years and in Nevis for 10 of those years. He received his police training at Hibbing Community College, graduating in 2011.

“I take great passion in my job and enjoy every shift I work,” he said.

“It’s a great community with great people.”

Oswald works closely with both the Nevis School District and the Akeley Police Department.

In addition to his regular patrols, Oswald also provides checks on seasonal residences during the winter months and checks in with elderly residents who do not have family nearby.

Call 218-652-3866 to reach Oswald for non-emergency inquiries.

Nevis Fire Dept. is ready to serve

The Nevis Volunteer Fire Department protects the city of Nevis as well as Nevis, Crow Wing Lake, Mantrap and Thorpe townships. It also has mutual aid agreements with all fire departments in Hubbard County as well as the Menahga Fire Department, and an agreement with Minnesota DNR Forestry for wildland fires.

Josh Winter is the department’s fire chief.

The Nevis Volunteer Fire Department has open meetings the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Nevis Fire Hall at 204 Main Street East. The fire department email is nevisfire@arvig.net and their phone number is (218) 652-2323.

If interested in joining the department, stop by Nevis City Hall for an application or talk to any fireperson.

Cynthia Paulsen 218-652-3135

Fire Chief ........................................................

Police Deputy

Josh Winter .............................. nevisfire@arvig.net ............................. 218-652-2323

Josh Oswald (non-emergency) 218-652-3866

Jeanne

Teresa

Oswald Winter

Welcome to Akeley

BY MAYOR BRIAN HITCHCOCK

On behalf of the citizens of Akeley, I would like to welcome you to “the Birthplace of Paul Bunyan.”

Akeley started out as a boomtown for the logging industry and has gone through many changes over the years. We are currently a town consisting of 404 people located on the southern edge of the Paul Bunyan State Forest in the heart of lake country.

We have the Heartland State trail running through the center of town that provides access to miles of bicycle, ATV and snowmobiling trails.

Akeley is home to one of the largest statues of Paul Bunyan in the world and has visitors stopping by all the time to have their picture taken with him.

In 2024 Akeley will be seeing the final phase of the Hwy. 34 road project finishing up. We are also finishing up with work at Paul’s Patio to create a new parking lot and two new trail accesses to the Heartland trail. Hopefully this will all be done just in time for the 75th anniversary of our town’s annual festival, Paul Bunyan Days. It’s the diamond jubilee anniversary for the event and it will be held June 28-30.

Akeley City Council

The world’s tallest statue of Paul Bunyan and Paul’s cradle mark Akeley as home of the legendary woodsman.

The Paul Bunyan Historical Society Museum, located in the city park known as Paul’s Patio, houses artifacts from the days when Akeley was a logging boom town.

Community organizations include the Civic and Commerce, Akeley Lions, Garden Club, Senior Citizens Club and Eastern Hubbard County Fire District and Auxiliary.

The city has several churches, light industry and many year-around and seasonal businesses.

The Akeley Regional Community Center is home to the Akeley Community Library, thrift store, an archery range, a dog training site and two gymnasiums. Public meeting rooms are available to rent or use.

The Akeley City Council meets the second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at Akeley City Hall on 25 Broadway Street. Akeley’s mayor is Brian Hitchcock. Council members are Bobbie Wosika, Billy Krotzer, Dan Riggs and Dale Nelson.

The city owns and operates an on- and off-sale municipal liquor store, known by locals as “the muni.” It is located on State Hwy. 34, just a block from the Paul Bunyan Statue.

For information about city government, call city hall at 218-652-2465 or go to akeleycity.com.

..... Lacey Hitchcock 218-652-4084, akeleyliquorstore@arvig.net

The city-owned campground is one of Akeley’s hidden gems. Located dockside on 11th Crow Wing Lake, reservations are usually made well in advance of the busy summer.

For more information on rates and availability, call the park manager at 218-252-4570 or go to www.akeleycitycampground.com. There is also a public beach, playground, fishing pier and boat access near the campground.

Brian Hitchcock

Dan Riggs

Bobbie Wosika

Dale Nelson Billy Krotzer

GOVERNMENT

Jimmy Hansen serves as Akeley Police Chief

Jimmy Hansen has been Akeley’s Police Chief for more than 10 years.

“We have a family-oriented town and try to keep it safe for children,” he said. “Even though the Akeley Police Department is small, we center most of our proactivity on drug interdiction, on drugs coming through our town. We concentrate on that and have other law enforcement agencies assisting also.”

Hansen and his wife have four children. He received his training in Alexandria.

Hansen said the emergency shelter in the Akeley Regional Community Center is a blessing to the community because it provides a safe place for victims of domestic violence.

He welcomes community input about issues or ideas to make Akeley better and brighter. Call him at 218-652-4440.

“I love being in the middle of God’s country,” Hansen said. “I work where everybody from the metro wants to come and vacation.”

Eastern Hubbard County Fire District

The Eastern Hubbard County Fire District (EHCFD) serves Akeley and the surrounding area. They also assist the Nevis Fire Department with mutual aid.

Troy Hegg is the chief and Billy Krotzer is the assistant chief.

There are currently 18 members in the department.

The fire department holds a business meeting on the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. Anyone interested in joining or

who has questions about the department is welcome to attend. A training class for firefighters is held on the third Monday of every month at 6 p.m. Training is sometimes held jointly with the Nevis.

The EHCFD board meeting is held on the first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. It’s open to the public, and the gaming meeting follows.

Hansen

State Hwy. 34 project in Akeley wraps up this spring

Akeley’s State Hwy. 34 project, which began last summer, will conclude this spring.

Project managers hope to get finishing touches done before the city’s 75th annual Paul Bunyan Days celebration in June.

The project reduced the width of Hwy. 34 by 30 feet, with a goal to improve safety by slowing the speed of motorists coming through town.

Reducing the road’s width also allowed

for the inclusion of boulevard spacing, which moved the sidewalks away from the driving surface and to increase safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.

The project also included resurfacing, sidewalk replacement and installation and new lighting.

Final construction work and trees planting in the boulevard along the corridor will happen this spring.

Project updates are available at www. mndot.gov/d2/projects/hwy34-akeley.

Akeley emergency shelter helps victims of domestic violence

The ARCC Emergency Shelter (ARCCES) is a non-profit, located in Akeley, offering safe shelter and supportive services to those experiencing intimate partner violence and does not discriminate based on gender identity.

According to ARCCES executive director Allison Forte, the main goal is usually to secure safe and affordable housing for participants, which can be very difficult as there is a shortage of affordable housing in this region.

The shelter operates on a service model that is victim-centered, says Forte. They assist with whatever participants determine are the goals and partner with victims as they begin to navigate their new and sometimes uncertain future.

ARCCES is often in need of diapers, wipes, hygiene products, laundry soap, cleaning supplies, and gift cards for gas and other personal items.

They are continuously raising funds for operating expenses. Anyone who would like to donate or is interested in volunteering may reach out to shelter staff at 218-652-2600.

Checks and gift cards are welcome and may be mailed to ARCC Emergency Shelter, P.O. Box 218, Akeley, MN, 56433.

For more information, visit www.arcc-emergencyshelter.com.

GOVERNMENT

Lakeport Fire and Rescue serves Laporte and rural area

Lakeport Fire and Rescue is dedicated to providing the best possible emergency response to rural communities in northeastern Hubbard County.

Beyond structural and wildland firefighting, they also provide ice rescue, vehicle extrication, search and rescue and hazmat services. They partner with Lakeport Emergency Medical Responders and work with Laporte’s school and community groups to provide fire prevention education.

The department serves a population of approximately 2,396 in Lakeport, Hart Lake, Guthrie and Hendrickson townships and the northern portion of Steamboat River Township in Hubbard County.

With a coverage area of 156 square miles, the department’s main fire hall is in Laporte with a substation in Hart Lake. They average about 50 calls per year and have mutual aid agreements with all the fire departments in Hubbard County, as well as the Bemidji, Cass Lake and Walker fire departments.

Kevin Day has served as Lakeport Fire Chief for five years, starting Jan. 1, 2018. The department’s 27 active firefighters are active in a number of community outreach programs. Officers include Assistant Chief Jim Day, six captains and six lieutenants, training officer Kasey Kampfer and secretary Jessica Howg.

GOVERNMENT Smaller communities

BECIDA

In Becida, the deer are so plentiful in the fall it is a favorite place for hunters. The Becida Community Church is only about three miles away. The small community is located in the northwestern part of the county at the junction of CSAHs 9 and 3.

BENEDICT

Benedict is an unincorporated community in Lakeport Township with several local businesses. The Paul Bunyan Snowmobile Trail skirts Benedict bringing winter business. Benedict is located on State Hwy. 200, southeast of Laporte.

DORSET

Dorset is home to several gift shops and restaurants. Dorset is also the home of First English Lutheran Church. The Heartland Trail is an attraction with horse stalls for public use, a park with a picnic area and shelter and a nature walk hiking trail. Dorset is located about a mile north of Hwy. 34 between Park Rapids and Nevis.

EMMAVILLE

Emmaville, with a booming population in single digits, is welcoming clientele at the Emmaville Store. Emmaville is located on CSAH 4 northeast of Park Rapids.

GUTHRIE

A community center in Guthrie is located on the old school grounds. This center serves as a gathering place for community groups. Guthrie is located on CSAH 16 on the boundary between Guthrie and Hart Lake townships.

GOVERNMENT

HUBBARD

The community of Hubbard is mostly residential, except for a fine eating establishment where those attending a play at the Long Lake Theater can dine before taking in a play. Long Lake Theater draws in summer visitors from miles around. Hubbard is located at the south end of Long Lake on Hwy. 87.

KABEKONA

Kabekona is located at the junction of state Highways 71 and 200 along the Kabekona River.

LAKE GEORGE

Lake George is in a natural outdoor recreation area with two lakes on its doorstep. Unique seasonal and year-round businesses make up this active community, which has its own senior citizens group and garden club. Lake George has a post office, Senior Citizens Center, fire hall and a township hall. Many acres of state-owned forest land make Lake George a prime blueberry picking spot. Lake George is located on U.S. Hwy. 71, east of Itasca State Park.

LAPORTE

Laporte has a celebration on 4th of July weekend. Laporte is home to the Lakeport Fire Department and First Responders. Service organizations in Laporte include the Laporte-Benedict Lions Club, Laporte Book Club, Northwoods Writers and Laporte Comets 4-H Club. Laporte is located on Garfield Lake on State Hwy. 200.

NARY

Nary’s pride and joy is its community center, an old school complete with the original stage. The Helga Town Board renovated the building for residents to use, but the center has its own board in charge of scheduling and raising money to maintain the facility. It has kitchen facilities and houses a library. Nary is located in northeastern Hubbard County on CSAH 9.

Detour ahead! Road projects on State Hwys. 34 and 87

A shoulder-widening project on State Hwy. 34, between County Road 47 near Osage to Western Avenue in Park Rapids, is scheduled to begin in May.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) says the project will address pavement concerns, shoulder widening, culvert replacements, snow fence installation and some sidewalk improvements in Osage.

For more information about the project, visit mndot.gov/d4/projects/hwy34osage.

MnDOT also scheduled a construction project on State Hwy. 87, between U.S. Hwy. 71 and State Hwy. 64. It will take place between 2024 and 2025.

According to MnDOT, the highway needs long-term improvements to address intersection safety and aging infrastructure.

Benefits of the project include a safer road, smoother and longer lasting driving surface, as well as intersection and pedestrian improvements to enhance safety for all users.

The project is split into three different sections, and each section has its own construction plan and traffic impacts. The center portion will take place in 2024, and the western and eastern portions in 2025.

The public can also sign up for weekly construction update emails at www.mndot.gov/d2/projects/ hwy87-hubbard.

Transit services can get you there

HEARTLAND EXPRESS

The Heartland Express is Hubbard County’s public transit system. The Heartland Express provides service to the city of Park Rapids as well as a fourmile radius outside the city.

A wheelchair accessible bus is used to transport. All ages are permitted to ride.

Rides are available on Mondays through Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and

Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Call dispatch at 218-732-3500 to schedule a ride. At least a two-hour notice is needed for initial pick up.

Transit service area fares are $1.50 one-way. Punch cards are available.

If you have other transportation needs or more questions on how to access public transportation services, call 218732-1451, email Heartland.Express@ co.hubbard.mn.us or visit www.hubbardcountyheartlandexpress.com.

PRIVATE PROVIDERS

► Uber/Lyft offers rideshare services based in Hubbard County. Download the apps and search for Eric Bedell. Rides are available from 5 to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, or by appointment via text to 402-618-6807.

► People’s Express at 800-450-0123 offers non-emergency medical trans-

Continued on page 33

portation from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, and by appointment on weekends.

► Medi-Van Inc., offering non-emergency medical transportation 24 hours a day, seven days a week, may be reached at 800-4220976.

PARK RAPIDS AIRPORT

The Park Rapids Municipal Airport is located on the southwest edge of the city along Highway 71 south. The facility includes two paved runways, a 5,500-foot runway plus a second 3,500-foot landing strip.

The airport is staffed daily and features 24-hour automated 100 LL and full-service Jet A fuel. Tie-downs and short- or long-term hangar storage are available. The airport’s full-service maintenance shop offers annual, 100-hour and prebuy inspections, engine overhauls, prop balancing, parts sales, aircraft painting, oil changes, free estimates, aircraft brokerage and sales.

Variety of health services available at hospital

CHI St. Joseph’s Health of Park Rapids is an award-winning, 25-bed critical access hospital located in the heart of lake country.

The health care facility combines state-of-the-art technology with personalized, compassionate care to offer a welcoming, healing environment.

Fully accredited by The Joint Commission, CHI St. Joseph’s Health provides a full range of personalized services, including a 24/7 emergency department and Level 4 trauma center, robotic-assisted surgery, orthopedics, obstetrics, community dental clinic, community health, hospice care, weight management center, imaging, rehabilitation and more.

For more information on any of their services, call 732-3311.

CHI St. Joseph’s Health partners with local agencies and organizations to strengthen healthcare programs offered in the community, providing more people access to care and keeping health care local.

CHI St. Joseph’s Health specialty and outreach includes:

► Orthopedics and sports medicine clinic specializes in all orthopedic and musculoskeletal problems, including hip and knee pain or injury, arthritis, hand and wrist issues, foot and ankle problems, and elbow and shoulder pain. No referral needed. To schedule an appointment, call 218-616-3700.

► Robotic-assisted surgical procedures are performed using minimally invasive techniques. Benefits include less pain, faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays. Patients can expect less discomfort and a quicker return to normal activities. Call 218-616-3170.

► Community Dental Clinic provides dental care for patients on state-provided insurance plans. Certain low

income-eligible patients may qualify for reduced-rate dental care. For appointments or to see if you qualify, call 218-732-4436.

► Community Health services include Women, Infants and Children, family home visiting, child and teen checkups, foot care, prevention classes, adult immunizations and health screenings. Call 218-237-5464.

► Hospice care services are available for patients in their home, a care center or with their loved ones. Call 218-732-4552.

► Cardiac rehabilitation provides progressive exercise and education with medical supervision for those recovering from a cardiac event. Call 218-616-3000.

► Pulmonary rehabilitation helps patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, such as emphysema, asthma or bronchitis. Call 218-616-3000.

► Physical rehabilitation provides comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services designed to restore function and help patients recover to their fullest extent. A team of licensed and certified rehabilitation professionals are available at every level of care, from inpatient hospitalization, to acute rehabilitation, to outpatient therapy. Call 218-616-3005.

► Weight Management Center brings the latest technology and expertise to successful weight control – from non-surgical, medically supervised nutrition and weight-loss programs to advanced surgical procedures. Call 218-237-5757.

Volunteer opportunities are available in the gift shop, hospice care or various areas in the hospital. Call 218-616-3197 to learn more.

CHI St. Joseph’s Health is part of CommonSpirit Health, a nonprofit organization committed to creating healthier communities.

COMMUNITY

Other medical facilities and services

FAMILY SAFETY NETWORK

Family Safety Network (FSN) provides services for victims of domestic violence and their families in Hubbard, Cass and Clearwater counties. Their services are person-centered and client-driven. They use trauma-informed practices that include one-on-one advocacy, violence and crisis intervention, safety planning, support groups, financial empowerment education, legal clinics and legal advocacy, court accompaniment and assistance for housing stability. In addition, FSN offers one-on-one and group training by a certified trauma-informed practitioner. FSN can be reached through its crisis line 24 hours a day at 218-7327413. Its new office in Park Rapids is located at 109 Grove Ave. S., Unit 1 and is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

SUPPORT WITHIN REACH

Support Within Reach (SWR) is a non-profit, sexual violence resource center serving victims of sexual violence and

their families in Aitkin, Beltrami, Cass, Clearwater, Hubbard and Itasca counties. If you or someone you know have been impacted by sexual violence, call SWR’s after-hours crisis hotline: 1-800-7082727. Trained advocates are available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance, referrals to community resources, medical accompaniment during sexual assault evidentiary exams at local hospitals, and support during interviews with law enforcement officers. The Park Rapids office is located at 323 Main Ave. S. Regular business hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-noon Friday. Call 218-237-0300 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

SANFORD HEALTH PARK RAPIDS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

Sanford Health Park Rapids Behavioral Health, formerly A Better Connection (ABC), is located at 1009 Hollinger St. The center provides comprehensive mental health and substance use services to children and adults.

Headwaters Cabin Care

Nathan 701-730-1986

Nathan@Headwaterscabincare.com

Licensed and Insured

• Dock/Lift Sales Installations and Removals

• Tree Removal and Trimming

• Stump Grinding

• Lawn Care

• Spring and Fall Cleanups

• Property Care and Management

ANIMAL HOSPITAL

218-732-3119

17261 State Hwy 34, Park Rapids, MN 56470

Email: info@arkanimalpr.com

Website: arkanimalhospitalpr.com

Owner: Dr. Mia Long, DVM

The team offers mental health diagnostic assessments; individual, family and group therapy; animal-assisted therapy; child therapy services and play therapy. We offer behavioral health services for a variety of conditions, including autism spectrum disorders, domestic violence, trauma, personality disorders and parenting support needs among many others.

Some therapy types that are used include eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), HeartMath therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT).

To schedule an appointment with a mental health provider, call 218-6993510. Appointments are required. The Mobile Crisis Team offers emergency and crisis services 24/7 to help adults and children during a mental health crisis. The team can help over the phone, at your home, in the hospital or wherever you need assistance. Call the Mobile Crisis Team at 800-422-0045.

Continued on page 36

SanfordHealthisimprovinghealthbyimprovingcare

COMMUNITY

Area clinics offer primary care

ESSENTIA HEALTHPARK RAPIDS

Essentia Health offers care close to home in two Park Rapids locations.

Essentia Health-Park Rapids Clinic, located at 705 Pleasant Ave. S., provides primary and specialty care Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Services include family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, imaging services, surgery, lab services, behavioral health, weight management, telehealth services, wound care and vein services. Also, a full array of visiting specialists provide care in cardiology, ENT, OB/GYN, audiology, urology, and oncology. 3D Mammography is also available. Call 218-732-2800 or visit essentiahealth.org to schedule an appointment.

Essentia Health-Park Rapids Highway 34 Clinic, located at 1103 1st St. E., provides walk-in care Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. Orthopedics, podiatry, chiropractic and dermatology services, available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., are also offered, along with a large physical, occupational and speech therapy department with 2,900 square feet of space and over 3,000 square feet of radiology space, including a state-ofthe-art MRI room. Call 218-732-6300 or visit essentiahealth.org to schedule an appointment.

SANFORD HEALTH

PARK RAPIDS CLINIC

Sanford Health Park Rapids Clinic,

Continued from page 35

located at 110 Seventh St. W. across from the hospital, is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. and offers same-day appointments in family medicine, lab and x-ray services.

Charles Shaffer, MD, family medicine physician; Danielle Tretbar, APRN, CNP, family medicine; and Shelly Mahowald, APRN, CNP, nurse practitioner, provide care for the whole family, from newborns to elderly. Alyssa Robley, DPT, PT, physical therapist, and Sara Anderson, OTR/L, occupational therapist, also provide full-time occupational and physical therapy services in Park Rapids. Ashley Lundin, MD, provides consultations for cataract surgery featuring premium lens

LAKE COUNTRY ASSOCIATES, INC.

Experienced therapists at Lake Country Associates (LCA) can help you and your family improve communication and move forward in a positive direction. LCA provides a broad array of services to persons of all ages from early childhood to mature adulthood. Staff work with people on life adjustments – from grief and loss to severe mental illness. Services include diagnostic assessments, substance use disorder assessments, parenting support, Christian counseling, individual and family therapy, conflict resolution, children’s play therapy, art therapy, couples counseling, adult mental health, medication education, peer support services, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and more.

Lake Country Associates is currently offering a choice of telehealth or in-person appointments. Our offices are located

implants, and Andrew Jordan, MD, performs eye injections.

In addition, specialists in pediatrics; cardiology; OB/GYN; nephrology; orthopedics; ear, nose and throat (ENT); pain management and medical oncology/ hematology provide outreach specialty services at the clinic. To make an appointment, call 218-699-3121.

ERICKSON MEDICAL CLINIC

Vern Erickson, MD, offers internal medicine and urgent care with phone consultations 24/7. Referrals can be made to any specialist or hospital as needed. New patients and walk-ins are welcome, although appointments are recommended. Call 218-732-7760.

at 515 Bridge St. in Park Rapids, 615 Anne St. in Bemidji and 11 NW Main St. in Menahga. Call 218-366-9229 or visit lakecountryassociates.com for more information.

STELLHER HUMAN SERVICES

Stellher Human Services offers a variety of mental health services to the communities it serves in North-Central and Northwest Minnesota, including services for infants, children, teens, adults and families. Specific programs include children and adult crisis, in-home services, school-based skills counseling and psychotherapy, as well as school interventionist services. In addition, Stellher provides outpatient mental health services. The mental health crisis line is 800-422-0045. Stellher’s main office is in Bemidji, with additional offices in Detroit Lakes and Baudette. Call 218-444-2845 or visit stellher.com.

Enterprise file photo

The former Pamida store was remodeled into a 23,0000-square-foot Essentia Health clinic, which opened in August 2020.

Specialized teams offer skilled emergency care

NORTH MEMORIAL AMBULANCE SERVICE

Headquartered in Brooklyn Park, Minn., North Memorial Ambulance Services covers eight ambulance regions across Minnesota and western Wisconsin, including Hubbard County. Licensed to provide every level of care, they are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services, the gold standard in the industry. The Park Rapids office is located at 302 Hatch Ave. and can be reached at 218732-5255 or 218-732-5978.

HUBBARD FIRST RESPONSE & RESCUE

Serving the community for more than 25 years, Hubbard First Response & Rescue’s mission is to provide emergency care to victims of sudden illness or injury on a 24-hour basis.

The team comprises volunteer members who respond to dispatched 911 calls from the Hubbard County Sheriff’s

Office and provide care at the emergency medical responder level or higher. They also provide volunteer emergency medical service for local community events, as requested.

Their coverage area includes the Hubbard County townships of Todd,

Straight River, Hubbard, Crow Wing, Henrietta, Clay, Lake Emma, Arago, Mantrap, Badoura, Clover, Savannah and Two Inlets. Mutual aid is provided to other townships and Becker County, as needed. More information at https:// hubbardfirstresponse.org.

LAKES AREA DIVE TEAM

Founded in 2001, the Lakes Area

Dive Team is a nonprofit, volunteer public safety dive team. They provide emergency dive rescue and recovery services to Hubbard, Cass and Beltrami counties. They also perform evidence search for law enforcement or aquatic invasive species search and identification, when requested.

The team is certified in advanced levels of scuba diving as well as search, recovery, CPR, evidence recovery and First Aid.

More information on the Lakes Area Dive Team’s Facebook page or by calling 507-269-1924.

Assisted living and nursing homes

The Park Rapids community offers a variety of assisted living, memory care and nursing home services.

CRYSTAL BROOK

A new, 20-unit memory care building is being constructed at Knute Nelson Crystal Brook in Park Rapids. The unit will open sometime in 2024.

Crystal Brook is located at 1006 Crocus Hill St. and includes a three-story, 88-unit senior apartment and a memory care facility that was developed in 2017.

The Crystal Brook community offers residents a social and active lifestyle. Every day, residents decide how to spend their time while knowing their individual supportive needs will be met. Crystal Brook Senior Living is an “aging in place” housing model, and specifically impacts the senior living apartments and assisted living areas.

This style of living allows residents to start in senior apartments and add services as needed without having to move to a new area of the building. Aging in place brings many benefits to residents and their families.

These benefits include convenience with minimal interruptions in making multiple moves, strong relationships and communication with caregivers, enhanced safety, the comforts of home and reduced costs. In addition, memory care services are offered in a comfortable and secured ground-level complex.

For more information call 218-366-8128.

DIAMOND WILLOW

Diamond Willow uses a person-centered care model which is uniquely different from most diagnostic-based care systems.

Each setting is designed to be intimate with fewer residents

per suite, allowing facilities to have smaller communities with a calm and comforting home-like environment.

Diamond Willow is located at 909 Crocus Hill Street in Park Rapids. Anyone interested in a tour or more information may call 218-732-1642.

PARK RAPIDS HERITAGE COMMUNITY

The Park Rapids Heritage Community is owned by Hubbard County. It offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term care and long-term care on one campus to make transitions smoother for residents.

Assisted Living at Heritage Manor provides a wide variety of daily activities. There is an outdoor courtyard and garden beds as well as an onsite salon, chapel and restaurant-style dining.

Memory Care at the Cottages promotes engaged, purposeful living with customized care and personalized attention in a secure and supportive community.

Short-term care is available in the transitional care unit. Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and/or speech therapy, are available seven days a week

Long-term care at Heritage Living Center has a nursing team onsite 24-hours-a-day. Medical care management and rehabilitation services are provided.

For more information or to schedule a tour, call 218-7323329 or visit the Heritage Community website at www.heritageparkrapids.org.

PARK VILLA APARTMENTS

Park Villa Apartments is an Ecumen-managed facility for those 62 and older with subsidized rent for those who meet income guidelines. For more information call 218-237-7275.

HUBBARD COUNTY FOOD SHELF

Food is given to the homeless or households with food insecurity based on USDA guidelines for family size and income criteria.

The Hubbard County Food Shelf, located at 308 Pleasant Ave. S., is open from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Home delivery is also available for clients who are unable to get out. Volunteer drivers make the deliveries.

Volunteers are always welcome. Call director Bob Hansen at 218-732-1282 for more information.

Checks to support the ongoing work of the food shelf can be sent to the Hubbard County Food Shelf, 308 Pleasant Ave. Park Rapids, MN 56470-1419. Food donations may be dropped off during food shelf hours.

AKELEY-NEVIS AREA FOOD SHELF

The Akeley-Nevis Area Food Shelf is located next to the post office, at 6 Broadway St. E. in Akeley.

All families, individuals and seniors meeting the eligibility requirements may receive food items. Those in need of food fill out a simple form and hand it to a volunteer.

On Tuesdays, from 9 to 11 a.m., families line up in their cars and are handed a list of available food items to choose from. Quantities received are based on the number of people in their family. At that point, volunteer shoppers fill the order

and bring it out to the car.

Send checks or gift cards to Akeley Food Shelf, P.O. Box 25, Akeley, MN, 56433. Cash and food donations can be brought to the food shelf on Tuesdays from 9 to 11 a.m. Volunteers are also welcome. For more information, call the food shelf Tuesdays at 218-652-2388.

RUBY’S PANTRY

Ruby’s Pantry is a nonprofit organization that distributes corporate surplus grocery items on a monthly basis.

While there are no residency or income requirements for participation, it’s their goal to help food-insecure individuals and families from the community and the surrounding area.

In Laporte, Ruby’s Pantry is sponsored by Trinity Lutheran Church at the Laporte School bus garage across from 315 Main St W. Distribution is from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month. A $25 donation with exact change is requested. Volunteers and boxes to swap out are appreciated.

In Menahga, Ruby’s Pantry is distributed the third Saturday of every month from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Menahga School. A $25 donation gets you over $125 worth of food.

For more information on these and other Ruby’s Pantry locations, visit their website or Facebook pages. To volunteer or to pre-register and donate for your bundles, visit www.RubysPantry.org.

Support services for older adults

LIVING AT HOME OF THE PARK RAPIDS AREA

Living at Home of the Park Rapids Area (LAH) mobilizes volunteers and other community resources to assist those 65 years old and older in their home, whether that’s a private residence, an apartment or assisted-living facility.

They offer a repertoire of core services, ranging from transportation to friendly visiting, handyman services, shopping and errands, caregiver support and respite care.

The service area includes Park Rapids, Nevis, Akeley, Osage and the surrounding communities.

Roughly 25 % of LAH’s clients are military veterans. Thanks to annual contributions from the local Disabled American Veterans chapter, LAH specially earmarks those funds to give respite care for veterans or their spouses.

LAH does not charge for providing its services. “However, we do cost sharing, which is a suggested donation amount only for transportation, respite care and homemaking. It’s a very minimal amount, but helps us sustain programming for the long term” she said.

Those in need will never be turned away because of inability or unwillingness to donate, she added.

LAH also connects people to resources and information to help.

Additionally, LAH has a family caregiver support program, led by Jill Grimes. This is available for anyone who is caring for someone aged 60 or older.

Grimes facilitates monthly caregiver discussion groups, provides one-on-one coaching sessions with caregivers and finds appropriate resources for supporting both the caregiver and the care receiver.

This year, LAH is sponsoring a weekly “Afternoon Out” (similar to a Memory Café) for people with dementia and their care partners. The afternoon offers structured social activities and includes fellowship, chair exercises, music and art.

LAH has also opened a “Caregiver Closet,” a lending library of sorts, filled with durable medical equipment loaned out in as is condition at no cost to those in need. Here you may find hospital beds, lift chairs, shower benches, commodes, walkers, wheelchairs, incontinence products, Hoyer lifts and so much more. Donations of equipment are also gladly accepted.

For more information on all of LAH’s programs, call 7323137, write to P.O. Box 465, Park Rapids MN 56470 or go to www.parkrapidslivingathome.org.

SENIOR MEALS

Hubbard County Meals Council, in conjunction with Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, provides nutritious meals to persons 60 years of age or older and their spouses.

There is a suggested donation, but no one will be turned away because of an inability to pay. Home-delivered meals are available by request for those who are homebound and unable to prepare their own meals.

Dining sites are as follows:

► Akeley Diner’s Club: Zappy’s Café. Call 652-2233. Meal tickets are distributed at First National Bank of Walker in Akeley.

► Nevis Senior Citizens Center: On-site dining Monday Friday at noon. Home delivery is also available. Call 652-2022.

► Nevis Diner’s Club: Northwoods Café. Call 652-3608. Meal tickets are distributed at Northwoods Bank in Nevis.

► Park Rapids Diner’s Club: Great Northern Café. Orders are also available for pickup seven days a week. Call 732-9565. Meal tickets are distributed at Seip Drug at Hugos, 237-5848, and Northwoods Bank, 218-732-7221.

► Park Rapids Woodland Court Apartments, 300 Court Ave.: Offers on-site and home delivery in the Park Rapids area. Call 218-237-2798.

On-site dining is available daily Monday through Friday for Park Rapids and Nevis community dining sites.

Frozen meals for pickup, for weekends or for other days the sites are closed are available upon request and can be scheduled with the dining site managers at one of the following phone numbers:

► Park Rapids 218-237-2798

► Nevis 218-652-2022

For additional information, including requesting meals for a caregiver living with a senior, call 800-488-4146.

SENIOR LINKAGE LINE

The Senior Linkage Line is a free telephone service that makes it easy for older adults and their caregivers to find community services. Call 800-333-2433 or visit www.seniorlinkageline.com to connect with services, such as health insurance counseling, senior assisted living, legal assistance and more.

The MAHUBE-OTWA Community Action Partnership offers a variety of services to low-income and elderly residents of Hubbard, Wadena, Mahnomen, Becker and Otter Tail counties.

Their mission is to empower people to reach self-sufficiency through a whole-family approach. They address housing needs, help the unemployed and under-employed to find meaningful work, provide assistance with health needs, wellness and family planning, and help seniors live independently.

In addition to Head Start, child care assistance, energy assistance and weatherization, MAHUBE-OTWA offers Medicare, MNSure and emergency assistance.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) aides provide free tax preparation assistance for low- to middle-income people of all ages. Special consideration is given to seniors, disabled clients and rural residents.

MAHUBE-OTWA sponsors the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). RSVP is a part of the Senior Corps program and is America’s largest volunteer network for people 55 and older. The program is federally administered and funded by the Corporation for National and Community Service.

In 2023, MAHUBE-OTWA expanded its Head Start space. The private, nonprofit corporation purchased a building in Park Rapids, which neighbors its office at 120 North Central Ave., and renamed it Kids Plus.

The 7,000-square-foot facility houses three infant/toddler classrooms, a family child care provider room, offices, kitchen, large motor skills room and a playground.

For more information, call the Park Rapids office at 218732-7204 or go to www.mahube.org.

COMMUNITY

DAC has long history of helping individuals with disabilities

The Hubbard County Developmental Achievement Center (DAC) was formed by a group of local citizens in 1973.

Their original mission was to provide day training and habilitation services for seven developmentally disabled adults in Park Rapids who had been long term-residents of state institutions.

By 1978, the program had grown to include 25 participants and five staff. It was called the “”Day Activity Center,” and the mission was to maximize independence through normalization. In 1979, a work activity program was licensed and a work center built.

Today, the DAC continues to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, pervasive mental illness and related conditions to develop and maintain life skills so they can live the life they choose. They support individuals in engaging in activities of their choice, identifying resources and building natural, supportive relationships.

The nonprofit organization offers person-centered day support services, along with community-supported and center-based employment, employment exploration and prevocational services.

The DAC promotes independence and community integration by providing employment skill training in its workshop and in community-based work groups. They contract services with area businesses.

They provide one-on-one training through on-site job coaching, technical support, transportation and counseling for all of our clients.

Their trained staff work with clients and other team members to come up with a program that best meets the needs and goals of each individual.

The DAC owns and operates the Bearly Used Thrift Store and The Depot, both located in Park Rapids. Several clients help with the sorting and stocking of merchandise.

In May 2023, the DAC opened Tin Ceiling Gallery in downtown Park Rapids. It’s an extension of its fine arts programming. The DAC’s goal is to showcase emerging artists of all backgrounds, experience and abilities.

The store provides an opportunity for artists to interact with the community and features art and items for sale created by local artists.

Tin Ceiling Gallery will host exhibitions, events and offer classes for development by partnering with teaching artists and guest curators.

DAC’s fine arts studio program started in 2019 with grants from the Region 2 Arts Council. The activities include welding, woodworking, metal working, ceramics, glass fusion, painting, drawing, papermaking and more.

The DAC also serves about 85 stu-

dents with pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS) in 15 communities in a 100-mile radius of Park Rapids.

Pre-ETS can be study skills, workplace-readiness training, self-advocacy, college exploration, financial literacy, developing resumes, filling out job applications, internships and more.

They are helping another 82 adults in the traditional employment program.

The funds will also help with the DAC’s practical assessment exploration system (PAES).

The DAC partners with Nevis, Menahga and Sebeka schools on the PAES lab.

Park Rapids Schools prepare students for future

Park Rapids Area Schools enroll approximately 1,650 students in pre-kindergarten through grade 12.

The district’s history of vision, excellence and success is summed up in its vision: “Preparing today’s learners for tomorrow’s challenges.”

The Park Rapids Area School District employs about 300 professionals, including a faculty of 145 teachers. Approximately 56% of the teaching staff has a master’s degree or its equivalent.

Century School, located west of the high school, has eight “schools” within the facility.

Grades K-8 each have their own “pod” and special identity. This system enables the district to offer specialized education for each grade level according to various age groups’ unique needs.

A comprehensive preK-12 curriculum provides a multitude of offerings for students, integrating technology to transform learning.

The district says it offers one of the finest early childhood programs in the state. Early Childhood Family Education, School Readiness, Head Start, Early Childhood Special Education and Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten programs and other family services are located at the Century School.

Park Rapids Area High School prepares students for the future with Panther Tracks. Panther Tracks pathways are designed to provide our students with an individualized high school plan, to guide

them towards a post-secondary pathway based on their interests, skills, and values by utilizing the Career Wheel model and YouScience aptitudes testing.

Panther Tracks enables students to explore the six nationally recognized career fields to eventually find their pathway to success. These include agriculture, food and natural resources; arts, communications and information systems; business, management, and administration; engineering, manufacturing and technology; health science technology; and human services.

Each of these tracks is further broken down into 16 career clusters that contain career pathways, each with a sequence of courses designed to help students explore fields of interest to better prepare them for life after high school.

Students who complete one or more Panther Tracks, along with their foundation knowledge and skills requirements,

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EDUCATION

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real-world experience and career certificate options, will graduate with a certificate for each track completed and a medal.

Participating in the College in the High School program can earn students an equivalent of two years of college credits while staying in Park Rapids and saving families several thousand dollars toward their students’ education.

The district’s website can be found at www.parkrapids.k12.mn.us.

PARK RAPIDS COMMUNITY EDUCATION

Lifelong learning is available to people of all ages at reasonable costs. A brochure is published three times a year and mailed to residents in the Park Rapids School District and neighboring towns. Copies are available at the public library or you can access the information at www.parkrapidscomed. com.

A Community Education Advisory Council meets monthly to advise staff on community interests for youth and adults as well as collaborative efforts. If you are interested in sharing your talents with others or have questions on programming, call Community Education at 218-237-6600.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Early childhood programs provide “a warm and stimulating environment” where children and parents can grow together. Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) classes and special events are available for children ages 0 to 5 years and their parents/guardians. Experiences are aimed to help strengthen families and young children by providing information, support and encouragement while having fun. Weekly classes, one-time special events,

Superintendent

speakers and more are among choices offered. Preschool classes are available for 3- and 4-year-olds, based on their age as of Sept. 1. The 4-year-old classroom is a state-funded program, so there is no charge to attend.

ADULT BASIC EDUCATION

Adult Basic Education offers adults the opportunity to get their GED or adult diploma, learn English as a Second Language (ESL), improve job skills and more, including reading, math and computers. For more information call 218-237-6627.

ALTERNATIVE LEARNING CENTER

The Alternative Learning Center (ALC) offers students a non-traditional path to graduation. Students who qualify are offered “a rigorous program of study that is flexible, challenging and rewarding.” Students work at their own pace to complete the required coursework for a high school diploma. For more information, contact Lisa Coborn, ALC coordinator, at 218-237-6629.

PARK RAPIDS AREA VIRTUAL ACADEMY

The Park Rapids Area Virtual Academy (PRAVA) is an educational delivery model uniquely developed to assist students in District 309 who would benefit from an online setting. This option is available to families with children in grades 6-12. Students may be enrolled full time in PRAVA or opt for dual enrollment combining online and on campus classes from Park Rapids Century School or Park Rapids Area High School. Rigorous standards and graduation requirements align with the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) guidelines. English Learner (EL), special education services, and elective opportunities are provided.

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

Lance Bagstad, lbagstad@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

High School Principal

Jeff Johnson, jjohnson@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Century School Principal

Mike LeMier, mlemier@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Century Elementary Assistant Principal

Steph Mercil, smercil@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Century Middle School Assistant Principal

Mark Frank, mfrank@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Park Rapids School Board

The Park Rapids Area School Board generally meets at 6 p.m. the first and third Mondays of the month at the district office board room. The public is welcome to attend. For a schedule of meetings, contact district secretary Kim Splett at 218-2376500. Current agendas are posted at www. parkrapids.k12.mn.us/domain/577.

Activities Director

Jeremy Nordick, jnordick@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Community Education Director

Jill Dickinson, jdickinson@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Park Rapids Area Virtual Academy & Curriculum Director

Jill Stevenson, jstevenson@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

PAWN Special Education Director

Eva Pohl, epohl@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Business Manager

Kent Fritze, kfritze@parkrapidsk12.mn.us

Sherry Safratowich ssafratowich @parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Clayton Hoyt claytonhoy t@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Jay Pike jaypike @parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Dana Kocka dkocka @parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Andrea Morgan amorgan @parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Colter Diekmann cdiekmann @parkrapids.k12.mn.us

EDUCATION

Project 309 school improvements hit home stretch in 2024-25

Park Rapids Area Schools’ program of facility improvements and additions, known as PRoject 309, continues to move forward.

A $51.65-million bonding referendum was approved on Nov. 2, 2021, with 55% of voters in favor. The district has partnered with local project management company ICS and JLG Architects.

Completed parts of PRoject 309 include the Helten Avenue tennis courts, rebuilt during the summer of 2022; the spring 2023 demolition of the Frank White Education Center; and a new parking lot, parent pick-up/drop-off lane and playgrounds at Century School, completed in summer 2023.

“It has been quite the year,” Superintendent Lance Bagstad said of the first full year of construction. “We’re still on time and on budget. Things have been going well. Kudos and much thanks to all of our contractors, and especially our locals, who have really poured their heart and soul into doing a very good job for our kids.”

Slated for completion in 2024 are a new bus garage and maintenance shed off Helten Ave. and a seventh- and eighthgrade wing, auxiliary gym, high school and district offices and a parking area at the high school, as well as a sound and lighting update of the high school auditorium.

“It will be a very nice space to be in the audience as well as a performer,” said Bagstad.

Meanwhile, he said, it’s going to get messy this summer inside the high school building as the second phase of construction begins. At the north end, ground will be broken for a transportation lab and Alternative Learning Center (ALC). On the west side, behind the current high school offices, there will be an addition to expand what will become the high school kitchen.

“Pretty much the rest of the new construction is inside,” said Bagstad, with “the first of two summer slams” this year, renovating the media center area and the east wing of high school classrooms.

Also this summer, Century School will be renovated. Bagstad acknowledged that summer activities at the lower school may be disrupted as new offices are built to secure the school’s main entrances.

“Then we will renovate the kindergarten and second-grade wing and make it more of our early childhood area,” he said.

Going into the 2024-25 school year, some disruption inside

the high school may continue as renovations and the new construction continues. Students will use the newly renovated media center and east classrooms and the newly built seventh- and eighth-grade wing, while renovation work gets underway on the west classroom wing.

The construction schedule wraps up with a second “summer slam” of high school renovations in 2025, focusing on the locker rooms, commons, concession stand and CTE classrooms. All project phases are slated for completion by fall 2025.

Then, apart from replacing the aged roofs at Century School, the question will be “What is our mission, moving forward, post-PRoject 309?” said Bagstad. “How do we continue to focus on growing our opportunities for kids and families?”

He said the way children learn has changed since today’s adults were in school. “How we collaborate with people, how we access information and data and how we learn is very different,” he said. “How do we facilitate that?”

Instead of going to college, Bagstad said, most Park Rapids graduates these days go into the workforce or go to tech school, and preparing them to succeed there is “the golden ticket for us in Park Rapids, moving forward. We need to meet the kids where they are and what they want to do, and (look at) how we can help guide them into those directions – those careers or occupations, those passions – now, so that we can prepare them for the future.”

All phases of PRoject 309 are slated for completion by the fall of 2025. To follow the progress, visit www.project309.org.

EDUCATION

Nevis School takes pride in quality education

The Nevis Public School District is committed to providing all of its students an opportunity to excel in its academic offerings and wide variety of extracurricular and fine art activities.

Academic excellence begins with small class sizes, where grades K-3 are capped at 21 students per section, while grades 4-6 are capped at 23 students per section. Grades 7-12 are limited to 50 students per grade level.

This very favorable student-teacher ratio leads to high MCA and ACT scores, according to Superintendent Gregg Parks. “Small class sizes, modern technology and an experienced staff all contribute to providing an academic setting where all students have the opportunity to grow and achieve success.”

Academic opportunities are also evident with a large number of college-level courses taught in the school by an adjunct professor or online. College credit courses are part of the district’s College in the High School program, with offerings like composition, introduction to literature, college algebra, survey of calculus and college chemistry.

Online courses being taken by students this year include abnormal psychology, composition II, economics, general psychology, lifespan psychology, nutrition, public speaking, world geography, introduction to computers, biology, and ethics.

The school partners with Alexandria Technical and Community College to offer students an opportunity to earn an AA degree.

Nevis School offers an extensive list of extracurricular programs, providing activities that involve about 80% of students in grades 7-12. In addition to a number of athletic teams, students have the opportunity to participate in several academic or leadership activities, such as FCCLA, Knowledge Bowl, FIRST Robotics, Math League, FFA, National Honor Society and student council. Special Olympics also provide a wide variety of activities, including swimming, basketball, bowling and track.

In the area of fine arts, students have opportunities in art club, yearbook, drama, one-act play, band, choir, chamber choir, pep band and jazz band.

Recent extracurricular highlights include the Nevis nine-person football team taking home the State Championship in Nov. 2023 and the boys basketball team winning the State Consolation Championship in the State Class A Basketball Tournament

Nevis School Board

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION Superintendent

Dr. Gregg Parks, gparks@nevis308.org

E-12 Principal

Brian Michaelson, bmichaelson@nevis308.org

7-12 Dean of Students/Activities Director

Bryan Wormley, bwormley@nevis308.org

K-6 Dean of Students

Shawn Klimek, sklimek@nevis308.org

Community Education Coordinator

Mel Buckholtz, mbuckholtz@nevis308.org

in March 2023.

Six athletes participated in the 2023 state track and field meet with one state champion, and two athletes competed in the state cross country meet in 2022, with one state champion.

In 2023, the one-act play placed second at the section competition and first at the subsection competition in 2022.

Nevis Public School prides itself on being a small school that maximizes opportunities for its students, says Parks.

For additional information, call the school at 218-652-3500. The district website is www.nevis308.org.

meetings are held the fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the

media center and on Zoom. Go to the school website for more information.

Jennifer McNamee jmcnamee @nevis308.org

David McGee dmcgee Nevis308.org

Aimee Plumley aplumpley @nevis308.org

Karrin Lindow klindow @nevis308.org

Andy Lindow alindow @Nevis308.org

Tara Wolff twolff @nevis308.org

Nevis School Board

school

Laporte School is upgrading its roof, HVAC and more

Home to the Wildcats, Laporte’s “school on the hill” offers a wide range of educational activities for students in preschool through grade 12.

In Nov. 2023, a $5.75-million bond referendum to improve the school’s building and outdoor facilities passed. By structuring the new bonds around existing debt, the new projects can be undertaken without raising taxes beyond current rates.

The funds will be used to replace a leaking roof. An aging HVAC system will be replaced, along with upgrades to energy-efficient lighting, repairs to the parking lot, installation of new floor tiles and improvements to the sports fields.

The majority of the work will be performed during the summer of 2024.

In addition to traditional courses, Laporte School offers vocational instruction, including manufacturing, robotics and automotive classes.

The school was recognized statewide for its wellness initiatives, healthy options for meals and snacks, and a renowned garden program which educates students about sustainability practices, responsibility, and whole body nutrition.

Laporte Secondary School was also recognized in the U.S. News & World Report’s national rankings and earned a bronze medal.

Laporte continues to boast small class sizes allowing for more individualized attention and engagement.

Community education programs allow the continued

involvement of all ages.

The K-12 facility was built with community use in mind. The school welcomes many students from outside the district through open enrollment. The school’s number is 218-2242288,visit www.laporte.k12.mn.us or follow us on Facebook.

LAPORTE SCHOOL BOARD

The Laporte School Board meets the second Monday of the month at 6 p.m. in the media center at the school. Meetings may be watched virtually through Google Meet.

John Seegmiller, john.seegmiller@laporte.k12.mn.us

Joe Jorland, joe.jorland@laporte.k12.mn.us

Jessica Howg, jessica.howg@laporte.k12.mn.us

Holly Wright, holly.wright@laporte.k12.mn.us

Kyle Sanders, kyle.sanders@laporte.k12.mn.us

Karl Beck, karl.beck@laporte.k12.mn.us

Andrew Graham, andrew.graham@laporte.k12.mn.us

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

Superintendent

A.J. Dombeck, 218-224-2288 Ext. 1009, aj.dombeck@laporte.k12.mn.us

Principal

Lee Pederson, 218.224.2288 Ext. 1005, lee.pederson@laporte.k12.mn.us

ORGANIZATIONS

Organization listings

Note: This list of contacts is subject to change throughout the year.

100 Women of the Heartland Who Care

Tracy Ganley, 218-252-4222 or heartlandwomen100@gmail.com

ACTION Park Rapids

Jill Dickinson, 218-237-6606 or jdickinson@parkrapids.k12.mn.us, parkrapids.com/actionparkrapids

ACEsMN

Angela Graham, 218-255-3692 or angela.graham@commonspirit.org, hubbardinprevention.org

All-Veterans Memorial Committee

Everette DeCramer, 507-276-0710 or everettedecramer@gmail.com

American Legion, Otto Hendrickson Post 212 218-732-5238, american@unitelc.com or www.parkrapidsamericanlegion.com

American Legion Auxiliary

218-732-5238 or www.parkrapidsamericanlegion.com

Boy Scouts

Park Rapids Troop 58, Scoutmaster, Dustin Lof. 218-255-2915

Nevis Troop 56, Chris Norton 218-366-1609

Caregivers Discussion Group 218-732-3137 or www.parkrapidslivingathome.org

Century School PTA

Rhonda Lageson, 218-237-6370 or pta@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

CHI St. Joseph’s Health Volunteer Services 218-616-3197

Crazy Quilters

Royce Weston, 218-237-6298

Cub Scouts

Park Rapids Pack 58, John Cook, tbonejohn@gmail.com

Nevis Pack 56, Jon Peterson, jonathon.r.peterson@gmail.com

Disabled American Veterans, Park Rapids Unit #38

Jerry Bjerke, 218-732-3561 or jerrold.bjerke@co.hubbard.mn.us

Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary

Mary Jane Lentsch, 763-516-1174

Duplicate Bridge Club

Sheila Tuhy, 520-404-4667 or edst2e@gmail.com

Forest Riders Snowmobile Club

Richard Ohm, 218-255-1252, flyingwgardens@live.com or Tim Eischens, 218-252-6025, time@paulbunyan.net

Forest Riders ATV Club

Ron Jensen, 218-255-3333, jenspr@unitelc.com or

Teresa Ohm, 218-255-1244, flyingwgardens@live.com

Friends of Itasca State Park www.friendsofitasca.org

Friends of the Library

Diane George, 218-732-4966

Girl Scouts

218-726-4710 or 800-955-6032, customercare@girlscoutslp.org

Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning

Marty Leistikow, 218-699-3527 or hcllemail@gmail.com

Headwaters Animal Shelter 218-237-7100, has@HeadwatersAnimalShelter.org or www.headwatersanimalshelter.org

Headwaters R/C Flying Club www.headwatersrcclub.org

Heartland Arts parkrapidsarts@gmail.com or www.heartlandarts.org

Headwaters Chapter Minnesota Camping Club

Carl Drury, 218-255-1459 or csdrury@arvig.net

Heartland Concert Association www.heartlandconcertassociation.org

Heartland Homes 218-732-4572 or www.facebook.com/heartlandhomesinc or heartland-homesinc.com.

Heartland Lakes Community School info@heartlandlakescs.org or www.heartlandlakescs.org

Helping Hands

Rhonda Lageson, 218-237-6370 or pta@parkrapids.k12.mn.us

Hubbard County Child Abuse Prevention Council Jenifer Anderson, jenifer.a.anderson@gmail.com

Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations Sharon Natzel, 763-355-7908, hccolamn@gmail.com or www.hubbardcolamn.org

Hubbard County DFL hubbardcountydfl@gmail.com; www.dfl.org/units.local/hubbard

Hubbard County 4-H 218-732-3391 or extension.umn.edu/local/hubbard

Hubbard County Historical Society 218-732-5237 or historicalmuseum@arvig.net, www.facebook.com/HubbardCountyHistoricalMuseum Hubbard County Republicans info@hubbardcountygop.com, www.hubbardcountygop.com or 218-203-0348

Hubbard County Master Gardeners 218-732-3391 or extension.umn.edu/local/hubbard

Hubbard in Prevention Coalition Angela Graham, 218-255-3692 or angela.graham@commonspirit.org, hubbardinprevention.org

Itascatur Outdoor Activity Club itascatur.org

Jackpine Writers’ Bloc

Sharon Harris, 218-732-3782 or www.jackpinewriters.com

Kinship of Park Rapids Area 218-732-0058, kinshipparkrapids.org or info@kinshipparkrapids.org

Knights of Columbus

Nevis-Laporte: Gary Roerick, 218-760-8266

Park Rapids: Tom Porozinski 218-255-2469 or Ron Ahmann 218-616-0915

Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity 218-828-8517, info@LakesAreaHabitat.org or www.lakesareahabitat.org

League of Women Voters Park Rapids Area

Carolynne White, 320-438-0264; lwvparkrapids@lwvmn.org

Let’s Go Fishing - Headwaters Lakes Area Chapter 218-237-6600 or headwaters.lgfws.com

Lions International

Park Rapids – Dick Kimball, 218-255-0233 or Zelda Novak, 218-732-9295 or 218-252-7247

Laporte-Benedict – laportebenedictlionsclub@gmail.com

Osage – Larry Frehse, 218-573-3536 or Bonnie Lehrke, 218-255-4079

Living at Home of the Park Rapids Area

218-732-3137 or www.parkrapidslivingathome.org

Loon Country Carvers

Chuck Yliniemi, 218-732-9643

Mantrap Valley Conservation Club

Russ Olson, 320-200-8159 or mantrapvalleycc.org

Marine Corps League, Star of the North Detachment

Dave Free, 218-252-8193

Masonic Shell Lodge 184

Colin Perry, 218-732-3205 or aliveinpr@gmail.com

(use “Lodge” in subject line).

Minnesota Darkhouse & Angling Assn., Park Rapids Chapter

David East, 218-255-3040, or www.mndarkhouse.org/park-rapids-chapter

Minnesota Deer Hunters Assn., Park Rapids Chapter

Russ Johnsrud, 218-820-5330 or mndeerhunters.com

Nevis Trailblazers Snowmobile Club

Karl Dierkhising, 218-252-2637 or nevistrailblazers.com

Nevis Women’s Club

Kathy Carney at 218-252-6654 and Jody Pribyl at 763-331-2043

North Country Trail Association

Itasca Moraine Chapteritm@northcountrytrail.org or northcountrytrail.org/itm

Laurentian Lakes Chapterllc@northcountrytrail.org or northcountrytrail.org/llc

Northern Knights Car Club northernknightscarclubpr@gmail.com or northernknightscarclub.org

Northern Light Opera Company

www.northernlightopera.org or info@northernlightopera.org

Osage Sportsmans Club

Tom Wettels, 218-252-1130, Jim Hartig, 218-252-9430 or osagesportsmansclub.com

Park Rapids Amateur Hockey Association 218-732-9179 or www.prhockey.com

Park Rapids Area Antique Tractor & Engine Club

Justin Peterson, 218-252-6253 or www.facebook.com/parkrapidstractorandengine

Park Rapids Area Community Band

Paul Peterson, 218-732-4760 or www.pracb.com

Park Rapids Area Homeschool Association prahsa@yahoo.com or prahsa.weebly.com

Park Rapids Classic Chorale

Dave Keller, 218-732-9458, www.facebook.com/PRClassicChorale Park Rapids Downtown Business Association 218-820-2716 or www.parkrapidsdowntown.com

Park Rapids Education & Activities Foundation

Steph Carlson, 218-252-1597 or Lisa Koppelman, 320-293-1857

Park Rapids Farmers Market parkrapidsfm@gmail.com or www.facebook.com/Park-Rapids-Farmers-Market-336893648240

Park Rapids Friendly Squares

Karen Van De Venter, 218-252-3853 or krgvande@unitelc.com

Park Rapids Garden Club

Karrie Kapsner, 218-732-9079 or bkkapsner@gmail.com

Park Rapids High School All-School Reunion

Connie Carmichael, 218-252-0086, connieprhs@gmail.com, www.prhsreunion.com

Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

218-732-4111 or www.parkrapids.com

Park Rapids Mah Jongg League

Amy Hankey, 952-201-0478

Park Rapids Ministerial Association

Steve Norby, 218-732-7284

Park Rapids Mothers of Preschoolers

Cora Henderson, 218-252-2652

Park Rapids Senior Citizens Center 218-732-8612 or www.prseniorcenter.org

Party Bridge, Whist and Hand & Foot Groups

Connie Carmichael, 218-252-0086

Paul Bunyan Forest Riders MC www.pbfriders.com

PEO Sisterhood

Chapter FJ – Jan Rumpza, 612-741-2034 or janrumpza@gmail.com

Chapter FQ – Nancy Neal, 763-258-7553

Pregnancy Resource Center of the Park Rapids Area 218-732-5212 or www.prcparkrapids.org

Quilts of Valor

Holly Johnson, 218-652-0116 or qovf.org

Red Hat Society

Itasca Ruby Violets Chapter – Pat Cadreau, 218-255-0826

Nevis Chapter – Linda Olson, 218-652-4028

Red Hat Ladies of Park Rapids – Linda Moberg, 218-252-2979 or linmob21@gmail.com

Rotary Club of Park Rapids parkrapidsrotary.com

Salvation Army, Hubbard Co. Service Unit

MAHUBE-OTWA, Amber Gamache, 218-732-7204 ext. 109

Support Within Reach

218-237-0300 or 1-800-708-2727, www.supportwithinreach.org

Shell Prairie Agriculture Association

Russell Smith, 218-252-0264 or www.hubbardcountyfair.com

Sons of the American Legion

Bob Cadreau, 218-255-2326 or bobcadreau@outlook.com

Tall Pine Toms Chapter, National Wild Turkey Federation

Dano Crandall, 218-616-4142

Volunteer Heartland Lakes

Gretchen Anderson, 218-444-8929, gretchen@unitedwaybemidji.org, www.unitedwaybemidji.org/volunteer-hubbard-county

Wellspring for the World

Mark Larsen, 701-215-0565 or www.wellspringfortheworld.org

White Birch Artists

Jill Geisen-Clack, 218-252-6322 or jrgeisenclack@gmail.com

Youth Emergency Shelter and Supports

Kori Nelson, 218-831-2420, youthmatterinhubbardcounty@gmail.com or yesshubbard.org

Cemeteries

The following public, township and church cemeteries are located in Hubbard County. Private cemeteries are not listed.

Akeley Cemetery 23407 County 12, Akeley

Arago-Clover-Evergreen 27182 105th Ave., Park Rapids

Bethany Lutheran ................................. 102 3rd Ave. S., Nevis

Bethel 15488 County 11, Park Rapids

Evergreen............................. 24321 Old Cemetery Rd., Laporte

Farris 32547 500th St., Cass Lake

Fern-Becida ...................................... 47358 129th Ave., Solway

GreenLea 32893 450th St., Cass Lake

Greenwood.................................... 16223 State 34, Park Rapids

Guthrie 43753 275th Ave., Laporte

Henrietta 18029 County 11, Park Rapids

Hubbard ................17854 County 109, Park Rapids (Hubbard)

Hubbard United Methodist 12150 Broadway Rd., Park Rapids (Hubbard)

Immaculate Conception Lakeside East of County 18, Nevis

Lake Alice ........................................ 38908 115th Ave., Laporte

Lake Emma 26442 Inward Loop, Park Rapids

Lake George ................. 37724 Night Hawk Road, Lake George

Lakeport 37742 North Willow Road, Laporte

Lakeview ............................................. East of County 18, Nevis

Lemon-Badoura 29366 150 St., Nevis

Malvik Lutheran............................ 27689 474th St., Cass Lake

Nary 48771 County 36, Laporte

Resthaven North of West Ave., Nevis

Riverside United Methodist .... 1005 U.S. Hwy. 71, Park Rapids

Roat Memorial 50740 Woodcamp Dr., Bemidji (Rockwood Twp.)

St. Lawrence 27075 444th St, Laporte

St. Mary’s Catholic .. Cemetery Rd., Park Rapids (Two Inlets)

St. Peter’s Catholic 982 Henrietta Ave. S., Park Rapids

St. Peter’s Catholic ................... 12951 150th St., Park Rapids

St. Theodore’s Catholic 635 1st Ave. N.W., Laporte

Thorpe .................................................... 22782 300th St., Nevis

Union South of 500th St. (Rockwood Twp.)

Woodlawn 24410 County 18, Nevis

White Oak 16955 State Hwy. 64, Akeley

Zion Memorial 45548 309th Ave., Cass Lake

OUR MISSION IS TO HELP PEOPLE KNOW THE COMPASSIONATE, LOVING, FORGIVING GOD

305 W. 5th St. • Park Rapids • (218)732-5142

Office Hours: M-Th 9am-4pm stpeterpr.org

Saturday 5:30 PM, Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 AM, Coffee 9:30 AM

Online Worship Services: www.calvaryparkrapids.com

112 South Park Ave, Park Rapids, MN • 218-732-7284

Park Rapids Assembly Of God

• Sunday Praise & Worship Service - 10:30 am

Sr. Pastor: Tim Wilson

• Sunday School - 9:30 am

• School of Bible (All ages) - Wednesdays 7:00 pm 208 Western Ave. S. (Hwy. 34 W.) (218) 732-8818

www.pragmn.org

Riverside United Methodist Church

Faith, Action, Compassion

Telephone: 218-732-5205 • Email: rumc@unitelc.com

1005 Park Ave North (Hwy 71 N.)

P.O. Box 128 Park Rapids, MN

Pastor: Roger C. Grafenstein

Sunday Worship Weekly (see website or call the church)

Worship with us on FaceBook RiversideUnitedMethodist riversideumchurch.com

Hubbard United Methodist Church

12150 Broadway Rd., Park Rapids, MN 56470

Sunday Worship at 9 a.m.

In-person or Livestream

Pastor Lauren Hauger 218 -732 - 0224

12150 Broadway Road, Park Rapids, MN 56470 (2 blks. south of Cty 87 & Cty 6 intersection in Hubbard, 1 block east of Beaver Dr.)

Hubbardumc.org or Facebook.com/HubbardUMC

Worship

THISISFOREVERYONE

Youarewelcomeherewhereveryou areonyourspiritualjourney. Allofusareonauniquejourney;we eachfacedifferentchallenges.Butlife isbettertogether-sharingbothin strugglesandthecelebrations.You’re welcomehere,andwe’rehereforyou wheneveryouareready.

Ourvisionistotransformourhomes,CommunityandworldbypursingGod, buildingcommunity,andunleashingcompassiononeneighborhoodatatime.

Familiesmatterandwe’lldo everythingwecantosupportyou andencourageyourkids.

Webelieveinbuildingintothenext generation,astheyhavethepowerto changethefuture.

FAITH

Places to worship

PARK RAPIDS

Abide Vineyard Church

17765 State Hwy. 34

Pastor John Arras, Associate Pastor Laura Nelmark 218-237-8463

www.abidevc.com

Assembly of God

208 Western Ave. S.

Pastor Tim Wilson 218-732-8818

www.pragmn.org

Calvary Lutheran Church (ELCA)

112 Park Ave. S.

Pastor Steve Norby

Dana Kocka, synodically authorized minister 218-732-7284

www.calvaryparkrapids.com

Eastside Christian Church

16623 State Hwy. 87

Campus Pastor Justin Domogalla, Associate Pastor Brandon Galligan 218-732-4676

eastside.com/parkrapids

Faithbridge Church

1505 Park Ave. S.

Pastor Jeff Lange 218-732-1404

www.faithbridgepr.org

First Baptist Church

909 8th St. W.

Pastor Joshua Hawn

218-732-3321 | www.fbcpr.org

Frontline Church

1104 Park Ave. S., Hubbard

Pastors Russell and Robin Smith, 218-237-3727

www.accessfrontline.com

Jehovah’s Witnesses

19420 U.S. Hwy. 71 N., Park Rapids 218-732-4290.

New Life Community Church

600 Bridge St.

Pastors Fred and Beverly Brown 218-732-7000, 218-732-5637

newlife@newlifeofpr.org

www.facebook.com/

newlifecommunitychurchofpr

Park Rapids Church of Christ 707 Main Ave. N.

Scott Warne, minister 218-732-5105

www.parkrapidschurch.org

Restoration Christian Church

600 Bridge St.

Pastors Joel and Jennifer Juni, Pastor Andy Spurlin 218-237-1700

www.restoration-christian-church.com

Riverside United Methodist Church

1005 Park Ave. N.

Pastor Roger Grafenstein 218-732-5205

www.riversideumcchurch.com

St. Johns Lutheran Church (LCMS)

State Hwy. 34 W.

Pastor James Neubauer, Pastor Chad Berg 218-732-9783 | www.stjohnspr.org

St. Peter the Apostle

Catholic Church

305 5th St. W.

Father Joe Richards 218-732-5142 | stpeterpr.org

Seventh-Day Adventist

18098 Elisha Dr.

Pastor Lester Bentley 218-732-7186

parkrapidsmn.adventistchurch.org

DORSET

First English Lutheran (LCMS) 218-732-9466

www.dorsetlutheran.org

NEVIS

Bethany Lutheran (ELCA)

100 3rd Ave.

Pastor John Dalen 218-652-2030

www.bethanylutherannevis.org

Fellowship Baptist Church

200 E. Main

Pastor Tom C. Drury Jr. 952-222-0596

pastortom.drury9@gmail.com, fellowshipnevis.org

Northern Lakes Church

100 E. Pleasant

Elder Daunten Veit, pastoral services 218-652-3900

www.facebook.com/NevisChurch

Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church

205 Main St. W. Fr. Tony Fernando, 218-652-4005, www.nevislaportecatholics.org

Peace Lutheran Church (LCMC) 24025 State Hwy. 34

Lead Pastor Tim Balfanz, Associate Pastor Linda Nicklason 218-652-6508

peacelutherannevis@gmail.com peacelutherannevis.com

HUBBARD

Hubbard United Methodist Church

12150 Broadway Rd.

Pastor Lauren Hauger office 218-732-0224

www.hubbardumc.org

AKELEY

Akeley Methodist Church

17 First St. S.E./P.O. Box 292

Pastor John Carpenter 218-205-1381 | johncc332@gmail.com www.akeleyumc.org

First Lutheran Church (ELCA)

10 Pleasant Ave.

Pastor Maribeth McGoven 218-652-3335

firstchurchl@arvig.net www.flcakeley.org

St. John’s Lutheran (LCMS)

110 Pleasant Ave.

Pastor Karl Yahr 218-652-3779 or 218-536-9429 dial-a-devotion at 218-652-5555 www.facebook.com/ stjohnslutheranchurchakeley

White Oak Bible Church

30908 170th St. in Chamberlain, 7 mi. south of Akeley

Pastor Jake Nelson

218-652-3848

whiteoakbiblechurch@gmail.com

LAPORTE

Christ Gospel Fellowship

37466 County Rd. 39

Pastor Rick Clyde 218-224-2800

Kabekona Community Church 24044 Old Cemetery Rd.

Pastor Jason Schafbuch 218-224-2827

www.kabekona.org

Laporte Community Bible Church

115 Main St. W.

Pastor Matt Sconce 218-224-2542, 218-760-3445 laportecbc@gmail.com, laportecbc. wixsite.com/lcbc

Malvik Lutheran Church 27689 474th St., Laporte

Pastor Daniel Holm, 218-444-4112

malviklutheranchurch@gmail.com

St. Theodore of Tarsus Catholic Church

580 County Rd. 39 Fr. Tony Fernando 218-652-4005

www.nevislaportecatholics.org

Trinity Lutheran Church 150 2nd St. N.E.

218-224-2417

tlchurch@paulbunyan.net, tlclaporte.org, www.facebook.com/tlclaporte

LAKE GEORGE

Lake George Bible Chapel 37285 U.S. Hwy. 71, 7 mi. east of Itasca State Park

Pastor Mike English

218-699-3013

Trinity Lutheran Church (LCMS)

37115 U.S. Hwy. 71

Pastor Philip Houser

218-699-3693

trinitylakegeorge.org

OUTLYING CHURCHES

Grace Community Church

24068 Pine Ave. N., Osage, or PO Box 325

Osage, MN 56570

Pastor Paul McKibben 218-573-3143

gcco@arvig.net

www.gracechurchofosage.com

St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Grotto

55744 County Rd. 44, Two Inlets

Father Joe Richards

218-732-4046

www.stmarys-twoinletschurchandgrotto.com.

Experience the heart of Park Rapids

Discover up north hospitality and a friendly hometown spirit when you stroll and shop downtown Park Rapids.

The extra-wide street is lined with shops filled with gifts, vintage finds, boutique clothing, books, arts, crafts and much more as well as diverse options for dining.

Relax on one of the many benches and enjoy gourmet coffee, ice cream and snacks.

If you seek evening entertainment, take in a movie at the Art Deco theater and sample a variety of cuisines and bar scenes at our locally owned establishments.

One reason Park Rapids’ Main Street was named one of Minnesota’s Top 10 and the state’s most charming small town that you have to visit is the profusion of flowers that decorate store fronts and hanging baskets on the carriage lights in the summer months. Handsome decor enhances the experience in other seasons.

Whether you’re lucky enough to live here, stay at the cabin, experience the trails or visit Itasca State Park, you’re invited to experience downtown year around.

The Easter Egg Chase invites kids downtown March 22-23 to collect eggs stuffed with candy and have their picture taken with the Easter bunny.

Join the great community get-together for the summer music series, 2nd Street Stage, Thursday nights from June 13 through Aug. 15. Each week brings a new band, social hour, beer garden, kids’ activities and more.

Make finding bargains fun Thursday, July 25 and Friday, July 26. Businesses go all out with sidewalk sales and staff

dressed in crazy costumes.

Water Wars on Main, planned for Thursday, Aug. 8, matches local teams who battle it out for a trophy and bragging rights.

Main Street is the perfect place for the Run to the Rapids classic car show, Aug. 10. Car buffs will see beautifully restored classic cars and trucks and can meet with their proud owners.

For Halloween, hundreds of princesses, Ninja turtles, goblins and other cute costumed characters come downtown for Trick or Treat Park Rapids Oct. 31.

Downtown businesses herald the holiday season the Friday after Thanksgiving, hosting a Yuletide Sampler with hot cider, hot chocolate and treats in their stores. The Yuletide Sampler is a prelude to the annual Heartland Lakes Community Tree-Lighting Ceremony with a Christmas carol sing-along, Santa’s arrival, fire pits for roasting marshmallows and the countdown to lighting the beautifully decorated tree on Main Street. The annual event is best described as living in a Hallmark movie.

A downtown walking map will help you explore what downtown Park Rapids has to offer and can be found in park kiosks, local businesses and in the Chamber Discovery Guide. Or visit www.parkrapidsdowntown.com to see the webcams on Main, on the Fish Hook River and at the Mississippi headwaters. The website also provides updates on events, promotions, a member directory and much more. Or follow Park Rapids Downtown on Facebook.

PR Chamber of Commerce promotes its members

The Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism is a progressive, membership-driven organization where members cooperate to advance their common interests to build a sustainable, thriving community.

The mission of the chamber is to serve, connect and promote its members.

Its 350-plus members are a diverse group, each committed to the vitality and sustainability of the Park Rapids lakes area.

The chamber supports three main programs: membership services, events and tourism marketing. The chamber provides business advocacy, networking, referral, promotion and educational opportunities to enhance the business climate in this area.

Events promote community engagement, increase awareness of our great resources and create activities for both residents and visitors. Events that the chamber spearheads are the Park Rapids Fourth of July parade, Legends and Logging Days, Heart of the Holidays and the Heartland 200 Cor Pow-

erSports Snowmobile Race, while supporting and collaborating on a multitude of other events.

As the official destination marketing organization, the chamber spends a significant amount of its resources to market and promote Park Rapids lakes area as a tourist destination. The chamber markets to potential guests from Minnesota, Iowa, North and South Dakota, Wisconsin, Canada and around the world.

The chamber collaborates with a number of organizations, public entities and private businesses to advance facilities, attractions and recreational amenities.

The chamber operates the Park Rapids Visitor Information Center at 1204 Park Avenue S. (U.S. Hwy. 71 S.) with 24/7 restroom facilities and information.

If you have any questions regarding the Park Rapids lakes area or a chamber program, call 218-732-4111, click www. parkrapids.com, stop by the visitor center or email chamber@ parkrapids.com.

Pine Crest Apartments built for workforce housing

The Heartland Lakes Development Commission (HLDC) broke ground in Aug. 2023 on Pine Crest Apartments.

HLDC is constructing a 58-unit complex on a parcel it owns in Park Rapids, just east of Walmart. The three buildings will encompass studios and 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom units, plus a community-use center for its residents. They are also trying to include onsite childcare.

Thanks to a warmer-than-average winter, construction was nearing completion in Feb. 2024, and HLDC began accepting names for a waiting list.

HLDC Executive Director Mary Thompson anticipates occupancy to start in June 2024.

The workforce housing project was a community effort.

“Nearly every business, organization and governmental agency in this community has experienced firsthand the impact the lack of affordable housing has on our ability to attract and retain workers. Creating affordable housing is a messy, complicated process. If the entire community didn’t work together

to figure out a solution, we wouldn’t be standing here today breaking ground on this project,” she said at the groundbreaking ceremony.

By keeping development costs down, the goal is to make rent affordable for young professionals who earn roughly $40,000, like teachers, bank tellers and assistant auditors.

Thompson thanked Northwoods Bank for its financial package, with the participation of Citizens National Bank.

She thanked the county, city and school for approving a tax abatement “that will allow the rents to be affordable to our workforce.”

A portion of profits from Pine Crest

Apartments will go toward a Hubbard County Local Housing Trust Fund to support owner-occupied rehabilitation and other housing projects.

Thompson praised the county for establishing the fund, “which provides an ongoing resource for future housing projects.”

Thompson noted that HLDC already owns 20 acres to the north of the proposed development, where they are working to prepare a subdivision where private developers can build affordable, single-family homes and two- or threeunit townhomes.

Contact Thompson for more at mthompson@heartlandlakesdc.org.

HLDC’s mission is economic growth

Heartland Lakes Development Commission (HLDC) is a nonprofit, economic development organization that works in Hubbard County to inspire and retain economic growth.

HLDC is currently hyper-focused on the issues of housing, daycare, business assistance, entrepreneur development and attracting and retaining workers in Hubbard County.

In 2023, HLDC broke ground on Pine Crest Apartments, a 58-unit workforce housing project in Park Rapids.

HLDC’s services to businesses, local governments and other nonprofits include the following:

► technical assistance and training to small businesses and entrepreneurs,

► access to capital through loans and grants,

► business attraction and retention services,

► site selection assistance, ► and workforce development.

HLDC was awarded funding under the Main Street Economic Revitalization

Grant program through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. The first $200,000 award was exclusively for businesses within Park Rapids city limits. The second $250,000 grant is available throughout the county.

The program provides grants of up to 30% of project costs. Eligible projects include repair or renovation of real property, new constructions, landscaping, demolition or site preparation, design or engineering of infrastructure and related site amenities. HLDC is accepting applications on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted.

HLDC offices are located at 100 8th St. E. in Park Rapids, in conjunction

with The Hangar.

Entrepreneurs and business owners can find cooperative workspace at The Hangar.

It’s available 24 hours a day for members and during regular business hours for the public. The workspace includes three semi-private cubicles, business-class internet, a high-capacity, multi-function machine, a wide,format color printer, video conferencing, conference room and kitchenette.

The Hangar offers monthly membership options as well as daily use rates for remote workers or those visiting the area. The conference room can also be rented separately for meetings.

HLDC partners with the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce to host “Lunch & Learn” events during the lunch hour. Refer to the Chamber website for the Lunch & Learn schedule.

Both co-sponsor the Heartland Lakes Career Fair as well.

Find more information at heartlandlakesdevelopment.org or thehangarpr.org.

Shannon Geisen/Enterprise Construction of Pine Crest Apartments began in Aug. 2023 and continued through the winter of 2024.

Deep Lake Park promises to be a recreational gem

In 2023, Hubbard County scored a $1,042,300 grant to develop its newest, year-around recreational project: Deep Lake Park.

The Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trail Commission awarded the grant to the project.

The park will be located on the site of the former Val Chatel ski resort, about four miles north of Emmaville. The 440-acre property includes the entire shoreline of Deep Lake and a smaller, unnamed lake.

The county’s master plan calls for trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat tire biking and

mountain biking.

It will also serve as a connector to the North Country Trail, located a mile to the north, and the Itasca-Heartland Connection Trail, which will be several miles to the west.

A variety of sites for RV, tent and cabin camping will be constructed, along with a launch for non-motorized water recreation, such as canoes and kayaks.

One of the campsites will entice ATV users wishing to explore an existing ATV trail off the property. A 200-footlong ATV spur trail will connect the ATV parking lot to the Karmal Forest Road where ATVs are allowed.

Development is divided into five phases.

The first phase involves road and parking area design and construction, asbestos abatement and building removal, landscape restoration, electric service installation, water well installation, parking lot lighting, park signage and architectural design and construction of a trailhead building.

Design work will begin in early 2024, with an anticipated completion date of June 2026 for this phase.

Trust for Public Land acquired the land with support from a generous anonymous private donor, then donated it to Hubbard County for management.

PARKS & RECREATION

COLA leads protection of lakes, rivers

In 1988, the Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations (COLA) was formed by nine area lake associations.

Celebrating 36 years, the nonprofit group involves 31 lake associations, representing 43 lakes with over 2775 members.

COLA president Sharon Natzel said, “You, our lakes area residents and visitors, do take time to protect and preserve the pristine quality of these lakes you love!”

With COLA’s 26 years of volunteer lake water-quality monitoring, this data has helped ground-truth the satellite imagery for lake health factors for the University of Minnesota Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis Lab.

Loon liaisons on 26 area lakes have worked in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Loon Restoration Project, creating their lake’s loon-friendly lake management plan. “Be Loon Aware” tips include viewing loons from at least 200 feet away. Natzel, “If you see a loon ‘dancing’ straight up out of the water and slapping with its wings, it is alarmed by your presence. Move away! Own your wake! Waves can wash loon eggs from shoreline nests.”

“You help prevent aquatic invasive

species (AIS),” she continued. The focus is “Clean. Drain. Dry. Dispose.” Take time to use the available toolset to clean off aquatic plants, animals and mud before moving to another lake.

In 2023, COLA provided 21 resorts that have private boating accesses with Aqua Weed Sticks to help guests remove aquatic vegetation from their boats and trailers to help prevent the spread of invasive species.

COLA is participating with the Keep It Clean MN campaign to provide information on the new state law to keep the ice free of garbage.

Through the Minnesota Pollution

Contributed/Craig Bihrle

Control Agency’s “Get the Lead Out,” COLA is offering lead-free tackle samples during the Hubbard County Fair. Lead is toxic to loons.

Lakeshore owners may invite a complimentary visit by COLA’s Shoreland Advisors to walk along with them on their lake lot and share ideas on shoreline restoration for runoff and erosion prevention. A COLA education team can coach a lakeshore owner at their dock on near-shore aquatic vegetation identification. Wildlife enjoy this habitat!

View www.HubbardColaMN.org or email HCColaMN@gmail.com to learn more.

Do your part to protect lakes from AIS

Boaters and public water users should use aquatic invasive species (AIS) best management practices and should expect to see watercraft inspectors at many public accesses across Hubbard County.

Watercraft inspectors deny boat launches multiple times throughout the summer after discovering AIS violations.

Hubbard County’s AIS program is largely funded by state aid: $263,911 in 2024 compared to $262,672 in 2023.

Lake associations and townships/cities provide supplemental funding to the county.

When out at the boat access, remember to clean, drain and dispose. That means boaters must clean their watercraft of all aquatic plants, mud and prohibited invasive species; drain all water by lowering the motor, removing drain plugs and keeping them out during transport, and dispose of unwanted bait in the trash.

To keep live bait, a fisherman can drain the existing bait water and refill the container with bottled or tap water.

Remember, that it’s the law.

As a courtesy to the public, the county operates a free decontamination station, located at 812 Henrietta Ave. S., Park

Rapids. It’s available seven days a week, by appointment, from fishing opener through Sept. 25. Call 218-616-1621 ahead of time to make an appointment.

The station is staffed by watercraft inspectors who have special training and certification from the DNR. A typical decontamination is pretty quick, usually about 15 minutes.

Beltrami County’s free decontamination station is located at 2400 Middle School Drive, Bemidji. It’s available seven days a week by calling 218-760-8519.

If you have questions about the Hubbard County AIS Program or have suspicion of a new AIS infestation, call the Hubbard County Environmental Services Department at 218-732-3890 or stop in at 301 Court Ave., Park Rapids. They are located on the second floor of the courthouse.

PARKS & RECREATION

Tunnel launches beginning of Itasca-Heartland Connection Trail

A 12-by-12-foot boxed culvert tunnel was recently installed under U.S. Hwy. 71.

Located about one-third of a mile south of the intersection with State Hwy. 200, the tunnel is part of the construction of the Itasca-Heartland Connection Trail.

The multi-purpose, paved trail will connect Itasca State Park and the Heartland Trail, serving bicyclists, snowmobilers, hikers, in-line skaters and other outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2023 Minnesota Legislature awarded $2.4 million in bonding for the environmental review, design and construction of the trail, beginning from Itasca State Park’s contact station to the Hwy. 71 tunnel, then continuing east, where it will connect with an existing snowmobile trail.

In 2020, the Minnesota Legislature included another $2 million in its bonding bill for the trail spur.

The project also received a $150,000 federal grant for the trail west of the tunnel, heading into Itasca State Park.

Kent Skaar, senior project manager for the DNR Parks and Trails Division, expects specifications for this 2-mile segment will be complete at the beginning of 2024, with

bidding in late winter and construction in 2024. It will join an existing bike trail in the park.

The next phase of Itasca-Heartland Connection Trail construction will continue south 11.5 miles on county land to Emmaville.

The third phase will go south eight miles from Emmaville on a county road right-ofway to the intersection with the Heartland Trail, where a trailhead will be constructed.

Safe access routes to Minnesota’s most popular park have long been a priority, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) considers the Itasca-Heartland Connection a “destination trail.”

This trail would increase outdoor opportunities for both local residents, who are active trail users, and visitors to this region.

For more than a decade, a citizen-led committee has been actively developing a plan for the Itasca-Heartland Connection Trail with input from a variety of stakeholders.

The trail will be located primarily in county and stateowned lands, showcasing the abundant natural and cultural resources of the region.

PARKS & RECREATION

Gateway to a treasured natural beauty

Park Rapids is the undisputed gateway to Itasca State Park and the south entrance is a 19-mile drive from Park Rapids north on U.S. Hwy. 71.

The east entrance is only a couple miles farther, then another mile or so west at the junction of Hwy. 71 and State Hwy. 200.

Itasca State Park encompasses Lake Itasca, the official source of the Mississippi River, and a scenic area of northern Minnesota that has remained relatively unchanged from its natural state.

Established in 1891, Itasca is Minnesota’s oldest state park. Today, the park totals more than 32,000 acres and includes more than 100 lakes. Stand under towering pines at Preacher’s Grove. Visit the Itasca Indian Cemetery or Wegmann’s Cabin, landmarks of centuries gone by. Camp under the stars, or stay the night at the historic Douglas Lodge or cabins. Explore Wilderness Drive past the 2,000-acre Wilderness Sanctuary, one of Minnesota’s seven National Natural Landmarks.

But the main attraction will continue to be walking across the headwaters of the Mississippi River on stones at the mouth of Lake Itasca. There are plenty of other outdoor activities to do at the park, such as taking an excursion boat on Lake Itasca, exploring along Wilderness Drive, biking or hiking along more than 30 miles of designated trails, fishing in one of the many lakes, observing the wild flowers in season or birding. Like the entire Park Rapids area, wildlife

can be seen throughout the park.

For more information about the park events and schedules, call Itasca State Park headquarters at 218-699-7251 or go to www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/ itasca/index.html.

MARY GIBBS MISSISSIPPI HEADWATERS CENTER

The Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center opened in 2005 and affords a “river of stories” for guests. The visitor center is named after the brave, young park commissioner, Mary Gibbs.

The “Rivers of the World” sculpture is the focal point, interpretive signs identify the earth’s waterways and the Centennial Plaque, Time Capsule and International Peace Pole also engage visitors.

Outdoor exhibits in a portico allow the center to be open 365 days a year and as visitors enter the portico, they are greeted by quotes from the park’s premier explorers – Ozawindib, Henry Schoolcraft, Jacob V. Brower and Jean Nicollet.

Visitors get acquainted with the headwaters’ natural history and gain an understanding of the area’s attraction for thousands of years. The changes in transportation are documented through the eras – from Native American travel and trade, to U.S. settlement and expansion to logging.

Along the trail to the headwaters, kiosks draw guests to learn the river’s story with a natural history angle. Park visitors become attuned to its aquatic species, birds, animals, exotic species and plants.

DOUGLAS LODGE

One historic landmark that has welcomed visitors to the park since the beginning of the 20th century is Douglas Lodge. The lodge, a two-story pine log building at the south end of Lake Itasca, has been serving guests since 1905. Few changes have been made to the original lodge, which was built with green, newly cut pine logs harvested in the park.

JACOB V. BROWER VISITOR CENTER

The Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center is the largest visitor center in any of Minnesota’s state parks. The 13,000-squarefoot facility has exhibits on the Ojibwe, explorer and pioneer history of the area around Itasca. Land surveyor Jacob Brower lobbied hard to designate this area as a state park in 1891 to protect the pines from logging.

PARKS & RECREATION

National scenic trail runs through county

The North Country Trail (NCT) wanders 4,600 miles through America’s rugged northern Heartland.

From New York to North Dakota, hikers can find adventure. Traversing through seven states, the NCT is the longest national scenic trail in the U.S. It’s the only one in Minnesota.

NCT enters Minnesota near Jay Cooke State Park and winds toward the Chippewa National Forest, Hubbard County, the Paul Bunyan State Forest and the scenic Itasca Moraine landscape before heading further south through the Maplewood State Park and on to the North Dakota border.

Upon reaching Itasca State Park, NCT is in the neighborhood of the Mississippi headwaters before turning south and following the Laurentian Divide.

The trail path is natural, with roots and snags removed and overhanging limbs trimmed for unimpeded hiking.

With the trail open to foot traffic only, hikers, berry pickers, hunters, birdwatchers, geocachers, snowshoers and Hok skiers have miles of trails to explore.

Anyone walking this trail is in for a treat as it meanders through forested

hills and valleys interspersed with rivers, lakes, and numerous wetlands.

Short day hikes or overnight hikes are possible.

The Laurentian Lakes Chapter is responsible for maintaining over 72 miles of the NCT – from the middle of Itasca State park west to Clearwater County Hwy. 39 Trailhead, south through the Tamarac Wildlife Refuge, Hubbel Pond, crossing Hwy 34, through private land and then road walks to Frazee. Maps, events and suggested hikes are available at northcountrytrail.org/llc.

The Itasca Moraine Chapter, based in the Park Rapids-Walker-Hackensack area, is responsible for a 107-mile section. The chapter also hosts year-around hikes. For more information, visit northcountrytrail.org/itm.

At most locations, there is a kiosk or signboard with information about the trail. Hiking distances to the nearest kiosk are also provided.

A “Guide to Hiking the North Country Trail in Minnesota” guidebook is available in bookstores in Park Rapids, Itasca State Park, Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge and online.

Itascatur club offers skiing, cycling fun

The Itascatur Outdoor Activity Club was formed to promote physically healthy, non-motorized outdoor recreational activity in the Hubbard County area.

In the wintertime, the club manages Soaring Eagle Trails, located at 25467 U.S. Hwy 71. The ski center consists of 10 km of marked trails through balsam pines and spruce. All trails are groomed for classical and skate, and are designed for beginner to expert cross-country skiers. A Minnesota Ski Pass is required for all skiers over the age of 16.

Snowshoe trails are also marked and groomed. A selection of snowshoes is available to try out while visiting.

Over the spring through fall months, Itascatur organizes sport group bike rides on the Heartland Trail and area blacktop roads as well as a weekly social ride every Friday. Check their Facebook page for weekly information.

Scenic beauty rewards active lifestyles during the Headwaters 100, held every September. This year’s event is Sept. 28. The ride is hosted by the Itascatur Outdoor Activity Club.

Well-marked 100-, 75-, and 45-mile routes guide cyclists through northern woods in their full autumn glory, including Itasca State Park.

For more information, visit www.itascutur.org.

PARKS & RECREATION

DNR offices in Park Rapids

DNR FISHERIES

Anglers who fish in Hubbard, Wadena and eastern Becker counties benefit from the management, habitat and oversight work of the Park Rapids area fisheries staff.

The Park Rapids Fisheries office is located at 301 South Grove Avenue. Call 218552-2310 or email parkrapids.fisheries@ state.mn.us.

Information on lake and stream surveys, shoreline alterations, aquatic plants, exotic species, boating regulations, fish consumption advisories, etc. can be found there. Lake users should report the presence and location of any exotic specimens they find to this office.

Nicole Kovar is the Northwest Region aquatic invasive species specialist. She can be reached at 218-537-6100, Ext. 222 or nicole.kovar@state.mn.us.

DNR WILDLIFE

The Park Rapids Area Wildlife Office is located at 603 1st St. West, next to the

Area Forestry Office. The staff conducts a variety of surveys on both plant and animal species. Information on hunting seasons, wildlife, their habitat requirements and technical assistance is available upon request. Call 218-732-8452.

Hunters, trappers and wildlife watchers in Wadena, Cass, Becker, Clearwater and Hubbard counties benefit from the management, habitat and oversight work of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ Park Rapids Area wildlife staff.

DNR FORESTRY

The Park Rapids Area Forestry Office

218-732-1245

is located at 607 1st St. West. Staff will help with questions about land management. These concerns may be tree planting, timber sales, timber stand improvement, woodland stewardship plans, state land recreation, leases and easements and any questions you may have on open burning and permits. Stop in the office or call 218-732-3309.

DNR Ecological Services are located at 110 7th St. West, Suite 301, Park Rapids. Hydrologist Danica Derks may be reached at 651-247-4578.

TURN IN POACHERS

To report a violation, call 800-6529093 24 hours a day, or key #TIP on your cell phone. If you wish to remain completely anonymous, you must contact TIP by phone. Callers may receive a reward of up to $1,000 for reporting a violation that leads to an arrest. The reward amount is determined by the seriousness of the crime reported.

Giiwedinong Treaty Rights & Culture Museum opened in Oct. 2023. Shannon Geisen/Enterprise

Giiwedinong museum highlights area’s Indigenous culture

Exhibits about the Anishinaabeg are featured at the Giiwedinong Treaty Rights & Culture Museum, located in the former Carnegie Library at 101 2nd St. West in Park Rapids.

It is the first Indigenous-led, independent museum in Minnesota.

Giiwedinong means “in the north” in the Ojibwe language.

Winona LaDuke is the museum’s project coordinator.

“Giisedinong also means ‘homecom-

ing’ to Ojibwe people,” she said. “We want to share our history. We take the responsibility of telling our stories for the public very seriously.”

The Giiwedinong museum is funded entirely by private contributions. They plan to develop a supporting membership base, and will also seek funds from state agencies and foundations to support the exhibits and staffing.

Their mission is to share the treaties, stories and education of the Deep North,

spanning from Wisconsin, Minnesota, North and South Dakota and beyond.

The museum will also promote the recognition of both emerging and established Anishinaabe artists in their diverse storytelling mediums.

For more information on the museum exhibits, volunteering or scheduling school groups to visit, go to www.giiwedinong.org or contact them through their Facebook page.

Sculpture Trail highlights Minnesota talent

Sculptures created by Minnesota artists dot downtown Park Rapids and Red Bridge Park.

Initiated in 2018, the Park Rapids Sculpture Trail is a collaboration of the city of Park Rapids and the Park Rapids Arts and Culture Advisory Commission. It’s made possible by the sculptors who enter and bring their artworks to the city every spring and businesses and nonprofits who generously provide funding.

Each year, new sculptures are placed along the Red Bridge Park Sculpture Trail. The Red Bridge Park is the trailhead for the Heartland State Trail,

which is used year ‘round for walking, running, biking, rollerblading, snowmobiling and other recreational activities.

In 2020, the Sculpture Trail expanded to downtown Park Rapids. In 2023-24, eight sculptures were located downtown, and the People’s Choice Award went to Molly Wiste of Hackensack.

All artworks remain in place for a year and are available for sale.

For information on sponsoring or entering a sculpture, contact commission members LuAnn Hurd-Lof at luann47@gmail.com or Laura Grisamore at lauraleephoto3@gmail.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Shannon Geisen/Enterprise Akeley's historical museum shares the Paul Bunyan legend, along with the real lives of lumberjacks in the early 1900s.

Explore the region’s history at museums

ALL VETERANS MEMORIAL AND MUSEUM

Dedicated in August 2003, the All Veterans Memorial is devoted to the memory of all veterans of all wars and branches of the service.

Visitors will find granite monoliths commemorating past wars and a stone walkway and benches commemorating individual veterans.

The lighted area is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The memorial is located on Hwy. 71 south, adjacent to the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.

The All Veterans Memorial Museum was completed in Sept. 2017.

Exhibits of military memorabilia range from the Civil War through present-day conflicts. The items on display have been donated or are on loan from local veterans or their families.

The All Veterans Memorial is open Fridays & Saturdays 11 a.m. to 3 p.m . Fridays and Saturdays in the spring/summer, conditional to available volunteers and by appointment only is fall/winter.

For more information, visit http://allvetmemorial.com.

HUBBARD COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

The Hubbard County Historical Museum is located in the original

Hubbard County Courthouse, built in 1900 and located at 301 Court Street, Park Rapids. The interior of the museum retains the original tin ceilings, eight vaults and the gilded, 14-karat gold lettering on the office doors. Delve into the beginnings of Hubbard County. Each room depicts a different aspect of early life in the area. Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. from May 1 through Sept. 30. More info at 732-5237, historicalmuseum@arvig.net or https:// hubbardcountymuseum.org.

AKELEY PAUL BUNYAN HISTORICAL MUSEUM

The Akeley Paul Bunyan Historical Museum is located on Main Street, immediately behind the large statue of Paul Bunyan. It opened in 1984 and contains an interesting collection of pictures and artifacts portraying the early Akeley history when the largest sawmill in the state was located here and the population was between 3,000 and 4,000. When volunteers are available, the museum is open daily from noon to 4 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Visit http:// www.akeleymn.com/pbhs for more information.

Check out the local libraries and continuous learning

Park Rapids Area Library

Park Rapids Area Library is a branch of the Kitchigami Regional Library System (KRLS). It offer wireless internet access, public computer use and the capability to print, scan, and fax documents.

Library cards are free to residents of the five counties within KRLS, and can be used at any of our branches. Items available for checkout are books, audiobooks, music, movies and magazines. A KRLS library card also provides access to digital platforms including CloudLibrary, Flipster and Hoopla. Guests who have library cards from another regional library system in Minnesota can use their cards to check out our non-digital items.

The library is located at 210 1st St. West, near the intersection of State Hwy. 34 and Main Ave.

For more information, call (218) 732-4966, visit krls.org, email parkrapids@krls.org or find the Park Rapids Area Library’s Facebook page.

Akeley Community Library

Located in the Akeley Regional Community Center, the library is open from 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. There are two computers with internet access and a printer. Books for all ages, including a genealogy section. Kids’ Story Hour for 4 to 10-year-olds is from 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Thursdays. A book club for adults meets from 3-4 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month at the Red River Bar & Grill. Contact Peg at 218-2521541 for more information.

Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning

The Headwaters Center for Lifelong Learning (HCLL) is a nonprofit, educational organization. Since 2001, HCLL has hosted presentations on a variety of historical, artistic, scientific and public policy topics. The programs are free and open to all ages. DVDs of recorded programs are available to check out at the Park Rapids Area Library. For more information, contact Marty Leistikow at 218-699-3527 or hcllemail@gmail.com.

Community Education

Park Rapids Community Education offers classes and activities to all ages, birth to senior citizens. Visit www.parkrapidscomed.com or call 237-6600.

To contact Nevis Community Education, email coordinator Mel Buckholtz at mbuckholtz@ nevis308.org. The official website is https://sites. google.com/nevis308.org/nevis-community-education/home.

Laporte Community Education is managed by Caitlin Hadrava at caitlin.hadrava @laporte.k12. mn.us or 218-224-2288, ext. 1041.

ENTERTAINMENT

Armory Arts & Events Center is multi-purpose community center

The Armory Arts & Events Center (AA&EC), located at 203 Park Ave. S. in Park Rapids, hosts private and community events throughout the year – exhibits, trade shows, conferences, meetings, banquets, weddings and much more.

The venue contains a large main event floor that can seat up to 300 guests and four smaller studio spaces, with flexible seating arrangements that accommodate up to 25-30 people depending on the room arrangement.

AA&EC hosts open mic nights every third Thursday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. January through May, taking a break in the summer, then returning again in September through December.

Singers, musicians, stand-up comedians, dancers and poets are invited to sign up for this Bohemian-style event.  AA&EC opened a new art gallery in 2022, “Gallery @ the Armory,” which is

open year-round to area artists to show and sell their art.

AA&EC is home to the Northern Light Opera Company, which produces quality musicals.

AA&EC is fundraising for a proposed remodel of the historic National Guard Armory. The first phase mainly focuses on adding a wall inside the main event space, creating a lobby area at the east end of the building and furnishing a back wall for retractable audience seating.

For more information, call the AA&EC office at 218-237-3722, visit the Facebook page Armory Arts & Events Center or check out parkrapidsarmory.org.

Hubbard County is home to a robust arts scene

Numerous artists, writers, actors, dancers and vocalists call the Northwoods their home.

ART LEAP

Art Leap is an open studio event. The driving tour, sponsored by Heartland Arts, invites visitors to meet artists, see their studios and find other culturally rich destinations. Highlights include live demonstrations, music and seeing fall colors at their peak.

BLANK CANVAS GALLERY

Blank Canvas Gallery is an online source connecting art lovers with unique, original art created by talented artists. Artists work in a variety of mediums and styles. Email info@blankcanvasgallery.com or go online to www.blankcanvasgallery.com.

HEARTLAND ARTS COUNCIL

Heartland Arts remains an umbrella organization for 20 regional arts entities, promoting excellence in the arts through creation, education and performance. The council meets monthly to share calendars, inspire new arts projects and build community around the arts. Heartland Arts also sponsors events, including Noon Hour Concerts and Art Leap, and “Art Beat,” a quarterly magazine. For more information, visit www.heartlandarts.org.

HEARTLAND CONCERT ASSOCIATION

Founded in 1981, the Heartland Concert Association’s goal is to bring quality entertainment to the area at a reasonable price. From September to May, its concert series offers a variety of live performances – classical, Broadway, jazz, country and more. Admission to the Heartland Concert series is by season membership ticket or at the door. For more information, visit www.heartlandconcertassociation.org.

JACKPINE WRITERS’ BLOC

This local writing group publishes a literary journal, “The Talking Stick.” Visit www.jackpinewriters.com.

NEMETH ART CENTER

The Nemeth Art Center (NAC) is open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, May through September. Admission is free. The gallery is located in the upper level of the historic county courthouse, located at 301 Court Ave. Founded in 1977 by Park Rapids community members, the NAC presents quality, contemporary artists and arts education experiences to north-central Minnesota. For more information about upcoming exhibits and membership privileges, visit www.nemethartcenter.org.

PARK RAPIDS AREA COMMUNITY BAND

Sixty to 70 musicians rehearse at the Park Rapids Area High School in preparation for the community band’s spring and late fall concerts. The band also prepares a full-length summer concert that is usually performed in Menahga, Itasca State Park and the pre-fireworks show on the Fourth of July in Park Rapids. For more information, visit www.pracb. com.

PARK RAPIDS CLASSIC CHORALE

The Park Rapids Classic Chorale is a 45-member, community chorus. The chorale typically performs a Christmas and spring concert. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/PRClassicChorale.

Theatrical productions delight audiences

NORTHERN LIGHT OPERA COMPANY

For over 20 years, the Northern Light Opera Company (NLOC) says it has been known for its professional-quality productions. Led by a theater team from New York City, area performers put on a big show with a live orchestra every late July to August at the Armory Arts & Events Center. Local volunteers help create the amazing sets, props and costumes. NLOC also helped produce “A (very good) Christmas Carol” as a part of its Constellation Project for new work. For more information, check out www.northernlightopera.org.

NLOKIDS

Now in its 12th year, NLOKids is a 3- to 4-week theater camp for children ages 8 to 13, in which participants write, create, and perform their own original show with music. Led by directors from NLOC and The Children’s Theater Company in Minneapolis, participants develop their acting, singing, improvisation and movement skills and make new friendships by working together across the Park Rapids and Pine Point communities. For more information, check www.northernlightopera.org/nlokids.

JASPER’S THEATER

Jasper’s Theater celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024. According to organizers, this cozy theater nestled in the pines,

just 1 mile east of Park Rapids on State Hwy. 34, is home to great, family-friendly variety shows and tribute shows featuring the music of Elvis, Carole King and country music legends. Reserve your seats online at www.jasperstheater.com.

WORKBENCH NEW PLAY WORKSHOP

Led by professional playwrights, participants spend an intensive week writing 10-minute plays that come to life at a public reading by NLOC actors and directors. Since 2021, participants have been surprised and delighted with what they accomplished in such a short time, and audiences were enthusiastic, according to the organizers. Workshop dates are June 9-15, 2024, with applications available by April. For more information, go to www.northernlightopera.org.

WORKBENCH FILMMAKER INTENSIVE

This seven-day workshop to guide new filmmakers through the process of writing, shooting and editing their own film is led by award-winning Los Angeles filmmaker David Leidy and New York City screenwriter Gregory Paul. Participants are taught the basics of using equipment, shooting on location and editing their own five-minute film, culminating in a public screening. Workshop dates are Aug 7-14, 2024. For more information, check www.northernlightopera.org.