Summer Scene - May/June 2021 by Park Rapids Enterprise

Summer Scene ‘21

MAY/JUNE 2021

Your FREE guide to recreation, festivals & interesting local hot spots PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Published by

MAY/JUNE 2021

Contents

WELCOME �� 4 CALENDAR �� 6 EVENTS & FESTIVALS �� 8-16 RECREATION �� 17, 22-25 ITASCA STATE PARK �� 20-21 ARTS ��26-28 DINING �� 29 RESORTS �� 30-31 A PUBLICATION OF THE PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Visitors to the Heartland Lakes area soon learn it’s the land of 10,000 things to do. To find out the latest local news and upcoming events, turn to the Park Rapids Enterprise, an award-winning newspaper published every Wednesday and Saturday. We offer year-round subscriptions for Minnesotans and out-of-state visitors. We even have snowbird rates for our summer guests. For more information, call 218-732-3364. Our office is located at 203 Henrietta Ave. N., Park Rapids. You can find us online at www.parkrapidsenterprise.com, Instagram or our Facebook page. © 2021 Park Rapids Enterprise

This publication is the sole property of the Park Rapids Enterprise. No portion of it may be reproduced without the express, written consent of the Park Rapids Enterprise.

MAY/JUNE 2021

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

MAY/JUNE 2021

Welcome

WELCOME TO THE HEARTLAND OF LAKES AND PINES The Heartland Lakes area offers a variety of opportunities – from scenic retreats and outdoor sports to rich cultural experiences, shopping, dining and entertainment. Enjoy the town and its people while surrounded by pristine lakes and tall pine forests. Located along the scenic, 88-mile State Hwy. 34 corridor from Detroit Lakes to Walker, Park Rapids has endless opportunities. Jump into the water for swimming, tubing, water skiing or fishing. Bike the famous Heartland Trail for a day of historic sights and healthy recreation. Explore the scenic North Country Trail. Play a game of disc golf, tennis or softball or have a picnic at one of the city or county parks. Golfers needn’t go far to find top-rated courses within a short drive in any direction. MAY/JUNE 2021

With more than 400 lakes, thousands of miles of trails and a wildlife refuge, the Heartland Lakes area is also a gateway to Itasca State Park, home of the Mississippi River Headwaters.

Photo courtesy of Cindy Hamm, Park Rapids

Meanwhile, the city’s downtown district offers a unique shopping experience with charming specialty shops, cafes, restaurants and Main Avenue’s unique middle-ofstreet parking.

Local art galleries and museums celebrate the history and artistic talent of the community. Park Rapids and surrounding communities host many summer festivals celebrating small-town values and the beauty of the outdoors, such as the Hubbard County Fair, pig races, a blueberry gala and a logging jubilee. The Heartland Lakes area teems with the sights and sounds of the great Minnesota northwoods. From life on the lakes to exercise on the trails, shopping the unique stores or just kicking back with a good book beneath the pines, the Park Rapids area offers it all. Flip through this issue of Summer Scene and you’ll find what you are looking for in lake and pine country. We just know that you’ll enjoy your stay. PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

NEW OWNERS

Lake Itasca tours Aboard the Chester Charles II

NEW TIONS ATTRAC

NEW IES MEMOR G! AWAITIN

F U N PA R K

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 Arcade • Bounce House • Laser Tag

• Mini Golf • Rock Climbing Wall • Mineral Mining & More!

Daily Wildlife Tours

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Experience the beauty and natural history of Itasca State Park on a 10 mile, 1 ¾ hour cruise.

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MAKE RESERVATIONS ONLINE!

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 New Attractions

10 mi. N. of Park Rapids on Hwy. 71 (218) 732-9609

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

MAY/JUNE 2021

Calendar of Events

LAND OF 10,000 THINGS TO DO Note: Events are subject to change. Always check with the organizer before making plans. All events listed are in Park Rapids unless otherwise noted.

MAY 1 — Hubbard County Historical Museum opens 1 — Nemeth Art Center opens

JUNE 13 — Nevis Sites ‘N Bites 19 — Dorset Boardwalk Art Fest

8 — 2nd Street Stage 9-11 — Menahga Midsummer Celebration 10 — Water Ski Show, Halvorson Beach, Nevis

14 — Northwoods Triathlon, Nevis

11 — Nevis Pig Races

19 — 2nd Street Stage

14-18 — Hubbard County Fair, Shell Prairie Agricultural Association 15 — 2nd Street Stage

25-27 — Akeley Paul Bunyan Days

22 — 2nd Street Stage

26 — Water Ski Show, Halvorson Beach, Nevis

22-23 — Crazy Days

JULY

29 — 2nd Street Stage

2-4 — Headwaters PRCA Xtreme Bull Ride and Pro Rodeo 4 — Firecracker Footrace, Heartland Park 4 — Fourth of July parade 4 — Park Rapids Area Community Band pre-fireworks concert 4 — Park Rapids Rotary Fourth of July fireworks MAY/JUNE 2021

14 — Legends and Logging Days, Park Rapids Antique Tractor & Engine Club’s East 40 Grounds

11 — BBQ & Bands, Nevis

24 — 2nd Street Stage

1 — 2nd Street Stage

12 — 2nd Street Stage

23-24 — Muskie Days, Nevis 30-Aug. 8 — PIPPIN, Northern Light Opera Company

AUGUST 1 — Taste of Dorset 5 — 2nd Street Stage 6-7 — Run to the Rapids classic car show 7 — Nevis citywide garage sale 7 — Water Ski Show, Halvorson Beach, Nevis 6

21-22 — Art Fair at the Winery, Forestedge Winery, Laporte 28 — Veterans Tribute Program, Howard Maninga’s home, Ponsford

SEPTEMBER 25-26 — Art Leap 2021

OCTOBER 31 — Trick or Treat Downtown Park Rapids

NOVEMBER 26 — Community Tree Lighting Ceremony and Yuletide Sampler Events are subject to change. For updates or a complete listing of current events, read the Park Rapids Enterprise. PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Best season ever. We didn’t spend months planning the perfect summer activities. Or drive to the cabin every Friday night with a kayak secured to the car’s roof. But the crude oil we transport was turned into the equipment that makes summer… well, summer. When the energy you invest in life meets the energy we fuel it with, summer fun happens.

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

MAY/JUNE 2021

Events & Festivals

NEVIS SITES N’ BITES

SUNDAY, JUNE 13 Nevis will host this year’s Sites N’ Bites from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 13. The event will showcase food from local restaurants as well as work by local artists, crafters. Musicians will also be performing. Grab a bite to eat, look at some art and then head to Shenanigan’s stage under the water tower to hear live musical performances by local singer/songwriters. The tentative schedule features Caige Jasmbor at 1 p.m., Morning Bird at 2:30 p.m. and New Salty Dog at 4 p.m. Art demonstrations, chalk art, face painting, hoola hoops, fun with bubbles and minnow races are also planned. Admission to the event is $3 or three food shelf items. Participants will be given a “passport” to be stamped at each location visited. Once filled, passports will be entered in a drawing for door prizes. Proceeds from the event benefit the Akeley-Nevis Food Shelf located in downtown Akeley. Visit www.nevischamber.com for updated event schedules as they become available.

DORSET BOARDWALK ART FESTIVAL

SATURDAY, JUNE 19, 2021

Dorset’s annual Boardwalk Art Festival celebrates Minnesota creativity. This family-friendly outdoor event takes place along the popular boardwalk, which is lined with artists, craftspeople and authors. A variety of talented, local and regional artists will display and demonstrate their work. Join the street fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 19.

MAY/JUNE 2021

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Join your friends at The Royal Bar

“Park Rapids” Original Sports Bar & Grill

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Mon.-Sat. • Open at 11 AM Sunday Open at Noon Beer & Liquor 7 Days A Week Charitable Gambling Video Games Big Screen Plus 4 Other TVs for Sports Action

Explore Downtown Park Rapids With Unique Shopping & Dining

DOWNTOWN PARK RAPIDS 732-9443

Chocolates & Fudge Made Fresh Daily While You Watch! Stop in and Check Out our Large Selection of Handmade and Bulk Candies, Coffee Beans, Jellies, Dips & Salad Dressings!

26 Flavors of Taffy • 32 Flavors of Jelly Belly Jelly Beans Park Rapids, MN

Grandpa’s Cabin gift area has a wide variety of lovely items to warm-up any northwoods decor. You’ll also find many handcrafted pieces, souvenirs and mementos unique to northern Minnesota.

OPEN ALL YEAR!

110 S. Main Street, Park Rapids • 218-732-7019

Order Online or by phone! • 1-888-536-7019 • www.auntbelles.com Orders Shipped Anywhere in the USA!

h s e r f MARKETPL ACE 209 1st St W Park Rapids(218) 732-0182 2030_7_25x4_75_042321

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

MAY/JUNE 2021

Explore Downtown Park Rapids With Unique Shopping & Dining Established in 1880, Park Rapids became a booming logging community with a wide main street to turn a six-horse team. The wide street remains as a reminder of days past and now offers convenient and unique center parking for shoppers ready to experience the quaint shops on Park Rapids’ Main Street. Whether you want to fill a shopping bag or your tummy you’ll be happy with your discovery.

The Fun Place!

Enjoy... Old-time candies, taffys, fudge, unique chocolates, gummies & jelly bellys.

Scoop Ice Cream

Cuzzins Candy Store New 2nd location at Summerhill Adventure: 24009 Highway 71

111 Main Ave. S., next to the theatre in Park Rapids Monday-Saturday 9-6 and Sunday 10-6

SHOP BOTH OUR PA RK RAPIDS LOCATIONS!

We invite you to stop in and browse our shop

e u q i t u o B

CLASSY CLOTHING + PERSONAL SHOPPING + GIFTS

117 Main Avenue South • Park Rapids

Give us a call to schedule a personal shopping day for yourself.

Be sure to also stop by ...

La zy One

300 Main Avenue South • Park Rapids LAZY ONE PJS + MN APPAREL + JEWELRY + PURSES + CANDLES + KITCHEN GADGETS & TOWELS

Boutique

Check us out on Facebook Re-Purpose, Re-Image, Re-Use

Furniture•Home•Garden Décor•Antiques•Collectibles

La zy One 218-366-2231 MAY/JUNE 2021

HOURS: M-Sat. 10-5; Sun. 11-3

STORE HOURS Thursday-Monday 10am-5pm 809 Park Ave. S., Park Rapids, MN  320-248-1944 (formerly Park Rapids Floral building, Hwy 71 S.)

KATHRYNSONMAIN.COM 10

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Explore Downtown Park Rapids With Unique Shopping & Dining

PARK PARK RAPIDS RAPIDS DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN

Fuller’s Gun & Pawn

218-732-4038 223 Main Ave. S. Park Rapids, MN

HOURS:

EXPERIENCE THE HEART OF PARK RAPIDS Discover up-north hospitalityTHE and a friendly hometown spirit you “strollRAPIDS and shop” EXPERIENCE HEART OFwhen PARK

Mon-Sat 9AM-5PM Sunday Closed

Downtown Park Rapids. The extra-wide streets are lined with gift shops, boutiques, antique Discover up-north hospitality and a friendly hometown spirit when you “stroll and shop” stores, pubs, delis, arts, crafts and more. Relax on one of the many benches, and enjoy Downtown Park Rapids. The extra-wide streets are lined with gift shops, boutiques, antique gourmet coffee, ice cream, and snacks. If you seek evening entertainment, our summer music stores, pubs, delis, arts, crafts and more. Relax on one of the many benches, and enjoy series, 2nd Street Stage features a beer garden and free live music every Thursday night. Take in gourmet coffee, ice cream, and snacks. If you seek evening entertainment, our summer music a movie at the Art Deco theater and sample a variety of cuisines at our downtown restaurants. series, 2nd Street Stage features a beer garden and free live music every Thursday night. Take in

Monika Wilkins, Owner For class information go to www.monikasquiltshop.com

a movie at the Art Deco theater and sample a variety of cuisines at our downtown restaurants.

2nd Street Stages starts June 24, 2021 Visit our website or like us on

for more details!

parkrapidsdowntown.com Visit our website or like us on for more details! parkrapidsdowntown.com

210 South Main Street, Park Rapids, MN 56470

218.732.3896

Amish Oak 002060158r1 not yet claimed/late ad

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

MAY/JUNE 2021

Events & Festivals

PAUL BUNYAN DAYS

JUNE 25-27, 2021

After a year’s absence due to the pandemic, Akeley’s 72nd annual Paul Bunyan Days festival is planned for the weekend of June 25-27. While the complete schedule of events is not yet available, they hope to bring back many of the traditions from years past. This year’s button, created by the Hubbard County Developmental Achievement Center, features Akeley’s Paul Bunyan wearing a black and red plaid face mask. Buttons are $2 and will be for sale at Akeley businesses. Each button will come with a chance to win prizes at the adult music events. The grand prize will be a locally made playhouse valued at $2,000. Saturday will kick off with Audrey’s Purple Dream Purple Plaid 5K Run/Walk to raise funds for area families impacted by cancer. The event will begin at 9 a.m. rain or shine. Register online at www.tempo.works/ audreys5k or under the purple tent at Paul’s Patio Friday June 25 from 5-7 p.m. or Saturday from 7:30-8:30 a.m. More information will also be featured at www.audreyspurpledream.com. Saturday’s schedule is still in the planning stages, with a focus on family fun. “There will be games for the kids at Paul’s Patio Saturday,” event organizer Peg Davies said. “We are also planning a car show, cake walk and kids’ fishing contest at the city pier for Saturday. In the evening, we are planning to have an adult dance. Learn more about the legendary Paul Bunyan and his connection to the logging history of Akeley by visiting the Paul Bunyan Historical Museum near the statue. Plans have the museum, which is staffed by volunteers, from 12-4 p.m. daily. Sunday’s events will include an ecumenical outdoor worship service, kiddie parade and grand parade. Updates on the Paul Bunuan festival will be available at akeleychamber.com. “While in Akeley come and explore the Headwaters of the Crow Wing chain and check out our city beach and park,” Davies said. MAY/JUNE 2021

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Events & Festivals

BULL-RIDING, BRONC-BUSTING AND MORE RODEO ACTION

JULY 2-4, 2021

The road to Las Vegas and National Finals Rodeo features a major stop at Minnesota’s largest pro rodeo event, held in Park Rapids over the Fourth of July weekend. Jokela ProWest has been granted special approval from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctioning body for an exciting rodeo format. The three-day event, July 2-4,

SEE US FOR YO

will feature Xtreme broncs and bulls each day, with the PRCA’s top contestants riding the nation’s toughest bucking stock for eight seconds. This format will showcase elite contestants setting a new bar for athletic ability and professionalism. The show is the largest professional rodeo event in Minnesota, and one of northern Minnesota’s premiere summer

Real

attractions. Nightly popular features include women’s professional barrel racing, an exciting aerial show by Freestyle Moto X cycles from the X Games competition and nightly rodeo dances under the log pavilion, plus kids’ sheep-riding and more. Visit parkrapidsbullride.com for updates, details and ticket info.

Home Improvement Lo

St. Urho Celebration held each March

Home of

Menahga Midsummer Festival July 9-11

St. Urho Celebration held each March St. Urho’s Day: March 16, 2020

SEE US FOR YOUR... Home Improvement Loans SEE US FOR YOUR...

Real Estate Mortgages • Construction Loans Home Improvement Loans Real Estate Mortgages • Construction Loans

Menahga Midsummer Festival July 12-14, 2019 Hwy. 71 S., Menahga

New s r e n Ow

PO Box 311 | Sebeka, MN 56477

218-837-5171 PO Box 311 | Sebeka, MN 56477 PO Box 250 | Menahga, MN 56464

218-837-5171 218-564-4171

PO Box 311 | S

PO Box 250 | Menahga, MN 56464

218-564-4171 www.communityfirstbankmn.com

Mon - Fri 8:30am - 5pm Sat 8:30am - Noon PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

www.communityfirstbankmn.com 13

218-837-

PO Box 250 | M

218-564-

MAY/JUNE 2021

www.communityfirstbankm

Events & Festivals PARK RAPIDS CELEBRATES AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY WITH A BANG

Park Rapids a popular destination for the Fourth of July. The Fourth of July celebration begins early in the day with the Firecracker Footrace in Heartland Park. Festive flotillas gather on area lakes. The Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is planning its traditional parade. It will begin at 11 a.m. The annual fireworks display has grown into one of the largest and most spectacular shows in the state. Fireworks over the Fish Hook Hook River is a showcase event for the community, drawing spectators from around the region. Sponsored by the Park Rapids Rotary Club, the display is funded solely by donations. Fireworks blast off at dusk in Heartland Park. In between the special events, be sure to check out the shops and restaurants in Park Rapids.

NEVIS PIG RACES

SUNDAY, JULY 11 Come one, come all to the 12th (almost annual) running of the Nevis Pig Races. Race times are set for 1:05 p.m. and 3:05 p.m. on Sunday, July 11 in downtown Nevis in front of the Muskie. There will be seven races in each time frame, with pigs sponsored by area businesses. This will be a Covid-19 themed pig race. The muskie will have a mask on and event organizers say all attendees should wear masks as well! In the spirit of keeping audience members safe, pig race masks will be available in child and adult sizes. Anyone who is not feeling well should stay home. This year, politics and controversy will not be part of the races. Instead, the event will bring back the pre-pandemic days of fun and enjoyment for the entire family with the theme “Keep Calm and Oink On!!” Gary Dauer of Leader will be the master of ceremonies and dance exuberantly around the track as well as officiating over the kid’s games as only he can. Past guests include Obama, Clinton, Trump, Putin, Bill Murray, Kim Jong Un and even the Pope. This year there will again be a surprise guest. MAY/JUNE 2021

Admission for adults is $5 with kids under 12 admitted free. There will also be kids games, prizes.The Nevis Lions Club will be serving pork sandwiches, or as the residents call them “last year’s losers.” The Nevis Women’s Club will once again be selling their pig cookies and the Municipal Liquor Store will provide the adult beverages. Those in town for the weekend are welcome to visit Nevis Saturday July 14

10, to take part in a new event. “BBQ and Bands” is sponsored by the Nevis Municipal Liquor Store and the Iron Horse and will begin at 11 a.m. BBQ pits and picnic tables will be set up on Hwy. 2. People will pay to enter the BBQ competition and prizes will be awarded following judging. Regional bands will also perform. Visit www.nevischamber.com for updated event schedules on summer events in Nevis. PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Free Home Estimates & Consultations summer hours

All On Display For You To See!

Open Daily 11 AM - 9 PM

(218) 732-3551

• Flooring & Tile • Cabinetry • Countertops

1004 Park Ave S. Park Rapids MN, 56470 Like us on Facebook @AWParkRapids

TRAP SHOOTING

Laminate & Quartz

• Window Treatments Hunter Douglas & Comfortex

EXPERT INSTALLATION OF ALL PRODUCTS Gun & Knife show at the Hubbard Co Fairgrounds June 12 & 13

For more information go to

www.osagesportsmansclub.com

Osage

County 48 1.3 miles

104 N Park Ave., Park Rapids (North of Rocky’s Pizza)

Hwy 34

www.naturesaccentsdc.com 218-237-5161 • Cell: 218-255-1161 Stores Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30am-4:30pm; Sat. 10am-2pm or By Appointment

From Highway 34 in Osage, turn north on County 48, 1.3 miles on the left side.

or Find Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OsageSportsmansClub or Call Tom Wettles 218-252-1130 & Dan Mitchell 218-732-3527

20% OFF

Hunter Douglas or Comfortex Window Treatmes Exp. 10/30/21

Welcome to the Restaurant DORSET, MN ! ld or W e th of Capitol Summer Happenings

Dorset Art Fest is June 19  Taste of Dorset is Aug. 1

10% OFF

Thru Memorial Day: Open Thurs. - Sun. at 8:30 am Breakfast & Lunch, 4:30 pm Dinner After Memorial Day: Open Tues.- Sun. 8:30 am Breakfast & Lunch and 7 DAYS A WEEK 4:30 pm for Dinner

A PURCHASE OF $30 OR MORE Excludes sale items, other promotions, lottery & tobacco. Just 5 minutes from Park Rapids!

DORSET

• Wine & Spirits Tastings every Friday 3-7PM

GENERAL STORE

Attention Seniors 58+: Every Tuesday is Senior Discount Day. Receive 10% off total purchase! Above exclusions apply.

Located in LaPasta Building

Dorset, MN

Open Mon.-Sat. 9AM-10PM

Open All Holidays!

(218) 732-1770

Grocery Store Open Daily

Coupon valid thru Sept. 30th, 2021

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

a t s a P a L Italian Eatery

218-732-0275

Italian Eatery

Fine Italian Food Served In A Family Atmosphere Serving Delicious Breakfasts, Lunches & Full Italian Dinner Menu Like

732-0275

Us On

Dorset, MN

MAY/JUNE 2021

Events & Festivals FIVE DAYS OF SUMMER FUN AT COUNTY FAIR

JULY 14-18

The 2021 fair, organized by the Shell Prairie Agriculture Association, will be held July 14-18 in Park Rapids. The Hubbard County Fair includes a variety of entertainment at the grandstand arena, 4-H exhibits in the animal barns and a midway filled with games and rides. Midway carnival rides will be open from Wednesday evening through Saturday. Other events planned for the fair include motocross, a talent show, a truck and tractor pull, Baja racing and a demolition derby. The 4-H Exhibit Hall features livestock, poultry, horses, rabbits, a dog show, 4-H vendors and open class exhibits and vendors throughout the fair. And don’t forget the fair food! Stop on over for cheese curds, corn dogs, fresh French fries, pork burgers, ice cream and other mouth-watering delicacies.

MAY/JUNE 2021

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Recreation ANGLERS CATCH GREAT MEMORIES ON AREA LAKES The Park Rapids area and its abundance of lakes provide ample opportunity for the fishing enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for fish simply for fun and the relaxation of dropping a line on a beautiful, summer day or wanting to take part in a competitive tournament, you’re sure to find what you want in Hubbard County. Once the fishing opener takes place in May, the lakes come alive as walleye anglers join those already out angling for panfish. Walleyes, bluegills, crappies, sunfish, rock bass and perch, even trout, swim in these waters, so take your pick. Whether you catch off the dock, from shore or pull fish into a boat, it’s all about creating memories in lakes and pines area. Summer fishing can be as simple as hanging out on the dock and snapping a photo with a big catch. Fishing is a family sport – for the youngster with his or her first rod and reel, the avid angler or an entire family on vacation visiting one of the many lakes and resorts. Check in at one of the local bait shops for tips on hot spots, best bait and lures, fishing style and time of day for whichever lake you’re heading out to fish.

Experience the small town charm!

OFF SALE

• Great Selection of Beer, Wine & Spirits • Beer Specials & In-House Specials On Save 10% on Military Mondays, & Off Sale Wine Wednesdays, Senior Discount Thursdays Open: Mon.-Sat. 9 am-10 pm Main Street, Nevis • (218) 652-9910 Sun. 11am-6pm

SMALL TOWN —

BIG EVENTS!

• March 27, 2021 - Easter Egg Hunt • TBA - Cirk’s Fishing Tournament • June 13, 2021 - Sites ‘N Bites • June 26, 2021 - Water Ski Show 6 pm • July 10, 2021 - Water Ski Show 6 pm • July 11, 2021 - Nevis Pig Races • July 23-24, 2021 - Muskie Days Festival • August 7, 2021 - Citywide Garage Sale • August 7, 2021 - Water Ski Show 6 pm • August 14, 2021 - Northwoods Triathlon • Music at Shenanigan’s Stage tentative, dates TBD

For Event Updates Go To www.NevisChamber.com PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Full Bar Open Mon.-Sat.

9 am-1 am Sunday Hours On-Sale 12-8 pm & Off-Sale 11am-6pm • Happy Hour: Monday 3-8 pm Tues.-Fri. 3-6 pm • Pizza & Snacks • Pull Tabs • Tuesday Trivia 7 pm • Wednesday Bingo 6:30 pm • Friday Meat Raffle 6 pm • Outdoor Beer Garden Fri., Sat. , & Sun • Live Music Sundays Outside 2-6 pm 17

MAY/JUNE 2021

Recreation GRAB A PADDLE AND CRUISE OUR RIVERS AND LAKES What better way to enjoy a relaxing day on the water than canoeing? The Heartland Lakes area offers many opportunities to paddle until your heart’s content. Canoe outfitters can get you set up if you need to rent equipment. The Headwaters Canoe Club has a summer-long schedule of events for canoeists of all ages and experience levels. Call the host to let them know that you will be paddling, to ask if a shorter option is available, to get directions and further information. Any other information, call Frannie at 218-444-5477 or email headwaterscanoeclub@gmail.com. ► Tuesday, May 4: LaSalle Lake; meet at public access at 5 p.m. Easy. Lee Scotland, 218-766-2953. ► Tuesday, May 11: 5 p.m. Shingobee River, CSAH 50 bridge to Shingobee Bay and back. Easy. Steve Bilben, 218-547-1818. ► Tuesday, May 18: 5 p.m. Kabekona River, CSAH 39 to CSAH 38 and back; meet at Barker residence. Easy. Brad Barker, 218-224-3565. ► Tuesday, June 1: Bass Lake; meet at public access at 6 p.m.. Easy. Greg Proper, 218-536-1466. ► Tuesday, June 8: 1 p.m. Pike Bay Connection; unload canoes at S. Pike Bay, drive vehicles to Steamboat Lake access and bike back to S. Pike Bay. Difficult. Jack Gustafson, 218-335-2689. ► Saturday, June 12: Chippewa Triathlon. Jack Gustafson, 218-335-2689. ► Tuesday, June 15: Sucker Lake Chain; begin at Upper Sucker Lake at 5 p.m. Easy. Peter Moberg, 218-444-7532. ► Tuesday, June 22: Mantrap Lake; meet at MnDNR campground public access at 6 p.m. Easy. Eric Haugland, 218-252-7151. ► Tuesday, June 29: Welch Lake; meet at public access at 6 p.m. Easy. Jack Gustafson, 218-335-2689.

Photo courtesy of Denise Johnson, Park Rapids

MAY/JUNE 2021

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Visit the Winery in the Woods

For the love of creation • Water Gardens/Ponds • Lighting • Lake Home, Residential & Commercial Landscaping • Shade Gardens • Patios • Retaining Walls • Shoreline Work • MNLA Certified • BS Degree in Landscaping Horticulture

Also available at area liquor stores and on our website ~ forestedgewinery.com

Over 25 Years Experience

Cell: 218-255-0657 • touchofeden@arvig.net www.touchofedenlandscaping.com

Open May-Dec.

13 miles North of Akeley on Hwy. 64 • 25 miles South of Bemidji

218-224-3535

Welcome to AKELEY, MN

IMPRESSIVE COLLECTION OF ANTIQUES,GARDEN ART, PRIMITIVES, GLASSWARE & MUCH MORE!

• The Heartland Trail • The City Beach • The Paul Bunyan Museum • The World’s Largest Paul Bunyan Statue

CHARMING SHOP FULL OF TREASURES Open May thru October Open Tuesday-Saturday (Some Sundays PM & Mondays)

BIG & SMALL DISCOUNTS!

Hwy. 34 Downtown Akeley • 612-720-8833 www.abigailsatticantiques.com

Akeley Muni

Call for a brochure today! 218-252-4570 or 218-652-2465 Reservations available online Akeley City Campground & Park akeleycitycampground.com

The

Where Paul Wets His Whistle!

Camp in the Peaceful Beauty of

ON SALE - OFF SALE

11th Crow Wing Lake

• Happy Hour Monday-Friday: 11am to Noon & 5pm-7pm • 2 for 1 Saturdays: 11am-Noon FOOD - POOL - DARTS - PULL TABS - E-TABS - FUN!

LAKESIDE CAMPING

• 28 RV Sites - 30 Amp. & 50 Amp. electric & water • Grassy Tent Sites • Showers & Restrooms • Boat Access • Swimming Beach • Playground

ON SALE/BAR Hours: Monday-Thursday: 10am-Close • Friday & Saturday: 9am-Close • Sunday: 11am-8pm OFF SALE Hours: Monday-Thursday: 10am-10pm Friday & Saturday: 9am-10pm • Sunday: 11am-6pm

Daily, Weekly, Monthly and Seasonal Rates Just off the Heartland Trail and within walking distance of downtown Akeley. PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

20TH ANNUAL ART FAIR AT THE WINERY Sat. & Sun., Aug. 21 & 22, 2021 •Art•Food •Live Music

Our award-winning wines are handcrafted from the fruits & berries of the north. Stop in for a sip, take home a bottle.

218-652-4084 DOWNTOWN AKELEY •

MAY/JUNE 2021

Itasca State Park

ITASCA STATE PARK IS JEWEL OF MINNESOTA Minnesota’s oldest state park is 128 years old. Itasca State Park was established on April 20, 1891 to preserve the old growth pine trees that were in danger of being logged. More than half a million people visit Itasca State Park every year to see the giant pines and wade across the headwaters of the Mississippi River State Water Trail. MAY/JUNE 2021

Park Rapids is the undisputed Gateway to Itasca State Park and the south entrance is a 22-mile drive from Park Rapids north on Hwy. 71. The east entrance is only a couple miles farther north of the south entrance, and then another mile or so west on Hwy. 200 – you’ll find it easily at the junction of Hwy. 71 and Hwy. 200. On the drive north from Park Rapids on Hwy. 71 visitors can find several 20

quaint shops and recreation areas to stop at along the way. Also, some fabulous restaurants are located just off of Hwy. 71 that are sure to satisfy any appetite. 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. Continued on page 21 PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Itasca State Park Continued from page 20 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. But there are plenty of other activities to do at the park. Other outdoor activities include 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 as well as 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, email itasca.statepark@state.mn.us or go to dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/itasca/index.html.

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Recreation WONDERFUL ‘SHROOMS FOUND YEAR-ROUND The mushroom wasn’t just a hit at the party because he was a “fun guy.” He was also delicious. The Heartland Lakes area is a great place to spot weird and beautiful life forms from the kingdom Fungi – and if you know what to look for, you might find some of them tasty. Dr. Jonathan Schilling, a fungal biologist with the University of Minnesota and director of the Itasca Biological Station and Laboratory, shared some pointers about mushrooms, from species that many folks look for to ones that might not be so well known.

Look for morels at lilac time

Many people from all walks of life hunt for morels (genus Morichella) in the springtime. A rule of thumb – one of many traditions Schilling has heard about the honeycomb-like sac fungi – is that they come out around the time the lilacs bloom. “People have their spots that they’re secret about, and kind of protective about,” he said. “There’s definitely a crowd that comes out to look for them. It’s not the nerdy types, like me. It’s really a diverse group that comes out to do this, and so some people get really competitive about it.”

The more common variety, yellow morels, tend to associate with dead elm trees, said Schilling. “If people have seen a morel, more than likely it would have been that type.” A bit smaller and harder to find are black morels. “Those are delicious,” he said. “They’re my preference of those two. Those, for me, are even more unpredictable in terms of where they come up, unless you’ve found them before, and then there’s some reliability that they’ll come up in the same spot, over and over.”

Train wrecker: a yummy killer

A less well known mushroom that also comes out in May and June is the “train wrecker” (Neolentinus lepideus). “Once you start seeing it, you’ll notice it in a lot of places, like inside Itasca State Park on dead pine trees,” said Schilling. “It looks kind of like a big version of a portobello mushroom, but the gills are not brown like a portobello; they’re white.” The white gills are a bit of a trick. Schilling noted that many mushroom species with white gills are very toxic, but in fact the train wrecker is edible; he actually used the word “yummy” to describe it.

Yellow morel (Morchella esculenta)

At the same time, the train wrecker is a bit of a killer. “It causes a decay in the wood that makes the wood lose its strength really fast,” said Schilling. “It used to be a problem in railroad ties.” When a train rolls over railroad tracks, he explained, it puts pressure on the supporting wooden ties. If Neolentinus lepideus has been growing in that wood, the force could break the ties, sometimes causing the rails to come undone and wrecking the train. Hence its popular name. There are two vehicle pull-offs in Itasca Park for trees that used to be the tallest of their kind in Minnesota – a red pine whose top blew off many years ago, and a white pine that shattered two years ago in a gust of straight-line wind. “I, along with two of the students in my laboratory group, happened to be there at the biological station, and we went over and took samples of the tree, kind of like it was a crime scene,” said Schilling. “We identified that fungus as being the one that made the tree snap. So, it was the train wrecker that took out the top 41 feet of the white pine in the state park.”

Train wrecker (Neolentinus lepideus) Photos courtesy of Dr. Jonathan Schilling

MAY/JUNE 2021

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Recreation FIRST WAVES OF COLOR

WILDFLOWERS IN THE HEARTLAND LAKES AREA From late spring to early fall, the woods, fields and road edges in the Park Rapids and Mississippi Headwaters area are a riot of spectacular shapes and colors. Interpretive naturalist Connie Cox with Itasca State Park shared some pointers for spotting some of summertime’s most beautiful wildflowers. But be careful where you step – sometimes, while you’re pausing to look at one bloom, you may be treading on another. “Some of the first wildflowers you’re going to see are what we call the spring ephemerals,” said Cox. “Those are the flowers that come up

very quickly, and they take advantage of full sunlight before the leaves come on the trees.” Some of these ephemerals include hepatica, a vibrant blue flower; large-flowered bellwort, large yellow, dangling bell-shaped flowers; and wood anemone, a little white flower that hangs down. “And of course, a lot of people come to Itasca to see the large-flowered trillium,” said Cox. The three-petaled, white flower is abundant in the state park. These early wildflowers can start blooming as early as late April and May last until early June. Then, as the leaves start

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coming out on the trees, flower watchers will start seeing larger flowers. “The first orchid that people would see would be the yellow lady’s slipper,” said Cox, adding that the beautiful blossom tends to like hardwood forests, sharing habitat with such trees as maple and basswood. “At the same time, you’ll start seeing interesting ones like jack-in-the-pulpit,” she said, “which is a very unusual-shaped flower. It’s kind of shaped like a vase, and its back

petals are fused together and form a little hood over the top of the flower.” She said people often miss the jack-in-the-pulpit, at first, because it’s green and brown, while other second-wave flowers tend to come in brighter colors like yellow or pink. “You’ll start seeing on the ground things like wild ginger,” she added. “The flower lies on the ground, under the leaves, because it relies on insects that usually feed on dead things, as they crawl into the flower.”

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Recreation

A green heron snaps up fish for lunch. Adobe Stock

GUIDE YOUR OWN BIRD-SPOTTING THIS YEAR Don’t let the fact that COVID-19 prevents you from attending naturalist-guided programs keep you from spotting fine, feathered friends. With a little help knowing where to look, you can find them in your own backyard or along walking and cycling trails. Connie Cox, an interpretive naturalist at Itasca State Park, shared some tips for seeing interesting varieties of birds, both at the park and throughout the area.

Good place to start

Cox recommends a couple of books by Robert B. Janssen. One, produced by the Parks and Trails Division of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, is titled “Birds of Minnesota State Parks,” and is available online, in park gifts shops and at bookstores. “He is very well versed in the birds of our state parks,” said Cox, calling it a nice guide for people exploring state parks and trails on their own. Also, she noted, Janssen recently released a revised and expanded version of his earlier book, “Birds in Minnesota.”

Check the water

For the first place to look as migrating birds arrive in the spring, Cox recommended wetlands and bodies of water. When the weather is cool, the insects that many of these birds eat will be active over open water, where the temperature is above freezing. “Birds will be feeding, flying over and hawking,” said Cox, using a term for hunting in flight. “In the Park Rapids MAY/JUNE 2021

area, with all the lakes and rivers, that’s an excellent opportunity.” Species to watch for on cold mornings include yellow-rumped warblers, swallows and flycatchers, she said. Besides the obvious water birds – ducks, swans, loons and geese – people looking out on the water from city parks or cycling trails may also see such wading birds as sandpipers, green herons, great blue herons and egrets, as well as the warblers that enjoy the brushy fringes. “It’s probably our most diverse opportunity for looking for birds,” said Cox.

Know your backyard

Finally, Cox suggested that people “fine-tune” their own bird-spotting program by becoming familiar with the type of landscape they live in and what birds tend to live in it. Both Itasca and the Heartland Trail offer a mix of landscape types, ranging from old-growth pine forest to hardwoods, lakes and rivers, bogs and open farmland. With that variety comes an opportunity to see different types of birds. “Sparrows will sometimes like those brushy, scrubby areas with oak and some open spots,” said Cox. “Bluebirds and some of the swallows will like that edge, where you have some brush, with those open fields and pastures for hawking and hunting.” Those areas also attract both migrating and resident warblers and the smaller vireos, she said. The park’s Dr. Roberts Trail “goes through a bog area with tamarack and 24

black spruce, which is great for wrens, especially winter wrens,” she said. “They’re probably the most robust singing bird – incredibly tiny, but with a strong song. I always say it sounds like you imagine that god Pan, the half-man, half-goat; he has his little flute. That’s what it reminds me of.”

Old growth and wet feet

Then there’s the Bohall Trail, which goes through a lowland pine forest. Though it may seem there are not a lot of birds in this seemingly sterile, plant community, Cox said, you can sometimes find some of the most interesting birds there. “For example, at Itasca, we’re at the southern and western edge for the blackbacked woodpecker,” she said. “They love that pine system.” Not only do these birds prefer mature pine forests for making their nests, but they also feed on the insects that cause tree disease. Cox also discussed the term “mesic,” referring to a wet, hardwood forest where trees like yellow birch, mountain maple and alder may grow along ravines watered by streams and springs. “The types of trees that grow in there like to have wet feet,” she said. “Wet areas like that tend to attract some of our smaller songbirds – some of those vireos, phoebes. Flycatchers love those areas because, just like their name says, they like to catch the different kinds of flies that like to be in those wet areas.” PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Recreation VOLUNTEERS MAINTAIN SCENIC NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL The North Country National Scenic Trail is one of 11 National Scenic Trails in the U.S. and the only one in Minnesota. The North Country Trail runs 4,600 miles from New York to North Dakota. Being open to foot traffic only, Minnesota’s footpaths hold unimpeded travel for hikers, berry pickers, hunters, geocachers, cross country skiers and snowshoers. Short day hikes or overnight hikes are possible. Maps, events and suggested hikes are available at www. northcountrytrail.org

Anyone walking this trail is in for a treat as it meanders through forested hills and valleys interspersed with rivers, lakes, and numerous wetlands. Later in the summer, you can be rewarded by finding wild strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries along the trail. Do you enjoy hiking and are you looking for a group to hike with on a regular basis? Join the North Country Trail hiking groups Laurentian Lakes and Itasca Moraine Chapters. The area’s segments of the North Country Trail are maintained by these two chapters.

For information regarding the Laurentian Lakes Chapter, email llc@northcountrytrail. org. For more information on the Itasca Moraine Chapter, contact Eric Haugland by email at itm@northcountrytrail.org. 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.

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Arts & Entertainment

2ND STREET STAGE KICKS OFF JUNE 24 Join the great community get-together for the summer music series, 2nd Street Stage,Thursday nights from June 24 through Aug. 19. Event dates are subject to change and audiences will be asked to follow COVID19 guidelines. Organizers are planning for the worst and hoping for the best, according to a news release. The Park Rapids Downtown Business Association hosts the free, outdoor concerts from 6 to 8 p.m. with bands, a beer garden and family activities downtown. Bring your own lawn chair. The beer garden opens at 5 p.m. for a social hour. Support this event by buying an official 2021 button and receive $2 off all beverages at the beer garden. To see the complete summer line up, go to www.parkrapidsdowntown.com.

blues/soul singer/songwriter who pours out her heart with every note. Her songwriting ranges from honest emotion and earthly imagery to the raucousness of horses, strippers and whiskey. Myhre possesses the ability to hypnotize listeners by creating sympathy between her voice and guitar that resonates a true American and northern Minnesota spirit. For this show, she is backed by her band, The Jebberhooch, a mixture of musicians from different bands.

July 1 -the 4onthefloor

The 4ontheFloor will be back! Joining together in the name of fun and joy, the 4onthefloor bring their well-oiled, high-octane, rock ’n roll to the world. The furious delivery ebbs and flows with singa-long anthems and breakdowns to soaring guitar solos and unbridled full-bore June 24 - Boss Mama and rock. Camaraderie is a common theme. the Jebberhooch Hailing from Minnesota, they take the Boss Mama (Colleen Myhre) is a heavy road route, grooving in the tracks Mahtowa, Minn., country/Mississippi of road musicians before them. Following MAY/JUNE 2021

in the footsteps of some of the band’s influences, being on the road plays a large role in the writing. Gabriel Douglas writes about experiences, failures, successes and not-so-much the what-couldhave beens.

July 8 - Pat Lenertz Band

Moorhead native Pat Lenertz is a veteran of the Fargo/Moorhead scene with 15 years experience playing, singing and fronting several bands. Whether it’s onstage at The Hub belting out Bob Marley covers backed by a nine-piece reggae tribute act or strapping on an acoustic and kicking off the HPR Best Bets winning open mic night at the Sidestreet Bar and Grille, he is comfortable commanding the attention of any space. Drawing on his love for Americana and roots musicians like Willie Nelson, Wilson Pickett, Bill Withers, John Prine and Bob Dylan, Lenertz found the perfect band of brothers to help tell his musical stories. PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Arts & Entertainment

QUALITY THEATRE, MUSIC SET TO ENTERTAIN Northern Light Opera Company

The Northern Light Opera Company (NLOC) will begin its 18th year of producing professional, quality music theater in the Heartland Lakes area by presenting “PIPPIN” July 30 through August 8. 2021’s challenges are still unknown, but plans are to continue with the NLOKids camp at the end of June into July for 9-13 year olds. For three weeks, equal number of kids from Pine Point and Park Rapids write the script, compose music and build sets and costumes for an original musical to perform for parents and friends. Registration will be handled by Park Rapids Schools Community Education. Go to www.northernlightopera.org for further details.

Theaters

Park Rapids is home to other live performance theaters, including Jasper’s Theater and Long Lake Theater.

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Arts & Entertainment REMARKABLE ARTWORK AT NEMETH ART CENTER For more than 40 years, the Nemeth Art Center (NAC) has been providing exceptional art opportunities to the Park Rapids area. Admission is free to the NAC galleries, which are open and free to the public on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May through September. The NAC’s permanent collection of over 40 European paintings spans six centuries. T. L. Solien’s exhibit, “See the Sky,” opens May 1. According to the Nemeth, “Solien is one of the region’s most prominent,

well-respected and prolific artists.” This exhibition is “a compact survey of Solien’s career, thus far.” “See the Sky” will be on display through July 17, with an artist’s reception from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, July 10. The Nemeth Art Center is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. It is located upstairs in the historic Hubbard County Courthouse, located at 301 Court Ave. For more information about upcoming exhibits and membership privileges, visit www.nemethartcenter.org.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN AT MUSEUMS, LIBRARY Hubbard County Historical Museum

The Hubbard County Historical Museum opens for the season May 1. The beautiful Victorian building, located at 301 Court Ave., was originally built as a courthouse in 1900. It still retains its original tin ceiling, eight vaults and gilded lettering on office doors. Admission is by freewill offering,but donations are greatly appreciated. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until September 30. For more information about the museum, visit www.hubbardcountyhistory.org or its Facebook page, call 732-5237 or email historicalmuseum@arvig.net.

MAY/JUNE 2021

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 1-4 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Park Rapids Area Library

A perfect summer day is on the beach or the pool reading a great book. The Park Rapids Public Library offers oodles of choice page-turners, plus guest artists, story hours, movies, staff-led programs and a summer reading program for children. Throughout the year, the library hosts special events and programs for people of all ages featuring authors, musicians, storytellers and more. For more information, call (218) 732-4966, visit krls. org, email parkrapids@krls.org or find the Park Rapids Area Library’s Facebook page. Some restrictions are in place during COVID-19. Call or email with questions.

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

DINING GUIDE A variety of delicious dining options around the lakes area

PARK RAPIDS A&W Serving your All American Favorites. Delicious burgers, dogs, chicken and fries plus so much more! Don’t forget that frosty mug of Rootbeer or add sweet vanilla ice cream for the traditional float. Carhop service or dine in. Open 7 Days A Week, summer 11 am to 9 pm, hours seasonally adjusted. Located 1004 Park Ave. S. (Hwy. 71 S.) Park Rapids, MN 218-732-3551. Satisfy your craving for Home Town Flavors at your locally owned A&W Drive In. awrestaurants.com ESPRESSO 34 “The Simple Truth: Great Coffee!” Celebrating 10 years this summer with our fast, friendly double-sided drive thru. All your favorite specialty drinks - Hot/Iced/Blended/Fruit Smoothies/Italian Sodas/MORE. NEW Grab-N-Go Food Choices - Scones, Doughnuts, Waffles…plus...Hand-crafted, Gourmet, Breakfast &Lunch/Dinner options! Open early 7 days/week for you! Check Facebook for seasonal hours. Hwy 34 East - across from L&M Fleet. 1310 1st St. E, Park Rapids. 218-237-8500 Espresso34.com FOXY’S BAR & GRILL Your neighborhood family friendly Bar & Grill! Famous for our 1/2 pound hand-pattied burgers and (we think) the best wings in the area! Something for everyone: Pizza, wraps, fish, shrimp, nightly specials, full kid’s menu and more. E-tabs/bingo/games/pool…plus LATE NIGHT GOOD TIMES! Eat and drink

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PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

inside, on the deck, under the tent in our backyard or lounge by the river. Why Not Wednesday LIVE MUSIC in the summers! Open 7 days/week for lunch/dinner & evening fun. Check Facebook for seasonal hours. 7 miles north of Park Rapids on Hwy 71, Breeze Campground exit. 26146 County 89, Park Rapids. 218-732-6666 FoxysBarAndGrill.com GREEN SCENE MARKET & EATERY We have expanded with a newly built special event space, handcrafted cocktail bar, restaurant with wood-fired oven menu, & outdoor patio seating. Farmers market is held every Thursday, from 9-2, with live music. The market is open 7 days a week Memorial weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Restaurant days/hours are posted on our online calendar www.walkergreenscene.com. 617 Michigan Avenue West, Walker. (218) 547-2880. LAPASTA Full menu for all to enjoy. Breakfast starts at 8:30 AM with our famous Dorset Pockets & Potato pancakes plus lots of omelets and other goodies. Lunch offers a wide selection of fresh Angus burgers as well as Italian entrees including pizza. Dinner is amazing starting at 5:00 PM with a full Italian menu with our traditional Italian plus more exotic fusion dishes. Thru Memorial Day Open Thurs. - Sun. at 8:30 am Breakfast & Lunch, 4:30 pm Dinner, After Memorial Day Open Tues. - Sun 8:30 am Breakfast & Lunch and 7 DAYS A WEEK 4:30 pm for Dinner. Downtown Dorset. 218-732-0275. Breakfast & lunch $. Dinner $$ [W]

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RAPID RIVER LOGGING CAMP The 66 -year tradition. ALL-YOU-CANEAT served family style. Open 7 days a week, Memorial weekend through Labor Day. Breakfast 7:30 am to 12 Noon. Dinner 1-8 pm. Top off your logger’s meal with a stroll along the Fish Hook River. Hwy. 71 N. Turn on Co. Rd. 18, follow signs. 218-732-3444. rapidriverloggingcamp.com $ [w] THE ROYAL The local favorite where you will enjoy possibly the BEST burger in northern Minnesota. Plus many appetizers and your favorite beverage. Open 7 days a week. Mon.-Sat. at 11 am, Sun. at noon. 120 S. Main, downtown Park Rapids. 218-732-9443. $ [W] Y STEAK HOUSE Celebrating 75 years of fine dining in the Park Rapids area on Hwy. 71. Open Seasonally 7 Days A Week... Prime rib nightly, walleye, jumbo shrimp, BBQ ribs, seafood, choice steaks, chicken, combination meals, children’s menu, nightly specials and your favorite beverage from the new Fish Hook Bar. Happy Hour Mon. - Fri. 4 - 5:30 pm. Open 7 days a week. Sun.-Thurs 4 pm - 9 pm, Fri. & Sat. 4 pm 10 pm. Reservations appreciated. •1 mi. North on Hwy. 71, Park Rapids. 218-732-4565. ysteakhouse.net $$ [W]

Dollar signs indicate the cost of a typical dinner: $ less than $15 $$ $15-$25 $$$ more than $25

MAY/JUNE 2021

BREEZY POINT RESORT 54852 State Hwy. 34, Osage MN 56570 Straight Lake 218-573-3125 Alice Gust breezypoint.com Handcrafted cabins nestled under the pines. Open all year. BIRCH HARBOR RESORT 25546 Harbor Trail, Lower Bottle Lake, Park Rapids, MN 56470 Gary & Theresa Blakely 218-732-3760 Off Season Short Stays CAMP LIBERTY RESORT 8th Crow Wing Lake Todd & Kristin Kittleson

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Covered Porches on All Cabins With Beautiful Lake Views, Television In Lodge. EN-OF-TRAIL RESORT 48883 Marilou Drive Bass Lake Ponsford, MN 56575 John and Patricia Kubat 218-573-3791 EVERGREEN LODGE Big Sand Lake Dan & Juli Dyre

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Lakeside cabins, 1,000' sand beach, wireless Internet, fire pits and AC. EAGLE BEACH RESORT 13240 Co. Rd. 40 Eagle Lake Park Rapids MN 56470 Matt and Sarah Coumbe eaglebeachresort.com

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Lakeside cabins. 800' sand beach. Heated pool, playgrounds. Focused on families. FREMONTS POINT RESORT Big Mantrap Joe and Tracy Ganley

28104 Junco Drive 218-652-3299 www.fremontspoint.com

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JOLLY FISHERMAN RESORT Big Elbow Lake Anne Buelow

39126 Jolly Fisherman Road Waubun, MN 56470 701-388-8042 • jollyfisherman.com

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Free use of paddleboards, kayaks and canoes LITTLE NORWAY RESORT 32016 Little Mantrap Drive Little Mantrap Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 Ben & Steph Brandon 218-732-5480 • littlenorwayresort.com

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Close to Itasca State Park on paved road/bike trail, wireless Internet, childrens activities, open May-Oct. Short stays, early and late season. LONG LAKE PARK AND 213 Main Avenue North CAMPGROUND Long Lake Bagley, MN 56621 0 89 • • S • • Clearwater County 218-657-2275 • longlakepark.com Paddle boats. MANTRAP LODGE Big Mantrap Lake Andrew and Charlotte Hansen

20725 Jewel Drive Park Rapids, MN 56470 1-800-424-0901 • mantraplodge.com

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frankpat@norwayhills.com free high speed Internet -5G, HDTV’s in all cabins. PINE CONE LODGE AND The Brand Family VACATION RENTALS 19703 Grouse Rd Park Rapids, MN 56470 Big Sand & Thomas /Loon Lake 320-491-6952 • pineconelodge.info Open year round bonnie@pineconelodge.com ROYAL STARR RESORT 19222 Echo Ridge Drive, 6th Crow Wing Lake Nevis, MN 56467 • 218-652-3821 Cary & Shelley Brzinski RoyalStarrResort.com

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Featuring 13 premier lakefront cabins on 40+ acres with 2 miles of hiking trails, large sand beach. Family/large groups friendly. STOMPIN GROUNDS 26993 Hwy 64 Akeley, MN 56433 LODGE & CAMPING 218-652-2964 0 12 • • Steven & Connie Werner stompingroundslodge.com TAMARAC RESORT & CAMPGROUND, LLC Round Lake Randy & Sheila Blanford

32152 Co. Hwy. 35, Ponsford, MN 56575 218-573-3262 tamaracresortmn.com

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Newer cabins/homes, FREE water toys, 4 palygrounds, great fishing, lodge/restaurant. No short term camping. Email tresort@eot.com THE WILDS RESORT & 45120 Maple Lane CAMPGROUND Shell Lake Osage, MN 56570 6 45 • • • • • • • • • Dan & Kellie Francis 218-849-2051 • thewildsresort.com

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Modern cabins with screened-in porches, heated pool, expansive playground, organized family activities, lodge with wifi/arcade. Email: resort@mantraplodge.com NORTHERN PINE LODGE 14588 230th Street Potato Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 18 0 • • • • • • • • Jonathan and Kelly Schupp 218-732-5103 • northernpinelodge.com 18 hole mini-golf, sailboats, kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, paddle boards. NORWAY HILLS RESORT 20503 Jade Lane Big Mantrap Lake Park Rapids, MN 56470 Frank & Pat Hoffman 218-255-0200 • norwayhills.com

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Free use of paddle boards, kayaks & canoe. Pets welcome. High speed Internet. Open year round. VAGABOND VILLAGE CAMPGROUND Potato Lake • The Nelsons

23801 Green Pines Road Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-5234 • vagabondvillage.com

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Camping/RV sites and wireless internet.

MAY/JUNE 2021

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

New Owners

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FITNESS

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INTERNET/WIFI

WINTER ACTIVITIES

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OUTDOOR PLUGINS

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PET ACCOMMODATIONS

CONTINENTAL/FULL BREAKFAST

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1009 1st St. East, Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-1471 • 1-800-258-6891 stays@prcmoninn.com • cmoninn.com

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C’MON INN MOTEL

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AIR CONDITIONING

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TUBS/SHOWERS/BOTH

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HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

AMERICAN INN LODGE & SUITES Gail Lockrem

ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

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FISHING LICENSE

1501 1st St. East, Park Rapids, MN 218-732-1234 • 1-800-634-3444 parkrapids.mn@americinn • americinn.com

PARK RAPIDS

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Large pool and hot tub. 42” plasma TV’s, refrigerators and microwaves in all rooms. Family friendly courtyard. Dogs welcome. RED BRIDGE INN Fish Hook River

118 Washington Ave. N. Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-237-77337 • 855-237-7337

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Includes access to 2 pontoon boats, 2 fishing boats & a paddle boat. We specialize in family reunions, bridal and wedding showers, and small weddings. RIVERSIDE POINT RESORT Fish Hook River

700 Park Ave. North, Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-9711 • 1-800-733-9711 riversidepointresort.com

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Clean, comfortable, smoke-free, cable tv and wifi. Close to town, good shopping and restaurants nearby. Pets welcome. Email: riversidepoint@arvig.net. SUPER 8 MOTEL

1020 1st. St. East Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-732-9704 • 1-887-274-3040 parkrapidssuper8.com

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Free high speed internet access, free breakfast including hot Belgian waffles. Email: prmnsuper8@aol.com

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

MAY/JUNE 2021

Here for you to experience better health! Award-winning, d i i Accredited di d C Critical i i l Access Hospital i n

24/7 Emergency and Level 4 Trauma Center Community Dental Clinic Community Health Hospice Care Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Physical Rehabilitation and Fitness Center Weight Management Center

218.732.3311 www.CHISJH.org

MAY/JUNE 2021

AWARD-WINNING CARE YOU CAN TRUST! 32

PARK RAPIDS ENTERPRISE

Summer Scene - May/June 2021

Articles inside

RESORTS

DINING

WELCOME