The Wonder Spotlight

MERC 2027 Pizza puts a Student’s Recipe on the Menu

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 16:35:02 GMT

Cooper Geyen's recipe chosen as MERC 2027 pizza

McGREGOR, Minn. — A pizza recipe created by a McGregor High School student is getting a year-long place on the menu at Log Home Wood Fired Pizza, while also helping raise money for a scholarship for the school’s Class of 2027.

The MERC 2027 was created by current McGregor senior Cooper Geyen after Log Home Wood Fired Pizza invited members of the Class of 2027 to submit ideas for a specialty pizza. Each year, Log Home works with a McGregor High School class to create a pizza, giving students the opportunity to come up with their own recipe. This year, Cooper and two friends began tossing around ideas before settling on a combination they thought would be different from pizzas already offered.

“We were thinking about what they didn’t have yet,” Cooper explained. “We like Alfredo, so we thought, why don’t we just try putting that on there?”

Cooper submitted his recipe along with several other ideas from classmates. His creation was ultimately selected as the Class of 2027 pizza. The MERC 2027 features a mozzarella-stuffed crust, garlic Parmesan sauce, a five-cheese blend, chicken, garlic oil and parsley. The combination gives the pizza a creamy, cheesy flavor with garlic and chicken as the primary toppings.

The pizza has already received positive feedback from customers, according to Cooper. “A lot of people have liked it,” he said. “I haven’t heard anyone say that they don’t like it.”

The pizza has also been getting attention at local events. Cooper said he heard from others that the MERC 2027 was among the better-selling pizzas at a recent Paul Bunyan Electric Company event.

The special pizza is more than just a menu item. A portion of the proceeds from every MERC 2027 sold will go toward a scholarship from Log Home Wood Fired Pizza for a Class of 2027 McGregor High School graduate. The MERC 2027 will be available through April 30, 2027, at Log Home Wood Fired Pizza’s shop in McGregor.

Cooper is a four-sport McGregor athlete. He participates in football and basketball and previously played baseball before joining the golf team this past spring. His involvement in school activities gives him another reason to encourage classmates, athletes and community members to stop by and try the pizza.

For those heading to a McGregor sporting event, Log Home offers an easy stop for a meal before or after the game. The next home football game is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 9, when McGregor will celebrate Homecoming. Upcoming home volleyball games include Thursday, Sept. 24, against Cook County; Thursday, Oct. 1, against Cromwell-Wright; and Thursday, Oct. 8, against Carlton-Wrenshall.

Log Home Wood Fired Pizza has also announced its fall hours. The shop is open Wednesday and Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m.; Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday from 4 to 8 p.m.; and Sunday for brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In addition to its pizza menu, Log Home offers appetizers, salads and desserts, along with dine-in and take-out service, a pizza patio, Log Home Essentials and its BAKE Your WAY offerings. Find Log Home Wood Fired Pizza at 242 MN-210 W, McGregor and at NorthwoodsPizza.com. Call 218-768-PZZA (7992) to place your order ahead.

Antique Hay Press Highlights White Pine Show

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:12:40 GMT

Self-feeding Swayne Robinson press produces 68 bales during two days of demonstrations

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School House Cafe Takes First Culinary Contest

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 16:34:26 GMT

A name rooted in McGregor’s history helped lead Sue Ashwood to victory in the first-ever Wild Rice Days Culinary Contest.

MCGREGOR, Minn. — A name rooted in McGregor’s history helped lead Sue Ashwood to victory in the first-ever Wild Rice Days Culinary Contest.

Ashwood’s Portage Trail Omelet captured first place, edging out Mark’s Bar and its Wild Rice Burger in a close finish. The winning dish was one of 11 entries served by local restaurants and culinary businesses during this year’s Wild Rice Days celebration.

The public judged the competition, rating their favorite dishes on a five-point scale. More than 300 votes were submitted, giving the inaugural event an enthusiastic response from residents and visitors.

The name Portage Trail carries special meaning in the McGregor area. It also appeared as one of the clues in this year’s Medallion Hunt, connecting the culinary contest to the community’s history. The original portage trail connected the Mississippi River to Big Sandy Lake and the Northwest Fur Trade Post. Over time, the route became known as the Wold Road, later Bear Country Road, and is now Grouse Street.

For Ashwood, the winning omelet also has a connection to her own cooking history.

Ashwood has been cooking at the School House Cafe for 15 years. Before that, she spent about seven years cooking at Kelly’s Kitchen in Palisade, where she developed an earlier version of the dish called the Grand Portage Omelet.

The original omelet featured celery, onion and green peppers. For the Wild Rice Days competition, Ashwood changed it up by replacing the celery with mushrooms while keeping the onions and green peppers.

The Portage Trail Omelet was then topped with hollandaise sauce, creating a combination that proved popular with contest diners.

The response was strong enough that customers began asking whether the omelet would become a permanent menu item.

Ashwood confirmed that it will. “I thank all the people that came in and ate and enjoyed my food,” Ashwood said. “I thought it was great. The contest was wonderful.”

The inaugural competition featured restaurants and culinary businesses offering special dishes built around wild rice, corn or both.

Other entries included Bann’s Bar and Restaurant’s Chicken & Beef Wild Rice Egg Roll and Sweet Corn Butter Pasta; Round Lake Resort & Bar’s Wild Rice Round Lake Chicken Wrap; McGregor Baking Company’s Chicken Wild Rice Salad Sandwich; Log Home Wood Fired Pizza’s Wild Rice Dough Artisan Pizza; Buckhorn Bar’s Wild Rice Stuffed Mushrooms, Cocktails, Crafts & Eats’ Italian Corn Chowder with Shrimp; Last Chance Pub n Grub’s Wild Rice Meatballs; Fireside’s Northwoods Pinwheels; and North Fork Tavern’s Famous Cranberry Wild Rice Salad.

Mark’s Bar finished a close second with its Wild Rice Burger, demonstrating just how competitive the inaugural event became.

The success of the first contest has organizers and participating restaurants already looking ahead to next year. Ashwood said she has not yet decided what she might create if she returns as a competitor.

“I have to figure out something,” she said with a laugh.

For now, Ashwood can celebrate the first-ever Wild Rice Days Culinary Contest championship — and the Portage Trail Omelet appears destined to become a School House Cafe favorite.

Zelazny to be honored as 2026 Cromwell Harvest Festival Grand Marshal

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 19:38:43 GMT

After nearly a decade of service as Cromwell’s mayor, Sharon Zelazny will have a special place of honor during this year’s Cromwell Harvest Festival as the 2026 Grand Marshal.

CROMWELL, Minn. — After nearly a decade of service as Cromwell’s mayor, Sharon Zelazny will have a special place of honor during this year’s Cromwell Harvest Festival as the 2026 Grand Marshal.

Zelazny has served as mayor since 2016, a role she never originally set out to pursue. Instead, she wanted to become more involved in the community and city government. When no one else stepped forward to run for mayor, Zelazny decided to take on the challenge. “I wasn’t motivated to become mayor,” Zelazny said. “I was motivated to get involved with the city, but there was nobody running for mayor. And that’s actually why.”

The decision launched what she describes as a steep learning curve. Zelazny had previously served on a school board but had never been involved in city government. She also had never lived in a city, having previously lived in a township.

What she lacked in municipal experience, however, she made up for with hard work and a willingness to learn.

Over the years, Zelazny has helped oversee and pursue a number of major projects that have changed the look and functionality of Cromwell.

One of the first major projects she inherited was the Highway 210 reconstruction project. The project was already in the planning stages when she became mayor and required the city to address its share of the costs. Zelazny noted that although such projects often involve substantial outside funding, the Highway 210 project cost the city approximately $400,000. The city used the opportunity to complete additional utility upgrades as part of the work.

Other projects came about because of needs Zelazny saw around the community.

The city park and pavilion became one example. What began as an effort to improve the pavilion’s dance floor expanded into a larger effort to address drainage problems in the park. Zelazny insisted the drainage issue be corrected before improvements were made to the pavilion because rainwater was flowing into the building.

The city pursued a Clean Water grant for drainage improvements, followed by a Department of Natural Resources grant for outdoor recreation and additional funding for pavilion improvements.

For Zelazny, the projects were more than improvements to buildings and streets. They represented an opportunity to change the way residents viewed their community.

“When I first started as mayor, I really felt like the people of this community were downhearted,” she said. “All I would ever hear is, ‘Well, we used to have that,’ or ‘We did that.’”

She began seeing opportunities rather than empty buildings and lost amenities. As projects were completed, she said, residents began seeing tangible evidence that improvements could happen in Cromwell. “They are optimistic now that things can happen,” she said. “They’re very proud of our little city right now.”

Among the projects closest to Zelazny’s heart is the city’s new multiuse walking trail. She had long been concerned about the lack of a safe place for residents, particularly students, to walk. She recalled seeing track athletes running along the shoulder of the road and knew the community needed a safer alternative.
The trail project took approximately seven years to develop before the city secured a $2.25 million grant. The completed trail provides a safe walking route between Villa Vista and the stop sign, connects with the Riverwalk and provides access from a nearby development.

The project also helps address a longstanding problem created by the absence of sidewalks along Highway 210. “When we did the Highway 210 project, I felt like this town just didn’t have sidewalks,” Zelazny said.

The city’s efforts have extended beyond visible construction projects. Zelazny points to the installation of a modern emergency alert system as one of her first projects as mayor. The system, funded through multiple grants, connected the community with the National Weather Service and improved local emergency notification capabilities.

She also considers bringing high-speed internet to Cromwell an important achievement, even though it may not receive the same attention as a new road or trail.
During her tenure, Zelazny estimates she has helped bring more than $4 million in grant funding to the community.

Looking back on her years as mayor, Zelazny said it is difficult to identify one accomplishment as the most rewarding. “I will say that my work has been some of the most rewarding work I’ve done in my life,” she said. “I don’t think I can even say what is the one thing, because I’m just proud of our city.”
Zelazny credits the residents, city staff and council members who supported the work along the way.

As she prepares to step away from the mayor’s position, Zelazny said the decision was not about one particular issue. After nearly 10 years, she simply believes it is time.

“When I started this venture, my husband was still working part time,” she said. “He doesn’t anymore. And so now when I go to meetings, he’s home sitting by himself.”

Zelazny said she wants to be more available to her husband and family.

Her decision to leave the mayor’s office will close a significant chapter of public service, but her legacy can be seen throughout Cromwell — from improved streets and utilities to parks, recreation, emergency services, high-speed internet and a trail designed to make the community safer and more connected.
As the 2026 Cromwell Harvest Festival Grand Marshal, Zelazny will have an opportunity to celebrate alongside the community she has spent the past decade serving.

For Zelazny, the honor is fitting recognition for a mayor who entered the position unexpectedly but embraced the opportunity to help Cromwell move forward.

Cromwell Harvest Festival Set for Sept. 11-13

The Cromwell Harvest Festival returns Sept. 11-13 with a weekend of food, music, games and community activities. Most events will be held at the Cromwell Pavilion unless otherwise noted.

Friday begins with the Scarecrow Contest, featuring $50 prizes in kids and adult categories. Scarecrows must be set up by noon, with winners announced Saturday at 3 p.m. The Steak Fry runs from 4-7 p.m., with steak dinners, hamburgers and hot dogs available. Ice cream will also be served, and a quilt raffle begins at 7 p.m. The Muni will host a meat raffle at 5:30 p.m., followed by free jukebox music.

Saturday starts with a Pancake Breakfast from 8:30-10:30 a.m. The Alzheimer’s Walk begins with registration at 9 a.m. and the walk at 9:30. A veterinary clinic will be held at City Hall from 9 a.m.-noon.

Craft and food vendors will be at the Pavilion from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., along with a bouncy house from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Medallion Hunt begins at 10 a.m., with hourly clues posted until the $50 prize is found.

The parade begins at 10:30 a.m., with Sharon and Bill Zelazny serving as Grand Marshals. Patriotic floats are encouraged. A Fire Department Water Ball Fight begins at 11 a.m.

Saturday afternoon includes a Pie Social, kids games, a historical society presentation and live music by the North Smoke Band from 1-4 p.m. Sports activities include 3-on-3 basketball, volleyball and an adult bean bag tournament.

Evening activities include Cash Bingo and a Silent Auction at 5 p.m. at the Pavilion. Music at the Muni features Ike & Gwen, Pine County Line and DJ Dean.

Sunday begins with a Community Worship Service at 9 a.m., followed by fellowship. The offering will benefit the Tri-Community Food Shelf. Sunday activities at the Muni include Racing with the Northern Pine Riders at 1 p.m. and a Vikings-Packers game potluck at halftime.

The festival is sponsored by the Cromwell Area Community Club.

Four Clues Lead Helen Olson to Elusive Wild Rice Days Medallion

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 19:34:25 GMT

After nearly two decades of searching, researching and making the Wild Rice Days Medallion hunt a family tradition, Helen Olson finally solved the mystery — with only four of the five clues.

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Floodwood Fair Celebrates Community, Crowns Queen

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:47:46 GMT

Floodwood Fair Celebrates Community, Crowns Queen

FLOODWOOD, Minn.— The Floodwood Fair brought residents and visitors together Aug. 21 for a day of entertainment, activities, exhibits and community pride, highlighted by the coronation of the 2026 Miss Floodwood.

Miss Floodwood 2025 Dylann Miller crowned Lacey Wojtysiak as her successor during the annual coronation ceremony. Wojtysiak, daughter of Kent and Missy Wojtysiak, represented the community throughout the fair and sold an impressive 1,185 wristbands. Fairgoers enjoyed activities for all ages, including a bounce house, games, face painting, a petting zoo, temporary tattoos, a ceramic class and a weaving tutorial. Live music by Brian and Missy added to the festivities, while vendors offered a variety of goods and services. The food booth was open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
History also came alive along the River Walk with the Savanna Portage Fur Trade Encampment, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about the area’s early fur-trading history.

A highlight of the Floodwood Fair is the annual exhibit competition, where residents of all ages display their talents in domestic arts, creative arts and horticulture.
This year’s sweepstakes winners were Becca Peterson in Creative Arts, Bill Manner in Horticulture Arts and Carrie Johnson in Domestic Arts. Lillian Degeorge was named Junior High Point Winner.

Domestic Arts winners included Jancie Fagre in conserves, jams, marmalades and jellies; Bernice Johnson in bread and rolls; Becca Peterson in cakes and cookies; Susan Jussila in quilts; Kay Farrell in extra miscellaneous; Janice Fagre in crocheted and knitted items; and Johnson in clothing. Adeline Heavirland was the junior winner in bread and rolls, while Lilly Degeorge earned the junior crocheted and knitted honor.

Creative Arts featured strong entries in both adult and junior divisions. Rex Waters won shopcraft, with Charlie Peterson the junior winner. Sue Chalstrom topped handicraft/art craft, with Sunlynn Belden winning the junior division. Becca Peterson won pictures/dolls, while Evelyn Juusola was the junior champion.
Photography winners included John Dahlman in black-and-white single photo and color single photo. Kinlee Anderson was the junior winner in black-and-white single photo, Janaya Ghorman won the junior color single photo division, and Christina Cariveau topped color multi-photo.

Horticulture Honors

Horticulture exhibits showcased the work of local gardeners and growers.

Dani Larva was produce division champion, with Eli Bennett earning the junior honor. Bill Manner won the potato division and was also the Horticulture Arts sweepstakes winner. Jean Bennett topped the five-class division, while Becca Peterson won the garden display and artistic arrangements categories.

Nancy Reynolds was the cut flowers champion, with William Bayerle the junior winner. Jan Dornseif won both outdoor and indoor potted plant divisions. Hank Peterson earned the junior award for outdoor potted plants, while Lilly Degeorge was the junior indoor potted plant winner. Hank Peterson also won the junior artistic arrangements division.

With family activities, live entertainment, historical displays and competitive exhibits, the Floodwood Fair once again offered something for everyone while celebrating the talents and community spirit of Floodwood.

The coronation of Wojtysiak as Miss Floodwood 2026 provided a fitting centerpiece to the celebration and welcomed a new representative for the community.

Wild Rice Days Parade Grand Marshal James Carr

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:22:57 GMT

A lifetime of family, friendship, farming and firefighting

MCGREGOR, Minn.—James Carr has answered the call of his community, not for recognition or accolades, but because helping others has always been part of who he is. His unwavering dedication to McGregor and the surrounding communities, devotion to family and friends, and service with the McGregor Fire Department have touched countless lives. This year, his extraordinary commitment is being recognized as Carr has been named Grand Marshal of the 62nd Annual Wild Rice Days Parade.

Carr is a lifelong resident of McGregor and a graduate of McGregor High School. His post-secondary education included a year at Brainerd Vocational School where he studied auto mechanics.
Carr is deeply rooted not only in the community he has spent his life serving, but also in the family he has built here. James and his wife, Michelle, have known one another for most of their lives. Growing up just one mile apart, they rode bikes and spent time together as children, long before they knew where life would lead them.

The Carrs wed in January, 1990. Their 36-year marriage has produced a loving family, including four children—Dane’, Mack, Trevor and Breanna. Few things bring greater joy to the couple than being surrounded by their children and nine grandchildren, ranging in age from 15 months to 13 years old.
“Riding his tractor and farming make James happy,” says Michelle. The couple owns 200 acres of land, inhabited by beef cattle, horses, Pygmy fainting cross goats, dogs and cats.

Careers built on helping others

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Carr worked at Thompson’s Farms for local farmer Tommy Thompson, helping with whatever needed to be done. He briefly worked for Yukon Furnace Company in McGregor manufacturing furnaces then at Venex manufacturing vending machines.
Since the late 80s, Carr has been employed by Frontier Communications as a lineman and installer. Carr is known for going above and beyond for customers, ensuring their phone and internet connectivity issues are resolved in a timely manner.

Four decades of answering the call

From a young age, Carr desired to become a firefighter. On December 1, 1986, his dream became a reality when he joined the McGregor Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter. What followed was nearly four decades of service to his neighbors during some of the most frightening, painful and uncertain moments of their lives. Carr has served as a firefighter, assistant fire chief and, for the past 25 years, as McGregor’s Fire Chief.

Carr’s years with the fire department also helped shape its future. Extensive planning went into developing the concept for a new McGregor Fire Hall. One of the pinnacles of Carr’s tenure was helping guide the process of completing the new fire hall project from inception to fruition, underscoring Carr’s legacy of service.

Wild Rice Days traditions passed through generations

Wild Rice Days has represented many of the things Carr treasures most about McGregor - family, friendships, traditions and community. He especially looks forward to the McGregor Fire Hall’s open house, where people gather for hot dogs and tours of the fire hall. He can also often be found lending a hand at his longtime friend John Heron’s Triple J Concessions booth.

Carr has enjoyed driving a fire truck in the Wild Rice Days parade accompanied by his grandchildren over the years. His five-year-old grandson, Lochlan, and son Mack have frequently joined him since Lochlan was just two years old. One of Lochlan’s highlights is throwing candy to the children lined up along the parade route. Lochlan has said he wants to become a fireman like “Poppy” when he grows up so he can continue throwing candy.
Since childhood, Carr has also supported and helped with the McGregor Lions Club’s Corn Feed during Labor Day weekend.

A legacy of selfless service

Perhaps the clearest picture of Carr’s impact comes from the people who have stood beside him and watched him serve.
“James has given to the town of McGregor as fire chief, going out on calls and seeing things I’d never want to see,” says longtime friend John Heron. “He became friends with his Frontier customers who needed assistance and went way above and beyond to help everyone he could help. James always felt it was his personal mission and job to assist as many people as possible.”
“I have known James my entire life,” adds McGregor Fire Department Acting Fire Chief and former Aitkin County Sherriff Scott Turner. “We went to school together, played sports together and have served together on the fire department for nearly 32 years.”
“James is the most selfless public servant I have ever known,” Turner says. “He is nearly always available, always ready and willing to respond, and has given more of himself than anyone else I have encountered in my 40 years of public safety work. He certainly makes the community better and the fire department better able to respond because of his dedication and commitment.”
“The crown jewel of James’s tenure as fire chief is the new McGregor Fire Hall, which will better serve our community for many years,” Turner concludes.

A well-earned place leading the parade

This year, Wild Rice Days will look slightly different for Carr. He won’t be driving the fire truck in the Wild Rice Days Parade but instead leading the parade down Maddy St. as the Wild Rice Days Parade Grand Marshal. Be sure to extend a wave of gratitude to Carr for his decades of service and also for a lifetime spent showing what it truly means to care for the place he calls home.

Sunshine Acres 4-H Club Shines at Carlton County Fair

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 18:20:39 GMT

Sunshine Acres 4-H Club Shines at Carlton County Fair

BARNUM, Minn. — Members of the Sunshine Acres 4-H Club near Cromwell made a strong showing at the Carlton County Fair, earning numerous championships and reserve championships while several members qualified for the Minnesota State Fair.

Among the club’s standout exhibitors was Brinn Jordan, who advanced to the Minnesota State Fair with her horse, Vinny. Jordan, who is entering eighth grade, is in her fourth year of showing horses and her second year showing Vinny.

Jordan earned blue ribbons in nine of her 11 events at the Carlton County Fair and qualified to compete in those events at the State Fair. She chose to enter seven events, including poles, keyhole, barrels, ranch pleasure, showmanship, horsemanship and English equitation and pleasure. While she enjoys the variety of horse events, Jordan said she especially likes the speed events. “I like the stuff where you go around the barrels and stuff more than the pleasure thing,” she said.

Jordan will compete in the seventh-grade division at the Minnesota State Fair Horse Show, scheduled for Sept. 18-21. This is not her first experience at the State Fair. Last year, her first year showing Vinny, the pair placed in several events and finished among the top competitors.

Jordan also captured the Grand Champion title in the Round Robin competition at the Carlton County Fair. The event tests an exhibitor’s knowledge and ability to handle animals from several species, with participants rotating through animals including beef and dairy cattle, meat and dairy goats, pigs and poultry while answering questions from judges. “It’s basically a chance to show your knowledge about all the animals,” Jordan explained.

Her accomplishments extended beyond horses and livestock. Jordan also entered static projects at the fair, including garden produce. Her potatoes and plums earned Grand Champion honors, while her peppers and flowers received Reserve Champion recognition. Although she could have taken qualifying produce to the State Fair, she decided to take her chickens instead.

Strong Showing in Poultry

Sunshine Acres also dominated the poultry competition at the Carlton County Fair.
Club members won every poultry showmanship Grand and Reserve Champion class but one — four classes in total. In addition, Sunshine Acres members captured the Grand and Reserve Champion honors in every chicken class entered by a club member.
The poultry success added another impressive chapter to the club’s already strong showing at the fair.

Beef Exhibitors

Sunshine Acres members also had a strong presence in the beef barn. Riley Olesiak earned Showmanship Reserve Champion and Reserve Champion Market Beef, while Maci Soderbloom was named Reserve Champion Prospect Calf and Reserve Champion Cow/Calf.

Other club members exhibiting beef included Hayden Olesiak, Micah Olesiak, Briggs Jordan, Quinn Volmers, Braxton Richards and Braelyn Richards.
The Sunshine Acres 4-H Club is made up of a growing group of young people from the Cromwell area. In addition to those exhibiting livestock and projects at the fair, club members include Ryden Olesiak, Drake Rose, Braham Jordan, Eliza Wise, Abe Wise and Ryder Smith.
Soderbloom serves as the club’s vice president.

Four Sunshine Acres members — Brinn Jordan, Maci Soderbloom, Riley Olesiak and Hayden Olesiak — will represent the club at the Minnesota State Fair.
For these young exhibitors, success at the county fair is about more than ribbons. It is the result of months of caring for animals, practicing skills, preparing projects and learning how to compete while building friendships and confidence along the way.
For Jordan, that hands-on experience is one of the best parts of 4-H. “I appreciate being able to care for animals and then get to show them off at the fair,” she said.

Sunshine Acres’ performance at the Carlton County Fair demonstrates the wide range of talents and interests found within the club — from horses, beef and poultry to gardening, photography and creative projects.

For the four members headed to the State Fair, the hard work continues as they prepare to take what they have learned in Cromwell to Minnesota’s largest annual celebration of 4-H.Screening Friday, Sept. 25.

A Dinosaur Valley Built From Legos

Adding another creative dimension to the Sunrise Acres 4-H Club’s presence at the Carlton County Fair was Cooper Dahls, who brought an impressive Lego creation to the fair as a static exhibit.

Cooper created a large dinosaur-themed display he called “Dinosaur Valley,” building the scene from scratch rather than following a single Lego set or pattern. The display featured numerous dinosaurs, vehicles, trees, characters and other details arranged across the scene.
Among the featured dinosaurs was a T. Rex equipped with what Cooper described as a mini gun, along with other dinosaurs inspired by the Jurassic World movies. The scene also included characters such as Claire and Owen, a baby dinosaur and a variety of other creatures.

Cooper estimated that he used at least 500 Lego pieces to create the display, including individual pieces used for the dinosaurs and landscape. Some of the trees were built using a special Lego construction technique that Cooper discovered and used to create the unique shapes.
The project took about five hours to build, although Cooper’s interest in Lego construction clearly extends well beyond this particular project. He is already thinking about what he might create for next year’s fair, including the possibility of a Lego Titanic.

The large Lego Titanic set Cooper knows about contains thousands of pieces, making a full-size version of the ship an ambitious project. For now, however, his Dinosaur Valley provided fairgoers with an opportunity to see how imagination, creativity and a collection of Lego pieces can come together to create an original exhibit.

Cooper was also busy with other 4-H projects at the fair, including showing a Silver Mini Satin rabbit and chickens, as well as photography. His Lego project demonstrates one of the many opportunities available through 4-H, where members can turn their individual interests and creativity into projects they can share with others at the county fair.

Frozen T-Shirt Contest & Kids Scavenger Hunt

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 18:13:05 GMT

Beat the heat in the youth and adult frozen t-shirt contests & New Wild Rice Days Event Brings Kids’ Scavenger Hunt right after the Parade

MCGREGOR, Minn.—The frozen t-shirt contests always draw an enthusiastic crowd and are a fun way to cool down on a warm day! Local businesses sponsor t-shirts, which are frozen into blocks of ice. It is the contestants’ job to thaw their shirt and put it on without damaging it.

Details and rules for the contest are posted at the button platform on Maddy Street. You must be 18 years of age to participate in the adult frozen t-shirt contest. Participants should meet by the button wagon immediately following the parade. Space is limited.

In 2013, Al Horton, Coon Rapids, won the $200 grand prize followed by Dave Kearin, Minneapolis, in 2014. The 2015 winner was Troy Templer, Cloquet, while Josh Mills, McGregor, netted the grand prize in record-breaking time in 2016. Joe Salzwedl, Ham Lake, took home the top prize in 2017; Chad Thorson, Cross Lake, won in 2018; Ryan Ward, Cambridge, in 2019; Cody Cohoes, Cottage Grove, in 2021 and Ryan Ward, Cambrdge, in 2022. Deb Buittner, Braham, took home the cash prize in 2023. Ryan Ward took home the prize for his impressive skill in thawing and putting on his frozen t-shirt without any rips, securing his fourth non-consecutive win. He won in 2019, 2022 and 2024.

The youth frozen t-shirt contest (ages six to 14), began in 2023, and is held at noon. Taylor D. won the youth frozen t-shirt contest last year, earning a well-deserved prize with a time of 31:57.

Ryan Ward took home the prize in 2025 for the his impressive skill in thawing and putting on his frozen t-shirt without any rips, securing his fourth non-consecutive win. He won in 2019, 2022 and 2024.

MCGREGOR, Minn.—A new event is being added to McGregor’s Wild Rice Days celebration this year, giving local children an opportunity to explore the community while taking part in a fun scavenger hunt.

The 2026 Kids’ Scavenger Hunt begins at the button booth after the parade and will send participants around McGregor in search of six hidden clue posts. Each clue will reveal a letter, which children will record on their scavenger hunt sheet along with the location where they found it.

After collecting all six letters, participants will unscramble them to discover a secret word. Completed scavenger hunt forms and the final answer must be brought to the Button Booth by 5 p.m. to claim a prize.

The hunt is designed to encourage children and families to get out and explore McGregor while adding a new interactive activity to this year’s Wild Rice Days festivities.

Organizers expressed their appreciation to McGregor Dairy Queen for sponsoring the 2026 Kids’ Scavenger Hunt and helping make the new activity possible.
Children are encouraged to keep their eyes peeled throughout the hunt, as clues will be hidden around town and participants will need to follow each one to find the next location.

Ribbon Cutting!

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 18:05:28 GMT

New Owners Bring Fresh Energy to McGregor Laundromat

MCGREGOR, Minn.—A familiar McGregor business has new owners, as Brandie Milligan and Robert Merritt recently purchased the local laundromat from Sue and Scott Anderson, who owned and operated the business for the past 20 years.

For the Andersons, the laundromat became more than simply a business over the years. It became a familiar part of the McGregor community and something they considered their “baby.” After years of ownership, they wanted to find buyers who would continue to give the business the personal attention it deserves.

“We really like that it feels right,” the Andersons said, adding that they believe the laundromat could not have gone to better hands.
For Milligan and Merritt, the decision to purchase the business was motivated by a desire to start something of their own while contributing to the community.

“Honestly, just to kind of put our touch on it,” Milligan said. “We just wanted to start something and help contribute to the community, just like Scott and Sue contributed for the 20 years that they had it.”
The couple also recognized the importance of keeping a laundromat in McGregor. With limited options nearby, the business provides an important service for local residents, visitors and neighboring communities. “It’s really important for this community to have it here,” they said. “There’s nothing else close.”

Merritt brings previous business experience to the new venture. He and his late wife, Sheila, previously operated Northland Catering. He currently works as a service writer for Raveill Trucking, a position he has held for about a year and a half.

Milligan has a background in banking and currently works as a supervisor at Neighborhood National Bank in Aitkin. While neither had previously operated a laundromat, Merritt said his mechanical abilities will be helpful in keeping the equipment running. “I am extremely mechanical,” he said. “There are a lot of different resources out there regarding machine failures and things like that. With all the resources at our fingertips now, it should be manageable.”

The couple has been together for three and a half years and is engaged, with plans to marry next year. Their family has also recently entered a new chapter, with their daughter getting married last year and welcoming a baby this year. They are now looking forward to their own new adventure as business owners.

For the Andersons, selling the laundromat was a decision that came with some emotion after two decades of ownership. They said they had received interest from potential buyers in the past, but some were from out of town and they were concerned the business might not receive the same level of personal attention. “It is kind of personal,” they said.

Milligan and Merritt said they are excited to continue that personal connection and put their own stamp on the business while maintaining its role in the community. The new owners said they are looking forward to the future and to becoming another local business committed to McGregor. “I’m very excited for it,” Milligan concluded.

Vendor spotlight: Triple J and Heron’s Concessions

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 21:25:08 GMT

For over 25 years, John and Sharon Heron, Triple J Concessions, have provided their delicious deep-fried foods and ice-cold lemonade during McGregor’s Wild Rice Days festivities.

By Shari Horton

MCGREGOR, Minn.— For over 25 years, John and Sharon Heron, Triple J Concessions, have provided their delicious deep-fried foods and ice-cold lemonade during McGregor’s Wild Rice Days festivities. Their specialties include fresh-cut French fries, cheese curds, corn dogs and fresh-squeezed regular and strawberry lemonade. John, who frequently refers to himself as “John the Fry Guy,” and Sharon have been in business for approximately 48 years.

While the mobile food vendors are based out of Woodbury, MN, where the couple resides, they have deep-rooted connections to the McGregor area. John’s grandparents spent their honeymoon on Little Round Lake in McGregor, and his family spent many years at various resorts in the area.

John and Sharon later bought their own land on Big Round Lake about 30 years ago, where they stayed in RVs. In 2020, they built a cabin on their land. “We are the odd ones out – being everyone else comes to vacation in the summer and we come to our cabin in the spring and fall during our concessions off-season,” notes John.

Referring to their many years of providing delicious concessions at Wild Rice Days, John describes it as “part of their family vacation.” “I was gone all summer, and when the kids were little, we would go to the lake and go to Wild Rice Days. That was a way to work and spend time with the family.”

The McGregor community feels more like home than Woodbury,” continues John. “The people are unique, nice and always out having fun.” The Herons have made many wonderful friends in the area and have given back to the McGregor community by donating to the McGregor Fire Department. The couple plans to become more involved with Wild Rice Days in the coming years, assisting as volunteers for the event. Following Sharon’s recent retirement from the University of Minnesota, where she gained experience organizing career fairs, she’d like to graciously offer her expertise to McGregor’s annual event.

Heron’s Concessions – carrying on the tradition

This year, the couple’s son, Jim, who has followed in his parents’ footsteps, will also have his concession stand at Wild Rice Days. Jim started his business, Heron’s Concessions, about 5 years ago. He and his wife Lindsay are currently based out of Texas but travel on the road for 11 months out of the year with their 13-month-old child.

Heron’s Concessions features funnel cakes, corn dogs and fresh-squeezed regular and strawberry lemonade. Jim has worked with his family’s Triple J Concessions for 15 years. This will be his first year with his own concession stand at Wild Rice Days.

Lions Corn Feed 2026

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 21:19:13 GMT

McGregor Lions President welcomes everyone to 59th Annual Lions Corn Feed

MCGREGOR, Minn.— Jerry Feucht, president of the McGregor Lions, extends an invitation to everyone to come to the Lions’ 59th Annual Corn Feed, Sunday, September 6, noon-4:30, (gate closes at 4:00) as part of McGregor’s Wild Rice Days celebration.

There will be lots of games and fun activities for “kids” of all ages, a variety of items for sale, lots of food and drink for all ages, musical entertainment provided by Ben’s Hot Country Karaoke, and many prizes awarded throughout the day. A single session of bingo will begin at 1 p.m. with a guaranteed jackpot of $500 coverall prize.

Come celebrate our 59th Annual Corn Feed with us at the McGregor Community Center, located on Hwy. 65, just north of McGregor. This is truly a community event, so enjoy the day with family, visit with old friends, and meet new ones. The Lions look forward to seeing you there!

LIONS CORN FEED HISTORY

The McGregor Lions Corn Feed began in 1969 as a small fundraiser at the McGregor Airport, thanks in large part to Marty Paquette. According to longtime Lion Oscar Maron, the first event featured just 50 dozen ears of corn, cooked in a large iron kettle over a blowtorch inside an open airplane hangar.

As attendance grew, so did the event. After a storm destroyed the original hangar, the Lions switched to a large tent for husking and cooking corn. What started with locally purchased corn eventually expanded to a full semi-load—about 12,000 ears—delivered fresh from southern Minnesota on the morning of the event.
Over the years, the Corn Feed added bingo, music, games, and airplane rides, making it one of McGregor’s biggest community celebrations. The Lions also built a pavilion to improve operations and continued their tradition of keeping the event community-focused. The Palisade Lions remain the only outside organization allowed to sell ice cream, ensuring fundraising dollars stay local.

The Corn Feed has become the McGregor Lions’ largest annual fundraiser, supporting local schools and community projects. Its success depends on volunteers, local businesses, and community support. As Oscar Maron summed it up, after more than three decades of growth and improvement, the event continues to thrive because “they ate a lot of corn!”

Quilts of Valor honor local veterans at Forgotten Heroes festival

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 21:12:10 GMT

Red, white and blue took on a deeply personal meaning at the recent Forgotten Heroes Ranges and Retreat Music Festival — Red, White and Remembrance, where area veterans were honored with Quilts of Valor created and presented by members of the Ripple River Quilters of Aitkin.

Five members of the quilting group — Diane Pelto, Kathy Haugse, Aileen DeMenge, Rose Seiberlich and Sharon Lavan — presented quilts recognizing veterans for their military service and sacrifices.

The presentation brought together veterans from the United States Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps and National Guard, with service ranging from Vietnam to more recent deployments in Iraq, Bosnia, Kuwait and Jordan.

Among those honored was Stanley J. Verrips , U.S. Air Force, who enlisted and trained as a military police officer at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas before serving at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota and Phan Rang Air Base in Vietnam. He later served at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. His awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Marksmanship Medal, Air Force Commendation and Good Conduct Medal.

Terry Newgard , U.S. Air Force, enlisted as a weapons mechanic. After training at Lackland Air Force Base and Lowry Air Force Base in Colorado, he served at Mountain Home Air Force Base and was deployed to Udorn Air Force Base in Thailand.

Richard M. Bevill , U.S. Army Specialist 4, joined the Army in October 1963. After basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, he served at Fort Gordon, Georgia, Fort Riley, Kansas, and in Vietnam. His awards include the Good Conduct Medal, marksmanship recognition and Vietnam Service Medal.

Craig Joriman , U.S. Army, served with the 1st Brigade, 5th Infantry Division in Vietnam, including assignments in Da Nang and at several fire bases. His decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze service stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Sharpshooter Badge and Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm.

Robert “Bobby” Johnson , U.S. Air Force, enlisted in 1966 and went on to serve at bases in the United States, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Germany and England. As a C-130 crew chief, he participated in missions that included dropping flares over Vietnam. His awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Bob Collins , U.S. Army, served at Fort Campbell, Kentucky; Fort Myer, Virginia; and Fort McClellan, Alabama, before serving in Vietnam. While there, he performed guard duty and other assignments and received marksmanship and Vietnam Service Medal recognition.

The quilters also honored Charla Meyer , U.S. Army National Guard, who served as an air traffic controller and was deployed to Eagle Base in Tuzla, Bosnia. Her decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Good Conduct Medal, NATO Medal and Armed Services Reserve Medal with M Device.

Paul Grams , Minnesota Army National Guard, served in several capacities, including major, commander, maintenance officer and logistics officer. His assignments included Fort Leonard Wood, Lowry Air Force Base, Camp Ripley and Long Prairie. His awards include Minnesota Army National Guard, National Defense Service and Army Commendation ribbons.

Grant Grams , U.S. Air Force National Guard, served with the 148th Fighter Wing in Duluth before deployments to Kuwait and Jordan. His work included air surveillance support, plumbing, water sanitation and filtration, as well as runway repair. Among his recognitions are Basic Military Training Honor Graduate, National Defense Service and Air Force Training ribbons.

Edward W. Schulze , U.S. Army, trained as a sharpshooter and served as a field radio repairman. After assignments at Fort Leonard Wood and Fort Gordon, he was deployed to Karlsruhe, Germany, where he worked in advanced electronics mobile field support and as a German interpreter.

Donna Bergstrom , U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel, brought an especially distinguished career to the Quilts of Valor presentation. She served in signals intelligence and electronic warfare and held assignments with the 3rd Radio Battalion in Hawaii, Marine Corps headquarters, the U.S. Senate and the National Security Agency. She also deployed to Japan and Panama. Her many decorations include the Joint Service Commendation Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Marine Corps Commendation Medal and Joint Meritorious Unit Award.

Jim Ryan , U.S. Navy, trained as a radioman and served in Vietnam as a radio operator aboard a hospital ship in Da Nang. He received the National Defense Service Medal and Vietnam Service Medal with a bronze star.

Patrick Ahner , U.S. Army sergeant, served at Fort Jackson, Fort Lewis and Fort Riley before deploying three times to Baghdad, Iraq. His decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Overseas Service Ribbon and Combat Action Badge.

Todd Libra , U.S. Army, completed basic training at Fort McClellan, Alabama, where he quickly became proficient at the many pushups required of new recruits. He also was stationed at Fort Rucker, Alabama, and Fort Polk, Louisiana. Libra was later deployed to U.S. Army Garrison Ansbach in Germany, where he served as a crew chief. According to his wife, Diane, he also served on ski patrol while in Germany. Although Libra did not provide a list of his medals and decorations, he received several during his military service.

Jodi L. Stauber began her military career in 1986 when she enlisted in the 148th Fighter Wing of the Minnesota Air National Guard shortly after graduating from Denfeld High School in Duluth. She completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, before returning to Duluth and beginning a full-time position in the Military Personnel Flight.

Over the years, Stauber held numerous positions within Military Personnel Flight and was selected as Superintendent in 2002. In 2007, she became Command Chief Master Sergeant of the 148th Fighter Wing.

In 2009, Chief Stauber deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, where she served as Superintendent with the 447th Air Expeditionary Group at Sather Air Base. Her deployment supported military operations during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn.

A recipient of numerous military and civilian awards and decorations, Stauber has also been a strong advocate for community involvement. Through her leadership and service, she represented the 148th Fighter Wing at countless community events and activities. Her military career reflects a longstanding commitment to both her fellow service members and the communities she served.

Each quilt represented more than a handmade gift. The quilts served as tangible expressions of gratitude from the Ripple River Quilters to veterans who answered the call to serve.

The group’s presentation reflected the spirit of the festival itself: remembering those who served, honoring their sacrifices and ensuring that their stories are not forgotten.

For the Ripple River Quilters, the message behind each quilt was simple — thank you for your service, your sacrifices and your part in keeping the country free.

Wild Rice and Corn Culinary Competition coming to McGregor

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 18:49:03 GMT

McGregor, Minn. —A new culinary competition is adding a flavorful twist to McGregor’s Labor Day weekend celebrations, inviting local restaurants, cafés and culinary artisans to showcase two ingredients deeply connected to the region: wild rice and corn.

The Wild Rice & Corn Culinary Competition, presented by the McGregor Area Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with Wild Rice Days and the McGregor Lions Corn Feed, will give participating establishments an opportunity to create a signature dish featuring wild rice, corn or both. The inaugural competition is designed to celebrate McGregor’s agricultural heritage while giving residents and visitors another reason to explore the community’s local dining scene during the week leading into Wild Rice Days.

“This cornerstone event of our community heritage, this competition serves as a prestigious platform for local restaurants, cafes, and culinary artisans to demonstrate their excellence,” explained Wild Rice Days event coordinators Jon and Erin Napoli. “We invite our local establishments to celebrate our region’s rich agricultural legacy by featuring two of our most iconic local ingredients: wild rice and corn.”

Participating chefs will be challenged to develop a dish that highlights the distinctive flavors of wild rice and/or corn. Entries may be submitted in one of three categories: Appetizer/Small Plate, Entrée/Main Course or Dessert. Each establishment may submit one official entry.

The competition will unfold during the week immediately preceding Wild Rice Days. From Sunday, Aug. 30, through Saturday, Sept. 5, participating establishments must feature their competition dish for sale at their physical location. Restaurants and other culinary businesses will set their own standard menu prices for the featured dishes.

The public will play a central role in determining the winner. Diners can sample the competing creations throughout the promotional week and cast their official votes online at mnwonders.com. The establishment receiving the highest number of verified public votes will be named the competition champion.
The winner will be recognized during a special presentation at Wild Rice Days on Saturday, Sept. 5.

The competition also complements another Labor Day weekend tradition in McGregor: the McGregor Lions Corn Feed, bringing together two celebrations centered on community, food and local agricultural traditions.

For participating establishments, the first deadline is Saturday, Aug. 29. Entries must be submitted to mcgregorchamberevents@gmail.com and include the restaurant or business name and contact information, the official dish name, the selected course category, a detailed menu description explaining the use of wild rice and/or corn, and at least one high-resolution photograph of the plated dish.

The Chamber is encouraging local food businesses to take part and help make the new competition a signature component of McGregor’s Wild Rice Days celebration. “This initiative offers an unparalleled opportunity to provide both residents and visitors with an authentic taste of McGregor’s culinary distinction,” the Napolis said.

With Wild Rice Days and the McGregor Lions Corn Feed both helping anchor the Labor Day weekend, the new culinary competition offers yet another way for the community to celebrate local traditions—one plate at a time.

For competition information, promotional materials or technical questions, contact the McGregor Area Chamber of Commerce at mcgregorchamberevents@gmail.com.

More Than Coffee: Samantha Schofield Is Brewing Community at Northern Grind

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 15:16:53 GMT

Brewing community at Northern Grind

CROMWELL, Minn. — At first glance, Northern Grind may look like a new drive-thru coffee hut along Highway 210, but for owner Samantha Schofield , the business was never just about coffee.

"Our mission at Northern Grind was never built to sell coffee," Schofield said. "That sounds like a weird statement, but hear me out. We're not trying to build a coffee shop. We're trying to build a place people want to stop at, meet up at, and work at. Coffee is just how we pay for it."

That vision began with family.

After adopting her son, Zane, Schofield knew she wanted a career that offered flexibility and allowed her to be close to him. She also wanted to create a welcoming environment where Zane and others like him could feel safe while developing valuable life and workplace skills.

"I had just adopted Zane and was moving back to Cromwell," Schofield said. "I needed something flexible that allowed me to be there for him. I also wanted somewhere he and others like him could safely be while still gaining skills."

While living in Wyoming, Schofield became familiar with the popularity of small drive-thru coffee huts. When she returned to Minnesota, she realized the Cromwell area didn't have anything similar.

"Little drive-thru coffee spots are super popular where we lived in Wyoming," she said. "I knew Cromwell didn't have anything like that nearby, so I asked the community if they would be interested. We decided to take a chance."

The response was overwhelmingly positive, giving Schofield the confidence to move forward with her dream.

Finding the coffee hut itself also felt like perfect timing.

"I was scrolling through Facebook Marketplace one day, and it was the very first thing I saw," Schofield recalled. "I messaged the sellers immediately."

The sellers connected with Northern Grind's mission and chose Schofield from among several interested buyers.

"They really resonated with our goals, and out of all the offers they received, they chose us."

Today, Northern Grind offers a wide variety of beverages and treats, including hot and iced coffee, espresso drinks, Red Bull Kickers, Italian sodas, dirty sodas, refreshers, smoothies, kid-friendly coffee drinks, and pastries from McGregor Baking Company.

Although the menu is extensive, Schofield says the drinks are simply a way to support something much bigger.

"We're trying to create a place where people know they can come just to be for five minutes," she said. "No judgment. We want to put family and community first. We want local teams to know they can come to us for sponsorships, and we want to be a place where people feel connected."

Northern Grind has already become involved in community events across the region. Upcoming appearances include Hey Day, an outdoor movie night at the coffee hut, the Snowmobiles on Water event in Moose Lake put on by the Weeping Willow foundation, Harvest Fest in Cromwell, the Floodwood Fair, and Proctor's Trunk or Treat.

For Schofield, each event is another opportunity to strengthen relationships within the communities she serves.

As Northern Grind continues to grow, its mission remains the same.

"It's never been just about coffee," Schofield said. "It's about creating a place where everyone feels welcome."

Northern Grind is located at 5566 Highway 210 in Cromwell . Whether stopping in for a morning espresso, an afternoon refresher, or simply a friendly conversation, Schofield hopes every customer leaves with more than just a drink.

After all, at Northern Grind, coffee may be what's on the menu—but community is what's truly being served.

The Hunt Is On: McGregor Medallion Hunt Returns for 2026

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 18:58:11 GMT

The Hunt Is On: McGregor Medallion Hunt Returns for 2026

MCGREGOR, Minn.—One of Wild Rice Days’ most anticipated traditions is back! The 2026 McGregor Wild Rice Days Medallion Hunt invites residents and visitors of all ages to put their detective skills to the test as they follow a series of clues leading to a hidden medallion somewhere within the McGregor area. The hunt is designed to showcase the community’s rich history, local businesses and scenic landmarks while encouraging participants to explore everything that makes the area unique.

A new clue will guide hunters closer to the prize, rewarding those who pay close attention to details, think creatively and work together. The medallion is hidden in a safe, publicly accessible location, and participants are reminded that no digging, climbing or damage to property is necessary to find it.

The Medallion Hunt has become one of Wild Rice Days’ most cherished traditions, creating memories that span generations. In 2005, Donny and Penny Fiester ended a two-year search by solving the famous “needle in a haystack” clue and locating the medallion hidden beneath the entrance ramp at Timeless Treasures Quilt Shop. Their persistence earned them the $700 prize and cemented their place in Wild Rice Days history.
The tradition continued in 2008 when Cheryl Sorensen and Melanie Amundson successfully decoded the clues to claim the medallion, proving once again that teamwork and careful observation were the keys to victory.

Seven years later, in 2015, Sarah Wencl, along with her daughter Elyssa, son Cooper and friends Katheryn DeMenge and Greg McDowall, became just the third winner in a 12-year span. Wencl dedicated a little time each day to studying the clues, eventually realizing she had been searching in the correct area for weeks. References to a clock, an unpleasant odor from nearby dumpsters, the Eye Care Center, dental office, Thrifty White roof and the veterinary clinic finally led her to a narrow passageway behind the veterinary clinic and Subway, where she uncovered the $1,100 medallion beside an old black utility box once used by Federated Coop.

Wencl proved her treasure-hunting skills were no fluke. In 2017, she successfully deciphered the clues once again, becoming the Medallion Hunt’s first repeat champion and earning another $500 prize.

The most recent Medallion Hunt champion came in 2019, when Sarah Johnson found the hidden medallion. McGregor Area Chamber Director Kari Horbacz presented Johnson with a $500 check, adding her name to the distinguished list of Wild Rice Days Medallion Hunt winners before the tradition went on hiatus.

Now, after several years, the hunt returns for a new generation of treasure seekers. The next winner will join a select group of Medallion Hunt champions whose determination, teamwork and ability to decipher clever clues have become part of Wild Rice Days lore.
The first clue to begin the 2026 McGregor Wild Rice Days Medallion Hunt is:

Welcome to McGregor, where the timber meets the shore,
Grab a coffee in town and prepare to explore!
Before you head north toward the big open lake,
Fuel up on supplies—there’s a journey to make.

Study each clue carefully, think beyond the obvious and enjoy the adventure. The Medallion Hunt is about more than finding a prize—it’s about exploring the McGregor community, discovering its history and creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Will your name be the next added to the list of Wild Rice Days Medallion Hunt winners? The search begins now.

Hundreds Gather for 2026 Sandy Lake Memorial Paddle

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 18:49:35 GMT

Virgil Wind, the Chief Executive of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe shares a message of resilience, unity and hope

McGREGOR, Minn. — More than 300 people from Ojibwe communities across Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan gathered Wednesday, July 29, on the shores of Big Sandy Lake for the annual Mikwendaagoziwag Memorial Paddle, honoring the hundreds of Ojibwe men, women and children who died during the Sandy Lake Tragedy of 1850-51.

An estimated 50 to 60 canoes launched from the eastern shore of Big Sandy Lake following a traditional opening ceremony of prayer, tobacco offerings and reflection. Paddlers crossed approximately four and a half miles of open water to the Mikwendaagoziwag Memorial near Libby Dam, where several hundred additional participants awaited their arrival for the afternoon remembrance ceremony.

Mikwendaagoziwag, an Ojibwe word meaning “They Are Remembered,” commemorates one of the darkest chapters in Ojibwe history. Nearly 176 years ago, the United States government ordered Ojibwe people from present-day Wisconsin and Michigan to travel hundreds of miles to Sandy Lake under the false promise of receiving treaty annuity payments. Instead, they encountered delays, hunger, disease and harsh winter conditions. More than 400 people died at Sandy Lake or on the journey home.

Before the canoes departed, Mille Lacs Band Chief Executive Virgil Wind welcomed those gathered with a message centered on remembrance, unity and gratitude. “Good morning, relatives, elders, spiritual leaders, honored guests and descendants of those whose lives were forever changed by the Sandy Lake Tragedy,” Wind said. “On behalf of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, it is my honor to welcome each of you to this place of remembrance.”

Wind noted that participants had traveled from many Ojibwe nations whose ancestors endured the tragedy, reminding those gathered that while the suffering affected many individual communities, it continues to unite them as one Anishinaabe people.
“Today is not simply about remembering a painful chapter in our history,” he said. “It’s about honoring the lives of those who never returned home. It’s about recognizing the strength of those who survived and reaffirming our responsibility to carry their stories forward with truth and dignity.”

At the memorial overlooking Big Sandy Lake, Wind reflected further on the significance of the tragedy and the perseverance of the Ojibwe people.
He recounted how thousands of Ojibwe responded to the federal government’s order to travel to Sandy Lake expecting treaty payments guaranteed under earlier agreements. Instead, they were left waiting without adequate food, shelter or medical care until winter set in.
“Hundreds perished here and along the difficult journey back to their communities,” Wind said. “Families were forever changed, children lost parents, parents buried their children, and entire communities carried grief that would echo through generations.”

While acknowledging the injustice suffered by their ancestors, Wind emphasized that the story did not end in tragedy.
“Our people refused to disappear,” he said. “They endured, they resisted removal from their homelands, they protected our language, our ceremonies and our way of life. Because of their perseverance, we remain here today as proud Anishinaabe people.”
He encouraged younger generations to understand both the hardships and the resilience of those who came before them.
“Our young people deserve to know that they are descendants of survivors,” Wind said. “They come from people who refused to surrender their identity even when every effort was made to erase it.” Wind concluded by reminding those assembled that remembrance carries responsibility.

“We honor our ancestors by protecting our sovereignty, by teaching our children the truth of our history, and by strengthening our communities,” he said. “Every time we gather here, we affirm that this place will forever be one of remembrance, but also a place of resilience, unity and hope.”

Following prayers and tobacco offerings at the memorial, participants shared a traditional meal while visiting with relatives and friends from across the Great Lakes region. Elders, spiritual leaders and tribal representatives reflected on the lasting impact of the Sandy Lake Tragedy, including how public outrage over the suffering helped influence the Treaty of 1854, which affirmed permanent homelands for several Lake Superior Ojibwe bands and helped end federal efforts to remove them from their ancestral lands.

What began more than two decades ago as a small remembrance attended by only a handful of people has grown into one of the region’s most significant annual commemorations. Each July, the paddle across Big Sandy Lake serves not only as a memorial to those who never made it home, but as a visible reminder that the Ojibwe people, their language, traditions and treaty rights continue to endure.

As dozens of canoes glided quietly across the lake Wednesday morning, they carried more than paddlers. They carried generations of memory, honoring ancestors whose stories continue to shape the present and inspire future generations never to forget.

Faith, Vision and a Willingness to Say Yes Guide New CYC Camp Director

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 22:35:36 GMT

Nearly 80 years ago, Catholic Youth Camp was founded on the belief that young people could encounter Christ through time spent in nature, community and prayer.

BIG SANDY LAKE, Minn.—Nearly 80 years ago, Catholic Youth Camp was founded on the belief that young people could encounter Christ through time spent in nature, community and prayer.

Today, that same belief continues to guide the camp on the shores of Big Sandy Lake near McGregor — and it is also what new Executive Director Erika Johnson said she felt when she first stepped onto the property.

Founded in 1947 through the vision of Father Jack Sweeney, Catholic Youth Camp began as a small boys camp in northern Minnesota. The camp eventually found its permanent home on Big Sandy Lake, where generations of campers have encountered God through friendships, adventure and the beauty of creation.
When Johnson first visited the property, she said she sensed that the mission established by the camp’s early leaders was still present.

“There was just a spiritual sense in my gut that God is here,” Johnson said. “And I thought, if God is here, I can follow that. I can follow God. I can’t follow broken buildings.”

That feeling would help lead Johnson, a native of Canada, to take over as CYC’s executive director in the fall of 2024.

Johnson first discovered the position while looking for a new opportunity in late 2023.

“I had just been looking for a new job,” Johnson said. “It was fall of 2023, and I just Googled ‘executive nonprofit,’ and this camp came up.”

Interested in the position but aware that she would need a visa to work in the United States, Johnson contacted the camp and asked if she could speak with someone about the job.Her first conversation was with the board chair.

“My first question to her was, ‘Why are you even willing to talk to me? Because I’m Canadian, and I’m going to need a visa to work for you,’” Johnson recalled.
The board chair explained that her brother-in-law was an immigration lawyer and could likely help.

“I had worked in the States a lot, and knowing that there would be an immigration lawyer in our corner was like, ‘OK, I think God is up to something with me in this job,’” Johnson said.

Johnson visited CYC over Thanksgiving in 2023 to see the camp for herself. She had read that it was a rustic camp but wanted to know just how rustic it was.
“Is it falling apart rustic? Do I want to say yes to this?” she wondered.

Instead, Johnson said she immediately sensed something special about the property.

“I just knew right away there was something special about this place,” she said. “I thought, ‘You know what? If I can find out how much work the buildings need, I think this might be a really good fit.’”

While the property had plenty of areas in need of maintenance, Johnson said she saw past the peeling paint, aging buildings, broken doors and other cosmetic issues.

She saw potential — and a place where the mission of CYC could continue for generations to come.

“There’s just so much potential, and I could feel that and see that throughout the property,” she said.

The physical condition of the camp was also important. After Johnson accepted the position, a contractor walked the property with her, examining each building and providing reassurance that the facilities were safe and functional.

“Nothing was going to collapse. Nothing was going to fall down,” Johnson said. “There were no roofs that needed immediate attention.”

The buildings may need work in the years ahead, she said, but the camp remains a safe and workable place for young people.

That reassurance helped Johnson move forward with her first summer in 2025.

Her faith was tested almost immediately when the board asked her to launch a fund-raising campaign. Johnson knew fund-raising was part of her job, but she had just moved to the area and had few local connections.

“I am not from Minnesota. I had no contacts here,” she said.

The campaign, called CYC Bingo, allowed donors to choose a bingo square representing a donation amount. The goal was to raise $50,000 by Jan. 1.
Johnson was unsure how the campaign would perform.

“We hit January 1st with just over $51,000,” she said. “It was like, praise God. I don’t know how I did that because I don’t think I did.”
For Johnson, the success was another confirmation that she had made the right decision.

Her vision for CYC extends well beyond the summer camping season. One of her primary goals is to eventually make the property a year-round Catholic retreat and ministry center.

Johnson believes CYC has the potential to serve Catholic families, schools, parishes and organizations from throughout Minnesota and beyond.
She envisions future programming that could include confirmation retreats, Catholic high school groups, service weeks and retreats for priests and other Catholic groups.

The property also includes additional unused land and cabins that could eventually support future development.

Johnson’s long-term dream includes building a year-round facility with a small chapel, dining hall, private rooms, offices and staff housing. The facility would also make CYC more visible and accessible to the community throughout the year.

“I would like to make it a bit more obvious and hospitable and welcoming and just present year-round,” she said.

She also hopes the facility could be used by local organizations during the off season.

“We want to give back,” Johnson said. “That’s what I would like to see.”

While the long-term vision is ambitious, Johnson remains focused on the experience CYC provides today.

She said one of the things that has pleased her most since taking over has been the quality of the camper experience, regardless of the size of a particular camp session. One week may bring only six campers, while another may have more than 40. Johnson said the goal remains the same — creating a meaningful experience for every child.

During one boys’ week, a camper arrived without knowing any of the other boys. By the end of the week, when asked which friends he could bring back the following summer, he named all five of the other campers. “To me, that makes a difference in those kids’ lives,” Johnson said. She has also enjoyed watching campers grow in confidence, whether through friendships, prayer, learning about the saints or participating in activities such as archery.

Johnson began leading archery this summer and said she enjoys watching campers overcome their initial hesitation. “You see a kid come with zero confidence and have all the confidence by the time they end,” she said.

For Johnson, that transformation captures much of what CYC is about.

Campers spend their days swimming, playing games, participating in camp activities and building friendships. They also take part in Catholic programming, including learning about the rosary, praying together and learning about the saints.

Johnson said she has enjoyed seeing campers who initially arrive quiet and hesitant become more engaged as the week progresses.

“You get to watch them become closer than friends in a matter of five days,” she said.

That combination of faith, fellowship and outdoor adventure is what Johnson believes makes CYC special — and what has sustained the camp since its earliest days.

As she continues working to build relationships throughout Minnesota, strengthen partnerships and raise funds for the future, Johnson remains focused on the same principle that brought her to Big Sandy Lake in the first place.

“If God is in this, he’s the one that’s going to make it happen,” she said. “And if he’s not in this, there’s nothing I can do to make it happen. So we’re just going to live by faith and see what happens.”

Nearly eight decades after the camp’s founders envisioned a place where young people could grow closer to Christ through nature, community and prayer, Johnson believes that mission remains as relevant as ever.

With that faith guiding her work, she is looking to build on CYC’s long history while helping shape its future.

“I think God is doing something,” she said. “And I’m excited to see what that becomes.”

Red, White & Remembered

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 22:25:50 GMT

Will Brisk headlines inaugural festival celebrating America's 250th anniversary while honoring veterans, first responders, and community heroes.

MCGREGOR, Minn.— Music, patriotism and gratitude will come together Saturday, Aug. 1, as Forgotten Heroes Range & Retreat hosts its inaugural Red, White & Remembered Music Fest, a day long celebration marking America’s 250th anniversary while honoring the nation’s veterans and first responders.

The festival begins at noon at Forgotten Heroes Range & Retreat, just north of McGregor, and will feature live country music, local food vendors, a full bar, a live and silent auction, merchandise vendors and heartfelt tributes to those who have served. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for the outdoor event.

According to Forgotten Heroes co-founders Bret Sample and Brenda Evancevich, the festival came together in just a matter of weeks after an unexpected opportunity presented itself.

“We got a call that an up-and-coming Nashville country recording artist had an opening in his August schedule and wanted to do a fundraiser for Forgotten Heroes,” Sample said. “We only had about a month’s notice to put everything together, but we said, ‘Why not make it a music festival?’”

That artist is Will Brisk, an emerging country music singer-songwriter whose own journey to Nashville has taken an unconventional path. Before pursuing music full-time, Brisk worked as a middle school physical education teacher and coach. His transition from the classroom and athletic fields to the country music scene has helped him build a growing following as an independent artist.

Brisk has released a series of original songs that showcase his contemporary country sound, including “Long Lonely Road” in 2023, “Empty Chair & Unopened Beer” in 2024 and “Georgia Girl in Tennessee” in 2025. His 2026 releases, including “Hey Girl” and “Bootstomp Breakdown,” continue to expand his musical presence and reach.

Brisk has also embraced the modern independent music landscape, sharing original music, live performances and updates with fans through his social media presence as Will Brisk Music on TikTok and through streaming platforms such as Spotify. His appearance at the Red, White & Remembered Music Fest offers northern Minnesota audiences an opportunity to see the emerging Nashville artist perform live.

The event’s lineup begins with local favorite Lake Effect at noon, followed by the Jason Waldron Band, a well-known act throughout northern and western Minnesota. Brisk will headline the evening, closing the festival with a special patriotic performance and tribute to America’s veterans.

Between musical performances, organizers have planned ceremonies that reflect the organization’s mission of honoring those who have served.

Following the opening performance, attendees can participate in a live and silent auction featuring donated items from local supporters. Later in the afternoon, 13 area veterans will receive Quilts of Valor, handmade quilts presented in recognition of their military service and sacrifice.

U.S. Congressman Pete Stauber is expected to attend the ceremony and assist in presenting the quilts while reading each veteran’s service citation.
“It’s about the veterans,” Sample said. “That’s why we’re here.”

Admission is free for all veterans, active military, law enforcement officers, firefighters and EMS personnel.

The event will feature local businesses throughout the grounds, including food provided by Angie’s Acres and beverage service from Cory Eken. Additional vendors and merchandise booths will also be on site.

Organizers have arranged off-site parking with continuous shuttle bus service throughout the day. Handicap parking will be available at the venue, and on-site medical personnel, including EMS, will be present during the festival.

The gun ranges at Forgotten Heroes will be closed from Friday morning through Sunday night, and no firearms will be permitted on the property during the event.
Live radio broadcasts from the festival are scheduled from noon to 2 p.m., with stations giving away admission wristbands during the week leading up to the event.

For Evancevich, the celebration reflects the organization’s larger mission.

Forgotten Heroes Range & Retreat was inspired by her late husband, Chuck Evancevich, a paralyzed U.S. Air Force veteran. Following his passing in 2020, longtime friend and Army veteran Bret Sample proposed creating a fully handicap-accessible outdoor retreat where disabled veterans could enjoy shooting sports, camping and fellowship without barriers.

Today, the nonprofit offers free accessible pistol, rifle and archery ranges, and peer support opportunities for disabled veterans, first responders and their families. Beyond recreation, the organization is committed to combating veteran isolation and suicide by creating a welcoming place where no veteran feels forgotten.
The Red, White & Remembered Music Fest reflects that same commitment.

“This is more than a concert,” Sample said. “It’s a chance for the community to come together, celebrate our country, and recognize the sacrifices made by the men and women who have defended it.”

The festival runs throughout the day Saturday, Aug. 1, beginning at noon. Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early, use the shuttle parking, and spend the day celebrating music, patriotism and the heroes who continue to inspire the community.

Tickets are available at www.forgottenheroesmn.org/events and at the gate.

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Floodwood's Cole Arro Records First Career Hole-in-One During Catfish Days Alumni Tournament

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 15:52:44 GMT

A friendly round of golf turned into a day to remember.

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. — What began as a friendly round of golf became a day to remember for Floodwood's Cole Arro, who recorded his first career hole-in-one during the annual Catfish Days Alumni Golf Tournament at Pokegama Golf Course.

Arro aced the 172-yard eighth hole, a par 3, using a 6-iron while competing in the longtime alumni tournament held the Friday before Floodwood's Catfish Days celebration.

"It was my first one," Arro said. "I've been close before—probably within a foot or two—but never got one until now."

His playing partners—Zach Heggedahl, Al Suonvieri and Andrew Karpik—watched the shot find the cup. Fellow golfer Neil Johnson, who was playing in the group ahead, hurried back to the green to confirm the ball had dropped into the hole.

Arro, who plays in the Floodwood Men's League once a week with Tim Tollgaard, said he only recently returned to the game after taking several years away from golf.

"I got back into it last year," he said.

The memorable shot came during one of Floodwood's favorite Catfish Days traditions. Organized by Jason Erickson for more than 30 years, the alumni tournament brings together former classmates and friends for a day of golf at a different course each summer.

This year's event drew 28 golfers and featured its customary format, with players randomly paired into two-person scramble teams using a golf app. Arro teamed with Heggedahl, and the pair made the most of the opportunity by capturing the tournament championship.

In addition to cash prizes, the winners earned bragging rights for the year and their names will be added to the tournament's traveling championship trophy, a tradition that has become a highlight of the annual event.

While winning the tournament was rewarding, Arro said the hole-in-one is the accomplishment he will remember most.

A hole-in-one is one of golf's rarest achievements, with many players spending a lifetime pursuing one without success. Thanks to one perfectly struck 6-iron on Pokegama's eighth hole, Arro can now count himself among the select group of golfers who have experienced the feat.

The annual Catfish Days Alumni Golf Tournament remains one of the signature traditions leading into Floodwood's Catfish Days celebration, bringing alumni together each summer for friendly competition, fellowship and, this year, a memorable shot that will be talked about for years to come.

This version trims redundancy, improves pacing, strengthens the lead, and ends on a cleaner, more traditional newspaper feature note without overstating the achievement.

Log Home Wood Fired Pizza to Be Featured by America's Best Restaurants

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 15:44:56 GMT

Log Home Wood Fired Pizza has been selected for a feature by America's Best Restaurants

MCGREGOR, Minn. — Log Home Wood Fired Pizza has been selected for a feature by America's Best Restaurants, a national media and marketing company that highlights independently owned restaurants across the country.

The America's Best Restaurants Roadshow will visit the McGregor restaurant on July 30 to film an episode featuring owner and chef Rick Herman, the restaurant's history and its role in the community. The public and members of the media are welcome to attend the filming.

After spending nearly 30 years in education, Herman turned his passion for cooking into a second career. In 2014, he and his wife, Nancy, launched Log Home Wood Fired Pizza after discovering Fire Within, a Colorado-based wood-fired oven company, and attending the company's Wood Fired University training program.

Since opening, the restaurant has become known for its wood-fired artisan pizzas and Northwoods atmosphere. In addition to serving customers at its McGregor location, the business also caters special events with a mobile wood-fired pizza trailer.

Log Home Wood Fired Pizza has remained active in the community through initiatives including the MERC Pizza Year-Long Scholarship Fundraiser, donations to local schools and civic organizations, participation in the Read at Home Initiative, and support for McGregor Chamber and 4-H events.

"We're honored to be featured by America's Best Restaurants," Herman said. "Our mission has always been to serve McGregor and the Minnesota Northland a distinct food experience, traditional wood-fired pizza, and other wood-fired goodness, all created with fresh ingredients and artisan craftsmanship."

Among the restaurant's signature menu items are the Lumberjack artisan pizza, Sticky Maple Pepper Baked Chicken Wings and the Open Range artisan pizza. Many menu offerings incorporate regional ingredients, including wild rice and maple syrup, and are prepared in the restaurant's wood-fired oven.

The completed episode will premiere at a later date and will be shared through the restaurant's social media pages, America's Best Restaurants' website and its YouTube channel.

Log Home Wood Fired Pizza is located at 242 Highway 210 in McGregor.

Showcasing community’s greatest natural asset

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 15:35:26 GMT

City of Floodwood launches Kayak Rental Program

FLOODWOOD, Minn.— Residents and visitors can now experience the beauty of northern Minnesota’s waterways thanks to a new self-service kayak rental program at the Floodwood Riverwalk Pavilion.

Located at 323 W. Railroad St., the station offers eight kayaks, with paddles and life jackets included with every rental. Users simply download the Rent.Fun app, create an account, scan the QR code at the kiosk and unlock a kayak for their adventure.

According to Floodwood Deputy Clerk Cory Suonvieri, the project grew from conversations with community members about the city’s greatest strengths.
“When we first hired our Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA) representative, Jessica Pellinen, one of the first things she did was hold community meetings,” Cory said. “She wanted to learn what was important to residents, what our goals and vision were, and what people saw as our strengths and weaknesses.”
Those discussions consistently pointed to one resource. “Our rivers were identified as one of our greatest assets,” Cory said. “But many people who live here don’t own kayaks or have the opportunity to get out and enjoy them.”

Pellinen, Floodwood’s designated CEDA representative and regional manager, helped the city explore options for expanding recreational opportunities. She worked with city officials on grant strategies, project planning and community development efforts that eventually led to the kayak rental program. The CEDA partnership was made possible through funding from the Blandin Foundation.

Cory said the project was never intended to happen overnight. “We’ve been working on this for quite some time,” she said. “It was something the community felt was important because it benefits both our residents and visitors. It gives people another reason to come to Floodwood while also allowing those who live here to enjoy one of our best natural resources.”

The rental station was intentionally placed on the Floodwood River, which Cory describes as ideal for beginning and intermediate paddlers.
“The Floodwood River is perfect for kayaking,” she said. “You can paddle upstream and downstream without much difficulty.”
She cautioned that the nearby St. Louis River presents a much different experience.

“More experienced kayakers may choose to explore the St. Louis River, but depending on water levels and river flow, the current can be much stronger,” Cory said. “Paddling back upstream may be difficult or impractical, so we recommend that inexperienced paddlers stay on the Floodwood River where the current is slower.”

The city plans to include guidance at the rental station encouraging paddlers to choose a route that matches their experience level and to be aware of changing river conditions throughout the season.
Kayaks are available daily from sunrise to sunset. Rentals are $25 for up to two hours or $40 for up to four hours, with discounted daily and weekly rates available for GO members.

City officials hope the new amenity not only encourages outdoor recreation but also highlights one of Floodwood’s defining features.
“Our rivers are an incredible asset,” Cory said. “This is another way for people to experience everything Floodwood has to offer.”

How It Works: 1. Download the App and create your account in about 30 seconds.
2. Unlock Your Kayak. Scan the QR code at the rental station to unlock your kayak. Paddles and life jackets are included with every rental. 3. Enjoy Your Adventure Wear your life jacket at all times while on the water and enjoy exploring Floodwood’s beautiful waterways.
4. Return Your Equipment. Return your kayak to the rental station. In the app, select “Unlock” to dock the kayak, then choose “End Rental” and complete the return process.

Strong Roots, Safe Work, Beautiful Results

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:21:27 GMT

Eagle Lake Tree Service Brings Service to the Area

CROMWELL, Minn.—After more than 16 years in the tree service industry, Jon Lindman has turned years of hard work and hands-on experience into a business of his own. This spring, he officially launched Eagle Lake Tree Service LLC, bringing professional tree care, fair pricing, and a commitment to safety to homeowners throughout the Cromwell area.

“I’ve been in the tree service industry for over 16 years,” Lindman said. “I started with Lake State Tree Service out of Grand Rapids doing power line clearing, and I’ve pretty much been doing tree work ever since.”

Over the years, Lindman built extensive experience working on residential properties, caring for lake homes, removing hazardous trees, and completing trimming projects. After spending time in truck driving, he realized it was time to return to the work he knew best.

“I filed the LLC in April of this year,” he said. “It was time to go legit.”

Eagle Lake Tree Service operates under the slogan, “Strong Roots. Safe Work. Beautiful Results.” The company offers tree removal, tree trimming, storm damage cleanup, brush chipping, and hazardous tree removal. Fully licensed and insured, Lindman emphasizes safe work practices while providing dependable service at fair prices.

“We specialize in storm damage cleanup, danger trees, and regular tree trimming,” he said. “We’re trying to offer fair pricing for everyone.”

While the company is starting with core tree services, Lindman already has plans for future growth. He hopes to add stump grinding and stump removal services in the coming years, along with expanding into land clearing and trail clearing projects.

“You have to start somewhere,” Lindman said. “If you try to go too big too fast, it can make things difficult."
In the meantime, customers who need stump removal are still covered. Lindman works with a trusted, fully insured local subcontractor who specializes in stump grinding and site restoration. When requested, the service can include removing grindings, bringing in black dirt, seeding, and straw to help restore the lawn after the stump is removed.

Eagle Lake Tree Service handles every aspect of a tree removal project except the stump grinding itself, making the process seamless for homeowners.

Lindman’s background also gives him an advantage on difficult jobs. Before purchasing a boom truck this spring, nearly every tree removal he completed was done by climbing.

“Everything was done out of a saddle with climbing and rigging,” he explained. “We’re equipped to climb, so there’s really no height limitation.”

Whether responding to storm damage, removing dangerous trees, trimming overgrown branches, or cleaning up brush, Lindman says his goal is simple: provide quality workmanship, honest pricing, and dependable service to every customer.

Eagle Lake Tree Service LLC offers free estimates.

For more information or to schedule an estimate, contact Jon Lindman at 218-670-0465 or email eaglelaketreeservice@gmail.com.

McGregor City Hall-Library Partnership Moves Forward Following Council Approval

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:15:19 GMT

MCGREGOR, Minn.—The City of McGregor is moving forward with a proposal to relocate city hall administrative offices into a portion of the McGregor Public Library building as part of an effort to reduce operating expenses and strengthen long-term financial stability.

The proposal, presented by Mayor Steven Nistler, would convert a large storage area within the library into office space for city administrative functions. The plan is designed to consolidate municipal facilities, reduce duplicate operating costs, and make better use of existing public assets while continuing to provide library services to residents.

During the July 7 City Council meeting, council members approved Resolution #202616 authorizing the relocation of city hall offices to the library storage area by the end of October 2026. The council also reviewed a letter of support from East Central Regional Library (ECRL), which stated that library services would continue without interruption and that the partnership would allow public resources to be used wisely.

Under the proposed plan, phase one includes evaluating the library space, developing an office layout, installing technology infrastructure, adding security measures, and completing minor building improvements. Planned updates include adding a window, installing a sound-reducing door between the office area and meeting room, relocating the library book drop, and adding a sidewalk for proper access and egress.

City officials estimate construction costs will be minimal compared with the potential savings. The move is expected to save approximately $10,000 or more annually by reducing duplicated expenses such as rent, internet service, telephone costs, utilities, and other facility-related costs.
Officials emphasized that the goal is not to reduce the value of the library but to create a sustainable solution that supports both city operations and library services.

“The library should be viewed as an asset to the community,” participants noted during discussion. “We are trying to save money, support the library, and create more opportunities for the community.”

The council also continued discussion on the creation of a Library Committee, with updates to Resolution #202612 planned before it is brought back for consideration at the August 4 council meeting. Officials said the committee could help strengthen communication, support fundraising efforts, and identify future opportunities for the library.

Additional council actions during the July 7 meeting included approval of the vacation of Alder Street, approval of June meeting minutes, acceptance of the consent agenda, and approval of surplus services for the sale of the old city mower. The council also approved quotes from MPW for Hotel and Mable Street lift station repairs.

The McGregor Fire Department reported that it had located a Freightliner pumper and signed a purchase agreement for the equipment. Council members were also informed that the city received the CEDA RCP grant, with a 12-week engagement period expected to begin soon.

Other updates included upcoming candidate filings from July 14–28, the community survey beginning July 14–31 as part of the city’s comprehensive plan, and scheduled spongy moth management work planned for mid-July, weather permitting.

The council approved switching internet service providers to Paul Bunyan when available, with the goal of reducing costs. Members also approved the elimination of the vacating Maintenance Director.

The meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m. The next McGregor City Council meeting will be held August 4 at 6:00 p.m. at the McGregor Ambulance Station.

Pavilion renovation in Cromwell

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:10:04 GMT

CROMWELL, Minn.— City officials, community volunteers and residents gathered to celebrate the completion of a major renovation to the Cromwell Park Pavilion, marking the culmination of years of planning, fundraising and collaboration to modernize one of the community’s most cherished gathering places.

Speaking during the pavilion’s open house, Mayor Sharon Zalazny welcomed guests and recognized members of the Cromwell City Council, emphasizing that the project was the result of years of community partnership.
“This was a project that we all worked together on,” Zalazny said.
The pavilion has long served as the centerpiece for community celebrations, meetings and special events. Originally constructed as an open-air pavilion, the building underwent its first major transformation in 2001 under the direction of then-Mayor Dick Huhta. That project enclosed the structure, added a full-service kitchen and transformed it into the community center residents have enjoyed for more than two decades.
Today, the renovated facility seats approximately 250 people and features a reception and meeting area, a wood stage and dance floor, a full-service kitchen with serving counter, and four restrooms. The pavilion is available to rent for meetings, parties, family reunions, wedding receptions and other community or private events through the City of Cromwell.

While the building continued to serve residents well, city leaders recognized that additional improvements had become necessary. Before tackling the renovation, however, the city first addressed significant drainage issues within the park.
In March 2022, Zalazny assembled a committee representing many of Cromwell’s civic organizations, including the Community Club, Quilters, Young Old Timers, the playground group and other community members, to identify the building’s needs.
“It became clear at our very first meeting that we needed everything,” Zalazny said. “Heating, electrical, air conditioning and a complete kitchen renovation.”
The committee determined that outside funding would be essential. Working with the city’s engineering firm at the time, JPJ Engineering, Zalazny learned of Minnesota’s Small Cities Development Program grant opportunity and encouraged the city to apply.
Although city officials knew the grant would require a local financial match and had not budgeted those funds, they decided the opportunity was worth pursuing.

To the city’s surprise, Cromwell was awarded a $600,000 grant in September 2024, making the renovation project possible.
Receiving the grant meant the city would finance its required local share through a loan, while local organizations immediately stepped forward to help.
The Cromwell Community Club organized a spaghetti dinner and silent auction to raise funds, helping launch the project. Throughout construction, the city worked closely with Bolton & Menk engineers and architects, along with BP Builders, whose crews coordinated construction while allowing volunteers to complete portions of the work themselves to help reduce costs.
Zalazny praised the project partners for their flexibility and commitment to the community’s vision.
“They listened to what we wanted, and they worked us into the construction schedule so volunteers could complete projects like painting rather than paying for that work through the grant,” she said.

Community volunteers also contributed hundreds of hours to the renovation effort. Zalazny recognized dozens of residents by name and thanked the Community Club for contributing nearly $10,000 toward the pavilion’s new dance floor and window screens. She also singled out volunteer Dustin for going “over and above” throughout the project.
For Zalazny, the completed renovation represents much more than updated mechanical systems and a modernized kitchen.
“In a rural community like ours, a building like this holds a lot of memories,” she said.
She recalled weddings, community dinners, steak fries, meetings, dances and countless conversations that have taken place within the pavilion’s walls over the years.

“We not only renovated our community center,” Zalazny said. “We provided a place to build and strengthen our community for years to come.”
Following the ceremony, guests toured the renovated pavilion and enjoyed refreshments provided by Bolton & Menk and BP Builders as the community celebrated a renewed gathering place that builds upon improvements first envisioned under Mayor Dick Huhta and is now prepared to host generations of future celebrations, family gatherings, civic meetings and community events.

Residents interested in renting the pavilion for public or private functions may obtain rental information and reservation forms through Cromwell City Hall, where availability and rental rates are maintained.

Lake Minnewawa Association launches new weed harvester

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:04:38 GMT

LAKE MINNEWAWA— A major milestone in lake management efforts arrived on Lake Minnewawa last week as a newly purchased weed harvester, funded through a community-wide capital campaign, was delivered to McGregor on the morning of June 19, 2026.

The equipment was assembled shortly after arrival, launched into the water, and began harvesting operations by Monday, with strong community turnout marking the start of the season. Members of the Lake Minnewawa Association (LMA) said the day represented the culmination of years of planning, fundraising, and volunteer effort.
Many residents and supporters gathered to watch the launch and assist with final preparations. The LMA board credited donors, volunteers, and seasonal water quality team members for making the project possible.
“This has been a team effort,” LMA representatives said in a statement. “The LMA board has worked very hard to make this day happen. I am proud of the effort this team has made to make this day a reality. Our water quality team is ready to start the harvesting season. Thanks to all of you.”
The new harvester replaces aging equipment used to maintain navigable waterways and manage aquatic vegetation across the 2,451-acre lake and its 17.8 miles of shoreline.

The purchase follows a capital campaign launched in November 2024, when the association announced its goal of securing funding for a new harvesting machine and trailer. At the time, LMA emphasized that harvesting operations are essential not only for recreation, but also for long-term lake health.

The association has long maintained that vegetation management plays a key role in preventing the cycle of nutrient buildup that can occur when aquatic plants die and decompose in place—releasing phosphorus and other nutrients that contribute to future weed growth.

A continuation of decades of lake management

The arrival of the new equipment adds another chapter to a management strategy that stretches back more than four decades.
A 2006 Voyageur Press feature, “Managing the ‘Water of the Wild Goose,’” detailed how Lake Minnewawa’s recreational value and ecological challenges have been closely tied to aquatic vegetation growth patterns over time. The article described how the lake—known for fishing, boating, canoeing, wild rice harvesting, and other recreational uses—has long depended on coordinated efforts to remain usable during peak summer months.
By the 1970s, according to research cited by the Lake Minnewawa Association, excessive nutrient input from failing septic systems contributed to severe weed overgrowth. Conditions deteriorated to the point that boating and swimming were heavily restricted in midsummer, with reports of dense surface vegetation making navigation nearly impossible.
The lake was later classified as eutrophic by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, indicating high levels of plant nutrients that can accelerate aquatic plant and algae growth. Studies conducted by the DNR and LMA identified dozens of aquatic plant species in the lake, underscoring both its ecological richness and its management challenges.
In response, the association committed to mechanical harvesting as a long-term strategy. The first harvester was purchased in 1982 following years of fundraising, followed by a larger replacement unit in 1994 as operational demands increased. A dedicated storage facility was later constructed to support ongoing maintenance and equipment housing.
Those efforts laid the groundwork for the modern program that continues today under the Lake Minnewawa Association name, adopted in 1995.

Community support continues into a new era

The arrival of the newest harvester reflects both technological renewal and continued community investment in lake stewardship. Association leaders said the strong turnout for the launch demonstrated ongoing public support for maintaining lake access, water quality, and recreation.
The LMA water quality team is now underway for the season, beginning harvesting operations aimed at improving navigation channels and reducing excessive vegetation growth.
Association officials emphasized that the project would not have been possible without widespread community contributions, both financial and volunteer.
“Many people showed up to support this endeavor,” the association noted. “LMA thanks everyone who donated money and helped with getting it ready for launching.”
As the new harvester enters service, the association says it remains committed to the same core goals that have guided its work for decades: improving water quality, preserving recreation, and ensuring Lake Minnewawa remains a vital community resource for generations to come.

Historian’s Research Settles Bill Horn Bay Debate

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 18:51:22 GMT

BIG SANDY LAKE— For years, lake residents and visitors have debated a simple question: Is the prominent bay on the east side of Big Sandy Lake called Bill Horn Bay or Bellhorn Bay? According to local historian Robert O. Harder, the answer is clear.

“It was originally Bill Horn Bay,” Harder said, citing historical documents and early development maps dating back more than a century.
The debate has lingered for decades because both names have appeared on maps, promotional materials and in local conversation. However, Harder’s research traces the confusion to what he believes was a simple printing error made during the early development of Big Sandy Lake.
The story begins with a mysterious frontier character named Bill Horn.

The Man Behind The Name

By the late 1870s and early 1880s, the fur trade had largely disappeared from northern Minnesota, and only a small population of Ojibwe mixed-blood families and white settlers remained around Sandy Lake.

Among them was Bill Horn, a reclusive trapper and hermit who lived at the southern end of the large bay on the lake’s east side. Harder’s grandmother, Mamie Nelson, who lived from 1879 to 1976, remembered Horn as a “crazy old hermit.” According to family accounts, local Ojibwe residents believed Horn possessed “very bad medicine,” a reputation that may have helped him discourage unwanted visitors.

Another longtime resident, logger Jim Murphy, personally knew Horn and later described him as “a wicked old devil.” Murphy also recalled that the body of water was known during Horn’s lifetime as “Bill Horn’s Bay. ” Those recollections are among the earliest known references to the name.

How Big Sandy Got Its Name

The bay-name controversy is closely tied to another change in local history—the naming of Big Sandy Lake itself. Prior to the 1920s, the lake was commonly known simply as Sandy Lake. That changed in January 1921 when Minneapolis developers Hay-Knights and Tingdale Realty partnered with local land dealer Marcus Nelson to promote shoreline development on the lake. Seeking a more marketable name that would distinguish the lake from numerous other Sandy Lakes across Minnesota, the developers began referring to it as “Big Sandy Lake.”
The name stuck and soon became universally accepted.

At the same time, the developers released promotional brochures and plat maps advertising lots in what they called “Big Sandy Lake Highlands,” one of the earliest planned developments on the lake. According to Harder, those documents provide the strongest evidence in the naming debate.

The Smoking Gun

Harder’s research uncovered a Hay-Knights plat map dated Jan. 1, 1921, that clearly labels the bay as “Bill Horn Bay.”
“As far as I can determine, both the names ‘Big Sandy Lake’ and ‘Bill Horn Bay’ appear in print for the first time on this brochure,” Harder wrote in a 2010 historical article for the Big Sandy Lake Association. The evidence suggests the original name honored the colorful trapper who once lived there. But something changed.

On a second printing of the brochure and in later promotional materials, “Bill Horn Bay” suddenly appeared as “Bell Horn Bay.”
After studying the issue extensively, Harder concluded the most likely explanation is a simple typographical mistake.

“It is my conjecture, based on considerable research into the matter, that the change was likely an accident,” Harder wrote. “Most probably a printer’s error on the second brochure whereby the ‘i’ was inadvertently changed to an ‘e.’”

Once the mistake appeared in printed materials, it spread.

Developers may have decided it was too costly to discard brochures and maps already in circulation. Harder also noted that “Bell Horn” may have sounded more pleasing to some ears, making correction less of a priority. Over time, the mistaken name became embedded in local usage, creating a debate that has continued for generations.

Historical Evidence Points One Direction

While both names remain familiar to many lake residents today, Harder’s research indicates that the original and historically accurate name is Bill Horn Bay.
The evidence includes firsthand accounts from people who knew Bill Horn, local oral history passed down through families who lived on Sandy Lake in the late 1800s, and most importantly, the earliest known printed plat map from 1921 identifying the bay as Bill Horn Bay. For Harder, the historical record leaves little room for doubt.

More than a century after developers first marketed lots on Big Sandy Lake, the mystery appears solved: the bay was named for an eccentric trapper who once called its shoreline home, and a printer’s mistake likely transformed Bill Horn Bay into Bellhorn Bay.

As local historians continue preserving the stories of Big Sandy Lake, the tale serves as a reminder that sometimes a single misplaced letter can create a debate that lasts for generations.

Everything You Need to Know

Learn more about Big Sandy Lake, from its history to upcoming events.

Help Keep the Tradition Alive: Support the Shamrock Lakes Fireworks Show

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 18:39:09 GMT

Help Keep the Tradition Alive: Support the Shamrock Lakes Fireworks Show

McGREGOR, Minn. – Every year, families, friends, and visitors gather at Shamrock Lakes to celebrate Independence Day with one of the area’s favorite traditions...a spectacular fireworks display over the Big Sandy Lake.

What many people don’t realize is that this event is not funded by tax dollars or a city budget. The Shamrock Lakes fireworks show is made possible almost entirely through donations from local residents, businesses, and community supporters.

Each year, the cost of the fireworks continues to rise, and while generous donations help, they often don’t cover the full expense. The remaining costs are absorbed by the volunteers who organize the event because they believe this tradition is worth preserving for everyone to enjoy.

If you and your family look forward to the fireworks each year, please consider making a contribution. Every donation, large or small, helps ensure the show can continue for years to come.

Donations can be made securely through our nonprofit fundraising page at ShamrockLakesFireworks.com.
Local businesses are also invited to become sponsors. Sponsorships not only help fund the event but also demonstrate a commitment to supporting one of our community’s most cherished traditions.

Thank you to everyone who has donated, volunteered, or sponsored the fireworks in the past. Your generosity makes this celebration possible.
To donate or learn more, visit www.ShamrockLakesFireworks.com.

New Owners bring Farm-to-Table vision to Fireside Restaurant in McGregor

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 19:59:08 GMT

When the opportunity to purchase Fireside Restaurant in McGregor unexpectedly arose, Ken Sizemore didn’t need much time to consider it.

“I didn’t even hesitate,” Ken said. “I said, ‘Let’s do it.'”

Ken and his wife, Angie Johnson, recently became the new owners of the longtime McGregor dining destination, taking over from previous owners Ty and Corey, whose work and dedication they had long admired. “It was kind of a spur-of-the-moment thing,” Ken said.

“We’ve always admired Ty and Corey and loved what they’ve done. When the opportunity came up, it just felt right.”

For Ken and Angie, the acquisition represents much more than restaurant ownership. It is the next step in a rapidly growing agricultural enterprise centered on cattle, meat processing, and direct-to-consumer food sales through their family operation, Angie’s Acres.

Founded in 2021, Angie’s Acres began with a simple goal: providing family and friends with high-quality, ranch-raised beef and pork. The idea emerged after Ken and Angie purchased a half beef that failed to meet their expectations despite its premium price. That experience became the catalyst for launching their own operation.

What began as a personal frustration soon evolved into a mission-driven business. Angie’s Acres was named in honor of Angie, whose dedication, care, and passion are reflected throughout the ranch. Her commitment to quality and consistency has helped shape every aspect of the operation, from animal care to customer relationships.

Today, that same philosophy is expanding beyond the ranch and into Fireside Restaurant. The couple views the restaurant as the ultimate extension of their farm-to-table vision.

“When I stopped and thought about it, being able to have that outlet at our fingertips to put all of our products into and offer them directly to customers—it doesn’t get any more direct than that,” Ken said. “Having a restaurant that’s truly farm-to-table is something special.”

Their journey has been fueled by strong customer support, something Ken says remains at the center of every business decision.

“We wouldn’t be anything without our customers,” he said. “Whether it’s somebody coming into our farm store and buying one pound of ground beef or a wholesale customer buying $10,000 worth of product, they’re equally important.”

That appreciation stems from personal experience. “I grew up pretty poor,” Ken said. “I remember walking to the bread store with change in my pocket just to buy a loaf of bread. Sometimes it feels like a calling to be able to feed people.”

Today, that mission extends far beyond feeding his own family. “It’s not only feeding our family,” he said. “We’re feeding other people’s families, too.”

Building a Local Food Network

The purchase of Fireside comes as Ken and Angie continue expanding their agricultural operations. After facing challenges with meat-processing capacity, the couple purchased a turn-key processing facility in Henning, Minnesota. The facility is now entering a new chapter as a USDA-inspected processing plant, allowing the business to harvest and process its own beef.

The expansion opens the door to new opportunities, including national distribution of products such as beef sticks and summer sausage. “We’ve invested a lot of time, money and effort to get here,” Ken said. “Now we’re on the tail end of that process.”

The USDA certification also supports a broader vision of helping regional livestock producers by providing affordable processing services, transportation, packaging, and product traceability. “Our goal is to remove as many headaches as possible for farmers,” Ken explained. “We’ve been through those challenges ourselves, and we know what matters.”

More Growth Ahead

The couple’s ambitions extend beyond McGregor. Plans are moving forward for Palisade City Meats, a new retail operation that will offer fresh and frozen meats, deli-style products, and value-added items. While processing will take place in Henning, the Palisade location will serve as a regional retail hub.

Meanwhile, the former bottle shop near Fireside is also being given a new purpose. The couple plans to transform the space into a specialty meat store called The Cattle Woman’s Cut, LLC, offering fresh and frozen beef, pork, jerky, beef sticks, and other products sourced directly from their operation. “We thought, what better than having a place where people can stop before heading to the lake, pick up a steak, a bottle of wine, maybe a little bourbon, and head home?”

The new store is expected to open this fall.

National Recognition

The growth of the business has also created opportunities on a national stage. This summer, Ken and Angie will travel to Canton, Ohio, where Certified Angus Beef cattle they are currently feeding will be served at the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame Gold Jacket Dinner.

Ken and Angie are working with Hall of Fame Farms, owned and operated by NFL Hall of Famer Joe Thomas of the Cleveland Browns, by feeding cattle that will be processed and served at the banquet. “It’s been very humbling,” Ken said. “We’ve been blessed with opportunities that we never imagined.”

A Commitment to Community

While expansion plans continue, Ken says the focus at Fireside remains simple: provide excellent food, outstanding service, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The new owners plan gradual renovations to the restaurant, beginning with rest room updates and additional improvements throughout the facility. They are also exploring the return of live music, community events, and monthly meat raffles.

Most importantly, they want every customer to leave satisfied. “We want this to be a comfortable place where people can come in and have a wonderful dinner,”

Ken said. “Whether they’re here for a meal with family or celebrating with friends, we want them to have a great experience.”

If customers aren’t satisfied, he says he wants to hear about it. “We’re not perfect,” Ken said. “But we’re going to do everything we can to make it right.”

Ken and Angie also announced their annual Summer Stock Up Sale, scheduled for July 1–5 at Angie’s Acres, located at 43052 Nature Ave. in Aitkin.

“We are going to fill those freezers this year. Best beef, best prices in the state,” the couple said. “We will also be hosting a free lunch from 12 to 3 p.m. on July 4. On the menu will be free burgers and bratwurst with all the trimmings.”

“The first year we offered samples at the farm, and last year I think we fed about 235 people,” Ken added. “We’re going to do it again this year and hopefully feed even more people.”

Later in the summer, Ken will donate beef, cook, and serve food at the 250 Years Red, White & Remembrance Music Fest at Forgotten Heroes Ranges and Retreat, located at 23796 450th St. in McGregor. The event begins at noon on Aug. 1.

For Ken and Angie, Fireside Restaurant represents more than another business venture. It is an extension of the values that built their farm and meat operation: quality products, customer service, and a belief that feeding people is meaningful work. “Everything we do is a representation of our farm and what we stand for,” Ken concluded. “That’s the same focus we’re bringing to Fireside.”

Everything You Need to Know

See what's happening at Fireside, including upcoming events, hours, menu options, and more.

Panthers Make Memorable State Run

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 17:08:03 GMT

Panthers Make Memorable State Run

ST. CLOUD — South Ridge capped another successful high school baseball season with a fourth-place finish at the Minnesota Class A State Baseball Tournament, opening with a 7-0 quarterfinal victory over Brandon-Evansville before suffering a pair of one-run losses to Red Lake County (4-3) in the semifinals and Murray County Central (5-4) in the third-place game. The Panthers finished 23-6 and reached the state semifinals for just the third time in school history, coming within a single run of advancing to the championship game.

South Ridge opened the tournament in dominant fashion as senior Gavin Willeck threw a complete-game shutout and the Panthers rolled past Brandon-Evansville 7-0. The victory advanced South Ridge to the state semifinals, where it squared off against defending state champion Red Lake County in one of the tournament's most competitive games.

The Panthers and Rebels were tied entering the sixth inning before Red Lake County pushed across the eventual winning run in a 4-3 decision.

"It was a very tight game the whole way," South Ridge head coach Aaron Weber said. "It's baseball. A couple things don't go your way. In the end, we just didn't give ourselves enough opportunities to score, and they did. That was really the difference."

Coach Weber said the game could easily have gone either direction.

"If you play that exact game with the same lineup and the same pitchers 10 times, I'm guessing it's five and five," Weber said. "It was a well-fought battle. We lost, and it hurts, but that's baseball."

The Panthers were limited to three hits by Red Lake County ace Ben Gullingsrud, who also helped lead the Rebels to the state title a year earlier.

"He's a gamer," Weber said. "We haven't faced a lot of guys like him this year. He threw a pretty sharp ball. We still had chances to win the game, but we just didn't get it done."

South Ridge had little time to recover emotionally before returning to the field for the third-place game. The Panthers built a 3-0 lead against Murray County Central before a four-run fifth inning turned the game around.

"Our boys were pretty emotional after that semifinal loss," Weber said. "We were one play away from getting to the championship game. It was hard to bounce back."

Despite finishing fourth, Weber said the tournament run should not overshadow what the Panthers accomplished during the season.

"It kind of leaves a bad taste because of how close we were, but it was still a great season," Weber said. "We played really good teams, traveled all over the state, went to Florida, and made a lot of memories. There are a lot of really good baseball players who never get the chance to play on that field. Our guys got that opportunity, and that's pretty special."

The Panthers finished the year with a 23-6 record. Seniors Benjamin Pretasky and Gavin Willeck earned All-State honors, while Pretasky was also selected to the Class A All-Tournament Team after helping lead South Ridge's memorable state tournament run.

Panthers Blank Chargers, Reach Semifinals

ST. CLOUD — South Ridge rode a dominant pitching performance from senior Gavin Willeck and an explosive offensive attack to earn a spot in the Minnesota Class A State Baseball Tournament semifinals, defeating Brandon-Evansville 7-0 on June 11 at Joe Faber Field.

The Panthers scored in five different innings and controlled the game from start to finish behind Willeck's complete-game shutout. He scattered seven hits, walked one, and struck out five while never allowing Brandon-Evansville to mount a serious threat.

South Ridge took a 1-0 lead in the second inning on Samuel Pretasky's RBI triple and steadily built the advantage with runs in the third, fourth, fifth and sixth innings. Benjamin Pretasky powered the offense, finishing 3-for-4 with a home run, triple and two RBIs. Samuel Pretasky and Kingsley Archambault each added RBI triples, while Parker Morse drove in two runs.

Box Score

South Ridge 7, Brandon-Evansville 0

South Ridge Leaders

Benjamin Pretasky: 3-for-4, HR, 3B, 2 RBI

Samuel Pretasky: 1-for-3, 3B, RBI

Kingsley Archambault: 1-for-3, 3B, RBI

Parker Morse: 1-for-4, 2 RBI

Gavin Willeck (W): 7 IP, 7 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 5 K

Brandon-Evansville Leaders

Simon Quinn: 2-for-3, 2B

Jack Kelly: 2-for-3

Evan Dingwall: 1-for-3

Landon Sullivan (L): 5 IP, 7 R, 6 ER, 4 BB

Rebels Edge Panthers In Semifinal

ST. CLOUD — South Ridge's state championship hopes came up one run short as Red Lake County held off the Panthers for a 4-3 victory in the Minnesota Class A State Tournament semifinals on June 12 at Joe Faber Field.

The Panthers erased an early deficit and tied the game in the fifth inning, but Red Lake County answered with the go-ahead run and held on behind a complete-game effort from Ben Gullingsrud.

Kingsley Archambault led South Ridge by going 1-for-2 with a triple, run scored and RBI. Samuel Pretasky added a double and a run scored, while Peyton Sivongsay drove in a run. Benjamin Pretasky and Archambault combined for nine strikeouts on the mound.

Will Gieseke scored twice and drove in a run for Red Lake County, while Dawson Erickson contributed a hit, run scored and stolen base.

Box Score

Red Lake County 4, South Ridge 3

South Ridge Leaders

Kingsley Archambault: 1-for-2, 3B, R, RBI

Samuel Pretasky: 1-for-3, 2B, R

Peyton Sivongsay: RBI

Benjamin Pretasky: 2 IP, 4 K

Kingsley Archambault (L): 4 IP, 5 K

Red Lake County Leaders

Will Gieseke: 1-for-2, 2 R, RBI

Dawson Erickson: 1-for-2, R, SB

Gunnar Halverson: RBI

Cain Cardinal: RBI

Ben Gullingsrud (W): 7 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 0 ER, 5 K

Panthers Finish Fourth At State

ST. CLOUD — South Ridge built an early three-run lead but could not hold off Murray County Central, falling 5-4 in the Class A State Tournament third-place game on June 12 at Joe Faber Field.

The Panthers led 3-0 through four innings before Murray County Central took advantage of defensive miscues during a four-run fifth inning. South Ridge rallied in the seventh and brought the tying run aboard, but the comeback ended one run short.

Samuel Pretasky paced the Panthers offensively, going 2-for-3 with an RBI and a walk. Daniel Hakes added an RBI hit, while Blake Olson drove in a run and scored. Parker Morse suffered the loss despite allowing just four hits over five innings, with all four runs against him unearned.

Murray County Central scored five runs on only four hits and received strong pitching from Dugan Kluis and Teague Meyer, who earned the save.

Box Score

Murray County Central 5, South Ridge 4

Murray County Central Leaders

Teague Meyer: 1-for-4, RBI, R

Tristan Behrends: 1-for-3, RBI, BB, 2 SB

Carter Hanson: 1-for-3, RBI, R

Dugan Kluis (W): 6 IP, 5 H, 4 R, 3 ER, 6 BB, 2 K

Teague Meyer (SV): 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K

South Ridge Leaders

Samuel Pretasky: 2-for-3, RBI, BB

Daniel Hakes: 1-for-3, RBI

Blake Olson: RBI, R

Parker Morse (L): 5 IP, 4 H, 4 R, 0 ER, 1 K

Local Expertise, Personal Service

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 18:13:11 GMT

Justin Bergman Launches IT North

HIBBING, Minn.— After years of working behind the scenes to keep businesses connected, Justin Bergman is stepping into a new role—business owner. With the launch of IT North, Bergman is bringing reliable, locally focused IT support to an area he believes has long been underserved.

Bergman’s path into technology began early. At just 21, he entered the managed IT field in Grand Rapids, working for Computer Enterprise and Connecting Point. When both companies were eventually acquired, he transitioned into freelance work, continuing to build hands-on experience across a wide range of systems and client needs.

He later joined a large web hosting company that supported high-profile clients, including Sprint and U.S. government systems. That role expanded his technical scope even further, preparing him for the complex environments he would later manage.

Most recently, Bergman spent five years at Floe International in McGregor, where he handled nearly every aspect of the company’s IT infrastructure. “Anything that plugged into the internet was under our purview,” he said. His responsibilities included managing networks, wireless systems, approximately 95 computers, and 30 servers, along with cybersecurity, backups, and software updates. He also supported audio-visual setups for company meetings and handled specialized technical needs outside the office.

The experience gave him both technical depth and a clear understanding of how critical responsive IT support is to daily operations.

From Side Business to Full-Time Service

Bergman launched IT North in January 2024 as a nights-and-weekends venture. Starting small with just two clients, the business grew steadily through referrals, reaching seven clients by 2025.

What pushed the company forward wasn’t just growth—it was a consistent pattern of unmet need.

“We were getting calls from businesses that didn’t have local IT support,” Bergman said. “Some were waiting up to five days just to get a password reset.”

Seeing a clear gap in the market, Bergman’s brother, Nathan Bergman, supports the company financially and helps provide strategic direction. The company may also consider hiring before bringing additional family members on board.

Another key advantage IT North provides is AI-driven efficiency. By utilizing AI in the background, the company can streamline routine tasks, allowing more focus on complex client needs and fast problem resolution.

Flexible and Affordable IT Solutions

One of IT North’s defining features is its flexible service model. Bergman understands that not all businesses want to commit to monthly contracts, so he offers both subscription-based plans and on-demand service.

“We don’t force anyone into a subscription,” he explained. “If you just need help once in a while, you can call us.”

For those who prefer ongoing support, IT North offers tiered service plans. The Core plan includes antivirus protection, system monitoring, and routine updates for operating systems and common software. The Standard plan builds on that by covering repairs for monitored issues at no additional cost, helping businesses better predict their monthly IT expenses.

Bergman says his services are typically 20 to 30 percent more affordable than larger regional providers, while still delivering the same essential support. Remote access tools also allow IT North to resolve many issues quickly without the added cost of travel, though on-site service is always available when needed.

A Focus on Local Response

At its core, IT North is built around responsiveness and community connection. Bergman’s goal is to provide fast, reliable support to local businesses that might otherwise be overlooked by larger companies.

By combining years of experience with a flexible approach, he aims to simplify IT for clients and eliminate long wait times for basic services.

“We’re local, and we can respond quickly,” he said. “That makes a big difference.”

As IT North continues to grow, Bergman remains focused on delivering practical solutions backed by real-world experience—helping businesses stay connected, secure, and productive.

For more information or to schedule service, contact IT North at 218-256-4249 or email info@itnorth.net

Fourth Generation Logger Raquel Wood

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 18:03:31 GMT

Balancing Work in the Woods and Industry Voice

COTTON, Minn.— In the forests of the Northern Minnesota, logging is more than an occupation—it’s a legacy. For fourth-generation logger Raquel Wood, that legacy is not only carried forward through hands-on work in the woods, but also through storytelling, advocacy, and communication within the industry. Her unique role bridges tradition and modern outreach, ensuring that the voices of loggers and truckers are both heard and preserved.

Raquel grew up immersed in logging. As part of a multigenerational family business, she, along with her brother Vinny, represents the fourth generation continuing a line of work that demands resilience, skill, and adaptability. “Vinny runs the buncher in the woods right now,” added Raquel. “He is very skilled. He is very mechanically inclined and repairs the equipment.”

Raquel’s father, Peter, a third-generation logger, remains a central influence—not only as a mentor in the woods but also through his involvement in industry media.

“I kind of always helped out, but it wasn’t really my interest at first,” Raquel explains. “Then as I got older, it was like—this is actually pretty fun.”
That shift in perspective led her to fully embrace the work. By 18, she had earned her Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), learning to drive semi-trucks from her father before completing formal training.

“My dad actually taught me how to drive semi,” she says. “It took a while to get the hang of shifting—it’s all about timing—but once I got it, I really started to enjoy it.”

Today, she balances driving, working in the woods, and supporting the family operation in multiple roles.

A Voice for the Industry

While Raquel’s work in logging is deeply hands-on, her impact extends far beyond the job site. She has become an active communicator within the regional logging community, particularly through her involvement with the Associated Contract Loggers and Truckers (ACLT).

Her writing journey began in 2023 with the Great Lakes Timber Professionals Association (GLTPA), where she still contributes monthly articles.

“It started back in ’23 writing for GLTPA,” she says. “Mostly covering events and things happening in the industry. I still do an article every month.”

Her work often includes photography and coverage tied to her father’s radio show, giving readers a closer look at the people and conversations shaping the logging world.

Leadership Beyond the Woods

In late 2025, Raquel took on the task of reviving the ACLT’s newsletter, bringing new life to a publication that had been inactive for several years, while also stepping into a growing administrative role within a regional logging and trucking group. Initially hired to help with a banquet, her responsibilities quickly expanded, reflecting both her leadership abilities and deepening involvement in the industry.

Today, Raquel balances part-time administrative work with her time in the woods, using the newsletter and her leadership position to strengthen communication, highlight industry issues, and keep members informed and connected.

Carrying the Legacy Forward

For Raquel, the most rewarding part of logging isn’t just the work itself—it’s the people and the purpose behind it, both of which drive her commitment to carrying her family’s legacy into the future. “The loggers and truckers really are the salt of the earth,” she says. “They’re great people—always willing to help.”

Raquel also takes pride in the environmental role logging plays, from responsible forest management to wildfire prevention and producing essential materials. That sense of purpose, combined with strong community ties and a deep-rooted connection to the land, fuels her passion not only to continue working in the woods but also to advocate for and represent the industry.

Whether she’s hauling loads, writing articles, or sharing stories through the ACLT Update, Raquel is helping ensure that the legacy she inherited continues to grow and evolve.

Honored for Sustainable Forestry Leadership

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 17:58:58 GMT

J&A Logging's Jesse Anderson named Logger of the Year

WRIGHT, Minn.—A handcrafted plaque shaped like the state of Minnesota now sits as a symbol of decades of hard work, family legacy, and a deep commitment to the land. This year, Jesse Anderson of J&A Logging was named “Logger of the Year” by the Minnesota SFI Implementation Committee, recognizing not just production, but a philosophy rooted in sustainable forestry. For Jesse, the honor traces back generations.

“It started with my dad,” Jesse said in an interview. “He was logging as long as I can remember. Back then, logging and farming kind of went hand in hand.”
But Jesse is just as quick to point out another key influence in his upbringing—his mother, Rene. He recalls growing up on a dairy farm where hard work was simply part of daily life. “My mom worked just as hard as anyone,” he said. “We were out there milking cows, doing chores every day.” That early exposure to responsibility and long hours, he explained, helped shape the work ethic he carries into the logging business today.

His father began working for other operations before launching his own business in the 1980s. Anderson grew up helping on weekends, learning the trade firsthand. In 1999, after a stint in construction, he made a decision that would define his career.

“I was going to go back to construction that summer, and I didn’t,” he said. “I just stayed in the woods. It’s nicer work for me. You go out there and do things your way—you don’t have to argue with anybody.”

From those early days working alongside his father, J&A Logging has grown into a six-truck operation producing roughly 20,000 cords of wood annually. The crew hauls primarily to regional mills, with a steady output year-round—long winter days often stretching into Saturdays.

But it’s not just the scale of the operation that earned Anderson recognition. It’s how the work gets done.

Sustainability sits at the core of J&A Logging’s approach. Anderson emphasizes full utilization of harvested trees, including chipping tops that might otherwise go unused.

“Utilization is a big thing,” he said. “Especially on private land. They might not get a lot out of the chips, but their woods are cleaned up nice when we’re done.”
That attention to detail hasn’t gone unnoticed. In nomination materials supporting Anderson’s selection, one supporter wrote, “Their professionalism, execution, and attention to detail while working in difficult conditions has earned them special notice. They have earned my respect and rating of ‘Excellence.’”
Another nominator highlighted the family’s deep roots and tireless work ethic: “As a generational operation, I would say logging runs in their blood—however, I’m not convinced they have blood and instead run on sap.”

Beyond the job site, J&A Logging has built a reputation for community involvement. The company has supported local organizations and events including Carlton County 4-H, Dollars for Scholars, and the Kaleb Anderson Memorial 5K. J&A Logging also donates to Cromwell-Wright Fire Department and Log a Load for Kids.
“Their family has been extremely community oriented and have donated their time and money to support events,” a nominator noted.

For Anderson, the reward isn’t just in recognition—it’s in overcoming the daily challenges of the job.

“It’s always something,” he said. “Weather, breakdowns, conditions—it’s never easy. But when you figure it out and get through it, that’s the rewarding part.”
Changing weather patterns in recent years have made the work even more unpredictable, with inconsistent winters complicating traditional logging cycles. Still, Anderson and his crew have adapted, investing in newer equipment to reduce downtime and improve efficiency.

“You’re either paying for breakdowns or you’re paying for equipment,” he said. “Now we just go and get things done.”

Despite the recognition, Anderson remains grounded—and focused on the future of the industry. One of his biggest concerns is public perception.

“I wish people understood more about the benefits of a younger forest,” he said. “They drive by a clear cut and think it’s devastation. But five years later, it’s growing back. Wildlife thrives in that new growth.”

He points to the broader potential across Minnesota’s forestland, noting that only a fraction is actively managed.

“There’s a lot of room for growth in responsible forestry,” he said.

Still, entering the industry isn’t easy. High equipment costs and barriers to entry mean many logging operations remain family-run, passed down through generations—just like J&A Logging.

Anderson is quick to credit the people behind the operation. Longtime crew members Cory Aho and Mike (Mick) Johnson have each spent years in the woods with him, while Mike Turnock and Roger Manninen round out the core team. His son, Jacob, joined the operation after graduating in 2022 and now splits time between driving truck and running equipment. Behind the scenes, Anderson’s wife Jana handles the business’s bookkeeping, helping keep the operation running smoothly.

“You can’t do it without a good crew,” Anderson said.

As the forestry industry evolves—with emerging markets like cellulose-based products and even aviation fuel derived from wood chips—Anderson remains cautiously optimistic.

“If that takes off, it’ll be a good market for us,” he said.

For now, though, the focus remains where it has always been: in the woods, doing the work right.

The “Logger of the Year” award may mark a milestone, but for Jesse Anderson and J&A Logging, it’s simply another chapter in a story still growing—one harvest at a time.

New Ownership at Last Chance Pub & Grub

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 19:54:01 GMT

Cindy Kerrick takes over at Last Chance Pub & Grub

McGREGOR, Minn.— A familiar face behind the bar is now the official owner of one of McGregor’s longtime gathering spots. As of June 1, Cindy Kerrick has purchased Last Chance Pub & Grub, stepping into ownership after years of friendship, bartending shifts, and encouragement from the previous owners.

Kerrick is the sister of former owner Donnie Fitzsimonds (Becky Reno Knoop), who helped build the bar’s reputation as a local favorite known for its casual atmosphere, regular events, and steady community crowd.

What began as a retirement plan for Kerrick slowly turned into a new chapter in business ownership.

“I was at home retired. I was tired,” Kerrick said, reflecting on her decision. After stepping away from previous work in long-term care and corporate roles, she had no immediate plans to return to business ownership. “I had been retired and kind of staying at home, and I didn’t have that activity. I was bored.”

For a time, Kerrick occasionally helped out behind the bar, working Sunday shifts alongside Becky Reno Knoop. Over the winter, she spent more time learning the rhythm of the business from both Fitzsimonds and Knoop, who had occasionally floated the idea of her taking over.

“They would say, ‘Do you want to buy the bar?’ And I would say, ‘No, I’m retired,’” Kerrick said. “Then one day I thought, you know, it’s fun here. I just have fun. So I called Becky and said, ‘Yeah, I think I’ll buy the bar.’”

The decision quickly gained momentum. Knoop, preparing for a move to Texas and seeking more balance in her own life, welcomed the transition.

“She was all excited,” Kerrick said. “She just needed work-life balance.”

Kerrick emphasized that stepping into ownership feels less like a leap into the unknown and more like a continuation of something she already understands.

“I enjoy it. I’m not coming into something that’s unknown. I feel like I’ve been having fun with everything.”

While Kerrick’s professional background includes managing demanding schedules in healthcare and corporate environments—often working 60 to 80 hours a week—she said the energy of a busy establishment feels familiar.

“I just like being around people,” she said. “When I was retired and staying at home, I didn’t have that activity.”

Keeping traditions, adding new idea s

Under Kerrick’s ownership, many of the bar’s popular traditions will remain in place, including games, community events, and the casual atmosphere that regulars have come to expect.
“We’re going to do the same games and the same activities,” she said. “And throw a little crazy stuff in there now and then.”

Some updates are also planned, particularly around food offerings. Kerrick hopes to expand the menu with more variety, including additional appetizers, salads, and lighter summer options. A refreshed menu is expected to be finalized by mid-July after customer feedback is gathered.
“I want to introduce some healthier summer foods and get feedback from people as we go,” she said.

From seasonal bartender to owne r

Kerrick’s path to ownership included a gradual introduction to bartending, beginning with limited shifts and eventually leading to more regular involvement during the winter season.

“Zero experience before this winter,” she said with a laugh about bartending and restaurant work prior to stepping in more seriously.

That hands-on experience helped her build familiarity with customers and daily operations, something she says made the transition feel natural.

Looking ahead

Kerrick is also planning for seasonal changes in operations, including adjusted winter hours and expanded winter activities such as games and community events. Summer hours will continue Wednesday through Sunday, with potential adjustments in the colder months depending on staffing and demand.

Breakfast service is also being considered for weekends during winter months.

One of the biggest challenges, she acknowledged, remains staffing in a small community.

“That’s been the biggest obstacle in McGregor,” she said. “I’ve witnessed it for many years.”

Still, Kerrick says the strongest asset of the business is its people.

“The customers are wonderful. I couldn’t ask for better customers,” she said. “It feels very homey. I feel very comfortable.”

As she settles into ownership, Kerrick sees the transition not as a dramatic shift, but as a continuation of a place already rooted in community connection.

“It’ll be fun,” she said. “It’ll be challenging, but it’ll be worth it.”

Also in the June 9th edition of the Voyageur Press:

• New school records in high school track & field

• Small Town Strong: McGregor Responders fill Emergency Care Gap

• Recipes from the Biblical Nutritionist

• Baseball team is headed to state!

Your Guide to Last Chance Pub & Grub

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From Split-Log Benches to Modern Classrooms

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 19:46:45 GMT

Floodwood High School Celebrates 100th Graduating Class

FLOODWOOD Minn.— In 1893, the newly organized village of Floodwood took out a four-hundred-dollar loan from the state to purchase books and supplies. That modest investment laid the foundation for a school system that would grow from a single log cabin into a central hub of community life.

The town’s first official schoolhouse, constructed that same year, was a simple log building situated between the local creamery and the old Hokkanen home. In its inaugural terms, just eight children attended the six-month school year. Resources were sparse; early students in nearby rural schoolhouses like the Cedar Valley School, built in 1894, sat on benches made of split logs.

The Rugged Frontier Era

The early days of education in the region required immense resilience from both students and staff. At the Moore School, established around 1899, the wilderness was a literal threat. Young boys carried rifles on their daily walks to the schoolhouse because the woods were dense, and the howling of wolves was a frequent soundtrack to the spring term.

Getting to class was its own battle against the elements. Before the advent of standard motor buses, children were transported via horse-drawn teams and wagons or winter sleds. Drivers were paid twenty-eight dollars a month to cover a grueling twenty-four-mile daily route, utilizing charcoal foot warmers and heavy blankets to keep the children from freezing. For those living too far to make the daily trek, the state stepped in to pay for room and board with families in town.

A Milestone Year: The Class of 1926

As the timber and agricultural industries grew, so did the need for higher education. The landmark Lincoln School was completed in 1911, establishing Independent School District No. 19. While Floodwood had offered limited two-year and three-year high school tracks starting in 1912, it wasn’t until the fall of 1925 that a full, four-year high school course was officially launched.
In the spring of 1926, Floodwood celebrated a historic milestone: its very first graduating high school class.

THE CLASS OF 1926
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• Hannah Huttunen (Valedictorian)
• Pearl Garland (Salutatorian)
• Marie Canfield
• William Stenback
• Howard Past
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Motto: “Step up the stairs, Don’t Stare up the Steps”

The five graduates completed their studies under Superintendent B.H. Gibbon and Principal Roger M. Peet, stepping out into a world defined by the cultural boom of the Roaring Twenties. It was an era where the airwaves belonged to “Five Foot Two” and “Sweet Georgia Brown,” moviegoers swooned over Rudolph Valentino, and sports fans cheered on Babe Ruth.

Growth, Consolidation, and Expansion

The school system underwent massive shifts in the mid-20th century. In 1957, a sweeping consolidation effort integrated the Prairie Lake area and portions of Aitkin County, transforming the local system into Independent Consolidated School District No. 698.

To keep pace with population growth and changing educational demands, the Lincoln School plant expanded in waves. A 1938 addition brought dedicated agriculture and science laboratories, commercial classrooms, and a music studio. Twenty years later, in 1958, a new industrial arts department and a modern gymnasium-auditorium opened their doors. By 1966, federal funding helped establish the town’s first full, year-long kindergarten program, welcoming 41 students under teacher Evelyn Johnson. Space restrictions and evolving programs eventually led voters to approve another major facility expansion that opened in the fall of 1976.

A Century Later: The Class of 2026

Exactly 100 years after those first five seniors accepted their diplomas, a new generation made history. On Friday, May 29, 2026, 12 students graduated from Floodwood High School, marking a full century of secondary school excellence.

This year’s graduating class included: Layla Bailey, Kolt Bennett, Isabella Hanke, Logan Hart, Davia Hayes, Navayah Heavirland, Claire Johnson, Kenzie Kiminski, Jonah Spindler, Kiaja Stokke, Sylis Svoboda, and Riley Terry.

Leading the centennial class into the future, Claire Johnson honored the tradition as the 2026 valedictorian, alongside Isabella Hanke, who served as the class salutatorian. From five students on split logs to a century of academic resilience, Floodwood’s educational journey stands as a testament to a community’s enduring investment in its youth.

Celebrating people, places & traditions

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 19:34:57 GMT

25 Years of Community Storytelling and our vision for the future

McGREGOR, Minn. —For the past 25 years, Voyageur Press has been dedicated to promoting the positive aspects of our surrounding communities. Our mission has remained simple: to tell the stories that make this region special.

We have highlighted local sports, restaurants, outdoor traditions, and the businesses and organizations that form the backbone of our communities. Through it all, we have focused on celebrating the people, places, and traditions that define life in northern Minnesota.

But the story of this region goes much deeper than the last 25 years. This area has a significant historical connection to the Voyageurs who traveled these waterways centuries ago. They ascended the Saint Louis River from its mouth at Fond du Lac in what is now Duluth.

From there, they traveled up the East Savanna River near Floodwood, crossed a portage over the divide to the West Savanna River, and continued down that route to the Prairie River and into Big Sandy Lake. Big Sandy Lake became the hub of two major fur trade routes linking the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River during that era.

In many ways, the role of Voyageur Press has mirrored that same spirit of connection — telling the stories of the people, places, and traditions that define this region.

Today, this area continues to be a destination for those who appreciate its natural beauty — forests, lakes, trails, and small towns that make this region unique. For 25 years, our newspaper has shared those stories.

Now, it is time to make those stories more accessible. Our vision is to create a comprehensive digital platform that showcases the region — highlighting places to stay, play, and eat, while providing easy access to local events and activities.

Rather than replicating a traditional newspaper website, we aim to build something more immersive and regionally focused — inspired by destination platforms, but centered on the Big Sandy Lake area and the St. Louis River waterways .

A place where visitors can discover local events, find restaurants and lodging, explore outdoor recreation, learn the history of the area, and read the stories that capture the character of our communities.

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A Lakeside Legacy

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 16:06:52 GMT

The Story of Bann’s Bar & Restaurant

LAKE MINNEWAWA, Minn .—Along the shores of Lake Minnewawa, Bann’s Bar & Restaurant has long stood as more than just a place to eat. For decades, it has served as a gathering space, a community hub, and a reflection of small-town values rooted in family, hard work, and consistency. Its story—spanning from a modest post-war storefront to a beloved regional destination—is one shaped by tradition, resilience, and the people who made it their life’s work.

A Family Takes the Leap

The defining chapter in Bann’s history began in 1976, when Tom and Fran Bann made a life-changing decision. Along with their children—Audrey, Lisa, and Chris—they moved from Minneapolis to Lake Minnewawa, a place where they had spent years visiting Grandpa Tom.

Their goal was straightforward: to operate a restaurant as a family.

The story of how that decision came together has been told with humor over the years.
“Dad retired, but Mom wasn’t old enough to do the same,” Chris Pierce once recalled. “They bought the restaurant for something to do.”

Lisa Enderle offered a different version with a laugh: “It was Chris’ fault. Mom and Dad wanted to retire, but they still had 11-year-old Chris to raise, so they bought the restaurant.”

Regardless of which version is most accurate, the result was a true family-run operation. Fran took charge of the kitchen, Audrey worked behind the bar, Lisa—just 16—waitressed, Chris washed dishes at age 11, and Tom handled maintenance and public relations. From the beginning, Bann’s found its footing.

Early Memories & Family Traditions

For Lisa and Chris, the restaurant quickly became more than a business. It became the center of their childhood and adult lives. Lisa’s earliest memories were in the kitchen beside her mother. “We just always worked together,” Lisa said. “I just remember helping her.”

In those early years, the restaurant operated with a simplicity that customers came to love. The original salad bar was little more than a table set up for customers. “Our salad part, when we first had it, was just a table out there,” Lisa remembered. “My mom loved herring, so she put that out on the salad bar. I remember a few people would come and just clean out the bowl, and she’d get so mad.”

“Remember when dad had the bright idea because Larson had a mechanical bull in their garage down in the Twin Cities,” Lisa recalled. “So Dad said, ‘Why don’t you bring that up here for a summer?’” For one memorable summer, Bann’s became home to a mechanical bull that quickly became a Sunday attraction. “Every Sunday, all the softball teams were done playing, they would come and ride that mechanical bull,” Chris said.

Then there was the annual Pig Roast, held each year on the weekend following Labor Day. Pictures of that event brings back fond memories.

The sisters also remembered the bowling banquets that packed the restaurant year after year. “Everyone loved my dad,” Chris said. “Dad would dress up and go out in his bowling shirt. Bann’s always sponsored a team.”

The shirts themselves became legendary within the family. “Remember that?” Chris laughed. “His shirts had the lifted velvet on the back — Bann’s in lifted velvet. Baby blue.”

“Baby blue or beige,” Lisa added. “It was fun.”

Another favorite tradition was winter volleyball. “We had a traveling net and standards that went from bar to bar,” Lisa said.

Those memories reflected what Bann’s had become: not simply a restaurant, but a place where community life happened.

In its early years, Bann’s established traditions that would define its identity for decades. Chief among them was the Saturday night prime rib special. “Back in 1976, people didn’t go out like they do now,” Chris said. “Saturday was a special occasion night.”

That tradition endured. Even decades later, prime rib Saturdays remained one of the restaurant’s biggest draws, known for generous portions and consistent preparation.
Another staple emerged in the early 1980s: Friday night burritos. Suggested by bartender Debbie Jackman, the offering began modestly with a single crockpot of filling. Over time, it grew into one of the restaurant’s most popular features, with hundreds of burritos served on a typical Friday night.

These traditions helped define Bann’s not just as a restaurant, but as a place people could count on—week after week, year after year.

A True Community Gathering Place

What set Bann’s apart was more than its menu. It became a central meeting place for the surrounding communities of McGregor, Wright, and Cromwell. On any given night, the dining room and bar would fill with a mix of locals, families, and visitors—many of whom returned regularly.

The atmosphere encouraged connection. Conversations about local sports, school events, and community happenings flowed easily between tables. The restaurant’s layout—featuring both a family-friendly dining area and a lively bar—allowed it to serve a wide range of customers.

The early 1990s marked a difficult period for the Bann family. Tom passed away in 1992, followed by Fran in 1995. Their deaths left a void both personally and professionally. Faced with uncertainty, the three daughters made a collective decision: they would continue the business their parents had built.

Ownership was shared among Audrey, Lisa, and Chris, with Lisa and Chris taking on the day-to-day operations. It was not an easy transition, but it reinforced the family’s commitment to preserving Bann’s legacy.

Owners Chris and Lisa became known for their constant presence, moving between the kitchen, dining room, and bar, ensuring guests felt welcome. “People like to see the owners,” Lisa said. “They know you’re invested.”

That visibility helped build trust and loyalty—qualities that sustained the business through changing times.

Growth and Change

As Bann’s moved into its third decade, it adapted to meet the needs of a growing and evolving customer base.

In 1996, the restaurant underwent a significant expansion, adding a 35-by-40-foot addition. The renovation increased seating capacity, extended the bar area, and introduced large windows overlooking Lake Minnewawa—enhancing both the dining experience and the atmosphere.

During this expansion, Bann’s also added its first big screen television—an upgrade that reflected changing customer preferences and marked the beginning of a new era for the bar area. Today, the restaurant features nine big screens, making it a popular spot for watching sporting events year-round.

The updates reflected a balance between growth and tradition. While the space modernized, the core elements—familiar menu items, friendly service, and a welcoming environment—remained unchanged.

At the center of Bann’s success has always been its kitchen. Few individuals represent that consistency better than Lisa Bann and long-time cook Darrell Grefrath. Lisa has worked in the kitchen since she was 15 years old, learning alongside her mother. Darrell, a 1984 graduate of McGregor High School, joined Bann’s after a chance conversation and never left.

As Bann’s approached its 50th anniversary celebration, the kitchen itself entered a new era. “We completely gutted it,” Lisa said. “It was a total teardown and a beautiful facelift.”

The remodel included a new grill oven, stovetop, additional fryer, and a redesigned layout intended to improve workflow and efficiency. A few menu updates were also expected to follow the renovation, blending fresh ideas with longtime customer favorites.

Expanding Traditions

Over time, Bann’s continued to innovate while staying rooted in its identity—not only through food, but through entertainment and community involvement.

Live music became a year-round staple, drawing both local performers and visiting acts. Regular karaoke nights, hosted by Ben Horton, added another layer of energy and interaction, giving patrons a chance to take part in the fun themselves. Bann’s also played a role in supporting local organizations. For years, it hosted the Minnewawa Sportsmen’s Club Fishing Contest raffle each February, reinforcing its connection to the area’s outdoor traditions and community groups.

In 2001, through a collaboration with Pier 65, Bann’s expanded its recreational offerings by adding a beach volleyball court and launching a local league. The league quickly gained popularity, bringing together teams from across the area and further establishing Bann’s as a destination for both social gatherings and active summer fun.
Seasonal promotions, such as March Madness bracket challenges paired with new wing menus, brought fresh energy to the restaurant.

Every August Bann’s hosts a golf tournament at Minnesota National, and in 2013, the restaurant introduced a Big Buck Contest, which quickly became a fall tradition among local hunters. Winners ranged from seasoned outdoorsmen to young participants, reinforcing the event’s broad appeal.

Another notable addition was the Adult Prom fundraiser, supporting KIDS PLUS Children’s Wish List. The event combined entertainment with philanthropy, raising thousands of dollars for families in need during the holiday season.
These initiatives demonstrated Bann’s ongoing commitment to community engagement.

Celebrating 50 Years

In 2026, Bann’s prepared to celebrate 50 years under the Bann family name — a milestone representing decades of hard work, family dedication, and community support.

The anniversary celebration was scheduled for Saturday, May 16, with live music and festivities planned throughout the day.

“From two to five, we will have Rusta Canyon playing live music, and from seven to 11, Last Call will play,” Chris said.

The celebration would include food specials, prizes, drink specials, and a buffet meal for guests. “There’ll be plenty of food over there,” Chris added. “We thought we’d maybe try to do a champagne toast of some kind.”

For longtime customers and generations of local families, the event represented more than an anniversary. It was a celebration of shared memories built over five decades on the shores of Lake Minnewawa.

Recognition and a Lasting Legacy

In 2007, Bann’s received one of its highest honors when the McGregor Area Chamber of Commerce named it “Business of the Year.”

Reflecting on their years at Bann’s, the sisters often returned to the relationships they had built. “We became part of their families, and they became part of our family,” Chris said.

Over the years, Bann’s also evolved into something more than a neighborhood restaurant or lakeside gathering place. It became widely recognized as the region’s premier sports bar — a destination where fans gathered to watch games, celebrate victories, and support local athletes.

What started decades earlier with bowling teams and post-softball game gatherings gradually grew into a full sports culture woven into the identity of Bann’s itself. The addition of big-screen televisions during the restaurant’s expansion years only strengthened that connection. Today, with nine large screens throughout the restaurant and bar, Bann’s has become a year-round gathering spot for everything from Vikings Sundays and March Madness to high school tournaments and playoff runs.

Sports have never simply been entertainment for the Bann family — they have been part of everyday life.

Bann’s sponsored bowling teams for years, hosted volleyball leagues, welcomed softball teams after games, and became known as a place where local athletes, coaches, and fans naturally gathered.

That passion carried into the Bann family itself. Lisa and Chris spent years raising children who were deeply involved in athletics, from football and basketball to volleyball, softball, and countless other activities. Much of life revolved around practices, games, tournaments, and supporting their kids from the sidelines.
Now, a new generation is carrying on those traditions.

Today, Lisa and Chris find themselves cheering on children who are now coaches and grandchildren involved in many of the same sports, continuing a family connection to athletics that has spanned generations. Just as customers who once came to Bann’s as young adults now return with children and grandchildren of their own, the restaurant itself has become part of the rhythm of community life.

That connection between sports, family, and community helped shape Bann’s into more than just a successful business. It became a place where teams celebrated after games, where rivalries turned into friendships, and where generations gathered around food, conversation, and shared memories.

Today, Bann’s Bar & Restaurant stands as a testament to what a family-run business can achieve over time. Its success was never built on trends or rapid expansion, but on consistency, relationships, and a clear sense of purpose.

From its beginnings as a small lakeside store to its evolution into a regional favorite and the area’s go-to sports destination, Bann’s has remained grounded in the values that shaped it: quality food, genuine hospitality, community connection, and family tradition.

For those who have dined there—whether for a Saturday night prime rib, Friday burritos, a Pig Roast, live music, karaoke, a championship game, or simply a familiar conversation at the bar—Bann’s represents something enduring.
It is not just a restaurant.

It is a place where stories are shared, traditions are upheld, teams are celebrated, and generations come together—year after year, meal after meal—on the shores of Lake Minnewawa.

Everything You Need to Know

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