Park Rapids Blog

February 2013 Events and Snow!

2013-01-31T07:34:00.001-08:00

February 2013

Take heart - snow’s the word

Play to your heart’s content in the Park Rapids Lakes Area in February. What’s not to love! The days are getting longer, the average temps are rising and hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails and cross country ski trails are groomed and ready. Itasca State Park reports nine inches of snow fell January 29! There is a Quick link on the home page of www.parkrapids.com to snowmobile trail reports.

You should contact a local bait shop or lakeside resort to ask about ice conditions and check ice thickness once you arrive at your destination, but with a string of subzero temperatures this winter, lake ice has built up. So enjoy a day fishing on a quiet, frozen lake.

Whether you want to fish or go for a quiet walk, you could see bald eagles cleaning up after anglers, trumpeter swans flying gracefully overhead or other winged winter birds.

With Valentine’s Day on February’s calendar, a winter getaway “up north” may be the way to win your Valentine’s heart for the first time or all over again. Many local restaurants are offering delightful Valentines packages.

Visit www.parkrapids.com for a full list and links to great local restaurants.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources updates snow and trail conditions in weekly reports updated after 2 p.m. every Thursday at www.dnr.state.mn.us/snow_depth/index.html. And our Chamber Website provides information about trail riding and cross country skiing possibilities as well as available lodging, dining and other things to see and do while you’re here.

If you time your stay, you can sample one of the following fun winter events:

It’s not too late to head north for the 15th Annual Park Rapids American Legion Community Fishing Contest on Fish Hook Lake from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, February 2. The contest offers more than $110,000 in prizes. Grand prizes in this year's raffle are a 2013 Chevy Silverado LS pickup truck and an Ice Castle fish house. Other raffle prizes, including a $5,000 cash prize, will be awarded. Polaris ATVs top the list of prizes in all four divisions: bluegill & crappie; northern, walleye & largemouth bass; perch; and rock bass. Tickets for the fishing contest at $40 each are available at the American Legion or call 218-732-3360. For more information, go to www.parkrapidsamericanlegion.com.

Discover the history of early horse logging from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, February 9 at Itasca State Park. The demonstration location will be chosen closer to the date of the event. Logging using horses was common to this area in the late 1800s. Watch lumberjacks fell trees with a 2-man cross-cut saw, buck the log into sections, skid the logs with the teamster’s trained horses and cross-haul logs onto a horse-drawn sled. Members of the Lake Itasca Region Pioneer Farmers will be on hand to demonstrate these early logging methods.

Registration for the 8th Annual Audrey’s Purple Dream Fishing Tournament and Polar Plunge is from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, February 9 on 11th Crow Wing Lake, Akeley. Hot food and beverages will be available on the ice. The fishing tournament is on from noon to 3 p.m. with the Purple Polar Plunge at 2 p.m. Following the fishing tournament, prizes and awards will be presented at the Akeley VFW, which also will be serving hot food. The party will continue with live music from 8 p.m. to midnight at the VFW. For more information, go to www.audreyspurpledream.com.

Arts Downtown PR (3rd Thursdays) continue in downtown Park Rapids. The Park Rapids Lakes Area Council sponsors painters, sculptors, musicians, writers and other artists the third Thursday of the month. The evening events are free and open to the public. The program is posted at www.prlaac.org.

Snowshoe by the light of the moon and lanterns along the trail in Itasca State Park from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, February 23. Snowshoe at your own pace along the kerosene lantern lit route during this drop-in program. For added fun, bring along your s'mores fixings or hot dogs for cooking at the campfire. Dress according to the weather. In case of poor weather, the event will be canceled. Itasca State Park does have snowshoes to rent. The trail location will be chosen closer to the date of the event.

The Hubbard Sleigh Festival will provide an unforgettable winter festival in the scenic small town of Hubbard from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, February 24. Starting at 11 a.m. enjoy horse-drawn wagon (sleigh) rides, sled dog rides behind the Community Center, and hot chocolate at the Hilltop. Chili and cornbread will be served at the Community Center from noon to 3 p.m. and “Incredibly Real” will entertain there. Find clues for a treasure hunt and enjoy a cozy bonfire at the Community Center as well. At noon there will be a Giddy-up Cart Race at the Old Hubbard General Store. The parade of sleighs and horse drawn vehicles starts at 1 p.m. The Long Lake Theater will host a Hubbard History Play at 2 p.m. followed by a performance by "County 20" at 2:30. Enjoy mulled wine and cider at the theater from 2 to 4 p.m. If the abundant snow stays with us, there will be snow sculptures to view. A trapper encampment is planned on historic Hubbard Lane by the Indian Mounds with demonstrations of early life and games. This trip into yesteryear will create wonderful memories for you and your family and guests.

The Dorothy Noeske Memorial Bluegill and Crappie Fishing Derby will give anglers another fun event on Straight Lake in Osage from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24. Prizes include ice augers, cash and more. The first 100 kids on the ice will receive a bag of “goodies, there will be a drawing for a youth lifetime fishing license and the largest fish caught by a kid will be mounted free of charge. Lunch will be available on the ice. For more information, go to http://osagesportsmansclub.com.

If you need help planning a memorable and affordable visit, need more information about these and other winter activities or if you have questions, call our friendly staff at 800-247-0054 to learn more.

Looking for a great deal for dinner!!!

2012-10-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

Help the Hubbard County Sheriff's Mounted Posse!!

2012-10-12T08:29:00.001-07:00

Winters a comin!!!

2012-10-05T12:40:00.002-07:00

****The weather outside is giving us a friendly reminder that winter is on the horizon****

****Here are ten tips to help you prepare your home for winter******

1) Furnace Inspection

Call and schedule to have your furnace inspected and ducts cleaned.
Stock up on furnace filters and change them monthly.
Program your thermostat for the winter months.
Remove all flammable material from the area surrounding your furnace.

2) Get the Fireplace Ready

Make sure to stop those rodents and birds by capping or screening the top of the chimney.
If the chimney hasn't been cleaned for a while, call a chimney sweep to remove soot and creosote.
Buy firewood or chop wood. Store it in a dry place away from the exterior of your home.
Inspect the fireplace damper for proper opening and closing.

3) Check the Exterior, Doors and Windows

Inspect exterior for crevice cracks and exposed entry points around pipes; seal them.
Use weatherstripping around doors to prevent cold air from entering the home and caulk windows.
Switch out summer screens with glass replacements from storage. If you have storm windows, install them. Consider coving windows with plastic to help keep heat in.

4) Inspect Roof, Gutters & Downspouts

If your weather temperature will fall below 32 degrees in the winter, adding extra insulation to the attic will prevent warm air from creeping to your roof and causing ice dams.
Clean out the gutters and use a hose to spray water down the downspouts to clear away debris.
Consider installing leaf guards on the gutters or extensions on the downspouts to direct water away from the home.

5) Service Weather-Specific Equipment

Drain gas from lawnmowers.
Service or tune-up snow blowers.
Replace worn snow shovels.
Clean, dry and store summer gardening equipment.
Sharpen ice choppers and buy bags of ice-melt / sand.

6) Check Foundations

Rake away all debris and edible vegetation from the foundation.
Seal up entry points to keep small animals from crawling under the house.
Tuckpoint or seal foundation cracks. Mice can slip through space as thin as a dime.
Secure crawlspace entrances.

7) Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Buy extra smoke detector batteries and change them when daylight savings ends.
Install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace and / or water heater.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they work.
Buy a fire extinguisher or replace an extinguisher older than 10 years.

8) Prevent Plumbing Freezes

Drain all garden hoses.
Insulate exposed plumbing pipes.
Drain air conditioner pipes and, if your AC has a water shut-off valve, turn it off.

9) Prepare Landscaping & Outdoor Surfaces

Trim trees if branches hang too close to the house or electrical wires.
Seal driveways, brick patios and wood decks.
Move sensitive potted plants indoors or to a sheltered area.

10) Prepare an Emergency Kit

Buy indoor candles and matches / lighter for use during a power shortage.
Find the phone numbers for your utility companies and tape them near your phone or inside the phone book.
Buy a battery back-up to protect your computer and sensitive electronic equipment.
Store extra bottled water and non-perishable food supplies (including pet food, if you have a pet), blankets and a first-aid kit in a dry and easy-to-access location.

Don't miss out on the 10th Annual - Fall Color Tour

2012-09-21T11:20:00.000-07:00

Join the Lake Country Scenic Byway for a one day
Fall Color Tour
Thursday, October 4, 2012

Discover the wonders in our back yard, including the spectacular autumn foliage colors!

Begin the tour by meeting in Park Rapids at the C'Mon Inn Parking lot at 8:05 am

8:30 am, Carter’s Red Wagon Farm, Park Rapids: Established in 1954, the farm boasts a 6 acre corn maze, wagon rides, a variety of veggies, and store with local products. Take part in any of the activities and enjoy an included apple cider and cookie treat. Restroom.
9:50 am, Rennenberg Hardwoods, Menahga: What began as a sawmill/logging operation has grown into a business that has 7 million board feet of lumber on hand. We’ll see wood processing and kiln drying equipment as well as a showroom with design ideas for cabinets, flooring and remodeling projects using walnut, hickory, ash, maple, oak, cherry and more!
11:45 am, Five Lakes Resort, Frazee: Our included meal features vegetable & meat lasagna, garlic bread, green salad, lemon bars, coffee, water & lemonade. The barn was remodeled this summer and the hay loft has been transformed into a popular meeting destination. Restroom.
1:15 pm, Seven Sisters Spirits, Detroit Lakes: This unique off-sale liquor shopping destination opened their doors May 2012 boasting a huge selection of wines, craft beers and spirits. We’ll tour the 10,000 sq. ft. log building and be treated to creamy liqueur samples. Restroom.
2:10 pm, Veteran’s Memorial Park, Detroit Lakes: Completed in 2012, area veterans spearheaded a project to beautify an open area between the new Downtown Crossing development and Hwy 10. Stroll the sidewalk to see engraved pavers, monuments, flags and amphitheater.
3:40 pm, Park Theatre, Park Rapids: Park Theatre’s 38’ wide x 17’ long screen is one MN’s largest. The 2011 upgrades are some of the finest with Dolby digital 3D and 7.1 surround sound. Grab a pair of glasses to experience fun 3D viewing! Restroom.

Transportation on a deluxe motor coach with on-board restrooms.

Register by September 27, 2012 - Space is limited, for more information call the Park Rapids Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce, (218) 732-4111.

Back to School

2012-08-31T12:42:00.001-07:00

It's that time of the year when summer vacations are coming to an end and school is about to start. Parents and kids alike have mixed emotions about being excited for school to start and sad that summer is ending. Here are a few tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Making the First Day Easier

Remind your child that there are probably a lot of students who are uneasy about the for the first day of school. Teachers know that students are anxious and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible.
Point out the positive aspects of starting school: It will be fun! She'll see old friends and meet new ones. Refresh her positive memories about previous years, when she may have returned home after the first day with high spirits because she had a good time.
Find another child in the neighborhood with whom your youngster can walk to school or ride with on the bus.
If you feel it is appropriate, drive your child (or walk with her) to school and pick her up on the first day.

Eating During the School Day

Most schools regularly send schedules of cafeteria menus home. With this advance information, you can plan on packing lunch on the days when the main course is one your child prefers not to eat.
Try to get your child's school to stock healthy choices such as fresh fruit, low-fat dairy products, water and 100 percent fruit juice in the vending machines.

Developing Good Homework and Study Habits

Create an environment that is conducive to doing homework. Youngsters need a permanent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distractions, and promotes study.
Schedule ample time for homework.
Establish a household rule that the TV set stays off during homework time.
Supervise computer and Internet use.
Be available to answer questions and offer assistance, but never do a child's homework for her.
Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fatigue and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch, and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive.
If your child is struggling with a particular subject, and you aren't able to help her yourself, a tutor can be a good solution. Talk it over with your child's teacher first

2012-08-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

ONLY 260 DAYS TILL GOVERNOR'S FISHING OPENER...

Here is an article, by the Park Rapids Enterprise, about the event.

Governor’s Fishing Opener

plans underway

Planning is underway for the 2013 Governor’s Fishing Opener, Mark Dayton and a cadre of media invited to drop a line in Fish Hook, Potato, Eagle and Island lakes Saturday, May 11.

By: Jean Ruzicka, Park Rapids Enterprise

Planning is underway for the 2013 Governor’s Fishing Opener, Mark Dayton and a cadre of media invited to drop a line in Fish Hook, Potato, Eagle and Island lakes Saturday, May 11.

“It’s been a long time in coming,” event chair Dennis Mackedanz told the 30-plus arriving for last week’s planning meeting. “But it’s not that far away,” he said of the 66th annual event that is expected to engage 200 to 400 community volunteers and area businesses to welcome 125 to 150 members of the media – newspaper, radio, TV and magazine.

The Fish Hook chain of lakes was chosen because the Fish Hook River is the focal point of Park Rapids, Mackedanz said. Highway 71 provides access to the four lakes and it heads up to Itasca State Park. “And all four are good early lakes.”

“2013 is the right year,” said Carol Altepeter of Explore Minnesota. “Park Rapids is known for its events. The difference this time is, we’re bringing the state in. We’re all in the same boat,” she joked.

Chamber executive Katie Magozzi, who will work as “event planner,” noted the board unanimously supported hosting the Governor’s Opener. Park Rapids was the site of the event in 1979, when Gov. Al Quie caught “one of the best stringers of walleye ever held by a Minnesota governor,” the Park Rapids Enterprise reported. A grinning governor held up nine lunkers, with his guide, Tim Young, at his side. A 7 pound, 14 ounce walleye was the biggest of the bunch.

This year’s schedule of events includes a Fishing Host dinner Thursday evening. Friday, “the community will come together to showcase” the area’s attributes, Mackedanz said. A variety of activities will be offered to guests, such as games of golf or tours of Itasca State Park, the wildlife refuge, fisheries and other area attractions. A community picnic, beginning in the late afternoon, will be free of charge and open to the public. An event for kids is also being planned for Friday. The Park Rapids Rotary, Lions, Downtown Business Association and Lakes Area Arts Council have agreed to assist. Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations has also pledged support. The governor is expected to host live TV interviews during the evening. Fishing host pairing will complete the day’s events. Organizers are seeking 110 qualified fishing hosts willing to serve as “community ambassadors,” who will take the event’s guests out on the water. Jason Durham and Blake Johnson are coordinating this. The governor may decide to drop a line at midnight, or wait until sunrise. Breakfast will be served on the opener followed by a send-off ceremony.
A shore lunch will be held Saturday over the noon hour for registered event attendees, committee members, sponsors and fishing hosts.A celebration reception and dinner will cap the day, when winning raffle tickets will be drawn.

Altepeter reported Waconia, the city hosting the event in May, worked with a $325,000 budget, $80,000 of it in cash, the remaining in-kind donations. “$70,000 to $80,000 (cash) is realistic for Park Rapids,” she said. These funds will be raised through raffle ticket sales for the Crestliner boat package, valued at $27,900, and Smokey Hills Outdoor Store Ice Castle icehouse, a $15,500 value, as well as cash donations. Both the boat and icehouse were donated. To date, the Chamber has raised nearly $8,000 through raffle ticket sales and $1,000 in seed money from Waconia. Individuals can now go to parkrapids.com and click on Minnesota 2013 Governor’s Fishing Opener to find volunteer application forms, connect to the Explore Minnesota website, learn about sponsorship opportunities and more. Or call the Chamber at 732-4111.

An executive committee has formed as a “conduit for the bigger picture,” Mackedanz said. And volunteer opportunities abound – from raffle sales, boat towing, coordinators, registration, clean up, kitchen, food and beverage serving and more.

The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. The event was designed to promote the development of Minnesota’s recreation industry, and in recent years, it has served as a kick-off celebration for the summer tourism season. Travel and tourism generate $11.3 billion in leisure and hospitality gross sales in Minnesota annually, according to Explore Minnesota.

2012-08-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the beautiful weather this weekend with

Lunacy, lutefisk – Uff Da! Days – Aug. 24 & 25 in Nevis

Check out there list of events starting at 5 pm on Friday with Avery's Walk for Wildlife.

Play bingo at the senior center with food and prizes provided by the Robotics Club of Nevis starting at 6:30.

End the evening with entertainment by White Knuckle Willy at the street dance from 8 p.m. to midnight.

Saturday, the flea market and concessions open at 10 a.m. along with kids games and bouncing on the inflatables.

Let the kids partake in a kids’ fishing tourney that will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the Belle Taine wharf.

At 11 a.m. serving of the now-famous lutefisk and meatball dinner begins at Bethany Lutheran.

The Groove Kings will entertain from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

At 1 p.m let the horseshoes fly with a horseshoe tournament. There is also a ice cream eating contest beginning at 1 with square dancers whirling from 1 to 2 p.m.

Water wars will be waged at the fire hall from 1 to 3 p.m. A yolks-on-you egg toss will begin at 1:45 p.m., sack races will be hoppin’ at 2:15 p.m. and a coin dig begins at 3 p.m.

The Hubbard County K-9 until will be out at 4 p.m. for skill demonstration.

And at 4:30 p.m., the laughs will begin with “Continuing Saga of Ole and Lena.”This is a story about the couple is getting a new house built in the village of Nevis and turmoil pervades. Uff da! Sven and Inga and Torval offer assistance and Papa Gunnar and his companion Olga arrive to save the day. A surprise visitor makes a cameo appearance.

The grand parade will wrap up the events by head down Paul Bunyan Trails at 6 p.m..

2012-08-09T05:42:00.002-07:00

Legends & Logging Festival

Friday August 10th 11 am - 8 pm

Saturday August 11th 9 am - 6 pm

Park Rapids Antique Tractor Club Grounds

East Forty show grounds on County Rd #6 (Henrietta Avenue) 1/2 mile south of Highway 34 (across from the Hubbard County transfer station)

Legends and Logging will celebrate our area's history, culture, artisans and food Friday and Saturday, Aug. 10 & 11 at the Park Rapids Antique Tractor Club Grounds.

Skilled chainsaw artists and fiercely competitive loggers will entertain, loons and loony contests will call, and artisans and crafters will engage visitors.

We will also have beekeepers, farmer's market vendors with demonstrations of their craft, spinning, a cooperage demonstration,a chili & hot wings contest.

Kids’ activities will including face painting , Arvig Inflatable Bouncies (Friday 4 - 8 pm), minnow races, crawfish races (Saturday only) and wonderful down home, foot stomping blue grass, country and folk music throughout both days.

In 2012, world record-holding lumberjacks will be back to compete. Logging Days, Park Rapids' signature event for more than 25 years, was established to honor the rich heritage of logging in this neck of the woods. Logging events feature World Champion and World Record-Breaking Lumberjacks and Lumberjills competing in wood chopping and sawing contests. Points these skilled competitors earn here will count toward the Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward, WI.

Master chainsaw carvers will create north woods masterpieces during several demonstrations. Competition will be keen as the chips fly and a masterpiece emerges from a raw piece of wood. All finished carvings will be auctioned off to the highest bidders.

Visitors will find the unique creations of area artisans at The Market Place. There will also be demonstrations throughout the day. Check back for more information.

Food vendors serve a variety of fare from buffalo burgers and corn on the cob to fresh fruit and smoothies. A Chili and Hot Wings cook-off contest will be sponsored by DeLaHunt Broadcasting.

Terrapin Station will be providing musical entertainment from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday.

Friday

Jim Burt & Larry Kimball, Folk Rock and Blues

Thankful Dirt, Darren and Molly Matthews, the Indie/Americana Des Moines-based songwriting duo Thankful Dirt, developed their musical artistry steeped in Iowa's music scene, a scene as fertile as Iowa soil. Since joining musical forces in October of 2008, they've performed at various Iowa venues, including coffee shops, benefits, and area bars. Quality performances attract a loyal following. Though their musical backgrounds differ, electricity sparks when they write and perform songs. Molly's voice- ethereal, complex, and evocative- compliments Darren's masterful guitar playing.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Thankful-Dirt/156450208210

The Hollands are seasoned concert performers, engaging audiences with their intimate merrymaking. They are a full-time internationally touring family based in the US via Australia. Their knack for engaging audiences and rousing a sing-a long separates them from the typical observation performance. Jana's deep minor tones and angelic voice offer solace to any who listen. She sets the mood and embraces your mind with her poetic yet ground level lyrics. Delicate and beautiful harmonies are added by daughter and gifted vocalist, Graciana Holland. Craig, a native of Australia, began his music career playing punk, including a 7 year stint in Ballydowse, a Chicago-based Celtic Punk band recorded by famed indie producer, Steve Albini. Craig offers the element of unique sound that pulls the music of The Hollands! in a different direction than traditional folk. When Craig is playing the Taylor acoustic, the rhythms are almost Celtic by nature. Family focused shows include the youngest Holland, "Banjo" on the Cajon’ and other percussion instruments.

By the end of their performance, audiences will feel like they are part of the band. This is the experience and magic that happens when The Hollands! come to town.

The Hollands! are members of the International Folk Alliance, Concerts in Your Home- USA, Australia and Europe. http://www.thehollands.org/

Saturday

No Grass Limit is a new and up and coming bluegrass band with over 100 years of musical experience. With original tunes of tales, life lessons, and love, No Grass Limit truly sets themselves apart from any bluegrass band. And, for all you traditional bluegrassers out there, fear not, we definitely play the songs you know and love.

http://www.facebook.com/nograsslimit

Good Noise Eclectic music by eclectic people. Good Noise makes high energy music and puts their own spin on tunes from nearly every genre under the sun. Hailing from Bemidji, this high energy five-piece band spans a wide range of musical styles: vocals and guitar, Eric Carlson; vocals and keys, Katie Houg; vocals, cello and saxophone, Brett Cease; drums, Mark Bauer and electric violin, Jordan Lindquist. https://www.facebook.com/goodnoisebemidji

Winston Drei Tod We were all born in Minnesota; as a result that is where we are from. We all met up at the tender age of 18. The three of us have diverse backgrounds in making noises with certain pitches. We all have a job in the band that shapes the way the different pitches are formed and put together. That's the magic of Winston Drei Tod. Without one of us, it would be a completely different by-product.

http://winstondreitod1.bandcamp.com/

Other activities will include the Park Rapids firefighters' water fights on Main Street Thursday, Aug. 9, Arvig Summer Fun Bouncies (see flyer below) the annual Sweet Corn and Burger Feed at the Park Rapids American Legion Friday, Aug. 10 and the Northern Knights Car Club's Run to the Rapids Aug. 9 & 10.

Bite of Park Rapids

2012-07-27T06:46:00.001-07:00

July 27
2nd Annual Bite of Park Rapids
The 2nd Annual Bite of Park Rapids promises food, music and fun from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, July 27 on 2nd Street in Downtown Park Rapids. Twelve Park Rapids area vendors will offer a variety of fun food from barbecued pork and treats on a stick to healthy smoothies. Food races will be held from 12:45 to 1:25 p.m. Kids ages 6-12 are invited to participate in watermelon slice eating and watermelon seed spitting contests and adults will compete in watermelon seed spitting and mini hotdog/corn dog eating races. Prizes will be awarded to winners. All participants must sign up at the side stage before the events begin. An inflatables park and face painting also will entertain young children from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. After the food races, musicians who will entertain on the side stage are Chasing Clarence from 1:25-2:15 p.m. and Paul Reese from 3:45 to 4:15 p.m. Homegrown Tomatoes will open live music on the main stage at 11 a.m. Performing from 2:15 to 3:45 will be dancing Light. Thea Ennen will be on stage from 4:15 to 5:45 p.m. From 6 to 8 p.m., the band, i like you, will deliver an energetic sound from the main stage. The Park Rapids Downtown Business Association is sponsoring the Bite of Park Rapids and will host the beer garden from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Muskie Days!

2012-07-20T05:22:00.004-07:00

Meet me at the Muskie!

Description

More Music - More Vendors - More People - More Fun!

2012 Festival to feature musical performances by:

FRIDAY JULY 20, 2012

MUSKIE STAGE

4-5:30pm - Ida Jo https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ida-Jo/176029030736

6-7:30pm - Hardwood Groove https://www.facebook.com/HardwoodGroove

8-10pm - Matt Ray and those Damn Horses https://www.facebook.com/pages/Matt-Ray-and-Those-Damn-Horses/109735559056949

10:30-close - Uncle Shurley https://www.facebook.com/UncleShurley

VISIT SOME OF THESE BANDS AND "LIKE" THEM

MURAL STAGE

4-5pm - Make the Most https://www.facebook.com/pages/Make-the-Most/183092418384982

5:30-6:30pm - Small Town Fugitives https://www.facebook.com/pages/Small-Town-Fugitives/326850914032250

7-8:45pm - Kitchi Boogie https://www.facebook.com/kitchiboogie

9:15-11pm - July Fighter https://www.facebook.com/pages/JULY-FIGHTER/122265255265

IRON HORSE ACOUSTIC STAGE

9-10pm - Chants & Seas https://www.facebook.com/chantsandseas

10:30-11:30pm - Eldon Hagen https://www.facebook.com/eldon.hagen?ref=ts

SATURDAY JULY 21, 2012

MUSKIE STAGE

9:15-10:30am - Warpossums https://www.facebook.com/Warpossums

12:30-2pm - Brothers & Friends https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brothers-Friends/465009383513365

2:30-4pm - The May North https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-May-North/139670609395867

4:30-6pm - i like you. https://www.facebook.com/ilikeyoumusic

7-8:45pm - The Boys n the Barrels https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Boys-N-The-Barrels/107803192610670

9:15-10:15pm - Charlie Parr https://www.facebook.com/Charlie.Parr.Music

10:30-close - Jill Mikelson & The New Gruv https://www.facebook.com/JillandTheNewGruv

VISIT SOME OF THESE BANDS AND "LIKE" THEM

MURAL STAGE

10:30-11:30am - Yoga Sol https://www.facebook.com/pages/Yoga-Sol/137528009700669

12-12:30pm - World Tree Tribal Dance Collective https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Grove-Dynamic-Movement-Collective/216315245082963

1-2:30pm - Acoustic Smoke https://www.facebook.com/pages/Acoustic-Smoke/154870597872319

3-4:30pm - Murzik https://www.facebook.com/Murzikmusic

5-6pm - The Color Pharmacy https://www.facebook.com/thecolorx

7-8pm - The Color Pharmacy https://www.facebook.com/thecolorx

8:15-11pm - Yes! Let's Collective https://www.facebook.com/yesletscollective

featuring

Kazyak https://www.facebook.com/kazyaking

Brian Laidlaw https://www.facebook.com/brian.laidlaw.1

Red Daughters https://www.facebook.com/RedDaughters

MUNI ACOUSTIC STAGE

12-1pm - Caitlin Robertson https://www.facebook.com/CaitlinRobertsonMusic

1:30-3pm - July Fighter https://www.facebook.com/pages/JULY-FIGHTER/122265255265

3:30-4:30pm - Brady Perl https://www.facebook.com/bradyperlmusic?ref=ts

5-6pm - Charlie Parr https://www.facebook.com/Charlie.Parr.Music

IRON HORSE ACOUSTIC STAGE

2-3pm - Taylor Schroeder https://www.facebook.com/taylor.s.gibson.9

3:30-4:30pm - Lonesome Dan Kase http://www.lonesomedan.com/about.html

Admission to all the music and festivities is only a $5 commemorative button!

Primitive Tent camping at Dancing Muskie Campground within walking distance of the festival. Call Judy at 218-255-0156. No pets.

The 62nd Annual Nevis Muskie Days on July 20-21, 2012

is brought to you by the

Nevis Civic & Commerce

"Meet me at the Muskie!"

Don't Forget about the Hubbard County Fair and the PBR/Rodeo

2012-07-05T05:35:00.000-07:00

Even though the parade and fireworks are over, there is still MUCH to do in the Park Rapids Area this week.

July 4 - 8
Check out the Hubbard County Fair on Face Book: Hubbard County Fair

July 4 - 7
The Jokela Pro West PBR and Rodeo can be found here : Jokela Pro West PBR and Rodeo

There are so many things to do and see while visiting our area. Shopping, dining, art, theater just to name a few. For more detailed information go to : Park Rapids Visitors

Have a fun and safe holiday. Drink lots of water!

2012-06-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

Some beautiful images of Lake Itasca and Itasca State Park

Blank Canvas Gallery Book Signing

2012-06-05T08:21:00.001-07:00

BOOK SIGNING EVENT AT BLANK CANVAS GALLERY SATURDAY,

JUNE 16, 2-5 P.M.

On Saturday, June 16 from 2p.m. to 5 p.m. eight local authors will be at Blank Canvas Gallery for a book signing. The authors and their writings are as follows:

Sharon Harris- “Unspoken”, “Timeless Tracks” and “Life Savers”

Marion Holtey - “Seasons of Light”

Jill and Deanne Johnson - “Little Minnesota: 100 Towns Around 100”

Jerry Mevissen - “Nimrod Chronicles” and “Broken Heart”

Betty Porter – “Gramma & Gramp’s House in the North Woods” illustrations

By Betty and writing by Dr. Michael Porter, U of St. Thomas, Opus College of

Business.

Richard Sederstrom – “Fall Pictures on an Abandoned Road”, “Disordinary Light”

and “Folly, A Book of Last Summers.”

Lu Anne White – “The Perfect Man”

Tarah Wolff – “Embraced By Darkness - Book One (Sacrifices)”

The public is invited to come and meet the authors and find out about the books they have written and have a chance to acquire their own copy signed by the author.

This is taking place at the gallery, located at 311 Main Ave. S. in Park Rapids.

It’s always free, fun and inspiring to visit:

Blank Canvas Gallery and Education Center

311 Main Ave. S.

Park Rapids, MN 56470 218-237-5112 www.blankcanvasgallery.org

Legends & Logging Days Music!

2012-05-23T08:40:00.001-07:00

Terrapin Station is putting together a great line up for us at Legends & Logging Days. This is what we know so far....

Friday

Men with Hollow Bodies - Django style Jazz Guitar

Colleen Myrhe – Blues

http://colleenmyhre.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Thankful-Dirt/156450208210

By the end of their performance, audiences will feel like they are part of the band. This is the experience and magic that happens when The Hollands! come to town.

The Hollands! are members of the International Folk Alliance, Concerts in Your Home- USA, Australia and Europe. http://www.thehollands.org/

Saturday

http://www.facebook.com/nograsslimit

http://winstondreitod1.bandcamp.com/

Legends & Logging Days Sponsorship Opportunities

2012-05-18T08:04:00.002-07:00

We need your help! Legends & Logging Days has become such a popular event for Park Rapids, but we need partners to put the whole thing together. Of course sponsorship is one GREAT way to help, and we can't do it without our wonderful sponsors. We also need volunteers, artists, crafters, demonstrators and organizations willing to help with kids and other fun activities. Call Jane at 218-732-4111 to find out all the ways that YOU can help us make the 2012 Legends & Logging Days the best ever!

Happy Mother's Day

2012-05-10T05:49:00.002-07:00

Just a shout out to all the Mothers out there! We hope your day is as special as you are!

Check out the Every Friday News page to see what's happening in the area!

2012-05-04T10:23:00.000-07:00

There will be a reception on Friday May 4th from 5 - 7 p.m. at Blank Canvas Gallery located at 311 Main Ave. South.

Blank Canvas will open for the season Wednesday May 2nd.

Black Swan Cooperage Open House and Ribbon Cutting

2012-05-04T05:57:00.002-07:00

A big thanks to Black Swan Cooperage for a fantastic Open House. The community came out in full force to see one of our newest businesses in town. There were informative tours, great food and lots of fun!

Thank you to Heidi and her staff for all the hard work and dedication to make this such a wonderful event!

Lots to do this weekend!

2012-04-20T06:32:00.001-07:00

The weather is supposed to be pretty nice this weekend, so many of you may have plans for some yard work. If you need a break from raking, painting, gardening, etc. check this out!

Y Steak House opened for the season so you can make your dinner plans there if you are so inclined. The Spring Market in Nevis is scheduled for Saturday. See details below:

April 21, 2012
Spring Market
Nevis School 9 am - 3 pm
Discover the unique procucts of: Local Artits, Crafters, Homebased Businesses, Local organizations, Fundraising Projects, Music with Fran Gack and others. Broadcasting live on KDKK 97.5

Mothers Day is approaching and my guess is that you'll find some great gift ideas at the Nevis Spring Market... check it out!!

You KNEW it had to happen...

2012-04-10T12:46:00.003-07:00

Here we were.. basking in a gloriously warm and sunny spring. It was record breaking all over the state of Minnesota. 60's, 70's and dare I say maybe an 80 degree minute or two. But those of us who have lived here all our lives knew better than to put away the winter jackets, or buy annuals for the back yard. We KNEW it was going to feel like winter at least one more day. And here it is! Snowflakes and all.

But we know, just as sure as we know the sun will rise tomorrow, that spring will be back to stay soon. And then comes summer!

8 tips for great vacation photo's

2012-04-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

I found these tips online and thought now would be a good time to blog about them. If you use any of the below tips, send your best vacation shots in the Park Rapids Area and I'll post them here!

1. Power up

Learn to manage power—dead batteries ruin great photo ops. Always take two sets of batteries and a charger, says Jorge DaSilva, manager of Henry's School of Imaging. Use one set in the camera while the others set charges.
Or invest in a super-long-lasting, clip-on, rechargeable Lithium Ion power pack, which can be used with most digital cameras, suggests photo instructor Larry Frank, a senior product specialist at photo wholesaler DayMen Photo Marketing Inc.
The digital camera's LCD screen is a power hog—turn it off and use the optical view finder most of the time, Frank says.
Hint: Do use the LCD when shooting close-ups to help avoid inaccurately framed shots.
Find out what kind of power adapter you need for foreign countries—possibly a transformer or maybe just a plug adapter—and get it before you leave, says freelance nature and travel photographer Danny Catt. Travel-ready universal adapters that fit most cameras and outlets worldwide are now available. If you can't tell what you need from the camera's manual, ask the retailer where you bought it

2. Protect your gear

Digital cameras are very susceptible to water damage. After one of Catt's cameras got a little damp, "It was toast," he says. Stay away from water, and carry your camera in a waterproof bag.
Add a pack of silica gel to your camera bag to reduce moisture further, DaSilva suggests. You can buy one in camera stores.
When going through airport security, put memory cards in the plastic tray provided to avoid x-rays, metal detectors, or anything with a magnetic field.

3. Pack enough memory

The camera's manual should tell you how many shots at a given size and quality you can store on your memory card. Use this information to calculate the storage required for each picture, and then multiply by the number of pictures you expect to take
Conserve memory space by using lower resolution for shots you know you'll want to only print small or send in email, says DaSilva.
Hint: The largest files have the highest resolution. These files are the ones you need to use for making jumbo print enlargements.
Buy all the storage you need and maybe a little more before you travel, Catt says, so you can be sure it works.
Exploit your digital camera's greatest feature: Edit as you go—delete shots that don't work. You’ll save memory and get a good idea of what shots you have and what shots you still need to take.
Hint: Take the camera's AV cord (virtually all come with one), and plug it into a hotel room TV to get a better look at the pictures. If you travel a lot, get a camera that has playback for different television systems around the world.

4. Know your camera

Most digital cameras don't take the picture the split second you click the shutter, Catt notes. Try to anticipate the shot you want—click just before your subject fully emerges from the surf, for example. Then check the LCD to make sure you got it. If not, shoot again.

When setting exposure, if in doubt, err toward underexposure (too dark), Frank advises. Overexposed digital camera shots are prone to burnouts—bright parts of the picture rendered as pure white.
Hint: Avoid shots that include the sun, Catt says. If you have to shoot in full sunlight, shoot with the sun behind the camera.
Understand and exploit your camera’s creative manual options, Frank says. "Use a fast shutter speed to stop action, for example, or a slow shutter speed to create a pleasing blur when shooting a waterfall or something with implied movement."
Also, get to know and then exploit your camera’s advanced digital features, Catt urges. Many digital cameras help you shoot pictures that you can later "stitch" into panoramas using a computer. Some will even apply special effects, such as black and white, sepia tone, and polarization. "Sometimes you have to think outside the photographic box," he says.

5. Compose carefully

Make the main subject BIG. Fill the camera’s frame with it, so viewers can’t miss it. "Assume your audience has the attention span of a three-year-old," Frank advises. Don’t be afraid to get up close or to use your camera’s Magnify or Zoom feature to focus attention on your subject.
More often than not, avoid placing your main subject dead center. Imagine a tic-tac-toe grid overlaying the picture frame, DaSilva suggests. Try to place the subject at one of the grid's intersections.
DaSilva also suggest that you look for natural frames in the scene to better compose the main subject—a church spire framed by the arches of a cloister, for example.
When shooting landscapes and sunsets, Catt says, decide which is pictorially more important: land, water, or sky. If land or water, place the horizon in the top third of the picture, if sky, place it in the bottom third. Avoid putting the horizon in the middle.
Catt also suggests that you look for lines in the scene—a road or footsteps in the sand—and try to frame the picture so the lines lead the eye from the left toward your main subject.

For more suggestions on how to take a picture, especially that special photo you want to use in your holiday mailing, read 9 tips: How to photograph holidays and special occasions.

6. Know what to shoot—and when

Shoot more often in the half hour to two hours before and after sunrise and sunset. The low-angle light at these times produces dramatic and pleasing results, says DaSilva.
Hint: He also suggests that, when shooting in low light—outside or inside—you always use a lightweight mini tripod to hold the camera steady for the slower shutter speeds required.
"Try and look below the surface" when photographing your travels, Frank advises. Look for shots that capture something of the local ambience and culture.
Check calendars ahead of time for festivals and other special events you can shoot. Check out harbor areas and amusement parks. Shoot farmers' markets early in the morning when locals are shopping.
Hint: Learn a few words of the local language, and always ask people before taking their pictures. Most people will happily agree.

7. Add stunning photo effects

Cropping a photo can change an average photo into a dramatic one, especially if you crop "off center." Before you delete what looks like a bad shot, take another look and see if you can crop a corner or a portion of it. You can crop photos, remove red eye, and apply other cool photo effects with photo-editing programs, like Windows Live Photo Gallery, a part of Windows Live Essentials. You can download Photo Gallery and Windows Live Essentials for free.

Edit photos with Windows Live Photo Gallery
- Windows 7
- Windows Vista
Hint: Before you start editing, make a working copy of your original image by saving it with a new file name. You can do this by opening the image and typing, for example, bw (for “black and white”) at the end of the filename when you save it to differentiate the working image from the original. For example, if the image file name is "Leaf," save the image as "Leafbw." When you do all of your editing on your working copy of the image, you can always start over with a fresh copy of the original if you don't like the results. Windows Live Photo Gallery has a convenient Revert to original button that you can use if you don’t want to save any of your editing changes after previewing them, but it’s still a good idea to save a copy of the original.
You can easily convert color photos to black and white by using your favorite image-editing program. With some camera models you can even do this in the camera before downloading the image to your computer. After the image is on your computer, you can use your image-editing program to adjust contrast and brightness to create a photograph that's reminiscent of an Ansel Adams print.
Hint: Silhouettes look terrific in black and white, as do old buildings. The effect adds drama. But be sure to reserve this technique for landscapes or buildings. Photos of family members in black and white may not be as warm as you want them to be.
Combine black and white and color in one image to dramatize your subject. For example, make the background of your shot of a little girl in a flowering garden black and white, and leave your main subject—the girl picking a flower—in color. You can apply this and other cool effects to your images with many of today's digital imaging software packages, like Adobe Photoshop Elements. Amazing photo effects like these used to be available only to professional photographers.
Can’t fit the whole mountain range or seascape into your camera’s frame? Try shooting multiple photos of the scene and using your computer to stitch them into a stunning panorama with Windows Live Photo Gallery.

Create a photo panorama in Windows Live Photo Gallery

Windows 7
- Windows Vista
If you want even more perspectives on your subject than a regular panorama gives you, try Microsoft Photosynth. Photosynth uses Microsoft Research Image Composite Editor, an advanced photo stitching program that transforms regular digital photos into three-dimensional, 360-degree interactive experiences. This new service changes the way you experience and share photos. Please note that you have to download Photosynth and sign in with a Windows Live ID account to use or view photos within the Photosynth experience.

8. Organize and share what you shoot

Photo collages celebrate important events and themes in our lives. Pick a folder, press a button, and, in a few minutes Microsoft AutoCollage presents you with a unique memento to print or email to your family and friends.
Learn about more innovative ways to make the most out of your photographs on the Microsoft Photo Community blog.
Tell your vacation story. That's right,—your vacation is a story, with a beginning, a middle, and an end. Capturing your photos in a way that tells the story is the first step in really taking your vacation home with you and sharing it with others.
Use Windows Live Sky Drive to share your photos with family and friends.

Article written by Gerry Blackwell and adapted from an original piece in Microsoft Home Magazine.

Spring Lawn Care Tips

2012-04-03T09:48:00.000-07:00

Springs sure seems to be in the air, and it will be time to get out the lawn mower and mow your grass soon. I thought I'd post the 5 best ways to kill your grass! Do NOT do these things if you want a beautiful yard this summer.

Cutting too short. Each time you mow, only remove about 1/3 of the grass blade. Shorter clippings break down more easily, allowing some of the natural nitrogen to return to the soil. If you cut too much at one time, the long clippings can cause stress on the grass, inhibiting healthy growth. Removing only a small amount of the blade each time you mow is a good practice and will give you the best quality turf.
Mowing in the same pattern repeatedly. We all have our habits, but mowing your lawn in the same pattern all year is one you need to break. Mowing grass in the same direction all the time can mat down the turf and inhibit growth. By varying the pattern in which you mow your grass, you will avoid missing or double mowing areas and reduce wear on the turf. This will encourage a healthier, more beautiful lawn. Now I understand why some of the men in my neighborhood sometimes mow their grass to look like a checkerboard, and other times like the outfield at a ball park—they're mixing things up to keep their lawn healthy.
Bagging your clippings. While bagging clippings is a common practice, mulching with your grass clipping is much more beneficial to your lawn. Mulching returns essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, back to the soil. If you do decide to bag, be sure to compost your clippings and reuse on site.
Ignoring the roots. Don't just focus on managing the parts of the lawn you can see. Caring for the grass' roots and soil is one of the most important things you can do now to ensure healthy growth year round. Consider taking a soil sample and having a local university extension program or your local landscape supplier provide a soil analysis. The results will give a measure of fertility based on nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels, and can help determine the best type of fertilizer to use throughout the year.
Cutting with blunt mower blades. A dull mower blade will shred grass blades creating entryways for disease. Sharpen the mower blade to a thickness of about 1/64 of an inch to keep the blade strong and but not too sharp. Be sure the blade is balanced, which will give you a clean cut and avoid damage to the mower. If you're unsure how to sharpen the blade, as an expert at your local home improvement store for help. You always want to keep good lawnmower safety in mind.

If you have some tips for beautiful lawns, post them here! We have visitors come to the Park Rapids area and RAVE about the beauty they see all around them.

Ice Sounds at Bear Paw Resort in Park Rapids

2012-03-30T06:56:00.003-07:00

Hubbard County Fair Park Rapids

2012-03-30T06:52:00.001-07:00