A Randall Man pleads guilty to Second Degree Murder

On Tuesday, Robert O'Jala of Randall pleaded guilty to second-degree murder for the March 12th death of his girlfriend's 2-year-old son, Dylan Martin, according to the Brainerd Dispatch. He is expected to be sentenced to 15 years in prison. In a statement given to officals, O'Jala initially claimed that on March 10th the boy was choking on cereal when he went limp and became unconscious. O'Jala later confessed to becoming frustrated with Dylan, and taking him to the child's bedroom, where he lifted the boy by the arms and threw him down.

Minnesota Truckers being hit hard by Pump Prices

Minnesota Truckers are being hit hard by the high pump prices. Due to the crunch, truckers are having to alter their routes. John Hausladen, President of the Minnesota Trucking Association, explained in a pre-recorded interview that truckers are having to slow down, consolidate trips, accept jobs based on their proximity to existing routes--and even re-learn to shift up when accelerating--a trick that helps them save on mpg's.

Proposed ATV Trail put on "Hold" by CWC Board

Consideration for support of an ATV trail system was put on hold Tuesday night, as the Crow Wing County Board learned that a public petition was filed with the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board seeking an assessment worksheet for the proposed ATV trail between Brainerd and Emily--passing through Trommald. Brainerd Attorney Patti Aaness, who represents residents concerned about the trail, explained in a phone-con that the opposition included, but was not limited to, the question of whether or not there's an ancient Native American burial ground located on the site of the proposed trail between the Mississippi River and Black Bear Lake. ATV enthusiast Roger Bently of Crosy, in a phone-con, wondered if this latest development isn't just another ploy to stall the progress of the potential trail.

The Soil is too Dry for Trees

In an interview with Len Nelson of Deblen Service of Pequot Lakes, he told our morning announcer Bob Bundgaard that the soil is very dry, and the trees could use some rain. He mentioned that the soil moisture is way down, and that an excavating acquaintance of his said that the soil down just a few inches is like powder. He told of the services that Deblen offers. Fortunately, we all agree, there's rain in the forecast.

Spring is the Season of Graduation. . .and Retirement

Many wonderful things happen at this time of year--weddings--babies--graduation--and retirement time for teachers! Our congratulations goes out to Steve Heslop and his wife Judy--both long-time teachers at Pequot Lakes High School. Steve has been a pillar of the English Department at PLHS, and his wife is retiring from Physical Education. In a phone-con with Steve, he said he's looking forward to the usual retirement expectations--including relaxing, catching up on tasks around the house, travelling, and visiting with family. Good Luck with all your plans Steve and Judy--and to all of the retiring teachers!--and Happy Commencement to the class of 2008!

ATV Trail Issue gets put on "Hold" by Crow Wing County Board

Consideration for support of an ATV trail system was removed almost as soon as it appeared on the agenda last night as the Crow Wing Country Board learned that a public petition was filed with the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board seeking an assessment worksheet for the proposed ATV trail between Brainerd and Emily--passing through Trommald, according to the Brainerd Dispatch. Long-time ATV enthusiast Roger Bently of Crosby was at the meeting. In an interview with K-Lakes, he explained his passion for riding, and the fact that the trails under consideration have actually been there a long time. Brainerd Attorney Patti Aanes, who represents some clients opposed to the trail, explained via a phonecon that her clients aren't "anti-ATV"--they're just interested in exactly where the trail would go. One of the arguments against the trail actually surfaced last night when it came to light that there may be historic burial grounds on the proposed trail between the Mississippi River and Black Bear Lake. Commissioner Doug Houge, who represents the area, said that there are no concept routes that are etched in stone.

Bird's Nest in Garrison cited for Theatre Nights

The Bird's Nest and owner Roberta Johnson are being taken to court by the State, saying that the bar and restaurant have been in violation of the Freedom to Breathe Act by allowing customers to smoke inside while saying they are actors in a play with a script that calls for smoking. According to the Brainderd Dispatch, Minnesota Department of Health Spokesman, Doug Schultz, is quoted as saying ". . .our overriding concern is protecting the health of Minnesota's workers and citizens from hazardous secondhand smoke. We believe this is the right step to take." The civil action is to be filed in Crow Wing County District court. Roberta Johnson did not return a phone call left by K-Lakes "Blenda".

Gas Prices may be Helping MN Tourism

Higher gas prices may actually be good for Minnesota tourism, according to Paul Roth, Crow Wing State Park Manager. He said that many Minnesotans are planning on taking trips closer to home, in light of the high gas prices. In particular, he knew one Minnesotan who'd been meaning to take a trip to Yellowstone, but vacationed over the Memorial Day weekend within the state, instead. Keepin' those bucks closer to home!

MN Taxes, as a Percentage of Income, Declining

We've been experienceing tough economic times, but according to Dane Smith, President of Minnesota-based Growth and Justice, Minnesota--as a state--has fallen on the list of states with the highest income taxes. We used to be 5th on the list, but have dropped to 19th.

A Busy Season for Tornados

In light of the recent tragedy in Hugo, we wanted to get some advice from a professional regarding what to do in the event of a tornado. Breezy Point Patrolman Brian Sandell says that in the event of a tornado, you should get to the safest place you can. At home, move into the basement, and stay away from windows. He said if you're in a school or office building, go to the designated shelter. If there isn't one, move to the lowest floor of the building into the innter-most room. Again, stay away from windows. If you're in a vehicle, abondon it--and move to a safe place of shelter.

A Crosslake Woman dies as a result of being burned

Clara Hunter, age 87, of Crosslake died on Monday as a result of burns she sustained while cooking at her home on Saturday. Authorities say the Crosslake Police Department responded to a call around 5 p.m. on Saturday, and found that Hunter had received burns to about 60% of her body. Sergeant Erick Lee says it appeared that Hunter caught fire while cooking. Her husband was mowing the lawn at the time. Lee called it a tragic accident.

David Allan Pundt Announces Canidacy

David Allan Pundt, on Monday, announced his canidacy for the House District 12A seat, currently held by Democrat John Ward. Pundt, a Republican, is looking for the Republican endorsement when they convene on June 10th. David said change is in order--and that education, freedom, and taxation are issues he would like to address. Incumbent John Ward embraces Pundt's decision to challenge him--saying he applaudes anyone who is willing to put themselves into the political arena for the good of the people.

Sheriff Todd Dahl says we're doing a good job--

Crow Wing County Sheriff Todd Dahl says we're doing a pretty good job of behaving ourselves. Over the Memorial Day weekend, Dahl was pleased to see that law enforcement, on the whole, was not having any remarkable problems in the Brainerd Lakes Area--especially in light of all of the additional traffic for the Holiday Weekend. Keep up the good work!

Purses for Partners

Kinship Partners is hosting an event called Kinship Partners this Saturday, May 31st at the Lakeside Ballroom at Breezy Point Restort. Jean Kraft, Lakes Country Program Coordinator for Kinship Partners is really looking forward to the event, including a luncheon, and a raffle of many remarkable purses. Purses include a cocout purse, an Hershey's wrapper purse, and even one of Jennifer Lopez's handbags that she used in a movie--complete with a certificate of authenticity. Additionally, each purse will contain either an additional item from a local vendor, or a certifacte redeemable for a good or service at a local vendor. For more information, or to make a reservation, call 218-829-4606, or toll-free 877-730-5437

Water spout over Leech Lake

See video of a water spout over Leech Lake.

Sustainable Tourism

University of Minnesota Tourism Center is trying to sell the message of 'sustainable tourism' and maintaining clean air and water. Extension Professor Cynthia Messer said the concept has a number of components including environmental, economic, and social. Expect to see more information about 'sustainable tourism' in future University of Minnesota messages.

Brainerd Chamber Expects A Good Economic Summer

Gas prices continue to hover in the $3.80 a gallon neighborhood and some of us are thinking about ways to reduce travel. Some would think that summer tourism business would suffer. Brainerd Lakes Chamber Executive Director Lisa Paxton said she expects a pretty good summer for her members. Paxton said 85% of summer tourists come from the Twin Cities and this area is about a half-tank away for most visitors. The chamber is also spending a lot of advertising dollars in the Twin City market to make sure tourists don't forget we're here. One of the big campaigns is the Oxpedition and the Ox-Trot. 22-brightly colored 'Babe the Blue Ox' statues are perched around the area, welcoming visitors to stop, take a photo and enjoy their summer vacations.

Missing SCSU Prof Spoke Of Suicide

The St.Cloud State professor missing in a Utah national park talked about suicide in a letter to relatives, according the Sartell Police Chief Jim Hughes. Biology professor Jerry Wolff hasn't been seen in more than a week. He was supposed to end a hike through the Needles district of Canyonlands National Park last Friday. Hughes said part of the letter said he was going to a remote wilderness to return his body and soul to nature. Park Ranger Denny Ziemann said Wolff has disappeared into the world's best hiding place. Ziemann said he's in an area where if you don't want to be found, you won't be.

New Minnesota Voters

League of Women Voters spokeswoman Peggy Kvam said there will be 10,000 new voters showing up at the polls this fall. Kvam said the League has been registering new naturalized citizens to vote since January of 2007. The 10,000 new Minnesota citizens have come from more than 120 countries. Secretary of State Mark Ritchie said he's been at several naturalization ceremonies to welcome new citizens. He said its part of his effot to allow everyone who wants to vote to do so. Ritchie announced Thursday his 80 in '08 campaign, to raise Minnesota's voter turnout percentage to 80% this year.

Pequot, Pine River Power Outage

More than 2,500 Minnesota Power customers in the Pequot Lakes and Pine River areas were without electricity Thursday afternoon. Officials say equipment failed at a power substation. Spokeswoman Nancy Norr told the Brainerd Dispatch the equipment failed just after 4pm and cut off 2,600 customers. Power was restored to 2,000 customers by 4:40pm, the rest by 5:20pm. Crow Wing Power spokeswoman Char Kinzer said some of her company's customers were affected as well.

May Mobilization On Now

Area law enforcement officers are working extra hours for the rest of the month. Their goal is to increase the number of people who wear seat belts. Minnesota State Patrol Sergeant Curt Mower said not wearing a seat belt can be deadly. Mower said just over 130 people have died in highway crashes so far this year, about 20 fewer than last year. Mower said he would like nothing better than to get through some year with no one dying on the highway.

Crow Wing Needs Elections Judges

Crow Wing County Auditor Deborah Erickson is on the lookout for election judges for September's primary and November's elections. Erickson said the list of qualifications to be an election judge is a short one. You have to be able to read and write English, a US Citizen, at least 18 years old, an eligible voter and not runnning for office in the current election. Elections judges may greet voters and direct them to the correct booth to go, register voters, and hand out ballots. If you want to be an election judge contact the local chair of one of three major political parties. Erickson said those names forwarded by party are selected first for duty on election day. For more information, contact your county auditor. In Crow Wing County, its Deborah A. Erickson at 824-1045.

Crow Wing County Manager Finalists

The Crow Wing County Board has named four finalists to fill the position of County Administrator. Former Administrator David Hamilton took a job in Florida earlier this year. One of the four finalists is Morrison County Administrator Tim Houle, a runner-up for the Crow Wing County job eight years ago. The other three are Pope County Coordinaotr Riaz Aziz, Otter Tail County Human Services Director John Dinsmore, and Barron County, Wisconsin Administrator Duane Herbert. A county spokesman told the Brainerd Dispatch that the four will be interviewed by the board on Friday.

Bemidji's Carlson Wins Endorsement In District 4A

Minnesota House District 4A delegates have endorsed 55-year old John Carlson to run for state representative this fall. Carlson owns an insurance agency and has been involved in the Bemidji community for decades. Carlson said this is his first time running for state office. The insurance executive said he believes if you complain about government and aren't willing to stand up and serve, you should stop complaining. Carlson will run against the endorsed Democrat candidate. DFLers will hold a community meeting on Thursday to see if there are others who would like to run. Township Supervisor John Pursill has said he would like to try again. Pursill lost to incumbent State Representative Frank Moe who decided last month not to run for a third term.

Fatal Highway Crashes Down, So Far

So far, highway crashes have killed fewer people compared to last year at this time. Minnesota State Patrol Sergeant Curt Mower said they could be even lower. Mower said 131 people have died in fatal highway crashes so far this year, compared to 150 at this time last year. Five motorcyclists have died in crashes this year; ten last year by now. Eight pedestrians this year; 11 last year by late May. Mower said this is the time of the year when motorcyclist and bicyclists are out and about so be aware, drive cautiously and remain alert.

Olson Likes Session Results

Bemidji State Senator Mary Olson said Tuesday that this was a very positive legislative session, including the way that it ended. Olson said for everyone to come together for a final negotiated settlement was a positive achievement. Governor Pawlenty and elected officials from both parties met around the clock for the last 24 hours before the end of the session. Agreement was reached around 11:45pm Sunday night, roughly 15 minutes before the official end. Olson said highlights from the session include overriding the governor’s veto of the transportation finance bill and gas tax increase. Olson said another important accomplishment was the passage of a constitutional amendment to raise a sales tax and dedicate the money to outdoors activity and the arts.

Governor Responds to Lawyer's Bridge Collapse Report

Governor Pawlenty said he has directed MnDOT Commissioner Tom Sorel to take a look at the report issued Wednesday on the collapse of the I-35 Bridge. The report completed by law firm Gray Moody and Plant attempted to point fingers at MnDOT for not doing more to prevent the bridge collapse. Pawlenty added that the National Transportation Safety Board expects to complete its investigation later this year and while the Gray Moody Plant report is interesting, there's no way to know if its relevant until the NTSB report is issued. The Governor said an initial statement suggested the bridge collapsed because of too-thin gusset plates. The NTSB also said inspecting the bridge would have not identified the design error of the plates.

East Gull Lake Break-in, Shooting

An East Gull Lake resident returned home Monday just before noon to discover someone had broken into the house. The homeowner said the burglary suspect had apparently found a handgun in the house, fired one shot and then dropped the gun and ran. There were no injuries. The suspect is a white male in his mid to late 20s. He was wearing blue jeans and a grey hooded sweatshirt. If you have information about the break-in, call the Cass County Sheriff's office

Wedding Scare

A Todd County wedding party got a bit of a scare last Friday when the driver of their limousine had a fatal heart attack. A bridesmaid called over the divider and was able to get the limo to stop. Members of the wedding party performed CPR on the driver, Robert Brummer of Wadena. He was taken to Long Prairie Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Oberstar Portrait Unveiled

An official portrait of Minnesota Congressman Jim Oberstar was officially unveiled and presented to the House of Representatives Wednesday night. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi accepted the portrait on behalf of the House. Minneapolis artist Leslie Bowman painted the portrait. Bowman has also painted a portrait of Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Wahl.

Budget Fix?

State officials traveled around the state this week, describing the plan to balance the budget as a good solution. Nan Madden is with an organization called the Minnesota Budget Project. She said the session-ending deal was only a short-term solution and doesn't address the spending side of the ledger at all. Senate Republicans in Brainerd yesterday said the deal leaves Minnesota with a much lower reserve fund. And if the economy doesn't turn around soon, officials expect more shortages next year. Some predict the deficit could be close to $3-Billion for the next biennium.

Campground Spots Still Available

Its going to be busy at Minnesota State Parks this weekend. DNR spokeswoman Pat Arndt said your favorite spot may have already been reserved but if you call right away, you might find another one. Check out the DNR website at www.mnstateparks.info to get more information.

New Conservation Officers Go To School

Ten candidates have begun Conservation Officer Academy XII at Camp Ripley. Candidates will learn about natural resource laws and how to enforce them in this initial 12-week training program put on by the Minnesota DNR. The prospective C-O's will learn how to use a laptop, investigate complaints, collect evidence, interview suspects, and present evidence in court. After graduation, recruits will spend another 16-weeks in the field. Captain Mark Johanson said the training is both physically and mentally challenging to make sure the recruits are ready to join the other 200 Minnesota Conservation Officers on the job.

Firewood Restrictions

The US Army Corps of Engineers is restricting the use of firewood at its recreation sites to try to stop the spread of the emerald ash borer. The invasive bug hitchhikes on firewood transported in from somewhere else. The borer has killed more than 20-million ash trees in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Ontario. Minnesota has the third largest volume of ash timber in the country. The Corps said you can bring in firewood if you bought it within 100 miles of the campground at which you're staying.

Senate Republicans Offer Different Perspective

Governor Pawlenty and Democrat legislative leaders flew around the state on Monday, sharing their thoughts about the end of the legislative session. Most of their reflections were very positive. Senate Republicans covered the state on Tuesday and their message was less than euphoric. Eden Prairie lawmaker David Hann said the solutions that ended the session tended to be short-term. Hann said we've spent down 80% of the state's rainy day fund and some expect state deficits for the next budget cycle to be as high as $3-Billion. Hann said Minnesotans have more taxes and regulations than before the last session and spending has not been brought under control in light of an uncertain economic future.

Pequot Lakes Man Pleads Guilty to Murder

27-year old Matthew Raymond Smoot pleaded guilty Tuesday to second degree unintentional murder for driving the car that killed Joseph Jordan of Nisswa nearly three years ago. Smoot crashed into Jordan's car in July 2005. His blood alcohol count was .29 at the time, more than three times the legal limit. Smoot was sentenced to nearly 14 years in prison, a third of which can be served on supervised release.

MLEC Planned Outage

Mille Lacs Energy customers in the area of Scott, Kenny and Miller Lakes and the northwest portion of Borden Lake will experience a power outage Thursday morning, May 22. Construction crews are upgrading the Wilson Lake substation. The outage will begin around 9am and last until 1pm.

Crow Wing Canoe Day June 1st

The Crow Wing County Parks and Trails Department will host the annual County Canoe Day again this year. County Commissioner Paul Thiede said the day to set aside is Sunday, June 1st. Thiede said the park will have an open house that day and no admission will be charged. Other festivities include demonstrations by re-enactors, buckskinners, skrimshaw, black powder demonstrations. Thiede said its a great day for families and first time or veteran canoists. Time and place again is Boom Park in Brainerd at 11am Sunday morning, June 1st.

Crow Wing County Canoe Day

The Crow Wing County Parks and Trails Department will host the annual County Canoe Day again this year. County Commissioner Paul Thiede said the day to set aside is Sunday, June 1st. Travelers will put their canoes into the Mississippi River at Boom Park in South Brainerd south of the high school and paddle to Crow Wing State Park. Thiede said the park will have an open house that day and no admission will be charged. Other festivities include demonstrations by re-enactors, buckskinners, skrimshaw, black powder demonstrations. Thiede said its a great day for families and first time or veteran canoists.

Pequot Lakes Man Pleads Guilty to Murder

27-year old Matthew Raymond Smoot pleaded guilty Tuesday to second degree unintentional murder for driving the car that killed Joseph Jordan of Nisswa nearly three years ago. Smoot crashed into Jordan's car in July 2005. His blood alcohol count was .29 at the time, more than three times the legal limit. Smoot was sentenced to nearly 14 years in prison, a third of which can be served on supervised release.

School Money Not Enough

Brainerd and Crosby-Ironton Superintendents Jerry Walseth and Jaime Skjeveland seem less than overwhelmed with the $51-per pupil extra-money proposition passed in the last days of the legislative session. Walseth said the bill will bring just over $300,000 to Brainerd and he will recommend it go to the district reserve fund. Skjeveland said he'll recommend the same for Crosby-Ironton's $50,000. Brainerd Lawmaker John Ward said a bill to be discussed next year will bring in a lot more money. Ward said the 'Second Minnesota Miracle' realigns the funding formula and increases the amount of money spent on public education. Current estimates are that the new bill will cost taxpayers $2.2-Billion per year. Walseth and Skjeveland said they won't be able to take advantage of the additional $51 per pupil transferred from their capitol budgets. Both said they need that money for taking care of school buildings.

Republicans Endorse Bemidji Business Owner

Minnesota House District 4A delegates endorsed 55-year old John Carlson to run for state representative this fall. Carlson owns an insurance agency and has been involved in the Bemidji community for decades. Carlson said he felt like common sense is needed at the state capitol and that he was the guy to do it. He'll run against the endorsed Democrat candidate. DFLers will hold a community meeting on Thursday to see if there are others who would like to run. Township Supervisor John Pursill has said he would like to try again. Pursill lost to incumbent State Representative Frank Moe who decided last month not to run for a third term.

Bemidji Republican Endorsing Convention

Two Bemidji-area Republicans face each other tonight at the House District 4A endorsing convention. 26-year old Tony Williams is a clerk in furniture store. 55-year old John Carlson owns an insurance agency. The winner of the endorsement will face the chosen Democrat candidate. Township supervisor John Pursill has announced he wants to run to replace Democrat incumbent Frank Moe who decided not to run for a third term. DFLers will hold candidate forums in Deer River and Bemidji today and Cass Lake on Thursday in case other candidates decide they want to run too. The DFL endorsement convention is on May 31st.

Area Legislators Pleased With Session Results

Area lawmakers are also happy with the final results of the 2008 Minnesota Legislative Session. Royalton Lawmaker Al Doty said people were helped in spite of the deficit. Brainerd Lawmaker John Ward said he was also pleased. Both men are running for re-election in November and both have been endorsed by their party. No one has announced intentions to run against the two Democrats. The Senate District 12 Republican endorsing convention will be held on June 10th at Central Lakes College.

Koering, Senate Republicans In Brainerd Tuesday

Fort Ripley State Senator Paul Koering and Senate Republican Leaders will be in Brainerd Tuesday afternoon to talk about the 2008 Legislative Session. Leaders will begin their day with a press conference at 9am at the State Capitol and be in Brainerd at 1pm for a press conference in front of City Hall on Laurel west of Sixth Street.

Leaders Travel To Tell The Tale

Governor Pawlenty will travel the state Monday to tell his recollections of the final days of the session. Pawlenty will fly to Moorhead Monday morning, then on to Duluth, St. Cloud, Rochester and back to S. Paul to hold media conferences and talk about the end of the 2008 Legislative Session. Democrat leaders will also spent Monday touring the state. Senators Larry Pogemiller and Tarryl Clark, and Representatives Tony Sertich, and Margaret Anderson Kelliher are to hold news conferences today in Duluth, Bemidji, Moorhead, St. Cloud, Mankato, and Rochester. Senate Republican Leaders take the day off and tour the state on Tuesday.

The 2008 Legislative Session Is Over

The round-the-clock marathon at the end of the 2008 Minnesota legislative session ended Sunday night about 15 minutes ahead of the deadline, at midnight. Highlights from the final round of negotiations include a property tax cap that prevents cities and counties from raising those taxes for three years but more local government aid for cities. The final package also includes some health care reform and a balanced budget. House Republican Leader Marty Seifert said he is pleased with the result, that through nearly 70 vetoes and numerous threatens of vetoes, he and members of his caucus were able to stop a number of tax increases and business regulations. House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher also said the session was a good one for Democrats and demonstrated that Minnesota's political leaders can get along. Leaders of each party will fly around the state on Monday talking about positives and negatives from the 2008 legislative session.

Safe Boating Week

National Safe Boating Week begins on Saturday, May 17th. Boating industry spokeswoman Carol Clark said acting responsibly is the best way to stay safe on the water this summer. Clark recommends if alcoholic beverages are a part of the merriment, be sure to use a designated skipper. She said 85% of boaters agreed with her about designated skippers in a survey they took last year.

Purses For Partners

Tickets are now on sale for a special Kinship Partners fundraiser. Spokeswoman Jean Kraft said this is the first year for the event for those looking for a fashion accessory and want to help Kinship Partners as well. Kraft said purses will go to highest bidder. Some of them will be designer purses. She said she knows of at least two Coco Chanel items and the white shoulder bag use by Jennifer Lopez in the movie El Cantante. The bag comes with original property department tag and certificate of authenticity. The Purses for Partners fundraiser will be Saturday, May 31st at Breezy Point Resort. Tickets are $25 and you can reserve yours by calling either Brainerd or Pequot Lakes Kinship Partner office (218-829-4606, 218-568-4015) or by going online to www.kinshippartners.org.

Brainerd Music Download Case Development

The Brainerd woman ordered to pay nearly a quarter million dollars for illegally downloading music may get another trial. Or the case could be dismissed. District Court Judge Michael J. Davis said Thursday he may have been wrong telling the jury in Jammie Thomas' case that recording industry attorneys didn't have to prove anyone actually got the music she put up on a web site. Davis said he found an appeals decision that copyright infringement didn't occur if someone didn't receive copies. Attorneys will meet in a Duluth court room on July 1st. Thomas' attorney Brian Toder told the Dispatch he is very willing to retry the case.