So here I am one week away from the big Thanksgiving dinner. I am hosting the big weekend at my house for 14 people.
I am not totally stressed about it -- yet.
Usually, Thanksgiving is at my mom and dad’s in Bloomington. Or my brother’s house in Jordan, or my other brother’s house in Cannon Falls. I think my sister had it at her house in Maple Grove once.
I am famous in my family for not being the best cook. We never really have to check the smoke detectors at the change of Daylight Savings time, because ours go off pretty much whenever I cook. You know the saying -- that’s how I tell the dinner is done. Unfortunately, it is kinda true at my house. J
It’s not that I can’t cook, I just don’t do it often. There are a few specialty dinners that I can throw together with the blink of an eye. The easy things like salads, (green leafy ones with fresh vegies - not jello salad) homemade pizza, chili, soup, burgers on the grill, hamburger pie and reservations.
My home ec teacher from high school told me all I had to know was how to make one fabulous dinner and just cook that every time I entertain. The same for dessert. And I have pretty much stuck with that theory. I have found the best dinners are prepared with wine. Sometimes, I even put it IN the food.
I am usually the one in the family asked to bring the bean casserole. Or buns. Or, well, the wine. You get the picture. The easy stuff.
I have made a turkey dinner before. But not for several years and not for 14 people.
I am planning on making the turkey, stuffing, smashed potatoes and yams. Everyone else has been given their assignments. I am thinking it should be pretty easy.
My questions have to do with the turkey part. OK, so that is like the main part of the Thanksgiving dinner. But really, all I have to do is put the bird in the oven and relax for the next 6 hours or so, right?
For 14 people, I am thinking I need a 20 pound turkey. And I am suppose to stuff it, too. That is what my brother told me.
I guess I am looking for some suggestions. Like, I am wondering, how long should I cook that bird? Should I cover it? Do I add water? Should I use one of those bags? And do turkeys come with directions? How long do I cook it? I just don’t know.
And any stuffing recipes out there that are simple and scrumptious?
Waiting to talk turkey with you readers. Please offer your suggestions.
Thank you!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Where are all the manners?
So I don’t understand why people do not to R.S.V.P.?
When a person goes to the trouble of hand writing invitations to a party and having them delivered, whether by mail, in person, by pigeon or pony, the recipient should reply. It is just good manners.
Even if you don’t want to go to the party, at least call and make up some excuse.
Specifically, I am talking about kid birthday parties. I had one for my son this past weekend and am sadly disappointed with the lack of responses. Do people think, because it is a kid party it just doesn’t matter if they RSVP or not?
There is the likely possibility the invitations in question were lost in the guest children’s backpacks. That has actually happened to me before. The day before, or even the day of, I have found an invitation to a birthday party. Suddenly, I am on the phone calling the mom asking if it is too late for my child to attend. While I apologized for the late response, the mom is usually grateful for the response and of course, it is not too late. So we throw some money in a card on the way to the party and everybody is happy.
Some of my son's friends did not make it to the party on Saturday. My son had a good time with his friends that were there, but he did wonder where the other missing guys were and why they didn’t show up.
They are kids. By Monday at recess all was forgotten. I probably took it harder than my son. And I do have extra thank you gift bag items I can save for some unexpected gift I may need to throw together in the future.
But still, if you get invited to a party, whether by phone, in person, or an invitation asking for an R.S.V.P., you should at least call. Even if you have to make up a little excuse.
Where have all the manners gone?
When a person goes to the trouble of hand writing invitations to a party and having them delivered, whether by mail, in person, by pigeon or pony, the recipient should reply. It is just good manners.
Even if you don’t want to go to the party, at least call and make up some excuse.
Specifically, I am talking about kid birthday parties. I had one for my son this past weekend and am sadly disappointed with the lack of responses. Do people think, because it is a kid party it just doesn’t matter if they RSVP or not?
There is the likely possibility the invitations in question were lost in the guest children’s backpacks. That has actually happened to me before. The day before, or even the day of, I have found an invitation to a birthday party. Suddenly, I am on the phone calling the mom asking if it is too late for my child to attend. While I apologized for the late response, the mom is usually grateful for the response and of course, it is not too late. So we throw some money in a card on the way to the party and everybody is happy.
Some of my son's friends did not make it to the party on Saturday. My son had a good time with his friends that were there, but he did wonder where the other missing guys were and why they didn’t show up.
They are kids. By Monday at recess all was forgotten. I probably took it harder than my son. And I do have extra thank you gift bag items I can save for some unexpected gift I may need to throw together in the future.
But still, if you get invited to a party, whether by phone, in person, or an invitation asking for an R.S.V.P., you should at least call. Even if you have to make up a little excuse.
Where have all the manners gone?
Monday, November 12, 2007
Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Disappointment
I live in the Brainerd school district 181.
The first thing my 10-year-old fifth-grade son said this morning when he woke up was, “Did they vote yes?” When I answered his question with a no, he fell silent. Pulled the covers over his head and said he had a stomach ache.
“How am I going to finish my Power Point project if they take away the computer lab? It’s due on Friday, Mom,” he said from under the comforter, clutching his tummy. “What is going to happen to my science class?”
The disappointment in my son’s voice was heart breaking. "Why, Mom?” he said. “Doesn’t anybody care what happens to us kids?”
I am very proud of my son’s ability to comprehend so much of global politics from the presidential level to his school level. I owe much of that to the Brainerd School District. When I was in the fifth grade all I cared about was riding my bike, who my best friend was each week, my Barbie dolls and boy germs. I didn’t think much beyond my world on Vincent Avenue.
Things are different today.
While my son is still concerned with how the lack of the school levy will affect him personally, he understands the bigger issue. I am greatly disappointed in the Brainerd community for letting down our kids.
If you grew up in Minnesota and attended public schools, there is an obligation to continue to support the schools long after you have graduated, or your kids graduated.
I grew up in Bloomington and attended public schools. We had teachers to help with elective classes like anthropology, foreign language and student government. We didn't go door-to-door selling candy or calenders to pay for school items like library books and field trips. Extra curricular activities didn’t cost families much extra out-of-pocket. The poor kids had the same opportunities as the middle and rich kids.
My parents struggled to raise four kids with different interests. I can guarantee you if the funding wasn’t available through public schools, I would not have had the opportunity to participate in track, student government, or theater. My brothers would not have been able to build a car in shop class or have a weight room to train for sports, or learn to play the trumpet. My sister would not have played volleyball, gone to state or learned to speek French fluently by eighth grade.
If I and my siblings would have had to ask our parents for extra money to participate, the answer would always have been no.
I have listened to most of the excuses for the no vote: It’s too much money; I don’t have kids in school; I am not from this area; My kids are home schooled; The state should give more money; Reform needs to be made; School Board needs to be more responsible, and so on.
Valid points? Maybe. Partially. But not enough to hang over the heads of the future of our community. Our kids should not have to be so disappointed in the adults in their community.
If you are happy you will not be asked to invest in the future of our kids by an additional property tax, you can be proud of thinking of yourself and not paying back for your Minnesota public education education by paying it forward for our kids today.
State tax reform does need to be made. The school board does need to be accountable. Changes do need to be made. It is not going to happen over night, or perhaps even over the next few years.
On the other hand, the no vote will change things drastically for the kids in our schools today.
The first thing my 10-year-old fifth-grade son said this morning when he woke up was, “Did they vote yes?” When I answered his question with a no, he fell silent. Pulled the covers over his head and said he had a stomach ache.
“How am I going to finish my Power Point project if they take away the computer lab? It’s due on Friday, Mom,” he said from under the comforter, clutching his tummy. “What is going to happen to my science class?”
The disappointment in my son’s voice was heart breaking. "Why, Mom?” he said. “Doesn’t anybody care what happens to us kids?”
I am very proud of my son’s ability to comprehend so much of global politics from the presidential level to his school level. I owe much of that to the Brainerd School District. When I was in the fifth grade all I cared about was riding my bike, who my best friend was each week, my Barbie dolls and boy germs. I didn’t think much beyond my world on Vincent Avenue.
Things are different today.
While my son is still concerned with how the lack of the school levy will affect him personally, he understands the bigger issue. I am greatly disappointed in the Brainerd community for letting down our kids.
If you grew up in Minnesota and attended public schools, there is an obligation to continue to support the schools long after you have graduated, or your kids graduated.
I grew up in Bloomington and attended public schools. We had teachers to help with elective classes like anthropology, foreign language and student government. We didn't go door-to-door selling candy or calenders to pay for school items like library books and field trips. Extra curricular activities didn’t cost families much extra out-of-pocket. The poor kids had the same opportunities as the middle and rich kids.
My parents struggled to raise four kids with different interests. I can guarantee you if the funding wasn’t available through public schools, I would not have had the opportunity to participate in track, student government, or theater. My brothers would not have been able to build a car in shop class or have a weight room to train for sports, or learn to play the trumpet. My sister would not have played volleyball, gone to state or learned to speek French fluently by eighth grade.
If I and my siblings would have had to ask our parents for extra money to participate, the answer would always have been no.
I have listened to most of the excuses for the no vote: It’s too much money; I don’t have kids in school; I am not from this area; My kids are home schooled; The state should give more money; Reform needs to be made; School Board needs to be more responsible, and so on.
Valid points? Maybe. Partially. But not enough to hang over the heads of the future of our community. Our kids should not have to be so disappointed in the adults in their community.
If you are happy you will not be asked to invest in the future of our kids by an additional property tax, you can be proud of thinking of yourself and not paying back for your Minnesota public education education by paying it forward for our kids today.
State tax reform does need to be made. The school board does need to be accountable. Changes do need to be made. It is not going to happen over night, or perhaps even over the next few years.
On the other hand, the no vote will change things drastically for the kids in our schools today.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
One flat tire
I left the house this morning feeling pretty darned good about the day ahead.
It was snowing. I love the first snows of the season. These tiny little flakes that don't amount to anything don't really count as the first snow — at least not in my book. But it just gives a hint as to what is ahead. You can smell it in the air. You know it is just around the corner.
I am hoping for a lot of snow this year. I am a skier. I have always been a skier and I always will be a skier. I spent most of my teen years (up to 30 years old) hanging out and skiing at the local hill, ski club, ski team, then ski instructor. That smell of fresh air and snow gets in my head and starts my blood warming getting me excited for the new season. I love other winter sports, too. But we have had so little snow the past few years, I have not been able to enjoy them. My snowshoes are hanging in the porch so full of dust, they look one size larger. My x-country skies need a little wax and I will have to find my boots, but I just can't help wishing, hoping, dreaming of a white winter.
One of the best parts of changing seasons is when you switch around the drawers. You know, change the t-shirt and shorts drawers into the SWEATER drawers! It is like getting a whole new wardrobe without going to the mall! (Of course, going to the mall is still necessary for a few new fall/winter fashion essentials.
So this morning I put on an old favorite sweater not worn since last February. Found my scarf and gloves. Put on my fun down vest with the faux fur collar and I walked out of the house. I was even having a good hair day. I was on schedule. I had a full cup of coffee and ready to face the day.
As I backed out of the garage, I knew something was wrong, but I couldn't quite put my finger on it. My Jeep just felt a bit sluggish. I backed out anyway. Maybe it was just cold. It was snowing, you know.
I started forward down the road. The poor little Jeep still felt a bit sluggish. Now, I am not a rocket scientist and I am certainly no mechanic. I know where the gas goes, and the washer fluid. I even know how to check the oil — not change it, just check it. I got a couple driveways down and just knew something wasn't right.
Sure enough, the right rear tire was flat. This is not good. It is 7:30 in the morning. It's snowing and I have a flat tire.
I figured if I could get back to the garage, I could use the compressor to fill the tire up and I could get to town to have it changed at Lingwalls Garage. Good plan.
Driving on a flat is not recommended. I know this. But it was less than 40 feet — give or take a few. So I get back to the garage, and realize, I know how to plug the compressor in. I see the on/off switch. But that is all I know. I have no clue how to run it. My husband has told me a couple of times, but that is one of those things I didn't really pay much attention to. I figured, I am smart enough to figure it out if I ever needed to know. And I did. Figure out how to run it. It was easy. I called my good neighbor, Larry, to help me out.
He filled up my tire and sent me on my way.
"Go straight to town and get that fixed," he said. "I don't know how long it will hold air, but I think you will make it to town."
Thanks, Larry.
So I get to Garrison, pull in front of Lingwalls Garage and to my horor, the lights are not on.
Ron Lingwall (Lingwalls Hardware) was out opening up his store for the day.
"I dont' know, Viv," he said. "I think they are closed for deer hunting. I would go down to Andersons. You should make it."
Great. Should.
Now I am hoping, wishing, dreaming I make it to Andersons — 17 miles down the road, give or take.
I did.
Two guys were swaping stories with the guy behind the counter when I walked in and just said, "Help?"
They all kind of chuckled a bit when I said I had a flat tire. Especially when they asked me if it was on the top or the bottom and I didn't know.
"It's the right rear," I said. I didn't know if that was the top or the bottom. But I soon figured it was just a joke because I am a girl.
Well the guy pulled the wheel off and found the spot where a sharp rock had sliced through the thick rubber on my less than 1-year-old tires. He sprayed the tire with something and I saw the slice bubble. "Hummmmm, that doesn't look good," I said. "I guess that's the top."
He laughed. We chatted. He fixed the tire, filled it with air and I was on my way.
Thanks Anderson's Garage!
My coffee was cold and I had to go to the restroom. But I had a new plug in my tire and it was holding air. It was still snowing. Still tiny flakes that wont amount to much. And I was back on the road.
I still feel good about the day. After all, I have on an old favorite sweater. And it is still a pretty good hair day.
It was snowing. I love the first snows of the season. These tiny little flakes that don't amount to anything don't really count as the first snow — at least not in my book. But it just gives a hint as to what is ahead. You can smell it in the air. You know it is just around the corner.
I am hoping for a lot of snow this year. I am a skier. I have always been a skier and I always will be a skier. I spent most of my teen years (up to 30 years old) hanging out and skiing at the local hill, ski club, ski team, then ski instructor. That smell of fresh air and snow gets in my head and starts my blood warming getting me excited for the new season. I love other winter sports, too. But we have had so little snow the past few years, I have not been able to enjoy them. My snowshoes are hanging in the porch so full of dust, they look one size larger. My x-country skies need a little wax and I will have to find my boots, but I just can't help wishing, hoping, dreaming of a white winter.
One of the best parts of changing seasons is when you switch around the drawers. You know, change the t-shirt and shorts drawers into the SWEATER drawers! It is like getting a whole new wardrobe without going to the mall! (Of course, going to the mall is still necessary for a few new fall/winter fashion essentials.
So this morning I put on an old favorite sweater not worn since last February. Found my scarf and gloves. Put on my fun down vest with the faux fur collar and I walked out of the house. I was even having a good hair day. I was on schedule. I had a full cup of coffee and ready to face the day.
As I backed out of the garage, I knew something was wrong, but I couldn't quite put my finger on it. My Jeep just felt a bit sluggish. I backed out anyway. Maybe it was just cold. It was snowing, you know.
I started forward down the road. The poor little Jeep still felt a bit sluggish. Now, I am not a rocket scientist and I am certainly no mechanic. I know where the gas goes, and the washer fluid. I even know how to check the oil — not change it, just check it. I got a couple driveways down and just knew something wasn't right.
Sure enough, the right rear tire was flat. This is not good. It is 7:30 in the morning. It's snowing and I have a flat tire.
I figured if I could get back to the garage, I could use the compressor to fill the tire up and I could get to town to have it changed at Lingwalls Garage. Good plan.
Driving on a flat is not recommended. I know this. But it was less than 40 feet — give or take a few. So I get back to the garage, and realize, I know how to plug the compressor in. I see the on/off switch. But that is all I know. I have no clue how to run it. My husband has told me a couple of times, but that is one of those things I didn't really pay much attention to. I figured, I am smart enough to figure it out if I ever needed to know. And I did. Figure out how to run it. It was easy. I called my good neighbor, Larry, to help me out.
He filled up my tire and sent me on my way.
"Go straight to town and get that fixed," he said. "I don't know how long it will hold air, but I think you will make it to town."
Thanks, Larry.
So I get to Garrison, pull in front of Lingwalls Garage and to my horor, the lights are not on.
Ron Lingwall (Lingwalls Hardware) was out opening up his store for the day.
"I dont' know, Viv," he said. "I think they are closed for deer hunting. I would go down to Andersons. You should make it."
Great. Should.
Now I am hoping, wishing, dreaming I make it to Andersons — 17 miles down the road, give or take.
I did.
Two guys were swaping stories with the guy behind the counter when I walked in and just said, "Help?"
They all kind of chuckled a bit when I said I had a flat tire. Especially when they asked me if it was on the top or the bottom and I didn't know.
"It's the right rear," I said. I didn't know if that was the top or the bottom. But I soon figured it was just a joke because I am a girl.
Well the guy pulled the wheel off and found the spot where a sharp rock had sliced through the thick rubber on my less than 1-year-old tires. He sprayed the tire with something and I saw the slice bubble. "Hummmmm, that doesn't look good," I said. "I guess that's the top."
He laughed. We chatted. He fixed the tire, filled it with air and I was on my way.
Thanks Anderson's Garage!
My coffee was cold and I had to go to the restroom. But I had a new plug in my tire and it was holding air. It was still snowing. Still tiny flakes that wont amount to much. And I was back on the road.
I still feel good about the day. After all, I have on an old favorite sweater. And it is still a pretty good hair day.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
YOU can make a difference. Educate our kids.
I am pleased with our current state government keeping election promises of no new taxes. This has certainly helped to maintain our local infrastructures, roadways, state highways and bridges.
Our children are benefiting greatly because we as parents do not have to pay any extra for public education. This apparently leaves more money in our pockets to dole out to pay for fundraisers to support the school activities such as classroom supplies and learning projects, field trips, computer lab and library privileges. Not to mention the choir or band, and sports fees.
Am I missing something here?
Dangers of roads and bridges in ill-repair aside, insufficient government support for our children's education is hurting everyone.
Government support for pubic education has declined significantly in the past ten years. Our teachers and education staff are doing much more with much less. While funding has decreased, federally mandated programs have increased. And the cost of technology continues to rise. Transportation and fuels costs are escalating and the population of our communities are rising.
Providing a strong education for our children is important to prepare our children to become productive adults. Keeping up with technology is a part of the process. We simply cannot deny those facts.
Nine out of ten Minnesota school districts receive local tax dollars to support core curriculum. There is a huge difference in the funding between districts, however. For instance, Brainerd area residents contribute $199 per student while similar size districts such as Wayzata receive $1,572 per student. The average level for similar size school districts is $802.
Substandard funding should not be tolerated. Quality education is everyone's responsibility.
I understand the arguments of the elderly, or those living on a fixed income and the extra tax can become a burden. But there are refunds available to those who qualify so this should not be an issue.
I do not understand the argument of statements such as, "I don't have kids," or "My kids are all grown up." "I paid for my kid's education already."
First of all, somebody else, years ago, also helped pay for your kid's public education through government tax dollars. Now that your kids are all grown up or you don't have any kids, think about this:
Do you like your healthcare provider? Does your doctor have kids in school? How about your nurse? What about the convenience store clerk? Maybe your auto mechanic or hair dresser has youngsters in school. Or how about the waitress who serves your afternoon coffee and pie? Your bus driver? Trash collector? Mail carrier?
How about your friendly fire fighter and first responder? Your state trooper or local cop?
Now think about how your life would be affected without these people.
If our schools cannot provide quality education for our children, many professionals may chose to move to an area that will step up to the plate and go to bat for all of the children.
Many school districts across the state — 99 of them — are seeking operating levies this fall. Our local community school districts include Onamia, Milaca, Mora, Pierze, Crosby-Ironton, Elk River, Monticello, St. Cloud, Princeton, Pine City, Becker, Brainerd and Braham.
Election day is one week away. If the referendum does not pass on Nov. 6 in Brainerd alone, two schools will need to close, 60 to 100 teachers and educators will be let go, class sizes will increase from an average of 27 to 35 students, many high school electives and AP courses will be eliminated, middle school athletics and activities will be eliminated, and 18 high school league sports, activities and performing arts will be eliminated.
You can make a difference in the lives of our children and invest in the future of our community. Please, don't let the education bridges fall and the roads to learning crumble. Vote YES on Nov. 6.
Peace.
Our children are benefiting greatly because we as parents do not have to pay any extra for public education. This apparently leaves more money in our pockets to dole out to pay for fundraisers to support the school activities such as classroom supplies and learning projects, field trips, computer lab and library privileges. Not to mention the choir or band, and sports fees.
Am I missing something here?
Dangers of roads and bridges in ill-repair aside, insufficient government support for our children's education is hurting everyone.
Government support for pubic education has declined significantly in the past ten years. Our teachers and education staff are doing much more with much less. While funding has decreased, federally mandated programs have increased. And the cost of technology continues to rise. Transportation and fuels costs are escalating and the population of our communities are rising.
Providing a strong education for our children is important to prepare our children to become productive adults. Keeping up with technology is a part of the process. We simply cannot deny those facts.
Nine out of ten Minnesota school districts receive local tax dollars to support core curriculum. There is a huge difference in the funding between districts, however. For instance, Brainerd area residents contribute $199 per student while similar size districts such as Wayzata receive $1,572 per student. The average level for similar size school districts is $802.
Substandard funding should not be tolerated. Quality education is everyone's responsibility.
I understand the arguments of the elderly, or those living on a fixed income and the extra tax can become a burden. But there are refunds available to those who qualify so this should not be an issue.
I do not understand the argument of statements such as, "I don't have kids," or "My kids are all grown up." "I paid for my kid's education already."
First of all, somebody else, years ago, also helped pay for your kid's public education through government tax dollars. Now that your kids are all grown up or you don't have any kids, think about this:
Do you like your healthcare provider? Does your doctor have kids in school? How about your nurse? What about the convenience store clerk? Maybe your auto mechanic or hair dresser has youngsters in school. Or how about the waitress who serves your afternoon coffee and pie? Your bus driver? Trash collector? Mail carrier?
How about your friendly fire fighter and first responder? Your state trooper or local cop?
Now think about how your life would be affected without these people.
If our schools cannot provide quality education for our children, many professionals may chose to move to an area that will step up to the plate and go to bat for all of the children.
Many school districts across the state — 99 of them — are seeking operating levies this fall. Our local community school districts include Onamia, Milaca, Mora, Pierze, Crosby-Ironton, Elk River, Monticello, St. Cloud, Princeton, Pine City, Becker, Brainerd and Braham.
Election day is one week away. If the referendum does not pass on Nov. 6 in Brainerd alone, two schools will need to close, 60 to 100 teachers and educators will be let go, class sizes will increase from an average of 27 to 35 students, many high school electives and AP courses will be eliminated, middle school athletics and activities will be eliminated, and 18 high school league sports, activities and performing arts will be eliminated.
You can make a difference in the lives of our children and invest in the future of our community. Please, don't let the education bridges fall and the roads to learning crumble. Vote YES on Nov. 6.
Peace.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Busy news girl!
It has been a busy couple of weeks for this Messenger news girl. But, it is just not all work and no play for this reporter. OK, well, it is all work. Don't tell my boss I have fun doing my job. But then again, a wise person once said, if you love your job, you will never work a day in your life.
So I thought I would share a little of the behind the scenes what I have been up to in the last few weeks.
I wrote an article a couple weeks ago about a gal who is learning to shoot. Amy Doyle, of Brainerd, is a transplanted city girl, she said. Making the move to the north country has been great for her. She is having fun trying different outdoorsy things. One of the items on her list was learning to shoot.
I followed Amy to Wealthwood Rod and Gun Club just north of Garrison. The story published in the Oct. 10 edition of the Messenger mentioned two girls who learned to shoot that day. I didn't mention the second gal in the story and no body questioned who the second gal was. Either no body read the story or they just didn't pay attention.
I was the second gal learning to shoot that day under the patient direction of Bill Carroll.
Bill said I was a quick study and took to shooting like a duck to water. We started out in the simulator shooting blanks at a movie screen. Then moved outside to the skeet area and then on to the trap area.
I shot 20 rounds and hit 16 of them. Not bad shooting, I guess. (Usually you shoot 25, but that is all the time we had.)
The Garrison Fire Department open house was a huge success. I am guessing there were about 200 people who came to visit with the fire fighters and emergency crews on hand Saturday, Oct. 13. I have seen a lot of those guys and gals in action fighting real fires and on the scenes of accidents. They all deserve a standing ovation for their dedication to the job. A volunteer job at that.
So, thank you Garrison Fire and Rescue!
While on the assignment I had the opportunity to learn about the Crow Wing County Bomb Squad. Who knew there was such a thing in central Minnesota? Certainly not me.
Deputy Tim Moe filled me in on all the things they can do with the robots like disarming bombs and armed bad guys in hostile situations.
Then he let me try on the bomb suit.
First they helped me into the jacket and tightened it up. I could hardly move my arms. Let alone bend over to even attempt to try on the pants. I knew if I fell down, there would be no way I could ever get up. I would be like that kid in the "Christmas Story" wearing the snow suit — laying in the snow, screaming for help.
Next the plopped that helmet on my head and strapped that on tight as well.
I heard Sheriff Todd Dahl's muffled voice through the thick insulation of the helmet saying, "tuck your chin down." He explained if the guys on the squad do not tuck their chin down inside the collar of the jacket, if a bomb were to detinate, shrapnel can get up inside the helmet. Not a good thing.
Then they told me to run down to the corner and back.
Not on your life. I made it to the end of the truck before I started getting claustrophobic. Hyperventilating in a bomb suit helmet is not a good thing. At least there were paramedics close by, should I need one, which I didn't. Thank goodness.
Bomb squad techies in traning wear that suit — pants, jacket and helmet — for ten hours a day in heat, rain and cold. Heat is the worst, but no matter what the outdoor temperature is, it hets up quickly in that suit when you are just standing there. I can't imagine adding ones own body heat caused by stress and endorphin releasing adrenalin of a real life situation. Deputy Tim explained the suit is rated for 8 pounds of explosive at a distance of ten feet. Any more explosive, or closer, and it could be fatal. "At least the suit will hold all the pieces together and there will be something to bury," Tim said.
Not a pleasant thought. Tim knows there is great risk in being a member of the bomb squad. But it is a risk he is willing to take in the name of public safety.
Thanks Crow Wing County Sheriff's Office.
Just last week, I hung out with the Mille Lacs County Sheriff's Office for an afternoon. The story of the pursuit driving training course will be published in an upcoming edition of the Messenger. (Oct. 31). So I can't let the whole story out of the bag. But I can tell you I learned a lot about my own driving. Here is a little peek behind the scenes that you will not see in next weeks printed edition.
Keeping your hands on the wheel, in the position of 9 and 3 o'clock with the thumbs resting on the wheel in an up position on the wheel is important. You actually do have better control over the vehicle. I know. Because Sheriff Brent Lindgren let me try it. Deputy Dan Holada gave me a lesson in how to hold the wheel and drive the course.
I drove slowly at first — yes, a real squad car — and then added lights and siren as I picked up speed. "Adding the lights and siren actually helps you concentrate," Dan said. "It increases stress and adrenalin."
It did. My heart rate increased and I could feel the tension in my hands while I gripped the sterring wheel. I could feel the adrenaline pumping through my veins.
The hardest part for me was my hands getting mixed up. I was trying hard to drive with my hands at 9 and 3 and letting the hand not doing the turn slide through the wheel. I am used to doing the cross-over thing — not recommended anymore.
But keeping my hands at 9 and 3 really held control of the vehicle while going through the serpentine element of the course.
Apparently, I have some trust issues. At one point in the course the driver is suppose to brake hard, then immediately excelerate to 30 mph within a distance of less than 75 feet. That means pedel to the metal — literally. Then Dan said he would tell me when to brake and I should not hit the brake before he told me. The problem (my problem) is the braking piont was in a curve. A sharp curve.
"Just trust me," Dan said. "I wont let you brake to late."
At slow speeds, I trusted Dan. At faster speeds, I had a hard time trusting him. My instincts were to brake sooner. Which is fine for driving to soccer practice, but not so good when you are a cop in an amergency pursuit situation. Good thing I will only be driving to soccer practice.
Although I had a blast driving a squad car, and watching the guys go through their training — also having fun — pursuit driving is dangerous. The training is important. Pursuit driving is rated number two for officer on the job fatalities. Number one is death by gunfire.
They wouldn't let me drive the squad car off the enclosed parking lot. So I got in my Jeep and drove home with no lights or siren. Slowly. Within the speed limit, anyway. With my hands at 9 and 3.
Thanks to Sheriff Brent Lindgren, Deputy Dan Holada and the Mille Lacs County Sheriff's Office.
So there you have a quick glimpse behind the scenes - a day in the life of a reporter. It is not all work and it is not all fun and games. But then again, sometimes it is.
Peace!
So I thought I would share a little of the behind the scenes what I have been up to in the last few weeks.
I wrote an article a couple weeks ago about a gal who is learning to shoot. Amy Doyle, of Brainerd, is a transplanted city girl, she said. Making the move to the north country has been great for her. She is having fun trying different outdoorsy things. One of the items on her list was learning to shoot.
I followed Amy to Wealthwood Rod and Gun Club just north of Garrison. The story published in the Oct. 10 edition of the Messenger mentioned two girls who learned to shoot that day. I didn't mention the second gal in the story and no body questioned who the second gal was. Either no body read the story or they just didn't pay attention.
I was the second gal learning to shoot that day under the patient direction of Bill Carroll.
Bill said I was a quick study and took to shooting like a duck to water. We started out in the simulator shooting blanks at a movie screen. Then moved outside to the skeet area and then on to the trap area.
I shot 20 rounds and hit 16 of them. Not bad shooting, I guess. (Usually you shoot 25, but that is all the time we had.)
The Garrison Fire Department open house was a huge success. I am guessing there were about 200 people who came to visit with the fire fighters and emergency crews on hand Saturday, Oct. 13. I have seen a lot of those guys and gals in action fighting real fires and on the scenes of accidents. They all deserve a standing ovation for their dedication to the job. A volunteer job at that.
So, thank you Garrison Fire and Rescue!
While on the assignment I had the opportunity to learn about the Crow Wing County Bomb Squad. Who knew there was such a thing in central Minnesota? Certainly not me.
Deputy Tim Moe filled me in on all the things they can do with the robots like disarming bombs and armed bad guys in hostile situations.
Then he let me try on the bomb suit.
First they helped me into the jacket and tightened it up. I could hardly move my arms. Let alone bend over to even attempt to try on the pants. I knew if I fell down, there would be no way I could ever get up. I would be like that kid in the "Christmas Story" wearing the snow suit — laying in the snow, screaming for help.
Next the plopped that helmet on my head and strapped that on tight as well.
I heard Sheriff Todd Dahl's muffled voice through the thick insulation of the helmet saying, "tuck your chin down." He explained if the guys on the squad do not tuck their chin down inside the collar of the jacket, if a bomb were to detinate, shrapnel can get up inside the helmet. Not a good thing.
Then they told me to run down to the corner and back.
Not on your life. I made it to the end of the truck before I started getting claustrophobic. Hyperventilating in a bomb suit helmet is not a good thing. At least there were paramedics close by, should I need one, which I didn't. Thank goodness.
Bomb squad techies in traning wear that suit — pants, jacket and helmet — for ten hours a day in heat, rain and cold. Heat is the worst, but no matter what the outdoor temperature is, it hets up quickly in that suit when you are just standing there. I can't imagine adding ones own body heat caused by stress and endorphin releasing adrenalin of a real life situation. Deputy Tim explained the suit is rated for 8 pounds of explosive at a distance of ten feet. Any more explosive, or closer, and it could be fatal. "At least the suit will hold all the pieces together and there will be something to bury," Tim said.
Not a pleasant thought. Tim knows there is great risk in being a member of the bomb squad. But it is a risk he is willing to take in the name of public safety.
Thanks Crow Wing County Sheriff's Office.
Just last week, I hung out with the Mille Lacs County Sheriff's Office for an afternoon. The story of the pursuit driving training course will be published in an upcoming edition of the Messenger. (Oct. 31). So I can't let the whole story out of the bag. But I can tell you I learned a lot about my own driving. Here is a little peek behind the scenes that you will not see in next weeks printed edition.
Keeping your hands on the wheel, in the position of 9 and 3 o'clock with the thumbs resting on the wheel in an up position on the wheel is important. You actually do have better control over the vehicle. I know. Because Sheriff Brent Lindgren let me try it. Deputy Dan Holada gave me a lesson in how to hold the wheel and drive the course.
I drove slowly at first — yes, a real squad car — and then added lights and siren as I picked up speed. "Adding the lights and siren actually helps you concentrate," Dan said. "It increases stress and adrenalin."
It did. My heart rate increased and I could feel the tension in my hands while I gripped the sterring wheel. I could feel the adrenaline pumping through my veins.
The hardest part for me was my hands getting mixed up. I was trying hard to drive with my hands at 9 and 3 and letting the hand not doing the turn slide through the wheel. I am used to doing the cross-over thing — not recommended anymore.
But keeping my hands at 9 and 3 really held control of the vehicle while going through the serpentine element of the course.
Apparently, I have some trust issues. At one point in the course the driver is suppose to brake hard, then immediately excelerate to 30 mph within a distance of less than 75 feet. That means pedel to the metal — literally. Then Dan said he would tell me when to brake and I should not hit the brake before he told me. The problem (my problem) is the braking piont was in a curve. A sharp curve.
"Just trust me," Dan said. "I wont let you brake to late."
At slow speeds, I trusted Dan. At faster speeds, I had a hard time trusting him. My instincts were to brake sooner. Which is fine for driving to soccer practice, but not so good when you are a cop in an amergency pursuit situation. Good thing I will only be driving to soccer practice.
Although I had a blast driving a squad car, and watching the guys go through their training — also having fun — pursuit driving is dangerous. The training is important. Pursuit driving is rated number two for officer on the job fatalities. Number one is death by gunfire.
They wouldn't let me drive the squad car off the enclosed parking lot. So I got in my Jeep and drove home with no lights or siren. Slowly. Within the speed limit, anyway. With my hands at 9 and 3.
Thanks to Sheriff Brent Lindgren, Deputy Dan Holada and the Mille Lacs County Sheriff's Office.
So there you have a quick glimpse behind the scenes - a day in the life of a reporter. It is not all work and it is not all fun and games. But then again, sometimes it is.
Peace!
Friday, October 12, 2007
Weekend buzz
Looking for something to do this weekend?
The Garrison fire Department is celebrating fire prevention week. Stop by the fire hall on Saturday, Oct. 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. at 27174 Central Street in Garrison for some free fun for the whole family.
Did I mention FREE? There will be free fire truck rides; free blood pressure screening; free vile of life program; free hot dogs, brats, chips and pop, free gifts; and free goodie bags.
You will have an opportunity to meet the members of the Garrison fire and rescue department, Smokey the Bear, and Crow Wing county Sheriff Todd Dahl.
There will be lots of information to help keep your family safe in case of fire.
Stop on by and say hello.
Later that evening you can take a stand to end domestic violence. Members of TADA — teens against dating violence — invite you to dance away dating violence in a safe and healthy environment.
And it is FREE!
There will be DJ music by Top Shelf Karaoke for dancing enjoyment. A karaoke contest will certainly entertain the guests with other contests, games, prizes food and fun. This is a great opportunity to support healthy relationships and promote teens against dating abuse. You may even meet new friends! There is a surprise guest appearance! (I don't even know who or what that is all about, but I can hardly wait to find out!)
WHERE: Lions Community Center in Onamia
TIME: Doors open at 6 p.m. dance is over at 10 p.m.
Bring a non-parishable food item to donate to the Onamia food pantry and receive an extra entry for a "fabulous" prize.
For more informaiotn call Pearl Crisis Center at 800-933-6914.
Have a safe and healthy weekend.
The Garrison fire Department is celebrating fire prevention week. Stop by the fire hall on Saturday, Oct. 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. at 27174 Central Street in Garrison for some free fun for the whole family.
Did I mention FREE? There will be free fire truck rides; free blood pressure screening; free vile of life program; free hot dogs, brats, chips and pop, free gifts; and free goodie bags.
You will have an opportunity to meet the members of the Garrison fire and rescue department, Smokey the Bear, and Crow Wing county Sheriff Todd Dahl.
There will be lots of information to help keep your family safe in case of fire.
Stop on by and say hello.
Later that evening you can take a stand to end domestic violence. Members of TADA — teens against dating violence — invite you to dance away dating violence in a safe and healthy environment.
And it is FREE!
There will be DJ music by Top Shelf Karaoke for dancing enjoyment. A karaoke contest will certainly entertain the guests with other contests, games, prizes food and fun. This is a great opportunity to support healthy relationships and promote teens against dating abuse. You may even meet new friends! There is a surprise guest appearance! (I don't even know who or what that is all about, but I can hardly wait to find out!)
WHERE: Lions Community Center in Onamia
TIME: Doors open at 6 p.m. dance is over at 10 p.m.
Bring a non-parishable food item to donate to the Onamia food pantry and receive an extra entry for a "fabulous" prize.
For more informaiotn call Pearl Crisis Center at 800-933-6914.
Have a safe and healthy weekend.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
It can happen in your hometown
The headline called it a crime of passion.
The town of Crandon, Wis. is a small town of about 1,900 people where acccording to one resident, everybody knows everybody. It is by all accounts a peaceful, non-violent town. Murders don't happen in Crandon. Until last weekend.
The quiet midwestern town is now gireving the loss of six young people who were discovered shot dead at a home early morning Sunday, Oct. 7. Townsfolk never thought such a tremendous tragedy could strike their hometown.
Apparently, according to the Tribune, Tyler Peterson, 20, was a full time Forest County Sheriff's deputy and part time Crandon police officer until this off-duty officer went on a "shooting rampage" killing the six teen-agers and young adults. Peterson was killed by gunfire later about 8 miles north of Crandon. The Crandon police chief would not elaborate on the details.
The Tribune article said they were all real good kids. Just "run-of-the-mill" regular kids, the 7 young people who were at a pizza and movie party at a white two-story duplex.
Crandon folks may never know what happened exactly or why. The residents are calling it a crime of passion. Peterson may have been involved with a young woman who lived in the duplex. One theory is the relationship ended and Peterson went into a fit of jealousy. The young woman is one of the victims shot dead in the white two-story duplex.
Crime of passion? Fit of jeolousy? However you phrase it, what it is, is domestic violence.
The young mother of one of the victims, a 14-year-old girl, is still hoping she will wake up and it will all have been a bad dream. The nightmare may have just begun for the families of the 6 victims, 1 survivor and the entire town of Crandon — where everbody knows everybody.
The town is in shock one resident said. Peterson was a reasonable guy. He was laid back and "didn't seem like they type of person who would go on a shooting rampage or murder someone," one resident said.
But how does one know what type of person will go on a shooting rampage? How does one recognize a murderer?
When you think "It can't happen to me" or "stuff like that doesn't happen in this quiet little town" think again. It can happen anywhere. It can happen everywhere. It can happen here.
October is domestic violence awareness month. Here are some things you should know:
* Every 11 seconds a woman is beaten in the United States, according to the FBI.
* Every 45 seconds a woman in the United States is raped, according to the FBI.
* About 30 percent of women seeking tretment in hospital ER's are victims of abuse from husbands or boyfriends.
* 1 in 3 females and 1 in 6 males will be sexually assaulted during their lifetime.
* Sexual violence is not an impulsive, uncontrolable act. Most assaults are planned by the assailant.
* Sexual assault is never the victim's fault.
* 30 to 50 percent of female high school students experience dating violence.
* 40 percent of teenage girls know of someone who has been beaten by a boyfriend.
* 30 percent of all murdered teeange girls re killed by a current or former boyfriend.
Could the tragedy in Crandon have been avoided or prevented? Only Peterson knows what went wrong that tragic night. There may never be an answer to that question. But if you or someone you know is being hurt, or in an abusive relationship, there is help. Trust your instincts and don't downplay the danger. If you feel unsafe, you probably are. Take threats seriously. Relationships are the most lethal when a victim tries to end a relationship.
In an emergency call 911.
If you need an advocate or help, call the crisis line at 1-800-933-6914.
Coming in the Messenger you will meet some very brave people who have over come domestic violence. Parts of the stories are graphic as one victim described a nightmarish event. The stories can be perceived as sad, but actually send a message of courage and hope.
The people shared their stories with me because: Silence hides violence. Love shouldn't hurt. Dating violence is wrong. It is also against the law.
Those are all catchy slogins. But they are more than advertising jargin. They are all very true statements.
Please, take a stand. Get involved in peace and non-violent initiatives. Take a moment to think about what could happen in your small town. In this small town. In your hometown. Before violence leaves behind a hole even hate cannot fill.
Peace.
The town of Crandon, Wis. is a small town of about 1,900 people where acccording to one resident, everybody knows everybody. It is by all accounts a peaceful, non-violent town. Murders don't happen in Crandon. Until last weekend.
The quiet midwestern town is now gireving the loss of six young people who were discovered shot dead at a home early morning Sunday, Oct. 7. Townsfolk never thought such a tremendous tragedy could strike their hometown.
Apparently, according to the Tribune, Tyler Peterson, 20, was a full time Forest County Sheriff's deputy and part time Crandon police officer until this off-duty officer went on a "shooting rampage" killing the six teen-agers and young adults. Peterson was killed by gunfire later about 8 miles north of Crandon. The Crandon police chief would not elaborate on the details.
The Tribune article said they were all real good kids. Just "run-of-the-mill" regular kids, the 7 young people who were at a pizza and movie party at a white two-story duplex.
Crandon folks may never know what happened exactly or why. The residents are calling it a crime of passion. Peterson may have been involved with a young woman who lived in the duplex. One theory is the relationship ended and Peterson went into a fit of jealousy. The young woman is one of the victims shot dead in the white two-story duplex.
Crime of passion? Fit of jeolousy? However you phrase it, what it is, is domestic violence.
The young mother of one of the victims, a 14-year-old girl, is still hoping she will wake up and it will all have been a bad dream. The nightmare may have just begun for the families of the 6 victims, 1 survivor and the entire town of Crandon — where everbody knows everybody.
The town is in shock one resident said. Peterson was a reasonable guy. He was laid back and "didn't seem like they type of person who would go on a shooting rampage or murder someone," one resident said.
But how does one know what type of person will go on a shooting rampage? How does one recognize a murderer?
When you think "It can't happen to me" or "stuff like that doesn't happen in this quiet little town" think again. It can happen anywhere. It can happen everywhere. It can happen here.
October is domestic violence awareness month. Here are some things you should know:
* Every 11 seconds a woman is beaten in the United States, according to the FBI.
* Every 45 seconds a woman in the United States is raped, according to the FBI.
* About 30 percent of women seeking tretment in hospital ER's are victims of abuse from husbands or boyfriends.
* 1 in 3 females and 1 in 6 males will be sexually assaulted during their lifetime.
* Sexual violence is not an impulsive, uncontrolable act. Most assaults are planned by the assailant.
* Sexual assault is never the victim's fault.
* 30 to 50 percent of female high school students experience dating violence.
* 40 percent of teenage girls know of someone who has been beaten by a boyfriend.
* 30 percent of all murdered teeange girls re killed by a current or former boyfriend.
Could the tragedy in Crandon have been avoided or prevented? Only Peterson knows what went wrong that tragic night. There may never be an answer to that question. But if you or someone you know is being hurt, or in an abusive relationship, there is help. Trust your instincts and don't downplay the danger. If you feel unsafe, you probably are. Take threats seriously. Relationships are the most lethal when a victim tries to end a relationship.
In an emergency call 911.
If you need an advocate or help, call the crisis line at 1-800-933-6914.
Coming in the Messenger you will meet some very brave people who have over come domestic violence. Parts of the stories are graphic as one victim described a nightmarish event. The stories can be perceived as sad, but actually send a message of courage and hope.
The people shared their stories with me because: Silence hides violence. Love shouldn't hurt. Dating violence is wrong. It is also against the law.
Those are all catchy slogins. But they are more than advertising jargin. They are all very true statements.
Please, take a stand. Get involved in peace and non-violent initiatives. Take a moment to think about what could happen in your small town. In this small town. In your hometown. Before violence leaves behind a hole even hate cannot fill.
Peace.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Catching up to do
An old acquaintance stopped by last week. Some of you may know him as well. His name is Murphy and he has some laws.
Actually, things didn't go wrong last week, they just went wild.
That's the way it goes in this business sometimes. We get our assignments for the week and away we go. The calander is usually quite full.
Things were moving along quite well last week and my regular assignments were all on track. I swung through Garrison on my way to an interview and as luck would have it, I was ahead of schedule. Those of you who know me may find that hard to believe, but that day, it was true. I stopped to talk to a couple of local guys who were hooking up a trailer to head out for duck hunting. We chatted a few minutes, laughed a bit and I was on my way.
So I am driving along about 15 minutes later and nearly half way to Milaca when my phone rings.
"Hey, Viv," my friend says. "I am not sure, but I think the Deerwood bank in Garrison was just robbed."
"Yeah, right," I says.
"No, I am serious!"
Well, I pulled over (Of course, I was driving and talking at the same time previously, very carefully, mind you, and I was using my hands free Bluetooth device.) I made one phone call and confirmed, the bank had in fact been robbed.
I am so thankfull for the tip I got from my friend. I always keep my sources confidential, so I am withholding his name. But he was certainly my best friend for the day!
I had been on my way to what I knew what would be an awsome interview. I felt badly I had to re-schedule hoping desperately I could work it out. We did, fortunately, and I turned around and headed back to Garrison.
I did my thing there at the bank. It turns out the bank was robbed at gunpoint only about 5 minutes after I had left the area the first time. I talked to the Sheriff, got the scoop and a few photos. They were looking for a dude about 6 feet tall, 225 pounds wearing a Twins ball cap and blue jacket. He had a goatee and mustache. The Goateed Gunman left the area driving a silver Toyota Camry.
I and was on my way again. We got the story on our website (www.millelacsmessenger.com) as quickly as possible for the breaking news, because that is my job, to get the news and get it to you as quickly and accurately as possible. The Internet helps the weekly paper become more like a daily paper when need be. and just for your information, we had our basic story posted before the local daily.
Anyway, excitement like that doesn't come along the sleepy litttle resort town of Garrison very often. And when it does, the news travels fast. By the time I had left the area back on track to Milaca, I had three more phone calls from some fine peeps in Garrison giving me the scoop. I thanked them each . I am always extremely appreciative to recieve such tips — anytime!
The cops were quite active in the area for the next few days stopping just about any silver or grey Camry, or anything even close. Several fine citizens in Garrison were stopped and even some searches of some area homes. One of which resulted in a family pet being shot and killed by an officer. (See story in this weeks paper.)
Watching the news last night, they showed photos of a guy who has robbed a few banks in Minnesota and South Dakota. The last bank he robbed was Tuesday, Sept. 18 at 11:30 a.m. at the Washington County Bank on White Bear Avenue in Maplewood. He is said to be about 6 feet tall and around 200 pounds, wearing a hat and goatee.
To, me, he looks an aweful lot like the Goateed Gunman of Garrison who robbed that little bank on Thursday, Sept. 27. The Garrison dude may be a bit older as he is said to have a "salt and pepper" colored goatee. Compairing the photos, the similarities are there. Brothers? cousins? or just a couple of friends? Or no relationship at all, they just happen to both have goatees and wear caps and rob banks and sort of look alike. Or maybe it is the same guy. Add a couple of pounds, or just a heavier jacket, and fill in the goatee with a couple of day's growth and I guess anything is possible. It had been a few days since the last robbery.
But just in case the Goateed Gunman is reading this, be warned, the peeps of Garrison are still looking for the silver Camry and you.
We finished off the Garrison week with an exciting Mille Lacs Crossing. An epic event of wind dancers in the form of kite boarders and windsurfers racing out across the lake on a course of 16 miles. Perfect wind and nice weather and a great bunch of folks. My hat goes off to all of the volunteers who made the event possible, expecially the local folks who step in and volunteer their time, gas, boats and equipment to give support on the water.
Tourists and locals lined the shore of Mille Lacs all along Garrison Bay for several hours to watch the colorful display of sails and kites. If you haven't ever seen one of these races, or watched the kiters perform, you really should check it out sometime.
I've had some catching up to do, but that was the excitement in Garrison last week. Keep track here and of course at www.millelacsmessenger.com. We will keep you posted.
Peace.
p.s. John, I know. I still can't spell. But I warned you at the beginning, this is unedited and apparently I can't figure out spell check on here either. Good thing you can't see the full moon right now. I am not 'wining' and remember " ... sometimes, I even put it in food."
Actually, things didn't go wrong last week, they just went wild.
That's the way it goes in this business sometimes. We get our assignments for the week and away we go. The calander is usually quite full.
Things were moving along quite well last week and my regular assignments were all on track. I swung through Garrison on my way to an interview and as luck would have it, I was ahead of schedule. Those of you who know me may find that hard to believe, but that day, it was true. I stopped to talk to a couple of local guys who were hooking up a trailer to head out for duck hunting. We chatted a few minutes, laughed a bit and I was on my way.
So I am driving along about 15 minutes later and nearly half way to Milaca when my phone rings.
"Hey, Viv," my friend says. "I am not sure, but I think the Deerwood bank in Garrison was just robbed."
"Yeah, right," I says.
"No, I am serious!"
Well, I pulled over (Of course, I was driving and talking at the same time previously, very carefully, mind you, and I was using my hands free Bluetooth device.) I made one phone call and confirmed, the bank had in fact been robbed.
I am so thankfull for the tip I got from my friend. I always keep my sources confidential, so I am withholding his name. But he was certainly my best friend for the day!
I had been on my way to what I knew what would be an awsome interview. I felt badly I had to re-schedule hoping desperately I could work it out. We did, fortunately, and I turned around and headed back to Garrison.
I did my thing there at the bank. It turns out the bank was robbed at gunpoint only about 5 minutes after I had left the area the first time. I talked to the Sheriff, got the scoop and a few photos. They were looking for a dude about 6 feet tall, 225 pounds wearing a Twins ball cap and blue jacket. He had a goatee and mustache. The Goateed Gunman left the area driving a silver Toyota Camry.
I and was on my way again. We got the story on our website (www.millelacsmessenger.com) as quickly as possible for the breaking news, because that is my job, to get the news and get it to you as quickly and accurately as possible. The Internet helps the weekly paper become more like a daily paper when need be. and just for your information, we had our basic story posted before the local daily.
Anyway, excitement like that doesn't come along the sleepy litttle resort town of Garrison very often. And when it does, the news travels fast. By the time I had left the area back on track to Milaca, I had three more phone calls from some fine peeps in Garrison giving me the scoop. I thanked them each . I am always extremely appreciative to recieve such tips — anytime!
The cops were quite active in the area for the next few days stopping just about any silver or grey Camry, or anything even close. Several fine citizens in Garrison were stopped and even some searches of some area homes. One of which resulted in a family pet being shot and killed by an officer. (See story in this weeks paper.)
Watching the news last night, they showed photos of a guy who has robbed a few banks in Minnesota and South Dakota. The last bank he robbed was Tuesday, Sept. 18 at 11:30 a.m. at the Washington County Bank on White Bear Avenue in Maplewood. He is said to be about 6 feet tall and around 200 pounds, wearing a hat and goatee.
To, me, he looks an aweful lot like the Goateed Gunman of Garrison who robbed that little bank on Thursday, Sept. 27. The Garrison dude may be a bit older as he is said to have a "salt and pepper" colored goatee. Compairing the photos, the similarities are there. Brothers? cousins? or just a couple of friends? Or no relationship at all, they just happen to both have goatees and wear caps and rob banks and sort of look alike. Or maybe it is the same guy. Add a couple of pounds, or just a heavier jacket, and fill in the goatee with a couple of day's growth and I guess anything is possible. It had been a few days since the last robbery.
But just in case the Goateed Gunman is reading this, be warned, the peeps of Garrison are still looking for the silver Camry and you.
We finished off the Garrison week with an exciting Mille Lacs Crossing. An epic event of wind dancers in the form of kite boarders and windsurfers racing out across the lake on a course of 16 miles. Perfect wind and nice weather and a great bunch of folks. My hat goes off to all of the volunteers who made the event possible, expecially the local folks who step in and volunteer their time, gas, boats and equipment to give support on the water.
Tourists and locals lined the shore of Mille Lacs all along Garrison Bay for several hours to watch the colorful display of sails and kites. If you haven't ever seen one of these races, or watched the kiters perform, you really should check it out sometime.
I've had some catching up to do, but that was the excitement in Garrison last week. Keep track here and of course at www.millelacsmessenger.com. We will keep you posted.
Peace.
p.s. John, I know. I still can't spell. But I warned you at the beginning, this is unedited and apparently I can't figure out spell check on here either. Good thing you can't see the full moon right now. I am not 'wining' and remember " ... sometimes, I even put it in food."
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