MnDOT urges travelers to use caution in work zones during Memorial Day weekend

ST. PAUL, Minn.—The Minnesota Department of Transportation urges motorists to use extra caution while driving through highway work zones this Memorial Day weekend.

Plan ahead, think about alternate routes or go to www.511mn.org to get advance information about road construction and detours.

“With hundreds of construction projects going on around the state, work zone safety is crucial during this busy weekend,” said Mike Barnes, MnDOT’s Operations director. “We ask drivers to pay attention in work zones and make it a safe weekend for everyone.”

Highway projects that may affect weekend travel on May 24-27 include the following:

· Interstate 694/Highway 10 interchange reconstruction in Arden Hills

· I-35E/I-35W split - pavement, bridge and guardrail construction in Burnsville

· Highway 95 closure between County Road 9 and County Road 11 near Taylors Falls

· Highway 10 lane closures between Moorhead and Detroit Lakes

· Highway 15 lane shift to bypass lanes at County Road 120 in St. Cloud

· I-35 lane closures from Esko to Duluth

· Highway 61/London Road closure at Lester River in Duluth

· I-535 Blatnik Bridge lane closures from Duluth to Superior

 Memorial Day weekend is traditionally one of the deadliest on Minnesota roads during the spring and summer months. Safe driving during the long weekend ranks as a paramount concern for the departments of Transportation and Public Safety and law enforcement agencies statewide.

In 2012, there were 1,931 total crashes in Minnesota work zones—three individuals were killed.

The 3-year average (2010-12) for work zone crashes is 1,819 crashes and seven fatalities per year.

MnDOT reminds motorists to follow these guidelines when entering and driving through work zones:

Stay alert, especially at night.

Obey posted speed limits. Fines may double for violations in work zones.

Expect work zones to constantly change. Day to day, you could experience lane shifts, closures or moving workers and vehicles.

Never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.

Don’t make unnecessary lane changes.

Stay off cell phones and mobile devices.

Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.

Move over one lane, if possible, or reduce speed for stopped emergency or maintenance vehicles, including ambulance, fire, law enforcement or maintenance and construction vehicles.

Burning restrictions lifted in 32 Minnesota counties

Wet conditions have lowered the fire danger and prompted the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to lift burning restrictions in all or parts of 32 Minnesota counties. Restrictions were lifted at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 21.

The following counties have been removed from burning restrictions: Aitkin, Anoka, Becker, Benton, Carlton, Cass, Chisago, Clearwater, Crow Wing, Dakota, Douglas, Isanti, Itasca, Hennepin, Hubbard, Kanabec, Mahnomen, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Otter Tail, Pine, Polk, Pope, Ramsey, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Wadena, Washington and Wright. Restrictions are also lifted in southern St. Louis and southern Beltrami counties.

Restrictions are lifted in Beltrami County south of Highway 1. In St. Louis County, restrictions are off for that portion south of a line running from Silica on the west to Central Lakes and Brimson on the east. The exact line is a township line between 55 and 56 north and includes all of township 56.

Although the state burning restrictions are lifted in these counties, local areas, counties or municipalities may have specific regulations or restrictions that affect burning operations. Check with local authorities to obtain proper permits before burning.

Restrictions remain in Cook, Kittson, Koochiching, Lake, Lake of the Woods, Marshall, Pennington, Roseau, north St. Louis and north Beltrami counties. It is anticipated these will be lifted soon.

Because fire danger can change quickly, DNR foresters can turn off burning permits in individual counties whenever conditions warrant. This could occur if there is a dry, windy day when fires could start easily and burn quickly. Check the fire restrictions page on the DNR website at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/firerating_restrictions.html for information on daily changes to burn permits.

The DNR advises to keep burn piles small, have a water supply nearby, and stay with the fire until it is completely out. If the fire escapes, homeowner is responsible for the damage and suppression costs.

Burning permits are available through state and federal forestry offices, from local fire wardens, or online by paying a $5 fee per year. Online permits need to be activated on the day of the burn. See http://webapps1.dnr.state.mn.us/burning_permits/.

Threat of aquatic invasive species re-emerges with boating season

With boating season moving in to high gear this Memorial Day weekend, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding boaters and anglers to be extra vigilant to help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS).

“Minnesota’s lakes and rivers are one of our most precious resources and we need every person to take responsibility to help prevent and curb the spread of AIS,” said Ann Pierce, DNR invasive species unit supervisor.

Boaters and anglers must know the AIS laws before they hit the water.

“The laws have not changed since last year,” Pierce said. “Before leaving a water access every boater must: clean off aquatic plants and animals, pull the drain plug and leave it out when transporting. They need to drain all water from bait buckets, livewells and boats and dispose of unwanted live bait in the trash. These simple steps protect our waters and may keep you from getting a citation.”

DNR’s stepped up efforts

People can expect watercraft inspectors and conservation officers at public accesses this summer. Statewide plans include:

• Watercraft Inspections –The DNR will have up to 150 authorized inspectors stationed at high-use public waters that are infested with zebra mussels – and 23 hot water decontamination units available to clean infested equipment. Local units of government will also have inspectors at various accesses throughout the state.
• Enforcement – All DNR conservation officers will focus on enforcing AIS laws this season. They will write citations for AIS law violations. Roadside checks will be conducted.
• AIS canine unit –Three zebra-mussel detector dogs, which can find a mussel faster than a human inspector, will help conservation officers at check stations and water accesses this summer.

2012 AIS enforcement and inspection recap

In 2012, watercraft inspectors and conservation officers spent about 81,000 hours inspecting more than 120,000 watercraft/trailers, resulting in 998 citations and 1,550 written warnings. There were 121 watercraft inspectors who worked most of the open water season inspecting boats and providing information to the public. An additional 30 inspectors were hired to assist with end-of-season coverage.

AIS citations and fines

Boaters and others who fail to follow AIS laws can expect to receive citations and pay fines. The current fines are:

• Transporting aquatic plants - $100 civil penalty or misdemeanor.
• Transporting water in boats or other water-related equipment - $100 civil penalty or misdemeanor.
• Transporting zebra mussels and other prohibited species of animals - $500 civil penalty or misdemeanor.

For more information about AIS laws, a list of designated infested waters in Minnesota and contact information for AIS specialists throughout the state is available at www.mndnr.gov/ais.

Cold water dangerous to boaters this Memorial Day weekend

Minnesotans are eager to hit the water for Memorial Day weekend, but the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding boaters that warmer weather does not mean warm water.

“For boaters and swimmers, our current water temperatures can prove dangerous, or even deadly, if they don’t consider the effect cold water has on their body,” said Capt. Greg Salo, DNR Region 3 enforcement manager. “Water temperature below 70 degrees is considered cold.”

Water temperatures on Lake Minnetonka and the St. Croix River are currently in the 60s, even though air temperatures this week have been in the 70s.

Falling into frigid water can cause an immediate gasp for air and the shock of the icy water can also cause cardiac arrest, even for people in good health. Cold water robs the body of heat 25 times faster than air of the same temperature, Salo added.

So far this year, there have been no boating fatalities in Minnesota, compared to four deaths for the same period last year. “This is the first time since 2004 Minnesotans are going into Memorial Day weekend without a boating fatality,” Salo said. Fifteen people died in boating accidents in 2012.

The DNR offers tips for safe and responsible boating including:

• State law requires a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket for each person on board all watercraft.
• All children under 10-years-old are required to wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while a boat is underway.
• Alcohol and boating don’t mix.
• If a watercraft becomes swamped or capsized, try to reboard or stay with the craft.
• Take a boater course and receive a boat education certificate.

For information on taking a boating course and other boating safety information visit, www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater.

Also boaters are encouraged to visit boat and water safety’s new Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MnDNRBoatandWaterSafety.

Memorial Day Programs Sponsored by MDVA

Across the state, Minnesotans are preparing to celebrate Memorial Day. Unlike Veterans Day, which honors all U.S. Military Veterans, Memorial Day is set aside to specifically honor those who have died in service to the nation. In remembrance and celebration of these individuals, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs is sponsoring events throughout the state at the State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls and at the five Minnesota Veterans Homes.

State Veterans Cemetery, Sunday, May 26

LITTLE FALLS, MN - The State Veterans Cemetery in Little Falls is hosting its annual Memorial Service the day before Memorial Day. The event is open to the public and will begin at 1:30 p.m. with instrumental music provided by the Richfield Symphonic Band, the traditional Parade of Flags and a placing of the wreaths and the first public showing of the US Navy painting commissioned for the Veterans Educational Historic Project. The keynote speaker will be Lt Col Mark M. Weber, who recently released a book titled “Tell My Sons.” Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, 15550 Hwy 115, Little Falls, MN 56345

Minnesota Veterans Homes, Monday, May 27 (Memorial Day)

FERGUS FALLS, MN – The Memorial Day program starts at 2 p.m. The guest speaker will be Ron Verhaagen, Wilkin County Veterans Service Officer. The program will include music by “The Lee’s,” and Color guard services and the rifle volley will be provided by the Fergus Falls American Legion Post 30 & the Fergus Falls VFW Post 612. 1821 North Park Street, Fergus Falls, MN 56537

HASTINGS, MN – The Memorial Day Observance will start at 9 a.m. at the flag pole outside of the Hastings Veterans Home. There will be multiple stops through the town and honors will be performed by VFW Post 1210 and American Legion Post 47 of Hastings. There will also be special recognition of Gold Star Mothers and prayers. 1200 East 18th Street, Hastings, MN 55033

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - The Memorial Day program, sponsored by the 5th District American Legion, will begin at 2 p.m. outside of Building 15 Chapel. In case of inclement weather the program will be held in the auditorium. The guest speaker will be Rev. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. with remarks by MDVA Commissioner Larry Shellito. Colors will be posted by the Memorial Rifle Squad, Fort Snelling National Cemetery with music provided by the Minnesota Police Pipe Band. 5101 Minnehaha Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55417

SILVER BAY, MN - The program will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Silver Bay Veterans Home. The guest speaker will be Dave Mealey, Past Commander of the local VFW in Silver Bay. 45 Banks Boulevard Silver Bay, MN 55614

Minnesota Veterans Home, Thursday, May 30

LUVERNE, MN - The Memorial Day program will be held on Thursday, May 30 beginning at 2:30 p.m. in the dining room. The guest speaker will be American Legion Department Vice Commander for the 2 & 7 Districts, Jane Ellefson. The honor guard will consist of members from Luverne’s American Legion Post 123 and Luverne’s VFW Post 2757. Musical selections will be provided by Jay Tripp. 1300 North Kniss Avenue, Luverne, MN 56156

Historical & Cultural Society of Clay County To Participate In Blue Star Museums

Moorhead, Minn.,-- Today the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County announced the launch of Blue Star Museums, a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 1,800 museums across America to offer fre e admission to all active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2013. Leadership support has been provided by MetLife Foundation through Blue Star Families. The complete list of participating museums is available at www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.

“Blue Star Museums is collaboration between the arts and military communities," said NEA Acting Chairman Joan Shigekawa. “Our work with Blue Star Families and with more than 1,800 museums ensures that we can reach out to military families and thank them for their service and sacrifice.”

“Blue Star Museums is something that service members and their families look forward to every year and we are thrilled with the continued growth of the program,” said Blue Star Families CEO Kathy Roth-Douquet. “Through this distinctive collaboration between Blue Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts and more than 1,800 museums across the United States, service members and their families can connect with our national treasures with this unparalleled opportunity to visit some of the country’s finest museums for free.”

This year, more than 1,800 (and counting) museums in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa are taking part in the initiative, including more than 45 0 new museums this year. Museums are welcome to join Blue Star Museums throughout the summer. The effort to recruit museums has involved partnerships with the American Association of Museums, the Association of Art Museum Directors, the Association of Children’s Museums, the American Association of State and Local History, and the Association of Science-Technology Centers. This year’s Blue Star Museums represent not just fine arts museums, but also science museums, history museums, nature centers, and 75 children’s museums. Among this year’s new participants are the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, California, Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum in Northport, Michigan, the Totem Heritage Center in Ketchikan, Alaska, and the World Museum of Mining in Butte, Montana.

Alley Fair to be held June 1 in Downtown Fargo

Fargo, ND– Fargo’s newest summer event will invite visitors to step off of downtown streets and explore the back alleys. On June 1 the alleyway behind 300 Broadway will be transformed into a day-long festival featuring local food, live music, and art.

The organizers of Alley Fair were inspired by the idea of using a non-traditional venue to create a new type of outdoor event for the community. By pushing the boundaries to create an event in an underutilized space, they hope to provoke visitors’ imaginations for the future of downtown Fargo.

“There are so many potential uses for alleys,” said Joe Burgum, one of Alley Fair’s organizers. “It takes a passionate and creative group like this to take the risk and help people envision what alleys can become.”

The Alley Fair organization works to activate and transform the alleyways of downtown Fargo. The goal of the event is to design an environment that will encourage visitors to rethink urban landscapes.

Alley Fair will take place from noon to 11:30 p.m on Saturday, June 1. Visitors can enter the fair at 307 Roberts Street North, Fargo, ND next to Mezzaluna restaurant.

The event will be family-friendly and free from noon to 7 p.m. with art, food and outdoor activities featuring an Artist and Makers’ Market. From 8 p.m. -11:00 p.m., Alley Fair will transition to become a 21+ event. Guests will pay a $10 cover to hear a live music performance by Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome. Tickets will be available online (www.alleyfair.eventbrite.com) and at the entrance.

For additional information, please visit these websites:

Alley Fair  http://www.alleyfair.com

Concert Ticket Pre Sale  http://alleyfair.eventbrite.com