St. Paul – Minnesota Department of Transportation Commissioner Tom Sorel is asking all Minnesota motorists to approach work zones with care and keep safety uppermost in mind when driving following a work zone crash on I-94 near Hwy 280 in St. Paul in which workers were injured when an automobile ran into a construction vehicle on the side of the road.
“There are thousands of workers on our state and local roadways every day who are working to improve our transportation system,” Sorel said. “They deserve to be safe. They deserve to be able to go home to their families after their shift.” He added that there were more than 1,900 work zone crashes in 2010.
Minnesota has been working very hard on reducing crashes on deaths on roadways through its work in the Toward Zero Deaths program. Sorel notes that of the components of that program—engineering, education, enforcement and emergency services—education is critical because it brings motorists into the safety mix.
“We can engineer safe roads, enforce traffic laws and respond to crashes with emergency services as good as any state in the nation,” Sorel said. “But we cannot do it without motorist cooperation. One crash in a work zone is one too many.”
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Highway 92 detour for culvert replacement in Red Lake County begins Oct. 3
BEMIDJI, Minn. – Motorists traveling on Highway 92 in Red Lake County will encounter a detour on Oct. 3 as crews replace a culvert south of the junction with Highway 222.
Southbound traffic on Highway 222 from Oklee will be detoured west on Highway 92 to the junction with Highway 59, south on Highway 59, west on Red Lake County Road 7, then back to Highway 92.
Westbound traffic on Highway 92 from Gonvick and Trail will be detoured west on Red Lake County Road 7 to Highway 59.
The detour will be in place for approximately one week.
For updated road information, call 5-1-1 or click on www.511mn.org.
Southbound traffic on Highway 222 from Oklee will be detoured west on Highway 92 to the junction with Highway 59, south on Highway 59, west on Red Lake County Road 7, then back to Highway 92.
Westbound traffic on Highway 92 from Gonvick and Trail will be detoured west on Red Lake County Road 7 to Highway 59.
The detour will be in place for approximately one week.
For updated road information, call 5-1-1 or click on www.511mn.org.
Friday, September 23, 2011
new traffic signal at Highway 10 and Highway 9 for Sept. 26
DETROIT LAKES, Minn.— Motorists on Highway 10 and Highway 9 in Clay County will encounter a new traffic signal at the intersection beginning Monday afternoon, Sept. 26, replacing the two-way stop on Highway 9.
Other intersection improvements include a southbound free flow right turn lane on Highway 9 and a westbound acceleration lane on Highway 10.
The intersection work is part of a resurfacing and culvert replacement project on Highway 9 between the north Clay County line and Highway 10. Crews finished the resurfacing portion of the project last week.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation appreciates residents’ and motorists’ patience and cooperation during this construction project. This work will greatly improve safety and mobility along the Highway 9 and Highway 10 corridors.
MnDOT urges motorists to always drive with caution, slow down in work zones and never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones. For statewide travel information, visit http://www.511mn.org, call 5-1-1 or log on to www.mndot.gov.
Other intersection improvements include a southbound free flow right turn lane on Highway 9 and a westbound acceleration lane on Highway 10.
The intersection work is part of a resurfacing and culvert replacement project on Highway 9 between the north Clay County line and Highway 10. Crews finished the resurfacing portion of the project last week.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation appreciates residents’ and motorists’ patience and cooperation during this construction project. This work will greatly improve safety and mobility along the Highway 9 and Highway 10 corridors.
MnDOT urges motorists to always drive with caution, slow down in work zones and never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones. For statewide travel information, visit http://www.511mn.org, call 5-1-1 or log on to www.mndot.gov.
Dakota Feeder Calf Show Set for Oct. 15
The North Dakota State University Extension Service is partnering with the Dakota Feeder Calf Show to offer cattle producers an opportunity to explore possibilities for retaining ownership of cattle beyond the cow-calf phase of production.
The 13th annual Dakota Feeder Calf Show and Feedout is set for Saturday, Oct.15, in Turtle Lake. Cattle will be accepted at the weighing station before 11 a.m. and exhibited. Spring-born steer calves consigned to the Dakota Feeder Calf Show and Feedout then will be fed to market weight at the NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center feedlot.
"When cattle prices are low or high, it's important to know how well your cattle perform through the market chain," says Karl Hoppe, Extension area livestock specialist at the Carrington Research Extension Center. "This cattle feedout project will give producers information on how their calves perform in the feed yard and on the calves' ultimate carcass value."
The feedout is a low-risk way of learning about these options with three or four calves instead of 100, he adds. Also, cattle producers have used the feeding and carcass information to select bulls that will improve the feedlot value of their calves.
During last year's feedout, the calves gained an average of 656 pounds in 200 days, with a total feeding cost (excluding interest) of 93.6 cents per pound of gain. The average sale weight was 1,272 pounds. The calves were fed with a market weight break-even of $104.73 per hundredweight.
"It's the variation among cattle that makes this project educational," Hoppe says.
In the 2010-11 feedout, the spread in net return per head between the average of the top five herds and average of the bottom five herds was $109.69. The top profiting herd made $239.53 per head, while the bottom herd made $129.84 per head. Weight gain per day of age was 3.67 pounds for the top profiting herd and 3.01 for the bottom herd.
"Small differences in production have a huge impact on profit," Hoppe says.
Feedout project staff will gather data on rate of gain, feed conversion and other characteristics during the trial. After the calves are marketed, the staff will collect and provide information to the entrants on carcass weight, meat quality and value.
Producers will be assessed an entry fee of $15 per calf. Dakota Feeder Calf Show officials will present $2,500 in awards to producers at the end of the trial.
For more information or to preregister calves, contact Hoppe at (701) 652- 2951; Darwin Chesrown, Turtle Lake Farmers Union Oil, at (701) 448-2356; Teresa Presser, Bank of Turtle Lake, at (701) 448- 2323; or Irene Graves, McLean County Extension, at (701) 462- 8541, ext. 208.
Cattle may be registered the day of the show, but the feedout is limited to 160 head.
The 13th annual Dakota Feeder Calf Show and Feedout is set for Saturday, Oct.15, in Turtle Lake. Cattle will be accepted at the weighing station before 11 a.m. and exhibited. Spring-born steer calves consigned to the Dakota Feeder Calf Show and Feedout then will be fed to market weight at the NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center feedlot.
"When cattle prices are low or high, it's important to know how well your cattle perform through the market chain," says Karl Hoppe, Extension area livestock specialist at the Carrington Research Extension Center. "This cattle feedout project will give producers information on how their calves perform in the feed yard and on the calves' ultimate carcass value."
The feedout is a low-risk way of learning about these options with three or four calves instead of 100, he adds. Also, cattle producers have used the feeding and carcass information to select bulls that will improve the feedlot value of their calves.
During last year's feedout, the calves gained an average of 656 pounds in 200 days, with a total feeding cost (excluding interest) of 93.6 cents per pound of gain. The average sale weight was 1,272 pounds. The calves were fed with a market weight break-even of $104.73 per hundredweight.
"It's the variation among cattle that makes this project educational," Hoppe says.
In the 2010-11 feedout, the spread in net return per head between the average of the top five herds and average of the bottom five herds was $109.69. The top profiting herd made $239.53 per head, while the bottom herd made $129.84 per head. Weight gain per day of age was 3.67 pounds for the top profiting herd and 3.01 for the bottom herd.
"Small differences in production have a huge impact on profit," Hoppe says.
Feedout project staff will gather data on rate of gain, feed conversion and other characteristics during the trial. After the calves are marketed, the staff will collect and provide information to the entrants on carcass weight, meat quality and value.
Producers will be assessed an entry fee of $15 per calf. Dakota Feeder Calf Show officials will present $2,500 in awards to producers at the end of the trial.
For more information or to preregister calves, contact Hoppe at (701) 652- 2951; Darwin Chesrown, Turtle Lake Farmers Union Oil, at (701) 448-2356; Teresa Presser, Bank of Turtle Lake, at (701) 448- 2323; or Irene Graves, McLean County Extension, at (701) 462- 8541, ext. 208.
Cattle may be registered the day of the show, but the feedout is limited to 160 head.
NDSU Beef Research Report Available
Cattle producers can replace some hay with a limited-intake distillers dried grain supplement without negatively affecting cow or calf performance, North
Dakota State University have researchers found.
They determined that using a self-fed, limited-intake supplement as a forage replacement resulted in late-gestation/early lactation cow performance,
reproductive efficiency and calf performance comparable to that in animals fed an all-hay diet.
NDSU researchers also have discovered that a two-step weaning process may be less stressful for calves than the conventional weaning process, restricting the nutrients supplied to ewes during gestation affects the dams and their offspring negatively, and restaurant goers are willing to pay higher prices for steaks from cattle raised in North Dakota.
The conventional weaning method, which involves removing calves from dams and their mother's milk suddenly, can be very stressful for young calves because they experience a loss of maternal contact, new diets and novel social environments, as well as transportation to new housing facilities.
In the two-step weaning process, producers place anti-suckling nose tags on the calves. These devices allow calves to adjust to being removed from their mother's milk before being separated from their mother.
These are among the findings featured in NDSU's 2011 Beef Cattle and Range Research Report, which is available online at http://tinyurl.com/beef-report.
"The NDSU Beef Cattle and Range Research Report provides valuable information to producers and beef cattle industry personnel on the most recent beef cattle research conducted by NDSU faculty, scientists, staff and students," says Kendall Swanson, an associate professor in the Animal Sciences Department and the publication's coordinator.
The report also includes articles about NDSU's new Beef Cattle Research Complex, the results of the 2009-10 Eastern Dakota Cattle Feedout project, research suggesting that cattle harvested with the kosher method produce less tender meat, and an analysis of using cattle shows as a way to identify breeding stock for the beef industry.
Dakota State University have researchers found.
They determined that using a self-fed, limited-intake supplement as a forage replacement resulted in late-gestation/early lactation cow performance,
reproductive efficiency and calf performance comparable to that in animals fed an all-hay diet.
NDSU researchers also have discovered that a two-step weaning process may be less stressful for calves than the conventional weaning process, restricting the nutrients supplied to ewes during gestation affects the dams and their offspring negatively, and restaurant goers are willing to pay higher prices for steaks from cattle raised in North Dakota.
The conventional weaning method, which involves removing calves from dams and their mother's milk suddenly, can be very stressful for young calves because they experience a loss of maternal contact, new diets and novel social environments, as well as transportation to new housing facilities.
In the two-step weaning process, producers place anti-suckling nose tags on the calves. These devices allow calves to adjust to being removed from their mother's milk before being separated from their mother.
These are among the findings featured in NDSU's 2011 Beef Cattle and Range Research Report, which is available online at http://tinyurl.com/beef-report.
"The NDSU Beef Cattle and Range Research Report provides valuable information to producers and beef cattle industry personnel on the most recent beef cattle research conducted by NDSU faculty, scientists, staff and students," says Kendall Swanson, an associate professor in the Animal Sciences Department and the publication's coordinator.
The report also includes articles about NDSU's new Beef Cattle Research Complex, the results of the 2009-10 Eastern Dakota Cattle Feedout project, research suggesting that cattle harvested with the kosher method produce less tender meat, and an analysis of using cattle shows as a way to identify breeding stock for the beef industry.
Arts Council Grant Deadlines
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council has many grant deadlines coming up! Almost all the programs have deadlines in October and November.
Grant programs with an October 15 deadline:
• Individual Artist Fellowship Grants of $1,500 and $4,000
• Student Artist Training Mentor Grants of $500 (high school)
Individual Artist Fellowship grants are a great way to advance some of your long term goals as an adult visual artist, performing artist or writer. Have you always wanted to improve your equipment in your studio? Do you struggle to afford a workshop in Minneapolis that you know is important? Would you benefit from working with an artistic mentor? How would you use $1,500? How would you use $4,000? Why you? Why now? Are you ready to use a year to focus on strengthening yourself while moving toward your artistic goal?
If this sounds interesting, come learn more about applying! Attend one of the upcoming informational sessions on all our grants. These sessions are over lunch so bring your own bag lunch. Want a bag lunch info session in your town, just request one and I will come!
• Tuesday, September 27 bring bag lunch at noon to Thief River Falls Public Library
• Friday, September 30 bring bag lunch at noon to East Grand Forks Publ ic Library
• Tuesday, October 4 bring bag lunch at noon to Roseau Public Library meeting room
•Wednesday, October 5 bring bag lunch at noon to Hallock City Hall conference room
On Sunday, September 25th at 2:00 pm at the Crookston Public Library, we will be holding a special information session to talk about our fellowship grant program; and hear from artists regarding whether they would be interested in creating a retail store for artists in East Grand Forks. This is a great opportunity so please attend to hear more.
Apply by October 15, 2011 for our $500.00 Student Artist Training Mentor Grant! This grant is for high school students interested in attending a workshop in their artform or working one-on-one during lessons with an adult mentor. The difference between being in a mentorship versus taking lessons is that the mentor gives a more indepth experience to the student, focusing on building technique as well as life experience in the arts. Parents are encouraged to attend one of the lunch info sessions listed above or call Mara at 218-745-9111 for more information.
Grant programs with a November 1 deadline:
• Arts Legacy Grants up to $10,000
• Arts Project Grants up to $3,000
• Artist in the Schools Grants up to $3,000
More grant related announcements, previously awarded grant lists, and grant applications are available on our website. Our grants serve the Minnesota counties of Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau.
Grant programs with an October 15 deadline:
• Individual Artist Fellowship Grants of $1,500 and $4,000
• Student Artist Training Mentor Grants of $500 (high school)
Individual Artist Fellowship grants are a great way to advance some of your long term goals as an adult visual artist, performing artist or writer. Have you always wanted to improve your equipment in your studio? Do you struggle to afford a workshop in Minneapolis that you know is important? Would you benefit from working with an artistic mentor? How would you use $1,500? How would you use $4,000? Why you? Why now? Are you ready to use a year to focus on strengthening yourself while moving toward your artistic goal?
If this sounds interesting, come learn more about applying! Attend one of the upcoming informational sessions on all our grants. These sessions are over lunch so bring your own bag lunch. Want a bag lunch info session in your town, just request one and I will come!
• Tuesday, September 27 bring bag lunch at noon to Thief River Falls Public Library
• Friday, September 30 bring bag lunch at noon to East Grand Forks Publ ic Library
• Tuesday, October 4 bring bag lunch at noon to Roseau Public Library meeting room
•Wednesday, October 5 bring bag lunch at noon to Hallock City Hall conference room
On Sunday, September 25th at 2:00 pm at the Crookston Public Library, we will be holding a special information session to talk about our fellowship grant program; and hear from artists regarding whether they would be interested in creating a retail store for artists in East Grand Forks. This is a great opportunity so please attend to hear more.
Apply by October 15, 2011 for our $500.00 Student Artist Training Mentor Grant! This grant is for high school students interested in attending a workshop in their artform or working one-on-one during lessons with an adult mentor. The difference between being in a mentorship versus taking lessons is that the mentor gives a more indepth experience to the student, focusing on building technique as well as life experience in the arts. Parents are encouraged to attend one of the lunch info sessions listed above or call Mara at 218-745-9111 for more information.
Grant programs with a November 1 deadline:
• Arts Legacy Grants up to $10,000
• Arts Project Grants up to $3,000
• Artist in the Schools Grants up to $3,000
More grant related announcements, previously awarded grant lists, and grant applications are available on our website. Our grants serve the Minnesota counties of Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau.
MnDOT seeks public comments on 50-year transportation system vision
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation invites public comments through Oct. 21 on a draft 50-year vision for transportation in the state. The vision was developed with input from the public and diverse representatives of the transportation community who participated in advisory group meetings, public workshops and online during the past several months.
Beginning today, the public can view the seven-page document at the Minnesota GO website, www.minnesotago.org, and share their thoughts online, by email, fax or U.S. mail. MnDOT will accept comments until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21.
In addition, MnDOT will host a public hearing Tuesday, Oct. 4, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Transportation Building in St. Paul, 395 John Ireland Blvd., Room G15. The public also may participate via videoconference at MnDOT offices statewide (see locations below) or from their personal computers by using Adobe Connect (instructions will be posted on www.minnesotago.org). Print copies of the draft vision will be available at the meeting sites.
In February 2011, MnDOT launched the Minnesota GO visioning process in collaboration with many partners to better align the transportation system with what Minnesotans expect for their quality of life, economy and natural environment.
The document consists of a vision statement and guiding principles, as well as a broad look at the desired outcomes. The vision recognizes that transportation infrastructure is only one of the many elements to achieving a high quality of life, a competitive economy and a healthy environment.
MnDOT and other transportation organizations will use the vision and information from this project in developing short-term and long-te rm plans. The vision will offer guidance in determining the transportation initiatives that the state chooses for investment.
Submit comments to Phillip Schaffner by 4:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 21, 2011 by: E-mail philip.schaffner@state.mn.us , Fax: 651-366-3794 ; Phone: 651-366-3743 or Mail: Minnesota Department of Transportation, Office of Statewide Multimodal Planning, Mail Stop 440, 395 John Ireland Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155
Minnesota GO Public Hearing
Oct. 4, 2011
4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Relay Service toll-free at 1-800-627-3529 (TTY, Voice or ASCII) or 711. To request another reasonable accommodation, call 651-366-4718.
BAXTER
7694 Industrial Park Road
218-828-5700
BEMIDJI
3920 Hwy 2 West
218-755-6500
CROOKSTON
1320 Sunflower St.
218-277-7950
DETROIT LAKES
1000 Hwy 10 W.
218-846-3600
DULUTH
1123 Mesaba Ave.
218-725-2700
MANKATO
2151 Bassett Drive
507-304-6100
MARSHALL
1800 E. College Drive
507-537-6146
MORRIS
610 Hwy 9 S.
320-208-7000
OWATONNA
1010 - 21st Ave. NW
507-446-5500
ROCHESTER
2900 - 48th St. NW
507-286-7500
ST. CLOUD
3725 - 12th St. N.
320-223-6500
ST. PAUL
Ground Videoconference Room G15
395 John Ireland Blvd.
651-296-3000
VIRGINIA
101 N. Hoover Road
218-742-1100
WILLMAR
2505 Transportation Road
320-231-5195
WINDOM
180 S. County Road 26
507-831-8000
Beginning today, the public can view the seven-page document at the Minnesota GO website, www.minnesotago.org, and share their thoughts online, by email, fax or U.S. mail. MnDOT will accept comments until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 21.
In addition, MnDOT will host a public hearing Tuesday, Oct. 4, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the Transportation Building in St. Paul, 395 John Ireland Blvd., Room G15. The public also may participate via videoconference at MnDOT offices statewide (see locations below) or from their personal computers by using Adobe Connect (instructions will be posted on www.minnesotago.org). Print copies of the draft vision will be available at the meeting sites.
In February 2011, MnDOT launched the Minnesota GO visioning process in collaboration with many partners to better align the transportation system with what Minnesotans expect for their quality of life, economy and natural environment.
The document consists of a vision statement and guiding principles, as well as a broad look at the desired outcomes. The vision recognizes that transportation infrastructure is only one of the many elements to achieving a high quality of life, a competitive economy and a healthy environment.
MnDOT and other transportation organizations will use the vision and information from this project in developing short-term and long-te rm plans. The vision will offer guidance in determining the transportation initiatives that the state chooses for investment.
Submit comments to Phillip Schaffner by 4:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 21, 2011 by: E-mail philip.schaffner@state.mn.us , Fax: 651-366-3794 ; Phone: 651-366-3743 or Mail: Minnesota Department of Transportation, Office of Statewide Multimodal Planning, Mail Stop 440, 395 John Ireland Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155
Minnesota GO Public Hearing
Oct. 4, 2011
4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Relay Service toll-free at 1-800-627-3529 (TTY, Voice or ASCII) or 711. To request another reasonable accommodation, call 651-366-4718.
BAXTER
7694 Industrial Park Road
218-828-5700
BEMIDJI
3920 Hwy 2 West
218-755-6500
CROOKSTON
1320 Sunflower St.
218-277-7950
DETROIT LAKES
1000 Hwy 10 W.
218-846-3600
DULUTH
1123 Mesaba Ave.
218-725-2700
MANKATO
2151 Bassett Drive
507-304-6100
MARSHALL
1800 E. College Drive
507-537-6146
MORRIS
610 Hwy 9 S.
320-208-7000
OWATONNA
1010 - 21st Ave. NW
507-446-5500
ROCHESTER
2900 - 48th St. NW
507-286-7500
ST. CLOUD
3725 - 12th St. N.
320-223-6500
ST. PAUL
Ground Videoconference Room G15
395 John Ireland Blvd.
651-296-3000
VIRGINIA
101 N. Hoover Road
218-742-1100
WILLMAR
2505 Transportation Road
320-231-5195
WINDOM
180 S. County Road 26
507-831-8000
Thursday, September 22, 2011
BBB & and FTC to Hold Data Security and Privacy Summit
Saint Paul, Minnesota – September 22, 2011 – Protecting their own data and the sensitive information of their customers is perhaps the greatest challenge businesses face today, and yet many are unaware of threats to their security or fail to comply with existing privacy laws. The Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are taking the lead in educating businesses on these important issues by sponsoring the Data Security and Privacy Summit on Thursday, October 6 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Edinburgh USA Event and Conference Center in Brooklyn Park, MN. This event is open to all Minnesota and North Dakota businesses.
“With major corporations and institutions suffering data breaches and falling victim to hackers on a regular basis, data security and privacy issues are things every business needs to take seriously,” said Dana Badgerow, president and CEO of the BBB. “We’re proud to partner with the FTC to offer business owners this timely training.”
A business’s ability to protect sensitive information may mean the difference between success and failure. A large business may be able to weather the financial costs and reputation damage associated with a data breach, but such an incident can sink a smaller business.
“The Federal Trade Commi ssion is pleased to be part of this important event,” said Todd M. Kossow, Assistant Director for the FTC’s Midwest Region in Chicago. “Having a plan to protect consumers’ privacy and adequately safeguard sensitive data is not only a good business practice, it’s the law.”
The Data Security and Privacy Summit brings together a distinguished line-up of legal and privacy experts, including FTC Midwest Region Assistant Director Todd Kossow, to provide business owners with the most up-to-date information on best practices in regard to data privacy and provide step by step instructions on how to protect their most valuable asset – information. The event will feature a number of breakout sessions; attendees will learn about: Mobile Payment Systems and Security, Health Information Security Framework, Business Risk & Privacy Management, FFIEC and the supplement for authentication/Internet banking, Privacy and Security Compliance, Healthcare Privacy Regulation and Enforcement and Social Media and Privacy.
Twin Cities Privacy Network and Upper Midwest Security Alliance are Partners for this event. Pre-registration is required.
Ticket Prices (full breakfast is included):
Regular - $99
Early Bird - $79
BBB Accredited Businesses and Event Partners - $59
Students - $29
To register for the Data Security and Privacy Summit, visit http://minnesota.bbb.org/rsvp/dsps/.
“With major corporations and institutions suffering data breaches and falling victim to hackers on a regular basis, data security and privacy issues are things every business needs to take seriously,” said Dana Badgerow, president and CEO of the BBB. “We’re proud to partner with the FTC to offer business owners this timely training.”
A business’s ability to protect sensitive information may mean the difference between success and failure. A large business may be able to weather the financial costs and reputation damage associated with a data breach, but such an incident can sink a smaller business.
“The Federal Trade Commi ssion is pleased to be part of this important event,” said Todd M. Kossow, Assistant Director for the FTC’s Midwest Region in Chicago. “Having a plan to protect consumers’ privacy and adequately safeguard sensitive data is not only a good business practice, it’s the law.”
The Data Security and Privacy Summit brings together a distinguished line-up of legal and privacy experts, including FTC Midwest Region Assistant Director Todd Kossow, to provide business owners with the most up-to-date information on best practices in regard to data privacy and provide step by step instructions on how to protect their most valuable asset – information. The event will feature a number of breakout sessions; attendees will learn about: Mobile Payment Systems and Security, Health Information Security Framework, Business Risk & Privacy Management, FFIEC and the supplement for authentication/Internet banking, Privacy and Security Compliance, Healthcare Privacy Regulation and Enforcement and Social Media and Privacy.
Twin Cities Privacy Network and Upper Midwest Security Alliance are Partners for this event. Pre-registration is required.
Ticket Prices (full breakfast is included):
Regular - $99
Early Bird - $79
BBB Accredited Businesses and Event Partners - $59
Students - $29
To register for the Data Security and Privacy Summit, visit http://minnesota.bbb.org/rsvp/dsps/.
Site validation coupons required for fisher, pine marten and river otter
A new state trapping regulation that went into effect Sept. 1 requires trappers to validate a site coupon for any fisher, pine marten or river otter taken in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says the free coupons are available at license vendors. Trappers will receive one site validation coupon for each animal they could potentially harvest. For example, a trapper who intended to target fisher, pine marten and river otter would receive a total of nine coupons (5 fisher/marten and 4 river otter).
The trapping validation coupon process also requires:
• Each person age five or older who takes a river otter, fisher or pine marten must validate their site validation coupon at the site of the kill by cutting out the appropriate notches with a sharp knife or similar sharp object. The notches indicate the month, date, time (am/pm) and species (fisher/marten).
• Site validation coupons do not need to be attached to the animal, but trappers must have their coupons in possession while taking or transporting fisher, pine marten or river otter.
• Fisher, river otter, bobcat or pine marten taken by a resident under age five must be included in the limit of the accompanying parent or guardian. Fisher, pine marten and river otter must
be validated on one of the parent or guardian’s site validation coupons.
• Fisher, pine marten and river otter must not be removed from the kill site without the trapper's validated site coupon in possession. Authorized agents* may remove trapped fisher, pine marten, and otter from the trap and the agent must validate their own site validation coupon at and prior to removing the animal from the site of the kill.
• Site validation coupons are not transferrable. Trappers may acquire site validation coupons at any time before or during the trapping season. Replacements for site validation coupons that are lost or destroyed are available upon request from any license vendor. Replacement site validation coupons are clearly marked as replacements.
• Trappers must present completed site validation coupons for each fisher, pine marten and river otter when they present the pelts for furbearer registration.
* An authorized agent is an individual that a trapper has authorized in writing and who possesses all necessary licenses to tend traps set by the trapper, including resetting the trap at the same set.
Complete trapping regulations can be found beginning on page 44 of the Minnesota Hunting & Trapping Regulations Handbook or on the DNR website at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/hunting/index.html
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says the free coupons are available at license vendors. Trappers will receive one site validation coupon for each animal they could potentially harvest. For example, a trapper who intended to target fisher, pine marten and river otter would receive a total of nine coupons (5 fisher/marten and 4 river otter).
The trapping validation coupon process also requires:
• Each person age five or older who takes a river otter, fisher or pine marten must validate their site validation coupon at the site of the kill by cutting out the appropriate notches with a sharp knife or similar sharp object. The notches indicate the month, date, time (am/pm) and species (fisher/marten).
• Site validation coupons do not need to be attached to the animal, but trappers must have their coupons in possession while taking or transporting fisher, pine marten or river otter.
• Fisher, river otter, bobcat or pine marten taken by a resident under age five must be included in the limit of the accompanying parent or guardian. Fisher, pine marten and river otter must
be validated on one of the parent or guardian’s site validation coupons.
• Fisher, pine marten and river otter must not be removed from the kill site without the trapper's validated site coupon in possession. Authorized agents* may remove trapped fisher, pine marten, and otter from the trap and the agent must validate their own site validation coupon at and prior to removing the animal from the site of the kill.
• Site validation coupons are not transferrable. Trappers may acquire site validation coupons at any time before or during the trapping season. Replacements for site validation coupons that are lost or destroyed are available upon request from any license vendor. Replacement site validation coupons are clearly marked as replacements.
• Trappers must present completed site validation coupons for each fisher, pine marten and river otter when they present the pelts for furbearer registration.
* An authorized agent is an individual that a trapper has authorized in writing and who possesses all necessary licenses to tend traps set by the trapper, including resetting the trap at the same set.
Complete trapping regulations can be found beginning on page 44 of the Minnesota Hunting & Trapping Regulations Handbook or on the DNR website at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/regulations/hunting/index.html
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Beware of Space Heater Hazards
Cooler temperatures are a reminder that the winter heating season will begin soon.
Using space heaters to warm small areas of the home can save money, but the heaters need to be used safely.
"Burns from hot elements and the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning are just two of the safety concerns with using space heaters," cautions Carl Pedersen, North Dakota State University Extension Service energy educator.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas released from fuel-burning space heaters. If these gases are not exhausted outdoors, they can cause a variety of health problems and even death.
"Do not use unvented combustion heaters in a home," Pedersen says. "Even if heaters are vented, homeowners should make sure to have a carbon monoxide detector."
The heating element and, in some cases, the covering of a space heater can be very hot, so avoid touching the heater. Because burns can result from touching a space heater, you need to teach small children to stay away from any space heater or find ways to keep them from getting near the heater.
You also need to keep space heaters away from combustible materials such as furniture, carpet, walls, curtains and tablecloths. Check the manufacturer's recommendations on how far the heater needs to be from combustible materials.
Avoid placing space heaters in high-traffic areas as well. Many electric space heaters will shut off automatically if they tip over, but the element still can
be hot, which could cause a fire if it comes in contact with combustible material.
"Also avoid purchasing space heaters advertised as 'miracle heaters,'" Pedersen advises. "Radiant and convection space heaters can be found at any hardware store for a fraction of the hundreds of dollars of the advertised heaters and heat just as well."
Using space heaters to warm small areas of the home can save money, but the heaters need to be used safely.
"Burns from hot elements and the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning are just two of the safety concerns with using space heaters," cautions Carl Pedersen, North Dakota State University Extension Service energy educator.
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas released from fuel-burning space heaters. If these gases are not exhausted outdoors, they can cause a variety of health problems and even death.
"Do not use unvented combustion heaters in a home," Pedersen says. "Even if heaters are vented, homeowners should make sure to have a carbon monoxide detector."
The heating element and, in some cases, the covering of a space heater can be very hot, so avoid touching the heater. Because burns can result from touching a space heater, you need to teach small children to stay away from any space heater or find ways to keep them from getting near the heater.
You also need to keep space heaters away from combustible materials such as furniture, carpet, walls, curtains and tablecloths. Check the manufacturer's recommendations on how far the heater needs to be from combustible materials.
Avoid placing space heaters in high-traffic areas as well. Many electric space heaters will shut off automatically if they tip over, but the element still can
be hot, which could cause a fire if it comes in contact with combustible material.
"Also avoid purchasing space heaters advertised as 'miracle heaters,'" Pedersen advises. "Radiant and convection space heaters can be found at any hardware store for a fraction of the hundreds of dollars of the advertised heaters and heat just as well."
Monday, September 19, 2011
RRBC summit conference
Red River Basin Commission’s 29th AnnualRed River Basin Land & Water International Summit Conference
Water, Water!! Finding Solutions to Our Challenges
January 24-26, 2012
Fort Garry Hotel
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Registration for the annual conference has begun. Visit the RRBC website to register or use the attached conference brochure to mail or fax in your registration.
A block of rooms has been set up at the Fort Garry. The rate is $119. Ask for Group code 1091FS.
As a reminder, a passport is now required for US citizens to return to the US from Canada.
The most up-to-date information will be available on the web site, www.redriverbasincommission.org.
Water, Water!! Finding Solutions to Our Challenges
January 24-26, 2012
Fort Garry Hotel
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Registration for the annual conference has begun. Visit the RRBC website to register or use the attached conference brochure to mail or fax in your registration.
A block of rooms has been set up at the Fort Garry. The rate is $119. Ask for Group code 1091FS.
As a reminder, a passport is now required for US citizens to return to the US from Canada.
The most up-to-date information will be available on the web site, www.redriverbasincommission.org.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Get Ready for Heating Season
This year's early frost is a reminder that North Dakota is a cold-climate state.
People have a few simple ways to reduce their energy bills and make their homes more comfortable, according to Carl Pedersen, North Dakota State University Extension Service energy educator.
The warm summers and cold winters have a tendency to wreak havoc on buildings in North Dakota. Building materials can expand and contract with temperature swings. This movement easily can break seals that are meant to keep the conditioned air inside a home. By allowing air leaks to go unsealed, homeowners are letting money escape from their homes.
"Running a fresh bead of caulk around window and doorframes can be an inexpensive way to reduce air leaks," Pedersen says. "Caulk only costs a few dollars, and a tube will go a long way."
If your windows are old and replacing them is not in your budget, window films might be a good option. A wide variety of heat-shrink window films that will reduce heat leaks and convection air currents around windows are available.
Convection currents are caused as warm air from a home comes in contact with the cold air next to a window. The air drops and more warm air from the home replaces it. This continuous cycle is what causes the cold, drafty feeling next to a window even though no air may be leaking through the window. Window films create an air pocket between the window and the film, helping keep the cold outside air away from the warm air in a home.
"Insulated window treatments are another great way to save a few dollars on heating bills," Pedersen says.
Installed properly, quilted or pleated window coverings will create air pockets that can reduce heat loss significantly. The advantage of the window treatments is that they can be opened on the sunny side of the house to allow the sun to add free heat to the home. In the evening when the sun goes down, simply shutting the blinds retains the heat.
The NDSU Extension Service has a program for homeowners to borrow an infrared thermometer to check a home for air leaks and cold spots.
"Using the thermometer, a homeowner can quickly scan a room and determine if there are cold spots around windows and doors, as well getting an idea of the amount of insulation in walls," Pedersen says.
Homeowners can borrow the infrared thermometers free of charge and pick up a checklist and information on home energy use and savings from county Extension offices. These resources also are available online at http://www.ndsu.edu/energy.
People have a few simple ways to reduce their energy bills and make their homes more comfortable, according to Carl Pedersen, North Dakota State University Extension Service energy educator.
The warm summers and cold winters have a tendency to wreak havoc on buildings in North Dakota. Building materials can expand and contract with temperature swings. This movement easily can break seals that are meant to keep the conditioned air inside a home. By allowing air leaks to go unsealed, homeowners are letting money escape from their homes.
"Running a fresh bead of caulk around window and doorframes can be an inexpensive way to reduce air leaks," Pedersen says. "Caulk only costs a few dollars, and a tube will go a long way."
If your windows are old and replacing them is not in your budget, window films might be a good option. A wide variety of heat-shrink window films that will reduce heat leaks and convection air currents around windows are available.
Convection currents are caused as warm air from a home comes in contact with the cold air next to a window. The air drops and more warm air from the home replaces it. This continuous cycle is what causes the cold, drafty feeling next to a window even though no air may be leaking through the window. Window films create an air pocket between the window and the film, helping keep the cold outside air away from the warm air in a home.
"Insulated window treatments are another great way to save a few dollars on heating bills," Pedersen says.
Installed properly, quilted or pleated window coverings will create air pockets that can reduce heat loss significantly. The advantage of the window treatments is that they can be opened on the sunny side of the house to allow the sun to add free heat to the home. In the evening when the sun goes down, simply shutting the blinds retains the heat.
The NDSU Extension Service has a program for homeowners to borrow an infrared thermometer to check a home for air leaks and cold spots.
"Using the thermometer, a homeowner can quickly scan a room and determine if there are cold spots around windows and doors, as well getting an idea of the amount of insulation in walls," Pedersen says.
Homeowners can borrow the infrared thermometers free of charge and pick up a checklist and information on home energy use and savings from county Extension offices. These resources also are available online at http://www.ndsu.edu/energy.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
STATE TOPS 30 MOTORCYLE DEATHS AS ENFORCEMENT REVS UP FOR ANNUAL FALL FLOOD RUN
ST. PAUL — Motorists are cautioned to look twice for motorcyclists as up to 30,000 riders will take to the roads along the Mississippi and St. Croix River valleys from the Twin Cities to Winona this weekend during the annual “Fall Flood Run” motorcycle event.
To ensure a safe riding environment, numerous law enforcement agencies in southeast Minnesota, including the State Patrol, local police and county sheriff’s offices will conduct extra enforcement, especially alert to speeding and possible DWIs. Wisconsin law enforcement also will be stepped along its side of the border.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), motorcycling popularity is at an all-time high in Minnesota with nearly a quarter-million registered bikes. Of the state’s 2010 traffic fatalities, 11 percent were motorcycle riders. Of those motorcyclists killed, 71 percent were age 40 or older, and 93 percent were male. To-date, 31 riders and passengers have died on Minnesota roadways in 2011, compared to 28 at this time last year.
“Riders must shoulder the responsibility for protecting themselves. Be prepared for inattentive drivers by riding sober, keeping your speed in check, and make yourself visible to drivers,” says Bill Shaffer, motorcycle safety program coordinator for DPS.
DPS safety tips for motorists and motorcyclists include:
• Drive at safe speeds and stay focused on driving—speeding and inattention are the two most-cited contributing factors in motorcycle crashes.
• Look twice for riders—motorists should take a second look for motorcycle riders before entering or crossing a roadway. Most vehicle/motorcycle crashes occur in intersections.
• Wear the gear—motorcyclists should wear brightly colored protective gear and a helmet for visibility and protection.
• Don’t drink and ride—one-third of all motorcycle fatalities involve impaired riders.
• Share the road—motorists and motorcyclists should keep a safe distance from all vehicles, especially other motorcyclists.
To ensure a safe riding environment, numerous law enforcement agencies in southeast Minnesota, including the State Patrol, local police and county sheriff’s offices will conduct extra enforcement, especially alert to speeding and possible DWIs. Wisconsin law enforcement also will be stepped along its side of the border.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS), motorcycling popularity is at an all-time high in Minnesota with nearly a quarter-million registered bikes. Of the state’s 2010 traffic fatalities, 11 percent were motorcycle riders. Of those motorcyclists killed, 71 percent were age 40 or older, and 93 percent were male. To-date, 31 riders and passengers have died on Minnesota roadways in 2011, compared to 28 at this time last year.
“Riders must shoulder the responsibility for protecting themselves. Be prepared for inattentive drivers by riding sober, keeping your speed in check, and make yourself visible to drivers,” says Bill Shaffer, motorcycle safety program coordinator for DPS.
DPS safety tips for motorists and motorcyclists include:
• Drive at safe speeds and stay focused on driving—speeding and inattention are the two most-cited contributing factors in motorcycle crashes.
• Look twice for riders—motorists should take a second look for motorcycle riders before entering or crossing a roadway. Most vehicle/motorcycle crashes occur in intersections.
• Wear the gear—motorcyclists should wear brightly colored protective gear and a helmet for visibility and protection.
• Don’t drink and ride—one-third of all motorcycle fatalities involve impaired riders.
• Share the road—motorists and motorcyclists should keep a safe distance from all vehicles, especially other motorcyclists.
Highway 200 detour in Halstad begins today
BEMIDJI, Minn. – Motorists will encounter a detour on Highway 200 in Halstad beginning today as Burlington Northern Railroad removes tracks that cross the highway.
The detour will be in place until Monday morning, Sept. 19
All eastbound traffic is detoured north on Fourth Avenue West to First Street West/County Road 51 to Highway 75. Westbound traffic will use the same route in reverse.
Motorists are advised to watch for detour signs.
For more information on road conditions and construction, visit www.511mn.org or call 5-1-1.
The detour will be in place until Monday morning, Sept. 19
All eastbound traffic is detoured north on Fourth Avenue West to First Street West/County Road 51 to Highway 75. Westbound traffic will use the same route in reverse.
Motorists are advised to watch for detour signs.
For more information on road conditions and construction, visit www.511mn.org or call 5-1-1.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Keep fires away from utility poles and excavating equipment away from buried lines
Fergus Falls, MN – Each fall, uncontrolled ditch and field burns damage or destroy electric utility poles.
“You pay for the repairs if you’re responsible for the fire,” says Eric Hamm, safety services manager for Otter Tail Power Company. “Cost of repairs easily can be thousands of dollars, and that doesn’t make up for the power outage or safety hazard that a burned pole creates.”
Hamm reminds property owners that most areas require burning permits. “Check with your local fire district or county officials to learn about the requirements in your area,” he says.
Electrical outages, adds Hamm, also can occur when smoke reduces the insulating value of air and insulators, which can cause a temporary fault in the line. “Please take every preca ution when you burn ditches and fields. Make sure you have enough people to monitor the fire. Build fire walls by starting small controlled fires around poles, pedestals, and other electrical facilities. Trench wherever necessary. And take time to work safely.”
Stay safe. Call before you dig.
As the construction season and yard work head into the home stretch this fall, Otter Tail Power Company reminds its customers and neighbors that, before starting any project that involves disturbing the ground, they need to notify utilities that have lines or cables buried in the area. Just one phone call will notify all of these utility companies so they can mark the property before any excavation begins. Knowing what’s below will keep those who dig safe. It also will prevent unintentional damage to underground utility lines and needless outages to the utilities whose convenience you enjoy, including electricity, water and sewer, cable TV, telephone, and high-speed Internet.
Each state has different rules and regulations governing digging, but all projects—whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor—require a call to the Call Before You Dig number. The national 811 number was created so the public would have only one number to call instead of separate One Call numbers in each state. Call 811 at least 48 hours before digging footings for that new garage, burying that water line, or installing that flag pole or mailbox. Or contact your state’s One Call center:
Minnesota – 800-252-1166 or www.gopherstateonecall.org
North Dakota – 800-795-0555 or www.ndonecall.com
South Dakota – 800-781-7474 or www.sdonecall.com
“You pay for the repairs if you’re responsible for the fire,” says Eric Hamm, safety services manager for Otter Tail Power Company. “Cost of repairs easily can be thousands of dollars, and that doesn’t make up for the power outage or safety hazard that a burned pole creates.”
Hamm reminds property owners that most areas require burning permits. “Check with your local fire district or county officials to learn about the requirements in your area,” he says.
Electrical outages, adds Hamm, also can occur when smoke reduces the insulating value of air and insulators, which can cause a temporary fault in the line. “Please take every preca ution when you burn ditches and fields. Make sure you have enough people to monitor the fire. Build fire walls by starting small controlled fires around poles, pedestals, and other electrical facilities. Trench wherever necessary. And take time to work safely.”
Stay safe. Call before you dig.
As the construction season and yard work head into the home stretch this fall, Otter Tail Power Company reminds its customers and neighbors that, before starting any project that involves disturbing the ground, they need to notify utilities that have lines or cables buried in the area. Just one phone call will notify all of these utility companies so they can mark the property before any excavation begins. Knowing what’s below will keep those who dig safe. It also will prevent unintentional damage to underground utility lines and needless outages to the utilities whose convenience you enjoy, including electricity, water and sewer, cable TV, telephone, and high-speed Internet.
Each state has different rules and regulations governing digging, but all projects—whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor—require a call to the Call Before You Dig number. The national 811 number was created so the public would have only one number to call instead of separate One Call numbers in each state. Call 811 at least 48 hours before digging footings for that new garage, burying that water line, or installing that flag pole or mailbox. Or contact your state’s One Call center:
Minnesota – 800-252-1166 or www.gopherstateonecall.org
North Dakota – 800-795-0555 or www.ndonecall.com
South Dakota – 800-781-7474 or www.sdonecall.com
Monday, September 12, 2011
African Soul, American Heart: Images of Duk Payuel on display at the Hjemkomst Center museum
Moorhead, Minn., Sept. 12, 2011 – The Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County announces a new exhibit: African Soul, American Heart: Images of Duk Payuel, photographs by Deb Dawson, on display Sept. 27 through Nov. 13 at the Hjemkomst Center museum. The exhibit will feature new photos from her most recent visit to the newly formed Republic of South Sudan.
These vibrant color photos document the unique beauty and fortitude of the people of Duk Payuel, Jonglei State who returned from refugee camps after a decades-long civil war. Their votes resulted in the birth of a new nation, the Republic of South Sudan, in July, 2011. Though there are few roads, medical centers, schools, and jobs, independence has brought new hope to these resilient villagers and their children.
The exhibit opens with a reception on Tuesday, Sept. 27 from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Hjemkomst Center. Deb Dawson will show new video footage of African Soul, American Heart's building project: the ASAH Home and School for Girls. The event is free and open to the public.
These vibrant color photos document the unique beauty and fortitude of the people of Duk Payuel, Jonglei State who returned from refugee camps after a decades-long civil war. Their votes resulted in the birth of a new nation, the Republic of South Sudan, in July, 2011. Though there are few roads, medical centers, schools, and jobs, independence has brought new hope to these resilient villagers and their children.
The exhibit opens with a reception on Tuesday, Sept. 27 from 5 – 7 p.m. at the Hjemkomst Center. Deb Dawson will show new video footage of African Soul, American Heart's building project: the ASAH Home and School for Girls. The event is free and open to the public.
“Run, Walk, Roll Against Bullying” on Oct. 1 in Bloomington
Minneapolis, MN: PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center is inviting the Minnesota community to the second annual “Run, Walk, Roll Against Bullying” on Saturday, Oct. 1, in Bloomington, Minn. as part of PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Month of October.
“Bullying is a very real and painful issue that kids are facing,” said Julie Hertzog, director of PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center based in Minneapolis, Minn. “But they don’t have to face it alone, and bullying can be prevented if we all work together to change the culture.”
Registration and race packet pick-up begin at 9 a.m., followed by a four-mile run or 1.5-mile fun walk/roll at 10 a.m. at Mt. Normandale Lake, Normandale Blvd. and 84th St., Bloomington, Minn. The entry fee is $20 per person, and each participant will receive a complimentary T-shirt.
Snacks, door prizes and additional fun will also be provided at the Normandale Lake Bandshell immediately following the race. 13-year-old Hayley Reardon will perform an original song titled, “Stand Together.” The event will end with a demonstration of the “Unity Dance,” which groups are encouraged to do on Unity Dance Day on Wednesday, Oct. 26, as part of National Bullying Prevention Month.
Preregistration is strongly encouraged. For more information and to register for the event, visit PACER.org/bullying or call 952-838-9000. All proceeds from PACER’s Run, Walk, Roll Against Bullying will go to PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center.
PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center provides creative and interactive resources that are designed to benefit all students, including students with disabilities. It offers educators, students, families and individuals the tools they need to address bullying in schools, recreational programs or community organizations. For more information, visit PACER.org/bullying or call 952-838-9000 and become a Champion for Children!
“Bullying is a very real and painful issue that kids are facing,” said Julie Hertzog, director of PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center based in Minneapolis, Minn. “But they don’t have to face it alone, and bullying can be prevented if we all work together to change the culture.”
Registration and race packet pick-up begin at 9 a.m., followed by a four-mile run or 1.5-mile fun walk/roll at 10 a.m. at Mt. Normandale Lake, Normandale Blvd. and 84th St., Bloomington, Minn. The entry fee is $20 per person, and each participant will receive a complimentary T-shirt.
Snacks, door prizes and additional fun will also be provided at the Normandale Lake Bandshell immediately following the race. 13-year-old Hayley Reardon will perform an original song titled, “Stand Together.” The event will end with a demonstration of the “Unity Dance,” which groups are encouraged to do on Unity Dance Day on Wednesday, Oct. 26, as part of National Bullying Prevention Month.
Preregistration is strongly encouraged. For more information and to register for the event, visit PACER.org/bullying or call 952-838-9000. All proceeds from PACER’s Run, Walk, Roll Against Bullying will go to PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center.
PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center provides creative and interactive resources that are designed to benefit all students, including students with disabilities. It offers educators, students, families and individuals the tools they need to address bullying in schools, recreational programs or community organizations. For more information, visit PACER.org/bullying or call 952-838-9000 and become a Champion for Children!
Highway 9 south of Highway 2 opens to traffic
BEMIDJI, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation has removed the Highway 9 detour between U.S. Highway 2 and the Polk/Norman county line after crews replaced several box culverts.
Resurfacing and shoulder work will be conducted under traffic with the use of flaggers and a pilot car.
Motorists are reminded to allow for extra travel time through the work zone.
The project was scheduled to be completed in early August, but due to the state government shutdown, the estimated completion date is now Sept. 30.
For state highway road information, call 5-1-1 or log on to www.511mn.org.
Resurfacing and shoulder work will be conducted under traffic with the use of flaggers and a pilot car.
Motorists are reminded to allow for extra travel time through the work zone.
The project was scheduled to be completed in early August, but due to the state government shutdown, the estimated completion date is now Sept. 30.
For state highway road information, call 5-1-1 or log on to www.511mn.org.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Norman Co Soybean & Corn Plot Day Friday Sept. 23rd.
The Norman County Soybean and Corn Plot Day is set for Friday Sept. 23rd.
A County Soybean Variety tour with 32 varieties replicated three times begins at 8:30 a.m. at the soybean plot on the Wayne and John Brandt farmland, located North of Ada two miles on Highway # 9 to Co. Rd. 23 and east 2 ¾ miles on the south side of road.
A County Corn Variety tour with 39 varieties replicated three times begins at 10:45 a.m. at the Bryan Hest farmland, located one mile south of Perley, MN on Highway 75 and one mile east on north side of road.
Speakers will include: Ben Arlt, the new Ag Educator, U of MN Extension Service, Phil Glogoza, Regional Ag Staff Educator in Clay County, 20 company dealer reps, and Ken Pazdernik with Pazdernik Agronomy Ser. the plot manager.
Topics covered will include: Variety maturity and differences, nitrogen management and other crop topics for fall.
A County Soybean Variety tour with 32 varieties replicated three times begins at 8:30 a.m. at the soybean plot on the Wayne and John Brandt farmland, located North of Ada two miles on Highway # 9 to Co. Rd. 23 and east 2 ¾ miles on the south side of road.
A County Corn Variety tour with 39 varieties replicated three times begins at 10:45 a.m. at the Bryan Hest farmland, located one mile south of Perley, MN on Highway 75 and one mile east on north side of road.
Speakers will include: Ben Arlt, the new Ag Educator, U of MN Extension Service, Phil Glogoza, Regional Ag Staff Educator in Clay County, 20 company dealer reps, and Ken Pazdernik with Pazdernik Agronomy Ser. the plot manager.
Topics covered will include: Variety maturity and differences, nitrogen management and other crop topics for fall.
F-M & Area Emergency Responders Gather to Remember 9/11
FARGO, ND (September 6, 2011) – On Sunday, September 11, 2011, emergency responders from Fargo, Moorhead, Cass County, Clay County, and FM Ambulance will remember and honor their fallen brothers and sisters, as well as the thousands of civilians who died during the 2001 terrorist attacks on our country. The ceremony will take place at 8:30 a.m. on the ceremonial observation deck on Veterans Memorial Bridge (Main Ave).
Firefighters, peace officers, and EMT’s will gather on the Minnesota side and the North Dakota side of the river and march two blocks to the center of the bridge. Each side will be carrying a wreath and will be escorted by Honor Guards. One wreath will be carried to the top of a Fargo Fire Department Ladder Truck and one wreath will be carried to the top of a Moorhead Fire Department Ladder Truck.
There will be a short prayer and words of remembrance by Pastor Steve Burrell, followed by a moment of silence until 8:59a.m., at which time the wreaths will be dropped into the river. There will then be a 21 gun salute, taps, and the Heather and Thistle Bag Pipe Band will play Amazing Grace.
Firefighters, peace officers, and EMT’s will gather on the Minnesota side and the North Dakota side of the river and march two blocks to the center of the bridge. Each side will be carrying a wreath and will be escorted by Honor Guards. One wreath will be carried to the top of a Fargo Fire Department Ladder Truck and one wreath will be carried to the top of a Moorhead Fire Department Ladder Truck.
There will be a short prayer and words of remembrance by Pastor Steve Burrell, followed by a moment of silence until 8:59a.m., at which time the wreaths will be dropped into the river. There will then be a 21 gun salute, taps, and the Heather and Thistle Bag Pipe Band will play Amazing Grace.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
2011 CHS Applicator Rodeo Event
Some of the best agronomy applicators from CHS cooperatives will compete as teams on an application equipment obstacle course as well as take maintenance and safety tests. These professionals will gain valuable industry knowledge, learn about new technology and sharpen their skills. Application professionals, leading industry experts and local FFA chapters will be at this event.
It will be held on Thursday, September 8, 2011from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m at the Corner of Veterans Blvd. and 32nd Avenue South in Fargo/West Fargo
Directions:
45th Street South to 32nd Avenue South; Turn right (west) on 32nd Ave. S.; Go ½ mile to the corner of Veterans Blvd. and 32nd Ave. S.; Field will be located on the right (south) side of 32nd Ave. S
It will be held on Thursday, September 8, 2011from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m at the Corner of Veterans Blvd. and 32nd Avenue South in Fargo/West Fargo
Directions:
45th Street South to 32nd Avenue South; Turn right (west) on 32nd Ave. S.; Go ½ mile to the corner of Veterans Blvd. and 32nd Ave. S.; Field will be located on the right (south) side of 32nd Ave. S
Area Transportation Partnership seek s applications for transportation enhancements
DETROIT LAKES, Minn. — The West Central Minnesota Area Transportation Partnership is seeking applications for the 2016 Transportation Enhancement Program, which has approximately $600,000 available for eligible projects in Mahnomen, Clay, Becker, Wilkin, Otter Tail, Grant, Douglas, Stevens, Traverse, Pope, Big Stone and Swift counties. Projects require a 20 percent cash match.
A workshop to provide information about eligibility is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. to noon, at West Central Initiative, 1000 Western Ave., Fergus Falls. For directions, visit www.wcif.org. Representatives also will be available to assist in completing application forms.
Eligible transportation enhancement projects are:
1. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities
2. Pedestrian and bicycle safety and educational activities
3. Acquisition of scenic or historic easements and sites
4. Scenic or historic highway programs, including tourist and welcome centers
5. Landscaping and scenic beautification
6. Historic preservation
7. Rehabilitation and operation of historic transportation buildings, structures or facilities
8. Conversion of abandoned railway corridors to trails
9. Inventory, control, and removal of outdoor advertising
10. Archaeological planning and research
11. Environmental mitigation of runoff pollution and provision of wildlife connectivity
12. Establishment of transportation museums
Projects previously funded include:
• Lake Adley Park Trail in Parkers Prairie (funded 2015)—$185,000
• Geneva Road pedestrian/bike lanes in Alexandria (funded 2015)—$415,000
• Glendalough State Park trail from Battle Lake to Otter Tail Co Hwy 16 (funded 2014) $100,000
• Shared use path bridge over the Red River from Gooseberry Park in Moorhead to Lindenwood Park in Fargo (funded 2014)—$400,000
• Walking trail along Wilkin County Highway 10 (funded 2014)—$125,000
• Battle Lake to Glendalough Interconnection Trail (funded 2013)—$175,000
• Tower Road bridge trail in Fergus Falls (funded 2013)—$425,000
• City of Ottertail bike trail (funded 2012)—$189,750
• Moorhead pedestrian underpass at 20th Street and 40th Avenue (funded 2012)—$310,250
• Villard bike trail to Villard city beach (funded 2012)—$100,000
In addition to the Sept. 13 workshop, applications and grant writing assistance also are available by contacting:
• Wayne Hurley at West Central Initiative, 1-800-735-2239 or wayne@wcif.org, for Clay, Becker, Wilkin, Otter Tail, Grant, Douglas, Stevens, Traverse and Pope counties
• Mathew Dyrdahl at Headwaters Regional Development Commission, 218-444-4732 or mdyrdahl@hrdc.org, for Mahnomen County
• Michelle Bouta at Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission, 320-289-1981 or michelle.bouta@umvrdc.org, for Big Stone and Swift counties
• Justin Kristan at Fargo-Moorhead Council of Governments, 701-232-3242 or jkristan@fmmetrocog.org, for the Fargo-Moorhead vicinity
Information on the Transportation Enhancements Funds, including a guidebook and fact sheets on the 12 eligible activities, can be found at www.enhancements.org.
For more information on the program, contact Keven Anderson, MnDOT District 4, 218-846-7963, or keven.anderson@state.mn.us.
The deadline for applications is Nov. 11 to local planning agencies and Dec. 9 to MnDOT. All applications must be reviewed and approved by your local planning agency.
A workshop to provide information about eligibility is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. to noon, at West Central Initiative, 1000 Western Ave., Fergus Falls. For directions, visit www.wcif.org. Representatives also will be available to assist in completing application forms.
Eligible transportation enhancement projects are:
1. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities
2. Pedestrian and bicycle safety and educational activities
3. Acquisition of scenic or historic easements and sites
4. Scenic or historic highway programs, including tourist and welcome centers
5. Landscaping and scenic beautification
6. Historic preservation
7. Rehabilitation and operation of historic transportation buildings, structures or facilities
8. Conversion of abandoned railway corridors to trails
9. Inventory, control, and removal of outdoor advertising
10. Archaeological planning and research
11. Environmental mitigation of runoff pollution and provision of wildlife connectivity
12. Establishment of transportation museums
Projects previously funded include:
• Lake Adley Park Trail in Parkers Prairie (funded 2015)—$185,000
• Geneva Road pedestrian/bike lanes in Alexandria (funded 2015)—$415,000
• Glendalough State Park trail from Battle Lake to Otter Tail Co Hwy 16 (funded 2014) $100,000
• Shared use path bridge over the Red River from Gooseberry Park in Moorhead to Lindenwood Park in Fargo (funded 2014)—$400,000
• Walking trail along Wilkin County Highway 10 (funded 2014)—$125,000
• Battle Lake to Glendalough Interconnection Trail (funded 2013)—$175,000
• Tower Road bridge trail in Fergus Falls (funded 2013)—$425,000
• City of Ottertail bike trail (funded 2012)—$189,750
• Moorhead pedestrian underpass at 20th Street and 40th Avenue (funded 2012)—$310,250
• Villard bike trail to Villard city beach (funded 2012)—$100,000
In addition to the Sept. 13 workshop, applications and grant writing assistance also are available by contacting:
• Wayne Hurley at West Central Initiative, 1-800-735-2239 or wayne@wcif.org, for Clay, Becker, Wilkin, Otter Tail, Grant, Douglas, Stevens, Traverse and Pope counties
• Mathew Dyrdahl at Headwaters Regional Development Commission, 218-444-4732 or mdyrdahl@hrdc.org, for Mahnomen County
• Michelle Bouta at Upper Minnesota Valley Regional Development Commission, 320-289-1981 or michelle.bouta@umvrdc.org, for Big Stone and Swift counties
• Justin Kristan at Fargo-Moorhead Council of Governments, 701-232-3242 or jkristan@fmmetrocog.org, for the Fargo-Moorhead vicinity
Information on the Transportation Enhancements Funds, including a guidebook and fact sheets on the 12 eligible activities, can be found at www.enhancements.org.
For more information on the program, contact Keven Anderson, MnDOT District 4, 218-846-7963, or keven.anderson@state.mn.us.
The deadline for applications is Nov. 11 to local planning agencies and Dec. 9 to MnDOT. All applications must be reviewed and approved by your local planning agency.
“Back to School Safely”
This is the message that the Moorhead Police Department would like to remind everyone on this final day before schools start again across Minnesota. With all the excitement that the first day of school brings, please consider morning and mid-afternoon commute delays associated with increased bicycle/pedestrian traffic and simply more cars on the roads. Moorhead Officers will be actively enforcing school speed zones and helping ensure that the crossing guards are complied with. We will also be enforcing distracted driving laws (cell phone texting) and seat belt violations. Fines in Minnesota start at $125, so please drive safely.
As school buses will once again be picking up children throughout the city, we remind everyone that it is illegal to pass a school bus that has flashing lights and their stop arm out. Failure to comply with this driving law will continue to be strictly enforced due to the high level of danger that these violations present to the children. Another significant annual school safety concern is with dropping off children at the schools. Please respect the school bus loading and unloading zones. Private vehicle drop offs are not to be conducted in these bus zones.
We share the enthusiasm that “back to school” brings, but point out that everyone plays a part in ensuring that it done so safely!
As school buses will once again be picking up children throughout the city, we remind everyone that it is illegal to pass a school bus that has flashing lights and their stop arm out. Failure to comply with this driving law will continue to be strictly enforced due to the high level of danger that these violations present to the children. Another significant annual school safety concern is with dropping off children at the schools. Please respect the school bus loading and unloading zones. Private vehicle drop offs are not to be conducted in these bus zones.
We share the enthusiasm that “back to school” brings, but point out that everyone plays a part in ensuring that it done so safely!
Friday, September 2, 2011
Driving surface on Harwood Bridge will be replaced
(FARGO, N.D.) – The North Dakota Department of Transportation -Fargo District-would like to update the traveling public that the driving surface on the Harwood Bridge will be replaced starting today at 3pm. The main impact for this project will be the southbound I-29 traffic as well as through the city of Harwood.
Flaggers will control all traffic movement within this area during the placement of the bridge deck today, which should be complete by end of day today. At which time, the traffic signs directing motorists across the bridge will be turned back on. Motorists should be cautious of the flaggers and expect delays through this area.
Flaggers will control all traffic movement within this area during the placement of the bridge deck today, which should be complete by end of day today. At which time, the traffic signs directing motorists across the bridge will be turned back on. Motorists should be cautious of the flaggers and expect delays through this area.
Highway 34 from Park Rapids to Akeley opens to traffic
BEMIDJI, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation has removed the Highway 34 detour from Park Rapids to Akeley, allowing motorists through the work zone.
Drivers are advised to slow down and be alert to workers and equipment still in the area for the next several weeks as finishing work continues. There may be intermittent lane and shoulder closures with flaggers present as needed.
For updated road conditions and construction around the state, call 5-1-1 or click on www.511mn.org.
Drivers are advised to slow down and be alert to workers and equipment still in the area for the next several weeks as finishing work continues. There may be intermittent lane and shoulder closures with flaggers present as needed.
For updated road conditions and construction around the state, call 5-1-1 or click on www.511mn.org.
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