Minnesota Downhill Ski Report

Metro South

Afton Alps
Hastings, MN 55033
651-436-5245 or 800-328-1328
Machine Groomed 36"-65" 1.0"+ 1.0"+ 01/26/10
Making Snow! 100%open. Open regular hours for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
 

Buck Hill
Burnsville, MN 55306
952-435-7174  Machine Groomed 20"-60" 0.5"+ 0.5"+ 01/25/10 
Snow tubing open. Halfpipe open.
 

Coffee Mill Ski Area
Wabasha, MN 55981
651-565-2777
Machine Groomed 12"-32" 6.0"+ 01/20/10 Open normal hours Wednesday through Sunday.
 

Elm Creek Winter Rec. Area
Maple Grove, MN 55369
763-694-7894
Packed Powder 24"-54" 1.0"+ 1.0"+ 01/26/10
Open Regular Hours.
 

Hyland Ski & Snowboard
Bloomington, MN 55438
763-694-7800
Packed Powder 24"-54" 1.0"+ 1.0"+ 01/26/10
Open Regular Hours.

Mount Kato
Mankato, MN 56001
800-668-5286
Machine Groomed 36"-60" 3.0" 3.0" 01/26/10 100% OPEN for Skiing, Snowboarding and Snow Tubing. 4 Terrain Parks Open.

Welch Village
Welch, MN 55089
651-222-7079
Machine Groomed 28"-62" 2.0"+ 01/25/10
100% open, 61 runs, 2 terrain parks. 9-10 Fri & Sat., 9-9 Sun 9-9, 10-9 Mon - Thurs.

Metro North
 

Powder Ridge
Kimball, MN 55353
1-800-348-7734
Machine Groomed 30"-60" 2.0" 2.0" 01/25/10
100% open for skiing, snowboarding and snowtubing. Three terrain parks open.
 

Trollhaugen
Dresser, WI 54009
800-826-7166
Packed Powder 36"-60" 2.0"+ 2.0"+ 01/26/10 100% Open. Groomed Daily. Late Nite Fri, 10pm-3am. Tubing and XC open.

Wild Mountain
Taylors Falls, MN 55084
651-465-6315
Machine Groomed 36"-66" 2.0" 2.0" 01/26/10
Saturdays ski/ride until 1:00 am. 4 Terrain Parks open.

Minnesota North

Andes Tower Hills
Alexandria, MN 56343
1-87-SKI-ANDES
Machine Groomed 25"-55" 4.0"+ 01/24/10
100% Open Hours:Mon, Tues, Thurs 12pm to 9pm, Fri 12pm to 10pm, Sat 9am to 9pm, Sun 10am to 9pm

Buena Vista
Bemidji, MN 56601
800-777-7958
Packed Powder 32"-48" 8.0" 8.0" 01/26/10 16 Runs, Plus 2 New Runs, 2 Tows, 4 Chairlifts, 2 Terrain Parks with 12 Features, 4 tubing lanes, 25KM X-C Trails.
 

Giants Ridge
Biwabik, MN 55708
800-688-SNOW (7669)
Machine Groomed 28"-48" 4.0" 11.0" 01/26/10 Giants Ridge hours - 9:00am - 4:30pm Mon thru Thurs and 9;00am - 8:00pm Fri thru Sun.
 

Lutsen Mountains
Lutsen, MN 55612
218-663-7281
Machine Groomed 24"-48" 01/19/10
Four mountains open with 78 runs, terrain park and 9 lifts operating.
 

Spirit Mountain
Duluth, MN 55810
800-642-6377
Powder 30"-60" 5.0" 15.0" 01/26/10 100% Open. All 22km Nordic Trails Open. Both Terrain Parks and Halfpipe Open.
 

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on January 27, 2010 at 8:33 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: downhill, grooming, half-pipe, minnesota, news, outdoors, skiing, snow, winter

Minnesota Festivals and Events

Southern Minnesota

A Prairie Home Companion, with host Garrison Keillor and special guests, will be broadcast live from the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester on Saturday, January 23. Featured will be performances and comical skits by Keillor and the "Prairie Home" cast. All guests attending should plan on being in their seats by 4:45 p.m. For rates and times, and for more information on either event, dial 1-800-422-2199, or check out www.mayociviccenter.com
Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Mankato will be the site of the St. Olaf Choir 2010 National Tour on Sunday afternoon, January 24. For rates and times, dial 507/388-2925, or visit http://stolaftickets.universitytickets.com/user_pages/category.asp?id=46
 

The Frozen River Film Festival, hosted by Winona State University, will be held at various locations throughout Winona, Thursday, January 27 through Sunday, January 31. The Frozen River Film Festival offers programs that engage, educate and activate viewers to become involved in the world, and provide a unique perspective on environmental issues, sustainable communities, extreme sports, adventure travel and diverse cultures. Featured will be a wide array of films, speakers, discussions and workshops, as well as a buffet and a farmers market. For rates and times, dial 480/522-7940, or check out www.frff.org
The Verizon Wireless Center in Mankato will host the Baby & Kids Expo on Saturday, February 6. Anyone planning a family, expecting a baby, or having children up to age 12, will enjoy this event. Come visit the Health & Wellness area, visit with exhibitors focused on health, nutrition, child products and services, clothing and toys, and enjoy the interactive area. Admission is free. To learn more, dial 507/345-3683, or visit www.eventsandexpos.com
 

The Big Bobber Ice Fishing Contest will be held February 6 on Lake Washington in Mankato. Participants can register up until 10:00 a.m. the day of the contest, and head out to claim their pre-drilled fishing spots. Registration is limited to 3,000 participants. The fishing contest will begin at noon and conclude at 3:00 p.m. as anglers compete for a $2,500 cash prize for the largest catch. There will be 100 prizes awarded, determined by fish weight and time entered, not necessarily in the order expected! In addition, various food vendors and exhibitors will be on-site, along with a Schell’s Brewery’s on-the-ice beanbag tournament. Tickets for the Big Bobber Ice Fishing Contest are $35. To participate, check out http://www.msumavericks.com/sports/2009/9/30/GEN_0930093125.aspx?id=55. For more information, dial 507/389-6010
 

Twin Cities Greater Metropolitan vicinity
 

Various parks and venues throughout the city of St. Paul will be the site of the 124th Saint Paul Winter Carnival from Thursday, January 21 through Sunday, January 31. Since 1886 the Winter Carnival has brought together family and friends for fun and festivities such as the Moon Glow Pedestrian Parade, the King Boreas Grande Day Parade, Kids Day Parade, Torchlight Parade, the Overthrow of King Boreas, the 40th Annual Queen of the Snows Fashion Show, the Pioneer Press Treasure Hunt for the Medallion, the Great Winter Carnival Scavenger Hunt, Ice Carving competition, the 2010 Royal Coronation, Hot Air Balloon Lift-Off, the Saintly City Cat Show, Winter Carnival Orchid Show, Carnival Fireworks, and the Lake Phalen Sleigh & Cutter Event. Most events are free! For more information, dial 651/223-4700, or check out www.winter-carnival.com
 

Wagon Rides & Ice Harvest Day will be held Saturday, January 23, at Richardson Nature Center in Bloomington. Come learn about the days before electric refrigerators, when hardy ice harvesters sawed massive blocks of ice out of frozen lakes and ponds to keep food chilled. In addition, meet an ice harvesting historian, costumed interpreters, use real ice harvesting tools, pull an antique plow to mark the ice, make ice cubes, watch an ice harvesting video, and take a wagon ride pulled by Percheron horses through the prairie. Afterwards, warm up by an outdoor campfire. The DNR's MinnAqua staff will also be on hand to talk about ice fishing and ice safety. For further information, and for rates and times, dial 763/694-7676, or visit www.threeriversparks.org
 

The Wood Lake Nature Center in Richfield will offer Snowshoeing Basics on Saturday, January 23, and Cross Country Ski Lessons on Sunday, January 24. Afterwards, warm up inside next to a glowing fire. These programs will also be offered on the same day of the week each Saturday and Sunday through February 7. To find out more, dial 612/861-9365, or check out www.woodlakenaturecenter.org
 

Celebration of the Lakes 2010 will be held on or around North Center Lake in Center City, Saturday and Sunday, January 30 & 31. Highlights will include hot air balloon launches, sled dog rides, snowmobile racing, family ice-skating, Belgian horse-drawn hayrides, a 5k walk & run, helicopter rides, a fishing contest, medallion hunt, vintage snowmobile displays, and a concession tent with hot food and beverages. Most activities are free and take place on the ice! If the lake ice is determined to be unsafe, events will be moved to Ki Chi Saga Park in Lindstrom. To learn more, dial 651/257-1177, or visit www.ChisagoLakesChamber.com
 

And just some of the upcoming concerts and performances will include:
 

Everclear at the Fine Line Music Cafe in Minneapolis, January 28
American Carnage Tour: Slayer and Megadeth with Testament at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium at the St. Paul RiverCentre, February 4
The Music of Led Zeppelin & Queen at the Target Center in Minneapolis, February 4
A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, February 4, 13 & 20
Abba - the Music at the Historic State Theatre in Minneapolis, February 6
Young Frankenstein at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, February 9-14
The Pink Floyd Experience at the Fitzgerald Theater, February 11
The Wailin’ Jennys at The O’Shaughnessy Auditorium in St. Paul, February 19
B.B. King and Buddy Guy at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, February 20
A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, February 20
Rickie Lee Jones at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, February 22
Jeff Foxworthy at Mystic Lake Casino & Hotel in Prior Lake, February 27
John Mayer with Special Guest Michael Franti & Spearhead at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, March 2
Pat Donahue at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, March 6
Mamma Mia! (Touring) at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, March 9-14
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis, March 14
Experience Hendrix featuring Joe Satriani, Billy Cox & Sacred Steel at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, March 17
Norah Jones at The O'Shaughnessy Auditorium in St. Paul, March 17
Baby Wants Candy at The O’Shaughnessy Auditorium, March 19
Bill Engvall at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center, March 20
Alice In Chains at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium at St. Paul RiverCentre, March 21
The Black Eyed Peas at the Xcel Energy Center, March 22
Celtic Woman - Songs from the Heart at the Xcel Energy Center, March 24
Cheech & Chong at the Historic State Theatre, March 26
The Wizard of Oz at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, March 26-28
Michael Bublé at the Xcel Energy Center, March 28
The Magnolias 25th Anniversary Show at the 7th Street Entry in Minneapolis, April 23
Pat Metheny at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul, May 9
Smucker's Stars on Ice at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, May 9
Cats at the Historic Orpheum Theatre, May 14-16
Nickelback with Breaking Benjamin, Shinedown and Sick Puppies at the Target Center in Minneapolis, May 24
U2 360º Tour at the TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, June 27
For further information on any of these performances or events, please contact Ticketmaster at 651/989-5151
 

Central Minnesota
 

The Brainerd Jaycees $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza will be held at Gull Lake’s Hole in the Day Bay in Brainerd on Saturday, January 23. This ice fishing contest pays out over $150,000 in cash and prizes! The tournament starts at noon, when the cannon is fired. For further information, or to enter, dial 1-800-450-2838, or visit www.explorebrainerdlakes.com
 

Charles A. Lindbergh State Park in Little Falls will host the Lindbergh Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe on January 23 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Come explore 1.5-miles of easy, candle-lit cross-country ski and snowshoe trails before relaxing with free refreshments in a wood-heated 1938 Works Progress Administration shelter building. The lit trails meander through stands of pine, oak and aspen and over Pike Creek. Ski rental is available in the city of Little Falls. Please contact the park for more information, by dialing 1-800-325-5916, or check out www.littlefallsmn.com
 

WinterFest 2010 will be held throughout the city of Spicer, Saturday and Sunday, January 23 & 24, January 30 & 31, and February 6 & 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with a wide array of fun and entertaining events, such the 6th annual Polar Plunge and Hot Tub Party. Just some of the events to be held January 23 include a fireworks display, the creation of the Ice Castle and Slide at Saulsbury Beach, children's characters, a Waffle Feed, the Frozen 5K Run & Walk, an Art Exhibit & Wine Tasting event, Chocolate & Wine event, an Ice Golf Challenge, horse and buggy rides, the WinterFest 2010 fireworks display, and a dance. To learn more, dial 320/796-8066, or visit www.spicermn.com
 

The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge in Zimmerman will present Winterfest on Saturday, February 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Highlights will include a scavenger hunt, snowshoeing, nature crafts, face painting, a bonfire, brat and hot dog lunch, sleigh rides, exhibits, and presentations on wildlife. There will also be a celebration to honor the 106th anniversary of the National Refuge System. This event is free. To find out more, dial 763/389-3323, or check out www.fws.gov/midwest/sherburne
 

Northern Minnesota
 

Back to Hack will take place on Birch Lake and throughout the city of Hackensack, Friday through Sunday, January 22-24. This celebration of winter includes a community bonfire, fireworks display, a lighted parade, Snowflake Pageant, ice racing, snowmobile radar runs, a craft show, treasure hunt, free movie matinee, a chili feed, a Penguin Plunge, and more! For more information, please dial 1-800-279-6932, or check out www.hackensackchamber.com
 

On Saturday, January 23, head to Deer River for the Deer River Winter Fest. Highlights include a pancake breakfast, human sled dog race, chili cook-off, a cake walk, face painting, antique snowmobile rally, a medallion hunt, children's games, hay rides, ice racing on Little White Oak Lake, and broomball and volleyball tournaments. To find out more, dial 1-888-701-2226, or visit www.deerriver.org
 

The Volks Ski Fest will be held on trails throughout Cook County, Saturday, January 23 through Sunday, January 31, with a chance to ski 400 kilometers of professionally groomed cross-country ski trails. In addition, enjoy a candlelight ski, snowshoe hikes, bonfires and sleigh rides. Check out www.volksskifest.com, or dial 218/663-8058 for more information.
The North Shore of Lake Superior, running from Duluth to Grand Portage, will be the site of the 27th annual John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon on January 31. Mushers and their dog sled teams will race along a rugged 390-mile course. Race week events held January 29 through February 4 include the Cutest Puppy Contest, Opening Ceremonies, a Mini Sled Dog Race, a Gala Dinner & Silent Auction, an ice lantern making class, and Winter Camping Village classes on camping and cooking, and a chance to 'Meet the Mushers' at the race start. To learn more, dial 1-800-4-duluth, or visit www.beargrease.com
 

The Laskiainen Finnish Sliding Festival will be held at the Loon Lake Community Center in the town of Palo on Saturday and Sunday, February 6 & 7, with the heritage of Finnish customs, Finnish crafts, music and sports, a Finnish marketplace and foods, and of course sliding! The Loon Lake Community Center is located 10 miles south of Aurora on Hwy 100, and 1.4 miles north of Hwy 4. This is a true family event. Admission is free! To find out more, dial 218/638-2551, or check out www.ironrange.org
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on January 20, 2010 at 8:20 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: celtic woman, ice fishing, jeff foxworthy, lindbergh, minnesota, news, prairie home companion, ski, winter carnival, winterfest

Minnesota Snowmobile Trail Report

This is the latest Minnesota snowmobile trail condition report.

 

A Snowmobile State Trail sticker is required for all snowmobiles operating on state or grant-in-aid trails. All cross-country skiers on state park or forest ski trails, or on state or grant-in-aid trails, who are 16 years old or older must have a Minnesota Ski Pass. Please note that a new state law requires nonresidents to have ATV trail passes beginning January 1, 2010 if using state or grant-in-aid trails. For further information, contact the Department of Natural Resources, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 1-888-646-6367. To order cross-country ski passes and snowmobile trail stickers, dial 1-888-665-4236. To locate a license center in Minnesota to purchase ski passes and snowmobile stickers, check out DNR License Agents.
Subscribe here to receive any or all of our reports by email or RSS/news feed.
 

Northeast Region
International Falls
Snowmobiling is in full swing in Voyageurs National Park and travel is very good on all of the major snowmobile trails. Recent cold temperatures have minimized slush conditions. Please watch for and avoid all areas where "Thin Ice" signs are posted. Park staff continue to evaluate ice thickness in preparation for grooming operations in the near future. All ski and snowshoe trails are open. Regular weekly winter trail conditions reports will be available through Voyageurs National Park. Information may also be obtained by contacting the city of International Falls.

Bigfork -north of Grand Rapids
Cross-country ski trail conditions at Scenic State Park are good. The trails are packed and groomed. The snowmobile trail loop that runs through the park has not been groomed, however snowmobilers riding this portion of the trail report fair conditions. Both trails have a 3 inch base. The Historical Lodge building is open year round, and it has a stone fire place. There is also a wood box so skiers and riders can build a fire. Local snow depth is 9 inches. The nearby Grand Rapids section of the Taconite State Snowmobile Trail is also reported to be in fair condition, with a 1-2 inch groomed surface.
 

Hibbing
McCarthy Beach State Park ski trails are groomed and in very good condition. The whole system has been packed, and tracks were set on the Big Hole Trail and most of the Red Top system. The snowmobile trails are groomed and in fair to good condition, with rough spots in the swampy areas. The trails have a 2-3 inch base. The area is covered in 8 inches of snow.
 

Ely
The Ely vicinity has roughly 8 inches of snow on the ground. The Hidden Valley and Babbitt Golf Course trails are groomed for classic and skate skiing. The ski trail base is approximately 3-6 inches, and ski conditions are reported to be good to excellent. There is a minimal base on the snowmobile trails at this time. Some trails are being packed, but grooming will have to wait until more snow is received. Conditions are poor. Trail conditions can change on a daily basis - please call ahead for the most current trail conditions.
 

Grand Marais/Gunflint Trail
The Grand Marais vicinity received 4-8 inches of snow this past week. Cross-country ski trails throughout out the area have been packed and tracked for classic skiing. The base is reported to measure 5-8 inches. Trails located further inland, away from Lake Superior, have the best conditions. The cross-country ski trails in the western part of Cook County, near Lutsen and Tofte, have a 2-12 inch trail base, and many are groomed for both classic and skate skiing. The Deer Yard Lake Trail has the best ski trail conditions in this area. Closer to Grand Marais and up the Gunflint Trail, Pincushion Mountain offers excellent conditions for classic skiing and good conditions for skate skiing. The base is several inches thick. Up the Gunflint Trail, the Banadad Trails and the mid-Gunflint Trails are in good shape as well. The upper Gunflint Trails have less snow, but several trails are now groomed and tracked. Snowmobilers are reporting good early season conditions. Riders can access the State Trail from town.
 

Two Harbors
The ski trails at Gooseberry Falls State Park are groomed and in fair condition, with a 6 inch base. The snowmobile trails remain ungroomed and in poor condition. The ground is covered in 6-12 inches of snow, with lesser amounts towards Lake Superior. The ski and snowshoe trails are icy in some areas. The waterfalls are exceptionally beautiful with all of the snow and ice. Visitors are enjoying all of the wildlife sightings, along with lots of wolf, pine martin and fox tracks. To the north,
 

Duluth/Grand Marais
Conditions for the North Shore State Snowmobile Trail are fair after grooming. Overall, there is an 8 inch base along the trail, with approximately 20 inches of snow on the ground. The trail will be narrow in some areas due to hanging brush. Please use caution while riding since trail conditions will vary.
 

Hinckley/ Duluth
The Hinckley to Duluth segment of the Willard Munger State Trail is 63 miles in length, and the portion of trail running between Hinckley and Carlton is in very good condition for snowmobiling. The trail is groomed, with a 3-4 inch base. Other sections of the Willard Munger Trail are in fair condition. Local snow depth is 8-16 inches.
 

Carlton
The CCC and Thomson Ski Trails at Jay Cooke State Park are partially groomed and in good condition. The trail base is roughly 1 foot. The snowmobile trails running through Jay Cooke are reportedly in fair condition, with a similar base. There are many downed branches and even a few trees to remove before tracks can be set on the other trails.
 

Sandstone
Banning State Park ski trails are groomed. They are in good condition, with a 6 inch base. Area snowmobile trails are also groomed, and these trails have a 4 inch base. Conditions are reported to be very good. There is a snowmobile parking lot at Banning Junction Restaurant & C-Store. Local snow depth is roughly 1 foot.
 

Hinckley
All snowmobile trails running through St. Croix State Park are groomed and in good Condition, with a 3 inch base. Snowmobile traffic has been very light. Please note that the Kettle River Crossing remains closed due to unknown ice conditions, open water and flooding. The cross-country ski trails are also groomed and in good condition. The ground is covered in roughly 9 inches of snow.
 

Northwest Region
 

Roseau
Roughly 19 inches of snow covers the ground at Hayes Lake State Park. The ski and snowmobile trails are groomed and in very good to excellent condition. Both have an 8 inch base. Anglers and snowmobilers should use caution due to flooding on the ice - always test ice thickness as you move across the lake.
 

Bemidji
Lake Bemidji State Park currently offers good conditions on their cross-country ski and snowmobile trails. The ski trails have been groomed and tracked for classic skiing. Both trails have a 5 inch base. The trail center is open daily, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Local snow depth is 1 foot.
 

Park Rapids
The ski trails at Itasca State Park are partially packed and tracked for classic and skate skiing, and conditions are reported to be good. Fair conditions are reported for the snowmobile trails. The trails are somewhat rough after heavy use over the New Year's weekend. Nearly 1 foot of snow covers the ground in this area.
 

Glyndon -east of Moorhead

The ski trails at Buffalo River State Park are groomed and in good condition. The base of the trail measures 10 inches, with roughly 1 1/2 feet of snow on the ground. The sliding hill is also in great condition, and the warming house will be open all week from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
 

Detroit Lakes
The Winter Wonderland Snowmobile Trails in the Detroit Lakes vicinity are groomed, with a 3-5 inch base. Trail conditions throughout Becker County are considered mostly good. Area snow depth is 10-12 inches. The Winter Wonderland Trails join neighboring trails in all directions, equaling more than 250 miles traversing rolling hills and secluded wooded areas filled with wildlife.
 

Central Region
 

Pelican Rapids
The 11 kilometers of ski trails at Maplewood State Park are groomed, tracked, and in excellent condition. The snowmobile trails are also groomed, and reported to be in good condition. The trails have a 4-8 inch base. Some drifting has occured in the open areas. Snow on the ground measures 14 inches.
 

Carlos - north of Alexandria
Lake Carlos State Park cross-country ski and snowmobile trails have a 4-5 inch groomed surface. Both trails are in very good condition. Local snow depth is just over 1 foot.
 

Onamia
Both the ski and snowmobile trails have been groomed at Mille Lacs-Kathio State Park, and conditions are reported to be good. Both trails have a 4 inch base. The ground is covered in 14 inches of snow. Towards the city of Brainerd, Crow Wing State Park offers good conditions along their groomed ski and snowmobile trails. The snowmobile trails are becoming thin with tufts of grass showing at some of the corners.
 

Monticello
All ski trails within Lake Maria State Park have been groomed and tracked. The base measures 4-6 inches, and conditions are fair to good. The cold temperatures have left the track very hard and fast. Milder temperatures should help soften the track. The three-mile winter hiking and snowshoe trail is packed and open. Lake Maria offers 22 kilometers of traditional ski trail and 5 kilometers of skate ski trail. Local snow depth is 12-14 inches. And on Saturday, January 16, head to Lake Maria for Winter Fun Day!
 

New London/north of Willmar
Conditions for skiing at Sibley State Park are very good, and the trails have a 6 inch groomed surface. The snowmobile trails have 2-4 inch groomed surface, and are reported to be in good shape. There is approximately 13 inches of snow on the ground in this area. The nearby Glacial Lakes State Snowmobile Trail is in fair condition, and partially groomed.
 

Twin Cities Greater Metropolitan Vicinity
 

Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Scott and Wright county parks
Most traditional and skate ski trails within the Three Rivers Park District are packed, tracked and in good condition, including at Baker Park Reserve in Maple Plain, Carver Park Reserve in Victoria, Cleary Lake Regional Park in Prior Lake, Eagle Lake Regional Park in Plymouth, Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove, French Regional Park in Plymouth, Glen Lake in Minnetonka, Hyland Lake Park Reserve in Bloomington, and Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve in Savage. All sliding hills are also open. For the most current trail conditions, dial 763/559-6778. Rentals are available at many of the parks within the Three Rivers Park District - please call ahead to secure equipment rental.
 

Minnetonka/Glencoe
The Luce Line State Trail is groomed and reported to offer very good conditions for snowmobiling. The trail base measures roughly 6-7 inches. Snowmobiling is allowed on the section of the trail between Stubbs Bay Road and the McLeod County Line. The first seven miles of the trail, from Vicksburg Lane to Stubbs Bay Road, is non-motorized. Please note that the trail will be closed for approximately 2 days due to construction between Hutchinson Road and Rose Avenue in Carver County the week of January 11-15 . Check back later for exact dates. The eastern ski trail is ungroomed and in fair condition, with a 2 inch base. Local snow depth is 14 inches.
 

Almelund -east of North Branch
All of Wild River State Park's ski trails have been groomed and tracked. Groomers will be out touching things up and regroomng on Thursday and Friday after the Wednesday night - Thursday morning snowfall. There is roughly 9 inches of snow on the ground, with a 2-3 inch base on the trails. Most trails are fast, but in good condition. Trails in the wooded areas of the park are in the best condition. Reports from skiers have been positive. Trumpeter swans can be seen on the river below Never's Dam. A warming house is available at the Trail Center. Wild River offers ski and snowshoe rental throughout the winter season when trails have suitable snow cover. For rental information, dial 651/257-0685.
 

Afton -north of Hastings
The fifteen miles of ski trails within Afton State Park are fully groomed, tracked and in good condition. The track is hard and fast, however, and will not be regroomed until more snow is received. Most sections of trail have a 5 inch base. Snowshoe rentals have been selling out so reservations are recommended. Local snow depth is 9 inches.
 

Southern Region
 

Nerstrand -south of Northfield
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park snowmobile trails are groomed and in excellent condition. In fact, all Rice County trails are snow covered and in the best condition in years. The ski trails are groomed and in very good condition, with some rough spots at the trail entrances and a couple of areas along the trail where the grooming equipment became stuck. Both trails have a base measuring 8-10 inches. Current conditions are perfect for snowshoeing. Local snow depth is 20 inches.
 

Frontenac -south of Red Wing
The ski and snowmobile trails have been groomed at Frontenac State Park. The base measures 4 inches thick on both trails, and conditions are good. Approximately 10 inches of snow covers the ground. And just to the south, near the city of Winona, Great River Bluffs State Park is blanketed in 12 inches of snow. The ski trails are hard packed and icy in the open areas, and slightly better under the canopy. Overall, the trails are in fair condition, with an 8 inch base. Grooming has been suspended until more snow is received.
 

Elba - west of Winona
Whitewater State Park ski trails are entirely groomed, and conditions are good. The trail base averages 4 inches. Snow cover measures 11 inches. Snowshoes are available at the Visitors Center.
 

Owatonna
Both the ski and snowmobile trails running through Rice Lake State Park are reported to be in very good condition. The ski trails have an 8 inch groomed surface. The snowmobile trails are also groomed, with a 6-7 inch base. Just over 1 foot of snow covers the ground.
 

Faribault/Mankato
The Sakatah Singing Hills State Trail is entirely groomed for skiing and snowmobiling. Skiers and snowmobilers report very good conditions. The ski trail base measures 2 inches. The snowmobile trail base measures 2-6 inches. There is 14-16 inches of snow on the ground in this area. At nearby Sakatah Lake State Park, conditions are similar.
 

Montivideo
Local skiers claim that the Lac qui Parle State Park ski trails are the best they've ever been, and conditions are reported to be excellent! The trails have a base measuring up to 1 foot, and all trails are groomed.
 

Granite Falls
Upper Sioux Agency State Park currently offers excellent conditions for skiing, and good conditions for snowmobiling. The ski trail is groomed, but the snowmobile trail remains ungroomed. The trail base is hard and measures 6 inches. Local snow depth is 12-20 inches.
 

Currie - north of Slayton
Park officials report the best snowmobile trail conditions at Lake Shetek State Park in years! The base of the trail measures 4-6 inches, and riders consider the trails to be in excellent condition. Local snow depth is nearly 2 feet.
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on January 08, 2010 at 8:45 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: conditions, minnesota, news, snow, snowmobile, trails

Looking For "Toothy" Monsters In Minnesota

Minnesota is making Muskie more available.

 

In response to growing interest in muskellunge fishing, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is considering the stocking of muskie in five new waters starting in the fall of 2011.

Proposed for muskie management are Roosevelt Lake in Cass and Crow Wing counties; Upper South Long Lake and Lower South Long Lake in Crow Wing County; Tetonka Lake in Le Sueur County; and the Sauk River Chain in Stearns County.

“All of these waters meet or exceed the biological and physical criteria for muskie management,” said Dirk Peterson, DNR acting fisheries chief. He said there are eight key biological considerations,
including:
- Proposed muskie waters must be greater than 500 acres.
- Waters must contain adequate numbers and species of prey fish.
- Water clarity must be moderate to clear.
- Gillnet catches for northern pike must be three or less.
- Waters must have the potential to produce a trophy fish.

“All five proposals are consistent with our management approach,”
said Peterson. “Also they have been selected in part because of their geographic location. These lakes represent a strategic approach to provide muskie fishing where opportunity is limited.”

The muskie is one of Minnesota’s largest fish, growing to more than 50 pounds and more than 50 inches in length. Anglers have become increasingly interested in the so-called “fish of 10,000 casts” now that 50-plus inch fish can be caught in Lake Mille Lacs, Lake Vermillion
and other waters that have been stocked since the 1980s.

“As muskie grew in size and abundance, so did interest catching them,” said Peterson, noting that muskie anglers are the fastest-growing segment of Minnesota’s fishing population. He said the DNR is addressing the trend of increasing interest in muskie through a long-range northern pike and muskie plan that was developed with stakeholder input. That plan calls for adding up to eight new muskie waters by 2020.

Today’s announcement of the five waters under consideration marks the beginning of a lengthy process to determine if the lakes will eventually become muskie waters. The DNR will post information on the proposed stocking at boat landings at the five lakes this spring, conduct public input meetings this summer and fall, and accept public comments until early next winter. If the DNR decides to move forward with the proposals, stocking would start in 2011. It would be 12 to 15 years after that before the fish reach 48-inches, the minimum size at which a muskie can be kept.

“Our process will be very transparent,” said Peterson, who noted the agency recognizes the muskie’s mystique appeals to a certain segment of anglers and generates the opposite reaction in others. The proposal will be discussed at the upcoming DNR stakeholder roundtable and later by a citizen advisory committee that is focusing on northern pike and muskie management.

Currently, muskies are found in 116 Minnesota water bodies. Of these,
64 are waters that have been stocked by the DNR.
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on January 07, 2010 at 3:43 PM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: fishing, minnesota, muskie, news, stocking, water

Winter Trail Day in Minnesota

Here's a chance to celebrate Minnesota's winter wonderland and have fun doing it !!!!

Kids and adults new to snow sports are invited to discover the fun of snowshoeing, geocaching, and other winter activities from 1 to 4 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 9, at Fort Snelling State Park. This event, which brought more than 1,000 people to the park last year, will take place on Winter Trails Day, a national effort to increase participation in outdoor recreation.

Throughout the afternoon, experts from national outdoor retail co-op REI, Fort Snelling State Park, and local outdoor nonprofit organizations will demonstrate how much fun winter can be. Family friendly activities will include opportunities to:
? Try out snowshoes after a demonstration for beginners of all
ages.
? Take naturalist-led hikes along scenic park trails.
? Learn how to use a GPS unit and go on a high-tech treasure hunt
to find a hidden geocache.
? Sip hot cocoa around a big bonfire.

REI will also be giving away a new pair of snowshoes.

To help with planning future winter outings, information will be available on cold-weather camping, skijoring, dogsledding, and much more. Visitors can also pick up free copies of the winter Minnesota State Parks Programs & Special Events catalog, which lists more than 130 things to do between now and the end of March.

There is no charge to participate in any of the Winter Trails Day activities, which will take place in and around Picnic Shelter A, but a vehicle permit is required to enter Minnesota state parks. Those who don’t already have a permit can purchase one at REI stores in Bloomington, Roseville, or Maple Grove or at Fort Snelling State Park when they arrive. The cost is $5 for a one-day permit or $25 for a year-round permit.

For more information about Winter Trails Day, call REI at 612-725-2389.
For more information about the DNR Information Center at 651-296-6157 or
888-646-6367
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on January 06, 2010 at 8:29 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: activities, geocache, minnesota, news, snowshoes, trails, winter

Minnesota's Split Rock Lighthouse Turns 100

Many times when people hear or think of the North Shore of Lake Superior their minds quickly recall the eerie lyrics of the song of the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Many ships have fallen victim to vicious "Nor-easters'" on the worlds largest fresh water lake.

One hundred years ago a place along Minnesota's north shore was cleared and a lighthouse was erected to help Lake Superior captains navigate this inland sea.  It was called Split Rock Lighthouse...and it still stands today.  

Shipwrecks from a mighty 1905 November gale prompted this rugged landmark's construction.

(Early construction photo of Split Rock Lighthouse - photo courtesy of Minnesota Historical Society)

In early 1907, the U.S. Congress appropriated $75,000 for "a lighthouse and fog signal in the vicinity of Split Rock, Minnesota." Completed by the U.S. Lighthouse Service in 1910, Split Rock Light Station soon became one of Minnesota's best-known landmarks. Restoration began in the 1970s, resulting in a lighthouse that now offers a historic picture of life in this remote and spectacular setting.

In the early years of the 20th century, iron ore shipments on Lake Superior doubled and redoubled. United States Steel's bulk ore carriers became “the greatest exclusive freight-carrying fleet sailing under one ownership in the world,” so the demand for a new lighthouse on the lake's inhospitable North Shore was hardly surprising. This rocky coastline has been called the most dangerous piece of water in the world.

The U. S. Lighthouse Service operated the site until 1939, when the U.S. Coast Guard took command. By that time, Split Rock's picturesque setting near U.S. Highway 61, built in 1924, had made it "the most visited lighthouse in the United States." The station closed in 1969, when modern navigational equipment made it obsolete. The State of Minnesota obtained the scenic and historic landmark in 1971. The Minnesota Historical Society now administers the 25-acre historic site restored to its pre-1924 appearance, a time when the isolated light station was accessible only by water
 

(photo of Split Rock Lighthouse - photo courtesy of Minnesota Historical Society)

Thousands of people each year enjoy the fantastic view of Lake Superiour from Minnesota's Split Rock Lighthouse.

 

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on December 28, 2009 at 12:31 PM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: anniversary, lake superior, lighthouse, minnesota, news, north shore, sea, shipwrecks

Holiday Message

This story was passed on to me some time ago. It is sad and joyous at the same time. Its' message is powerful yet releasing. Its' full meaning is special and unique to each who read it. At this special time of year when people are scurrying around to make sure they have enough of everything for themselves and everyone in their lives, this story and message provides enough.

 

Recently I overheard a Father and daughter in their last moments together at an airport. They had announced the departure.

Standing near the security gate, they hugged and the Father said, 'I love you, and I wish you enough.'

The daughter replied, 'Dad, our life together has been more than enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Dad.'

They kissed and the daughter left.

The Father walked over to the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see he wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on his privacy, but he welcomed me in by asking, 'Did you ever say good-bye to someone knowing it would be forever?'

'Yes, I have,' I replied. 'Forgive me for asking, but why is this a forever good-bye?'.

'I am old, and she lives so far away. I have challenges ahead and the reality is - the next trip back will be for my funeral,' he said.

'When you were saying good-bye, I heard you say, 'I wish you enough.' May I ask what that means?'

He began to smile. 'That's a wish that has been handed down from other generations. My parents used to say it to everyone...' He paused a moment and looked up as if trying to remember it in detail, and he smiled even more.

'When we said, 'I wish you enough,' we were wanting the other person to have a life filled with just enough good things to sustain them.' Then turning toward me, he shared the following as if he were reciting it from memory.

I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright no matter how gray the day may appear.I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun even more.

I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive and everlasting.

I wish you enough pain so that even the smallest of joys in life may appear bigger.

I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.

I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.

I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye.

He then began to cry and walked away.

They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them; but then an entire life to forget them.

TAKE TIME TO LIVE....

 

To my friends and loved ones, I WISH YOU ENOUGH
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on December 22, 2009 at 11:19 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: daughter, enough, father, forever, goodbye, joy, spirit

"2010" Noteable Minnesota Festivals & Events

Should you be looking for some interesting Minnesota events to experience in 2010, here is a brief list of a few of the more than 800 festivals and events hosted by Minnesota communities each year.  You can find all the rest on www.exploreminnesota.com

  A Few Noteable Minnesota Events in 2010

Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Jan. 21-31, 2010
Long known as the nation’s oldest winter festival, since 1886 the Carnival provides indoor and outdoor fun, while reliving the ancient legend of springtime’s triumph over winter. The celebration includes 75 events including parades, ice and snow carving competitions, ice skating, golf on ice and singing contests.
www.winter-carnival.com

Grumpy Old Men Festival, Wabasha
Feb. 27, 2010
Celebrate winter with that grumpy old man’s hobby of ice fishing, in the town that inspired the movie of the same name. Other activities include an ice shack contest, Frisbee games, golf tournaments on snow, bird watching and a spaghetti dinner and dance. You may not run into Walter Matthau or Jack Lemmon, but this quaint Mississippi River town knows how to celebrate.
www.wabashamn.org

Minnesota Twins Home Opener, Minneapolis
April 12, 2010
History will be made when the Minnesota Twins open their season at Target Field, the new home of major league baseball in the state. With one of the most unique, spectacular parks in all of America, spectators will be thrilled with the seating bowl situated in the heart of downtown Minneapolis.
www.minnesota.twins.mlb.com/min/ballpark

Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival, Moorhead
June 25-27, 2010
Authentic Scandinavian event featuring dancing, entertainment, booths and food celebrating the heritage of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. The festival takes place at the Heritage Hjemkomst Center, home of the Viking ship which sailed from Minnesota to Norway in 1982.
www.scandinavianhjemkomstfestival.com

Sommerfest, Minneapolis
July-August, 2010
This annual music festival is offered by the Minnesota Orchestra, conducted by Osmo Vanska. Sommerfest concerts are held over a four-week period in midsummer at Orchestra Hall; concerts range from light to classical. Outside the Hall, Peavey Plaza becomes a Marktplatz offering food stands and music. The orchestra performs free live music on the plaza before and after each show, ranging from folk to jazz to polka band. www.minnesotaorchestra.org/sommerfest

Grand Celebration Powwow, Hinckley
July 2010
This American Indian event is the largest Pow Wow in the Midwest with over 1,200 dancers, drummers and singers from nearly every tribe in the USA and Canada participating. In addition to the dancing, visitors learn American Indian traditions, eat Indian food and can purchase Indian crafts.
www.millelacsojibwe.org

Split Rock Lighthouse 100th Anniversary, Two Harbors
July 31, 2010
Shipwrecks from a mighty 1905 November gale prompted this rugged landmark’s construction on the shore of Lake Superior. Completed by the U.S. Lighthouse Service on July 21, 1910, Split Rock Light Station soon became one of Minnesota’s best known landmarks. Restored to its 1920s appearance, the lighthouse offers a glimpse of lighthouse life in this remote and spectacular setting. Events will take place throughout 2010 to commemorate this anniversary year.
www.mnhs.org/splitrock

Bayfront Blues Festival, Duluth
Aug. 6-8, 2010
One of the largest annual outdoor music festivals in the Midwest showcases nearly 30 national performances on two concert stages. Additional weekend events include a Moonlight Mardi Gras Cruise and live Blues at nearly 20 Duluth nightclubs. The event takes place in Canal Park on Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world. www.bayfrontblues.com

Minnesota State Fair, St. Paul
Aug. 26-Sept. 6, 2010
The Great Minnesota Get-together features world class entertainment, agricultural exhibits, horse shows, a rodeo, arts and craft displays, amusement park rides, a daily parade and food of every variety. The event attracts almost 2 million visitors each year. www.mnstatefair.org

Holidazzle Parades, Minneapolis
Nov. 26-Dec. 19, 2010
The annual Macy’s Holidazzle Parade shows over one million brilliant lights as visitors watch their favorite storybook characters come to life. Lighted floats, musical groups and costumed characters all lit up parade down the Nicollet Mall at 6:30pm, even as the winter weather descends upon Minneapolis. The parade is free to watch, and runs Thursday through Sunday during the holiday season.
www.macysholidazzle.com

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on December 17, 2009 at 9:59 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: carnival, duluth, hjemkomst, hollidazzle, lake superior, lighthouse, minneapolis, minnesota, minnesota state fair, minnesota twins, news, norway, parades, sweden

Where's there's Ice there's Fish...low

Now, don't run to fix that patch in your pop-up ice shack or change the sparkplug in your ice auger, but a "steady gate" wouldn't be out of the question.

Great news! Great ice! Great fishing!

"No" this isn't Lake of the Woods ice fishing for this season...it is an aerial photo of the Brainerd Lakes $50-thousand dollare ice fishing extravaganza from a couple of years ago.  But, it definately shows people's enthusiasm for ice fishing in Minnesota! (photo courtesy of Explore Minnesota Tourism)

 

That pretty much sums up the early ice conditions on Lake of the Woods.

Ice fishing is in full swing with ice depths ranging from 12 inches plus in the Morris Point area.

Houses are going out and ATVs and snowmobiles are being used for transportation. Resorters are saying this is the best ice they’ve seen in 10 years. Very smooth, very flat and very clear. All this makes for great conditions for the great fishing.

As of this writing, walleyes are biting in 15-24 feet of water using shiner minnows. Sizes range from 15-18 inches with reports coming in about a 28.5 inch walleye caught this past weekend and a 32” and a 42” inch northern coming through the holes.

Near Pine Island fishing is showing consistent schools of 16-18 inch walleye coming through and a bunch of little saugers. Again, the ice here is clear and is around 10 inches thick. Temperatures in the area have already been as low as -27 so the area continues to make ice.

Remember "ice" is NEVER 100 percent safe, so check with your favorite at Lake of the Woods or any lake resort you may travel to for ice road conditions and travel to and from the fish houses.

Remember safety first!!

 

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on December 14, 2009 at 11:16 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: ice fishing, ice thickness, island, minnesota, news, northern pike, snowmobiles, walleye, winter

Minnesota Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling getting a slow start this year

Following the recent snowfall throughout Minnesota, some snowmobile
trails are open but likely not groomed, according to the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Several conditions must be met before trails are open for travel. The
ground must be frozen to allow for the crossing of wet areas; there must
be about 12 inches of snow to allow for adequate packing and grooming of
most natural surface forest trails; and trails must be cleared, signs
installed and gates opened.

In agricultural areas, crops need to be harvested and fields prepared.
With the wet fall and very mild temperatures the harvest is running well
behind schedule this year which has put snowmobile trail preparation
behind schedule as well.

“We are waiting for more cold weather, the crop harvest to be
completed, and adequate snow," said DNR’s Northeast East Regional
Parks and Trails Manager, Les Ollila. “Each year, a few snowmobile
enthusiasts take to the trails after the first snowfall only to find
they are rushing the season. It takes a lot of work to get trails ready
each year and with the wet and warm fall this effort is taking longer in
many cases.”

Snowmobile clubs and the DNR are working to open grant-in-aid and state
trails as winter conditions improve throughout the state.

When the trails open, the DNR urges early season riders to use caution.
Early season trails may have trees or other debris across trails,
unfrozen areas, rocks or ruts, or standing crops and closed gates. Also,
road ditches have obstacles to watch for under grass and snow, such as
culverts, signposts, and rocks. And, even though there have had some
cold spells, the ice is not yet thick enough to support snowmobiles. The
DNR recommends five inches of new clear ice for snowmobiles.

Ollila also reminds trail users that many snowmobile trails cross
private land. Landowners give permission for snowmobile use on the
trails beginning as early as Dec. 1, if the land is available and crops
have been harvested. Landowner permission is for snowmobiles only; all
other use is considered trespass.

Minnesota has more than 22,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.
Snowmobile trail maintenance costs are partially funded through
snowmobile registrations, trail pass sales, and the un-refunded gas tax
attributed to snowmobile use. Donations and volunteer work by trail
clubs make up the remainder of the costs and efforts to operate these
trails.

Ollila suggested trail users should call ahead or they can check state
trails conditions on the DNR Web site at www.mndnr.gov or by calling
651-296-6157 or toll-free 888-MINNDNR (646-6367).
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on December 10, 2009 at 2:28 PM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: grooming, miles, minnesota, news, ride, snow, snowmobile, trails, winter

Duluth National SnoCross Rescheduled

AMSOIL Duluth National Snocross Race Rescheduled

Minneapolis, MN (11/23/09 - The AMSOIL Duluth National has been rescheduled. Due to unseasonably warm temperatures and an extended forecast for more of the same, the 18th annual race at Spirit Mountain has been moved to run the weekend of December 11 – 13.

Representatives from Visit Duluth, Spirit Mountain and ISOC have been watching the weather and considering all options. The staff at Spirit Mountain was prepared to work around the clock to make the required snow for the event, but Mother Nature has not cooperated with snowmaking efforts.

"The cold weather just didn't make it to Minnesota by Sunday like we had hoped," said Terry Mattson, Visit Duluth President and CEO. "While it is expected to get cold enough later in the week, there would not be enough time to 100% guarantee there would be enough snow to pull off the event. We are concerned about the safety of our riders and putting together a good show for the fans."

The AMSOIL Duluth National will be held on December 11 - 13 with the schedule of events running exactly as it had originally been planned. All tickets held by spectators will be valid for the new weekend. Al racers registered for the event will be transferred to the new weekend. If you are not able to compete, please contact the ISOC office for a refund.

cj

Posted by: cjjohnso on November 23, 2009 at 10:44 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: duluth, minnesota, news, snowmaking, snowmobile races

Nunset Boulevard

Nunset Boulevard

New York playwright Dan Goggin decided the best place in the entire world to premiere his newest “Nunsense” nonsense was the Chanhassen Dinner Theater in Chanhassen, Minnesota.
My wife Jolaine and I like musical comedy and have always been a fan of the Chanhassen Dinner Theater. Thus, deciding to see Nunset Boulevard, Goggin’s latest and last in this series of productions was an easy choice. We have enjoyed numerous excellent performances at the Chanhassen.
I do have to admit, however, we both were “disappointed” with the Nunset Boulevard presentation! Disappointed that it didn’t run another hour !!!!

I rarely cry but this show kept tears of joy in my eyes from the beginning to the end.
Okay, without giving the entire thing away, here is kind of how the play unfolds.
It’s good that opposites attract because these five Hoboken Nuns are about as opposite from each other…I don’t really know if you can have five opposites at the same time…as the north and south poles.
This quintet of black and white penguin-types have been invited to perform at the Hollywood Bowl, only to find out it is the Hollywood-Bowl-A-Rama. Yup, a bowling alley in Tinsel Town.

 

Oh, there’s more.
They decide they will honor the contract their agent committed them to and perform at the bowling alley cabaret lounge…between P.A. announcements asking patrons to move cars and check under their chairs for lost car keys.
During their “run” the Nuns learn that a big Hollywood producer is casting a new movie and they decide to audition. Well…at least they still have the cabaret gig.

Nunset Boulevard has some wonderful songs, interesting dance segments and one slightly “daffy” Nun (Sister Amnesia) that, at times has everyone in the audience scratching their heads while they laugh out loud.
At times I was laughing so much I tried to wipe the tears out of my eyes with the sleeve of my wife’s sweater. She told me the swelling around my eyes, where she inserted her elbow, would go away soon.
The music was wonderful and light. The characters, all five of them, a total delight. The singing (some interesting lyrics) and dancing was up to Chanhassen’s excellent standards and the set for Nunset Boulevard was something else.
 

Sitting in the Fireside Theater you felt as though you were actually sitting in the “Hollywood Bowl”…if you squinted real tight and looked directly into a spotlight.
You’re gonna love it!

cj
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on November 20, 2009 at 8:49 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: chanhassen theater, dancing, hollywood, minneapolis, news, singing, sunset boulevard

You Can Make The Holidays...Holidays

Minnesota’s “miracle of seasons” offers residents and visitors a plethora of experiences at any given moment.

There are always things to do, new places to visit or favorite spots to re-visit.
In-doors or out-doors, Minnesota is a state that millions of people just can’t get enough of and return year after year, season after season.
I am allowed to brag about Minnesota like this…not just because I work with media representatives who do stories about Minnesota…but, because I am a 40-year “transplant” to the land of 10-thousand lakes.
Each year I speak to media, groups, schools and organizations throughout the midwest about various destinations, attractions and activities in Minnesota. Without exception, one or more in attendance will comment after my presentation about my enthusiasm for this remarkable state.

The enthusiasm is real.

Having had the opportunity to travel edge-to-edge in Minnesota during the past ten years has fueled that enthusiasm even more.
That said, I would like to focus on something that also stirs personal passion during this holiday season. It has nothing to do with a unique place to visit or an attraction to experience. This something carries with it its’ own uniqueness and special experience through the act of doing.
Minnesota residents and its’ many visitors have a lot to be thankful for in just the natural beauty and wonders of the state.
So while we ponder and prepare for trips to family and friends across Minnesota and elsewhere during this holiday season, let’s not forget those for whom the holidays may be just another day on the calendar, another day to survive, another night without a warm place to sleep, another day without friends and family near.
It is difficult for many to believe that in this land of abundance there are still people suffering the pains of hunger or people freezing for lack of a roof or people lonely because they have not or cannot be together with family or friends.
This wonderful country has found answers for many crises, has worked to right many wrongs and has provided freedom for its people far and beyond similar accomplishments in any other country on earth.
However, the answer to hunger, homelessness and loneliness for many still eludes us.
I have found Midwesterners…to be generous and caring people.
If you can, during this long holiday season, try to find a way to take an extra step by donating to a food pantry…helping out a homeless shelter…visiting someone who you know will be alone at this time.
As much as you will help others you will help yourself beyond your greatest expectations, in the knowledge that you made a positive difference in someone’s life…if even for a moment.
It’s kind of a “pay it forward” attitude.

And, should you see someone...any time of year... that can’t seem to afford a smile, give ‘em one of yours!

Posted by: cjjohnso on November 12, 2009 at 2:26 PM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: family, holidays, lakes, media, minnesota, news

Is That A Deer In Your Headlights?

As Minnesota’s 1.2 million white-tailed deer population begins mating
season and becomes more active, the Minnesota departments of Public
Safety (DPS) and Natural Resources (DNR) urge motorist to drive at safe
speeds and pay attention. Deer movement peaks after sundown and before
sunrise.

photo courtesy Explore Minnesota Tourism

In the last three years in Minnesota, 2006-, there were 9,820
deer-vehicle crashes resulting in 18 deaths of which 16 were
motorcyclists. The crashes also resulted in 76 serious injuries of which
57 were motorcyclists. DPS reports the overrepresentation of
motorcyclists is due to the fact that motorcyclists lack the protective
cage other motorists have in vehicles. DPS and DNR estimate that only
one-third of the crashes are reported.

“Deer-vehicle crashes are hard to avoid, but these crashes can be
prevented if motorists buckle up, drive at safe speeds and never swerve
when encountering a deer in the road,” said Cheri Marti, director of
DPS Office of Traffic Safety. “Swerving to avoid a deer or any other
animal can result in your vehicle going off the road or into oncoming
traffic. The best defense is to be buckled and brake.”

Marti said that a motorcyclist’s best response is to slow down
quickly and, unlike other vehicles, swerve around the animal if traffic
allows. Riders are encouraged to wear helmets and other protective gear
to prevent injury or death in a crash.

Col. Jim Konrad, DNR Enforcement director noted that being
knowledgeable about deer activities can also help Minnesotan’s stay
out of harm’s way, especially during the fall breeding season,
commonly referred to as the “rut.” During the rut, deer are more
active than usual as they become preoccupied with mating. Summer’s
fawns can also make their ways onto roadways after their mothers leave
them to mate.

“It’s a time when deer don’t seem to maintain that invisibility
and distance that typically keeps them from dangerous interactions with
motorists,” Konrad said. He noted that drivers shouldn’t assume
trouble has passed completely when a deer successfully crosses the road.
Deer frequently travel in groups.

Hunters also play a role in moving deer during daylight hours. Small
game hunters moving through fields occasionally flush deer from their
resting places. Bear and bow hunters also flush deer from forested
areas.

“If you see hunters in blaze orange near the road it’s probably a
good idea to slow down, especially if you hear gunfire,” Konrad said.

Motorists also should slow down whenever farmers are harvesting
cornfields because deer are often flushed from fields as farm equipment
approaches them.

If a deer is struck by a vehicle, but not killed, drivers are urged to
stay their distance because some deer may recover and move on. However,
if a deer does not move on, or poses a public safety risk, drivers are
encouraged to report the incident to a DNR conservation officer or other
local law enforcement agency.

Motorist Safety Tips for Deer:
· Drive at safe speeds and be prepared and alert for
deer.
· Don't swerve to avoid a deer, this can cause you to lose control
and travel off the road or into oncoming traffic. The best defense is to
buckle up and brake.
· Don’t count on deer whistles or deer fences to deter deer from
crossing roads in front of you. Stay alert.
· Watch for the reflection of deer eyes and for deer silhouettes
on the shoulder of the road. If anything looks slightly suspicious, slow
down.
· Slow down in areas known to have a large deer population; where
deer-crossing signs are posted; places where deer commonly cross roads;
areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forest land; and
whenever in forested areas between dusk and dawn.
· Deer do unpredictable things. Sometimes they stop in the middle
of the road when crossing. Sometimes they cross and quickly re-cross
back from where they came; sometimes they move toward an approaching
vehicle. Assume nothing. Slow down; blow your horn to urge the deer to
leave the road. Stop if the deer stays on the road; don’t try to go
around it.
· Any Minnesota resident may claim a road-killed animal by
contacting a law enforcement officer. An authorization permit will be
issued allowing the individual to lawfully possess the deer.
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on October 14, 2009 at 2:06 PM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: accidents, deer, mating, minnesota, motorcycles, news, outdoors, vehicles, woods and waters

Minnesota's Mississippi Monster

Minnesota’s Mississippi Monster

There’s something in the Mississippi River near Lake City, Minnesota. “Something” that no one has been able to identify or fully document

It was back in 1871 that the Minnesota State Historical Society recorded in The Minnesota Book of Days; April 28, 1871 “a lake monster is seen swimming in Lake Pepin”.

Pepie was born.

Taking that information, Larry Nielson, a Lake City businessman, promoter and founding member of the Lake City Tourism Bureau decided to offer a reward to anyone who could document Pepie’s existence. As Larry described his venture, “over the years I have heard stories of Pepie, MN State Historical Society data, Indian lore, etc. Recently I was watching a documentary about Loch Ness. I thought to myself that it looked like an area I would want to visit. In the documentary, they were searching for Nessie, but alas they were not able to prove the existence of the Loch Ness Monster. I got to thinking. Loch Ness and Lake Pepin are almost identical in size and topography. We each have historical sightings of a lake monster but positive proof seems hard to come by”. So, Larry posted a fifty-thousand dollar reward for proof positive that Pepie exists.

Enter Heidi Frier.

( Pictured:Heidi Freier, documentary film Director and Expedition leader, Cory Breault, scuba diver, Larry Nielson, Lake City, MN businessman and promoter, Michael Blue, underwater camera operator, sonar and audio engineer, Tom House, cameraman, Michael Bartsch, Assistant Director, cameraman, Gary W. Peterson, cameraman )

It will be a while yet before we find out what an underwater dive crew discovered in the dark depths of the Mississippi River near Lake City.
What they saw and experienced and possibly filmed, only they know at this time.

Heidi Freier is a documentary film director and led the expedition to Minnesota’s Lake Pepin over the Labor Day weekend. They were searching the legendary Pepie. Pepie is known to locals as the Lake Pepin Monster. There are many stories about Pepie and the lore surrounding this creature continues to grow.

( Photo: Director Heidi Freier prior to departure. Photo by Tom House, thomashousephotography.com)

When I contacted Heidi, she and her seven member documentary crew had just finished their exploratory dives. I asked Heidi how she came to hear of Pepie and what prompted her to do a documentary about the legendary Mississippi beast?
As Heidi recalled, “The story about recent Pepie sightings and the $50,000 reward offered by the Lake City Tourism Bureau surfaced as I was finishing my last documentary ("Running of the Llamas") and thinking about what to do next. I’m a bit of an armchair cryptozoologist and have always been intrigued by stories of the Loch Ness Monster. The opportunity to do something similar here in Minnesota was irresistible”! She continued, “it’s fair to say I am drawn to subjects that are quirky in some way. If all goes well, this could be the first in a series”. I believe there are good reasons why some legends persist over generations. And it’s more fun to allow for the possibility that we don’t know everything there is to know”.

Heidi’s crew came equipped with a scuba diver, underwater cameras and sonar gear. Heidi says the diver reportedly saw something so large that it literally scared him out of the water and he refused to go back in! I asked her to describe for me what the diver reportedly saw....how big, how close, how come it scared him so much? Has the sighting given him nightmares? Will he ever re-enter the waters of Lake Pepin?
Heidi was somewhat guarded as she explained...”I will say we saw some unexplained readings on the sonar equipment and sent our scuba diver down to try to get a look. He was under a long time and resurfaced in a panic. Whatever he saw scared him right out of the water. I don't know how it's affecting him now.

( Photo  Diver Cory Breault is apprehensive. Photo by Tom House)

Having been scared to such a degree that he didn't want to re-enter the river, will this experience cause him to give up his underwater searching for unknown monsters?
“Cory was reluctant to dive in Lake Pepin in the first place. I’m guessing his monster hunting days are over”. Heidi continued her recollection of her divers experience in the muddy Mississippi...”his (her diver) diving career was previously limited to tropical and coastal waters; while he’d encountered large creatures in the ocean, they were readily identifiable. I’d hoped he would become a regular collaborator but he won’t return my calls. The crew also caught some "unexplained sightings" on their underwater camera but they were not able to definitively prove the existence of Pepie...at this time”.

I pushed a bit further asking Heidi to tell me some of the sighting descriptions various crew members gave. Heidi was a bit more explicit in her descriptions...”everyone was excited by the unusual sonar readings and sounds. The sonar operator was reporting something 30-35 feet long in the vicinity of the dive site. The underwater footage is creepy but somewhat inconclusive. We're still analyzing all of the data we collected”.

Larry Nielsen also related recent “sightings” in the Lake City area...”Resident Shelly Schimbeno saw something several years ago while water-skiing. She works at the restaurant her parents own called Chickadee Cottage. Local home owner Roger Garlitch saw something “very large” about two weeks ago in front of his dock that scared him pretty good. Many of us have seen large wakes, big “logs” floating upstream against the current, etc. A woman from Moline, Illinois and myself saw a large shadowy something in the moonlight on a moonlight cruise this past Labor Day. Lot’s of sightings like that, no proof”.

Next I asked Heidi to give me her assessment of the teams experience on Lake Pepin? What would you tell the public about what may inhabit the waters? Will your story of Pepie drive people away from the lake or draw them to the location in hopes of sighting the monster? Heidi’s response was once again as mysterious as the legend of Pepie...”We had a very exciting and productive experience on Lake Pepin. I assembled a somewhat skeptical team of experts who ended up being unanimous in the opinion that we detected something in the water that day. I can’t say it was a lake monster, and I can’t say it wasn’t”.

As to whether or not the public with blanket the Mississippi River with boats at Lake Pepin because of Heidi’s findings she replied “People will have to draw their own conclusions but I’d guess this could result in others wanting to take a look. People travel to Scotland from all over the world in hopes of spotting Nessie, and there isn't even a reward offered there as far as I know”.

(photo Director Heidi Freier addresses the Expedition Team prior to departure. Photo by Larry Nielson )

Nielsen also indicated that since the reward for Pepie has been posted and the legend grows and more and more people are discovering Minnesota’s lower Mississippi River Valley...many of them remarking they are amazed at the beauty and wish they had visited before Pepie drew them to the shore.

I felt compelled to ask Heidi if she and her crew will return and would she enter the water at Lake Pepin, knowing what she knows today? Her answer was a yes and a no...”Everyone but the diver is on board to go out on the Lake again. I'm not done looking for Pepie!

So, when might the Pepie documentary be available to the public? “The expedition received funding from a lake monster "discovery and preservation" society located in Great Britain. I imagine they’ll be instrumental in getting the documentary out in the U.K. With any luck it will be picked up in the US by a cable TV network. Angular Features (my production company) will organize local screenings on both sides of Lake Pepin in the foreseeable future”.

Nielsen is a businessman and promoter who owns a couple of Hotels and a paddlewheel boat “Pearl of the Lake” in Lake City, Minnesota. He says “whenever a TV feature is aired or newspaper article printed, our phone calls in Lake City the next day are usually 2 or 3 times normal volume. Also, many people stop by on their way through town or make a special trip to town to ask about Pepie. We know that this has made people interested in the area.

Larry added, “National Geographic Magazine called the Lake Pepin area one of the 10 most scenic drives in America. Yet many don’t know about it and have a habit of “going up north” for vacations. Last year two sisters from Minneapolis were down for the first time. One of them exclaimed to me; This (Lake Pepin) is so beautiful and I can’t believe we didn’t have to fly to get here”.

(photo: Expedition guide Fizz Kizer studies map of Lake Pepin. Photo by Michael Bartsch)

And....When you visit, keep and eye on the water. You may meet “Pepie”!

Don’t forget to visit www.pepie.net

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on October 09, 2009 at 11:07 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: documentary, lake pepin, minnesota, mississippi river, monster, news, pepie, red wing, scared

Time To Put Your Boat To Bed....Nearly!!!

 When you've gotta say goodbye for the season.
(aka: winterizing your boat)

 

Thanks to our good friends at Minnesota's Crestliner boat company, we have some excellent advice on making sure our boats and motors are as ready for winter as we are. Get a pencil. Take some notes.  Or, just print out this column and  take it out to your boat when you're ready to winterize.

 

For some people, winterizing a boat means adding fuel stabilizer, draining the engine and adding antifreeze. But to the tender and compassionate boat owner, it's more like a loving, traditional rite. Especially if you're tucking her in for a long Minnesota winter.

Appearance matters: Face it. You won't have your hands on her all winter long. Now's the time to give her some tender loving care, and show her just how much she means to you.
• Check the hull for stress cracks and have a professional take care of anything that looks serious.
• Remove all barnacles and other tagalongs from the bottom of the boat.
• Use a pressure washer to remove dirt and sea scum.
• Touch up paint nicks to prevent corrosion.

Pretty on the inside: Do we have to say it? Don't neglect the interior! You'll want to use a boat cover that's well-ventilated for good airflow to minimize moisture and avoid mold. But before you even think of putting on the cover, take some time to prepare the interior features for that long Minnesota sleep:
• Use vinyl cleaners or gel protectants to prevent vinyl from drying out and cracking.
• Any removable electronics should spend the winter in a kinder location.
• Spray all exposed electrical connections with moisture-displacing lubricant.
• Do a thorough cleaning of all brightwork, vacuum/wash the carpets and deck.
• Built-in units, including sinks and showers, should be drained and pumped with antifreeze.

Maintenance matters: A few little maintenance tasks will also go a long way:
• Disconnect all batteries and clean the terminals with baking soda solution. Put Vaseline on the clean, dry terminals and store the fully charged battery in a ventilated area.
• Store the outboard in a down position, if possible. Cover the exhaust outlet to keep it from collecting water.
• Check the motor for frayed or loose wires, connections and clamps. Replace mushy or cracked hoses, and check belt conditions – adjust the tension as needed.
• Add stabilizer to the fuel tank and idle the engine for 10 to 20 minutes to distribute it throughout the system.
• Check your propeller and hub in water or through a garden house attachment. Prop blades can nick or bend during the season, and the hub can become stripped. Take advantage of the winter break to replace the propeller if needed and make any other necessary repairs.
• Make sure to check your owners manual for specific requirements for your model.

Professional help: Get it sooner rather than later. Don't store significant structural damage or engine problems along with your boat. If you do, you'll also give those unwelcome problems more time to incubate and compound… possibly leading to a bigger headache in the spring. Invest in professional repair early, and you won't regret it.

Storage: If you plan to store your beloved outdoors, make sure you've got a proper boat cover in order to prevent ice accumulation – that nasty Minnesota event that will split open your hatches and window tracks, inviting leaks and water damage in the spring.

Finally, if the thought of all this tedious cleaning and storage preparation starts to get you down, just remember: the better condition you store your boat in, the happier you'll both be when you reunite in the spring.

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on October 02, 2009 at 11:08 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: barnacles, batteries, boats, carpet, cleaning, fuel, minnesota, news, outboard engines, propeller, stabilizer, vinyl cleaners, winterizing

Oh Yes...We've Got Fish!

There is no question that a huge majority of residents and visitors to Minnesota each year love to fish. Fishing is one of the primary magnets that “hooks” people into and around the state.
In recent years, anglers in Minnesota have shown concerns for various restrictions placed on fishing limits…slot limits in particular…on some Minnesota waters. To those concerns I can simply say, as an avid fisherman myself, “limits” are a medicine that becomes necessary at times to promote a healthy fishery. I am not a marine biologist, but I certainly respect the expertise of these individuals in caring for Minnesota waters. I know I am over-simplifying the subject, but any of us who fish Minnesota waters have seen the increased pressure many lakes and rivers in the state have been under in recent years. For this reason and others, I am willing to accept necessary limits that will make a fishery healthier and more productive in the future. I also practice “catch and release” most of the time I am on the water and enjoy the excitement of the hunt as much as the catch.
There is another fishing related concern I hear from other anglers from time to time. That concern has to do with how much pressure is put on Minnesota waters by fishing tournaments each year.
The DNR limits the size and frequency of tournaments on lakes smaller than 55,000 acres.

By limiting the number of contests held on any lake on a monthly basis, the Minnesota DNR is addressing the concerns of lake users that fishing tournaments may disturb their fishing, swimming, boating and other water recreation.  For the most part, the tournament program has resulted in fewer complaints over the last several years because tournament organizers distributed tournaments over a number of lakes rather than focusing on a select few.
So you see, there is a method to what we lay-people may perceive at times as madness in keeping Minnesota waters healthy and productive.
 

We’ve probably all seen photographs from 50 or 60 years ago depicting a half dozen anglers posing with 75 or more walleyes or northerns or muskies that they caught on a single outing in Minnesota. Fifty years ago the fishing pressure on Minnesota waters was probably half of what it is today. So, those types of “stringers” are part of history.

But, that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy Minnesota’s number one past-time…fishing.

We can! We simply need to preserve the resources that we have and help them grow.
 

Remember, in Minnesota the fishn's always great. It’s the catch'n we’ve got to work on!
Then we can work on the "release" part.

 

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on September 08, 2009 at 2:27 PM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: catch and release, fishing, minnesota

Minnesota Fall Color Ideas

 

  

Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area - Photo credit Explore Minnesota Tourism

Warm, sunny days and cool nighttime temperatures will soon result in the appearance of fall colors across Minnesota.

The brilliant colors of fall inspire us to try to capture some of these beautiful images with our cameras. But too often, the great scene we saw doesn't translate into a great photo. However, with a little extra thought and care, we casual photographers can catch some of the magic of fall in our pictures.

Ely Minnesota Wilderness Photo - Photo Credit: Explore Minnesota Tourism

Here are some tips from Explore Minnesota Tourism photographer Paul Stafford. You may have seen much of Paul’s fabulous photo work on commercials, in magazines and on billboards in and around Minnesota as well as filling hundreds of pages on the Explore Minnesota Tourism web site at www.exploreminnesota.com. 

Paul says “photos of fall landscapes need something significant to catch the eye, such as a figure, a prominent physical feature, a condition of light, or a special splash of color. Paul believes good landscape images often require two or more visits to a location to find the right viewpoint and the right time of day to photograph the scene. 
 

 

Minnesota's Leech Lake Area - Photo credit:  Explore Minnesota Tourism

Paul suggests you try some of these ideas for composition and lighting”;
Show depth in landscapes by putting elements in the foreground, middle distance and background. The eye travels to a light spot in a picture, so try to place one deep in your composition.
• Possibly frame your subject with branches or other elements in the foreground to call attention to it.
• To avoid a static, symmetrical look, set up off-balanced compositions. Place the focus of interest away from the center of the photograph.
• Shoot early and late in the day. Early morning and late afternoon light turns a golden color, bathing everything it strikes in a warm glow.
• Try using a polarizing filter, which deepens blue skies and enriches fall colors by removing glare and reflections in shiny leaves. 
 

 

Minnesota’s fall color reports are gathered from information provided by color observers in state parks.
 

Typically, fall colors in Minnesota peak in along the Canadian border in mid to late September. Peak colors generally come to the northern third of Minnesota in the last week in September or early October. The following weekends bring peak colors in central Minnesota including the Twin Cities area. On average, the southern and southeastern part of the state should have good color through the third week in October.

“The fall color season always brings visitors out to enjoy the scenic beauty of Minnesota state parks.  Since all 72 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas are open to the public year round, people have the opportunity for recreation and relaxation in all seasons.
Another major factor that helps boost fall visitation – fewer bugs and mosquitoes.

On weekends, Minnesota's state parks are usually pretty busy in the fall.  If you want to spend a more quiet time in the park, come during the week if you can. During the week, camping is more available and you likely will not need a reservation.

Visitors from several  states flock to Minnesota each fall to enjoy the spectacular fall colors and the potential of capturing a special memory on film.

Minnesota's Savanna Portage State Park - Photo Credit: Explore Minnesota Tourism

You can follow the progress of the fall colors in Minnesota be checking the state tourism website at www.exploreminnesota.com.
 

Posted by: cjjohnso on September 02, 2009 at 9:43 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Tags: fall colors, midwest, minnesota, north countr, photos, sunrise, sunset, tourism, travel, water, wilderness, woods

Deer Women

A while back I profiled a Minnesota lady who wanted to let other women know that deer hunting is NOT just a man’s sport!  And, Judy Koep of the Brainerd Lakes area can cite 47 years of hunting experience to prove it.

Judy says she got started in deer hunting because I didn't want to stay home when Marv ( Marv Koep is a Fishing Hall of Fame guide in the Breezy Point area and, Judy’s husband ) left for an outing.  Judy had small game hunted before and enjoyed the outdoors. She grew up on a farm and enjoyed tramping in the woods., etc. so it was natural that she started deer hunting the first year we were married and has hunted every year since.

 Judy remembers ‘breaking in’ to what had always been considered the man’s sport, deer hunting.   Judy says her father-in-law had a fit when he heard that Marv was taking her along hunting and made "no bones" about it. but Judy persisted and she says eventually he grew to like the idea.  In fact, when she hunted on my father-in-laws land, he would even give her some of the better stands. Judy says she really took a lot of abuse by some men hunters one year, but it only made her more determined to continue hunting.

"Now, all of Marv's sisters and their daughters hunt” said Judy.

Judy does admit, however, that her deer camp is probably a bit different than the traditional deer camps that men relish. “Most of the time the ladies deer camp, is her own home!! Nice warm bed. Although, Judy admits she has stayed in cabins, etc.  Judy says the ladies in her deer camp take it serious and get a good nights sleep the night before Opening.

Judy’s deer hunt is mostly “just for ladies”.  Judy started hunting at age 20, but her daughter and granddaughter started soon after taking gun training. They all look forward to the fun of getting together for chili at the local cafe and talk smart about their hunting experiences. Judy says her daughter Shelley is by far a better woods-person and that her granddaughter prefers the fun of the hunting party, eating, telling stories. We laugh and laugh” reflects Judy.

 

 

Judy Koep likes everything about being outdoors. And she likes to be very quiet when she is outdoors so she can take in all that is new and interesting around her. For example…”On a 'drive' one time she was standing on a little rise in a swampy area. She stood perfectly still and a chickadee landed on the brim of her hat. It looked her in the face, swinging its’ head back and forth. Judy says she stayed perfectly still and she and that bird had a long stand off before it flew off.  

“Being so still, you see, smell and hear so much that you never experience by just taking a walk in the woods. It's the deer's home, they know every inch so you have to outsmart them” said Judy.

But, being still doesn’t mean that Judy doesn’t get her buck.

As Judy tells her story...“I have usually shot a deer every year. Maybe only once or twice that I have not filled out. My most prized deer was when I was sitting in the woods across from a drive that the other hunters were making. As I sat so still I heard or sensed something behind me and low and behold there was a nice buck sneaking in from the back-side, but going away from me. I did get it after a few shots. and everybody else that was hunting with us thought I must be lost and was firing for help or something”.

Daughter or Grand-daughter, it doesn’t matter, Judy lets everyone in her hunting party know there are rules to follow. Judy says “they know from dad (Marv) that they are welcome, but they are to follow good sportsmanship and especially safety rules!

Judy also has some tips for ladies, or anyone else that want to get started deer hunting. “Go with a brother, dad or husband that will introduce you to the great outdoors. Wear warm but comfortable clothes. Enjoy and appreciate every little thing about nature that you see, hear or smell. Expect nothing and you'll receive so much”.

Yes, even Judy has had a couple of hair-raising tales to tell about her deer hunting experience.   This sounds like a tall tale but Judy claims she almost got run over by a buck. As Judy tells it, "I shot it ( the buck) while I was sitting on the ground, it swung around and came right for me. My gun jammed when my jacket cloth got caught in the rifle chamber when I ejected the shell. I ducked behind the tree and dirt hit me in the face as the buck swung by. I had a hard time sleeping that night.

For a long time Judy's kid's laughed about "Grandma got run over by a ( reindeer)--deer" the Christmas song” said Judy.

How much does Judy enjoy deer hunting in Minnesota? Judy is her church’s organist on Sunday’s.

She said that when her church’s new pastor came to town sometime back, she told him that in Minnesota the first weekend in November is considered….."HOLY WEEK - end".
 

She didn't say whether or not the pastor was impressed!

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on August 26, 2009 at 11:08 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

Purple Feet Are Happy Feet

 

If you have no problem with shedding tears…of laughter…have I got a plan for you!

For those old enough to remember the “I Love Lucy” television show, this event will bring back fond memories. For those too young to remember the program but may have seen re-runs on the tube, this will help you understand why your parents break into laughter whenever “I Love Lucy” comes up in a conversation.

It seems everyone who has seen this early comedy t-v show has a favorite segment. One of the favorites was the “Candy Factory” show. But the most mentioned Lucille Ball scene was from Lucy’s Italian Movie….The Grape Stomp”.

 Well scrub your “tootsies” and dress up as Lucy and prepare to re-enact the famous grape stomping scene September 11th through the 13th.

Every fall the Carlos Creek Winery near Alexandria, Minnesota holds it’s Grape Stomp Weekend. The highlight of the weekend is the Lucy look-alike contest capped off with a “grape stomp”. Yup, Lucy Wanna-Be’s kick off their shoes, climb into a vat full of grapes and “squish” away to the encouragement and cheers of hundreds of onlookers. No survey has been officially conducted to determine just how long it takes to get the grape stains off the contestants’ feet, but speculation is the contestants wear “opaque socks” for several weeks.

Entry is free, and contestants are expected to get messy. I have personally witnessed this event on a couple of occasions and recommend you bring a box of tissues with you because you are going to laugh 'till you cry!

But there is more to experience and take in when you attend the Grape Stomp. You can relax and listen to several musical groups playing everything from bluegrass to classic rock and roll. You will enjoy more than 200 food and craft vendors set up on the winery grounds and specializing in all sorts of unique foods and handcrafted items.

Carlos Creek Winery boasts the largest grape vineyard in Minnesota and has an orchard of 8,000 apple trees. Enjoy winery tours anytime of the day. Feel free to walk around the grounds and tour Minnesota's largest Siberian Elm Maze and Wine Cave.

 And, Alexandria, Minnesota has a lot to offer their visitors. This city, surrounded by lakes, has gotten a lot of press as home to the Runestone, a rock with carvings reputed to have been left as a message by Viking explorers six centuries ago. The controversy over the authenticity of the stone continues, and visitors can check it out for themselves at the Runestone Museum in downtown, Alexandria. Now, I'm Norwegian and the only way I could tell if the Rhunestone is real, is if it was made out of Lefse.  I know mhy Lefse!

And, Main-street Alexandria offers up even more venues to fill out your day or weekend visit. Several antique shops are conveniently located along the busy main-street…along with several restaurants and a comfortable coffee shop with windows on main-street so you can “people watch” as you relax over a meal or a steaming cup of coffee. There are also plenty of resorts around the numerous lakes in the Alexandria area that offer a wonderful fall escape. You can also keep an eye on the fall colors that are about to erupt about the time of the Grape Stomp. 

Oh, and make sure you have film in your camera.
Enjoy!

 

Posted by: cjjohnso on August 14, 2009 at 8:52 AM | Comments (0) | Permalink

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