Wave Pool Study Underway to Determine its Future

A consultant has been hired to determine long-term structural and mechanical needs at Bunker Beach.The Anoka County Parks Department recently awarded a professional services contract to a firm in St. Louis, Missouri for just under $50,000.  The s...

Coon Rapids Fire Department Gets $5,000 Donation

With Thanksgiving less than a week away, the season of giving started early for one Ramsey-based company.Employees from 24Restore and 1-800-BoardUp went on a shopping spree at the Coburns in Ramsey on Wednesday.  Turkeys were at the top of the li...

Two Coon Rapids Students Honored with Unique Trip

Two standout students at Coon Rapids High School have new-found inspiration to carry them through the year. The school's Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering promotes careers in medicine and other STEM-related fields.  It makes students...

NSC Hosts 'Hard Water Ice Fishing Expo'

It's certainly been feeling more like winter the last few weeks and before you know it anglers will be hitting Minnesota lakes for a little ice fishing.This weekend, the National Sports Center is hosting the annual Hard Water Ice Fishing Expo presented by...

Riverfront Memorial Park Dedication on Veterans Day

On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day in November 1918 the First World War came to an end. The 100 year anniversary was marked with somber ceremonies around the world and right here in Minnesota.Veterans were honored at the new Riverfront Memorial Park...

Local Teen Suffers a Rare Stroke

At first, Ellie Biggins thought her boyfriend was joking when he collapsed at her home last Monday afternoon.“His face was completely drooped on one side and up on the other,” said Ellie.Cole Fossland was confused but laughing, the lef...

All 3 Incumbents Returning to Coon Rapids City Council

A big turnout for a mid-term Election this week with 74 percent of registered voters in Coon Rapids casting a ballot.  About 22 percent did it by absentee.All three incumbents are returning to the city council as they didn't face any challengers....

Lions Club Donates More than $50,000 for Park Improvement Project

A big donation this week for a park improvement project set to begin next year.The Coon Rapids Lions Club presented a $50,000 donation at Wednesday night's City Council Meeting.  They also gave a second check totaling $6,000 to purchase four new ...

New Playground Coming to Towerview Park

Another park in the city will also see improvements next year.  On Wednesday night, the City Council approved the purchase of playground equipment for Towerview Park which is located near the water tower off Crooked Lake Boulevard.  The ...

New Member Elected to Anoka County Board, 2 Incumbents Returning

There will be a new face on the Anoka County Board next year.In District Four, Mandy Meisner won that seat with 11,082 votes.  Sean Broom received 5,871 votes.  Meisner will replace Jim Kordiak who didn't seek re-election.  In D...

Rep. Melissa Hortman to Become Speaker of the House

Tuesday's Election will result in a shift of power at the State Capitol.  DFLers will take control of the Minnesota House next year and late this week it was announced that Melissa Hortman will take over as Speaker of the House.

Four seats in the ...

Free Fluorescent Light Bulb Recycling Returning in Mid-November

Recycling has gotten easier over the years, but do you know what can and can’t be recycled? The Coon Rapids Recycling Center wants you to know you can still save on your trash bill by recycling, despite a changing global marketplace.“W...

Bid Awarded for Final Phase of Sand Bunker Improvements

A contract was awarded this week for the final phase of bunker renovations at the golf course.  Hartman Companies, Inc. submitted the low bid of $314,000 for the project.  The last phase of the project involves the west nine holes of the...

Early Voting Turnout is Up

Like thousands of their Coon Rapids neighbors, Anthony and Sharon Miltich are taking advantage of the chance to vote before Election Day.“The circumstances we're living in today feel more extreme than any period – and I lived through t...

'Nearly Naked Ruck March' Raises Money for Veterans

Close to 200 people marched through Bunker Hills Regional Park October 27^th wearing little more than shorts or long underwear. The Nearly Naked Ruck March is a day of fun focused on supporting military veterans through the difficult transition to civilian...

ARCC Theater Students Staging 'Almost, Maine!'

Theater students at Anoka Ramsey Community College are taking the stage for their fall production.Students are performing the romantic comedy "Almost, Maine" which is set in a town so far north it's almost in Canada.  There are eight vi...

Andover Exploring Possible Expansion of Community Center

The Andover City Council could soon decide whether or not to put a referendum to voters for an expansion to the city's community center.The council recently voted to move forward with an expansion of the Andover Community Center which could cost up to $19...

Large Turnout at Port Riverwalk Open House

It's been nearly 20 years in the making, but Coon Rapids now has a purchase agreement for one of the largest redevelopment areas in the city. Curious residents filled an open house this week to learn more about the 35-acre site.Labeled Port Riverwalk near...

Riverdale Apartment Project Officially Underway

Work is officially underway at the site of the newest apartment project in Coon Rapids.  On Thursday afternoon, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Riverdale Station Flats, which includes the construction of a four-story, 184 unit market-r...

Early Voting for General Election Ramping Up

With just over a week to go until the mid-term elections, early voting is picking up.  So far at the Coon Rapids City Center, more than 1,200 people have cast absentee ballots in person.  Starting Tuesday, October 30, citizens who vote e...

Connexus Energy Showcases New Solar Energy Project

A celebration of the sun took place in the city of Ramsey this week.On Thursday, Connexus Energy and its partners marked one of the first energy projects in the country to use batteries combined with a solar array to manage peak demand.It was a connection...

District 11 Names Two New Elementary Schools

District 11's two new elementary schools under construction now have names.  On Monday night, the School Board approved the names for the new schools.  The school in Blaine will be called Sunrise Elementary and the school in Ramsey will ...

City of Anoka Scaring Up Halloween Fun

More than 20 Halloween themed events have been taking place in Anoka in October. For the past 98 years, the city has been host to hauntingly fun entertainment as it defends its title of “Halloween Capital of the World.”

“A you...

Fire Destroys Coon Rapids Home

The investigation continues into a fire over the weekend that destroyed the home of a man and woman who had just moved in.The flames broke out around 11:20 a.m. Sunday at this home on the 3600 block of 124th Circle.  Fire crews arrived to find he...

Fire Stations Open Doors to the Public

All three Coon Rapids fire stations opened to the public Saturday October 13, wrapping up a week of fire prevention education at local elementary schools.“We just think it’s a good opportunity to invite people to come to the fire stati...

Traffic Signal Recommended Near Menards/Costco Entrance

Relief could be coming from the congestion on Northdale Boulevard near the entrance to Menards and Costco.The City Council met in a work session this week to see the results and recommendations following a traffic study of the Riverdale area.  Th...

Local Authors Showcased at Anoka County Library

For the third year, the Anoka County Library is connecting Local authors with readers. The Northtown Library was host to 22 authors on October 6, including keynote speakers Sarah Stonich and Michael Kleber-Diggs.“This isn’t just for th...

Renovation Work Officially Underway at CRHS

If you've driven past Coon Rapids High School in the last few weeks, you've likely noticed construction on the building is underway.  And on Tuesday night, District 11 leaders made it official.Members of the Coon Rapids City Council joined the An...

Raising Cane's Opens New Restaurant in Coon Rapids

There's a new restaurant in town.  Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers officially opened its doors for business on Tuesday with a ribbon cutting ceremony.  People lined up for their shot at free Cane's for a year, 20 lucky winners were drawn....

Contract Awarded for Riverwind Building Project

Renovations to the Riverwind Community Building are one step closer to reality.On Tuesday evening, the City Council awarded the contract for the building package to nearly a dozen different contractors. Proposed improvements include the addition of air co...

Hundreds Walk to Support Victims of Abuse

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month and kicking it off September 29 was HopeFest.The annual walk, formerly known as the Walk for Hope, supports Alexandra House and the many services it provides to victims of sexual and domestic violence. Its Exec...

School Board Receives Results of Community Survey

District 11 has released the results of this year's community survey conducted by The Morris Letterman Company.  32 percent of those polled rate the quality of education as excellent, up one percent from last year.  The state average is ...

ARCC Opens Food Shelf for Students

A new resource for students at Anoka-Ramsey Community College made its debut on campus this week.The Campus Cupboard is a free food pantry where students can get up to 12 items per visit.  It will be open twice a month throughout the semester. &a...

Construction to Begin on Riverdale Station Apartments

Construction could start as soon as next week on a new apartment project adjacent to the Northstar Commuter Rail Station.Sherman and Associates is planning to construct two apartment buildings on the site, one containing 180 units of market rate housing a...

Anoka-Hennepin Approves School Boundary Changes

Morris Bye Elementary is a school building with room to grow.The elementary school in Coon Rapids is currently under capacity, but about 125 new students will be assigned to the school next fall. Shifting additional students to Morrie Bye will better util...

'Nerf Battle' Helps in the Fight Against Bullying

A Minnesota based non-profit is fighting bullying with blaster battles."Project My Neighborhood" uses Nerf Battles to bring children and adults together for a day of fun and bullying prevention. More than a thousand participants fired their Nerf...

Cardinals Mark Homecoming Week at CRHS

It's homecoming week at Coon Rapids High School and that means the crowning of a new king and queen.Andrew Truong and Destini Artis were crowned homecoming king and queen during an all-school assembly on Tuesday morning.  Both are seniors and rep...

Apartment Project Proposed in Port Evergreen

A Saint Paul based developer is pitching a plan to construct a large apartment building in the southern part of Coon Rapids.This week, the City Council met in a work session to learn more about the project which would involve the construction of a four-st...

Coon Rapids Police Launch New Community Watch Team

On Greg Oltmanns’ street, his neighbors know someone is always watching.  Oltmanns remembers the day he saw a car tear through his Coon Rapids neighborhood. The black sedan blew through the stop sign on his corner of 110^th Aven...

CRPD Applying for Federal Grant Money

The police department is seeking another grant from the U.S. Department of Justice.  The department is eligible for a grant in the amount of just over $12,000 for items that have not been budgeted.  The police department plans to purchas...

Constitution Comes to Life at ARCC

Students in an American Government class used improv to shake up their learning this week.On Monday, the U.S. Constitution came to life for students at Anoka-Ramsey Community College.  Monday marked the 231st anniversary of the signing of the Con...

Honoring Those Who Protect and Serve

The Law Enforcement Appreciation Event returned to Coon Rapids for the 4^th year. It began in 2015 when a local law enforcement family sought out a way to show community support for police officers in the face of anti-police attitudes.“&helli...

Military Appreciation Softball Tourney Returns to Sand Creek Park

For the fourth year, a local softball tournament is raising money for Minnesota military families.From September 7^th through the 9^th dozens of teams were able to break fundraising records for the Military Appreciation Softball Tournament at Sand Creek Par...

High Ranking U.S Dept. of Ed. Official Visits STEP School

Anoka-Hennepin's Secondary Technical Education Program  got a visit from a high ranking official from the U.S. Department of Education this week.On Wednesday morning, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education, Doctor Mick Zais, toured the STEP School an...

Nearby Residents Opposed to Blaine Hy-Vee Store

Plans for a new Hy-Vee store in Blaine took another step forward this week but residents who live nearby have concerns about the development.On Tuesday night, the Blaine Planning Commission held a public hearing on the land rezoning, preliminary plat and ...

New Study of Hwy. 65 Corridor Planned

If you use Highway 65, you know how congested it can be.  Now, Anoka County and the City of Blaine are teaming up on a new study of the corridor stretching from County Road 10 in Spring Lake Park to Bunker Lake Boulevard in Ham Lake.  Pr...

Getting Stressed Out Students to 'Change to Chill'

High school can be a stress minefield. From sports, homework and activities... to the ever-present cellphones and social media, it's not a huge shock that teens are stressed.“Unfortunately, it is a growing problem,” says Susan Nygaard,...

Community Rallies Around Hockey Team to Replace Stolen Funds

The Coon Rapids High School boys hockey team faces a big hurdle this season after the booster club discovered its funds have been embezzled.The team says the person responsible has confessed to police but charges have not yet been filed.  They ar...

Land Bridge Repairs Underway on Main St.

Work started this week on permanent repairs to the land bridge over Coon Creek on Main Street.During construction, traffic will be reduced to a single lane in each direction in the area of the land bridge which is just east of Coon Creek Boulevard. &n...

City Solicits Bids for Riverwind Building Remodel

Plans are moving forward for a remodeling project involving a portion of the Riverwind Community Building.On Tuesday night, the City Council accepted plans and specifications for the project and authorized the solicitation of bids. Proposed improvements i...

New Centerview Elementary Breaks the School Mold

Back-to-school looked quite a bit different this week for nearly 600 students in the Spring Lake Park School District. Where you might expect to find rows of desks and chairs, instead there were padded stools, seats that wobble and curvy settees. There wa...

Students Learn About Transportation Options at ARCC

The Anoka County Traveler made a stop at Anoka-Ramsey Community College this week to promote stress-free transportation for students.Those with bikes can use the bike rack to secure them to the bus.  On board, there's free wi-fi for riders. &...

City, Blue Ox Reach Agreement for 2nd Season at CRIC

A successful partnership between the Minnesota Blue Ox and the Coon Rapids Ice Center will continue for a second season.  This week, the City Council approved a contract for ice and facility usage for the 2018-2019 season.  The Minnesota...

Main Street Repair Work Starting After Labor Day

Permanent repair work is set to begin next week on the land bridge over Coon Creek on Main Street.Earlier this year, the westbound lanes of Main Street were closed between Shenandoah Boulevard and Coon Creek Boulevard after a county highway worker discove...

Anoka Co. Man Named 'Outstanding Minnesota Senior'

It's something we believe hasn't happened since the 1960's.  But it did this week at the Minnesota State Fair!A senior from Anoka County captured the state title at the fairgrounds on Thursday morning. Each year, a man and woman representing each...

Golfers Wanted for C.R. Fire Department Fall Classic

The Coon Rapids Fire Department's annual "Fall Golf Classic" is just a few weeks away.  The tournament, which has been going on now for 11 years, helps raise money for the Coon Rapids Firefighters Community Fund.The golf tournament take...

Coon Rapids Fire Explorers Compete at Minn. State Fair

A soggy "Governor's Fire Prevention Day" at the Minnesota State Fair on August 24 but that didn't stop the Coon Rapids Fire Explorers from taking part in a friendly competition.  More than 20 fire explorer posts from across the state sh...

Construction Will Greet Students at Some District 11 Schools

Students head back to school on Tuesday and when they get there, some will find big changes.  Major construction is underway at many Anoka-Hennepin schools but the message from the district is "the show must go on."CTN's Jennifer Anders...

Coon Rapids Hosts Camp with Strong Ties to MN Wild

Inside the Coon Rapids Ice Center aspiring hockey players got a brush with the pros. Several Minnesota Wild coaches and players to lent some star power to the Golden Horseshoe Hockey School, which made its debut in the city this week. Wild head coach Bruc...

Anoka Food Pantry Transformed into a "SuperShelf"

37th Annual Game Fair

Hy-Vee Considering Opening Grocery Store in Blaine

A popular grocery story chain that continues to expand is eyeing a location close to Coon Rapids.Hy-Vee is considering purchasing a vacant piece of land on the southwest corner of Main Street and Jefferson Street not far from Blaine High School.  ...

Mercy Hospital Gets High Marks in New Rankings

Mercy Hospital here in Coon Rapids is one of the best in the state, according to new rankings released this week by U.S. News and World Report.  Mercy Hospital was rated second best in the Twin Cities and fourth best hospital in Minnesota. &n...

New Fix-it Stations Throughout Anoka County

A new bike fix-it station is outside the Crooked Lake Library.  Soon, every Anoka County branch will have a station, which includes a rack to hang a bike, an air pump and several tools for quick repairs or tune ups.“We thought that this...

Car Wash Fundraiser Helps Cardinal Girls Basketball Program

The Coon Rapids High School Girls Basketball team got together for some fun and fundraising last weekend.  It was the team's third annual car wash in the parking lot at the Pep Boys in Riverdale.  Players from the freshman team on up to ...

City Moving Forward with Riverwind Building Remodeling Project

The city is moving forward plans to preserve and improve the Riverwind Community Building at Riverwind Park.This week, the City Council awarded a construction management contract for the project to Kinghorn Company in the amount of $45,000. They will assi...

Record Participation for 'Night to Unite' in Coon Rapids

This past Tuesday saw lots of neighbors getting together for fun and games.It was the annual Night to Unite in Coon Rapids.  A record 128 neighborhood parties took place across the city.  Members of the police and fire departments made t...

Soda Festival Draws Big Crowd in Spring Lake Park

If pop, that bubbly surgary drink, brings a smile to your face then the Minnesota Soda Festival is for you. On August 4th its visitors took a step back in time to sample more than 100 craft sodas.A bus built in 1953 transported soda seekers to dozens of t...

Expert Fire Investigator Dies at 58

The fire community mourns the loss of an expert investigator who died suddenly over the weekend at the age of 58.Jamie Novak, who retired from the St. Paul Fire Department just over a year ago, died from an apparent heart attack, according to his family.O...

Sportsman's Warehouse Reopens in Riverdale Area

Just over nine years after it closed its doors due to bankruptcy, Sportsman's Warehouse has reopened in the Riverdale area.The grand opening is taking place this weekend with special activities including a trout pond.  Sportsman's Warehouse is no...

Fire Destroys Hangar at Anoka County Airport

A fire at the Anoka County Airport Monday evening sent thick black smoke billowing into the air.  The flames broke out around 7 p.m.  Thankfully, no injuries were reported.  In addition to a plane, there were several vehicles an...

New Health Partnership Celebrated in Coon Rapids

A new partnership was celebrated this week between a primary care provider and a mental health clinic.

An open house on Tuesday marked the new partnership between North Metro Pediatrics and the Lee Carlson Center for Mental Health and Well-Being. Lee Carls...

New Option for Campers in the North Metro

For those looking to escape the busy city, there is a new option available and it’s closer than you might think. Several campsites have been established near Ramsey on the Mississippi River.On July 28^th, close to 30 volunteers launched canoes fr...

Final 3M Championship Underway in Blaine

The 3M Championship is in full swing for the final time in Blaine this week.  The tournament wraps up Sunday, August 5 with the final round of champion play.  You can watch coverage live on The Golf Channel.

Next year, the PGA Tour is bri...

New Youth Program Attracts More Teens

It might look like a game of Pictionary… or kickball… or Madden NFL.  But when kids come to hang out at Youth First in Ramsey, the goals are far bigger than games.“Youth First is a safe place for kids,&...

Anoka Hosts Food Truck Party

The streets of downtown Anoka turned into a food lover’s paradise July 21st. For the second year, dozens of food trucks lined up to offer flavors from around the world. The Anoka Food Truck Festival brought more than 45 food trucks and thousands...

Local Kids Get Important Lessons at Safety Camp

Lots of learning and fun this week for dozens of kids who took part in the annual Safety Camp at the Coon Rapids Ice Center.  The children, who are entering fourth and fifth grade this fall, got numerous safety lessons, everything from fire and e...

Coon Rapids Soccer Players Take the Field at USA Cup

The cheering section for the CR United Strikers was out in force at the Schwan's USA Cup on Wednesday.  The team from Coon Rapids faced a team from Mexico.  Coon Rapids parent, Jankeh Bojang, kept the crowd lively as she shouted...

Thousands Turn Out for Riverfest in Downtown Anoka

Riverfest returned to the city of Anoka July 14, marking the 20^th year for the festival and craft fair. This year more than 170 crafters took part.“People have to prove that they made this stuff themselves so we get the opportunity to be a littl...

First Farmers Market of the Season

Wednesday, the first Coon Rapids Farmers Market kicked off for the season. Farmers, bakers and artisans sell food, flowers and even essential oils from the parking lot of the Coon Rapids Ice Center.Susan Brown brought her two children, Oliver and Lillian,...

Bunker Hills Golf Club Marks 50th Anniversary

It was 50 years ago, this week, that the golf course at Bunker Hills opened for business.On July 8, golfers and guests came out to mark the milestone of the golf course which has grown over the years from 18 to 36 holes.  The celebration included...

Dates Announced for 2019 PGA Tour Event at the TPC Twin Cities

We now know when the first-ever PGA Tour event will be held in Blaine.  According to the schedule released this week, the TPC of the Twin Cities will host the 3M Open July 1-7, 2019.  Tournament organizers are planning a big party includ...

New Veterans Memorial Dedicated in Anoka County

Visitors to a popular lake in Columbus, Minnesota now have a place to remember military members and their families. On July 7th a new Veterans’ memorial was dedicated at Coon Lake County Park.The memorial features seven flags, two benches, and p...

Resurfacing Work Being Done on Hwy. 610

A heads up if you use Highway 610.  MnDOT started a road preservation project on Thursday night and the work will continue for about a week.  A thin coating of asphalt is being laid on Highway 610 between Highway 252 and the Highway 10 p...

Fundraiser for Teen with Fragile Bones

For a Coon Rapids teen with a serious bone disease, time spent in the pool equals freedom. To see 14-year-old Nick Jaques swim, kick and splash in the water, you would never know he has osteogenesis imperfecta.  The disease causes his bo...

Coon Rapids Man Wins $100,000 Lottery Prize

A Coon Rapids business recently sold a winning lottery ticket worth $100,000.The lucky winner is Coon Rapids resident Larry Chmiel who scratched off the $100,000 prize on an I'MN to Win ticket.  The retiree, who's lived in the city for more than ...

Thousands Take Part in Annual Patriot Ride

Participation in the annual Minnesota Patriot Ride is the largest yet, according to a committee member.For the 13^th year, motorcyclists from near and far gathered in a display of patriotism to honor and remember the men and women who have served the Unite...

Bunker Hills Golf Club Celebrating 50 Years in Business

The Bunker Hills Golf Club is preparing to mark a golden milestone: 50 years of doing business in Coon Rapids.July 8th, 1968. That's the date the original 18 holes opened as the "Coon Rapids Municipal Golf Course."  It would eventually ...

Firefighters Help 'Fill the Boot' for MDA

Members of the Coon Rapids Fire Department returned to the Riverdale area this week for their annual Fill The Boot campaign.Firefighters spent three days at the corner of Main Street and Northdale Boulevard collecting donations for the Muscular Dystrophy ...

Registration Still Open for Summer Safety Camp

The fire and police departments are still looking for kids interested in taking part in Safety Camp this summer.  The camp takes place July 17 and 18 at the Coon Rapids Ice Center and is open to children entering fourth and fifth grade this fall....

Elementary Students Take Part in 'Camp Invention'

Students in Mrs. Cavanaugh's summer class worked on their inventions using LED light wands on Thursday morning at Coon Rapids Middle School.  It was all part of "Camp Invention" which drew 90 elementary students interested in STEM progr...

Former Football Pro Coaches Local Athletes

When a former NFL quarterback gives you advice, you do your best to soak it up.  At least that’s what Jake Vanhulzen tried to do this week during a football camp at Sand Creek Athletic Park.  “Totall...

New Exhibit at Banfill-Locke Center Features Farm Animals

A new exhibition at the Banfill-Locke Center for the Arts in Fridley is taking its visitors “Back to the Farm.”The collection of paintings by artist Patty Voje include pigs, cows, sheep and other farm animals as the subject.“...

PGA Tour Adding Stop in Blaine Starting in 2019

The Tournament Players Club in Blaine with play host to an official PGA Tour event starting next summer.  That means this summer will be the final time the TPC hosts the senior players for the 3M Championship.The dates for the new even, the 3M Op...

Anoka County Launches New Recycling App

Deciding which bin to throw that old pizza box in, or whether your takeout container can be recycled, just got a bit easier.  Anoka County launched its latest tool to help people recycle more and it's right in the palm of your hand.From batteries...

Registration Still Open for Firecracker Races on 4th of July

It seems hard to believe but we are just a little over a week away from the start of this year's 4th of July Celebration.  The festivities take place July 2nd through the 4th at Boulevard Plaza.And there's still time to sign up for the Firecracke...

Unclaimed Bikes Being Donated to Bikes 4 Kids

Bikes that can't be returned to their rightful owners will get a new home thanks to a new partnership with the Coon Rapids Police Department and the non-profit Bikes 4 Kids.On Tuesday night, the City Council adopted a resolution to approve donating found ...

New Recycling Containers for Civic Center

New recycling containers will be put to use in the Coon Rapids Civic Center thanks to a grant from Anoka County.This week, the City Council accepted the grant and amended the budget for the purchase of the recycling containers.  The grant will al...

Hundreds Attend Splash Pad Grand Opening

The newest summer hot spot in Coon Rapids opened to a chorus of excited squeals.  The city officially turned on the water at the first public splash pad in Coon Rapids on Tuesday night.The new playground and splash pad next to the ice center on C...

Free Summer Meals at Some Anoka-Hennepin Schools

School may be out for the summer but more than a dozen buildings in District 11 will be serving up free meals for those in need.  The locations in Coon Rapids are: Adams Elementary, the Anoka-Hennepin Regional High School, Coon Rapids Middle Scho...

Crooked Lake Library Hosts Squad Car Storytime

The Coon Rapids Police Department teamed up with the local library for a special event this week.About 150 kids and their families turned out for "Squad Car Storytime" Thursday morning at the Crooked Lake Library.  Captain Jon Urquhart ...

Lions Attempt Red Wagon World Record at Anoka Co. Fairgrounds

Lions Clubs from across Minnesota and parts of Canada gathered at the Anoka Country Fairgrounds on June 10th to celebrate 100 years of service. Its members also made an attempt at a world record by holding a red wagon parade.A total of 111 Lions registere...

Incumbents for City Council Have No Challengers

Filings for public office closed this week and we now know all three incumbents running for City Council will do so unopposed.Mayor Jerry Koch, Council member Ward Three Wade Demmer and Council member Ward Five Brad Johnson are all seeking another term in...

New Ordinance Changes Way Food Trucks are Licensed

You could soon start seeing more food trucks around the city.  This week, the City Council introduced an ordinance to amend the City's Transient and Itinerant Merchant Code to include Mobile Food Units.  Under current code, background ch...

Chipotle Gets Approval for New Village 10 Location

The City Council has signed off on a plan to bring a Chipotle Mexican Grill to the Village 10 Shopping Center not far from Lifetime Fitness.  Chipotle is planning to move into the space currently occupied by AAA.  AAA is planning to move...

Nystrom & Associates Getting New Office Building

A new medical office building has been given the green light from the Coon Rapids City Council.On Tuesday night, the council approved a site plan for Wilkus Architects to construct a 20,000 square foot building near the corner of Round Lake Boulevard and ...

Class of 2018 Graduates from Coon Rapids High School

Another school year is in the books.  And last weekend, the Class of 2018 bid farewell to Coon Rapids High School.The seniors, donning caps and gowns, entered Mariucci Arena in Minneapolis Sunday afternoon for their final act together.  ...

'Home Away From Home' Helps Coon Rapids Family

With adorable curls and big, brown eyes, Gabriella Mady is a charmer.   If the chatty and vibrant 19-month-old turns her round face on you, you can’t help but smile. The thriving toddler gives no hint of the struggle it took to...

High Flying Fun During Discover Aviation Days in Blaine

Historic Aircraft, including a B-25 bomber, took to the skies over the Anoka County Airport –Jane’s Field in Blaine June 2^nd and 3^rd. Discover Aviation Days allows the public a rare and unique opportunity to see, touch and even fly in ...

All 3 Incumbents File for Coon Rapids City Council

There's just a few days left to file for public office.  Locally, there are three city council seats and three county commissioner seats up for re-election this fall.As of noon on Friday, June 1, only the incumbents have filed for City Council. &...

Bonding Bill Funds Several Projects in North Metro

Despite some objections, Governor Mark Dayton signed the $1.5 billion bonding bill into law on Wednesday.The bill includes $25 million for public schools to improve safety, one thing that did receive bipartisan support at the State Capitol this session. &...

Anoka County Marks Memorial Day with Special Services

The veterans’ organizations of Anoka County held Memorial Day Ceremonies on May 26^th.The first was held at Morningside Memorial Gardens and then at Bunker Hills Park.“We do more than carry on a tradition that dates back to 1866, we als...

Coon Rapids Resident Named 'Minnesota Woman Veteran of the Year'

A Coon Rapids woman was honored this week as the 2018 Minnesota Woman Veteran of the Year.  Kay Bauer is a retired nurse who served 35 years in the U.S. Navy, both active duty and in the Navy Reserve.  The 82-year-old still participates ...

Call is Out for Public Opinion on Hwy 252

Anyone who drives Highway 252 through Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center knows that it's a busy place. MnDOT estimates the annual average daily traffic on 252 is nearly 60,000 cars. The real question is how to manage the gridlock.

Two workshops this week lo...

City Council Hoping to Save Riverwind Building

The future is becoming a bit clearer for a building that has stood for more than a half-century in Coon Rapids.At a work session this week, the City Council reached a consensus to save the Riverwind building for now and do what they can to get more years ...

Chipotle Proposes New Location in Village 10

There could soon be another dining option for people working and living in the center of the city.  The Planning Commission is recommending approval of a revision to the planned unit development for the Village 10 Shopping Center which is home to...

Construction Starts on New Honda Dealership

Construction is officially underway on a new car dealership in Coon Rapids.Honda is constructing a 56,000 square foot building adjacent to the McDonalds restaurant off Hanson Boulevard in the Gateway Commerce Center.  A marked crosswalk will be a...

New Stroke Treatment Saves Lives at Mercy Hospital

One morning last summer, Roy was up early with his dog when life changed.“Memory's a little fuzzy,” he said, “but I think the dog had gotten up and I jumped out of bed to go get her and I went down.”

His wife Dianne ...

CRHS Freshmen Get CPR, AED Training

Students at Coon Rapids High School got a lesson dating back to the disco era this week.On Tuesday morning, about 600 freshmen learned compression-only CPR to the tune of the Bee Gees "Staying Alive."  Members of the Coon Rapids police ...

Hundreds 'Walk a Mile in Her Shoes' in Anoka

Hundreds of men in Anoka County walked in stylish high heels in opposition to all forms of violence against women on May 20^th.They were joined by women and children, bringing the number of people participating in “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes&rd...

Basketball, Volleyball Courts Open at National Sports Center

The public is welcome to get some cardio activity in on the hardwood at the National Sports Center.  On Thursday evening, the sports center debuted their new basketball and volleyball courts.  The open gym is free on opening weekend. &am...

Filings for Public Office Open on May 22

Here's a sign election season can't be too far off: filings for public office open next week.  Locally, three seats on the Coon Rapids City Council are up for reelection this fall:  the mayor's seat along with Ward Three and Ward Five. &...

Remembering the Fallen During National Police Week

The Anoka County Law Enforcement community stopped this week to reflect on the 'thin blue line' and remember officers killed in the line of duty.  Law enforcement officers gathered to remember seven fallen officers who died in the line of duty in...

Mental Health Walk Raising Awareness in the Community

For the ninth year the Mental Wellness Campaign for Anoka County hosted a day of exercise in the name of promoting mental wellness. The 5K walk for Mental Wellness at the Coon Rapids Dam on May 12th included live music and access to community resources.&a...

Water Tower on Hanson Blvd. Being Repainted

Work started earlier this month on a rehabilitation project involving the water tower off Hanson Boulevard.  Chipping and peeling paint is forcing the city to have the tower repainted.  The rehabilitation work should add 10 to 12 years o...

Hwy. 169 Reconstruction Causing Big Headaches for Motorists

Traffic backups near Hayden Lake Road and Highway 169 have cars at a standstill and drivers testing the limits of their patience.A $14 million reconstruction project is underway and a new phase began Monday, limiting traffic to one lane in both directions...

Residents Learn More About Hanson Blvd. Reconstruction Project

Planning continues for a big construction project that will start next year in Coon Rapids and impact motorists who use Hanson Boulevard.Anoka County hosted an open house on the project on Thursday evening at the Coon Rapids City Center.  The pub...

Investigators Search for Answers Following Deadly Crash

Investigators are still trying to figure out what led to a fiery crash over the weekend that claimed the lives of two Coon Rapids residents.The crash happened just after 9 p.m. Saturday on Northdale Boulevard near 119th Avenue.  A car being drive...

New Building Going Up at Chrysler Dealership

The Coon Rapids Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram dealership is getting a makeover.This week, the walls started going up for a new 80,000 square foot, two story building.  The dealership is replacing the current 28,000 square foot building which they...

More Sand Bunkers Seeing Improvements at Golf Course

The Bunker Hills Golf Club is in the midst of a renovation project.  Work recently started on the third phase of renovations to the sand bunkers.  The bunkers are being reduced in size and the liners eliminated which improves the pace of...

Work Begins on Hanson Blvd. Overpass Project

After delays due to the weather, work finally started this week on preparation work for the addition of an overpass at the Hanson Boulevard railroad tracks.All traffic has been shifted to the southbound lanes of Hanson Boulevard from Coon Rapids Boulevard...

Boulevard Plaza Nearing Completion

We're now just over a month away from the opening of the newest park in Coon Rapids.The finishing touches are being put on Boulevard Plaza which is adjacent to the Coon Rapids Ice Center.  Crews recently installed umbrellas and other water featur...

StoveTop FireStops Installed at HOPE Place

Last year, cooking fires were the number one cause of house fires in Minnesota.  The losses topped six million dollars but a $50 appliance could have made that - much less.This week, members of the Coon Rapids Fire Department installed stovetop f...

Coon Rapids Takes Part in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

People cleaned out their medicine cabinets for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day"last Saturday.Old and unused prescription drugs are finding their way into the wrong hands.  That's why a national effort to dispose of them properly is ...

Students Participate in Mock Trial on Law Day

The Anoka County Courthouse opened its doors and courtrooms to the general public on April 27^th.“Law Day” has been connecting community resources with the people who need them for close to a decade but a district court judge says parti...

Bunker Hills Golf Course Opens for the Season

The golf course at Bunker Hills is finally open for the season but not before tying a record for the latest start ever.Bunker Hills officially opened for play on Thursday afternoon and by Friday morning, high school golf teams from the metro area were hit...

85th Ave. Closing for Emergency Railroad Repairs

A heads up if you use 85th Avenue in the southern part of Coon Rapids.  Weather permitting, the road will be closed at the BNSF railroad tracks May 1-3 for emergency track repairs.  The official detour is East River Road to Osborne Road ...

Herberger's Store Closing at Northtown Mall

Northtown Mall is losing an anchor store.  A going-out-of-business sale is currently underway at Herberger's which has been a staple at the mall for nearly 10 years.  But it's parent company Bon-Ton is bankrupt.  A few dozen sto...

Basketball, Volleyball Courts Being Added at National Sports Center

Soccer is synonymous with the National Sports Center in Blaine.  But now they're getting into court sports.Work started this week on the installation of equipment for three high school volleyball courts, two basketball courts and an NBA-sized bas...

Anoka-Hennepin Students Take Part in Robotics Challenge

Bleachers surrounded two small tables at Oak View Middle School on April 21^st. At the center of attention were ten teams, who would compete to navigate an obstacle course with a robot of their own design.The Anoka-Hennepin LEGO Robotics Challenge puts sci...

Volunteers Help During Earth Day Cleanup at Coon Rapids Dam

Sunny skies greeted more than 100 volunteers last Sunday at the Coon Rapids Dam.  They arrived to the Earth Day Clean-up event eager to collect as much trash as possible.With maps in hand, children and adults worked together to collect plastic ba...

City Purchasing Land for Completion of Hwy. 610 Interchange

The city took a step forward this week with their efforts to land a full interchange at Highway 610 and Coon Rapids Boulevard.On Tuesday night, the City Council, acting in their role as the Housing and Redevelopment Authority, approved a purchase agreemen...

Single Lane Traffic on Hwy. 169 Starts Monday in Champlin

Get ready for more traffic congestion if you use Highway 169 in Champlin.  Starting Monday, traffic will be reduced to a single lane in each direction between East Hayden Lake Road and the Mississippi River as work begins on the Elm Creek bridges...

Anoka Technical College Hosts 'Construction Summit'

The Anoka Technical College hosted a Construction Summit this week.It was an opportunity to bring several companies in the building trades, seeking talent, together under one roof.“Do you have a resume?”It was one of the most frequentl...

Library Celebrates 60 Years of Stories

This year marks the 60th Anniversary of Anoka County Library. After 60 years, the place we go to find good stories has made a few along the way.“Everybody has a story to tell, and so does the library,” said Maggie Snow, director of Ano...

Business Spotlight: Crossfit Osiris

In this month's Business Spotlight, we feature a crossfit gym which opened about a year ago in the Evergreen Business Park.CrossFit Osiris is located at 9250 Holly Street in Coon Rapids.

Spring Fire Hydrant Flushing Delayed Again

The snow and cold is once again delaying spring fire hydrant flushing.  Crews were hoping to start the work early next week but it now looks like it could be late April or early May before the process begins.  As part of routine maintena...

MSHSL Allows for Shortened Baseball, Softball Games

Winter's continued grip is starting to take a toll on the spring sports season.  The Cardinal tennis team cleared the snow from the outdoor courts this week in order to play their first game of the season.  But the baseball and softball ...

Another Round of School Boundary Meetings Start April 18

Larger community meetings on school attendance boundary proposals begin next week in District 11.  All five high schools will host a meeting.  Here's the list:April 18 - Coon Rapids High SchoolApril 30 - Blaine High SchoolMay 1 - Champli...

Minn. Supreme Court Makes Visit to Anoka High School

The knock of a gavel rang through the auditorium inside Anoka High School on Wednesday.  With that, court was in session.The Minnesota Supreme Court convened on the high school’s stage, while roughly 850 students watched and learned.&am...

Anoka Co. Participating in Law Day on April 27

Here's something you don't get every day: free legal advice.  Or a free pass to avoid jail if you have an outstanding warrant.But you can get that and a whole lot more on Law Day which is just two weeks away.  Anoka County will once agai...

Dozens Take Part in Coon Rapids Fix It Clinic

Dozens of people brought in broken items for repair at a free Fix It Clinic last weekend at the Public Works Facility.  Volunteers attempted to disassemble, troubleshoot and repair everything from electronics and lamps to vacuums and household ap...

Local Artists Show Off Their Work During Art Crawl

For the last 21 years, a select group of artists in the north metro have come together to sell their unique creations.The annual North Artists Studio Crawl was held over the weekend of April 7. The art crawl invites art shoppers into the homes and studios...

ARCC Students Staging Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing'

If you're looking for something fun to do this weekend or next, why not check out the spring play at Anoka-Ramsey Community College.The theatre department is presenting Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing."  The play is being performe...

Despite Snow, Road Construction Season is Here

Minnesota's two seasons appear to be colliding this year.  As winter's grip continued this week, MnDOT laid out its plans for road construction season which is pretty much here.The big project that will impact motorists in the north metro is the ...

Campus Lockdown Ends Safely at Anoka Tech

Everyone is safe after a campus lockdown at Anoka Technical College on Thursday. Police responded shortly after 11:00 am when both a student and a staff member at the college reported an unidentified person acting suspiciously.

College administrators and c...

Earth Day Clean-up Planned at Coon Rapids Dam

Every spring, old fishing line, hooks and lures can be found along the banks of the Mississippi river near the Coon Rapids Dam.On Earth Day, the Three Rivers Park District is hosting a trash clean-up event to get the garbage out ahead of summer.&ldquo...

April Snow Sidelines Spring Routines

Visit Wintercrest Park during the first week of April and you should hear the crack of ball on bat and cheering fans in the stands.  But this April, sounds of spring are buried under nearly a foot of snow.Wind-whipped ball fields and blo...

Distracted Driving Crackdown Starts April 9

Law enforcement agencies across the state will be beefing up patrols in the next two weeks looking for distracted drivers on Minnesota roads.Authorities say distracted driving contributes to one in five crashes in Minnesota and texting continues to be a b...

District 11 Releases New Boundary Proposals

The public has spoken and now the Anoka-Hennepin School District has responded.  This week, District 11 staff presented several more options for school boundary changes to the School Board following community meetings in the past month.  ...

Students Honored by FBI for Cybersafety Efforts

A big honor this week for eighth graders from four middle schools in the Anoka-Hennepin School District.  Students from Jackson, Northdale, Oak View and Roosevelt recently won the National FBI Safe Online Surfing award in Steven Burrill's compute...

Coon Rapids Non-Profit Hosting Easter Weekend Meal Packing Events

A Coon Rapids Based Nonprofit is keeping its doors open Easter Weekend to help disadvantaged children around the world.The Christian organization Feed My Starving Children is looking for volunteers to assemble meals that will be shipped to one of 70 count...

Artists Opening Studio Doors for Annual Art Crawl

You can check out the creations of more than two dozen artists in the north metro next weekend.The 21st annual North Artists Studio Crawl will take place April 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  Thirteen studios will be open in Anoka, Andover, Blain...

The Difference a Donation Makes

Twice a week you can find Sue Romppanen hard at work inside ACBC Food Shelf in Anoka.  She and many other volunteers sort clothes and food that serves more than 30,000 people throughout the year.

“I volunteer here because it is a very wo...

New Push for Full Interchange at Hwy. 610/Coon Rapids Blvd.

The city is once again trying to persuade the state to construct a full interchange at Highway 610 and Coon Rapids Boulevard.The City Council met in a work session this week to get an update from staff on recent talks with MnDOT.  Currently, east...

Hanson Blvd. Reconstruction Project Starts March 26

Work on the Hanson Boulevard grade separation project will get underway next week.  Crews have posted signs alerting motorists to the construction which begins March 26.  The initial work involves the relocation of utilities.  S...

3 City Trails Getting Makeover This Summer

Trails in three city parks will be getting a makeover this summer.  Burl Oaks Park, Prairie Oaks Park and Vineyard Park will see trail reconstruction and the installation of pedestrian curb ramps.  The basketball court at Vineyard Park w...

Chili, Beer Event Raises Money for Lee Carlson Center

Dozens of people bonded over beer and chili this week, all for a good cause.On Thursday night, the Lee Carlson Center for Mental Health and Well-Being held its third annual Chili Cook-Off and Beer Tasting event at the Springbrook Nature Center.  ...

Planning Commission Approves Site Plan for Veterinary Clinic

A new veterinary clinic appears to be coming to Coon Rapids.On Thursday night, the Planning Commission approved the site plan for the project which will be located in the Riverdale area.  Sambatek is planning to construct a 3,100 square foot vete...

Open House Planned for Hwy. 169 Reconstruction Project

Work continues this year on the reconstruction of Highway 169 in Champlin.The public can learn more about this year's work at an open house on Wednesday, March 21.  It runs from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Champlin Ice Forum.  A formal presentati...

New Boutique With a Mission That Hits Home

The look is upscale but the prices are not. Hope’s Closet is a new retail store in Champlin branded as a resale boutique. All of the items for sale are donated.

Customer Marilyn Duffy had an easy time finding something to bring home from Hope's C...

Toys R Us Closing All Stores in the U.S.

First it was closing then being saved.  But we learned this week that Toys R Us is now planning to close all of its stores across the country including the Blaine location and go out of business.Retail experts say weak holiday sales prevented the...

Woodcarvers Showcase Their Creations at Northtown Mall

Members of the Minnesota Wood Carvers Association displayed their chipped and chiseled creations on March 10^th and 11^th at the Northtown Mall in Blaine.The Woodcarving Artistry Show is in its 52^nd year. The annual event is an opportunity to see want can b...

Hundreds Attend Home Improvement Show in Andover

The 20th annual Home Improvement Show drew a big crowd to the Andover YMCA last weekend.  The show featured 100 vendors including many contractors from the Andover, Anoka and Coon Rapids area.  The cities promoted their home improvement ...

NLX Passenger Rail Project Clears Environmental Review

A green light this week for a project that would add passenger rail service between the Twin Cities and Duluth.The Federal Railroad Administration says the Northern Lights Express project will not have significant environmental impacts which concludes tha...

Parents Learn About Drug and Alcohol Prevention

When Jeremy Sutliff first began using marijuana and alcohol he was thirteen years old, “That excelled me into partying with other drugs. I started an opiate habit with painkillers,” said Sutliff.He and two other adults who struggled wi...

Contract Awarded for Park Improvement Projects

Two parks in Coon Rapids will see a big overhaul this summer following action by the City Council this week.On Tuesday night, the City Council awarded the contract for improvements at Riverwind Park and Crooked Lake Park to Custom Builders Incorporated in...

Sheriff's Office Holding Public Forum on Body Camera Proposal

The Anoka County Sheriff's Office is holding a public forum next week on a proposed body camera policy.  The forum will take place on Wednesday, March 14 at 7 p.m. at the Anoka County Sheriff's Office in Andover.  The forum is an opportu...

New Sandwich Shop Opens in Anoka

A sandwich shop founded in Eau Claire, Wisconsin back in the 1980s will open its first location in the north metro of the Twin Cities this weekend.Two women have teamed up to open the newest location of Erbert and Gerbert's on Seventh Avenue in Anoka just...

Emergency Bridge Repairs Begin on Main Street

The temporary repairs to the closed section of westbound Main Street got underway this week and we're learning the roadway will reopen earlier than planned.On Thursday, the Anoka County Highway Department poured concrete for the bridge deck span which had...

For Anoka-Hennepin, Graduation Rates Are 'Personal'

More students than ever before donned a cap and gown in Minnesota, as high school graduation rates went up across the state. The Department of Education reports that 2017 was a record-setting year for Minnesota graduates.Since 2012, the average high schoo...

Hundreds Jump into Crooked Lake for a Good Cause

For the sixth straight year, hundreds of Minnesotans jumped into the icy waters of Crooked Lake to raise funds for Special Olympics Minnesota and its Anoka County chapter. Despite an air temperature of around 21°F on February 24^th, 575 people took...

Renovation Work Planned at Bunker Beach

Anoka County is spending some money on improvements at Bunker Beach.  The County Board recently awarded a contract for the work to Fischer Bros in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin for a little more than $300,000.  The project involves repaintin...

Sheriff James Stuart Planning Run for Third Term

Anoka County Sheriff James Stuart announced this week that he plans to seek a third term as the county's top cop.  Stuart, who was first elected back in 2010, says it's been a privilege to serve the citizens of Anoka County and says he looks forw...

Home Improvement Show March 10 in Andover

Here's a sign spring can't be too far off!  The 20th annual North Suburban Home Improvement Show is coming up on Saturday, March 10 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Andover YMCA Community Center.  In addition to 100 plus exhibitors, there wi...

Hanson Blvd. Railroad Overpass Project Starts in Spring

A project funded, in part, by action during last year's legislative session will get underway this spring.On Thursday night, dozens of people turned out at the final open house for the Hanson Boulevard grade separation project.  In addition to an...

Contract Awarded for Emergency Bridge Repairs

Construction is expected to begin next week on emergency repairs to the land bridge over Coon Creek on Main Street.  The westbound lanes of the roadway were shutdown late last month after an Anoka County Highway Department employee discovered a b...

Plans for Lions Coon Creek Park Redevelopment Moving Forward

The city is moving forward with plans to redevelop Lions Coon Creek Park next year... the last park to be renovated with proceeds from the park referendum.On Tuesday night, the City Council awarded the design service agreement to WSB and Associates Incorp...

District 11 Redrawing School Boundaries

Information sessions on proposed changes to school boundaries are kicking off across District 11.  In all, about 4,500 students would be impacted by the changes including some here in Coon Rapids.At the elementary level, around 600 students would...

Coon Rapids High School Gym Class 'On a Roll'

A Coon Rapids High School gym class was on a roll this week. Students who are used to running and jumping around the basketball court on their feet, tried to play the sport from a wheelchair.While the students practiced new skills, the true lesson of the ...

Parade of Homes 'Dream Home' in Coon Rapids

The annual Parade of Homes spring showcase gets underway this weekend... and one of five dream homes on the tour is right here in Coon Rapids.This Cape Code-Nantucket style home is located on the Mississippi River off Mississippi Drive and built by Parent...

City Council Gets Update on Port Riverwalk Redevelopment Plans

The City Council received an update this week on redevelopment plans for Port Riverwalk and it appears construction could start as soon as late summer.Centra Homes is still interested in constructing a housing project on the site which is on the south sid...

District 11 Names Principals for 2 New Elementary Schools

District 11 has selected the principals who will lead the two new elementary schools that are being constructed as part of the school bond referendum.Deb Shepard, who's served as principal at Rum River Elementary for the past decade, has been named princi...

Coon Rapids Teen Breaks Both Legs in Skiing Accident

 Like a lot of teenagers, Sam Halvorson is an active 14-year-old who plays sports. But he faced his toughest opponent in late January when he was involved in a skiing accident."Then this one comes up and out,” Sam Halvorson traced ...

Group Celebrates Olympics, Sports in the North Metro

The 2018 Winter Olympics are well underway and to celebrate the North Metro Mayors Association hosted a special event during the opening ceremonies.The event took place last Friday night at the Sticks and Stones Restaurant at Fogerty Arena in Blaine which...

Contract Awarded for Hanson Blvd. Railroad Overpass

Some good news when it comes to the cost of the project to add an overpass at the double railroad tracks on Hanson Boulevard.Last week, the Anoka County Board awarded the contract for the project to C-S McCrossan Construction Inc. in the amount of nearly ...

City Seeking Bids for 2018 Park Improvement Projects

The city is moving forward with plans to reconstruct two community parks this summer.On Tuesday night, the City Council accepted the plans and specifications for the 2018 park improvement projects and ordered the solicitation of bids for the work. &nb...

Stepping Stone Hosts Photo Shoot for Homeless Residents

Some special visitors made a stop at a local homeless shelter this week to give residents a boost in their job hunts.On Wednesday afternoon, Stepping Stone hosted "Headshots for the Homeless" at their emergency housing facility in Anoka. &nb...

City, Community Strength Foundation Purchasing Portable Stage

The city is getting a portable stage.  On Tuesday night, the City Council authorized the purchase of a $113,000 mobile stage and canopy.  It's a state-of-the-art acoustical shell with built-in lighting, stairways and more.  It w...

Enrollment Up at ARCC, ATC

Enrollment continues to climb at two local colleges.  At Anoka Ramsey Community College, enrollment is up 3.1% in the current semester compared to one year ago.  And over at the Anoka Technical College, enrollment for the spring semester...

Coon Rapids Girl Taking Keen Interest in 2018 Winter Olympics

Thousands of athletes from across the world are turning their Olympic dreams into reality this month as the 2018 winter games get underway in Pyeongchang, South Korea.Recently, a 10-year-old Coon Rapids girl got the chance of a lifetime with an Olympic sp...

Toys R Us No Longer Closing Blaine Location

The Toys R Us in Blaine won't be closing after all.  A company spokesperson says after additional negotiations, the Blaine location was removed from the list of store closings along with more than a dozen other locations.As part of its bankruptcy...

New Miss Coon Rapids Crowned at Annual Pageant

Erin O'Brien was crowned the new Miss Coon Rapids at the annual pageant on January 27 at Coon Rapids High School.  She grew up in Ohio and has spent the last few years working as a television reporter in Wisconsin.  Just six months ago, ...

Precinct Caucuses Taking Place February 6

The political process for the 2018 elections gets underway next week.  Precinct caucuses will take place the evening of Tuesday, February 6.  Caucuses are organized by the political parties to select candidates to run for office and dete...

New Ridership Record for Northstar Commuter Rail

Metro Transit is reporting record ridership on the Northstar Commuter Rail line last year.  Transit officials say there were nearly 794,000 ides in 2017 which is a 12 percent increase over the previous year.  Last year's ridership broke ...

Hundreds Turn Out for Community Wellness Day

Hundreds of people turned out last weekend for the annual "Community Wellness Day" put on by the Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Department.There was a lot to see and do last Saturday at Roosevelt Middle School in Blaine.  Dozens of ...

Home Improvement Liquidator Opens in Coon Rapids

A new retailer has opened its doors in Coon Rapids.Minnesota Home Outlet recently opened its third Twin Cities location in the old Circuit City spot in the Northtown Village Shopping Center.  And it's already exceeding expectations as far as cust...

Anoka Man Honored for Mental Health Work

A big honor recently for an Anoka man with many years of experience helping others in the mental health field.  Last week, Larry Weight received the annual "Healthy Body, Healthy Mind" award from the Mental Wellness Campaign for Anoka C...

Raising Cane's Planning Restaurant in Coon Rapids

A new restaurant is coming to Coon Rapids.On Thursday night, the Planning Commission approved the site plan for the project.  Raising Cane's plans to construct a nearly 3,000 square foot restaurant at the southeast corner of Round Lake Boulevard ...

Laundromat Replacing Old Pizza Hut Location

A coin operated laundromat is setting its sights on the old Pizza Hut location on Coon Rapids Boulevard.  On Thursday night, the Planning Commission approved design flexibility for the setback to be 34.74 feet from the boulevard with the addition...

VOA Senior Dining Program Ending in Coon Rapids

The Volunteers of America senior dining program is coming to an end in Coon Rapids.  VOA has partnered with the city for the past 30 years to provide meals for local seniors.  However, attendance has dwindled from nearly 50 seniors in th...

Anoka Co. Seeking Nominations for Public Health Awards

Anoka County is seeking nominations for public health awards.  There are two categories: youth individual or an organization that is youth-led, and adult individual or a group partnership, community coalition or organization.  Nomination...

Longtime Coon Rapids Resident Bruce Frank Dies at 77

A longtime Coon Rapids resident and champion of kids and the community has died.  Bruce Frank passed away Sunday at the age of 77.  Funeral services were held Wednesday at the Beth El Synagogue in St. Louis Park.  In addition to...

Homes Demolished for Hanson Blvd. Overpass Project

Preparation work continues for a new overpass that will be constructed at the Hanson Boulevard railroad tracks.Crews are demolishing a dozen homes off Hanson Boulevard to make way for the project.  Three homes on 108th Lane were removed this week...

'Top Secret Project' Makes Stop in Anoka County

A unique traveling exhibit that educates parents about potential dangers in their child's bedroom made a stop in District 11 this week.On Thursday night, the Educational Service Center in Anoka hosted the "Top Secret Project."  It gives...

New School Board Member Takes Oath of Office

There's a new face on the Anoka-Hennepin School Board this week.On Monday night, Anna Dirkswager took the oath of office during the first regular School Board meeting of the year.  She represents District Four, a seat previously held by William F...

Rockie Lynne Holding Benefit Concert for Homeless Veterans

Country music star Rockie Lynne is returning to the north metro this weekend to help raise money for homeless veterans.Lynne will headline a special musical event on Sunday, January 14 at the Fountains of Ramsey.  Doors open at 7 p.m. and the sho...

10th Annual Community Wellness Day on January 20th

If your New Year's resolutions involve getting healthier in 2018, the Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Department has an event for you.The 10th annual "Community Wellness Day" is taking place on Saturday, January 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Ro...

2 Families Displaced Following Separate House Fires

2018 is off to a tragic start for a Coon Rapids family who lost their home and pets in a New Year's Day fire.The flames broke out around noon at their trailer in the Creekside Mobile Home Park off Egret Boulevard.  Fire crews arrived to find the ...

Flu Prompts Allina Hospitals to Impose Visitor Restrictions

As cases of the flu become more widespread across the state, hospitals are taking action to protect patients and staff.  This week, Allina Health implemented visitor restrictions at hospitals system-wide but the restrictions were put in place at ...

American Legion Continues Search for New Home

The new year has the Coon Rapids American Legion continuing its pursuit of a new home.In mid-December, the Legion officially moved out of the building on Crooked Lake Boulevard after putting it up for sale.  The Northstar Community Church purchas...

Bikes 4 Kids Celebrates Big Milestone

A big milestone for a group of volunteers that helps kids get a bike of their own.In late December, the non-profit Bikes 4 Kids celebrated their 1,000th bike repaired, in a single year, at their bike shop in Ham Lake.  Since 2011, the organizatio...

Tree House Fundraiser Nets $50,000 for Hope 4 Youth

A local organization that helps homeless youth not only hit but far exceeded its fundraising goal last month.  Hope 4 Youth's first-ever "Out in the Cold" event raised $50,000, well above the $30,000 goal set for its inaugural year. &am...

Corrosion Discovered on Pedestrian Bridge

A pedestrian bridge in the southern part of the city has undergone a through inspection after corrosion was discovered about a month ago.The 50 foot long steel bridge spans Pleasure Creek on the north side of Coon Rapids Boulevard just west of Springbrook...

Toys for Joy Gives Back to Families in Need in Anoka County

For the past 31 years, Toys for Joy has been making the holidays a little brighter for local families in need.In this season of giving, the unexpected surprises can mean the most.Brandon Beseke, Toy for Joy Member asks, "Does your son have a bike by ...

One Year Later: Karen Sivanich Talks About Brain Cancer Diagnosis

How's Karen?  It's one of the most common questions we get asked at CTN.It's been just over a year since Karen Sivanich suffered a seizure while working at her other job.  The seizure led to the discovery that she had brain cancer. &...

Contract Awarded for Hanson Blvd. Water Tower Work

Plans are moving forward for the rehabilitation of the Hanson Boulevard water tower.  On Tuesday night, the City Council awarded the contract for the project to Maguire Iron Inc. in the amount of $224,000.  Chipping and peeling paint is ...

Plans for New Honda Dealership Moving Forward

Plans for a new Honda dealership in Coon Rapids are once again moving forward after the project hit a small bump in the road.This week, the City Council approved revised building elevations for the dealership which is planning to construct a 56,000 square...

Family Skate Night Debuts Dec. 28 at Sand Creek Park

Sand Creek Park will be hosting "Family Skate Nights" this winter.  The first one of the season is coming up on Thursday, December 28 from 5-8:30 p.m.  Concessions will also be available for purchase from 5-7:30 p.m.Sand Creek ...

Church Partners with Toys For Tots to Help Local Families

A local church partnered with Toys For Tots to help local families in need this holiday season.The Mission for Evangelism and Holistic Development, or MEHD, along with the House of Christ Assembly Church in Coon Rapids, distributed toys to nearly 300 fami...

Anoka-Hennepin School Board Adopts 2018 Tax Levy

The Anoka-Hennepin School Board adopted the 2018 tax levy this week and it's bigger next year following passage of the referendum questions last month.This year's tax levy is $92,162,559.  On Monday night, the School Board approved a tax levy of ...

'Hope 4 Youth' Holding Fundraiser in Tree House

A local organization that helps homeless youth in the community is looking for your support this weekend.Hope 4 Youth is hosting a new fundraiser called "Out in the Cold for Youth."  Dozens of people are taking turns spending time in th...

Mixed Doubles Curling Trials at Fogerty Arena

We're now less than two months away from the start of the 2018 Winter Olympics and some local athletes in the sport of curling are hoping to secure their ticket to the games in South Korea.This weekend, the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for Mixed Doubles Curli...

Anoka County Board Adopts 2018 Tax Levy

The Anoka County Board has also set its property tax levy for 2018.This year's Anoka County tax levy is $125,444,707.  The 2018 levy adopted by the board late last week is $130,082,235 or a 3.7 percent increase.  The tax levy will fund s...

Local Group Makes Big Donation to Jacob Wetterling Resource Center

A big boost this week for the Jacob Wetterling Resource Center.  On Tuesday night, the non-profit was presented with a check for $160,000 at the Tournament Players Club in Blaine.  Each year, the TPC Rose, a non-profit group of women aff...

New Trampoline Park Under Construction in Blaine

A new trampoline park is planning to open up shop near Northtown Mall.  Sky Zone is in the process of renovating the 37,000 square foot building that used to house Old Chicago.  In addition to freestyle jumping, there will be an area set...

Dozens Turn Out for Hanson Blvd. Reconstruction Open House

City and county officials hope a major reconstruction project on Hanson Boulevard will improve traffic flow north of Highway 10 and reduce the number of crashes.Dozens of residents turned out at the Coon Rapids City Center on Wednesday night to learn more...

Car Accidentally Drives onto Railroad Tracks, Struck by Train

A scare Monday night for the driver of a car that made a wrong turn and ended up on the double railroad tracks near Egret Boulevard.  Authorities say the driver, a 51-year-old St. Paul woman, was trying to turn onto Eagle Street but her GPS direc...

City Council Approves 2018 Budget, Tax Levy

The City Council approved the 2018 city budget and tax levy this week.The property tax levy for 2018 is $26,845,674, which is a 4.8% increase from this year's levy.  In addition to the final year of funding for the park referendum, the budget inc...

Text-to-911 Program Launches in Minnesota

This week a new program was announced throughout the state that allows deaf and hard of hearing people the ability to make an emergency call.911 has always been the first call made when there’s an emergency but now that call can be a text."...

New Sign for Pedestrian Crosswalk on Round Lake Blvd.

To clarify any confusion for drivers, a new sign has been installed at the pedestrian crosswalk signal on Round Lake Boulevard.  The light flashes yellow when a pedestrian pushes the button to cross the road.  A solid red light means mot...

Open House Planned for Hanson Blvd. Reconstruction Project

Anoka County will be hosting an open house next week on a big reconstruction project that will impact motorists here in Coon Rapids.In 2019, the county plans to reconstruct Hanson Boulevard from just north of Highway 10 to just south of Main Street. &...

Riverwind Building to be Saved, Remodeled

The entire building at Riverwind Park will be saved after all.As part of the park renovation project next year, the City Council decided earlier this year to salvage a portion of the existing building to continue to provide meeting space for groups who us...

Name Selected for New City Park

Boulevard Plaza.  That's the consensus from city leaders and staff on the new name for the area surrounding the Coon Rapids Ice Center which includes a new park.  Plaza indicates there's more than one thing going on in the space includin...

Rehabbed Building in Anoka Opens to Homeless Veterans

Today is the day dozens of homeless veterans finally have a place to call their own. After only two months, the Stan Kowalski building on the former state hospital grounds in Anoka is opening its doors.The building was approved by inspectors this week and...

Free Smoke Detectors Available from Coon Rapids Fire Department

The Coon Rapids Fire Department is teaming up with the American Red Cross this month to ensure all residents have working smoke detectors in their homes.  If you're in need of any, call the fire department at 763-767-6429 and schedule an appointm...

'A Nice Family Christmas' Being Staged at Bunker Hills

A holiday comedy for the whole family is about to take place at the Bunker Hills Event Center. It’s Christmas Eve in Minneapolis and a young Star Tribune newspaper reporter, on the brink of being fired, has been assigned a last chance story abou...

McCarthys Staging 'A Taxing Christmas' at Majestic Oaks

The McCarthys are back in action at the Seasons Dinner Theater with a new holiday show called "A Taxing Christmas."Greg Eiden plays Richard Cummings, a man who's not so merry when he moves into a 55-plus community and learns he's about to be aud...

Volunteers Rally to House Homeless Veterans

After weeks of renovations, countless man hours and dozens of donations, the first of three cottages at the old state hospital in Anoka is preparing to open its doors to homeless veterans.In just 14 days, this vacant building will become a home to 30 vete...

Group Aimed at Preventing Gun Violence Forms in North Metro

A national non-profit organization aimed at preventing gun violence is launching a local chapter here in the north metro.  Sandy Hook Promise is led by several family members who lost loved ones in the December 2012 school shooting in Newton, Con...

Mercy Hospital Celebrates Opening of New Main Entrance

After months of construction at Mercy Hospital, the new main entrance is open for business.On Thursday afternoon, Allina and Mercy Hospital officials were joined by foundation members and community partners to help celebrate the new enhanced front entranc...

Portable Planetarium Makes Stop at ARCC

Students at Anoka Ramsey Community College got an upclose and personal look at our universe this week. And they didn't have to travel billions of light years away.  The Exploradome, a portable planetarium, made a visit to the college on Thursday....

Riverwind Building Faces Uncertain Future

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- A city building, used throughout the year by several groups in the community, could soon be downsized or torn down.The Coon Rapids City Council is discussing what the future of the Riverwind Community Center should be, with upgrades ...

Klint, Manning Take Part in Final City Council Meeting

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- The end of the year is bringing change on the Coon Rapids City Council.On Tuesday night, Denise Klint and Ron Manning participated in their final City Council meeting representing the people of wards one and two.  Klint serv...

New Police Officer Takes the Oath of Office

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- The newest officer on the Coon Rapids police force took the oath of office this week.Mayor Jerry Koch read the oath of office to Officer Steve Minion during Tuesday night's City Council Meeting.  Minion was born and...

Toys for Joy Celebrates 30 Years of Giving Back

ANOKA, Minn. -- Thirty years ago, Toys for Joy began their mission to ensure that all children in Anoka County have gifts under the Christmas tree each year.This year, the number of families in need in Anoka County is down but that didn’t stop d...

Planning Commission Approves Station Area Plan

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- Planning is moving forward for a development project adjacent to the Northstar Commuter Rail station in Coon Rapids.Following its most recent meeting, the Planning Commission is recommending approval of the station area plan submitte...

Business in Evergreen Business Park Expanding

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- A company in the Evergreen Business Park is expanding.  The Planning Commission recently approved the site plan for an addition at American Preclinical Services at 8960 Evergreen Boulevard.  The company, which does ...

Vicky Wendel Retires from Anoka County Historical Society

ANOKA, Minn. -- A woman who knows a thing or two about the history of Anoka County is herself making history.Vicky Wendel is retiring from her job as program manager at the Anoka County Historical Society where she's officially worked for the pas...

ACBC Food Shelf Receives Some Holiday Help

ANOKA, Minn. -- The holidays are a time of giving, and here at the Anoka County Brotherhood Council food shelf, the holidays just got a little brighter for those in need.The Champlin American Legion presented ACBC with a $500 check this week as the food s...

Survey: Residents Concerned About Class Sizes in District 11

ANOKA, Minn. -- A new survey shows a growing concern about class sizes in the Anoka Hennepin School District. In the survey, recently conducted by The Morris Leatherman Company, 20 percent of respondents said large class sizes was the most seriou...

CTN's Karen Sivanich Diagnosed with Brain Cancer

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- We want to take a moment to share with you some personal news involving one of our CTN family members.  Karen has been absent from her co-anchoring duties on CTN News for the last month.  She suffered a seizure in t...

Alexandra House Receives $150,000 Donation

BLAINE, Minn. -- A big boost this week for a program that helps victims of domestic and sexual violence.On Tuesday evening, the Alexandra House accepted a check for $150,000 from the TPC Rose, a non-profit group of women affiliated with the Tournament Pla...

Schulte Named 2nd Vice President of AMC

ANOKA, Minn. -- Anoka County commissioner Scott Schulte is undertaking a new role in 2017.  Last week, Schulte was elected "Second Vice President" of the Association of Minnesota Counties at the organization's annual conference. &nb...

Local Improv Troupe Offers Family-Friendly Laughs

ANOKA, Minn. -- An improv comedy troupe from Coon Rapids is used to performing for a 21-and-older crowd, but a new audience is challenging them to be both funny and family-friendly.‘Fantastic Voyage’ troupe member Travis Klinkner said ...

New Senior Apartment Project Makes Debut

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- The newest affordable senior housing complex in Coon Rapids is open for business.Last Friday, the River North Apartments, which are located adjacent to the Coon Rapids Ice Center, opened to the public.  The 167 unit, senior ...

Main Street Reconstruction Planned in 2018

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- A roadway on the western side of town could soon see an upgrade.  The county is currently in the process of acquiring right-of-way property for the reconstruction of Main Street between Wedgewood Drive in Coon Rapids and 7th...

New Vehicle Storage Building Almost Finished

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- District 11's new vehicle storage building in nearing completion.  Work on the new building, which is located on the grounds of Northdale Middle School, started back in October.  The new $2.5 million facili...

'HOPE Place' Opens for Homeless Youth in Coon Rapids

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- After many efforts to find a building, raise funds, make a design, tear down walls and construct new ones, HOPE 4 Youth's transitional housing facility ‘HOPE Place’ is officially open in Coon Rapids.A ded...

CRHS Launching New Specialty Program Next Year

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- A new program at Coon Rapids High School will offer college credit to students who want to pursue a career in engineering.  The new Center for Biomedical Sciences and Engineering will start to offer engineering courses next ...

Pearl Harbor Exhibit Highlights Anoka County’s Role in WWII

ANOKA, Minn. - The Anoka County Historical Society has unveiled a new exhibit in remembrance of the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor."Getting it Done: Anoka County's Answer to World War II" highlights the county's...

City Council Adopts 2017 Budget, Tax Levy

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- The Coon Rapids City Council adopted the 2017 budget and tax levy this week.The total levy is set at $25.613 million, which is 2.97% higher than this year.  The overall city budget is around $76.5 million.  Once aga...

Civic Center Renovations Nearly Complete

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- The finishing touches are being put on a major remodeling project at the Coon Rapids Civic Center.For the last five weeks, crews have been working to give the 20 year old banquet facility a facelift.  There's new ce...

New Church Planning to Open in Coon Rapids

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- A new church could be constructed on the site of an old grocery store in Coon Rapids.The Planning Commission recently approved the site plan and conditional use permit for Answer In Jesus Church at 105th and Foley Boulevard. &nbs...

New Cub Foods Store Opens in Blaine

BLAINE, Minn. -- A new grocery store has opened its doors in Blaine.  The new 45,000 square foot Cub Foods store in Oak Park Plaza off University Avenue officially opened to the public on Thursday.  The center used to be home to a Jubile...

Anoka Tech Auto and Manufacturing Sees $2 Million in Upgrades

ANOKA, Minn. -- After years of pushing for more funding, the State Legislature awarded Anoka Technical College $2,114,000 to upgrade its Automotive and Manufacturing Hub.The improvements, which are nearing completion, have been underway much of the year.A...

Diversity Group Holds Second Meeting on Police-Community Relations

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- For the second time this fall, a diverse group of community members has met to discuss police-community relations in Coon Rapids.More than two dozen people attended Thursday night's Transformative Circle meeting at the YMCA....

Coon Rapids Kiwanis Club Donates AEDs to Local Groups

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- The Coon Rapids Kiwanis Club made a heart-felt donation this week.Five Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) were given to five worthy businesses and clubs in Coon Rapids and Anoka.  They include: The Well Sports Tavern, ...

Coon Rapids Firefighters Publish 2017 Calendar

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- We're used to seeing firefighters in action, rescuing people, extinguishing fires and keeping the community safe.  Now, get ready to see them in a whole new light."I just threw it out there. I said, 'T...

License Plate Designed by Coon Rapids Woman Available for Purchase

ST. PAUL, Minn. -- A license plate designed by a Coon Rapids woman is now available for purchase.The plate went on sale Thursday morning at license centers across the state.  This summer, Michelle Vesaas won a contest to get her artwork featured ...

'A Don't Hug Me Christmas Carol' Opens at Bunker Hills

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- The Bunker Hills Event Center is hosting a musical comedy for the holidays."A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol" opened last week and continues through January 1st.  Much of the action takes place in a small t...

'Three More Wishes for Christmas' Opens at Majestic Oaks

HAM LAKE, Minn. -- The Seasons Dinner Theatre is kicking off the holidays with a sequel to one of their beloved holiday musicals."Three More Wishes for Christmas" brings Tim Homly back to the stage to reprise his role from the popular 1993 show ...

Police Chase Ends with Suspect Shot in Anoka

ANOKA, Minn. --  A police chase in the north metro Thursday afternoon ended with the suspect being shot by police.It happened before 1 p.m. after a man allegedly shot another man near a gas station in East Bethel and then took off.The chase, whic...

CRHS Freshmen Take Part in 'Respect Retreat'

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- Bullying is a problem schools across the country face every year.  Here in the Twin Cities, there is a local non-profit organization working to try to change that.On Thursday, the freshman class at Coon Rapids High School go...

City Hosts Townhome Association Forum

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- Board members from townhome associations around the city gathered for a special meeting on Monday night.The city hosted a "Townhome Association Forum"  in the council chambers at the Coon Rapids City Center. &n...

Volunteers Honored at Commission Appreciation Dinner

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- Community members who strive to make Coon Rapids a better place to live, work and play were thanked for their service Wednesday evening.Members of the City's various commissions were recognized during a dinner at the Bunker ...

CenturyLink Opens Retail Store in Coon Rapids

COON RAPIDS, Minn. -- If you're considering CenturyLink for high speed internet or cable service... you don't have to travel far to learn more about their products.Today, CenturyLink opened a retail store at 13060 Riverdale Drive in Rive...