News Flash

New Main Entrance Opens at Coon Rapids High School

After months and months of construction, work is nearly complete on the first phase of renovations at Coon Rapids High School.On Thursday morning, the new front entrance opened to students.  The new entrance has been under construction for more t...

CRHS Students Take Part in Respect Retreat

Thanks to a generous partnership between the Coon Rapids Rotary Club and the High School, students are paying closer attention to how they respect themselves and their classmates.  CTN's Jennifer Anderson was there as students participated in a d...

Students Get Lesson from Coon Rapids Firefighters

Hundreds of Coon Rapids elementary school students were visited by the Coon Rapids Fire Department and Sparky the Fire Dog between October 7^th and 11^th.Every year, the fire department works to share important fire safety messages during Fire Prevention we...

David Law Named 'Superintendent of the Year'

A big honor this week for Anoka-Hennepin Schools superintendent David Law.  On Monday, Law was named "Superintendent of the Year" by the Minnesota Association of School Administrators during the organization's annual fall conference. It...

Chili Fundraiser Helps Local Food Shelf

The Coon Rapids Lions Club held a chili fundraiser for the ACBC Food Shelf last weekend.The event at Alloy Brewing filled nearly every seat as local lions served red and white chili along with hot dogs.  A total of 126 pounds of canned and dry go...

Hanson Reopening Delayed, More Construction Planned

The end is in sight for drivers who are waiting for Hanson Boulevard to reopen, but more construction is on deck.  This week, the City Council approved a joint powers agreement with Anoka County for the next round of road construction along the b...

Rescuers Who Saved Little Boy Honored

A day of fun at Bunker Beach this summer took a scary turn for a little boy and his family but this story has a happy ending thanks to the lifeguards and a park patron.On Tuesday night, six people received a "Citizen's Award of Merit" for jumpin...

Longtime Communications Chief Retires from National Sports Center

After more than 28 years with the National Sports Center in Blaine, Chief Communications Officer Barclay Kruse has retired. Friends and colleges gathered on October 3rd for a retirement party at the Victory Links Golf Course.Kruse said his job was rewardi...

Anoka Co. Board Adopts 2020 Preliminary Tax Levy

Anoka County is planning to hire more than a half dozen more 911 operators next year to help deal with an increasing number of calls.On Tuesday, the Anoka County Board adopted the preliminary property tax levy for 2020.  The levy will increase ne...

A Little Rain Doesn't Stop Coon Rapids 'Love My Pet Fair'

Riverview Park was the place to be for pet lovers and their furry pawed friends last Saturday.For the fourth straight year, the Coon Rapids "Love My Pet Fair" brought together pet friendly products, services education and fun competitions. &...

CTN Wins 10 National Awards in Tampa, FL

A record haul for CTN at a national video awards ceremony this week in Tampa, Florida.Station manager Eric Strouse accepted 10 awards on behalf of the station at the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors annual conference. &...

Resource Fair Helps Prevent, End Homelessness

Preventing and ending homelessness was the goal of a one-day resource fair in Blaine.On September 19, Anoka County Community Connect brought together employers, health providers and close to 40 other groups or vendors who share that goal.“As we ...

Watershed Walk Highlights Creek Improvements

More than 4,200 feet of eroding stream bank in Coon Rapids just got a major makeover.  Residents had the chance to take a walking tour of the Sand Creek rehabilitation area to see a variety of improvements designed to reduce erosion and enhance t...

Barry ZeVan 'The Weatherman' Visits Seniors in Coon Rapids

A well-known weatherman who once graced television sets in the Twin Cities made a stop in Coon Rapids this week.Many people fondly remember, Barry ZeVan, the weatherman, who was the guest speaker at the 20th annual Senior Safety Camp on Wednesday. &nb...

Coon Rapids Remembers Victims of 9/11 Attacks

On the 18^th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, communities across the country pause to mourn the nearly three thousand people killed that day.In Coon Rapids, the American flag flew high over the main street bridge for the 11^th year. It&...

LWV Hosts Forum on 2020 Census

Preparations are underway for the upcoming 2020 Census which is critical in determining our representation in Congress and the amount of federal funding our state and local governments receive.On Monday evening, the local chapter of the League of Women Vo...

Open House Set for Hwy. 10 Corridor Improvements

An open house will take place next week for residents to learn more about several planned transportation projects along the Highway 10 Corridor in Anoka.  The event is Wednesday, September 18 from 4-7:30 p.m. at Green Haven Golf Course.  ...

Local Projects Vie for State Funding on Bonding Tour

With the second-largest nursing program in the state, Anoka-Ramsey Community College put their flagship offering on display. Members of the House Capital Investment Committee streamed into Anoka-Ramsey on Wednesday to see the nursing and business programs...

City Requests State Funding for Pedestrian Bridge

Members of the House Capital Investment Committee stopped in Coon Rapids on Wednesday during a three day tour of Minnesota. State representatives heard presentations about potential projects to add to next year's bonding bill, including a proposed pedestr...

One-Handed Basketball Player Speaks at Pep Fest

Kevin Atlas was born with only one hand, but made headlines for playing Division One basketball and going pro in Asia.  Now he travels around the world as a motivational speaker representing Varsity Brands. Atlas helped students at Coon Rapids Hi...

Lyric Arts Theater Opens New Season with 'Bright Star'

For the first time, the Broadway musical “Bright Star” is being performed by a professional cast in Minnesota. They’re taking center stage at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, a theater with more than two decades of history in An...

Portion of Foley Blvd. Closing Following Labor Day

Work on the Sand Creek culvert system will force the closer of a portion of Foley Boulevard after Labor Day.Starting September 3, Foley Boulevard will be closed between Northdale Boulevard and 121st Avenue.  The Sand Creek culvert system is being...

Coon Rapids Middle School Adds 450 Students

Preparing for a new school year always offers a fresh start. That is especially true this fall in the Anoka-Hennepin School District. Dozens of construction projects are wrapping up, as teachers and staff get ready to welcome students back.  

At C...

Singer Kat Perkins Stars in Back to School Video

The school district got a little star power for this year's Back to School video.  Singer and songwriter Kat Perkins, who reached the semi-finals of NBC's "The Voice" back in 2014, belted out a few notes as students and staff performed....

Public Invited to Info. Session on 2020 Census

Preparations are underway for the 2020 Census which is critical in determining our representation in Congress and the amount of federal funding our state and local governments receive.The local chapter of the League of Women Voters is hosting an informati...

Progress Report on Hanson Construction

It's been almost six months since Hanson Boulevard closed for construction.  The shutdown has been a pain at times for the 13,000 drivers who normally use Hanson Boulevard to cross the railroad tracks between Northdale Boulevard and Coon Rapids B...

Sports Dome Planned at National Sports Center

The National Sports Center in Blaine is building a heated dome to meet demand for indoor sports fields. Construction of the nearly $5 million project begins soon and will be financed entirely by NSC.  The indoor space will be larger than a soccer...

Hockey Camp with Ties to MN Wild Returns to Coon Rapids

Seventy students signed up for the Golden Horseshoe Hockey School at the Coon Rapids Ice Center. Minnesota Wild head coach Bruce Boudreau founded the school. The five-day camp teaches boys and girls between the ages of six and fourteen new skills with fou...

Local Veterans Honored with Free Day of Fishing

On August 14, the 74th anniversary of Japan’s surrender and the end of WWII, a couple from Ramsey invited wounded veterans to their property for a free day of fishing. It was the fifth year for “Veteran’s Day at the Lake.”John and Bonnie Enstrom say veter...

Crooked Lake Water Testing

The City of Coon Rapids has begun testing for bacteria at Crooked Lake (13180 Crooked Lake Blvd.) as part of a new initiative to ensure water safety. The City began this new testing program Monday, July 29.

The new water testing is being conducted because:...

Superheroes Join Forces to Help Combat Domestic Violence

Both children and adults embraced their inner superhero in Anoka on August 3rd.The inaugural “Heroes Walk 4 Women” supports Alexandra House, a shelter for victims of violence that also provides education and advocacy for women and thei...

Thousands Gather for Night to Unite

The first Tuesday in August has become an annual night to party. Coon Rapids Police and Fire made the rounds to approximately 114 block parties participating in Night to Unite this year. The mission was to make connections.

“Obviously we have to ...

New Hands-Free Law Takes Effect in Minnesota

Statewide statistics reveal that distracted driving contributed to more than 60,000 crashes during the past five years. A new hands-free law began this week, allowing drivers only one screen touch to activate a cell phone while driving. Law enforcement ho...

House Fire Proves Importance of 'Close Before You Doze'

A house fire late last week is driving home an important lesson on why you should always sleep with your bedroom door closed.The fire broke out after lightning struck this home on the 1300 block of 129th Avenue around 6 a.m. July 26.  Firefighter...

3 School Board Seats on General Election Ballot

Filings also opened this week for several school board seats up for re-election this fall.  All three seats on the ballot cover portions of Coon Rapids.  District One is currently represented by Tom Heidemann, District Two is held by Mar...

Cleanup of Hazardous Waste to Begin in August at Andover Landfill

The cleanup of a hazardous waste disposal pit in Andover is set to begin as soon as early August.On July 23^rd, Minnesota’s governor and other elected officials spoke to the latest benchmark in the multi-million dollar project while visiting the ...

Free Vision Screenings for Children at Anoka County Fair

For the first time, Lions Club members are providing free vision screenings for children at the Anoka County Fair.Families attending the fair will find carnival rides, grandstand events, live music, food vendors and now they can visit the newest booth &am...

Allina Opens New Call Center in Coon Rapids

As Allina Health makes a move to centralize it's customer service, it proves to be a boon for Coon Rapids.

The health care company built out a new 58,000 square foot space in the city for its new Customer Experience Center.  In addition to creatin...

Kids Learn Important Lessons at Summer Safety Camp

Dozens of students entering 4^th and 5^th grade are better prepared for emergencies at home after completing a summer safety camp. Two full days of activities on July 16^th & 17^th prepared them for a wide range of emergencies, including escaping a burnin...

Target USA Cup Soccer Tournament Underway in Blaine

With 1,152 teams coming together, the largest youth soccer tournament in the western hemisphere turned 35 this year.  USA Cup Soccer got major support from a new title sponsor - Target.  The retail giant created the 'Target Village' with...

Red Cross Puts Out Plea for Blood Donations

The Red Cross is putting out an urgent call for blood donations saying there's less than a three-day supply of most blood types.Due to the 4th of July holiday, there were 450 fewer blood drives organized by businesses and other community groups last week ...

Anonymous Donor Makes Makes Big Pledge for Haven for Heroes

An anonymous donor has pledged to match hundreds of thousands of dollars of donations to a local organization that helps homeless veterans.Back in April, we profiled Haven for Heroes, a non-profit organization at the old state hospital in Anoka.  ...

3M Open Wraps Up Inaugural Tournament in Blaine

The first-ever 3M Open is now history and a new golfer on the PGA Tour took the tournament by storm.20-year-old Matthew Wolff eagled the final hole on Sunday to win the 3M Open by one stroke in just his third professional start.Tens of thousands of golf f...

Perfect Weather for First 'Summer in the City' Meeting

“Summer in the City” events have returned to Coon Rapids parks. It’s an opportunity for residents to speak directly with city staff and council members while having fun outside.The first neighborhood meeting was held at River...

Miss Coon Rapids Wins Miss Minnesota Crown

Our Miss Coon Rapids has a new title following the state pageant last weekend.Kathryn Kueppers was crowned Miss Minnesota last Saturday night at the annual scholarship pageant in Eden Prairie.  More than 20 young ladies competed for the title. &a...

World's Best Golfers Heading to Blaine for 3M Open

Final preparations are underway for the inaugural 3-M Open at the TPC Twin Cities.On Thursday afternoon, we found dozens of workers busy at the golf course in Blaine setting up everything from platforms between skyboxes to scaffolding.  Also pret...

Connexus Energy Marks 'National Pollinator Week'

Connexus Energy held an event this week for its members to celebrate everything under the sun.The theme was "Bees, Butterflies and Batteries" at the solar plus battery storage project that went online last winter.  According to Connexus...

Lots of Fun at Summer Community Ed. Classes

School is out for the summer but that hasn’t stopped kids in pre-school to eighth grade from learning new skills, making friends and having fun.Anoka-Hennepin Community Education has wrapped up its first week of summer programs at Oak View Middl...

Jerry Soma Retires After 52 Years at Anoka County

Looking back isn't something Jerry Soma does often. The retiring county administrator experienced many years of growth and change within Anoka County. But closing out a career that spans five decades is cause for reflection.

“I really believe in ...

Honoring Anoka County Judge Tammi Fredrickson

Some sad news this week as we learned of the death of Anoka County judge Tammi Fredrickson, who previously served as Coon Rapids City Attorney.Fredrickson died at the age of 53 after a long battle with cancer.  CTN's Jennifer Anderson has more on...

Contracts Awarded for Andover Community Center Expansion

After months and months of discussion and debate, plans for a big expansion to the Andover YMCA Community Center are moving forward.This week, the Andover City Council awarded contracts for the project which is expected to break ground in July.  ...

Preparations Underway for Inaugural 3M Open in Blaine

Preparations are in full swing for the inaugural 3M Open at the TPC Twin Cities the first week of July.It will be the first regular stop in Minnesota for the PGA Tour in five decades and large crowds are expected.  Tents and other facilities are ...

Paulson Inducted Into National Wrestling Hall of Fame

A big honor last weekend for 1996 Olympic silver medalist Brandon Paulson.  Paulson was inducted into the "National Wrestling Hall of Fame" during a special ceremony at Oklahoma State University.  Paulson was born in Coon Rapid...

Schulte Named Chair of the Anoka County Board

There's a few changes on the Anoka County Board following the appointment of board chair Rhonda Sivarajah as county administrator.   She stepped down as board chair on Tuesday and begins her new duties on June 12th.Scott Schulte, who's been vice ...

Mother Baby Center Opens 'Milk Depot' at Mercy Hospital

New mothers now have a local option for donating excess breast milk.  The Mother Baby Center at Mercy Hospital is now an official milk depot.Mercy Hospital began accepting donated breast milk from mothers one month ago.  As a milk depot,...

Community Ed. Department Offers Summer Programs for Kids

The Anoka-Hennepin Community Education Department is gearing up for a busy summer of programming for area youth.The programs are for students in preschool through eighth grade.  There's lots to choose from including sports and recreation, robotic...

Hundreds Attend Public Works Open House

The city of Coon Rapids kicked off National Public Works week with an open house Saturday, May 18. The annual event at the Department of Public Works is an opportunity to educate both adults and children about a wide range of city services.“I look at it a...

6 Coon Rapids Homes Showcased on Home Remodeling Tour

Six Coon Rapids homes opened to the public this past weekend for the annual Home Remodeling Tour.  CTN's Jennifer Anderson visited a few to find out what inspired the homeowners and their projects.

MN United Continue Training at National Sports Center

Despite a new stadium, the Minnesota United will continue training at the National Sports Center for years to come.  Both entities made the announcement on Thursday.  The Minnesota United have a world-class locker room and training facil...

Sivarajah Named Next Anoka County Administrator

Anoka County Board chairwoman Rhonda Sivarajah will become the next county administrator.  On a 4-2 vote at the Anoka County Board meeting Tuesday morning, Sivarajah was appointed to the position effective May 31.  She was one of three f...

Fallen Officers Honored During Police Week Service

Communities across the country paused to remember all law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty during National Peace Officers Week. At the Anoka County Government center on May 15, fallen Anoka County officers were honored for the 23^rd year.&...

Jell-O Cookoff Showcases Colorful Creations

Naked Jell-O thumb wrestling at fire station three in Blaine last Saturday kicked off the first ever Anoka County Historical Society Jell-O Cookoff.The fundraiser also tested Jell-O tossing skills and trivia.  A Jell-O historian from North Dakota...

Cleanup of Hazardous Waste to Begin at Andover Landfill

After 47 years in the ground, hazardous waste in an Andover landfill will be removed this summer. Final funding for the $22 million dollar project was secured last month.The Waste Disposal Engineering Landfill just south of Andover Boulevard and west of H...

Construction Work Ramps Up on Hanson Blvd.

Construction work is ramping up on a project that will put a bridge over the railroad tracks on Hanson Boulevard.On Thursday afternoon, we found crews working on the underground utilities along Hanson Boulevard.  They are removing the existing wa...

Firestoppers Installed in Coon Rapids Apartment Buildings

The Coon Rapids Fire  Department took steps this week to prevent kitchen fires in some local apartment buildings without sprinklers.Fire inspector Robert Erickson installed the stovetop firestoppers in all 192 kitchens at Heritage Heights Apartme...

Passing Train Sparks Several Grass Fires

A spark from a passing train is believed to have ignited several grass fires in the area Tuesday afternoon.The flames were first reported around 3:20 p.m. near 85th Avenue and the railroad tracks.  Moments later another fire was reported in the a...

High School Graduation Rates Hit Record High

High school graduation rates hit a record high last year in Minnesota.83.2% of the Class of 2018 graduated across the state.  In the Anoka-Hennepin School District, 86.6% of high school seniors graduated, up more than three percent from the previ...

Families Celebrate 'Gift of Life' at Mercy Hospital

Mercy Hospital hosted a special ceremony this week to celebrate the "Gift of Life."Dozens of people gathered Thursday night to honor family members who died last year and donated their organs, tissue and eyes to others in need.  Their n...

Session Teaches Parents About the Dangers of Teen Vaping

The Anoka-Hennepin School District is working to reverse a dangerous trend, teens using electronic cigarettes.The district’s director of student services says “vaping” by youth has increased more than 50% in the last three ye...

District 11 Holding Information Session on Teen Vaping

There's a growing problem parents need to be aware of: teen vaping.  According to the FDA, vaping among high schoolers has increased 78 percent in just the last year alone.Parents are invited to learn more about the problem at an informational ev...

Despite Snow, Some Thinking About Gardening Season

A few days before an April snowstorm blanketed Coon Rapids in snow, close to 150 people were learning how to prepare for the growing season.The 13^th annual Home Landscaping and Garden Fair returned to the Bunker Hills Activity Center on April 6^th with mor...

DECA Members Hold Kickball Marathon at CRHS

A group of 20 Coon Rapids High School students working to attend out of state leadership events have a story to tell for the rest of their lives.For 24 hours straight, students with DECA played a continuous game of kickball.  The game kicked off ...

Rescuers Honored for Saving Life of Coon Rapids Man

The rescuers involved in saving the life of a Coon Rapids man were honored this week.They received certificates of appreciation during Tuesday night's City Council Meeting and also posed for a photo with the 32-year-old man they saved back in December. &a...

Internal Search Planned for County Administrator Position

The Anoka County Board has come to a consensus on how to go about replacing the county administrator who's retiring next month.  In a work session Tuesday, members agreed to post the top job internally, leaving it open to current and some former ...

Distracted Driving Crackdown April 8-30

Law enforcement agencies across the state will be stepping up enforcement of distracted driving in the coming weeks.  The official crackdown starts April 8 and continues until the end of the month.  Officers will be working overtime look...

Debate Over Hiring Process for New County Administrator

A debate over the process of appointing a new county administrator spilled over into the Anoka County Board Meeting this week.Members of the public turned out to watch to Board vote on several resolutions for the county administrator position.  C...

Students Take Part in Manufacturing Career Intent Signing Day

For the third straight year, the Anoka Technical College hosted a "manufacturing career intent signing day" this week.The Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce joined with industry partners and the Anoka Technical College to promote careers in the manu...

Meals on Wheels a Lifeline for Local Seniors

For the past four decades, Meals on Wheels in Coon Rapids has been the answer for those needing a warm healthy meal delivered to their door.“The bulk of our population are elderly who just need help doing things but we do have a handful of young...

Amtrak Declares Interest in NLX Passenger Rail Project

Amtrak publicly declared interest this week in developing a passenger rail line between the Twin Cities and the north shore.  During a news conference in Duluth on Monday, a vice president with Amtrak said the company planned to work with local o...

Open House Set for Hwy. 65 Transportation Study

An open house is set for a study underway of the Highway 65 corridor from Spring Lake Park to Ham Lake.  It will take place Monday, March 18 from 4-7 p.m. at the National Sports Center.  Those in attendance will learn about the study and...

Phil Mickelson Commits to 3M Open

Big news this week from the PGA Tour.  Golfing great Phil Mickelson has officially committed to playing the 3M Open in Blaine this summer.  He's the fourth player currently among the top 20 in the world rankings to commit to the tourname...

Transportation Funding Debate Comes to the North Metro

A House legislative committee traveled to Blaine this week as local lawmakers and public officials made the case to direct more transportation funding to high-traffic roads in the north metro.The House Transportation Finance and Policy Division listened t...

Makeup Day Added to School Calendar

It's not the news many students wanted to hear but their spring break is being shortened thanks to Mother Nature.  District 11 students were scheduled to get seven days off of school this month.  But the school board has added back March...

District 11 Assoc. Superintendent Leaving for New Job

A member of the Anoka-Hennepin Schools leadership team is leaving District 11 for a new job.  Cory McIntyre has been named the new superintendent of Osseo Area Schools.  McIntyre currently serves Anoka-Hennepin as the associate superinte...

Hundreds Take the Plunge in Crooked Lake

Hundreds of people took a leap into the icy waters of Crooked Lake February 23^rd -all in support of special Olympic Minnesota.For the eight year, the Polar Plunge returned to Coon Rapids, raising close to $150,000 for more than 8,000 athletes in Minnesota...

You're Hired: District 11 Hosts Job Fair

The Anoka-Hennepin School District has  lots of jobs available and they're looking to hire you.District 11 held a job fair on Tuesday for a number of year-round, operational positions.  There are job openings in technology for para-educa...

Mad Hatter Owners Purchasing Historic Home in Anoka

A historic home in the city of Anoka is set to get new owners.Currently, the owners of the Mad Hatter restaurant and tea house lease the property from the city.  But this week, the Anoka City Council approved a purchase agreement for the sale of ...

Northstar Ridership Down 1% in 2018

The Metropolitan Council released transit ridership data this week and it shows a slight drop in rides on the Northstar Commuter Rail line last year.  In 2018, there were more than 787,000 rides on Northstar trains which is a one percent decrease...

Village 10 Chipotle Opening February 20

It's the news some people have been waiting to hear for months now.  This week, company officials announced that the new Chipotle in Village 10 will open to the public on February 20.  The new restaurant will be open daily from 10:45 a.m...

Anoka County Polar Plunge Happening February 23

We're now just a week away from seeing hundreds of brave souls plunge into Crooked Lake for a good cause.  The eighth annual "Anoka County Polar Plunge" will be held Saturday, February 23rd at 1 p.m.  So far, about $67,000 has ...

Students Stage 'Little Shop of Horrors' at ARCC

A sci-fi musical hits the stage at Anoka-Ramsey Community College this weekend with a 1960s musical score.The stage production of "Little Shop of Horrors" debuts tonight with the first of five shows.  It's a dark comedy with high-energy...

Fat Tire Biking Comes to Anoka County Parks

In the past, exploring local parks in the winter meant strapping on snow shoes or a pair of skis, now there’s another option: fat tire biking. Anoka County Parks is working to introduce more people to the sport through a class on basic riding sk...

Winter Clothing Donations Needed

While people dig out from the heavy snow this week, a local food shelf is asking for help. ACBC Food Shelf in Anoka is in need of winter clothing donations.ACBC serves approximately 30-35,000 people each year. Between the polar vortex and the winter storm...

School Hours Changing for Some Elementary Schools in 2019-20

Due to changing boundaries, 11 Anoka-Hennepin elementary schools will be getting new hours in the fall.  Here in Coon Rapids, four elementary schools are affected.  Eisenhower will start 35 minutes later, Hoover will start 25 minutes lat...

Snowflake Days Medallion Found Near Water Treatment Plant

The hunt for the elusive Snowflake Days medallion is over after 14 clues were given out.Early Friday morning, a photo was posted on the Snowflake Days website showing the winners with the medallion.  It was found near the water plant across from ...

Coon Rapids Middle School Hosts Community Wellness Day

The 11^th annual Community Wellness Day returned to Coon Rapids Middle School January 26 offering free classes and information on how to improve your health.Anoka-Hennepin Schools Community Education wants the community to be able to see the resources avai...

Zac Brown Band Performing at 3M Open

A big announcement this week from organizers of the 3M Open, the new PGA Tour event that's replacing the 3M Championship in Blaine.  The Grammy award winning rock group Zac Brown Band will be performing a live concert at the National Sports Cente...

Students Get Sobering Lesson from Recovering Addicts

Students at Coon Rapids High School are learning the dangers of drug and alcohol from peers close to their own age. A substance use and prevention program called “Know the Truth” brings real life stories of addiction to the classroom.&...

Allina Health Implements Visitor Restrictions Due to Flu

As we head into peak flu season, Allina is taking precautions to protect patients and staff members.  This week, the health care system implemented visitor restrictions at more than a dozen facilities including Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids and t...

Demolition Ceremony Marks Start of New Allina Customer Experience Center

Allina executives and local leaders helped kick off construction of a new Customer Experience Center in Coon Rapids this morning.  Allina Health is remodeling a 58,000 square foot building in the Evergreen Business Park.  The center, whi...

Eisenhower Elementary Launching Gifted Learners Program

A new school within a school program will launch this fall in Coon Rapids.  Eisenhower Elementary will open a new gifted learners program for students in grades three through five.  It will serve students who test in the top one to two p...

The 'Donut Boy' Arrives in Coon Rapids

With a “ready, set, go!” A doughnut-eating contest ensued inside the Coon Rapids Police Department pitting Coon Rapids police officer Bryan Platz against "the donut boy." Eleven-year-old Florida-native, Tyler Carach,...

Mayor, Council Members Sworn in for New Terms

The City Council met for its first meeting of the New Year this week.  And following an election year, there was some official business to take care of right away.Jerry Koch was sworn in for his second term as mayor on Monday night.  He ...

Mandy Meisner Takes Seat on Anoka County Board

Mandy Meisner was sworn in as the new District Four representative.  She replaces longtime commissioner Jim Kordiak who retired last month.  Meisner is the first person of color elected to the Anoka County Board.  She won nearly...

No Rate Increase for Connexus Energy Customers

Good news in the new year for Connexus Energy customers.  The electric co-op won't be raising rates in 2019.  It's the second straight year Connexus Energy has held electric rates steady.  The co-op says new initiatives are help...

Local Lawmaker Becomes House Speaker

As the Minnesota House of Representatives chose Melissa Hortman to be the new speaker of the House this week, voices of mothers rang through the State Capitol.A sea of red-shirted moms chanted and toted signs demanding gun control outside the chamber. And...

Upcoming Open Houses on School Math, Health Materials

District 11 is looking for your input on new classroom materials for elementary math.  An open house is planned on Tuesday, January 15 from 5-7 p.m. at the Educational Service Center in Anoka.  Those in attendance will get an opportunity...

The Potent Drugs Behind the Opioid Epidemic

The Anoka County Sheriff's Office responds to a drug overdose case nearly every day. A string of those overdoses proved deadly in the final weeks of 2018. From December 16 through December 27, five deaths in Anoka County were suspected heroin overdoses.&a...

Couple Weds at Feed My Starving Children

New Year's Eve weddings aren't uncommon but a Twin Cities couple chose a unique location to exchange their vows.Chara Juneau and Adam Claude tied the knot at the Coon Rapids Feed My Starving Children location on the final day of 2018.  It's a pla...

Fire Damages Coon Rapids Home on New Year's Eve

A fire on the final day of 2018 caused extensive damage to a Coon Rapids home.The flames broke out around 9:45 a.m. on New Year's Eve at this home on the 11500 block of Olive Street.  Fire crews arrived to find flames visible from the back of the...

School Board Adopts 2019 Property Tax Levy

The Anoka-Hennepin School Board adopted the 2019 property tax levy this week.The tax levy for 2019 has been set at $113,694,786 which is a 5.03% percent increase from this year's levy.  School officials say if your home's value went up four-and-a...

End-of-Year Fundraising Push for Hope4Youth

Hundreds of volunteers are thawing out after spending last week
“Out in the Cold 4 Youth.”250 people took turns sitting outside during a five day event to remind people that thousands of homeless kids are out in the cold this winter.$110 thousand was rai...

Holiday Dinner Theater Returns to Bunker Hills

The Bunker Hills Event Center is hosting a dinner theater show  the weekend before and after Christmas."Snowed In - A Holiday Celebration of Song" was written by Minneapolis theater veteran Josh Campbell.  The story is about a ...

Anoka County Fairgrounds Decked Out in Holiday Lights

As Christmas approaches Santa is still checking his list to see who’s been naughty or nice.Mr. and Mrs. Claus visited the Anoka County Fairgrounds December 7^th, 8^th & 9^th where they were met by hundreds of children with their own lists in ha...

Sudden Cardiac Arrest Survivor Thanks His Rescuers

A Coon Rapids man who survived sudden cardiac arrest thanked his rescuers this week."I just, I feel blessed to still be a dad and still be a husband because of your help so thank you very much," says Eric LingbeekEric Lingbeek and his family spo...

Schulte Elected President of Association of Minn. Counties

Anoka County Commissioner Scott Schulte will be wearing another hat next year.  Over the weekend, Schulte was elected president of the Association of Minnesota Counties at the organization's annual conference in Bloomington.  As presiden...

Out in the Cold 4 Youth

In the most frigid months of the year, a local non-profit wants you to think about those who are out in the cold... particularly young people. Volunteers with Hope4Youth are braving the cold temps this week to raise money for homeless youth.Becky Kirch is...

Northstar Offering Free Holiday Train on December 15

You can take a free ride on a Northstar train to the historic Union Depot in St. Paul on Saturday, December 15. The holiday train will pickup at the Coon Rapids station at 5:05 p.m. and return to Coon Rapids at 8:55 p.m.  At the Union Depot, you ...

Tree Lighting Ushers in Holiday Season in Anoka

Historic Downtown Anoka is now on Santa’s radar.  Thousands of people gathered last weekend for the annual tree lighting ceremony.More than seven thousand lights, donated by Dave and Donna Smith, lit up the tree.  It was select...

Remembering a Humanitarian and Business Leader

Forty days after she celebrated her 100^th birthday, Coon Rapids businesswoman and humanitarian, Margaret Tjosvold, passed away November 24th. Her daughter and partner in business, Mary Tjosvold, was by her mom's side during those final moments.“...

All Lanes of Traffic Reopen on Hanson Blvd.

Good news for drivers who use Hanson Boulevard.  This week, the roadway returned to its normal four lane configuration.  For much of the year, Hanson has been down to a single lane in each direction between 111th Avenue and Coon Rapids B...

New Indoor Self-Storage Facility Approved

Coon Rapids is poised to get a new indoor self-storage facility.Last week, the City Council approved a zone change and site plan for E & R Investments to construct a 100,000 square foot facility at the corner of 101st Avenue and Foley Boulevard next t...

ALDI Remodels Northdale Blvd. Store

The ALDI store on Northdale Boulevard recently celebrated its grand reopening.  The remodel includes more refrigeration space to allow ALDI to increase its fresh food selection by 40 percent and add more grab-and-go foods for customers.  ...

Local Businesses Take Part in 'Small Business Saturday'

Towns and cities across the country encouraged its residents to explore and shop local businesses on November 24th. A nationwide shopping holiday called “Small Business Saturday” had stores on Anoka’s main street crowded with...

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...