Fund-raising walk at BIR being planned

A fund-raising walk to help financially strained families of soldiers fighting in the war against Iraq is in the works at Brainerd International Raceway.

While still only in the planning phase, BIR administrator Craig Anderson said a tentative date of April 12 has been set for the walk, which would take place on the 3.1-mile racetrack at BIR at a minimum donation of $5.

"If someone wanted to bring Rollerblades, or run it, we'll be open to it," said Anderson. "If they want to do more laps than one, by all means."

Anderson said BIR is working with the Minnesota Army National Guard Family Readiness Group, and plans are to contact area American Legion and VFW clubs.

The fund-raising walk would be open to everyone.

Protests Thursday in Little Falls

LITTLE FALLS -- About a dozen people, both children and adults, converged Thursday on the intersection of Broadway and First Street in downtown Little Falls to protest the U.S.-led war with Iraq. Little Falls Police Chief Mike Pender said the protest has been occurring at intervals, and has been peaceful. Groups supporting U.S. troops also have gathered, Pender said.

Emergency operations center activated

The Crow Wing County Sheriff's Department, along with all state law enforcement agencies, received notice Thursday that the Minnesota Emergency Operations Center was activated in response to the war on Iraq. Anyone with questions or needing information concerning Minnesota public services, security measures or possible threats to the state in light of the war should call (800) 657-3504. If suspicious activity is sighted, the public should call 911.

If you'd like to share a hometown note related to the war in Iraq, contact Kathi Nagorski at The Brainerd Dispatch at (218) 855-5859, or by e-mail at kathi.nagorski@brainerddispatch.com.