Local briefs

CROSSLAKE - Crosslake is looking for gardens and landscapes that beautify individual property and the city no matter the level of gardening expertise or garden size.

Potted plants and porches, winding paths and secret hideaways or prized rose gardens are all eligible in this effort to showcase a love of gardening. No matter what type of garden or landscape you have, there is a category in the Crosslake In Bloom Garden Contest.

The contest is for Crosslake residents and businesses to offer recognition for contributions to make Crosslake a brighter and more beautiful place to live in. There will be separate recognition for residential and business gardens. Categories include: floral gardens, including annuals and perennials; container gardens; shade gardens; and water gardens.

Deadline to enter is Friday. Judging will take place on July 28. Results will be announced on Aug. 8.

For more information, contact Annie Woog at the Crosslake office of the Brainerd Lakes Chamber at (218) 692-4027 or e-mail awoog@explorebrainerlakes.com.

Basic Rider Course offered again at Staples

STAPLES - The Basic Rider Course for motorcyclists will be offered again at Central Lakes College in Staples on July 23, 25 and 26.

The first session announced earlier was set for July 16, 18 and 19.

The fee is $160. Dates and times for the second opportunity to receive Basic Rider training are 5:30-10 p.m. July 23 and from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2-7 p.m. July 25 and 26.

Payment is required at the time of registration. Registration deadline is Thursday. For more information, call (800) 933-0346 ext. 8142 or 855-8142.

'Volunteering for Veterans' meeting planned July 20

An informational meeting and orientation session is planned at 1:30 p.m. July 20 for Brainerd area residents interested in "Volunteering for Veterans" at the St. Cloud VA's newly relocated Brainerd Community Based Outpatient Clinic.

The meeting will begin at the clinic, 722 N.W. Seventh St. in Brainerd, and is expected to last about 90 minutes.

"As our services have expanded at this new location, new volunteer opportunities were identified," said Patricia Aljets, manager of recreation voluntary services. "We look forward to working with members of the Brainerd area community in serving those who've served."

Volunteer help needed includes greeting and assisting veterans and visitors, preparing and serving refreshments and assisting with administrative duties. Volunteer assignments are available Monday through Friday from 7:30-11 a.m.

Those interested in volunteering at the Brainerd Community Based Outpatient Clinic are asked to register for the session by contacting the Voluntary Service office at (320) 255-6365.

Resurfacing on Highways 6, 200 in Cass County to begin

Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and expect delays as crews begin work July 27 to resurface Highway 200 from the junction of Highway 84 to the west junction of Highway 6 and Highway 6 through the city of Remer.

Motorists will be directed through the work zone by a pilot car and flaggers. Travelers are asked to slow down and use caution in the area where crews are working and be alert for trucks hauling materials in the work zone.

Residents can expect to see temporary pedestrian ramps and sidewalk closures in the area where crews are working, the Minnesota Department of Transportation reported.

Work affecting traffic within the city limits of Remer is anticipated to be completed before the annual Harvest Fest, hosted this year from Aug. 6-8. No impacts to traffic are allowed within the city limits during this event. The project is scheduled for completion by mid-August.

Anderson Brothers of Brainerd is the prime contractor for this $1.2 million resurfacing project. For updated statewide traffic, construction, weather, and travel information go online to www.511mn.org.

WHS class of 1954

The Washington High School class of 1954 will meet at Ernie's on Gull from 2-4 p.m. Sunday for the annual summer gathering.