Local briefs

The Dispatch's Stock Quote Hotline, provided to the newspaper by The Associated Press for our Extra Access system0, is still experiencing minor software problems since the conversion from fractions to decimal quotes.

A problem exists with the 52-week high and low quote. The AP has assured us that all other quotes are accurate and current.

AP promises the problem will be resolved within two weeks. The Dispatch apologizes for the inconvenience.

Staples phone service returned

STAPLES -- Phone service was restored to the Staples area shortly after 11 a.m. Thursday, said a Qwest telephone representative.

Bryce Hallowell, Qwest spokesman for Minnesota, said service had been out since about 4:30 a.m. Thursday due to a malfunctioning switch, which is essentially the central processing unit for a phone company.

Workers were doing early morning repairs and maintenance Thursday, and after shutting down the switch were unable to restart it properly.

Hallowell said about 9,500 lines were affected.

Rural Development Office closed Monday-Thursday

The Brainerd Rural Development office will be closed Monday-Thursday due to all employees attending a consolidated training session. Normal business hours will resume Friday.

United Way chili cook-off planned

The Crow Wing County United Way chili cook-off is set for 11:30 a.m. Sept. 20 at the Westgate Mall.

There are 52 teams entered this year. The event also will feature a booth and costume contest and jalapeno eating contest. Prizes will be awarded in three categories: corporate, non-profit and celebrity/restaurant. The public will vote on the Taster's Choice Award.

United Way's goal for 2000 is $385,000. Pacesetter companies are Acrometal, Clow Stamping and Riverwood International. Pacesetter results will be announced at the cook-off.

Crow Wing County United Way supports 34 agencies within the county.

Pedalin' for Partners Day proclaimed

Baxter Mayor Gary Muehlhausen and Brainerd Mayor James Wallin have proclaimed Sept. 16 as Pedalin' for Partners Day.

Pedalin' for Partners day will feature biking or walking the Paul Bunyan Trail and a 1:30 p.m. lunch at Bobberland Park in Pequot Lakes. People wishing to participate in the bike or walk can register from 8 a.m.-noon at the trail in Baxter, Nisswa or Pine River. The first 300 to register will receive a free T-shirt, water bottle and lunch.

The Pedalin' for Partners event is aimed at raising awareness of the need for mentors for children in the Kinship Program. There are more than 50 children waiting for an adult mentor. Kinship Partners serves families.