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Itasca Coalition of Lake Associations Loon Seminar April 4, 2024
Itasca Waters “Practical Water Wisdom” for April
Would you like to leave a legacy of clean water for future generations? If so, then Itasca Waters has the series for you. The “Practical Water Wisdom: A Virtual Learning Series” runs for an hour beginning at noon on the first Thursday of each month (except July when it is on the second Thursday). It is FREE, online, open to all, and includes an interactive Q&A session.
The April 4 program will be “Loon Restoration in Minnesota” presented by Jayden Jech, a Loon Specialist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Nongame Wildlife Program. Jayden works to promote the conservation and restoration of loons in Minnesota by conducting surveys, developing management plans, and supporting stewardship through public outreach as part of the Minnesota Loon Restoration Project. Jayden connues to be amazed by loons’ charismatic calls, unique life history, and ability to inspire and unite people in his role. You won’t want to miss his insightful experiences!
Join us as we dive into learning about the restoration and conservation of Minnesota’s state bird, the common loon. Together we will explore loon biology, threats facing loons, and ways you can support the conservation of the species. We will share information about the Minnesota Loon Restoration Project and opportunities to participate in ongoing community scientific reports with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Nongame Wildlife Program.
We hope through our Water Wisdom series you will be inspired each month to think about water in a new way. Please join us online April 4 for this enlightening talk about conservation, restoration, and all things loon by registering at: https://itascawaters.org/water-wisdom-2024.
You will receive a Zoom invite by email, with periodic reminders, to join the program. For more information contact Info@itascawaters.org .
Wabana Warbler – Winter 2023
A new issue of the Warbler newsletter is available.
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Town Board Updates
Remembering Gary Oja – As you may know, Gary Oja unexpectedly passed away on January 26, 2024. His death is a great loss not only to his family, but also our community. Gary served as Supervisor and Chairman of the Town Board and was the Liaison for the Recreational Complex Committee. He will be greatly missed by many. His full obituary is available at: https://www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com/obituaries/print?o_id=8834457.
We offer our greatest condolences to Gary’s family.
Seeking Supervisor Applicants – The Town Board will need to appoint a resident to fill the remaining term of the vacant Supervisor seat, which goes through the end of 2024. If you are interested in this position, application materials can be found in the links below. Documents include an application, eligibility information, and the Comprehensive Plan. Please send your application by March 13, 2024. Also, this seat will be on the November 2024 general election ballot for the four-year term of January 2025 – December 2028. For questions, contact Wabana Township Clerk, Steve Melin at 218-256-5913 or email wabanatownshipclerk@gmail.com.
Wabana Recreational Complex Update
Did you ever watch that show as a kid ‘Where in the World is Carmen Sandiago?’ Are you thinking ‘Where in the World is that new Wabana recreational complex?’ Well, my friends, good news is on the horizon. I know, I know, we’ve been at this for 3 years. Seems like a lifetime ago. But we are on the cusp of turning a big corner.
After a major pledge drive, several fundraisers, and awarded grants, to date we are over $300,000! Our complete project goal is $480,000. The support from the township has been overwhelming. Thank you all so very very much. The committee members have averaged 10-12 people/meeting and are committed to seeing this project achieve its goals.
See attachment with this article to see the playground diagram. Yes, that’s a zipline, and a double wide slide! Not a huge playground but a lot of fun pieces I’m sure the kiddos will enjoy. A huge thanks to this committee (19 volunteers) and all their hard work.
We’ve been working with an engineering firm to get the exact details needed so we can obtain estimates for the entire project. Our plans include moving the playground to where the tennis court is currently. Adding a kiddy rink to the west end of the hockey rink, upgrading the lights around the hockey rink, move the tennis court and separate pickleball courts to the north side of the hockey rink. Add a 30’ x 30’ pad for basketball. And add an ADA accessible walking trail around the entire open field with access walkways to each of these recreational areas. Whew.
We are in the process now of applying (again) for a grant from the DNR. We were told that we were very close to being awarded this grant last year, so we will try one more time. If we are awarded, then all the above becomes a reality.
So now is even more big news. Most recently we’ve had an anonymous donor step forward and offer a match up to $15,000. What a gift! $15 turns into $30… We want to thank everyone that has already pledged or donated. We would like to use this matching donation to ask for any additional donations or increase your pledge so we can leverage this matching donation. The donor is even willing to contribute $100 for every person who donates time (volunteers) during the rebuild (kids included!). So, a family of 4 = $400. Maybe you can rake or swing a hammer, there will be plenty of opportunities to help during the rebuild. Maybe there are other anonymous people out there who want to invest in Wabana’s recreational future too?
And here’s one last suggestion for us older folks. One way to contribute to the recreation project is called Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from your retirement plan like an IRA or 401(k). When you reach 70 ½ years of age, the tax law allows you to transfer your distribution yearly to a charity, tax-free. If you have not contributed to the Wabana Recreation Project, this would be one way of doing it. If you have contributed already (thank you), then this can be another way to make an additional contribution. If you are considering this way of contributing, please contact your tax advisor to make sure you are eligible, and the proper procedures are followed. Oh, and if you’ve made a pledge and not paid the pledge yet… now’s the time.
We WILL break ground in August 2024. It’s time to see the complex come together. Whether we get all the funding or not. We have enough money now to get the lion’s share of it done. If we need to scale back, we will go back to the committee and make adjustments.
Thank you once again for all the support you’ve shown over the years. Your financial support has been amazing, your volunteerism has been humbling, and your encouragement has been motivating. We are leaving a legacy to our children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
On behalf of the Wabana Community Recreation Committee,
Kim Oja