Thoughts from the Sheriff
Summer is in full swing, and there have been numerous activities taking place throughout Clearwater County, including Clearbrook's Summerfest and the Gonvick Rodeo. Recently, we celebrated our nation's 250th anniversary. While there were events throughout the region, Bagley hosted an outstanding series of celebrations to commemorate this historic milestone.
The festivities began on July 3 with a presentation by Minnesota historian Doug Ohman at the Bagley American Legion. Doug shared a fascinating account of our nation's founding and the vision and sacrifices of the men and women who helped shape America over the past 250 years. It was a wonderful opportunity for the people of Bagley and Clearwater County to hear him speak. Following his presentation, the Legion hosted a Quilts of Valor presentation honoring our veterans, followed by a respectful Flag Disposal Ceremony.
On July 4, the Clearwater County Historical Society opened the old Bagley jail for public tours. The jail served the county until the current facility opened in 1998. I remember, during my early years in law enforcement, bringing inmates to that old two-cell jail and having to call in jailers to supervise them. How times have changed. The day also included a community parade and concluded with another outstanding fireworks display over Lake Lomond. It truly was a fun-filled holiday weekend.
Now we are preparing for another great community tradition - the Clearwater County Fair, which will be held August 5-9. As always, I'd like to share a few safety reminders and other important information to help everyone enjoy a safe and memorable fair.
My first piece of advice is not to overextend yourself when bringing young children to the fair. Watching two or three children can be challenging, but supervising a larger group alone can quickly become overwhelming. Every year, we receive reports of children becoming separated from their families. While this is stressful for parents and guardians, it can be especially frightening for a young child.
Before arriving at the fair, talk with your children about what to do if they become separated from you. Teach them to stay where they are and seek help from a law enforcement officer or another trusted adult. When you arrive, take a current photo of each child with your phone. If a child becomes missing, having a recent photo and a description of what they are wearing can greatly assist law enforcement in locating them quickly. If a child does become separated from you, immediately notify law enforcement or report it to the fair office.
If you have older children who will be spending time at the fair with friends, establish a designated meeting place before you separate. This is especially important if severe weather develops. Summer storms can move in quickly, and if the midway needs to be evacuated, having a predetermined meeting location will make it much easier to account for everyone and avoid unnecessary delays or worry.
In addition to personal safety, remember to protect your vehicle and your belongings. Always lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight. Unfortunately, large events can attract individuals looking for opportunities to steal. An unlocked vehicle or valuables left in plain view can make you an easy target. Never leave your keys inside your vehicle, as someone looking for transportation may decide to take more than just your belongings.
The same advice applies to personal items such as cell phones, purses, and wallets. Don't leave them unattended in a stroller, on a picnic table, or on a game counter. It only takes a moment for someone to pick them up and walk away. Always keep your valuables with you and secure.
Finally, please pay attention to where you park. It is illegal to park within a crosswalk, within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection, within 30 feet of a stop sign, in front of a driveway, or within 10 feet of a fire hydrant. Parking complaints are among the most common calls for service during the fair because people often try to park as close as possible, even when it creates a hazard. If your vehicle is obstructing traffic or limiting visibility, please find another location. Also, be respectful of designated handicapped parking spaces. Those spaces are reserved for individuals who truly need them, and we ask everyone to help ensure they remain available.
I hope you're enjoying your summer, and I look forward to seeing many of you at this year's Clearwater County Fair. Our Emergency Management Mobile Command Bus will once again be parked near the hockey arena. Please stop by to say hello, tour the bus, ask questions, and visit members of your Sheriff's Office. We always enjoy meeting members of our community.
If you have questions, comments, or suggestions for future columns, please email me at darin.halverson@clearwatercountymn.gov or call the Sheriff's Office at 218-694-6226. You can also follow the Clearwater County Sheriff's Office on Facebook for updates and information.
Thank you, and as always, it is an honor and a privilege to serve as your Sheriff.