Emo Fair Starts this week in Rainy River Ontario

By: Luke Paider | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

RAINY RIVER, Ontario — The Rainy River Valley Agricultural Society Fall Fair starts this Thursday August 13th and runs through Saturday August 15th. The Fair hosts a plethora of exhibits including horseback riding, livestock, baking, crochet, artwork, a chocolate chip cookie competition, and legos. Sherri Hay the President of the Rainy River Valley Agricultural Society spoke on the prizes exhibitors can win over the course of the weekend.

The fair isn’t limited to exhibits as the racetrack will also be involved.

The fan favorite parade will be at 12:45 on Saturday and will have a lot more than just floats.

The fair queen is no more but a new role has taken its place that gives more people an opportunity to compete for the role.

The fair will open at noon on Thursday, 9 a.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. on Saturday. The fair is open until midnight each day of the fair.

Highway 11 Corridor Construction Update

Highway construction continues moving along across the region.

On Highway 11 between Roseau and Warroad, paving is complete on the east half. Crews will now work on slopes and ditches, while culvert replacements continue on the west-half detour. The airport realignment is about halfway complete, with the project still on schedule for a September finish.

In Greenbush, Stage One paving has wrapped up. Stage Two closed Highway 11 between Seventh and Fourth Streets for about seven weeks.

And at the Warroad bridge, both piers are complete and crews have begun setting new beams. That project is ahead of schedule and expected to finish in November.

For more information and current traffic impacts, visit mndot.gov.

MN DNR Reminds Wild Rice Harvesters to Wait for Ripe Rice

Minnesota’s wild rice harvest season opens August 15th, but the DNR says harvesters must wait until the rice is ripe. Officials say unripe, or “green,” rice is illegal to harvest and damaging the plants can reduce food for wildlife and next year’s crop.

Signs of ripe rice include brown stems, firm kernels, and grains that fall easily when the plant is gently shaken.

The DNR says early reports show fair to great conditions across central and northern Minnesota, but drought has lowered water levels on some rice waters. More information is available at mndnr.gov.

Zipple Bay to Host Perseid Meteor Shower Viewing Party this Saturday

By: Graham Scher | R&J Broadcasting Inc.

WILLIAMS, Minn — Residents around Lake of the Woods and Roseau Counties have a chance to enjoy the night sky this weekend at Zipple Bay State Park.

A Perseid Meteor Shower Viewing Party is set for Saturday, August 15th, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the beach as part of the park’s Summer Events 2026.

The evening starts around a campfire with hot dogs and s’mores, along with some nature trivia while everyone waits for the meteor shower to begin. Then, it’s time to sit back and watch the night sky.

Organizers recommend bringing your own a camp chair, insect repellent and water, though picnic tables are available as well for seating at the beach. The event is weather-dependent and will be cancelled if it rains.

For questions, contact Katie Holfschulte at the park or call 218-635-0412 for more details.