By Rich Larson, News Director
FiftyNorth is among the many facilities affected by the new restrictions that went into effect over the weekend. Craig 
Swenson of FiftyNorth said that while they were surprised that the governor would include a fitness center like theirs in his restrictions, it is probably for the best, because the top priority is keeping everybody safe.
But Swenson was quick to say that even though the building is closed, they are still offering several programs and services. In fact, he said, by the end of this week, they expect to offer upwards of 40 different fitness classes online, as well as art classes and the lifelong learning classes the center has always offered.
“Currently we already have 15 online fitness classes available right now, and we’re looking at by the middle of this week we’ll have the rest of the classes up and going. So, we’ll have roughly around 40 fitness classes available via Zoom by the end of the week. And we will also have our art classes and our lifelong learning classes as well.”
Swenson said that the staff understands that Zoom can be intimidating to some at first, so those with questions about Zoom, or how to attend an online class in general should call FiftyNorth at (507) 664-3700. The staff has a good understanding of Zoom and will be more than happy to help anyone work through it.
He also said that they are still offering the Semcac meals for pickup, Monday through Friday from 11-11:30. Contact Fifty North Program Coordinator Patty Ciernia by noon the prior day to order those meals at 664-3709 by noon the prior day to order those meals.
More than anything, Swenson said, he wants everyone to remember that FiftyNorth is still an active resource in the community whether the building is open or not.
“Our heartfelt feelings go out to everybody. We are here for you. If you have any questions or concerns or are needing resources or services, please call FiftyNorth. We’re here to help you as much as possible. We’re in this together and we’re going to get through this. Stay as positive as possible, and we’ll stay positive also.”
For more information, visit fiftynorth.org
Authorities seek pipe bomb information
Rice County authorities are still asking for help in finding the person or persons who left an explosive device on the side of a Northfield Township road on Thursday.
According to Rice County Sheriff Troy Dunn, a passer-by noticed the device in the ditch on the side of Hall Avenue in between Sumac Lane and Huron Court, and contacted the authorities.
The Sheriff’s department and Northfield Police responded, located the device and concluded that it was consistent to a pipe bomb. The area was secured, and the St. Paul bomb squad was called in. Squad personnel confirmed that the device did indeed contain explosive material, and the device was then rendered safe.
Anyone with information about this incident or the device, or anyone who may have seen anything in the area recently is asked to contact the Rice County Sheriff’s Office Investigation Unit at 507-334-4391 or the Northfield Police Department at 507-645- 4475
Chamber raffle prizes include a 2020 Chevrolet Equinox
The Chamber is currently selling tickets for a raffle that is serving as their major fundraiser for the year. The Grand Prize is a brand-new Cayenne Red, 2020 Chevy Equinox.
Chamber Executive Director Lisa Peterson said that, like everybody else, 2020 has been a rough year for the Chamber. Without the ability to hold the events that brought in regular funding, and with member businesses doing whatever they could just to get by, the Chamber has had to run on a very lean budget.
The raffle, Peterson said, is the biggest opportunity to raise funds in 2020. Among the other prizes are Chamber Bucks packages valued at $1000, $500 and $100 dollars, along with golf packages, a stay at the Contented Cottage, and an air compressor donated by John Deere and SEMA Equipment.
Tickets for the raffle are priced at $100. To purchase tickets, contact the Chamber of Commerce at 645-5604 or visit northfieldchamber.com.
