Dan Determan
- Multimedia Sales Representative, Brainerd Dispatch
- Multimedia Sales Representative, Pine and Lakes Echo Journal
Minnesota
Multimedia Sales Rep for the Brainerd Dispatch and PineandLakes Echo Journal. Former Echo Journal sports guy.
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Dan Determan
Nevis City Council chooses rental inspector
After tabling the issue in previous months, the Nevis City Council has chosen a rental property inspector for the coming year. Maybe. During its Monday, Nov. 9, meeting accepted a proposal from Sherlock Homes Inspections for rental property inspection services. The cost to the city is $160 per rental unit if one to four are inspected in a day, $130 per unit if five to nine are inspected, and $120 per unit if 10 are inspected.
ADA-compliant repairs needed at Nevis liquor store
As requested by the Nevis City Council, municipal liquor store manager Kay Moen presented a “fix-it list” at the council’s Monday, Nov. 9 meeting. “I do have quite a big list, but I guess the main thing that I want to say is that, structurally, our building is pretty good,” Moen said. That said, she said something needs to be done with the building's concrete in the spring to mitigate issues with “how the water is moving,” and she anticipates that structural issues will eventually come up.
Vital freshwater mussels are threatened, DNR says
With more than 50 species calling the lakes and waterways of Minnesota home, the freshwater mussel is considered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to be one of the most overlooked animals in the state. However, its livelihood in the state as well as the nation is at risk, as the DNR recognizes the freshwater mussel as one of the most endangered creatures not only in Minnesota, but all of North America.
Vital freshwater mussels are threatened, DNR says
With more than 50 species calling the lakes and waterways of Minnesota home, the freshwater mussel is considered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to be one of the most overlooked animals in the state. However, its livelihood in the state as well as the nation is at risk, as the DNR recognizes the freshwater mussel as one of the most endangered creatures not only in Minnesota, but all of North America.
Nevis students blend woodworking with art
Students in Nevis’ senior high woodworking class recently showed off some projects that blended disciplines. The projects were largely wood-based works of art, created on the school’s computer numerical control (CNC) machines then shaped, sanded and hand-painted. “My premise for this class is ‘hey guys, you have the use of this facility and my assistance for half a school year. What do you want to make?’” industrial technology teacher Olaf Netteberg said.
Clean audit report for Laporte School
The Laporte School District received top marks in its recent audit, as reported during the school board’s Monday, Nov. 9 meeting. Amanda Scanson of Brady Martz reported, “We have issued an unmodified audit opinion, which is the highest level of an opinion of assurance that a CPA firm can provide.
Vital freshwater mussels are threatened, DNR says
With more than 50 species calling the lakes and waterways of Minnesota home, the freshwater mussel is considered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to be one of the most overlooked animals in the state. However, its livelihood in the state as well as the nation is at risk, as the DNR recognizes the freshwater mussel as one of the most endangered creatures not only in Minnesota, but all of North America.
Akeley’s Fynboh falls in senate race
The race for Minnesota District 5’s Senate seat was not a close one, as Republican Mike Wiener earned 71.2% of the vote against Skylar Fynboh’s 28.6%. But as a Democratic candidate in an area with a history of voting for conservatives, Fynboh – a resident of Akeley – can see some positives in his results. “I would have liked turnout to be greater, but last I checked, I think we were up 9% since 2022,” he said. “The Republicans were also up about 3%, so there wasn’t quite enough there.
School referendums fail in Park Rapids, Nevis
A ballot question regarding a constitutional amendment to increase the amount of funding going from the state’s permanent school trust fund to school districts has passed, with roughly 73% of Minnesotans voting in favor of the amendment, as of 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3. In Hubbard County, the measure was approved by a margin of roughly 67%. There were 7,883 “yes” votes and 3,644 votes against the amendment.
More AIS to fight, less to fight it with in 2027
The Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations (COLA) heard from Aaron Anderson of Hubbard County Environmental Services on what to expect for area lakes next year. Long story short: expect some challenges in the fight against aquatic invasive species (AIS). Some of those challenges stem from the discovery of AIS in six new Hubbard County lakes in 2026. Three of those lakes – Little Wolf, Eighth Crow Wing and 11th Crow Wing – have all been listed as containing AIS in the past 60 days.
Where do animals go in winter? DNR has the scoop
Like it or not, winter will grip the area in a matter of weeks. People will dig out their winter coats and stock up on propane, but the animals of the area have a variety of different ways to beat the lack of heat. Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) nongame specialist Adam Maleski shared some of the ways the local wildlife survive a frigid Minnesota winter. Some lie low, others fly far and some tough it out and deal with the cold.
Benefit raises $30,000 for Laporte man
The Laporte community recently came together to show their support for one of their own battling cancer. Ernie Kloehn was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in summer 2024. With the help of his wife, Lori, he has maintained a strict medical regimen ever since. “Things are going good,” he said. “(Doctors) have me on Keytruda, and I go in every three weeks for my Keytruda appointment, and they do a CAT scan every three months.
Nevis School gets high marks on annual audit
While the school was filled with the cheers of volleyball fans in the gymnasium, the Nevis School Board was in the media center approving the results of the district’s fiscal year audit. The audit was presented by Sara Niemala from Brady Martz, an accounting and advisory firm from Fargo. “The Nevis School District received an unmodified opinion for fiscal year 2026, which is the highest level of assurance a CPA firm can provide,” Niemala said.
More treats than tricks at Nevis Fall Festival
It was an afternoon of costumes and candy as children flocked to the Nevis School gym for the annual Fall Festival Sunday, Oct. 25. “We have a really good turnout this year,” Nevis PTA President Barb Lester said. “The bounce houses and games have been popular. So has the book fair. … The cakewalk came in last year, but that has been a super big hit.” Kids at the Nevis Fall Festival had the chance to pet Eenie the donkey.
Wastewater project to impact Itasca State Park visitors in 2027 Original
PARK RAPIDS, Minn. — Itasca State Park will see some large-scale construction projects in 2027 — large enough to dramatically affect visitors. “There is a major sewer and water project going in,” park manager Aaron Wunrow said.
2027 wastewater project to impact Itasca visitors, manager says
Itasca State Park will see some large-scale construction projects in 2027 – large enough to dramatically affect visitors. “There is a major sewer and water project going in,” park manager Aaron Wunrow said.
Nevis student performance outpacing neighbors, superintendent says
In her report to the Nevis School board during its Monday, Oct. 19 work session, Superintendent Ranae Seykora shared the district’s reading, math and science scores on the 2025-26 Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) tests, revealing Nevis students did well compared to neighboring districts. MCA tests in reading and math are administered to every public school student in grades 3 through 8 each year, while sophomores are given a reading test and juniors take the math test.
Akeley depot to be demolished
After months of deliberation, the fate of the Akeley depot has been decided, as the city council voted to demolish the building.
Nevis City Council questions need for new liquor store
The Nevis City Council had previously discussed building a new municipal liquor store on the vacant lot once belonging to Northwoods Grocery, but the consensus seems to be against doing that for the time being. At its Tuesday, Oct. 13, meeting, the council received a financial report from Ehlers, Inc. of Minneapolis, who anticipated a 20-year bond for a new liquor store to cost the average Nevis homeowner roughly $657 per year, or $55 per month.
‘More law enforcement’ at Laporte School, superintendent says
In his report to the Laporte School Board during its Monday, Oct. 12, meeting, Superintendent A.J. Dombeck mentioned an unexpected challenge the district has faced. “There has been more law enforcement involvement here at school than we are used to for the start of the year,” Dombeck said. “It has been busy that way.
Laporte’s 2023 referendum paid for roof, floors, security
The funds from the Laporte School District’s bond referendum have been almost completely spent, bringing several key changes to the facility over the past two years. Approved by voters in 2023, the roughly $5.75 million referendum was requested to pay for a new roof, new flooring and several other upgrades to the building.
Local license plate readers part of a nationwide debate
Automated license plate readers (ALPR) have been used in the area for roughly 13 months. Nationwide, their use has come under increasing scrutiny. Commonly called “Flock cameras” after the brand quickly becoming synonymous with the product, ALPRs are typically installed along roadways and can be used by law enforcement to gather data on vehicles in the area.
Fall colors arrived early in Minnesota, DNR says
PARK RAPIDS, Minn. — The fall equinox on Sept. 22 marked the official change of season, but fall colors had already been on display by then in some parts of northern Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the change in color was somewhat earlier than usual, but that is not surprising given the weather conditions northern Minnesota experienced this summer.
Pouring rain and pouring beer at Nevis Oktoberfest
The Nevis air was filled with polka music, pilsners and precipitation as the city gathered for its second annual Oktoberfest celebration Saturday, Oct. 3. Mike and Kim Johnson of Nevis were the lone participants in the Oktoberfest costume contest. The event, hosted by the Nevis chamber, gave residents and visitors alike the chance to take in the sounds and cuisine present in the mountains of Bavaria. “I would definitely call it a success,” said Nancy Lewis of the Nevis Civic & Commerce Association.
Dan Determan
Dan Determan is a multimedia reporter for the Park Rapids Enterprise, covering the events of Nevis, Akeley, Laporte and more. He grew up in Browerville, Minnesota, and graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a degree in history and a minor in mass communication. Determan has worked for Forum Communications since 2012. Prior to joining the Enterprise in May 2026, he worked for the Brainerd Dispatch, the Pine and Lakes Echo Journal and the West Fargo Pioneer.
COLA grant dollars used for surveys, tree planting
At its monthly meeting on Sept. 24, the Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations (COLA) heard from five lake associations about how matching grants they received from COLA have been used. For many of the five lakes presenting – Stony, Blue, Garfield, Big Axe and Spider lakes – the funds were used for point intercept surveys in the fight against aquatic invasive species (AIS).
Dan Determan
Dan Determan is a multimedia reporter for the Park Rapids Enterprise, covering the events of Nevis, Akeley, Laporte and more. He grew up in Browerville, Minnesota, and graduated from Minnesota State University Moorhead with a degree in history and a minor in mass communication. Determan has worked for Forum Communications since 2012. Prior to joining the Enterprise in May 2026, he worked for the Brainerd Dispatch, the Pine and Lakes Echo Journal and the West Fargo Pioneer.
Fall colors arrive early in Minnesota, DNR says Original
PARK RAPIDS, Minn. — The equinox last week marked the official start to autumn, but the season’s key physical feature had already been on display as local trees have recently shown plenty of gold among the green. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the change in color is somewhat earlier than usual, but that is not surprising given the weather conditions northern Minnesota experienced this summer.
Nevis School Board sets max levy
The Nevis School Board voted unanimously to certify its preliminary levy for the coming year, agreeing to certify to the maximum amount. A max levy certification was recommended by district bookkeeper Tom Haldeman, who said frequent changes at the state level make it necessary in case mistakes or omissions are made. Haldeman informed the board he received an update regarding changes to the levy roughly two hours before the board meeting.
Cyclists withstand showers during Headwaters 100
The vibrant colors of autumn were dampened, literally, for the participants of the Headwaters 100 on Saturday, Sept. 26, but more than 200 cyclists still took part. Hosted by the Itascatur Outdoor Activity Club, the Headwaters 100 is a bike ride – with lengths of 42, 75 and 100 miles, depending on rider preference – that serves as the main fundraiser for the club’s maintenance of local ski trails. “When it first started in 1980, it was a race and tour,” event coordinator Phil Sailer said.
Fall colors here early, DNR says
The equinox last week marked the official start to autumn, but the season’s key physical feature had already been on display as local trees have recently shown plenty of gold among the green. The Minnesota DNR forestry forecast for Sept. 30 suggests the fall colors are near their peak.
Artists open studios for 20th Art Leap
The work of many local artists and the countryside of Hubbard, Becker and Wadena counties were all on display during the 20th annual Art Leap event. Described as an “open studio event,” Art Leap featured 35 sites throughout the area where artists opened their homes and studios to art lovers, spoke to them about their craft and sold their wares. “We have had a lot of lookers,” Park Rapids artist Colleen Elkington said.
Often hidden, fishers are also poorly named, DNR says
Deer, turkeys and a variety of other creatures are easy for nature lovers to spot in the area, but one that is less often seen is the fisher, even though they are present. Fishers are a carnivorous, medium-sized member of the weasel family. According to Minnesota Department of Natural Resources nongame specialist Adam Maleski, they maybe would be better-suited with a different name.
Strategic plan, job descriptions a focus for Nevis School
Goals for the new school year, and beyond, were made plain for the Nevis School Board at its Monday, Sept. 23 work session. Superintendent Ranae Seykora told the board that chief among the administration’s goals for the near future is a full-scale revision of the district’s strategic plan. “In 2027, our strategic plan is due for a huge review,” she said. “That is going to be a big project.
Hundreds gather for ATV Minnesota’s Ride and Rally
Hubbard County was host to dozens of side-by-sides and four-wheelers as the ATV Minnesota Ride and Rally came to Park Rapids Friday through Sunday, Sept. 18-20. “Normally, there are only a couple of clubs – or even just one – that put this on,” said Lynn Kramer, Northwest Regional Director for ATV Minnesota.
First English Lutheran Church celebrates 125 years
Churchgoers took to Dorset Sunday morning and afternoon, Sept. 20, to mark a milestone occasion, as First English Lutheran Church celebrated its 125th anniversary. “It’s a time for mingling and visiting,” Pastor Jordan DeBoer said. “It’s not the only day of celebration, though.
Interest rates discussed at Nevis School open house
With roughly six weeks until Election Day, Nevis School officials hosted one last open house, on Monday, Sept. 14, to remind voters of the details of the district’s upcoming referendum vote. Nevis residents will vote on three separate questions regarding various improvements to district facilities, potentially paid for with taxpayer dollars.
Laporte School Board sets maximum preliminary levy
As a late addition to its agenda, the Laporte School Board unanimously agreed to certify its preliminary tax levy at the maximum amount set by the Minnesota Department of Education’s (MDE) state formula. “We are approving it at its maximum because the numbers aren’t finalized at this moment,” Superintendent AJ Dombeck said. “You’ll see it again with more updated numbers.” The board will set a final levy at its December meeting.
Meet the Nevis School Board candidates
Five candidates are on the ballot for three open seats on the Nevis School Board. Incumbents Andy Lindow and Aimee Plumley share a ballot with Eva Pohl, Melissa Torkelson and Robin Lucas Jr. Early voting opens Friday, Sept. 18. Andy Lindow Q: What is your background with the school district? A: I was a graduate of Nevis. I coached some basketball there from 1998-2012, and have been on the school board for 16 years. Q: What is the biggest issue facing the district?
Meet the Nevis mayoral candidates
Nevis voters will choose between two mayoral candidates on Nov. 3: John Carrier and Teresa Leshovsky. Both candidates are long-time Nevis residents who currently serve on the city council. Early voting opens Friday, Sept. 18. John Carrier, councilmemberjc@gmail.com Q: What is your background with the city? A: I have been a Nevis business owner for the last nine years. What drew me to the city council was representing the business portion of the city. Q: What is the biggest issue facing Nevis?
Campers prohibited as permanent dwellings in Nevis
The Nevis City Council has made some changes to the city’s zoning ordinance. On the recommendation of the planning and zoning commission, the council used part of its Monday, Sept. 14 meeting to amend portions of ordinance No. 36, pertaining to temporary living quarters. The complaints were that people were living in campers on empty lots. They are not hooked up to water and sewer, and they are not paying taxes like you would with a home there.
Funds secured to renovate Akeley depot, resident says
The fate of the Akeley depot remains unsettled for now. The Akeley City Council voted in July to demolish the building, but agreed to hold off in August and gave resident Kristin Fake 30 days to present a plan to move the building to a new location. The council voted Wednesday, Sept. 9 to table the measure after Fake said she had secured funding to renovate the building. “I have good news and bad news,” Fake said.
Park Rapids City Council workshops budget, downtown improvements
The Park Rapids City Council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 8 lasted less than five minutes, but its work session before the meeting included a lengthy discussion on the city’s preliminary budget and levy for 2027. The levy amount presented to the council is $3,019,907. “That would be a balanced budget,” City Administrator Angel Weasner said.
Your trees are thirsty
Despite more rainfall in recent weeks, the U.S. Drought Monitor still lists Hubbard County as experiencing severe drought conditions. In those conditions, residents may want to consider watering trees in their yards, and foresters with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) encourage homeowners to “get familiar” with the tree species that may need it the most.
'Good energy' abounds as Nevis students go back to school
Nevis High School students were greeted with smiles and applause as the 2026-27 school year began on Sept. 8. "We had some good energy in the building," Superintendent Ranae Seykora said. "Everything went smoothly, and we had corn dogs for lunch, which are always a hit." Industrial technology teacher Olaf Netteberg discusses school expectations with students on the first morning of the 2026-27 school year. Students in grades 7-12 started their day with a rally in the school gym.
Nevis’ careers course to help students navigate college, work
The senior class of 2027 will graduate knowing how to find the area of a circle and what role Franklin D. Roosevelt played in the Allies victory in World War II. However, some may not know how to properly write a resume or what to say in a job interview. The Nevis School District will work to combat those issues with a new career investigations class, which all seniors will be required to take in the second semester of the school year.
Friends of Itasca work to improve park, aid staff
Itasca State Park is the oldest and one of the busiest parks in Minnesota, hosting roughly 500,000 visitors each year. With that amount of traffic, having a strong support group of volunteers comes in handy. The Friends of Itasca Park are a volunteer group dedicated to preserving the historical and ecological significance of the park, while working to increase and promote recreational opportunities for visitors.
eDNA shows no stonewort, hydrilla in tested lakes
At its monthly meeting Thursday, Aug. 27, the Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations (COLA) received positive news regarding lake samples taken last summer. Presenter Dhananjay Gotarkar, molecular ecologist with the University of Minnesota, shared with the group after he and his team tested area lakes with COLA in August of 2025, checking the environmental DNA (eDNA) for signs of invasive species – specifically starry stonewort and hydrilla verticillata.
A day in the life of a school paraprofessional
For Nevis paraprofessional Cathy Neas, her job is one that is rarely the same day to day, but is often fun and always rewarding. “I didn't really know what to expect (when I started),” Neas said. “I'd never done this type of thing before. I worked for over 25 years as an office manager for a major cleaning company in the Denver metro area, and it was totally different.
Turkey numbers steady, not ‘drastically increasing,’ DNR says
Though drivers and outdoor enthusiasts see plenty of them in Hubbard County and the surrounding areas, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) officials say there has not been a “drastic increase” to the population in recent years. “The population has been pretty stable the last few years, probably since about 2024,” DNR Assistant Area Wildlife Manager Derek Klostermeier said. “When winter severity is high, we lose turkeys just like we lose white-tailed deer.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Dan
Contact Dan, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack