| A group has been formed in Granite Falls to preserve the K.K.Berge Building located on Prentice Ave. It had been slated for demolition because of the flood wall construction, but hopefully can be saved and used as the Chamber of Commerce office, public space for a new Arts Council, Historical Society displays and other uses, and upstairs rentals. The basement will be used by CURE for river based events, canoe and bicycle rental. |
Article in the Granite Falls Advocate Tribune
www.granitefallsnews.com
News Sunday, April 19, 2009
K.K.Berge building project is coming to fruition
By Scott Tedrick Staff Writer
Published: Friday, April 17, 2009 3:05 PM CDT
It was back in early February that the Granite Falls City Council approved a
proposal that would allow an aggregate of individuals representing a vast
swath of community to save the K.K.Berge Building from demolition and to
take it over as the self-sustaining owners.
That was the easy part.
Since being informed of the council's decisions, the group has been busy
fulfilling project stipulations, finding funding sources and creating an
ownership structure.
While the journey has been wrought with major question marks, the projeâs
idealistic community orientated nature has encouraged various entities near
and far to donate and/or provide their talents at a least cost scenario. As a
result, the project is proving to be feasible and is set to become reality.
"Each speed bump has allowed us to open doors to new ideas and
opportunities, and with each speed bump has come the realization that we
are progressing," said Chamber Director and Berge member Nicole Richter.
Revitalization at the root
The collective vision for the K.K. Berge building revolves around the idea
that it will serve a trifecta of purpose:
As a multi-use space it will provide the community with a location to hold
activities and events.
As the first building viewed riverside while heading north on Prentice, it will
serve as a metaphorical "Front Porch" for Granite Falls where visitors are
welcomed and acclimated to the community and its offerings.
And lastly, as a physical location from which to catalyze future riverfront
development.
But before any of the possibilities can come to fruition the Berge group has
to obtain upfront funding, have the building flood proofed, obtain a structural
engineers report stating that the building is structurally sound, as well as
meet any of the specifications outlined by the building inspector.
Progress: G.F. Bank and F&M Insurance Agency
Recently a huge hurdle appears surpassed as Granite Falls Bank stepped
to the plate to make $150,000 loan available based on certain conditions.
The the bank and F&M Insurance Agency have also expresse their support
for the community and the project by going over and beyond the loan and
offering a $25,000 contingency donation available should the project cost
surpass the $150,000 cap.
Granite Falls has been a great place to do business and we want to give
back,†said Granite Falls Bank CEO Steve Lindholm. Plus, iIt seemed that
the project has reached a point where it needed an individual or
organization to step forward and make a commitment so that others would
be encouraged to get involved.
If project estimates stay on the mark, the project should stay below
$150,000. Contractors from both Granite Falls and Montevideo have
provided preliminary estimates indicating that the floor can be raised and
building brought to code for just under the number.
However, there are a few additional "speed bumps" that will precede the
securement of this loan.
Progress: MBJ
It was Diane Fagen who recommended the prestigious Meyer Borgan and
Johnson, Inc. (MBJ) to the Berge crew.
The structural engineering firm out of Minneapolis specializes in providing
assistance for the renovation and restoration of older buildings. The
community orientation of the project garnered their intrigue and encouraged
them to make the trip to Granite Falls. Since the onset, they have provided
their time and services for "an extremely good rate, and have gone out of
their way to do so." said Richter.
MBJ has already signed off on the structural integrity of the building, and
stated that it will remain sound once the floor is raised the necessary 20.5
inches that elevates it above the flood plain.
MBJ continues to lend their abilities to the project, and the firm is set to
perform the structural drawings and will work with Miller Dunwiddie
Architecture for additional architectural services thats specifics will be
determined by the exact methods chosen to flood proof the structure.
Progress:
G.F. Riverfront Revitalization Inc.
Since October, the Berge group has been meeting almost weekly. During
their last meeting they began the steps to form a non-profit organization that
will serve as the ownership entity of the project.
Emphasizing a focus on long term area renewal, the Berge group has
tentatively chosen the title: Granite Falls Riverfront Revitalization Inc.
Once chartered, the Granite Falls Riverfront Revitalization will be able to
begin receiving donations to support community ambitions. Already a
number of individuals from the area have shown their support by pledging
over three thousand dollars which was used to cover the cost of the
structural engineer's report.
Gap costs
It was necessary to seek the funds for the structural engineers report first,
as the project is dependent upon the structural integrity of the building.
Thus there would have been no point in seeking a loan if the structure was
deemed insufficient.
In that same vein, the group will need to obtain firm contractual bids --
beyond the promising preliminary estimates -- that indicate the project can
be done for the approximate $150,000. The next phase of structural and
architectural drawings will dictate the numbers within those bids and will be
an upfront cost.
To cover this gap in funding, members of the Granite FallsâRiverfront
Revitalization approached the Granite Falls EDA this past Monday to ask for
their assistance with the effort.
Deemed an asset to the future economic development of the downtown, the
EDA agreed to support the project with a $10,000 grant and will be bringing
forth an additional request to the city council for a $10,000 two percent low
interest loan due back to the city within 10 years. The EDA will seek the
counciil's approval of the request during the upcoming meeting this Monday.
Belief brings reality
Though there have been many steps and a number of questions, the
wholehearted passionate efforts of the individuals that continue to become
involved in the Granite Falls Riverfront Revitalization initiative are finding
answers.
"As we continue to show progress and gain momentum, previously un-
tapped drive and desire continues to surface though out the community,"
said Richter. "Throughout this entire process we have been working with the
belief that it will become a reality, which is key as we maneuver our way
through each twist and turn."
Patrick J. Moore
Executive Director
Clean Up the River Environment (CURE)
1-877-269-2873
City of Granite Falls letter about the Berge Building plan
www.granitefallsnews.com
News Sunday, April 19, 2009
K.K.Berge building project is coming to fruition
By Scott Tedrick Staff Writer
Published: Friday, April 17, 2009 3:05 PM CDT
It was back in early February that the Granite Falls City Council approved a
proposal that would allow an aggregate of individuals representing a vast
swath of community to save the K.K.Berge Building from demolition and to
take it over as the self-sustaining owners.
That was the easy part.
Since being informed of the council's decisions, the group has been busy
fulfilling project stipulations, finding funding sources and creating an
ownership structure.
While the journey has been wrought with major question marks, the projeâs
idealistic community orientated nature has encouraged various entities near
and far to donate and/or provide their talents at a least cost scenario. As a
result, the project is proving to be feasible and is set to become reality.
"Each speed bump has allowed us to open doors to new ideas and
opportunities, and with each speed bump has come the realization that we
are progressing," said Chamber Director and Berge member Nicole Richter.
Revitalization at the root
The collective vision for the K.K. Berge building revolves around the idea
that it will serve a trifecta of purpose:
As a multi-use space it will provide the community with a location to hold
activities and events.
As the first building viewed riverside while heading north on Prentice, it will
serve as a metaphorical "Front Porch" for Granite Falls where visitors are
welcomed and acclimated to the community and its offerings.
And lastly, as a physical location from which to catalyze future riverfront
development.
But before any of the possibilities can come to fruition the Berge group has
to obtain upfront funding, have the building flood proofed, obtain a structural
engineers report stating that the building is structurally sound, as well as
meet any of the specifications outlined by the building inspector.
Progress: G.F. Bank and F&M Insurance Agency
Recently a huge hurdle appears surpassed as Granite Falls Bank stepped
to the plate to make $150,000 loan available based on certain conditions.
The the bank and F&M Insurance Agency have also expresse their support
for the community and the project by going over and beyond the loan and
offering a $25,000 contingency donation available should the project cost
surpass the $150,000 cap.
Granite Falls has been a great place to do business and we want to give
back,†said Granite Falls Bank CEO Steve Lindholm. Plus, iIt seemed that
the project has reached a point where it needed an individual or
organization to step forward and make a commitment so that others would
be encouraged to get involved.
If project estimates stay on the mark, the project should stay below
$150,000. Contractors from both Granite Falls and Montevideo have
provided preliminary estimates indicating that the floor can be raised and
building brought to code for just under the number.
However, there are a few additional "speed bumps" that will precede the
securement of this loan.
Progress: MBJ
It was Diane Fagen who recommended the prestigious Meyer Borgan and
Johnson, Inc. (MBJ) to the Berge crew.
The structural engineering firm out of Minneapolis specializes in providing
assistance for the renovation and restoration of older buildings. The
community orientation of the project garnered their intrigue and encouraged
them to make the trip to Granite Falls. Since the onset, they have provided
their time and services for "an extremely good rate, and have gone out of
their way to do so." said Richter.
MBJ has already signed off on the structural integrity of the building, and
stated that it will remain sound once the floor is raised the necessary 20.5
inches that elevates it above the flood plain.
MBJ continues to lend their abilities to the project, and the firm is set to
perform the structural drawings and will work with Miller Dunwiddie
Architecture for additional architectural services thats specifics will be
determined by the exact methods chosen to flood proof the structure.
Progress:
G.F. Riverfront Revitalization Inc.
Since October, the Berge group has been meeting almost weekly. During
their last meeting they began the steps to form a non-profit organization that
will serve as the ownership entity of the project.
Emphasizing a focus on long term area renewal, the Berge group has
tentatively chosen the title: Granite Falls Riverfront Revitalization Inc.
Once chartered, the Granite Falls Riverfront Revitalization will be able to
begin receiving donations to support community ambitions. Already a
number of individuals from the area have shown their support by pledging
over three thousand dollars which was used to cover the cost of the
structural engineer's report.
Gap costs
It was necessary to seek the funds for the structural engineers report first,
as the project is dependent upon the structural integrity of the building.
Thus there would have been no point in seeking a loan if the structure was
deemed insufficient.
In that same vein, the group will need to obtain firm contractual bids --
beyond the promising preliminary estimates -- that indicate the project can
be done for the approximate $150,000. The next phase of structural and
architectural drawings will dictate the numbers within those bids and will be
an upfront cost.
To cover this gap in funding, members of the Granite FallsâRiverfront
Revitalization approached the Granite Falls EDA this past Monday to ask for
their assistance with the effort.
Deemed an asset to the future economic development of the downtown, the
EDA agreed to support the project with a $10,000 grant and will be bringing
forth an additional request to the city council for a $10,000 two percent low
interest loan due back to the city within 10 years. The EDA will seek the
counciil's approval of the request during the upcoming meeting this Monday.
Belief brings reality
Though there have been many steps and a number of questions, the
wholehearted passionate efforts of the individuals that continue to become
involved in the Granite Falls Riverfront Revitalization initiative are finding
answers.
"As we continue to show progress and gain momentum, previously un-
tapped drive and desire continues to surface though out the community,"
said Richter. "Throughout this entire process we have been working with the
belief that it will become a reality, which is key as we maneuver our way
through each twist and turn."
Patrick J. Moore
Executive Director
Clean Up the River Environment (CURE)
1-877-269-2873
City of Granite Falls letter about the Berge Building plan
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Monday, March 23, 2009 from www.grqanitefallsnews.com
The Arts Council hopes to be located in the Berge Building.
For love of art, for love of community
Published: Thursday, March 19, 2009 6:04 PM CDT
E-mail this story | Print this page
Artist Tamara Isfeld stands in front of one of her paintings. Photo by
Scott Tedrick
GF resident and artist is impetus behind Granite Arts Council
creation
By Scott Tedrick Staff Writer
There will be no raised noses, monacles and stuffy attitudes -- with
great emphasis, Tamara Isfeld says that the creation of the
“Granite Arts Council” is about “building community.”
Without heeding age or artistic merit, the intent is for the council to
serve as a catalyst to bring people together and assist them in
“finding ways to enrich their lives through art” and, above all, “have
fun,” says Isfeld.
Since January, a five member executive board has been
hammering out the organizational details. Casting the mission
statement, brainstorming ideas, laying out the 5-year plan and
establishing the council as a 501 C3 non-profit has required a fair
amount of work and good degree of talent. Fortunately, an
avalanche of enthusiasm has moved the process along rather
quickly, and on March 29 the Granite Arts Council will officially
launch during a community gala at the Prairie’s Edge Convention
Center.
Downtime done good
As a professional artist, teacher and member of the Southwest
Minnesota Arts and Humanities Council (SMAHC) and Renville Arts
Council, Isfeld has recognized the potential, if not need, for an art
council in Granite Falls for a number of years of now.
Roughly 20 years ago, Isfeld said the City had its own arts council
but as key members moved on the original organization dissolved.
Reestablishing the council had been a recurring thought and
dilating desire for Isfeld, but it wasn’t until an unfortunate
circumstance that forced Isfeld’s hand -- or more appropriately, was
a force upon her hand -- that emotion began moving mind into
physical manifestation.
Unfortunately
fortunate
School was about to begin, the Meander was just around the corner
and yet, because of an unusual strep infection located in her
thumb, Isfeld would not be able to fully utilize her good hand for an
entire year. As a painter the situation understandably left the artist
a little somber, however she soon recognized the silver lining of the
cloud.
Unable to produce at her former capacity, even though she was to
become quite ambidextrous, Isfeld found herself with a new degree
of downtime that allowed her a golden opportunity to reflect. It was
during this period of introspection that she recognized that the
Granite Arts Council was of great importance to her and that she
could no longer allow it to wait.
What it will do
“I have found art to be a wonderful way to connect with others of
any age,” says Isfeld. ”It gives you a chance to express yourself,
share your thoughts and ideas, and find common ground.”
Looking around at the abundance of talent of the region Isfeld
recognizes innumerable avenues for potential expression.
From skilled painters to potters, wood workers to basket weavers,
decoy makers to photographers, musicians to bead workers -- an
incredible wealth of artists calls the river valley their home and most
are delighted by the idea of being able to teach and share their
gifts.
Isfeld envisions the art council to be the organizing entity who
assists the artists in engaging with community members of every
age in a variety of activities and venues.
“It’s no different than summer rec.,” she commented. “It’s just
another way to get to get together and have some fun ... you won’t
have to be an ‘artist.’”
What does not originate directly from the council in the form
workshops, classes, exhibits, festivals and/or clubs, etc. -- Isfeld
envisions as being supplemented by the Granite Arts Council’s
talents. As an example, the council could complement community
activities and events by adding a component to an existing
happening such as Applefest, or by getting involved in the schools
-- assisting with something like the background set of a high school
play.
“We have no limit to our ideas,” she said.
March 29, Prairie’s
Edge Conv. Center
Isfeld and company will attempt to give a feel for the council’s
potential during the Granite Arts Council’s launch and get together
at the end of the month.
Going to great lengths to include all facets of Granite Falls
community, food and local entertainment will be garnished with a
display of art from local students and other individuals of the area.
In addition, there will be an opportunity to participate in various art
related activities, including a “painting the town” mural. With the
mural, Isfeld has outlined the City of Granite Falls with the walking
bridge in the foreground so that it can be filled in by all who attend
like a giant coloring book.
The arts council is currently looking for a location to set up shop
and welcomes any individuals who would like to get involved or
assist the council in finding a building.
“We are open to ideas, welcome others to join us in the fun, [and
want you to] know you don’t have to be artist to participate,” says
Isfeld. “We really are just trying to find ways to connect people
together and hope along the way they can see art as adding value
to their life.”
Comments
Comments are limited to 200 words or less.
Name:
Email:
(optional)
The Arts Council hopes to be located in the Berge Building.
For love of art, for love of community
Published: Thursday, March 19, 2009 6:04 PM CDT
E-mail this story | Print this page
Artist Tamara Isfeld stands in front of one of her paintings. Photo by
Scott Tedrick
GF resident and artist is impetus behind Granite Arts Council
creation
By Scott Tedrick Staff Writer
There will be no raised noses, monacles and stuffy attitudes -- with
great emphasis, Tamara Isfeld says that the creation of the
“Granite Arts Council” is about “building community.”
Without heeding age or artistic merit, the intent is for the council to
serve as a catalyst to bring people together and assist them in
“finding ways to enrich their lives through art” and, above all, “have
fun,” says Isfeld.
Since January, a five member executive board has been
hammering out the organizational details. Casting the mission
statement, brainstorming ideas, laying out the 5-year plan and
establishing the council as a 501 C3 non-profit has required a fair
amount of work and good degree of talent. Fortunately, an
avalanche of enthusiasm has moved the process along rather
quickly, and on March 29 the Granite Arts Council will officially
launch during a community gala at the Prairie’s Edge Convention
Center.
Downtime done good
As a professional artist, teacher and member of the Southwest
Minnesota Arts and Humanities Council (SMAHC) and Renville Arts
Council, Isfeld has recognized the potential, if not need, for an art
council in Granite Falls for a number of years of now.
Roughly 20 years ago, Isfeld said the City had its own arts council
but as key members moved on the original organization dissolved.
Reestablishing the council had been a recurring thought and
dilating desire for Isfeld, but it wasn’t until an unfortunate
circumstance that forced Isfeld’s hand -- or more appropriately, was
a force upon her hand -- that emotion began moving mind into
physical manifestation.
Unfortunately
fortunate
School was about to begin, the Meander was just around the corner
and yet, because of an unusual strep infection located in her
thumb, Isfeld would not be able to fully utilize her good hand for an
entire year. As a painter the situation understandably left the artist
a little somber, however she soon recognized the silver lining of the
cloud.
Unable to produce at her former capacity, even though she was to
become quite ambidextrous, Isfeld found herself with a new degree
of downtime that allowed her a golden opportunity to reflect. It was
during this period of introspection that she recognized that the
Granite Arts Council was of great importance to her and that she
could no longer allow it to wait.
What it will do
“I have found art to be a wonderful way to connect with others of
any age,” says Isfeld. ”It gives you a chance to express yourself,
share your thoughts and ideas, and find common ground.”
Looking around at the abundance of talent of the region Isfeld
recognizes innumerable avenues for potential expression.
From skilled painters to potters, wood workers to basket weavers,
decoy makers to photographers, musicians to bead workers -- an
incredible wealth of artists calls the river valley their home and most
are delighted by the idea of being able to teach and share their
gifts.
Isfeld envisions the art council to be the organizing entity who
assists the artists in engaging with community members of every
age in a variety of activities and venues.
“It’s no different than summer rec.,” she commented. “It’s just
another way to get to get together and have some fun ... you won’t
have to be an ‘artist.’”
What does not originate directly from the council in the form
workshops, classes, exhibits, festivals and/or clubs, etc. -- Isfeld
envisions as being supplemented by the Granite Arts Council’s
talents. As an example, the council could complement community
activities and events by adding a component to an existing
happening such as Applefest, or by getting involved in the schools
-- assisting with something like the background set of a high school
play.
“We have no limit to our ideas,” she said.
March 29, Prairie’s
Edge Conv. Center
Isfeld and company will attempt to give a feel for the council’s
potential during the Granite Arts Council’s launch and get together
at the end of the month.
Going to great lengths to include all facets of Granite Falls
community, food and local entertainment will be garnished with a
display of art from local students and other individuals of the area.
In addition, there will be an opportunity to participate in various art
related activities, including a “painting the town” mural. With the
mural, Isfeld has outlined the City of Granite Falls with the walking
bridge in the foreground so that it can be filled in by all who attend
like a giant coloring book.
The arts council is currently looking for a location to set up shop
and welcomes any individuals who would like to get involved or
assist the council in finding a building.
“We are open to ideas, welcome others to join us in the fun, [and
want you to] know you don’t have to be artist to participate,” says
Isfeld. “We really are just trying to find ways to connect people
together and hope along the way they can see art as adding value
to their life.”
Comments
Comments are limited to 200 words or less.
Name:
Email:
(optional)