Jimmy  Darts

SB Mowing

Pattie Gonia

Little Miss Flint

Kalina Silverman / @makebigtalk on Instagram

The Dogist

Samuel Weidenhofer

Patriotic Kenny Foundation

Peter Bond

That Good News Girl

Ben Saunders - Flawless Cleaning

Flavor Flav

Ask Uncle Jack

Amy Jandrisevits

FowlMouthFarmer

Tess Bohne

Latonja and Taylor Richardson

Officer Richard Craig

John Wolfe

Khloe

<strong>About this fundraiser</strong>
<br>
<br>
 An Itty Bitty Babbitt Pantry is a community project supported by Billie and Mike Rouse, created to help local residents with food and other basic necessities. In addition to keeping pantry shelves stocked, the Pantry also gives back through community efforts like gathering school supplies and hosting a free Christmas Market. This project has become a meaningful source of support for neighbors who need a little extra help, and it continues to serve people in simple but important ways throughout the year. 
<br>
<br>
 Right now, An Itty Bitty Babbitt Pantry is asking for the community’s help to continue operating. Funds raised will go toward annual insurance costs, non-profit registration fees, and purchasing food for the pantry. The insurance fees alone are over $800, and covering these ongoing costs is no longer sustainable for Billie and Mike Rouse to manage on their own. Any support, big or small, will help keep the doors open and help make sure community members continue to have access to food, necessities, and caring local support. Thank you for standing with An Itty Bitty Babbitt Pantry.

Support An Itty Bitty Babbitt Pantry

<div>My name is Ari, and I have started this fundraiser to help my mom, Dena raise funds for various accessibility equipment as well as medical expenses and  job loss related to her spinal cord injury. All funds will be directly transferred to a bank account specifically for fundraising efforts.  Here is her story: 
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div> On July 6th, 2025 Dena’s whole life changed in the blink of an eye.

</div>

<div>As the ambulance director for the City of Tower, community engagement and relations are a huge part of her job and personality, a trait that she so lovingly inherited from her father, Chuck, who helped to develop the Tower Area Ambulance Service in it’s early stages. Dena was attending the annual Breitung Township Picnic for the first year since her father’s passing, spending the day with her grandchildren and other close family when she was encouraged to take her turn in the dunk tank.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Anyone who knows Dena knows she always put the community first; and she’d do her part as the ambulance director, climbing into the tank after the police chief - the same that she had in previous years. But this day, something went terribly wrong.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Soon into her turn, the tank’s seat malfunctioned and sprung up, swiftly throwing Dena backwards. Once she hit the ground she was in severe pain and unable to feel her legs. As an EMS professional, she immediately knew the potential implications of such an Injury. Fast action by EMS and air medical got her to St. Mary’s Medical Center in a timely manner, but she ultimately suffered multiple spinal fractures and what the doctors call a T11 complete spinal cord injury. Dena underwent emergency spinal fusion surgery and spent a week in the Neuro Trauma ICU before transferring to intensive inpatient rehabilitation - a total of over 40 days in the hospital. Dena is now paralyzed below the level of her injury and deals with long term complications related to much more than just her mobility.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Scans performed in the ER after her initial injury uncovered multiple brain aneurysms as well that were unrelated to the accident; a serious finding that must be addressed. Dena has since undergone one surgery to stabilize an aneurysm, but will need further procedures as well. As time goes on, she will continue to have appointments and procedures at both the Mayo Clinic in Rochester and St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth as well as ongoing Physical and Occupational Therapy locally in Virginia, MN.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Dena has already returned to the ambulance service, performing many administrative duties but is unable to “run calls” - her favorite part of her job and what she was truly the most gifted at. Anyone who was lucky enough to be cared for by her undoubtedly remembers her quick response, kind nature and pride in her work. A lot remains unknown with the sustainability of her career; a sad reality after so many years of commitment.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Beyond the changes to her job, Dena’s home is not the best equipped for wheelchair access. Her husband of 40 years, Tom has continued to make accessible changes to their home but in the long term, a new home may need to become a reality. Looking forward, one of Dena’s biggest hopes is to regain some independence and mobility with a vehicle adapted for her to drive herself, an expense no one ever expects.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Dena’s injuries have obviously incurred medical bills in addition to home repairs and other unplanned expenses which seemingly never stop. All of these components take a financial toll on her and her family and after several months, they are ready to ask for help.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Dena has given so much of herself to her community for the last 15 years, following in her father’s footsteps. Her daughters have also given to the community through EMS service, continuing to carry out Dena’s love for volunteering and stewardship. She’s been strong for so many others — and now, she needs her community to be strong for her.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Please consider donating, and share this page with others. Every contribution — big or small — makes a difference and brings Dena closer to independence and stability in this new chapter.

</div>

Independence Initiative: Support Dena’s Recovery

<div>Alyssa Siebert was a devoted mother and a deeply caring person who always put others before herself. At just 31, she was taken from her family far too soon after a sudden brain aneurysm. Her loss leaves a tremendous void in the lives of her husband Derek and their two young sons, Otto and Eike. Alyssa’s love for her boys was unmatched—Otto, a lively two-year-old, and Eike, just six months old and the spitting image of his mother, were truly her everything. She poured her heart into caring for them, and her absence will be felt every day.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Now, Derek faces the overwhelming challenge of being the primary caregiver for Otto and Eike while also managing the household on his own. He will need to take needed time off from work to help his sons adjust and to handle the many responsibilities that come with this sudden loss. The family’s most urgent needs are for living expenses and reliable childcare, so Derek can focus on supporting his boys through this difficult transition.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Alyssa would have wanted nothing but the best for Otto and Eike. While no one can ever replace her love and care, we can come together to help provide the stability and support her family needs. Your generosity will help ensure that Derek and the boys have the resources to move forward and honor Alyssa’s memory by giving her children the best care possible.

</div>

Help Derek Provide for Otto and Eike

<img alt="" media_type="3" src="https://d2g8igdw686xgo.cloudfront.net/76837389_1723484896517366_r.jpeg" width="100%" />
<div>Paula Doreen Lind Barnes, 68, passed away peacefully in the arms of Jesus in Virginia Hospital Hospice on August 10 with family by her side. In 2020, Paula developed ovarian cancer that spread to her peritoneal abdominal cavity. She was a loving and energetic mother, grandmother, sister, and friend and will sadly be missed by all who knew and loved her.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Paula Doreen Lind Barnes was born June 20, 1956, in Minneapolis to Curtis Herbert Lind and Darlene Joann (Sandstrom) Lind. The family lived in Pike Lake in houses built by her dad and maternal grandfather Turre until her parents moved to Alaska.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>She graduated from Proctor High School in 1974 and attended UMD and Lake Superior College for medical laboratory science. Paula worked for Essentia Health Clinics Laboratory in Ely, Tower and Babbitt, Cook Hospital, and lastly at Bois Forte Tribal Clinic as lab/x-ray manager-supervisor.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Paula married her soulmate, Jason Mathew Barnes, in 2016. It was her dream to go through life with him, completing their happy, loving journey.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Paula is also survived by three children with Robert Francis Trucano of Tower: Terah Sue Rinerson (Nathan), Robert Andrew Trucano, and Tasha Anna Trucano Majerle (Lee); 3 sisters: Pamela Peterson (Dave), “Lisa Anna” Repensky, Lana (Lind) Arro, and sister-in-law Juanita Trucano (who was more like a sister); the joys of her life, 5 grandchildren: Oryann Sophia Trucano, Hayden Rinerson, Evelyn Rinerson, Robert Charles Trucano Swartz and Cecilia Majerle; her mother, Darlene Lind; numerous nieces and nephews; and her mother-in-law Patricia Barnes of Quakertown, PA.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Paula was active at the Evangelical Free Church of Embarrass under Pastor Marlin Bjornrud and his wife, Jeanine. She was a part of choir, Sunday School, youth league events, school events for her children, and coaching volleyball, softball and basketball. She loved researching and recounting family history for further generations. She was an antiquer and crafter known for her soy candles and lotions. She loved remodeling and decorating houses. In the end, she discovered e-biking, and a love-hate relationship ensued.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>She is preceded in death by paternal grandparents Fred and Anna (Savage) Lind, maternal grandparents Turre Alexander and her best friend, Grandma Edna (Nylund) Sandstrom, in-laws Charles and Mildred Trucano, her loving father Curtis Herbert Lind and father-in-law Donald Barnes.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Paula’s Celebration of Life will be held August 30 at 3pm at the Evangelical Free Church in Embarrass, and a gathering afterward at the Tower Civic Center for a silent auction, food, and remembrance.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>The family asks, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Paula’s Go Fund Me (Note: The company charges a 2.8% credit card transaction fee, and that is included in your donation)
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Previous note from Paula's children:
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Paula Barnes who has peritoneal metastatic cancer which came from ovarian cancer that has grown throughout her abdomen. This has metastasized and collects fluid in her abdomen cavity. She drains 1-2 liters off her abdomen nightly. 
</div>
<div>No other organ have been infected but she’s been battling this for over three years and the chemo is no longer working. The next step is back on taxol to knock down the growing cancer. Her insurance pays for most medical bills but the travel, food and hotel costs come out of pocket. Any amount helps her fund her treatment and is so appreciated. 
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Tasha Trucano Majerle
</div>
<div>Terah Sue Rinerson 
</div>
<div>Robert Andrew Trucano (Andy) 
</div>

Paula Doreen Lind Barnes - family support

<p><strong>UPDATE: (this is a new GoFundMe but continued from the first one - the old link would not work)</strong><br /><br />As many of you know, Jerelyn's kidney transplant had been cancelled last December due to some complications. Great news, it is back on and scheduled for August 12!<br /><br />Jerelyn wants to thank everyone for your care, support, prayers, donations, and all the help given to her during this long road to her HOPEFUL SUCCESSFUL TRANSPLANT this time!!! As she says, "Third time is the charm!"<br /><br />This past month, there was another big bump in their road. Todd, who has been employed for 29 years, lost his job for no reason, which also means they lost their health insurance on July 31. They have been scrambling to get health coverage otherwise they could not get the transplant. Jerelyn finally qualified for Medicare but she will need to pay for Medicare, a supplement, and an expensive drug plan every month. The copay she will have to pay for just 2 of her anti-rejection drugs (she will have to take 8) that she will have to take for the rest of her life was quoted at $400 per MONTH. This is on top of the monthly premium payment. She hasn't gotten a quote on the other 30 drugs she also takes. She was also quoted that the 20%  she would have to pay, due to Medicare copay for the transplant surgery and follow-up visits for the first year for her and Bret could run between $8-10,000. Along with their everyday and monthly bills, they will also have all the extra expenses with the transplant (hotels, travel, gas, food)<br /><br />Jerelyn also started a Facebook group:  Update on Jerelyn and Bret kidney transplant August 12.  If you would like to join the group for updates, please go to  <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/154464350100113" target="_blank" class="" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">https://www.facebook.com/groups/154464350100113</a><br /><br />As stated below, my hope is to raise enough money to help Jerelyn and Bret with the financial burden they will incur. Both families do realize that many of you may be going through your own difficult times due to Covid, so if you are unable to donate financially, your thoughts and prayers are appreciated! <br /><br /><strong>XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX</strong><br /><br />Jerelyn has fought many medical battles throughout the years and this is just another hurdle in her journey.  Both of Jerelyn's kidneys are failing and are functioning at only 10-12%. Jerelyn has been approved for a kidney transplant and her cousin, Bret Janeskala, was a match and has graciously offered to be her donor. Jerelyn will be having her kidney transplant surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester on <br />December 11, 2020.  <br /><br />Jerelyn will be in the hospital for a week following her surgery and then will need to stay at the Transplant House for an additional three weeks. Her husband will be staying with her for two of the weeks and then some gracious volunteers will be staying with her the rest of the time. She will need help with cooking, shopping, getting to doctor appointments, etc.  <br /><br />Bret is a full-time mailman in Ely and is a co-owner of LuckyBoy Services and The Fat Chicken Greenhouse. Bret will have to be in the hospital for two to three days and then will have to stay in Rochester for several more. He will also not be able to lift more than 10 lbs for at least 8 more weeks. Bret is a very caring and standup man who always put others first before himself.  <br /><br />Jerelyn, Bret, and their families are very giving and loving people. During Covid, Jerelyn has helped the Ely and Babbitt communities by donating over 1100 hand-sewn masks.  <br /><br />Jerelyn and Bret will have many expenses that their health insurance will not cover. There will also be hotel stays, food, gas, co-pays, etc. They will both have to make many return trips to the Mayo for follow-ups.  <br /><br />Through this GoFundMe, my hope is to offset some of the financial burdens that Jerelyn and Bret will incur. Both families do realize that many of you may also be going through your own difficult times during this Covid epidemic, so if you are unable to donate financially, your thoughts and prayers would be appreciated!  <br /><br />Thank you!<br /><br /> 
</p>

<p> 
</p>

Kidney Fundraiser for Jerelyn and Bret

Carole Marks

Carole Marks

Carole Marks

Featured causes

About me