Catie Clark

BABBITT- A Wyoming-based drill crew is set for more work near Babbitt as Pulsar Helium is continuing its drilling efforts at its helium exploration well. Pulsar hired Capstar Drilling, of Casper, in October, to deepen its Jetstream No. 1 well, the heart of Pulsar’s efforts to develop a commercial helium resource in Minnesota. Jetstream No. 1 was initially completed last spring with a zone open to gas flow from 1,650–2,200 feet. Pulsar has brought Capstar back to the region to further deepen the well, as reported in the Oct. 4 Timberjay.

The new hardwood stage has been installed in Washington Auditorium at the Ely Public Schools Campus.

“Portraits of Indigenous Authors and Artists” now appearing at state Capitol gallery

REGIONAL— Fourth District County Commissioner Paul McDonald, of Ely, is this year’s recipient of the prestigious President’s Award from the Association of Minnesota Counties, or AMC. Every year in December, the outgoing president of that organization honors an individual for exemplary leadership in public service. This year’s 2024 president, Cass County Commissioner Neal Gaalswyk, said he picked McDonald for his years of dedicated service and his exemplary leadership in county government.

Mayor Heidi Omerza with outgoing city council member Paul Kess, who was recognized for his 22 years of service.

Ely Assistant Fire Chief Ryan Callen took photos of the remains of the motorized scooter that caught on fire in Ely on Monday evening.

Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival debuts this weekend with ‘Romeo and Juliet’

ELY- Three of ten Ely businesses licensed to sell THC-infused cannabinoid edibles failed to pass muster last month when they sold products to an underage buyer as part of an Ely Police Department compliance check.

BABBITT- Pulsar Helium issued an update on its drilling activities on Monday, including news that they have started work on a second well. The Canadian helium exploration company started new drilling activities early in December along the Dunka River Road southeast of Babbitt. The firm hired Capstar Drilling of Casper, Wyo. to deepen its first well, Jetstream No. 1, as reported in the Dec. 13 edition of the Timberjay.