Stolen Pontoon - Broken Hearts

[Iambjm]

From the Star Tribune:

The 25-foot pontoon boat was a community asset in Montevideo, paid for with donations and used weekly by volunteers to take senior citizens, kids and others onto nearby Lac qui Parle to fish or just cruise the waters.

But a real-life Grinch stole the boat, motor and trailer from a parking lot in Montevideo earlier this month.

“It’s just terrible, terrible,’’ said Don Lausen, 83, president of the local Let’s Go Fishing chapter, who personally contributed money to buy the $20,000 boat six years ago. “A lot of people are really disappointed. We average three excursions a week during the summer, and take out over 200 people,’’ he said, including nursing home residents, 4H kids and other groups.

“It’s ridiculous that someone would do something like that to an organization that serves the community.’’

The green and tan 2006 Ercoa Clipper DLX, with a 2005 Mercury 60 horsepower outboard and trailer, was parked at the True Value Hardware store in town when someone hooked it up and drove off June 9. Montevideo Police Chief Adam Christopher said it was sighted on Hwy. 71 north of town being pulled by a dark-colored truck. The boat had “Let’s Go Fishing’’ and other sponsor decals.

The sad thing is that the insurance isn't going to cover but half of the cost of a new one.

Being involved with the Itasca County Chapter and have captained many trips I know how much these trips mean to those who use them

[erikwells]

There is a special place in hell for those who did this. Likely the same folks taking money from the salvation army kettles.

[koonie]

They still haven't found it. I've donated a few rods to them and I know all the guys that run the program in Monte. Great group of guys and a great organization. I really hope these guys screw up and get caught.

[bobberdown69]

I sure hope they find who ever took this pontoon and make em pay restitution for all of the broken hearts,and not to slap em on the hand ,more than likely some gang or stupidity, scum bags,if they catch em have em tell these people whom they hurt the most, plus jail time

[IndyEFI500]

The silver lining to this cloud? The community rallied and raised enough money to buy a NEW pontoon. Congratulations to them. Hopefully this has also brought attention to a very worthy charity that can use any help they can get. Please do look to see if there is a local chapter in your neighborhood and help. If not, be sure to look into either starting a local chapter or helping in any way you can this noble cause. Remember they not only take out senior citizens but also youth and veterans.

[jigginjim]

Now it's to find the old pontoon. Could be parted out, and sold for scrap. junk yards beware!!!!!

[perry p]

It's good to hear they were able to replace it! I can't comprehend how somebody could steal anything, especially something valued by so many people.

[sunniewally]

have to install a tracking chip in it somewhere!!!