Premiere ’72: The making of “It Ain’t Easy”

Premiere '72: "It Ain't Easy" by markjohnson on November 13, 2019

In 1972, the news that a professional film crew would put Thief River Falls, Minnesota, some of its residents, and its chief export – the Arctic Cat Snowmobile – on the big screen, captured the imagination of the town. In the weeks leading up to the premiere, the TRF Times printed articles and photos of the movie’s stars, including Lance Hendrickson, who would later star in the “Terminator” films. The movie’s theme song, written by Dale Menten of the Twin Cities, was heard often on KTRF-AM. “It Ain’t Easy” was reported at the time to be the first feature film made completely in Minnesota. Aspiring filmmaker Maury Hurley wrote and directed the film. He would go on to write screenplays for “Miami Vice” and “Star Trek The Next Generation.” Pioneer 90.1’s production of “Premiere ’72” was made possible by the MN Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

“Premiere ’72” documentary produced by Pioneer 90.1 KSRQ, Thief River Falls
Interview with former Arctic Cat racer Ken Beito
Interview with Michael Hurley, son of “It Ain’t Easy” director Maurice Hurley
Interview with Arctic Cat racer Larry Coltom
Interview with Lee Lynch of the advertising agency that worked with Arctic Cat from 1969-1980

Community Voices: Koo Koo Kangaroo visits Thief River Falls

Community Voices by markjohnson on November 7, 2019

Aired November 7, 2019: Neil Olstead of Twin Cities children’s music duo Koo Koo Kangaroo, previewed their November 9 performance at Challenger Elementary School.

Community Voices: Doug Allen Nash brings tribute to Johnny Cash, Neil Diamond to Empire Arts Center

Community Voices by markjohnson on October 15, 2019

Aired October 15, 2019: Singer Doug Allen Nash has played shows at Breezy Point Resort in Minnesota. He brought his tribute to two music legends to Empire Arts Center in Grand Forks October 19.

Community Voices: “Honor the Veteran, Honor the Flag”

Community Voices by markjohnson on July 27, 2019

Aired July 27, 2019: Don Loeslie of Warren speaks at the USS Marshall County event at the Marshall County Fair.

Video: Behind the Scenes at Pioneer 90.1

featured by markjohnson on July 18, 2019
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