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Todd Board will consider raising refuse costs to haulers and property owners
By Rin Porter At the March 25 work session, Todd County Commissioners heard a presentation from Solid Waste Supervisor Jeremy Clasemann about the need to increase Todd County tipping fees charged to garbage haulers and county environmental fees charged to property owners. The current Todd County tipping fee is $65. Morrison County charges $65 tipping fee at its landfill. The Perham Resource and Recovery Facility charges $84.50. Clasemann and Solid Waste Director Mike Hanan suggest that Todd County raise its tipping fee to $74.50 per ton. Clasemann reported that the Solid Waste Department also recommends raising the countys environmental fee charged to property owners from $40 per year to $45 per year. The reason for the requests for fee increases is that the Solid Waste Department wants to establish a capital equipment reserve fund to provide for future equipment needs. The board will consider the requests at a future meeting. Other county employees also attended the work session to present their concerns about issues facing their departments. Interim Auditor/Treasurer Denise Gaida appeared before the board, along with Assessor Chris Odden and Recorder Cheryl Perish to request that the job description for a new hire already authorized by the board be changed. The three department heads agree that the greatest need in their division is for an additional employee for the GIS (Geographic Information System) area. Currently there is only one employee working in the GIS area, where previously there were three. The single employee is over a year behind on some of the GIS work, because one person cannot do the work of three people. Gaida, Odden, and Perish emphasized that GIS work must be kept current because it is the basis for 911 services in the county. Commissioner Dave Kircher supported the change. He said, Updating the maps is critical to 911 services. The board discussed the request and agreed to take it up at a future board meeting. Katherine Mackedanz and other employees from Health and Human Services (HHS) presented information for commissioners on a proposed County Social Host Ordinance and a proposed update of the County Tobacco Ordinance. HHS personnel believe strongly that ecigarettes should be included in the County Tobacco Ordinance because the main ingredient in these products is nicotine the major addictive substance in tobacco. Kircher, a former Todd County Sheriff, objected to the entire concept of the County Social Host Ordinance because the issue is already covered under existing state law. The board asked Mackedanz and the other presenters to draft proposed language for the two ordinances and discuss them with County Attorney Chuck Rasmussen before returning to the board for further consideration of the two proposals. Gaida asked the board to consider authorizing county-wide budget training as the county prepares to draft the 2015 budget. Gaida said she has no experience in preparing the county budget, and pointed out that there are several new department heads who also have no Continued on page 12.
By Rin Porter The Browerville Total Express employees received word on March 24 that the gas station would close on March 31. A manager told the Blade the employees were notified by the owner. All the gas was removed from the tanks on March 25. Employees were instructed to sell all the other merchandise in the store at 50% off. We called owner Julie Klaphake, but she refused to speak with us. She referred us to her attorney, but did not give the attorneys name. A store manager told us all eleven employees would lose their jobs. She did not know whether the store would be sold to a new owner and the employees hired back. Three of the employees were full-time, with the rest part-time workers. Court records show a recent small judgment in 2014 against Julie Klaphake and Total Express of Browerville, Inc., awarded in favor of Zarns Oil Company of Little Falls. We wondered about the effects of the gas station closing on the school district, the city, and local businesses. Supt. Scott Vedbraaten said the Browerville School District buses are leased, and so the district buses will not be affected by the gas station closure. But the schools vans purchase gas locally. Now that Total Express is closed, Vedbraaten said that the vans will use district credit cards to fill up the vans in other communities as the vans pass through them transporting students. The Aksamit Transportation Company provides buses to the district, and the buses use diesel fuel, which they purchase from a different vendor, not Total Express. Aksamit Transportation will not be affected by the gas station closure. No one from the city of Browerville was available for comment over the past weekend. We did try to contact Mayor Mike Aksamit, but he did not return our call. City Administrator Lynn Fabro wrote in an email, The closing of Total Express is terrible for our community. Its impact on the City business is that now our public works department will now have to drive to Clarissa for regular fuel. The good thing is that the Fire Dept. and Ambulance are all diesel vehicles so they are not impacted.
On Thursday evening, March 27th the National Honor Society members inducted the new 2014 members at their annual banquet. Members include: Benton Johnson, Trent Johnson, Jackson Polak, Jake Iten, Abigail Irsfeld, Emily Busch, Cody Hansmeyer, Emily Lisson, Katelyn Middendorf, Katelyn Kellen, Catherine Aksamit, MaKenna Hegseth, and Dominique Ludwig.
PEOPLE PAGE
Katie Ranney and Michael Johnson, Brainerd, girl, Emma Grace, 7 lbs 9 oz, March 26, 2014 Cassie and Josh Miles, Nisswa, boy, Maddox Allen, 6 lbs 1 o, March 26, 2014
Obituary
Kayla Sue Hairsine Kayla Sue Hairsine, 28, Eagle Bend, passed away unexpectedly at the Tri County Hospital in Wadena on March 25, 2014. Funeral services for Kayla will be held Friday, April 4, 2014, 2 p.m., at Faith Lutheran Church in Eagle Bend with Pastor Melissa Ehrhardt officiating. Kayla was born November 6, 1985, in Browerville to David and Candace (Farmer) Hairsine. She attended Eagle Valley High School, graduating in 2004. Kayla worked for Dans Prize for seven years. In 2011 she traveled to Thailand with her family to visit her father. Kayla loved dancing, singing, laying out in the sun and hanging out with her friends. Her life was her family; she loved going to her brothers football games. Kayla was very caring and had a smile that would light up a room. Kayla is survived by her son Kandin Ahrendt, Eagle Bend; mother Candy Schauer, Eagle Bend; father David (Phu) Hairsine, Thailand; grandmothers, Nancy Farmer; Rochester, and Addie Hairsine; Casson, siblings: Tanith (Romie) Rech, Browerville, Joisan Donovan, Eagle Bend, Shane (Lillian) Hairsine, Bemidji and Jacob Schauer, Eagle Bend; three nieces; and seven nephews. She was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Joseph Farmer and Carl Hairsine and best friend Nikki Bryniarski. Arrangements by Iten Funeral Home, Browerville. Joyce D. Grindahl A memorial service for Joyce D. Grindahl will be held at 11 am, April 19, 2014, at Lincoln Evangelical Free Church in Cushing. A pot luck meal will be held after the service. Everyone is welcome to attend.
its ReadyCare doors, located within the Tri-County Health Care Wadena Clinic via the facilitys main entrance at 415 Jefferson Street North, Wadena. Starting Tuesday, April 1, ReadyCare will provide walk-in care and same-day appointments for illnesses and injuries that do not require emergency room care, but could worsen if treatment is delayed. ReadyCare fees are consistent with clinic visit fees, and covered by insurance at the same level. Coordinated care ensures that complete treatment records are available to the patients Tri-County Health Care primary care physician for follow-up as needed. With same-day appointments and day and evening walk-in service, ReadyCare is an ideal resource for those times when the need for a medical visit is unexpected, such as cuts, burns, sprains or fractures that do not require a visit to the emergency room. In addition, ReadyCare is staffed to provide treatment for colds, flu, fever, sore throats, abdominal pain/stomach aches, urinary tract infections (UTIs), sprains, allergic reactions, pink eye, minor lacerations, viral illnesses, earaches, bacterial infections, seasonal allergies and minor trauma. ReadyCare fills the gap between primary care and the emergency room, offering patients increased convenience and cost savings. Walk-in Care & Same Day Appointments DAYS AND EVENINGS: Mon.-Thurs. - 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Fri.- 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Sat. - 8 - noon ReadyCare should not be used for chronic conditions, medication refills for chronic conditions, chronic pain, missed appointments, wellchild exams, annual exams or second opinions. Severe emergency care deals with illness or injury serious enough to require immediate medical attention. Please call 911 and use the Emergency Department if you are having trouble breathing, or think you are having a heart attack. You should also go to the Emergency Department if you have uncontrolled bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or sudden slurred speech or numbness, which could be a sign of a stroke. For more information, visit www.TCHC.org, or call (218) 6311100 or 1-800-880-DOCS (3627).
Division I-AA All-American. Matt was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the sixth round of the 1998 draft. Appearing in 228 career games, including 18 playoff contests, Matt spent 11 seasons with Minnesota and four more with the Baltimore Ravens. He was named the 2011 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year for his off-the-field service, as well as his playing excellence. From 5-6:45 p.m., Tri-County Health Care (TCHC) staff will provide free lab testing and screenings for glucose, cholesterol, PSA, thyroid, blood sugar, body fat and blood pressure. Informational booths will be available on a variety of health topics pertinent to mens health and a complimentary light meal will be available at the same time. The evening program will kick off at 7 p.m. with a panel of Tri-County Health Care medical professionals participating in a Question and Answer session with Mens Night out participants. At 8 p.m., the evening will conclude with Matts presentation, The Arrow Principle Becoming the Person You Were Meant To Be. Admission to Mens Night Out is free; however, seating is limited and pre-registration is required by calling 218-632-8725, registering online at www.TCHC.org or by e-mailing tchcevents@TCHC.org.
Kevin Faust
Kevin Faust of Todd County, MN has been selected as a winner in America's Farmers Grow Communities, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund. Kevin Faust selected Central Minnesota Chaplaincy to receive the $2,500 donation in Todd County, MN.
Photography - black and white, any subject. Photography - story telling: photo or group of photos that depict a story. Photography - nature, animals, landscape, featuring scenes of water, land, vegetation, trees, wild or domestic animals, and/or buildings. Photography - human interest featuring, adults, children, people of other cultures. Photography - abstract, fine art. Photography may be enhanced if done by the exhibitor. Photos need not be framed, must be a minimum of 8 in. by 10 in. and a maximum of approximately 16 in. by 20 in. A regional student art show will also be held in conjunction with the adult show. Schools in the Freshwater Education District are invited to participate. Those schools include Staples Motley, Bertha Hewitt, Browerville, Eagle Valley, Henning, Long Prairie-Grey Eagle, Pillager and Verndale. The show will be open to the public from noon to 9 p.m., Friday, May 16, and 9 noon-7 p.m., Saturday, May 17. Area artists will demonstrate their art Saturday afternoon. Other events at the auditorium during the weekend include the Staples Motley High School Commencement Concert, 7 p.m., Friday, and a dance recital, 7 p.m., Saturday, by A Time to Dance students.
Looking Back
50 years ago - April 2, 1964 Winners of the Browerville Commercial Club ham drawing were: Frank Twardowski, Mrs. Con Brechner, Mrs. John Hudalla, Dick Becker, Mrs. Cecil Bentz, Bob Hadash, Chuck Geraets, Violet Bentz, Mrs. Joe Soule, Frank Motzko, Herman Irsfeld, Mrs. Bill Zigan, Sr., Gus Drong, Albert Gorman, Val Lamusga, Mrs. Louis Becker, George Gonsior, Dean Carstensen, and Wilber Doble 25 years ago - April 6 1989 The Browerville City Counsel voted unanimously to procced with a plan to put in all new light fixtures (18 of them) and sodium vapor lamps with 23000 lumens (250 watts) at a cost of $8.25 per month. The the change in the lamps the citys light bill will actually be about $60 less a month.
Staples Rotary Art Show calling for entries 50th Annual Art Show set for May 16-17
Pre-registrations are now being accepted for the 50th Annual Staples Rotary Arts Show May 16-17 in the lobby of Centennial Auditorium in Staples. For pre-registration or to have a brochure mailed, call Marci Lord at 218-894-5400, ext. 3011 or email mlord@isd2170.k12.mn.us. Exhibits will be accepted from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, May 15. Artists may exhibit their work or enter it for juried competition. Exhibited art may also be for sale. There is no limit to the number of items artists may exhibit in the non-juried portion of the art show and there is no fee for non-juried items. Juried exhibits are limited to six items in each class. Recognition ribbons will be awarded and no entry fee will be charged. The 2014 Photography Theme Category is Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews. The other categories are: Art, including all types of original paintings or drawings. General Crafts, featuring pottery, decoupage, ceramics, sculptures, jewelry, collages, metalwork. Fibrous Craft, including all needlework, quilting, sewing. Wood Craft, featuring carvings, wood sculpture, objects made substantially of wood products.
Milestones
Happy Birthday this week to: Apr. 3: Kelly Callahan, Donna Sovich, Jeremie Steinert, Jim Pogreba; Apr. 4: Paul Baron, Debbie Bromeling, Margie Host, Michael Deering; Apr. 5: Roger Katterhagen, Jeff Myrum; Apr. 6: Dennis Sovich, Bob Heid, Sandy Folkenson, Diana Goodrich, Justin Host, Jonathon Couchey, Jo Maschler; Apr. 7: Daryl Becker, Walt Lucas, Jordan Tyrrell; Apr. 8: Ramona Steinmetz; Apr. 9: Michael Katterhagen, Jennifer Zigan, Bill Zimprich
Births
Amanda and Cameron Matter, Sartell, boy, Jameson Cory, 7 lbs 13 oz, March 20, 2014 Amanda and Kevin Olson, Long Prairie, boy, Lucas John, 6 lbs 7 oz, March 22, 2014 Autumn and Randy Nelson, Motley, girl, Leah Rose, 6 lbs 12 oz, March 22, 2014 Wendy and Tristan Banks, Brainerd, boy, Mason Michael, 7 lbs 11 oz, March 22, 2014 Meranda Richards and Steven Hopkins, Pine River, girl, Isabella Rose, 5 lbs 15 oz, Amanda and Cameron Matter, Sartell, boy, Jameson Cory, 7 lbs 13 oz, March 25, 2014 Brittnee and Trevor, Ottertail, girl, Temperance Kristi Lynn, 9 lbs 6 oz, March 26, 2014
HAPPENINGS
CORRECTION
The cutline under the March 27, 2014 Browerville Blade front page picture of the Browerville Honor Guards new jackets should have read the American Legion and VFW, not just the VFW. this service has made a positive impact on their lives. The survey can be accessed April 1 through April 30 from library computers or from griver.org, the library website. Individuals must be 14 or older to take the survey. It is anonymous, available in English and Spanish, and takes 10-15 minutes to complete. For more information about the Impact Survey, visit http://impactsurvey.org. regular intervals. The same holds true when it comes to having your septic tank pumped and cleaned. Septic tanks are designed to settle solids to the the bottom, oils and grease to the top and relatively clear water in the middle. It is this clear water that is discharged to the drainfield. If regular pumping and cleaning is not done, the solids, oils and grease can build up in the tank and enter the drainfield. Allowing this to happen shortens the life of your septic system or worse, destroy it. The best insurance for promoting a long life for your septic system is to have it pumped and cleaned by a septic professional at least once every three years. The cost for this service definitely outweighs the cost of installing a new system. Regular maintenance of your septic system, just like your car, will save you money (as well as headaches) in the long run. For more information concerning septic systems and how to maintain them, please go to our website or contact us directly at (320) 732-4420. where we came from, said Dale Nordquist, Extension economist in the University of Minnesota Center for Farm Financial Management. 2012 was a very profitable year for Minnesota farms. Land rental rates have been catching up with the increased profitability of crop production. Most crop producers were in pretty good shape to handle a down year. The question is how long will these reduced profits last? Dramatic drops in crop prices Corn and soybean prices dropped dramatically. Net return per acre of corn dropped from $377 in 2012 to minus $24 in 2013. Soybeans went from $216 net return per acre in 2012 to $85 in 2013. The price of sugar beets dropped from $65 a ton to $35. Sugar beet producers lost an average of $300 per acre in the Red River Valley and west central Minnesota. Price was not the only factor that led to reduced profits for crop producers. Yields were down due to a cold, wet spring followed by developing drought conditions in parts of the state. The statewide average yield for corn was 160 bushels per acre compared to 171 in 2012, below the ten-year average of 167 bushels. Soybean yields were down from 46 to 42 bushels per acre. Meanwhile, the cost to grow an acre of corn increased by 10 percent. Land rental rates increased by 15 percent for corn production. The full extent of this has not been felt by crop producers yet, said Ron Dvergsten, Farm Business Management (FBM) instructor/FBM program coordinator at Northland Community & Technical College in Thief River Falls. Cash flow was not a problem through much of the year as producers sold 2012 crop at high prices. Most of the decrease shows up in the reduced value of inventories at the end of the year. That means cash flows for 2014 are really tight. At current prices, many producers will lose money on cash rented land in the coming year. Feed factors reduce livestock profits Livestock farms faced high feed costs for much of the year;
Browerville City Council meets the second Wednesday of the month at 7 pm in the Browerville City Hall Browerville AA and Al-Anon meet every Wednesday at 8 pm at the Todd County DAC Building
feed prices did not decline substantially until harvest. While the price of milk, pork and beef were all up from the previous year, the combination of high feed costs and lower values of feed inventories reduced livestock farm profits. Milk sold for $20.34 per hundredweight compared to $19.63 in 2012. With a cost of production of $19.92, dairy farmers made 42 cents on every hundred pounds produced or about 5 cents per gallon on average. Market hog prices increased from $63 per hundred pounds in 2012 to $66 in 2013. Market beef prices increased from $122 per hundredweight in 2012 to $125 in 2013. Prospects for livestock producers are better for the coming year. After several years of high feed costs that benefited crop producers, the tables will likely be turned in 2014. Prices are projected to be strong for all major livestock sectors this year, Nordquist said. And feed costs will be much lower so livestock producers should have a very good year. The one wildcard for pork producers is the spread of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). While the virus is not transferred to humans, it can be devastating to pig herds and cause severe financial consequences. 2014: Tighter margins ahead Crop producers will see much tighter margins in 2014. The good thing is that most crop producers come in to the year with very strong working capital positions, Dvergsten said. Another plus is that fertilizer prices are down. But other costs, including land rent, are projected to increase. It is likely that many crop producers will have to use some of their working capital to cover losses in the coming year. The statewide results are compiled by the Center for Farm Financial Management into the FINBIN database which can be queried at www.finbin.umn.edu. 2013 regional reports and reports from previous years can be found on the MnSCU Farm Business Management website at www.fbm.mnscu.edu.
Peggys Potpourri
About 1,000 quarter pound hamburgers come from the ground beef in one 1,000 pound steer (from just the normal beef ground into ground beef) The world's largest apple peel was created by Kathy Wafler Madison on October 16, 1976, in Rochester, NY. It was 172 feet, 4 inches long. (She was 16 years old at the time and grew up to be a sales manager for an apple tree nursery.) Australia has the lowest precipitation of any of the worlds inhabited continents. (Antarctica gets less.) 70 percent of Australia gets less than 500 mm (20 inches) of rainfall per year. An estimated five million olfactory receptors are clustered in the membrane at the upper part of our nasal passages. These receptors help us distinguish among thousands of different odors. The South American anaconda is the largest snake of the boa constrictor family. The largest specimen ever recorded was 62 feet long and a foot in diameter. Most likely items involved in accidents at homes: bicycles, stairs, doors; in that order. Julius Caesar wore a laurel wreath crown to hide the fact that he was balding. How did hammocks get their name? They were first made from the fibers of the hamack tree. To keep your feet warm, put on a hat. 80% of all body heat escapes through your head. In most watch advertisements the time displayed on the watch is 10:10 because then the arms frame the brand of the watch (and make it look like its smiling). Springtime is the land awakening. The March winds are the morning yawn. ......... Lewis Grizzard
OPINIONS
Hi all,
Home invasion
A person just never knows what is going to happen at their house when theyre gone. My wife and I went on a trip last week. Since we were going to be gone for just over a week, Duke and Louie, the dogs, went over to spend the time with our son, Damon. It would save him the bother of having to come over and take care of them every day, and they do enjoy going over to play with his dogs. The place was completely unguarded for the time we were gone. When we arrived home Saturday night, we noticed five deer near the house as we drove down the driveway. Its not uncommon to see deer in the drive, but they usually dont come so close to the house. Nothing else seemed amiss, so we took a shower and collapsed into bed. The sun had risen by the time I rolled out the next morning. I grabbed a cup of coffee and went out onto the porch. Nine deer By Walter Scott were coming up from the lake toward the house as though they had gone for a drink and were coming to the house for breakfast. I looked at the side yard where the bird feeders hang and discovered something had already been there for several meals. Before we left, my wife had filled all the feeders and put out a new bird seed block. One of the feeders was been knocked down and emptied. The rest were still hanging where they belonged, but were also empty. The block that usually lasts close to a month was gone. I looked up the driveway to see four more deer coming toward the house. Quite a number of deer had learned to converge in the yard with the bird feeders. Looking about, I noticed the lid to the trash can was in the yard. I picked it up and took it back to where one or more raccoons had been feasting from the garbage can. Fortunately, there were more things they liked to eat than to spread around. It was not too big of a mess, but more than I wanted to deal with early in the morning. I heard a turkey gobble and walked back around the porch. Three gobblers were coming across the dam, strutting and gobbling as they came closer. Im not sure if they were coming for bird seed, but if so, they were out of luck. Something white caught my eye far up in the lake. As I watched, I was finally able to make out we had ten trumpeter swans move in while we were gone. Assorted ducks and Canada geese swam around the edges feeding on underwater grasses. When my wife got up, we enjoyed watching all the wildlife around us. The swans made a few flights past the house and landed back in the water. The turkeys moseyed down the face of the dam and out into the pasture. We decided if we were to leave for a month, the wildlife would move into the house. They would be sleeping in our bed and getting cold drinks from the refrigerator. Living close to nature, a person has to take the good with the bad. If a home doesnt have human activity and big dogs keeping raccoons out of the trash cans or deer away from the bird feeders, wildlife will take advantage. Given enough time, we could have a real home invasion.
April is.......
International Guitar Month, Keep America Beautiful Month, National Anxiety Month, National Humor Month, National Welding Month, National Garden Month, and Uh-Huh Month April 1 - One Cent Day April 2 - National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day April 3 - Tweed Day and Don't Go To Work Unless It's Fun Day April 4 - Tell-A-Lie Day April 5 - Go For Broke Day April 6 - Sorry Charlie Day April 7 - No Housework Day April 8 - All Is Ours Day April 9 - Winston Churchill Day and Name Yourself Day April 10 - Golfers Day April 11 - Eight-Track Tape Day April 12 - Look Up At The Sky Day April 13 - Blame Somebody Else Day
April 14 - National Pecan Day April 15 - Rubber Eraser Day April 16 - National Stress Awareness Day and National Eggs Benedict Day April 17 - National Cheeseball Day April 18 - International Jugglers Day April 19 - Garlic Day April 20 - Look Alike Day April 21 - Kindergarten Day April 22 - National Jelly Bean Day April 23 - Read Me Day and World Laboratory Animal Day April 24 - National Pigs In A Blanket Day April 25 - National Zucchini Bread Day April 26 - Richter Scale Day and National Pretzel Day April 27 - Tell A Story Day April 28 - Great Poetry Reading Day and KissYour-Mate Day April 29 - National Shrimp Scampi Day April 30 - National Honesty Day
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SAP 077-623-009 SAP 077-644-001 CP 14:62 CP 14:67 CP 77-14-01 CP 77-14-06 City of Hewitt Street Project This is an abbreviated advertisement. A full advertisement can be viewed by going to the Public Works website at H Y P E R L I N K "https://egram.co.todd.mn.us/" https://egram.co.todd.mn.us/ Loren Fellbaum Public Works Director/ Engineer Todd County
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MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 395 JOHN IRELAND BOULEVARD MS 650 ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA 55155-1800 ********************** ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS **********************
FOR HIGHWAY CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE PROJECTS WITH BIDS RECEIVED UNTIL 9:30 O'CLOCK A.M. ON April 25, 2014 PROPOSAL TO FURNISH AND DELIVER ALL MATERIALS AND TO PERFORM ALL WORK IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONTRACT, THE PLANS AND THE APPROVED DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION "STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS FOR CONSTRUCTION, 2014 EDITION" (USING ENGLISH UNITS), ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF TRANSPORTATION EXCEPT AS STATED OTHERWISE IN THE SPECIAL PROVISIONS, WHICH ARE PART OF THE PROPOSAL, FOR: PRIME SP: 7708-39 CONTRACT ID 140058 STATE PROJECT NO. 7708-39 (T.H. 71=004) FHWA PROJECT NO. NHPP 0071 (313) LOCATION: In Todd County on T.H. 71 From 650' North of CR 21 to 330' South of 1st St. in City of Browerville TYPE OF WORK: Grading, Bituminous Surfacing, Watermain, Sanitary Storm Sewer, Lighting and ADA Improvements LENGTH: 0.892 Miles STARTING DATE: June 2, 2014 COMPLETION DATE: October 31, 2014 NOTICE TO BIDDERS: If you are submitting a bid via "Two Way Electronic" bidding, you need not return the hard copy proposal (all other requirements shall remain in effect). If you are utilizing ANY OTHER ACCEPTED METHOD OF BID SUBMITTAL, YOU MUST RETURN THE DOCUMENTS INDICATED IN 1209. You must initial changes made in the "Bid Schedule" and acknowledge addenda on Form 21126D, which is attached to the back of the proposal. BID RIGGING IS A SERIOUS CRIME. IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION CONCERNING COLLUSIVE BIDDING, EVEN A REQUEST TO SUBMIT A COMPLIMENTARY BID, PLEASE CALL THE MINNESOTA ATTORNEY GENERAL'S OFFICE AT TELEPHONE NO. 651-296-1796
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ASSESSMENT NOTICE
Important Information Regarding Assessment and Classification of Property This may affect your 2015 property taxes. Notice is hereby given that the Board of Appeal and Equalization for Iona Township shall meet on April 10, 2014, 9:00 am, at the Townhall. The purpose of this meeting is to determine whether taxable property in the jurisdiction has been properly valued and classified by the assessor, and to determine whether corrections need to be made. If you believe the value or classification of your property is incorrect, please contact your assessors office to discuss your concerns. If you are still not satisfied with the valuation or classification after discussing it with your assessor, you may appear before the local board of appeal and equalization. The board shall review the valuation, classification, or both if necessary, and shall correct it as needed. Generally, an appearance before your local board of appeal and equalization is required by law before an appeal can be taken to the county board of appeal and equalization. *The board of appeal and equalization meeting will be scheduled by appointment only. Please call the Todd County Assessors Office to schedule an appointment. Phone (320) 732-4432 Given under my hand this 10th day of March, 2014. Iris Hegseth, Clerk
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Todd County Health & Human Services Minutes of the Meeting of the Health & Human Services Meeting held on February 25, 2014
Call to Order The Todd County Board of Commissioners met in the Todd County Historic Courthouse in the City of Long Prairie MN on the 25th day of February 25, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. with all members present. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. Approval of Agenda On motion by Neumann and second by Kircher, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To approve the agenda as presented with the following addition: Rainbow Rider Discussion Approval of Minutes On motion by Erickson and
second by Neumann, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To approve the January 28, 2014 minutes as read. General Mike Steinbeisser and Kim Decock, Adult/Disability Services Unit Managers gave an update on the MnCHOICES. The launch date for this program is in August, 2014. Training has been done with Step 1 and Step 2 and the County is still waiting from the State for Step 3. Lisa Chapin, Financial Support Services Unit Manager reported on the MNSure Update. The County currently has 220 cases enrolled in MNSure. This is a 26% increase. On motion by Kircher and second by Erickson, the following motion was introduced and adopted by unanimous vote: To assign Randy Neumann as the second Commissioner for the MTW Community Health Board temporarily until the newly elected Commissioner is in place. Phil Johnson, Energy Assistance Supervisor gave an update on the Energy Assistance Program. Crisis Assistance has increased due to the propane prices increasing. Vendors have been great to work with during this time. Phil also held discussion regarding the MN Rental Deferred Program. Katherine Mackedanz gave an update on the Drug-Free Communities Grant. $125,000.00 is available through this grant and she will be working on writing this grant. This additional grant money would make it possible to work with other communities in addition to Long Prairie-Grey Eagle and Browerville which they are working with now. If this money is granted to Todd County, it would make this possible through the year 2019. Alicia Bauman, Program Coordinator for CentraCare Health Systems, gave a presentation on the increasing availability of tobacco products now. 1 in 7 MN high school students have tried snuss with 9 out of 10 current smokers that started before the age of 18. Nearly 30% of high school student have tried flavored cigars or cigarillos (MDH). Ever use of e-cigarettes among high school students doubled from 2011 to 2012 (CDC). They are asking the County to assist in policy communication, signage and implementation of activities throughout our community. Discussion was held regarding the increased service that have provided by Rainbow Rider. They have not been reimbursed for by MNDOT over the last 10 years, which finds that they have ended fiscal year 2013 in a deficit. On February 20, 2014 Rainbow Rider Transit Board passed a motion to inform each county of their 2013 budget deficit as well as the projected 2014 budget deficit and they intend to have each county make up the shortfalls. The Commissioners asked that Harold Jennissen, Transit Director attend the next Commissioner Meeting March 18, 2014 for more information. Social Services Fund Warrants
April Special
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On a motion by Neumann and second by Kircher the following motion was approved by unanimous vote: To recommend to the County Board the approval of all claims as presented on the Integrated and Disbursements Audit List for the Board on record at the Social Service Office, Courthouse Annex, representing claims in the amount of $105,486.16. On a motion by Neumann and second by Kircher the following motion was approved by unanimous vote: To recommend to the County Board the approval of all claims as presented on the Integrated and Disbursements Audit List for the Board on record at the Social Service Office, Courthouse Annex, representing claims in the amount of $147,507.58. On a motion by Neumann and second by Erickson the meeting was adjourned for the month of February, 2014. On a motion by Kircher and second by Neumann the preceding minutes of the Health & Human Services Meeting held February 25, 2014 were duly approved by a unanimous vote by the Todd County Board of Commissioners at the Social Service Board Meeting held on March 25, 2014. Witness my hand and seal Gary Kneisl, County Board Chairperson Denise Gaida, Todd County Auditor-Treasurer WARRANT LISTINGS Vendor Name COMMUNITY & FAMILY SRVS LLC $5,772.80 DHS $12,505.98 #4453 Foster Care Provider $4,836.00 FRESHWATER EDUCATION DIST $6,000.00 HEARTLAND GIRLS RANCH $5,456.00 KINDRED FAMILY SRVS $11,311.59 MERIDIAN SERVICES INC $4,044.57 NORTHERN PINES MENTAL HLTH CTR $30,225.50 NORTHWOOD CHILDRENS SERVICES $11,952.67 PINEHAVEN YOUTH AND FAMILY SRVS INC $22,648.04 PRODUCTIVE ALTERNATIVE INC - FERGUS $3,365.86 TODD COUNTY DAC $6,321.32 WEST CENTRAL REG JUVENILE CTR $3,208.33 PAYMENTS LESS THAN 2000 $19,858.92 Final Total $147,507.58 DHS $23,573.62 DHS - MSOP-MN SEX OFFEND ER PROGRAM $6,900.60 ITEN FUNERAL HOME $5,067.00 V #12192 $2,545.04 PERISH/ALAN $4,179.35 RURAL MN CEP INC $13,296.24 TODD COUNTY AUDITOR/ TREASURER $15,096.10 PAYMENTS LESS THAN 2000 $34,828.21 Final Total $105,486.16 On a motion by Kircher and second by Neumann the preceding minutes of the Health & Human Services Meeting held February 25, 2014 were duly approved by a unanimous vote by the Todd County Board of Commissioners at the Social Service Board Meeting held on March 25, 2014. Gary Kneisl, County Board Chairperson Denise Gaida, Todd County Auditor-Treasurer
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Property Transfers
WTY Lyda Cich etal to Mary E Kuhnau 2-28-14 pt Lots 10,11,12 Blk 17 Browerville rec 3-7-14 WTY Curtis L Krieg etux to Trustees of the Curtis L Krieg Trust dated 12-8-04, deed dated 2-5-14 S2NE4 and NW4NE4 23-130-35 rec 3-7-14 WTY Curtis L Krieg etux to Trustees of the Curtis L Krieg Trust dated 12-8-04, deed dated 2-5-14 SE4 23-130-35 rec 3-7-14 WTY Aspen Platation LLP to Alan Clm Gettle 3-7-14 pt SE4NE4 35-131-35 rec 3-7-14 SP Wty Fannie Mae aka Federal Natl Mtg Assn to Bryan G Motl etux 2-19-14 Lots 9 & 10 Blk 2 Wilsons First Add to Staples rec 3-7-14 WTY-JT Michael A Schwarzkopf etux to Jerome E eichers etal 3-4-14 W2SE4 6132-34 rec 3-10-14
Student News
The Browerville Boy's Basketball Team was the Section 5A Team All-Academic Champions with a team GPA of 3.609. The team and coach were recognized during the State Tournament and also receive individual certificates for their accomplishments in the classroom.
Harrison Christensen of Browerville participated in the 40th Annual Knights of Columbus State Free Throw Championship held March 29 at Cathedral High School in St. Cloud. Christensen won the local contest in Browerville and the regional competition in Sauk Centre, competing against other 13 year olds. At the State competition he shot 25 of 25 free throws, the only perfect score in over three years at any division. Harrison would like to thank the Knights of Columbus for all their support.
Browerville students named to Girls All-Conference Basketball were Crystal Pearson, Quinn Kircher, and Paige Callahan. Honorable Mention: Kendra Buchta and Kale Knutson
Tiger Sports
Tue. April 8: BB hosts Kimball; SB hosts Swan-ville; Track @ BBE Thur. April 10: BB @ St Johns; JH Track hosts Pillager Fri. April 11: BB hosts BH/ Verndale; SB @ Eagle Valley
Browerville students named to Boys All-Conference Basketball were Bryce Irsfeld, Jordan Thielen, Cody Hansmeyer, and Trent Johnson
ASK A TROOPER
By Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol Question: In my defensive driving class recently, the instructor talked about trains and rail safety, and I thought this would be a good topic for you to inform the public about. Thanks! Answer: I have responded to a few of these types of crashes during my career and they can bring a lot of unnecessary misery for sure. Collisions with trains are mostly preventable. Car driver inattention and impatience are cited as the most common factors contributing to motor vehicle/train crashes. In the recent past, our partners at the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) have worked to share the following general rail safety tips with the public to make sure they are not in the way of a train: Motorists should always stop their vehicle when crossing gates are down or lights are flashing; wait for the crossing gates to rise and lights to stop flashing; look both ways, listen and proceed with caution. Also, motorists need to obey all signs and signals at railroad crossings and never stop their car on railroad tracks; always keep their car behind the white lines when approaching an intersection at railroad tracks. Motorists and passenger should get out of the car immediately if it stalls while crossing the tracks, then call 911 or the emergency notification number located on the railroad signal equipment. If a train is coming, abandon the car. Proceed quickly towards the train at a 45-degree angle, so that if the train strikes your car, you will be safe from flying debris. Bicyclists and pedestrians should always look both ways before crossing railroad tracks, cross only in designated areas and avoid crossing when gates are down. They should be aware that trains may operate any time throughout the day and night in either direction, and please know that walking on the railroad tracks is illegal. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).
Property Transfers
TRUSTEES DEED Trustees of JMJ Co, a trust dated 11-794 to Trustees of the D6 Co, a trust dated 9-20-13, deed dated 3-10-14 Lot 1 Blk 1 Red Pine Acres Plat Two, rec 3-10-14 WTY Darrell E Bacon to Trustees of the D6 Co, a trust dated 9-20-13, deed dated 3-1014 Loot 1 Blk 1 Red Pine Acres Plat Two, red 3-10-14 WTY-JT Sherry Jane Johnson to Daniel A Sweeney etux 2-26-14 pt NE4NE4 14132-33 rec 3-11-14 QCD Joanne E Crider to Reining Farms aka Reining & Sons fka Robert Reining & sons 2-20-14 S2NW4 & NW4SW4 29-132-34 rec 3-1314
TRUSTEES DEED Robert & Carol A Theisen as trustees of the Robert P Theisen as Trustees of the Long Sunset Views Cabin Trust dated 3-814 Lot 23, Blk 1 Spring Beach rec 3-13-14 DEED of SALE Maureen A Routzahn as personal representative of the estate of Dorothea June Gorman aka D June Gorman to Premier Mailing Corp 3-7-14 SW4NE4 & pt SE4 32-133-33 rec 3-13-14 QCD-JT John Louis Larson etux to John Louis Larson etux 3-6-14 W2NW4 Sec 4 and E2NE4 5-127-35 rec 3-14-14 QCD-JT Mark J Quistorff etux to Mark J Quistorff etux 3-12-14 pt W2SE4, pt SE4SW4, pt Lot 2, pt Lot 3 21-127-35 rec 3-14-14
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Sheriffs Report
At 4:24 pm, March 3, Keli Roline, Verndale, struck a Verndale school bus on 197th Ave, south of Verndale. Roline was unable to stop due to ice covered road conditions and hit the bus head on. The bus was stopped at the time and Rolines vehicle was traveling at a very low speed at the time of the accident. There were students on the bus, but no one was injured. Both vehicles were able to be driven from the scene. On March 18, at 11:43 am, a two vehicle accident was reported on County 38, west of Long Prairie. A truck, driven by Lee Fearing, was backing onto County 38, when he was hit by a truck driven by John Rueckert. No one was injured in the accident, both vehicles sustained minor damage. On March 27, at 12:53 am, the sheriffs office responded to an alarm at the Little Sauk Legion Post 417. Upon arrival deputies observed a broken window in the business. A vehicle was stopped in the area a short time later and Jeffrey T. Walker, 29, of rural Burtrum, and Jacob L. Bucholz, 33, of rural Grey Eagle, were arrested in connection with the burglary. Charges are pending with the Todd County Attorneys Office. Anyone with information concerning any of these cases is urged to call the Todd County Sheriffs Department at 320-732-2157 or 1800-794-5733.
Court Report
Court appearances are First Appearance, RU8 (second appearance), and Omnibus (third appearance) March 24: Travis R. Radford, Alexandria, appeared for a probation violation hearing. Gabrielle C. Billman, Motley, appeared for a review hearing. Angela M. Techam, Flensburg, appeared for a settlement conference. Brandy E. Peterson, Grey Eagle, appeared for a plea hearing on disorderly conduct charges. A presentence investigation was ordered and sentencing set for May 5. Matthew E. Peterson, Menahga, appeared for a settlement conference on fifth degree possession of marijuana charges. Lawrence J. Pachan, St. Joseph, appeared for an omnibus hearing on two counts of DWI charges. Bernardino Jimenez, Swanville, failed to appeared for an RU8 hearing on no proof of insurance and uninsured vehicle charges. A warrant was issued. Allen C. Erickson, Long Prairie, appeared for an omnibus hearing on two counts each of third and fourth degree criminal sexual conduct. An April 21 settlement conference was scheduled. Patrick J. Neuer, address unknown, made his first court appearance on charges of theft and defeating security on realty. An omnibus hearing was set for April 28. Chad D. Holen, Long Prairie, appeared for a plea hearing on fifth degree possession of marijuana charges. Sentencing was set for May 5. Jeremy W. Peterson, Long Prairie, pled not guilty to charges of two counts of DWI and driving after suspension. A jury trial was scheduled for April 23. Tracy L. Thompson, Sebeka, pled not guilty to charges of two counts of DWI and driving after revocation. A pre-trial hearing was set for April 21. Tuesday, L. Weekley, Staples, made her first court appearance on charges of second degree assault, terroristic threats, fifth degree possession of marijuana, domestic assault, and obstructing the legal process. Bonnie L. Kemper, Grey Eagle, made her first appearance on charges of interfering with a 911 call and domestic assault. An April 10 RU8 hearing was scheduled. Kenneth J. Moscho, Sauk Centre, failed to appeared for a court hearing on charges of exceeding the number of units of vehicles. A warrant was issued. March 25: Marguarette R. Norwood, Browerville, appeared for a bail hearing. A March 31 evidentiary hearing was scheduled. March 26: Christopher D. Stone, Browerville appeared for a probation violation hearing.
Traffic Citations
Todd County Sheriff Eugene T. Buzie, Browerville, terroristic threats-$590.00, 30 days, supervised probation, 5 yr, complete domestic abuse counseling at own expense, not use/possess weapons, no contact w/victim(s), DNA sample, $143.00 restitution Kris J. Dvorak, Eagle Bend, collision w/unattended vehicle$290.00, 10 days, stayed 10 days, 1 yr, restitution reserved Jeffrey R. Hoeschen, Long Prairie, DWI-$515.00, 90 days, stayed 86 days, 2 yr, supervised probation, 2 yr, chem depend eval, MADD impact panel Daniel Ruiz-Zamorano, Long Prairie, no valid license-$190.00 Daniel S. Wegg, Owatonna, expired plates-$120.00; 40/30$40.00
Long Prairie Police Enrique C. Contreras, Long Prairie, marijuana possession$750.00, 62 days, supervised probation, 5 yr, chem depend eval, no alcohol/controlled substance, random testing, not drive w/o valid drivers license Bryan R. Fallon, S St Paul, DWI-$820.00, 365 days, 335 days stayed 6 yr, supervised probation, 6 yr, chem depend eval, MADD impact panel Sarah B. Farris, St Cloud, drive after revocation-$290.00 Staples Police Brookeanda R. Hame, Verndale, drive after revocation-$290.00 David A. Roberts, Staples, 64/55-$130.00 Dylan D. Shequen, Staples, careless driving-$485.00, 90 days, stayed 90 days, 1 yr, supervised probation, 1 yr, chem use assess, MADD impact panel
DNR Darren L. Berger, St Cloud, possess over limit-$140.00 William E. Hohenstern, Long Prairie, possess over limit-$265.00 Keith E. Jones, Sauk Centre, possess over limit-$140.00 MN State Patrol David D. Long, Clarissa, window tint too dark-$140.00 Michelle Richter, Verndale, 65/55-$130.00 Erika D. Breitbach, Elrose, 89/60-$290.00 Dario A. Garcia, Brownton, marijuana in motor vehicle-$140.00 Omar Hernandez-Sanchez, Villard, no MN drivers license$190.00 Mae E. Jackson, Grand Forks, ND, 80/70-$130.00 Taylor E. Lavalley, Elbow Lake, window tint too dark-$140.00 David D. Long, window tint too dark-$140.00 Rochelle N. Nikolai, Moorhead, 80/70-$130.00 Christian J. Nordquist, Waseca, 70/60-$130.00 Lindsey M. Reinbold, Long Prairie, 65/55-$130.00 Michaela E. Schrimpf, Goodhue, 84/70-$140.00 Michael B. Traxler, Long Prairie, no seat belt used-$115.00 Jesse J. Vorpahl, Hillman, 89/60-$290.00
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency seeks lake ice data from citizens
Though it seems this harsh winter will never end, the big spring thaw has arrived across much of Minnesota. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is asking citizens to document one of the most important indicators of spring for our state the date on which ice disappears from a lake, or lake ice-off. Lake ice-off is an important milestone for the state each year, particularly for anglers and water enthusiasts whove been waiting all winter to launch their craftsand themselves--into the water again. But lake ice data the dates of both its appearance and disappearance could also be an indicator of changing climate trends. The MPCA collects ice-on and ice-off data and makes it available to researchers and the Department of Natural Resources State Climatology Office. The more data available to researchers, the better they can track climate trends and their effects on lake health, local wildlife, and citizen lake use. Citizen observers make it possible to maintain records of ice data across the state on a huge numbers of lakes. The MPCA defines ice-off as the date when ice is essentially gone from the lake. If there is some ice pushed up on shore, but the water is ice-free, the ice is considered to be out. Normally, lakes do not refreeze in the spring once the ice has gone, but if ice does form again after the majority of it has melted, record both dates of ice-on and ice-off for the spring. The most important thing is for the observer to document their own perception of ice-off for the lake in question. For one observer, that might mean the ability to navigate a boat from one point to another; for another, it might mean that a lake is ice-free as far as they can see from their house. It is, however, critical for each observer to use consistent criteria from year to year. All ice-off dates, any clarifying definitions, and questions can be emailed directly to the MCPAs ice data collection program at ice.pca@state.mn.us.
SERVICE DIRECTORY
LONG PRAIRIE DENTAL CLINIC
Drapery Design
Ardis Ebnet, Designer/Consultant 320-732-3739
732-6141
917 1st Ave SE Long Prairie
www.longprairiedentalclinic.com
Clarissa Drug
Clarissa, MN 218-756-2242 Hours:
M-F 8 am-5:30 pm Sat 8 -12 noon Check for different Holiday Hours in the Newspaper
carp into southwestern Minnesota. Also last year, nearly 8,000 boats arrived at Minnesota water accesses with drain plugs in; more than 1,200 had vegetation attached and 134 had zebra mussels attached. These were all violations of AIS laws. Fortunately, DNRtrained watercraft inspectors were onsite to stop the owners and remove the invasive species before launching. The public is our first line of defense against AIS, said Ann Pierce, DNR section manager. It only takes a few minutes to make sure your boat and equipment are cleaned, all water is drained and drain plugs are removed before leaving the water access. This truly is an example of an ounce of prevention being worth a pound of cure. Enforcement and watercraft inspection together represent the largest segment (43 percent) of the programs annual 2013 budget of about $8.5 million. The budget also covers management and control of invasive aquatic plant species such as Eurasian watermilfoil and curly-leaf pondweed and education. For more information, and a PDF file of the 2013 annual report, visit www.mndnr.gov/AIS.
nongame wildlife checkoff on Minnesota tax forms. Checkoff dollars fund research, surveys and education for more than 700 nongame wildlife species. Each dollar donated is matched by funds from the Reinvest In Minnesota account. The DNRs nongame wildlife program is now streaming live video of a nesting pair of bald eagles on its website at www.webcams.dnr.state.mn.us /eagle. For additional information on bald eagles or where to view them, go to www.mndnr.gov/birds/eagles/w inter_wabasha.html or www.mndnr.gov/snapshots/bir ds/baldeagle.html.
DNR report: Aquatic invasive species violation rate drops; still 1 in 5 boaters breaking the law
With another boating season just around the corner, Minnesota boaters and anglers need to continue to take steps to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). While the rate of AIS violations dropped in 2013, one in five boaters is still breaking the law, according to a newly published annual report from the Department of Natural Resources. The decrease is good news, but we have a long way to go, said Lt. Col. Rodmen Smith, DNR Enforcement Division assistant director. We need to think zero.
The invasive species violation rate dropped to 20 percent last year from 31 percent in 2012. The rate is the proportion of people who were issued citations at roadside check stations set up by DNR conservation officers. Far too many people are still not following the law, Smith said. Boaters and anglers are legally required to clean boats and equipment and drain all water to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. This year, the DNR will increase efforts to ensure boaters follow the AIS laws. Activities highlighted in the 2013 invasive species of Minnesota report: DNR watercraft inspectors, who inspect boats and equipment at water accesses, conducted 123,000 inspections an increase of nearly 62 percent since 2011. More than 1,000 lake service providers have received AIS training and permits. During the first full year of its operation, the AIS Advisory Committee began conversations with boat manufacturers on design modifications to ensure boats drain water more effectively. Initiated risk assessments on the potential for transporting veligers in residual water of recreational watercraft. Collaborated with the Iowa DNR to install an electric barrier on Lower Gar Lake in Iowa to help prevent the migration of Asian
Bartender Wanted:
The Browerville Liquor Store is currently accepting applications for a part-time bartender. Competitive payscale with flexible hours available for individuals who know how to treat customers and work well with others. Contact Manager Angie Benning at 320-594-6445
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last year. I remain committed to working with the majority party to help them return the money back as they have just publicly said they would do. Environment, Economic Development and Agriculture This week in Environment we heard numerous bills that were laid over to be included in our biannual bonding bill. Projects this week ranged from ice rinks, trail projects to rural water projects. We will begin work next week on the supplemental budget in this committee as well. Capital Investment The Capital Investment committee did not meet this week. I do expect this committee to start meeting quite regularly. This years bonding bill is expected to be possibly the largest ever. When we consider projects, bonding is intended to help improve basic infrastructure such as roads and bridges or provide a distinct regional benefit. As the legislature moves forward on hearing these projects, essential priorities should be considered. Hot Button Issues Last week a press conference was held to discuss the new legislative office building the DFL Majority slipped in the tax bill last year. The conference held by Republicans called for support on a bill introduced to repeal the new building. I have offered similar legislation. This $90 Million dollar building is completely unnecessary and fails to prioritize our tax dollars. This building project was not brought to the capitol investment committee as it should have been. Our leadership instead, attached to last years TAX bill and was able to pass it without the 60% majority; such a project would normally need in the senate. Also last week included some gun legislation movement, which
Kirlin attended the University of Minnesota Duluth completing a bachelors degree in biology and psychology. He also attended Hibbing Technical Colleges Law Enforcement Certification Program.
Late winter is the best time to prune trees. Look at the trees and shrubs within 100 feet surrounding the cabin or house. Eliminate ladder fuels by pruning 6 to 10 feet up from the ground. Thin out evergreen trees so branches are 10 feet apart. Maintain a 10-foot space between the crowns of trees. Clean roof and gutters of any wood any pine needles, leaves or debris. Prune off tree branches touching the house. Move wood piles outside a 30-foot zone surrounding the cabin or house. Make sure the chimney has a spark arrestor. For more information go to www.mndnr.gov/firewise. -Linda Gormanson, regional Firewise specialist
One of the most amazing sights in nature is the migration of the sand hill cranes near Kearney, Nebraska each spring. An estimated 500,000 cranes stop over at the Platte River on their way north from their wintering places in south Texas. The cranes head to Canada, Russia, and Minnesota, where they lay two eggs and raise their chicks. Twice a day, at sunrise and sunset, visitors from all over the U.S., and more than 60 countries, come to the stretch of river between Kearney and Grand Island to view the cranes taking off at dawn and returning at sundown. During the day, the cranes feed on insects in cow manure and on waste corn in farmers fields, gathering strength for the remainder of the trip to their nesting grounds. They stay in Nebraska for four to six weeks each year. The Rowe Audubon Center is the main location where visitors gather to view the cranes. Photos by Rin Porter.
Commissioners, continued
experience in budget work. Commissioner Randy Neumann and Commissioner Rod Erickson supported Gaidas request. She will obtain cost estimates for budget training and return to a future board meeting to present them and request approval to hire a trainer. Harold Jennissen appeared before the board to discuss the Rainbow Rider deficit once again. Todd County already contributes to Rainbow Rider funding, but since the State of Minnesota reduced the grant to Rainbow Rider, the transit service needs to find money to balance its budget, or make cuts in services. Todd Countys share of the deficit for 2013 is $12,057. Todd Countys share of the deficit for 2014 is estimated to be $26,420. Kircher said the board is deeply concerned about these issues. Jennissen said he could order route cuts, but thats not right for rural Minnesotans who need transportation. The work session lasted more than two hours. No decisions or votes can be taken at a work session, but plenty of discussion is encouraged.