September 11, 2017 A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal Recognizing Our
EmergencyResponse Teams
Police Chief Mosher hangs up his badge By Rich Wicks Tom Mosher has spent his career in law enforcement, and as he prepares to end that career, he recently reflected on his experiences. After serving as the entire police force for Fountain and Ostrander, and working with the Fillmore County Sheriff’s office, he has many favorite memories to talk of. When asked the question of why he is retiring, Tom explained that his pension makes it possible, stating, “I guess one of the big things is, we’re fortunate in law enforcement. We’re in the PERA (Public Employee Retirement Association), so for fire fighters and law enforcement, we’re able to retire at 55.” He added, “The other thing is…the increase in technology usage. I hate computers, and everything is going with computers in our squad cars, signing up for classes,…” He said he had considered just cutting back, possibly working for only one city, “But then, I’d still have the same amount of training, and I’m still ‘The Guy.’ So even when we’re riding motorcycles, or we finally get our family together for Easter dinner,…about the time everybody sits down, I get a call with a domestic or a car accident,
and away I go. So I made the decision to be totally done.” When asked about the main challenges and rewards of his job, Tom explained, “Law enforcement is a tight knit family…when we go in, we’re basically putting our lives in the line for each other.” He said being the entire police force for a small town has unique rewards and challenges. He describes himself as “old school” and said he believes in handling most issues in a simple, hands-on way, such as simply going and talking to someone who needs to clean up a yard to be in compliance with the “junk ordinance.” Tom said since he deals with people in a friendly, direct manner, he tends to get that reciprocated. He adds, “We’re fortunate here in Fillmore County that we still get quite a bit of respect from the people we serve.”
tain eight years ago, I was the only one in the state of Minnesota that was a part-time police chief in two towns at the same time.” Tom said citizens often complain about “soft penalties” handed down to convicts, and he wishes the public would understand the glitches in the justice system which sometimes cause these apparent injustices. He explained, “People blame law enforcement, they blame attorneys, they blame the judge. The problem is all of us have to follow the law. The judge has guidelines too.” Highly respected Police Chief He said in today’s world, Tom Mosher is retiring after a social media causes a lot of these situations to go viral. fulfilling career in Fillmore County. He encouraged anyone t e n a n c e advantage to that would be he wondering about such a situation work. I do tire could work when he was available, to ask any law enforcement officer rotations, change oil, brake jobs, and “When I’m done, I’m done.” why things probably happened minor stuff like that.” He also told He explained that it’s tough for the way they did. of one winter when he and the any city to find an experienced One of Tom’s favorite stories, mayor took care of snow plowing officer willing to be the entire ironically, involved a painful misafter the city’s maintenance posi- police force, because of the time take. He shared that, during tion became vacant. commitment. He said possibly a a domestic disturbance, as the Asked what he likes best about young officer would be interested officers were trying to arrest the his job, Tom said, “I think most in such a gig, as a way of getting suspect, “We explained why he officers would probably respond experience, but they’d likely move was going to be arrested, and he the same way. I would say it’s on after a short time, meaning started to tense up…there were the satisfaction you get when the city would have to search two county deputies and I…we you help somebody. It can be as for someone all over again. He See MOSHER Page 10 simple as helping some lady get added, “When I started in FounHe also pointed out that he’s a jack of all trades, adding that both cities have allowed him to bring the squad cars home. “And, I do almost all of my own main-
her groceries in the house…or taking some young kids out of a super-abusive house and knowing they’re now safe.” He said he may consider reapplying at some later date to do transports only (transporting suspects or prisoners to court dates or to other jurisdictions). He said the big
Kaitlyn Hansen’s family tries to move on after sentencing By Hannah Wingert It’s been over 18 months since that tragic January day when Kevin and Georgeanne Hansen received the worst news of their lives. Their 16-year-old daughter, Kaitlyn had been killed by a drunk driver. Since then, they’ve made it their goal to honor her and celebrate her life whenever and wherever they can. “Kaitlyn was goofy. She loved to laugh,” Kevin related. “We can’t find enough outlets to express to the world what a beautiful person we lost unnecessarily.” Kaitlyn was a vibrant young lady who wanted to be a forensic scientist after graduating from high school. She was active in cheerleading, choir, band, and many other extracurricular activities at Fillmore Central. “She wasn’t a perfect person, but she was a unique, loving person,” Kevin said, Kaitlyn Hansen loved being a cheerleader.
adding that the home he and Georgeanne live in with Kaitlyn’s 16-year-old brother, Keith seems to have gone silent. “She was your friend before you knew you needed one,” Georgeanne recalled. When Kaitlyn got her driver’s license, the thing she was the most excited about was checking the organ donor box. “It makes you pretty proud,” Kevin said. So far, Kaitlyn’s donations have been used for two heart valve recipients, 52 tissue and b o n e allografts which include knee/ s p o r t s operations, 20 dental
procedures, and 28 spine related surgeries. She has saved the lives of a 5-month-old baby girl and a 7-year-old boy through her donations. On August 10, 2017, Cindy Mueske, the drunk driver who killed Kaitlyn, was sentenced to 48 months in prison, finally bringing an end to the long, drawn out legal process. “A year and a half is a long time to get some closure,” Kevin stated. “We just wanted some justice for Kaitlyn.” The sentencing was bittersweet for Kaitlyn’s family and friends. “We got the maximum that was going to be had by the current court system,” Kevin said. However, they don’t feel like it was enough. To hear that Mueske only got four years for killing Kaitlyn was devastating. “We disagree with the amount of time that a person gets under these circumstances,” he continued. “She chose to speed and drink and drive and that should count for something. It was no accident.”
Georgeanne also noted that the defendant had all the rights in the case while, as parents of the victim, they had none. In her victim statement that she read at the sentencing, she pointed out that Mueske was able to postpone court dates and drag the case on while the only thing the family could do was wait. During Mueske’s statement to the court, she said that she felt Kaitlyn was her guardian angel the day of the crash and saved her life. “That was the wrong thing to say,” Georgeanne declared. Kevin recounted that by the time Mueske was done with her statement, he was facing the opposite wall because he couldn’t even look at her. “She went way over the line. She doesn’t need to speak Kaitlyn’s name.” Kevin, Georgeanne and Kaitlyn’s two brothers, Justin and Keith, have made it their mission to celebrate Kaitlyn’s life and keep her memory alive. Many of their friends and family have joined them in that cause.
Georgeanne’s nephew made a cross and put it up along Highway 52 at the scene of the crash and a friend of the family has been tending to the spot. Others have left flowers and memorabilia there in Kaitlyn’s honor. “The school did an exceptional job keeping her involved during her senior year,” Kevin noted. The staff and students at Fillmore Central have worked hard to keep Kaitlyn’s memory alive. Kaitlyn’s locker at school will always be hers and is decorated in her memory. The football team put decals on their helmets to honor her last year, and a full page in the yearbook was dedicated to her. A seat was left open for Kaitlyn at the spring concert and at what would have been her graduation. Kaitlyn’s parents have left her room the way it was and welcome her friends to come and sit in it to remember her. “They need ways to heal,” Kevin said. Using donations, Kevin and Georgeanne See HANSEN Page 5
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 11, 2017
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 household each week.
A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR
emergencyresponse Teams
Canton Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are proud t o suppor t the Can t on emergency response t eams!
Canton Fire Department (left to right) standing: Eugene Kelly, Sam Brekke, Training Officer Ryan Lange, Chief Randy Gossman, Secretary/Treasurer Jason Magnuson, Dustin Kerns, Assistant Chief Jim Davis, Jon Nordsving, Spud Hanson, Tyler Newman, Conner Keene, Bill Richardson, Josh Hosting, Dan Gulbranson. Seated in truck: Brian Kerns. Not pictured: Jamie Kelly, Chad Wangen, Nick Prestby, Garry Dowling, Dillon Bergey, Blaine Coyle. Photo by Jason Sethre Craig’s Auto Repair 493-5399 • Mabel, MN Crop Production Services 886-4222 • Harmony, MN Davis Construction 421-3697 • Canton, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
First Southeast Bank Member FDIC 743-2204 • Canton, MN 886-6922 • Harmony, MN Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN Preston Dairy & Farm Assn. 765-2484 • Preston, MN 743-2250 • Canton, MN
Preston Foods 765-2465 • Preston, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN
Solberg Welding & Ironside Trailers 886-4602 • 886-4600 Harmony, MN
ZZ Tap on and off sale 743-8311 • Canton, MN
Fountain Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are proud t o suppor t the Foun tain emergency response t eams!
Fountain Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Eric Hammell, Levi Hershberger, Tyler Heibel, Brent Miller, Darrin Cambern, Jason Sethre. Second row: Chad Danielson, Sean Dols, Chief John Hanson, Secretary/Treasurer Wayne Thomas, Justin Redalen, Chad Wangen. Back row: Dave Stockton, Bryan Ostby, Mike Heide, Ted Reinhardt, Training Officer Jason Wright, Duane Gilbertson. Not pictured: Ryan Aasum, Assistant Chief Elliot Riggott, Jason Schwarz, and Nick Vold. Photo by Amanda Sethre Fountain Building Center 268-4343 • Fountain, MN
Olmsted Medical Center 765-5324 • Preston, MN
Scheevel & Sons, Inc. 765-4756 • Preston, MN
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN
POET Biorefining 765-4548 • Preston, MN
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Drury’s Furniture 268-4363 • Fountain, MN
Herman’s Standard 268-4434 • Fountain, MN
Preston Liquor, LLC 765-2565 • Preston, MN
Valley Design 268-4221 • Fountain, MN
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
K&R Equipment 268-4425 • Fountain, MN
Richard’s Pump Service 268-4352 • Fountain, MN
First State Bank of Fountain Member FDIC 268-4321 • Fountain, MN
Larrabee Essig Agency 867-3188 • Chatfield, MN
Sally’s Hair to Dye For 765-4773 • Preston, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN
Coldwell Banker Burnet John Nelson 216-1140 • Rochester, MN Cy Guy’s Auto Repair 867-4320 • Chatfield, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 11, 2017
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR
emergencyresponse Teams
Harmony & Fillmore County Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are pr oud t o suppor t the Harmony & Fillmore Coun t y emergency response t eams!
Harmony Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Corey Whalen, Stuart Morem, Chad Olson, Emergency Manager Bill Hanlon, Steve Donney, Chief Rod Johnson, Brian Michel, Todd Kiehne, Assistant Chief Ross Bahl, Training Officer Dan Dornink, Alex Skaalen, Dennis Solberg. Back row: Andrew Kingsley, Miles Petree, Training Officer Kyle Morem, Dustin Hansen, Assistant Chief Craig Morem, Blaine Gatzke, Secretary Randy Mayer, Jesse Grabau, Keith McIntosh, James Skaalen, Chris Skaalen. Not pictured: Kyle Heibel, Brandon Koliha, Harvey Hershberger. Photo by Jason Sethre
Harmony Ambulance (left to right): James Skaalen, Domingo Kingsley, Aubrey Johnson, Dan Tieffenbacher, Lana Soppa, Jordon Hanson, Director Eileen Schansberg, Chuck Sikkink, Dan Dornink, Arden Willford, Steve Donney, Terry Bigalk. Not pictured: Ryan Bigalk, Jesse Grabau, Gerri Nielsen, Larry Nolan, Rochelle Willford. Photo by Jason Sethre Amish Tours of Harmony 886-2303 • 800-752-6474 Harmony, MN
Gundersen Harmony Care Center 886-6544 • Harmony, MN
Bluff Country Computer Works 886-9675 • Harmony, MN
Gundersen Harmony Clinic 507-886-8888 • 866-354-4192 Harmony, MN
City of Harmony 886-8122 • Harmony, MN Clara House 886-6515 • Harmony, MN Crop Production Services 886-4222 • Harmony, MN Diane H Photography 817-980-0494 • Harmony, MN Estelle’s Eatery & Bar Matt & Heidi Brown 886-1234 • Harmony, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN First Southeast Bank Member FDIC 743-2204 • Canton, MN 886-6922 • Harmony, MN Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN
Fillmore County Sheriff’s Department - Harmony Mabel Canton Deputies: Samantha Keasling, Jason Harmening, Dan Dornink. Photo by Jana Boyum
Harmony Telephone Co. 886-2525 • Harmony, MN
Sally’s Hair to Dye For 765-4773 • Preston, MN
Harmony Veterinary Clinic 886-6321 • Harmony, MN
Scheevel & Sons, Inc. 765-4756 • Preston, MN
Kingsley Mercantile 886-2323 • Harmony, MN
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Hahn Lumber Co. Inc. 886-2232 • Harmony, MN
Koliha Insurance, LLC 886-2484 • Harmony, MN
Hammell Equipment 886-2255 • Harmony, MN
Maple Leaf Services, Inc. 765-2107 • Preston, MN
Harmony Agri-Services Inc. 886-6062 • Harmony, MN
Minnowa Construction, Inc. 886-6162 • Harmony, MN
Harmony Enterprises Inc. 765-2468 • Harmony, MN
Morem Electric, Inc. 886-4541 • Harmony, MN
Harmony Foods 886-2225 • Harmony, MN
Niagara Cave 886-6606 • Harmony, MN
Harmony House Restaurant 886-4612 • Harmony, MN
Oak Meadow Meats 886-6328 • Harmony, MN
Harmony Insurance Group 886-2100 • Harmony, MN
Re/Max Select Properties Roxanne Johnson 886-4221 • Harmony, MN
Harmony Repair Service 886-2301 • Harmony, MN
S&S Automotive NAPA Auto Parts 886-6111 • Harmony, MN
Solberg Welding & Ironside Trailers 886-4602 • 886-4600 Harmony, MN State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN Torgerson’s Auto Sales & Auto Care 886-2430 • Harmony, MN Torgerson-Ostby Floor Covering & Stone 886-4257 • Harmony, MN Zumbro Valley Health Center 800-422-0161 • Harmony, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 11, 2017
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 household each week.
A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR
emergencyresponse Teams
Fillmore County & Mabel Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are pr oud t o suppor t the Fillmore Coun t y & Ma bel emergency response t eams!
Fillmore County Sheriff’s Department (left to right)- front row: Jailer Megan Taylor, Jailer Corey Merkel, Deputy Jessy Betts, Emergency Manager Don Kullot, Deputy/D.A.R.E. Officer Tim Rasmussen, Deputy Dan Dornink, Deputy Samantha Keasling, Deputy Tom Mosher, Captain John DeGeorge, Dispatcher Tabitha Mulhern, Dispatcher Scott Sweeney. Middle row: Chief Deputy Kevin Beck, Office Manager LuAnn Hoff, Jail Administrator Jamie Fenske, Deputy Mike Hadland, Deputy Nate Olson, Deputy Leif Erickson, Deputy Jason Harmening, Sgt. Derek Fuglestad, Lt. Brian Miner, Deputy Tim Melver, Lead Dispatcher Leroy Eickhoff, Sheriff Tom Kaase. Back row: Jailer Greg Melartin, Jailer Jon Whitney, Jailer Eugene Johnson, Deputy Bryan Guber, Deputy Logan Brand, Investigator Jesse Grabau, Deputy/D.A.R.E. Officer Lance Boyum, Dispatcher Gary Skaags. Not pictured: Deputy Dave Huse, Deputy Alex Hartley, Deputy Steve Schmiedeberg, Deputy Matt Schultz, Jailer Sharon Woellert, Dispatcher/Administrative Assistant Shelly Skindelien, Dispatcher Karen Rislov, Transport Officer Mike Ask, Transport Officer Jack O’Donnell. Photo by Jana Boyum
Mabel Ambulance (left to right) - front row: Danielle Graves, Sheri Marquardt, Joyce Graves, Loryn Thomas, Julie Otterness, Rick Aske, Jeanette Paul, Bre Johnson, Lorri Peterson. Back row: Jason Marquardt, Joel Graves, Kelly Sand, Jeff Rein, Tim Mengis, Ambulance Director Sarah Delaney, Shelly Gerard. Not pictured: Susie McClimmon-Neis, Chelsey Sloan, Carl Westby, Erin Woods, Darla Stevens, Danielle Paul, Chad Loppnow, Bob Mierau, Jim Westby, Brian Erickson. Photo by Annie Lewis Bank of the West Member FDIC 493-5426 • Mabel, MN BBG’s 493-5800 • Mabel, MN Brenda’s Boutique 493-5457 • Mabel, MN Craig’s Auto Repair 493-5399 • Mabel, MN Evangeline’s/Krazy Kwiltz 493-5893 • Mabel, MN
Mabel Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Chief Orel Tollefson, Wayne Buxengard, Bob Schutte, Trever Falck, Adam Olson, Rick Aske. Back row: Jason Vickerman, Mark Weidemann, Levi Spalla, Joel Graves, Jeff Rein, Kelly Sand, Tim Mengis. Not pictured: Training Officer Brian Erickson, Assistant Chief Steve Geving, Mike Kleiboer, Assistant Chief Chad Loppnow, Bob Mierau, Paul Tollefsrud, Treasurer/Secretary Carl Westby. Photo by Annie Lewis
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Larson Well Drilling 493-5087 • Mabel, MN
Gjere Construction 493-5864 • Mabel, MN
Mabel bp S&A Petroleum 493-5924 • Mabel, MN
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN Green Lea Senior Living/ The Meadows of Mabel 493-5436 • 493-5995 Mabel, MN JMS/Pioneer Seeds Terry Torkelson 493-5222 • Mabel, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN
Mengis Funeral Home 493-5129 • Mabel, MN
Steuart Laboratories Retail Outlet 493-5585 • Mabel, MN
Pit Stop Service 493-5538 • Mabel, MN
Tollefson Construction 459-5040 • 450-4483 • Mabel, MN
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Village Farm & Home 493-5217 • Mabel, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 11, 2017
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR HANSEN
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started a yearly scholarship at Fillmore Central in Kaitlyn’s memory under the music and arts category. “Our daughter left the house. She wasn’t texting, she wasn’t drinking, she had her seatbelt on. She was doing everything right,” Kevin said. He and Georgeanne would like to start a petition changing the sentencing guidelines for people who kill others on the road because of reckless driving. “It’s a slap on the hand, and they’re just going to do it again,” Georgeanne, who is planning to get involved with MADD, pointed out. “The consequences need to be steeper.” Kevin and Georgeanne are very
opposed to the new law in Minnesota allowing the sale of alcohol on Sundays. “We’re trying to get drunk drivers off the road, and now you have them going out for alcohol on Sundays when people are coming home from church,” Georgeanne pointed out. “We don’t have a problem with people drinking,” Kevin added. “But people drinking and then getting behind the wheel, now that we have a problem with.” Kevin and Georgeanne have also been very vocal about the way emergency responders are treated. “I can’t find enough ways to say thank you for all they do. Not just for that scene, but for what they do all the time,” Kevin said. Both of them make it a point to
emergencyresponse Teams
stop and thank those who were involved in the crash whenever they get the opportunity. “It’s a hard, thankless job,” Kevin pointed out. “We need to stop and think about what emergency response people go through every day. People get an attitude when they get pulled over, but they’re doing their job and keeping people safe.” Kevin will never forget walking down the embankment to Kaitlyn’s car to identify his daughter at the crash scene. Even though he was looking down, he noticed that everyone on the scene stopped what they were doing and stood still as soon out of respect as they realized it was him. “The respect and professionalism they showed
was amazing,” he said. “It was especially hard since some of them knew Kaitlyn.” “I’m a lot more vocal now about people taking time to say thank you to our response people,” Kevin
said. “If you haven’t ever had to deal with something like what we’ve had to deal with, you don’t think twice about it, but it’s an ugly, thankless job. We need to be kinder and gentler topeople.”
Highway 52 holds a vivid reminder of Kaitlyn Hansen’s last day. Photo by Jason Sethre
Houston Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are proud t o suppor t the Hous t on emergency response t eams!
Houston Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Chris Tuveson, Tom Hill, Brent Stampka, Steve Skifton, Jay Wheaton, Randy Thesing, Joe Krage, Kathy Jumbeck and Mark Olson. Back row: Matt Schutte, Brandon Olson, Ken Witt, Kevin Knutson, Rick Geiwitz, Chad Rosendahl, Matt Van Gundy, Brent Carrier, Kevin Jumbeck and Ryan Geiwitz. Not pictured: Tim Jergenson, Allen Frauenkron, Byron Frauenkron, Craig Conley, Darin Wendel. Photo submitted
Houston Ambulance (left to right) - back row: Tony Schultz, Brad White, Tim Jergenson, Nathan Nelson, Chris Kildahl, Byron Frauenkron. Front row, left to right: Chris Cox, Anna Frauenkron, Dana Kildahl, Lisa Schultz. Not pictured: Dave Runningen, Renee Kinstler, Rachel Boldt, Darin Wendel, Tom Hill, Becci Rediske, and Mary Burt. Photo submitted Cox True Value Hardware & Appliances 896-3146 • Houston, MN
Hoff Funeral & Cremation Service Houston Chapel 896-3127 • Houston, MN
Farmers Co-op Elevator Co. 896-3147 • Houston, MN
Houston Dental Clinic 896-2202 • Houston, MN
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Houston Food Mart bp S&A Petroleum 896-3000 • Houston, MN
Gary’s Pump & Well Service 896-3330 • Houston, MN
JT’s Corner Bar & Grill 896-3232 • Houston, MN
Houston Police Department (left to right): Isaiah Bunke, Chief David Breault, Brett Hurley. Photo submitted
Mound Prairie Mutual Ins. 896-3150 • Houston, MN
Severson Oil 800-657-4661 • Houston, MN
RiverStar, Inc. 864-4300 • Houston, MN
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Rosendahl Repair LLC 896-7070 • Houston, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN
Rushford State Bank Member FDIC 864-7755 • Rushford, MN
Vicki’s Accounting Services 896-3332 • Houston, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 11, 2017
Honoring those who serve.
A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR
emergencyresponse Teams
Rushford Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are proud t o suppor t the Rushford emergency response t eams!
Rushford Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Gerrad Eide, Dennis Overland, Rich Smith, David Lombard, Curt Courrier, Isaiah Bunke, Royal Anderson, Travis Skalet, 1st Assistant Chief Chad Rasmussen, Chief Paul Corcoran. Second row: Evan Meier, Nick Corcoran, Jeremiah Smith, Nathan Peterson, Nick Smith, Tim Diepenbrock, Jeffrey O’Donnell, 2nd Assistant Chief James Dailey, Cole Doblar, Jordan Brand, Michael Evenson. Back row: Brent Johnson, Travis Eide. Not pictured: Wayne Exe, Jordy Graham, Craig Hanson. Photo by Barb Jefferss
Rushford Police (left to right): Part-time Officer Isaiah Bunke, Full-time Officers Dalton Bellock, Nate Klinski, Chief Adam G. Eide, and Reserve Officers Gerrad Eide and Tim Wilkemeyer. Photo submitted Anderson Auto, LLC 864-7711 • Rushford, MN
Dennis Overland Insurance 864-2757 • Rushford, MN
Burdey’s Cafe 875-2424 • Peterson, MN
Engelson & Associates 864-1040 • Rushford, MN
Butch Johnson Insurance 864-2800 • Rushford, MN
Farmers Co-op Elevator Co. 864-7733 • Rushford, MN
Chuck’s Feed & Grain 875-2247 • Peterson, MN
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
City of Peterson 875-2222 • Peterson, MN
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN
City of Rushford 864-2444 • Rushford, MN City of Rushford Village 864-7974 • Rushford, MN Coldwell Banker Burnet John Nelson 216-1140 • Rochester, MN Connaughty Sales, Inc. 864-2955 • Rushford, MN Darr Auctions & Realty LLC 864-7952 • Rushford, MN
Rushford Ambulance (left to right) - front row: Mary Burt, Kasey Nelson, Lynn Smith, Ellen Eliason, Curt Courrier, Isaiah Bunke. Back row: Lynn Humble, Dennis Overland, Paul Corcoran, Cole Doblar, David Brand, Nick Smith, Chad Rasmussen, Jordan Brand. Not pictured: Karen Rislov, Jenelle O’Donnell, Evan Meier, Nathan Peterson, Nick Corcoran. Photo by Barb Jeffers
Good Shepard Lutheran Services 864-7714 • Rushford, MN Hammell Equipment Inc. 864-2845 • Rushford, MN Hoff Funeral & Cremation Rushford Chapel 864-7771 • Rushford, MN L&L Volkman Auto Body Repair 864-2590 • Rushford, MN Maple Leaf Services, Inc. 765-2107 • Preston, MN
Merchants Bank Member FDIC 467-2145 • Lanesboro, MN 864-7744 • Rushford, MN New Beginnings Salon 864-2500 • Rushford, MN Norman’s Electric Service 864-2891 • Rushford, MN Norsland Lefse 864-2323 • Rushford, MN Pam’s Corner Convenience 864-7949 • Rushford, MN RiverStar, Inc. 864-4300 • Winona, MN Root River Floral 864-2381 • Rushford, MN Rushford Chiropractic Clinic 864-8888 • Rushford, MN Rushford Dental Clinic 864-7773 • Peterson, MN
Rushford IGA Foods 864-2878 • Rushford, MN Rushford Hardware 864-5440 • Rushford, MN Rushford State Bank Member FDIC 864-7755 • Rushford, MN Severson Oil 800-657-4661 • Houston, MN Shawnee’s Bar & Grill 864-2073 • Rushford, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN The Creamery/Nordic Lanes 864-7799 or 864-7214 • Rushford, MN Winona Health Rushford Clinic 864-7726 • Rushford, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 11, 2017
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR
emergencyresponse Teams
Preston Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are proud t o suppor t the Pres t on emergency response t eams!
Preston Police Department (left to right): Officer Michael Peterson, Sergeant Blaise Sass, Officer Tim Melver, Chief Matt Schultz. Not pictured: Part-time Officers Casey McCready and Cody Frick. Photo by Jason Sethre
Preston Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Marcus Ertl, Brian Soland, Ramon Hernandez, Assistant Chief Devin Nagle, Chief Josh Ristau, Dustin Arndt, Secretary Stuart Quanrud, Jeff Bennett, Chad Musel, Travis Ristau. Back row: Dan Root, Erik Topness, Leigh Larson, Tony Severson, Greg Bremseth, Doug Keene, Dave Keene, Heath Mensink, Ryan Throckmorton. Not pictured: Chad Finseth, Caleb Fischer, Chris Larson, Steven Schlichter. Photo by Jason Sethre Al Larson & Sons Plumbing & Heating 765-2405 • Preston, MN American Family Insurance Jeffrey Elligson Agency 765-2372 • Preston, MN B&B Olympic Bowl 765-2522 • Preston, MN Bauer Built 765-9871 • Preston, MN Blossom Hill orchard & farm 765-4486 • Preston, MN Branding Iron 765-3388 • Preston, MN Coldwell Banker Burnet John Nelson 216-1140 • Rochester, MN F&M Community Bank Member FDIC 867-1605 • Chatfield, MN 765-3823 • Preston, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Gehling Auction Co. LLC 765-2131 • Preston, MN
Preston Ambulance (left to right): Kurt Reicks, Tim Kiehne, Kate Ristau, Doug Keene, Vicki Musel, Heath Mensink, Tony Severson, Director Ryan Throckmorton, Deb Ristau, Jeff Bennett, Sara Niemeyer, Karen Everson, Amanda Hovey, Steven Schlichter, Heather Everson, Desiree Schlichter. Not pictured: Ashleigh Erdmann, Tim Krueger, Nathan Larson, Debbie Lindell, Dan Root, Ron Schreier. Photo by Jason Sethre
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN
Preston bp 765-3330 • Preston, MN
Root River Veterinary Center 765-2117 • Preston, MN
Haakenson Electric 251-5535 • Preston, MN
Preston Dairy & Farm Assn. 765-2484 • Preston, MN 743-2250 • Canton, MN
S&A Petroleum-Martin Oil Preston Motor Mart bp 765-3330 • Preston, MN
Preston Equipment Co. 765-3803 • Preston, MN
Sally’s Hair to Dye For 765-4773 • Preston, MN
Preston Foods 765-2465 • Preston, MN
Sandy’s Hair Affair 765-2253 • Preston, MN
Preston Liquor, LLC 765-2565 • Preston, MN
Scheevel & Sons, Inc. 765-4756 • Preston, MN
Preston Service Plus 765-3846 • Preston, MN
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Preston Servicemen’s Club 765-2205 • Preston, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN
Larrabee Essig Agency 867-3188 • Chatfield, MN Lisa’s Klip N Kurl 765-5430 • Preston, MN Major & Co. 765-4444 • Preston, MN Maple Leaf Services, Inc. 765-2107 • Preston, MN McCabe Repairs 765-2404 • Preston, MN Olmsted Medical Center 765-5324 • Preston, MN Park Lane Estates 765-9986 • Preston, MN
Reicks Auto Driver’s License Bureau 765-2281 • Preston, MN
POET Biorefining 765-4548 • Preston, MN
Root River Appliances & Floor Coverings 765-4780 • Preston, MN
Preston Auto Parts & Root River Hardware 765-2101 • Preston, MN
Root River Hardwoods Kiln Dried Lumber Store 765-2284 • Preston, MN
Sweet Stop & Sandwich Shoppe 765-9956 • Preston, MN The Trail Head Inn 765-2460 • Preston, MN Traditions of Preston 765-3837 • Preston, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 11, 2017
Honoring those who serve.
A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR
emergencyresponse Teams
911 Emergency; Be aware and prepared By Kirsten Zoellner It’s common for us to assume that in the face of an emergency we’d know exactly what to do. Children are taught how to call 911 and give the dispatcher the pertinent information and we assume that calls will be handled like the dispatch scenes depicted on television and in movies. What happens is often not that simple and involves more than we may realize. In late December 2014, just before 7 p.m., a couple headed out for their home after visiting family. The driver failed to negotiate a curve and crossed the center line. They hit a driveway, became airborne and landed in a ditch.
The initial 911 call for the accident was placed at 7:01 p.m. by an Iowa man who was traveling past the scene. The caller correctly indicated the road number, house number, description of vehicle and passengers, their condition and any responses, and gave his name, with spelling, and callback number. A second 911 dispatch transcript shows Winona County emergency medical responders, who had searched for the scene for 15 minutes, seeking to clarify the accident address. Both indicate a location in Ridgeway, near the I-90 overpass, 32 miles away from the accident scene. Dispatch then redialed the original caller and learns the accident is
Fillmore County, not Winona County. Fillmore County dispatch records indicate the first call to dispatcher Gary Skaggs at 7:20 p.m. A second caller, also at the scene, made an additional call at the same time. Based on location, Chatfield Ambulance was dispatched at 7:21 and Fountain Fire Department was dispatched around the same time. Within two minutes, the Chatfield department was en route. Fountain Fire Department was on the scene by 7:30, as was Fillmore County Deputy Mike Hadland. The crews arrived, administered help to both victims, began CPR and transported to the hospital. However, one of the victims
passed away before reaching the hospital. “What’s so tragic in this case is that the initial information that was given, the road number and address, was correct. It was so specific,” says Fillmore County Sheriff Tom Kaase, who was serving with the Rochester Police Department in 2014 and also once worked as a Fillmore County dispatcher. “Winona County responded appropriately. The ambulance couldn’t find the accident and people on the scene, understandably, were wondering, ‘Where is the help?’ Unfortunately, Winona County had an exact valid address that matched up. There was also an exact address in the neighboring Fillmore County.” A satellite map search shows several addresses matching the
given accident address, including the one in neighboring Winona County. When the initial 911 call was placed, it’s likely that the call went to the closest, most direct cellular tower. Cell tower mapping shows towers northeast of Chatfield, north of Highway 30, and east of Fountain, off County Road 8. At the time of the accident, it’s possible the closest tower may have been in Winona County as the accident site is just three miles from the Fillmore County/Winona County line. Unfortunately, neither 911 dispatch or law enforcement have control over which towers the calls are connected to. Previously, all emergency calls were routed to State Patrol. Counties fought to get it within their See 911 EMERGENCY Page 9
Lanesboro/Whalan Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are pr oud t o suppor t the Lanesboro/Whalan emergency response t eams!
Lanesboro Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Tony Semmen, Bryan Benson, Skip Schwartz, Training Officer Mark Lawstuen, 1st Assistant Chief Creighton Horihan, John Dollar, Ken Graner, CJ Peterson, Deane Benson. Back row: Matt Schnebly, Blaine Harmon, Braden Hanson, Cody Hungerholt, 3rd Assistant Chief TJ Stettler, Jim Iverson, Scott Strom, Chief Jerod Wagner, Safety Officer Jason Harvey, Rob Wagner. Not pictured: 2nd Assistant Chief Mike Willford, David Haugen, Colin Bakke. Photo by Barb Jeffers
Lanesboro Ambulance (left to right) - front row: Melissa Konsti, Creighton Horihan, Ken Graner, Association President Autumn Johnson. Back row: Rob Wagner, Lolly Melander, Lee Peterson, Brian Baskett, Ambulance Director Deane Benson. Not pictured: Brent Anderson, Lisa Benson, Hyatt King, Paul Peterson, Jon Piper, Mike Willford. Photo by Barb Jeffers Cedar Valley Resort 467-9000 • Whalan, MN
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN
Coldwell Banker Burnet John Nelson 216-1140 • Rochester, MN
Granny’s Liquor 467-2700 • Lanesboro, MN
Crop Production Services 886-4222 • Harmony, MN Dr. James M. Waldow, DDS 467-2269 • Lanesboro, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Huntington Electric LLC 251-9510 • Lanesboro, MN Lanesboro bp Food Shop 467-2121 • Lanesboro, MN Lanesboro Sales Commission 467-2192 • Lanesboro, MN
Merchants Bank Member FDIC 467-2145 • Lanesboro, MN 864-7744 • Rushford, MN Olmsted Medical Center 765-5324 • Preston, MN Root River Saloon 467-3355 • Lanesboro, MN Root River Veterinary Center 765-2117 • Preston, MN Rushford State Bank Member FDIC 864-7755 • Rushford, MN
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN The Cracked Egg 467-3444 • Lanesboro, MN Thrivent Financial Walter Bradley 467-3370 • Lanesboro, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 11, 2017
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Page 9
A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR 911 EMERGENCY Continued from Page 8
jurisdiction. “Within the county, it should come to us. Why it was picked up by Winona County, we’re not sure. It may have been the [cell phone] carrier or the
topography of the area, but it was probably just closer in proximity to Winona County,” says Kaase. “In looking at the transcript, the Winona County dispatcher had great information; the county road, the house number, a name, and a callback number.
emergencyresponse Teams
They collected the basic information to go through the steps and get emergency medical response rolling. Winona County knew they had an accident and that they needed to respond, but they couldn’t help. They didn’t know where it was. The tragic part
is the initial information was correct. It was just the wrong county.” In hindsight, both the deceased victim’s family and Sheriff Kaase wish things had been different. “Winona County called back to say they couldn’t find anything.
About the same time, two people in the house called 911 at the same time. This flooded the 911 system in Preston,” notes the victim’s mother. “The Fillmore County Sheriff pointed out this problem. See 911 EMERGENCY Page 11
Ostrander Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are pr oud t o suppor t the Os t rander emergency response t eams!
Ostrander/Fountain Police Chief Tom Mosher Photo by Rich Wicks
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Marzolf Implememnt Co. 346-7227 • Spring Valley, MN
Ostrander Fire Department (left to right): Caleb Hall, Brian Miner, Dustin Tart, Blake Ehlendfeldt, Dustin Johnson, Mel O’Groske (retired), Jason Rice, Lucy Drinkall. Not pictured: Tyson Drinkall, Amanda Miner, Pat Nesler, D.J. Start. Photo by Amanda Sethre
Ody’s Country Meats & Catering 346-2579 • Spring Valley, MN
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Olmsted Medical Center 346-7373 • Spring Valley, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN
Wykoff Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are proud t o suppor t the Wykoff emergency response t eams!
Wykoff First Responders (left to right) - Teresa Swenson, James Eichoff, Michelle Meldahl (Retired), Scott Gilsrude, Deb McDonald (Retired). Not pictured: Jon Eichoff. Photo by Jason Sethre
Wykoff Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Julie Hanson, 1st Assistant Cheif Mark Arndt, Cory Bremseth, Secretary Jordan Hutsell, Chris Negal, Clint Laganiere, Tim Benike, Jerico Bushman, Travis Raddatz. Back row: Spencer Goodman, Tyler Comstock, Robert Vogan, Chief Wade Baker, 2nd Assistant Chief Tim Austin, Mike Nelson, John Apenhorst, Ernie Domoski, Troy Erding. Not pictured: Cody Meyer, Training Officer Mike Lund, Jason Hare, Jonathan Eickhoff. Photo by Jason Sethre
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Marzolf Implement Co. 346-7227 • Spring Valley, MN
Shooters 352-2281 • Wykoff, MN
The Gateway 352-4221 • Wykoff, MN
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN
Ody’s Country Meats & Catering 346-2579 • Spring Valley, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN
Thompson Motors 352-2435 • Wykoff, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 11, 2017
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 household each week.
A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR MOSHER
Continued from Page 1
told him not to fight with us, and pretty soon he was trying to pull his arms out, so one of the officers used his taser, which when you’re at that close range, you just put it right on them, and he said if you don’t go to the ground, I’m going to tase you… So I had ahold of him with my
arm on his shirt, and when he pulled his trigger, that guy must have turned, and both probes went through my fingers, and I got 50,000 volts! And finally, we got him down on the ground and got him handcuffed, and the suspect started apologizing!” Tom said many people enjoy bringing up this incident with him, and he shares a good laugh over it now. Tom does not plan to sit idle in
emergencyresponse Teams
retirement. He has a number of rental properties, and said, “I’m able to do a lot of things. I’m really handy, I can do plumbing and some electrical and carpentry.” He also looks forward to spending time with his family and riding his motorcycle with his wife. When asked for her thoughts, she said, “Even the criminals like him. We can be out anywhere, and they just like Tom!”
But Tom’s own words can probably best summarize his career and sentiments as his retirement date draws near. Tom wrote a letter to the cities of Fountain and Ostrander, as well as Fillmore County, which stated, in part, “I have been planning on retirement for some time. I am looking forward to working much less, working when I want, and where I want or not at all… I would
like to thank all citizens… that I have protected and served for over twenty years, for their support and friendship… I have lived in Fillmore County all my life and will continue until my life is done here on earth… my last day of work will be September 29, 2017.” It seems clear that the consensus in Fillmore County is that Office Mosher deserves a hearty thanks for all he’s done.
Fillmore County & Spring Valley Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are pr oud t o suppor t the Fillmore Coun t y & Spring Valley emergency response t eams!
Fillmore County Sheriff’s Department - Spring Valley Deputies: Mike Hadland, Tim Rasmussen, Jessy Betts Photo by Jana Boyum
Spring Valley Ambulance (left to right): Lucy Drinkall, Dennis Yoder, Jennifer Lange, Tami Edgar, Jim McCabe, Sue Puffer, Ted Sherwood, Jessica Gilbertson, Zach Gilbertson, Mike Zimmer, Kevin Burrichter and Melody Gilbertson. Not pictured: Becky Bicknese, Troy Harwood, Barb Keefe, Patty O’Connell, Stacy Tart and Kyle Holmberg. Photo by Valerie Jorgensen
Spring Valley Fire Department (left to right) - front row: Isaac Hurst, Kevin Burrichter, Dustin Kimball, Mitchell Czapiewski, Rick Jahn, Todd Jones, Jim Hindt, Tanner Hellickson, Dennis Yoder, Mike Zimmer. Back row: Dustin Johnson, Chief Troy Lange, 1st Assistant Chief Brian Danielson, Steve Blomgren, 2nd Assistant Chief Troy Harwood, Matt Jacobson, Todd Kruegel, Tony Struzyk, Mitchell Plaehn, Jamie Fenske, John Fenske. Not pictured: Jim McCabe, Mike Lee, Kevin Beck, Chris Rolli, Scott Sweeney, Ryan Hebel. Photo by Valerie Jorgensen A&W Drive-in 346-7486 • Spring Valley, MN
Maple Leaf Services, Inc. 765-2107 • Preston, MN
Olmsted Medical Center 346-7373 • Spring Valley, MN
Essig Agency 346-7244 • Spring Valley, MN
Marburger Insurance 346-7646 • Spring Valley, MN
Scott’s Auto Works 346-9920 • Spring Valley, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Matt’s Body Shop & Tire Service 346-2161 • Spring Valley, MN
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Sunshine Foods 346-2804 • Spring Valley, MN
Spring Valley Chevy Buick 346-7337 • Spring Valley, MN
TJ’s Liquor 346-1979 • Spring Valley, MN
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN Hyland Motors Company 346-2433 • Spring Valley, MN
Ody’s Country Meats & Catering 346-2579 • Spring Valley, MN
Spring Valley Living 346-7381 • Spring Valley, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 11, 2017
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Page 11
A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR 911 EMERGENCY Continued from Page 9
You can hear phones ringing the background as the calls came in.” While we may envision a dispatch center with multiple phones and dispatchers working round the clock, in largely rural Fillmore County, there are 17 cities and 23 townships that are routed to one county dispatch center, with one dispatcher. “One thing people need to be cogni-
zant of, there’s typically just one dispatcher at a time. They need to try to grasp they’re the one and only person taking the phone call. The dispatcher has to gather the pertinent information, as quickly as possible, before making the call to needed ambulance services (7), fire departments (11), and law enforcement (County, City, State Patrol, or DNR).” In addition to this, the dispatcher, at times, communicates with any of the six surrounding counties, two
emergencyresponse Teams
being in Iowa. The victims’ family spoke with Sheriff Kaase about concerns with 911 issues. “It is not my purpose to criticize. My goal is to inform people how to better use 911,” stresses the victim’s mother. “My daughter’s car crash opened my eyes to things where we all could do better. Before the crash, I had never given 911 much thought. You just call and everything is supposed to be OK,” she admits. Emergency 911 training is a
constant in law enforcement, fire, and ambulance departments, but the public at large doesn’t always prepare adequately for those times of emergency. It’s critical for everyone involved to be as prepared as possible and communicate as efficiently as possible. “All calls are different,” emphasizes Kaase. “There are times people are calm, cool, and collected. Other times, we have to calm them down before we can get what we need. Try to remain
calm.” It’s also a challenge for dispatchers to get the information. “It’s tough for dispatchers to keep people on the line long enough. Sometimes that’s a big chore,” says Kaase. “Sometimes we get to the point of needing a name and callback number and they refuse to give it. But, we need it in the event the other information is wrong or we need to clarify See 911 EMERGENCY Page 12
Chatfield Emergency Response Teams
These businesses are proud t o suppor t the Cha tfield emergency response t eams!
Chatfield Fire Department (left to right) - front row: 2nd Assistant Chief Luke Thieke, 1st Assistant Chief Brian Burkholder, Dan Funk, Dave Vogen, Mike Pederson, Safety Officer Dan Jaquith, Tim Danielson, Chief Ryan Priebe, Secretary Cole Mckean, Luke Scheffelbein, John Reed. Back row: Clint Westrum, Titan Haag, Jake Lane, Jim Hanson, Mitch Irish, Dean Irish, Training Officer Chris Musty, Jason Baldner, Brandon Delaney, Treasurer Peter Erickson, Leif Erickson, Shane Radcliff, Rick Bell. Photo by Jason Sethre
Chatfild Police (left to right): Aaron Miliander, Steve Schmiedeberg, Shane Fox, Scott Keigley, Kevin Landorf. Photo submitted
Chatfield Ambulance (left to right) - kneeling: Matt Gathje, Sue Kester, Dave Sovinski, Dan Jaquith. Standing: Sarah Dewindt, Leif Erickson, Jenna Franks, Shoshana Hahn, Mike Gittins, Gabby Bouska, Yanna Savkova, Karla Mullenbach, Beth Spelhaug, Nancy Timm, Levi Roline, Ed Leof, Larry Converse, Jordan Coffey, John Reed, Leslie Tannahill, Rocky Burnett. Not pictured: Paige Anderson, Cassandra Broadwater, Ed Hallisy, Zack Linnell, Brad Schieffer. Photo by Jason Sethre
Bick n Berry 564-2019 • Chatfield, MN
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN
Bill Funk Trucking 867-3286 • Chatfield, MN
Huntington Electric LLC 251-9510 • Lanesboro, MN
Chatfield Body Shop 867-3063 • Chatfield, MN
Jac’s Bar & Grill 867-3939 • Chatfield, MN
Cy Guy’s Auto Repair 867-4320 • Chatfield, MN
Larrabee Essig Agency 867-3188 • Chatfield, MN
F&M Community Bank Member FDIC 867-1605 • Chatfield, MN 765-3823 • Preston, MN
Main Street Wireless 867-0000 • Chatfield, MN
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Olmsted Medical Center 867-4925 • Chatfield, MN POET Biorefining 765-4548 • Preston, MN
Root River State Bank Member FDIC 867-4120 • Chatfield, MN Root River Veterinary Center 765-2117 • Preston, MN Rowland Well Co. Inc. 867-4355 • Chatfield, MN Ruskell Outdoor Services 867-3988 • Chatfield, MN Sally’s Hair to Dye For 765-4773 • Preston, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
State Representative Gregory M. Davids District 28B Paid for by People of Davids Committee of Preston, MN 951-3893 • Preston, MN Steve’s Auto 867-1448 • Chatfield, MN Sunshine Foods 867-4272 • Chatfield, MN Threads Custom Apparel 867-0111 • Chatfield, MN William Hanson Waste Removal & Recycling 867-3527 • 259-7124 • Chatfield, MN Wit Boyz, Inc. 867-2957 • Chatfield, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 11, 2017
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 household each week.
A SpeciAl Section of the fillmore county JournAl
Recognizing ouR 911 EMERGENCY Continued from Page 11
something or get an update. The dispatchers are trained to know the questions to ask and how to draw out information; how to be cooperative. If they’re asking you a question, there’s a reason for it.” Calls are also not as detailed as in this particular case. They’re usually quite vague. “Sometimes they’re directional; sometimes they just tell us they’re on a
blacktop road,” adds Kaase. It is critical to get responders to the right location as quickly as possible. “How do we get people more cognizant about their location?” asks Kaase. Today, more than 95% of Americans own a cell phone, with 77% of those being smartphone. In emergency calls, more than 70% come from cellular devices. Cell phone advancements are being made rapidly. Applications for emergencies are being developed and marketed
emergencyresponse Teams
and smartphones now have the ability to draw information from calls, depending on the phone and carrier. As the technology advances, more options are available that can pinpoint locations. Additionally, services such as OnStar are now available within vehicles themselves to assist us in getting help. Unfortunately, it isn’t available in all vehicles, must be opted-in in some cases, and typically sends calls to a larger call center before being directed to emergency respond-
To all the
Emergency Responders
that selflessly give themselves
ers. So, what about the instances when technology fails us? A time when there is no reception or your phone is dead; you don’t or can’t opt-in for OnStar, and when even the GPS address isn’t enough. “You have to be prepared,” urges Kaase. “People get in the car and they zone out; tune out. Pay attention. Know where you are.” “People with kids, talk to your kids about emergencies. Ask them questions and talk about
s k n a Th
scenarios. ‘How would you get help? What if we had an accident and I was knocked out? What information do you need to give to get help?’” he adds. “The bottom line is, we all need better training for what to do in an emergency situation,” says the victim’s mother. “A successful 911 call depends on both the operator and the caller communicating effectively. A 15-minute delay in response is huge. It could be the difference between life and death for someone.”
to these Harmony City employees for their dedicated service as
Emergency Responders
City of Harmony 225 3rd Ave SW Harmony, MN 507-886-8122
day after day
...T hank you
lk
erg, Brian Michel, Terry Biga
Corey Whalen, Eileen Schansb
Thanks
to these CPS employees for their dedication, past and present, as
Emergency Responders
A Special Thanks A Special Veterans Thanks To America’s To America’s Veterans V eterans Day is November 11th. Back: aubrey Johnson, steve donney, gregory turner V
eterans Day is November 11th. There are more than 24 million veterans in the U.S. Front: Steve Hanson (retired), Jeremy Hanson Back: Garry Dowling, Brad Kerns (Retired)
Colin Bakke, Don Hanson (retired)
front: christopher skaalen, James skaalen There are more than 24 million veterans in the U.S.
As weWe observe thisVeterans we say thank you to the men salute ourDay, staff's dedication to
the and women who have served the U.S. Air Force,and Army,present Navy, community forintheir past and women who have served in the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, emergency services Marines andvolunteer Coast Guard. As we observe thisVeterans Day, we say thank you to the men Marines and Coast Guard.
We appreciate their sacrifice and service for ourour country. We further express
thanks
Closed Tuesday, November 11, 2014 Closedemergency Tuesday, November 11, 2014 to all services
We appreciate their sacrifice and service for our country.
Bill Hanlon, Randy Mayer
Harmony, Minnesota • 507-886-4222
111 N Main St Canton MN 111 N Main St Canton MN 507-743-2204 507-743-2204 Toll Free 1-877-457-5977 Toll Free 1-877-457-5977
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