September 14, 2015 A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
Recognizing Our
EmergencyResponse Teams A tribute to those who served much as possible. By Jason Sethre This past summer, Eric Ostrom I had known Eric long before and Dennis Bergey died within he joined the Fountain Fire about one month of each other. Department, and I knew he’d We lost Eric on July 5, 2015, and be a great member of the team. then we lost Dennis Bergey on He had a knack for socializing and making people smile -- a real August 13, 2015. Both were young men. Eric people person. was only 46-years-old, and Den- It was a complete shock to our nis was only 57-years-old. And, department, along with everyone both men had a lot in common. else who knew Eric, when we Eric and Dennis took pride in learned of his passing. helping others and being a part of Quite honestly, attending Eric’s their community, exemplified by funeral service was equivalent their involvement in their local to attending a family member’s funeral. He was a member of our emergency response teams. families -- our teams -- both the Eric Ostrom Eric joined the Preston Ambu- Preston Ambulance Service and lance Service in January 2013, the Fountain Fire Department. and then joined the Fountain Fire DepartEric Ostrom ment in January 2015. Years of service While his tenure was cut too short, he was Preston Ambulance Service the kind of person who January 2013 - July 5, 2015 jumped in and asked Fountain Fire Department how he could help. January 2015 - July 5, 2015 He didn’t sit back and watch. He got involved, and became acquainted with as
Dennis Bergey Dennis served on the Canton Fire Department for 22 years -from January 1, 1993 to August 13, 2015. He took great pride in serving among friends and family. I remember meeting Dennis when taking pictures of the Canton Fire Department each year, and he always had a smile on his face. I always get a kick out of the guys giving each other a hard time while we are rounding up the crew for picture time. Every department has a sense of brotherhood; brothers jokingly picking on each other ever y
time they get together. While I wasn’t able to attend Dennis’ funeral service, I spoke with our Fire Chief, John Hanson, and he said all emergency response departments were well represented. He said it was a heartfelt ceremony. A tribute and a request At both funerals, there were flower arrangements with cards offering condolences to the fami-
Public use of Facebook reflects insensitivity
often been asked why I didn’t bring my camera to a fire or accident. After all, I would have an opportunity to capture moments that most other media would never see from their accessibility vantage point. When I am paged to a fire or accident scene as a firefighter, I leave my newspaper hat behind. Ethically, I think this is important. As a matter of fact, I’m not even comfortable taking pictures of accidents while wearing my newspaper hat. I have witnessed other newspaper reporters practically climb in the car and get in the way of emergency response teams as they are extracting a victim from a vehicle -- all for a photo. I won’t do that for many reasons. First, and foremost, the media person is getting in the way of those who are there to help the victim, and that is just plain rude. Second, what if this victim dies? Out of respect for the victim and the family, we
New beast joins Wykoff Fire Department
By Jason Sethre Publisher Fillmore County Journal jason@fillmorecountyjournal.com I am confident that every local emergency response team, including police, ambulance, and fire, have been educated and even warned of how the use of Facebook Jason Sethre with respect to serving the public comes with great responsibilities. While the general population knows that members of law enforcement are paid employees of their respective municipality, everyone doesn’t realize that volunteer members of an ambulance crew or fire department are also employees of their respective municipality. So, that means that as city employees, on a “volunteer” status, they need to adhere to employment policies and use good judgement on and off duty as it relates to their
involvement in accidents, fires and the like. Many emergency response departments have a Facebook page, and they are required to manage that page with caution. This has been discussed at length by many departments. As a matter of fact, due to the headaches that can come with posting something that could cause a problem, the majority of emergency response departments have opted to not manage a Facebook page. For some, it is safer that way. For those departments that do utilize Facebook, they are aware of what is appropriate and what is not. For public service announcements, not a problem. But, pictures of accidents and fires are usually a big no-no. And, from what I have heard and seen, the majority of departments in our area abide by these common sense practices. As a newspaper Since I have served on the Fountain Fire Department for a little over six years now, when I have been paged to call I have
See FACEBOOK Page 2
Dennis Bergey Years of service Canton Fire Department
January 1, 1993 - August 13, 2015 lies. And, there was a parade of squad cars, ambulances, and fire trucks escorting both Eric and Dennis to their respective resting places. There was representation from departments all throughout the region. Both Eric and Dennis were honorable men, and losing these guys will be felt by their departSee TRIBUTE Page 4
By Jason Sethre The Wykoff Fire Department has acquired a new piece of equipment that won’t just help their department, but others in surrounding communities. In October 2014, under the leadership of Fire Chief Wade Baker, the department gained a 900 cc Ranger Crew purchased directly from M & M Lawn & Leisure. With a total length of 15 feet and 6 inches, this five-seat beast of a rig weighs in at 2,280 pounds with all accessories, including a 10,000 watt generator, scene lights, rescue basket, wench, chain saw, and slide-in unit with 75 gallons of water. Baker said, “We looked at a bunch of different brands, and most fire departments used Polaris.” They even called around to fire departments that were using similar equipment, such as Rushford, Eitzen, Houston, and Stewartville. During their research process, they discovered that every department had an open trailer and most of them wished they
had purchased a closed trailer for the sake of avoiding rock chips while driving on gravel roads. So, they decided to go with a closed trailer that could also be used as a recovery center for emergency staff and victims involved in accidents or fires. Long-term, they are looking into a way to heat the closed trailer unit. They had a house fire within the past year in which the temperature dipped to negative 20 degrees and it would have been helpful for all emergency response members involved to have a place to warm up. The Wykoff Fire Department decided to purchased their closed trailer from Denny’s Trailer Sales in Fillmore. And, Denny took care of them with a 50 amp RV service, regular 3-prong outlets throughout, and two entry points on the side and back of the unit. With the area that Wykoff covers, from Fillmore to Forestville State Park, they come across some rough terrain. So, they See WYKOFF FIRE Page 9
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 14, 2015
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 household each week.
A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
g n i z i n g Reco our emergencyresponse Teams
Continued from Page 1
don’t need to add to the trauma with their picture appearing in our newspaper. A few years ago, we had a reporter who had good intentions by trying to cover an accident before any other media, and we were definitely the first ones on the scene. Our reporter
posted a photo on our website along with the article. And, then they posted it on our Facebook page. Within minutes, we were getting roasted for our “poor taste”. There wasn’t a victim in the picture; only vehicles. But, the picture created perceptions of insensitivity on our part, so we quickly removed the photo from our Facebook page and our website. I should mention that this particular accident did result in
a fatality, so those with concerns had every right to express their outrage. Again, another example of why we handle accidents and fires with delicate hands. The public Whether Facebook posts are coming from an emergency response department or the media, they are held to a standard of respecting the best interests of those whom they serve, but what
about the general population? Apparently, it’s OK for people to pull up behind a car accident, start taking pictures and post them to Facebook along with their own speculation about what caused the accident and what assumptions they can make regarding the condition of those involved in the accident. I see it all the time, and frankly, it disgusts me.
People forget to think of things like how the public will perceive what has been posted. They also forget to think about whether they would want these pictures shared on Facebook if they were the victim. People need to use common sense and respect those involved in these accidents. You’d think common sense would prevail, but apparently common sense isn’t all that common.
Canton Fire Department (left to right): Dillon Bergey, Jon Nordsving, Sam Brekke, Jamie Kelly, Randy Gossman, Tyler Newman, Jason Magnuson, Jim Davis, Brian Kerns, Garry Dowling, Dan Gulbranson, Ryan Lange, Connor Keene, Chad Wangen, Josh Hosting, Blaine Coyle, Dennis Bergey, Bill Richardson. Not pictured: Nick Prestby. Photo by Jason Sethre
Cy Guy’s Auto Repair 867-4320 • Chatfield, MN
Craig’s Auto Repair 493-5399 • Mabel, MN
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
First State Bank of Fountain Member FDIC 268-4321 • Fountain, MN
First Southeast Bank Member FDIC 743-2204 • Canton, MN 886-6922 • Harmony, MN
Fountain Building Center 268-4343 • Fountain, MN
Jim’s Car Care 272-0543 • Canton, MN
Preston Dairy & Farm Assn. 765-2484 • Preston, MN 743-2250 • Canton, MN Sarah’s Diner 743-8204 • Canton, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Solberg Welding & Ironside Trailers 886-4602 • 886-4600 • Harmony, MN
Herman’s Standard 268-4434 • Fountain, MN K&R Equipment 268-4425 • Fountain, MN Larrabee Essig Agency 867-3188 • Chatfield, MN Olmsted Medical Center 765-5324 • Preston, MN Preston Liquor, LLC 765-2565 • Preston, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Torgerson-Ostby Floor Covering & Stone 886-4257 • Harmony, MN Valley Design 268-4221 • Fountain, MN
Fountain Fire Department (left to right): Elliot Riggott, John Hanson, Jason Schwarz, Ted Reinhardt, Bryan Ostby, Jason Sethre, Chad Wangen, Chad Danielson, Wayne Thomas, Sean Dols, Brent Miller, Duane Gilbertson, Matt Bradt, Darrin Cambern, Ryan Aasum. Not pictured: Jason Wright, Dave Stockton, Justin Redalen, Nick Vold, Jordan Dohrmann. Photo by Amanda Sethre
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 14, 2015
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
g n i z i n Recogour emergencyresponse Teams
Harmony Fire Department (left to right) - Front row: Chris Skaalen, Miles Petree, Brandon Koliha, Blaine Whalen, Rod Johnson (Chief), Corey Whalen, Dan Dornink, Brian Michel, Kyle Heibel, Todd Kiehne, Steve Donney. Back row: Dustin Hanson, Craig Morem, Blaine Gatzke (Assistant Chief), Ross Bahl, Jesse Grabau, Kyle Morem, Randy Mayer(Secretary/Treasurer), Keith McIntosh, Mike Peterson, Bill Hanlon(Assistant Chief), Stuart Morem (Emergency Management) Not pictured: Dennis Solberg(Training Officer), Gavin Wangen, Harvey Hershberger, Chad Olson. Photo by Jason Sethre
Harmony Ambulance (left to right staggering): Dan Tieffenbacher, Ryan Bigalk, Eileen Schansberg, Jordan Hanson, Rochelle Willford, Terry Bigalk, Dan Dornink, Gerri Nielsen, Jesse Grabau, Aubrey Johnson, Arden Willford, Lana Soppa, Steve Donney, Chuck Sikkink & down front is Mike Flaby. Not pictured: Larry Nolan. 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
Cetera Investment Services Steve Donney 886-3300 • Harmony, MN
Hahn Lumber Co. Inc. 886-2232 • Harmony, MN
Crop Production Services 886-4222 • Harmony, MN Estelle’s Eatery & Bar Matt & Heidi (Harstad) 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
Hammell Equipment 886-2255 • Harmony, MN Harmony Agri-Services Inc. 886-6062 • Harmony, MN Harmony Foods 886-2225 • Harmony, MN Harmony House Restaurant 886-4612 • Harmony, MN Harmony Insurance Group 886-2100 • Harmony, MN Harmony Repair Service 886-2301 • Harmony, MN
Fillmore County Sheriff’s Department: Canton, Harmony, Mabel (left to right): Jesse Grabau, Dan Dornink, Jason Harmening. Photo by Jason Sethre
Harmony Telephone Co. 886-2525 • Harmony, MN Harmony Veterinary Clinic 886-6321 • Harmony, MN Leon’s Barber Shop 886-4391 • Harmony, MN Kingsley Mercantile 886-2323 • Harmony, MN Koliha Insurance, LLC 886-2484 • Harmony, MN Minnowa Construction, Inc. 886-6162 • Harmony, MN Morem Electric, Inc. 886-4541 • Harmony, MN Niagara Cave 886-6606 • Harmony, MN Oak Meadow Meats 886-6328 • Harmony, MN RJC Building & Remodeling 951-8786 • Harmony, MN
Re/Max Select Properties Roxanne Johnson 886-4221 • Harmony, MN S&S Automotive NAPA Auto Parts 886-6111 • Harmony, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Scheevel & Sons 765-4756 • Preston, MN Solberg Welding & Ironside Trailers 886-4602 • 886-4600 Harmony, MN Torgerson-Ostby Floor Covering & Stone 886-4257 • Harmony, MN Village Depot • School/Quilts • Gifts 886-2409 • Harmony, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 14, 2015
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 household each week.
A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
g n i z i n Recogour emergencyresponse Teams TRIBUTE
Fillmore County Sheriff’s Department (left to right): Eugene Johnson, Tom Kaase, Lance Boyum, Tony Webber, LuAnn Hoff, Dave Dyke, Jamie Fenske, Brian Miner, Phil Whitacre. Photo by Jason Sethre
Continued from Page 1 ments for a very long time. They made a commitment to their communities, and their actions spoke louder than words. Nearly all of the emergency response teams throughout this region are struggling to retain volunteers. As the senior members retire, there are fewer people in line to take their positions. Many of the younger prospects will say they are too busy. Guess what, we’re all too busy. All of us have families and jobs. But, if nobody steps up to serve, then nobody will be there when you need them. And, the people who volunteer their time don’t do it for the money. They do it because they know others won’t. They do it because as they meet each month and train together with their fel-
low volunteers, they feel like they are a part of something bigger than any one person. They do it because these fellow volunteers become friends, and their families become friends of their families. They do it because when their pager goes off, they know somebody needs their help. And, whether it is their neighbor, a friend, or a stranger, they need to act with a sense of urgency, care and concern. So, as a tribute to Eric and Dennis, who would still be volunteering their time and energy if they were here with us today, please consider volunteering to be a part of your local emergency response team. Trust me, somebody needs your help. Just ask. Quoting Winston Churchill, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
Brenda’s Boutique 493-5457 • Mabel, MN Craig’s Auto Repair 493-5399 • Mabel, MN Evangeline’s/Krazy Kwiltz 493-5893 • Mabel, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Gjere Construction 493-5864 • Mabel, MN Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN
Mabel Fire Department (left to right): Mike Kleiboer, Adam Olson, Orel Tollefson, Tim Mengis, Mike Aasum, Kelly Sand, Paul Tollefsrud, Brian Erickson, Mark Weidemann, Nick Manning, Rick Aske, Jason Vickerman, Bob Schutte, Wayne Buxengard, Steve Geving, and Trever Falck. Not pictured: Joel Graves, Chad Loppnow, Carl Westby, Jeff Rein. Photo by Jason Sethre
Green Lea Senior Living/ The Meadows of Mabel 493-5436 • 493-5995 Mabel, MN Larson Well Drilling 493-5087 • Mabel, MN Mabel bp 493-5924 • Mabel, MN Mabel Telephone Coop 493-5411 • Mabel, MN Mengis Funeral Home 493-5129 • Mabel, MN Pit Stop Service 493-5538 • Mabel, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Steuart Laboratories Retail Outlet 493-5585 • Mabel, MN
Mabel Ambulance (left to right): Jason Marquardt, Shelly Gerard, Joyce Graves, Neil Folstad, Danielle Graves, Sarah Delaney, Tim Mengis. Not pictured: Bre Johnson, Julie Otterness, Kristi Vreeman, Lori Peterson, Chelsey Sloan, Carl Westby, Brent Garcia. Photo by Jason Sethre
Tollefson Construction 493-5985 • 450-4483 • Mabel, MN Village Farm & Home 493-5217 • Mabel, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 14, 2015
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
g n i z i n g Reco our emergencyresponse Teams The Fillmore County Journal would like to say thank you to all of those who serve on an emergency response team.
WE SALUTE YOU!
Bremer Bank 896-3179 • Houston, MN City of Houston 896-4033 • Houston, MN
Cox True Value Hardware & Appliances 896-3146 • Houston, MN DDP Auto Services 896-4902 • Houston, MN Farmers Co-op Elevator Co. 896-3147 • Houston, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Gundersen Houston Clinic 896-6000 • Houston, MN
Houston Fire Department (Left to right): Chad Rosendahl, Kevin Jumbeck, Kevin Knutson, Byron Frauenkron, Tim Jergenson, Rick Geiwitz, Alan Frauenkron, Matt Schutte, Brent Carrier, Kathy Jumbeck, Ken Witt, Brandon Olson, Tom Hill, Ryan Geiwitz, Matt VanGundy, Darrin Wendell, Steve Skifton, Brent Stampka, Jay Wheaton, Mark Olson, Chief Joe Krage, Richard Carr, Craig Conley. Photo Submitted
Gary’s Pump & Well Service 896-3330 • Houston, MN Graf Insurance Agency 896-4723 • Houston, MN Hoff Funeral & Cremation Service Houston Chapel 896-3127 • Houston, MN Houston Food Mart bp S&A Petroleum 896-3000 • Houston, MN JT’s Corner Bar & Grill 896-3232 • Houston, MN
Houston Ambulance (left to right): Nathan Nelson, Tony Schultz, Mary Burt, Brad White, David Runningen, Dana Kildahl, Tim Jergenson, Renee Kinstler, Christian Kildahl, Lisa Schultz, Darrin Wendell, Director Chris Cox. Photo Submitted
Loken’s Sawmill Inn 896-7050 • Houston, MN Mound Prairie Mutual Ins. 896-3150 • Houston, MN RiverStar, Inc. 864-4300 • Houston, MN River Valley Convenience Store 896-3221 • Houston, MN Root River Market Co-op 896-8001 • Houston, MN Rosendahl Repair LLC 896-7070 • Houston, MN Rushford State Bank Member FDIC 864-7755 • Rushford, MN
Chief David Breault.
Photo Submitted
The Fillmore County Journal• 507-765-2151
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Vicki’s Accounting Services 896-3332 • Houston, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 14, 2015
Honoring those who serve.
A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
g n i z i n g Reco our emergencyresponse Teams
Rushford Fire Department (left to right): Curt Courrier, Chad Rasmussen, Ryan Diepenbrock, Rich Smith, Donny Chase, Jordan Brand, Craig Hanson, Travis Skalet, Nate Peterson, Steven Hughes, Dave Lombard, Evan Meier, Jeffrey O’Donnell, Tim Diepenbrock, Travis Eide, Mike Evenson, James Dailey, Nick Smith, Gene Lawston, Paul Corcoran. Not pictured: Gerrad Eide, Wayne Exe, Jordy Graham, Mark Honsey, Brent Johnson, Steve Kingsley, Dennis Overland, Jeremiah Smith. Photo by Jason Sethre
Rushford Ambulance (left to right) - Front row: Evan Meier, Chad Rasmussen, Curt Courrier, Isaiah Bunke, Dave Lombard, Ellen Eliason, Mary Burt, Sheri Overland, Marie Chase, Lynn Humble. Back row: James Dailey, Paul Corcoran, Rich Smith, Jordan Brand, Karen Rislov, Nick Smith, Dennis Overland, Donny Chase. Not pictured: Jenelle O’Donnell. Photo by Shannon Meier
Rushford Police Department (left to right): Chief Adam G. Eide, Officer David Huse, Officer Nathan Klinski, Reserve Officer Isaiah Bunke, and Reserve Officer April Stone. Not pictured: Reserve Officers Cale Stensgard, Tom Wilkemeyer. Photo submitted
Merchants Bank Member FDIC 467-2145 • Lanesboro, MN 864-7744 • Rushford, MN
American Family Insurance Jordy Graham Agency 864-7978 • Rushford, MN
Farm Bureau Insurance Financial Services, Derek Berg 864-2220 • Rushford, MN
Chuck’s Feed & Grain 875-2247 • Peterson, MN
Farmers Co-op Elevator Co. 864-7733 • Rushford, MN
City of Peterson 875-2222 • Peterson, MN
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN
City of Rushford 864-2444 • Rushford, MN
Good Shepard Lutheran Services 864-7714 • Rushford, MN
Norman’s Electric Service 864-2891 • Rushford, MN
Hammell Equipment Inc. 864-2845 • Rushford, MN
Norsland Lefse 864-2323 • Rushford, MN
Hoff Funeral & Cremation Rushford Chapel 864-7771 • Rushford, MN
Pam’s Corner Convenience 864-7949 • Rushford, MN
City of Rushford Village 864-7974 • Rushford, MN Connaughty Sales, Inc. 864-2955 • Rushford, MN Curt’s Place 864-1015 • Rushford, MN Dahl’s Auto Works 864-7711 • Rushford, MN
L&L Volkman Auto Body Repair 864-2590 • Rushford, MN
Darr Auctions & Realty LLC 864-7952 • Rushford, MN
Loken’s Rushford Inn 864-2222 • Peterson, MN
Dennis Overland Insurance 864-2757 • Rushford, MN
M&M Lawn & Leisure 864-7781 • Rushford, MN
Engelson & Associates 864-1040 • Rushford, MN
Micah Hanson State Farm 864-2884 • Rushford, MN New Beginnings Salon 864-2500 • Rushford, MN
R&L Small Engine Repair 864-2244 • Peterson, MN R&R Construction 450-1882 • 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 Shawnee’s Bar & Grill 864-2073 • Rushford, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN The Creamery/Nordic Lanes 864-7799 or 864-7214 • Rushford, MN Village Auto & Interstate Batteries 864-2788 • Rushford, MN Winona Health Rushford Clinic 864-7726 • Rushford, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 14, 2015
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
ng emergency i z i n g Teams o Rec our response 10 Minn. fire departments receive national award
Departments’ fire prevention efforts are among best in the country Ten Minn. fire departments were recently honored nationally for keeping their communities safer in 2014 by actively promoting fire prevention. The Minn. departments were among 117 across the United States to receive the Life Safety Achievement Awards from The National Association of State Fire Marshals Fire Research and Education Foundation. To qualify for the award, fire departments must: • Have zero fire deaths in residential structures or a 10%
reduction from the previous year. • Demonstrate commitment to preventing residential fires in their communities. • Have an active fire prevention program. “Minn. firefighters know the safest fire to handle is the one that never starts,” State Fire Marshal Bruce West said. “We are proud of these 10 departments and know that work is being done in hundreds of See FIRE AWARD Page 8
Lanesboro Fire Department (left to right): Deane Benson, Rob Wagner, Bryan Benson, Kevin Drake, Ryan Peterson, C.J. Peterson, John Dollar, Michael Willford, Mark Lawstuen, Keith Eide, Creighton Horihan, Jim Iverson, Jim Peterson, Jerod Wagner, T.J. Stettler, Scott Strom, Ken Graner, Pat Schmidt, Anthony Schwartz. Not pictured: Tony Semmen, Jason Harvey, David Haugen, Steve Klotz. Photo by Jason Sethre
Cedar Valley Resort 467-9000 • Whalan, MN Commonweal Theatre Co. (800) 567-7025 • Lanesboro, MN Dr. James M. Waldow, DDS 467-2269 • Lanesboro, MN Lanesboro Ambulance (left to right): Front row: Autumn Johnson, Paul Peterson, Melissa Konsti, Lolly Melander, Creighton Horihan, Ken Graner. Back row: Brent Anderson, Michael Wilford, Scott Strom, Hyatt King, Deane Benson, Jerod Wagner, Michele Peterson, Rob Wagner. Not pictured: Brian Baskett, Shaune Luck. Photo Submitted
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • 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 Peterson Creative Photography & Design 421-9906 • Lanesboro, MN
Preston Police Department (left to right): Chief Matt Schultz, Sargent Blaise Sass, Officer Michael Peterson, Officer Tim Melver. Photo by Jason Sethre
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 14, 2015
Honoring those who serve.
A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
FIRE AWARD
Continued from Page 7
other departments in every corner of the state to keep Minnesotans safe.” Minn. award recipients: Albany Fire Department Alexandria Fire Department Cloquet Fire Department Hastings Fire Department Eden Prairie Fire Department Excelsior Fire District Hopkins Fire Department
g n i z i n g Reco our emergencyresponse Teams
Maple Grove Fire-Rescue Minnetonka Fire Department White Bear Lake Fire Department About the Minnesota Department Public Safety The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) comprises 11 divisions where 2,100 employees operate programs in the areas of law enforcement, crime victim assistance, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, emergency communications, fire safety, pipeline safety, driver
licensing, vehicle registration and emergency management. DPS activity is anchored by three core principles: education, enforcement and prevention. About the State Fire Marshal Division The mission of the State Fire Marshal Division is to protect lives and property by fostering a fire-safe environment through fire/arson investigation, code development and enforcement, regulation, data collection and public education. Data col-
Preston Fire Department (left to right) - Front row: Jeff Bennett, Steven Schlichter, Caleb Fischer, Tony Severson, Andy Larson, Asst. Chief Josh Ristau, Chief Dave Keene, Stuart Quanrud, Chris Larson, Travis Ristau, Doug Keene. Back row: Brian Soland, Kurt Reicks, Eric Topness, Leigh Larson, Dan Root, Chad Finseth, Dustin Arndt, Guy Soland, Heath Mensink, Ramon Hernandez, Ryan Throckmorton. Not pictured: Devin Nagle, Greg Bremseth. Photo by Jason Sethre
Al Larson & Sons Plumbing & Heating 765-2405 • Preston, MN American Family Insurance Kiel Anderson, Agent 765-2372 • Preston, MN B&B Olympic Bowl 765-2522 • Preston, MN Bauer Built 765-9871 • Preston, MN Branding Iron 765-3388 • Preston, MN F&M Community Bank Member FDIC 867-1605 • Chatfield, MN 765-3823 • Preston, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Gehling Implement & Auction 765-2131 • Preston, MN Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN Haakenson Electric 251-5535 • Preston, MN
lected by the SFMD from fire departments statewide is analyzed and used to determine the
best methods of public education and enforcement to improve fire safety in our state.
Preston Ambulance (left to right) - Front row: Ron Schrier, Brian Soland, Kurt Reicks, Jeff Bennett, Tony Severson, Dan Root, Heather Everson, Desiree Schlichter, Vicki Musel, Karen Everson, Director Ryan Throckmorton, Stuart Quanrud. Back row: Doug Keene, Heath Mensink, Nathan Larson, Tim Kiehne Not Pictured: Deb Lindell, Deb Ristau, and The Late Eric Ostrom. Photo by Jason Sethre
Major & Co. 765-4444 • Preston, MN McCabe Repairs 765-2404 • Preston, MN Olmsted Medical Center 765-5324 • Preston, MN Preston Auto Parts & Root River Hardware 765-2101 • Preston, MN Preston bp 765-3330 • Preston, MN Preston Dairy & Farm Assn. 765-2484 • Preston, MN 743-2250 • Canton, MN Preston Equipment Co. 765-3803 • Preston, MN Preston Floral & Gift 765-2214 • Preston, MN Preston Foods 765-2465 • Preston, MN Preston Liquor, LLC 765-2565 • Preston, MN Preston Service Plus 765-3846 • Preston, MN
Preston Servicemen’s Club 765-2205 • Preston, MN Reicks Auto Driver’s License Bureau 765-2281 • Preston, MN Root River Hardwoods Kiln Dried Lumber Store 765-2284 • Preston, MN S&A Petroleum-Martin Oil Preston Motor Mart bp 765-3330 • Preston, MN Sally’s Hair to Dye For 765-4773 • Preston, MN Sandy’s Hair Affair 765-2253 • Preston, MN Scheevel & Sons 765-4756 • Preston, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN The Sweet Stop & Sandwich Shoppe 765-9956 • Preston, MN The Trail Head Inn 765-2460 • Preston, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 14, 2015
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
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A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
g n i z i n Recogour emergencyresponse Teams
WYKOFF FIRE Continued from Page 1
opted to purchase tracks for their 900 Ranger Crew. According to Baker, the tracks cut the speed of the unit in half, but “It’s probably always going to be used in places you’ve never been.” While the new style of tracks are not cheap at $5,500, they are made for year-round use and for all weather conditions. Whether accessing a grass fire from an obscure angle or helping an ambulance crew safely cradle a fallen equestrian from the trail to the ambulance or even Mayo One, the 900 Ranger Crew seems to be the perfect off-road utility unit to help emergency response teams get the job done. Another selling point for the Wykoff Fire Department is that M & M Lawn & Leisure provided a guarantee to them that if they ever had something breakdown on their 900 Ranger Crew, they would bring out a similar replacement unit for their use in case of an emergency. “This was a big selling point,” shared
Baker. Including the 900 Ranger Crew from M & M Lawn & Leisure in Rushford, the closed trailer from Denny’s Trailer Sales in Fillmore, and the artwork on the closed trailer from Kelly Printing & Signs in Preston, the total cost of the unit came to just under $40,000. Fire Chief Wade Baker expressed his gratitude for how supportive the community was when making this investment. In addition, he shared that the Grand Meadow snowmobile club, known as the Hartland Sno-goers, donated $500 toward this equipment investment. Baker wanted to emphasize that this unit isn’t exclusively available to the Wykoff Fire Department. They have mutual aide agreements with Chester (Iowa), Spring Valley, Fountain, Ostrander, Preston and Chatfield. But, Fire Chief Baker said that they are not limited to help only those who are part of the mutual aide agreement. When duty calls, the Wykoff Fire Department has an off-road solution to assist those in need.
Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Ody’s Country Meats 346-2579 • Spring Valley, MN Olmsted Medical Center 346-7373 • Spring Valley, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Fountain/Ostrander Police Chief Tom Mosher. Photo by Mitchell Walbridge
Ostrander Fire Department (left to right): Dustin Johnson, Jon Lechner (Asst. Chief), Brian Miner (Chief), Jimmie Dean Jr., Melvin O’Groske, Amanda Miner, Jason Rice (Assistant. Trainer), DJ Start, Derek Grabau (Asst. Chief). Not pictured: Lucy Drinkall (Secretary), Tyson Drinkall, Cheryl Perry, Tanner Wolfe, Tim Lecy (Training Officer). Photo by Jason Sethre
Mike Lund, Tim Benike, Jorden Hutsell, Troy Erding, and Wade Baker stand by their new 900 Ranger Crew. Photo by Jason Sethre
Wykoff First Responders (left to right): Teresa Swenson, James Eichoff, Michelle Meldahl, Scott Gilsrude, Deb McDonald. Photo by Jason Sethre
Brenda Sheldon, Property Brokers 346-2060 • Spring Valley, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Ody’s Country Meats 346-2579 • Spring Valley, MN Olmsted Medical Center 346-7373 • Spring Valley, MN Wykoff Fire Department (left to right) - Front row: Mike Rollie, Jeremy Comstock (1st Asst. Chief), Tim Austin (2nd Asst. Chief), Shane Mensink, Cory Bremseth, Wade Baker (Chief), Jason Hare, Jorden Hutsell, Robert Vogen. Back row: Mike Lund, Matt Kirkpatrick, Brody Mensink, Ernie Demosky, Micheal Peterson, John Apenhorst, Mike Nelson, Cody Meyer, Mark Arndt, Tim Benike (Safty/Training Officer). Not pictured: John Baker, Troy Erding, Spencer Wiesner. Photo by Jason Sethre
SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Thompson Motors 352-2435 • Wykoff, MN
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FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Monday, September 14, 2015
The FCJ reaches over 13,000 household each week.
A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
g n i z i n Recogour emergencyresponse Teams
Brenda Sheldon, Property Brokers 346-2060 • Spring Valley, MN Fillmore County Sheriff’s Department: Spring Valley (left to right) - Tim Rasmussen, Jessy Betts, Joel Johnson. Photo Submitted
Essig Agency 346-7244 • Spring Valley, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN First State Bank Minnesota Member FDIC 346-9836 • Spring Valley, MN Hyland Motors Company 346-2433 • Spring Valley, MN Marburger Insurance 346-7646 • Spring Valley, MN Marzolf Implement 346-7227 • Spring Valley, MN Matt’s Body Shop & Tire Service 346-2161 • Spring Valley, MN
Spring Valley Fire Department (left to right) - Front row: Tony Struzyk, Chris Rolli, Lieutenant Chris Czapiewski, Mike Zimmer, Dennis Yoder, Chief Troy Lange. Back row: Tanner Hellickson, Todd Kruegel, Matt Jacoson, Jim McCabe, Mike Lee, Assisstant Chief Troy Harwood, Assistant Chief Brian Danielson, Jim Hindt. Not pictured: Jim Steinmetz, John Fenske, Rick Jahn, Jamie Fenske, Kevin Beck, Todd Jones, Scott Sweeney, Isaac Hurst, Dustin Kimball, David Thompson. Photo by Jason Sethre
Ody’s Country Meats 346-2579 • Spring Valley, MN Olmsted Medical Center 346-7373 • Spring Valley, MN Scott’s Auto Works 346-9920 • Spring Valley, MN Simpson’s A&W Drive-in 346-7486 • Spring Valley, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Spring Valley Senior Living 346-7381 • Spring Valley, MN Sunshine Foods 346-2804 • Spring Valley, MN TJ’s Liquor 346-1979 • Spring Valley, MN
Spring Valley Ambulance: (left to right): Dennis Yoder, Patty O’Connell, Jim McCabe, Sue Puffer, Troy Harwood, Jenny Lange, Mike Zimmer. Not pictured: Becky Bicknese, Eileen Blaser, Jas Caffrey, John Clarey-Director, Lucy Drinkall, Tami Edgar, Regina Haeflinger, Barb Keefe, Justin Lonien, Ben Schlaak-Director, Ted Sherwood, Teresa Swenson, Stacy Tart. Photo by Jason Sethre
True Value Hardware 346-2863 • Spring Valley, MN Zeimetz Motors 346-7337 • Spring Valley, MN
Honoring those who serve.
Monday, September 14, 2015
FILLMORE COUNTY JOURNAL
Page 11
A Special Section of the Fillmore County Journal
g n i z i n g Reco our emergencyresponse Teams
Bill Funk Trucking 867-3286 • Chatfield, MN Chatfield Body Shop 867-3063 • Chatfield, MN CHS 867-4311 • Chatfield, MN Cy Guy’s Auto Repair 867-4320 • Chatfield, MN
F&M Community Bank Member FDIC 867-1605 • Chatfield, MN 765-3823 • Preston, MN Fillmore County Journal 765-2151 • Preston, MN Chatfield Ambulance (left to right) - Front row: Beth Schmidt, Sarah DeWindt, Sue Kester, Tammy Engel Kester. Back row: Rocky Burnet, Dan Jaquith, Vicky Sample, Dave Sovinski, Zach Linnell, Karla Mullenbach, Lynn Budahn, Ed Leof. Not pictured: Larry Converse, Leif Erickson, Shane Fox, Matt Gathje, Ellen Grabau, Ed hallisy, Emily Mulder, Brady Nelson, Steve Schmiedeberg, Mimi Seamens, Leslie Tannahill, Nancy Timm, Grant Webber, Jess Wodele. Photo by Jason Sethre
Good Samaritan Society 765-2700 • Preston, MN The Hangman Custom Blinds & Drapes 696-0902 • Chatfield, MN Huntington Electric LLC 251-9510 • Lanesboro, MN Larrabee Essig Agency 867-3188 • Chatfield, MN JAC’s Bar & Grill 867-3939 • Chatfield, MN Main Street Wireless 867-0000 • Chatfield, MN Olmsted Medical Center 867-4925 • Chatfield, MN
Chatfield Police (left to right): Aaron Miliander, Steve Schmiedeberg, Shane Fox, Scott Keigley, Kevin Landorf.
Root River State Bank Member FDIC 867-4120 • Chatfield, MN Photo submitted
Rowland Well Co. Inc. 867-4355 • Chatfield, MN Shari’s Sports Saloon 867-0089 • Chatfield, MN SMG Web Design 765-2151 • Preston, MN Steve’s Auto 867-1448 • Chatfield, MN Sunshine Foods 867-4272 • Chatfield, MN Tim Danielson Elcor Realty of Chatfield 867-9100 • Chatfield, MN
Chatfield Fire Department (left to right) - Front row: Dave Vogen, Sean Raddiff, Mike Pederson, Mike Mandt, Brian Burkholder, Ryan Priebe, Jim Danielson, Cole Mckean, John Reed. Back row: Keith Bradt, Allan Neis, Dean Irish, Leif Erickson, Jacob Lane, Luke Thieke, Jason Baldner, Chris Musty, Peter Erickson, Steve Schmiedberg, Luke Schieffelbein, Dan Jaquith. Not pictured: Mike Vogen, Clint Westrum, Rick Bell. Photo by Jason Sethre
William Hanson Waste Removal & Recycling 867-3527 • 259-7124 • Chatfield, MN Wit Boyz, Inc. 867-2957 • Chatfield, MN
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